Interview With Author Jonathan Ross
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
As a boy living on St. Thomas, I learned to sail, then went on to explore the US and British Virgin Islands. I climbed rocks along the rough coast, stepped on sea urchins, and watched shooting stars on dark Caribbean nights. One day, a friend showed me a baby sea turtle in a bucket of water. No matter how the bucket was turned, the sea turtle pointed itself toward the sea. When let free, it headed directly to the surf and into its home environment. Years later, after service in the Navy, I laid my mother to rest in the Caribbean Sea outside of St. Thomas Harbor. I’ve written 11 books, all romantic suspense, which is what I most enjoy reading.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Angela’s Quest,” inspired by the challenge of a young person today who must strive to reconcile conflicting beliefs and traditions in their life.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write in layers, from initial idea to a pile of random notes, to a detailed chapter outline, and finally the manuscript.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been influenced in the love of reading and writing by Neil Shute, Dick Francis, John Grisham, Avi, and story tellers of the West, like and Louis L’Amour and Charles G. West, all who write with imagination, clarity, and aim to entertain the reader.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a romantic suspense novel, “Angela’s Challenge,” the sequel to “Angela’s Quest.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I find that Amazon is a good platform for promoting my books, and like their approach, their reporting on a daily basis, and their business approach.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Include tension in every page, and preferably every paragraph.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Include tension in every page, and preferably every paragraph.
What are you reading now?
“The Agent” by Marsha Roberts.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I am working on making my characters more and more believable as people, each with her own motivations, emotions, and approach to life.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
A selection that is varied in author and subject, entertaining, compelling, and worthy to read over and over.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jonathan Ross’s Social Media Links