Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a lawyer and emeritus professor of constitutional law from UIC-School of Law. Before teaching I practiced civil law in Chicago. After becoming an emeritus professor, my wife and I moved to Sarasota, Florida where I was able to give vent ot my bottled-up urge to write a novel. The floral beauty, the sunny days, life on the beach, all deprived me of any “too busy” excuse I used to have in Chicago. Aside from an unpublished novel, I have published two novels. My first is THE MITHRAS CONSPIRACY (Lido Press: 2019), a history-based mystery. An Italian detective uncovers a plot, based on an ancient Roman cult, to take down the Catholic hierarchy and take over the Italian government in a political coup. He must overcome a tragic family history going back to World War II to overcome the coup. My second novel is AMERICAN CONSPIRACY (Lido Press: 2021). Though related to my first novel, it is a standalone novel that can be read without reference to the first.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
AMERICAN CONSPIRACY. When the presumed president-elect is assassinate, Detective Jim Murphy of the Chicago PD because the scapegoat for a security lapse. To regarin his reputation, Murphy volunteers to investigate the mysterious disappearances and grisly murders of the city’s gangbanger. His investigation points to an aged and ailing pharmaceutical tycoon who conducts secret blood research to cheat his impending death and plots to unleash a reactionary coup against a United States in crisis. To top this delusional ringleader Murphy must team up with the interim “backdoor” president. The fate of the United States is at stake. How far will one man go to save his life and exercise his power over the next generation of Americans?
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Abolsutely. When visiting the University of Luxembourg on a professional trip, I received some university stationery. When i started my first novel I just doodled and scribbled on the stationery in my favorite coffee shop to get some ideas. The creative ideas came. So whenever I needed to rev up the creative engine , I went back to doodling and scribbling on the stationery over a cup of cappuccino. I’m afraid the “magic” will disappear if I ever lose copies I’ve made of this stationery. Superstitious I know, but it works for me. Less unusual is my need to read the morning newspaper and have a copy of coffee before starting my writing day. I usually have a bite of dark chocolate for good measure before I write the first sentence of the day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ernest Hemingway and Graham Greene for general influence. Dan Brown for the realization that a novel based on history could be informative as well as entertaining for a general audience. The controversy surrounding the history only added to the appeal of such novels. For my specific genere of mystery/thriller I am indebted to Steve Berry. We are both lawyers and both love the riddle of historical mysteries that challenge the creative imagination.
What are you working on now?
Nothing specific. All I can say is what Stephen King basically said. The boys inside are cooking something. I can tell because I make doodles and scribble every so often on my stationery from the University of Luxembourg. Can’t say when the meal will be served.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My best method is to get interested person to my website, one way or another., The website is: www. mjpolelle.com. The website has more iformation about me and my novels, including a free copy of the historical research on which THE MITHRAS CONSPIRACY is based. I can also be contacted through my website.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
The only ultimate success in writing is the joy you take in the project. The rest is byproduct.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Shakpespear gave it long ago. To your own self be true and you can’t then be false to anyone else. Writing a book invites you to dig inside to find that self.
What are you reading now?
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
What’s next for you as a writer?
The answer is blowing in the wind.
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?
The Razor’s Edge, Animal Farm, Farewell to Arms, and The Heart of the Matter.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Polelle Website
Michael Polelle Amazon Profile
Michael Polelle’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Pinterest Account