John Vanek

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I am a physician by training, but a writer by passion. Medicine was my life, but mysteries and poetry became my drugs of choice. I now live happily as an ink-stained-wretch. I teach a poetry workshop for seniors at a local college, and enjoys swimming, hiking, sunshine, good friends, and red wine.

When and why did you start writing books?

I fell in love with creative writing in college and felt compelled to follow the calling.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

I began writing purely for my family and myself, honing my craft in creative writing workshops and college courses. I was gratified when my work won contests and was published widely.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

Father Jake Austin, my main character. His difficult journey to the priesthood make him a multifaceted character, spiritual yet flawed.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

Definitely DEROS, the first book in the Father Jake Austin mystery series.

Who is your favourite author and book?

Too numerous to count. If I had to chose one, probably Michael Connelly and his Bosch series.

What book are you reading right now?

The Guardians by John Grisham.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Father Jake Austin is a fictional character, but aspects of his personality and struggles are modeled after two Catholic priests who became my close friends and confidants. When I first met them, I expected the usual stereotypes, but when their Roman collars came off, I found that they were simply human, struggling with the same hopes and difficulties that we all have.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Besides writing, I enjoy swimming, hiking, sunshine, good friends, and red wine.

Do you have any new books in the works?

I'm currently writing the first draft of the fifth mystery in the series (as yet untitled).