Welcome to Fiction Favorites! Today, I am thrilled to be participating in Rave Reviews Book Club’s Back-to-School Book and Blog Block Party from Port Aransas, Texas USA You can visit the entire tour and locations by clicking HERE.
In addition to learning a bit more about me and my book My GRL while you’re visiting, I hope you will leave a comment. If you do, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance at a ten-dollar Amazon Gift Card.
All you have to do for a chance to win is leave a comment. There will be a drawing, and the winner will be selected at the end of the day on September 15th, and announced on September 16th! For more prize opportunities visit the RRBC website.
Interview with John J. Cannon
Today I am pleased to welcome John J. Cannon to Fiction Favorites. For those of you who are unfamiliar with John let me give you a brief introduction.
John is a litigation attorney who lives in San Francisco. He has taken a leave of absence from the law firm to pursue his dream of becoming a charter boat captain. John currently resides in Port Aransas and is the protagonist in the thriller titled My GRL.
FF: Welcome John to Fiction Favorites
John: Thank you. It is so nice to be here. I’m pleased to be with you.
FF: Let’s dive right into the questions. I know you want to become a charter boat captain but I have to ask why you would give up a successful career in law?
John: I have been practicing for twelve years without a vacation. Honestly, I need a change of pace. In addition, I’m not giving up the law I’m just taking a leave of absence.
FF: Okay glad you cleared that up. We understand your boss is not very happy with you asking for a leave of absence.
John: Yeah, he has expressed a little disappointment but the fact remains it is corporate policy and I have qualified for the leave. I think he is worried about the revenue I won’t be brining into the firm.
FF: So he granted you the time off?
John: To be clear he granted me six months off. I asked for a year.
FF: My goodness sounds like trouble back at the ranch.
John: No. There’s no trouble. I simply have to request another six months when the time is done.
FF: What if he says no?
John: He won’t.
FF: I understand you bought a boat.
John: I sure did it’s a beauty. It is a sixty-five foot Hatteras Sport Fisherman. I named her My GRL.
FF: That must be some boat to navigate.
John: I took some lessons in how to handle her. She’s like an old friend.
FF: How soon will it be before you become a licensed captain?
John: I have about two months in and it takes a year so about ten more months.
FF: So you aren’t making any money yet?
John: Money is not the reason, but you’re correct.
FF: So tell us about the woman who sold you the boat.
John: Gerry’s her name. She was killed by some people who wanted to make a point.
FF: Yes Gerry. I remember you were found unconscious next to her body.
John: Yeah I was.
FF: Did the police think you did it?
John: I think they thought of me as a person of interest rather than a suspect. I had no gunshot residue on me or any other evidence that I was the perpetrator.
FF: Did they find out who did it?
John: There’s not a suspect. Gerry was killed by a professional who is still free so far. We do know who hired the hit, though.
FF: You say we like you were working with the police.
John: Well I did give a little advice and was eventually involved in the case.
FF: So who hired the hit?
John: I don’t have enough evidence to say publicly. I’ve a suspicion but would rather keep it to myself.
FF: You mentioned Gerry was killed to make a point. What was the point?
John: I think she was being punished for talking too much about certain people.
FF: Some that you don’t want to identify.
John: Yes, that’s correct. I wish I had the evidence but I don’t.
FF: Are you in any danger by talking to us in this interview?
John: I don’t see how. I haven’t said anything the police don’t know.
FF: Well that’s good.
John: I would like to say to those people who shot an innocent person, Gerry, that they’ll not get away with it and someday they’ll pay.
FF: Are you married?
John: No I’m not. As I said, I have been working a lot and no real-time for anything else. I suppose I could say my boat is my relationship right now. I guess that’s why I named her My GRL.
FF: You’ve been described as an ordinary guy caught up in unusual circumstances. How do you like that description?
John: Who says that?
FF: Reviewers
John: On one hand I’m flattered since it appears they know my personality. On the contrary, I would like to be seen as a hero. At least one time. Of course, it’s not my choice I’m more of less predestined to be what ever I turn out to be.
FF: Once you get your captain’s license will you keep chartering or go back to the law firm.
John: I really think that is a hard question to answer. Do you know what I mean when I say fourth wall?
FF: Well yeah it’s a term used to describe the fine line between fiction and reality. It’s a term from the theatre. A stage has three walls and on the other side of the fourth is where the audience is.
John: So when I say break the fourth wall you know it is a blurring of fiction and reality.
FF: Yes that’s correct.
John: Okay to answer your question about whether I’ll go back to the law firm you will have to ask the guy who authored My GRL if he has a story line that includes returning to the law firm. You could also ask if I’m going to find love and happiness. I would like to know myself.
FF: I do know him so next time we chat I’ll ask.
John: I appreciate that. I’m not sure he will take suggestions for his precious plot. In the meantime, I’ll keep an eye on those responsible for Gerry’s murder.
FF: John this was an interesting interview if somewhat different. We’re so glad you could spend time with us. Please come again.
John: Yes, it was a pleasure for me as well. Who’s the us you’re talking about?
FF: All of us here at Fiction Favorites including our boss John W. Howell.
Fiction Favorites 
Great post. I enjoyed that and tell Your boss I said hello.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Larry. Hello back to you.
LikeLike
John, I love character interviews, and this one has your marvelous touch. I mean you, John, not John the character, though I’m sure he could interview you with great style. 😀 Oh gosh, I’m giving myself a headache. Or maybe that’s because I have to go back to the office in just a few minutes… At any rate, loved this interview! Mega hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Here is a wish the office trip is the best today. (big wish if it comes true.) Thanks for the visit
LikeLike
Glad he didn’t tell you anything too explosive in that interview or we’d all be in trouble!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think so. John would love to finger who he knows is the culprit, but you know how cautious lawyers are.
LikeLike
Great interview!! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good job John…and John.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks
LikeLiked by 1 person
“Yes, Gerry. I remember you were found unconscious next to her body.” So nonchalant, John 🙂 And I love how you made the character, John, put the pressure of his future plans back on his creator. Great post, John! Have an awesome blog party day! And since I follow your blog, I was one of the first to get here even though the link isn’t live yet 😉 Just saying.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Tracy. I’m not in charge of the link so as the great philosopher once said “Oh well.”
LikeLike
Nope, John’s link wasn’t live until about half an hour ago, but it is now! And sometimes, links won’t be live when some think they ought to be, but we eventually get there! Either way, we’re all here, safe and sound, enjoying John chat with John! Make it a great day, all!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Nonnie.
LikeLike
I guess it’s a tad early to break out the martinis… sigh! I loved the interview FF – you got our protagonist friend to open up nicely – he’s got a sense of humour too! I’m a big fan of character interviews and I like the job you did with John J. Cannon. Have a super day on you block party, John!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, John. Yeah, he has an interesting approach to life and danger. As far as the martinis go I have to agree. Of course five o’clock comes around twice a day.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Legends of Windemere.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Double thanks
LikeLike
Great interview. Love how the guy calms off as calm here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. He is pretty calm.. Thanks for the reblog as well.
LikeLike
You’re welcome. 🙂
LikeLike
Good ole John C – he’s a hero, simply for following his dream and to hell with the day job, let alone all the tough guy stuff! 😀
Now, John H – where’ve you stashed the margaritas? I’ve brought a party bucket of chips, so point me bar-wards 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Here is a mason jar pint. be careful with those chips since we need them to last. There is some salsa on the bar.
LikeLike
What a fun interview!
I, too, have a boat. In fact, I bought it with my proceeds from my book sales.
I keep it in a drawer under my desk.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ha ha ha. I love the idea. Maybe some day it will be too big to fit the drawer.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What, you mean like my bathtub?
LikeLiked by 1 person
More fun there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nicholas, you are TOO funny! 😃
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lol – thanks. Sadly, it’s a pretty accurate depiction of reality 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Kim's Author Support Page.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the reblog Kim.
LikeLike
Loved the interview with John, John. 😉 I plan to make MY GRL my next book purchase. It is on my list.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so nice.
LikeLike
This was a great interview John, but I’m concerned that you might be taking credit for the work of your staff. Either way, it was a fun read.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wait. I will ask the staff. “You guys have a problem with me taking the credit?” *crickets* I guess they are okay Dan.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, this is the second one of these I’ve read lately and it just convinces me that I need to do one soon with my narrator and his wife, who are the heroes of my series. Great job!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. it is fun as well. John Cannon is a lawyer and he has opinions on how things should be done. I like giving him a creative slap now and then. Thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Hi, Joe!
I love character interviews and have some on my site at nonniewrites.wordpress.com and have also included them in a many blog tours. They are so much fun! You should definitely give it a go!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely interview John. Like the cover on ‘My Grl’ Can’t decide if it is from a photo or artwork..
LikeLike
Thanks, Gordon. The cover is a photo and represents a view of the sky as one rises toward the surface of the ocean floor.
LikeLike
Thanks for giving us an introduction to the John in your book. Lovely interview and blog. Thanks for inviting me to your party.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Don’t forget a margarita. We have to go cups as well. (No driving though)
LikeLike
Great interview, and I look forward to reading My GRL (I selected it as my MOW prize)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for stopping. I’m glad you won a prize and was so nice when I heard you selected My GRL.
LikeLike
John, I enjoyed My Grl and loved hearing directly from John at your party! Have fun today!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Rebecca for stopping. Also thanks for the nice review. My TBR is getting to you eventually.
LikeLike
How come John H.? I have been waiting at your door to be let in since this morning, to finally step in to an almost full house. Well, I’m happy I finally made it in. 🙂 Yes, My Girl was a great read. Fast and intrepid. I enjoyed it. Have a wonderful party, and fun.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Joy. It is always nice to have you stop by. You light up the room.
LikeLike
Loved the interview! “Won’t take suggestions for your precious plot”, hunh? LOL! I know the feeling. Have a great tour today!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, it’s my story and sometimes the pesky characters want to muscle in.
LikeLike
John H., I will have to say that for a moment there, I thought it was all TOO REAL! I couldn’t wait to finish reading to email you to ask all sorts of questions. And I, like Kathy Gates, was wondering if we all would be in danger, just posting here (because if so, I was going to tip out quietly, as if I’d never been…LOL). That my dear, is clever, grand writing! It was so enjoyable. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the visit Nonnie. Since John didn’t disclose anything I think we are all safe. (for now).Here have a nice tall frosty Coke A Cola (with lime)
LikeLike
Thanks, John H.! You know how I love my COKE!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yup.There is plenty here.
LikeLike
Great interview, John! I’ve heard an interview is a splendid way for an author to get to know his/her characters better. Did you prepare something similar prior to writing your thriller??
LikeLiked by 1 person
While writing the three books John and I had a number of very tense discussions. I finally had to take him outside to make my points. he always wanted to fire a 9mm at the bad guys. I finally gave him one scene in the last book. (I was always afraid he would hurt himself)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great character interview, John. I love the fourth wall and turning it back on you 🙂 Did I hear there’re chips n margaritas on the go? It’s 4pm over here in the UK, so does that mean I can imbibe without our lawyer friend giving me a tough time? 🙂 Have a great party, John! It’s always nice to stop by your place 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You need to step up and have a pint of margarita. Here you go. Thanks for coming.
LikeLike
Hi John. Nice blog. “My Grl,” huh? Hatteras is just up the road from me. I haven’t gotten around to it yet, but it waits patiently on my Kindle. “I suppose I could say my boat is my relationship right now.” Yeah, I understand. My boat – is – my grl. Have a great party. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Peter. Thank you also for the kindle space.
LikeLike
Enjoyed this blog- with- a- difference, John. Have a great tour today!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for stopping Stevie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love the fluidity of that fourth wall, John. Thanks for the post and for all your support to RRBC and its members! Cheers.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Lisa for the nice words and the visit.
LikeLike
John, I enjoyed your interview with John 🙂 Have a great party!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Michelle and thanks for stopping by.
LikeLike
Loved the way you have explains what your book by interviewing your mane charcters.
Have a grate party
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for stopping and for the good wishes
LikeLike
Great interview! Wonderful to know more about your book.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the visit and nice comment.:-)
LikeLiked by 1 person
I really enjoyed the post especially since I read the book a couple of months ago.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for getting the book and for the visit
LikeLike
Thank you for getting the book and for the visit.
LikeLike
The interview is very effective at making your novel seem worth reading. Going to have to keep it in mind.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the visit. Please do
LikeLike
MY GRL is a 5-STAR WINNER and I can’t wait to follow Cannon’s upcoming adventures! Have a great tour, John. Sharing your party tour on Twitter & FB. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Bette. You’re the best.
LikeLike
Great blog post John. I tried to visit a few times earlier today and had to wait until your link was ready. What a way to build up some suspense! Now the party is bursting at the seams! Cheers 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Liz. So glad you came.
LikeLike
Liked the interview of John, John. I’m not sure which is the writer and which is the character!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Bruce. It does get confusing. 🙂
LikeLike
Great post, John. I really enjoy the character interview idea.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a fun thing to do. (Also John threatened to stop work if I didn’t)
LikeLike
I enjoyed your character interview! My Grl is on my TBR list.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Suzanne. Thanks also for stopping by.
LikeLike
I loved the interview. Your book sounds very interesting. I hope you’re enjoying the party.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes I am. I’m glad I don’t have to fly an airplane tonight.
LikeLike
Great post, John. I love the interview angle. Best wishes on this day!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Beem. Thanks for stopping
LikeLike
Hi John. I’m so glad you are part of the Back To School blog tour! I love visiting your blog, but with everything going on lately I have not had the chance to stop by. So today was a treat for me. I absolutely loved My GRL, & greatly enjoyed this behind the scenes with John. I can’t wait for the sequel! I hope you’re having a wonderful day. *Hugs*
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ps – are you still writing the short stories for your blog?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. They are all dialog and very short.
LikeLike
I used to get notifications of your blog post but I haven’t been getting them lately. I will have to check on that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like you stopped following or follow in the reader only. Only you can change it for e-mail notifications (put it on weekly and you won’t be bugged but once)
LikeLike
Thank you Rhani. I’m glad you could make it. I kept a nice cold beverage for you. Here you are.
LikeLike
*Sip* Thank you, John. Always a party here at Fiction Favorites!
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLike
Hold it! Wait! Is FF and John one and the same? I was confused. And is this based on a true story? I got the book on my TBR list now I have to push it to the front. This is a wonderful interview and I love that you did it. Your prize has my name written all over it. Congratulations John.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Shirly. No, it’s totally fiction. FF stands for Fiction Favorites (the blog title) That snarky remark by John Cannon was his way of trying to weazel a different outcome for the series.
LikeLike
Don’t you just love characters who try to tell you, the author, how they want you to write their story? Lol! This was fun to read. Thanks for sharing! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
John does it all the time. I have learned to more or less give him some of the things he has asked. When he wanted to carry a firearm I drew the line. Thanks Yvette for the comment and visit.
LikeLike
Intersting interview – I hope John enjoys the charter adventure and fourth wall.
LikeLiked by 1 person
He enjoys it all.
LikeLike
He enjoys it all. Thank you for the visit.
LikeLike
Great interview, John. I loved how the character told you what he wanted. I’ve got your book on my short list… Enjoy the PARTY!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Gwen. He tries to tell me a lot more. I try not to listen.
LikeLike
Wonderful interview, John. Can’t wait to read your book, which is now pushed up on my list. Enjoy the PARTY! (BTW, I posted earlier, but it never appeared so I’m rewriting….my apologies if I now have two!)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Two is better than none. I have them both and thanks you again.
LikeLike
Hi John, I thought I commented earlier but I must have forgotten to click on ‘Post’. Cute ploy to draw attention to your book. Very creative. If the same imagination is at work in My Grl, then it’s sure to be a seller. Have a great blog party.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Brian. It was actually John Cannon’s idea. There are a couple of questions and answers I had to censor, but I think overall it came out.
LikeLike
Hi John,
Wonderful to learn a little more about you and the inspiration behind your work. Bravo! Love the look and layout of your site as well. Cheers.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Natalie. It was a pleasure having you here today.
LikeLike
Fun interview. I think I want to take 6 months and be a charge boat captain!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wouldn’t we all. Thanks for the visit Tara.
LikeLike
HI John – great character dialog interview. The story sounds quite interesting! Thanks for hosting the latest installment of the RRBC back to school Blog Block Party – they get more interesting and more crowded every day it seems!
Good luck with your books – ML
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Michael for coming by. Hope to see you again. Good luck to you as well.
LikeLike
I love the fact that each blog post for the tour is so different! I loved the unique interview format, but I wanted to know more about the title! i hope you had a great tour day! Now get out on that boat tomorrow!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The boat is named My GRL and is a central character (so to speak) in the story
LikeLike