Today’s special guest is novelist Andy Kutler. We’re chatting about his new contemporary political novel, Honorable Profession: A Novel of American Politics.
During his virtual book tour, Andy will be awarding a $50 Amazon or Barnes and Noble (winner’s choice) gift card to a lucky randomly drawn winner. To be entered for a chance to win, use the form below. To increase your chances of winning, feel free to visit his other tour stops and enter there, too!
Bio:
Andy Kutler is a writer and author of two award-winning novels, The Batter’s Box and The Other Side of Life. Andy has also written extensively for The Huffington Post and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Over a 28-year professional career, he has worked in the United States Senate, the U.S. Secret Service, and the national security community. A Wisconsin native, Andy lives with his wife and two children in Arlington, Virginia.
Welcome, Andy. Please tell us a little bit about your current novel.
Honorable Profession: A Novel of American Politics is a compelling, hopeful story of a cynical former Secret Service agent and his idealistic daughter as they follow a longshot candidate into the perilous arena of presidential politics.
After resigning from his agency under an ethical cloud, 46-year-old Dan Cahill commits himself to rebuilding his relationship with Megan, the college-aged daughter in Las Vegas he has long neglected. She persuades a reluctant Cahill to join the student-led campaign of a popular professor competing in the Nevada presidential primary against impossible odds. As they face powerful forces conspiring to clear the field, Cahill’s deep-seated disdain for electoral politics collides with Megan’s higher ideals. Each of their faiths are tested by political allies and adversaries, all desperate for victory, no matter the costs.
Honorable Profession is an absorbing, modern-day political drama filled with authentic and indelible characters, each struggling with their own loyalties and principles as they duel with unscrupulous rivals and the meaning of public service.
Excerpt from Honorable Profession:
A waiter removed the unfinished salads and set down their main courses. Tilapia for him, penne pasta in arrabbiata sauce for her. Neither reached for a fork, and Anna sat expressionless, her eyes burning into him. Finally, she moved her plate aside and rested her chin again on her folded hands.
“Forty minutes now, we’ve known each other. Every political instinct in my body is telling me to laugh off your question. Tell you you’re misreading things and assure you I’m going to Washington because I believe I can do more good there, and better serve the people of my state.”
It was like he hit a nerve. “I didn’t mean to suggest you don’t care about people. You have—”
“I’m far from perfect, Dan, and I have my share of shortcomings. But dishonesty isn’t one of them. I’m going to Washington because I believe I can do far more good there, and for far more people.”
She paused, taking a long sip from her wine as she contemplated her next words.
“And yes, you’re right, there’s more to the story. But sharing that with a stranger would be more than reckless. Just like it’s unwise, if not self-destructive, to continue this conversation.”
“And yet we’re still talking.”
“And yet we’re still talking.”
“Vic is a phone call away.”
Anna leaned forward again, her eyes exploring his. “What is this between you and me? Or do you not have any idea what I’m talking about?”
He knew exactly what she was talking about. “I – I don’t know.”
Have you ever been in trouble with the police?
This year? Absolutely not.
So, when were you last involved in a real-life punch-up?
I was jumped by two thugs pretending to have car problems, and I managed to fight them both off. Except they weren’t thugs, they were my schoolmates Vince and Bob. And we were only ten years old, so it was a bike, not a car, and I cried all the way home.
If you were going to commit the perfect murder, how would you go about it?
Hold on – let me flip on the Lifetime Network and I’ll find out.
What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?
I think the single most important thing is to pace yourself. My favorite quote comes from Lawrence Kasden, who said being a writer is like having homework every night for the rest of your life. It’s true, and unavoidable, but you can’t let that sort of pressure consume you. Set reasonable daily or weekly goals, and avoid putting undue and unrealistic pressures on yourself. Climb the mountain one small step at a time.
Links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Thanks for being here today, Andy.
Thanks for hosting!
I liked the excerpt.
Thanks Rita!
What inspires your book plots?
Hi Tracie – that’s a great question. It’s always personal experience. My last book was about a returning WWII veteran with psychological trauma – that came about because of my past experience working on veterans issues on Capitol Hill. Most of the plotlines in my new book come from past experiences in politics and the Secret Service. And in this case, I was so discouraged by our current political climate, I wanted to write something hopeful for the future.
Andy Kutler’s contemporary political novel, Honorable Profession: A Novel of American Politics sounds like a fascinating book that would be a real page turner!
Nancy – I agree! 🙂 I promise, it won’t disappoint.
This sounds like a really good read.
I enjoyed the interview, Andy, and Honorable Profession sounds like an excellent book for my dad to read! Thanks for sharing it with me and have a wonderful weekend!