John Marrs, best-selling author of The One, The Passengers, and The Marriage Act, talks about his journey from self-published to bestselling author, his writing process, how he manages writing in multiple genres for two different publishers, and more.  John’s journalism background led him to ask me some thought-provoking questions as well. Our conversation was an absolute delight, and I can’t wait for you to dive into his captivating universe of books. Plus, be sure to check out John’s book recommendations that align nicely with my own reading tastes!

This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!).

Highlights

• John’s transition from working journalist to accomplished author.
• Spoiler-free summaries of his speculative fiction novels, The One, The Passengers, and The Marriage Act.
• His unique journey to becoming a bestselling author across multiple genres.
• John talks about his process of developing gripping plots following his rapid rise to success.
• Sarah and John’s take on the “Match Your DNA” method from The One for finding soulmates.
• John’s perspective on seeing his books adapted for the small screen, and his thoughts on the adaptation process.
• The fascinating inspiration behind The Marriage Act and its thought-provoking themes.
• Insights into John’s meticulous research process and real-life news that influences his storytelling.
• John’s and Sarah’s views on trigger warnings.
• A brief peek into John’s 3 upcoming books!

John’s Book Recommendations [34:32]

Two OLD Books He Loves

• The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:31]
• The Beach by Alex Garland | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [38:32]
• Other Books Mentioned:
  • A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara [35:17]
  • Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith [36:55]
  • Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [37:14]
  • David Copperfield by Charles Dickens [37:17]
  • The Kind Worth Saving by Peter Swanson [38:00]
  • Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson [38:17]
  • Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty [40:32]
  • Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid [40:41]
  • Normal People by Sally Rooney [40:48]

Two NEW Books He Loves

• Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent (July 18, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[42:24]
• Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:54]
• Other Books Mentioned:
  • Unraveling Oliver by Liz Nugent [42:58]
  • Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman [43:30]
  • Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart [44:01]

NEW RELEASE He’s Excited About

• None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell (August 8, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[49:01]
• Other Books Mentioned:
  • The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell [49:55]
  • The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell [50:01]
  • I Have Some Questions For You by Rebecca Makkai [51:12]

Last 5-Star Book John Read

• Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:41]