Interview with Frank Spinelli, Author of Angelo Perrotta Mysteries

 

Frank Spinelli is an American born physician.

Writing credits include: The Advocate Guide to Gay Men’s Health and Wellness, Pee-Shy: A Memoir, Perfect Flaw: Angelo Perrotta Mysteries Book One and contributing author – Our Naked Lives and Understanding the Sexual Betrayal of Boys and Men.

Frank lives in New York with his incredibly patient husband and their two dogs. 

For further information about Frank Spinelli, visit his Website | X | Goodreads

Interview with Frank Spinelli

When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer/ a storyteller?

I’m not sure if there was a specific moment in my life that made me think I could be a storyteller. In college I made short films. Writing stories for film was probably the first time I realized I wanted to write books. 

What inspires you to write?

Since I’m a physician, I’m most inspired by the people I meet every day. Most of all, I’m inspired by science and true crime stories. 

How did you come up with the idea for your current story?

I was inspired after reading an article in the New York Times about a behavioral scientist working with veterans suffering from PTSD. His revolutionary approach got me wondering what could happen if used for nefarious purposes.

Are there some stories tucked away in some drawer that was written before and never saw the light of the day?

Yes, absolutely. I have several stories saved on my computer that haven’t seen the light of day. But they will one day.

Tell us about your writing process.

I write every day for at least an hour. For me, writing is like working out. Somedays I hate the idea, but I push myself. Other days, I can’t wait to get right back into it.

Do you read? Who are your favourite authors and how have they influenced your writing style?

I read a lot, but I go through spurts of reading followed by periods of not reading. My favorite authors are Stephen King, Anthony Horowitz, Donna Tartt and Jennifer Egan. The writer that has influenced me the most is Patricia Highsmith. Without a doubt her stories encompass everything I strive for in my own writing. Her books are often about relationships, betrayal and murder. 

What is the best piece of advice you have received, as a writer, till date?

The best piece of advice I received is read while you write and read in the genre which you are writing.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Write only what interests you. Several publishers suggested I write in a genre that didn’t appeal to me. I even forced myself. In the end, I hated what I wrote. So now I only write stories I would want to read.

How do you spend your free time? Do you have a favorite place to go and unwind?

I enjoy taking long walks with my two dogs especially when I’m in the process of writing. It helps me think. The only problem is that I often talk to myself. Fortunately, I’m with my dogs so folks think I’m talking to them.

What do you have in store next for your readers?

Since No Angels Wept is the second book of a three-part series called Angelo Perrotta Mysteries, I’m excited to share the third installment tentatively titled, Precious Friends late next year.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with your readers?

If you read any of my books, please write a review or email me. I love hearing from readers, and trust me, all writers read their reviews. In fact, I find the most critical reviews are the most important.

About the Book

In this arresting second installment of Angelo Perrotta Mysteries, Angelo agrees to appear on the widely controversial satellite radio crime show, A Thorny Mess, to recount his tragic first year in private practice. Shortly after arriving in Los Angeles, he becomes entangled in a string of murders at the hands of the No Angels Wept Killer. An investigation leads him to Doctor Reverend James Jarrett, the spiritual leader of the Seven Spirits Church. A man the LA Times called "effusively charming" and a "psychiatric chameleon." When Angelo's boyfriend, Jason Murphy, joins him in LA, they decide to confront the reverend after learning his congregation is luring unhoused gay youth to their shelter under false pretenses. Then, a shocking discovery uncovers a conspiracy more depraved that either could have imagined.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon IN | Amazon US

Angelo Perrotta Mysteries are a series of three MM mystery novels. Perfect Flaw introduces Angelo Perrotta. A young physician who lands a dream job at a posh Park Avenue practice in Manhattan. There he meets Demetre Kostas and becomes entangled in a world of lies, betrayal and murder. The second novel, No Angels Wept, Angelo travels to Los Angeles to appear on a widely popular satellite radio show to recount his tragic first year in private practice only to become part of an investigation into a series of murders perpetrated against gay sex workers by the No Angels Wept Killer.