Interview with John Lindermuth

Welcome to John Lindermuth a best selling writer from the
Whiskey Creek Press stable:


Hi John welcome to Lark journals—your latest Whiskey Creek Press release is “Watch the Hour” could you tell us a little about it.

WTH is set in the turbulent 1870s in Pennsylvania’s anthracite coal region when mine owners and their laborers, particularly the Irish, were in conflict over wages and working conditions. Ben Yeager, a coal company police officer, tries to walk the line between following orders and being fair to the workers whose lot he sees as little different than his own. Despite his efforts at fairness, his job makes him the enemy of the Irish. And that’s the crux of his troubles. For Ben is in love with an Irish girl.

Did you have to carry out a lot of research? How did you go about it?

I was born and raised in the region, so I had some familiarity with the history and I’ve read much about the period. I’m librarian of the county historical society where I assist others with research and genealogy. There was much material readily available to me.

I know you are a very prolific writer of thrillers. Which do you prefer writing, short stories or novels?

Short stories are challenging and I have written a good number. But I’m afraid I’m a bit long-winded in my tales and I like having a broader tapestry. I’d have to say the novel is my preferred playing field.

How did you start writing?

My Dad had a decent library and encouraged me to read. When I first started writing I wanted to emulate those I read and admired. Later I realized I was also influenced by my grandfather who retired early because of health problems. As the only grandson, I spent a lot of time with him, listening to his wealth of stories about earlier times, people he’d known and even some I’m sure he made up.

Tell us a little about you, John—what your hobbies are, etc.

When I’m not writing, reading or drawing I enjoy spending time with my children and my four grandsons. I also like walking, especially in the woods and mountains around home. And I spend a lot of my free time on genealogy.



What are you working on next?



I’ve just completed the fourth novel in the Sticks Hetrick series and submitted it to Whiskey Creek. One of several WIP now occupying my time involves a rural sheriff in the 1890s in Pennsylvania. One man has been stabbed and another has died of arsenic poisoning. The sheriff thinks there’s a connection between the two.

Thank you so much, John it has been great having you visit with us.