Interview of David Marks

Last week I posted a review of Boomsters HERE. Today, a fun conversation with the author, David Marks about his journey from the businessman to retiree to author.

Jodi: David, I’ve learned that Boomsters was written after you retired but was not your retirement plan. Tell us, how did you picture your dream retirement?

David: Excellent question. Being a workaholic, I never pictured a dream retirement. For 50 years as a businessman, my focus was on creating and selling products. During those years, my energy was solely business related. In Boomsters, I write about the main character's retirement and fear of how to fill his time. That was my reality. 

Jodi: So how did you go from reluctant retiree to writing your first detective novel?

David: Boomsters came from panic that I did not have a plan. I was privileged to have financial resources to retire, but I was cursed because while I was a successful businessman, I had few skills outside of the business. As I was writing the book, I discovered a newfound passion, one I didn't know existed inside me. My goal became to help others find their hidden passions, whether they are retired or not. 

Jodi: How did you get from jotting down ideas on your iPhone to writing an actual (536 pages!) book?

David: It was definitely a journey. Every day I tapped notes into my iPhone — often inspired by sleepless nights where I imagined Detective Blaze in his fast-paced, thrilling, and chaotic world. My partner Mary would read those notes back to me the next day, bringing the story to life. Over time, the story evolved into Boomsters. What started as simple notes became much larger, driven by my passion for the characters and the unfolding story. It was fun to let my mind go wild. After two years of notes, Mary suggested that I share it with Marc Zarefsky, a content strategist who she knew. She handed the story over to him. Thankfully he was enthusiastic and up to the challenge of developing the timelines and helping me bring my colorful characters to life.  

Jodi: I see traits of many fictional detectives in your retiree/detective David Blazen. Who is

your favorite detective(s) from books, series or movies?

David: Hands down, Columbo. He had such an unassuming demeanor yet was a methodical thinker. There also was a constant calm about him. You couldn't ruffle his feathers, and I also liked his self-deprecating humor.

Jodi: I love Columbo! I’ve recently discovered the series Elsbeth who I describe as a female version of Columbo, always being underestimated. I have several Boomers in my life. Tell us, what’s the difference between a Boomer and a Boomster?

David: I can't give that away. For that, you'll have to read the story. 

Jodi: Oh, you’re tricky. Now who could resist reading Boomsters? Is there another David Blazen adventure in your future?

David: Let’s hope so! I am 76 now, but I'm still bursting with new creative ideas. Stay tuned, Detective Blaze may be back.

Jodi: Now, in the words of Columbo "Just one more thing..." Can you share anything surprising you learned when on your writing journey?

David: I learned that I can write a book. As I mentioned, it wasn't my goal, and if you told a younger version of me that I would one day be an author, I wouldn't have believed you. The journey was both challenging and fun, and the excitement continues. Every time a stranger leaves a review on Amazon or Goodreads about how they enjoyed the book, it absolutely makes my day. Just recently an avid reader called Boomsters their “top read of the year,” and that made me feel accomplished and brought a big smile to my face. It is tough as a first-time, self-published author since the publishing world is dominated by big players. Having you help share my story is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Jodi: It was my pleasure. And thanks for the reminder about how important it is for readers to share their thoughts online. After all, an Amazon of Goodreads review only takes a few minutes and it means so much.

Want to Win?

Enter to win a $35 Amazon gift card to winners in the US. Enter the giveaway HERE