2022 Local Authors Expo Spotlight: John Ryland

John Ryland is a writer from Northport, Alabama, who enjoys writing poetry, short stories, and longer works with thrilling and dark themes. 

You can meet him at the Local Authors Expo on Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m., at the Central Library. Keep reading to learn a little more about Ryland in the Q&A we had with him. 

BPL: Tell me about your book.

Ryland: Peripheral is the story of a young woman who must battle her way back from a shadow world known as the Peripheral in order to reclaim her body from a very old, very powerful demon who has taken it from her. Southern Gothic is a collection of 13 short stories ranging from tales of serial killers to those of redemption.

BPL: What inspired you to write your book(s)?

Ryland: All [of] my work starts out as a burning ember of an idea. Some grow into short stories, some novels. Occasionally things I see inspire me, like a peculiar road sign or an abandoned bank vault. 

BPL: Who is your favorite author and why?

Ryland: I love Ken Follett for his historical accuracy and Anthony Doerr for his style and the dark vein that runs through his work. 

BPL: What do you hope readers get out of your books?

Ryland: Entertainment. I'm not trying to change the world. I just want to offer people a temporary escape.

BPL: Any advice you would give for new authors or those desiring to become an author?

Ryland: Never give up. There will be bad days, perhaps many of them, but keep working, honing your craft, and never quit.  

Meet John Ryland in person at the Local Authors Expo this Saturday, November 5, at the Central Library, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m. You can purchase his books on Amazon or purchase your copy at the Local Authors Expo.

Click here to see the full list of the authors and publishers coming.