An Interview with Michael Sarrazin

Michael Sarrazin, a Louisiana native, brings a unique perspective to his writing. He navigates life with a basic silver walker and a vibrant chrome purple one equipped with a seat. Residing in the New Orleans area with his husband, Nicholas, and their beloved cat, Joseph, Michael’s experiences enrich his storytelling. Rolling Into Love marks his debut novel, showcasing his passion for romance and connection. Through his work, he aims to offer relatable narratives that celebrate love and resilience in everyday life.

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What inspired you to start writing this book?

Honestly, there was a day that I felt like the whole world was inaccessible, and it was MY fault that I had a walker, MY fault that my legs weren’t working that day, and even my fault that the rain had flooded the curb cut and most of the ramp to get to this restaurant. I had scoured romance book groups to see if there were any recommendations with disabled main characters, and I only heard crickets. So that day, I started writing a love story I would want to read.

Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

Rolling Into Love came to me very quickly. I thought of a few other ideas, but that one just kept coming back to me.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

Well, for those who have read the book, Let’s Talk About Sex by Salt n Pepa.

The Only Exception by Paramore

Delicate by Taylor Swift

Opalite by Taylor Swift

Lover by Taylor Swift

What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?

I am really into the Dream Harbor series by Laurie Gilmore as an aspirational dream.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I was a special education teacher for five years. Readers wouldn’t know that I know very basic signs in ASL and I’m learning Spanish.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I remember my fourth-grade teacher read chapters of the A-Z Mysteries series every Friday. From then, I loved to write my own stories and poetry.

What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?

I saw a quote recently, paraphrased “Your story isn’t meant for all readers. It’s meant for the right readers.”

What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?

I hope that, for able-bodied readers, it helps them to see the world from a different perspective and advocate for accessible spaces. And for disabled readers, I want them to feel seen, understood, and valued. Not inspirational or heroic but valued just as themselves.

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Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.