An Interview with Russell Gerney

Russ Gerney is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and the Duquesne University School of Law. He is licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and Ohio as well as multiple Federal courts including the Supreme Court of the United States.

He returned to fiction writing after a layoff of several decades with the novel Eighty Hours. This is his second novel.

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

It was easy. The title reflects the time the main character, Stephen Jackson, has to survive.

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

Very excited.

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

I’ve always been interested in writing fiction. I did so in college. When I became an attorney I started writing professional articles. But I always felt the desire to write a novel. I finally made the time to do so.

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

I have worked in the hospitality industry in various restaurants and hotels. I was a substance abuse counselor. When I figured out what I wanted to be when I grew up I went to law school.

What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?

The thrill of seeing it available online.

What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?

A continuation of Stephen Jackson’s story called To Sleep, Perchance to Dream.

How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?

I had a great experience with Atmosphere Press.

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