From Lawyer to Bestselling Author – Linda O. Johnston’s Journey
Linda’s dynamic career path enriches her storytelling with authenticity and detail
Linda O. Johnston blends romance, mystery, and animal advocacy in over 60 novels, drawing inspiration from her legal background and Alaskan adventures, while offering valuable advice to aspiring writers.
Linda O. Johnston is a celebrated author whose name has become synonymous with romance and mystery. Her storytelling masterfully blends heartfelt relationships with gripping suspense, captivating readers across the globe. With a portfolio boasting over 60 novels, Linda has carved a niche for herself in the literary world, particularly with her deep affection for animals that often feature prominently in her work.
From a young age, Linda was destined to write. Her childhood was filled with stories that showcased her burgeoning talent and imagination. Although she took a brief hiatus during law school, her passion for storytelling soon resurfaced, enriched by her legal background, which added authenticity and detail to her narratives. Linda’s journey began with short stories, one of which won the prestigious Robert L. Fish Memorial Award, before she transitioned to full-length novels. Her debut novel, the time-travel romance “A Glimpse of Forever,” marked the beginning of a diverse and successful career.
Linda’s path from trained lawyer to full-time author is as dynamic as the plots she crafts. Her commitment to creating intricate stories that highlight the bond between humans and animals is evident in beloved series like the Pet Rescue Mysteries and Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter Mysteries. Her genuine passion for animal rights brings a unique depth to her characters and settings, resonating with readers who share her love for animals.
In a recent interview, Linda delved into her inspiration for the Shelter of Secrets series, a fascinating blend of animal rescue and human drama. She also discussed her Alaska Untamed Mystery series, which was born from her own adventures in the Alaskan wilderness. Her love for cruises and the natural beauty of Alaska sparked the creation of Stacie Calder, a naturalist and sleuth navigating the rugged beauty of the last frontier. Linda’s attention to detail and commitment to authenticity shine through as she discusses her research methods and the joys of setting a series in such a unique location.
Linda also shared insights into the challenges and rewards of contributing to long-running series like the Colton series, where multiple authors collaborate to expand a vast fictional family. Her ability to craft engaging, standalone stories within this framework speaks to her versatility and skill as a writer.
A dedicated member of several writers’ organizations, including the Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, Linda emphasizes the importance of community and continuous learning in a writer’s journey. She offers valuable advice to aspiring writers on embracing their passions across multiple genres, encouraging them to find their voice and persist through the editing process.
Linda‘s latest book, “Canine Protection,” is the fourth in the Shelter of Secrets series. The series, which features a unique premise of a shelter that protects both animals and people, was inspired by her love for dogs and her belief in caring for and adopting rescue animals. Although the series is winding down, with only one more book, “Canine Refuge,” set to release next year, it has left a lasting impact on readers.
The Alaska Untamed Mystery series introduces readers to Stacie Calder, a naturalist in Alaska. Linda’s inspiration for this series came from her love of cruises and her experiences in Alaska, where she conducted research and developed the character of Stacie Calder, who solves crimes while giving tours in the Alaskan wilderness.
Linda’s passion for animals is evident in many of her books, including the Pet Rescue Mysteries and Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter Mysteries. Her love for dogs and advocacy for animal rights drive her to write stories that explore the relationships between humans and animals, bringing joy to both herself and her readers.
Writing romantic suspense allows Linda to create characters who are attracted to one another while facing challenging situations that test their resolve and deepen their connections. Her advice to aspiring writers is to embrace their passions, determine the best genres for their stories, and persist through the writing and editing process. Joining writers’ organizations and critique groups can also provide valuable support and learning opportunities.
Linda O. Johnston‘s journey from writing short stories to becoming an award-winning author is as compelling as the stories she tells. Her dedication to her craft and her love for animals continue to inspire readers and aspiring writers alike.
