Exploring the Depths of Literature and Aviation with Daniel V. Meier Jr.
From Skies to Stories: A Journey Through the Life and Works of an Acclaimed Author and Aviation Expert
Daniel V. Meier Jr., retired FAA Inspector turned author, discusses literary influences, favorite genres, and writing challenges in this insightful interview.
Daniel V. Meier Jr., a retired Aviation Safety Inspector for the FAA, has seamlessly transitioned from ensuring the safety of skies to crafting compelling narratives on paper. His journey into the world of literature began during his college years, where he pursued studies in History at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington (UNCW), and American Literature at The University of Maryland Graduate School. Meier’s literary endeavors took flight in 1980 with the publication of Mendoza’s Treasure, an Action/Thriller penned under the pseudonym Vince Daniels. While he briefly delved into journalism with the Washington Business Journal, Meier’s heart remained tethered to storytelling, leading him to contribute to various aviation magazines.
In recent years, Meier has found a home with BQB Publishing, releasing four books under its banner. Among them, Guidance to Death, his latest offering, marks a return to his favored genre of Action/Thriller/Crime. Despite his literary exploits, Meier remains grounded in his Maryland abode, where he and his wife navigate the waters of the Chesapeake Bay aboard their Bayfield 36 during summer months.
Meier’s literary tastes transcend time, as evidenced by his current read, The Woman In White by Wilkie Collins, a pioneer in mystery and suspense. When envisioning the perfect literary soirée, Meier’s guest list includes Joseph Conrad, renowned for his exploration of the human struggle, and Saul Bellow, celebrated for his portrayal of post-war conflicts.
In the pantheon of contemporary writers, Meier reserves admiration for Noam Chomsky, lauding his incisive social critique, and Earl Charles Spencer, esteemed for his historical acumen and lucid writing style. Reflecting on his own writing journey, Meier acknowledges the profound influence of the Lost Generation and the Bloomsbury Group, whose literary legacies continue to shape modern storytelling.
When posed with the timeless question of choosing a favorite among his literary offspring, Meier finds himself in a parental quandary, asserting the uniqueness of each creation. The genesis of his writing career can be traced back to his college days, where the dense and complex works of Thomas Pynchon ignited his creative spark.
To his readers, Meier imparts a reflection of his literary ethos, emphasizing the infusion of deeper meanings into his narratives, from human avarice to the dynamics of power. Currently, Meier is immersed in crafting the sequel to Guidance to Death, delving once more into the enigmatic world of aviation accident investigation. Yet, amidst the allure of storytelling, Meier confesses to the perennial challenge of outlining his narratives, preferring to let the characters and themes evolve organically.
In Daniel V. Meier Jr., readers discover not just an author, but a storyteller whose narratives soar beyond the confines of genre, inviting readers to embark on journeys that traverse the intricacies of the human condition.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Guidance to Death by Daniel V. Meier Jr. is a gripping thriller that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the intricate world of corporate intrigue and high-stakes conspiracy.
From the very first page, Meier captivates with his masterful storytelling, pulling readers into a web of mystery and deception that keeps them on the edge of their seats until the very end. The opening scene sets the stage perfectly, painting a vivid picture of a sinister plot unfolding in the shadows.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its well-developed characters. Frank Adams, the retired NTSB investigator turned independent sleuth, is a compelling protagonist whose determination to uncover the truth drives the narrative forward. Meier deftly brings each character to life, weaving their motivations and secrets into the fabric of the story in a way that keeps readers guessing until the final reveal.
The plot itself is expertly crafted, full of twists and turns that keep readers guessing at every step. As Adams delves deeper into the case, the stakes continue to rise, leading to a heart-pounding climax that will leave readers breathless.
Meier’s attention to detail is evident throughout the novel, particularly in his meticulous research into the world of aviation and corporate culture. The result is a story that feels authentic and immersive, drawing readers into a world where nothing is as it seems and danger lurks around every corner.
Guidance to Death is a riveting thriller that will appeal to fans of suspense and mystery alike. With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and expertly crafted prose, it’s a must-read for anyone looking for a page-turning adventure. Daniel V. Meier Jr. has crafted a masterpiece that will leave readers eagerly awaiting his next book.
