Interview With David Stearman, Author of the New Novel Hot

by Sandra Ardoin

This is one of those “special” Friday editions I post on occasion. Today, I’m running an interview with David Stearman. His new novel Hot ~ Can Love’s Flame Survive Fame? just released and he’s giving readers insight into the story, along with sharing some tidbits about himself. Welcome, David! 

Give us the gist of the new book without giving it away.

Hot is the story of a young Jake, whose competitiveness with his peers drives him to become a rock star. He gives his all to reach this goal, sacrificing friends and even Chloe, the girl he loves, to reach the top. But once there he discovers how lonely life can be at the top. Now all he wants is to restore the dream he lived before his dreams came true. But most of all, Jake wants to reconnect with Chloe, whom he once betrayed. Can he do it? Can Jake find his way back home and into Chloe’s arms? You’ve gotta read the book to find out. 😉

How did the idea for this book start?

I used to be a recording artist, so elements of this story are autobiographical. My dream was legitimate, and God made it happen. But I’m thankful I never made it “enormously big” like Jake did. Past a certain point, a life of fame can be rife with pitfalls.

What appealed to you about the setting, history, culture etc of the project?

My love of the music business. Which is not unlike the “book business,” which I love every bit as much.

What aspect of the main character makes him most interesting?

We can all relate to Jake’s insecurity and vulnerability. And his childlike simplicity and fascination for life makes him loveable. What makes him interesting are his choices; how he chooses poorly in the beginning, but learns to make better ones later on.

What drives you when you write?

The desire to help someone else live a happier more fulfilled life. I know this might sound fake and even cheesy, but it’s the truth.

Time to get a bit more personal. What is the best travel experience you’ve ever had (or worst!), what is your favorite hobby, favorite place/cuisine to eat?

Best travel inexperience: I do a lot of missionary work, so seeing an entire Philippine village who had never previously heard the Gospel stand up on their feet and give their lives to Jesus tops them all.

Favorite hobby: Archery. My arms itch to shoot arrows every day. I can’t explain it, and I know it might sound boring to some, but shooting an awesome score is just too much fun. It might be easier to relate if you think of it as a game of golf, where instead of rolling balls into holes, you get to poke things with pointy sticks.

Favorite place/cuisine: I have two, which contrast each other dramatically. I know a restaurant in the South of France that makes the most amazing canard en croute. But my favorite travel of all consists of the huevos rancheros my friend Roman whips up in his humble little rooftop cafe in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

What else is in the works for you?

I recently wrote a novella about cowboys, Apaches, and some supernatural goings-on. It’s a blast, but heartwarming and meaningful, too. My agent said it made her cry. Can’t wait ‘til this one’s out in print 🙂

Thanks, David. Best wishes for the success of Hot, which can be found on Amazon, among other places!

David Stearman is a singer/songwriter who performs concerts and conducts missionary outreaches in numerous international locations. His work as a novelist grew from his career as a professional songwriter and recording artist. His stories are heavily influenced and seasoned by his travels in the US and abroad.

David currently resides with his wife Diane, Bichon Frisé Lilli, and parrot Kermit in Louisville, KY, where he focuses on writing stories filled with adventure and romance.