Unlock the Secrets Behind Zander Hatch’s Writing Genius—Are You Ready to Write Now?
Is it just me, or does anyone else secretly wonder if their story could one day jump off the page and explode with the intensity of an 80s action flick? Enter Zander Hatch—a ten-year Marine Corps vet turned first-time author—who’s done exactly that with his debut thriller, Rose Island. Mixing raw military grit with that unapologetically salty flavor only a former Marine could serve up, Zander doesn’t hold back. His writing is like a midnight adrenaline shot, full of pulse-pounding action and vivid authenticity. How do you go from barracks desk scribbles and shipboard notes to crafting tales that flip through like your favorite Die Hard VHS? Well, Zander’s journey is anything but conventional—and a little chaotic, in the best way possible. If you’re curious about the wild intersection of military life and storytelling that fuels his fast-paced novels, buckle up—you’re in for a ride. LEARN MORE
Today’s Write Now interview features Zander Hatch, author of ROSE ISLAND.
Who are you?
I’m Zander Hatch, a ten-year Marine Corps veteran and first-time author of Rose Island based out of Columbus, Ohio.
What do you write?
I write fast-paced action thrillers with a heavy dose of military operations infused into them. I’ve always been drawn to actions movies, specifically those of the 80s and 90s; I remember watching Die Hard on VHS. I decided I wanted to create my own action movies and overtime, that turned into wanting to write them. I do not shy away from cursing or violence; I have the mouth of a sailor and violence is ever-present in many parts of the world. I enjoy crafting stories and creating tension-filled scenes that leave the reader rapidly flipping through the pages.
Where do you write?
I’ve written everywhere. I started writing on paper when I was 12 and eventually on a computer. Many of my writing spaces consisted of a desk in whatever barracks I was living in at the time and even aboard US Navy ships while deployed overseas. I start a story generally by jotting ideas down or typing them on my phone. I attempt to storyboard it but, without fail, I go off track and I’ve learned I just need to write it down and I can fix it later. I will have a browser open with a dozen different taps while I write as I research topics or specifics of a weapon, for example.
When do you write?
I don’t have a strict writing schedule, even though I probably should. I will typically write in the evenings or at night. Sometimes I will write a few pages or maybe just half a page. Other times I will go back to something I’ve already written and start editing it.
Why do you write?
I write to have fun, and hopefully readers will have fun too. The desire to create a story to escape from reality or to simply take a break from life is what fuels me. A completed story that checks all my boxes of…
