iUniverse Blog

iUniverse author Robert Phillips tells us about his 30 years as a police officer in his entertaining collection of stories, Pig Tales.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Who lines up to have people try to shoot them, knife them, blow them up, and threaten them with bodily harm? Everyone who is part of the law enforcement family—that’s who.

That includes me. I got my start as a sheriff’s officer in April 1998. When I reported for duty on my first day, the senior day-shift sergeant asked me if I was in the National Guard or the Reserves, and when I said no, I was told I’d be a good man for the day shift.

I wasn’t long on the job before an inmate—while trying to escape—put a knife to my throat. Another inmate distracted the potential escapee and I was able to call for help.

Craving more excitement, I eventually became a “real” police officer. I wanted to take part in car chases, get shot at, go to robbery-in-progress calls, and make drug arrests.

And about Pig Tales?

I tried to make Pig Tales entertaining to all, I hope you’ll find it humorous, informative reading. I really want the people that read it to know that Law Enforcement are just people. We see the worst the world offers and are expected to just blink it away. I’ll tell you it don’t. For some it never goes away. But if those that do it didn’t, I don’t know where we would be.

Do you have any particular literary influences?

I enjoy many different authors, it would be hard to nail down one.

What inspired you to write your book?

My Dad, he always was a great storyteller and never had a chance to put pen to paper.

Are you working on a sequel to your book?

Yes, I actually have two in mind.

Are there any events, marketing ideas, or promotions planned for your book?

Right now my wife and daughter are putting it out on social media and word of mouth.

Please feel free to mention any accolades you have received . . .

I have been asked about my second one already.

What was your favorite part of your publishing experience?

Getting the word that Pig Tales was actually being published.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?

It’s in you, put it on paper.

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