THE DUAL LIFE OF DANIEL J. VOELKER TRIAL ATTORNEY AND ACCLAIMED AUTHOR - VORAKA

DANIEL J. VOELKER

Daniel J. Voelker is a lifelong trial attorney and an accomplished author of several internationally acclaimed works, including Will The Real James Bond Please Stand Up, which delves into the origins of Ian Fleming's James Bond character. Dan has a passion for intrigue, particularly spying and espionage. His experiences growing up in Hawaii during the 1960s heavily influenced his writing in Return to Hawaii, an Amazon Bestseller, making it a valuable resource for anyone planning to visit the Islands. ABOUT THE BOOK

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Donovan Cross is the NIA's legendary secret agent. He has been sent on dozens of missions in every corner of the globe and will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.

Originally from Hawaii, Cross has not returned home in nearly 30 years. The unexpected death of his parents altered the course of his life. Instead of attending a prestigious college on a scholarship, he chose a path of spying and espionage.

When the Agency ordered him to return to his birthplace, he anticipated confronting painful memories of his parents' passing. However, those feelings were replaced by a sense of excitement and rejuvenation.

Unbeknownst to him, his presence on the island is crucial to addressing a sensitive global China's imminent invasion of Taiwan. Hawaii is being used, shrouded in secrecy, to facilitate this invasion. The skills Cross has honed over the years and his knowledge of the island's secrets will lead him and his newfound ally, the beautiful Jade Viper, on the thrill ride of a lifetime.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DANIEL J. VOELKER

Please introduce yourself.

I’m a lifelong trial attorney with a real passion for intrigue, especially when it comes to spying and espionage. Growing up in the colorful era of the 1960s, I looked up to the iconic James Bond, 007, and saw all his movies. Alongside my full-time legal practice, I’ve enjoyed teaching classes on trial skills and other legal topics over the years. Writing a novel has always been a dream of mine, and I’m thrilled to dive into that journey finally. Right now, I call Evanston, Illinois, home—just a stone’s throw from the Northwestern University campus!

What inspired you to write your first book?

I’ve always been an avid reader of thrillers featuring characters like Jason Bourne, Jack Reacher, George Smiley, and Jack Ryan, and I've wanted to weave my own story. That’s how Donovan Cross, the protagonist of my spy novel series, came to life! He has some similarities to these characters, but I have also tried to explore his background and personality.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

The research was a highlight for me. I wanted to make sure every detail was realistic and spot on, from locations to high-tech gadgets and a spy's tradecraft. I love food and wine, and used my knowledge to describe every detail.

Did you encounter any challenges while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?

Creating compelling plot twists is essential for making an exciting and captivating story, and it can be quite a challenge! I put a lot of thought into it and am proud of the engaging twists I’ve crafted.

Can you share a bit about your background and how it has influenced your writing?

Having spent my childhood in Hawaii, I genuinely love the Islands’ rich history, stunning landscapes, the ocean, delicious cuisine, and everything else they offer. This background has been invaluable in creating a story that reflects all those wonderful elements.

How do you stay motivated and overcome writer's block?

I would step back (or forward) whenever I was stuck and focus on something else. You’d be amazed at how your mind can develop fresh ideas and twists when you give it a little break!

What do you hope readers will remember most about your book?

I attempted to describe the traits and motivations that make a great spy, considering the dangerous nature of the job. Since this is the first book in the Donovan Cross series, I felt it was essential to give readers a clear insight into Cross’s background, family, morals, and inner thoughts. This way, they can connect with him and grasp the moral dilemmas he faces daily.

Can you describe your journey to getting your book published?

I decided to take the self-publishing route for this book. The audience for pure spy novels may be niche, but I believe those readers will enjoy what I’ve created. My advice to any aspiring writer is to pour your passion into what you love to write and then promote it as much as you can—it truly needs to be a labor of love, and that’s precisely what it was for me!

What are you currently working on, and can we expect any new releases soon?

At the moment, I’m busy working on the next book in the Donovan Cross Series, which is called The Golden Dome. I’m also wrapping up another novel, The Club: Hilarious Escapades and Gritty Romance. This fictional story is set in a high-end health club in any big city, where readers will dive into the lively and sometimes chaotic lives of its glamorous, fun-loving, toned and tan, and always on the prowl members. With antics around the rooftop pool, tiki bar, and lavish facilities, there’s plenty of laughter, playful rivalries, and even some deep, sometimes gritty, passionate connections. I’m excited about this one and think it will resonate with a broad audience!