True Fiction Project: S6 Ep 9 - Shake Down: First Coast Thriller Series
Host: Renita Hora
Guest: Armand Rosamillia
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Introduction
In the ninth episode of Season 6 of True Fiction Project, host Renita Hora welcomes prolific author Armand Rosamillia. The episode delves into Armand's journey as a full-time writer, his diverse body of work, and his latest venture, the First Coast Thriller Series.
Armand Rosamillia: A Prolific Writer
Armand Rosamillia hails from New Jersey and currently resides in sunny Florida. Describing himself as "happily married to a woman who helps his career and is very supportive" (01:53), Armand has authored over 200 stories spanning genres such as crime thrillers, supernatural thrillers, horror, zombies, contemporary fiction, and nonfiction.
Notable Quote:
"I've written over 200 stories in a variety of genres, but crime thrillers have become my bread and butter." (03:32)
Navigating the Publishing Landscape
Armand operates as a hybrid author, publishing both under his own imprint, Rimfire Books, and collaborating with various small and large presses. He emphasizes the strategic use of small presses to handle aspects like cover design, formatting, and editing, which allows him to focus on writing.
Notable Quote:
"Working with small presses helps me reach loyal fans and attract new readers through my backlist." (06:28)
Additionally, Armand leverages short stories as a gateway for readers to explore his larger series. These stories often introduce characters from his main novels, serving both as standalone adventures and as preludes or extensions of his primary narratives.
Engaging Readers Through Short Stories and Patreon
Armand publishes approximately five to six short stories annually, many of which are featured in anthologies or accessible via his Patreon page. These stories function as "reader magnets," enticing audiences to delve deeper into his book series.
Notable Quote:
"My short stories allow readers to get to know characters before they appear in the main books, creating a richer reading experience." (09:00)
His Patreon offers multiple tiers, each providing different perks:
- $1 Level: Access to a monthly book chapter in progress.
- $5 Level: Includes the short story tied to his books.
- $10 Level: Features a prequel to his zombie series.
- $20 Level: Offers signed copies of his books.
Notable Quote:
"Patreon has been instrumental in building a dedicated community around my work, providing exclusive content and direct interaction with my readers." (13:04)
The Genesis of the First Coast Thriller Series
The First Coast Thriller Series, beginning with Shakedown, was inspired by Armand’s real-life experiences and observations. He draws inspiration from everyday scenarios, often sparking ideas during mundane activities like visiting Walmart or spending time at the beach with his wife, who assists him as his first reader.
Notable Quote:
"It starts with a 'what if'. For example, thinking about a character with a gambling problem led to the creation of Clayton Conway, the protagonist of Shakedown." (14:45)
Armand's approach involves creating realistic characters with flaws and vulnerabilities, avoiding the trope of superheroes or overly competent protagonists. This method grounds his stories in relatable human experiences, enhancing their appeal.
Writing Process: Intuitive and Organic
Armand eschews traditional outlining in favor of an intuitive writing process. He visualizes the structure within his mind, understanding the beats and arcs without a physical outline. This approach allows for flexibility and spontaneity, ensuring that the story evolves naturally as he writes.
Notable Quote:
"I'm not an outliner at all. It's all in my head. I've been writing this way for over 30 years." (17:25)
He monitors plot progression through internal "beats" or pivotal situations that drive the narrative forward, ensuring a cohesive and engaging storyline.
Excerpts and Storytelling
At 24:30, Armand reads an excerpt from Shakedown, the first book in the First Coast Thriller Series. The passage introduces Walt, recently dismissed from the police force due to gambling issues, now working as a repo man. Tensions rise as Walt faces scrutiny over a missing package, setting the stage for conflict and suspense.
Excerpt Highlight:
"Walt knew he was in trouble as soon as the door slammed open. The unmistakable voice of his boss cut through the heavy sunlight..."
Connecting with the Community
Armand actively engages with his audience through various platforms. He hosts live writing sessions on Twitch three times a week, where he drafts chapters and interacts with fans in real-time. This transparency not only demystifies the writing process but also fosters a deeper connection with his readership.
Notable Quote:
"Writing live on Twitch allows me to hold myself accountable and connect with readers in a unique and personal way." (21:10)
Conclusion
In this episode of True Fiction Project, Armand Rosamillia shares invaluable insights into his writing career, creative processes, and strategies for engaging with readers. His dedication to crafting compelling, character-driven stories and his innovative use of platforms like Patreon and Twitch exemplify his commitment to both his craft and his audience.
Find Armand's Work:
Visit armandrosamilia.com to explore his novels, subscribe to his newsletter, and join his vibrant online community.
Additional Information
Connect with True Fiction Project:
For those interested in contributing stories or being featured, visit reenita.com/podcasts/true-fiction-project/.
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Timestamps Reference:
- 00:54 – Armand discusses his people-watching inspiration.
- 01:53 – Introduction of Armand's background.
- 03:32 – Armand explains why crime thrillers are his primary focus.
- 06:28 – Publishing strategy and working with small presses.
- 09:00 – Use of short stories as reader magnets.
- 13:04 – Patreon tiers and offerings.
- 14:45 – Inspiration behind the First Coast Thriller Series.
- 17:25 – Armand’s intuitive writing process.
- 21:10 – Engaging with readers through Twitch.
- 24:30 – Reading from Shakedown.
This summary encapsulates the essence of the True Fiction Project episode featuring Armand Rosamillia, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of his work and methodologies.