Rodney Sadler

Rodney Sadler - As a decorated police officer, my ability to document Michigan serial killer Don Miller's case comes from a unique perspective.  For my entire thirty year career in law enforcement, I unknowingly fostered relationships with many of the key people involved in the investigation, prosecution, and even the defense of the killer.  The list includes acquaintances of the killer, uniformed officers, detectives, prosecutors, judges, and even Miller's own defense attorney.

My career began in 1981 after earning my associate degree and graduating from the mid-Michigan Police Academy.  Later in my career, I returned to college and earned my bachelor's degree in Management and Organizational Development.

Interest in a law enforcement career started in high school, and my interest peaked even more as I followed the headlines about a Michigan State University criminal justice graduate and the four missing women he was suspected of murdering.

It was late in my career when I decided to followup on a project and write my first book about a murder in the small town where I spent my childhood.  It was only then I realized what I enjoyed doing the most, and that was writing about true crime.

Twitter:  @RMSauthor

Instagram: @Rod Sadler-Author

Is there a genre of music that influences your writing/thinking?

When I'm writing, I don't like to get distracted by words to music, so I've found that if I turn on Spa music (very soft background music), it relaxes me to the point where I can actually concentrate better.

Is your go-to comfort food sweet or savory? Is it something you make yourself? Does food inspire your writing?

My comfort food is savory.  It's almost always something I make myself (most likely involving pasta).  I don't know as I'd say that it inspires my writing, but if I'm making it, it's typically a relaxing day, and I take full advantage of the relaxation by doing research and writing.

Not all books are for all readers...when you start a book and just don't like it, how long do read until you bail?

Two chapters.  I have to have a hook in the first chapter or two.

Vacation druthers...city or rural destination?  Why?

I live in the country, so a big city is always a thrill for me.  There are so many things to see and do, and you can disappear in a crowd of people.  No one knows who you are.  I was in New York years ago and loved it.  Chicago is another favorite.

What do you worry about?

I worry about my adult children.  My biggest fear as they were growing up was that they would turn out to be losers.  I couldn't have been more wrong.  All three are putting the pieces together and figuring life out, but I'll always worry about them.