Meet Neil Plakcy
Neil Plakcy is a seasoned storyteller whose career spans more than fifteen years and over 70 published novels. His work traverses genres from mystery and romance to adventure and healing fiction each story infused with his signature warmth, wit, and emotional intelligence.
“I’ve been writing since I was a teenager,” Neil shares. “It’s always been how I make sense of the world. Writing lets me explore the things that matter most: love, forgiveness, identity, and courage.”
Over the years, Neil’s books have found readers who value both the thrill of suspense and the tenderness of human connection. Whether writing about crime-solving detectives, romantic partners rebuilding trust, or characters on journeys of self-discovery, he brings authenticity and heart to every page.
The Inspiration Behind The Big Race
Neil’s latest novel, The Big Race, draws inspiration from one of his long-time television obsessions The Amazing Race.
“I’ve spent years watching it,” he says, laughing. “But I knew I’d never make it as a contestant. So, I let my imagination do the racing instead.”
The novel centers on Jeffrey and Ray, a married couple of twenty-five years whose relationship is faltering after Ray’s affair. In a last-ditch effort to save their marriage, they enter a global reality TV competition that tests their endurance, trust, and love.
“What starts as an adventure becomes something much deeper a story about forgiveness, rediscovery, and the kind of love that takes work to rebuild,” Neil explains.
Through exotic destinations and emotional challenges, The Big Race explores how shared struggle can reignite connection and heal even the deepest wounds.
Writing Habits and Creative Process
Neil’s writing process is marked by consistency and the occasional canine interruption. “My two golden retrievers are always nearby,” he admits. “They like to sprawl behind my chair, making me plan my movements carefully. But honestly, their presence keeps me grounded and happy.”
He writes daily, finding inspiration in quiet moments and everyday life. His routine, though flexible, always returns to one principle: “Write something, even if it’s not perfect. The act of writing keeps the creative engine running.”
Literary Influences
Neil draws influence from some of the twentieth century’s most iconic voices Ernest Hemingway, Jack Kerouac, and Jimmy Buffett.
“What I love about these writers is how they lived as boldly as they wrote,” he says. “Their prose has rhythm and freedom. They remind me to live life fully so I can write truthfully.”
That balance of experience and craft shapes Neil’s work, giving his stories both adventure and authenticity.
Current and Upcoming Projects
Neil is currently working on After the Party: A Jewish Teen’s Guide to Finding Your Path, a heartfelt nonfiction project that aims to keep young readers connected to their faith and heritage after their bar or bat mitzvah.
“For many teens, Jewish education stops after the ceremony,” he explains. “This book is my way of helping them see how our ancient traditions still offer meaning and guidance in modern life.”
He’s also developing a second-chance romance set in the world of Formula 1 racing a fast-paced, emotional story about love, ambition, and redemption on and off the track.
Promoting His Work and Engaging Readers
For Neil, connection is key. His most powerful tool is his Substack newsletter, which reaches more than 5,000 subscribers each week.
“I write about the intersection of creativity and business,” he says. “My readers love seeing the behind-the-scenes side of being an author the process, the challenges, and the lessons learned. That relationship has been more valuable than any advertising campaign.”
By nurturing a loyal reader base, Neil has built a genuine community one that supports his work because they trust his voice.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Neil’s advice for new writers is both practical and encouraging:
“Read deeply in the genre you love. Analyze what makes those books work the pacing, structure, and emotional beats. Once those patterns are in your head, writing your own story becomes much easier.”
He also emphasizes the importance of persistence. “Every good story is about someone who wants something and what stands in their way. That’s true for writers too. Keep pushing through the obstacles, because finishing a book is its own reward.”
The Best Advice He’s Ever Heard
“The best advice I ever got is simple,” he says. “A story is about someone who wants something and what stands in their way. That’s the heart of all great storytelling.”
What He’s Reading
Right now, Neil is reading The Longmire Defense by Craig Johnson a series he adores. “I miss the TV show,” he admits. “Johnson’s writing has such a strong sense of place and character. It’s both rugged and poetic.”
What’s Next for Neil Plakcy
Neil continues to explore new creative directions, from faith-based nonfiction to high-stakes romance. His next big goal? To keep writing stories that entertain, heal, and remind readers that even in the toughest times, love and resilience can triumph.
Books He Would Take to a Desert Island
If stranded on a desert island, Neil would pack:
- Ulysses by James Joyce – “Because there’s a lifetime of discovery in its pages.”
- A collection of stories by Laurie Colwin – “For warmth and humor.”
- Works by KJ Charles – “For her ability to weave emotion and adventure together perfectly.”
Connect with Neil Plakcy
- Website: Neil Plakcy Official Site
- Amazon Author Page: Neil Plakcy on Amazon
- Goodreads: Neil Plakcy on Goodreads
- Facebook: Neil Plakcy Facebook Profile
- Twitter: Twitter Account
- Pinterest: Neil Plakcy Pinterest
