Photo: Lavelle Andrew Miller Sr., award-winning author of Your Turn, blends authentic experience with gripping storytelling to captivate audiences.
From Military Service to Award-Winning Novels
Award-winning author Lavelle Andrew Miller Sr. shares insights on his debut novel, inspirations from military service, balancing passions, launching Braveone, and his enduring mission to inspire through storytelling and creativity.
Lavelle Andrew Miller Sr. is a name that has been steadily carving a distinct niche in the literary world, and it is our privilege to showcase his work in this month’s issue of Reader’s House. An award-winning author, Lavelle brings to the page a wealth of life experience that not only enriches his storytelling but also makes it riveting and authentic. His debut novel, Your Turn, demonstrates a mastery in crafting characters and narratives that linger long after the final page is turned. From Seven House’s poignant journey to lifelike investigations and stirring themes of consequence, Lavelle captivates readers with his ability to intertwine realism and hard-hitting emotion across his works.
Having served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army and holding a strong academic foundation with degrees in criminal justice and performance improvement, Lavelle’s writing is deeply rooted in authenticity. He merges his professional expertise with his imaginative artistry, delivering crime and mystery tales that feel simultaneously grounded and exhilarating. A proud member of Crime Writers of Colour, Lavelle’s commitment to representing diversity and uplifting underrepresented voices is reflected in both his literary journey and his advocacy within the crime-writing community.
Beyond his literary pursuits, Lavelle is a man of many talents and passions. His lifestyle brand, Braveone, and podcast, The Brave Way, are testaments to his drive and creative vision, encouraging others to embrace greatness and challenge conventions. With heartfelt slogans like “Greatness is Earned” and “Becoming Legendary,” Lavelle inspires not only through his writing but through his entrepreneurial spirit, pushing forward his mission of perseverance and growth across multiple platforms.
Lavelle’s multifaceted interests—from his martial arts expertise and amateur MMA competition to his passion for video games—serve as vibrant threads in his storytelling fabric, enriching the themes, characters, and action that define his work. In this exclusive interview, we delve deeper into the mind of this outstanding author, exploring his inspirations, creative process, and advice to aspiring writers who, like him, strive to balance the demands of multiple pursuits and careers. Lavelle Andrew Miller Sr. exemplifies what it means to pursue passion relentlessly, and his voice in modern literature is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. Join us as we uncover the journeys and wisdom of this remarkable writer—one whose stories, like his life, are built upon a foundation of courage, determination, and authenticity.
Highlights from the Interview:
- Lavelle’s military service as a Military Police Officer inspired the authenticity in his debut novel, Your Turn.
- Insights on the character of Seven House, a poignant figure who reflects the struggles of working effectively despite personal costs.
- Lavelle’s martial arts and video gaming passions enrich his writing, especially in crafting realistic fight scenes and multidimensional characters.
- Founding the Braveone Lifestyle Brand, featuring motivational slogans encouraging greatness and perseverance in both life and writing.
- His podcast, The Brave Way, as a platform to discuss the writing process and share his creative journey.
- Advice for aspiring authors: make time, focus on your audience, and embrace the journey without regret.
- Member of Crime Writers of Color, a supportive community that empowers writers from underrepresented backgrounds.
How do your interests in martial arts, video games, etc. influence the themes or characters in your writing?
I have competed in Jiu-Jitsu competitions and amatuer MMA fights. I believe this gives me an edge in writing fighting scenes since I make them feel realistic based on experience. Also, from playing video games, I’ve learned the main character might not be the most popular character. So, don’t assume who will be the most popular. Give the fans options.
What motivated you to launch the Braveone Lifestyle Brand?
Back in high school, I thought it would be cool to have a clothing brand. When I launched Braveone Lifestyle Brand, my additional intent was to include slogans I use often. “Greatness is Earned” and “Becoming Legendary” for example. This is another avenue used to help fund my writing career.
How did your experience as a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Army influence the development of your debut novel, “Your Turn”?
During my short time in the Army, I learned about investigations, report writing, and just to make it simple, basic policing strategies. I learned even more when I completed my two undergraduate degrees. It helped me reduce the amount of research needed to make the book feel authentic.
“I believe [martial arts] gives me an edge in writing
fighting scenes since I make them feel realistic based on experience.” – Lavelle
Can you elaborate on the character of Seven House and the inspiration behind his journey in “Your Turn”?
Seven House is someone who wants to do his job regardless if it leads to negative consequences. Simply put, House is an example of the downside of doing your job effectively. It’s hard to put into words but, we all can think of someone who has worked too hard and it cost them.
As a member of Crime Writers of Color, how has this community impacted your writing process and perspective?
The support in this group is phenomenal. Crime Writers of Color continues to show me what’s possible in the writing space and encourages me to keep moving forward.
Could you share insights into your podcast, “The Brave Way,” and how it complements your work as an author?
The Brave Way podcast covers any and everything that is of interest to me. Specifically in writing, it provides me an additional outlet to share information about the writing process.
What advice would you offer to aspiring authors looking to balance multiple interests and careers while pursuing writing?
1. Make time. An hour a night, in the morning, during lunch, whenever/wherever you can.
2. Understand your book/story isn’t for everyone but, there are many people who will love it. Focus on reaching those readers.
and
3. As long as you give a real, deciated try, you won’t regret it regardless of the results.
