Justin Phillips

Justin Phillips is known for his eclectic tastes—he may dip his chicken tenders in caviar, but his writing blends crime, mischief, and compelling antiheroes. His debut novel, American Limoncello, offers a fun yet thought-provoking escape with sugar-laced themes that keep readers on their toes.

Born in Portland, Oregon, Justin's storytelling roots began early, crafting intricate narratives for his action figures. The 1992 ‘Death of Superman’ event ignited his passion for comics, which eventually led him to join the military. As a Navy field medic, he learned the art of quick decisions under pressure, caring for Marines and racing ambulances through the streets of Napoli, Italy. His later time as a valet attendant in Las Vegas opened his eyes to the wild, often hidden side of luxury, and his role as a nightclub bouncer—thanks to his medical experience rather than his muscle—further honed his ability to assess people and situations with precision.

These colourful life experiences have shaped Justin’s writing, offering a mix of dark humour, sharp insights, and gritty authenticity that even Hemingway would approve of. His formal writing journey began when a Navy shipmate invited him to his wedding and, more importantly, insisted that Justin start writing. Taking this advice to heart, Justin used his Post-9/11 GI Bill to earn multiple writing certifications from UCLA.

Now living in Los Angeles, Justin balances his writing with a career as a personal fitness trainer, where he doubles as an impromptu therapist for clients in need of both physical and mental escape. When he's not hiking, falling down YouTube rabbit holes, or enjoying the creative energy of cafe conversations, you'll find him crafting stories that reflect his diverse and dynamic life experiences. And while Justin may claim to dip his chicken tenders in caviar, rest assured—he’s not a fan of the stuff.