Chandler novel writer inspired by northern Arizona

When Justin Verner headed to northern Arizona, he was inspired.

So inspired, that it prompted him to write his first novel.

“Jason and Catalina” is Verner’s 175-page debut novel.

What was it about northern Arizona that made the Kent State (Ohio) business administration and marketing major and musician decide to write a novel?

“You can see so many stars up there,” Verner says. “Like, 10,000 more than in the city, it seems.”

It also helped to see the northern Arizona wilderness in the late fall — when leaves change colors.

Verner, who moved from Ohio to Chandler about four years ago, said his novel, like many others, evolved as something autobiographical.

“The main character’s an alter ego of mine,” Verner said. “I wanted a character that’s a reflection of myself, but more exciting. H