Interview with Martyn Stanley
Published 2014-09-01.
When did you first start writing?
As a child. I used to write humorous adventure stories about a satirical character called 'Scott'. They were intentionally absurd and silly.
What's the story behind your latest book?
There are so many stories with the 'Deathsworn Arc' it's hard to say what the one story is. I suppose the core story is the fall of religion in Torea and how it impacts upon the world. It has many aspects to it, but it broadly explores morality faith and superstition vs reason and logic. These themes are subtle though, at it's heart it's a dark, epic fantasy adventure story.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
Lack of interest from traditional publishers. I can understand why my series might ave been perceived as risky. I'm glad I started it though, I love getting feedback and I get very positive feedback about my stories.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
I really came to Smashwords late. I spent a long time with my books in Amazon KDP Select, but I've decided to make them available on more platforms. I'm hoping Smashwords will help with this!
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
When I read positive feedback on my stories. There's nothing like the feeling that someone has read my story, got what I was shooting for and enjoyed it.
What do your fans mean to you?
I love my fans. I've made some amazing friends through my books. I won't name names, but there I've truly made some amazing international friends whom I talk with often. I read J K Rowling said recently she'd stopped signing things for people due to insane levels of demand and George R Martin said he was fed up of people approaching him. I don't think I'd like to be that famous, or popular. At the moment, if anyone tries to contact me, I always engage with them and probably always will!
What are you working on next?
I have a science fiction series brewing in my head and an urban fantasy series involving Angels and Demons. I also have a few ideas for literary fiction on the back-burners. My next project as of September 2014 will be Deathsworn Arc 4: The Temple of the Mad God
Who are your favorite authors?
Richard Dawkins, Terry Pratchett, Tolkien, Paulini. I have an eclectic reading taste and don't stick to one genre. I really enjoyed Ken Folletts 'Pillars of the Earth' even though I spent most of the book wishing someone would just kill William and Alfred!
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
I don't need inspiring! My little boy drags me out of bed to take him for breakfast. He won't let anyone else. It should be a pain - but it's kind of nice!
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I read and study. I watch some TV and I used to play a lot of video games, but these days I tend to like spending time with my children and being outdoors. When weather is permitting of course - this IS england!
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
I use goodreads a lot, I still read mainly paperbacks so my reading is often dictated by my bedside table pile of 'things to read'
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Yes! It was awful, but very funny. It had people in stitches!
What is your writing process?
I keep experimenting with different methods.I used to write the whole thing - then edit. Now I'm more cautious and try to spend more time getting once chapter right before moving onto the next.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I can remember trying to read 'The Fellowship of the Ring' aged 9 it was too slow and too tough going. I gave up and tried again over a decade later! I really enjoyed it then.
How do you approach cover design?
I work very closely with Isis. We are aiming for a professional unified feel which portrays the feel of the book well, and is just different enough to the mainstream to be interesting.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists by Robert Tressel was a favorite and The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. The first one because of it's very human story, and it's historical accuracy. It feels like traveling back in time reading TRTP by Tressel. The second one is just an epic story of revenge and justice. It really is an incredible read.
What do you read for pleasure?
Anything and everything! I try to mix genres up. I don't really read crime, but the last thing I read was 'The Hypnotist' by Lars Keppler - I loved it.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I don't have an e-reader! I keep meaning to get one. I think I'll get a Kindle of some sort.
What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?
None really, sales have been slow from day 1 and never really picked up - despite awesome feedback! I will keep writing and telling people about my writing. I'd love for my books to become popular but I write for myself as much as my few fans. I WILL finish the series even if I never sell a single copy of book 4! If I start something, I finish it.
Describe your desk
Chaos incarnate - much like my mind.
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