Mike Eschbach

Biography

I would describe myself as unassuming. I'm the 4th of 5 kids, a Penn State grad, a U.S. Navy vet and an entrepreneur. I've been married since 2002.

I've been writing fiction informally since I was ten years old. I've outlined and written down ideas for stories in several different genres. It is only as I've gotten older that I've tried to take a stab at actually writing in effort to get published.

I've written in a number of different fictional styles including retrospectives, faith based stories and humor. Right now my efforts are focused on world building in a military fantasy setting under the title 'Tales of the MERC.' Parts One and Two are currently priced at 99. Part Three is priced at $3.99.

Smashwords Interview

Who are your favorite authors?
Start with JRR Tolkien. I think every little kid who first reads the Hobbit becomes immersed in Middle Earth. That said, contemporary fantasy has become so broad in scope that it's almost sad to consider that the old Professor's work has somehow become trite. Modern fantasists include Abercrombie, Kristoff, and for a really good time, any of Glen Cook's work. In other genres I like Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan stories and I'm into Brad Taylor's series. As far as female authors, I'm a huge fan of CS Friedman (She just writes consistently great stuff) and Anne McCaffery.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
Life happens when we're awake and aware. Many of the most innocent instances offer starting points to great stories. So, as much as I have a busy life, I still try to make time to find those instances.
Read more of this interview.

Where to find Mike Eschbach online

Books

Tales of the MERC Part Three: My name is Alys
Price: $3.99 USD. Words: 39,680. Language: American English. Published: August 1, 2021. Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Dark
(5.00 from 2 reviews)
In time of political upheaval, Malice and Stout strive to keep their son, Hari, safe from danger. It is not an easy task.
Tales of the MERC Part Two: A Deadly Introduction
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 12,700. Language: English. Published: April 7, 2019. Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Dark
(5.00 from 3 reviews)
Click expected her future mother-in-law to be difficult. She did not realize how difficult, however, until Malice dragged her from the small cafe' where she and Hari had been having lunch. Upon reaching the tavern that was their destination, Click found at once that Malice was less ferocious than her fear made her, but more terrifying than she ever dreamed.
Tales of the MERC Part One: The Trial
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 20,590. Language: English. Published: December 7, 2018. Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Dark
(5.00 from 7 reviews)
Malice and Stout have a problem. Retired heroes of the MERC, they have enjoyed all the benefits that implies. Unfortunately, their son, Hari, decided to follow their lead and enrolled in the MERC Officer Candidate Program without their knowledge. Worse, Hari’s planning to attempt the Trial. Upon learning of her son’s folly, Malice demands that Stout take action. What's an old soldier to do?

Smashwords book reviews by Mike Eschbach

  • New Camelot's Lord of the Isles on March 17, 2019

    Brenda Gable's 'Lord of the Isles' is the latest installment of her 'New Camelot' series. It tells the tales of a modern day American professional football player who's been magicked back to 13th century Britain to take on the role of hero. The cast includes an intransigent water dragon, belligerent nobles, well-meaning witches, sultry sirens, fickle fairies and a put upon mistress of the manor who has to deal with said football player along with all the other headaches that come with running a keep. It's a fun romp filled with double entendres and not so subtle innuendos, but at it's core it's another in a line of sweet romances that have a heart. Highly recommended. Mike Eschbach - Author of 'Tales of the MERC: The Trial'
  • Best Friends Are Always There For You on Sep. 22, 2021

    love it - big fan of poetry, big fan of animals. Mike Eschbach