Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I currently reside in Katy, TX, with my wife, three children, and a horde of animals. Thus far, I’ve written one novel, one book of poetry, one book of short stories, a compendium, and ten novellas. All of this was written over a four-year period. Talk about prolific!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Gods and Gunslingers” is my latest book and this was inspired by my fascination with Spaghetti Westerns. However, this story takes a whole different turn.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I try to write in the morning when my brain is fresh.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Without any doubt, Harlan Ellison, who passed away last year. He was, in my opinion, the best American writer ever. He had a terrible disposition and was too radical politically but he was a literary genius. His passing was a terrible loss.
What are you working on now?
A sequel to my detective thriller, “Death Has Sharp Teeth.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Promotion sites. I’ve had bad results with Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, and Linked-in. People on social media just don’t pay attention to book promos.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing and keep rewriting. the more you write, the better you’ll get. Writing aptitude is a muscle. The more you train it, the bigger it will grow.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t be enamored with what you write. There’s always room for improvement, even with stuff you are in love with. Lose your ego. Nothing’s perfect.
What are you reading now?
Very little. I’m too busy writing. I’d love to take a year off and immerse myself in Ellison. I would come out a better writer and with a lot of fresh ideas.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Who knows where my writing sojourn will take me? I’ve written horror, fantasy, crime, and I could branch out even further. I’m a restless spirit.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
“I Have No Mouth and I Must Scream.” “Shatterday,” “The Deadly Streets,” and “Strange Wine,” all written by my mentor Harlan Ellison.
Author Websites and Profiles
Dennis Stamey Website
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