Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello,
I am a new author and I live in England. I’m married and I have two little boys aged 2 and 4. I’ve been an avid reader of Fantasy, Sci Fi and Horror all my life. From when I was a teenager, I started telling these stories in my head, developing the characters.
I always dreamed of being a fantasy author full time, but life got in the way and I didn’t really pursue this. Too much self doubt to try and apply to Trad Publishing Houses. Then I stumbled across a Facebook group called 20Booksto50K and this changed my outlook on writing.
That group showed me that it was possible to become a writer and that all the barriers to entry weren’t really a thing. I lurked there (I still do) and learnt what I could, then I started implementing it all. I started planning my books, and the series just grew and grew.
I’ve always loved ambitious series, be it fantasy, Sci Fi or Horror. So Epic fantasy story lines and space operas were what I was drawn to.
In planning, my Rune War Series will spiral into around 30 books or so. There will be spin off series, and series to read side by side. Plus the prequel stuff. It will all be set in the one book universe and all be interlinked.
So far I have written two books in that series. Book 2 released very recently, like yesterday! I’m getting stuck into book 3 and also a book 1 of a side series.
Hopefully you all follow me in this endeavour.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Latest book is called Rune Stone. It was the working title initially, then I changed it to a new one. But at the very last minute reverted back to Rune Stone. Its book 2 in the Rune War series and really opens up some of the characters and the problems going on. Trying to slowly up the stakes.
Inspiration wise, everything I read has an influence on my books. My biggest inspiration for these books stemmed from Raymond E Feist, but there are many more.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Normally at night. But nothing unusual. I outline a lot, then get stuck in and allow my creative juices to shape it as it will.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lots of authors!
Starting with Raymond E Feist. His main midkemmia series was one of the first big ones I read and resounded with me at that age.
But theres so many, David Gemmell, Brian Jacques, Tolkien (of course who isn’t) Robert Jordan, Sanderson (goes hand in hand), Peter F Hamilton, Kevin Anderson.
Loved the DragonLance and Forgotten Realms books!
I’ve currently embarked on some Warhammer 40K books and I am on Book 21 of the Horus Heresy. (Theres 55 books in that main one alone) This has given me ideas and influenced my writing to add a little darkness and chaos when needed I think.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on Book 3 of the Rune War Series, Book 1 of the City Watch series, and revising my prequel introduction books, the Elemental Order Series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website is https://www.scribbledpages.co.uk
But if I am being honest, advertising direct through amazon is so powerful thats my current go to. However I am working on a better engagement through my newsletter.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you love what you do, the writing side of it. Just know if you want to keep doing this they need to make you money to at least cover the costs of production. So take the time to learn other aspects and become self reliant.
But a bit like gambling, when the fun stops, stop. (So cheesy) But you need to enjoy writing the words, getting your story out, becoming the creator of your works. I love that feeling.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Believe in yourself, because no one else necessarily will.
What are you reading now?
Book 21 of the Horus Heresy: Fear to Tread.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep writing, but once there is enough material and I have more time and money I would love to create an animated series from my books, but not too cartoony.
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?
Thats a hard one, probably the Lord of the Rings because it’s one complete story in one book. 1008 pages from when I last read it.
The others, maybe the last three of the wheel of time series. But either way, it would be cruel, not nearly enough books!
Author Websites and Profiles
Marc Kelly Website
Marc Kelly Amazon Profile
Marc Kelly’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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