Mark Tilbury

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello,

I live in a small village in the lovely county of Cumbria, although my books are set in Oxfordshire where I was born and raised. I spent five years serving in the Royal Navy on submarines in the late 70’s/early 80’s. The navy introduced me to lots of different characters and taught me the importance of teamwork and acting responsibly.

I have always had an overwhelming urge to write. Poems, short stories, novels, even random stuff that just pops into my head. I sold a couple of short stories to magazines back in the nineties, but then I was widowed and left on my own to raise two young daughters. I didn’t write for a long time as I adjusted to my new role in life. Now, thankfully, I have rediscovered my passion for writing and it’s all systems go!

My three favourite authors are Stephen King, Tom Sharpe and Catherine Cookson. My favourite book is Misery by Stephen King, and I think the film adaptation is superb.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book will be published on the 8th April 2016. The Eyes of the Accused is the second in the Ben Whittle Investigations and continues following Ben and Maddie from The Revelation Room as they begin a investigating a new case.

The Revelation Room focused on Ben and how he took over his father’s private investigation business. The Eyes of the Accused lets readers find out more about Maddie, her childhood, and her strengths and weaknesses.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write better in the afternoons than in the morning.

I work better listening to music. Favourite writing music would include Bruce Springsteen, the Beatles, Neil and Tim Finn and Paul Weller.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
He gets mentioned a lot, but Stephen King. I’ve read the vast majority of his books and like how he has developed a style that is uniquely his and how he breaks so-called writing rules!
I also love Tom Sharpe’s books. He is a British author who has written the Wilt series among others and he’s had me laughing so hard I couldn’t breathe for a while.

What are you working on now?
I’m starting work on my third book which will be a stand alone (not a Ben Whittle book).

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Talk to other authors. The vast majority of other authors I’ve meet on social media are willing to help and offer advice. I’ve picked up so much valuable information from joining forums/groups and getting to know other authors.

What are you reading now?
Doctor Sleep by Stephen King.

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?
The Stand by Stephen King.
Under the Dome by Stephen King
The 5 people you meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom

Author Websites and Profiles
Mark Tilbury Website
Mark Tilbury Amazon Profile

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