Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Watcher is my first book with another (Ghost Story) scheduled for release September 2019. I have been writing seriously for close to ten years and after six failed attempts finally created something I was excited about. It’s a very personal story and meant a lot to get it out in the world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Watcher is the latest title and it’s inspired by my wife who has suffered from MS (Multiple Sclerosis) for close to twenty years. As her caregiver, watching the struggles she goes through every day and not seeing that represented in media, both her weaknesses but also her strengths, I decided to do something about it.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
All writers have unusual habits, it’s just a matter of whether they SEEM weird at the time. For me I always write in the same place, if I start a book in one area of the house, it will be finished there. No seat hopping.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am heavily influenced by Michael Crichton and Richard Matheson as well as Jules Verne and Agatha Christie. I’m a huge Hard Case Crime fan and any fiction that takes the restraints off and really starts to explore.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a road trip, romance, paranormal, adventure. It’s…..complicated.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve had major success with the wonderful writing community on Twitter otherwise I haven’t tried many yet. With this being the first release I’m just learning the ropes.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
It’s only as hard as you let it be. We get so caught up in how difficult the first draft, just completing a book is we forget the real work is editing, formatting, advertising, etc. After all that, writing seems easy by comparison. So enjoy that part.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Finish your sh*t. – Chuck Wendig
What are you reading now?
I’m reading a selection of indie authors (Sarah Joy Green-Hart, Dawn Hosmer) and working my way through the Hard Case collection of classic pulp fiction.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More books! I’m exploring publishing and the publishing industry. A new imprint, Gestalt Media is my current project, seeking out undiscovered creators and bringing their work forward is a true passion.
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?
Well, the Boys Scouts of America Handbook seems like a good idea. Probably one of the Worst Case Scenario volumes as well. Robinson Crusoe would be poetic and Jurassic Park because I’ve never gotten tired of reading that one.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Stokes Website
Michael Stokes Amazon Profile
Michael Stokes’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account