Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
The term books seems like a fragile concept these days. What is a book? When is a book a book? With that caveat, I have written extensively under a variety of names, including William Gray, Stanley Gray, B.S. Gray, W.S. Gray, and even Katlynn Gray. I feel a deep connection to and passion for the craft of storytelling. In a way, it helped saved my life. I spent a number of years in prison, and during that difficult time of self-reflection, I was able to recreate myself from the inside through the transformative process of creative writing. It helped me search my own soul, while guiding me towards something constructive that could lend me confidence.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Traits of Darkness is the latest work, and a number of things inspired it. Inspiration is a tricky thing. Initially, the germ of the idea behind the book came while I was in a math class at my community college. Doodling on graph paper, I realized I had a map. So, I kept adding to the map, until I had a basic plot. The popular Game of Thrones series, as well as Terry Brooks, also helped inspire both me and the work. Finally, a friend of mine recently diagnosed with a severe learning disability loves to read fantasy. I come from a thriller/ crime fiction background, but, seeing the joy he experienced from his favorite stories really helped me see what an impact the genre can have.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I think writers are inherently unusual. Nonetheless, I used to keep a dream journal. I have piles and boxes of papers with notes on them, most of which I will never use, but which I still steadfastly refuse to discard, despite my partner’s consistent admonitions and prompts.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lawrence Sanders, Terry Brooks, Norman Vincent Peale, Terry Goodkind, Sue Grafton, Upton SInclair, Victor Hugo, John Steinbeck, John Grisham, Stephen King, Mary Oliver… the list is interminable.
What are you working on now?
A non-fiction book on the economics of American prisons.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Word of mouth. Writing good books, a lot of good books, seems to be a good strategy. But, Awesome Gang is great, too.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t worry, be happy.
What are you reading now?
Damned by Chuck Palahniuk
What’s next for you as a writer?
More writing.
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 Bible, Watership Down, a survival guide, and Les Miserables.
Author Websites and Profiles
Stanley Gray Amazon Profile
Stanley Gray’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account