Mike Shackle

I write fast-paced, action-packed, emotionally-draining fantasy with a grimdark flavour.

I grew up in the UK but I've lived all over the world. In particular, I spent over 20 years in Asia and The Last War trilogy is heavily influenced by that part of the world.

I read a lot. So much so that I could burn though a book or two a day — much to my mother's dismay. She always encouraged me to read but didn't enjoy spending so much money on books for me. I also developed a love for superhero comics (mainly Marvel) that I still have today.

I'm not sure I'd like to write like anyone else but I'm heavily influenced by my favourite authors.

Joe Abercrombie, Peter V. Brett, Pierce Brown, Greg Rucka, David Gemmell

The Warded Man by Peter V. Brett. I would not be a writer today if I hadn't discovered this book.

I think all my characters have a bit of me in them somehow but it's just flavouring more than anything else.

A Fool's Hope, the second book in The Last War trilogy. I think it works really well and there's a twist in it that no one has ever seen coming.

I have two monitors with a Mac Mini acting as the brain. To my left is a collection of Iron Man statues and behind me is a wall to wall bookcase, overflowing with my favourite books and more superheroes statues, plus a life-size Captain America shield.

To be honest, most of my reading is down via audiobook while i take my dog, Buddy, for a walk. We cover 10 miles a day so it gives me plenty of time to listen.