Writing a book is one thing. Bringing it to life and sharing it with the world? That’s a whole different adventure! Marc Avery, the author of Discipline, takes us behind the scenes of his writing journey. A peek into how the story came to be, the struggles of indie publishing and marketing, and the lessons learned along the way.

Let’s dive in!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

My book ‘Discipline’ is an action-packed crime thriller about a cold-hearted, calculated murderer (Giuseppe “Discipline” Cain) who turns Philadelphia into his personal killing ground. I’m working on more novels set in this same universe. Outside of my artistry, I enjoy cooking, traveling, reading, watching action movies and researching. Also, tacos are life.

2. I’ve always wanted to ask you about your love of tacos.

My taco obsession probably started with my mother. It was an easy meal that my brothers and I enjoyed. We kept requesting it, and she kept making them. When I became an adult, it became a staple in my household. As far as my taco-eating record, I’m not even sure about the amount. Lol.

3. Hehe, OK, pitch your book in one or two sentences.

I have several elevator pitches. The one I use most often is, “My book is like Criminal Minds but set in Philadelphia”. Usually, it’s enough to get readers interested in reading the synopsis. Then, the hope is that the synopsis sells the book.

4. What kind of readers would love this book?

Fans of cat & mouse crime fiction, true crime podcasts and documentaries, morally grey characters, and bad ass villains.

5. Sweet! Now, let’s get a little personal. What’s the story behind your story?

I wanted my own version of the buddy cop films I grew up on. Films like Lethal Weapon, Bad Boys, or Rush Hour. I had to pair the detectives against a worthy opponent, and I drew inspiration from iconic villains like Hannibal Lecter and Anton Chigurh (“No Country for Old Men”).

6. Every book has that one scene or character that sticks with the author. What’s yours?

Discipline was a difficult character to write. I kept thinking, what happens when your back is against the wall and revenge is the only option? More than that, it’s the tender moments between him and his stepmother, Samantha, that grounded the story. Their connection stuck with me long after I stopped writing.

7. Indie publishing is quite a journey! How has the ride been for you?

I’ve learned I have to be my biggest asset. I must champion my cause and show up offline and online consistently to make an impact. I do my best to build a rapport, and you can only do that by reaching out. For instance, ‘A Novel Idea’ is an indie bookstore located in Philadelphia. I called the owners directly, and we clicked immediately. I did my research beforehand, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to do a book signing at their wonderful establishment.

Be respectful and professional, and understand that no one is obligated to do business with you. That is in the back of my mind when I reach out to people, and I’m super thankful when we can do business.

8. Lovely, now, what part of this book gave you the hardest time?

The end. I rewrote it roughly one billion times. I absolutely hated it, and now people tell me they love it. All those long nights and early mornings weren’t in vain.

9. Damn! Have you kept the endings saved? Do you plan to write books with those endings?

Young Marc Avery deleted everything. Seasoned Marc Avery doesn’t delete anything. My stories end up being an amalgamation of those scenes I swore didn’t fit my narrative. These scenes do end up coming in handy way down the road.

10. Oops, what’s one weird or unexpected thing you Googled while writing this book?

I listen to and watch true crime series for white noise. Nothing I Google seems weird to me. Lol. That makes me weird, doesn’t it?

11. Definitely weird, just like other authors hahaha. What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you?

Be okay with failure. It’s a pillar of growth, and it’s proof of action.

12. Ohkayzz, and where can readers find you and your book?

All my important news, events, and general information can be found on my website: www.iammarcavery.com

My book, Discipline, is available on:

• Books-A-Million
• Apple Books
• Google Books
• Indigo
• Walmart
• Bookshop
• Kobo
• Amazon (Paperback/Kindle/Audible)

If the book sounds like your kind of read, be sure to check it out! Support indie authors by grabbing a copy and leaving a review!

PS… What’s your go-to writing snack or ritual?

My ritual is controlled chaos. I can’t remember the last time I had uninterrupted time to write. I don’t have a dedicated writing space either. I guess my quirk is being able to write anywhere at any time.

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And that’s a wrap.

Want to see more indie author stories? Stay tuned for more interviews…