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Mark's Story

Mark Stanley, born in 1984, always sought the adventure in life. Often described as a lover of life, an optimist or a day-dreamer, he relished the opportunity to travel the world, and so following his father’s path, he spent seven years in the British army, a period he treasures.  He saw the best (and the worst) life has to offer, but no matter where he was in the world, he always had a book there with him! Transitioning to civilian life, Mark gained an LLB Hons Law Degree from the University of Hertfordshire before he joined NATO, gaining valuable international insights. Responsible for writing policy, he was often criticised for his writing being too creative, it was around this time when he realised that he had a love of writing; just not writing policy! Today, alongside his supportive wife Katie, he co-owns a thriving recruitment agency, a venture that allows him to follow his dream of writing epic fantasy novels.

Family is the cornerstone of Mark’s life, with three lively children—Luis, Ava, and Owen—alongside their crazy spaniel, Stanley (don't ask), and their elderly cat, Tia. Mark’s introduction to the epic fantasy genre was a unique one, as his parents’ disciplinary tactic was often to assign reading as punishment for misbehaviour. This childhood “penalty” ignited a lifelong passion for fantasy worlds.

When not weaving tales, Mark savours the joys of cooking and diving into epic fantasy literature. Over the past few years, he has embraced fitness, a journey shared with Katie who he loves training with.

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