Next Issues,
Sunday Times # 1
Bestselling Author
SCOTT MARIANI
ISSUE 49
Why Scott Mariani?
We are thrilled to announce that the upcoming issue (49) of Reader’s House Magazine will feature the esteemed Author Scott Mariani on our cover. As a Sunday Times Bestselling Author, Mariani has captivated readers worldwide with his unique blend of modern thriller action and historical mystery, making him a perfect choice for our cover story.
Scott Mariani, the brilliant mind behind the bestselling Ben Hope series, has carved a niche in the literary world with his gripping narratives and complex characters. His novels, featuring the relentless ex-SAS hero Ben Hope, have not only topped the charts in the UK but have also been translated into 25 languages, reaching a global audience. Mariani’s journey to literary success is as compelling as his books. Born in Scotland and educated at Oxford, he initially pursued a variety of careers, from teaching to running a burger bar, before dedicating himself to writing. It was in the serene landscapes of rural west Wales that the character of Ben Hope was conceived, leading to the creation of “The Alchemist’s Secret,” which spent six weeks at number one and launched a series that shows no signs of slowing down.
In this exclusive interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Scott Mariani delves into the inspirations and processes behind his thrilling novels. He shares his lifelong passion for history, which enriches the historical elements in his thrillers, and discusses the meticulous research that brings authenticity to his stories. Mariani also reflects on the development of Ben Hope, a character whose background as an ex-SAS soldier and a rescuer of kidnapped children adds depth and complexity to his adventures. From the ancient mysteries of China in “The Golden Library” to the high-stakes conspiracies that keep readers on the edge of their seats, Mariani’s storytelling prowess is evident.
Join us as we explore the mind of a master thriller writer and uncover the secrets behind the success of the Ben Hope series. In this issue, Mariani discusses his deep interest in history, which has been a driving force behind his novels. He reveals how his childhood fascination with historical events and his academic background in medieval literature have shaped his writing. Mariani also shares insights into his research process, preferring traditional methods over the internet to ensure the authenticity of the historical elements in his books.
In “The Golden Library,” Ben Hope finds himself in China, uncovering secrets related to the Terracotta Army. Mariani’s personal interest in ancient China, Tai Chi sword fighting, and Chinese medicine adds a unique flavor to this adventure. He also highlights the contemporary theme of the story, addressing the plight of the Falun Gong practitioners in modern-day China.
Mariani’s journey to becoming a bestselling author was not without its challenges. He recounts the difficult start of “The Alchemist’s Secret” and the determination it took to overcome obstacles. The development of Ben Hope as a character, with his unique background in theology and his career as a rescuer of kidnapped children, sets him apart from other ex-SAS heroes in thriller fiction.
Crafting intricate plots with high-stakes scenarios and complex conspiracies is a hallmark of Mariani’s writing. He explains how he balances action, suspense, and character development, ensuring that each story remains fresh and engaging. Mariani’s diverse life experiences, from teaching to running a burger bar, have also influenced his storytelling, adding depth and authenticity to his novels.
We invite you to dive into the world of Scott Mariani and discover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs behind his bestselling series. This issue promises to be a captivating read for fans of thrillers and historical mysteries alike.
USA Today’s
Bestselling &
Amazon All Star Author
TANYA KAPPES
ISSUE 50
Why Tonya Kappes?
We are thrilled to announce that the cover of Reader’s House magazine (Issue 50) features none other than the prolific and beloved author, Tonya Kappes. With over 180 southern cosy mysteries to her name, Tonya has enchanted readers worldwide with her unique blend of southern charm, humour, and unforgettable characters. Her books have not only topped bestseller lists, including USA Today, but have also twice been selected for the Woman’s World Book Club, solidifying her status as an Amazon All Star Author.
Tonya’s journey to becoming a celebrated author is as captivating as the stories she writes. Growing up in a small rural town in Kentucky, she was far from a bookworm, often avoiding reading altogether. It wasn’t until her thirties, through a serendipitous encounter with a book club, that she discovered the escapism and joy that books could offer. This newfound love for reading eventually blossomed into a passion for writing, leading her to create a world where readers can escape into the heart of the South.
Now residing in northern Kentucky with her husband, and with her four boys having flown the nest, Tonya writes full-time from her camper, drawing inspiration from her vibrant southern upbringing. Her stories are rich with local dialects, quirky characters, and vivid descriptions of southern life, making each book a delightful escape for her readers.
In an exclusive interview we conducted, Tonya shares her unconventional path to writing, the influences behind her beloved series, and how her mobile lifestyle fuels her creativity. She opens up about her initial reluctance to read, her transformative experience with a book club, and the serendipitous moments that led her to become a full-time author. Her tales of growing up in rural Kentucky, complete with moonshiners and southern phrases, add an authentic charm to her stories that readers can’t get enough of.
Tonya’s Camper & Criminals series, featuring the indomitable Mae West and the quaint town of Normal, Kentucky, has become a fan favourite. She reveals how her childhood experiences with camping and a fascination with real-life events inspired this popular series. Her ability to weave personal anecdotes and southern culture into her narratives has created a loyal following of readers who eagerly anticipate each new release.
Despite her impressive accolades, Tonya remains grounded and focused on her primary goal: to help readers escape the hardships of the world through her entertaining and humorous stories. Her dedication to her craft and her readers is evident in every book she writes, and her success is a testament to her talent and hard work.
