Picture a Virginia storyteller who swapped a lab coat for a laptop, crafting galaxies where science fuels adventure—meet Martin Wilsey! A former research scientist, Wilsey now spins hard science fiction that pulses with authenticity and heart, most notably through his bestselling Solstice 31 Saga. His journey from think tanks to Tannhauser Press founder proves creativity knows no bounds.
Wilsey’s knack for blending rigorous science with gripping narratives has earned him a loyal following. Whether he’s blogging about indie publishing, sketching webcomics, or nurturing new writers, his passion for storytelling shines. Ready to explore a universe where planets hide secrets and heroes defy odds? Let’s dive into Martin Wilsey’s world!
The Making of Martin Wilsey
Born with a curious mind, Martin Wilsey spent years as a research scientist for a government-funded think tank, where whiteboards buzzed with ideas. Based in Virginia with his wife Brenda and their cats Brandy and Bailey, he traded data for dreams in 2015. His leap into writing wasn’t a whim—science fiction was a natural fit for a man who loved unraveling the universe’s mysteries. Inspired by the likes of Asimov and Niven, Wilsey began crafting stories that married technical precision with human drama, launching a career that would soon soar.
Martin Wilsey’s Unforgettable Stories
Wilsey’s Solstice 31 Saga is his crown jewel, a trilogy that kicks off with Still Falling (2015). Here, we meet Barcus, a maintenance engineer stranded on the medieval-tech planet Baytirus after his ship, the Ventura, is obliterated. With a prototype AI by his side, Barcus unravels a web of conspiracy amid pulse-pounding survival. Fans praise its rich world-building and suspense, calling it a “breathtaking romp” that doesn’t demand a physics degree.
The saga continues with The Broken Cage, where Commander James Worthington grapples with loss and lurking threats on Baytirus’s moon. Blood of the Scarecrow wraps the trilogy, weaving intricate plots over 150 years. Wilsey’s style—hard science fiction with a human pulse—shines through detailed settings (think upstate New York-inspired landscapes) and layered characters. Beyond the saga, short stories like Kill Valerie Hume expand his universe, while his blog and webcomics offer fans a peek into his creative process.
Wilsey’s commitment to authentic science sets him apart. He maps planets, timelines, and tech with a scientist’s precision, ensuring every shuttle flight or AI quirk feels real. Yet, his stories never lose their emotional core, balancing cool tech with raw humanity, from slow-burn romances to brutal betrayals.
Why Martin Wilsey Matters
Martin Wilsey isn’t just a writer—he’s a trailblazer for indie authors. Founding Tannhauser Press, he created a haven for writers to collaborate and thrive, proving small presses can pack a punch. His prolific output—over half a million words in under three years—shows discipline that inspires aspiring authors. Through his blog, he shares hard-won wisdom, demystifying the indie publishing world with a generous spirit.
Wilsey’s impact extends to readers craving science fiction that respects their intelligence without skimping on thrills. His Solstice 31 Saga has sparked fan devotion, with audiobook listeners hooked for 15-hour marathons. By putting the “science” back into sci-fi, he’s carved a niche that feels both timeless and fresh, earning comparisons to genre giants.
- Birthplace: United States
- Key Works: Solstice 31 Saga (Still Falling, The Broken Cage, Blood of the Scarecrow)
- Fun Fact: Wilsey creates webcomics and blogs weekly about indie publishing.
- Current Home: Virginia, with wife Brenda and cats Brandy and Bailey
Snag Still Falling and dive into Martin Wilsey’s thrilling sci-fi universe! Whether you’re a hard sci-fi buff or just love a good story, his worlds will keep you up past bedtime.