William Christopher Spreadbury

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The Name of the Book

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Calamitous Fortunes

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Voice Talent

Narrated by the
incomparable, Scott
Fleming

Featured Books

Discover the stories that have captured readers' hearts and minds across the world

The Name of The Book

The Name of the Book is an intensely imaginative collection of must-read short stories. Vigilantes, bank robbers, forbidden desire, extraordinary birthday presents, Love defined, and unforgettable road trips fill these pages: from the story of a man who clings to a life less lived to the man who begs to end his charmed life, from the children who try to escape their sadistic parent to the mother who will stop at nothing to hide the crimes of her child. This collection of ten wondrous, and at times, mind- blowing stories is the perfect introduction into the world of William Christopher Spreadbury and his autonomous alter ego, and their fascination with water. While these stories do not attempt to answer the question, why are we here, it will definitely tell you what is here. And it is everywhere. Audiobook now available on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes

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Calamitous Fortunes

William and his mysterious partner are back with the incredible story of three families, all ravaged by the same catastrophic event, each dealing with it in very different ways. Calamitous Fortunes, is a beautifully written novel, that also explores the supernatural force in the Universe that shapes all of our lives. That mystical being that none of us have seen, but still believe in its existence. It is not tangible, but most insist it is not imaginary. We all pray that it looks upon us with great favor. CF is the story of LUCK. Dane Cooper, the patriarch of one of the families comes up with a devious plan for redemption after Luck forsakes him. The plan involves killing one of his own children, but as depraved as Dane’s plan may sound, as you read on, you will find there are others with far more sinister intentions.

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Saskia’s Never

William’s second novel is a roller coaster ride of sex and murder and rock n roll. Saskia’s Never is Romance meets Dexter meets Quentin Tarantino. A delightfully engaging Love Story, that is not afraid to tackle deep philosophical issues while getting a little blood on its hands, perhaps all the way up to the elbows. Did I mention that it’s also funny? Meet Gando-- the heavy-drinking, pill-popping, jazz musician, turned Catholic high school band leader, trying to raise his fatherless grandson. Meet Never-- the bully, turned victim, turned vigilante, trying to Repair the world. Meet Saskia-- the beautiful nurse, helplessly in Love with her vocation, her boyfriend, and the Universal Order of things. And meet Jinx- - the girl who lives up to her name. Join them all on this bone-chilling, bloodcurdling, heartwarming adventure.

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Interview

In the Author’s Words

A conversation with William Christopher Spreadbury on his inspirations, his characters, and the stories behind the books.

Read the full interview

Originally published at N. N. Light’s Book Heaven

Just as your books inspire authors, what authors have inspired you?

Kurt Vonnegut is not only my greatest inspiration as a writer, but he is also probably the greatest inspiration for the way I try to live my life. He had so many great ideas on how to save humanity. As he grew older, you could see the frustration in his writing because we weren’t acting on those ideas. I feel, when he died, he was very disappointed in the human race, but I think there’s still a chance we can turn it around. By the way, he and I were both born on November 11th, albeit 45 years apart.

Another author, I find very inspirational is Chuck Palahniuk. I like my stories to have a lot of twists and turns, and I’m a huge fan of shock endings. Chuck is the master of all that, and I try to be a good student.

But for me, the most gifted writer I’ve ever read is David Foster Wallace. Everything he’s ever written is the perfect combination of beauty and tragedy and hysterical chaos and comedic brilliance. He died far too young.

How important are names to you in your books? Do you choose the names based on liking the way it sounds or the meaning?

It’s so much fun creating characters, and one of the best parts is after you create them, you get to name them. I have a list on my phone. Anytime I hear an interesting or unique or fun name, I add it to the list. I generally create the character first and just refer to them as a letter and number, like K7 or D2. Then later, I consult the list to find out what name fits them the best.

Another thing I do, if I have a group of peripheral characters that are just in the story for a short time, I take their names from a real group of people, but I mix up the first and last names, or reverse the first syllable with the second syllable.

What secret talents do you have?

Secret talents? None. Are you kidding? If I have a talent, I’m going to flaunt it, because I don’t have too many to choose from.

But now that I think about it, not sure if this would count as a talent, maybe I just got lucky. But apparently, I’m really, really good at finding an audiobook narrator. In all seriousness, Scott Fleming, my narrator from across the pond, is absolutely amazing! He does so many voices, and they’re all very unique and believable.

The Name of the Book – Reader Reviews

What readers are saying

Beyond engaging Tales With Real Substance and Wisdom.

“I came across this incredible writer and all I can say is THIS is how it’s done! Short stories are certainly not everyone’s cup of words, but many people simply don’t realize how extremely satisfying it is to read a complete story with vivid characters and an engaging plot, all done in a distinctive and well delivered manner. Each story was unique and well written with few of the stories’ ending with a twist I didn't see coming. This is a truly inventive collection of William's short stories and although I enjoyed his other novel too, “Calamitous Fortunes”, I’m hoping that he will publish another book soon. He has a gifted imagination and this collection is definitely one of my favorites.”

— VNB

Remarkable read. A must.

“Fully enjoyed the development of each set of characters. I found in a macabre way I was able to relate to them. This is not your ordinary book with ordinary circumstances. The twists are built up in crescendo so that you are unable to leave the story...until that final reveal. And then you get this rush of finality as the story comes to an end. A few of them I wanted to jump up and give a standing ovation.”

— SRH

Stories that take you on Adventures

“Each of the stories takes the reader on very different journeys. The voice of the author is clear and truthful; a pleasure to read. I can't wait for more....”

— Bruce R. Pfaff

Stop Reading Reviews and Read This Book

“I don't care who you are, what you like, or where you come from... You need to read this book. I promise there is at least one story in this book that will speak to you. For me, it was all ten. Each had a character I related to, a story that I both recognized and did not (in the utmost positive way), and an idea that made me truly think. I wish I could express to you eloquently that you must read this book, but I do not possess the writing skills for this. Mr. Spreadbury does though, so go see for yourself.”

— Riley Lyn

Exciting New Author

“This collection of short stories was the best thing I've read in awhile. The stories are clever, the writing is sharp, and their format is inventive. "The Name of the Book" starts with "Look What Terry Made", a fantastic piece that sets expectations high for the following tales. They do not disappoint. I highly recommend this collection and eagerly await the sequel, Calamitous Fortunes, which is rumored to come out this Winter. Read on!”

— Amazon Customer

Great Book!. :-)

“Does an excellent job of making fictional characters feel like real people. As a fan of short stories, I often find that pieces lack the emotional depth found here. Spreadbury truly has a gift for describing the full spectrum of human feelings. Michael S. 5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read!! Reviewed in the United States on September 5, 2018 Verified Purchase Creative, suspenseful writing...the book was a terrific read. Recommended you check out this author....book is fiction but touches on raw, human truths......wonderfully written..”

— Brooke Schuler

Great book!

“Very good read. Enjoyed each story. Writer knows how to keep you involved and intrigued for the next page, as well as the next story. Looking forward to future reads.”

— Lyn Jor

A masterpiece

“One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. The author did an awesome job of capturing real life situations in a manner that kept me engaged til the end. I will definitely read more of his work if it becomes available.”

— Karen M. Beeze

Buy this book. You will not regret it!

“Love the stories. Love the writing. I heard this was a very unique and interesting story teller and I was not disappointed!”

— Amazon Customer

Great read

“This is an excellent book by an up an coming author. It is a great read with twists and turns just at the right times to keep readers on the edge of their seats. You will have a hard time putting it down.”

— Kindle Customer

Calamitous Fortunes – Reader Reviews

What readers are saying

A Tremendous Experience

“This is one of the rare books that does not just tell a story, but springs an entire universe into existence. Throughout the novel, the author introduces you to many characters and each one has astonishing depth. Even in its many digressions to introduce these characters and wide ranging discussion, there is not a single line that wastes the reader's time. Every sentence moves the plot forward and kept me glued to the book for days. I look forward to reading it again and again. The cover says it is part of the CF Fiction series... The Name of the Book is on the way and I can't wait to read the rest.”

— Amazon Customer

Phenomenal read. 5.0 out of 5 stars Phenomenal read.

“A character depiction like you’ve never known. A story depicted by an author whose mind is remarkably intertwined with the content yet able to disconnect to the emotions which drive this book. You want a good read? There is this and so much more. Welcome to William Christopher Spreadbury’s world...”

— SRH

Great Book!. :-)

“Such a great story! I read the book and passed it on, now my whole family is hooked! Can't wait to hear more from Spreadbury.”

— Brooke Schuler

Very good reading. Couldn't wait to turn the page to see what happens next!

“What an awesome adventure! Can't wait for the next book. And many more after that! This is the absolute best book I've ever read and I read a lot!”

— B pete

So many twists and turns!

“Didn't want the book to end. A real page turner!”

— Kindle Customer