Reader Rewards
Thanks for diving into my books—and welcome to the rewards that come with the ride.
Whether you’re here for the thrill of the chase or curious about how the stories come to life, this is your backstage pass. Explore maps that track the action across continents, early peeks at what’s coming next, downloadable goodies, and behind-the-scenes intel Blake Willis himself would file under need-to-know.
Looking for swag, spoilers, or just a deeper look into the world behind the words? You’re in the right place.
And if you’re after the most current updates—like special sales, promos, or my latest behind-the-scenes writing notes—be sure to join me over on Substack. It’s where I share it all, and it’s always free.
Welcome to the Reader Rewards Hub
Think of this as your backstage pass to all things Blake Willis—and beyond. From free downloads to behind-the-scenes extras, this is where stories stretch beyond the page. Whether you’re here for the deals, insider insights, or a bit of fun, dive in—you should find something worth exploring.
And this is just the beginning. I’ll be adding more content, surprises, and interactive features over time, so check back often to see what’s new.
Freebies and Offers
Unlock free downloads, special deals, and the occasional insider treat—because every reader deserves a little something extra.
Before Blake: Through the Generations
Long before Blake Willis was chasing conspiracies across the globe, his family was building a legacy—one forged in hardship, loyalty, and a whisky worth killing for.
From the Scottish Highlands to the American Midwest, Before Blake traces the origins of the Willis name and the secrets that still echo in Blake’s world today. The choices made generations ago ripple forward into the high-stakes events of FALSE TRUST and FALSE HOPE, deepening the danger, loyalty, and betrayal at the heart of Blake’s journey.
This exclusive prequel pulls back the curtain on the past, offering a richer, more layered understanding of the series. Whether you’re discovering Blake for the first time or returning to see the bigger picture, Before Blake adds depth, intrigue, and a few well-kept secrets to the world you thought you knew.
Ever wonder what’s behind a name? In this behind-the-scenes glimpse into the Blake Willis crime thriller world, Steve Shipley takes you inside the creative process of naming people, places, and even a fictional Speyside distillery. From sifting through Scottish Gaelic translations to taste-testing real whiskies for authenticity, Shipley shows how names can shape a story’s texture, history, and emotional impact. What’s in a Name blends real-life inspiration with rich, imagined worlds—offering a treat for fans of FALSE TRUST and anyone who loves the alchemy of great storytelling.
Bring Your Book Club to Life
Make your next book club meeting unforgettable with my free downloadable discussion guides — complete with a quick synopsis, 10 core questions, and 5 bonus ones (for longer book clubs) that spark conversation and keep readers talking long after the last page.
Watch and Listen
Step behind the scenes with videos, podcast chats, and exclusive clips that bring Blake’s world to life.
Uncover the real-life roots of the Blake Willis thrillers.
In this fast-paced 9-minute podcast, two passionate readers explore Before Blake: Through the Generations—the untold prequel that lays the foundation for FALSE TRUST, FALSE START, and FALSE HOPE.
You’ll hear how Blake’s great-grandfather, Chadwick Willis, was inspired by author Steve Shipley’s own grandfather, William Shipley. Both men’s lives followed strikingly similar paths—from humble beginnings in the UK, through hardship, loss, and incredible resilience, to their daring journeys across the Atlantic in search of a new life in America.
The discussion brings to life the whisky-making traditions of Aberlour, Scotland, the gritty determination of an orphan finding his way in a foreign land, and the family traits—loyalty, resourcefulness, and courage—that still shape Blake’s choices in the modern-day thrillers.
It’s a conversation that blends history, family legacy, and the pulse of a great mystery. Whether you’re already a fan of Blake Willis or are about to meet him for the first time, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the man behind the mysteries—and the real-life history that fuels his world.
Press play, and step into the story behind the story.
FALSE TRUST (Prologue and Chapter 1) by Steve Shipley. Narrated by Thomas Locklear. Interested in listening to some of FALSE TRUST to see how you like it? Here’s your chance to hear the beginning in audio.
Inside the Mind of a Crime Thriller Author
Join Sophie Knox of 2CHR as she sits down with Steve Shipley for a candid 20-minute chat. Discover how a twist of fate led him into writing, the real-world inspirations behind the Blake Willis crime thrillers, and the secrets woven into the first three books. It’s part origin story, part sneak peek—perfect for fans and first-time readers alike.
Games & Challenges
Think you know the Blake Willis thrillers inside and out? Or maybe you just love a good challenge? Welcome to Games & Challenges—your one-stop fun zone for puzzles, quizzes, and more.
Start by diving into our custom jigsaw puzzles featuring Steve Shipley book covers, iconic Blake Willis scenes, and key settings from the series. More puzzles are being added all the time, so there’s always something new to piece together. Want to be first to know when fresh challenges drop? Sign up for Steve’s Substack newsletter and email list to stay in the loop.
Play Hard. Win Big. Read First.
Step into the playful side of the Steve’s universe! Here you can dive into custom jigsaw puzzles of his book covers, beloved characters, and iconic settings. The cover puzzles are a tidy 96 pieces, while the character puzzles pack a fun 100-piece challenge. But this is just the warm-up… practice now, because competition puzzles will grow to 300 pieces—and that’s where the prizes come in.
Speaking of prizes, we’re rolling out “fastest puzzle completion” contests and book-themed quizzes soon. Winners can score signed books, coffee mugs, mouse pads, and more. Pro tip: knowing the stories gives you an edge, so reading up is part of the game plan.
You can play on your smartphone, tablet, or directly in your browser—but fair warning: finishing on your phone takes more patience (and possibly more coffee).
Jigsaw Puzzles
Frequently Asked Questions—My Books
Welcome to the place where your curiosity pays off. This section is more than just extras—it’s a space dedicated to answering the questions readers care about most. Whether you’re hooked on the Blake Willis series, diving into one of my non-fiction titles, or wondering what’s coming next, this is where you’ll find the answers.
Each section below is tailored to what readers want to know: deep dives into the books, behind-the-scenes inspiration, where to find special content, and how to stay in the loop. I also share a bit about my process, my plans, and how to make the most of what I offer—on the page and beyond.
➡️ Explore the sections below to learn more about the stories, the strategy, and the surprises that come with being part of this journey—a journey that I am thankful that you are sharing with me.
The Blake Willis Series
Frequently Asked Questions
Fast-paced. Globetrotting. Gritty. If you’ve picked up a Blake Willis thriller, you already know you’re in for more than a crime story—you’re stepping into a web of tech, corruption, espionage, and hard choices. This section answers everything you might want to know about the series: where to start, how it connects, and what inspired the characters and plots. You’ll also find reader-favorite questions about the deep research behind the realism.
➡️ Ready to dive deeper into Blake’s world? Let’s go.
Where should I start with the Blake Willis series? Do I need to read the books in order?
Each book stands on its own, so feel free to dive into whichever one grabs you first. That said, if you want the full experience—the character arcs, the layered backstories, the rising tension—I recommend starting with FALSE TRUST, the one that kicked it all off.
The books build in depth and intensity when read in order, and you’ll get a richer sense of how Blake and his team evolve with every mission.
Are the books part of Kindle Unlimited?
Yes—for now, and for the foreseeable future. I want new readers to be able to dive into my books without risk, and Kindle Unlimited makes that possible.
I’ve been a KU subscriber myself since the beginning, and I highly recommend it. It’s a great way to explore new authors and series without breaking the bank—and I’m always thrilled to welcome curious readers into Blake’s world.
Are your characters based on real-life people?
Most fiction pulls from real life—and mine is no different. While Blake, Rebecca, and Gavin “Dreads” McBride are entirely made up, they carry shades of people I know.
Blake was a global IT consultant—so was I. Rebecca is Chinese—like my wife. And Gavin? He’s very much inspired by a brilliant chef we know personally. That said, Blake and Rebecca are billionaires… and needless to say, my wife and I are not!
How realistic are the stories?
Very. The tech, espionage, forensics, and geopolitical tensions are all grounded in real-world systems and situations. In fact, I’m often surprised by how closely my fictional plots end up mirroring current events.
Of course, I just make things move faster—and explode more often.
Will Blake ever return to Tasmania? Or other locations?
Maybe! Reader interest definitely influences future stories, so if there’s a place you’d love to see revisited, let me know.
Each book introduces new characters and fresh settings, but familiar faces and places often return—sometimes as cameos, sometimes with bigger consequences. In Blake’s world, nothing stays buried forever.
I’ve worked hard to build a believable world and a series arc that holds together. You can check out the map on this page to see where each of the first five books takes place. You’ll notice many locations get revisited across multiple books—for good reason.
Will there be a film or series adaptation?
I’d love that. The rights are open—just waiting for the right producer to fall for Blake’s world.
Honestly, I think the novels would translate beautifully to the screen. Fast-paced action, global settings, layered characters… maybe Blake Willis will be the next Reacher on Amazon Prime Video. Stranger things have happened.
Are there Easter eggs across the series?
Absolutely. Sharp-eyed readers will spot hidden connections—names, events, and details that echo across the books. Some are small nods, others hint at deeper relationships or long-running subplots.
And a few? They’re not so small. Several threads planted early on come full circle in FALSE LOVE and FALSE LEADS. If you enjoy peeling back layers, you’ll find plenty to dig into.
Will there be more books in the Blake Willis series after book #5, FALSE LEADS?
Possibly… probably.
After FALSE LEADS, I’m launching a new crossover series featuring Robert Taylor—also known as Trucker Bob—who was introduced in book #3, FALSE HOPE. While Blake’s corporate IT background gives me plenty to work with, his character arc has natural limits. Trucker Bob, on the other hand, is an ex-elite covert operative, and his world is wide open for danger, intrigue, and high-octane action.
That said, Blake—and the Orion team—won’t be disappearing. Expect to see them pop up in the Trucker Bob series with a few well-timed cameos (and maybe a plot twist or two).
How do you come up with the titles?
Each title reflects a key theme—trust, hope, love—that gets tested or broken as the story unfolds. I usually start with a rough synopsis, then ask: is there a strong FALSE XXX theme at the core? If so, I lock it in. If not… either the title changes, or the theme does.
So far, it’s worked. I’ve got a running list of about twenty more FALSE XXX titles just waiting for the right story to match.
How far ahead is the series planned?
I’ve got about thirty story ideas mapped out, but for now, only two more Blake Willis books are officially in the pipeline—FALSE LOVE (coming November 2025) and FALSE LEADS (March 2026).
After that, I’m shifting gears to follow Robert Taylor—aka Trucker Bob—for a few books. His background as an ex-covert operative opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Blake and the Orion team will still make appearances, but the spotlight will shift.
I’m also tempted to explore a series around Lucie Bouchard, introduced in FALSE HOPE. She’s bold, complex, and full of untapped potential. We’ll see where the stories—and the characters—want to go.
Non-Fiction Projects
Frequently Asked Questions
While the thrillers might be the pulse-pounding part of my writing life, my non-fiction comes from a different place—one of reflection, experience, and a genuine desire to help readers live more fully. From wine appreciation to lifestyle choices, and personal memoirs about navigating life’s harder truths, my non-fiction projects speak to readers who want both insight and authenticity—about lifestyle and about being an author.
➡️ If you’re curious about what fuels the man behind the thrillers—or just want to drink better wine—start here.
What kind of non-fiction do you write?
I focus on practical how-to guides and memoir-style reflections—mostly around wine, lifestyle, and navigating life alongside strong personalities.
My wife and I are also developing a series of writing and editing guides for aspiring authors, aimed at helping them get started—and keep going—with clarity and confidence.
For me, non-fiction is a chance to share a lifetime of hard-won experience. It’s my way of paying it forward—to help others avoid a few stumbles and make the most of their own journey.
Are your non-fiction books connected to your fiction?
Sometimes. They share overlapping themes—like control, indulgence, and observation—but they stand on their own.
My thrillers are meant to entertain. The how-to guides and memoirs? They’re about helping readers live better, think deeper, or enjoy more of what life has to offer.
What’s your book Wine Sense about?
It’s a practical, no-snobbery guide to enjoying wine—about savoring more, not spending more. It’s packed with tips on how to buy, drink, store, and truly experience wine like a pro.
The book is structured around the senses—smell, taste, touch, sight, and yes, even hearing. All of them play a role in how we appreciate wine, and Wine Sense shows you how to make the most of each one.
So if you’ve ever wanted to enjoy wine with more confidence—and less pretension—this is a great place to start.
Will you write more memoirs?
Yes. I used to think memoirs were a bit self-indulgent—”Look at me, living on a sailboat—you can too!” That changed when I read Dear Psychoses by Sarah Martin. It made me realize that sharing personal stories can truly help others—and if even one person is impacted in a positive way, it’s worth writing.
That insight led to Shadows of the Bottle, a collection of about thirty stories from my life growing up and living among alcoholics—my father, my brother, and my best friend. It’s a reflection on the influence they had on me, and the influence I may have failed to have on them.
That book opened the door to more. I’m now planning a series of memoir-style reflections on topics like personal finance, emotional control, physical fitness, and growth—no preaching, no judgment, just honest stories in the hope that someone, somewhere, might find something useful.
I plan to release one or two a year, between the crime thrillers.
Are your non-fiction books also on Kindle Unlimited?
Yes—all of my books, fiction and non-fiction, are available through Kindle Unlimited and published under my real name, Steve Shipley.
If you’re a KU subscriber, you can read them all at no extra cost. I want my books to be accessible, and KU makes it easy for readers to explore without financial barriers.
Do you teach or consult on wine?
Not formally—but I love sharing what I’ve learned. I blog about wine, write reviews, and of course, Wine Sense is my guide to appreciating it without the snobbery. Even my crime thrillers are sprinkled with wine and spirits insights—sometimes subtly, sometimes front and center.
I’ve also helped several authors choose the perfect wine or whisky for their characters—based on background, income, setting, and personality. At least ten published books now feature a bottle I personally picked for a fictional character.
Think you can guess which authors? Which characters? Give it a go.
Finding Things and What’s Next
Frequently Asked Questions
This is where curiosity meets action. If you’re wondering where to get my books, what’s coming next, or how to stay in the loop, this section has your answers. From exclusive promotions to Substack subscriptions, ARCs, and upcoming releases, you’ll find everything you need to keep turning the page—literally and digitally.
➡️ Want to be the first to know what Blake is up against next—or when the next non-fiction drops? This is your backstage pass.
Where can I buy your books?
All of my books—fiction and non-fiction—are available on Amazon in print, Kindle, and through Kindle Unlimited. You can find direct links by clicking any Purchase Now button on this website, or click here.
If you’re after a signed copy, just message me via Substack or send me a message through this website’s CONTACT page. I’m always happy to personalize a book for a fellow reader.
How do I stay updated on new releases?
Join my Substack newsletter—it’s free and filled with previews, insider updates, special promotions, and the occasional behind-the-scenes peek. It’s also the best way to be part of the growing community and keep the conversation going.
You’ll also find a release calendar on several pages of this website, so you can always see what’s coming next.
Do you offer ARCs (advance review copies)?
Yes—I do offer ARCs, and Substack subscribers are usually the first to know when they’re available. I’ve become more intentional about my book launches lately, but I’ll admit… ARCs haven’t always gone out on time!
If you’re a Kindle Unlimited subscriber, the best way to support me is to download the book and, if you enjoy it, leave an honest review on Amazon or Goodreads—it makes a big difference.
If you’re not on KU but are happy to leave a review, feel free to request an ARC by messaging me through Substack or sending me a message via the CONTACT page.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m wrapping up FALSE LOVE, the next Blake Willis thriller—coming November 2025. I’m also building out the detailed synopsis for FALSE LEADS, which is set to release in March 2026.
At the same time, I’m deep into world-building for a new crossover series featuring Robert Taylor—aka Trucker Bob. He’s got a very different skill set than Blake… and a whole lot of unfinished business.
Do you take suggestions for book ideas or topics?
Always. Some of the best ideas come from readers. Just shoot me a message or comment on Substack or via the message form on the CONTACT page.
Can I support your work beyond buying books?
Yes—and thank you for asking. It truly means a lot.
Leaving a review, sharing a book with a friend, or simply spreading the word goes a long way. You can also recommend my books to your book club—I’m happy to provide discussion questions for each title if you’d like. Just ask.
Every bit of support helps keep the stories coming—and I’m genuinely grateful for it.
Will your books be translated or available in other formats?
It’s in the works. Audio and translations are definitely on the radar.
Map
Blake Willis: A Global Thriller Tour
Every book in the Blake Willis crime thriller series takes you somewhere—and not just emotionally. Through Blake’s eyes (and occasionally his enemies’), you’ll journey across continents, dive into unfamiliar cultures, and navigate the darkest corners of cities you may have only heard about in the news.
This is crime fiction that spans the globe.
From the bustling backstreets of Phnom Penh to Minnesota’s farmland, from Russian oligarchs to Chinese hackers, from French safehouses to Australian ambushes—Blake and his team go where the action demands. And now, for the first time, you can explore all these destinations through a single interactive world map.
Whether you’re armchair traveling or planning your next passport stamp, this map is your gateway to the places that shape each book. FALSE TRUST and FALSE START pit Blake against threats from Russia and China, while FALSE HOPE shifts to the American heartland before racing into Europe. FALSE LOVE unfolds in the steamy underworld of Cambodia. And FALSE LEADS? That one’s a cross-country sprint across Australia and Europe. Of course, every story begins and ends in Australia—the place Blake calls home, and the calm before the storm.
You don’t need a boarding pass—just a curious mind and a taste for danger.
Calendar
Upcoming Events
Click on events requiring registration, and you will be directed to the event sign-up form.
February 2026
FALSE LOVE Cover Reveal
- We will share the FALSE LOVE cover. It's gorgeous and cannot wait to make it public!
March 2026
FALSE LOVE Release Date
- FALSE LOVE, a geopolitical thriller and book four in the Blake Willis Thriller Series, brings Blake and Orion team to Cambodia to find what happened to the Australian ambassador, only to find much, much more is at stake. Presales and publication dates will be finalized in October 2025.
May 2026
FALSE LEADS Cover Reveal
- Book #5, FALSE LEADS, cover reveal is just around the corner to the new year.
June 2026
FALSE LEADS Release Date
- Blake is thrown into his past as he needs to solve the murders of two of his global nemeses to clear his name and determine who ends up with bilions in inheritance. Presales and publication dates will be finalized in February 2026
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Newsletter subscribers will receive free bonus content and regular updates on the Blake Willis thriller series’ characters, settings, and themes, plus the occasion to win free books and SWAG.
My newsletter and writing community is on Substack, as I have found it to be more community-oriented, allowing us to engage more dynamically.
So sign up now to follow along! You may sign up for free, or if you want to support my writing, you may make a pledge. But it's not necessary and all content will remain free forever.
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