Author Matt Dinniman is making waves in the literary world with his popular Dungeon Crawler Carl series, which combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, and gaming. The series began in 2020 as a self-published work featuring a Coast Guard veteran and his ex-girlfriend’s cat, Princess Donut, as they navigate a perilous intergalactic game show. Fast forward to today, and Ace Books has picked up the series, launching it into mainstream success with over one million hardback copies in circulation as of August 2024.
Dinniman will appear alongside actress and author Felicia Day on September 22, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the Wilshire Ebell Theater in Los Angeles. The event is organized by DIESEL, A Bookstore, which aims to celebrate the burgeoning popularity of the series.
New Releases and Future Projects
In an exclusive interview, Dinniman discussed his latest release, This Inevitable Ruin, the seventh book in the series. The new installment introduces readers to the much-anticipated ninth floor, where Carl and Princess Donut confront multiple armies, alongside the quirky return of a talking love doll head and an unusual shark named Jamal.
Looking ahead, Dinniman shared details about his upcoming standalone novel, Operation Bounce House, set for release in February 2025. The story revolves around settlers on a distant planet who have spent decades attempting to reopen a transfer gate to Earth, only to face eviction by mercenaries hired by the planet’s inhabitants. This mercenary company gamifies the eviction process, allowing bored Earthlings to design and pilot their war machines in a game dubbed Operation Bounce House.
Insights into Dinniman’s Reading Preferences
When asked about his reading preferences, Dinniman revealed that his favorite books often change, but he consistently recommends Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay. At present, he is engrossed in The Third Rule of Time Travel by Philip Fracassi. His approach to selecting reading material is largely instinctive, with a “to-be-read” list that could reach the moon if allowed to grow unchecked.
Reflecting on his literary influences, Dinniman credited his affinity for reading to various librarians during his childhood. Growing up in a military family, he moved frequently, and these libraries provided a sanctuary, fostering his love of literature. He emphasizes the importance of character development in storytelling, stating, “Cool plots are a dime a dozen, but without interesting characters, what’s the point?”
Dinniman’s journey from self-published author to a recognized figure in the literary community exemplifies the potential for success in the modern publishing landscape. For fans and newcomers alike, his upcoming appearances and releases promise to deliver engaging narratives that resonate with readers across various genres.
For more information and to purchase tickets for the event on September 22, visit the DIESEL website.
