From the moment the fat man appears unexpectedly in her bathroom, the un-named writer feels compelled to create his story. Trapped in an unhappy relationship, she invents Stanley and falls in love with him. When Stanley loses his job, he has to dig deep to find his talents. Two women friends suggest he starts an unlikely business. This unusual and poignant story touches on the challenging issues of mental health, physical and emotional abuse, unemployment and male prostitution. But these elements are woven into the story seamlessly, and without creating an uncomfortable read. A warm and sensitive portrayal of life, love and sensual experiences, which will enthrall the reader to the end. 'A terrific debut novel... skilfully draws us with a seamless blend of real and imagined worlds... a sensitive... witty, compassionate and charming book...' Debbie Young 'In 'Creating Stanley', Josephine Lay is continuing the wonderful metatextual tradition of novels like 'Wuthering Heights' and 'Frankenstein'. Her story within a story speaks of identity, emotional and physical abuse and the joy sensuality can bring. Her themes are brave and ambitious and both in her narrator and her narrator's creation, Stanley, there is a reminder of the 2006 film, 'Stranger than Fiction' and like the film, Lay challenges both our perceptions of reality and narrative techniques. It is a thoughtful and timely novel that deserves a wide readership.' Claire Dyer 'Creating Stanley is such a novel novel. J.J.R Lay has created an unforgettable character in Stanley. If you're looking for a vividly drawn metafiction, page turner with a twist, then this might just be for you.' Emma Purshouse, poet and novelist 'A gripping read...' Silas Marne