Daniel I. Russell's Blog, page 6

Author spotlight: Greg Chapman

My first introduction to Greg Chapman came through my work editing Midnight Echo #7. Greg, along with Mark Farrugia, had already started the Allure of the Ancients graphic novel in the previous issue, and I was to host the next part in #7. I had never worked with a graphic artist before, and through the experience of working with Greg, not only did I learn a few things in an area of writing that was unfamiliar to me, but also got to know Greg better.
As time went on, I had the pleasure of sampling some of Greg’s short stories and I got a feel for this fellow’s tastes and style. Greg Chapman is a writer who I envision smiling as he types his words and draws his illustrations. I get a vibe of enjoyment with his work, that his aims are to have fun and tell a damn good story.
I’ll be looking at two facets of Greg’s work, his new novella Vaudeville from Dark Prints Press, and his graphic work in Witch Hunts: A Graphic History of the Burning Times, written by Rocky Wood and Lisa Morton and released by McFarland Publishing.
Vaudeville is a digital novella and tells the story of a young boy, suffering through life following the suicide of his father. Visiting the tree from which his father had hung from, he is found by a travelling group of performers straight from the bygone days of Vaudeville. Giving the boy free tickets, the ghastly group request he brings them children in exchange for the soul of his father…






I have a personal preference for clowns, entertainers and the whole ‘putting on a show’ scene in horror, and this book could have easily been about circus performers. But the Vaudeville angle gives the book more character and a unique retro feel. Each of the performers have their own grisly and violence to share and are more fleshed out then most antagonists in other stories of this length. There are no generic, faceless monsters here, and morality aside, they each have their own motivations and history.
The writing is pacey but balances prose well. I particularly like the accessibility regarding the age group of readers. Free of sex and other nasties, the story would certainly be suitable for a younger audience, perhaps as early as middle school, depending on allowances for violence! Yes, heads are shot and limbs are cut off, but it is done gracefully, and could not be considered as splatter. I’ve certainly read more graphic stories for children. I hope this story is indeed sampled by a wider audience.
Do I have any gripes with it? Not overly. The piece certainly had the legs to go longer, and I would have liked to have spent more time with the characters, in particular our macabre Vaudeville performers. I feel they had more to tell and grander schemes to escape their fate. Sequel perhaps, Mr. Chapman?
Witch Hunts is a completely different kettle of fish. A historically accurate account of the witch finding, interrogating and execution that swept the world, but in particular Europe and colonial Massachusetts.

Should you hold a copy of this (and anyone who has even the most trivial of interests in this subject should certainly grab one) the first thing you will admire is the art of Greg Chapman. It is astounding the detail and sheer number of hours this undertaking must have demanded. It really does bring the facts to life, and props to McFarland for going in the graphic direction with this. It certainly makes the read more appealing (personal note: if I read nonfiction, it tends to be biographical or scientific, certainly not historical).
And while the fantastic artwork deservedly takes centre stage, you have to admire the work done by Wood and Morton. While light on the word front, the book shines with research and careful arrangement, creating a fly on the wall effect to these facts and dates.
Again, for anyone with any interest in the Witch Trials, this is a must buy. The book should also intrigue readers of graphic novels that fancy something a bit more unique than the standard fare.
Greg Chapman is a horror author and artist from Central Queensland, Australia. His first two novellas Torment and The Noctuarywere published by Damnation Books in the United States in 2011. His third novella Vaudeville, was just published by Dark Prints Press. His short fiction has appeared in The Absent Willow Review, Eclecticism, Trembles, Morpheus Tales 2011 Christmas Special and Bete Noire. His comic book illustrations have appeared in Midnight Echo, Decay and Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine. His first graphic novel, Witch-Hunts: A Graphic History of the Burning Times, written by Bram Stoker Award winners Rocky Wood and Lisa Morton, was also published by McFarland Publishers in May this year. Greg’s home on the web is www.darkscrybe.blogspot.com

Of late, I’ve read a few blogs wherein the author discuss...

Of late, I’ve read a few blogs wherein the author discusses an aspect of their writing, in particular, the massive hurdle that is the first novel. Now I’ve read some fantastic first novels…and I’ve also read some stinkers, but regardless, anyone who has finished a full length novel has my utmost respect. As many have said, this isn’t really what I’d call a paying gig until you have that established readership, in most cases anyway. That troublesome first novel will, in all honestly, probably not see the light of day in regards to traditional publishing (although I have a bone to pick with that: if you continue to grow and improve as a writer, why not go back and apply that greater level of understanding to a somewhat flawed manuscript? After all, you did invest the man hours!).You have only your own drive to keep your bum in the seat and your fingers tapping those keys. And what do you get when you finish? The achievement not many people can enjoy. Your book might not be perfect, but you did it. Finished that bastard! Many, many fall at this (at times) seemingly insurmountable obstacle.
What my USB looks like inside my head. Wanna buy a manuscript?

So first novels. Adrian Chamberlain covered in his blog that he struggled with putting too much of his own life into his first book, that writing what you know (I admit I usually pass on this nugget of advice) wasn’t always what’s best for the story.
Every writer has his or her approach to that first novel. I think the relatively common feeling is: knowing that writing a novel is a huge undertaking, it might destroy aspirations, even if the book is eventually finished. So basically…you might write a book and never want to go through that nightmare again! If you’re possibly only going to write one book…ever…how do you plan on tackling that once in a lifetime experience?
At twenty-four, I had these thoughts going into my first novel, Samhane. I’m a big fan of the works of Richard Laymon, and I wanted my book to be similar in technical style: nothing too literary or artsy fartsy, just a thrilling and gory horror novel with an eclectic pace. But again, if this was to be the only novel I ever wrote…shouldn’t I enjoy the experience? I went into the project determined to not only finish it, but to have fun. It’s also quite a brutal book. If this was to be my only novel, I wanted to make an impression.
Samhane. First novel and still doing the business.

I learned a lot and made many mistakes with the actual writing part (such as, if you have two main story lines, don’t write them separately, write them chronologically. In fact with any novel, write it in the order it should appear in the final manuscript). Obviously it didn’t finish me off as I have carried on and written many more books since.
But here’s the crux of my thoughts on novels.
Okay, so you finish your first book (again, respect due), time to ride that momentum and leap into novel #2!
What are your thoughts going into this one?
Surely, pressure to actually finish a novel is gone, as you’ve already achieved that. If that first novel was a commercial success, welcome to another world of stress. I’ll go into this in more detail when I actually have some commercial success (!).
Some second novels I’ve read are a little blander than their predecessor, like the author had only a handful of ideas and used them all up already. Others have read rushed; the author having too much confidence that they’ve cracked this writing lark and didn’t spend the time sweating over their plot and characters like they did with their first baby.
So how would I recommend you approach a second novel? Remember your past mistakes and plan a little better in light of them. Be aware of your abilities and enjoyment (I think if we’re honest, we know where we’re at. For example, even now, if a publisher emailed me requesting a 500 page hard science fiction novel, I’d turn it down. I don’t enjoy writing that genre and I couldn’t keep a story going for that long in that field. I’m experienced to know my limits despite the $ in my eyes).
Rip off the latest big thing? WHERE DO I SIGN?
Most importantly, try something different.
I see too many novelists churning out the same stock characters, the same storylines. If I’ve read a couple of your zombie novels, I probably won’t read the other seven. What? Your latest one isn’t about a bunch of trapped survivors fighting off zombies? It’s about a bunch of trapped survivors fighting off werewolves? Well that’s a world of difference…right?
And this isn’t just new writers or in the small press, some more established writers do the same thing. It puts me off. While the respect is there that the work is still being done and the books are being finished, I see a writer that is either burned out, can’t be bothered anymore or afraid to test their abilities.
Always try something new. Hell, it might not work, but you’ll learn from it.
With The Collector, I experimented with claustrophobia. If I have these multiple POVs, can I write an engaging story with them spending the majority of the book in a confined space? Can I pull that off? With Come Into Darkness, could I have an entire book stay in one POV in real time over a single night? What if none of the characters are likeable? That one was a real challenge, trying to coax the reader into investing their time to follow the exploits of a bunch of generally horrible people. Reviewers have picked up on that element. Did it work? Read the reviews or pick up a copy yourself!
Critique presented a whole heap of personal challenges. Not only did I engage in lots of research regarding high dining and unique ingredients, but the book features a character struggling to come to terms with his sexuality within his world where religion suddenly plays a key role. This was as far away from writing what you know as possible! Yet, I feel this is one of my more accomplished works.
Tip of the culinary iceberg.

Currently I’m working on a lengthy psychological horror called Charlie Says. My self-imposed test going into this book is to write a horror built on atmosphere and suspense alone. That’s right. There will be no blood or more traditional action scenes. Will it get the goosebumps going…or simply be a snoozefest? Time will tell, and even if the book is a failure, never sees the light of day and is doomed to live on a USB forever, at least I will have tried some new. I’d rather this than write stock zombie novel #8.
I guess it depends on your outlook. Do you want to achieve artistically or financially? You’re never guaranteed to make sales, but you ARE guaranteed a level of satisfaction from pushing your abilities and always trying to add to your writer’s box of tricks.
So in summary, I guess my advice with writing a first novel is to simply get it done and learn along the way, and invest that knowledge and experience in your second novel. But then veer off the path. Push yourself. Try a new plot element or major character trait. Rock the boat. And keep doing it: build your skills and stretch your limits with each novel and novella.
Otherwise, you might find it hard to write out of your self-imposed comfort zone in the future.

My hiatus

Straight off, I’d like to thank those people who noticed my absence over the last few weeks and sent me their kind words. For details I’m about to touch upon, my self-imposed social and internet hiatus has been to take stock and deal with the current goings on in the real world. Even though I quietly slipped out of the back door and didn’t leave with a huge announcement, I was grateful for the friends and readers that contacted me to ensure I hadn’t walked in front of a bus or anything. While our recent issues are family related and private to some degree, I thought it the decent thing to do to explain what’s been going on.
My partner’s mother suffers from a  terminal lung-heart disease. At the time of diagnosis, the doctors assured her that the condition was not hereditary, but events over the last few weeks have proven otherwise. A close family member was diagnosed with the same condition following health problems, and now the doctors are saying that it can and has been passed on. 
My partner has her test for this condition next month, and at this appointment, we’ll be arranging for our three children to be tested also. Until the day, we have no idea how much these tests will cost, but it will probably be several thousand dollars if all four need the full treatment…several thousand dollars a small press writer simply doesn’t have.
I’ve been looking away from the writing (barren of substantial cash!) world over this period and instead looked at additional jobs…which are pretty thin on the ground in such a small town. We could move if I got a decent position elsewhere, but then that’s another load of problems and moving our children away from their family. Might not be the best solution, but at the moment, it’s an option.
So that’s basically it. I thought it better to step away from the internet, rather than discuss and post over the difficult time. It would have been like posting drunk, I guess. Big problems have a tendency to change you while you deal with them.
Why am I back now? Well to tell the truth, I accidentally logged into my deactivated Facebook  account (I was on mental autopilot!) and while we’re anxiously awaiting my partner’s first appointment, things have kind of settled back to normal. Our family member’s specialist eventually found the right combination of medications, so now they’re out of Perth hospital and back home for the moment. The writing world carries on ticking, and some projects now need attention, so until things change (and I possibly vanish again in light of it) it’s time to try and return to regular scheduled programming.
In the next few days I’ll be writing a more writerly blog regarding the latest novel agreement and upcoming short stories. In the meantime, after currently working the time tables for two teachers for the extra cash, I’m returning  to my weekend of tweaking a short story for an extreme horror antho and reading some historical fantasy (you read that last bit right. Like I said, I’ve come out of this a little bit…different). So again thank you for the well wishes and I hope you’ll continue to humour/put up with me during this difficult time.

Special guests revealed for Midnight Echo #7: The Taboo Issue

The AHWA and creators of Midnight Echo magazine are pleased to announce that a new short story by horror legend Graham Masterton will be appearing in issue 7.
Graham has published more than 35 horror novels in his career, his debut being The Manitou in 1976 which became an instant bestseller and was made into a motion picture. He has been awarded numerous awards and recently had a special issue of Cemetery Dance in his name.
'Graham Masterton has been a hero of mine since I first read him as a teenager. He is iconic within both the horror genre and the larger literature scene, especially here in Australia and in Europe. To have Graham in Midnight Echo is a great honour, and hopefully begins a new era for the vanguard magazine of the AHWA.' Geoff Brown, AHWA President.
Graham's story, What the Dark Does, in Midnight Echo #7 explores childhood fears that follow us into our adult lives…particular the terror of the dark, what it hides and our reluctance to reveal this childish phobia.
In addition to Graham's story, we're also happy to reveal that acclaimed horror photographer and artist, Joshua Hoffine, will be providing cover art.
"Horror tells us that our belief in security is delusional, and that the monsters are all around us." (from www.joshuahoffine.com)
We're certain the cover for issue 7 will live up to the high Midnight Echo standard while setting the taboo feel perfectly.
With submissions closed and the remaining stories being read, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everybody that sent in a story, poem, or example of their artwork. There have been some fantastic stories that didn't quite meet the needs of the theme, and I sincerely hope that these pieces find the homes they deserve. It has been both an honour and a pleasure to read your work.
Final selections will be made in the next two weeks and contracts sent to those who make the table of contents.

ON THE COUCH: AJ BROWN

TC: So come in and take a seat on the couch. Lie back if you find it more comfortable. Can I get you anything? I want each of you to be completely relaxed. We tend to get to the truth that way. It's better than the other way, and less messy. So what can I get you?

AJ: Strawberry Kool-Aid. Seriously. Strawberry Kool-Aid. I love the stuff.

TC: What do you think this is? The Hilton? You can have a glass of water. Ignore the bitter taste, it's the...fluoride.

You've been transferred here because you're at it again. We've been here before AJ Brown, during the Necrotic Tissue days. We published you, even making it an editor's pick, and here you are again with this stuff still in your system. Why are we still writing horror, Mr. Brown? Is there any other publications we can review as part of this assessment?

AJ: We have been here before. No doubt and those Necrotic Tissue days were great days. Heady stuff you guys sold. I write horror because... well, it's an addiction. If I wanted I could write other stuff, but horror feels right. I've always leaned to the darker things--ask anyone who has known me for any length of time--so horror just feels right.

Other publications. Since you're wanting a bigger sample of this addiction you can go a couple of places.

Tales of the Zombie Wars has a series I'm writing called Dredging Up Memories here: http://www.talesofworldwarz.com/stories/tag/dredging-up-memories-series/

Then, if you really want to get into the disturbing aspect of things, one of my short stories is in the anthology, A Hacked Up Holiday Massacre, which can be found here: http://www.amazon.com/Hacked-Up-Holiday-Massacre-Bentley-Little/dp/1617060917/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326071032&sr=1-1

And, of course, Picket Fences can be found in the Best of Necrotic Tissue here: http://www.amazon.com/Necrotic-Tissue-Anthology-John-McCann/dp/0615245285/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326071106&sr=1-1

There are some others coming out soon, but these are the most recent.

TC: I think we've only just begun to scratch the surface. I have in your case file a copy of a new publication Along the Splintered Path, a collection of disturbing stories that explore the dark side of life in the remote countryside. Have you traded Picket Fences for duelling banjos and squealing piggies?

AJ: Along the Splintered Path isn't really too far off from Picket Fences in subject matter, only the tense of Picket Fences was experimental 'future' tense. I think Picket Fences would have probably fit better with two of the stories than one of them that I chose for the collection. There is a darkness to it that I fell in love with when I wrote it.

Honestly, I think the disturbing factors in Along the Splintered Path are built because of the characters in the stories--all of them in situations that cause them to do what they do. Everything we do is a reaction to something else and how the characters react in the stories is mostly out of desperation. After writing them, I could clearly see what would have happened if Kenneth (from The Woodshed) would have chosen to not deal with his past or his little brother's mental issues. The same with James ('Round These Bones). If he makes one or two decisions differently, then he wouldn't have been in the position he was in. And Phillip's (Phillip's Story) choices not only affect him, but another character as well (and if a couple of other characters don't do something, then Phillip's Story doesn't even happen. All the disturbing factors of the stories are based on their reactions to events in their lives, which is pretty much the way real life is.

And there will be NO dueling banjos in my life. Squealing piggies maybe...

TC: Looking at some of the reviews on Amazon, and after reading through the collection myself, I can see that we clearly have imagination issues. To be able to create characters with so much emotional weight, fleshed out backgrounds and damn it, making the reader actually invest in the fates of these fictional people...that takes some skill, Mr. Brown. Can you divulge your process for creating these lives?

AJ: Creating lives? Hmm... I have a couple of rules when it comes to writing. The first is forget the word count. That one goes with the second and most important one: Don't ever cut a story short. In order for stories to 'live' they must breathe and in order for them to breathe, we the writers, have to get out the way and just let the stories tell themselves. In my opinion, the best characters (and stories) are created when we just let them happen.

That and people watching. I love to watch people and it's hard to do it discretely, sometimes. You can learn a lot from just sitting on a bench at the mall or going to a concert and ducking into the shadows and leaning against the wall. Most of the time people are oblivious to being watched (and not in a stalker sort of way) and you can gleam mannerisms and the way people talk and really just about anything you want to know by people watching.

And keep your ears open. I can't tell you how many of my stories started with something someone said as I passed them by.

TC: And because you're such a horrible person (not my words, this is from your psychological report) you like to create these believable characters and watch them squirm in these difficult situations. Very interesting. Are you allowed pets?

In 'Round These Bones, you have a regular guy receive some bad news and drive off angry (we've all done that). This results in him in a life and death situation. Have you ever been in a position were things looked bleak?

AJ: Yes, I'm allowed pets, but unfortunately, not the pets I want.

And bleak situations? A couple of times, but the one that comes to mind is when a gun was pointed at me by a suicidal teenager some years ago. I spent a few hours trying to talk the gun away from him, finally succeeded in doing so. That kid was on anti-depressants that actually made things worse. Shortly after that he got off those meds and he grew up to be a cool guy, father and husband. Still, having a gun pointed at you is something you never forget.

TC: That is a pretty tight spot there, AJ. Glad it turned out for the best for all involved.

So before we make our final diagnosis and prescribe your meds, can we add any upcoming releases to your case file?

AJ: Only one at the moment, Daniel. My short story, In the Shadows They Hide, was just released in the anthology Night Terrors II put out by Blood Bound Books. However, I do have high hopes for 2012. https://www.createspace.com/3729847

TC: We invite horror writers here to try and find out why they are doing such a bizarre thing, and hopefully stop them from producing such...filth.

However, Mr. AJ Brown, due to the characters you create and their redeemable qualities, this doctor is willing to let things slide for now, hoping that some of these noble qualities will rub off on the deviants that read this stuff. They could do with some sunshine in their lives.

But you're not out of the woods yet, and Dr. Sally will escort you Along the Splintered Path back to your room. We must now ensure these stories are written...particularly electronically. That's just how we keep up the motivation around here. Nurse! Fire up the electrodes!

AJ: Dr. Sally? Wait, before I go: is she cute?

Biting the Bullet

Okay, so I'm a little behind the times, as usual. This week I decided to buy a Kindle. Now for someone who is a keen reader of 'real' books, I liked my partner's idea of writing a few blog posts to monitor how things are going and how I'm settling in. Will this be the start of a new generation? Or simply another electronic gizmo for my toddler to erase things from, ie, that zombie game on my iPod Touch, damn it.

First though, why now? They aren't exactly new things in the market place.

With the release of TALES OF DARKNESS AND DISMAY from Dark Continents, I suddenly find myself with a big bunch of great ebooks to read. Normally not a problem, as I can use Kindle for PC or iBooks on my iPod. But combine this with the ongoing submissions for Midnight Echo #7, the promotional campaign for DARKNESS AND DISMAY as well as usual writing...that's a lot of time sat at this desk. It's the summer holidays. I don't want to spend it all at a desk, indoors, surrounded by fans. That's electric fans, not the kind that buy my books.

Except this one. My number one fan... KACHOW!

With readers complaining that some books are only available on the Kindle, I had to go with that. Yes, filthy Amazon trying to destroy the competition with your sneaky tactics in the way of business and contracts, it swayed a purchase. Had to bite my tongue when the guy in JB HIFI was trying to sell me one of the many ereaders they had (but no Kindles). Yes, the guy who welcomes you through the door (who for some reason I think is an ex-con, but I'm too afraid to ask) was telling me all about the publishing business. Anyway...

Then on to Dick Smith's, who had the Kindle and the 3G version in a lovely display. I wanted to grab one, pay for it and run (my toddler was a bit too enthusiastic about the radio controlled Marios they had), but I had to do the dance with the salesperson first.

Me: I'd like one of these Kindles please (and in hindsight, I couldn't have opened with an easier sale, could I?)

Her: Would you like the 3G? (Obviously more expensive. The electronic retail equivalent of 'would you like fries with that?')

Me: No, just this one. You can download via the USB cable direct from your desktop, so that's all I need.

Her: Yes, because with the regular Kindle, the pack comes with an included USB cable. You hook that up to your desktop and you can download books directly onto the Kindle. (Long look from me. Didn't I just say that?). You're probably wondering why the regular Kindle doesn't have a keyboard.

Me: The keyboard is built in. You push that button there with the picture of a keyboard on it.

Her: Most people want to know why there's no keyboard, but if you push this button here (push!) look, the keyboard is built in.

(This woman was like a verbal anti-editor. She takes what you've said and simply adds more words)

Me with a big smile: That's great! (My son's now trying to take out the $100 Mario Kart toy from out the box) I'll take it.

Her: You will of course need a case. I've had so many customers this week bring them back with broken screens. We have these (expensive and horrible) leather cases.

Me: Do you have any others?

Her: No.

Me: Then I'll leave it thank you. (Son is now driving Mario around the printer and cartridges section, trying to fire red shells at a couple considering an Epsom).

Her: And there's the extended warranty. The manufacturer warranty is one year, but we offer-

Dan falls to knees and weeps: I said I wanted to buy one! I tried to make it simple! Why won't you just take my money? Why?

Customer: Miss? My Kindle screen's broken and someone dropped a banana skin in the middle of the store...

So I eventually got out of the shop with just a Kindle, no case, and no extended warranty and all it cost was just over $100 and some dignity.

One thing this has over my old system of reading from iBooks is that the screen has a matt screen (mmmmm....matt screen) so it won't hurt your eyes with a backlight after a while. Bad side, you can't use it to light your way to the candles when the power goes out. Ah, trusty iPod, you've saved me from many a bumped knee.

I tinkered on the way home, and actually, the device is pretty simple to use and surprisingly basic. There's no bells and whistles, just books. Means no distractions, which is a good thing.

At home, the problems started.

What do you mean, thou art not authorised? And what happened to my pdfs? Thou art a piece of shit.

My books wouldn't go from Kindle for PC to the device, nor did it let me do anything, really. It took some technical jiggery pokery at first to get everything happy with each other, and now it's relatively simple to buy from Amazon and get it were I want it. Also big thanks again to Jim Mcleod for recommending the program Calibre to sort out the pdf issue.

So what have I read? Nothing. Har haaar! I wanted to finish my latest read, which was a 500 page solid hardback. A proper book.

I can't give up the hardstuff, but in a week I'll check back in on how I'm doing. Never thought I'd see the day when I bought one of these things. Time will tell. At least I can read TALES OF DARKNESS AND DISMAY in the garden now. Might go give that a go actually...

ON THE COUCH - SUZANNE ROBB. OH MY!

This, the first in a series of interviews, sees horror writers, publishers, reviewers, basically anyone crazy enough to agree to this rubbish, take a seat on our psych couch so we can get down to the cause of their problems and...you know...help them and stuff.

First up is the delightfully macabre author of Z-Boat and Were-wolves, Apocalypses and Genetic Mutations, Oh My! It's Suzanne Robb.

The Couch: So welcome, Suzanne. Come lie on The Couch. We have a choice of restraints for your delectation, being the traditional straight jacket (but now with pockets for sweets and Lego and things), a heap of chains and locks that usually keeps my bicycle safe, or these super sensuous silk scarves. What can I do you for?

Suzanne: Well, I have no idea where to start with the fact I am not a horror writer, but continue to write horror stories. I have no idea what the hell is wrong with me. Can you help?

Couch: In which case, I think it best to use all three, just to be on the safe side. My colleague, Dr. Sally, can strap you in. There we go, all comfortable and just a little blue in places.

You've been described as darkly humorous, but with a penchant for good horror. Would you say this is true? Do you aim to hit that dark comedy button with your writing?

Suzanne: Thanks, I like this jacket much better. The pockets on the back so I can reach the LEGO's are really great. Sorry your bike will be unsecured for the duration of this intervention.

To be honest I have no idea if I can do good horror. I know I can do comedy because people laugh at me all the time. When I imagine my revenge on them, and those who I knew as a kid I get in touch with my horror side.

I do aim to hit the dark comedy button, I think that is one of the best forms of entertainment. Most likely why people sent me to you.

There really is nothing like making someone thing they are reading something fun and light-hearted and then throwing them for a loop with something absolutely horrific. I like that dichotomy, though it makes me feel a tad crazy myself at times.

The Couch: Those you knew as a kid. A ha! I knew all this horror stuff came from a childhood event...

Looking through this copy of Were-wolves, Apocalypses and Genetic Mutations. Oh My! and I have in your case file. Looking at the story Welcome to the Future, which sees an underachiever cajoled into a life, and indeed future, changing decision.

Was this stemmed from an event in your childhood? Were you the drop out, the nerd...or the class clown?

Suzanne: I think most childhood bullies end up creating horror writers. It is the only way we can legally get revenge, except for that one time...anyways.

As for Welcome to the Future, a movie I watched in childhood created it (The man with two Brains) and also not being in any particular category. I was mostly made fun of as a kid, I made nerds look good. I am pretty certain should I ever truly let loose all my anger, I would end up in front of a judge.

Can I have a blue LEGO to match the pills?

The Couch: You can have a blue LEGO, but only one of the flat one dots, as they are fiddly and hurt your nails to remove.

Moving on. Compulsions and neurosis. From a medical point of view, I noticed in your piece The Moonlight Killer that your main character has a thing about words, how things should be pronounced and what he deems is a 'cooler' variant. Certainly writers tend to be into words more than your average Joe, but do you find yourelf obsessing about word usage? Is there anything else you obsess about?

And stop looking at me like I have a round, yellow, detachable head. This is all going in your notes.

Suzanne: I love words, and word play. I have a weird obsession with crosswords and would love to have a story be told in one.

I like to play around with them, and find alternate meanings, or variations on what we think. Like in The Moonlight Killer, wolf-man can be either or a man who turns into a wolf, or a wolf that turns into a man, yet no one has done that reversal.

I also really enjoy the world pulp, it is very descriptive on so many levels.

Does it hurt when your head detaches or you stick on a different LEGO helmet?

The Couch: (Long, thoughtful stare)

...I see. I think I have a new diagnosis and treatment plan for you, but the first step is admitting that you need help. Firstly, for my records, can you inform my colleagues where more of your work is available?

Suzanne: (fidgets with blue LEGO)

I have been able to infiltrate many places with my work. You can find my current e-book/novella with Dark Continents here

http://www.amazon.com/Were-wolves-Apocalypses-Genetic-Mutation-ebook/dp/B006SBC2UQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1326250281&sr=8-4

I also have a book out, a thriller suspense that takes place on a sub with zombies at the end here

http://www.amazon.com/Z-Boat-Suzanne-Robb/dp/1467945749/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_5

As for my other stories, they are in several publications, some that make me the happiest (I need a happy place) Dead Souls with Post Mortem Press, Live and Let Undead with Twisted Library Press, and Citipati in Monk Punk.

Is it hard to see through those plastic visors?

The Couch: (longer, more thoughtful stare)

...hmm. Well I humbly request that my colleagues and readers click on those links and have a look see. I especially recommend the well written Were-wolves, Apocalypses and Genetic Mutations. Oh My! from the Tales of Darkness and Dismay from Dark Continents press.

Any departing comments to plead your case before Dr. Sally takes you back to your room, Robb?

Suzanne: Just the usual - The voice in my head told me to do it, my imaginary friend has a really bad temper, and Viva LEGO's

On a side note, as soon as they let me out of here I am going to see just how detachable that yellow head of yours is.

The Couch: Nonsense! I hope this little intervention leads to many sales of these horrific books you write. I think that writing horror might actually be therapeutic. The real issue is this LEGO fixation! Dr. Sally, book her in and show her to her new accommodation (whispers: the MEGA-BLOCKS room. That'll really fuck her up when the LEGO doesn't fit.)

Byeeeeee Suzanne!

She gone? Finally. I can hardly breathe in this thing.

THE DARKNESS IS COMING...

THE DARKNESS IS ALMOST HERE

COME INTO DARKNESS

Mario Fulcinni, young, successful and handsome, has seen it all. In his adult film career, he's tasted more indulgences than a Roman emperor; the women, the parties, the drugs. Hunting for something more, he attends a party on the promise that it will 'change his life... forever'.

Chilled to the bone and in the pouring rain, Mario attends Metus House.

A chubby elderly man in an old, crimson blazer emerges. He is Worth, Mario's guide for the evening.

And the tour begins...

Fall into a twisting nightmare of creatures and contraptions.

Come into Darkness.

So here is the release of the final cover art for the US/English edition of my novella Come Into Darkness from KHP Books. The book was written a good few years ago and the rights were contracted to Jerrod Balzer and SD Hintz at Skullvines Press (now part of KHP). Darkness will be available in digital from all good sellers very, very shortly. I'll post an excerpt once we get a final release date. The German edition will be available through Voodoo Press sometime next year.

CRITIQUE NEWS

And speaking of novellas, there's been some changes to my novella, Critique:

Sandy Devanche is a five star gentleman, but he rarely gives more than three.

As the harshest food critic in the business, he is feared and respected by the top chefs of the city. On a standard assignment, Sandy visits the experimental restaurant The House of Jacob, run by chef extraordinaire, Jacob Enfer.

What Sandy will experience is a journey beyond flavour and texture, a meal that will change his very existence. The worst thing about the food here is the person eating it.

Critique. It's here to make your life better.

I have changed publisher with this novella and it is now due to be released in digital by Dark Continents Publications in the New Year alongside my novel The Collector in print and ebook. This was a hard choice to make. Nothing against the publisher this was due to be released with, but as I have worked with DCP on The Collector and like our relationship, I decided to make the change. Critique, I tale of redemption, secret desires and fine food, has already gone through edits and is now just awaiting a cover. Fantastic news, I hope you agree.

THE NEW COMMITTEE

Last week was the Annual General Meeting of the Australian Horror Writers' Association where a new committee is voted in to oversee the running of the company and the various events/projects it's involved in.

It was with great honour that I was given the role of vice-president of the AHWA to work alongside new president Geoff Brown. I hope the AHWA feel they're in a safe pair of hands. Midnight Echo has been going very well (and been a lot of fun to do) and this has given me the confidence to feel I'll be a good VP. Already ideas are being generated between committee members to further increase the standing of our organisation.

If you're living in Australia, New Zealand or Oceania, why not give us a look and consider a membership? Further details are on the site: http://www.australianhorror.com

AND SPEAKING OF MIDNIGHT ECHO...

Some great submissions have been received for issue #7, the taboo issue. Keep them coming! Our guidelines and details to buy a subscription or single issue are found here: http://australianhorror.com/wordpress/ .

(author's note: This blog has now been cut short as my parents have randomly shown up...from England!)

WRITING TIPS TO THINK ABOUT 6.11.11

"When playing darts, it's important to not think about the other player. Ignore his score when you're throwing. His score doesn't matter. It's just you and the board in that moment. Nothing he can do can affect your throw."

Dan's Dad.

Book news and Midnight Echo

Okay, it's been a while since there's been an update over here due to many other projects I've been getting on with (more on those coming up). So long overdue, here's a summary of what's been going on around here over the last few weeks. Yes, there'll be things to spend your hard-earned cash on, and possibly a little something to make you some…if you're a horror writer or reader, that is…

At this point, I'd like to say that if you're one of my science or maths students…you have exams in two weeks. Turn off the computer and go and study (you bunch of slackers).

(And apologies to all for the pure text post. Blogger's being a jerk and won't let me upload pictures today.)

NEW SHORT STORIES ON THE WAY

The shorts have been neglected of late, but a few of them have been sold and will see the light of day in the coming months. First up is a piece called Just Following Orders in the anthology Weird War from UK based publisher War of the Words. The story involves a captain in charge of running a concentration camp during World War 2. While guilty at his role in the advancing Nazi war machine, the captain follows his orders to the letter, and shows a cold, emotionless approach to his role. Unknown to him, some of the Jewish detainees have orders of their own to follow…

This was a very easy piece to write, especially after all the research. Goes to show that the real life horror completely outdoes the fictional, supernatural element.

More on the release date for this anthology closer to the time. Also includes stories from Joseph D'Lacey (author of MEAT and Garbage Man) and Adrian Chamberlain (The Caretakers).

Another sale is thankfully a thorn being pulled from my side! You know those stories that publishers like but never seem to find a home? I wrote a story a few years ago for a proposed anthology. It was shortlisted but the book was cancelled. It received a few nibbles, but just didn't fit anywhere. I decided to rewrite the story to a PG rating (while keeping most of the bizzaro elements) and overhaul the offensive title…and voila! The story, Nobody Messes with Venus made it through three editorial rounds and was picked up by Australian spec mag Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine. This will be my second appearance in the publication following last year's Tin Duck nominated story By the Banks of the Nabarra making the cover. Always love ASIM. This should be out in 2012.

The Best of Necrotic Tissue is now widely available in print and ebook direct from Stygian Publications and all good book retailers. Features my story The Blood Pit, which was editors pick all the way back in issue #1. Always one of my favourites, BP started me down a professional relationship with R. Scott McCoy and Stygian Publications, which led to sales to the Malpractice anthology, the release of Samhane and the eventual promotion to associate and technical editor of the magazine. Be nice to see BP in print and to read some of my other favourites from Necrotic Tissue, mainly my all-time fave, Narcslaag!

BOOK NEWS

In the Halloween spirit, SAMHANE is on special offer for Kindle until November 1st . Head on over to Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk and prepare to get bloody...

The novella COME INTO DARKNESS is nearing release, with the edits being completed and the publishers finalising cover art. This will be available through Skullvines Press and most other online retailers. It was fun going over the edits. I wrote this one years ago, and it was weirder and bloodier than I remembered. Might be like something Lewis Carroll would write after watching the SAW movies and meeting a porn star… Anyway, this should hopefully be out in November.

The release date for The Collector Book 1 has been pushed back to January 2012. While most writers despise delays in seeing their work out there, after a few meetings with the publishers, all agreed this was the best course of action. Rather than rush out a quick release for next month, better to have a few more weeks just to get everything just so. Really excited to see this one out there after its interesting journey. Meanwhile, why not have a browse over at the Dark Continents store?

http://darkcontinents.com/catalog/

After finishing the globe-trotting novel ENTERTAINING DEMONS a few weeks back and juggling the day job, over the holidays I started on a brand new series of books with a whole new mythos. I'm choosing not to give very much away on this one at the moment, wanting to have it done and submitted first. Needless to say it's become lots of fun to write, and the manuscript is already half finished. I have a select few beta readers who have sampled what I've done so far, and feedback has been very positive. More news on this closer to completion (which shouldn't be too long away. I aim to start the next Collector book in December).

GUEST EDITOR

It was with much honour and gratitude that I accepted the offer to guest edit one of the biggest and best Australian magazines, MIDNIGHT ECHO, the official magazine of the Australian Horror Writers' Association.

A story of mine called Living Haunts appeared in the third issue of ME, so I knew the quality of this publication and the extremely high standards. While this is going to be a lot of work (buying fiction, poetry and artwork, technical editing, etc) it should be a blast and shiny golden star on my writing CV!

Submissions are already open and flowing in. The theme of the issue is taboos. Think you have something suitable? Check out the guidelines on the official site! There's also the chance to win some hard cash and other goodies in our subscription drive. Here's the press release:

Don't forget that your chance to win $200 in cash, plus books signed by Kylie Chan, Greig Beck, Brett McBean, Tim Curran, and more, is ending soon.

Midnight Echo's subscription drive will run until just before the launch of Issue 6, due out in late November. All you have to do to be in with a chance to win one of the great prizes above is to take out any one of our subscription offers before November the 20th. Subscriptions go for as little as $3.85 for 1 year.

Print pre-orders for Issue 6, the science fiction-horror special, are now being taken, too. Edited by David Conyers, David Kernot, and Jason Fischer, this issue features fiction by Cody Goodfellow, Stephen Dedman, Cat Sparks, Shane Jiraiya Cummings, and more, plus an interview with Charles Stross and Chris Moore. There will be a limited print run only, so don't miss out.

To make your pre-order, please go here: (http://australianhorror.com/wordpress...). Copies are $10 + postage.

Midnight Echo is currently available in print and PDF formats. We are aiming to release ebook formats later this year.

GET WELL SOON!

Before I finish, just want to wish my friend and Dead West/Bandersnatch editor Scott Colbert a speedy recovery from his surgery. Get well soon, Scott!