Within the Shadows

Short Story: COMPLICATIONS

2011-07-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't usually post stories on my blog, BUT, I need YOUR (yes your) help to win the cute little thing found at Michelle Simkins blog, here: http://twe.ly/wxob -- It'll sit right between my signed copy of TERMINAL and my crystal skull. So, please go to this site and vote for my story (if you like it). PLEASE! Thank you. Now, enjoy the story (it's free):

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COMPLICATIONS

If he need sit any longer, they’d better find him a cot. Damn his ass hurt—and just what the hell could take so long? An animal bite sure as hell shouldn’t take all evening.

The shadows, deeper now, seemed to mock Jake. The sun, pleasant and bright on their arrival, threatened to sink below the tree-line. And the tiny waiting room—the one with an even tinier TV and a fricken pop machine too loud to hear the TV anyway—offered little to preserve the small bit of sunlight.

“Yer gonna need to be patient,” the cranky old nurse had said, early on. “There’s been a small complication…nothin’ to worry yourself about.” And Jake wondered why the old crone hadn’t retired yet—and why the hell she kept itching at her ass cheek. Instead of staring at her cigarette-wrinkled-upper-lip and her thinning gray hair, maybe he should’ve asked her what kind of complication his girlfriend had. But he didn’t—and he hadn’t seen a soul since. Not one damn white-smocked nurse.

For the tenth time, Jake wadded up a Snicker’s wrapper and tried to hit the ridiculously small trash can.

The wrapper missed, lilted off the side of the can and careened toward the white-tiled hallway.

When he went to retrieve the stray, Jake stared at the white and red emergency-room door. Nobody had come or gone from it in over an hour. Sure, a small town, Jake got that, but an hour? Just maybe nobody else decided to get hurt or sick today, but he found that highly convenient.

Jake paced and tried to sneak nonchalant glances through the small square window. The window, hard to see through to begin with, harbored a set of smudges which rendered seeing through it nearly impossible. And just what the hell was that white shit in the corner of the window? Had it been there before? Jack didn’t think so. He eyeballed it from where he stood and couldn’t decide if it consisted of cotton or something else—yarn maybe.

He crept closer. Ice spiders wriggled their way up his spine, his neck, and then finally his scalp came alive with the little electric pulses. “What the fuck?” he whispered to nobody.

The door swung open easy enough. A cool breeze hissed out past Jake like an unsealed vacuum. And then the stench hit him—something like mildew and blood. He expected to see moths flutter about in the musty din.

But all remained quiet—calm before a storm.

Bits of what looked like material, tiny chunks of yarn, lay strewn across the floor of the emergency-room and disappeared behind the lone examination table like a trail of bread crumbs.

Jake crept closer, following the trail, the stench building in his nostrils. He thought briefly about plugging his nose, but the smell, pleasant now, soothed his frayed nerves, lulled him like the gentle swing of a rocking horse.

And then a quiet moan brought Jake back from his burgeoning nirvana. The soft gasp sounded weak yet alive, satisfied somehow, like dead leaves settling after a fall rainstorm, or earthworms sucking back into the sanctity of their holes, damp and natural—guttural.

Then a scraping noise—a shoe on tile. More soft moans cascaded. This time Jake thought he noticed a note of pleasure in the breathy rasp. “Hello?”

A sigh, then, “Here…right here behind the table. No hurry.”

Jake noticed a white shoe sticking out from behind. It rocked back and forth in a rhythmic motion. He walked over slowly, curious, but not wanting to interrupt anyone’s good time. Better not be his girlfriend down there with one of them fancy-pants docs!

More sighs.

With a bit more calm than he felt, Jake leaned over—and stared. “What the hell?” Down below, on the cold floor, the old crone of a nurse lay there fingering a gash in her throat like it was her clitoris. “Are you hurt?” he asked.

The nurse glanced up with a dreamy look. “I suspect I’m dying…but…but what a way to go…”

“Who did this to you?” Jake felt a chill in his belly.

“Not a who, dear,” she moaned.

“What?”

“Exactly—a what,” she muttered, still preoccupied with the bloody hole in her neck. Blood pooled below her on the white tile, soaking into her hair like an old mop.

“Okay—okay, what did this to you?” he asked. “And where’s my girlfriend!”

“The most darling little thing you ever saw!”

Then Jake noticed the little pieces of green yarn all over the old crone’s neck. “What was it?”

The nurse stuck her finger a bit deeper into the wound, blood spilling quicker to the floor. “You’ll see. And you’ll be all the better for it—right through there.” She pointed toward a solid steel door. “You’ll probably find your girl in there too, although I’d wager she ain’t yours no more. No way you can compete with that cozy little bundle.”

Jake, without hesitation, scared now, raced to the door and pulled it open. Before him on the floor, between an office chair and an old metal desk, his girlfriend lay naked on the tile. On top of her belly, some kind of knit creature, a stuffed rabbit, jumped up and down.

The rabbit, no a bunny, he was sure it was a bunny and not a rabbit, appeared to be made of yarn. One yarn eyeball hung down out of its socket, looking like one of those snappers the kids used to play with. Red stuffing bled out of the thing’s right ear, left paw, and neck.

His girlfriend, bleeding profusely where the bunny had taken a bite out of her inner thigh, squealed. “Oh, Jake, can we take it home?”

Jake stared, nodded, then shrugged. Why the fuck not? The thing was cute as hell.

The bunny leaped off Jake’s girl and stood before him. It opened its mouth and hissed softly, arms spread wide, “Come…Zombunny wants to love you!"

WRITER'S SLUSH

2011-07-08T07:29:00.000-07:00

Blogged by popular demand: the recipe for Writer’s Slush! Oh yeah, guaranteed to make you a better writer…or, at the very least, make you not give a shit if you suck.

It drinks better in the hot summer months, but alcohol is alcohol, right? Drink it whenever the fuck you want!

WRITER’S SLUSH

6 C’s H2O

½ C Sugar

1 can frozen OJ

1 can frozen Lemonade

½ can frozen grapefruit juice

1 tsp powdered/unsweetened ice tea mix

2 C’s Vodka or Brandy

Heat water and sugar (in a big pot) until sugar dissolves (do not boil, God NO; we don’t wanna ever boil the alcohol—it’ll go bye-bye. *Tears*)

Then add everything else (except the alcohol) and stir the shit around ‘til it’s all melted and mixed together into one big liquid concoction.

And now for the best part: add the Vodka or Brandy. Stir it all around some more…get it good and blended!

Pour the whole conglomeration into an ice-cream pail (it will fill it to the top) and put in freezer for 28 hrs. Now, I know, when you’re all geared up, it’s hard to wait the 28 hrs, but it’s worth it…so do it. Have some willpower for goodness sakes!

Enjoy, my friends! And, for fuck sakes, drink responsibly. Don't make me write a bunch of fricken small print...

Writing In The First Person

2011-03-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

Many people don't, but I absolutely love writing in the 1st person--a lot! And I love reading books written that way as well. The main reason is because, to my tastes, the protagonist seems to come alive so much more brilliantly. When forced to concentrate on the internal thought process of one character, said character usually turns out more dynamic and interesting, someone who readers can rally behind and care about. You can almost taste their emotions, feel their pain, and when they bleed we bleed.

But here's my predicament now. Along with RED STRAIN (3rd person thank the Lord), I am currently penning the follow-up novel to JEWEL in the 1st person. The protag is a female (Tracey from JEWEL) paranormal investigator. At first I thought I could pull it off without too much difficulty. I'm married, understand women, well, at least in theory, and after all everyone has the same kinds of emotions, right? Wrong!

Every good book has a degree of sexual tension. I don't care if you are the prude of all prudes or the king of porn, we all like sex. And if you say otherwise you're a liar liar pants on fire!

Anyway, you can now understand my predicament. What runs through a woman's mind when she's aroused, feels amorous, or otherwise just wants to tear off a chunk? For men it's easy; I can just write from experience. But I know that women differ. Some are simple to understand, others more complicated, and others, well, impossible at all to predict. So where does that leave me?

To help alleviate some of my worries, and it does stay true to her personality from JEWEL, I've made Tracey to be a tomboy. She chews, cusses, hangs out with men mostly because most women (according to her) are bitches or worse. And that all helps, but...

Any feedback from my female fans would be most appreciated here. My wife has been a tremendous help of course, but she is only one woman, and well, I'd love to see varying view points on how to handle this delicate situation. Because you all know what will happen if I don't nail this dead on (ahem).

So please, feel free to respond in any way you feel inclined. Please share your thoughts on the female psyche. Thanks!

Novel Updates and Other Bits of Carnage

2011-03-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

Another long hiatus, I know, and thank you to the many peeps surfing the social networking wave who pointed that fact out to me and got me back in the blogospherical saddle. I should be a more religious blogger, no doubt!

Some updates though--finally:

I am eleven chapters into RED STRAIN, my newest novel, which has been accomplished in only two weeks time, and so I am very optimistic of an April/May completion date (first draft). Somewhere closer to that time, I'll have the artistic representation and blurb posted on my website under the writing tab. Think zombieish peeps!

In addition to RED STRAIN, I am picking away ever so slowly at the sequel to JEWEL (currently being read by a major publishing house), entitled WEDNESDAY'S CHILD. Like JEWEL, the novel is written in the first person, but this time, I'm writing from the perspective of the opposite gender--very fun and interesting, have learned a lot! Stay tuned, please!

Shortly, there will be some exciting anthology news regarding my short story, VANDRAVEN'S TICK. I can't say too much yet, but soon...

So anyway, I got some stuff in the works, and will try my butt off to keep my blog updated. Thanks again for all who cared to remind me.

Sherlock Holmes!

2010-09-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

Cool! My short story and subsequent stage-play by Roy C Booth, SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE DIABOLICAL NECROMANCER, will be produced for the first time at The Wild Rose Theater on November 12th and 13th.

I can't say enough about how excited I am to see Roy's and my version of the great sleuth come to life. This will be an absolute treat! Any fan of Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce are going to love this. And my hope is that any Conan Doyle fans will as well. I believe that we have stayed true to the Sherlock Holmes legacy, yet added a flavor not yet tasted.

I have heard some rumors of more good news to come with this play in regards to performances. More details as things firm up.

Writerly Updates

2010-08-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have known for some time now, but it bares repeating once more (at least), that writing is as much about patience/perseverance and attitude as it is about the craft. Ask my wife, but patience isn't something that has come naturally for me--however, after several years of practice, I would like to think that I have learned how not to drive agents/editors out of their minds. And so I wait...

As of right at this moment, I have more than one, but no more than five agents/editors reading JEWEL and INHUMAN. It feels good. That's how I feel now, choosing to think that these kind folks are seriously considering my work, feverishly racking their brains as to how to possibly market my prose. But then, and more likely, they may just be behind on their reading. (Sigh). It's all good...

But I do not wait in vain! For the first time in my writing career, I find myself working on two projects simultaneously (ZEALOT & THE GULLIES). Both are horror novels and I like them equally in their own ways (much like children I would guess). They are very different from each other; and so each time I return from one to the other it is a breath of fresh air--invigorating. Below is a list of all my projects (novels only) and my progress to date:

Horror

THE GULLIES - 12,000 words

ZEALOT - 24,000 words

INHUMAN - 91,000 words (completed)

JEWEL - 71,000 words (completed)

Supernatural Thrillers

BROKEN MIRROR - 88,000 words (editing)

VESSEL OF THE DIABLO SI - 144,000 (editing - and yes I went crazy)

NO INNOCENT VICTIM - 22,000 words (currently on hold)

So there we are--projects galore. This of course does not include my short fiction and I should have some exciting news soon regarding a couple more anthologies that will include my work. In addition, there will be some exciting news regarding SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE DIABOLICAL NECROMANCER and Roy Booth's subsequent theatrical representation. Please stay tuned!

Funny Thing, Rejection

2010-07-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

As a matter of course, I keep up with a number of websites, blogs, and e-groups (many of which are mentioned on my "links" page). Admittedly, these perusals tear me from valuable writing time, but there is also the argument that they help me to get better--which leads me into my next topic.

Rejection. I've been reading a lot of blogs and group discussions lately on rejection: rejection from agents, editors, publishers, you name it. The tone and flavor of these discussions have been a bit ranty for my tastes. People, rejection is our friend! If it were not for rejection and discriminating professionals in the literary community, the market would be flooded with so much junk and rubbish that our work (the quality stuff) would go largely unnoticed. Rejection raises the bar, motivates us to mature and grow as writers, and assures us that when we are ready there will be a slot open for us.

So, next time you get a rejection letter, and you will no matter what level you are at, just concentrate on what can be gleaned from it. How can it help you? And also remember that everyone, yes everyone, has been rejected. Even King was rejected a multitude of times before he got his first book published (Carrie I think). Did King get upset and quit writing? No...he improved and persevered.

Use rejection as a catalyst...

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER

2010-05-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

Some exciting news!

Roy Booth has completed the stage script for my short story, SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER. I have read through it...and wow! Roy's reputation is much deserved. He did an amazing job and I am on fire--almost literally--to see the first performance, which may be held right here in Bemidji.

This is particularly exciting for me as I grew up on a heavy dose of Sherlock Holmes. My father and I, on many occasions, lounged around the living room as Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce graced the TV screen (and we still do from time to time). So, this is a dream come true. Thanks Roy!

And for those of you not familiar with Roy Booth, whom I would guess are a precious few by now, he is the script guru for the "Beanie" play series, Brian Keene's TERMINAL, and R. Thomas Riley's THE DAY LUFBERRY WON IT ALL.

R. Thomas Riley

2010-04-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

Ali and I had a great time last night. Usually, date night wouldn't warrant a blog post, but it isn't every day that we get to hang out with fellow horror author and enthusiast R. Thomas Riley.

First off, I'm never sure just how to address the guy. Do I call him "R"...or Thomas...Mr. Riley seemed a bit formal being that we are already acquainted? We settled for Tommy.

Tommy was in town to, not only, promote his book THE MONSTER WITHIN IDEA, but to also begin film work for the script adaption (Roy C. Booth) of The Day That Lufberry Won It All--which by the way is this month's featured story at Apex Publishing's website. Check it out!

Anyway, we had a nice evening. In the intimate setting of Roy's comic book store, Tommy read to us, shared who he is as a writer and human being with us, and laughed with us. It was a great time and made me realize just how tight-knit a guild us horror authors belong to.

And to Tommy: thanks for sharing your talent and your good nature, my friend!

Celebratory Cigar

2010-04-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hey gang! I just sparked the celebratory cigar--INHUMAN is in the can, so to speak. As the hour struck three o'clock, the final word struck paper, and the manuscript is complete at ninety grand (and yes, that's cigar speak for words). I won't dare tout it's merit--that is for you all to decide--but I will promise you this: one hell of a scare fest. This is by far the darkest piece I have ever penned, and I must admit that sometimes I even disturbed myself along the way...and I think my wife would concur. And I thank her for the unlimited patience!

In any regard, the blurb is now up on my website for anyone interested--and the artistic representation will follow suit in short order.

Now, as the sweet stench of tobacco smoke encircles my head, I will begin to plot and scheme my next project. I am thinking ZEALOT or RANDOM ACT OF VIOLENCE, but I am always open to suggestion my friends.

So long for now, gang--I believe that I hear a glass of Crown/diet calling my name!

INHUMAN

2010-03-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang! Sorry about my absence from the helm! But its been a busy fall and winter for me and my family. Now that things have settled down a bit, my hope is to keep up with my blogging on a more regular basis going forward. Here's what's new:

First off, I have not been idle, my friends. I am well over 20,000 words into my latest project, a novel entitled, INHUMAN. The story, of course, involves an inhuman entity--and that's all I can say for now. When I begin querying for the project (probably in May/June) I will have the mini-synopsis posted on my "writing" page, along with an artistic representation (as always). And if you're curious, you can read (and rate, so rate it high) the first page of INHUMAN at http://www.webook.com/

Secondly, Brendan Deneen, the agent who was working with me on THE DREGS project, has taken a new job with St. Martin's Press (Dunne Imprint). So, that project is on hold for the time being. The good news here is that this is a great opportunity for Brendan. And, in addition to Brendan's good fortune, I now have a contact with a major publisher. I can see this working out for the best.

Lastly, this all leaves me still seeking representation for my 2009 novel, JEWEL. Since Brendan has moved on from Fine Print, I have found it necessary to look for representation elsewhere. Fine Print is a wonderful organization, but none of the other agents choose to represent horror. So, it's an arduous task seeking representation, and one that I had hoped I would never need do again. But this situation has given me the opportunity to correspond with some very helpful people in the industry and things are looking positive. So, for all of you that have stood by, with wishes to read more of my work in print besides the short fiction, please be patient. It should be coming soon.

And speaking of short fiction! I will soon be blogging with more exciting news in that regard. Another anthology and a really cool magazine will be involved. Stay tuned.

Brendan Deneen -- Fine Print Literary

2009-07-08T06:09:00.000-07:00

Some great news! Brendan Deneen of Fine Print Literary has chosen to represent my work with a specific eye towards my novella, THE DREGS, and the subsequent screenplay that is being worked by Roy C Booth. The contract is being crafted as I write. I am beyond pleased that THE DREGS will be repped by such a talented and multi-faceted agent. Brendan is the professional clouter of all professional clouters!

I can see Brendan and I making a solid team for many years to come. I can also see more collaborations with Roy in the future as well. Now the hard work begins...and I can't wait!

Interviews and Short Stories

2009-06-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update...

My short story, THE ROCK, took honorable mention in The Tales of Torment contest, and is now published in the summer 2009 issue of the magazine Tales From the Moonlit Path...check it out!

The spring/summer 2009 issue of The Odd Mind magazine is now out and is featuring my short story WHAT WE'VE ALLOWED THEM TO BECOME. Check that out too...you'll be glad you did!

I invite you all to go read my latest interview with the premiere horror website: Choateroad. Here is the link: www.choateroad.com/bulletins.htm

The anthologies Atrum Tempestas and Zombie Chronicles are now out. They feature my short stories, VESSEL OF THE DIABLO SI and FEAR CAGE respectively. Check my website for links or just Google the titles.

More news soon in regards to JEWEL, THE DREGS, and SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER...

Grandma (Hazel) Holley 1919-2009

2009-04-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

As horror authors, we dance with death like it's our shadow. In real life, that shadow is called grief. Rest in peace Grandma Holley, rest in peace.

JEWEL and Other Updates

2009-04-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Hey gang! My latest novel, JEWEL, is off and the marketing has begun. A big thank you to my first readers: Dawne, Susan, and Sherri for your valuable input. I have already heard some good things about the manuscript, so here is to hoping that everything move swiftly. In the meantime, ZEALOT (the novel)--my next project--is officially under the pen. I am already 20,000 words in and it is shaping up to be something beyond my original expectations. If you read the short story and liked it, well, you're going to love this!

Below is a poem that is associated with the novel JEWEL. I wrote it recently and I think it represents the manuscript quite well. Please, let me know what you think. Depending on feedback, I may choose to use it as an appetizer (so to speak) before the prologue of the novel.

This welling mound of emotional pain
Slowly dissipating residuals – nothing save an electro-chemical stain
Lain bare, on the train tracks of a dripping tear
The soul fights on, but defies the host’s will to clear
Dead memories that sear with the flames of self-doubt
And clog the already stout arteries which lead to the future

DEAD MEMORIES, Justin Holley, 2009

On the script front, I have a bit of exciting news! I saw a portion of the first draft of THE DREGS and it is coming along very, very well. Oh, did I fail to mention that THE DREGS has been optioned? Well, indeed it has and I can't wait to see it on the big screen someday--fingers crossed! Again, I can't yet discuss specifics, but things are really looking up. SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER is also still in the process of being transformed to script--more details soon.

My short story, WHAT WE'VE ALLOWED THEM TO BECOME, will be featured in the Spring 2009 issue of The Odd Mind Magazine. Please purchase a copy and support the literary arts! There will be a link on my website soon.

Updates!

2009-03-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang,

Some pretty exciting stuff is happening as of late!

First off, let me say that the world premiere of the play TERMINAL was a hit. The show went great, with Brian Keene and Roy C. Boothe both pleased with the performances. We got some great footage for the DVD! Look for the poetry chap book, associated with the TERMINAL weekend, to be out soon. I have a poem included called STIRRING THE DARKNESS, so check it out.

If you haven't seen them yet, please go check out my interviews with Lilith at SNM Horror Magazine and with The Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers. Here are the links: http://www.snmhorrormag.com/ and http://www.greatlakeshorror.com/ - the interviews went great and I think you'll enjoy learning a little something about yours truly.

Since my last post, I have had two pieces of short fiction accepted for publication. FEAR CAGE has been chosen for inclusion in the anthology Zombie Chronicles, due out in April - details to follow. WHAT WE'VE ALLOWED THEM TO BECOME will be published in the April issue of The Odd Mind magazine - please support the literary arts and purchase a copy! Also, THE REMAINS OF LOVE was given an honorable mention as an entry in Black Hound Publishing's "Valentine" contest. And, SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER has been optioned for script work--I cannot go into details yet, but I will just as soon as I am allowed.

Last, but not least, my latest novel, JEWEL, is finally taking shape! It may be the best fiction that I have ever written and should be wrapped up by the end of April, my "first readers" already hard at work. So, look out Brendan Deneen, you shall be queried in short order my friend.

Much more to come...

Brian Keene Is Coming To Town

2009-02-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

Just use the above title of this blog, instead of Santa Clause, and you know just how excited I am about the production of TERMINAL!

What: The premiere production of the play TERMINAL
Who: Original novel by: Brian Keene Script by: Roy C Boothe
Where: Bemidji, MN - Paul Bunyan Playhouse Theatre
When: Friday the 27th @ 7:30pm, Saturday the 28th @ 1:00pm, & Sunday the 29th (2:00)

Other interesting facts:

Tickets can be purchased through the playhouse or Roy's Comics and Books (218-333-6759)
Brian Keene himself will be at all three performances, pen ready for autographs.
Yours Truly, the Horror Author Justin Holley, will be playing the part of "Keith" :)
This is a unique opportunity for all horror enthusiasts, especially writers! Many literary agents and Hollywood types will be in attendance.

GET YOUR TICKETS SOON!

Things That Go Bump (in the night or otherwise)

2009-01-30T12:23:00.000-08:00

Paranormal investigation is all the rage now days. Shows like Ghost Hunters and Paranormal State are enjoying the luxury of fat ratings and a vast audience. As a horror author that often writes in a supernatural vein, I am often asked what my opinion is of the paranormal, outside of my fiction.

Let me start with this. I in no way mix what I write about in fiction with what I truly believe. That is not to say that I never add my own theories or proven truths into my writing, but rather I am saying that it would be impossible for you, the reader, to know when I am using solid theory and when I have completely made something up off the top of my head. So please don't read my stories for the purpose of trying to figure out my view of the paranormal. It is fiction.

With that said, I would also like to say that I have a great deal of respect for the community that scientifically investigates paranormal activity. The most well know, of course, is TAPS of Ghost Hunter's fame (Sci-fi channel). The way that Jay, Grant, and the gang go about their business is impeccable. Using gadgets such as EMF Detectors, Infrared Cameras, Voice Recorders, and other technology, they take a purely scientific approach to the whole business of collecting evidence. They shun the use of "spiritual" malodies, such as, Oija Boards and the like...purely scientific, the way it should be. They do not base their opinions on feelings, but on hard scientific proof. There are local groups also, much less known often times, but almost every area has one. One that I associate with is The Minnesota Paranormal Study Group out of Hibbing, MN. Adam Nori and the gang are a TAPS family affiliated group and also approach all their investigations from a scientific point of view--I highly encourage you all to check out their website.

The way I see it all is like this: All of God's creations are subject to His laws of science. Why would His spiritual ones not be, even if it is a science we do not yet understand? There was a time when we had evidence that black holes existed, but did not understand the science behind them...thus, they were unknown and scary. Today we understand the science behind black holes...and low and behold, the public view is now one of acceptance. One hundred years from now, will we understand the science behind ghosts? Will we accept them as part of our every day life? Interesting questions are they not?

2008 Wrap Up...

2009-01-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

For a year in which I expected to get no writing done, due to the many activities involved in marrying the love of my life and in the purchasing of a new home, I ended up being quite prolific after all. 2008 found me writing 15 complete and 2 partial pieces of short fiction, 4 of which have already been published and two more are slated to run in 2009. In addition to the short fiction, I completed--very roughly--a third of my new novella, JEWEL. Looking back, I am amazed at what I have accomplished...obviously Ali is a creative influence in my life.

That brings me to 2009. I am not a big proponent of the hype of a new year and making resolutions...time just seems to blend for me, no beginning no end, just a continuous flow of life. Therefore, I shall just relay my future plans so as far as to say that I intend, sometime in 2009, to write 2 more short storys that I have already committed to crafting and then finish my novels, JEWEL and NO INNOCENT VICTIM. If time allows, and the muse blesses me with inspiration, I would be overjoyed to begin the marketing process of the above mentioned novels, although my gut tells me that it may be an ambitious goal to set within the time-frame of a year. Editing is a grueling process, but we shall see!

I do also hope, in regards to my literary efforts, that 2009 finds more of my short fiction in circulation. I also hope that time provides me the opportunity to network more often with my author friends by the way of conferences...and oh yes...THE FUNKY WERE PIG Blogtalk Radio show (check it out, by the way, on Blogtalk Radio, Fridays @ 10:00 central time).

Happy Holidays

2008-12-16T13:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays gang! I wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

I am afraid, with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I have sorely neglected my blogging. For this I apologize. Please accept the following updates as my penance :)

* Back in November, I mentioned four pieces of short fiction that were pending publication...they are still pending. As of late, I have been submitting to venues that require a great deal of my patience--however--they are worth the wait if they choose to print my work within their pages. I shall wait for as long as it takes for the next evolution of my writing career. It's all quite exciting actually.

* ZEALOT, originally published in the November edition of SNM Horror Magazine curteousy of Steven Marshall, will be featured as a reprint in the anthology, SATAN'S WICKED REFUGEES -- a fitting home for the story I dare say.

* I have written, and submitted for publication, two more short stories: THE RENDERING OF SHLOSHLO and FEAR CAGE. The latter is for an anthology being put together by The Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers. The former I can't speak of as yet...but soon!

May the blessings of the season be upon you all...

ATRUM TEMPESTAS

2008-11-20T07:56:00.000-08:00

Some great news on the anthology front! The anthology, ATRUM TEMPESTAS, is now scheduled to be out February 2009...better a bit late than never (especially since many big names have been added to the line-up).

Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers

2008-11-12T12:09:00.000-08:00

I have been out hunting the wiley whitetail, so just a quick tidbit in way of an update (with more to follow very soon as events develop).

I am, as of last Friday (Nov. 7th), affiliated with and member of the The Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers. Check out our website at: www.greatlakeshorror.com and lend your support of the horror genre.

Happy Halloween & Writing Updates

2008-10-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween gang! These are truly exciting times on many fronts, especially since this is my website's first Halloween...oh yes, and my short fiction is being picked up as quick as I can write it. Thanks to all of you that have been reading and enjoying--I have the best friends and fans to be sure! Thank you for your continued support of the Horror genre, at Halloween and also during the rest of the year.

In way of updates:

My short story, ZEALOT, has been chosen for publication by SNM Horror Magazine and will be in their November edition. There will be a link from my website as it becomes available. If you enjoy religious horror and want something to ponder...read it...it will leave you disturbed!

Several other pieces of my short fiction: THE NOTE; GHOST DRUM; YOU KILL IT, YOU EAT IT; and SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE NECROMANCER have all been submitted for publication. More details to follow as I have them.

Shroud Magazine is starting a new column for its magazine that spotlights "up and coming" Horror genre talent. They are currently accepting storys to spotlight...and also for potential names for the column. I have contributed to both and would be honored to be included.

Happy Halloween to everyone! Remember to give out lots of candy, have fun with the kids, read and watch horror books and movies, and be safe.

Apparently It's Contagious

2008-10-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

Apparently, being published is contagious. Things are starting to roll strong for me in that regard and I hope it keeps right on rolling!

As you all know, my first published work, IT CRIES, bloodied up cyberspace via Trei Literary Magazine. Now Trei's Halloween (October) edition is up...and it will absolutely knock your socks off! It is a homerun swing by editor-and-chief CL Friere--you must check it out! My short fiction piece, THE DREGS, is in there along with a lot of other talented authors. This E-zine is wild...so get in on the Halloween spirit and check out what's hot! www.treimagazine.com

On another front, and as previously mentioned, John Gledson has started a literary endeavor called Black Hound Publishing. His first project is an anthology of horror/fantasy short fiction pieces called ATRUM TEMPESTAS (that is Latin for Black Storm for those wondering). My short story, VESSEL OF THE DIABLO SI, has officially been chosen for inclusion in the project and I am proud to be a part of it. I will post updates on the anthologies availability for purchase as I have information.

I have also just finished up with two more short stories entitled THE NOTE and ZEALOT respectively. Soon I will be sending them as submissions to Necrotic Tissue and Shroud Magazine for consideration. The way things have been rolling, I would not be surprised to see my fiction in these hallowed pages as well. Either or both of these working out should prove to be a boon for my career, inching ever nearer the brass ring.

In regards to my longer fiction, SPIRIT ASYLUM specifically, Brendan Deneen (my future agent if I have anything to say about it) contacted me to say that he will have finished reading the MS by the end of next week. This one is the big one guys...fingers crossed and prayers please! If this one takes off, it all takes off...yes, I'm a bit nervous, excited nervous.

A New Dog on the Block

2008-09-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

There is a new dog on the block in the publishing world: Dark Hound Publishing. The company has been started by John Gledson, an author from England, specializing in horror and fantasy fiction...or some combination thereof.

Dark Hound is coming out with an anthology of horror/fantasy short fiction pieces entitled, ATRUM TEMPESTUS. The anthology is appropriately slated to be out in time for Halloween. If this time-line proves a bit ambitious, it may be a bit later in 2008 than that, but not much.

I have submitted a short story from my collection to the project, entitled: VESSEL OF THE DIABLO SI. I am very excited about this story and the project in its entirety. I believe that it is going to be one for the ages, chuck full of things that will scare the hell out of the bravest of us.

Also, please don't forget to check out IT CRIES as featured in Trei Literary Magazine's September edition. On that note, Cindy Frier has guaranteed that the October edition (the Halloween edition) will "Haunt you in your dreams"! So check it out. My short story, THE DREGS, should be featured and is scarier than hell (if that's possible ;) www.treimagazine.com

IT CRIES featured in Trei Literary Magazine.

2008-09-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

It is official, Trei Literary Magazine is launched!

My terrifying short story, IT CRIES, is one of the featured pieces...and it will scare the hell out of you. I promise!

In addition to my own contribution, many other talented authors have also been included. If you're a fan of reading and writing, you can't miss this magazine...you absolutely must see it. It is a monthly publication so check it early and often. In October (the Halloween addition), look for my short story THE DREGS (it may just be there).

www.treimagazine.com

Wedding & TREI Literary Magazine

2008-08-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note--because that's all I have time for--to say that Ali and my wedding went very well. Thank you to all of our friends and family for making the occasion wonderful and special. We are now on our honeymoon for a week, laying on the beach...and doing very few other things ;) I must add, because I can't help but shout it to the world, my bride was (and is, but especially on our wedding day) beautiful in every way imagineable. I cried like a baby when I saw her in her dress, mom and dad both helping her up the isle...awsome!

Secondly, I encourage all of you to check out the premiere issue of TREI Literary On-line Magazine. It comes out September 1st, 2008 and my new short story, IT CRIES, is included. Once I have been sent the link, I will post it here and on my website...otherwise just Google TREI Literary Magazine.

Impending Marriage and Writing Updates

2008-08-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

On August twenty-third of this month, Alicia Victoria Grivno (my beautiful and faithful muse) shall become the beautiful and faithful Alicia Victoria Holley. I am independent, sometimes to the extreme, but I must concede that my life (and writing for that matter) has grown to heights I didn't dare to think possible as a result of "Ali" being in it. I look forward, not only to the nuptials that saturday, but to a life-long journey together...wherever that life may take us.

On the writing front, that certain producer from Cali is still perusing THE DREGS in regards to its filmability. There has been some difficulty getting the MS in front of him, however, due to e-mail problems (them not reaching him). I found out because he e-mailed me wondering why he had not received the MS as of yet. I shall take that as a compliment, that he would bother to contact me. Being that I am an incessant worrier, I did contact Brendan Deneen (my potential future agent) to see if he had any wisdom to lend me in regards to contacting the above mentioned producer directly. Brendan graciously offered to e-mail the man himself. Not exactly an offer of representation, but dare I say that I am creeping closer? I will continue to work hard and see what happens.

My short story, IT CRIES, is still under consideration for inclusion in Necrotic Tissue's new BLOOM MEMORIAL print anthology. The anthology is due to run in late 2008 or early 2009.

Beyond the written word... perhaps?

2008-07-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things in life take an unexpected, but delightful detour and rejection turns into something else entirely.

My short story "The Dregs" was rejected by Necrotic Tissue last week. More specifically it was rejected by Paige McCoy, one of the editors of the highly touted e-zine. Paige mentioned that, in her opinion, the peice has too many POV changes for a true short story. She did suggest, however, that it has the potential for the screen and that she wouldn't be surprised to see it there.

I had mixed emotions of course. Rejection is never grand, but within it came an opportunity that I had never considered. I sent the MS to a producer from Sacramento that I have become familiar with. I shall leave him nameless at this point, but he has worked with horror author Michael Laimo and so I thought he may be a good fit.

I am a bit excited because this producer got back to me and asked to see "The dregs". He thought the concept had merit and said that he would get back to me upon assessing "The Dregs" filmability. Now I wait as always, having learned that good things come to those that do--and those that work hard.

In the spirit of waiting, Brendan Deneen requested that I also keep him posted. Wouldn't that just be a wild ride... if this producer would care to produce "The Dregs" and Brendan Deneen would care to represent me. That is too much to think about, so I'll wait to jump up and down when it actually happens!

Recent Short Stories For Necrotic Tissue

2008-07-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

In the last week, I have finished with two short stories that I am quite excited about: The Dregs and It Cries. Both were written for the e-zine Necrotic Tissue--both are terrifying (so I am told). The Dregs is a submission for the e-zine itself, with It Cries being a submission for Necrotic Tissue's upcoming "Bloom Memorial" anthology. Please look for the anthology in late 2008... perhaps early 2009.

Not to worry, my work on No Innocent Victim and Jewel is coming along just fine--both are still on schedule anyway.

Some good news for Spirit Asylum! In the last week, I have had a few more requests for material. The one that I am excited about inparticular is from Sandy Lu of Vanguard Literary. Sandy is a rock solid agent and along with Brendan Deneen, one of my top choices.

Jewel Exerpt (Revised Edition)

2008-06-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who gave me input on the exerpt that I had posted for Jewel. In considering all of your sage advice, I rewrote and below is what I came up with. Please take the time--once again--to let me know what you think. All your help and compliments are much appreciated!

Jewel

She was new to our school, so I suppose that in some uncanny fashion, that made her fresh and exciting. In the first few days of her arrival, we all flocked to her like moths to a flame. Maybe it was the cute red hair and freckles or maybe it was the helpless look she had about her—our young male egos already starting to bud like an insipid forbearer of things to come.

Jewel was sullen.
And that is akin to calling blood simply a liquid.
A more appropriate term would be haunted, which fell nearer the mark than anything; that red hair hanging in clumsy strands over sunken pale blue eyes which almost never opened to their full potential, bony shoulders that slumped just a bit too far forward causing her back to hump in an awkward posture. Jewel made a habit out of the way she played with her fingers—wringing them when nervous, which was almost always—as she stared at things no one else, save her, could see. Jewel never wore sleeves and her gangly arms seemed to dangle like pendulums. Her bare freckled arms and white skin accentuated the faint bruises on her forearms that never seemed to quite heal up. They matched in a rather fiendish compliment with the red scrape on her forehead. She reminded me of a tortured soul without a voice—a thirsty flower, uprooted and wilted. Dead.

For most eleven year olds, attention span was still a bitch, and so my other classmates—already singed well enough for their tastes—fell away like moth corpses in the breeze. Despite the lapse of the others, I always was resilient so fluttered about her longer than most—perhaps too long.

I noticed all this before she had ever parted her thin lips to utter a word, but then she did and my world changed forever.

Exerpt of "Jewel"

2008-06-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

Besides writing No Innocent Victim, I am currently working on expanding one of my short stories—Jewel—into a novella. The short story version is currently under consideration for award. I am extremely excited about this particular project and would appreciate some feedback—positive or constructive as always—from those following my writing endeavors. Please feel free to leave a comment under the “comments” section beneath this entry. I will do my best to respond to everyone who takes the time. Thanks!

Jewel

She was new—to our school anyway—so I suppose that in some uncanny fashion, that made her fresh and exciting. In the first few days of her arrival, we all flocked to her like moths to a flame. Maybe it was the cute red hair and freckles or maybe it was the helpless look she had about her—our young male egos already starting to bud like an insipid forbearer of things to come.

Jewel was sullen and that puts it as rather a bland understatement. A more appropriate term may be haunted, which fell nearer the mark than anything; she had red hair that hung in clumsy strands over sunken pale blue eyes that almost never opened to their full potential, shoulders that slumped just a bit too far forward causing her back to hump precariously. Jewel made a habit out of the way she played with her fingers—wringing them when nervous, which was almost always—as she stared at things no one else could see. Jewel never wore sleeves and her gangly arms seemed to dangle like pendulums from her bony shoulders. Her bare freckled arms and white skin accentuated the faint bruises on her forearms that never seemed to quite heal up. They matched in a rather fiendish compliment with the red scrape on her forehead. She reminded me of a tortured soul without a voice—a flower not watered and stepped on, uprooted and wilted. Dead

I noticed all this before she had ever parted her thin lips to utter a word, but then she did and my world changed forever. The other moths had already been singed well enough for their tastes—for eleven year olds, attention span was still a bitch. They fell away like moth corpses in the breeze. I always was a glutton for punishment so fluttered about her longer than most—perhaps too long. In fact, I remember the day in which I knew I had hung on a bit longer than prudent.

What is a friend?

2008-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

How does one know when they have great friends? I would wager that most people would list unconditional support, or some such nicety, at the very top of their list of priorities. Although I agree that bearers of unconditional things are desirable, downright hard to find truth be told, I find myself wondering—after my friends’ latest shenanigans—if a better test of the metal of friendship might be the satisfying of my rather bizarre whims.

In case you have not been paying attention, I am to be wed in August of this year. It will be a resoundingly small affair, with a rather large gathering—in comparison—after the nuptials themselves. Along with the said ceremony come the many other trivial bits of pop culture that Ali and I must endure to reach the end prize. I shall not bore you or insult your intelligence by listing them all, but safe to say there are a great many. Anyone who has gone through this type of thing before knows exactly what I mean. In particular, there is the bachelor party.

I know… when men (or women for that matter) think of the bachelor party, images of brass poles, beer kegs, and seedy hotel rooms flit into their minds like random bits of mischievous confetti. Not my friends. No, my friends are the best friends anyone would ever want. Not only have they planned a bachelor party for me that satisfies one of my greatest whims, but will also provide spice for my writing endeavors. They have lined up a private trip to the Tuberculosis asylum in which I wrote of in Spirit Asylum.

The Saint Julia asylum is a sprawling mass of concrete on the otherwise beautiful shores of Lake Julia. Nothing but wildlife… and perhaps the inhuman, have inhabited it for fifty years. It has been resold religiously every couple of years because of the strain that it would have put on the purse strings to tear it down. My heart is already pounding as I imagine walking into Saint Julia with video camera in hand, hoping that I have not upset anyone or anything by way of my novel writing. Of course I am being dramatic, but it will be exciting none-the-less… my novel springing to life before my eyes, at least in my mind. Better yet will be watching my friends, as they navigate about in the pitch black, perhaps gaining a small understanding of why I write about the things that live “Within The Shadows”.

The Art of Querying

2008-05-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I finally sent out a batch of query letters requesting representation for Spirit Asylum, my second novel. It has taken me awhile, but I believe that I have the manuscript honed to at least a reasonably sharp edge.

I know that perhaps I should have used more of a scattergun approach, but instead I have employed a technique that I thought any agent should appreciate. Having been an HR Manager, I understand a little bit about being approached for a job. I always liked it when job seekers did some research and tailored their materials to match the job I had open. I figured agents can’t be far off from feeling the same way. After all, publishing is a business like anything else. Why would an agent want to represent someone who doesn’t meet the criteria for the kind of author they are looking for? So anyway, I did a little research.

I started on Agent Query with my research and branched out to agency websites. I also noted who represented authors that resembled my style and genre. From there I narrowed down the field by researching each of the agents one by one. I had a wonderful time actually. I read through agent blogs, agent profiles, and any advice that they had rendered available on-line. I took the information to heart and tweaked my query letter for each of the six agents I chose. I can hear my fellow writers laughing now. “You’ll never get a request for a partial after only six tries!”

I would kindly like to point out what a keen eye Mr. Brendan Deneen of Objective Entertainment has. I would also like to thank him for proving my theory to be accurate and for finding my short synopsis “cool”. Brendan was within the top two agents that I decided to approach and I would be ecstatic to begin a professional business relationship with a solid agent and agency. Here is to hoping that Brendan finds my sample chapters equally as “cool” as my short synopsis. The manuscript is already enveloped and stamped, prepared for departure to New York.

Just thought I would share a little information that other authors might find helpful.

Okay, back to No Innocent Victim (my next work in progress). It has been speaking to me from “within the shadows” as of late, feeling neglected. I shouldn’t keep it waiting.

The Winning Formula

2008-04-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

I have had a couple of people ask me recently what I think the "winning" formula may be for writing and getting published. My first somewhat sarcastic remark was, "How would I know?" At the time, I thought that perhaps I didn't have the right to answer. I have enjoyed a modicum of success with the contests, but have not yet been published with a major publishing house. After some thought, however, I have come to the conclusion that this is America, and by God, I shall give my unabashed opinion… take it or leave it.

A pastor friend of mine once said, "Justin, you should give the first two minutes of anything you do to God." Okay. Fine. The first part of the formula: God gets his measly two minutes - whether he wants it or not - from this foul mouthed horror writer. After all, I need all the help I can get. Ha!

The percentages that I am about to set forth represent a percentage of the time that you actually get to devote to your craft. The actual hour count is obviously going to vary greatly from person to person depending on other time commitments that they may have. My hope is that as you find success in writing, the more time you will have to spend on what you love. I am also going to make an assumption: The people reading my blog, and actually paying attention to the formula, will already have completed at least one piece of work that they feel is worthy of representation or presentation.

Here it is folks; the Winning Formula… I hope!

60% writing new material (Why bother writing otherwise?)
15% marketing current material (Reach for the golden ring… and grasp it!)
12% revising old material (Only upon suggestion from a competent authority or peer)
7% networking (Face it… we need the encouragement and advice from our peers)
6% research (it's called the internet folks. Don't lie… you use it too!)

Let me know if the formula works for you. Obviously there may be times in your writing career when certain priorities will take over and this formula will go flying out the window. Here's to hoping that it is an agent or an editor dictating your time for you!

As for me, I must get back to my writing; something is clamoring for my attention, from "Within the Shadows".

Humble Attempt At Philosophy

2008-04-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

As I sit down to write this blog entry, I can’t help but ponder the human dichotomy. We are truly a duopolistic species; torn between our chemical reactions in regards to fear and love… and devotion to an omnipotent deity (at least for the majority of the world). As a horror writer, I find it absolutely delicious that the human psyche performs at its most optimal when aroused, either by the need to mate or by fear. Furthermore, I would go out on a limb to muse that nothing has motivated human beings more so. I challenge each of you to think of anything more powerful in your life than; the need to reproduce, escape harm, or please the whims of our jealous God. Only after these three visceral criteria have been adequately met, do most of us humans venture further into the world to appreciate the arts and other more superlative endeavors. I allow for the fact that the need for belonging is strong among us, but even that… can it not be lumped, at least communally, under one of the other three? Is it any wonder that we are often a slave to our emotions… or our chemicals? Perhaps we need not be. Atheists confuse creative stifling with our inability to travel past our instincts… the things that make us human. I challenge us all to step outside our fragile shells and live; embrace our fears not subdue them.

I dare say, however, that fear is a dish best served at a time of our own choosing. Many self proclaimed atheist authors and philosophers such as Georges Bataille and Friedrich Nietzsche rail against the design and fabric of Christianity. Why? Please bear in mind that this explanation is simply put: Besides their ideology that religion purportedly renders us inhibited and less creative, one of their prevalent arguments is that religion instills a sense of trepidation into its constituency. Bertrand Russell said, "Religion is based . . . mainly on fear . . . fear of the mysterious, fear of defeat, fear of death. Fear is the parent of cruelty, and therefore it is no wonder if cruelty and religion have gone hand in hand...” I won’t argue the point that the Spanish Inquisition and the various Crusades were cruel. Never has there been a darker time in the history of Christianity. We made our beliefs compulsory. What is religion when there is no freedom to choose? What is religion when it is forced down our gaping maws on a hardened steel blade? Perhaps the Dark Ages were exactly that… dark. As for myself, if not for having witnessed direct answer to prayer and seen the presence of spiritual beings, I could quite possibly have shifted my thinking to the same vein as the above mentioned because of poor examples within the religious community – and admittedly, there are many. I have not because I do believe, at least to an extent, that religion and fear should be allowed to walk within the same circles… as they always have. Fear is not a bad thing as long as we don't allow it to reduce us to a quivering mound of mush. I believe that our spirituality may be the only way we truly can break the bonds of our innate chemicals and embrace our fears. After all, some aspects of religion are accurately portrayed as fear invoking… hell is supposed to be evil… evil should invoke fear.

I then find it of interest that God challenges us to overcome our fear and “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid…” The Bible goes on to say that we as humans have dominion over the powers of darkness. We win, they lose. Despite our body’s efficiency while fueled by the above stimuli, many come to the conclusion that obedience and reverence to an omnipotent being brings us a certain respite from exactly these things. I would then also mention that I believe the opposite to be true as well. Without fear, what need have we for our all powerful God? What need would we have for the spilled blood of Christ if there were no fear of spending eternity having our flesh burned off? Yes indeed, the Bible is chock full of horror… potential eternal suffering, spilled blood, demons, the end times… I do believe, however, that there is a bit about love as well (just to be fair).

Thus I write within the horror genre. Yes, I am aware that many of my titles spill over into the thriller category as well, but I prefer horror because it elicits fear or at the very least, creates discomfort; this discomfort thus nourishing our body’s natural efficiencies and giving us the opportunity to step outside our disquiet natures, while allowing me to write about things from “Within the Shadows”.

Welcome

2008-03-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

Finally a moment to sit at my writing desk and reflect upon my first blog entry; it’s been a busy four days. My back aches and I am dog tired, but it’s all good. One would think that moving two households together wouldn’t be a daunting task – two people in love, coming together in a new home. Cake walk. Okay, yes I hear your uproarious laughter. Actually, despite my pretense, I will have to say that it has gone very well. The beds are put together, the appliances in place, clothes and kitchen items put away and… ah yes, the computer systems are up and functional.

Speaking of computers, we have four – two lap tops and two rather precarious desk tops. You would think that four computers for three people would be sufficient. Well, throw into the mix that there is only one modem – it’s something akin to the Stygian Witches squabbling over the oracle around here. I would swear that my new stepson was planning my demise this morning. However, I cleverly bested the ten year old (don’t laugh, he’s smart) and was able to hoard “my precious” for myself; research you know. Truth be told, I had to bribe the bounder with ChocoNilla Rice Krispies just so I could check my fantasy basketball team. Amid the chaos I felt myself praying that one of my new neighbors had wireless internet that I could pirate – God seems to have said no.

So anyway, I am kept quite busy. What with a new family and home, marketing Broken Mirror and Spirit Asylum, writing No Innocent Victim, and outlining Inhuman; I am hopping along quite merrily. My new wife Ali (actually we won’t be wed until August, but don’t tell) is a great support. Don’t all great authors have the support of a beautiful woman? Please, please, please nobody tell her that I’m not a great author! Seriously though, she is a creative genius and is currently developing cover art for books that she just knows her future husband is going to market vigorously – at least he had better. What a waste all those endless hours at the computer would be otherwise.

My next blog entry, just in case you are following closely, will get a bit more in depth about me being an author of the horror genre. You shall learn more about the kid in me who wants to believe in things that don’t have a rational, scientific explanation – or do they? Perhaps seeing the ghost of a Bigfoot would kill two birds with one stone for me.

Thanks for reading my first entry… I am humbled by it.

Adios!