What first attracted you to horror writing?
I have to admit that I was very sneaky when I was young, and from the second that I managed to watch John Carpenter’s The Thing I knew I would go on and have a thing for horror. After that scary night (at ten years old) I went on to watch and read as much horror as I could get my hands on, but it was only when I was sixteen and sat in my GCSE English exam at school that I realised I had a passion for writing my own horror stories. My task was to write a 3000 word essay on how the world could be a better place. It only took a few seconds for me to create a horror scenario depicting a blood thirsty alien invasion. All the meaningless day to day worries would disappear and the only real stress left in the world would be staying alive. Conclusion to the essay, less stress! Amazingly, I received a pass grade for that exam.
What is your most notable work?
Although I have been penning ideas for years, unfortunately lack of confidence and everyday needs, meant my writing had to take a back seat until I decided if I didn’t do it now, I never would. So, The Unnatural Dead is my first completed novel to be picked up and published. Although I have a short story coming soon, and plans for more novels to claw their way to reader’s eyes, I will probably always consider The Unnatural Dead as my most notable work, as it was the first full story I had the confidence to send out.
What are you working on now?
Well, although The Unnatural Dead is the first full length novel I have completed, it is the first part of a story that I always planned to be either a two book plot or trilogy. At present I have gotten quite a way through the sequel and the story is flowing and coming together really well. I hope to be at the editing stage very soon.
Who do you admire in the horror world?
James Herbert is my all time favourite author. I really admire the structure within his books. He doesn’t over analyse his words and his stories have brilliant, constant pace. Although I am not a big fan of the pornographic material, his creations within the horror genre over the years have been outstanding!
Do you prefer all out gore or psychological chills?
Ooh, good question. That’s really hard. I am a fan of both, psychological really creeps me out, but so does gore. If I’m honest, I probably side more with a bit of gore. But although the type of horror I write does, and will contain gore, I am not a fan of excessive amounts. Too much ruins the impact of the story, but just enough allows for a bit of fun with the kills!
Why should people read your work?
Well…because they’ll love it! Sorry, couldn’t resist. Seriously though, I have been told by many people now that what I write is really easy to get into and not overly analytical with details that are unnecessary. They have said they really felt for the characters and were desperate to find out what happens next. Hence making them not want to put the book down. I think those comments are the best I can use as recommendations for reading my work really.
Recommend a book.
Although I love James Herbert, I just have to recommend Infected by Scott Sigler, it is a must read!
