What first attracted you to horror writing?
I’ve always been a fan of horror but I never set out to be a horror writer, and don’t consider myself a horror writer, just a writer. My goal has always been to be a good writer, and whatever category my work falls into, so be it. As for attraction, most serious art, if you think about it, tends to be dark, so that attracted me to begin with. Horror is a natural extension of that.
What is your most notable work?
That’s probably a question for critics and readers, but I’ve been very fortunate in that all of my novels have been very well received both critically and by readers all over the world. The Bleeding Season is considered by many to already be a classic in the genre (or well on its way to being one), so my guess is a lot of readers would probably go with that.
What are you working on now?
Just finished up a new novella called Apartment Seven that’ll be out in September, and I’m finishing up a new novel called Midnight Solitaire that should be out this summer. Lots of other projects coming up as well, but nothing I can talk about just yet.
Who do you admire in the horror world?
Oh several. Too many to name or list, really.
Do you prefer all out gore or psychological chills?
Personally I prefer psychological chills, and that’s certainly reflected in my writing, as I tend to write psychological, existential thrillers, though I don’t shy away from gore when it’s necessary. My work can often be quite violent. Gore has its place like everything else, but my goal is to never be gratuitous when it comes to gore or anything else. For me it’s all about essence.
Why should people read your work?
I’m not certain they should. I think it depends on what the reader is looking for. If you enjoy adult fiction that’s somewhat challenging and leans toward the psychological then I might be your guy. If not, then I’m probably not. It all comes down to taste. My work appeals to many readers outside the horror genre but also to a large percentage of horror readers as well, so I think it all comes down to what one likes or dislikes. A critic once said if you like David Lynch films you’ll probably like most of my novels. I have no argument with that and am actually quite flattered.
Recommend a book.
The Club Dumas by Arturo Perez-Reverte.
