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An Indoctrinated Horror Enthusiast
Witches and Pumpkins, Fur and Fangs is a collection of twenty short stories surrounding Halloween, bringing together tales of monsters, goblins, ghosts, witches, and everything scary. What was the inspiration for creating this collection of stories?
I got the idea for this collection after I saw the movie Trick ‘r Treat. I first watched that movie in 2009, which also happened to be the year I started writing for the first time. I remember thinking how amazing it was that the movie (almost) had a little bit of everything in it, and how it all took place in the same town on the same night. I thought to myself how cool it would be if a book or movie literally had EVERYTHING in it. Something like that movie, but on a grander scale. A year later, I wrote Jack of the Lantern. After that, I kept adding stories, always making sure they stood alone on their own, but secretly including Easter eggs that connected them to the others. I took the secondary characters from previous stories and threw them into the spotlight for their own stories. I made sure each one either addressed a different type of monster, or revolved around a different Halloween tradition or legend. Almost every character in the book appears multiple times. ‘Science Make Me Mad’ and ‘Can You See Me’ feature the same mad scientist antagonist. The librarian from ‘Hob Gob’ is a main character in ‘Incorporeal Beings’. Things like that. I encourage anybody reading to try to pay attention to the characters and all the connections, because there’s a lot of them.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I became an indoctrinated horror enthusiast since I was eleven. I was a child of the 90’s and grew up on late night television specials like Joe Bob Brigg’s Monstervision every Friday and Saturday night. I would catch Sunday afternoon showings of American Werewolf in London and Children of the Corn, complete with commercial breaks, just to find out later that the only parts they really cut out when editing for television was the nudity and cursing. All the scary parts were mostly still intact. I became fascinated with all things scary, and as a teenager I began reading Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I write other stories in the realm of science fiction or fantasy, but I always end up leaning towards the darker sides of things.
Do you have a favorite story in this collection, and if so, what makes it so appealing to you?
I have a couple. ‘Jack of the Lantern’ has always held a special place in my heart. Not only was it my first to write, it was also my first short story to ever get published. When I was reading these stories again for this collection, I stopped at ‘Incorporeal Beings’. I remember telling myself, “Wow I actually wrote this. This is pretty damn good.” I like a good ghost story, especially when it becomes clear that the ghosts are a real threat and can actually kill you. That story was a lot of fun to write.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am actively working on a novel entitled I Don’t Want to be a Monster. Imagine if Dexter was the Wolfman; that’s the basic concept. It’s about a werewolf who targets serial killers, rapists, child molesters, etc. I currently have several interested parties requesting the manuscript, and I’ve been given an early December deadline to complete (it’s almost done!). Hopefully you’ll be seeing that one soon.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube
Witches and Pumpkins, Fur and Fangs
The book is a collection of eerie short stories that all orbit around Halloween, monsters, and the uncanny. From haunted pumpkins to mischievous goblins, from restless spirits to twisted killers, each tale drops the reader into a familiar world that quickly spirals into the unsettling. What makes the book stand out is how it taps into both folklore and modern horror, shifting easily between campfire-style legends and grittier contemporary scares. Every story feels like it belongs to the same haunted neighborhood, and that gives the collection a strong, cohesive flavor.
This is a very entertaining collection. I was caught up in the thrill of the scares, the build-up of tension, and the shocking payoffs. I found myself grinning at the way the author played with tropes I thought I knew inside out. Some of the stories reminded me of watching late-night horror movies as a kid, the kind where you want to cover your eyes but never actually do. The writing doesn’t waste time. It dives headfirst into dread, yet still leaves room for atmosphere, the kind that makes you glance at the shadows in your own room.
Some stories hit harder than others. A few felt predictable, but even then, I didn’t mind, because the fun was in the ride, not just the destination. When the author’s imagination really kicked in, though, the stories burned bright. “Jack of the Lantern” and “Hob Gob” stuck with me the most. They had this creeping inevitability that made me uneasy in the best way. I also liked how the collection never tried to be highbrow. It doesn’t put on airs or dress itself up. It just tells spooky stories the way they’re meant to be told, direct, raw, and with a wicked grin.
I’d say this book is perfect for readers who want to get lost in Halloween vibes any time of the year. If you like scary stories that mix folklore with fresh, gory twists, this is for you. If you want a jolt, a chill, or that delicious sense of dread before bed, you’ll enjoy this ride. I’d recommend it to horror fans, casual readers looking for a scare, and anyone who still feels that spark of excitement when the October moon rises.
Pages: 189 | ASIN : B0FM335L3H
Out of Body: Straight to Hell
Out of Body: Straight to Hell is a wild, genre-defying ride that blends psychological drama, speculative science, supernatural horror, and heartfelt coming-of-age storytelling. The novel follows Harley Baker, a paralyzed young man who, after a childhood trauma tied to a dream-world soulmate and a very real fall from a second-story window, sets off on a determined, mind-bending journey to rediscover the truth of those dreams. Armed with government-declassified astral projection guides, banned hallucinogens, and a stubborn belief in the soul’s reality, Harley risks everything to find Stephanie—a woman who may or may not exist. Along the way, he tangles with literal demons, the CIA, and the biggest enemy of all: his own doubt.
I didn’t expect to get sucker-punched by emotion so often in a story that features Satan as a literal antagonist. But Chater does something special here. His writing has this knack for yanking you through a dozen moods in a single chapter. One minute, I’m laughing at Harley’s razor-sharp sarcasm and tragically millennial monologues, and the next, I’m stunned into silence by the sincerity of a line about loneliness or parental love. Chater’s voice is sharp, raw, never too polished, and it suits Harley’s inner chaos perfectly. Some of the scenes, especially those involving the black-eyed dream demon or Harley’s aching memories of his dog Barney, hit harder than I expected. And while the dialogue flirts with melodrama at times, it never crosses into the unbelievable. Harley’s voice is exactly what it needs to be: brutally honest, emotionally bruised, and relatable.
Now, the ideas in this book? They’re bonkers—in the best way. We’re talking government-funded psychic training, astral projection as espionage, spirit dogs quoting hip-hop, and an actual demon with a libido and a vengeance. And yet… it works. Chater doesn’t dump exposition on your head. He lets you piece together the crazy through Harley’s obsession. There’s a surprising amount of research under the hood—Gateway tapes, Monroe Institute lore, CIA documents—and it’s all used not to impress, but to deepen Harley’s desperate search for truth. The line between madness and metaphysics is always razor thin, and Chater walks it like a tightrope artist. Sure, some plot turns stretch credibility, but so does reality when you’re twenty-two, emotionally shattered, and chasing your dream girl through multiple dimensions. I bought in—and I stayed in.
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if The OA made out with Stranger Things while reading a Monroe Institute report high on DMT, this book is your answer. It’s heartfelt sci-fi for the spiritual misfit, horror for the sensitive soul, and a love story written in the language of astral projection, regret, and raw hope. I’d recommend this to readers who crave deep weirdness with emotional bite—fans of Chuck Palahniuk, Neil Gaiman, or anyone who’s gone down a rabbit hole at 2 a.m. and come out wondering if any of it was real.
Pages: 216 | ASIN : B0F4ZJ8WVG
Smokey Elvis and Danzick Battle Swamp Ass
Smokey Elvis and Danzick Battle Swamp Ass by Lance Loot emerges as a unique blend of humor and horror, reminiscent in parts of the Sam Raimi Evil Dead trilogy. The novel centers around Smokey, a successful Elvis impersonator content with his life at the Valhalla Trailer Park. This peace is disrupted by the arrival of Danzick, a renowned Danzig impersonator. Their initial rivalry takes a backseat as they face a common enemy: Swamp Ass, a zombie greaser with a notably unpleasant demeanor and poor hygiene.
The narrative constructs a comedic, yet uneasy alliance between Smokey and Danzick, reminiscent of classic buddy team-up movies and television shows. Their dynamic evolves from conflict to cooperation, offering a fresh take on a well-established formula. Loot’s writing style is intentionally bold and humorous, with dialogue that accentuates the novel’s satirical tone. His skill as a satirist shines through, effectively lampooning a wide range of targets. Underneath the novel’s comedic veneer, there are moments of unexpected sincerity, suggesting deeper themes that intermittently surface before being overtaken by the narrative’s predominant humor. These instances add a layer of intrigue to the story, though the novel truly excels when it focuses on the unapologetically farcical nature of its characters and situations.
Smokey Elvis and Danzick Battle Swamp Ass offers an entertaining read for those who enjoy a novel that skillfully combines elements of horror and comedy with a satirical edge. Lance Loot’s creation stands out for its unique character dynamics and a narrative that consistently delivers both laughs and a touch of unexpected depth.
Pages: 73 | ASIN : B0CPCKNZXZ
One Horrific Halloween Night
Hallows Eve: Halloween in Harvest Creek follows the residents of a small town stuck in a living nightmare of horror. What was the inspiration for the setup of your short story collection?
My main inspiration for Hallows Eve is Halloween itself. I’ve always loved it. It’s been my favorite holiday for as long as I can remember. I set it up the way I did because I wanted to tell the story of one horrific Halloween night from different characters’ perspectives. I was also partially inspired by the 2007 film Trick ‘r Treat!
What draws you to the genre of horror and occult fiction and makes it ripe for you to write such a great anthology of short stories that all blend together into a dark supernatural tale?
I’ve been drawn to the horror genre since early childhood partly by my never-ending obsession with all things dark and spooky. I wrote Hallows Eve the way I did because I’ve never seen horror short stories written with them all intertwining, so I figured I’d give it a try!
I felt that Hallows Eve delivers the drama so well that it flirts with the grimdark genre. Was it your intention to give the story a darker tone?
I wanted Hallows Eve to be as dark as possible. I wanted to write something that was genuinely unsettling, but also something that was akin to an amusement park ride in its tone and pacing!
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on a novel called Haint Blue. It’s a horror story that pays homage to the Gullah people of coastal S.C and their legends. It should be releasing later this summer, and after that, I’ll be working on the sequel to Hallows Eve!
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Expiration Date: a Short Story Collection
Expiration Date by Bert Whirl is an anthology of short stories that weave together emotional depth, thought-provoking themes, and engaging narratives. The collection opens with the poignant tale of Juan, grappling with the profound loss of his beloved Jennifer. Despite facing opposition from her father, Juan’s enduring love and deep grief are captured with a poignant clarity that resonates with anyone familiar with loss. The author’s skillful use of vivid descriptions and nuanced portrayal of emotions draws the reader deeply into Juan’s world.
Following this is a story of ambition and the supernatural, centered on a young man’s venture into real estate. His plans to renovate an abandoned building for profit are unexpectedly complicated by the discovery of spirits lingering within its walls. This narrative takes the reader on a suspenseful journey, questioning the intersection of ambition and the unknown. Another compelling narrative is that of Christian, a new executioner confronted with the grim realities of his role. His internal turmoil and ethical dilemmas provide a gripping exploration of the human psyche and the moral complexities surrounding justice and retribution. The story delves into the profound impact of his first execution, leaving readers to contemplate the weight of such responsibilities. The collection continues with more stories, each delving into rarely explored themes such as love, family, relationships, and the afterlife. Whirl’s concise and direct storytelling captivates the reader, ensuring a lingering impact long after the final page is turned. The book’s exploration of profound themes through accessible and engaging narratives makes it a compelling read.
Expiration Date is an invitation to reflect on life’s multifaceted experiences. Bert Whirl’s ability to convey deep emotional truths and thought-provoking scenarios in a straightforward manner makes this book a noteworthy addition to any reader’s library, especially those with an appreciation for short fiction that leaves a lasting impression.
Pages: 61 | ASIN : B0C9WNM79D
Hallows Eve
William Oswald invites readers into a deceptively quaint town with Hallows Eve, a collection of short stories where an undercurrent of malice undermines the surface serenity. This anthology, set against the quintessential backdrop of Halloween, unravels a tapestry of terror, weaving together narratives that explore the darkest corners of a seemingly innocent locale.
Oswald excels in creating a palpable sense of suspense that keeps readers teetering on the precipice of fear. From the enigmatic town witch to a sinister masked murderer, from a haunted house ritual gone awry to a store clerk’s night of relentless hauntings, each tale escalates in tension and complexity. The stories, while distinct, subtly intertwine, hinting at a larger, interconnected nightmare that plagues the town. A standout in the horror genre, Hallows Eve: Halloween in Harvest Creek, showcases Oswald’s adeptness at crafting narratives that are as terrifying as they are captivating. The book delves into graphic and sometimes brutal details, but these elements are never gratuitous, instead heightening the sense of imminent dread that pervades each story. The vividness of Oswald’s prose pulls readers into the heart of the action, making them witnesses to the unfolding horror. Each story concludes with a deftly executed twist, eschewing predictability and leaving a lingering sense of unease.
Oswald’s ability to surprise and unsettle is a testament to his storytelling prowess, ensuring that Hallows Eve: Halloween in Harvest Creek is a collection that will resonate with enthusiasts of the genre seeking originality and thrill. In this chilling anthology, readers are not merely observers but companions in a journey through the macabre, where each turn of the page is a step deeper into the unknown.
Page: 115 | ASIN : B0CHR9V7RP
Echo From a Bayou
Imagine awakening from a skiing accident, only to find yourself plagued by vivid recollections from a past life that is not your own. Such is the captivating dilemma John Bastian faces in Echo From a Bayou, the latest novel by J. Luke Bennecke. This thought-provoking narrative delves into John’s struggle to comprehend the enigma surrounding a mysterious red-haired woman who relentlessly haunts his thoughts and, more pressingly, his desperate quest to unravel the truth behind the murder of his past self, Jack Bachman. Time is of the essence as danger looms ominously, threatening not only John’s well-being but that of his loved ones. The ghost of Jack’s demise looms, and John must take every measure to avert a similar fate.
Adding to the weight upon John’s burdened shoulders is a tragic incident that unfolds during the ill-fated skiing trip. Witnessing the untimely death of Blake Lynds in a harrowing gondola accident, John finds himself tormented by the haunting visage of the departed soul each day. In the company of our protagonist, the reader embarks on a gripping odyssey as John embarks on an unrelenting quest for answers. Was Jack Bachman a tangible existence, or did John’s post-coma state spawn a realm of hallucinations? Who harbors ill intentions towards him and his kin? And when will the burden of guilt for failing to rescue Blake dissipate?
All these burning questions find resolution within the pages of this masterfully crafted thriller. Though the initial chapters may seem calculated in their pacing, gradually acquainting us with the intricacies of the characters and their world, the narrative’s allure gradually intensifies. Soon enough, readers find themselves wholly engrossed in the lives of both John and Jack, entangled within the enigmatic tapestry they share. Echo From a Bayou presents a well-executed and immersive tale. While not pioneering new frontiers within its genre, the novel remains a delightful and compelling read, fueling curiosity towards its vividly rendered characters. Its charm lies in its ability to captivate, entertain, and effortlessly draw the reader deeper into its intricately woven narrative.
Immersing oneself in the pages of Echo From a Bayou is a gratifying experience characterized by its irresistible allure, gripping pace, and accessible prose. This suspenseful novel undeniably possesses the power to hold you spellbound until the final page is turned.
Pages: 409 | ASIN : B0C4CQVL3K
LITERARY TITAN 