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People Are Complicated
Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam follows a girl who wakes up on a deserted shoreline with no memories and surrounded by supernatural beings. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have a deep appreciation for gothic fiction. One day the desire struck me to start on a story that would be somewhat of a love letter to the genre. To me, few things capture gothic storytelling better than horror. So, when I started writing Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam, I wanted to draw inspiration from the classic themes and elements we all love in gothic literature and horror. Things like existentialism and abandoned places, for example. A misty, supernatural island seemed like a great place to start.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
That’s a great question. I think people are complicated, and though most are aware of that, there’s still this tendency to try and generalize others. Sometimes we’re quick to label them. Sometimes we oversimplify the complex problems they’re facing. We force black and white bottom lines onto gray areas. But no matter how much we do it, those complexities and gray areas are still there glaring back at us. Ignoring them doesn’t make them any less relevant.
Exploring parts of the human condition that are overlooked and shrugged off makes for interesting stories. At times it can be awkward. Sometimes ugly. But we can learn a lot from taking a moment to consider what others are going through. Maybe even learn more about ourselves—all while indulging in the escapism that stories deliver. Just look at the impact of a book like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
I felt that Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam delivers the drama so well that it flirts with the grimdark genre. Was it your intention to give the story a darker tone?
It was, absolutely. I tend to be drawn toward dark stories that make me feel something or walk away with a different perspective, even if it’s not one I’m comfortable with. When I chose to write a tale set within the gothic horror genre, I felt a darker tone would be crucial to delivering the kind of story I wanted to tell.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m currently in the early stages of my next book, which will likely be more of a literary drama rather than horror. It’s hard to say when I’ll be finished with it, though I hope it won’t take me too long. In the meantime, I’d like to encourage readers of Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam to follow me on social media for updates. I’d love to hear from everyone.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
Upon a deserted shoreline, Rue wakes alone with no knowledge of her past. Decades of wreckage lay sprawled across the beach. The days are impossibly short, and the weather foreboding. Worse are the supernatural beings that stalk the landscape, littering it with corpses. Using only her instincts, Rue embarks on a journey to reclaim her truth and find a way home—all while unraveling the isle’s dark secret.
A spooky weekend read brimming with gothic themes and atmospheric horror.
Some content may not be suitable for all audiences. For more information, please visit http://www.markgulino.com/novella.
Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam
Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam, by Mark Gulino, is a gothic horror novella that introduces readers to Rue, a protagonist shrouded in mystery. Rue awakens on a beach littered with remnants of the sea spanning decades and realizes she has no memory of her past. The only path available leads into a dense forest and further into the heart of the island. This setting, characterized by its persistently gloomy weather and unusually short days, forms the backdrop of Rue’s unsettling journey. As Rue navigates the island, she encounters other individuals who share her amnesiac condition. They are guided by an apparition known as Riel, who instructs them to rediscover their former lives. However, Rue and her newfound companions soon realize they are not alone on this island, hinting at deeper, darker mysteries to be uncovered.
Gulino’s narrative effectively creates an atmosphere of tension and intrigue from the outset. The reader is drawn into the story by questions surrounding Rue’s identity, the enigmatic Riel, and the island’s peculiar inhabitants. The island itself, with its haunting landscape and hidden dangers, adds to the sense of foreboding that permeates the novella. The characters offer a spectrum of personalities, providing points of connection for a diverse range of readers. Each character, despite their memory loss, retains distinct personality traits that contribute to the overall mystique of the setting. The writing style of the novella is intentionally crafted to be vague and mysterious, imbuing the story with a sense of intrigue and encouraging deeper engagement with the text. This stylistic choice invites readers to explore the narrative more thoroughly, often revisiting previous sections to uncover hidden layers of meaning. The amnesia experienced by the characters further enriches the narrative, adding complexity and depth to their personalities and traits, which unfolds gradually, keeping the reader’s interest piqued throughout the story.
Upon the Pale Isle of Gloam offers a compelling foray into gothic horror, weaving together elements of mystery, amnesia, and survival in a setting that is both haunting and intriguing. While the writing style may occasionally obfuscate details, it contributes to the novel’s enigmatic and atmospheric quality, making it a notable addition to the genre.
Pages: 225 | ASIN : B0CJNL1P2T
A Surrender to Friendship
Someone Died in My House follows a man with a home inhabited by paranormal entities who has his balanced life torn apart while on a search for truth and justice. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There is so much speculation about our mortal energy, as well as the power of real, genuine love sustaining itself, and whether or not both transcend this ‘earthly’ world. There have been countless, true stories of hauntings (my old ship-builder’s summer home in Nova Scotia was haunted by a friendly, residual spirit that I coaxed into walking towards the light, and it did.) The ‘bones’ of a house – its childhood, youth, adult life, and old age contain so many secrets that I couldn’t resist diving into a whole lot of research that in the end chilled me, made me laugh, and ultimately cry. I still cry when I think of the characters.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I wanted my characters in their desperation and failings to find kindness, compassion, and acceptance. All characters suffer and heal, but the way they heal is through a surrender to friendship, love, and self-belief. I treasure children more than anything; so, while in many stories children do suffer needlessly, I needed Annie not to be pushed into a life-threatening, dark place. There was enough suffering in my characters without dragging Annie into it. But I do want my readers to feel what the characters feel, and if possible, what I felt when writing it.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
This is a great question. I tend to lean more toward mystery/thriller in soft S/F, but I would have to say I was more submerged in the initial murder (covered up) that reached out to Ben’s loss and creativity and sense of justice in order to discover the tragedy. I felt there might not have been a haunting if someone else had lived there. Rigo, the artist, knew Ben would be the one to listen and reunite him with Lexi. First and foremost to me was that this was a ‘love story’ wrapped up in everything else.
What is the next book you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
I have final-drafted two works hopefully for release in 2024: When Bones Call Out (a mystery/thriller set in 2008 in Montreal) and KOVU (a chiller/soft SF set in 2023 near Toronto).
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Graphic novelist, Ben Needham wakes up every day braced against something in his house, something that won’t leave. He works hard to create a near-perfect life for the three of them – himself, his daughter, Annie, and their dog, da Vinci. But when these disturbances blow out of control, Ben finds a team of forensic paranormalists who perform an autopsy on Ben’s house. Together they wade into its soulless history of murder and a cataclysmic haunting that redefines where life ends, and death begins. Ben surrenders what’s left of his fragile will to free his home from its terrifying anarchist and courageously opens a door he never knew existed, always asking himself what price he’d pay for truth, justice and unforgettable love.
Deadfall Mall
Deadfall Mall, by Michael Nohe, presents an intriguing take on the horror genre, set in the eerie, almost forgotten corridors of an abandoned mall in Deadfall, America. This novel, with its backdrop of desolate storefronts and deserted shopping avenues, cleverly subverts the typical bustling mall scene, transforming it into a site for leisurely strolls for those seeking refuge from unpredictable weather. The narrative escalates on Halloween, as ten individuals seeking solace from the clamor of the streets find themselves in a harrowing predicament within the mall’s confines, a journey from which most will not return.
Nohe skillfully blends elements of horror and thriller yet maintains a somewhat casual tone throughout. This approach infuses a unique flavor into the narrative, as the characters navigate their surreal situation with a surprising degree of nonchalance. The mall itself almost takes on a character of its own, with its mysterious and borderline supernatural occurrences. As a reader, one is invited to suspend disbelief and embrace the spooky, atmospheric setting of the story. A noteworthy aspect of Deadfall Mall is its accessibility to readers new to the horror genre. The scenes, while engaging, are not overly intense, making it an excellent introductory choice for those not yet ready to delve into more intense horror literature.
The worldbuilding is solid, firmly rooting the story in a setting that, despite its fantastical elements, feels real and tangible. The dialogue is unique–sometimes echoing the style of older horror films. For those who find charm in this approach, the novel offers a quick, entertaining read. It’s particularly suitable for those not typically inclined towards heavy reading and those who may be looking to explore more literary avenues.
Michael Nohe’s Deadfall Mall is a compelling and accessible foray into horror, blending the everyday with the uncanny, and offering a fresh perspective on the genre. Its blend of mystery, casual tone, and relatable setting makes it a noteworthy addition for readers looking to explore horror in a less intimidating format.
Pages: 237 | ASIN : B0CJ3GG6X6
Horror Often Gets a Bad Rap
A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream is a short story collection centered around horror, good vs. evil, and the supernatural. Where did the idea for this anthology come from?
I have always loved horror. The story goes that my mother never liked horror, but the entire time she was pregnant with me, she watched horror movies. After I was born, she never watched them again, but I did. Several of these stories were first conceived of when I was a nanny and looking after kids. Soul Stones was conceived when the two kids I looked after were considered like a devil and angel to their family. The kids used to goof around on the steps to the point that I thought someone would get hurt one day. In the story, they do.
Do you have a favorite short story in the collection? A character you especially enjoyed writing for?
I think my favorite was the bad sister in Soul Stones. She’s snarky, she’s clever, and she can’t help being bad. It’s one of the funniest stories in the book.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I think horror often gets a bad rap. After all, there isn’t one person upon this planet who hasn’t had a nightmare at some point in our lives. Horror is part of the human collective unconscious. I’d much rather a reader satisfy any violent tendencies they have by reading about them rather than acting upon them. Our world is also filled with the paranormal. We don’t know everything about how our world interacts with the universe. As long as there are mysteries to solve, the human soul will always gravitate towards darkness.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I’m working on is a children’s book about a very naughty elf who almost succeeds in destroying Christmas. It will be available just before Christmas this year. It has a lovely ending and my illustrator, Christina Cartwright, has designed some very beautiful artwork that I know everyone will enjoy. Her illustrations are truly inspired. This will be our fifth book together and the fourth one in the Happy Tails series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Website
Soul Stones: How do you live with the consequences of a death when you, in some small way, helped contribute to its passing? That is the dilemma that Chris Whitaker faces as she remembers the events that led to the death of her best friend, Maggie Malone, and almost to her own.
The Vanishing: One of the most dangerous things a person can do when driving a car is fall asleep at the wheel. Just ask Leta Tyler – she crashed her car into a tree and managed to walk away from it. Her luck runs out, though, when she gets to the eerie little town of Wakefield where the residents are not what they appear to be and no soul is ever safe.
The Change: Sara Crew has done one of the worst things a person can do – she has just managed to wipe every living being off the face of the Earth with a wish. Even though it was made in anger against her sister, she had no idea when she made the wish how horribly it would backfire upon herself. When we unleash our inner monsters upon the world – how many of us are strong enough to survive them coming after us?
Pumpkin Parts: There are moments in Charlie’s life when she wished that she could just start the day over again . . . or skip it altogether. Anything would be preferable to experiencing a brother’s betrayal of his sister’s trust or having one’s eyes opened to the realization that true monsters exist in the world.
All Hallows’ Eve: Sam Monroe is having a bad day – a verybad day. As if starting high school in a new town wasn’t bad enough, now he’s being hunted down in unfamiliar woods and a creepy old cemetery by a bully who’s lost his mind. It’s all enough to make anyone lose their mental marbles, especially when you add the dead into the mix.
Monsters Adeep: Humankind thinks that we are at the top of the food chain. Charles Devereaux is about to find out that isn’t the truth. Some things in the universe are older than us and don’t have a tolerance for humanity’s inhuman treatment for the world around them.
A Ghoulish Good Time – Tales to Make You Scream
Dive into the spine-tingling world of A Ghoulish Good Time: Tales to Make You Scream, a standout installment in the Daerk Cemetery series. This enthralling anthology brings together six short horror stories, each masterfully crafted to captivate and send shivers down the spines of its readers. The collection weaves a tapestry of tales that traverse the shadowy realms of fear, guilt, and the supernatural, offering an array of narratives rich in suspense and intrigue. “Soul Stones” chronicles the emotional turmoil of Chris Whitaker, haunted by her role in her best friend’s tragic death. “The Vanishing” follows Leta Tyler’s eerie encounter in the mysterious town of Wakefield after a car accident. “The Change” depicts Sara Crew’s devastating realization after her wish inadvertently wipes out humanity. “Pumpkin Parts” explores themes of betrayal and the existence of true evil through Charlie’s harrowing experiences. “All Hallows’ Eve” describes Sam Monroe’s terrifying ordeal of being hunted in a strange new town on his first day of high school. “Monsters Adeep” reveals the chilling revelation to Charles Devereaux that humanity is not at the top of the food chain.
Michele L. Sayre’s book stands as a monumental achievement in horror literature. Her unique approach to storytelling not only captivates with its suspense and imaginative creations but also enriches the reader’s understanding of life’s uncertainties. Each tale in this collection transcends the typical horror narrative, evolving into powerful allegories that emphasize vigilance and impart profound lessons. The book’s true brilliance is in its ability to weave rich scenes of suspense, masterfully bringing to life monstrous entities that are both terrifying and fascinating. Sayre’s writing is a perfect blend of eloquence and tension, making each story a riveting journey. The depth and complexity of the narratives promise to leave a lasting impact, inviting readers to ponder and reflect long after the last page. The anthology excels in its exploration of the eternal conflict between good and evil, presented in a way that is consistently engaging and thought-provoking. This clear delineation does not simplify the tales; instead, it adds layers of meaning and relevance, demonstrating Sayre’s skill in crafting stories that resonate on multiple levels.
In A Ghoulish Good Time, Michele L. Sayre has not only created a collection of horror stories but has also issued a compelling invitation to delve deeper into the realms of horror and human psychology. Her work is not just a display of narrative excellence but a celebration of the genre itself, offering readers a rich, multifaceted experience that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. This anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in the depths and potential of horror literature, affirming Michele L. Sayre’s place as a masterful storyteller and visionary in the field.
Pages: 252 | ASIN : B0CLJYW34Z
LITERARY TITAN 