Blog Archives
Searching for the Origins of Halloween
Facing Demons: An All-Hallows’ Eve Tale follows the town constable who is approached by a young girl accusing an esteemed family of being involved in witchcraft, leading to an investigation that reveals a darker truth. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I enjoy watching horror films each year in October and I’m a big fan of the “Halloween” franchise. I was up late one night watching AMC and they had “Halloween III: Season of the Witch” airing. I had never seen the film before because many of my friends told me it wasn’t that great. I decided to watch it and I thought the concept was very interesting. After it caught my interest, I began researching the origins of Halloween which go back to the ancient Celts. I thought if I set the prologue in Ireland and used some aspects of Samhain, it would be a great way to pay homage to the ancient roots of Halloween even though much of it is still debated to this day.
Was there a reason why you chose this location as the backdrops for your story?
When I write the stories for the “All Hallows’ Eve Tales” series, I try to base them on old legends that I heard growing up. Most of the time, my stories are loosely based so I can take liberties with the storyline. In regards to “Facing Demons,” the story is loosely based on South Carolina’s forgotten witch trials which occurred almost 100 years after the Salem Witch Trials. Several of the towns I use in the story reference the final case of witchcraft in South Carolina. In this case, a woman from Chesterfield named Barbara Powers was accused of witchcraft around 1813-1814.
What draws you to the horror genre and makes it ripe for you to write such a great mystery story in it?
I think what drew me to the horror genre was the mystery surrounding local legends in the Southeast. For example, “The Beast of Talbotton” is loosely based on a werewolf legend that took place in Talbotton, Georgia. From the first time I learned about it, I always wondered what started the legend. Did someone see a wild animal that they could not identify? Was this just an accusation to smear someone? Or was there something we truly can’t explain? I tried to portray the same thing in “Facing Demons.” If a magical or mysterious event occurred, I wanted a possible rational explanation as well. Like many mysteries, who knows what really happened.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m currently working on a western-style story that takes place in south Florida in the 1850s. It involves outlaws, gunmen, soldiers on assignment from the Florida Militia, and the wilds of south Florida in an era sometime around the 3rd Seminole War and just before the American Civil War. I’m hoping to have it out in 2-3 months. I’m also working on a new addition to the “All Hallows’ Eve Tales” series which will be released by next October.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website | Spring | Book Review
At the start of the nineteenth century, a girl approaches the town’s constable, William, and accuses the powerful O’Neill family of witchcraft. She is quickly dismissed, but Bridget, a bright nurse and William’s love interest, soon convinces him that the girl is telling the truth. An investigation commences, and William and Bridget join forces to unravel the mystery.
As they navigate the increasingly sinister facts, the duo finds out what evil is. They are soon forced to keep secrets to stay safe…only to learn that others will pay the price. Confronting their own terrors, William and Bridget discover that not everything is what it seems-sometimes, it’s darker.
This haunting story revels in our fears and the strange things we can’t explain.
Recipient of the Literary Titan’s Book Award in October 2024.
A Integral Part of Everyday Life
Famine is a striking collection of short stories that delves deeply into the complexities of human suffering, resilience, and the endless quest for meaning. What was the inspiration for this collection of short stories?
As I explain in the preface, it is all about human suffering. People who have experienced revolution, war, and famine also suffer from everyday life. The Human soul has always undergone intense frustration. Suffering is an integral part of everyday life for every individual. To be bold and write about it will help people, first, to have a correct understanding of their suffering. Then, they will notice other people challenging different, horrible kinds of suffering.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
Revolution, war, famine, living as a minority in the big society.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The human suffering
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next book is in the process of being published, since human suffering and pains are diverse and many, the central theme is also about human suffering, but from a different perspective and diversity and different topics from the last three books.
Author Links: Book Review
Facing Demons: An All Hallows’ Eve Tale
Set in the early 1900s in a quiet South Carolina town, Facing Demons: An All-Hallows’ Eve Tale by Kevin Matthew Hayes offers a gripping blend of gothic horror, mystery, and historical detail. The story opens when a young girl approaches William, the town constable, with an alarming accusation: the esteemed O’Neill family is involved in unspeakable satanic rituals. Skeptical at first, William dismisses her claims. However, his companion Bridget, more attuned to the unusual, urges him to investigate. What begins as a reluctant inquiry soon spirals into a terrifying descent into the darkest corners of their seemingly peaceful community. William and Bridget, drawn ever deeper into the investigation, uncover a sinister reality lurking beneath the town’s façade. The evil they face is no fleeting malevolence—it is ancient and pervasive, threatening to unravel the very fabric of their world. As they inch closer to the truth, the stakes become higher, revealing secrets that could forever alter the town’s tranquil existence.
Hayes masterfully weaves this chilling narrative with a rich gothic atmosphere reminiscent of H.P. Lovecraft and Ray Bradbury. His writing evokes the eerie charm of the era, with echoes of Poe’s C. Auguste Dupin stories adding a layer of mystery. The horror builds subtly but relentlessly, grounded in the detailed depiction of period-specific dialogue, accents, and mannerisms that lend authenticity to the characters. William, the level-headed, pragmatic constable, provides a steady contrast to Bridget, whose intuitive curiosity drives much of the investigation. Their dynamic keeps the story engaging as they confront not only external dangers but also their own doubts and fears. Together, they uncover unsettling truths about the O’Neill family, an aristocratic clan whose behavior might not be so far removed from the power-hungry elites of the modern world. While their methods may be different, the underlying thirst for control and secrecy rings disturbingly familiar. The novel’s strongest asset lies in its atmospheric detail and the tension that mounts as the investigation unfolds. The O’Neill family, with their aura of decaying grandeur, serves as the perfect embodiment of hidden corruption. Hayes ensures that each element, whether it be the gothic horror, historical setting, or creeping dread, coalesces into a gripping narrative. The final twist is both satisfying and haunting, delivering a payoff sure to please fans of horror, history, and mystery alike.
In Facing Demons, Hayes captures the essence of classic gothic storytelling while offering fresh, unsettling insights into the darker sides of human nature. The result is a richly layered tale that will leave readers both unnerved and enthralled.
Pages: 56 | ASIN : B0DCDKM3GH
The Beast of Talbotton: An All Hallows’ Eve Tale
In The Beast of Talbotton by Kevin Matthew Hayes, Captain Dave’s return to Talbotton, Georgia, stirs up a storm of unresolved pasts and supernatural dangers. Once, he left Elizabeth, Mr. Baron’s daughter, at the altar to elope with his true love, a decision that defied family expectations and broke hearts. Now, as he heads back to intercept a supply wagon before joining the Confederate army, he’s forced to face the ghosts of his past. But his homecoming coincides with a series of gruesome werewolf attacks, raising questions about whether this is mere coincidence or part of a darker, more personal sabotage.
Hayes masterfully weaves together themes of love, duty, and the supernatural, creating a narrative that explores how fate, past mistakes, and personal redemption intertwine. The story’s depth lies in Dave’s emotional journey as much as the external horror. As he grapples with the terror of the werewolf threat, he also comes to a painful realization: the hurt he inflicted on those he left behind runs deeper than he ever imagined. This internal reckoning sets the stage for whether Elizabeth and her father can offer him forgiveness, adding a layer of emotional complexity that enriches the plot. One of the standout elements of The Beast of Talbotton is the seamless blend of historical and horror elements. Hayes strikes a perfect balance, allowing both aspects to enhance the story without one overshadowing the other. The result is a tale that feels immersive and engaging, where the Civil War era provides a rich backdrop for the chilling werewolf narrative. The novel’s twist is another highlight. Hayes keeps it hidden until the very end, delivering a shocking and satisfying conclusion that lingers long after the final page. It’s this unexpected turn that elevates the book, leaving readers with a memorable experience.
Short and easy to read, The Beast of Talbotton is packed with intrigue, historical richness, and spine-tingling suspense. Fans of horror, fantasy, and historical fiction alike will find this book to be a gripping, enjoyable read. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a captivating blend of the supernatural and historical drama.
Pages: 50 | ASIN : B0DDW5Y4DZ
Reckonings: An All Hallows’ Eve Tale
Reckonings: An All-Hallow’s Eve Tale delivers a captivating horror story that lures readers into the eerie depths of a seemingly innocent Halloween party. Jessica, a college student, craves a night of escape from the pressures of school and decides to attend an off-campus celebration with a Western theme. The ranch setting, complete with horses and a lively host, promises lighthearted fun, but the night soon spirals into a nightmare. As the revelry unfolds, Jessica and her friends are horrified to discover that some among them have transformed into the undead. What starts as a carefree evening turns into a desperate fight for survival. Time is running out, and Jessica finds herself thrust into a battle not only against a rising tide of evil but also with the shadows of her own unresolved past. With danger closing in, she must confront the traumatic events she’s long buried, discovering a resilience she never knew she had.
While the theme of vampires may feel familiar, Hayes infuses the narrative with fresh energy, evoking comparisons to classics like The Lost Boys or Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot. The undead menace, while a staple of the genre, is handled with an urgency and dread that quickly escalates from discomfort to outright terror. Hayes doesn’t simply rely on the lore of vampires, he uses them as a springboard for a deeper exploration of personal demons and unresolved grief.
At the heart of the story is Jessica, who initially appears well-adjusted but is soon revealed to be carrying emotional scars from a tragedy she hasn’t fully faced. Her personal journey, intertwined with the horrific events of the night, is both compelling and transformative. The terror she witnesses becomes a catalyst for her to confront her inner turmoil. This makes her evolution feel both natural and powerful. Over the course of the night, Jessica undergoes a striking metamorphosis. Once introverted and hesitant, she emerges as a fierce protector of her friend Ashley. This transformation feels earned as a result of both the physical horrors she endures and the emotional catharsis she experiences. Her unexpected clash with the supernatural forces on the ranch becomes a metaphor for her own emotional reckoning and forces her to confront the pain she’s been avoiding. Hayes deftly balances action with introspection, crafting a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
Reckonings has written a horror story that takes readers on a journey of personal growth. A journey that is wrapped in an intense and nerve-racking battle against supernatural forces. Hayes combines psychological depth with classic horror elements to create a gripping and multi-layered tale that will leave readers scared and satisfied.
Pages: 45 | ASIN: B0DCCLZLHH
The Famine
Famine by Nooshin Mohajerin is a striking collection of short stories that delves deeply into the complexities of human suffering, resilience, and the endless quest for meaning. Each narrative reflects a kind of personal or collective famine—whether it’s the hunger for love, peace, or purpose. Mohajerin masterfully creates a world where her characters bear the crushing weight of war, displacement, and emotional deprivation, all while striving for stability, connection, and peace.
The collection is imbued with a profound sense of loss—whether it’s the loss of home, loved ones, or a sense of self. Mohajerin’s prose is hauntingly vivid, painting stark portraits of war-torn landscapes alongside the inner turmoil of her characters. The stories explore a delicate balance between hope and despair, with characters often standing on the brink of emotional collapse yet pushing forward in a world that feels relentlessly unforgiving.While the collection offers rich thematic depth and introspection, there are moments where the pacing falters. At times, the prose, though undeniably poignant, can feel repetitive. Certain stories lean heavily into abstract symbolism, which, while intellectually stimulating, may occasionally distance the reader from the emotional heart of the narrative. Despite these minor drawbacks, Mohajerin’s portrayal of human resilience is powerful, particularly in her nuanced depiction of individuals wrestling with the aftermath of trauma. Where Famine truly excels is in its evocative, atmospheric descriptions that draw readers into a world of both physical and emotional devastation. These stories force the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about suffering and the often futile attempts to escape it. An undercurrent of tension runs through the collection, creating a palpable sense of unease as the characters face their own limitations and the larger forces that shape their lives.
The Famine stands out for its emotional intensity and atmospheric richness, making it a compelling exploration of the human condition. Mohajerin’s work lingers in the mind long after the final page, leaving readers with a deep sense of both loss and resilience.
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0C2S5NC3N
Joy in Sorrow, Hope for Tomorrow: Homecoming
In Joy in Sorrow, Hope for Tomorrow, Vonnetta Mayo tenderly reveals the brutal reality of slavery in America. With a sensitive yet compelling approach, Mayo crafts a narrative that highlights the innate human desire for freedom and the pivotal role of religion as a beacon of hope for those enduring desperate circumstances. The book is concise and accessible, aiming to shed light on the inhuman treatment faced by slaves. Central to the story is Betsy, a cheerful young girl who shares her days with her three brothers, her mother, and her mother’s three friends. Despite the harsh realities of their existence, the children find solace and distraction in each other’s company, while the adults toil under oppressive and abusive conditions on a plantation. Through unwavering faith and constant prayer, they cling to hope, trusting in God’s plan and longing for the day they will be free.
Mayo’s straightforward and easy-to-read prose draws readers into the daily lives of the plantation’s inhabitants. Each chapter lays bare the grueling labor and the systemic oppression they endure. As the narrative unfolds, readers are gripped by a sense of foreboding about the future of these individuals, yet the innocence and resilience of the children provide a glimmer of hope. This hope is sustained by the recurring theme of prayer, imbuing the story with a sense of faith that persists even in the bleakest of situations. The structure of the book reinforces the monotony and inescapability of the slaves’ routine, characterized by scarce resources and distant dreams of freedom. Despite these harsh conditions, what unites and sustains this small community is their unwavering faith in God. The narrative invites readers to ponder whether their fervent prayers will ever be answered, and whether they will finally attain the freedom they so ardently seek.
Joy in Sorrow, Hope for Tomorrow stands as a moving short story that humanizes the experiences of those subjected to the atrocities of slavery, while simultaneously celebrating the resilience and spirit of Black communities. Mayo brings to light the harsh truths of American history, while also revealing the profound beauty found in family, hope, faith, and religion. This book not only illuminates the past but also underscores the enduring power of faith and the unbreakable spirit of those who, despite facing unimaginable hardships, continued to dream of a better tomorrow.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09VWR3S4K
LITERARY TITAN 