The Beast of Talbotton follows a man as he returns to the town he ran from years ago who now has to face the ramifications of his past choices while the town deals with werewolf attacks. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The story opens with David leading cavalry into Talbotton during the American Civil War. I thought the Civil War would be a great metaphor for David. While the nation was tearing itself apart, David was tearing himself apart internally with constant flashbacks to his past mistakes in town.

What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?

I think what intrigues me about the horror and paranormal genres is the mystery surrounding local legends I heard growing up. 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? Like many legends, who knows what really happened.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The main theme I explored in this book was what happens if you don’t confront problems quickly. If David had spoken up about how he truly felt about his arranged marriage to Elizabeth, things would have never escalated to the point that they did at the conclusion of the story. Sure, his father and Elizabeth’s father would have been angry with him, but everyone would have moved on quickly and the horrible events that take place throughout the story would have never occurred.

What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?

I’m still working on the outline for my next book in the series. I plan for it to involve ghosts and deal with subjects such as greed. It should be out by next October.

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Readers seeking chills and thrills to go along with their Southern Gothic historical novel will find just that in this intense tale of tragic star-crossed lovers and a werewolf stalking a town.

In Talbotton, Georgia, American Civil War soldier David Cantwell scorned marriage for true love-and now must confront the monstrous consequences of his choice.

Furred and fanged terror grips the night as a werewolf attacking his cavalry leads to dark secrets being revealed. By choosing love, has Cantwell doomed himself and others?

A supernatural story during the American Civil War that perfectly blends Southern Gothic and monster legends, The Beast of Talbotton makes for a one-of-a-kind pulse-pounding adventure for fans of history and horror alike.

Recipient of the Literary Titan’s Book Award in October 2024.