What can I say about this man? I first met him, Erik Williams, Sam Anderson and John Mantooth at the Borderlands Bootcamp in August of 2006. He’s the fearless leader of my writing group, Snutch Labs, and his writing has on more than one occasion, driven me mad with envy. His story, "Longtime Gone" won first place in the Chizine contest last year. Read his newest story Nub Hut which was just accepted at Chizine for publication!
Erik's quick wit and stubborn streak has revealed my dark and murderous side just about every time we meet. His writing is always quick paced and to the point, which is a good thing in this industry. His story, "Rings" can be found in issue 9 of Dark Recesses Press and, in my opinion, the best thing he’s ever written.
This man has more dry humor than a person should ever have to encounter. Just as quick as Erik, but with a little more kindness. With a balance of great characterization and intuitive creativity, his writing creates worlds in which you never thought existed. His collection of short stories, Postcards from Purgatory is soon to be published by Doorways in the spring of 2009.
Kim is the newest addition to Snutch Labs and a great addition she is! First and foremost, because she’s a female and before her, I was seriously outnumbered. But also because her writing adds an additional element to our group that wasn’t there before. She compliments this group with her quick wit and unending honest critiques. Her story, "Onus", was published in the Dark Distortions Anthology and got rave reviews.
John hails from the south, and surprises me again and again with the intensity in which he writes. In fact, I just recently found out that he loves writing literary fiction as much as I do. My favorite story from him, Litany, can be found in Spring 2007 issue of Shimmer magazine. And his story Shoebox Train Wreck has just recently been accepted in the Haunted Legends Anthology, edited by Nick Mamatas and Ellen Datlow!
Simon Wood is a brilliant suspense/horror writer, and his newest book, We All Fall Down, is now available for purchase. Simon was one of the judges for my story Saving Grace at Writers Digest, and he had some great words of praise for the story.
This man was the first to befriend me when I made my debut to Horror Library. I admit, I was somewhat daunted by a group that numbered into the 600’s – 666 members to be exact – but AJ was great, taking my hand and introducing me to a bunch of writers whom I will never forget. He picks you up when you’re down, and he takes your reviews seriously, even if the words can be harsh. His story, The Woodshed, can be found in Dark Distortions VI. Check it out and buy a copy!
Other Friends and Links