A haunted house on Virginia’s Eastern Shore becomes a conduit between two women separated by 400 years.

Author and screenwriter Jacquie Walters joins The Dark Mind Podcast to talk about her new novel Turn Off The Light.

We dig into dual timelines, women of knowledge, and how small communities can be more terrifying than any ghost.

Jacquie unpacks how sleep deprivation, grief, and family secrets fracture her characters’ sense of reality.

We explore her use of quantum physics to reframe what a haunting actually is.

She shares how her TV background shapes her pacing, structure, and “cinematic” horror on the page.

Jacquie also opens up about mediumship, trusting her intuition, and how her daughter’s experiences with spirits helped inspire the story.

JACQUIE WALTERS - AUTHOR LINKS

Official Website:
https://www.jacquiewalters.com

Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwalterswrites/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquiewalters
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15036438.Jacquie_Walters
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/61564033081098

Buy Books:
Dearest by Jacquie Walters:
https://www.amazon.com/Dearest-Novel-Jacquie-Walters/dp/0316580293

Turn Off The Light by Jacquie Walters:
https://www.amazon.com/Turn-Off-Light-Jacquie-Walters/dp/0316580323

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/turn-off-the-light-jacquie-walters/512b3cf20bdbb039

Mulholland Books (Publisher): https://www.mulhollandbooks.com/titles/jacquie-walters/turn-off-the-light/9780316580328/
Hachette Book Group: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/jacquie-walters/

Book Community:
Send Me A Book (Book recommendations): https://www.sendmeabook.me

In this episode, horror filmmaker A.K. Espada joins me to discuss her deeply personal short film I Could Just Die and That Would Be All Right.The film follows a woman struggling with suicidal depression who offers herself to a cryptid called the Bonecat in the forests of Southern Gothic suburbia, only to wake up undead and denied the escape she sought.Kate opens up about writing the script during one of the darkest periods of her life and how making the film became a form of therapy and advocacy.We discuss the COVID shutdown that nearly ended the production, the challenge of maintaining directorial distance while depicting your own trauma, and why she felt obligated to be transparent about her mental health struggles during festival Q and A sessions.Kate also talks about her other films including The Promotion, a darkly satirical office horror co-directed with Phil Cheney, This Is Our Home, a vegan versus pragmatist horror that won the Audience Award at Brooklyn Horror Film Festival, and Laundry Night, which won a Special Jury Prize.We explore the importance of programming at festivals, how dark humor functions in horror, and why she believes everyone needs some form of artistic expression to process difficult emotions.Kate shares insights from her work as a scenic artist on productions like Stranger Things, her participation in the Sundance Horror Fellowship and Moonshot Initiative, and her philosophy on self-distribution and making films outside the traditional gatekeeping system.This conversation covers the psychology of horror, the ethics of depicting suicide on screen, and what it truly takes to make independent films that break stigma and foster genuine connection.OFFICIAL WEBSITEhttps://akespada.comSOCIAL MEDIAInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/akespada/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/a-k-kate-espada-b24a1075FILM-SPECIFIC SOCIAL MEDIAI Could Just Die Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/i_could_just_die/STREAMING PLATFORMSShort of the Weekhttps://www.shortoftheweek.com/2025/07/17/i-could-just-die-and-that-would-be-all-right/Shudder (This Is Our Home - Etheria Showcase)https://www.shudder.com/movies/watch/etheria-film-night-2022/9bf212afcd42a5daALTERhttps://youtu.be/-GHVEeMJc0M?si=dE4MuNTNZvv3GkKoIMDB PROFILEhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm6711544/SEED AND SPARK (Crowdfunding/Distribution)https://seedandspark.com/fund/i-could-just-dieCONTACThttps://akespada.com/contact

Guest: Kathe Koja

Kathe Koja is an award-winning author known for her groundbreaking Dark Factory trilogy, including the newly released Dark Matter. Her work explores immersive fiction, the collapse of consensus reality, and the psychological impact of living in a world where augmented experience and celebrity culture collide. Koja is a pioneer of narrative experimentation, blending genres and inviting readers to participate in her stories.

Website:

kathekoja.com

darkfactory.club

Social Media:

instagram.com/kathekoja

twitter.com/darkfactoryclub

Online Retailers (Books & Audiobooks):

barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-matter-kathe-koja/1146964352

barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-factory-kathe-koja/1140472551

amazon.com/stores/Kathe-Koja/author/B004N2MO82

amazon.com/Dark-Matter-Kathe-Koja/dp/1946154970

audible.com/author/Kathe-Koja/B004N2MO82

Publisher:

meerkatpress.com/category/authors/kathe-koja

Goodreads:

goodreads.com/author/show/8125999.Kathe_Koja

Alex Gonzalez joins The Dark Mind Podcast to discuss his debut novel rekt.
He talks about the dark web’s role in shaping grief and obsession.
Gonzalez shares his experience with early 2000s gore sites.
The conversation explores how algorithms exploit emotional vulnerabilities.
He examines the difference between the dark web and surface internet horror.
Gonzalez considers whether the internet is a mirror or a predator.
The episode covers the psychological effects of online shock content.
He reflects on the reality of being trapped by data-harvesting tech.
Gonzalez discusses his own online habits and digital anxieties.
The discussion touches on the evolution of horror in the digital age.
He shares insights from teaching horror workshops.
Gonzalez reveals how regional geography influenced his writing.
The episode addresses toxic masculinity and online community.
He talks about the process of turning trauma into fiction.
Gonzalez considers the future of horror storytelling.
The conversation ends with his thoughts on catharsis and confrontation in horror.
This episode offers a deep dive into tech horror, online culture, and the dark corners of the human psyche.

Here are the links for Alex Gonzalez and his work:

Official Website & Socials

• Website: alex-gonzalez.mealex-gonzalez​

• Instagram: @nahitsjustalexinstagram​

Where to Buy rekt

• Amazon: Buy on Amazon (Search Link)

• Barnes & Noble: Buy on Barnes & Noblebarnesandnoble​

• Bookshop.org: Buy on Bookshop.orgbookshop​

• Penguin Random House: Buy on PRHpenguinrandomhouse​

• Audible (Audiobook): Get the Audiobookaudible​

Lesley Camphouse returns to The Dark Mind Podcast to discuss her latest novel A Hollow Dream, a devastating work of erotic horror that explores the dark underbelly of influencer culture. Dubbed "extreme misery porn," this slow-burn psychological nightmare follows Georgia, a desperate college student who enters the world of social media stardom only to find herself trapped in a system of exploitation and manipulation orchestrated by agency head Garrett.

In this conversation, we explore why emotional abuse is more terrifying than physical violence, how social media creates invisible cages, and the real-life experiences that inspired this unforgettable story. Lesley shares insights into writing psychological manipulation, the pressures of curated online personas, and why so many readers—especially women—recognize themselves in Georgia's harrowing descent.Camphouse-Transcript.txt​

Lesley Camphouse is an independent author specializing in extreme horror, erotic horror, and dark fiction. Known for crafting psychologically intense narratives that explore the darkest corners of human experience, Lesley draws from real-life observations and personal experiences to create stories that resonate with brutal authenticity. A Hollow Dream is part of her Nightmare Duet series.Camphouse-Transcript.txt​

https://www.instagram.com/authorlacamphouse/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/54089710.Lesley_A_Camphouse
https://www.audible.com/author/Lesley-Camphouse/B0DSV3HTWX
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/apex-prey-lesley-a-camphouse/1147037020?ean=9789083439105
https://www.abebooks.com/9789083439105/Apex-Prey-Extreme-Horror-Novel-9083439100/plp
https://www.indiereads.org/team/lesley-a.-camphouse
https://www.bookscouter.com/author/camphouse-lesley-a

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lesley-Camphouse/author/B0DSV3HTWX?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1764445661&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Join us as we talk with PD Alleva about The Sleepy Hollow Incident.
This episode explores the blend of vampire lore, gothic romance, and psychological horror that defines his newest series.
We discuss how paying homage to Washington Irving shaped the story and how classic horror influences weave through every chapter.
PD Alleva shares insights into crafting villains inspired by Hannibal Lecter, Lestat, and the Joker.
We delve into deep themes like duality, trauma, anticipation, and the ritualistic nature of violence in horror.
Hear how PD's experience as a therapist influences the psychological depth of his characters and the chilling realism of his scenes.
Discover how portals and mythology fuse with raw emotion and crime thriller elements throughout the novel.
If you appreciate stories that challenge belief systems, explore the human condition, and leave you thinking after the final page, this episode is for you.

Website
https://pdalleva.com

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pdallevaauthor/

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/pdalleva_author/

Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7634126.P_D_Alleva

Amazon Author
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08B3VNVN2

BookScouter
https://bookscouter.com/publisher/paul-alleva

J. Paul Roe joins us to discuss his literary journey and creative process.
We explore the themes of simulation theory and techno-capitalist futures found in his novel “The Game State.”
Roe explains how the concept of reality as a game influences his writing and characters.
We talk about AI religion, faith, and the philosophical questions driving his work.
Roe shares how his military experience shapes the story's worldview and protagonist’s struggles.
Marketing, neuro-linguistic programming, and persuasive storytelling play a major role in his creative approach.
Roe reveals the challenges and rewards of indie publishing and measuring success beyond awards.
We hear about his passion for board games, animal husbandry, and translating his universe into tabletop game mods.
Roe highlights the importance of discipline, creative fulfillment, and embracing diverse artistic pursuits.
The episode closes with insights on community, Patreon, and the power of connecting with readers.

https://www.jpaulroe.com
https://www.instagram.com/jp_designs_it_all
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15113880.J_Paul_Roe
https://www.jpaulroe.com/store
https://www.patreon.com/jpaulroe
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jproe
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/arcane-fiction/augmented-reality-comic-adaptation-j-paul-roe
https://www.jpaulroe.com/contact

The Dark Mind Podcast Patreon: patreon.com/thedarkmindpodcast

Briana N. Cox and Kailee Pedersen join the show to discuss their debut horror novels.
We explore themes of home, economic precarity, and body horror through the lens of queer and BIPOC identity.
Briana shares how "Indigent" transforms urban gentrification and addiction into visceral, psychological horror.
Kailee unveils the mythic and operatic roots of "Sacrificial Animals" set on a Nebraska farm, unraveling family trauma and supernatural possibility.
Both authors reflect on writing truthfully about marginalization without reducing it to a trend or symbol.
We dig into their personal backgrounds, influences from cognitive science and opera, and the creative power of alienation.
Our conversation reveals how landscape, language, and myth structure their approach to horror.
Listeners get insights into scene edits, professional challenges, and the drive to bring authentic voices to dark fiction.
Tune in for a nuanced, candid exploration of horror, identity, and literary ambition.

Briana Cox:

briana-n-cox-writer.carrd.co
https://briannajcox.com
https://instagram.com/pedroparo2
https://linktr.ee/briana.n.cox
https://graveside-press.com/indigent-by-briana-n-cox
https://ko-fi.com/briana_n_cox

Kailee Pedersen:

https://kaileepedersen.com
https://instagram.com/kailee_pedersen
https://threads.net/@kailee_pedersen
https://blueskyweb.xyz/user/kaileepedersen.bsky.social
https://twitter.com/KaileePedersen
https://audible.com/pd/Sacrificial-Animals-Audiobook/B0CGRXFC5L

Peter Caffrey joins the show to discuss his novel, The Ballad of Seven Bastards.

We dive into the splatter western genre and how it explores moral ambiguity and violence.

Peter shares how the Western setting exposes truths about manipulation and greed that modern stories can’t.

He describes his struggle with structure and how a unique approach helped bring the novel together.

We talk about origins, voice, and rewriting until the story feels right.

Peter discusses his decision to shelve the book while the genre surged in popularity, focusing on authenticity over trends.

We discuss his characters—none truly redeemable, but all deeply human.

We explore the necessity of grotesque honesty in fiction and why avoiding standard horror tropes keeps his writing surprising.

Peter unpacks the role of humor, both as a defense and an ingredient for deepening dread.

He shares darkly comic stories and how real-life struggles with illness shaped his outlook and fiction.

Peter talks about compartmentalization, survival, and how his experience with cancer changed his attitude toward suffering, both real and fictional.

He explains how fiction, unlike journalism, creates individual truth for the reader.

The episode ends with thoughts on individuality, creativity, and the joys of making readers uncomfortable in the best way.

Website https://petercaffrey.com

Twitter/X: https://x.com/p_caffrey?lang=en

Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/100077415820994/

Facebook (Author Page - Alternative): https://www.facebook.com/p/Peter-Caffrey-Author-61564582937618/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNYsWRAybvM/ (posts found, profile link not directly provided)

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18772593.Peter_Caffrey

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Peter-Caffrey/author/B07MSBW6ZV

Amazon - The Ballad of Seven Bastards: https://www.amazon.com/Ballad-Seven-Bastards-Peter-Caffrey-ebook/dp/B0FF6DDZXC

ThriftBooks: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/peter-caffrey/5486829/

Godless.com: https://godless.com/products/fucked-up-bedtime-stories-episode-5-legs-eleven-by-peter-caffrey-godless-exclusives

Christa Carmen returns to The Dark Mind Podcast for a dive into psychological horror.
We discuss her new novel, How to Fake a Haunting, and the devastating effects of addiction.
Christa shares insight into creating multidimensional characters and blurring the line between reality and fiction.
We explore toxic relationships, gaslighting, and the thrill of staging hauntings.
Christa reflects on humor, dread, and motherhood in dark fiction.
Stories of recovery, trauma, and haunted spaces take center stage in this conversation.
Plus, we chat about her inspiration, subgenres in horror, and her latest projects.
Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with depth, darkness, and unexpected moments of humor.

Website, Booksellers, Interviews, and Social Media:

https://www.christacarmen.com
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15179583.Christa_Carmen
https://www.amazon.com/Christa-Carmen/e/B07HMKGLTL
https://x.com/christaqua
https://www.instagram.com/christaqua/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/christaqua
https://www.substack.com/@christacarmen
https://christacarmen.com/books.aspx
https://bookshop.org/contributors/christa-carmen
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/christa+carmen
https://www.christacarmen.com/events.aspx
https://christacarmen.com/fiction.aspx
https://www.christacarmen.com/interviews.aspx
https://www.christacarmen.com/contact.aspx
https://www.christacarmen.com/about.aspx
https://www.christacarmen.com/media-02.aspx
https://oceanstatestories.org/q-a-with-award-winning-westerly-writer-christa-carmen/
https://rkbwrites.com/2024/01/author-interview-christa-carmen/
https://aspiringauthor.com/interview-author-christa-carmen/
https://www.bramstokerawards.com/works-of-superior-achievement/2022-long-fiction/

In this immersive episode of The Dark Mind Podcast, Vincent welcomes independent filmmaker Danny Stygion back to the show for a deep dive into his latest projects: the brutal horror thriller "One Last Trip" and the provocative documentary "Dominatrices." Stygion shares the personal experiences and influences behind his films, from tense camping trips in the Sam Houston National Forest to nuanced explorations of BDSM subculture. The conversation traverses the challenges of micro-budget indie filmmaking, the psychological dynamics of survival horror, and the responsibility of portraying marginalized communities with accuracy and empathy.

Listeners will enjoy behind-the-scenes anecdotes about casting, improvisation, and dealing with real life tensions during filming, while also discovering how Stygion balances fear, humor, and authenticity in his storytelling. The episode journeys from the raw wilderness of cinematic horror to the ritualistic environments of professional dungeons, featuring stories both shocking and insightful from Stygion’s featured dominatrices. Finally, the discussion spotlights Stygion’s upcoming works on haunted Galveston locales, synthesizer obsessives, and a modern take on the Faust legend, promising more adventures in the darker edges of art and life.

Official Website:

https://www.stygion.com

Contact Page:

https://www.stygion.com/contact/

IMDb:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13631763/

Instagram (Sinical Magazine):

https://www.instagram.com/sinicalmag

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@dannystygion

Facebook (Sinical Magazine):

https://www.facebook.com/sinicalmag

LinkedIn (Danny Stygion):

https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-stygion-712126105

Twitter/X (Sinical Magazine):

https://www.x.com/sinicalmag

Amazon Prime Video (streaming films):

https://www.amazon.com/prime-video

Tubi (streaming films):

https://www.tubi.tv/

Vudu (streaming films):

https://www.vudu.com/

MagCloud (print magazines):

http://www.magcloud.com/browse/magazine/162779

CanvasRebel interview:

https://canvasrebel.com/meet-danny-stygion/

ShoutoutHTX interview:

https://shoutouthtx.com/meet-danny-stygion-photographer-magazine-publisher-filmmaker/

About the Author:
Clare Castleberry is a Southern Gothic and transgressive horror author known for blending dark feminine energy, psychological depth, and taboo-breaking themes in her fiction and nonfiction. With an MLIS from Louisiana State University, she draws deeply from the gothic atmosphere of Louisiana and personal experiences. Her writing explores the intersection of power, survival, abuse, and the supernatural, with stories rich in dysfunctional family dynamics and layered social commentary.

Episode Highlights:

• Clare discusses her novels Lisette and Journeys Through Fear, delving into Southern Gothic motifs, personal folklore, and explorations of the occult.

• Lisette features a woman caught in a codependent and abusive relationship with supernatural elements, blending horror, sex work destigmatization, and feminist themes.

• Clare reflects on confronting taboos and personal trauma, her own paranormal experiences detailed in Journeys Through Fear, and her developing philosophy around surrender, control, and the unknown.

• She also reads a vivid, atmospheric excerpt from Lisette and shares insights into her writing process, inspirations, and upcoming events.

Connect with Clare Castleberry:

• All Official Links: allmylinks.com/femmebionic

• Instagram: @femmebionic007

• Twitter/X: @femmebionic

• Goodreads: Profile & Reviews

• Substack: Clare’s Little Black Book

• Support/Tip jar: Ko-fi: clarecastleberry

Purchase Clare's Books:

• Amazon Author Page (all titles): Clare Castleberry on Amazon

  • Lisette (Kindle)

  • Journeys Through Fear

  • Azalea House

  • Forbidden Gardens

  • Dark Feminine Energy: Tales of Vengeance

• Wide Retailer Link for Second Skin: Books2Read

• Goodreads Book Pages: Forbidden Gardens

Upcoming Appearances:

• Signing at Louisiana Book Festival (Nov 1): Azalea House, Forbidden Gardens, Dark Feminine Energy, Second Skin—and illustrated stickers.

• StokerCon 2026 in Pittsburgh (planned).

Stay updated:

• Clare recommends following her on Substack for news and appearance updates.

Selected Books & Themes:

• Lisette: Gothic horror, codependency, power, supernatural folklore, sex work

• Journeys Through Fear: Experiencer manifesto, personal paranormal encounters, metaphysical philosophy

• Dark Feminine Energy: Revenge, transformation, shadow self, feminism

• Azalea House / Forbidden Gardens: Southern Gothic, taboo relationships, haunting, trauma

Quotes from the Episode:

• "I don’t really show the light without the dark, and I don’t really like to show the dark without a little bit of light."

• "Sometimes we attract certain people in our lives to give us a lesson. Don’t ignore those early red flags or they’ll come back to bite you in the ass."

• "For me, it’s really just like a lot of cultural commentary. The genre doesn’t really matter all that much, whether it’s nonfiction or erotic or … Southern Gothic sexy paranormal stuff. There you go. That’s my genre."

Episode Summary:
Join us for a deep dive into existential horror, identity, and cosmic weirdness with Erik McHatton—author of "Straw World and Other Echoes from the Void," published by Undertaker Books. We talk about defying traditional storytelling, searching for meaning in the Void, and crafting literary horror that lingers long after the last page.

Guest Information:

• Erik McHatton – Author of Straw World and Other Echoes from the Void

Find Erik McHatton Online:

• X (Twitter): https://x.com/ErikMcHattonx
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikmchattoninstagram
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-mchatton-232937139linkedin
• Author Linktree: https://linktr.ee/erikmchattonx

Official Website/Blog:

• Undertaker Books author page: https://undertakerbooks.com/blogs/news/dark-matters-new-cosmic-horror-from-the-voidundertakerbooks
• Book page on Undertaker Books: https://undertakerbooks.com/products/straw-world-and-other-echoes-from-the-voidundertakerbooks
• Additional blog feature: https://theblogwithoutaface.com/2025/09/04/straw-world-a-love-letter-to-the-void/theblogwithoutaface

Where to Buy Erik McHatton’s Books:

• Undertaker Books: https://undertakerbooks.com/products/straw-world-and-other-echoes-from-the-voidundertakerbooks
• Godless: https://godless.com/collections/undertaker-booksgodless
• Amazon UK (pre-order/release): https://amazon.co.ukfantasy-hive

Learn more:

• Cosmic Horror Monthly features: https://cosmichorrormonthly.com/tag/erik-mchatton/cosmichorrormonthly
• Author interview: https://ivygrimes.substack.com/p/interview-with-erik-mchattonivygrimes.substack

Show Notes Highlights:

• Existential horror and metafiction themes
• The “Void” as central motif
• Ecological entropy and grief
• Unconventional story structure

In this episode, Daniel Volpe discusses his latest novel “Slaughterhouse Moan,” exploring themes of horror, depravity, and redemption. He shares insights into his creative process, the evolution of his writing, and the personal experiences that shape his work.

Keywords

Daniel Volpe, Slaughterhouse Moan, horror, depravity, redemption, creative process, writing evolution

Takeaways

“Slaughterhouse Moan” is described as Volpe's most depraved work.

The novel started as a short story called “My Beauties.”

Volpe draws inspiration from real-life farming struggles.

The book explores themes of isolation and economic insecurity.

Volpe emphasizes story over gratuitous content.

He believes in redemption for most characters.

Volpe's writing retreats are crucial for his creative process.

The novel is set in 2003, reflecting Volpe's own high school years.

Volpe aims to entertain and provide an escape for readers.

He sees vengeance as a recurring theme in his work.

Sound bites

"Slaughterhouse Moan is my most depraved work."

"It started as a short story called My Beauties."

"I draw inspiration from real-life farming struggles."

"Isolation and economic insecurity are key themes."

"I emphasize story over gratuitous content."

"I believe in redemption for most characters."

"Writing retreats are crucial for my creative process."

"The novel is set in 2003, reflecting my high school years."

"I aim to entertain and provide an escape for readers."

"Vengeance is a recurring theme in my work."

Daniel Volpe's Social Media and Website:

Website: www.danielvolpeauthor.com

Twitter: @DanielVolpeAuthor

Instagram: @DanielVolpeAuthor

Facebook: Daniel Volpe Author

Upcoming Personal Appearances:

HorrorCon 2023: www.horrorcon2023.com

Book Signing at Dark Delicacies: www.darkdel.com

Guest Speaker at the Horror Writers Association Conference: www.horror.org

Author Jessica McHugh joins Vince on the show to discuss her novel "Pins," inspired by her own experiences in the club scene. This episode explores the emotional, gritty, and glamorous world behind the book, with discussion spanning blackout poetry, the power of sisterhood, storytelling craft, and new horror projects.

Highlights

• "Pins": Real-life inspiration, re-release by Madness Heart Press, and the struggle of protagonist Birdie amidst violence, spectacle, and survival.
• Themes: Dark humor, grit, sexuality, and empowerment.
• Music as Motif: Use of “Rocket Man” and other songs as emotional anchors for the main character.
• Blackout Poetry: Jessica's ongoing commissions and upcoming horror-themed blackout collection based on "Wuthering Heights."
• Recent & Upcoming: Contributions to "Howl" (Black Spot Books), "The Rack 2," and the Gardening Guidebooks trilogy.

Connect with Jessica McHugh

• Website: mchughniverse.commchughniverse
• Instagram: @thejessmchughinstagram+1
• Twitter/X: @mchughjessx

On this episode of The Dark Mind Podcast, host Vincent Midgard welcomes horror author Holly Rae Garcia for a deep dive into her debut novel, Come Join the Murder, and her unique approach to dark fiction.

Key Topics Covered:

• From Psychological Thriller to Soul-Crushing Horror:
  Holly discusses the inspiration and emotional core behind Come Join the Murder, exploring themes of grief, vengeance, and morality in her protagonist’s harrowing journey.
• Constructing Realistic Grief:
  Holly reflects on her own experiences as a mother and how personal fears around child safety and loss influenced her portrayal of Rebecca's trauma and obsession with her family’s fate.
• Moral Ambiguity in Character Building:
  The conversation examines the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, and how good people might do bad things under extraordinary circumstances. Holly shares her fascination with this gray area and how it fuels her writing.
• Grounding Horror in the Everyday:
  Drawing inspiration from Stephen King, Garcia explains how taking everyday objects and situations—like a white van or a family outing—can evoke deep unease and make her stories linger with readers.
• Villains and Violence:
  Holly reveals her intent to subvert expectations with a villain (James Porter) who is menacing through his casual, emotionless approach to murder and the challenge of escalating violence in a way that always serves the story.
• Sensory Writing and Process:
  Learn about Holly’s process of "white-rooming" first drafts and then meticulously layering in sensory details, atmosphere, and action to make her horror scenes come alive.
• Genre Blending and Subjectivity:
  The discussion veers into lively debates about what constitutes horror vs. thriller vs. sci-fi, and why, for Holly, films like Jurassic Park qualify as horror.
• Personal Background:
  Holly shares her roots on the Texas coast, her background as a photographer, her family’s embrace of the macabre, raising reptiles (and parrots), and how a supportive—if darkly humored—family helped shape her creativity.
• Co-Writing with Family:
  Vincent asks about collaborating with her husband, army veteran Ryan Prentiss Garcia, on Easton Falls Massacre, and how they balance their writing strengths.
• Publishing, Rights, and Upcoming Projects:
  Holly talks about the upcoming re-release of Come Join the Murder with a new cover and her ongoing journey balancing writing, work, and life.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Good people do bad things for good reasons, and bad people do good things for bad reasons. No one is all one thing.”
• “When you show a reader the bomb under the table, you create tension—not just surprise.”
• “I don’t write for shock value; the violence has to serve the story or the character’s truth.”
• "Sometimes the darkness wins, and I think that's just more honest to life."

Connect with Holly Rae Garcia:

Website: https://www.hollyraegarcia.com
X (Twitter): https://x.com/hollyraegarcia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyraegarcia/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19577186.Holly_Rae_Garcia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyraegarcia

Most recent work: Flesh Communion (short story collection)
Look out for the re-release of Come Join the Murder in 2026!

Support the show:
If you enjoy what we do, consider supporting The Dark Mind Podcast on Patreon for bonus content and more:
https://patreon.com/thedarkmindpodcast

If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to leave a review and follow for more in-depth conversations about the boundless realms of dark literature and film.

Guest: Keith Rosson
Host: Vincent Midgard
Episode Recorded: August 22, 2025

About This Episode

In this episode, Vincent welcomes renowned author and artist Keith Rosson to talk about his new dark literary novel Coffin Moon. The conversation covers the gritty heart of noir fiction, the reimagining of the vampire archetype, the lasting impact of war and trauma on storytelling, the struggle and beauty of DIY punk and zine culture, and the organic chaos of the writing process. Keith opens up about how blindness shapes his art, why family trauma is an unavoidable theme, and why ambiguous endings matter.

Key Topics Discussed

• The challenge and richness of setting a vampire story in 1970s Portland
• Breaking the mold: Writing messy, morally gray characters
• Punk, zines, and the creative energy of relentless DIY art
• How blindness shapes Keith’s visual and narrative sensibility
• The importance of landscape in fiction (Oregon, North Dakota, LA)
• Writing trauma, revenge, and the uncertain hope of healing
• Literary fiction vs. genre and why Keith refuses to choose just one
• Taking and leaving vampire tropes: Curses, curses, and fatherhood
• Inspirations: From Richard Lange’s Rovers to Andy Davidson’s In the Valley of the Sun

Connect with Keith Rosson

• Website: keithrosson.com
• Instagram: @rossonkeith
• Goodreads: Keith Rosson on Goodreads

Buy Keith Rosson’s Books

• Bookshop.org (support indie): Bookshop - Keith Rosson
• Amazon: Keith Rosson on Amazon
• Publisher: Meerkat Press - Keith Rosson

Support the Show

If you enjoyed this episode, rate and review the show and consider supporting Keith Rosson by picking up his latest book, Coffin Moon, and leaving a (non-spoiler) review. Share with a friend!

Support this podcast:
patreon.com/thedarkmindpodcast

Show Notes

This week, host Vincent Midgard welcomes back acclaimed dark fiction author Megan Stockton to discuss her novel "Pink Neon." Together they dive deep into the book’s brutal realism, creative process, the psychology of trauma and survival, and Megan’s approach to writing about difficult subjects with honesty and respect.

Episode Highlights

• Opening with Impact: Why Megan starts and ends her books with haunting scenes, and how her creative process is both intuitive and chaotic.
• Surviving and Dissociating: Exploring trauma responses, disassociation as a survival tool, and how Megan’s own experiences inform her writing.
• Writing Uncomfortable Truths: Keeping depictions of violence raw and honest—never exploitative—and understanding dissociation as both a literary and human tactic.
• Everyday Villainy: Bringing realism to antagonists, refusing cartoonish evil, and exposing systemic predation.
• Not Found Family—Trauma Bond: The relationships in "Pink Neon" are forged through necessity, not affection, subverting typical survival fiction tropes.
• Between Myth and Mundane: Missy’s symbolic presence—part vengeance, part myth, all unsettling realism.
• Social Systems and Research: Consulting sex workers, reading unbiased accounts, and striving for authenticity in representing marginalized voices.
• Tone, Prose, and Process: Balancing lyricism and harshness, using color as a storytelling device, and Megan’s “one-draft-and-done” writing method.
• Building Sunning: Megan’s fictional Tennessee setting, inspired by Memphis’s geography and history of decline.
• Looking Ahead: Teasers for Megan’s upcoming haunted house novel and the Missy prequel. Reflections on Texas AuthorCon and indie authors to watch.

Featured Books & Authors

• "Pink Neon" by Megan Stockton
• "Quite Pretty Things," "Bluejay," and others by Megan Stockton
• "The Fovea Experiments" by MJ Mars
• "Air Conditioned Nightmare" by David Slater
• "Where Pop Stars Go to Die" by David Washburn
• "Last Tour at Sulphur Creek" by Paul Avery Tindall
• "Rage" series by David Hardy

Connect with Megan Stockton

• Website: meganstocktonbooks.com
• Patreon: patreon.com/badluckcatclub
• Instagram: @meganstocktonauthor
• X / Twitter: @mstocktonauthor
• Goodreads: Megan Stockton on Goodreads

Follow & Connect with Vincent Midgard / The Dark Mind Podcast

• Official Website: thedarkmindpodcast.com
• Patreon: patreon.com/thedarkmindpodcast
• Instagram: @vincentmidgard
• Facebook: @vincentmidgard
• Bluesky: @vincentmidgard
• TikTok: @vincentmidgard
• Threads: @vincentmidgard

Resources Mentioned

• Girls Educational & Mentoring Services (GEMS)
• Very Young Girls (Documentary)
• The Oldest Profession Podcast

Enjoyed the episode?
Subscribe, review, and follow us for more conversations at the shadowy borders of literature and film. For guest suggestions or listener feedback, reach out on social media or through our official website.

Explore memory, morality, and the future of technology in this gripping conversation with author T. R. Napper.

We delve into his cyberpunk novel *The Escher Man*, set in a high-tech, neon-lit Macau of 2101, where identity can be erased and rewritten at will.

Napper discusses the inspiration for his world, the philosophical roots of cyberpunk, and the emotional impact of memory manipulation.

We also touch on his journey as a writer, world-building secrets, and the meaning of art in an increasingly dehumanized age.

Tune in for an episode that asks: what happens to the soul when our memories are not our own?

T.R. Napper Links & Social Media:

• Official Website: www.nappertime.com

• Twitter/X: @TheEscherMan

• Instagram: @trnapper (https://www.instagram.com/trnapper/)

• Bluesky: @trnapper.bsky.social

• Facebook: T.R. Napper

• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7826255.T_R_Napper

• Email: voight0kampff@gmail.com

Where to Buy T.R. Napper’s Books:

The Escher Man (2024)

• Amazon (all international listings)

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-escher-man-t-r-napper/1144264422

• Penguin Random House

• All good bookstores worldwide

Ghost of the Neon God (2024) - Aurealis Award Winner

• Amazon (all international listings)

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ghost-of-the-neon-god-t-r-napper/1143968635

• Penguin Random House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/744919/ghost-of-the-neon-god-by-t-r-napper/

• All good bookstores worldwide

36 Streets (2022) - Award-winning cyberpunk novel

• Amazon (all international listings)

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/36-streets-tr-napper/1139309064

• Penguin Random House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/678795/36-streets-by-t-r-napper/

• Kinokuniya (worldwide, including Japan)

• All good bookstores worldwide

Aliens: Bishop (2023) - Aliens tie-in novel

• Amazon (all international listings)

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/aliens-tr-napper/1143358855

• Penguin Random House: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/743030/aliens-bishop-by-t-r-napper/

• HamiltonBook.com

• All good bookstores worldwide

Neon Leviathan (2020) - Short story collection

• Amazon (all international listings)

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/neon-leviathan-t-r-napper/1135617509

• IndieBound.org (US independent bookstores)

• Grimdark Magazine

• All good bookstores worldwide

Signed Editions Available

Contact T.R. Napper directly at voight0kampff@gmail.com for signed copies of:

• Neon Leviathan

• 36 Streets

• Ghost of the Neon God

• The Escher Man
(Note: International postage may be expensive from Australia)

All books are also available as eBooks and audiobooks on major platforms including Kindle, Audible, and other digital retailers.

What happens when grief, abuse, and horror collide in the most intimate spaces of our lives? In this episode, I sit down with author Emma E. Murray to discuss her searing new novel, Shoot Me in the Face on a Beautiful Day. We explore the psychology behind toxic relationships, how abusers weaponize love and grief, and why the real horror often hides in plain sight.

Emma opens up about writing through the eyes of both victims and predators, the influence of abnormal psychology on her characters, and the visceral power of body horror to express what words alone cannot. We also dive into her haunting depictions of decomposition, the blurred line between care and control, and the shame that clings tighter than any monster.

This is not just a conversation about horror fiction—it’s about the human condition, survival, and the stories we carry in silence.

👉 If you value these kinds of deep conversations, support The Dark Mind Podcast on Patreon and help me keep bringing you the voices shaping dark literature today.

Here are the official website, social media, and major places to buy books by horror author Emma E. Murray. All links are plain text for easy pasting into your podcast description:

Official Website:

• https://emmaemurray.com

About Page / Bio:

• https://emmaemurray.com/about-me/

Anthologies:

• https://emmaemurray.com/anthologies/

Instagram:

• https://www.instagram.com/emmaemurray_

X (Twitter):

• https://x.com/emurrayauthor

Representative / Literary Agency:

• https://www.therightsfactory.com/Authors/emma-e.-murray

Interviews & Features:

• https://horrortree.com/the-crushing-weight-of-horror-a-conversation-with-emma-e-murray/
• https://christinogle.substack.com/p/emma-e-murray-dark-and-visceral-horror
• https://ivygrimes.substack.com/p/interview-with-emma-e-murray

Where to Buy Emma E. Murray’s Books:

• "The Drowning Machine and Other Obsessions" (Undertaker Books shop): https://undertakerbooks.com/products/the-drowning-machine
• Target (The Drowning Machine): https://www.target.com/p/the-drowning-machine-and-other-obsessions-by-emma-e-murray-paperback/-/A-1004581104
• Thriftbooks Author Page: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/emma-e-murray/5717854/
• Goodreads Author Profile: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/21520496.Emma_E_Murray