10/15/26
Spent all of yesterday morning on taxes, and most of the afternoon/evening on unpacking, so the only real writing work was a long call with Chris, discussing one of the several anthologies we have in the works, and a short text exchange with David Niall Wilson over at Crossroad Press. Hoping to make up that lost time this morning, and then back to unpacking this afternoon.
Taking precedence in the days ahead are a short story that’s due by November 1st, and my final speech for the Splatterpunk Awards. Wrath retired from them last year. I wanted to stay on until this year to give Shane, John, and Lisa (who are taking over both KillerCon and the awards) time to hit the ground running. But my speech for this year’s J. F. Gonzalez Lifetime Achievement Award presentation (which always takes place at the start of the Splatterpunk Awards) will pass the torch, so to speak. So I’ve got to write a good one.
Speaking of writing good stuff.
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Women In Horror Year: Day 131
Six Rooms by Gemma Amor
Signed Limited Edition Hardcover - Paperback - eBook
Welcome, all, to the Sunshire Chateau: Lestershire’s premier tourist attraction. It sits high on a hill overlooking town, shrouded by tall trees and rumors of murder, scandal and intrigue. Tickets are hard to come by, so hold yours close, else the Tour Guide may not let you in. And that would be a pity, for there are so many things to see within these walls–history, glamor, and riches beyond your wildest imagination. Just remember the following rules: don’t wander off alone, don’t be rude to the Guide, and don’t, whatever you do, touch the valuables.
Because the ghosts don’t like it when you touch their things.
Bram Stoker Award nominated author Gemma Amor brings you her newest tale of secrets, lies, love, betrayal, greed, family ties, and a house that has seen a great many sights, over the years.
Gemma Amor does something very clever with Six Rooms. She starts out with a book that reads very much like a traditional — if somewhat whimsical — traditional gothic ghost story, but as the book goes on, it gets darker and meaner, ultimately culminating in some shocking, heartbreaking moments for the reader. It is a, if you’ll pardon the pun, haunting examination of the human condition. One of Gemma’s best strengths as a writer has always been her characterization, and that’s the case here. They feel like real people, fully drawn, and you’ll find yourself identifying with many of them, sometimes uncomfortably so. A wonderful, languidly engrossing read, particularly if you’re looking for something a little different in a haunted house novel, with different set peices and points of view, and a masterful sense of plotting that piles on the dread with each subsequent chapter.
Six Rooms is available as a signed limited edition hardcover from Thunderstorm Books. It is also available in paperback an eBook from Cemetery Gates Media.
