For the month of March, in order to celebrate Women in Horror, I’ll be highlighting interviews with some of the authors that appear in Hush, Don’t Wake the Monster – Stories Inspired by Stephen King Women in Horror Anthology.
Rachel Bolton author of “Sharp Teeth”
Which Stephen King novel/short story inspired your short story?
Carrie inspired “Sharp Teeth.” I always had sympathy for Carrie, more than Stephen King did. In On Writing he considers her a girl version of Harris and Klebold, which I disagree with. Part of me wanted her to win. For this anthology, I didn’t want to write an exact reinterpretation. I took certain themes from the book and played around with them under different circumstances. The biggest difference is that Ann wanted her powers.
Who’s your favorite modern female author?
My two favorite modern female authors are Carmen Maria Machado and Gretchen Felker-Martin. They both write very differently from each other, but their work is beautiful, frightening, and deeply political. All things great horror should be. All things I want to achieve as a writer.
Which song would be the soundtrack to your story?
I can’t think of a specific one, but any 50’s pop song would be fitting. Especially if it’s by a girl group.
What are some of your current writing projects?
Oh boy, I have a lot going on. I’m trying to finish a novella, I have numerous short stories in progress, and there is a full length comic script that desperately needs a full second rewrite. I hope to have a short story collection out in the next few years. I also write a Kennedy themed substack called Trapped in Camelot.
Who’s your favorite final girl and why?
Ellen Ripley! She’s tough, vulnerable, and always handles herself whenever she’s surrounded by idiots. “Get away from her, you bitch!” Best line ever.
Jane Nightshade author of “The Sorting”
Which Stephen King novel/short story inspired your short story?
My story The Sorting was loosely inspired by the Loser’s Club from Stephen King’s IT. The Loser’s Club of a gang of misfit kids ring true to the way I grew up in an era where neighborhood kids hung out together and rode all over town without having to tell their parents where they were going. A different time.
Who’s your favorite modern female author?
I don’t know if they qualify as “modern” but the horror stories of Shirley Jackson and Daphne DuMaurier are big favorites.
Which song would be the soundtrack to your story?
Since my short story takes place on Halloween, I’d say it would be a great Halloween song like “Little Ghost” from Paranorman.
What are some of your current writing projects?
Working on a full-length novel that’s an origin story for one of my more successful short tales, Rockin’ Around the Murder Tree. Continuing to write at least one or two short stories a month as well. Also, getting ready for the publication of my collection of short stories, “A Scream Full of Ghosts,” coming out sometime next year from Dark Ink.
Who’s your favorite final girl and why?
My favorite final girl is Olivia Hussey in the original “Black Christmas.” She’s a very good actress.
Read Rachel Bolton & Jane Nightshade’s stories in Hush, Don’t Wake the Monster along with other amazing authors!
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