Kerry E. B. Black is a horror writer from Western Pennsylvania whose work explores the dark corners of the imagination. She writes across multiple forms—poetry, young adult fiction, short stories, and novellas—crafting creepy tales that explore the darker side of life.

Can you talk about your latest book and what readers might find appealing about it?

I’m eagerly awaiting the release of Witches in the Air, a book of poetic essays about witchcraft from an historic, cultural, and modern perspective. It’s a huge project, but one that was profoundly moving to me.

My brother, Chris Blickenderfer, hand drew the cover art, and it is GORGEOUS! (He’s so talented. He’s made hand-drawn, original pieces for all of my short story collections and my other poetry collection as well, and they’re amazing works of art.)

What’s a book you can’t stop recommending?

My favorite book last year was Bat Eater by Kylie Lee Baker. I love when a book touches and teaches me, and this novel certainly achieved that.

Can you explain your writing process? What inspires you?

Inspiration is a tricky thing. It’s like a weird, electrical impulse that zaps the brain, leaving a charred after-scent that can’t be ignored. Strange things inspire me. An interesting word can do it. A news story. An intriguing, historical image or a visit to a place.

I start projects when I know how they will end. Once I have a pretty clear image of the conclusion, I draft. So, I suppose I’m a modified “pantser,” in that I have certain things that must happen before that conclusion, but I don’t outline in the traditional way.

As a busy, working mom, I have to steal time to write, which means I usually sit at my computer in the wee hours of the morning. I curl up on the couch, a cat or two at my side, and type until my eyes cross or I doze off. Some day, I hope to have an actual desk and regular operating hours. Haha.

Is there a snack or drink that gets you into a writing mindset?

I make sure to stay hydrated while I write. Water and tea do the trick.

Are there any horror tropes you especially love in books or films?

I enjoy a Gothic setting, a folksy character or creature, a story with creeping chills, and tales that make me think.

Who’s your favorite final girl?

I admire Lt. Ripley, from the Alien franchise.

Are you currently working on anything new?

Witches in the Air is in the hands of my editor, Deb Sanchez at my Publisher, Tree Shadow Press. I hear it will be released soon.

In the meanwhile, I’m working on a folk horror novella and am compiling a latest collection of short stories.

You can keep up with her writing at: https://kerryebblack.com/

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