Tag: horror

The Importance of Women in Horror Fiction: Why Their Voices Matter

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When you think of horror authors, a lot of names that probably come to mind are men—Stephen King, H.P. Lovecraft, and Edgar Allan Poe, for example. But did you know that women have been just as integral to the horror genre, crafting some of the most influential and spine-chilling stories? While their contributions were often overlooked, women in horror have not only shaped the genre but have also used it as a platform to explore deep, complex themes that resonate with us on a deeply personal level. And that’s something we shouldn’t overlook.

Breaking the Mold

For a long time, horror fiction was predominantly written by men, which, let’s be honest, often led to stories that focused on the same types of characters, plots, and themes. But then came women writers who weren’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge what horror could be. From Shirley Jackson’s unsettling psychological horror to Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking Frankenstein, women have always had a hand in redefining the genre. They brought something fresh, something that explored not only monsters and the supernatural, but also the very real monsters inside our heads, the complexities of human emotions, and societal fears.

Take The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson. It’s not just a ghost story; it’s a tale about loneliness, mental illness, and how isolation can destroy a person. It taps into very real human fears and makes us question what’s real and what isn’t. It’s this depth of emotion and the ability to blend the supernatural with personal struggles that women have brought to the genre. And that’s one reason why their contributions are so significant—they make horror more relatable, more reflective of the human condition.

Women Exploring Real Fears

One thing women authors in horror often excel at is turning the genre inward. While many male horror writers focused on external threats like monsters, women writers have frequently explored more internal, personal fears. Think of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale or Helen Oyeyemi’s White Is for Witching. These authors weave horror into narratives that reflect on real-world issues like power, control, identity, and societal structures. And that’s part of what makes women’s voices so important in horror—there’s an element of horror in everyday life that women, especially, are acutely attuned to.

In The Bloody Chamber, Angela Carter reimagines classic fairy tales, adding layers of feminist critique and sexual politics. Her retellings are dark, unsettling, and frequently tackle themes like power dynamics, gender, and the violence women endure, themes that often go unexplored in traditional horror. In this way, women in horror help broaden the conversation, allowing the genre to evolve into something that can address issues of inequality, fear, and vulnerability that are unique to women.

The Future of Women in Horror

The future of horror is bright, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that women will be driving the genre forward. More and more women authors are taking center stage, and the stories they are telling are diverse, powerful, and innovative. From psychological thrillers to body horror and speculative fiction, women are continuously expanding what horror can be. Authors like Tananarive Due, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and Carmen Maria Machado are blending horror with elements of cultural identity, race, and trauma, creating stories that are both terrifying and thought-provoking.

Horror isn’t just about scaring people—it’s about reflection, confrontation, and exploring the unknown. Women in horror give us a unique lens through which we can experience these emotions. They’re breaking down walls, amplifying marginalized voices, and creating more inclusive, diverse narratives. And that’s something the genre desperately needs.

Final Thoughts

So, why are women in horror so important? Because they bring new perspectives, new themes, and new layers of meaning to a genre that has the power to examine our deepest fears. They challenge us to look at the world through a different lens, to confront uncomfortable truths, and to question what really scares us. As the genre continues to grow and evolve, one thing’s for sure—women will continue to be at the heart of it, making horror richer, deeper, and far more compelling.

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Book Review: Shy Girl by Mia Ballard

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“Sometimes, justice isn’t quiet or clean; it’s feral and bloody and unapologetic.”

PLOT SUMMARY:

Lonely, broke and depressed with a serious case of OCD, Gia finds herself at a crossroads when financial troubles lead her to Nathan, a mysterious and affluent man she encounters on a sugar dating website. Desperate for a solution, Gia is intrigued by Nathan’s unconventional offer: in exchange for living as his devoted pet, all of her debts will be erased. But the longer Gia is in captivity, the more animalistic she becomes.

For fans of Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder and Lisa Taddeo’s Animal, Shy Girl is a harrowing tale of girlhood, survival, autonomy, and revenge.

Grade: A+

REVIEW:

I read this book in two days, it was so compelling and also very unhinged and disturbing that it was like assisting a car crash you couldn’t look away from. Gia is laid off from her job and is increasingly becoming more and more worried about how she’s going to keep her apartment with her dwindling savings and no work prospects in site. This leads her to take a more unconventional approach and downloads a dating app that is specifically designed for those men who are seeking to be a sugar daddy to a young woman, and Gia feels like this may solve all of her economic hardships.

But when she meets Nathan, she feels like everything will change for her, bringing her a life of economic freedom. But there’s only one caveat, Nathan has a kink that’s not typical, he wishes Gia to portray his pet dog for several hours a day. Gia thinks that she can manage this, but she will soon find out that being Nathan’s pet is far more difficult than she had anticipated.

Ballard’s writing is sharp and insightful, creating a nuanced narrative that is both relatable and inspiring. The protagonist’s internal struggles feel genuine and familiar, and her journey toward finding her voice is empowering. If you loved Nightbitch but felt like it didn’t quite go there, then let me tell you, Ballard goes there and beyond in this twisted tale of self-discovery and empowerment.

I recommend this book if you love unhinged plots with a dose of female rage.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Galaxy Press for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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Women in Horror: Redefining the Genre and Shaping Fear

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The horror genre, with its history of jump scares, suspense, and psychological terror, has often been seen as a space primarily dominated by men—both on-screen and behind the scenes. Yet, as audiences grow more diverse and as filmmakers explore new approaches to storytelling, women have increasingly made their mark in the world of horror. Whether through compelling on-screen performances, dynamic characters, or groundbreaking directorial and writing roles, women are becoming crucial in the evolution of the genre, shaping the way we understand and experience fear.

The Evolution of Female Characters in Horror

For decades, women in horror were primarily portrayed as victims, often relegated to the role of the “final girl”—the lone survivor who outwits the killer. While characters like Laurie Strode from Halloween (1978) and Sally Hardesty from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) became staples of the genre, they often served as one-dimensional tropes of purity and innocence, simply surviving the terror unleashed by male antagonists. But as the genre has evolved, so have these female characters. No longer are they helpless victims, but multifaceted, empowered individuals who face terror with resourcefulness, courage, and strength.

Films like The Descent (2005) and The Witch (2015) introduced complex female characters who not only survived the terror but confronted their own fears, flaws, and complexities. The rise of these characters marks a significant shift in the genre, moving away from simple tropes and toward nuanced portrayals of women navigating horror in various forms. These women aren’t merely defined by their relationships to male characters or their ability to survive. Instead, they become central to the plot, shaping the story and driving the action.

Women as Creators in the Genre

While women have historically been underrepresented in horror filmmaking, this is beginning to change. Female directors and writers are increasingly using horror as a platform to explore themes like trauma, gender, and societal expectations. These films often provide a unique and important perspective, one that reflects the experiences of women navigating a world filled with its own set of dangers and societal pressures.

Director and writer Jennifer Kent made waves with her 2014 film The Babadook, a chilling exploration of grief, motherhood, and psychological terror. Kent’s ability to blend supernatural horror with real emotional trauma resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Her work paved the way for other female filmmakers, proving that women could tell horror stories with both depth and intensity.

Other notable women in horror include Mary Harron, who directed American Psycho (2000), a film that blends horror with social commentary on masculinity and identity. In recent years, filmmakers like Ari Aster (Hereditary) and Jordan Peele (Get Out) have created psychologically rich horror films that tap into societal fears, many of which echo the experiences of women in particular. As a result, women directors, producers, and writers are now more prominent than ever in shaping the genre.

The Importance of Women in Horror

The increasing representation of women in horror—both in front of and behind the camera—brings valuable perspectives to the genre. Horror, as a genre, is uniquely suited to explore human fears, traumas, and anxieties. When women have the opportunity to tell these stories, the result is often a more nuanced and complex portrayal of fear, one that speaks not just to the universal but also to the distinctly female experience.

Moreover, the rise of strong, multifaceted female characters challenges outdated gender roles and stereotypes, allowing audiences to see women as more than just victims or sidekicks. Instead, they are presented as active participants in the horror narrative, often driving the plot forward and confronting fears that are both supernatural and rooted in reality.

Final Thoughts

Women in horror are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be both scared and powerful. As creators, they’re bringing fresh and important perspectives to the genre, pushing the boundaries of storytelling. As characters, they are no longer bound by the constraints of outdated stereotypes but are becoming integral parts of the narrative, embodying strength, resilience, and complexity. With the continued rise of female filmmakers and characters in horror, it’s clear that women are shaping the future of fear in ways that are both empowering and thought-provoking.

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Book Review: At Dark, I Become Loathsome by Eric LaRocca

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“That’s a thing people don’t talk about enough – that there are people who will judge even the way you mourn your loved ones.”

PLOT SUMMARY:

“If you’re reading this, you’ve likely thought that the world would be a better place without you.”

A single line of text, glowing in the darkness of the internet. Written by Ashley Lutin, who has often thought the same—and worse—in the years since his wife died and his young son disappeared. But the peace of the grave is not for him—it’s for those he can help. Ashley has constructed a peculiar ritual for those whose desire to die is at war with their yearning to live a better life.

Struggling to overcome his own endless grief, one night Ashley finds connection with Jinx—a potential candidate for Ashley’s next ritual—who spins a tale both revolting and fascinating. Thus begins a relationship that traps the two men in an ever-tightening spiral of painful revelations, where long-hidden secrets are dragged, kicking and screaming, into the light.

Only through pain can we find healing. Only through death can we find new life.

GRADE: A

REVIEW:

This book is a haunting exploration of the grotesque wrapped in lush, almost lyrical prose. LaRocca’s writing is elegant and poetic, with a grace that contrasts sharply against the dark and often disturbing imagery that unfolds throughout the story. The beauty of his language, full of intricate descriptions and poignant reflections, creates a stark juxtaposition to the horrors the characters experience. The audiobook’s narrator, Andrew Eiden does an excellent job at emoting Ashley Lutin’s turmoil throughout the book. I don’t usually like audiobooks but he truly made LaRocca’s twisted world come alive.

The novel’s chilling events—ranging from psychological torment to physical grotesqueries—are presented with a sense of eerie calmness, making the brutality all the more unsettling. LaRocca’s careful attention to detail in crafting these disturbing scenes only enhances their impact, as the reader is drawn into a world where beauty and terror coexist in an almost surreal harmony. The seamless blending of the poetic with the horrific turns each disturbing moment into something both grotesque and mesmerizing.

This juxtaposition is not just a stylistic choice but also deepens the emotional weight of the narrative. As Ashley grapples with his own loathing and despair, the elegance of the prose makes his suffering even more tragic. At Night, I Become Loathsome is a masterclass in how beauty can amplify horror, creating a truly unsettling and unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend purchasing this as an audiobook for the ultimate reading experience.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Blackstone Publishing for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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Review: The Day of the Door by Laurel Hightower

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“One of the biggest mistakes stable people make is believing they can predict and account for the thought patterns of narcissists.”

PLOT SUMMARY:

Once there were four Lasco siblings banded together against a world that failed to protect them. But on a hellish night that marked the end of their childhood, eldest brother Shawn died violently after being dragged behind closed doors. Though the official finding was accidental death, Nathan Lasco knows better, and has never forgiven their mother, Stella.

Now two decades later, Stella promises to finally reveal the truth of what happened on The Day of the Door. Accompanied by a paranormal investigative team, the Lasco family comes together one final time, but no one is prepared for the revelations waiting for them on the third floor.

GRADE: A-

REVIEW:

The Day of the Door by Laurel Hightower delivers a chilling and atmospheric ride, blending psychological terror with a fresh twist on the haunted house genre. Set in a seemingly ordinary home, the novel slowly unravels a deeply unsettling presence that blurs the line between reality and nightmare. Hightower excels in crafting a sense of unease from the very first page, with a building tension that grows into an almost palpable dread. The Lasco siblings want to find out exactly what happened the day Sean died, and Stella promises to give answers, only that as the book progresses, the siblings end up having more questions than before.

What sets this book apart from traditional haunted house stories is its exploration of personal trauma and grief, which heightens the supernatural horror. The house itself becomes a mirror to the protagonist’s inner turmoil, amplifying the horror he faces. The eerie presence in the house isn’t just a force from beyond but an intricate part of the protagonist’s emotional landscape, making the haunting feel personal and psychologically layered.

The writing is tight, with Hightower’s pacing carefully controlled to keep the reader on edge. The creeping horror never feels forced, instead, it’s a slow burn that builds to a climax of truly unsettling revelations. Hightower’s novel offers a unique perspective on the haunted house trope, showcasing not just a place of terror but a reflection of the deepest, darkest fears within the characters. Highly recommended for fans of atmospheric horror with emotional depth.

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Book Review: Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito

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I fail to understand why men think violence will intimidate women.

PLOT SUMMARY:

Grim Wolds, England: Winifred Notty arrives at Ensor House prepared to play the perfect governess—she’ll dutifully tutor her charges, Drusilla and Andrew, tell them bedtime stories, and only joke about eating children. But long, listless days spent within the estate’s dreary confines come with an intimate knowledge of the perversions and pathetic preoccupations of the Pounds family—Mr. Pounds can’t keep his eyes off Winifred’s chest, and Mrs. Pounds takes a sickly pleasure in punishing Winifred for her husband’s wandering gaze. Compounded with her disdain for the entitled Pounds children, Winifred finds herself struggling at every turn to stifle the violent compulsions of her past. French tutoring and needlework are one way to pass the time, as is admiring the ugly portraits in the gallery . . . and creeping across the moonlit lawns. . . .

Patience. Winifred must have patience, for Christmas is coming, and she has very special gifts planned for the dear souls of Ensor House. Brimming with sardonic wit and culminating in a shocking conclusion, Victorian Psycho plunges readers into the chilling mind of an iconic new literary psychopath.

GRADE: A

REVIEW:

Victorian Psycho is exactly what it sounds like: a twisted carnival of blood, mayhem, and delightful madness that somehow manages to have a voice so captivating, you’ll feel like you’re sipping tea with a homicidal maniac in a top hat. And let’s be clear—this book is fun. Not just fun in the “let’s play a nice board game” way, but the kind of fun where you’re throwing dice and hoping they don’t land in a pool of blood. The plot is ridiculously thrilling, with a twisted blend of Victorian manners and shocking, gory violence. The characters? They’re more memorable than a morning in a butcher shop, and every chapter feels like you’re being whirled through a carnival of chaos. Blood splatters on the page with the same frequency as witty one-liners—both equally delicious.

But here’s where the book really shines: the voice. The writing is pure, unadulterated joy. Imagine an author who’s had too much tea laced with a dash of dark humor and a pinch of madness. That’s the voice. It’s snarky, witty, and always one step away from tipping over into total insanity. You’ll be chuckling at the absurdity of it all, even as you wipe the bloodstains off your clothes.

The narrative isn’t just a story—it’s like you’re chatting with a delightful, if slightly unhinged, guide through a maze of murder and mayhem. And the blood—did I mention the blood? It’s there in all its crimson glory, a reminder that this isn’t a cozy Victorian novel where characters sip brandy and read poetry. It’s a bloody, thrilling roller coaster, and you won’t be able to put it down. In conclusion, Victorian Psycho is a masterclass in balancing dark humor with chaos and gore. It’s a wild ride you won’t forget—entertaining, bloody, and a perfect escape if you enjoy your stories with a touch of the macabre and a whole lot of wit.

*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Liveright for the audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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3 Horror Movies You Can Watch on Valentine’s Day (Because Love is Scary)

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Valentine’s Day is supposed to be all about love, flowers, and heart-shaped everything. But let’s face it: the idea of watching a rom-com where everything works out perfectly can be terrifying—especially if you’re single or your idea of romance involves binge-watching horror movies. Fear not! This year, you can embrace the true spirit of Valentine’s Day by watching some horror movies that will remind you that love is actually scary. Grab your popcorn (or maybe a bottle of wine, because you’re gonna need it), and let’s dive into these lovely horror flicks:

“My Bloody Valentine” (1981 or 2009)

Okay, let’s be real: nothing says romance like a masked killer in a mining town and a bloody Valentine’s Day massacre. But hey, at least it’s not you being murdered… yet. Whether you watch the original 1981 version (which is delightfully cheesy) or the 2009 remake (which has a bit more modern gore), you’ll get to experience the thrill of someone really taking the whole “killing your ex” idea a little too far. If you’re single, it’s nice to know someone out there has way worse relationship problems than you.

Pro Tip: Try not to scream too loudly. The neighbors might think you’re actually in trouble. Or they’ll just think you have a strange romantic interest in pickaxes.

“The Bride of Frankenstein” (1935)

Let’s take it back to the classics, shall we? “The Bride of Frankenstein” is everything a Valentine’s horror movie should be: mad science, stitched-up lovers, and a strong female lead with questionable relationship choices. Watching Frankenstein’s monster try and fail at romance is a nice reminder that relationships can be a bit of a monster. But it’s okay—sometimes love just needs a little stitching up.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling particularly romantic, you can dress up like a mad scientist and start your own “romantic experiments.” Who knows? Maybe you’ll create the perfect Valentine. Or, you know, accidentally summon a horrifying monster. Either way, it’s a fun night.

“Teeth” (2007)

Nothing says “I love you” like the horrifying concept of vagina dentata. This psychological horror-comedy about a girl who discovers that her body has a terrifyingly deadly secret is perfect for anyone who wants a Valentine’s Day movie that’s both awkward and extremely unsettling. If you’re having trouble finding love, don’t worry—at least you won’t have to worry about that kind of surprise on your date.

Pro Tip: Watching this movie on Valentine’s Day will either make you want to run for the hills or vow to never go on a first date again. Either way, you’re in for a wild ride.

So, whether you’re curled up on the couch alone or snuggling with your non-horrifying partner, these movies will remind you that love isn’t always roses and chocolates—sometimes it’s body parts, strange creatures, and a lot of uncomfortable situations. So this Valentine’s Day, embrace the horror of it all… after all, what’s scarier than being alone on February 14th?

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Film Review: Nosferatu (2024)

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The latest adaptation of Nosferatu (2024) is a stunning reimagining of the iconic 1922 silent film that has endured as one of the most influential horror movies in cinematic history. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film blends elements of gothic horror, expressionism, and modern sensibilities to create something both timeless and terrifying.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

Eggers, known for his meticulous craftsmanship in The Witch (2015) and The Lighthouse (2019), brings his signature atmospheric tension and historical precision to Nosferatu. The movie is a reworking of the classic tale of Count Orlok, a vampire whose eerie presence and insatiable thirst for blood spread fear and chaos. While the story remains rooted in the essential beats of the 1922 film, Eggers injects a fresh and chilling perspective into the narrative.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its refusal to simply remake the original but instead, taking the essence of the 1922 film and amplifying it. It’s not just a retelling; it’s a reimagining for a new era. The movie is steeped in the atmosphere of the 19th century, but Eggers expands the world with deeper emotional stakes, giving us a story that feels both historical and contemporary in its exploration of dread.

Visual and Cinematic Brilliance

The visuals are absolutely mesmerizing. Eggers’ use of practical effects and the gorgeous cinematography by Jarin Blaschke (a frequent collaborator) take full advantage of the eerie landscapes and the haunting visage of Count Orlok, played by Bill Skarsgård. The makeup and prosthetics on Skarsgård are nothing short of mesmerizing, transforming him into a truly otherworldly and grotesque figure. His portrayal of the vampire is a combination of the original Nosferatu’s malevolence and a new level of psychological complexity that makes Orlok both more unsettling and tragically human.

The film’s color palette is steeped in muted tones, with chiaroscuro lighting that evokes the expressionist style of the 1922 film but is done in a way that feels fresh and striking. Eggers embraces modern sensibilities but also pays homage to the heavy use of shadows and visual storytelling that made the silent film so groundbreaking.

A Strong Performances Across the Board

While Skarsgård’s performance as the vampire is undeniably captivating, the supporting cast also shines. Lily-Rose Depp, playing the central character of Ellen, is emotionally vulnerable yet resilient. Her portrayal of a woman torn between the supernatural forces surrounding her and the love of her husband (played by Nicholas Hoult) brings a poignancy to the film that deepens its terror. Depp’s presence is ethereal, almost as though she’s an extension of the haunting landscapes, which enhances the film’s atmosphere.

Nicholas Hoult, known for his versatility, gives a nuanced performance as the doctor who becomes entwined in Orlok’s web. His progression from curiosity to horror is beautifully done, and his chemistry with Depp makes their relationship believable even amidst the supernatural chaos.

Themes of Isolation and Despair

Nosferatu (2024) explores more than just the fear of vampires; it delves into themes of isolation, the human psyche, and the destructive nature of obsession. Much like the original, the film touches on the profound isolation of both Orlok and his victims, but Eggers takes this further, showing how fear and longing can distort reality. The dark, oppressive atmosphere mirrors the emotional isolation of the characters, where the external threats seem to echo internal struggles.

Eggers also plays with the notion of the monstrous as both an outward and inward transformation. Orlok is not just a vampire—he’s a manifestation of our darkest fears, a creature that lurks in the shadows of the human soul. The tension between the supernatural and the human condition makes the story resonate beyond the genre of horror.

The Verdict

Ultimately, Nosferatu (2024) is a triumph of modern horror filmmaking. Eggers has crafted a visually stunning, thematically rich, and deeply unsettling film that successfully reinvents a classic while staying true to the original’s spirit. Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Orlok is mesmerizing, and the haunting atmosphere of the film is a testament to Eggers’ prowess as a director.

While the film takes its time to build tension, its slow-burn atmosphere pays off in a finale that is as chilling as it is thought-provoking. Fans of classic horror, as well as those who appreciate more cerebral, atmospheric films, will find much to admire in this 2024 reimagining of Nosferatu. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll—both terrifying and beautiful in equal measure.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

A masterful reimagining of a classic, Nosferatu (2024) reminds us why horror, when done right, can transcend the realm of pure fright to become something far more profound.

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Happy New Year & 2025 Goals

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2024 felt rather quiet in regards to publishing – but three amazing things did happen:

My short story “The Unconventional Tea Party,” won third prize for the Prose category in Killer Shorts 2024

My poem “Luna Nera” appeared in The Horror Writer’s Association Poetry Showcase Vol. XI.

L.E. Daniels’ short story, “Silk,” was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award for short stories (I had published Daniels’ story in my Women in Horror Anthology: Hush, Don’t Wake the Monster: Stories Inspired by Stephen King.

-I was super busy doing a lot of writing this year so I’m happy to announce that I will be having some releases in 2025: Into the Dread Unknown: Gothic Anthology and PANICO! Marie Antoinette’s Journey During the Reign of Terror.

2025 GOALS

-Write a horror feature screenplay

-Write a play.

-Find a publisher for my romantic thriller TEAR YOU APART.

-Find a publisher for my gothic horror novella THIS FEVER CALLED LIVING

-Find a publisher for my urban legend novella CRY ME A RIVER

-Find a home for my two lit pieces, “A SICILIAN FUNERAL” and “DADDY”

-Work on my current WIP occult thriller

-Read at least 50 books.

What are some of your goals going into the new year?

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The Fall of a Queen: Marie Antoinette’s Story Unveiled – PANICO! by Azzurra Nox

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From shy Austrian princess to vilified French queen.

“I am the venom in your veins…”

To this day, Marie Antoinette remains a very polarizing and controversial queen. Known for her extravagant fashion and luxurious lifestyle, she quickly became the hated symbol of aristocratic indulgence and depravity. The Revolutionists made her the scapegoat for all of their rage, which led her to the scaffold.


This poetry book captures Marie Antoinette’s journey from leaving Versailles in 1789 to navigating the Reign of Terror and her untimely demise in 1793. A journey compiled by despair and loss—but that ultimately forged the path for Marie Antoinette to showcase her bravery and resilience. Told in the point of view of the unfortunate Queen, you will experience the highs and lows of her years in captivity. From gilded queen to widow Capet—this book explores Marie Antoinette’s plight in a way that is both intimate and raw. Experience history like you never have before in these poems that read like confessions and leave a mark long after you’ve reached the end.

Book is available MAY 6, 2025 – but you can PRE-ORDER HERE!

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