Resources for Horror Writers

Here are a few sites that may be of interest to aspiring horror writers.

DarkMarkets—The current post features an interview with author Michael Arnzen and announces a contest in June sponsored by Human Echoes Podcast, (“Dino-punk Deathmatch!”).  The site reviews seven recent books about horror writing, and includes useful links to market listings, upcoming anthologies, publishers, contests and magazines.  The last listing was especially reassuring about the vitality of the horror field.  Over 40 magazines are reviewed with respect to contents and desired work. 

(http://darkmarkets.com/ )

Hellnotes—This is the website for JournalStone Publishing and its magazine Dark Discoveries.  Also featured are reviews of recent books, movies, and comics, as well as general news in the horror, science fiction and fantasy fields.

(http://hellnotes.com/)

The Horror Tree—What to do with ideas that do not initially work but may show promise later is the topic of the current post, (“Setting Self Doubt on Fire:  Embrace the bad ideas”).  The author offers 5 points to consider in determining whether and how an idea for a story may be resuscitated.  Upcoming anthologies and publications that are taking current or ongoing submissions are covered; there are also sections providing helpful tips for free-lance writers.  This site also offers encouragement and commiseration to aspiring authors.  

(http://horrortree.com)

Writer Beware®: The Blog—This site provides a wealth of information regarding legal issues, publishing scams, and exploitation of writers, as well as technical articles that pertain to various types of publishing.  For example, there are sections that deal with the pros and cons of self-publishing via companies that offer print on demand, and what to consider when selecting a small press publisher.  Though it provides important information and updates for all authors, the site is strongly recommended for those just beginning to explore the publication of their work.

(http://accrispin.blogspot.com/)

(http://www.sfwa.org/other-resources/for-authors/writer-beware/)

Dark Side University—Horror writers who need “continuing education units” to maintain their horror credentials may want to take a class or two at this site.  Course offerings this month include “History 104: The Life and Works of Mary Shelley” and the seasonally appropriate “Horticulture 101: Gothic Gardening.”  It looks like a lot of fun.  Interested visitors are also invited to teach classes in their areas of expertise.  

The university is affiliated with Dark Side of the Net, an emporium of Goth oriented cultural products and paraphernalia, (“Darkly Elegant Vintage and Modern Spider Jewelry”).  Together, the two sites sample an impressive range of film, literature, and Goth community events through social media, a forum, video listings, chat room events, blogs, and interesting links to other resources.

(http://darksideuniversity.ning.com/)

(http://www.darklinks.com/)

Snakebite Horror—From the UK, this site reviews movies, books, TV, games and anime from both sides of the Atlantic and other places, too.  Snakebite is currently recruiting reviewers, though the position is unpaid, (you get to keep the e-books and films sent for reviewing).  As the creator of the site says, “Most of the team here at Snakebite Horror are writers or aspiring reviewers and hey we all need that stepping stone right.”
http://www.snakebitehorror.co.uk/