Ask the Author: Mark Young
Answered Questions (10)
Mark Young
I've taken part in the Goodreads 2020 challenge. And I've made a start on including more horror classics and self-published authors on that list.
Being more specific - I take it book-by-book to be honest. There are just so many good books out there and so many that collected over the last few years that are waiting to be read. I'm looking forward to reading more Graham Masterton, James Herbert, Poppy Z Brite and Christopher Fowler.
I'd be interested in seeking out more female and LGBTQ horror authors too.
Being more specific - I take it book-by-book to be honest. There are just so many good books out there and so many that collected over the last few years that are waiting to be read. I'm looking forward to reading more Graham Masterton, James Herbert, Poppy Z Brite and Christopher Fowler.
I'd be interested in seeking out more female and LGBTQ horror authors too.
Mark Young
Ooh that's a good one. Hmmm...
I'd say Oz. I mean who wouldn't want to meet the wizard and some wonderfully fabulous friends along the way.
I'd say Oz. I mean who wouldn't want to meet the wizard and some wonderfully fabulous friends along the way.
Mark Young
I looked down at the page to see it was blank. Just where the hell have I been while sat here for the last eight hours...
Mark Young
Hey Anthony
So sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Only just seen your message.
Thank you for your interest in my book. I do hope you still read it in spite of my overly late reply. My bad.
I'm currently working on the next volume which is to be released in July. And I can't wait to share it.
So sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Only just seen your message.
Thank you for your interest in my book. I do hope you still read it in spite of my overly late reply. My bad.
I'm currently working on the next volume which is to be released in July. And I can't wait to share it.
Mark Young
I'll answer this in two parts. Firstly, in terms of the lead story in my anthology: "The Heartbreaker." I really got interested in horror as a young adult. I've enjoyed super hero films since I was a kid and recently they've become so prominent in pop culture. I thought it would be great idea to fuse the two genres - a dark fantasy/horror take on the super hero origin story. Once our emotionally charged anti-hero Steve Wrangler discovers his powers - carnage ensues toward a horrifying and bloody climax. It was great fun to write, so I'm hoping readers will enjoy it too!
Part 2: I wanted to write short stories, one because they're a great format for self-contained dark fantasy and horror. And secondly, I have over 50 stories (so far) to share. The short story format is the best way to get them out quicker - otherwise I'd don't think I have enough years left to present them as full novels (as well as the actual novels I have planned).
There really is a mixed collection here. You won't be reading the same story twice, I promise you that. I like to think there's something in this collection for everyone who likes Dark Fantasy & Horror. And if a reader is new to these genres then short stories are a great place to start.
I really enjoyed writing this book - it's been a great learning experience. I hope those that take a chance on it, enjoy it just as much as I did writing it.
Part 2: I wanted to write short stories, one because they're a great format for self-contained dark fantasy and horror. And secondly, I have over 50 stories (so far) to share. The short story format is the best way to get them out quicker - otherwise I'd don't think I have enough years left to present them as full novels (as well as the actual novels I have planned).
There really is a mixed collection here. You won't be reading the same story twice, I promise you that. I like to think there's something in this collection for everyone who likes Dark Fantasy & Horror. And if a reader is new to these genres then short stories are a great place to start.
I really enjoyed writing this book - it's been a great learning experience. I hope those that take a chance on it, enjoy it just as much as I did writing it.
Mark Young
It just comes to me. As I've mentioned before I meditate and run, so when I have a clear, focussed mind the ideas just come to me. I read a lot. Not just horror and dark fantasy (which is what I enjoy writing) but I think it's also important to read other genres too. Somehow it keeps the writing part of my mind refreshed.
Mark Young
The follow up anthology to The Heartbreaker. I have about another 4 collections planned in the "13" Dark Fantasy & Horror series - 2 of which have already been written. So I'm working on editing the next collection: Coven.
Mark Young
Oh, gosh. I’m an aspiring writer myself, so I’m not sure I’m the best person to answer this. But I guess I’d say follow your passion. Write what enjoy. Don’t give up. Learn your craft. And read as much as you write.
Mark Young
Creating. It’s been said before that writing is like being in a meditative state. And so with a clear mind, inspiration comes and as cliched as it sounds the stories write themselves. Being present and in that moment as the story unfolds and the words just come is an amazing experience. Very fulfilling.
Mark Young
First and foremost, I try not to force anything. Writing is like a form of meditation so seeing as I meditate and run as part of my daily routine, I try one of those options first. If those don't work, I turn to reading a good book or listening music. Sometimes doing more physical tasks helps get out of my head too. I also find the flow of inspiration slows if the book I'm reading is a struggle. Change to a book I click with - and often inspiration comes.
If there's a creative block - there's usually a personal issue behind it. So I take the leap and start asking myself questions to find out what's behind the thought so I can dissolve it and let it go.
If there's a creative block - there's usually a personal issue behind it. So I take the leap and start asking myself questions to find out what's behind the thought so I can dissolve it and let it go.
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