Daniel Lorn's Blog

I am unsure where the past few months have gone. The older I get, the faster time seems to pass. Anyway, as it’s silly season, it's probably time for a quick update.

WHAT AM I WORKING ON?

I'm just putting the finishing touches on a festive-themed horror tale I hope will be part of an anthology. If not, it will be published as a standalone novelette next year. ARCs will, of course, be available as soon as the story is ready. This project is currently titled ISOLATION.

ISOLATION

When Edwyn visits the remote cottage where he and his late wife spent Christmas the previous year, he uncovers dark truths about the mysterious forest that dominates the snow-covered horizon. A malevolent thought invades his mind, suggesting that somehow his wife’s peculiar illness was linked to that place.

FEAR OF THE DEVIL

Fear of the Devil is an idea I sketched out many moons ago but never managed to write. Recently, I revisited it, and something finally clicked. This will be my first novel, and I plan to finish it in 2026. There is much work to do, but once Isolation is finished, Fear of the Devil will be my primary focus for 2026. Wish me luck! 

Fear of the Devil is a folk horror tale, set on a remote Island in Scotland, and that’s about all I can say for now. More to follow, very soon!

SOCIAL MEDIA BREAKS

I took a short break from social media for a few weeks recently to finish the first draft of Isolation, and it definitely paid off. As a result, this will become a regular part of my writing routine, with a more extended break expected in Feb - Mar as I work on Fear of the Devil. 

FESTIVE SEASON

I would like to wish you all the very best for the festive season, and of course, the New Year when it comes.

Until next time…

See You Later…

As Halloween creeps menacingly towards us, I wanted to give a quick update on what has been going on for the past few months, let you know how my stories are doing, and share the current situation with my next release.

HOW ARE MY BOOKS DOING?

I have been truly blessed the past few months. Sales and KU reads have been better than ever, with my latest horror tale, Formulation, currently leading the pack. The way things are going, I expect Formulation to overtake RED as my most popular story by the end of the year. It’s been a while since I commented individually on my stories, so follow me into the darkness, and I will share my thoughts with you.

OBSESSION

When I released Obsession in 2022, I did so just as a tester to see if anyone would read my work. I had been experimenting with different writing styles, but felt more comfortable in the first-person narrative. During that process, Obsession was born. Obsession had an unsassuming release, followed by a spike in sales in 2023, and things have gone quiet again more recently. Obsession is currently free to anyone who subscribes to this website, and is (in my opinion) the perfect story of mine to start with.

PACT

After Obsession, I wanted to write more psychological horror, so I returned to the drawing board and dreamed up this nasty little story. Of all my work, I have been most surprised by how well Pact has been received. I didn’t have high hopes for it when I wrote it, but readers seem to love this one for whatever reason. With Pact, I have learned to listen to the readers who enjoy my work, which helps me decide on future projects. Thankfully, Pact continues to find more readers and has recently overtaken Obsession in terms of popularity.

SEE YOU LATER

See You Later was my first attempt at writing horror. I carried the idea for many years before penning the first draft (out of the blue) in 2020. My own experience of sleep paralysis influenced this story. When I returned to See You Later, immediately after releasing Pact, I decided not to alter the writing style too much, as I wanted it to have its own ‘feel’. In hindsight, and after several re-reads, my only criticism is that it is perhaps too wordy. Don’t get me wrong, I love the flow and structure of the story, but had I written it now, it would be a slightly different beast. I am confident that I made the right decision, as it is nice to look back at my work and see where it all started. Regarding my first steps as a writer, See You Later will always have a special place in my heart.

RED

In my opinion, RED is my strongest work in terms of writing. I set out to create something dark, suffocating, and genuinely original, and I am confident that I achieved that with RED. This was me writing well within my comfort zone, and I loved every single minute of the process. Even when RED received a one-star review the day after its release, I had faith in this story, and it certainly did not disappoint me. Writer’s block consumed me after RED, but only because I was determined to write something different and step outside my comfort zone. I promised this year that if Red gets 100 ratings on Goodreads and 50 on Amazon, I will stop whatever I am doing and write a second tale in this world.

SINS OF THE WRONGED

With SOTW, I decided to switch to a different writing style to challenge myself and develop my writing skills. SOTW has a love/hate vibe, and this is something I expected from the first chapter. The story won’t be to everyone’s taste, but the feedback has been fantastic for those who have stuck with it and immersed themselves in this world. I was close to shelving this story several times, but something kept me going here, and I am so glad that I saw the process through. SOTW (like See You Later) will appeal to a different audience than my more well-established work.

FORMULATION

After my seemingly endless battle with SOTW, I was incredibly keen to return to my comfort zone. Formulation manifested from a concept I initially considered but was missing a key element to bring it to life. Fast-forward a few months to when a spider bit me on the hand, and suddenly, I had a story! As already alluded to, I foresee Formulation soon becoming my most popular story. The paperback has sold more than all of my other paperbacks combined, and none of my other stories have had so many reviews in such a short time.

WILL I EVER WRITE A NOVEL?

I continue to be asked this question, but my answer differs from the last blog. I now have five WIP options for a novel, one of which is 75% complete! The only issue is time, motivation, and fewer excuses! I won’t confirm any planned release dates yet, but… something is coming!

WRITING PROCESS

I do not work well with structure when commencing a new WIP; believe me, I have tried over the past few months. Since releasing Formulation, I have played around with story structure templates, spreadsheets, and brainstorming, but all that does is cause me a headache. Therefore, I will return to my routine of sitting down to write, putting on some ambient music, and seeing what story spills out of the dark corners of my mind.

WORK IN PROGRESS

I am fluttering between five WIPs, waiting for one of them to fill me with enough dread and motivation to go full guns blazing. This usually happens at this time of year, but I am much closer to deciding than I was for the last two years, so I am in a good place. I will let you know as soon as I fully commit to my next venture.

Until next time…

See You Later…

Formulation has now been officially released into the wild, and I am eager to see the response to my latest tale of psychological terror.

INSPIRATION

Formulation began as a completely different idea, which gradually developed into two separate stories. It took me some time to realise this was happening until one night, I woke up with a spider bite on my hand. The next day, after visiting the pharmacy, Formulation finally... ahem... formulated!

The other story is almost finished, and it would be simple for me to step in and complete it, but I have frustratingly developed an allergic reaction to taking the easy path.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Although I haven’t yet chosen my next story, I am fortunate to have several options from my backlog of abandoned works in progress! Throughout August, I will slowly review my drafts to determine which one I am ready to dedicate a few months to. In September, I will start writing again. The most likely candidates are listed on my WIP page, which I have just updated.

WILL I EVER WRITE A NOVEL?

I keep getting asked this question! It’s almost as though a novel is expected from writers, as the next logical step. The honest answer is that I don’t know! When I start a new writing project, I have no idea how long the story will be, nor do I care. My longest story was Sins of the Wronged at 29,000 words (I just checked). See You Later was 27,000 words. One thing I will never do is ‘pad’ a story out longer than it needs to be. Some writers have a knack for writing longer fiction, but I am (currently) more comfortable in the novelette-novella range.

Let’s see what the future brings…

IN CLOSING

Well, I'd better stop rambling before I write a novel. That’s how it starts, isn’t it? I'm just joking. Thanks to everyone for your support, whether you’re a regular reader of my work or have just stumbled into my nest. My stories would never come alive without you allowing them into your imaginations.

It’s time to set off on my holiday at a remote lodge in the countryside. Away from people, noise, and the constraints of reality, just for a while.

Until next time…

See You Later…

Formulation has now been officially released into the wild, and I am eager to see the response to my latest tale of psychological terror.

INSPIRATION

Formation began as a completely different idea, which gradually developed into two separate stories. It took me some time to realise this was happening until one night, I woke up with a spider bite on my hand. The next day, after visiting the pharmacy, Formulation finally... ahem... formulated!

The other story is almost finished, and it would be simple for me to step in and complete it, but I have frustratingly developed an allergic reaction to taking the easy path.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Although I haven’t yet chosen my next story, I am fortunate to have several options from my backlog of abandoned works in progress! Throughout August, I will slowly review my drafts to determine which one I am ready to dedicate a few months to. In September, I will start writing again. The most likely candidates are listed on my WIP page, which I have just updated.

WILL I EVER WRITE A NOVEL?

I keep getting asked this question! It’s almost as though a novel is expected from writers, as the next logical step. The honest answer is that I don’t know! When I start a new writing project, I have no idea how long the story will be, nor do I care. My longest story was Sins of the Wronged at 29,000 words (I just checked). See You Later was 27,000 words. One thing I will never do is ‘pad’ a story out longer than it needs to be. Some writers have a knack for writing longer fiction, but I am (currently) more comfortable in the novelette-novella range.

Let’s see what the future brings…

IN CLOSING

Well, I'd better stop rambling before I write a novel. That’s how it starts, isn’t it? I'm just joking. Thanks to everyone for your support, whether you’re a regular reader of my work or have just stumbled into my nest. My stories would never come alive without you allowing them into your imaginations.

It’s time to set off on my holiday at a remote lodge in the countryside. Away from people, noise, and the constraints of reality, just for a while.

Until next time…

See You Later…

Formulation has now been officially released into the wild, and I am eager to see the response to my latest tale of psychological terror.

INSPIRATION

Formation began as a completely different idea, which gradually developed into two separate stories. It took me some time to realise this was happening until one night, I woke up with a spider bite on my hand. The next day, after visiting the pharmacy, Formulation finally... ahem... formulated!

The other story is almost finished, and it would be simple for me to step in and complete it, but I have frustratingly developed an allergic reaction to taking the easy path.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Although I haven’t yet chosen my next story, I am fortunate to have several options from my backlog of abandoned works in progress! Throughout August, I will slowly review my drafts to determine which one I am ready to dedicate a few months to. In September, I will start writing again. The most likely candidates are listed on my WIP page, which I have just updated.

WILL I EVER WRITE A NOVEL?

I keep getting asked this question! It’s almost as though a novel is expected from writers, as the next logical step. The honest answer is that I don’t know! When I start a new writing project, I have no idea how long the story will be, nor do I care. My longest story was Sins of the Wronged at 29,000 words (I just checked). See You Later was 27,000 words. One thing I will never do is ‘pad’ a story out longer than it needs to be. Some writers have a knack for writing longer fiction, but I am (currently) more comfortable in the novelette-novella range.

Let’s see what the future brings…

IN CLOSING

Well, I'd better stop rambling before I write a novel. That’s how it starts, isn’t it? I'm just joking. Thanks to everyone for your support, whether you’re a regular reader of my work or have just stumbled into my nest. My stories would never come alive without you allowing them into your imaginations.

It’s time to set off on my holiday at a remote lodge in the countryside. Away from people, noise, and the constraints of reality, just for a while.

Until next time…

See You Later…

The past few months have been extremely hectic, but I am finally making progress. Therefore, here is a quick update.

FORMULATION

As you will be aware, FORMULATION is nearing its release date, and I have been busy doing all of the ‘other stuff’ behind the scenes. FORMULATION will be available in paperback and e-book, and ARC copies are available on request. You can also join the Booksprout ARC campaign. I have placed some links below and a sneak preview of the paperback cover at the bottom of this blog.

As mentioned in my last blog, Formulation is being released under Silver Thistle Press, and I have left some links below.

THANK YOU

Raising a loaded tumbler of single Malt to Silja Evelyn. Thanks so much for your help with the final edit. Your eye for detail never ceases to amaze me. I have left a link below for anyone looking for a fantastic editor.

Thanks also to Milt, Dave, Sue, and Christopher for being the first to leave a review. You are all amazing, and I genuinely appreciate your support.

IN CLOSING

While I await the response to FORMULATION, I will take a short break from writing, but I will be back at it very soon to create my next nightmare.

More to follow.

As always, thank you all for the support.

Yours in horror,

Daniel Lorn

My latest psychological horror novella, FORMULATION, will be released on 28 Jul 25. I can now confirm that this story will be published under Silver Thistle Press, and you will see some links below.

BLURB

Trapped amidst the aftermath of inebriated and forgotten deeds, an unfaithful man promises himself that this will be the last time he betrays his family.

While struggling to untangle himself from a web of his own making, he notices that all is not what it seems. A lingering sense of unease haunts every conscious moment, as does the sensation of something monstrous creeping steadily closer.

From the dark and unwelcoming corners of existence, a creature observes him patiently, gathering shape with every desperate breath he takes.

WARNING: This book contains scenes of psychological and physical horror.

ADVANCE READER COPIES

If you'd like an ARC of FORMULATION, please contact me using the link below.

As always, thank you all for the support.

Yours in horror,

Daniel Lorn

As the sun reluctantly graces the skies above the UK, it's probably time for a quick update on what is happening in my world.

FORMULATION

My next release will be a supernatural/psychological horror novella called FORMULATION, which will be released at the end of July.

FORMULATION has a brand new cover, which will be posted on social media on 14/07/25. It’s my first time doing a cover reveal, and trust me, this one is an absolute beauty! I also have some exciting news regarding this story, which I cannot wait to share with you all.

The amazingly talented Silja Evelyn is currently editing this story. Any fellow authors looking for an editor should definitely go check her services out at the link below.

BLURB

An unfaithful husband finds himself trapped amidst the aftermath of recent inebriated deeds. Although he has made mistakes before, he promises this will be the last time he betrays his family.

While struggling to untangle himself from a web of his own making, he notices that all is not what it seems. A lingering sense of unease haunts every conscious moment, as does the sensation of something monstrous creeping steadily closer.

From the dark and unwelcoming corners of existence, a creature observes him patiently, gathering shape with every desperate breath he takes.

ADVANCE READER COPIES

If you'd like an ARC of FORMULATION, please subscribe to this website using the contact page, and I’ll email you when it’s ready. You don’t need to do anything if you are already a subscriber.

FREE BOOK GIVEAWAY

I still have a few spare copies of some of my books (as per the photo), and tomorrow I will commence a FREE BOOK promo on my social media platforms. Let me know (contact me) if you want to snatch one, and I will add you to the draw.

IN CLOSING

After I release FORMULATION, I will be heading off on my holidays. Once I return, I will decide upon my next release. I have several stories in the pipeline and cannot wait to get stuck back in again.

As always, thank you all for the support.

Yours in horror,

Daniel Lorn

As the sun reluctantly graces the skies above the UK, it's probably time for a quick update on what is happening in my world.

FORMULATION

My next release will be a supernatural/psychological horror novella called FORMULATION, which will be released at the end of July.

FORMULATION has a brand new cover, which will be posted on social media on 14/07/25. It’s my first time doing a cover reveal, and trust me, this one is an absolute beauty! I also have some exciting news regarding this story, which I cannot wait to share with you all.

The amazingly talented Silja Evelyn is currently editing this story. Any fellow authors looking for an editor should definitely go check her services out at the link below.

BLURB

An unfaithful husband finds himself trapped amidst the aftermath of recent inebriated deeds. Although he has made mistakes before, he promises this will be the last time he betrays his family.

While struggling to untangle himself from a web of his own making, he notices that all is not what it seems. A lingering sense of unease haunts every conscious moment, as does the sensation of something monstrous creeping steadily closer.

From the dark and unwelcoming corners of existence, a creature observes him patiently, gathering shape with every desperate breath he takes.

ADVANCE READER COPIES

If you'd like an ARC of FORMULATION, please subscribe to this website using the contact page, and I’ll email you when it’s ready. You don’t need to do anything if you are already a subscriber.

FREE BOOK GIVEAWAY

I still have a few spare copies of some of my books (as per the photo), and tomorrow I will commence a FREE BOOK promo on my social media platforms. Let me know (contact me) if you want to snatch one, and I will add you to the draw.

IN CLOSING

After I release FORMULATION, I will be heading off on my holidays. Once I return, I will decide upon my next release. I have several stories in the pipeline and cannot wait to get stuck back in again.

As always, thank you all for the support.

Yours in horror,

Daniel Lorn

It’s been a while since my last blog, so here is a quick update on how things are going with my current project and your chance to gain a FREE SIGNED COPY of one of my books.

FORMULATION

I have finally completed the first draft of my next story, FORMULATION. This will be my first release of 2025, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Prone to excess forms of debauchery, especially after a few drinks, our reluctant hero is made to confront his deepest fears, which manifest amidst a thickening shadow of impending dread. For the sake of his family, he strives to navigate this escalating nightmare but soon realises that some demons are indeed real.

The initial idea for Formulation was notably different from what it has evolved into, and the process has taken me on quite a journey. I was also compelled to shift the writing style from third person to first person, which was very painful; however, I am pleased to have successfully navigated this transition.

As the idea blossomed, I found myself crafting something akin to OBSESSION and PACT. Although this concerned me initially, it soon became evident that FORMULATION was evolving into a wholly original and fresh piece.

INFLUENCE

When I started developing the main structure of the story, I felt a nagging sense that something was missing. Weeks turned into months, and the tale loomed menacingly before me like a fragmented sculpture lacking the glue to hold it together. Indeed, something was wrong with the formulation…

…until

A few weeks ago, I woke up with two red, angry bumps on my hand. From what I could gather, they could only have been caused by the fangs of an oversized arachnid.

Ultimately, everything became apparent while I stood in the pharmacy waiting to receive treatment for my bite.

Whichever demon bit me while I peacefully slept injected me with the missing piece of my tale. Therefore, my first-ever foreword is dedicated to my eight-legged friend.

BETA READERS

If you wish to be added to the email list for an ARC of FORMULATION, please subscribe using the contact page, and I will email you when it is ready. You don’t need to do anything if you are already a subscriber.

FREE BOOK GIVEAWAY

I have a few spare copies of my books and plan to do a FREE BOOK promo (soon) on my social media platforms.

As a subscriber, you are the first to read about this offer. All you need to do is send me your shipping address and the name of the book you would like me to send you, and I will do the rest.

IN CLOSING

I hit quite a writer’s block in 2024 after releasing Sins of the Wronged, but more recently, I have found my flow again, which is handy because…

I have many more horrors to share with you.

Thank you all for the support.

Yours in horror,

Daniel Lorn