Miguel Gonçalves's Blog
April 21, 2025
Spilled Ink #33

Hey everyone!
I know I let it pass a long time before sending another one of these newsletters, but I’ve been dealing with some things related to the new comic book and the respective crowdfunding.
Which brings me to this!
We’ve reached the objective for the crowdfunding campaign! It was a lot of emotion, and I had to wait to see if I wasn’t dreaming (I got the email around 3:30 am and was half asleep when I read it…).

There are still two weeks to go, so if you are interested in joining the campaign, now without any risks, go for it. You can find the campaign page here.
And I just recall that I never got to show you the covers for the project, shame on me! I hope you can forgive me for this misstep…

This is the regular black and white cover, which will be the comic's main cover. It will be the one that we will have available for the most part. Even though it’s the “regular” one, it will be special in its way, being a wraparound cover. If you look carefully, you can see that Damian wove a tapestry with elements from the three stories in the book.

This colored cover is the crowdfunding campaign's exclusive cover. I’ll be honest, I’ll try not to sell this one outside of the crowdfunding, but due to printing costs, I might have some extras that I might make available at some fairs or events. I let Damian decide what he wanted to do in most of the artwork he did, but this one was the one he let go a bit more, even if, in truth, I can see a lot of one of the stories in this cover.

And finally, Damian’s poster for one of the reward tiers of the campaign. This is the first time I’m showing it to people outside of a small circle of friends. I really like the composition of this piece, and Damian truly outdid himself.
I’m still working on one or two things I would like to include in the campaign, a kind of addon rewards, but all of that will depend on time and money availability, unfortunately…
WRITER’S DESKI’ve been writing very little, unfortunately. Most of the writing I did in these last few weeks was for a workshop I started like two weeks ago…
But writing these small bits for the workshop is helping me with some ideas I wanted to work on, and also made me pick up a book of horror prompts that I’ve been keeping on the shelf.
Apart from that and with the comic anthology done, I’m working on adapting an older short story into a comic script format. After that, I just need an artist to do it!
BOOK REPORTMy book reading is a bit stalled due to the manga reading (see below). But I read “Jackknife”, a short story by Joe Hill, and it was a cool one, about a man who loses everything and tries to take some control but ends up even worse than he started. As I said, it’s a cool one, with some good elements, but decidedly not one of Hill’s best works in my opinion. I just ended the story wanting to know more, and if he ever revisits it, I’ll be sure to be there to read it, as there are a lot of things to be discovered in this one.
This short story is part of Amazon Originals and a series of five short stories by various authors called The Shivers. Next up, I’ll pick up “Night and Day in Misery” by Catriona Ward.

I’ve finished all the published Berserk volumes (except for the last one that came out) and decided to start another manga. This time, I picked up Claymore, which is about a group of half-human, half-demon warriors who hunt demons. They are all women, as men don’t seem to survive the process that transforms them into the killing machines that they are. I read three volumes, and I’m really enjoying it.

The Pitt is finished for its first season, and I must say that if this series doesn’t sweep all the awards, there’s something really wrong with the world.
It has been a long time since a series got me so involved and caring so much about what is happening. I researched procedures and medical jargon so I could be in the loop during the hour-long episode. I discussed what had transpired and what was going to happen next with the only person I knew who was also watching it.
It’s a medical procedural series, yes. But it’s more than that. It’s about people, humanity, fragility, and strength. It’s about the cost of life and what it costs to be alive.
The series direction, the acting, the music, and the writing. All is perfect. Noah Wyle proves all he can do as an actor, and with him as Dr. Roby, you can’t help but laugh and suffer with him, cry and despair when he does, but most of you can’t stop believing in him and putting your faith and yourself in his hands.
I wish I could see this again for the very first time.
THINGS I’M HYPED ABOUTThe anthology being almost out and in my hands is the only thing I can think about, if I can be honest. So please just bear with it for a little bit more, ok?
LAST WORDSAnd this is it for now!
Just let me know how you’ve been doing and what you think of everything I told you!
I’ll be back soon, and I promise it won’t take as long as this one did.
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
M.
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March 24, 2025
Spilled Ink #32

Hi everyone!
As you read these words, one of the most important (and scary) things I have ever done is live for a week (and we are almost at a third of the campaign). And that is the crowdfunding campaign for Nightmare Tales the comic book I did with the incredible Damian Connelly. It will run for a little over a month and there are what I think are some pretty cool rewards. I wanted to add some more stuff and depending on how the crowdfunding goes I still might. I have some great ideas I wanted to try but I won’t lie, not having the drawing skills, and also due to some (inherent) cost-prohibitive restraints I had to ponder.
I had to use Crowdfundr instead of Kickstarter (which would probably give more exposure to the project) since Portugal is blacklisted by Kickstarter and for that Portuguese creators can’t use the platform.
All that said I’m really hyped with this experience but also really scared, as I haven’t done anything like this before. And of course, I had to mess it up… I wanted to make the campaign available until the end of April and only made it available for 30 days… Thankfully the platform support is amazing and they fixed my mistake rather quickly. Anyway, I’m hopeful about how the campaign will advance and I’ll keep you updated!
The project will be a 36-page comic, with 24 pages divided into three 8-page stories, all featuring black-and-white artwork by Damian and a story by me.
I created five tiers, that go from 5 to 25 euros and have various rewards.
You can find all about the campaign here or on the QR code below!

And now, let’s go on with it!
WRITER’S DESKThis week I did some writing work, and not only that, it was work I’m really proud of.
I wrote almost 1400 words for a submission call and I was really happy with it until I realized I mixed submissions and this one was for a 2500-word minimum. The good thing is that I still have some time and I’ll try to expand some parts of the story to try and meet the required word count. It was an 80s/SciFi (with a pinch of body horror?) that I really had fun writing.
After this, I’m doing a story for another submission call and I plan to try and go a bit off the rails with that one.
I also did the adaptation of one of my flash fiction stories to a comic strip format. This one is rougher as the story is so small that I just divided it into panels without any page layout or formating.
BOOK REPORTI haven’t really read anything for a while but I have some books lined up to read.
The first is Monsters Within by my good friend Catarina Prata. It’s a short story anthology and from what I had the chance to see in the glance I gave it, it will be a great read. I know one of the stories already and I bet all the others will hold up to it, if not surpass it.
The other book I have on hold is BloodLily by Jessika Grewe Glover. This one is a little different from what I usually read, but I really like Jessika’s writing, and even with her telling me this one is different from her usual stuff I want to give it a try. I bet she can’t shock me all that much!
PULL LISTThis week I only read one comic but I’ve made my way through some more volumes of Berserk so it was a got week. I’m really enjoying the series but I’m starting to get close to the last of the published volumes (well, I still have 12 to go) I getting the feeling that I have to slow down so I can make the story last longer… I will talk about the manga again soon as it’s probably my favorite one, but I want to find the right place to stop a talk to you about it a bit more.
The comic I read was Jumpscare by Cullen Bunn so you know what’s coming… Fanboy mode is on!
As you know, probably because I might have told you, Cullen Bunn has a knack for weaving horror into unexpected places, and Jumpscare is no exception. This new series (published by Dark Horse Comics), which is brought to life with stunning artwork by Danny Luckert, introduces us to Allie—a horror fan turned vigilante with a terrifyingly fun ability: she can summon weapons from any horror movie she’s ever seen, a power as creative as it is gruesome, and Bunn uses it to full effect.
The first issue delivers everything you’d want from a horror-infused superhero tale—bloody action, sharp dialogue, and a protagonist who’s both unpredictable and engaging (and also the dreaded origin story every comic must have). Allie is a refreshing character, embracing the chaos with a twisted sense of humor that makes her feel right at home in the genre. The world-building is intriguing, setting up a grimy, neon-lit city filled with dangers lurking in the shadows that you may know if you read any of the Beyond Mortal Universe stories.
Danny Luckert’s artwork perfectly complements Bunn’s storytelling, capturing both the carnage and the eerie atmosphere with precision. The action sequences are dynamic and brutal, while the quieter moments carry a palpable tension that keeps you hooked.
Jumpscare is an absolute must-read for horror and superhero fans alike. If you enjoy fast-paced, blood-drenched storytelling with a dark sense of humor, this is one to add to your pull list. I, for one, can’t wait to see where this series goes next.

I tried to watch the 2016 Berserk adaptation but there’s something in the art that really doesn’t connect with me. I then started watching the adaptation of the Golden Age Arc from 2012 (I think?) and even if it’s not as good as the original anime at least I can watch it. And the Golden Age Arc is one of the best (and most important) of the series so it’s a good watch for anyone who wants to give Berserk a try.
But if you want the real experience I recommend the original anime series from 1997. That is the absolute best!

I also find the time to start a new series and I have to tell you something… Why did I wait so much to watch this?
So, growing up, ER was one of my favorite shows. The high-stakes medical emergencies, the flawed but brilliant doctors, and the sheer chaos of the ER made for some of the most gripping television I’d ever seen. So when I finally sat down to watch The Pitt—after letting 12 episodes pile up and having my friend Daniel nagging me about it (thank you for that)—I wasn’t just hoping it would be good. I needed it to be.
Could it capture the intensity and realism of ER? Absolutely. In fact, it surpasses it.
The Pitt is hands down one of the best shows of the year. Its structure is brilliant—each episode covering a single hour of a grueling 12-hour ER shift (with an extra three episodes that will make sense when you get there)—making you feel like you're right there in the trenches. But what really sets it apart is the sheer accuracy of the emergency room procedures. This isn’t just a drama using medical jargon to sound smart. It gets everything right—the frantic decisions, the exhaustion, the impossible choices, the barely controlled chaos of a trauma center trying to function under constant pressure. If you’ve ever wondered what a real ER feels like, this show nails it.
Another aspect that makes The Pitt stand out is its focus on student doctors and teaching. It doesn’t just show the veterans running the ER—it highlights the next generation of doctors being thrown into the deep end, making mistakes, learning in real time, and experiencing the brutal reality of emergency medicine. Watching these students struggle, adapt, and try to survive in one of the most intense environments imaginable adds another layer of authenticity and tension.
And then there’s Noah Wyle. Seeing him back in scrubs is a full-circle moment, but this isn’t ER’s John Carter. His character, Dr. Michael Robinavitch, is a man at the breaking point, barely holding things together with duct tape and sheer willpower. But what The Pitt does so well is balancing the personal turmoil of its doctors without it ever feeling like a distraction from the main narrative. We get glimpses into their struggles—their exhaustion, the toll the job takes on their personal lives and the mental, physical, and emotional strain—but it never overshadows the core of the show. Instead, it enhances it, making the stakes feel even more real.
By the time I hit Episode 12, I was more than hooked—but that episode? One of the best I’ve ever seen. The chaos, the mayhem, the overwhelming stress—I felt it all. It was more than real.
Honestly, if this show doesn’t get some serious awards attention, I’ll be shocked. If you haven’t started watching The Pitt yet, now’s the time. It’s the kind of TV that reminds you why great storytelling matters.

Lately, I’ve been diving into the podcast Hello from the Magic Tavern, and I have to say—I’m hooked. The premise is delightfully weird: a guy named Arnie falls through a magic portal behind a Burger King (who never) into a magical land called Foon, Fortunately, he has his podcast materials with him and starts a podcast from the Vermillion Minotaur along with Chunt, a shapeshifting badger (I won’t go into details here on what he has to do to change shapes) and Usidore, an overdramatic wizard (who always makes a point of introducing himself by his full name and titles).
It’s improv comedy meets fantasy nonsense, and it’s exactly what I was lacking on my way to and from work. I’ve only made it to episode five, but I’ve already laughed way too hard at Flower, an extremely aggressive talking potted plant, and the Foon Mittens League (FML, for short), Foon’s version of the NFL—where the rules make even less sense, and injuries sound way more horrifying.
It’s weird. It’s chaotic. And it might just be my new comfort listen.
If you’re into fantasy but want something a little lighter, or if you like improv-style comedy, I’d definitely recommend checking it out. If you’re already a listener, let me know—who’s your favorite guest or recurring character?
One last note, this is filled with adult content so be careful where you listen to it.

Have I told you I have a crowdfunding campaign going on?
Yeah, this is about all I can think about… Can you blame me?
LAST WORDSThis is it for now! Hope you have enjoyed the things I had to share with you.
As always anything you want to say or share just hit the comment section below. I’ll be waiting for your input.
Also, this week I have something important to ask. If you can please share the crowdfunding campaign for the comic. It would mean the world to me!
Keep safe and I’ll talk to you soon!
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
March 6, 2025
Spilled Ink #31

It’s been a while. Sorry about that.
But here I am again to bother you with how things have been going.
There are some news and updates, but unfortunately, not that much in the way of writing as I’ve been in a slump.
But there are books, manga, and other stuff that you might be interested in.
At least I hope so…
This week is Film Festival week where I live, so I don’t know if I’ll be able to write a lot, but maybe some magic will happen since I’ll be surrounded by creativity and people whose work is to create new worlds and stories.
WRITER’S DESKThese last few weeks, I took a step back again and didn’t write as much as I wanted. Sorry guys…
But I did write a story!
It clocked around 800 words, which isn’t bad, or at least I don’t think so when we analyze what it was. And what it was was a short, dark (horror?) love story I wrote for Valentine’s Day.
I had fun writing it, and I got to play with some ideas and see what worked or not. I’ll be honest, the feedback I got for it was a bit divisive, especially when it came to one part, and no, I won’t tell which part it is. If you find the time and want to read it (and share your thoughts), you can find it here.
I’m also struggling with some submission calls for which I have some ideas but am not really sure if they are worth pursuing. For one of them, I already did a layout for the structure of the story, and I’m going to start writing it this week. It’s leaning to something I don’t usually write. Let’s see what comes out of that.
Another thing I have in my mind is something that was asked of me a long time ago, and I have lots of ideas but don’t know how to make them work… Maybe I should dedicate more time to this... [edit: I ended up playing with this a while, and I have two solid ideas I want to pursue. I’m going to brainstorm with the project creator to see which one they prefer.]
BOOK REPORTGrady Hendrix has a knack for mixing horror with humor and nostalgia, but We Sold Our Souls cranks everything up to eleven. This one hit the hardest for me—and it might just be my favorite of his books so far.
“Heavy metal had always been about freedom. And anger. And fighting back. And carving a space for yourself in a world that wanted you to be silent.”
The story follows Kris Pulaski, a former metal guitarist whose bandmate Terry Hunt sold out, leaving her and the rest of their band, Dürt Würk, in the dust. But the betrayal goes way beyond bad contracts. As Kris starts uncovering the truth, she’s thrown into a brutal, paranoia-fueled road trip packed with violence, conspiracy, and pure heavy metal rage.
As a metal fan, I loved how Hendrix weaves in references to legendary bands and songs—each chapter title reads like a killer playlist—Reign in Blood, Holy Diver, Master of Puppets. The book doesn’t just nod to metal culture—it bleeds it. What the book also does is capture the struggles of being a musician—especially in a scene that eats its own—feels brutally real.
Kris is a fantastic protagonist—flawed, determined, and downright unstoppable. And the horror? Relentless. The supernatural elements have a creeping, Lovecraftian dread, but the real terror is watching someone fight for their dreams after the world has already written them off.
“She wasn’t dead yet. She could still make noise.”
If you love metal, dark conspiracies, and stories that refuse to go quietly, We Sold Our Souls is a must-read. This book left me exhilarated, exhausted, and wanting to blast some old Metal records.

If you want to read the full review, you can, as always, find it here.
And remember when I said that this book reads like a metal playlist? Well, I went and made one. You can listen to it here!
PULL LISTThese last weeks I’ve been away, I mostly read manga. And a specific manga title at that. I’m going to be honest with you all. I don’t know why I decided to read this now. I had watched the anime a few years ago but had never read the manga. Now, I’ve read fifteen volumes, and I’ll keep reading. Just be warned, there might be spoilers ahead.
If you’ve heard of Berserk, chances are you’ve seen it described as a dark fantasy epic, a brutal action story, or one of the greatest mangas ever. Created by Kentaro Miura, Berserk follows the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary turned relentless warrior, as he battles his way through a medieval-inspired world filled with war, treachery, and nightmarish horrors. Armed with his massive Dragonslayer sword (which is a glorified giant slab of iron), Guts wages a never-ending struggle against inhuman foes, destiny itself, and the scars of his past.
The story begins with a grim, vengeful Guts cutting through Apostles—monstrous demons disguised as humans—but soon pulls us back into his history in the Golden Age Arc, showing us how he became the man he is. Through this, Berserk lures its audience into a seemingly grounded tale of ambition, camaraderie, and war before dragging us into a descent of cosmic horror and despair. Miura’s detailed artwork and masterful storytelling make Berserk an unforgettable experience, blending philosophical themes with some of the most intense action and horror ever put to paper.
But let’s talk about something that often lurks in its shadows—the horror.
Kentaro Miura didn’t just create a violent tale of revenge; he built a world that is deeply, fundamentally horrifying. Beneath the epic battles and larger-than-life warriors lies a nightmare of cosmic indifference, twisted bodies, and the sheer terror of helplessness. Horror is baked into Berserk’s very core, shaping its world, its characters, and the bleak journey of Guts.
At its heart, Berserk is a story about struggle—Guts fighting against forces far beyond his control, whether it’s childhood abuse, a merciless world, or literal demonic entities that have already decided his fate. The mark he bears turns him into prey, hunted relentlessly with no way to escape. Every fight is an act of desperation, a battle against an uncaring universe that constantly tells him: You do not matter.
There’s also no discussion of Berserk’s horror without mentioning the Eclipse. The sheer grotesquery of it—the Apostles’ monstrous transformations, the way the flesh is twisted and warped, the horrifying inevitability of it all—is something straight out of a nightmare. Miura’s artwork captures every horrific detail, making the suffering feel almost too real. What happens to the Band of the Hawk isn’t just tragic—it’s designed to be viscerally, gut-wrenchingly horrifying.
Cosmic horror is another of the genres that thrives in Berserk. The world is ruled by unknowable entities—the God Hand—who manipulate fate on a scale no human can truly comprehend. The Idea of Evil, though barely touched upon in the main story, reinforces the bleak idea that everything—pain, suffering, even love—is dictated by forces beyond human understanding. Berserk is not just about fighting monsters; it’s about the horror of realizing you are insignificant in the grand design of the universe.
Beyond the monsters and gore, Berserk excels at psychological horror. Guts’s mind is just as much of a battlefield as the world he traverses. The Black Swordsman arc shows him at his most unhinged, consumed by rage, and barely human. Then there’s Casca, whose trauma and broken mind become one of the story’s most tragic elements. This makes horror in Berserk more than external —it’s internal, lingering, and inescapable.
The Golden Age Arc tricks you. It starts as an almost traditional rise-to-glory tale, making you invest in its characters and their dreams. Then, piece by piece, Miura tears it apart. The world that once seemed full of promise becomes a slow descent into darkness, culminating in an event that is as much psychological torment as it is physical horror. By the time the Eclipse arrives, it feels inevitable, a nightmare we, as readers, are forced to endure alongside Guts and Casca.
Horror in Berserk isn’t about jumpscares or fleeting terror—it’s about dread, inevitability, and the fragility of the human spirit. It lingers long after you close the book because Miura doesn’t just show us horror—he makes us feel it. The struggle against fate, the cruelty of the world, the inescapable past—it’s all there, woven into a story that is as haunting as it is compelling.
So, next time someone tries to sell you Berserk as a dark fantasy book, remind them: it’s also one of the most terrifying horror stories ever written.

Nothing much to share here, to be honest.
Still rewatching Supernatural, and the only new stuff I watched was this week’s episode of Solo Leveling.
We are on Fantasporto week so I’ll go watch some movies there and I’m sure to have a good time. Of course I will tell you all about the movies soon.

You don’t know what Fantasporto is? Don’t worry, I’ll tell you. Fantasporto is Porto’s very own international film festival, and it’s been showcasing the best in horror, fantasy, and sci-fi since 1981. Over the years, it’s gained a reputation as one of the top genre film festivals in the world, and as opened its doors to more than just horror and fantasy, and now has sections that go from Fantasy, Sci-Fi and Horror movies to Auteur cinema, from Asian productions to Film Schools, showcasing very different ways to make cinema. The festival also had the honor (and vision) to screen early works from directors like Guillermo del Toro and David Fincher before they became household names.
More than that, I worked with Fantasporto for almost 15 years, so I’ve seen my fair share of mind-blowing films there—some amazing, some utterly bizarre (in the best way). But more than that, I ended up building a family there.
So, if you’re into movies that push boundaries (whichever they might be), make your skin crawl, and leave you thinking, and that you’ll probably won’t get to see in the commercial circuit, this is the festival for you.
NIGHTTRACKI kept listening to Haunted Road, and this episode takes us to a very well-known character, but Amy Bruni delivers the tale with a twist.
Everyone knows the legend of Lizzie Borden—the young woman accused (and acquitted) of brutally murdering her father and stepmother with an axe in 1892. Her childhood home, now a famous bed-and-breakfast, is one of the most well-known haunted locations in the U.S. But what about the house Lizzie chose to live in after the trial? That’s where this episode of Haunted Road takes us.
Amy Bruni takes a deep dive into Maplecroft, the stunning 14-room mansion Lizzie bought with her inheritance in Fall River’s wealthiest neighborhood. You’d think she’d want to start fresh somewhere new, but Lizzie planted herself right in the middle of the town that still believed she was a murderer. And the town never let her forget it. Children would gather outside her home, throwing rocks and chanting one of the most recognizable rhymes wherever you are in the world.
"Lizzie Borden took an axe
And gave her mother forty whacks.
When she saw what she had done,
She gave her father forty-one."
Even though she was acquitted, Lizzie lived under a cloud of suspicion for the rest of her life. Her once-close friends abandoned her. The high society circles she longed to be part of shut her out. But she stayed in Maplecroft, refusing to leave the city that had turned its back on her.
But Maplecroft isn’t just a historic landmark—it’s a place filled with lingering energy. Amy sits down with Sue Vickery, the home’s caretaker, who shares firsthand experiences of unexplained activity. There are phantom footsteps, doors slamming on their own, and even a shadowy male figure haunting the third floor—a presence that isn’t Lizzie but something else entirely. Even more chilling? Some believe Lizzie herself still roams the halls, waiting for the world to finally accept her innocence.
The episode also explores the complicated and lonely life Lizzie led after her trial. Once a socialite, she became a recluse, finding companionship not in people but in her beloved French bulldogs, canaries, and even the squirrels she hand-fed in the garden. Despite the whispers, the vandalism, and the eerie isolation, Lizzie stayed in Fall River until the day she died, buried in the same cemetery as the parents she was accused of killing.
Did Lizzie Borden commit the crime, or was she just another victim of public perception? And if her spirit still lingers at Maplecroft, is she looking for peace—or justice?
If you love ghost stories and true crime and want to take a deeper glimpse into the life of one of history’s most infamous women, this episode is a must-listen.

I have some ideas that I want to try for my comic book project that I’m really hyped about. I just need to get a bit more time to clear my head and see if they are feasible or not. As soon as I have more details, you’ll be the first to know!
But I can tell you one thing. I’m really hyped for how this project will turn out.
ECHOES FROM THE PASTFor this week’s Echoes, I have to share what was supposed to be the first chapter of a story revolving around werewolves. The idea was to get to a point in the story where various factions would exist and be at odds with one another. If that sounds a bit like Werewolf: The Apocalypse, I won’t deny that parts of the world I was creating come from there.
The thing I wanted to do with the factions, though, was that they believed they were transformed by different Gods, and whoever they believed had transformed them would mold how they saw the world and influence how they would use their lycanthropy. I remember having a list of different moon gods taken from all types of pantheons but not limited to ancient religions. I remember having Konshu from the Moon Knight comics in there. I need to see if I can find that list!
I leave you with the first (and only chapter I wrote for this. Reading it now, I can see some influences in the writing that I would probably change now, but it’s funny to see how what one is reading at a certain moment can slither into your creative process. What I think I wouldn’t change is the misspelling of the village name. I guess it’s one of those things that can happen in real life when people are talking, but it’s hard to move into a written work.
Moon Burns71.9KB ∙ PDF fileDownloadDownloadLAST WORDSThis is it for now.
I hope to hear from all of you about what I shared with you.
Also, would you like to see the stories in Echos from the Past as an independent newsletter or for me to keep publishing them here? Or both? Tell me what you think.
Nothing more for now, see you soon!
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
February 14, 2025
Nightmare Ink Presents - Valentine's Special

Just something I came up as a Valentine’s treat for everyone.
Hope you all like it.
Lovely Eyes - A Valentine’s CelebrationDaniel hated Valentine’s Day.
It wasn’t just the couples, the flowers, or the smug social media posts. It was the way the holiday reminded him—loud and unrelenting—that he was alone.
That’s why he agreed to the date. A last-minute match on a dating app, someone else who didn’t want to be alone that night. Claire. Pretty, with an engaging smile in her profile picture. Their interaction was brief, going back and forth just long enough to arrange a dinner at a quiet little restaurant downtown. After all, they both wanted the same.
Now, sitting across from her, Daniel couldn’t believe his luck. Claire was even more beautiful than her picture suggested. Dark hair, and lovely green eyes that practically glowed under the restaurant’s dim lighting. She was easy to talk to, too. Warm, charming. She listened when he spoke, laughed at his jokes, and—strangely—seemed to know exactly what to say next.
“Maybe we can even take our plans for the night further than we intended,” Daniel thought and he let the idea float around his head. He felt a tingle run through his body.
"I’m glad we did this," she said, swirling the wine in her glass. "I think it’s kind of romantic in its own way. Two strangers meeting on Valentine’s Day, both looking for something, even if it’s just company."
"Yeah," Daniel agreed. "Sure beats eating frozen pizza alone."
“Or being on the sofa with a pint of ice cream.”
She laughed, and something about the sound sent a small, inexplicable chill down his spine. It wasn’t as pleasant as the feeling Daniel had had before.
The conversation flowed easily at first. Music, work, places they’d traveled. Then, Claire started saying things that made Daniel’s stomach somersault.
"You’re from Oakridge, right?" she asked.
Daniel blinked. He was sure he had never mentioned that fact about his life.
"Yeah, I am. How’d you know?"
She tilted her head, as if deep in thought. "I think you told me. On the DMs? Or maybe I just guessed right. You can say I’m pretty intuitive."
It was just a harmless coincidence. That’s what he told himself. But as the night went on, more of those coincidences kept piling up.
"It’s so interesting how you always order your steak medium-rare."
"I bet you still sleep with the fan on. Or have you already bought the white noise machine? Funny how silence really makes you uncomfortable."
"Oh, I almost forgot! How’s Mr. Whiskers?"
Daniel felt his stomach drop.
"My—my cat?"
"Mm-hmm." She took a sip of wine, watching him. "You’ve had him for three years now, right?"
His fingers tightened around his glass. He hadn’t mentioned Mr. Whiskers. Of that he was sure of. Had she gone deep in his Instagram feed?
"How do you know about him?"
Claire smiled. "Oh, Danny. I know a lot about you."
Danny.
Only his mother had ever called him that.
Daniel’s breath came slower now, his heartbeat thudding in his ears.
"Have we… met before?" His voice was tight, cautious.
Claire sighed, shaking her head as if he had just asked something silly.
"Not like this. Not really. But I’ve seen you. Lots of times. I was at your favorite coffee shop last week—you always get the caramel latte, extra shot of espresso. And the bookstore on Fifth? I saw you there a month ago. You spent an hour looking at horror novels before picking up King’s latest. Oh! And the gym—though you never last more than thirty minutes on the treadmill. But that’s okay."
She launched him a naughty smile as she reached across the table and placed her hand over his.
Daniel jerked his hand back like he’d got burned. His chair scraped against the floor as he pushed away from the table.
"What the hell?" His voice was shaking. "You’ve been… following me?"
Claire kept smiling.
"Following you? That’s so harsh. I prefer… watching. Learning. You never notice me, Danny. But I notice you. Every single day. And now, here we are."
She sighed dreamily, tilting her head. "You finally noticed me back."
Daniel’s entire body went cold. He had to get out. Now.
He grabbed his jacket and stood, but Claire didn’t move. She simply watched him, her green eyes glinting like a predator in the dark.
"Leaving already?" she murmured. "But we’re having such a wonderful time. And it took so long to get here."
Daniel was shaking. He turned, ready to bolt, when her voice—soft, sweet, and laced with something wrong—stopped him cold.
"If you leave now, I can’t promise what happens next."
His breath hitched. Slowly, he turned back. Claire was still smiling, but it wasn’t a friendly smile. It was patient. Knowing.
"You see, Danny," she whispered, dragging the words on, "this was never just a blind date."
Claire pointed to the chair, motioning Daniel to seat himself.
Around him, the world carried on—couples laughing, glasses clinking, love songs playing softly over the restaurant’s speakers.
That’s when Daniel realized the truth about his life. Contrary to what he thought, he had never been alone. Not really.
He sat back at the table.
And now, he certainly would never be again.
M.
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February 11, 2025
Spilled Ink #30

Hey everyone! I know I’m being a bit erratic with the release date of this newsletter but I ask you to bear with me. I’m really trying to get this out on time but things always get on the messy side it seems.
I’ve been thinking about section names still and I was thinking about changing this one to “Since we last spoke”, what do you think?
Apart from the chaos at work due to certain changes in the hotel chain I work at (that are making me leave work with massive headaches), the week was pretty uneventful but I have some stuff to share nonetheless, so let us move along!
WRITER’S DESKOn the writing side of this week, I managed to get some words in. Once again I didn’t write as much as I wanted but I’m picking up speed and will try to keep the momentum.
Apart from a book review (more on that later), I wrote a bit more for the project that I’ve been telling you about, which still lacks a name, and it was interesting to visit some parts of my life and see how well I could transfer them to a fictional character. And I use interesting in the way that someone said that the saying “May you live in interesting” might be more a curse than a blessing. Because what I have in store for this poor guy is not good at all.
Project: Untitled - 821 words (total 1195 words)
Project: Album - 441 words
If you want, you can hit me up with messages so I can be held accountable if I don’t write more…
BOOK REPORTAs I told you last week, I started reading Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix and after reading Horrorstör I was prepared for anything except what I got. All the funny bits are stripped away leaving us with a raw tale about the human condition and how the human being can be scarier than any monster.
This may not be his most supernatural work, but it’s one of his most unsettling. The real terror here isn’t ghosts or demons—it’s the brutal reality of institutional control, misogyny, and societal cruelty.
The story follows a pregnant fifteen-year-old sent to a home for unwed mothers, where shame and silence are enforced as punishment. Hendrix masterfully blends wit with chilling reality, making us feel the weight of these young women’s suffering.
Passages like “We were too young to understand that there were worse things than the devil” highlight the novel’s core horror: a world that dehumanizes the vulnerable under the guise of righteousness.
This is only my second Hendrix book, but it’s clear he has a talent for weaving social commentary into horror. This isn’t just a book—it’s a gut punch, a reminder of injustices that still echo today. Highly recommended for those who like their horror rooted in reality.
In case you are interested in reading the full review for Witchcraft for Wayward Girls you can find it here.

So this week I read a few comics but I want to focus on two of them.
The first one is The Nasty, published by Vault Comics.
Diving into this series feels like stepping into a time machine set for the early 1990s—a decade where horror wasn't just a genre but a cultural phenomenon, and the series doesn't just pay homage; it resurrects the era's essence with a modern twist.
The narrative centers on Thumper Connell, a horror aficionado whose imaginary friend from childhood horror films becomes unsettlingly real. This premise cleverly explores the blurred lines between reality and fiction, delving into themes of nostalgia, the impact of media on the psyche, and the communal experience of horror fandom. It's a meta-commentary that resonates with anyone who's ever found solace in the macabre.
Visually, the series is a treat. The art captures the gritty aesthetic of '80s and ‘90s horror, with a color palette that oscillates between the drabness of everyday life and the vivid gore of slasher flicks. The character designs are distinctive, and the panel layouts enhance the storytelling, making the horror elements pop just when they need to.
The Nasty is more than a comic; it's a bridge between eras, connecting the VHS generation to today's digital horror enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned gorehound or new to the genre, this series offers a narrative that's both a tribute and a fresh take. It's a must-read for those who appreciate horror that challenges the mind while quickening the pulse.

I also found a way to read some of the Dampyr comics. Dampyr, originally an Italian comic series by Mauro Boselli and Maurizio Colombo, provides a fresh and engaging introduction to Harlan Draka, a man caught between two worlds. The first three issues lay a strong foundation for this unique horror series, blending war-torn history with supernatural terror.
In the opening issue, we’re thrust into the brutal realities of the Balkan Wars, where Harlan, a con artist pretending to be a vampire hunter, stumbles into a genuine vampire infestation. The dark, gritty artwork perfectly captures the bleakness of the setting, as well as the eerie presence of the supernatural. Harlan’s discovery of his true heritage as a dampyr—half-human, half-vampire—is a revelation that changes his destiny, setting the stage for the philosophical questions about identity, monstrosity, and the blurry line between good and evil that run throughout the series.
The second issue further deepens Harlan’s journey as he begins to grasp the full extent of his role in the battle against the Masters of the Night. Teaming up with the battle-hardened soldier Kurjak and the enigmatic vampire Tesla, Harlan faces the sadistic vampire lord Gorka, who thrives on war and carnage. This issue builds on the mythology of Dampyr, portraying vampires not just as predators, but as cunning manipulators of power. The uneasy alliance between Harlan, Kurjak, and Tesla adds an extra layer of tension, and the intense action sequences drive home the horror elements of the narrative.
By the third issue, Sand Specters, Harlan embarks on a more personal journey, uncovering mysteries tied to his past. A trip to a Cornish manor introduces him to Amber, a beautiful and haunting woman, and together they face off against the ominous Black Man of Screech Wood in a sinister, haunted amusement park. This issue mixes dark mystery with thrilling action, while the gothic atmosphere intensifies with Amber’s presence.
The artwork is a standout in all three issues, capturing the grim atmosphere of war-torn landscapes, gothic settings, and the eerie presence of supernatural entities. The storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking, weaving horror elements with philosophical questions about humanity and monstrosity.
In conclusion, Dampyr offers more than just supernatural scares. The series presents a rich narrative that blends horror, action, and introspection, with deep character dynamics and a compelling exploration of identity and destiny. For those like me who can’t read Italian, the IDW reprints promise a captivating read and set Dampyr up as a standout series in the genre. It just bothers me that series like this and Dylan Dog are so limited in terms of availability when it comes to languages other than the original.

The covers created for the series by Ashley Wood are amazing as is all of his work but I couldn’t write about this and not share the original covers. I really feel that they evoke the classic Italian horror that I am a fan of.

I saw this a while ago but haven’t shared my thoughts about it with you yet.
If you're into police procedurals, as I am, but want something that feels a little more fresh and real, On Call might just hit the spot. The series dropped on Prime Video at the beginning of the year and it’s not your typical cop show. Created by Dick Wolf, the man behind Law & Order, On Call starts by mixing in bodycam, dash-cam, and cellphone footage with normal filming techniques to give a super raw, almost documentary-style view of life on patrol. Unfortunately, the show decides to forgo this type of approach into a more traditional one, although the pace is maintained.
The show follows veteran cop Traci Harmon (played by Troian Bellisario) and rookie Alex Diaz (Brandon Larracuente) as they tackle everything from routine calls to life-threatening situations in Long Beach, California. The dynamic between the two leads is spot on, and the drama feels pretty grounded. Plus, it’s nice to see Lori Loughlin stepping into a tough cop role as Lieutenant Bishop, alongside Eriq La Salle as the no-nonsense Sergeant Lasman.
What really makes On Call stand out, though, is how it’s filmed (at the start of the show) and the way it tries to capture the real stress and chaos of being on the job. The pacing is quick, the tension is real, and it’s a cool take on the genre. If you’re looking for something that feels a little more gritty and different from the usual cop drama, this one’s worth a watch. Also, each episode is around thirty minutes which for me is a plus.

I also got back to watching Supernatural after pausing my rewatch of the series. I finished the last three episodes from season 7 that I was missing and already started season 8. Say what you want, this is one of my favorite TV shows and I would watch another 15 seasons of it!

So, I started listening to another podcast this week, as I needed to listen to something while driving to work. You see, Lore is only out once a week, and long gone is the time when I had a backlog of episodes to go through. I decided to try Haunted Roads and I have to tell you that I really enjoyed the first episode.
If you're into haunted history and unsolved crimes, Haunted Road is a podcast you’ll want to check out. Hosted by paranormal investigator Amy Bruni, the show takes a deep dive into some of the world’s most infamous hauntings, blending historical research, firsthand accounts, and eerie storytelling.
The first episode, Slay Utterly, starts things off strong with one of America’s most horrifying unsolved crimes—the 1912 Villisca Axe Murders. Eight people, including six children, were brutally killed in their sleep, their faces covered with cloth after the murders. The crime scene was chaotic, with investigators mishandling evidence, townspeople wandering in and out, and multiple suspects emerging over time—but no one was ever convicted.
Bruni expertly unpacks the chilling details of that night, the strange clues left behind (like a plate of uneaten food and a bowl of bloody water), and the eerie atmosphere that still lingers in the house today. The Villisca Axe Murder House has since gained a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the U.S., with reports of disembodied voices, shadow figures, and even physical attacks on visitors. Bruni speaks with paranormal investigators and researchers who have spent time in the house, giving listeners a full picture of both the historical crime and the supernatural lore surrounding it.
Her storytelling, a blend of true crime and the supernatural keeps you hooked, balancing fact and folklore without sensationalizing the tragedy at the core of the haunting. As an opening episode, Slay Utterly sets the bar high, and I’m looking forward to hearing what the rest of the series has in store. I’ll be sharing more thoughts as I listen—so if you’re into ghost stories backed by solid research, this one’s worth adding to your queue.
You can listen to the episode here or wherever you get your podcasts.

This time I won’t share a story per se (but if you understand Portuguese you can’t try to read the story from the photo below).
This was a story that my friend Daniel included in a little book called Confissões de Uma Mente de Merda (Confessions of a Shitty Mind) that he published all the way back in 2008 and it was the first thing I ever published. I go on a limb and say that it was also his first foray into the publishing realm and I had the honor of having this little tale along for the ride. I guess this was the beginning of a collaboration that is still going strong. The story was a retelling of the events of the Last Supper, and I have to be honest, reading it now I’m not that satisfied with it. But really, not at all. I also did an introduction for the book and oh my god… I really don’t know what to think. More than a book this also came with a mini CD that I can’t remember what is inside and I need to track a computer to check it out. The CD was originally supposed to be an audio tape but in the late 2000s those were rare and expensive, that I can remember.
You can find Daniel’s projects here and he’s also doing a newsletter that you can subscribe to here.
LAST WORDSThis is it for this week.
I can’t wait to see what you guys have to say about this week’s updates.
I’ll be waiting for your feedback and to hear about your week too.
See you in a few days!
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
February 3, 2025
Spilled Ink #29

Hi everyone! This one is a little later than I wanted but between full days at work and deciding I wanted to change some stuff around here I got delayed in publishing this issue.
For now, I changed the names of some sections and decided on a new tagline that I think I’ll keep unchanged (contrary to what I did before changing it every newsletter) but there will be some more changes in the next few issues, so stay tuned.
Well then, let’s get this party started!
WRITER’S DESKAs starts go this isn’t the strongest, I know. But the week was not that great when it came to writing as I leaned more into some technical decisions about Project: Comic and I’m really pleased with how things turned out.
I managed to put a few more words on Project: Untitled but they didn’t amount to much if I’m being honest. What I did was write two book reviews which you can find out if you go further into the newsletter.
I also tinkered with the idea of a new project (I know, I know) that if I can manage to bring it to fruition will be a really good one!
This week’s word count, excluding two reviews (more about this later on) is as follows:
Project: Untitled - 98 words (total 374 words)
I promise to do more writing next week!
BOOK REPORTI read two books this week. So, yay me!?
I finally finished “Feed the Sky” by Wesley Winters and let me tell you, it’s a surreal and haunting journey into cosmic horror that pushes the boundaries of the genre. The story begins with an unforgettable prologue, where a father-daughter camping trip turns into a grotesque nightmare under a patch of moonlight that "juices" its victims. From there, the narrative spirals into cult rituals, sentient trees, and hallucinatory terror that is as bizarre as it is mesmerizing.
Winters’ prose is vivid and unsettling, immersing readers in a world where the sky itself seems alive and hungry. The characters are raw and real, navigating guilt and survival amidst increasingly surreal horrors. Highlights include some of the most imaginative and skin-crawling scenes I’ve encountered in recent horror—especially a sequence involving a snake with a human face that left me utterly unnerved.
I won’t lie, its surrealism can be challenging at times, but the rewards are immense. The risks that Winters takes in this story, decidedly his weirdest one, are more than a few but they all end up delivering. Feed the Sky is a must-read for fans of bold, poetic horror that lingers long after you close the book.
If you’re looking for a cosmic horror story that shocks, mesmerizes, and utterly consumes you, this is the one to pick up. Just be warned: once you feed the sky, it may never stop watching.
You can find the full review for “Feed the Sky” here.

I also dived into “Horrorstör” by Grady Hendrix—my first time reading anything by him, and wow, what a wild experience! The premise hooked me immediately: a haunted IKEA-style furniture store. I mean, how could I resist that?
The story follows Amy, a disillusioned retail worker, as she and a few coworkers agree to an overnight shift at Orsk to investigate strange incidents. What starts as a quirky mix of comedy and workplace satire quickly spirals into full-on horror. Imagine your worst retail nightmares combined with a haunted house from hell—Hendrix absolutely nails the balance between humor and genuine terror.
The book also gets bonus points for its clever design. It’s styled like a furniture catalog, with each chapter introducing fake products that get creepier as the story goes on. Super fun touch!
If you’re into unique horror stories that are as funny as they are scary, give this one a shot. It’s the perfect mix of retail hell and actual hell—guaranteed to make you rethink your next trip to a furniture store!
If you are interested in reading more about what I thought of “Horrorstör” you can check it out here.

Reading this made me interested in reading more from him and I already started “Witchcraft for Wayward Girls”. I can’t see the road the story will take but I’m in for the ride.
PULL LISTI also read some comics this week, although not as many as I wanted…
DSTLRY’s Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering is a chilling anthology that showcases some of the finest voices in contemporary horror comics. At the forefront is Becky Cloonan, weaving a macabre tale about a corpse, two coins, and the curse that follows when greed disturbs the dead. Cloonan’s signature blend of haunting visuals and atmospheric storytelling makes her story feel like an echo from the underworld itself—moody, dark, and unforgettable. This story has a double duty, as it serves as a first look into the world of Cloonan's next DSTLRY series.
But the anthology doesn’t stop there. Vanessa Del Rey, with her raw, evocative art style, delivers a story that feels like stepping into a fever dream—dripping with tension, shadow, and that visceral edge she’s known for. Her work here isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, pulling you into a space where dread lingers long after the last panel.
Adding to the eerie mix, HamletMachine crafts a tale about a musical demon offering Faustian pacts, blurring the line between temptation and damnation. Celine Loup brings a haunting folk horror piece that seeps with quiet dread, while other contributors explore the darker corners of fear, loss, and the supernatural.
Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering is as beautiful as it is unsettling, and it surely deserves a spot on your shelf. Also worth noting are DSTLRY editions with an oversized format and extremely good-quality paper.

Then we had Shiver SuspenStories, from Oni Press. I know this was supposed to be a Christmas issue but I just got it now form the comic book shop. This one is a very good read for classic horror fans. Following the work Oni Press is doing with its EC line revival his anthology brings its spirit back to life, with stories that are equal parts twisted and thrilling. Think Tales from the Crypt meets today’s darker, grittier style, packed with shocking twists and that moral twist of fate we all love in classic horror.
The stories here have everything from spooky, supernatural tales to gritty crime and psychological terror, each one with a dash of the unexpected that’ll leave you thinking long after you finish reading. For example, the first story serves as a two-part opening/ending for the other stories. The art pays tribute to the vintage EC Comics style, but with a fresh, modern spin that makes it feel both nostalgic and brand new.
Shiver SuspenStories is definitely worth checking out if you are into horror, as is the entirety of the line. But I’ll talk about that in another issue.

I finally found the time and ended up watching a couple of movies this week. And I guess it was vampire week, albeit to different types of approach and, in a way, creature.
Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu isn’t just a remake—it’s a resurrection of gothic horror in its purest form. Drawing inspiration from both F. W. Murnau’s silent classic and Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Eggers crafts a film that is as mesmerizing as it is terrifying. The atmosphere is thick with dread, the tension suffocating, and the visuals are nothing short of stunning. Every shadow, every flicker of candlelight, and every moment of eerie silence feels deliberately placed to unnerve.
But beyond the striking visuals and masterful direction, the performances are what truly bring Nosferatu to life (or undeath).
Lily-Rose Depp is phenomenal as Ellen Hutter, the film’s emotional and psychological anchor. Her portrayal of a woman slowly descending into obsession, fear, and something much darker is haunting to watch. There’s an intensity to her performance—she doesn’t just play the role, she embodies it. Her fear feels real, her desperation palpable, and by the time the story reaches its climax, it’s impossible to look away.
Nicholas Hoult delivers a solid performance as Thomas Hutter, bringing a sense of innocence and naivety to the role, making his journey all the more tragic. Meanwhile, Willem Dafoe is, unsurprisingly, a scene-stealer in every moment he’s on screen. He fully embraces the grotesque and unnerving side of his character, adding a layer of unease that lingers even after the scene is over.
And then there’s Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok. I had thought that his Pennywise was terrifying, but his take on Nosferatu is next-level nightmare fuel. Skarsgård doesn’t just play a vampire—he becomes a creature of pure, otherworldly horror. His presence alone is enough to make your skin crawl, and his performance cements Orlok as one of the most chilling on-screen vampires in years.
Eggers has crafted something special with Nosferatu. It’s not just horror—it’s a slow, creeping nightmare, a film that doesn’t just scare you but unsettles you in the best way possible. This is, truly, a gothic horror lover’s dream.

I’ve read some of the Dampyr comics (or fumetti in Italian), so I was curious to see how the 2022 film adaptation would handle the source material. While it definitely takes some creative liberties, Dampyr turned out to be one of those films that you can sit back, watch without much effort, and just enjoy for what it is—a solid supernatural action movie with an interesting premise.
The story, set during the Yugoslavian war, follows Harlan Draka, a man who makes a living conning villagers by pretending to hunt vampires. The twist? He’s actually a Dampyr—half-human, half-vampire—who has real power to fight the creatures he once faked hunting. The movie leans more into action than horror, but it keeps things moving at a good pace, never overstaying its welcome.
While the film doesn’t fully capture the depth and world-building of the comics, it does a good enough job of introducing the main character and the idea of Masters of the Night. Originally, Dampyr was supposed to be the first in a larger multiverse built around the Sergio Bonelli comics, and the way the movie ends definitely hints at bigger things to come. There’s space left for the story to expand, and one can’t help but feel curious about what’s next. The special effects are decent for the budget, and the action scenes are entertaining enough.
Dampyr isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s a fun, straightforward watch. If you’re into vampires, supernatural action, or just want an easy movie for a lazy evening, it’s worth checking out. And if you like what you see, the comics are there to expand the story even further!
After watching this I found myself wanting to read more of the comics and I will search for them to see what I can find. What this didn’t do was give me the courage to watch the Dylan Dog adaptation… Maybe one day.

One of my favorite writers revealed the cover for his upcoming novel, and I just can’t wait for it to come out. It’s not that long until November comes around, right?
In case you were wondering who the author is it’s Cullen Bunn and the book is called “Bone of Our Stars, Blood of Our World”. You can check the official blurb for the book and the cover (shared with his authorization) right below these words.
The bodies are stacking up on Wilson Island.
The town’s sheriff has his suspicions but no genuine evidence for an arrest, even as the murders continue and appear increasingly ritualistic in nature. And when an arrest is finally made, all hell breaks loose—literally—as a terrifying horror rises to envelop the town. Soon it’s all up to an unforgettable and motley group of residents to band together and eliminate an ancient evil in a desperate struggle for survival.

I also recommend you check Cullen Bunn’s newsletter, Nightmare Fuel, not only to keep to date with his work but also because he shares really good advice for upcoming writers and deep insight on writing.
ECHOES FROM THE PASTI was thinking if I had some cool stuff to show you guys and I thought that you might like to see one of my oldest works. It’s not one of my first stories, I lost most of those to old computers (or emails or storage devices, even pieces of paper), but it’s for sure one of the oldest I still have in my possession. And even this is a rewriting of something I wrote waaaaay before—this one must be from 2000 or 2001 (I think?) and the original I think I had around ten when I wrote it, so 1992.
It’s a retelling of the origins of some mythological characters, and I decided to use the more “popularized” version of them instead of following the lore. Also at the time I hadn’t delved so deeply into folklore and mythology and if I had to write this story now lots of things would be different, after all, I was just a kid, and my background was limited. I won’t give any details about the characters present in the story but you’ll get who they are pretty early on. I hope you enjoy this easter egg.
A Brothers’ Tale26.2KB ∙ PDF fileDownloadDownloadLAST WORDSSo this is it for this week.
I hope you enjoyed what I had to share with you all and I hope to hear from you soon.
What do you think about the new section names? Is the stuff on Echoes from the Past something that you want to see more?
You know how it is. Anything you want to say I’m here to hear it.
Can’t wait to get back with more news!
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
January 24, 2025
Spilled Ink # 28

Hey again!
I don’t have much to say in terms of intro so I won’t take too much of your time.
One thing I forgot to mention the last time we spoke was that I wrote reviews for some of the books I told you about. They are all on my Goodreads page but I’ll leave them here in case you are interested: Candle Horror and Obsessions of the Unseen by Robert Weaver, You Can’t Take It With You by Marcus Hawke.
I also made a review for the comic Freddie the Fix, you can read the review here but I also talk a bit about the title and the imprint it is a part of later in this newsletter.
That out of the way, let’s go on to what really matters!
WRITING UPDATESThis week I didn’t get much done when it comes to writing.
I wrote a bit for a project I don’t really have a name for yet, or even a placeholder name like I usually have while in the WIP phase. This project derives from some personal experiences and a story that my sister, cousins, and I used to tell. I don’t really know how this will turn out but I’m enjoying writing it and thinking about those times. It’s the first time I wrote the last part of the story first. It’s not the ending of it but an epilogue of sorts.
Project: Comic is well underway and I already told you a bit about it but I want to share some more with you. If you remember I told you the book would be made up of three stories. Of those, two are already done and I already got some artwork for the third one. And so, I think it’s more than time to introduce you to the artist who’s making my scripts look good.
It’s my pleasure to present to you, Mr. Damian Connelly! Damian is a writer and artist from Argentina with plenty of work published - be it his own stories or cover work for other titles. I first came into contact with his work through “Blood, Love, Ghosts and a Deadly Spell” and I was hooked quickly. From there to “You Promise Me Darkness” and “Follow Me Into Darkness” (both previous works) the jump was easy and after that, the hold was in place.
When I asked him if I could show him a script the idea of him being the artist wasn’t even on the table for me if I’m being honest. When I did propose for him to draw it the idea was just for an 8-page mini-comic, a story I could share and say that I had written it (maybe showcase it to some publisher?). It quickly turned into the book that it is now, mostly with me sending the other two scripts and asking him if he was interested in doing a bigger book.
Now, if you have been following this newsletter you know how I feel about Damian’s work so I won’t go into this more than I already did. But I can’t stress enough how it is a dream to be working with one of the artists I most admire.
And now what you all were waiting for, some artwork for the book:

Also, I asked Damian to say a few words and this was what he replied:
"Working with Miguel is quite easy and comforting, he knows perfectly well what stories I like to tell and we have a similar taste in narrative. I hope we continue making many stories together."
This makes me even happier.
BOOK REPORTAt the moment I’m reading “Feed the Sky” by Wesley Winters, which the author gently sent me and I’m loving it. It’s a strange and different work than the previous ones I had read from him but I am having too much fun with it and I can’t wait to see it published. Unfortunately, I don’t have the book cover available to share with you. I was supposed to have finished it already but I got a bit distracted and but I’m back on track again. As soon as I finish it I will tell you all about it.
PULL LISTAs I’m mostly up to date with the comics I’m reading I decided to do something different this time and talk about a line of comics that really caught my attention and that I love to read.
The Ghost Machine line from Image Comics has been making waves with its fresh, exciting stories and amazing art. Created by some of the biggest names in comics, including Geoff Johns, Gary Frank, and Bryan Hitch, this line brings together top-tier talent to deliver unforgettable stories. There are four different subgroups inside the bigger Ghost Machine line each following different kinds of stories and themes.
Arguably the flagship title of the Ghost Machine line, Geiger is a post-apocalyptic epic centered on a man transformed by nuclear fallout into a glowing figure of myth and legend. The series masterfully combines elements of survival, heroism, and tragedy, all underscored by a rich narrative and stunning visuals. It’s a must-read for fans of dystopian tales with a heart.
Set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War, Redcoat mixes history with supernatural intrigue. The story’s blend of historical fiction and a little bit of horror creates a haunting atmosphere, making it an exceptional read for those who love comics with a darker edge.
Both Geiger and Redcoat are part of The Unnamed, a shared universe that features unique heroes throughout America's history and future, all connected by the overarching narrative of the "Unknown War."
Rook Exodus takes readers on a sci-fi adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes and complex characters. The series shines in its world-building, introducing readers to a galaxy teetering on the brink of chaos. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone craving a space opera with emotional depth. Also, this characters feel so well-designed they’d translate beautifully into action figures.
If psychological horror is your thing, you’ve got to check out Hyde Street. It’s creepy, mysterious, and full of twists that stick with you long after you finish reading. The story follows a group of characters trying to unravel the secrets of an old, haunted street to where they were pulled and the only chance to escape is to collect souls for a mysterious character. Themes of guilt, memory, and fear are explored in deeply unsettling ways, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and terrifying. The art adds to the tension, with dark, shadowy visuals that perfectly match the eerie tone of the narrative.
While Rocketfellers offers an intriguing concept, blending retro-futuristic aesthetics with family drama, mixing it with time travel and adventure. To be honest, it didn’t quite capture my interest as much as the other titles but, it might resonate with readers who enjoy a lighter, more whimsical approach to storytelling. Rocketfellers is part of the Family Odysseys subgroup, along with Hornsby & Halo the only Ghost Machine title I haven’t picked up.
If you are looking for something new and different to read you’ll probably find something here for you.

Another comic I read in the last weeks was Freddie the Fix, by Image Comics under their creator-owned, horror-focused imprint Ninth Circle. In the ever-evolving landscape of horror comics, Freddie the Fix stands out as a compelling new addition to the genre, in a one-shot comic that takes readers into the gritty underbelly of Hollywood, but with a supernatural twist.
Written by the legendary Garth Ennis, it introduces us to its titular character, Freddie, a fixer for supernatural beings in a city that thrives on scandal and secrecy. From werewolves and vampires to zombies and aliens, Freddie is the man who cleans up the messes left behind by the occult and the monstrous, dealing with a world far darker than we could ever imagine.
Illustrated by Mike Perkins, the comic brings these chilling creatures to life in a way that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The blend of Ennis’s sharp writing and Perkins’s atmospheric artwork provides a perfect balance of dark humor and gothic tension.
What for me makes Freddie the Fix even more interesting is it being part imprint. Launched as a platform for independent creators to tell standalone horror stories, Ninth Circle promises to deliver tales that push the boundaries of the genre. Freddie the Fix is the imprint’s inaugural release, setting the tone for more stories steeped in horror, suspense, and pure mayhem. And I wouldn’t be surprised if the stories they are bringing our way will haunt our dreams for a long time.

I’ve been watching some anime, mostly Solo Leveling (up to date with the second season) and Jujutsu Kaisen. This last one surprised me as I was expecting something quite different. I’m really enjoying it and although it also has some silly moments it is, at times, deeper than I imagined.

And then I watched this… and I was destroyed.
The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is a documentary about a young man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and how he managed to live with a disease that limited him physically in the real world through a character on an online game until is death. It’s powerful and will make you question a lot of things in your own life. I strongly recommend you watch it but be prepared.

So this is it.
I hope you enjoyed the newsletter and I hope to hear from you soon.
If you have any questions about the comic I’m doing with Damian, or about any other thing don’t hesitate to contact me. Flood the comment section with questions you want to see answered and I’ll be happy to respond in the next Spilled Ink.
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
January 16, 2025
Spilled Ink # 27

Hi everyone. Are you all still there?
I know it’s been a long time since we last talked but I really hope at least some of you are around.
I won’t try to find excuses or give reasons for my “disappearance”, but there were a few factors that caused me to get off track with this newsletter.
The first was that October of last year was exhausting. I took on the challenge of writing a story every day and that took a lot out of me even if the stories sometimes were really short. If you ever want to know how that month went for me I’d be happy to tell you. I plan on translating the stories - or at least some - into English as this challenge was supposed to be in Portuguese.
So, because of this, November was terrible in terms of writing and I don’t think I even get in front of the computer to write a single day. Or if I did it was really for short periods and mostly to do some rewriting or editing.
Then, December and the holidays came, and I ended up doing a short story on Christmas Eve, but apart from that I didn’t write anything of note. I’ll publish the story on Substack soon, in case anyone wants to read it!
The only thing that I did of note during this time was to create an updated sampler for Nightmare Ink. There are two new stories, excerpts of both “The Scarecrow Man” and “School’s Night Out” and a sneak peek illustration for an upcoming project. I have to say that the cover for it is one of my favorite pieces of art by Daniel da Silva Lopes and I know there’s a project that I will want to use the cover for. Just look at it:

And you can find the digital version of the sampler for you to download here:
Nightmare Ink Sampler 202513.9MB ∙ PDF fileDownloadDownloadWith this out of the way, let’s move to what else has been going on.
WRITING UPDATESAs I said I’ve been mostly editing. One of the stories I edited was one written almost two years ago and that was supposed to be part of an anthology that, unfortunately, and by no fault of the person organizing it never came to be (If the person has any fault is to have wanted to pay fairly to the people involved even if all said they didn’t want to get paid.) It’s a story that I really like and I think it might be one of the best pieces I ever wrote. I’ve been calling it PROJECT: House and I plan on publishing it later this year. Still not sure about what format I’ll use for it, though. I’m going to start looking for an artist to do the cover work, and maybe some interior art, soon. If you know someone that you think is interested just send them my way.
Another thing I’ve been working on is my first comic book. It will be comprised of three short stories in comic format, all of which were written (in prose) and just waiting for the right media and moment. It was interesting adapting them to comic format and seeing what the artist is doing with my words. One of the stories is already complete and sent for editing and lettering, another is almost finished with just one page to be drawn, and the third story is beginning to take form. The artist will be the same throughout the comic and I will reveal the name and some pages soon.
I also wrote some stuff for Daniel and his Solar Sailors universe and I got to use a different kind of approach to the way I told the story. It has the working title of PROJECT: Log but let’s see what I can do in terms of title with Daniel’s help. Daniel also has some fun ideas on how to present the project and I’m very excited to see how this will turn out.
BOOK REPORTI’ve read a lot of really good stuff.
“You Can’t Take It With You” by Marcus Hawke is an amazing short tale, as is “Favorite Kind of Truth” by Michael R. Goodwin.
“Obsessions of the Unseen” and “Candle Horror”, both by Robert Weaver are proof that horror and suspense can also be lyrical and are not just for quick consumption. By the way “Candle Horror” will be out on March 7. Don’t miss it.

I also started rereading Brandon Sanderson’s “Way of Kings” and from there I’ll head into the rest of The Stormlight Archive series. I had forgotten how fantastic this book was.
PULL LISTDuring this time away, I read a lot (and I mean a lot) of comics. And I read really amazing things, too! I won’t get into detail about all of them, but I will mention a couple of them.
First of all, I want to mention Damaged People by Damian Connelly. This series of four stand-alone issues is simply one of the best I’ve read recently. Not only is the artwork stunning—each panel is crafted with haunting precision—but Connelly takes us on an unforgettable journey through the psyches of individuals who are, in some way, damaged (as the title suggests).
Each story feels deeply personal, yet universal, forcing us to confront a question: what does it truly mean to be "damaged"? And isn’t that a label we all carry in one way or another? Connelly’s blend of horror, suspense, and raw emotion lingers long after you’ve finished reading, making this a must-have for fans of the genre.

Another standout comic I recently read is The Exorcism at 1600 Penn by Hannah Rose May. I’ve only had the chance to dive into the first issue, but what a debut it is! The way the story is constructed immediately pulled me in—blending supernatural horror with slice-of-life moments and even a touch of teen drama. It’s a mix that could feel chaotic in less capable hands, but here it feels seamless and natural.
And then there’s the art. Vanesa Del Rey’s illustrations don’t just complement the story—they elevate it. The eerie, atmospheric style brings the tension and emotion of each scene to life, making the White House setting feel both grand and unsettling. It’s a fascinating start, and I can’t wait to see where the series goes from here.

To incorporate the genre, we can mention it while describing the atmosphere or themes of the comic. Here’s how you could adjust the paragraph to include that:
After being captivated by The Exorcism at 1600 Penn, I decided to explore Hannah Rose May’s debut comic series, Rogues' Gallery, and it completely blew me away. This gripping psychological thriller blends elements of horror and suspense with a sharp commentary on fandom culture. The story follows Maisie Wade, an actress known for portraying an iconic comic book character. Despite her fame, she’s largely reviled by fans, blamed for "ruining" their favorite character and being the scapegoat for some of the show’s controversial decisions. When she decides to leave the role, causing the show’s abrupt cancellation, a group of angry fans, feeling she’s the reason they can’t see their favorite character on screen, take matters into their own hands.
Rogues' Gallery dives deep into the complexities of fandom culture, exposing how passion can spiral into obsession, especially when creators and adaptations stray from fan expectations. Hannah Rose May crafts a gripping and timely narrative that feels all too real in today’s world of heightened fan entitlement. The art by Justin Mason brilliantly brings the intensity of the story to life, capturing both the glamour of Hollywood and the unsettling darkness that lurks beneath.

As someone who loves Maria Llovet's work and has a soft spot for vampire stories, I was immediately sold when I heard she was working on Violent Flowers. This dark fantasy miniseries explores themes of vengeance, self-discovery, and the complexities of identity within the vampire mythos. The first issue had me hooked from the start, as Llovet’s signature art and storytelling drew me deeper into the world of Carnelia, a member of an ancient vampire clan who is struggling with her blood addiction and the consequences of her family's obsession with youth and beauty.
The lush, sensual art style paired with a story that’s both emotionally and psychologically charged makes Violent Flowers an unforgettable read. By the time I finished the first issue, I knew Llovet had me in her hands. If you're a fan of vampires and dark fantasy, this series is one you won't want to miss.

Last but definitely not least, we have Ice Cream Man #42. And yes, I’m singling out this issue for various reasons. As much as I love Ice Cream Man and W. Maxwell Prince's writing, I don’t think there’s ever been a comic (in this series or another) that resonated with me on such a personal level in quite some time. The issue is framed through the perspective of a comic book writer talking about his own work—a clever move that places Mr. Prince himself within the narrative. From the very first page, when the writer says, “This is a horror comic book,” and follows it up by questioning the concept of horror, it immediately struck a chord with me. He discusses how labeling something as "horror" can feel like putting it in a straightjacket, especially when the horror in the book may not fulfill what horror is to the reader. And as a horror writer myself, I’ve asked that question many times—“Is what I write really horror?”
This issue does an amazing job of tackling such questions, blending dark comedy, horror, and thought-provoking social commentary in a way that feels both unsettling and deeply meaningful. The exploration of societal fears through the Gladman family's inheritance of a house with three horrifying doors is chilling, but it also mirrors real-world anxieties in ways that feel uncomfortably familiar.
Beyond its thought-provoking themes, it’s just an outstanding issue, the artwork by Martin Morazzo brings, as always, all those nightmarish elements to life in a way that’s both surreal and unnerving. This issue is not just a great piece of horror; it’s an introspective look at what horror truly means—and I think it’s a must-read for anyone who loves a good, thought-provoking story.

Since last time I went to a couple of events and I really had a good time. I won’t go into detail about them as some time has passed so instead i will just share some photos!
Motel X 2024 saw the release of my second short story in a Portuguese anthology and Fórum Fantástico marked the first time I was on stage to present one of my stories, “Schools Night Out”, and then again when another of my short stories was announced as one of the stories that will be made into a short film for a Portuguese short film anthology.
STAINED PATHWAYThis is a new section that I decided to include although it might be the one that will suffer the least of change in the newsletter. It’s nothing more than a list of my releases and I don’t think I’ll add much except for some title changes or the occasional surprise release. Do you think I should head a “work in progress” list here too or would you like to have that as a separate newsletter?
PROJECT: Comic - Planned for May 2025
PROJECT: House - Planned for September 2025
PROJECT: Log - Planned for second half of 2025
LAST WORDSI know I can’t ask you to stick around or promise that this time I’ll be keeping this newsletter going. What I’m going to promise is that I’ll do everything to at least keep new things coming your way the best I can. I think I can promise a monthly round-up of everything I’m up to.
So, with that said, I hope to hear from you and to know what you all have been up to.
See you soon and, until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
September 5, 2024
Spilled Ink #26

This will be a fairly short newsletter but there are some things I want to tell you!
It was the first anniversary of “The Scarecrow Man” this last Tuesday and as a gift to everyone I made it free until next Sunday. At the same time, I’m doing a giveaway for a Proof Copy of the book. You just have to go to this Instagram post and follow the instructions.
Also, don’t forget that even if it is already available on Amazon I’m still running pre-orders for “School’s Night Out”, my new mini-book, and those who go for that option will receive a little bonus!
And now let’s get on with the show!
WRITING UPDATESThe last week of August was a very productive one!
Not only did I finish a story I had started some time ago, one that I truly hope the person I wrote it for can do something with, but I also wrote two new short stories, one clocking around 3k words and the other at 1k. The 1k one, which I wrote in Portuguese, was already submitted so fingers crossed. Apart from this I also started a new story that I’m really hyped about.
I’ll leave you with an excerpt from what I wrote:
“They’ll never understand. The dead don’t feel pain; they’re beyond it. But the living—they’re the ones who suffer. They’re the ones I care about. Not in some sentimental way, of course. No, my concern is the scars I can carve into their minds, the damage I can inflict on them. The one that will never truly heal.
Most people think a killer is driven by the thrill of the chase, the rush of power as life slips away in their hands. They’re wrong. At least, that’s not what drives me. The kill is nothing but the beginning. The true satisfaction comes later, when I watch the lives I’ve shattered try to piece themselves back together, knowing they’ll never be whole again. That’s where the real art lies—in the aftermath.”
This is from Project: Scar, something I wrote after I listened to a song and started thinking about a line in the lyrics.
And as a little extra, I’ll leave you with a snippet of the story I wrote in Portuguese, translated of course. The title for this one is “The Last Frame”.
“The neon sign buzzed weakly as rain drummed against the windows of the nearly deserted bowling alley. The place was open, but just barely—only one lane remained lit, casting long shadows across the polished floors. The man, soaked from the downpour, stepped inside, grateful to escape the storm. The air inside was still, heavy with the lingering scent of stale popcorn and shoe polish.
He couldn’t quite say what had led him here. It had been a long, tiring day, filled with the sort of minor misfortunes that added up to a deep, gnawing sense of defeat. His car had sputtered out in the middle of traffic, and he’d received a call that made his heart sink. He couldn’t even remember what the call was about now, only that it left him feeling hollow. He wandered, trying to shake off the melancholy, and found himself drawn to this place, like a moth to a flame.”
Hope you liked this little preview of what I’ve been writing.
Here is the word count for the week in question:

I also, or finally, decided to move forward with another project that has been on my mind for quite some time. I can’t say much for now except that it will be a short horror comic based on a very short story I wrote some time ago. I already sent the script to the artist and received very good feedback.
FAIRGROUNDSeptember will be a busy month, but I mean busy!
Last Sunday I did a signing at Feira do Livro do Porto for the Fábrica do Terror anthology “Os Melhores Contos vol. 1”. I was accompanied by four other writers who also had their stories in the book and we had an amazing time signing books and talking. We were signing for the best part of two hours and I wanted to thank everyone who made the afternoon unforgettable. And also the people from Fábrica do Terror who made it possible!

Since I’m referring Fábrica do Terror, the next event I will attend is the release of the second volume of their new anthology in which I also have a short story. It will be on the 14th, at the MotelX festival in Lisbon. If you are around just come say hi!

I’m planning to attend the 2024 edition of Fórum Fantástico which will take place from September 20 until September 22. I’ll keep you updated as I get more information on this!
THINGS I’M HYPED ABOUTNew book coming out. Going to events. Writing new stuff. New projects underway.
What’s not to be hyped about?
LAST WORDSSo this is it for today!
As always I’m waiting for your opinions and to see what you think about what I’ve been doing.
I’ll be back soon with more news.
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
August 23, 2024
Spilled Ink #25

Hello everyone! So here I am again with some news. I had planned this for earlier but I got sidetracked with some other stuff and then… Well, then I messed up.
You have probably seen that “School’s Night Out” is already available. Well, that’s where I messed up.
I have been exchanging emails with KDP support (the platform you use to publish through Amazon) to see if they could help me solve a problem with ordering some more proof copies for almost a week and things were at a standstill. Trying one of their solutions, which involved changing the release from a date in the future to immediately, I messed up and instead of hitting Save Draft, I hit Publish. And of course that wouldn’t be a problem if I hadn’t made the change… Fortunately, I had already got a proof copy of the first version of the book and the alterations I made weren’t that many or any that changed the book in itself.
And that’s how I got to have a new book out ahead of time!

I planned on doing preorders until September 9th and offering a print to anyone who ordered directly from me. With the book out it won’t be exactly a preorder bonus but anyone who orders it until that date will receive the print all the same. This is valid for anyone who orders from me or Nightmare Ink.

Apart from the book that is out, I’ve been working on a new short story, this one about stars, and I picked up the notes for Project: Legacy and I’m planning on making something out of them soon.
At the same time, I’m working on something different that I really want to do but might be a bit complicated to do all by myself. More on this soon!
And, I wrote a short story yesterday. It just came out after a line in a song that played while I worked the night shift stuck itself in my head. At the moment it has the title of Project: Scar and It’s roughly 4k words. At the moment I’m doing some revisions but from what I already saw it doesn’t seem to need that many.
BOOK REPORTSo, I have some books to talk about.
The first one, “The Toll Comes Due”, is one I was given an ARC courtesy of both authors. It’s written by Robert Weaver and Wesley Winters and each contributed with a story for the book. Both the stories are about crime and run-ins with criminal escapades but the way these authors make a common theme so different and give it their twist is just something amazing. Keep an eye out for this one. It’s going to be released really soon!

Then I read “Horror Movie” by Paul Tremblay I have to say that I ate this book up. Truth be told I’m mad I didn’t write it or something like it (not that I’m comparing myself in terms of talent with Mr. Tremblay, I don’t even breathe the same air as him), after all the story has all the things I like. It’s mostly about a group of teenagers, check. In a school, check. And it features flashbacks, check. Now that I think about this story shares lots of stuff with my new book (shameful plug).
No seriously, give this book a try. You won’t regret it. From the mystery surrounding the main storyline to the mixed media format that Tremblay incorporates amazingly so it moves the plot forward, this is a book that will surely haunt you.

Because of an idea I had for a story, I started rewatching Fringe. I don’t know if you remember this Science Fiction procedural about an FBI team that deals with strange cases, but I loved it when I first watched and I guess I still do.
I know that towards the end it got a little messed up but I truly enjoy all the plots and mythology of the series.

I can already tell you that I will be present at some events in the next month and I will give you updates as soon as I get them.
What I can tell you right now is that I’ll be present at Feira do Livro do Porto for a signing session with Fábrica do Terror. It will be Sunday, September 1st, and it will start at 16h. It will be, more or less, my first official apparition at an event as an author and I’m both hyped and terrified. If you are around Porto, come visit us! I know all the authors present will make your visit worthwhile.

Well, all of the above.
A new mini-book out, being present at events, lots of ideas and writing them down.
It seems that even with all the setbacks September will be a great month!!
Thank you all, once again, for reading this and still coming back even with all the delays and randomness of publication.
I’ll be waiting for your feedback, as I always am. Can’t wait to hear from you!
Until then, let the ink of nightmares flow.
Thanks for reading Nightmare Ink! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.