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Special Guest: J.F. Penn is a British author renowned for her thrillers, dark fantasy, crime, and horror novels. She has achieved New York Times and USA Today bestseller status, with her works translated into multiple languages and sold in over 84 countries.

Penn's notable series include the ARKANE action-adventure thrillers, the Brooke & Daniel crime thrillers, and the Mapwalker fantasy trilogy. Her stories often weave together ancient artifacts, international locations, and elements of the supernatural.

Books by J.F. Penn

This latest episode of the Nightmare Engine podcast introduces the talented J.F. Penn, as she takes us through her latest novel, "Blood Vintage." Set in the enigmatic vineyards of Somerset, England, Penn draws inspiration from the local folklore and mysterious rural settings that breathe life into her work. Through a backdrop of pagan rituals and secretive communities, we explore her creative process, which mirrors the knack Stephen King has for uncovering horror in the mundane.

We then venture deeper into the murky world of folk horror, spotlighting ancient rituals and their intriguing survival in modern times. Our conversation touches upon the enigmatic Green Man and the folklore of the Wendigo, examining how these stories symbolize deeper moral struggles. From the haunting imagery of Morris dancing near Glastonbury to the transformative nature of the Wendigo legend, our discussion challenges listeners to reconsider the timeless conflict between good and evil.

Finally, we explore the nuances of crafting slow-burn horror and the potential of AI to revolutionize the genre. Penn shares insights into how personal experiences and family themes shape her storytelling, drawing parallels with popular films that resonate with audiences. We also ponder the intersection of history and technology in horror, reflecting on how ancient sites and modern innovations inspire narratives.

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You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

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Episode Description:

In this episode of "The Nightmare Engine" podcast, host David Viergutz is joined by special guest Andrew Van Wey. Together, they explore the chilling depths of horror writing, discuss Andrew's journey as an author, and dive into the challenges and rewards of self-publishing. This episode is packed with insights on creating suspenseful narratives, building a writing career, and navigating the ever-evolving horror landscape.

Show Notes:

[00:00:00] Introduction:
David Viergutz kicks off the episode by welcoming listeners and sharing updates on his latest projects, including his upcoming novel and a new horror-themed subscription service called "ScareMail."

[00:02:30] Guest Introduction:
David introduces Andrew Van Wey, an accomplished horror author known for his thrilling novels and unique approach to storytelling.

[00:04:30] Andrew's Writing Journey:
Andrew talks about how he got started in writing, the challenges he faced early on, and how he found his niche in the horror genre.

[00:08:00] The Art of Suspense:
The conversation delves into the techniques Andrew uses to build suspense and keep readers on the edge of their seats. They discuss the importance of pacing and atmosphere in horror.

[00:12:00] Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing:
Andrew shares his experiences with self-publishing, including the advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional publishing routes. He offers advice to aspiring authors considering self-publishing.

[00:17:00] Building a Brand as an Author:
David and Andrew discuss the importance of building a personal brand and how it can impact an author's success. They talk about the role of social media and how to connect with readers.

[00:22:00] Challenges in Horror Writing:
The conversation shifts to the specific challenges of writing horror, including maintaining originality in a genre filled with tropes and clichés.

[00:27:00] Inspiration and Influences:
Andrew shares the authors and works that have inspired him, from classic horror literature to contemporary influences. They discuss how these inspirations shape his writing style.

[00:33:00] Writing Routine and Discipline:
Andrew talks about his daily writing routine, the discipline required to produce work consistently, and how he manages to stay motivated.

[00:38:00] Upcoming Projects:
Andrew gives listeners a sneak peek into his upcoming projects, including new novels and collaborations. David also shares more about what listeners can expect from future episodes of "The Nightmare Engine."

[00:45:00] Conclusion:
David wraps up the episode, thanking Andrew for joining and enco

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

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Episode Description: In this episode of "The Nightmare Engine" podcast, host David Viergutz has an engaging conversation with special guest Alan Baxter. They discuss Alan's prolific career in horror writing, his experiences in martial arts, and the complexities of the horror genre. Alan shares his insights on writing short stories, the horror community, and personal fears. They also delve into Alan's unique perspective as an immigrant and his life in Australia.

Show Notes:

[00:00:00] Introduction: David Viergutz welcomes listeners and provides an update on his recent projects, including a new space horror called "The Drift" and a unique horror letter service called "Scareme."
[00:02:00] Guest Introduction: David introduces Alan Baxter, a prolific author from Australia with a long career in horror writing.
[00:04:00] Alan's Background: Alan talks about his journey into writing, starting in the late '90s, and his extensive body of work including 30 books and over 100 short stories.
[00:07:00] Short Stories in Horror: Discussion on the importance of short stories in the horror genre and Alan's approach to writing them.
[00:09:00] Martial Arts and Writing: Alan shares his background in martial arts and how it influences his writing and teaching.
[00:14:00] Family and Traditions: Alan talks about balancing his family life with his writing and martial arts, and the importance of tradition.
[00:20:00] Living in Australia: Alan discusses the unique challenges and beauties of living in Australia and how it influences his work.
[00:27:00] The Horror Community: David and Alan discuss the welcoming nature of the horror community and its inclusivity.
[00:32:00] Writing Honest Horror: Alan explains why he believes horror is a genre of honesty and how it addresses real-life injustices.
[00:38:00] Alan's Work: Discussion on Alan's notable works including "The Gulp," "The Fall," and his latest novel "Blood Covenant."
[00:42:00] Literary Influences: Alan shares his literary influences, including Clive Barker and Roald Dahl, and his views on short stories and novellas.
[00:45:00] Conclusion: Final thoughts and where to find Alan Baxter's work.

Where to Find Alan Baxter:

• Website: Alan Baxter
• Books: "The Gulp," "The Fall," "Blood Covenant," and more available on major platforms.

Thank you for listening to "The Nightmare Engine"! Stay tuned for more exciting episodes.

🔗 Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 YouTube | 👨‍🏫 Facebook |

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

Episode Description: In this episode of "The Nightmare Engine" podcast, host David Viergutz returns with a update and a captivating conversation with special guest Dan Franklin. They delve into the intricacies of the horror genre, discussing the tight-knit horror community, the rise of indie horror, and their personal experiences and fears. Dan shares insights from his work in the publishing industry, including his connections with Stephen King and the emotional depth of his own horror writing.

Show Notes:

• [00:00:00] Introduction: David Viergutz welcomes listeners back to the podcast and provides an update on his recent activities, including his prolific book releases and his personal reader group, "The Nightmare Writers."
• [00:02:00] Special Guest Introduction: David introduces Dan Franklin, a magazine editor with connections to Stephen King.
• [00:04:00] The Horror Community: Discussion on the close-knit nature of the horror community and the genre's unique appeal.
• [00:07:00] Horror vs. Dark Fantasy: Differentiating between horror and dark fantasy, focusing on the human element of survival.
• [00:09:00] Dan's Book "These Things Linger": Dan describes the themes and threats in his novel, focusing on generational trauma and supernatural elements.
• [00:14:00] Scares That Care Charity Event: Highlighting a horror charity event that supports burn victims and cancer survivors.
• [00:20:00] Indie vs. Traditional Publishing: Dan and David discuss the differences between indie and traditional publishing, and the benefits of the indie mindset.
• [00:27:00] The Fear of the Unknown: Exploring the psychological and cosmic elements of horror, including mental health and existential fears.
• [00:32:00] Real-Life Horror Experiences: David and Dan share personal experiences that felt like real-life horror movies.
• [00:38:00] The Wonder of Horror: Reflecting on the sense of wonder and fear that horror evokes, and its therapeutic value.
• [00:42:00] Literary Influences: Discussing early influences in horror literature, including Michael Crichton’s "Jurassic Park" and "Sphere."
• [00:45:00] Conclusion: Final thoughts and where to find Dan Franklin's work.

Where to Find Dan Franklin:

• Facebook: Dan Franklin Author
• Books: "These Things Linger" and "The Eater of Gods" available on major platforms.
• Cemetery Dance Publications: Dan works in book design and editing.

Thank you for listening to "The Nightmare Engine"! Stay tuned for more exciting episodes.

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

What if you had a front-seat ride into the mind of a horror author? Get ready for a terrifying journey with prison worker and writer, John Lynch, as we uncover his unique writing process and delve into the eerie world of his upcoming horror novella. John gets candid about his day job, his writing passion, and how he masterfully juggles the two. Listen in and get a glimpse of his creative process, right from his unconventional writing setup to the creative spark behind his spine-chilling tales.

Strap in as we traverse the nightmare engine of John's debut horror novel "The Warrior Retreat." We explore the fascinating blend of horror and romance, breaking down reader expectations and the unique narrative style that sets his work apart. We reveal the supportive community surrounding Lynch's work and discuss the mechanics of the horror genre. Stay tuned as we delve into the promotion strategies for his upcoming Christmas horror book, the business dynamics of writing, and the niche status of horror as a genre.

Ever wonder what fuels the author's fear factor? We explore the impact of real-life experiences like PTSD and military service on John's horror writing. As we wrap up our chat, be prepared to have your mind blown by the fear factor in Lynch's writings and how it captivates his readers. It's a thrilling journey into the alluring world of horror writing that you won't want to miss. So, sit back, relax, and prepare for a thrilling ride.

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

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🎙️About the Episode
Strap yourself in as co-host Jay Bower and I take a wild ride through our latest projects and writing processes in a thrill-packed episode that's sure to send shivers down your spine. How did Jay manage to become a TikTok sensation overnight with his unique vampire-zombie horror novel, 'Dead Blood,' and what can we expect from his new historical horror piece? Tune in to find out!

In a deep-dive into our creative worlds, we peel back the curtains on our upcoming novellas and the intricate process of collaborative writing. Get a sneak-peek into our co-written novella set featuring the ghastly Conservator of Horror, and listen in as we unravel the web of three interconnected stories, future plans of the series, and our experiences of joining forces with other authors.

In a spine-chilling finale, we crack open the coffin of Jay's haunted house project, exposing the painstaking details of choosing a time period and the daunting challenge of stepping out of his comfort zone. Plus, we're dishing out some tantalizing tidbits on our upcoming book, 'Big Fucking Spider' - a horror creature feature that promises to leave your skin crawling. So, hold your breath and step into our terrifying world of horror and suspense - you're in for a scream of a time!

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

🔗Connect with Jay
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🔗Connect with Jonathan
🌎 Website |

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If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

⭐️Enjoy the podcast? Do your good deed for the day and leave a 5-star review here ;)

🎙️About the Episode
Get ready for an exhilarating journey as we sit down with New York Times bestselling author, Jonathan Mayberry. Known for his expertise in a variety of genres, ranging from horror to action thrillers, Jonathan's experience and insights are sure to captivate listeners. Not only do we peek into his fascinating background as a writer and his journey to rediscover his passion for storytelling after a 20-year hiatus, we also unpack his robust knowledge in the realms of folklore and mythical creatures.

The episode takes a thrilling turn as we dive into the world of supernatural predators and the cultural implications of zombie stories. Jonathan regales us with his research on mythical creatures like the Benendante and the Strigoni Benefitsi and their portrayal in folklore. He also divulges his dream of accessing the Vatican Library archives. We further delve into the intriguing nature of zombie narratives, where societal structures collapse, revealing the authentic human character beneath the surface.

From the intricacies of writing horror anthologies to the evolution of action films, Jonathan's wealth of knowledge is on full display. We also touch upon the transformative influence of martial arts on his life, the power of empathy in dealing with bullies, and the significance of building a legacy. Don’t miss this thrilling exploration into the mind of one of the most celebrated authors of our time. You're sure to find inspiration, whether you're an aspiring author or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative. Join us on this ride for an enlightening and entertaining experience.

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

🔗Connect with Jay
🌎 Website | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

🔗Connect with Jonathan

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

Host: David Viergutz is a disabled Army Veteran, Law Enforcement Veteran, husband and proud father. He is an author of stories from every flavor of horror.

Take the plunge into David’s imagination as he delivers chill-bringing adventures where the good guy doesn’t always win.

He can be reached at:

Website + Free Book!: https://davidviergutz.com/freebooks
FB: https://www.facebook.com/authordavidviergutz
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/David-Viergutz/e/B07WNDZGC1
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19482794.David_Viergutz
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/david-viergutz

Host: Jay Bower is a horror author living outside St. Louis, MO in the forest of Southern Illinois. He spends his time reading, writing, and convincing his wife the dark stories he writes do not involve her. He's the author of several dark novels and short stories.

FB: http://facebook.com/jaybowerauthor
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jaybowerauthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jaybowerauthor
TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdBG1aPh/
Email: jay@jaybowerauthor.com

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏