Friday, October 18, 2019

Horror Poetry and Other Scary Stories by Hunter Lynn


Halloween is slowly creeping up on us and I have something special for my readers today. Author Hunter Lynn, and his book "Horror Poetry and Other Scary Stories" is perfect for you as you wait the goblins, Darth Vadars, and no telling what else will show up knocking on your door. I think you will really enjoy it. Now meet the author.


Hunter Lynn

Horror Poetry and Other Scary Stories




Tell your readers a little about yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc. Let them get to know the personal you.


As a young boy, I used to watch horror movies with my older brother in our small New Jersey home. I remember in the early 1970's "Chiller Theatre" and the weekly scary movie on both Friday and Saturday nights. I grew to appreciate the classic monsters from Universal as well as the popular Godzilla movies. As I grew up, I remember going to the theatre to watch Dawn of the Dead, The Exorcist, and Jaws. It was a great time to be a horror fan, as directors were beginning to push their boundaries. It wouldn't be until high school that I started reading horror novels by Stephen King. There were many a long night up with the lights on.

What inspired you to author this book?

Horror Poetry was written over many years. So to say I was inspired by one event wouldn't be accurate. The two main short stories were in part from real-life events. I won't give it away as to what they were, but they happened to me to some degree and made me think this would make a good story. I think having that bit of realism from experience ads to the depth and character of the book. Poetry is not my only game here; I do have several short stories involved that help round this first effort out -- stories I am proud to have written.

Where did you get the inspiration for your book’s cover?

Excellent question! First off, there have been about ten different covers. I could never seem to create the right one. Recently, I sought out an artist to see what they could do. The work was exceptional, but it still didn't feel like it represented the way I wanted people to view my work. I just had to feel it inside, and if I felt it, I think others would too. As for the current iteration, it translates a cold mysterious vibe. I think that sort of sums up how I perceive the book. It has its chilling moments and at the same time is mysterious and thought-provoking. I tried to encapsulate a lot of different ideas, but the main idea was to have fun doing it. I hope that comes through in the text.



Who has been the most significant influence on you personally and as a writer?

Personally, I would say my wife. She has been there through some difficult times, and for that, I am forever grateful. She has taught me how to be a better person, a better father, and a better husband. We have three amazing sons, and I couldn't be prouder of them. She has taught me to believe in myself.

This book is proof that she was right.

As a writer, Stephen King has been a huge influence. I can't think of a single Horror author who hasn't been influenced by him in one degree or another. I believe his book "On Writing" is required reading for anyone looking to dip their toes into the literary field -- a field that is deep and dark as the depths of the ocean. His book really breaks it down into simple steps, and his voice is so unique it shines through. If you listen to the audio version, you'd swear he was in the same room talking right at you.

What were your struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?

Time. Time is a huge issue for me. My life is frenetic enough and to add writing time is like trying to squeeze 10 lbs of chocolate into a 5 lb bag. I have changed my schedule and dip in and out of my work at every possible opportunity. Sometimes there is no continuity, and that can be a detriment especially when you are in a good train of thought. Staying focused and completing ideas is the key to this, and so far I have been able to keep up with my subconscious.

Tell your readers about your book.

Horror Poetry is not your typical poetry book. It's a book that is two parts; one is poetry -- poetry written about everyday things and how they can be interpreted as evil. Then there are the short stories as I have two great stories to tell you about. It will have you contemplating what you are reading and how easily you can be engulfed in the words. I think they are the two finest stories I have written and hope that people will give them a chance they deserve. I believe that if people give this book a chance they'd be pleasantly surprised.




Who is your target audience, and why?

Anyone who loves horror. Typically, the age bracket is between 16 and 30. I think it's much higher maybe 40 - 50, it's just that the horrors of real-life have desensitized us. The horror genre is legion, as is the fan base which still never ceases to amaze me. I hope this makes sense.

What do you consider your greatest success in life?

I was lucky to have been published by the Ivory Towers. My wife and I co-wrote a book several years ago (under our real names). I remember getting the bound galley and then the first shipment of books ahead of publishing. To see the covers and the text, it was surreal. So much effort was put into creating this book and I felt it hardly received any publicity. This is a sad fact for any new author out there. Once it's published, chances are your publisher will move on to the next author. I understand now looking back. They figure hey if this book makes money, we're in business. It's like playing the lottery; they have to take chances too.

What one unique thing sets you apart from other writers in your genre?

I think my age and watching how the genre evolved over the past forty years. Not many people will say that. I am not Stephen King and will never be him. Then again, there is only one Stephen King for a reason. I also think as I grow older I look for a unique perspective on my work. Looking at things from all angles helps to conceptualize an idea and provide many different ways to say the same thing without saying the same thing. Also, a different approach never hurts in poetry. Sometimes the greatest ideas are the “What if's....” in life. You can bend and turn the words around like a pretzel, and hopefully, when all is said and done it's unique in both it's approach and concept. I am a big-picture person, but sometimes I like to toil with the minutia. Getting picky has its advantages.

REVIEWS

"A quick but great read for the horror and poetry fan. Hunter Lynn has a real talent for invoking the macabre in a very eloquent manner."   The Graveyard Shift (Podcast)

"This Horror that rhymes will scare you out of your minds!"  Get Horror Poetry!12NightsofHorror.com

This was a beautiful read. I hold high respect for writers that write poems and shorts. Some of the poems and shorts were horrifying while others were emotionally charged!" - Jonathan Tripp (Twitter Review)

"I just finished reading this book. It was great. A lot of well-written poems and stories. My favorite story was Bride of the Lake.  Great work Hunter Lynn!" - Tammy Ross (Twitter Review)

"I really enjoy spooky and scary stories as I am a fan of Horror. I purchased my copy of Horror Poetry after learning of the Author Hunter Lynn on Twitter. Horror Poetry is a very easy read that is full of fun reading and will take no time at all to finish. Nice to read on your break at work. I would tell you fave stories but I’m not into giving spoilers."  - Thomas Otterman (Twitter Review)



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