Interview With Author Kerry E.B. Black
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! I’m Kerry E.B. Black, teller or tales fanciful and true, who has been called “chicken soup for the Gothic soul.” I’m a member of the Nomadic Wordsters, Wily Writers, and the Horror Writers Association, as well as a Rough Writer at Carrot Ranch Literary Society. I’ve worked many jobs, but most salient to this is my time as a correspondent for Gannet Publications and an editor of an historic newsletter. I’ve always loved the beauty and power of the written word, how it transcends time and unifies continents and generations.
To date, I’ve written two YA paranormal thrillers, three collections of short stories, and a horror poetry collection. I’ve also contributed pieces to many amazing zines and anthologies.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My most recent publication through Tree Shadow Press is Poetic Nightmares, a collection of horror-inspired work.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I used to write at night, after my family slept, when quiet fell over our busy home and my thoughts could mingle with the stars. However, as I’ve aged and my unfortunate health issues have progressed, I cannot keep such strange hours. So now, I steal seconds between tasks and obligations to ply my craft. But as most writers know, our minds are always plotting, collecting characters and dialogue, and securing settings in our imaginations.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Such a question! We stand on the shoulders of giants, don’t we? I’ve been an avid writer since childhood, a skill nurtured by my mother. Thus, I’ve found inspiration in everything from childhood classics to modern masters. Some authors who have cast a spell on my imaginings, though, include Edgar A. Poe, C.S. Lewis, Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson, Alice Hoffman, and Neil Gaiman.
What are you working on now?
My amazing publisher, Tree Shadow Press, is presently editing Nightmares on Holiday, my fourth collection of short scares. My editor there is also translating my YA thrillers into Spanish!
Otherwise, I’m writing a novella ostensibly about a witch trial, but in actuality, it’s the redemption of a main character.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Marketing. The bane of writers world over! I have a personal website: https://www.KerryEBBlack.com and I’ve curated followers on most social media to date, as advised. I also have an amazing company that creates stunning author merchandise from my book covers. (Chris Blickenderfer, the artist, hand-draws the covers for my collections, and they are stunning!) However, I’ve found my best promotions come from forging actual relationships with readers. Thus, this shy person must gird my loins to attend readings and signings,
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep at it! It may feel like you’re writing in a vacuum, but with persistence, you’ll find readers. Join a writers’ group. Nothing beats the value of constructive criticism, because we’re often too close to our own work to see it objectively. And along those lines, invest in a trusted editor. A good one keeps us from sounding like buffoons.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Make the most of every day, for time is fleeting.
What are you reading now?
I always have several books in my queue, because I read and review for many astounding authors. Presently, I’m enjoying an ARC (advanced readers’ copy) of The Daughters of Block Island by Christa Carmen which releases in December, 2023. I always have an audiobook to help me through household chores and commutes, and at the present, that’s the thrilling The Last Child by John Hart. My daughter and I read together before her bedtime, and that story’s an ARC of The Nighthouse Keeper by Lora Senf (releasing in October, 2023).
What’s next for you as a writer?
Remember that troublesome marketing question? Well, I’m trying to branch out into making videos to garner more attention for my books. Wish me good luck!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
It would behoove me to bring something like a scouting manual, with directions for survival. I’d bring a Bible for spiritual guidance, too, and for enjoyment, I’d bring Shakespeare’s collected works. It’s a sizable volume which covers just about every genre, and by virtue of its heft, it could be useful in killing invasive bugs and such.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kerry E.B. Black Amazon Profile
Kerry E.B. Black’s Social Media Links