Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m an author and screenwriter of both horror and suspense. All Hallows Eve is my first novel but my films have screened in numerous international film festivals across North America and Europe. When I’m not writing, I enjoy adventure travel, photography, and brewing beer. I’m happily married and the new father of a tough and curious baby girl.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
All Hallows Eve is an historical thriller about a single mother racing against time to rescue her daughter from the vengeful spirit of a woman hanged during the Salem witch trials. I’ve always been a big fan of Halloween and I wanted to write a book that explored some of the ancient customs and traditions of the holiday while also providing some entertaining thrills and chills. I’ve also been semi-obsessed with the witch trials ever since reading The Crucible and visiting Salem in high school.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if it’s unsual but there always has to be a cup of coffee or tea nearby. It often goes untouched and cold but for some reason it still has to be there. I also tend to stay in my pajamas all day while writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King for my understanding of character development; Shirley Jackson for mood and atmosphere; Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child for structure and pacing. I was also really big fan of “monster-of-the-week” TV shows like The X-Files and Supernatural, especially the development of overarching plots over the course of the series.
What are you working on now?
All Hallows Eve is the first volume in my Book of Shadows series of historical thrillers that follow a family of 19th-century women who use unique talents to hunt ghosts and monsters. I’m currently working on the second volume in the series, The Suicide Lake. While the War of 1812 rages across New England, a young woman with a tragic past must use her knowledge of the occult to save a remote logging camp from an ancient evil that is driving the villagers to take their own lives. Right now I’m in the polishing phase and the book will be released later this year.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
After years of working in film, All Hallows Eve is my first experience promoting a book so I’m still learning the moves in this dance. So far, free book offers promotions on sites like Pretty-Hot definitely seems to be an effective way of attracting new readers in the crowded book market. I’m also really trying to build my mailing list on my website, www.michaelpenning.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write everyday and don’t take rejection personally.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Some of the best advice comes from Stephen King. Not personally, of course (how awesome would that be?), but from his book On Writing. It’s a great read for any author, not just horror writers. The best piece of advice I’ve received personally would be to not be afraid to explore and embrace flawed characters.
What are you reading now?
The Haunting of Ashburn House by Darcy Coates. After that it will be Paul Tremblay’s A Head Full of Ghosts. And then Home Before Dark by Riley Sager. So many books, so little time…
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to keep promoting All Hallows Eve while I finish polishing the second volume in the Book of Shadows series. Then I’m going to get right into research for the third book. After that, I might step away from the realm of historical fiction for a minute to explore a couple other ideas that I’ve had kicking around my head.
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?
Touch one! Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. It might be an old classic, but it still resonates. I’d also bring one of the original Dragonlance Chronicles (or all three if I could cheat), because they were my favorite books growing up. If I could squeeze in one more, it would probably something by Bear Grills on how to survive on a desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Michael Penning Website
Michael Penning Amazon Profile
Michael Penning’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile