It’s been a while, but the lack of an update is a fair reflection on my productivity. I’m of the opinion that writers can get too caught up in committing more words to social media than they do their books. It’s an opinion that isn’t very popular, and/or is frowned upon by literary hustlers out there, but it’s a sad reality of contemporary publishing. That said, hats off to those that do it well and continue promoting their work without driving people crazy (please get in touch and drop me some pointers if you read this).
So, dear reader, I’m here to say that I’m still alive and working hard on two books. The first is a collection of horror stories called Human Tenderloin. It’s tentatively scheduled for an October release because, as everyone knows, that’s the spookiest month in the calendar. At the time of writing this the book is complete. It consists of new and previously published stories that have only appeared in print. I’ve also had the pleasure of working with the diligent and wonderful editor, Danni Vinson. Danni and I share a similar love for creative and beautiful prose, so this partnership has been a real dream. I believe the best editors are those that tell you the things you’re too scared to admit in a way that leaves you both humbled and excited. Danni did this and I’m indebted to her time and kind words. The book also has a cover, and is currently being read by authors I admire and respect in the hope they provide a few choice words to feature on said cover. I’ll post more about this as things unfurl.
The second is the next book in the Tom Nolan series. This has no title yet, and I’m about 20k in. The process has been very fragmented. I began the book late in 2020, but when my father passed away, I shelved it. I picked it up again in March, but again, put it to one side to polish Human Tenderloin. The plan now is to pick up the story again in early June with the hope of having a first draft by early winter. I wrote Labyrinth of the Dolls in a frenzy, taking just three months to complete. I promised myself I wouldn’t do that with the third book. Perhaps this decision portents to it being the final book in the series. A trilogy is a good length for a series, and to do more may weaken the other books. Too, I don’t believe I can put Nolan through any further anguish. He’s my Prometheus chained to a rock, and I can’t bear seeing him undergo further pain. I owe him a respite from the buzzards.
So that’s that. Though there’s no certainty I will release the third Tom Nolan book this year, I can guarantee you’ll have something horrible from me to devour in autumn. Until I have further news, or something to share about Human Tenderloin, stay safe and stay true.
Craig.
Craig Wallwork 