Today's Dark Dozen features the incredible Judith Sonnet. Her story, A Taste of It, will be featured in this year's Uncomfortably Dark Anthology, DARK DISASTERS. Read on to learn more about this amazing author and see how she takes on the Dark Dozen.
When did you know you wanted to become an author?
I’ve wanted to write ever since I was a child. I was always fascinated with B-horror films from the 50s and classic pulp novels. Especially the works of H.P. Lovecraft and Arthus Conan Doyle, who were the first horror authors I ever read. Extreme horror, though, came to me later in life. I had a really cool English teacher that gave me a Richard Laymon book when I was in Middle School. I read Endless Night and In The Dark back-to-back, and when I was finished, I was aware that that was how I wanted to tell horror stories. Loudly and fearlessly! Laymon has served as a source of inspiration ever since.
If you had three sentences to pitch your work to a new reader, what is your pitch?
If you like your horror bloody, cruel, and disgusting … I’m your gal. If you like your horror tender, emotional, and empathetic … I’m your gal. If you like big monsters with lots of bone crushing teeth … I’m your gal!
What is your favorite thing about being in the Horror industry?
Meeting so many creative and unique people, especially at conventions. It’s been incredible getting to rub shoulders with people whose works have impacted me! I could list names forever, but it truly means a lot that some of these folks are now people I consider friends.
What’s the one thing that scares you the most in this world and have you ever written about it?
Manipulation. I’ve written about it a lot. As an abuse survivor, being manipulated has given me lots of trust issues, anxiety, and paranoia. It’s why the villain in Beast of Burden is a demonic monster who coerces his victims into doing his dirty work for him.
Tell us about a scene in one of your stories or someone else’s that you would not want to be stuck in and why? Name the book and author, if not you.
I already mentioned Laymon. Love his books, but there’s not a single one I’d want to be stuck in! Especially the scene in After Midnight when she first comes upon the campground, where a giant man is abusing a tied-up girl! Lots of layers to why I never want to encounter anything like that!
Darkest or most disturbing horror movie ever watched:
House on The Edge of the Park is probably my favorite “disturbing” movie. I watch it a lot. Its got David Hess as a scummy rapist, who takes over a house party and turns it into a diabolical night from hell. The ending is incredible though, and everyone should see it!
Darkest or most disturbing horror novel ever read:
The Cormorant by Stephen Gregory. I expected a dark chiller with some ghostly vibes. I was not prepared for the bathtub scene. Still don’t like thinking about that part. It truly pushed my buttons. Greta book … but … woof!
Darkest/ Worst Way to Die:
The Judas Chair. Ancient torture device that would basically impale you through the rectum, and you’d be lowered onto it on a daily basis an inch at a time. Either it’d puncture your guts, or you’d die of infections!
If you had one hour to speak to any author, who would it be and why?
I think it’s no surprise that I’d love to have had the opportunity to speak to Richard Laymon. I’ve been reading him for so long, it would have been phenomenal to interact with him.
What has been one of the proudest moments of your writing journey?
Having an audiobook made from my novella No One Rides for Free. I’ve always wanted my books to be heard as well as read, so that makes me really proud!
Who are you outside of being an author? What makes you tick other than the worlds and stories you create?
I really only do this. Sure, I watch movies and read books, but my passion has always been to write … and now I get to do it. I’m a trans woman, I take a lot of walks, and I tried being a vegetarian for a while but I’m eating fish again. Oops. Also, I’m asexual, depressed, and anxious. So … yeah. Writing is my favorite part of me!
What is a piece of advice that you WISH someone had given you early in your career?
Just understand that not everyone is going to like what you write or who you are. And that’s okay!
Judith's Bio:
JUDITH SONNET is a very sad girl. She writes gross and disturbing horror books and she collects old paperbacks as well as 70’s action movies. She grew up in Missouri, but now she lives in Utah. She’s trans, asexual, and is an abuse survivor. If you want to know more about her, check her out on Facebook … or contact her through your nearest Ouija board.
CHECK OUT HER WORK HERE:
DARK DISASTERS ORDER INFORMATION HERE:
Pre-orders are now open for this on the site and the run will be limited to 100 hardcover copies. This edition will ONLY be available via the Uncomfortably Dark website. eBook and paperback will be available through all other customary avenues.
Pricing:
Hardcover will be $40 plus shipping, includes all swag.
Full set with eBook, Paperback, and Hardcover will be $65.00 plus shipping.
Shipping expected Dec. 1, 2023, for physical copies. eBooks will be sent upon release on Nov. 25, 2023!