Up next in my series of interviews with authors from Stories We Tell After Midnight – Christy Mann. When I mentioned I was looking for flash fiction for the anthology, she sat down and write a short, punchy piece that contained my favorite phobia. (No spoilers–you’ll have to read to find out!) A few months ago, I had the opportunity to meet her in person when the family traveled out to Utah. She is just as fun in person, and I hope you get a chance to read “Uncle Charlie” when the anthology drops on October 21!
Q (Infamous Scribbler): Why horror? Why do you write it? What about the genre appeals to you as an author?
A (Christy Mann): Life has been pretty dark and ugly. I try not to focus on that, but it’s there and it tries to come out sometimes. Going to prison scares the hell out of me, but bottling up thoughts and emotions causes a lot of pain. I used to journal, but then I shifted to writing stories where I could process the thoughts and feelings without holding anything back and create the outcomes I look for, good, bad, and ugly without prison. Turns out, it makes for really good stories.
Q: What do you find most challenging about the writing process, and how do you meet that challenge?
A: Everything but the writing, honestly. The writing comes easy, especially when there is a good story to be told. I rarely have to force the words to come. I struggle with the frustrations that come with editing, publishing, and marketing the work once it’s written. I remind myself that it is all part of the process and I can’t just pick and do the parts that I like if I want to get anywhere.
Q: What do you find most challenging/rewarding about writing in the short fiction format?
A: I get to write “The End” or “to be continued” a lot more often. I struggle keeping up with long stories where I have to keep track of who is wearing what, what they said previously, and where they are from scene to scene. I can do it, but I don’t enjoy it as much and sometimes I think the story and I suffer needlessly because of it. I can twist and turn a reader inside out easier with what isn’t said.
About the Author
Christy Mann is a psychological horror and thriller writer who lives in Utah. She has worked hard and provided editing and ghost-writing services for over four years. She especially enjoys writing flash fiction pieces to scare the soul. You can find more information about Christy Mann and her books on her website at: ChristyMannAuthor.com.
