Kelli's Quill - 2018 Writing Recap

Hi everyone!

As the end of the year approaches, I’m sharing a 2018 recap. Remember, ebooks make great gifts! So if someone you know loves to read, be sure to check out my website to see all of my other writings. Why not gift someone a hot romance or a spooky horror story to read this winter?

My historical romance, Redemption from a Dark Past, was published in 2018. This full-length Gothic novel is set in the kingdom of Hungary in 1723 and blends a sensual romance with mystery and suspense. It also was a Night Owl Romance “Top Pick” and got a 4 ½ star review.

REDEMPTION FROM A DARK PAST

Lord Sebestyen Adrik has an unsavory reputation as a madman, murderer… and worse. Lonely and searching for love, he seeks the companionship of local young women, hoping one of them will ease his torment and bring him the happiness he longs for. Katarina is his last chance—but will she fear him like all the others? Or is she the one who can lift his curse?

Desperate to avoid a forced marriage, Katarina agrees to become Lord Adrik’s latest companion, despite the rumors she has heard about him. She discovers the “Dark Lord’s” secret past and realizes he’s not the monster everyone thinks he is.

As their love blossoms, she renews his passion for life—yet they cannot escape the ghosts of the past.

When a meeting of the nobility goes horribly wrong, Sebestyen’s world unravels, and his enemies plot to destroy him. As all seems lost, a mysterious stranger arrives at the castle. Sebestyen must decide if he is a friend or a foe…and if he can find redemption in his love for Katarina, or lose her and everything else that he holds dear.

Order Redemption from a Dark Past here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DL1FXYW/

Link to all other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/3R1aYD

In August, I released my horror novella, Nightmare in the North. This cautionary tale about traveling alone and trusting strangers makes a great winter read! It received a 5 star review from Myra’s Horror Blog Reviews. 

NIGHTMARE IN THE NORTH

Stranded during a violent blizzard, Mark hikes to the only house nearby. George, a well-mannered University professor, welcomes Mark and gives him shelter from the storm.

By morning, Mark suspects that everything isn’t what it seems. George’s adult daughter, Kate, who also lives in the house, shares a disturbing and unsettling tale. When questioned, George insists that Kate has a psychological issue and can’t be trusted to tell the truth.

Mark quickly finds himself caught in a game of cat and mouse. Who should he believe? Is Kate’s desperate plea for help sincere? Should he be suspicious of George? Or are both of them plotting something together?

Isolated from everyone, Mark is forced to wait out the storm—and find a way to escape—if he hopes to make it out alive.

Order Nightmare in the North here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G9QD45X

All other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/m2vqOk

If writing a novel or a short story is on your list of things to do in 2019 - or if you have a budding writer in the family, don’t miss my online writing course, FICTION WRITING FOR BEGINNERS.  It’s a must-have for anyone who is interested in writing and needs practical advice on how to get started, PLUS motivation and encouragement to keep writing.

Thirteen easy-to-follow classes cover the writing process from start to finish. You’ll learn where writers get ideas, how to create characters, get expert tips on writing your story, and find out how to submit it for publication. Everything you need to know to start writing is wrapped up in this comprehensive and fun course.

Each class is self-contained and self-directed. This way, you can learn about a specific topic at your own pace, and not worry about completing the class by a certain deadline. Short writing exercises at the end of each class highlight the subject matter and get you writing.

If you’ve always wanted to write, FICTION WRITING FOR BEGINNERS will get you started. Visit the course page to learn more and enroll: https://kelliwilkins.teachable.com/

In October I released Cupid’s Schemes, a lighthearted contemporary romance anthology.

CUPID’S SCHEMES - A COLLECTION OF SWEET ROMANCES

In these 16 flash fiction vignettes, Cupid’s arrow hits the mark and ignites a spark between two strangers—whether or not they’re looking for romance. Their unusual meetings lead to new beginnings and new chances at love.

Sweet stories of couples falling under Cupid’s spell include:

* a Medieval knight courting a pretty lady

* two neighbors discover that romance can happen when you least expect it

* a dehydrated mermaid rescued by a handsome stranger

These lighthearted mini-romances are perfect reads for a quick lunchtime escape or an after-work indulgence.

Order your copy here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B07JM9K1BB

All other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/boZxkZ  

Wondering what’s coming up in 2019? Look for a non-fiction romance guide, Cupid’s Schemes Volume 2, and I’ll be re-releasing all three of my historical romances previously published by Medallion Press. If that isn’t enough, I’m also working on a few brand new romances and horror stories.

Stay tuned to this blog and my social media pages for updates and release info.

Before I sign off, I want to give a big Thank You to everyone who ordered my books, visited my blog, followed my social media pages, and supported my writing this year. Thanks!

Enjoy the rest of 2018, and have a safe and happy holiday season!

Kelli

Kelli's December News & Reviews

Hi everyone!

Today I’m sharing some December news & reviews.

First up, my horror novella, Nightmare in the North got a 5 star review from Myra’s Horror Blog Reviews. 

NIGHTMARE IN THE NORTH

Stranded during a violent blizzard, Mark hikes to the only house nearby. George, a well-mannered University professor, welcomes Mark and gives him shelter from the storm.

By morning, Mark suspects that everything isn’t what it seems. George’s adult daughter, Kate, who also lives in the house, shares a disturbing and unsettling tale. When questioned, George insists that Kate has a psychological issue and can’t be trusted to tell the truth.

Mark quickly finds himself caught in a game of cat and mouse. Who should he believe? Is Kate’s desperate plea for help sincere? Should he be suspicious of George? Or are both of them plotting something together?

Isolated from everyone, Mark is forced to wait out the storm—and find a way to escape—if he hopes to make it out alive.

***

Myra says: I can’t say anymore without giving away too much, but the ending was creepy. Though I was suspicious the story had certain elements to it that were later confirmed, I was still a bit surprised by the end. A worthy horror read to while away a little time.

Order Nightmare in the North here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G9QD45X

All other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/m2vqOk

Read the full 5 star review here: http://myranour.net/book-chat-nightmare-in-the-north/

My Gothic historical romance, REDEMPTION FROM A DARK PAST, got a 4 ½ star review from Night Owl Romance and is a Top Pick. This full-length Gothic novel is set in the kingdom of Hungary in 1723 and blends a sensual romance with mystery and suspense.

REDEMPTION FROM A DARK PAST

Lord Sebestyen Adrik has an unsavory reputation as a madman, murderer… and worse. Lonely and searching for love, he seeks the companionship of local young women, hoping one of them will ease his torment and bring him the happiness he longs for. Katarina is his last chance—but will she fear him like all the others? Or is she the one who can lift his curse?

Desperate to avoid a forced marriage, Katarina agrees to become Lord Adrik’s latest companion, despite the rumors she has heard about him. She discovers the “Dark Lord’s” secret past and realizes he’s not the monster everyone thinks he is.

As their love blossoms, she renews his passion for life—yet they cannot escape the ghosts of the past.

When a meeting of the nobility goes horribly wrong, Sebestyen’s world unravels, and his enemies plot to destroy him. As all seems lost, a mysterious stranger arrives at the castle. Sebestyen must decide if he is a friend or a foe…and if he can find redemption in his love for Katarina, or lose her and everything else that he holds dear.

***

Nikkii Blue says: This is definitely a "Don't judge a book by its cover" kind of romance story. Redemption from a Dark Past is beautiful, heartbreaking, redeeming, sexy and passionate. It also has a great plot with several twists. I really enjoyed Redemption from a Dark Past and it is well worth a reader's time.

Order Redemption from a Dark Past here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DL1FXYW/

Link to all other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/3R1aYD

Read the full review here: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Reviews/Nikkitrueblue-reviews-Redemption-From-A-Dark-Past-by-Kelli-A-Wilkins

A new horror story!

Dark Moon Digest celebrates its 8th anniversary with its first ever double edition, combining issues #32 and #33 into one spooky tome of horror fiction. My story "They Just Keep Eating" is included in this collection. 

Order it here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Digest-Issue-32-ebook/dp/B07K26S3ZD/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1543018379&sr=8-1

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-moon-digest-issue-32-33-lori-michelle/1129903129?ean=9781943720330

Remember, ebooks make great gifts - so if someone you know loves to read, be sure to check out my website to see all of my writings. Why not gift someone a hot romance or a spooky horror story to read this winter?

Enjoy!

Kelli

Heat up your winter with the Naughty Nobles trilogy!

Hi Everyone,

If you’re looking for a few hot historical/fantasy romances to heat up your winter nights, don’t miss the Naughty Nobles trilogy.

Midsummer Night’s Delights (Book 1) introduces readers to Julian and Annabelle. They are strangers trapped in an arranged, sexless marriage. To loosen them up, Julian’s father sends them to the Marquis of Demby’s estate to attend a Midsummer Ball. (And this type of ball isn’t for dancing!)

Julian and Annabelle meet the marquis, Vincent, and his wife, Sabrina. Over the course of their visit, they learn how to open up and explore their sexuality. When they attend the Midsummer Ball, they shed their inhibitions while indulging in their wildest fantasies. Anything goes in this erotic tale, and I had a lot of fun showing how Annabelle and Julian loosen up and embrace their wanton sides.

When I wrote Midsummer, I had no idea I would turn the book into a trilogy. Readers and reviewers loved the story and the characters so much, that they wanted these very naughty adventures to continue. So, I wrote two sequels, Midwinter Night’s Delights and Ultimate Night’s Delights. Although the stories are connected, each novella stands alone as an individual read.

The second book in the series, Midwinter Night’s Delights, picks up six months after the last story and follows the continuing sexual adventures of Annabelle and Julian. (And yes, this novella is just as hot—if not hotter—than the first one!)

In the sequel, we discover that Annabelle and Julian have taken what they’ve learned and gone wild. Ever since the Midsummer Ball, they have been overindulging in all sorts of lewd activities. Instead of being shy and repressed, they are more than eager to give in to their desires whenever (and wherever) the mood strikes—even if it’s at a formal dinner party. Needless to say, Julian’s father sends them back to Vincent’s estate to be disciplined and learn self-control.

Ultimate Night’s Delights is the third and final novella in the series. When I started thinking about the plot, I wasn’t sure what direction to take. I knew there had to be something interesting (beyond a naughty “anything goes” ball) that raised the stakes for everyone, and I thought about blackmail. (It’s always a good motive!)

From there, I developed the idea of the “Black Duke” and his mission to destroy Vincent. Then of course, I had to devise a clever way to tie it all together at the end. I also enhanced a storyline and shared some insight on two secondary characters, Lono and Lobo. (Readers were briefly introduced to them in the second book.) In this story, I explain how they came to be employed by Vincent and Sabrina and what’s ahead for them in the future.

Fans of the first two novellas will find this book to be a satisfying conclusion to the series.

Here are the summaries and links to each book…

Midsummer Night’s Delights

At this Midsummer Ball, couples pair up everywhere—but not for dancing!

Young newlyweds Julian and Annabelle are miserable. Their arranged marriage is lacking everything—especially sex. Julian suffers from a lack of confidence and is harboring a secret urge. Innocent Annabelle’s longings go unnoticed and unfulfilled, no matter what she tries.

But all that changes when they are invited to a Midsummer Ball. Their unconventional hosts, Vincent and Sabrina, introduce them to a world where their most intimate desires and hidden passions are explored—and fulfilled. Swapping and naughty games are just a few of the surprises awaiting them…

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6W5QHM

All other platforms: https://books2read.com/u/3LrJP1 

Midwinter Night’s Delights

Julian and Annabelle are back for another naughty ball!

The Marquis of Demby’s Midsummer Ball transformed Julian and Annabelle forever. No longer shy about satisfying their sexual urges, the young newlyweds give in to their wanton desires whenever—and wherever—the mood strikes. Anything goes in their open marriage, and they’re not ashamed to share their passions with others.

But everything changes when they are sent to Vincent and Sabrina’s estate to be disciplined. Before they can participate in the Midwinter Ball, they must learn self-control. Carnal punishments and sensual lessons are just a few of the erotic surprises awaiting them… before the ball even begins!

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06VTH1GCC

All other platforms: https://books2read.com/u/mdKaaX

Ultimate Night’s Delights

Julian and Annabelle are back for the final ball!

The Midsummer and Midwinter Balls changed Julian and Annabelle forever. Vincent, the Marquis of Demby, and his wife, Sabrina, introduced them to a world of erotic pleasures. Freed from their inhibitions, they now help other shy couples explore their sexual urges and hidden desires.

But life on Vincent and Sabrina’s estate is anything but tranquil. The notorious Duke of Blackwell has discovered the secret about the naughty balls and is out to destroy the marquis.

Vincent refuses to deny the rumors about the “anything goes” parties he hosts, and turns to his friends for assistance. Together, they devise a plan to defeat the Black Duke… and still find time for a few wicked games.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XGCCTJW

All other platforms: https://books2read.com/u/bxgyPk

Enjoy!

Kelli

Kelli’s Quill Newsletter - November 2018 Issue

Hi everyone!

In this issue of the Quill, I’m announcing the release my new romance anthology, Cupid’s Schemes, revisiting my online writing course, sharing news plus a few blog links, and a fast Q&A session.

NEW ROMANCE RELEASE

Cupid’s Schemes - A Collection of Sweet Romances

In these 16 flash fiction vignettes, Cupid’s arrow hits the mark and ignites a spark between two strangers—whether or not they’re looking for romance. Their unusual meetings lead to new beginnings and new chances at love.

Sweet stories of couples falling under Cupid’s spell include:

* a Medieval knight courting a pretty lady

* two neighbors discover that romance can happen when you least expect it

* a dehydrated mermaid rescued by a handsome stranger

These lighthearted mini-romances are perfect reads for a quick lunchtime escape or an after-work indulgence.

Order your copy here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B07JM9K1BB

All other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/boZxkZ

BREAKING NEWS

My Gothic historical romance, REDEMPTION FROM A DARK PAST, just got a 4 ½ star review from Night Owl Romance. Read the review here: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Reviews/Nikkitrueblue-reviews-Redemption-From-A-Dark-Past-by-Kelli-A-Wilkins

Looking for something to read this weekend? Check out my newly updated Books2Read page. It features my romances (in all genres), my horror fiction & more!

https://www.books2read.com/ap/nkvddR/Kelli-A-Wilkins

November is National Novel Writing Month!

If one of your goals is to finally write that short story or novel, then don’t miss out on FICTION WRITING FOR BEGINNERS. This online course is designed for anyone who is interested in writing and needs practical advice on how to get started, PLUS motivation and encouragement to keep writing.

Thirteen easy-to-follow classes cover the writing process from start to finish. You’ll learn where writers get ideas, how to create characters, get expert tips on writing your story, and find out how to submit it for publication. Everything you need to know to start writing is wrapped up in this comprehensive and fun course.

Each class is self-contained and self-directed. This way, you can learn about a specific topic at your own pace, and not worry about completing the class by a certain deadline. Short writing exercises at the end of each class highlight the subject matter and get you writing.

If you’ve always wanted to write, Fiction Writing for Beginners will get you started. Visit the course page to learn more and enroll: https://kelliwilkins.teachable.com/

Remember, November is NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writing Month!

KELLI’S BEEN GUEST BLOGGING

Here’s a pre-Thanksgiving treat - my simple side dish recipe for wild rice & broccoli. https://theafterworkcook.blogspot.com/2018/11/guest-cook-kelli-wilkins.html

Looking for a yummy autumn treat? Get my recipe for pumpkin bread here:

https://theafterworkcook.blogspot.com/2018/10/guest-cook-kelli-wlkins.html

Read about my latest horror novella, Nightmare in the North. Post includes an excerpt!

https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/single-post/2018/10/12/Spooky-October-Spotlight-on%E2%80%A6-Nightmare-in-the-North-by-KWilkinsauthor-horror-bookboost-FridayReads

SHARING FUN PHOTOS

In September, I became a photo contributor on istock and Shutterstock. I’m uploading images in all categories: Halloween, nature, travel, and more! Visit my profile pages to view my pictures.

https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/kelliwilkins

https://www.shutterstock.com/g/kelli+wilkins

Don’t forget, I’m also on Instagram! I shared lots Halloween photos throughout the month of October. https://www.instagram.com/kelliwilkins2/

4 FAQ

Q: You’ve written several horror stories and 19 romances. Between horror and romance, does writing one come more naturally than the other? What inspires you to pick up the pen to write a horror story?

A: I originally started out writing horror short stories, and then I alternated with romance. I think I have a good balance of writing in both genres. (One half of my brain does horror the other half does romance.) I generally get inspired for horror the same way I do for romance – an idea pops into my head, the story clicks, and off I go.

I was able to combine both worlds in my paranormal romance, Confessions of a Vampire’s Lover. It’s a romance, but it also has a gothic-horror feel. So does my historical, Redemption from a Dark Past. Although it’s not a paranormal, it takes place in a secluded Carpathian Mountain castle.

Sometimes after working on several romances I’ll switch and write a horror story. It allows me to change up my writing style, use different settings, and create characters you wouldn’t find in romance. My horror short stories are more psychological/spooky/creepy than gory, and I like to explore the darker aspects of a story and not always give the characters a happy ending (as I do in my romances).

Q: Share with us one thing about yourself that we wouldn’t think to ask.

A: Even though I write horror stories, nobody ever asks me about the paranormal. One thing you probably wouldn’t think to ask: “Do you believe in ghosts and the supernatural?” The answer is definitely yes.

Q: What types of books do you read? Romance? Horror? 

A: I have a very eclectic bookshelf. There are all sorts of new age, self-help, horror, romance, mystery, and non-fiction books on my selves. (It’s like a mini-library.) Basically, if a book looks interesting and the subject appeals to me, I’ll give it a try. Right now I’m reading the Preston & Child “Pendergast” series of books. They’re suspense/mystery with excellent plots and great characters. 

 I’m always reading! When I finish my writing for the day, I like to lose myself in a book that I haven’t written. It’s nice to read something where I don’t know what’s going to happen next.

Q: What are you working on right now? What can your readers expect from you in the near future?

A: I’m working on a non-fiction romance guide, Cupid’s Schemes Volume 2, a collection of sci-fi stories, and outlining new romances. 2019 will be a busy year for me. Stay tuned for new release news and updates on my blog and social media pages.

I hope you enjoyed this issue of the Quill. Please share it with your social media friends. I welcome questions and comments from readers and authors, so feel free to drop me a line via my site, blog, or social media. 

Happy Reading,

Kelli

New Release - Cupid’s Schemes: A Collection of Sweet Romances

Hi everyone,

I’m pleased to announce the release of my contemporary romance anthology, Cupid’s Schemes. In these 16 flash fiction vignettes, Cupid’s arrow hits the mark and ignites a spark between two strangers—whether or not they’re looking for romance. Their unusual meetings lead to new beginnings and new chances at love.

Sweet stories of couples falling under Cupid’s spell include:

* a Medieval knight courting a pretty lady

* two neighbors discover that romance can happen when you least expect it

* a dehydrated mermaid rescued by a handsome stranger

These lighthearted mini-romances are perfect reads for a quick lunchtime escape or an after-work indulgence.

Here’s an excerpt from Skating Sweethearts, the first story in this collection:

Skating Sweethearts

“Turn! No, Jules! Not that way,” Cheryl cried out.

Julie yelped as she whisked along on the ice, barreling out of control and barely keeping her balance. Her ice skates seemed to have a mind of their own.

What should she do? If she tried to stop, she might trip and go flying head over heels. If she turned, she’d probably fall onto her side. Either way, she was doomed. God only knew what she’d break if she landed on the cold, unforgiving ice.

This was a bad idea. A very bad idea. Why did she let Cheryl talk her into coming here today? How is this supposed to be fun? She zoomed along, praying she wouldn’t crash into anyone. Thankfully, the outdoor rink wasn’t very crowded.

“Watch out,” she warned as she skidded past a teenaged couple holding hands. All of a sudden she spotted a man in a red ski coat right in front of her. Uh-oh.

Before she could stop herself, she plowed into the back of the tall man. To her surprise, he whirled around, caught her, and twirled them in a circle.

She closed her eyes as the world spun. Then, everything stopped.

“I’ve got you. Are you okay?” the man asked.

Julie relaxed in his grip. It took a second to realize that his strong arm was coiled around her midsection. Her gloved hand rested on his shoulder. Strong, stable, nice.

A blast of cold air blew a lock of blonde curls in front of her face and she brushed it away. She glanced up to see who this powerhouse was. She gazed into her rescuer’s cocoa-brown eyes. “I’m sorry I crashed into you.”

“You’re not hurt are you?”

“No, but my pride is wounded. I made a complete fool of myself in front of everyone. I have no idea what I’m doing.”

She licked her lips and realized the handsome guy still held her around the waist. He seemed to be in no hurry to let her go—and that was fine with her.

Julie studied his high cheekbones, Roman nose, and stubbled jawline. Dark hair peeked out from under his red knit cap. He appeared to be in his early thirties, like her.

She inhaled deep as the wind blew a whiff of his musky cologne in her direction. Whoever this guy was, he smelled wonderful.

“Thanks for rescuing me. I’m Julie.”

“Allan.” He gave her a gentle squeeze. “Feel free to need rescuing anytime.” He winked. “Let me guess, this is your first time skating?”

“It shows, doesn’t it?” She looked back over her shoulder. Cheryl stood at the far end of the rink, waving. “My sister gave me a push in this direction and… Oh.”

Now she understood exactly what Cheryl had done—sent her skating right into this hunk on ice. Cheryl had an annoying habit of always trying to hook her up with strangers. It was a nice idea, and she meant well, but how many times had she flirted like crazy only to discover the man wasn’t interested—or worse—have his wife or significant other appear out of nowhere? It was embarrassing.

***

Order your copy here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B07JM9K1BB

All other platforms: https://www.books2read.com/u/boZxkZ

***

I hope you’ll check out this collection of sweet romances. Each one is a unique look at fun first meets. Look for Volume 2 coming in 2019!

Happy Reading,

Kelli

Do you like scary movies? I do!

Hi everyone!

Happy Halloween! In honor of the holiday (it's my personal favorite), I’m blogging about my favorite horror movies.

Horror movies (like ice cream) come in a variety of flavors, and horror movie fans/buffs have their personal likes and dislikes. Some people are devoted to the classic 1930 and 1940 Universal Studios films starring Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff. Others enjoy the British Hammer Studio films of the 1960s.

Some fans are attracted to a specific genre (torture porn, mutant families, clowns) or a monster (vampires, werewolves, and zombies). Still other folks are loyal to a character (Fred Krueger, Jason Voorhees) or a franchise (Scream, Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm St.)

So what are my favorites among these categories? I have my list of “classics” but I’ve always had a special fondness for 1970s horror films. Some are considered classic or revolutionary, while other, low budget films fall into the “so bad they’re good” kind of cheesy bad. These drive-in specials used to be featured on late-night TV before the rise of infomercials (another type of horror!).

True fans of the horror genre don’t wait around until October or Halloween to celebrate all things spooky and creepy. We can find horror in a sunny June afternoon, at Christmas (hello Krampus!), or on a tropical island. Those of us who love the genre understand the mechanics of good storytelling, know why you need a convincing and scary villain, and give the often-maligned genre the credit it deserves for constantly evolving and reinventing itself.

I could go on and on (really!) but here’s a short list of my favorites in alphabetical order by genre. They’re not all necessarily gory or scary, but they have a good story, tense camera work, or are just plain cool — or strange — depending how you look at it.

There’s still time to check out a few of these movies before Halloween. Or, if you’re like me, you can watch them anytime. Many of these have been remade or have spawned sequels, so why not watch the original and then the remake?

Creepy Children:

The Other (1972) – Often overlooked story about creepy twins – need I say more? (Not to be confused with The Others with Nicole Kidman.)

The Bad Seed (1956) – An 8 year-old sociopath fools everyone (almost!)

Haunted Places:

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (1973) – When someone tells you not to open something, don’t! And the 2011 “remake” was pretty good too.

The Amityville Horror (1975) – Some houses are cheap for a reason…

Monsters:

Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981) – Spooky TV movie that makes you wonder  about scarecrows..

Frogs (1972) – One of my favorites & part of the “animal revenge” genre of the 1970s, along with Squirm, Empire of the Ants, etc. The original poster had a hand hanging out of the frog’s mouth.

Dog Soldiers (2002) – Best werewolf movie ever. These are not Lon Chaney’s wolves.

The Mummy (1932) – Don’t mess around in tombs.

King Kong (1933) – A classic for its time, and the island part is the best.

Murder & Mayhem:

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) – The horror classic about a highly dysfunctional family – and there’s no blood – really!

Black Christmas (1974) – The first really creepy Christmas movie – still holds up after all these years

Halloween (1978) – The classic that still freaks people out. (Lots of remakes and sequels to check out - if you’re into that.)

Rosemary’s Baby (1968) – Paranoia and persecution = Polanski

Twisted Brain (1974) – Horror in high school (makes a great double feature with Bad Ronald!)

Children Shouldn’t Play with Dead Things (1972) – Friends dig up a corpse to use in a mock Satanic ritual. It doesn’t end well.

The Hills Have Eyes (1977) – A family takes a shortcut and meets another, stranger, family

Race with the Devil (1975) – While camping, two couples run afoul of a group of Satanists. (Anti-camping movies are their own genre!)

Enjoy them – at your own risk!

Happy Haunting!

 Kelli

Spend a night in the land of the dead with DEAD TIL DAWN…

Happy October Everyone!

I hope you’re all avoiding the Christmas decorations that are invading the stores. What are they doing out already? Can’t retailers wait until November 1 to put out the snowmen? That’s scary, but today I’m sharing something spookier, a look at DEAD TIL DAWN…

Dead ‘Til Dawn

Disturbing the dead doesn’t prove you’re brave – it proves you’re stupid.

After touring Gettysburg battlefield, Jessica, Tim, and Steve decide to sneak out to the Devil’s Den for some late-night fun. Jessica’s friend Kathy objects, and warns them about trespassing where they’re not wanted.

Undaunted by ghost stories and fueled by his own arrogance, Tim races toward the Devil’s Den. When the group drives through mysterious battlefield fog, they find themselves surrounded by Civil War soldiers looking for a little fun of their own.

Kathy leaves the others to fend for themselves and flees to Little Round Top. Although she’s rescued by a kindhearted Union solider named Charlie, she refuses to believe that what she’s experiencing is real. As the nighttime battle rages on, Charlie introduces Kathy to other weary soldiers, and she quickly realizes she’s trapped in the land of the dead until dawn.

***

So how did this story come about? Well, if you know me, you know I love writing psychological/creepy/spooky horror stories. And I also love traveling to historic places — especially if they’re haunted.

This novella was inspired by actual events that happened to me in Gettysburg, PA. I had a very unusual experience with battlefield fog and I wanted to use it in a story.

Although I don’t consider myself a “paranormal investigator” I love exploring haunted places and  taking ghost tours. Historic houses and basically “anything old and creepy” appeal to my imagination. Is it any surprise that I love Halloween?

Here’s an excerpt from Dead Til Dawn, featuring the infamous battlefield fog. I’m happy to say that the book got several great reviews on Amazon!

Steve leaned forward in the back seat and tapped Tim on the shoulder. “You think we can get to the Devil’s Den now? Won’t they have security guards?”

“Who’d guard a battlefield at night? Ghosts?” Tim chuckled.

“The ghost stories we heard today were cool,” Steve replied. “I wanted to take that ghost tour at the orphanage. They let you investigate and try to contact dead soldiers. Maybe tomorrow—”

“I told you, that was a rip off,” Tim interrupted. “Who cares who died out here, anyway? It was over a hundred and fifty years ago. I don’t know why you keep wasting your time and money on that paranormal crap. There’s no such thing as ghosts. People in town made up those stories to rake in tourist money and sell costumes to idiot reenactors. If playing dress-up… Whoa!”

Tim stopped the car. A wall of white mist covered the road ten feet ahead of them.

“Is that fog?” Jessica asked, brushing her long red hair over her shoulder.

“Yeah,” Steve answered. “But why is it there and not anywhere else?”

Kathy peered out the side window. The two-lane road was crystal clear on both sides of the car, but the line of fog blocked their path. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this. Let’s go back.”

Tim glared at her in the rearview mirror. “You wanna go to the hotel? Get out and start walking.”

Kathy pursed her lips and counted to ten. Tim was a controlling smart-ass who insulted everyone, and for the last two days she’d been his primary target. It would be a miracle if she made it through the rest of the weekend without killing him.

She considered her options. The hotel was at least two miles behind them. It would be an easy walk, but she didn’t think it was smart to go wandering off alone in the dark. Besides, Tim wanted her out of the car. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of doing what he said. If he wanted her to leave, she’d do the opposite.

“I’ll stay.”

“Then keep quiet,” Tim barked, then stomped on the gas and plowed into the fog.

“Check it out. We’re surrounded,” Steve exclaimed.

Fog engulfed the car, blocking out the fields, trees, and fences along the road. Every so often Kathy thought she saw a glimpse of movement in the misty darkness, but it was hard to tell with Tim speeding like a maniac.

Steve pointed behind them. “Look back there. The town’s gone, swallowed up,” he said.

Kathy gazed out the rear window. Steve was right. Behind them, Gettysburg lay sleeping, wrapped in a blanket of milky whiteness.

“Sweetie, do you remember where the turnoff is?” Jessica asked.

“Yeah. I spent the whole afternoon trapped on that tour bus, visiting boring monu… what the—” Tim slammed on the brakes and the car screeched to a stop.

“What’s wrong?” Steve asked.

“Nothing. I thought I saw—” Tim paused and ran his hands through his short black hair. “I thought I saw the turn and I didn’t want to miss it. Stupid fog plays tricks on your eyes.”

Leaning forward, Kathy tried to see through the fog, but it was hopeless. It was as thick as paint and surrounded the entire car.

***

Wanna find out what happens when they get out of the car? Order your copy here:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dead-Til-Dawn-Kelli-Wilkins-ebook/dp/B015LHI08A 

All other platforms: https://books2read.com/u/4X9aLb

If you’re ready for more horror stories, don’t miss Nightmare in the North and Kropsy’s Curse.

Happy Haunting!

Kelli