Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to D.C. Phillips. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
D.C., looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
As a writer, each of my projects has its own special place in the shadows and dark corners of my mind—including my spooky children’s book and my cult-classic-inspired short story collection. The process behind each one has been unique, and at times I’ve had to remind myself to slow down and enjoy the ride, from the inception of an idea to the launch of a new book.
My next project, The Flayer, is no exception. It comes out in March 2025, and I can’t wait to share it with readers. It’s particularly meaningful because it’s my first novella. I’ve tended to focus more on short stories because I love crafting punchy pieces that leave something to the imagination, that leave you wanting more. Writing with a longer format in mind allowed me to immerse myself in the small town I created (Felton), get to know its flawed inhabitants (like Kyle and Rita), and flesh out a legendary serial killer (pun intended).
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m D.C. Phillips, author of Frightful Fables—tales that will leave you screaming for more! I’m an avid fan of classic horror and all things camp. Since self-publishing my first “sampler” of work online a decade ago, my short stories have appeared in a number of publications, including Sanitarium Magazine and Georgia Gothic, an anthology compiled by members of the Atlanta Chapter of the Horror Writers Association. I draw inspiration from my surroundings, from the subtle anxieties of suburbia to the creaky halls of a Victorian manor.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I’ll use the upcoming release of The Flayer as an example. This is a story I started writing based on a nightmare. Yes, you read that right. Sometime pre-2020, I dreamed that Melissa McCarthy (of all people) was set to star in a new Texas Chainsaw Massacre sequel. I woke up laughing and scared, and I knew I had to tell this story. It’s infused with dark humor, and I’m sure it will resonate with an audience of quirky folks like me.
Anyhow, I had plans to finish up my manuscript and work with an editor to publish in early 2020, but we all know what happened next. As a result, the project was shelved… indefinitely. I focused on my day job, dedicated my time to writing for open calls for submissions, and watched a lot of Netflix along with the rest of the world. Eventually some semblance of normalcy returned, and I was able to put out Man’s Best Phantom and Frightful Fables.
But I never forgot about The Flayer, and I certainly didn’t give up on it. If anything, revisiting the novella after an unintended break gave the whole concept time to simmer. I found myself adding details and exploring character arcs I hadn’t anticipated. I never gave up on my vision for this book, and it’s finally (almost) here!
Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?
In 2023, I attended my first major event as a vendor: ATL Comic Convention. From there, I started booking a variety of appearances, from local markets and book fairs to other big, themed cons. My first out-of-state event was Days of the Dead Las Vegas in early 2024, and I was thrilled. I arrived to find my assigned table across from the cast of the original Night of the Living Dead (who are wonderful conversationalists) and the Cryptkeeper himself, John Kassir (who is the nicest guy). I didn’t know what to expect sales-wise, but I was absolutely starstruck.
I have so many memories from that weekend that I’ll cherish as a fan, but the one that stands out the most is of Greg Nicotero—special effects guru and The Walking Dead producer extraordinaire—coming over to my table. After chatting for a minute, he picked up a copy of Frightful Fables and asked, “Is there some good sh*t in here?” Of course I answered with confidence! Ultimately he bought a copy and made my entire day, week, and month. I’ll never forget that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktree.com/FrightfulFables
- Instagram: @FrightfulFables
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/FrightfulVol1
- Twitter: @FrightfulFables
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@frightfulfables5280
