Episode #220 With Horror Author Catriona Ward

In episode #220, I spoke with author Catriona Ward, who credits her unique upbringing in various countries for shaping her literary trajectory. As a child, she had the opportunity to absorb different nations' cultures, customs, and languages, which played a significant role in shaping her writing style and themes.

While studying English at the University of Oxford, Ward found “the intensity of the canon of English Literature to be something one studies rather than contributes to.” However, her love for storytelling rekindled her passion, and she found herself drawn again toward the craft of writing. She holds a strong belief that every reading experience serves as fuel for her craft, adding layers to her narratives and characters.

During our conversation, I asked Catriona how she navigated through her teenage years when haunted by an eerie presence, a period marked by fear and confusion, and an enlightening exploration into the complexities of fear. We discuss how fear, often shrouded in shame and embarrassment, is an integral part of the human psyche and serves as a compelling backdrop for horror narratives.

Looking Glass Sound

For her latest novel, Looking Glass Sound, Catriona drew inspiration from the unsettling landscape of Maine, a setting that perfectly complements the horror genre. The region's bleak and chilling winter atmosphere lends itself perfectly to the story, imbuing it with an additional layer of suspense and dread. 

Catriona shares her publishing journey, from her first finished manuscript to finding an agent and landing a publishing deal. She talks about penning her second novel, the glacial pace of publishing, and the importance of receiving feedback from peers.

Enjoy this podcast episode, which offers a comprehensive overview of Catriona Ward's literary journey, highlighting the importance of perseverance, passion, and the willingness to explore the darker corners of the human psyche in the craft of writing. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a horror enthusiast, or someone who appreciates a good story, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of the writing process, the allure of the horror genre, and author Catriona Ward.

Catriona Ward Bio

CATRIONA WARD was born in Washington, DC, and grew up in the United States, Kenya, Madagascar, Yemen, and Morocco. She studied English at the University of Oxford and later earned her master’s degree in creative writing at the University of East Anglia. Ward is a three-time winner of the August Derleth Award for Best Horror Novel: for The Girl from Rawblood, her debut; Little Eve; and The Last House on Needless Street. Little Eve also won the Shirley Jackson Award for Best Novel. Ward is the international bestselling author of The Last House on Needless Street and Sundial.

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