Darkness Below was the winner in the BEST 1st BOOK category of the 2024 IndieReader Discovery Awards, where undiscovered talent meets people with the power to make a difference.
Following find an interview with author Barbara Cottrell.
I’m thrilled and honored to accept the IndieReader Discovery Award for Best First Book in Fiction for my novel, “Darkness Below.” This recognition means the world to me. Writing “Darkness Below,” the first installment of “The Shadows of Miskatonic” series, took many years. I’m glad to see that all the time and effort I spent on it paid off. I also want to express my gratitude to my readers, who have embraced the dark and mysterious world of Miskatonic. To see people enjoy the characters I created is deeply gratifying. A special thanks to my husband Lance for his unwavering support, and to Vanishing Edge Press for believing in my vision. This award fuels my passion to continue exploring the shadows. Thank you all!
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
Darkness Below was self-published in March 2023.
What’s the book’s first line?
Stephanie Lansdale stood on the edge of the clock tower.
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
College student Ellen Logan is drawn into a sinister world when her former roommate commits suicide and the roommate’s boyfriend goes missing. Their fates seem to be linked to a sinister book that is now in Ellen’s possession. To survive, Ellen must uncover the mysteries of the book and stop a cult who is trying to conjure a powerful supernatural creature.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I have always loved the work of writer H.P. Lovecraft, but was frustrated by the utter lack of women in his work. Like many other horror writers, I have updated the world to reflect modern diversity. I also wanted to use my experience as a professor in my creative work.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
I like Ellen Logan because she’s intelligent, independent and willing to investigate things on her own. But she also is willing to acknowledge when she needs help from others.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
So many of my friends say they hate horror, so they were pleasantly surprised that they enjoyed my work. I call my series Horror With A Heart because it is strongly driven by my characters. I like my characters and want to see them succeed, despite the numerous challenges they face.
If they made your book into a movie, who would you like to see play the main character(s)?
British actor Richard Armitage would play Andrew Carter and Ellen Logan would be played by Justine Lupe from the tv series Mr. Mercedes.
When did you first decide to become an author?
I have always wanted to be a writer since I was a kid. Only recently have I had the time and luxury to pursue my dream.
Is this the first you’ve written?
No. I tried my hand at romance before deciding the rules of the genre were too strict. So I put romantic elements into horror : )
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I used to be a professor of sociology (I have a PhD.) but I quit years ago.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
3-4 hours a day is typical, but it can be more if I’m doing research or am “in the zone”.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Getting your work out there. Achieving wide distribution is really hard when you’re an independent writer.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
I probably wouldn’t. I enjoy my independence and the degree of control I have over my work.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
I just want to get as many people to read my books as I can. Monetary success would be great, but it’s about getting my world in front of people that matters.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
Stephen King (Uncle Steve) is an obvious choice and the Agent Pendergast series by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Childs. I also love historians David Grann and Hampton Sides.
Which book do you wish you could have written?
World War Z by Max Brook was a brilliant, original spin on the zombie apocalypse. I also admire Victor LaValle’s Devil In Silver and David Grann’s Killers of the August Moon.