StokerCon RECAP

The Horror Writers Association Gathered in San Diego for the Stoker Awards

Howdy writers!

I’m back in the hi desert and recovering from StokerCon—the annual gathering of the Horror Writers Association! They’re my favorite professional writers trade group.

The funny thing is … I am an accidental horror writer.

My debut graphic novel SPECTRE DEEP 6 was a finalist for the Bram Stoker award. That surprised me because I didn't even think it was horror!

But in retrospect, the book is about ghosts… so yeah.

I also wasn’t planning to write a whole villains book series for Disney, but somehow that happened, too. And looking back, the very first films I worked on in Hollywood were Donnie Darko (as an intern during college for the producers) and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre remake & prequel. I also then went to New Line Cinema … the “House that Freddy built.” Plus, I love horror movies, books … you name it.

So, I suppose the things you love have a way of finding you.

Maybe that’s the lesson?

I decided to hit StokerCon this year since it was in SoCal. I hadn’t been since the very first one back pre-Covid (where I remember hanging with George R.R. Martin and deciding he was never finishing his GOT book series). It was memorable, to say the least. But then COVID closed the world, and I hunkered down to write Disney Chills.

StokerCon was a blast this year! I had two great panels, including “Writing Middle Grade Horror” and writing IP (like Disney and Star Wars). Highlights included seeing friends like guest of honor Jonathan Maberry and friends like Scott Siglar.

I also taught an in-person “Worldbuilding for Horror” workshop for Horror University. And participated in the mass author signing. A big highlight was getting to read from my new “Weird Tales” story Denizen of Deep Holler from the recently released “Occult Detective” issue that went to #1 on Amazon in category.

When I first arrived, a woman approached me in the lobby and asked, “Are you Jennifer Brody?” She proceeded to tell me that she and her husband read my story on the plane to San Diego and that it was the standout story in the issue.

As a writer, you never know who will read your stuff. Or if it will even get noticed. It’s always amazing and validating to hear from readers. It helps keep us going.

Now, I’m back home and trying to recover. Cons are fun, but always take a lot out of you. I’m halfway through the second book in the A SACRIFICE OF BLOOD AND STARS series. I’m closing two new deals—and so excited to announce them!

I have a lot to write this summer, and into the next calendar year. Stay tuned for more fun announcements.

COMING SEPTEMBER 17TH! Preorder now in all formats.