So, if you’re like me, you’ve noticed that it’s a new month. That’s right, it’s that time of year again…February. And, of course, if you’re also like me, you know that February means one thing and one thing only…

HAPPY WOMEN IN HORROR MONTH, EVERYBODY!!!!

Now apparently there’s some other holiday going on this month, but that’s just a fad. This is the one that counts.

If it isn’t insanely obvious, I love horror. I love the genre, I love the possibility of it, I love the fact that there are so many different sub-genres. I love love LOVE horror. Yet I also feel like this is a genre that has gotten associated with a rampant amount of testosterone…unless you’re counting all the boobs. Still, as I’ve grown and networked as an author, I’ve discovered that there are others like me (I know, right? Be afraid, be very afraid). There are other women out there who are eager to write zombies feasting on human flesh, vampires who are more interested in your blood type than getting your phone number. There are women out there who aren’t afraid to explore the ins and outs of possession or what would happen if you turn around and realize that your favorite stuffed toy you’ve grown up with your whole life is actually a serial killer. There are a lot of us who love the genre, andguess what? This is the month to celebrate US. That’s right – so let’s cheer for Shirley Jackson, drink to Nancy A. Collins, hoot n’ holler for Poppy Z. Bright, Anne Rice, and so, so, SO many others (not to mention those of us who are up n’ coming, too).

That’s right, boyos, this month we’re takin’ the genre back. Because if you haven’t noticed, no one does scary like a woman. (I’ll let you interpret that however you want).

Throughout the month I’m going to feature guest posts by horror authors (female and male) exploring why we like writing horror or the different female-oriented titles and characters and authors that inspire us. That’s right, there’ll be no hearts here unless they’re being eaten by zombies, no flowers unless they’re laid beside the mausoleum of a vengeful ghost. So get ready, because you’re going to be hearing a lot of opinions and learning a lot of cool titles that have to do with women.