Richard Wright

A couple of weeks ago, I posted about some stories I have upcoming, two of which I wasn’t in a position to tell you much about. Both were in anthologies, and one of those I was expecting very soon indeed. After corresponding with editor Tim Deal today, I can confirm that this was not just wishful thinking, and that Shroud Publishing’s new anthology Beneath The Surface will be going to the printers any day now. The trade paperback contains thirteen short stories, including my own ‘Secrets (Never Told)’.

The title of my tale refers to an age-old superstition about magpies (encapsulated by a rhyme beginning ‘One for sorrow…’ – does this exist outside of the UK?) that still makes even the most rationally minded feel a bit paranoid when they see a single bird. The story is about fate, and how heroes are born, and you should check it out.

At the moment, you can pre-order the book direct from the publisher, and they’ll pop it in the post as soon as it’s ready.  I suggest you do. Not only are you ponying up for my latest fiction alongside twelve other discoveries (some of who may be new to you, some may not), you’re supporting a new publisher who is trying to get a foot on the ladder. So far, Shroud Publishing have been a pleasure to deal with, and I’m glad to be a part of thier first book venture (they have more in the offing, as well as promising looking magazine).

Oh, and while it’s a little early for reviews, author Tom Piccirilli, himself a Bram Stoker Award winner who knows a thing or two about this sort of thing, has paged through and offers the following: An anthology of old school tales containing stories which are, by turns, spooky, gripping, insightful, pulpish, and just downright fun. A first offering from Shroud Publishing that will hopefully be followed by plenty more in the same vein.

So there. Now go forth. Spend a penny, and tell them I sent you.