Twisted Prompts for Sicko Writers

+ Describe an invented mental illness in scientific language, as though an entry in the DSM-IV. For structure, visit allpsych.com + Lovingly describe an over-the-top imaginary weapon, as though writing the sales pitch that appears in a mail order catalog. For inspiration, try crkt.com + Write an encyclopedia entry about an infamous (but fictional) massacre. For a model, pick your favorite at the wikipedia list of massacres *** Instigation is a WEEKLY department in Hellnotes newsletter. *** Congratulations to subscriber Terrie Leigh Relf, whose instigation-inspired story, "At the Ophthalmologist's Office," was recently published in FlashShot. If you publish or post…

Play Dead Cover

This is the mock-up for the cover for my next novel, Play Dead, coming out in August 2005 from Raw Dog Screaming Press (in hardcover and novelty "sculpture"-bound editions). It's still being developed, but I love the design...which looks just like it was taken out of the story. Play Dead's publisher is celebrating the book by sponsoring the "Play Dead Charity Poker Showdown" at World Horror Convention this coming April. 20 celebrity authors will battle each other at Texas Hold 'Em for the charity of their choice. Read 'em and weep! It's really early in production, and you can't order…