First off, thanks for stopping by. I’m going to do my best to update this as often as time allows. The purpose is to answer any questions you might have. If it doesn’t, shoot me an email at debracastaneda831@gmail.com.  I may write scary books, but I’m a friendly person who stops to pet dogs on the street.

What I’m reading now:

The Fervor by Alma Katsu

Universal Harvester by John Darnielle

What I’m working on now:

I’m expanding the novelette, The Root Witch, into a full-length novel. Some readers thought it was too short, and one book blogger encouraged me to consider turning it into a full-length book. Since I love the story and liked the idea of spending more time in the creepy aspen forest with a single root system, I’ve taken the plunge. Expect the story this summer. As soon as I have a publication date, I’ll put it up on pre-order.

What did you do before you became an author?

I worked in TV and radio news for most of my career: producer, radio reporter, assignment editor and news director, but never ever in front of the camera because I hate having my photo taken, which explains why I don’t share many selfies.

What books do you recommend?

I’ll be expanding this list because, honestly, there are so many. But to start with…

Queen of the Cicadas by V. Castro. (Folk horror with some erotic elements)

The Worm and Her Kings by Hailey Piper (cosmic horror)

Coyote Songs by Gabino Iglesias (he calls it “barrio noir”)

The Watchers by A.M. Shine (Irish folk horror)

I’m really into horror books by Adam Nevil at the moment. The Reddening and Cunning Folk are on Kindle Unlimited.

The Murderbot series by Martha Wells (science fiction)

The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula LeGuin (science fiction)

Anything by Brit author Mo Hayder, may she rest in peace. I suggest starting with Birdman.

Anything by P.D. James

A Town Like Alice & The Pied Piper by Nevil Shute

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro (Makes me cry every single time)