Shadow Writer - The Official Paul Kane Website

First published by Abaddon in the UK, September 2008. Mass Market Paperback, with artwork by Mark Harrison, Ł6.99.

ISBN: 978-1-905437-76-4

‘One of the most enjoyable Robin Hood stories you are likely to read.’

(Lee Harris, The Hub Magazine)

‘Arrowhead is huge fun. The characters we know from the tales of Robin Hood are all there, and Kane allows them to understand they are playing a part in the re-establishment of a myth. If you’ve ever wanted to see Robin Hood go up against tanks, this is for you; if not, well, buy it anyway.’

(Four star review by Anthony Leigh, DeathRay magazine)

‘ Of all the novels so far in the Chronicles, this is the most visual, with Kane's prose bringing to life the world both within Nottingham Castle and in Sherwood Forest. His action sequences have a film editor’s eye, giving the reader exactly the amount of information needed to become caught up in events. Kane’s mixture of legend and modern-day works well, with Rob Stokes making a very effective reluctant hero, becoming the latest incarnation of the Hooded Man almost despite himself.’

(Paul Simpson, Dreamwatch Presents Total Sci-Fi)

‘I didn’t want to read this book. Not because I was concerned about the quality of the work, but because the myth of Robin Hood is a precious thing to me. I come from Nottingham and spent my childhood being told the tales of the “wolf’s head”… I grew up watching the Richard Carpenter TV show that moulded the story to include magic; I had read the comics and the original tales. I knew Robin Hood and I didn’t want him sullied. Fortunately Kane has done no such thing. He knows his history and has carefully moulded a story around the myth…The tale plays on the imagery and mythic undertones of the Hood stories, pieces of the legend falling into place, the collective memory of Hood being brought to the forefront of people’s minds… As well as playing with the fables of the “Outlaw” Arrowhead also falls into the tradition of English sci-fi disaster stories, in some places the work echoes Wyndham in the depiction of the survivors attempting to regain some normality in their lives. An excellent read that adds rather than detracts from the folklore of Robin Hood.’

(Adam J. Shardlow, Prism Magazine.)

‘I know you see where this one’s going. That’s right! It’s a modern re-working of the old Robin Hood tales! There’s even a “Maid Marian” and a “Friar Tuck” to keep you company. Paul Kane effortlessly weaves the tale of our favorite green clad do-gooder with post-apocalyptic brilliance. I can’t say enough good about this book. It’s awesome and I loved every page of it!’

(Jim Dodge Jr, Mass Movement Magazine)

‘Arrowhead is another great instalment in the Afterblight Chronicles, well written and a great visual. If you are lacking a good book to read and want an action-packed, this is a good one to pick up.’

( Sacramento Book Review)

‘Yes, Abaddon’s world of the “Afterblight Chronicles” has a hero who steals from the rich and gives it all to the poor, which makes for a pretty decent tale from where I’m sitting...There’s plenty going on, in terms of spectacle and intrigue, that kept me going, and if you’re already a fan then I think you’ll be hooked, too. Kane also really gets inside the heads of his “good” characters (Robert in particular) which made me feel that little bit more empathy for what they were going through…And the villains are appropriately villainous.’

(Graeme’s Fantasy Book Review)

‘I have to say I loved it. I thought it was really cool, and really clever because it actually mirrors the story of Robin Hood but at the same time is its own story, which is quite a difficult thing to do. Kane has got quite a cool way of writing because I could see it as a movie. So he used just enough description, the action was really well done. There were some pretty grim torture scenes which even made me wince. The villain was proper old school, you don’t need to explain why he’s nasty: he just is. You don’t sympathise with him and go I kind of see where he’s coming from. You just boo him and wait for him to get his comeuppance. It’s a real boo the villain, cheer the hero book, but done in a really clever way, so I’d recommend it.’

(Geek Syndicate Podcast)

‘Absolutely blinding – everybody should go buy a copy.’

(Scott Andrews, author of School’s Out and Operation Motherland.)

To buy Arrowhead, click here

Broken Arrow, by Paul Kane

The Afterblight Chronicles: Broken Arrow

First published by Abaddon in the UK, September 2009. Mass Market Paperback, with artwork by Mark Harrison, £6.99.

ISBN: 978-1-906735-27-2

‘I love the concept of the books, mixing a bit of myth and science fiction into a heady and thrilling piece of tough story-telling.’

(Richard Carpenter, creator of Robin of Sherwood)

‘In this sequel to Arrowhead, Paul Kane picks up the tale of Robert Stokes, a post-apocalyptic Robin Hood, and his band of (merry men) survivors. We pick up the thread of the tale at a time when Robert, Mary, Jack, Mark and the others have built a larger following and taken to policing more than just their own territory... I strongly recommend you pick up the book and enjoy the ride! Paul Kane is a superb writer and his characters come to life with often tragic clarity. Good guys die, bad guys live and sometimes good guys live and bad guys die, usually in equal amounts. Even after only two books I’ve come to really love Robert Stokes and all of his new friends. They’re good people trying to live well in a bad world. When they bleed, I bleed. I only wish that more authors would write books this wonderful.’

(Mass Movement Magazine)

‘When I originally heard of a second novel in this series by Paul Kane, I knew that I just had to get my hands on it pretty quickly as his original offering really was a title that I loved. After all, the beautifully creative way in which he’d managed to weave folklore and British History together in an apocalyptic setting really created something that enchanted readers. The real problem however was how would he better it or could he even live up to the original creation with the second offering, or would it just collapse around the authors ears as he’d pretty much done everything he could with the original? I shouldn’t have worried to be honest as this tale didn’t only build upon the original but exceeded my expectations as the author brought more twists to the tale alongside emotional conflict that really did keep the characters fresh. Add to the mix some new villains alongside some old fiends and it’s a tale that will keep you glued to the last page and crying in anguish for a third instalment.’

(Falcata Times)

‘I love reading Abaddon’s “Afterblight Chronicles” and Broken Arrow was no exception. It’s lightweight but fun, and a very accessible retelling of the Robin Hood story...worth a read if you’re a fan.’

(Graeme’s Fantasy Book Review)

The Gemini Factor, by Paul Kane

The Gemini Factor

First published by Screaming Dreams in the UK, March 2010. Trade Paperback, with cover artwork by Steve Upham, £9.99.

ISBN: 978-1-906652-09-8

‘In some ways – and I mean this only as a compliment – The Gemini Factor is deceptively conventional: It moves along like a well-structured thriller – moves like a fucking rocket, in fact – but what’s fascinating to me (and will be, I trust, to you) is how it’s actually something else at the same time. In an extremely well executed example of form imitating content, the novel itself is “twinned”. The surface narrative has a secret brother walking constantly alongside, hiding its footprints in those of its sibling, keeping always to the shadows of subtext and carefully delineated implication. ReadingThe Gemini Factor, you will feel you are reading a first-rate example of the realistic Police Procedural, one with an adorable and admirable heroine and many other characters about whom you could actually give a shit. All the time, though, you will have a sense that another story is taking place, one that you can’t quite see, one that is being told only in whispers, one that is a supernatural echo of the main narrative, its shadow self, its dark brother. You might tell yourself you’re imagining things. But you’re not. You don’t have to. Paul Kane got there first and has imagined it for you. And – once the stories converge in the tension-filled and well-staged climax – you’ll be grateful that he did. Grateful and impressed. Grateful, impressed and, just a little bit, appalled.’

(From the Introduction by Peter Atkins – Author of Morningstar and Moontown, screenwriter of Hellraiser II-IV and Wishmaster)

‘The Gemini Factor is a supernatural thriller from the award winning author Paul Kane... The novel tells the story of a twisted and highly successful serial killer whose victims are always one of twins and always have a body part missing, taken by the killer as a souvenir. Inspector Roy Mason and his Sergeant Deborah Harrison are the detectives who must hunt this murderer before he kills again but their only lead is Jack Foley, a man who’s own twin brother was savagely struck down by the killer and now believes he relives each and every death....The Gemini Factor draws on the twins mythology to create a modern day thriller of supernatural proportions. The plot is both involving and rewarding while the actual storytelling is quite excellent. Paul Kane manages to create a realistic portrayal of victim / killer / hunter without going over the top as many other writers do. His descriptive narrative grabs attention while the plot’s pace manages to keep you reading. The protagonist and lead characters are well fleshed out and it’s very easy to relate to them, it isn’t long before begin rooting for their survival and wellbeing – a testament to the quality of writing. More contemporary than most books you will find on this site and that I personally read, The Gemini Factor is nevertheless a very well crafted and rewarding novel which I have no hesitation in recommending.’

(Four Star Review from Science Fiction & Fantasy)

‘ The Gemini Factor, by Paul Kane, is an unusual take on the traditional serial killer saga. As can be anticipated from the man that gleefully retells myths & folklore, Kane skilfully reinterprets genre conventions in his latest thriller. By pairing science & the supernatural (one of many, many twins – literal and metaphorical – in The Gemini Factor), he’s created something quite new and nasty. In the fictional city of Norchester, a serial killer is stalking twins. And, as serial killers are wont to do, killing them and chopping off bits. The killer is amusingly named “Twinkle” by the city’s local media, but despite the condescending name, he (or she) is a nasty piece of work. [Editor’s note: In a manoeuvre clearly meant to win over my carnivorous heart, the killer uses a giant BBQ fork to spear victims.] While Twinkle skewers and slices the city’s population, an unlikely pair of heroes try to solve the case. Detective Sergeant Deborah Harrison (nickname: “Blondie”) is a talented sleuth, but fears that the Twinkle case is beyond her. She finds an unlikely ally in Jack Foley, a scruffy historian (and also a twin). Ever since Twinkle killed his brother, Jack is inextricably and inexplicably linked to the killer. Every time Twinkle takes a life, Jack can somehow see it. Given the particularly messy nature of the murders, this has taken its toll on Jack’s sanity. The author puts in a lot of time making the little details of Jack and Debbie’s lives come to life... But while Jack and Debbie are both empathetic, the book’s real star is the fictional city of Norchester.... It has seedy back alleys, an antiquated police station, an isolated posh neighbourhood and hotels with fading Victorian grandeur. In short, it has everything a city needs to be properly thrilling. Paul Kane has created a brilliantly detailed and utterly believable setting – hopefully one that is revisited in later books. The Gemini Factor is a tightly-plotted, well-planned thriller. A disturbing villain stalks a compelling, British noir setting, while heroes combine modern forensics and ageless intuition to stop him. Not just something for everyone, but something very good...’

(Pornokitsch)

‘As a fan of Paul’s futuristic Afterblight series from Abaddon, when I heard about this new offering from new publisher Screaming Dreams, I was more than happy to give it a go. What you get within this offering are characters who jump off the page, some great dialogue, and a plot that’s as twisted as this author’s mind can conceive which only adds to this reading experience. Dressed up as a traditional crime novel, it’s the way in which the author has managed to blend Urban Fantasy, a touch of Sci-Fi and mixed it all up with a wicked sense of humour. It’s a cracking title and one that I really had a blast reading. Definitely a title for people to give a go and if the other releases from this publisher are as tempting as this then they’ve got a secure future ahead. Top quality for a great price.’

(Falcata Times)

‘Dear Mr Paul Kane...I was overwhelmed by your skill with the written (typed) word. The characters were so rich and textured, the details so lovingly wrought, that I was caught in a whirlwind of literary joy... From the first word on the first page all the way to the last word of the epilogue, you had me glued to the page. You have taken the idea, the fear, of serial killers and twisted it into something even more deranged (yet even more beautiful) than ever before. This thirty five year old father and heavy equipment operator nearly wept when I finished reading The Gemini Factor. Now I would like to thank you for the emotional thrill ride your book evoked.’

(Mass Movement Magazine)

‘Paul Kane’s The Gemini Factor breathes some fresh air into the serial killer subgenre, chronicling the efforts of Sergeant Harrison and Inspector Mason as they work tirelessly to solve a series of murders in the city of Norchester. What makes their case unique is that the killer is only targeting twins, using a two-pronged fork to kill one twin while letting the other one live. The suspect also takes a trophy from each victim by removing one item from a paired body part (i.e. one hand, one leg, etc). As more and more bodies are found, the city of Norchester lives in fear of the “Twin Killer,” or “Twinkle” for short... Kane’s tale of suspense is a fun read. Not only is the nature of the killings so unique, but the story also goes through numerous twists and turns along the way. There’s no doubt in my mind that readers will think they know where Kane is leading them, only to have the rug yanked out from beneath them time and again. Kane’s style is such that you can’t help but turn the page to see what he’s going to do next, and it’s that unpredictability that has earned my readership in the last couple years. Simply put, the man can tell one hell of an entertaining yarn. If you’re looking for a fun summer read, go grab a copy of The Gemini Factor…and while you’re at it, pick up a couple more of Kane’s books. He hasn’t disappointed me yet, and I’m guessing you’ll enjoy his writing too.’

(Horror Drive-In)

‘I enjoyed reading this book! Kane’s take on the serial killer procedural novel keeps you entertained and enthralled till the very end. Barker is right when he says Kane is a “first rate storyteller.” The book reminds me a little of Dean Koontz’s Odd Thomas novels... The city of Norchester is the venue for our serial killer, dubbed Twinkle by the newspapers. The killer is searching out twins, killing one of them and taking trophies. Detective Sergeant Deborah Harrison is on the case, and when a man turns up at the first two crime scenes she thinks she may have found her killer... Kane’s no nonsense writing style makes this book read like a modern crime novel, but anyone aware of Kane’s previous work may suspect that there is something more going on than a standard crime thriller, and so there is, although I’ll leave what that is for you to discover. The fatal final twists will leave your head spinning... This is such a fun book to read, so easy, it feels like the story just wraps you up. It’s like reading those other classic genre storytellers King and Koontz. Kane certainly has the pedigree and this crime/genre novel is marvellously well crafted.’

(Morpheus Tales)

To buy The Gemini Factor, click here

To read a sample chapter in PDF, click here

Of Darkness and Light

First published by Thunderstorm Books, March 2010. White Lightening Hardcover Edition ($49) and Monsterbacks Softcover Edition ($16.95), with cover artwork by Vincent Chong.

‘Fear of the dark has a very impressive pedigree. It doesn’t surface in the first few years of life – kids have to learn to be scared of it, as they learn most of their fears – but it’s so persistent across cultures, communities and eras of human development that scientists at one time thought it was controlled and brought on by a brain chemical called scotophobin. There was talk of synthesising this chemical and using it as a battlefield weapon: probably a mercy, all things considered, that it turned out not to exist. But the fear is real enough... It’s customary in horror novels to draw on the fear of the dark, but usually there’s at least one metaphorical remove between what you’re reading and what you experienced as a child the first time your mum wouldn’t leave the landing light on and the door open when you settled down for the night. No metaphors here, and no removes. This is the beginning and the end of things all rolled into one ball and clattering through the everyday world leaving terror and ruin in their wake. Nightfall. Enjoy.’

(From the Introduction by Mike Carey – Bestselling Author of The Devil You Know, Vicious Circle, Dead Men’s Boots, Thicker Than Water and The Naming of Beasts)

‘Earlier this year, I stumbled across Paul Kane via his Peripheral Visions collection. To say I was blown away is an understatement. It’s been a long time since I’ve read stories so original, creative, and entertaining. So it was with high expectations that I jumped into Kane’s forthcoming short novel, entitled Of Darkness and Light... As showcased in his short story “Yin and Yang”, and now in Of Darkness and Light, Kane excels at making readers question their belief systems and contemplate the opposing forces of our world. Good versus Evil is rarely this thought-provoking and enjoyable. Kane also effectively uses a moody atmosphere to bring his world to life, and allows readers to get to know his characters inside and out – the fears they face, the poverty they live in, the friendships they share, and the hope they cling to.’

(Andrew Monge, Horror Drive-In)

‘What a pleasant surprise this book ended up being... First off, Paul put together one of the best prologues I have read in quite a while. It was gripping, powerful and had me damn near quaking with anticipation... Something must be said for Paul’s effortless pacing and prose that generally flows like a nice, cool vanilla smoothie... He managed to take all of my expectations and punch me in the face with them... Incredibly entertaining and I enjoyed every minute of reading it.’

(Anton Cancre, HorrorNews.net)

‘Set against a bleak Midlands backdrop, this is a tight, claustrophobic novel about an average teenager who is devastated when his childhood sweetheart leaves him for another guy. Just when Lee Masterton thinks his life cannot get any worse, he is coerced into taking a job as a night watchman, and then he meets the beings that inhabit the light... and the dark. It is rare to find a horror story containing such a healthy dose of modern realism in the form of urban decay, unemployment and dissatisfied youth, and this story certainly makes these elements work to its benefit... The prose is crisp and the plot tightly woven, the characters believable and the style accessible. The author does a great job of building tension in anticipation of a thrilling climax that cannot fail to move you.’

(Christian Saunders, Morpheus Tales)

‘Kane’s atmospheric style is reminiscent of Ramsey Campbell, dark and truly terrifying, contemporary in content yet classic in terms of mood. Darkness is a universal fear, one that we can either relate to or empathize with. Kane plays on this fear quite well. More than that, however, he gives us a protagonist we can care about... Paul Kane has demonstrated an ability to bind tone and terror with this novel. Kane’s adroitness with the language of fear, his ability to convey suspense and cerebral terror, gives the story a much more classic feel than most contemporary horror novels. The end result is a truly frightening novel that brings you in, haunts you for the duration, and lingers long after the story has been told. Kane is a craftsman, and Of Darkness and Light is an extremely well-crafted piece.’

(Jason Rolfe, HorrorBound)

‘Award-winning writer Paul Kane firmly establishes characters and the dramatic conflict between them early on in this compelling novel, setting the stage for the confrontation to follow. Like many children, Lee Masterson feared the dark, his fear intensified by his belief that creatures exist in the shadows, evil beings that watch and follow wherever he goes. His terror increases with age as he begins to catch glimpses of the creatures of darkness... Action is non-stop and breathtaking in this suspenseful tale that challenges the reader to re-examine their beliefs about good and evil. A consistently strong voice in the horror genre, his unique, unorthodox and totally original Of Darkness and Light keeps adrenaline pumping right up until the startling conclusion.’

(Horror World, read the full review here

‘Great story, great characters, wonderfully written (as always) – couldn't put it down. Totally original idea. Needs to be made into a movie, like pronto!’

(Barbie Wilde – Actress who portrayed the Female Cenobite in Hellbound: Hellraiser II, author of The Venus Complex)

’This story is great! The characters are well-developed, even Lee’s asshole father. Paul Kane’s use of description to give his tale a creepy, tense atmosphere is superb and the juxtaposition of light/dark and good/evil is really refreshing. Of Darkness and Light was one of my favourite reads of 2009!’

(Mass Movement Magazine)

‘Paul Kane has written an interesting short novel with a twist on the light versus dark, good versus evil battle. He crafts some fine characters, which is essential if the book is not to degenerate into some sort of light fantasy. The characters carry the tale rather than the events. Lee Masterton has always been afraid, no, terrified, of the dark. There is something there, watching him. It’s a common enough phobia among the young, but Lee is now in his late teens and he hasn’t grown out of it. He simply KNOWS there is something or someone there watching him. He is right. There is... The battle is focused on Lee since he is the only one who can see the dwellers in the dark and the light. Is he up to it? There will be many surprises for him as his world is reversed. So many people are not what they seem. Kane’s skilful writing carries the estate’s mood of depression well and sets the stage for the action that follows. It’s a great story and Lee’s mood is the thread that carries it through. He is a reluctant hero pushed into prominence because of the one ‘talent’ he would rather do without - his fear of the dark.’

(Synergy Magazine)

NOVELLAS

First published in pocket book size, limited edition print run, by Crystal Serenades September 2005. Second edition published with internal illustrations from Ian Simmons by Rainfall Books, April 2006. Trade paperback, £6.99. Novella Nominated (shortlist) for the British Fantasy Award, 2006.

Featuring: ‘Well Told Tales’ An Introduction by Stephen Gallagher; ‘Signs of Life’; ‘The Bite’; and ‘Who’s Been…?’

‘This is one area where Kane shines, his sense of character: each and every one is real, and as such the reader immediately latches onto them, realising there’s no good or bad person, just shades of grey in between, with the occasional point of redemption… Signs of Life has a tremendous build-up, that is paced just right.’

‘The Bite is pure Books of Blood horror; a grand guignol tale…This is a superbly paced story, where Kane racks up the tension.’

‘ Who’s Been… starts off as a Ken Loach-updated version of Goldilocks, all kitchen sink and unemployed alcoholics. But as the story closes in, the horror aspect kicks into gear, where Kane walks that fine line between real and supernatural horror.’

Published by Creative Guy Publishing. Trade Paperback, December 2006. £9.95

Published by Tasmaniac Publications, July 2007. Hardback Edition (Signed by Paul Kane, Mick Garris and Dion Hamill) ISBN: 978-0-9803868-1-3. $150.00 AUD. Trade Paperback ISBN: 978-0-9803868-0-6. $22.95 AUD.

Featuring: ‘Believe It Or Not’ Introduction by Mick Garris; ‘The Lazarus Condition’; and ‘Dead Time’.

‘Few of us fear werewolves, vampires, or even Norman Bates. But that end of the road we all travel and its mystery and inevitability give each of us pause. The health and well-being of my family and friends play a much bigger part in my own nightmares than Freddy Krueger ever did. Paul Kane understands that… There are moments of violence that jump out at you here, but it is the quiet interaction between Life and Death that concerns Kane in his novella: its raison d’etre… An absorbing tale of terror that takes you in a direction that I didn’t expect… Paul Kane has crafted a nifty little story with that greatest of gifts: the element of surprise.’

‘Paul Kane’s The Lazarus Condition is a wonderfully unsettling tale of resurrection, self-recrimination, and our reluctance to confront issues of both mortality and immortality. Humanity leaves behind the remains of our loved ones and walls of our hearts as best we can from feeling their absence, sometimes as easily but always with as much necessity as a snake shedding its skin. Paul Kane holds up a mirror to show us just how frightened of the end we really are and how much of human nature is involved in moving on after loss. He’s here to remind us that none of us is ever really ready to leave this life...and certainly not ready to come back and answer for what we might have done while living it. An excellent novella, backed up with a quick jolt short story called Dead Time, which is, in some ways, the other side of the coin. Paul Kane has offered you a dark and contemplative gift. I recommend you take it.’

( Christopher Golden – Bestselling author of Buffy: The Lost Slayer , Hellboy: The Dragon Pool , The Myth Hunters , Prowlers and The Boys are Back in Town)

‘The American title for the early British horror film The Quatermass Experiment was The Creeping Unknown, and that would be a very apt alternative title for Paul Kane’s excellent novella. But the Quatermass analogy is more appropriate than simply that: like Nigel Kneale, Kane describes an extraordinary event in the lives of every day people, the sort you meet in the pub or the supermarket….By maintaining an almost prosaic style, Kane ratchets up the tension throughout the novella, deliberately leading the reader in false directions… The Lazarus Condition is a gem, and well worth seeking out.’

‘The Lazarus Condition is an excellent read. Unsettling, and at times moving, littered with religious undertones, the story focuses on themes of loss, grief, and the impact it would have on someone if the long dead arrived on their doorstep. It also avoids the clichés of many zombie stories. Kane draws you in with sharp, active prose. Sit, read and enjoy!’

‘Tasmaniac have really outdone themselves with The Lazarus Condition, and have pretty much jumped out of the trenches and gone over the top in a clear demonstration of going beyond the call of duty... Kane has taken the zombie sub genre, put it through a spin rinse with various dyes, and given us a completely new design on what can be done with the walking dead. I’m always up for a story centring around the big Z concept and Kane doesn’t disappoint. There’s some twist and turns coming at you during the course of the novella with the final revelation being completely different to expectations...The reader is thrust into a world where the dead are coming back to life, and Kane remains unapologetic about doing that. Initially I was wondering if zombie Matthew Daley was heading home for dinner, in a sort of Romero fashion, but Kane isn’t going to make it that easy on the reader...Without giving too much away there’s one hell of a shock ending coming that I didn’t pick up on. .. It’s a pretty decent strategy and Kane freaking nails it like a wild Friday night up the Cross. The Lazarus Condition is more than another pulp zombie book put out by a Yank publication in order to ride on the shirt tails of the current upsurge in support of all things zombie, Paul Kane’s novella is going after something far more grandiose in design.

‘If The Lazarus Condition is the main course in a five star restaurant then the short story Dead Time is the intoxicating dessert...We’re talking a yarn from the post-apocalyptic ashes that once again gives a different spin to the zombie genre. Paul Kane is certainly keeping the reader on his or her toes. Expect the unexpected would be my advice.’

Features: ‘Introduction by Tom Holt’; ‘ Dalton Quayle’s Wet One’; ‘ Dalton Quayle Rides Out’.

‘The result is like being machine-gunned with silliness…Ultimately we reckon Quayle deserves to ride again!’

‘If you miss the turn into Baker Street you just might find yourself here. Ripping yarns with a spiffing sense of fun!’

(Double British Fantasy Award winning author of Night of the Triffids and The Dalek Factor, Simon Clark

‘Dalton Quayle is a particular treat, just one of which can somehow spoof Sherlock Holmes, the Cthulhu Mythos, the films Lair of the White Worm, Aliens and even Monica Lewinsky all in one go. Tremendous fun!’

Published by Skullvines Press, December 2008. Trade Paperback, ISBN: 978-0-9799673-5-1. Introduction by Tim Lebbon, cover artwork by Dave McKean.

‘In RED Kane reveals himself to be a sensitive writer, someone who has a solid grasp of relationships and who isn’t afraid to use that knowledge. His characters feel like real people, and that’s essential if you’re going to pit them against such a foe. He makes you care about them. Then he sends them out into the darkest parts of this urban jungle… So get ready to take this journey through a very modern fairytale. It has teeth, but not just at the end. These days, the path itself is full of dangers.’

(From the Introduction by Tim Lebbon - New York Times bestselling author of The Everlasting and Fallen)

‘Kane is well respected in the United Kingdom with his short story collections such as Alone (In the Dark), FunnyBones (one of my personal favourites) or his novellas Signs of Life, The Lazarus Condition and his novel The Afterblight Chronicles: Arrowhead – getting praise from such giants of the genre as Clive Barker, Simon Clark, Jeff Mariotte and Graham Masterton... RED is a tale about Rachael Daniels, a caseworker travelling through the modern jungle – a crime-ridden, gang-banging city – to help an elderly lady. RED not only tips its hat to “Little Red Riding Hood,” but “Peter And The Wolf,” and “Who’s Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolf?” and every werewolf type motif in between... This time around Kane puts a twisted horror spin to it, with even a fair amount of social criticism thrown in for good measure; due to mature themes, you’ll want to keep the kids away from this one... Kane does an incredible job of combing horror and humour into one tasty morsel.’

‘Kane expands on the “Little Red Riding Hood” mythos with a sharply-written novella that pits a descendent of the classic fairy tale character against the “real” creature of the same story. But make NO mistake: this isn’t for kids! You can tell Kane had a real ball twisting time updating “Riding Hood”, especially in how he has crafted this new, psycho-sexual “wolf.” For the sake of not ruining anything else, let’s just say RED is a real BLOODY good time.’

‘RED is a gleefully gruesome tale that moves at an excellent pace. Its length is a joy, reminiscent of a line from another fairy tale: “Not too big, not too small, just right.” Paul Kane does a rip roaring rendition of the Red Riding Hood story… He has the gift of summing up a situation in a sentence. RED is wonderfully written; it is easy to sink one’s teeth into it and devour it with relish.’

(Hellnotes)

‘Paul Kane offers up a fantastic adult re-working of the classic children’s tale. A blood thirsty novella that you will devour in a single sitting and be left hungry for more. Beware though, this is not the Little Red Riding Hood you remember as kid, RED is something much...darker’

(Kevin King – ‘Dave McKean: Collector’ Site)

‘RED by Paul Kane is a modern-day retelling of a classic fairy tale. The character of Rachael Daniels is one that many can identify with. The monster is a terrifying hunter who has the ability to shape-shift. He is intelligent, patient, and always hungry. He is the sort of monster that does not need any supernatural powers to make him terrifying, however the added abilities make him even more dangerous. It is entirely believable that he has been doing this for centuries in cities all over Europe because he is so smart and clever, and one is reminded of tales of a dark Trickster character from legends around the world when reading this story. The suspense builds from the very fact that the reader has some idea of what is going to happen. When the woman is murdered in the restaurant bathroom, the reader knows that is not the end and is left to wonder what horrors are still to come. The whole story builds up to a rather fascinating climax…This is a good scary story for those stormy nights or bright days. It is strong enough to terrify either way and will stay in your mind for days afterwards. Stories like this don’t come along very often, as all readers know.’

(Kerri Silva, Horror Bound Magazine)

‘Paul Kane likes to skew known fairy tales and classic horror legends and give them an abrupt overhaul. Sometimes taking an old familiar character and planting them into our modern times or perhaps the future. Such is the intent with RED. It is a novella of a more modern Little Red Riding Hood and an intimate portrayal of the Big Bad Wolf. This time, Little Red also has gangs and dangerous urban environments to battle on her way to Grandma’s.

Unlike a werewolf, this wolf-being is a menace no matter what phase of the moon. He runs rampant from town to town, city to city, quietly stalking victims undetected. He’s a master of camouflage, perfectly mimicking his victims loved ones, to strike when they’d never expect. When their defences are a million miles away. The wolf normally chooses his next meal based on convenience and availability. That is until he catches a glimpse of her. The one. The first and last meal to ever get away from him. Will the twenty-four year old heroine of RED, Rachael Daniels, get away from him in this lifetime, too? We hope so. Or does evil win at the end of this fairy tale?

I enjoyed having both characters’ perspective in RED. Though I wouldn’t have minded a longer novel, I do admire Kane’s style of bare-bones storytelling. He strips out a lot of the extra things that can sometimes weigh down a good book without sacrificing the important points.’

A-

(Alesha Brunell, G.A.S.P. etc.com)

‘Once upon a time, there was a British speculative writer named Paul Kane, who was well respected in the United Kingdom… Then one day, Kane wrote a devilish little novella named Red and decided to get it published across the pond, in a faraway land called America... He even dared to do a retelling of the popular Grimm Brothers fairytale “Little Red Riding Hood” but this time around puts a twisted horror spin to it… The novella is bloody brilliant -- clever, classy and bound to chill you to the bone.’

(Michael McCarty, Horror World)

‘Paul Kane’s an author I’ve kept my eye on ever since his short fiction began appearing regularly in the genre small press in the late 1990s. Over the last few years his output has been unnaturally prolific and of a very high standard… RED is a contemporary take on the classic fairy tale, Little Red Riding Hood…Kane cleverly uses the various characters and victims as visceral pathways and bridges for the beast. He plays with both the reader and Rachael, lulling us as it engineers its course towards her, circling her literally through the flesh and blood of those she encounters in her daily life. As it shapeshifts it takes on their personas as best it can, convincingly over short time spans (which is normally all the time it needs) it charms and confuses, until ultimately it is unable to hide its true nature as its century-spanning hunger and lust for revenge explodes from behind the thin facades it creates in scenes of bone-crunching ferocity. As with the beast, so with the book: over 70 impactful pages, and without wasting a word, Paul Kane has enriched the werewolf mythos with a seamless re-imagining of a hypnotically suggestive fairy tale, embellishing it with the harsh, alluring scent of an ages-old psychosexual predator who easily rivals that other undead villain from Eastern European folklore, the vampire. A relentless and grisly fairy tale for dark times, Red is filled with the blackest blood from the deepest parts of our bodies, and is thoroughly recommended.

(Mathew Riley, BookGeeks)

‘In RED, Paul Kane’s very modern take on a centuries’ old tale, Red Riding Hood is Rachel Daniels, a pretty young woman with a big heart and a terrible taste in men, who undertakes a mission of mercy to take some medicine to an old lady who lives on a council estate in a bad part of town. She meets a few disaffected youths on the way, which is threatening enough, but something else is stalking her – a creature that is snuffling out the familiar scent of an adversary from the distant past and who is eager to taste the blood that was denied to it all those years ago.

From RED’s shocking first chapter through wicked twists and turns to the end, the story surprises, intrigues and beguiles you. Paul Kane’s taut, muscular, yet descriptive prose conjures up disturbing images in your mind that you won’t be able to dislodge for months. Kane’s writing is frighteningly realistic. Not only are you are there with Rachel for every moment of her ordeal, but you also inhabit the shape-shifting monster’s mind – privy to his motivations and his side of the story. RED is a beautifully visceral, dark tale and if any novella was ripe for a film adaptation, it’s this one.’

(Barbie Wilde, Female Cenobite in Hellbound: Hellraiser II and author of The Venus Complex)

Buy this from the publisher here

To buy RED as an Amazon Kindle version, click here.

Featuring the stories: ‘Alone’; ‘Biorhythms’; ‘In the House of Magritte’; ‘Net Curtains’; ‘The Last Temptation of Alice Crump’; ‘The Weeping Woman’; ‘Pay the Piper’; ‘The Cyclops’; ‘Sabbat’; ‘Master of the White Worms: A Dalton Quayle Adventure’; ‘Remembrance’; and ‘Eye of the Beholder’...Plus the Song Lyrics: ‘Dangerous World’.

‘ Its twelve stories cover a fair range, from visceral horror through edgy urban nightmares to offbeat notions like a man taking conscious control of his autonomic body functions, or a tour through the image-filled House of Memory of the artist Magritte. Kane is best when taking risks with these bizarre flights of imagination.’

‘Paul Kane has an outstanding imagination, which puts him in a class above most of the small press writers on the scene today. This collection will, hopefully, be the first step towards getting him the recognition he so richly deserves. Check it out, this could well be the start of something big.’

Featuring: ‘Burnt Fingers’ an introduction by bestselling author Simon Clark; ‘The Torturer’; ‘Astral’; ‘The Face of Death’; ‘Shadow Writer’; ‘Prey’; ‘Star-Pool’; ‘Visiting Hour’; ‘Facades’; ‘At the Heart of the Maze’; ‘The Bones Brothers’; ‘Nightlife’; ‘The Hypnotist’s Gaze’; ‘Grandpa’s Chair’; ‘The Disease’; ‘Blackout’; ‘St August’s Flame’; ‘The Persistence of Dali’; ‘Eye of the Beholder; and ‘Melted Wax’ story notes by Paul Kane.

‘‘I’ve read several Paul Kane stories before and find his writing style to be consistently good, and his tales very entertaining. He stands out as one of the better writers I’ve read... This collection supports my continuing belief that Paul Kane is a talented writer, one I expect will only go from strength to strength in the years to come.’

Published by Creative Guy Publishing, August 2003. Trade Paperback, $11.99/£6.99

Featuring: ‘Introduction’ by Pete Allen of CGP; ‘Oliver’s Twist’; ‘Master of the White Worms’; ‘A Suspicious Mind’; ‘The Bones Brothers’; ‘Yibble’; ‘Dracula in Love’; ‘The Sheepshank Revelation’; ‘The Ugly’; ‘The Last Temptation of Alice Crump’; ‘All the Rage’; ‘Temple of Deadly Danger’; ‘Spells Trouble’.

‘Horror fans with a sense of fun will enjoy this collection of short stories from Paul Kane. In his third offering to the bookshelves, FunnyBones sees Paul depart from his usual world of dark fantasy - to inject a wicked sense of humour into his tales of horror. Bringing together stories like “Dracula in Love” and “The Bones Brothers” - along with a gruesome twist on the lyrics of Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds” - the author terrifies whilst tickling the funny bone. Supernatural crime-fighting hero Dalton Quayle, already a firm favourite with Kane fans, also puts in an appearance in this new collection.’

The Q-Files Vol. 1 . Published by Creative Guy Publishing, August 2003. E-Book Extra. ISBN: 1-894953-17-7

Featuring: ‘Master of the White Worms’; ‘The Sheepshank Revelation’; ‘Paul Kane in Conversation with Amanda Edwards’; ‘Paul Kane Gallery’; ‘Don’t Mention the War’ (Non-Fiction Article).

‘What can I say? This book is bloody brilliant… I can only say I wish there had been more of Dalton Quayle.’

‘ Author Paul Kane’s story, “Master of the White Worms” manages to inject into the classic “Penny Dreadful” a simultaneous dose of humor, mystery, punnery and schlock horror, conjuring up the best parts of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, H. P. Lovecraft, and P. G. Wodehouse. From the cigar-smoking soon-to-be widow Mrs. Meadows to the buxom and befuddled assistant Mrs. Hudsucker, even the supporting characters in Kane’s tales have a certain magical quality...not unreminiscent of circus midgets, two-headed snakes or the famed bearded lady. A genuine joy to read, Kane’s Pemberton and Qualye stories bring back the grand tradition of armchair detectives while restoring a chuckle to oft-dry Victorian-style fiction.’

‘“Master Of The White Worms” and “Dalton Quayle And The Sheepshank Revelation” are the memoirs of Doctor Humphrey Pemberton and the adventures of Dalton Quayle, the most famous of supernatural detectives. All three are smile raisers. Rating: 5 Stars.’

The Q-Files Vol. 2 . Published by Creative Guy Publishing, November 2004. E-Book. ISBN: 1-894953-16-9 $4.25

‘If the title reminds you of “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,” it should, and a familiar whip-cracking fellow named Harrison even makes an appearance, along with his pet worm Reggie, in this Dalton Quayle, Dr. Humphrey Pemberton, tale.

This time the intrepid knockoff of Sherlock Holmes, wallowing in despair at having no worthy adversary against which to pit his formidable investigative skills, becomes embroiled in a case of theft from a local museum. What has been stolen: three stones. But not just any three. They are three of a set of five -- the stones of Bukardi Brueaza -- each of which possess distinct magical properties that, when combined, will open a door to another dimension. Horrible things lurk in that other dimension, of course, and it’s up to Quayle and Pemberton to stop whoever has stolen the stones from opening that cosmic door.

Working loosely off the “ Temple of Doom” structure, the story also manages to spoof “Apocalypse Now” and the ever-influential Sherlock Holmes seed, the latter providing much of the villainous underpinning of the plot.’

Featuring: ‘Verbrannte Finger’ by Simon Clark; ‘Der Folterer’; ‘Astral’; ‘Das Gesicht des Todes’; ‘Shattenschriber’; ‘Beute’; ‘Sternteich’; ‘Besuchszeit’’; ‘Fassaden’; ‘Im Herzen des Labyrinths’’; ‘Die Bones Brothers’; ‘Nachtleben’; ‘Der Blick des Hypnotiseurs’; ‘Opas Sessel’; ‘Die Krankheit’; ‘Verdunkelung’; ‘Der Flame des Sankt Augustus’; ‘Die Beharrlichkeit Dalis’; and ‘Im Auge des Betrachters’.

Published by Screaming Dreams, E-Book, December 2007. Cover artwork by David Magitis.

Features: Introduction by Paul Kane; ‘Shadow Writer’; ‘Blackout’; and ‘The Convert’.

Published by Creative Guy Publishing. Trade Paperback, October 2008 $14.95 / £8.95. Cover art by Les Edwards. ISBN: 978-1-894953-53-5

Featuring: ‘Cause and Effect: An Introduction to Paul Kane’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘Strobe’; ‘Guilty Pleasures’; ‘Suit of Lies’; ‘The Opportunity’; ‘Homeland’; ‘Remote’; ‘Nightmare on 34th Street’; ‘Yin and Yang’; ‘Check-out’; ‘Biorhythms’; ‘Kindred Spirits’; ‘R.S.V.P.’; ‘Life Sentence’; ‘1, 2, 3…1, 2, 3’; ‘Dig (This)’; ‘The Anniversary’; ‘The Convert’; ‘Life-like’; ‘The Procession’; ‘Reunion’; ‘The Protégé’.

‘Paul Kane is a young writer with a lot to say and a burning need to say it. Reading these stories is a bit like watching a Twilight Zone marathon – one witty, surprising, ingenious story after another, each one delivering its shock of fear, pity, astonishment, or irony before giving way to the next little amazement. Also, I’m impressed by the range of Paul Kane’s imagination. It seems there is no risk, no high-stakes gamble, he fears to take. In this collection, a flipped-out Santa Claus encounters the police a breath before Yin and Yang get down and dirty. Kane’s foot never gets even close to the brake pedal .’

( Peter Straub – Bestselling author of Ghost Story, Mr X, Lost Boy Lost Girl, In the Night Room and Black House, with Stephen King)

‘How big is the rock I’ve been living under to have missed out on such a wonderful talent?!? What sets this collection apart from all the others is its undeniable creativity and originality. You won’t find tired retreads of common genre themes; hell, you won’t even be able to pigeonhole Kane into any one genre. Peripheral Visions runs the gamut from horror to suspense to dark fantasy, and the author nails each and every one of them. Take, for instance, “Yin and Yang”. Never before have I read a more eloquent story about the dichotomy of the forces of nature. It was not only my favorite story of the collection, but is one of the best short stories I’ve ever read. Kane also gives readers a liberal dose of thrills and chills….

And I can’t finish this review without praising Kane on his ability to write top-notch short-shorts. I don’t recall another author being able to pack so much story in so few words. Three pieces -- “The Opportunity”, “R.S.V.P”, and “The Protégé” – only cover six total pages of the book, yet they pack a wallop seldom seen by stories of this length. Paul Kane has a helluva toolbox at his disposal – characterization, visualization, creativity, success with multiple themes and genres, the ability to tell a good story at any length. Simply put, the man is wildly talented. I give Peripheral Visions a 9 out of 10 and highly recommend grabbing a copy.’

‘From clever twists and turns in the longer page-turners, to quickly familiar characters, to penetrating and deep thoughts. All this you can easily find in even the very short stories. Such is true, and why I enjoyed Peripheral Visions.

“Strobe” and “Biorhythms” were memorable for their unexpected transcendental theories. “Biorhythms” had a grotesque and lethal ending but was incredibly happy and spiritually exhilarating. There were also some classic Edgar Allan Poe/Alfred Hitchcock-styled, bizarre tales such as “Suit of Lies”, “Homeland” and “the Anniversary” to mention just a few. “Remote” and “Guilty Pleasures” were both fantastic. “Guilty Pleasures” was about a guilt demon that haunts sinners, threatening to drive them mad. “Remote” was a vivid story about out-of-body experiences going one step further; the ability to affect things while in remote locations. I like that Kane is not afraid to take sharp turns or end with the villain as the victor. He can make you believe the story could end happily and then it turns lethal. Or put the victim in a dire predicament and then shove them to a blissful state for eternity. I also admire his ability to quickly introduce familiar traits in people to give them instant dimension.

I think several of his stories could have expanded to exciting and easily popular novels and/or screenplays. For this reason, I will always look forward to reading more from Kane.’

‘The stories all start out in real life, then end somewhere horrifyingly closer to home. Any reader will find it difficult to read this without looking over his shoulder to check on the shadows in the corner and what they’re hiding. Each of these stories are thought-provoking, disturbing, and stay with you after the book is over. You will find yourself looking at people differently, wondering what they could be capable of doing. You may even wonder what you are capable of doing. Paul Kane is a wonderful writer who is following in the footsteps of the man to whom this collection is dedicated – Clive Barker – and he will carve out his own niche someday soon amongst fans of horror.’

‘‘It’s very hard to classify this book. Paul Kane’s short stories are a mixture of different genres with a strong leaning towards the inner space of the mind. These stories particularly are brilliantly conceived and written.

Paul Kane has a very economic style of writing but he can pack so much into a few pages. His words are well chosen, his plots clearly and concisely outlined. The seven-page “Strobe”, for instance, sets up an overpowering addiction to a flashing light in the first couple of pages then tracks the degeneration through stronger and stronger lights until the final…whatever… is reached… He is also good at turning the conventional ideas on their head and examining the outcome…

I found “Life Sentence” particularly poignant. It explores the possibility that, as life-prolonging technology improves, dying may become illegal, as may even wanting to die. Paul manages to convey the desperation of wanting to die and the utter futility of trying. He gives the whole euthanasia debate a new, subtle, vicious twist. And the most chilling story of all is the shortest – “Protégé”.

Because each story is so different in its plot and approach this is a very easy book to come back to later. Each story explores a new idea and if, like me, you like to read in short bursts between other demands on your time, this book is very easy to enjoy. Ghosts, zombies, environmentalists, obsessives, blackmailers – they are all here in their own little beautifully crafted stories. This is a book worth reading for its good stories and for Mr Kane’s incredible imagination.’

Published by Rainfall Books, September 2002. Trade Paperback, £7.99/$12.99. ISBN: 0-9540877-5-5

Featuring: ‘In the Shadows’ Introduction by Paul Kane; ‘Behind the Painted Face’ by John B. Ford; ‘The Mask’ by Alison L.R. Davies; ‘To Make You King’ by Mark West; ‘The Power’ by Paul Melniczek; ‘Sibling Rivalry’ by Hertzan Chimera; ‘Living Doll’ by Peggy J. Shumate; ‘Make It Rock & Roll’ by Lisa Negus; ‘Soul Searcher’ by Derek M. Fox; ‘Beachcomber’ by Robert D. Rowntree; ‘Trophy’ by Shannon Riley; ‘Decay’ by Quentin S. Crisp; ‘The Journeyman’ by David Price.

‘There are some absolute gems of short fiction here. If this book is anything to go by then it’s fairly safe to say there should be good times ahead for anyone who reads horror.’

Published by Rainfall Books, December 2003. Trade Paperback, £7.99/$12.99. ISBN: 0-9546178-2-7

Featuring: ‘ShadowTime’ Introduction by Paul Kane; ‘Dead Eye’ by Amy Grech; ‘Whizz’ by Paul Finch; ‘Chalice’ by Sue Phillips; ‘Scar Tissue’ by Neal Asher; ‘Pretty Enough’ by Suellen Luwish; ‘They Wait’ by Simon Bestwick; ‘The Afterthought’ by Sarah Crabtree; ‘The Hungry Ones’ by Joe Rattigan; ‘Exploration’ by Steven Deighan; ‘Cain’s Moon’ by Susanne S. Brydenbaugh; ‘The Heart of Darkness’ by Eddie M. Angerhuber; ‘Schism’ by Steve Gerlach.

Published by Rainfall Books, August 2003. Trade Paperback, £12/$16.99. ISBN: 0-9540877-6-3

Featuring: Editorial Introductions, ‘Life After Death’ by John B. Ford and ‘Do Have Nightmares’ by Paul Kane; ‘In the Company of Demons’ by Teri A. Jacobs; ‘Under Mock Orange’ by Scott Thomas; ‘Where They Went Wrong’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘Quayle the Bibliophile’ by Mark Samuels; ‘Seen But Not Heard’ by Joe Rattigan; ‘Plastipak Ltd’ by Neal Asher; ‘In the Flesh’ by Sarah Crabtree; ‘The House of Solemn Children’ by Michael Cisco; ‘The Skull’ by Eddie M. Angerhuber; ‘Lonely Hearts’ by Steve Harris; ‘Forests of the Night’ by Michael Pendragon; ‘Kane’s Korner Special: Birmingham Report’ by Paul Kane; ‘Me, My Bike...And the Inevitable’ by Simon Clark; ‘The Insect Assembly’ by John Paul Catton; ‘Sound Bites...?’ by Derek M. Fox; ‘Dark Family Values’ by Stanley C. Sargent; ‘Images of Angels’ by Sue Phillips; ‘Dark Debate’ with Lisa Negus, Robert D. Rowntree, Stephen Gallagher, Simon Clark, Paul Finch and Tim Lebbon; ‘Book Reviews: Stranger and From a Buick 8’ by Paul Kane and Derek M. Fox; ‘Film Reviews: Darkness Falls and 28 Days Later’ by Christopher Teague.

Published by Rainfall Books, May 2004. Trade Paperback, £12/$16.99. ISBN: 0-9546178-4-3

Featuring: Editorial Introductions ‘The Taste of Pure Evil’ by John B. Ford and ‘Horror R.I.P?’ by Paul Kane; ‘Bleed for Me’ by Marie O’Regan; ‘Victoria’s Secret’ by Michael Marshall Smith; ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ by Sarah Crabtree; ‘The Other One’ by Paul Finch; ‘Blueskin’ by Lisa Negus; ‘Comparative Anatomy’ by Stephen Gallagher; ‘Know Thyself’ by Tim Meads; Kane’s Korner, ‘Zombies’; ‘Sent Down’ by Gemma Files; ‘The Spirit of Rock and Roll’ by David Price; ‘The Tripod’ by Jeffrey Thomas; ‘Sermon’ by F. Paul Wilson and John B. Ford; ‘Time to Scare Gramma’ by Peggy J. Shumate; ‘Book Reviews: Nobody True and About James Herbert’ by Paul Kane, ‘Conscience’ by Martin Roberts; ‘Exclusive extract from ‘Conscience’ by John Skipp; ‘Small Press Focus: Earthling Publications - Interview with Paul Miller and Reviews of Godhead Dying Downwards, Brotherhood of Mutilation, Exorcising Angels and Babylon Falling’ by Paul Kane; ‘Film Reviews: May’ by Tim Meads, ‘Alien: Director’s Cut and Scary Movie 3’ by Christopher Teague.

Published by Rainfall Books, February 2006. Co-edited by John B. Ford. £12. ISBN: 0-9549923-5-0

Featuring: Editorial Introductions by John B. Ford & Paul Kane; ‘The Causeway’ by Stephen Laws; ‘I’m Always Here’ by Richard Christian Matheson; ‘Blast from the Past’ by Simon Clark; ‘A Short Guide to the City’ by Peter Straub; ‘Whispers’ by Marie O’Regan; ‘The Tripod Pt 2’ by Jeffrey Thomas; ‘Kane’s Korner: Moonstruck’ by Paul Kane; ‘Where it Roots, How it Fruits’ by Chaz Brenchley; ‘Feels Like Stephen King’ by Steve Deighan; ‘0.5 MG’ by Conrad Williams; ‘The Happy Misanthropist’ by John Travis; ‘What Elroy Did On His School Holidays’ by Jonathan Oliver; ‘The Summer House’ by Vicki Yates; ‘A Slave of Melancholy’ by Mark Samuels; ‘Bus Driver’ by Kevin Anderson; ‘Dead to the World’ by Allen Ashley; ‘Book Reviews: The Water Room by Christopher Fowler, In This Skin by Simon Clark, Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney and I Am Legend by Richard Matheson.

Published by Rainfall Books, February 2004. Trade Paperback, £8/$12. ISBN: 0-9546178-3-5

Featuring: ‘White Knuckle Ride’ Introduction by John B. Ford and Paul Kane; ‘Third Shift’ by Kevin Anderson; ‘Grandfather’s Faces’ by Michael T. Huyck Jr.; ‘Nightmind’ by Darren Franz; ‘The Invite’ by Mary Romano; ‘The Creeper’ by Alexis Child; ‘The Withering’ by Bruce Golden; ‘Three Silver Bullets’ by John Ludlow; ‘The Screaming At Hexenkoph’ by Sherid Adams Signs; ‘Rideby’ by Thomas Stone; ‘The Boy in the Corner’ by Phil Locascio; ‘Clutter’ by Karole M. Svitak; ‘Craven’ by Destiny West; ‘The Perfect Varnish’ by Thomas Wagner; ‘Thrust’ by Melissa Patterson; ‘Remembrance’ by Christopher Fulbright; ‘The Hidden Room’ by Eddie M. Angerhuber.

Featuring: Cover artwork by Les Edwards; Introduction by Clive Barker; ‘January’ by James Barclay and Alfred Klosterman; ‘February’ by Kim Newman and Chris Leaper; ‘March’ by Graham Joyce and Lara Bandilla; ‘April’ by Steve Lockley and Michelle Blessemaille; ‘May’ by Neil Gaiman and Russell Dickerson; ‘June’ by Cherith Baldry and David Bezzina; ‘July’ by Chaz Brenchley and Steve Lines; ‘August’ by Katherine Roberts and Tina Roberts; ‘September’ by China Mieville and Bob Covington; ‘October’ by Juliet E. McKenna and Kathy Hardy; ‘November’ by Jon Courtenay Grimwood and Ian Simmons; ‘December’ by Mark Chadbourn and Sarah Zama.

Featuring: ‘A Year in the Chair’ by Nicki Robson; ‘Suspension of Disbelief’ by Jeff Gardiner; ‘I, Robot’ by Paul Kane; ‘Robert Holdstock - A Lifetime of Creativity’ by Sandy Auden; ‘An Interview with Neal Asher’ by Paul Kane; ‘Muriel Gray’ by Marie O’Regan; ‘Lord Dunsany’ by Jeff Gardiner.

Featuring: ‘The Stone Circle’ by Barry Woods; ‘The Black Lake’ by Tony Richards; ‘Abattoir Girl’ by Allen Ashley and Andrew Hook; ‘Manny and the Monkeys’ by Simon Woodward; ‘The White Witch’ by JPV Stewart; ‘Harrowfield’ by Neil Williamson.

Featuring: Cover Artwork by Paul ( Lord of the Rings) Campion. January ‘Evil Clowns’ by John Connolly and James Ryman; February ‘Old Dark House’ by Stephen Laws and Lew Lehrman; March ‘Demons’ by Muriel Gray and David Magitis; April ‘Vampires’ by Christopher Fowler and Mike Bohatch; May ‘Zombies’ by Simon Clark and Bob Covington; June ‘Magic’ by Clive Barker and Paul Campion; July ‘Medical Horror’ by Stephen Gallagher and Russell Dickerson; August ‘Death’ by Neil Gaiman and Ian Simmons; September ‘Haunted Woods’ by Ramsey Campbell and Michelle Blessmaille; October ‘The Corpse’ by Poppy Z. Brite and Michael Ian Bateson; November ‘Supernatural Painting’ by Graham Masterton and Lara Bandilla; Demember ‘Werewolves’ by Kelley Armstrong and Lizzy Shumate.

Published by Eloy Edictions, January 2006. Co-edited byWalter Diociaiuti. 13 Euros. ISBN: 3-938411-04-X

Featuring: ‘Zombies’ An Introduction by Simon Clark; ‘The Beach’ by Tim Lebbon; ‘Night After Night of the Living Dead’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘Face at the Window’ by Stuart Young; ‘Starky’s Town’ by Simon Bestwick; ‘Risen Wife’ by Mark West; ‘A Force of Evil’ by John B. Ford; ‘The Burning Doorway’ by Simon Clark; ‘Beautiful Stranger’ by Tony Richards; ‘Life Sentence’ by Paul Kane; ‘Raw Materials’ by Derek M. Fox; ‘Somebody in the Garden’ by Paul Finch; ‘Salvation’ by Maynard and Sims.

Edited by Marie O’Regan and Jenny Barber. Published by the BFS, Spring 2006.

Featuring: ‘The Ones We Leave Behind’ by Mark Chadbourn ; ‘Caw’ by Alessio Zanelli; ‘Masquerade’ by Debbie Bennett; ‘Salastor’ by John Howard; ‘Flowers in the Cellar’ by Lavie Tidhar; ‘Baby’ by Simon Messingham.

British Fantasy Society Publications, co-edited with Marie O’Regan, September 2006, £11.99

Featuring: Introduction by Stephen Jones; ‘The Luxury of Harm’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘Lost Souls’ by Clive Barker; ‘Whisper Lane’ by Mark Chadbourn; ‘The Man Who Drew Cats’ by Michael Marshall Smith; ‘The Cycle’ by John Connolly; ‘Days of the Wheel’ by Peter Crowther; ‘Now You See Him, Now You Don’t’ by Juliet E. McKenna; ‘Progeny’ by Mark Morris; ‘The Sustenaince of Hoak’ by Ramsey Campbell; ‘Every Day A Little Death’ by Chaz Brenchley; ‘This is Illyria, Lady’ by Kim Newman; ‘Ashputtle’ by Peter Straub; ‘Webs’ by Neil Gaiman; ‘The Raffle’ by Simon Clark; ‘Scarrowfell’ by Robert Holdstock; ‘Building Sixteen’ by Brian Aldiss; ‘Dust’ by Richard Christian Matheson; ‘Sundance’ by Robert Silverberg; ‘My Repeater’ by Stephen Gallagher; ‘Partial Eclipse’ by Graham Joyce; Afterword by Paul Kane and Marie O’Regan; plus personal recollections and stories about the BFS and FantasyCon by the contributors.

‘If Interzone imposed the reviewing methodology used by governments to assess the efficacy of public services – evaluating the whole in terms of the average of scores given to each of its components – Kane and O’Regan’s celebration of the British Fantasy Society would top the league table of fantasy anthologies. There is certainly much to commend it. There isn’t a single duff story: none of them merits less than a B and several are worthy of an A+.’

British Fantasy Society Publications, co-edited with Marie O’Regan, designed by Lee Thompson. Cover artwork by Dave McKean.

Featuring: ‘Welcome’ by Marie O’Regan and Paul Kane; ‘FantasyCon Anecdotes Part One’ by Peter Crowther, Sarah Pinborough, Steve Volk and Michael Marshall Smith; ‘To the Death’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘Dave McKean’ by Neil Gaiman; ‘Dave McKean Biography and Bibliography’ by Dave McKean and Paul Kane; ‘Dave McKean: A Gallery of Works’ by Dave McKean’; ‘Karl Edward Wagner Special Award: Ray Harryhausen’ by Stephen Jones; ‘The Long Fingers of Dr Who’ by Simon Gurrier; ‘Ghosts of India Extract’ by Mark Morris; ‘Not So Obvious: An Appreciation of Christopher Golden’ by Tim Lebbon; ‘Christopher Golden Bibliography’ by Christopher Golden and Paul Kane; ‘Baltimore Extract’ by Christopher Golden; ‘Fallen Extract’ by Tim Lebbon; ‘Christopher Fowler’ by Roger Gray; ‘Christopher Fowler Bibliography’ by Paul Kane; ‘The Victoria Vanishes Extract’ by Christopher Fowler; ‘James Barclay’ by Mark Yon; ‘James Barclay Bibliography’ by Paul Kane; ‘FantasyCon Anecdotes Part Two’ by Paul Cornell, Christopher Fowler and Simon Clark; ‘Ravensoul Extract’ by James Barclay.

Hellbound Hearts

Pocket Books(Simon & Schuster), co-edited with Marie O’Regan. Cover artwork by Clive Barker (‘Vestimenti’ Cenobite). September 2009, $16.00/£10.76

ISBN-10: 1439140901 ISBN-13:978-1439140901

Featuring: ‘Foreword’ by Clive Barker; ‘Introduction: Raising Hell, Again’ by Stephen Jones; ‘ Prisoners of the Inferno’ by Peter Atkins; ‘ The Cold’ by Conrad Williams; ‘ The Confessor’s Tale’ by Sarah Pinborough; ‘ Hellbound Hollywood’ by Mick Garris; ‘ Mechanisms’ by Christopher Golden and Mike Mignola (illustrated by Mike Mignola); ‘ Every Wrong Turn’ by Tim Lebbon; ‘ The Collector’ by Kelley Armstrong; ‘ Bulimia’ by Richard Christian Matheson; ‘ Orfeo the Damned’ by Nancy Holder; ‘ Our Lord of Quarters’ by Simon Clark; ‘ Wordsworth’ graphic insert by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean; ‘ A Little Piece of Hell’ by Steve Niles; ‘ The Dark Materials Project’ by Sarah Langan; ‘ Demon’s Design’ by Nicholas Vince; ‘ Only The Blind Survive’ by Yvonne Navarro; ‘ Mother’s Ruin’ by Mark Morris; ‘ Sister Cilice’ by Barbie Wilde; ‘ Santos del Infierno’ by Jeffrey J. Mariotte; ‘ The Promise’ by Nancy Kilpatrick; ‘ However…’ by Gary A. Braunbeck and Lucy A. Snyder; ‘ Tis Pity He’s Ashore’ by Chaz Brenchley; ‘Afterword’ by Doug Bradley; ‘Special Bonus Material: Wordsworth Graphic Short Story Original Script’ by Neil Gaiman.

‘With an introduction from Clive Barker himself, this anthology of short stories inspired by Pinhead and his merry band of Cenobites has obviously won respect where it matters most. Even more impressive, however, are the number of heavy-hitters involved in this project, each of whom gives their own well-informed spin on all things Hellraiser. From The Stand director Mick Garris (whose “Hellbound Hollywood” brings fear to a film set, and even references Candyman) to 30 Days Of Night’s Steve Niles (who documents some graphic fleshfilleting in “A Little Piece Of Hell”), this is far from a quickly bashed-out horror hack-job. Another highlight is Barbie Wilde’s “Sister Cilice”, which offers a uniquely female spin on the mythology. Other members of the fair sex (including Buffy novelist Yvonne Navarro and Otherworld author Kelly Armstrong) also take a bash but Wilde, who played the Female Cenobite in the movies, tells the most insightful tale. Then there’s “The Cold” by Conrad Williams, best known in cult circles. Williams manages the impressive task of bringing Barker’s supernatural sadomasochism into a more grounded, “real world” scenario and it proves to be one of the most compelling and well-realised shorts on offer here... For any Barker buff Hellbound Hearts should provide more pleasure than pain.’

(Four Star Review in SFX magazine)

‘Kudos MUST go to Paul Kane and Marie O’Regan who have pulled out of the bag a magnificent clutch of tales and have managed to coax from the authors many rich, dark and some truly frightening stories that have added a new and complex light to an already vastly complex universe. It’s a great read and I hope that Pocket Books, the publishers, commission a second volume soon. 9.5/10.’

(Johnny Mains, All Things Horror)

‘ It is truly amazing how Clive Barker’s work could go on to inspire so many different terrifying tales. Each and every one is worth reading and it was painful to try and pick out just a few to talk about when all of the stories are so stellar. Each of the authors captures the aesthetic and themes of the Hellraiser mythos, all the while tweaking it just enough to make it their own. What truly makes this anthology so exciting is how many different directions authors can go with Barker’s legacy. From Native American lore to the future of science behind “Shadow DNA”, there is really no limit to how writers can reinterpret and retell the Hellraiser mythos... Horror fans that relish shocking literature as well as Clive Barker and Hellraiser fans are sure to enjoy Hellbound Hearts. Don’t torture yourself, get your copy today!’

(Fatally Yours)

‘The stories collected in Hellbound Hearts remain true to the nightmarish mythology that inspired them. They are subtle and suggestive, violently unrestrained, and penned by writers perfectly suited to the task. Kane and O’Regan have done a wonderful job. Hellbound Hearts will delight and disturb the fans of Hellraiser, and those who first discovered The Hellbound Heart in George R. R. Martin’s Night Visions 3. Hellbound Hearts is highly recommended.’

(Jason Rolfe, HorrorBound)

‘Hellbound Hearts is collection of Hellraiser influenced stories that’s dear to my heart. Being a fan of Barker and all things Hellraiser, I must say it’s great to see that the legacy or mythos is being carried forth... I come out of this book feeling as if the writers dug deep to pull out these stories of damnation and suffering. There is a black abyss that lies deep in the hearts and minds. Hellbound Hearts is a doorway into that notion. Hellbound Hearts will sit proudly next to all things Cenobitovian and Barker, whether directly inspired or indirectly awakened it stands on its own as a collection to have.’

(HorrorNews.net)

‘I love collections, I love Clive Barker and I love Hellraiser! I love this collection! This book of stories inspired by Clive Barker’s Hellraiser mythos has some great stories from the likes of Tim Lebbon, Christopher Golden, Conrad Williams, Simon Clark and many more. The number of British authors providing stories is amazing, and just goes to show the power of the horror genre in the UK. My personal favourite is Simon Clark’s story, but I have to say that I really enjoyed the mini comic provided by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean, just a shame it’s printed in grainy black and white. The original script is also included, providing a great insight into comic writing. An original collection which goes to show the depth of Barker’s Hellraiser universe.’

(Adrian Brady, Morpheus Tales)

Buy this book here, here or here.

Terror Tales Vol. 4

Terror Tales # 4

Published by Rainfall Books, December 2009. Co-edited by John B. Ford. ISBN: 978-0-9563991-0-6

Featuring: Editorial Introductions by John B. Ford & Paul Kane; ‘12 Bolinbroke Avenue’ by Peter James; ‘A Reel Devil’ by Roger Gray; ‘Harlequin Valentine’ by Neil Gaiman; ‘Charlie’ by Eric Steele; ‘The Man Who Collected Barker’ by Kim Newman; ‘The Hand of Glory’ by Simon Clark; ‘Kane’s Korner: Buffed Up’ by Paul Kane; ‘Haven’ by S.D. Hintz; ‘Falling Into the Arms of Death He Found A Beautiful Place’ by Jeff VanderMeer; ‘Ritual’ by Ann Wood; ‘Drifting Apart’ by Peter Crowther; ‘Circus A Go-Go’ by Carl Carter; ‘Discards’ by Tony Richards; ‘Voices Through the Walls’ by Lee Clark Zumpe; ‘Shirts’ by Allen Ashley; ‘Blizzard in Blue’ by John Saxton; ‘A Quiet Weekend Away’ by Mark West; Book Reviews: Stone Cold Calling by Simon Clark, Moontown by Peter Atkins, The Adventures of Mr. Maximillian Bacchus and His Traveling Circus by Clive Barker; Film Reviews: Splinter, 100 Feet and Midnight Meat Train.

alt.Fiction convention booklet

Alt.Fiction 2010 convention booklet, co-edited with Marie O’Regan, designed and typeset by Marie O’Regan.
Cover artwork by Liam Sharp.

Featuring: ‘Welcome’ by Catherine Rogers; Bios with photos for Guy Adams, Tony Ballantyne, Alex Bell, John Berlyne, Chaz Brenchley, Ramsey Campbell, Mike Carey, Mark Chadbourn, Michael Cobley, Paul Cornell, Peter Crowther, Steven Erikson, Marc Gascoigne, James Goss, Kate Griffin, Simon Guerrier, Lee Harris, Colin Harvey, Jenni Hill, John Jarrold, Stephen Jones, Graham Joyce, Paul Kane, Kim Lakin-Smith, Tim Lebbon, David Llewellyn, Paul Magrs, Gary McMahon, Juliet E. McKenna, Mark Morris, Adam Nevill, Mark Charan Newton, Marie O’Regan, Sarah Pinborough, Andy Remic, Justin Richards, Liam Sharp, Robert Shearman, Kari Sperring, Gav Thorpe, Steve Tribe, Stephen Volk, Freda Warrington, Jon Weir, Ian Whates, Conrad Williams; Podcast details; Panel and Cinema Programme; Book Launches and Mixed Programming; Thanks.

AS COMMISSIONING EDITOR

H.P. Lovecraft in Britain: A Monograph by Stephen Jones

British Fantasy Society Publications, June 2008. Chapbook £12.99 / $25.99. Cover artwork by Les Edwards.

Featuring: ‘Introduction’; ‘Dark Debut’; ‘Terrors and Tribulations’; ‘License to Chill’; and ‘Postscript’.

A Dick and Jane Primer for Adults, Lavie Tidhar

A Dick and Jane Primer for Adults

British Fantasy Society Publications, June 2008. Edited by Lavie Tidhar. Chapbook (Members Only). Cover by John Keates.

Featuring: ‘Me Dick, You Jane - Introduction’ by Jeff Vandermeer; ‘Dick and Jane and the Irrational, Mysterious Nature of Reality’ by Liz Williams; ‘Dick Does Time’ by Adam Roberts; ‘Envy’ by Neil Ayres; ‘Flash Jack’ by Richard Kunzmann; ‘Like Leaves Falling’ by Chris Butler; ‘Mike’s Article’ by James Lovegrove; ‘Somewhere in the Street’ by Ed Clayton; ‘The Hushes’ by Conrad Williams; ‘We Go Down To The Woods Today’ by Marion Arnott; ‘See’ by Roger Levy.

Houses on the Borderland

British Fantasy Society Publications, September 2008. Trade Paperback, £11.99 / $ 24.99 . Cover by Les Edwards. ISBN: 095386818-4

Edited by David A. Sutton. Featuring: Introduction by David A. Sutton; ‘Today We Were Astronauts’ by Allen Ashley; ‘The Listeners’ by Samantha Lee; ‘The School House’ by Simon Bestwick; ‘The House on the Western Border’ by Gary Fry; ‘The Retreat’ by Paul Finch; ‘The Worst of All Places’ by David A. Riley’.

To Order Houses on the Borderland click here

Published in Planet Prozak Issue 3, October/November 1998 (ISSN: 1463-6563)

Published in Tales of the Grotesque and Arabesque Issue 4 January 1999 (ISSN: 1464-2972).

Published in Strix Issue 14, February 1999. Subsequently reprinted on the Strix Website June 2001

Published in The Dream Zone Issue 2, April 1999 (ISSN: 1464-6609). Subsequently reprinted on The Dream Zone Online Website 2000-2001 after being voted by readers one of the most popular stories printed in The Dream Zone during 1999.

‘I can’t tell you what a buzz I got from reading this story. The imagery is awesome.’

Published in Dead Things Issue 1, June/September 1999 (ISSN: 1465-9115). Subsequently reprinted on the Terror Tales Online Website for its launch on 18th September 2000, and in the collection Alone (In the Dark).

Second Place Winner in the Black Hill Books Horror Short Story Competition 1998-1999 (Judged by Guy N. Smith). Subsequently published in Graveyard Rendezvous Issue 20, Summer 1999.

Published in Dead Things Issue 2, October/December 1999 (ISSN: 1465-9115). Subsequently reprinted on the Dead Things Website.

‘A marvellous romp of a story, with every word well judged, and a fitting tribute to the original. Great fun.’

Published in Enigmatic Tales Number 7, Winter 1999. Subsequently reprinted in Rear View Mirror Webzine Issue 2, Summer 2001.

‘As a rule I generally find stories about writers to be too banal and self regarding for my taste. This story though is a fine exception. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and its clever idea.’

Published in The Dream Zone: Special Nightmare Edition January 2000 (ISSN: 1464-6609).

Published in Sci-Fright Issue 6 (1st Year Anniversary & Millennium Edition) February 2000.

Published in Terror Tales E-Mail Magazine Issue 2, Sent Out 29th April 2000. Subsequently reprinted in the collection Alone (In the Dark).

Published in the In Sheep’s Clothing anthology July 2000 (ISBN: 1-85929-017-5).

Published in Penny Dreadful: Tales & Poems of Fantastic Terror Issue 13, Midsummer 2000.

Published on the Terror Tales Online Website, for its launch on 18th September 2000.

Published in Dead Things Issue 5, October/December 2000 (ISSN: 1465-9115).

Published in The Dream Zone Issue 8, January 2001 (ISSN: 1464-6609). Previously printed in the Alone (In the Dark) collection.

Published in Hidden Corners Issue 1, March 2001. Previously printed in the Alone (In the Dark) collection.

All Published in 100 Drabbles (Edited by Sue Phillips) Small Press Books, 2001.

Published in the Riding the Night-mare anthology, September 2001 (Hb ISBN: 0-7543-2640-3, Pb ISBN: 0-7543-2643-8)

Published in the Spell Casting anthology, September 2001 (Hb ISBN: 0-7543-2654-3, Pb ISBN: 0-7543-2655-1)

‘...Much more my disco mirrorball is “Strobe”, in which an epileptic deliberately seeks out the strobe-effects which bring on his petit mal seizures. Although warned against the world of light, the protagonist believes that only the conscious experience of a grand mal seizure will grant him the transformation he seeks...’

‘An unusual tale of addiction. At a nightclub, a man called Lang suffers an epileptic fit. He recovers, but is haunted by the memory of a vision he experienced while in the grip of that seizure. By subjecting himself to flashing lights, he is able to recreate that fit. Introduced to a bright, hallucinatory world, he finally turns his back on the real one. Reminiscent of the destructive LSD craze of the 1960s, it is a powerful piece of writing.’

‘In contrast, “Strobe” is a highly original and disturbing tale of a most unusual addiction. A man with photo-sensitive epilepsy experiences extraordinary visions during his seizures. The hallucinations are so powerful he gets hooked and resorts to using strobe lighting repeatedly in order to trigger his potentially fatal condition.’

Published in the Tourniquet Heart anthology, edited by Christopher C. Teague, April 2002. Prime Books (Pb ISBN: 1894815106). Anthology Nominated for British Fantasy Award 2003.

Published on the House of Pain site. May 2002. Reprinted in Zombies edited by Robert N. Stephenson. Altair Australia Books ISBN: 978-0-9804566-0-8.

Published in Redsine Issue 10, October 2002. Prime Books (Pb. ISBN: 1-894815-03-3). Story received an Honourable Mention in Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror.

Written with John B. Ford. Published in The Evil Entwines anthology. Hardcastle Publications, March 2003. (Pb. ISBN: 0-7795-0037-7). Reprinted by Rainfall Books.

Published in Darkness Rising Volume Six: Evil Smiles. Prime Books, April 2003 (Pb. ISBN: 1894815394) Story received an Honourable Mention in Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror.

Published in The Derelict of Death and Other Stories. Rainfall Books, June 2003 (Pb. ISBN: 0-9540877-3-9)

Published in Darkness Rising Volume Seven: Screaming in Colours. Prime Books, July 2003 (Pb. ISBN: 1894815602) Story Recommended for British Fantasy Award 2004.

Published in The Wildclown Chronicles - Year 2, Issue 1, 2003. Click here to read this story.

Published in Scary Holiday Tales To Make You Scream. Double Dragon Books. August 2003. (E-Book and Pb ISBN: 1-55404-074-4)

Published in When Darkness Comes. Crystal Serenades Publications, May 2004. (Pb: ISBN: 0-9545237-2-5)

Published in Demonology: Grammaticus Demonium. Double Dragon Books, October 2004. (Pb: ISBN: 1-55404-164-3) Story Recommended for British Fantasy Award 2005.

Published in the Assembly of Rogues anthology, edited by Martin Roberts, April 2005. Rainfall Books (Pb ISBN: 1894815106). Story Nominated for British Fantasy Award (shortlisted 2006)

Published in Albions Alpträume: Zombies edited by Paul Kane and Walter Diociaiuti, January 2006. Eloy Edictions (ISBN: 3-938411-04-X)

Published in The Lazarus Condition, Tazmaniac Books, July 2007 (see Novella section).

‘I am always a sucker for a zombie story and “Dig This” places the zombie tale in a new and intelligent context where nothing is as it seems.’

Published in The Shadows Trilogy, Screaming Dreams Press December 2007 (see ‘Collections’ for details).

Published in Read By Dawn Volume 3, Bloody Books, May 2008 (ISBN: 978-1905636259)

‘ Read by Dawn comprises twenty eight short horror stories, all but one from writers unknown to me, thus demonstrating Ms. Hartley’s preparedness to showcase new and emerging talent like no other. Starting with Paul Kane, the one writer whose work I’ve previously read, his “ Windchimes”is at first a subtle and sad ghost story of parental loss but that smacks you in the face with betrayal in the penultimate paragraph, before warming you with its final poignant words. The absolute standout story in this volume.’

Published in Voices, Morrigan Books, September 2008 (ISBN: 978-91-977605-0-8)

Published in the Darc Karnivale anthology, edited by David Byron and Corey R. Scales. Story illustrated by Nick Rose. Published by Evil Nerd Empire, January 2010.

Published in Pumpkin Poetry 1997 (Hb ISBN:1-85930-428-1, Pb ISBN: 1-85930-423-0).

Published in The Road of Life 1997 (Hb ISBN: 1-85786-658-4, Pb ISBN: 1-85786-663-0)

All published in Cemetery Poets: Grave Offerings. Double Dragon Books (Hb. ISBN: 1-55404-009-4)

‘Paul Kane is a first-rate storyteller, never failing to marry his insights into the world and its anguish with the pleasures of phrases eloquently turned.’

(Clive Barker – Bestselling author of The Hellbound Heart, Abarat and Mr B. Gone)

‘Paul Kane’s world is a world of horror and wonder. A world of monstrous things beautifully carved in words by one hell of a talented and visionary writer.’

(Simon Clark – Bestselling author of The Dalek Factor , Lucifer’s Ark and This Rage of Echoes)

‘Paul Kane is helping to pump hot new blood into the horror genre. He could well become the first of the next new wave. Read his stories now.’

(Christopher Fowler – Bestselling author of Psychoville , Full Dark House, The Water Room and Calabash )

‘A writer who adds touches of intelligence and grace, bridging the gap between archetypal narratives and recognisable life...people we can believe in, facing situations we can imagine, reacting in ways that are truthful...without ever betraying or losing faith in the underlying narrative form.’

( Stephen Gallagher - Bestselling author of Valley of Lights and Down River, and scriptwriter of mini-series such as Chimera, Oktober , Eleventh Hour starring Patrick Stewart and Lifeline starring Joanne Whalley)

‘Paul Kane has considerable writing talent which I hope he continues to develop.’

(Graham Masterton – Bestselling author of The Manitou , Flesh and Blood, Descendent, Edgewise and Manitou Blood).

‘Paul Kane probes everyday life with the skill of a surgeon to find the darkness, the humour and the raw weirdness buried beneath the surface.’

(Mark Chadbourn – Bestselling author of The Eternal, The Age of Misrule Series and Jack of Ravens)

(Stephen Laws – Bestselling author of Ghost Train, Chasm and Ferocity)

(Tim Lebbon – Bestselling author of The Everlasting , bestselling author of and Dusk and Dawn)

‘In Paul Kane’s fiction, a common thread is often that other forces (flawed, imperfect) have control over our lives - and emotions. There’s a reality beyond reality: and that’s the core of real soul-withering horror. Also, he knows darkness doesn’t work without the light, and humanity and love are at stake. His stories not only, at his best, put him neck and neck with Ramsey Campbell and Clive Barker, but also in the company of greats like Machen and MR James. You don’t rest easily after reading a Paul Kane story, but strangely your eyes have been somewhat opened.’

(Stephen Volk – screenwriter of Gothic, Ghostwatch and Afterlife, author of Dark Corners)

(Brian Keene – Two time Stoker-winning author of The Rising and The Conqueror Worms)

‘It is obvious that his talent for writing and active imagination have paid off.’

‘Paul Kane writes with a grit and surety of one who gets to grips with the darkness inside man. The mark of Kane is one you won’t want to miss.’

‘Paul Kane always manages to entertain with his unusual twist on fiction.’