Scott Sigler Can WRITE!

Thanks to Ayad for this news...

You know that feeling you get when you discover something new? That tingle of excitement, the fear that others won't "get" it, and the quick jump to not caring whether they will or not but you're going to tell them about it anyway because to you it is just. so. cool!

I've discovered the (currently four) podcast novels of Scott Sigler. He's been releasing high-quality horror/sci-fi stories for FREE (as in beer) in a serialized format via podcasts since December 2005 (I think). I've now completed three of them, and they are thrillers.

He's actually been using the podcast medium to build support for the printed editions, but the experience is more than that. It's rather like listening to old-time radio thrillers, but with (according to his warning at the beginning of each podcast) "language, adult situations, and lots and LOTS of violence." He does not disappoint on that last count (WARNING: If you are afraid of sharp objects, AVOID THESE PODCASTS AT ALL COSTS). While he does most of the character voices himself, the podcasts also include some sound special-effects, and occasional guest voices.

Since this is ultimately a marketing opportunity, there are advertisements, but they do not get in the way of the stories... and after the stories comes the extras. Scott talks about his successes, plays fan phone messages (and responds to them - very funny stuff) and talks about what he's working on. He refers to his fans as "Junkies", since most of us cannot wait to get our next weekly "fix" of his fiction.

Another thing that appeals to me about these stories is that they often take place or refer to areas in and around Michigan and Toledo, Ohio... places I have been or know of.

Check this stuff out. You'll be hooked (if you like Horror/Sci-Fi written with a touch of humor, read by a freak who is trying to sell his books and who I hope succeeds because I REALLY enjoy this. Please don't kill me, Scott.)

Sorry it's been so long. Life happens.