Baltimore/Washington
Horror Writers

"I would give the world to realize one half the ideas afloat in my imagination."

-- Edgar Allan Poe

The Baltimore/Washington chapter of the Horror Writers Association is dedicated to helping writers of dark fiction hone their craft, learn the business, and develop relationships. We promote horror fiction and horror writers in the area.

We also--in deference to our friend Poe--sometimes drink.

Check out the guidelines to the Mid-Atlantic Horror Professionals Short Story contest!

What do you do?

We do many things:

• Promote horror fiction to the public, guiding them beyond stereotypes, introducing them to new writers, and showing them what genre has to offer. We accomplish this through readings, signings, bookstore appearances, conventions, and other activities where readers can learn more about the depth and complexity of the genre.
• Encourage writers of all levels to continue writing the fiction that excites them despite obstacles and tribulation.
• Provide support and information about the business of writing.
• Develop our fiction craft with critiques, readings, and other constructive feedback.

In short, we lure an unsuspecting and innocent public toward the depths of blasphemous depravity.

As luck would have it, many of us even have some to sell.

What happens at your meetings?

Our president greets us at the solid oak doors of stately Keene Manor with a brandy snifter in hand, clad in his trademark smoking jacket. We adjourn to the parlor where witty anecdotes, scathing industry gossip, and lengthy descriptions of our numerous sales ensue. Often, we light our cigars with thousand-dollar publishing checks hardly worth the trouble of sending servants to the bank to deposit. Sometimes Keene drags in a vagrant to dance for nickels while we laugh.

Well, that was only once.

We normally have snacks and beverages while discussing the industry, writing, and anything else of interest to demented horror writers. For future meetings, we plan to conduct readings of our work and invite guest speakers to discuss the genre. Much more is in store as we build our membership.

How do I join?

Check out the Horror Writers Association site for more information about joining our parent organization. To meet with us specifically, contact our president or webmaster.

Can I send you my 1,000,000-word novel manuscript about vampiric fairies in World War II?

For the love of God, no. And don't send us anything else unsolicited, either. Check our Resources page for links to possible markets.

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