Questions 2019

To email me, click the envelope at the bottom of any page.

December

Hi, can I start by saying I love your books, having read them all. Renegades is my favourite, the ending stays with me to this day. Will you be releasing a new one soon? Jay

Hi Jay,
Thanks for the kind words. New books are imminent. TESTAMENT, the sequel to Renegades, is available now. There's another one called PROGENY coming next year and I've got another in the works too. Also, CHASE, BREEDING GROUND and WHITE GHOST have just been re-issued in paperback. Happy reading and thanks for getting in touch.

16 years ago, a very tall and unusual man met you at a book signing. He had 2 hardback copies of hell to pay, one for himself and one for his 13-year-old daughter. You gave the man hell for letting his daughter read your books but signed the book anyway with your best blood splattered wishes.
I was that daughter and that book was the best present my dad ever brought for me even though i cried like fuck by the end of the book.
16 years later, i have read and own every book you have ever written under hutson, to the point i have just finished reading chase. (took me nearly a year as i have 3 boys aged between 4 and 10 and my god did it get me in the feels).
Firstly, i want to thank you many times over for continuing to fight to get your books out there and for the endless hours i have spent reading all your stories, every one stuck in my mind like i personally experienced them. No other writer has ever captivated me like you do.
Secondly, id like to rant about the ending of chase, i shouted at the book, so many questions unanswered in that amazing and frustrating way that you do. Would i be fooling myself for wanting to believe that amy found a way out?
Thirdly... I am honestly pulling my hair out waiting for testament, i need more doyle! That will be one i send to your publishers for signing! Please confirm that this book will be out this year, i need my fix haha!
I hope that you get to read this, your books have been a huge part of my teenage life and my biggest regret is that i've never had the chance to meet you in person. Please keep doing what you do and from the bottom of my very disturbed black heart, thank you! Your books have been an escape that i will continue to enjoy many times over. Kind regards,
Seanna

Hi Seanna,
I did laugh when I read the opening of your message. I can only thank your Dad for introducing you to my work. I'm even more relieved that you liked it!!! Thanks so much for your kind words, you have no idea how much they mean to me. I think readers sometimes just take it for granted that writers churn out books and don't take any notice of what their readers think but that isn't true. It makes all the writers blocks and days of struggling worthwhile when I get a message like yours. Thank you. I'm sorry Chase left you with lots of unanswered questions and, I must admit, its one of the few times I've ever thought I might have put the main characters through TOO much! I did a screenplay of it (no, not filmed yet...) and almost changed the ending to be honest but...Testament is now out so I hope you like it. I'm pretty sure you will. I've also finished another book called PROGENY which is due out next year and I'm just completing a collection of short stories too so you'll have more stuff to read, don't worry. You say you've not had the chance to meet me, Seanna, well, be thankful for small mercies ha, ha.. and, you never know what the future might hold do you? Fingers crossed. If you turn up to a signing one day and get copies of my books for your three boys then we'll both be happy!!! Many thanks again for getting in touch. Let me know what you think of Testament when you finally read it.

Hi,
So after ordering my copy of testament, I was over the moon to see it was signed. And then... Others showing off their personalised copy... 🤔. Can I ask why some have personal comments, and some don't.
I have been a loyal fan for near on 30 years.... So feeling a little (a lot actually) gutted.
Kind regards,
Jackie McLachlan

Hi Jackie,
Thanks for your message. My publisher just asked me to sign a few copies of Testament, I had no idea who wanted personalised copies and who didn't. I just signed what was put in front of me and personalised as instructed. If you drop a line to Caffeine Nights I'm sure they'll be able to arrange a signing for you. I really appreciate your loyalty and your kind words so if I'd known, I would definitely have signed your copy for you. Sorry about the mess up. All the best.

Hello Shaun,
My name is Tracy and my fiancée William is a huge fan of yours he has all your books and some that have been signed by you. My question is how do we go about getting a dedication as we see a lot of your other fans have got a dedication in their books. When I ordered the book I put in a request to have it personalised but to no avail. I contacted caffeine nights and asked the same question I have put to you but they have not replied. I'm hoping you can let us know
thank you
Tracy and William

Hi Tracy and William,
I've had a few people mentioning that their copies didn't get signed when they'd asked for that. I only signed what was put in front of me I'm afraid. I didn't know that other people had requested signatures or I would have done them all. Drop another line to Caffeine Nights and I'm sure we can sort something out. I don't like to see any of my readers missing out. Sorry. All the best.

Hi Shaun. Just wondered how you were doing?
From a fellow dark dreamer.
Gaz

Hi Gaz,
I'm okay thanks. Been better and this year has been pretty forgettable on a personal level if I'm honest (I won't bore you with details) but we all battle on somehow don't we? I hope you're doing okay too, my friend. Keep in touch.

Hello shaun, first off I want to apologise, I have written to you a couple times in the past (near 10 years ago now) and back then I was I'd say extremely stupid in the way I used text speak or shortened words.
Back then in 2010 I believe I asked about your American version of death day which if I remember correctly you said only had an extra paragraph so not to waste money unnecessarily, I got it anyway because it was your book and I plan on getting all your books one day.
But anyway, I have read a lot more of your books since then and I have amassed a nice collection, back in 2013 I had assessments and was told I had autism, now it may not mean a lot to anyone other than myself, but when I found out I became a hermit, rarely went out with friends and just read your books which as strange as it will sound helped me learn to accept what I had, since then I also became a carer for my dad.
Speaking of my dad, I played an old interview of yours to him and he instantly said "I wouldn't read his books but I like him already" like you my dad is a liverpool supporter so as far as football is concerned he is a fan of yours.
I will be buying testament and chase as soon as I can but I would like to send them to you to sign if that is at all possible?
Thank you for the books you have written so far and I hope you carry on to do so for many more years to come.
Luke
(or toothless as some people now call me, to explain that I had my teeth removed over 3 years so now I'm a fat autistic gummy bear, I say that to break the ice with people) 😂

Hi Luke,
Thanks for getting in touch and for the kind comments. I can't believe I told you not to get the American version of Death Day... Not like me turning down royalties ha, ha. I'm glad you didn't take any notice of me, Luke! I'm glad my books helped you through a little bit. I feel very humble when people tell me things like that. I was a carer for my mum so I know what that entails. I hope you enjoy Testament as you have my other books. There's another one on the way next year called PROGENY and I'm working on a collection of short stories at the moment. Thanks again, Luke and, if you contact Caffeine Nights I'm sure they can sort out a signed copy for you. All the best.

Hi Shaun,
You probably don't remember me. We had a few conversations on here a few years back (usually centralising around Arsenal, my love of your writing and me being, in your words, "the most fertile man in Britain😀". Probably not surprised to hear that since we last spoke, my wife and I have had our third (and defenitly the last) Bambino. Carter Lily turned 2 yesterday.
I just wanted to drop you a line to say hello and hope that all is well with you and yours. Any more news on the Caffeine Nights/Hereford Films projects? And congratulations on being involved in Matt Shaw's 'MONSTER'. I've had the distinct pleasure of meeting Matt at a few conventions - and made a donation to his movie - and think he is an incredibly talented and genuinely nice chap. Just like yourself.
I've always stated 'Deadhead' as my favourite Hutson book, with 'Erebus' coming in a close second (I storyboarded a fan-made trailer for Erebus a few years back with your permission but never filmed it😯). I love your work, mate. Long may you continue tapping out the tales. You really are an inspiration to so many😀.
Stay in touch, Shaun.
James
The Arsenal Fan

Hi James,
I hope you're well. I know things are not brilliant with your team at the moment, James but I'm sure they'll improve really quickly. Football is a bastard sometimes isn't it? Is that it for kids now then, James? I did laugh when I read your message. Unfortunately I've heard nothing from Hereford films since I finished and submitted the script for CHASE. Matt is a good guy, I agree. DEADHEAD is due to re-release next year James, so get yourself a new version with an introduction by yours truly! I've got another new novel due out next year called PROGENY and I'm working on a collection of short stories so there should be something to keep you going. Many thanks for keeping in touch and all the best to you, the wife and the family (however big it ends up being ha, ha.) All the best.

Hi I have been reading your books for 30 years, yes I know creep, but my son has asked if I knew an author, i do not know you personally but i have been reading your books since 1990, my son lost his daughter this year through premature birth and 6 months later his fiancee has a little boy who is fighting and winning the fight born at 26 weeks he would love a story about the fight he has been through and reading your books we would feel it a privilege if you could pen a few words
Ian

Hi Ian,
Many thanks for getting in touch. My condolences to your son and his loss but all my best for the newest addition. I lost someone very close to me this year so I can imagine what your son must have been through. Please give him my best or, better still., let him read this and, if my books can help him in even the smallest way then that is great. All the best.

Right folks, that's it for another year. I want to wish everyone a Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Keep the questions coming and also follow me on Twitter at @realshaunhutson. The account is run by my publisher but I do add my own comments every now and then.

May

Hi Shaun hope your good mate I've read all your books now and was wondering when chase is out in paperback as Im looking forward too reading it can't wait for more of your books too be honest take it easy your fan for life Ryan!!!!

Hello Ryan. Thanks for the kind words. Always nice to hear. Chase should be out in paperback sometime this year so I'm told. Testament is due out in hardback and four more of the older titles are also due to be re-issued by Caffeine Nights both as print versions and also digitally. So keep your eyes peeled, Ryan and I hope you enjoy them all again. All the best.

Right, folks, that's it for another month. Keep the questions coming.
It's always great for me to see what people are thinking... And, as ever, I thank you all for your interest.

April

Dear Mr, Hutson,
Just saw the movie Slugs, based on your great novel, loved it:)
Could I please send you my DVD cover so you can sign it for me?
That would be SO cool!!
Hope you are well and to hear from you soon.
With most kind regards,
Stein de Jong.
The Netherlands.

Hello Stein, I'm glad you enjoyed Slugs the Movie. And if you would like to send me the DVD cover then of course I'll sign it for you.

March

Hi Shaun,
You'll have absolutely no recollection of me but I interviewed you many years ago for a Waterstone’s genre magazine. I’m also a big horror fan and have loved your books since I was far too young to be reading them.
Anyway, as I think you’re out Milton Keynes way – and that’s reasonably nearby – and as we once discussed your love of Great Yarmouth, I wondered if I could interest you in the following...
I’m hoping to put together a relatively informal horror gathering in Norwich city centre this summertime. At the moment I have Saturday July 6th in mind (from early afternoon onwards) but at this stage it’s reasonably flexible. Just a private room in an easily-accessible pub, good company, drinks, chat, a couple of stories. I wondered if you’d be interested in coming along; maybe reading a story, selling some books or other wares (if anyone else turns up that is!). It would be great to have you there.
Please let me know your thoughts, and I can start to knock things into shape. Maybe this could even become a semi-regular thing – once or twice a year. Though of course you’d be under no obligation to commit to more!
Thank you for reading. Keep up the good work, and all the very best,
Joe

Hello, Joe, I might remember you clearly for all you know ha, ha...I remember doing lots of stuff with and for Waterstones years ago. I do love Great Yarmouth. My mum and dad took me there every year for about twelve years when I was a kid. I'll have a think about your kind offer. Keep in touch. All the best.

January

Good morning Shaun,
My dad brought me up on your books and he has even written to yourself when he was younger.
I currently work a desk job but I have always had a passion for writing and do believe that everyone has a novel or two in them.
I have a few concepts in mind and even started to write them down and start a few chapters. I didn't know if you had any reccomendations for writing or beginning to write?
Thankyou for any responses you can give me.
From a big fan,
Tom

Hi Tom, Many thanks for the kind words and thanks to your dad too for bringing you up right (on my books!!)
If you want to write, then write. There are no rules or things you have to follow. If you've got something to say then say it. I always used to think that the only way to do it was to write what you wanted to write and just pray to God that someone wants to read it. I also believe that you should write about something you're passionate about (and write passionately too). You can teach people the mechanics of writing but you can't give them that spark, that burning desire to share their stories. It is all about passion. Believe in yourself. Don't let friends or family read your stuff (they'll be biased). But every writer works differently. What works for me might not work for you. You have to do things your own way, Tom and I'm sure you will. But do it!!! Above all do it. Don't be sitting around in ten years whining about how you wanted to write...Fucking do it!!! You've got as much chance as any one else. You don't have to be Shakespeare (look at some of the shit on the shelves in any bookshop!)...just find your story and write it. And keep in touch. All the best.

Hi Shaun
Love your work, thanks for all your books.
Reading Chase now, very dark, very Shaun Hutson ha ha
Just wanted to say there is a website right up your street called 'Is A Cunt' ...you will absolutely love it, if you haven't discovered it for yourself already here is the link.
http://is-a-cunt.com/
Brenda

Hi, Brenda, many thanks for the kind words. I will definitely check out that website. It sounds right up my street....In fact I just looked and some of it looks as if it was written by me..ha, ha.. I'm glad you're enjoying Chase. I hope you enjoy TESTAMENT too which is coming out soon. Thanks again for the kind words Brenda.

Hi Shaun,
I have been reading your novels since the early 90s. I was, and still am, a huge fan. Like you I love horror movies esp the old Hammer ones. Every novel you write takes be back to when horror was horror... none of this diluted muted modern trash. Your books have seen me through many tough times.
Thank you.
Samantha. Artist, horror fan, novel addict.

Hi Samantha, it's nice to know someone else misses the good old days of horror too! I know some people would say it's just how times change but I think that's bullshit personally. Horror had balls back in the 80's and 90's. Now, it feels as if a lot of it is tip toeing around. Either that or it's so predictable. Certainly that's true of horror films. I wouldn't know so much about modern horror books because I don't read them. I hope my stuff is still seeing you through tough times (and good ones too for that matter). Thanks Samantha.

Mr. Hutson
I grew up on an Indian reservation without running water and electricity. Reading was how we passed time. I don't remember how I got my hands on Erebus, but it was one of the most memorable horror books of my childhood. I've always been on the lookout for your other titles that Erebus mentioned, but never could find them in a traditional bookstore. Recently, I had a flashback of Erebus and decided to look you up on Amazon.com.
Thank you very much for the low price of a kindle edition book. I've just finished Slugs and am about to dig into Spawn. I'm ecstatic to know that you kept writing all these years. May your pen never run out of ink...
Respectfully yours,
Eugene D. Cody

Hi Eugene and many thanks for your message and kind words. I'm really glad you enjoyed Erebus and managed to find some more of my books to enjoy. I hope you've been enjoying the new ones as much as you enjoyed Erebus. I think my style has changed a bit over the years but I'd like to think I've retained the speed, suspense and savagery that were always my trademarks. Thanks again for getting in touch Eugene.

Hi Shaun, Met you at a Horror Con (or is it com?) in Sheffield a couple of years back. Apologies for getting a little tongue tied, but you are a bit scary. Have loved your work for many, many years and cannot wait for Testament to come out.
Also hear that a company has bought the film rights to Chase?
A (slightly begrudging) congrats to your boys in red. Having a great season and fully deserve to be up there with the quality they are showing.
All the best
John R

Hello, John... I'm a bit scary!!!! Oh shit, I hope not, well, not in real life anyway! I can't wait to hear what you think of Testament. I always look forward to what readers have to say about my books (as long as they're good ha, ha.) but for some reason, when it involves a Sean Doyle book, I'm always even more on edge about the reactions. The company that bought the film rights to Chase don't seem to have done fuck all with them but you never know. I've also got interest in Spawn from the same Spanish producer who made Slugs but you can't get excited until...well... until the cheque clears to be honest! Thanks again for your message John.