Ben Alderson | MM Fantasy & Horror Author spills on those bookish words and his pathway to writing.

Discover the insights from Ben Alderson, a bestselling author, as he shares his journey in writing MM horror, his experiences in traditional publishing, and his love for indie bookstores.Have you ever wondered what it feels like to see your book on a bookstore shelf for the first time? In this post, we're diving into a delightful conversation with bestselling author Ben Alderson, who recently made waves with his debut M.M. horror novel, The Haunting of William Thorne. Join us as we explore his journey from indie publishing to traditional success, the magic of cosy bookstores, and some fun, rapid-fire questions that reveal his creative preferences.Ben is not just an author; he's a phenomenon in the realms of fantasy and horror. With over 20 novels to his name, his writing is drizzled with the enchanting elements of MM. romance. Having transitioned from indie to traditional publishing, Ben brings a wealth of experience and insight into the writing process and the literary world.The transition from indie to traditional publishing is often a rollercoaster of emotions. Ben shares, "Having been indie for so long, the one thing that was really delicious about traditional publishing was the concept of my books becoming more accessible to readers." This accessibility means more readers can enjoy his work, and seeing his book displayed in bookstores was a surreal moment. "It was really bizarre. I couldn't really take it in at the moment," Ben reflects, showcasing the thrill and disbelief that often accompany such milestones.Ben's passion for indie bookstores shines through as he discusses his relationship with them. "Seeing my books in indie stores has been really, really fantastic," he says. A standout is *The Spicy Librarian*, a unique bookstore that caters to adult readers with flair. Ben describes the experience: "It feels really different walking into the Spicy Librarian because of the love, care, and thought that's gone into the design of the place." It's a space that not only sells books but also fosters community and creativity.In a fun segment, we played a quickfire game called "Tit or Tat," where Ben had to choose between two options without much thought. This led to some revealing insights about his preferences as a reader and a writer. These rapid choices provide a glimpse into Ben’s personal reading habits and how they influence his writing style.Traditional publishing has made Ben's books more accessible to readers, fulfilling a long-held dream.The support from indie bookstores is invaluable, creating communities that nurture authors and readers alike.Ben's reading preferences, whether it’s choosing paperbacks or exploring the indie vibe, play a significant role in his creative process.Ben Alderson's journey from indie author to bestselling novelist is a testament to the power of storytelling and community. His love for indie bookstores and the thrill of traditional publishing are just parts of what make his work resonate with readers. If you’re a fan of MM romance and horror, be sure to check out The Haunting of William Thorne and explore the unique world of indie bookstores that support such creative talents.For more on Ben Alderson and his work.InstagramBuy Ben's booksBen's LinkTree