Crafting Worlds with Mark Morris

Horror author Mark Morris has written and edited around fifty novels, novellas, short story collections and anthologies. His script work includes audio dramas for Doctor Who and a Doctor Who spinoff series, Jago & Litefoot, and the Hammer Chillers series. His most recent work includes a new novel, That Which Stands Outside, and a 30th anniversary short story collection, Warts And All. Mark’s work has won numerous awards, including two British Fantasy Awards, and two New York Festival Radio Awards. Mark talks with me about how he got his start as an author, being welcomed into the horror writing community, the differences between writing his own novels and working on tie-in fiction for franchises like Doctor Who, Spartacus, and Predator, making the switch to writing audio scripts, and more. You’ll hear us talking about one of the stars of the Jago & Litefoot series, Christopher Benjamin. Christopher Benjamin was beloved among Doctor Who fans for his portrayal of Henry Gordon Jago, and one of the few actors to appear in not only the classic series but in the new series as well. His 70-year career spanned stage, radio, television, and film, including shows like The Saint, The Forsyte Saga, and the 1995 Pride and Prejudice miniseries. Christopher Benjamin passed away at the age of 90 on January 10, 2025, and I’d like to dedicate this episode to his memory. Episode breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 02:01 Creative childhood and early storytelling. 04:55 Transition from history degree to writing career. 06:45 Determination to succeed. 12:09 Success with first novel, "Toady," and publicity. 20:29 Encouragement from horror writing community. 31:35 Writing tie-in fiction for Doctor Who and others. 39:22 Challenges of tight deadlines and research. 40:58 Insights into writing and editing processes. 44:17 Novelization of "Wild Blue Yonder" Doctor Who special. 46:25 Transition to writing for audio and challenges. 54:38 Upcoming projects and advice for young writers. 56:48 Emphasis on persistence and not turning down opportunities.   Want more? Here's a handy playlist with all my previous interviews with guests in writing.   Check out the full show notes (now including transcripts!) at fycuriosity.com, and connect with me and fellow creatives on Substack. Please leave a review for this episode—it’s really easy and will only take a minute, and it really helps me reach new listeners. Thanks! If you enjoyed our conversation, I hope you’ll share it with a friend.