Our next author spotlight is Khala Grace…
Khala is an exceptional weaver of dark tales and grim circumstances. Her unique writing style hooked us immediately and we are so excited to share her work with you in our anthology.
About Khala:
Khala Grace is a gender fluid story weaver. Her genre of choice is horror. Khala has been battling childhood traumas and finds solace in tales. Of her muses, J.R.R. Tolkien and Gerald Brom are the most prominent figures in inspiring the pursuit of creativity. At one time, she almost gave up her dream of becoming an author. However, being able to publish her first book, 'Umlingo the Rogue Warlock,' changed the tides. Now, Khala is determined to forge her own voice. She is an experimental writer who aims to not only entertain readers but provoke thought.
Aesop Fable/Moral:
The Wolf and the Goat #82
An invitation prompted by selfishness is not to be accepted.
Story Title/Genre:
The Forest was Quiet
Dark Fantasy
The Wolf and the Goat
A hungry Wolf spied a Goat browsing at the top of a steep cliff where he could not possibly get at her.
"That is a very dangerous place for you," he called out, pretending to be very anxious about the Goat's safety. "What if you should fall! Please listen to me and come down! Here you can get all you want of the finest, tenderest grass in the country."
The Goat looked over the edge of the cliff.
"How very, very anxious you are about me," she said, "and how generous you are with your grass! But I know you! It's your own appetite you are thinking of, not mine!"
Author Q&A
1. When was the moment you knew you wanted to become an author?
As a little one, stories were my means of escaping a dysfunctional family dynamic. After discovering that I was a vivid dreamer, I thought how fun it would be to tell stories of my own. Yet, my drive to be an author was solidified with my admiration of J.R.R. Tolkien. I loved- and still do- how well The Professor can paint worlds and introduce a wide variety of characters. At a point, I was afraid that I would give up on such a dream. However, being able to publish my first novel- Umlingo the Rogue Warlock - rekindled the creative blaze. From then on, I strive to weave as many tales as I can tell !
2. What is the first thing you've ever written?
The first story written ... Well, perhaps not necessarily told with words, but I drew a tale featuring a lost cheetah. The little one tried her best to find home while navigating dangerous rivers and mountain passes. I can still see the crayon art in mind- sitting on a tan carpet and trying not to press through the lined paper. Oh and of course the cheetah had a name: Graho!
3. Do you write strictly fantasy or other genres as well?
Well ... My main genre of choice is horror. I like navigating many elements of terror- from paranormal to psychological. I have always enjoyed magic, so working with fantasy seems to be of second nature. Let's just say I deem to master the chilling craft- being able to thread a wide range of tales and themes. Some could say that I aim to become a well known "wordlock." Teehee.
4. What is your biggest struggle and most amazing success so far in your author career?
Asides from returning to a creative call, my greatest struggle has been writing micro fiction. Who knew how difficult it would be to write stories within 500 words!? Still, I enjoy short tales because they make for great practice. Plus, they may very well inspire a full world worth exploring. As for highlights, well I did recently receive top pick of a micro fiction piece. Yet, I'd say my success lies in reaching out to other creatives- being able to be a lantern in the dark. I adore those I may call my "Little Blackbirds." After all, if I can help inspire but one then I have done well with my written path. Especially when sometimes people need a little push to gain the confidence needed to pursue what art form they love to express.
5. Aside from having your story in the anthology, what are you currently working on?
Hmmm... My mind is currently scattered while processing childhood trauma. So, unfortunately I have three, or even four, book projects at hand! One features an occult scholar aiming to test the magical arts for a path towards immorality. Another book is a stab at a sci-fi dystopian horror detailing the experience of an unlikely trio. The third is actually the second arc of Umlingo's journey. A possible fourth will be a "reader's choice" horror format where the reader must decide which path to take in a manor of macabre. Personally, I think it's best for creatives to work with whatever story they feel connected with the most. Sure, a book may take a bit longer to weave but it will be expressed with your best!
6. Two truths and a lie!
I navigated above a tiger's cage by rope.
I performed the Phantom of the Opera for a talent show.
I completed a ten mile hike in one day.
Welcome Khala! We can’t wait to share your story with the world!
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