In the realm of contemporary horror literature, few authors have managed to captivate readers with the same intensity as the mind behind The LIT Series. Born from haunting dreams and personal experiences, this series explores the dark labyrinth of human emotions, fear, and resilience through its unforgettable characters. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the creative process of author Mark Anthony, uncovering the inspiration behind the terrifying Leviathans, the challenges of character development, and the emotional depths that define the narrative. With an exploration of his artistic vision and ambitions for future projects, join us as we traverse the eerie yet poignant world of The LIT Series.
But First, who is Mark Anthony?
Mark Anthony is an award winning Author from Perth, Western Australia. finished the first instalment of the LIT series, whilst working as a registered nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Residing in Perth, Western Australia, with his partner and 10-year-old son, Anthony is an avid fan of the supernatural and dark fantasy genre specifically and contemporary, dynamic storytelling in general. Displaying a passion, and some may say a talent for writing strong characters and creating macabre realities for them to live in.
LIT is a psychological horror series that collides two worlds with raw, eerie and terrifying consequences. When your anger literally raises hell, how do you live?
“RAGE” follows on from the Award winning Novel “ASCENT” and has already been met with 5 star reviews. Mark Anthony is currently in Spain, conducting research for his next project.
Mark Anthony’s Books
- LIT was born from a nightmare you had—can you tell us more about that dream and how it evolved into a full-fledged novel?
The dream was imagery based around a person I knew. A person that had this unusual person attached to them that only they could see or hear. As with nightmares, it wasn’t just the visual but the unsettling atmosphere surrounding it. An oddity, that provoked an uncanny valley type response.
- The Leviathans in The LIT Series are terrifying entities. What inspired their creation?
I wanted to steer away from the typical ‘demon’ character. It had been done to death, and I wanted to create something unique that had not been done before. The concept of “shadow people” and “shadow self” intrigued me. That which dwells in the labyrinth of emotions that humans radiate. It became clear that the Leviathan would match the pain of its conduit. As that is, its pathway and is a trigger. The leviathan wants to invoke emotion in their conduit. So, it would make sense that their form would match a significant trigger in the cursed individual’s life.
- What kind of research did you do for the supernatural and psychological aspects of your books?
Nothing. I made a commitment to just let myself dwell in the characters. Depression, anxiety and struggles of that nature I have had personal experience with as have people in my close circle. Their responses became my inspiration and indeed, the variety in the way each character dealt with what was happening to them. I wanted it to be real. Gritty and tangible.
- Did any horror stories, books, or films influence The LIT Series?
I don’t think I would have written a story that was influenced by something I had read or seen before. I very much wanted to stay away from “tropes.” I think if I had seen something before I most likely would have abandoned the idea. I was inspired more so by mood, music, and imagery. Certain scenes from specific films influenced the way I framed a particular scene in my mind, I think. I wanted, however, the characters to be as strong as the horror. I wanted a character driven horror story.
- Ellie, Josh, and Sam go through intense personal struggles. Which character was the hardest to write, and why?
Sam was challenging for me. I don’t know why, but he took the longest for me to identify with. I only decided to make the third character a child after I had written chapter three of LIT. Ellie appeared to be writing herself! Based on someone very close to me, I had the basics and then she just started to grow and throughout the series, her curve was fascinating to see. As for Josh, I was concerned, briefly, how I could place a child into such a horrible world but realised quickly he was very intriguing. He provided heart to the story and a sense of innocence in a universe of very little mercy and compassion. A quiet courage and a child’s outlook on the situation and people around him. It was refreshing to write. He was my safe space!
- ASCENT and RAGE expanded the world of LIT. Did you always plan for a trilogy, or did the story evolve naturally?
I wanted to continue until I felt the ending was right for the characters. I wanted it to build up to an unavoidable crescendo. The Conduits simply couldn’t keep living the way they had to. It had to come to a head. For these characters, I had planned three books. And if only for a little while, they all deserve a well-earned break!
- If The LIT Series were adapted into a movie or TV series, do you have a dream cast in mind?
Unknowns! I think any writer could relate to this feeling. Our characters are dear to us and it’s hard not to have a very set view of how your character would look, speak, act. So ideally, a whole cast of unknowns who match the essence of the characters perfectly! That would be great.
- What’s one scene from the books that still haunts you when you think about it?
Writing the violence was not pleasant. Although, I knew to build the fear and the feeling of a real threat, I had to show exactly how evil these beings were. The bigger the evil, the more substance you give those that are facing it. The stakes are higher. Though the hardest were the scenes of emotional trauma and distress. You must go to a dark place in your mind, which sometimes is not easy. However, it adds such a beautiful depth to the characters and their relationships. Ellie and Josh. Ellie and Sam. Friendships, bonds formed within something so horrific.
- Winning literary awards and receiving high praise must be rewarding. How has the response to your books impacted you?
It is wonderful. I am so happy people love it and enjoy it as much as they do. It is very humbling and encourages me to keep doing what I am doing. I will never get used to getting praise! But I will always be grateful. One reader… telling me they loved the books makes the whole process worth it.
- Now that The LIT Series is complete, do you have plans for more books in this universe, or are you working on something new?
Currently, I am in Barcelona researching the next book in the LIT universe. Those who have read the original trilogy will know what character is being constructed now. I am also working on short stories which will start being released soon. The short stories are not related to “LIT” however, trying to stay true to my voice and using unique ideas.
Thank you Mark for taking the time to share your insights and experiences with us. Your passion for storytelling and the depth of your characters truly resonate. We appreciate the opportunity to explore the intricate world of The LIT Series through your perspective. Wishing you all the best in your future projects!
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