Leyland man releases first full-length horror novel

Tom Watts. Pic: Tom Barker Photography

A man from Leyland has released his first full-length horror-based book inspired by his own childhood.

Tom Watts, 31, worked three jobs to pay for writing lessons with John Trudy, one of Hollywood’s most prominent screenwriters, who worked on episodes of 21 Jump Street amongst others.

Now, he has released his novel, ‘All Dead Men’ set in the Lake District.

The story follows a paranoid family man who is desperate to rebuild his broken family after his wife and brother have an affair.

However, when a deadly virus sweeps through his rural Cumbrian neighbourhood, James must team up with the one person he swore never to trust.

The story is inspired by Tom’s own experiences as a child, being both terrified and intrigued by his visits to the Lake District and his life-long struggle with night terrors.

Tom said: “Growing up, I often stayed in the town of Bowness in the Lakes. It’s this beautiful lakeside community, full of luscious wildlife and amazing architecture.”

“But at night, I’ve always suffered from extremely vivid nightmares about zombies – even ones where I’ve woken up screaming and banging on my bedroom door. It was terrifying, especially as a child.”

“The Lakes are beautiful, but at night they can be very dark, very atmospheric, and cold! It can transform from a place of stunning landscapes, to somewhere dangerous and mysterious.”

“I’ve always been obsessed with the region’s legends and ghost stories – and drawing on my own experiences to help craft a terrifying story about a place I love, has been fantastic. I hope readers enjoy it!”

All Dead Men is available to order here.

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