Interview with Harlo
Spells, Stories, and Sass
Q: For folks who don’t know you yet, who is Harlo?
A: Depends on the day. Most of the time, I’m a writer wrangling vampires, witches, and demons onto the page with a cup of coffee in one hand and a cat in the other. Other days, I’m just trying to keep my houseplants alive and remember where I left my glasses.
Q: What do you write about?
A: Dark fantasy with heart… think blood rituals, forbidden romance, and characters who curse creatively. I like to blend magic, conflict, and just enough sex to keep things spicy.
Q: What’s your writing process like?
A: Chaotic. I draft like I’m being chased by a ghost and revise like a teacher with a red pen. I’m powered by mood playlists, late-night inspiration, and coffee, but don’t forget the snacks.
Q: What inspired you to start this Substack?
A: Honestly? I wanted a space where I could share stories without gatekeepers and connect with readers who love a little shadow in their sunshine. Substack felt like a haunted house with the porch light on: weird and welcoming.
Q: Any themes or obsessions that show up in your work again and again?
A: Oh yes. Found family, revenge that tastes sweet, women who are dangerous and tender, and monsters who deserve love and occasionally a punch in the face.
Q: What can readers expect here?
A: Story excerpts, behind-the-scenes nonsense, journaling about the my queer Southern experience, art sometimes, and the occasional rant about tropes I love or love to hate. All with a generous sprinkle of sass.
Q: Last question, what’s one spell every writer should know?
A: The one that banishes perfectionism. Light a candle, shout loud enough to disturb your neighbors, “Done is better than perfect!” and hit publish before the inner critic rises from the dead.
Your Turn
Curious about something I didn’t cover? Drop your questions in the comments. I’ll answer them.
Or maybe I’ll try to interact on notes..hmm, to be social or not?!
Harlo