From an early age, Asbury was fascinated by the unique thrill that only horror could provide. “There’s something almost exhilarating about being scared,” he explains. “It taps into something deeply primal.”
Asbury’s journey into horror writing resumed in earnest during his twenties, when he began writing narratives that blended dark fantasy with a touch of humor and suspense. Among his creations are stories like “The Chair in the Closet,” which follows the disturbing misadventures of a haunted office chair and its beleaguered owner. Other stories, like “The Mariachi Man” and “Total Control,” explore the sinister and sometimes comical depths of human relationships and control.
Despite the chilling nature of his work, Asbury, who resides in Pueblo, insists that not all of his stories delve into extreme horror. “I like to mix horror with comedy and suspense, creating a more accessible experience for my readers,” he says.
Encouraged by a friend, Asbury ventured into the world of horror podcasts, submitting one of his stories to the popular “Chilling Tales for Dark Nights.” The podcast, which boasts a sizable following, had eight of his stories professionally voiced by 2022. Encouraged by this success, he ventured into self-publishing, releasing “Waking the Dead,” a collection that garnered enough interest to be available at Barnes & Noble stores across Colorado and beyond.
Fueled by growing recognition, Asbury dared to dream big. He adapted “The Mariachi Man” into a screenplay over the winter, envisioning it as a thrilling horror film. “It seemed like the perfect story for a movie,” he notes, already considering casting options for the script.
Despite his lack of direct contacts in Hollywood, Asbury began cultivating relationships with directors in Colorado and contacting potential actors and their representatives. His efforts led him to a Los Angeles-based entertainment management company. Impressed by his dedication and vision, the company’s president forwarded Asbury’s script to renowned director Henry Bedwell, sparking a promising collaboration.
This year marked another milestone for Asbury, who signed with Evil Cookie Publishing, known for their work with niche horror authors like Edward Lee. They republished “Waking the Dead,” introducing new stories to his fans.
Asbury draws inspiration not from dreams, unlike some of his peers, but from the nuanced drama of everyday life. “I observe the world around me, people and experiences, and sometimes my perspective might be a little skewed,” he shares with a wry smile.
As he continues to navigate the complex process of bringing his screenplay to life, Asbury remains a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the arts.
