An Interview with W. J. Cass
It’s been a wild ride. From sneaking into R-rated movies with childhood friends as a broke kid from Brooklyn, to graduating college and traveling the world twice over. Finally becoming a decorated detective with years of law enforcement experience under his belt. W. J. Cass employs every fun experience and worthwhile lesson in between writing his brand of fiction, which is truly a labor of love years in the making. He’s still just kid at heart, seeking the same escapism that captivated him all these years and his goal as a writer is lending that same experience to fans.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The Midnight Slasher has two meanings. One is right on the nose, as it is the moniker of the serial killer from the story as the papers dubbed him. The other meaning is meant to draw attention to the movies and ideas that brought this concept to life that it best resembles—the slashers of the ’80s era, many of which had midnight showings.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
The first time I saw the cover, I was excited to see something I’d only dreamed of in another medium. The art for the cover perfectly captured my vision for the story. When I finally held it in my hands, it was a tremendous sense of accomplishment. I did this to show my son that, as people, we need to continue working and accomplish what we start out dreaming of. This was the proof that this could work and was happening.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I’ve been influenced by so much over the years; all the movies, books, TV over years can’t be slated by any single author or film maker. One major influence for this specific book that stands out was John Carpenter, his work being a staple in modern horror and made a huge impact on my writing and the story. Him and Wes Craven. These two titans of industry are responsible for a lot of late-night binge-watching, and I hope to someday make something worthy of the same realm.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I worked in the private industry for several years after college until I joined the police department. I’m now a detective with the NYPD going on thirteen years of service. The job has definitely influenced my writing, and some characters are based on people I’ve met or worked with.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
I’ve had friends and family pushing me to do this for a long time. Finally showing them the listing on sites everywhere, being able to show them the physical copy of the book … it was one of the best feelings I’ve experienced in a long time
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
Definitely common pop songs of the ’80s and ’70s. “Miracles” by Hot Chocolate. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Occult. “Killing Moon” by The Bunnymen.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
I just want people to gain a little escapism from everyday life. I want them to appreciate that literature can be a fun experience full of genuine entertainment for everyone. I want to draw more people into reading who haven’t read consistently over the years, like the working class I’m proud to be a part of, that have given up on regular reading and have been looking for something to capture them again.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
Two different books. One is a spiritual successor to The Midnight Slasher. The other is a different type of book altogether still within the horror genre. Playing on cosmic horror themes.
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
Atmosphere made my amateur dreams turn into a professional success! They were the perfect partner for my work and vision for the book. I couldn’t have gotten this off the ground without them and, specifically, their professional editing and design services. The book competes with the top contenders in the genre thanks to their hard work!
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