Mark Anthony Weaves Dark Magic Through His Award-Winning LIT Series
Mark Anthony, mastermind of the LIT series, crafting unforgettable horror that blends humanity, emotion, and supernatural darkness. Photo by Carisse Antonas Photography, Perth, Western Australia.
A Master Of Horror Blending Humanity With The Supernatural
Mark Anthony, Australian nurse and author, transforms nightmares into the acclaimed LIT series. His novels explore trauma, resilience, and supernatural horror, winning critical acclaim and elevating the genre with unforgettable characters.
Mark Anthony, the Australian author behind the acclaimed LIT series, has carved out a reputation as a master of horror who lingers in the minds of readers long after the book is closed. Balancing his career as a Cancer Nurse with his passion for storytelling, Anthony channels his compassion and insight into unforgettable characters and chilling narratives. The series, which began with a nightmare that sparked the debut LIT, has become a cornerstone of modern horror, blending supernatural terror with deeply human emotion.
“It began with a bad dream. One of those nightmares that when you wake, it haunts you for the rest of the day.” – Mark Anthony
Building A World Of Shadows
Since its launch, LIT has introduced readers to Ellie, Josh, Sam, and the menacing shadow people who stalk their lives. The sequels ASCENT and RAGE expanded this haunting world, earning praise from Kirkus Reviews, Goodreads, and winning multiple Gold Literary Titan awards. Anthony explains that the concept of “Conduits” – ordinary people burdened with supernatural intrusion – gave him scope to craft layered, believable characters. By exploring trauma, loneliness, and resilience, he reveals the grey areas of the human condition while raising the stakes of fear and suspense.
The Human Side Of Horror
What sets Anthony apart is his ability to merge supernatural elements with raw psychological realism. Drawing inspiration from horror greats such as Peter Blatty, Dean Koontz, and Anne Rice, he emphasises the importance of character over spectacle. Each individual in the LIT series faces not only external monsters but also private griefs, fears, and hopes. This balance has resonated with both fans and mental health advocates, who see in his work a mirror of real struggles alongside fantastical terrors.
Craft, Inspiration, And Advice
Anthony credits his success to a highly visual imagination, supported by music playlists and image boards that fuel atmosphere and suspense. He insists that horror must move readers emotionally as much as it unsettles them. While writing violence can be difficult, he views it as necessary for authenticity. To aspiring authors, his advice is simple: keep writing, keep reading, and trust your own voice. It is the unique perspective, he believes, that separates memorable storytellers from the rest.
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
