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Course Description

ONLINE: This course is designed to be an engaging literary exploration of how master storytellers blend elements of horror, mystery, crime, thriller, and suspense to create unforgettable narratives. Through discussion and analysis, participants will discover how master storytellers (both established and up-and-coming writers) create immersive stories that cross genres. Class time will be supplemented by engaging conversations with three award-winning or nominated authors: Tara Laskowski, Tamika Thompson, and Owen King. Their voices will provide an insider's view of the trajectory of dark genres. For students who attended the Spring 2026 version of this course, there is new content this term. In the spring, character psychology, atmosphere, and setting were covered in one session; they will be discussed individually in the fall. New dialogue, voice content, and guest speakers will be added this term. | Lecture + Q&A.

Max enrollment: 50.

Class sessions are recorded.

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Section Title
Masters of Dark Fiction: Understanding Horror, Mystery, Crime & Thriller Stories
Type
Online - Zoom
Days
M
Time
6:00PM to 7:15PM
Dates
Sep 28, 2026 to Nov 02, 2026
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
7.5
Delivery Options
Virtual Classroom  
Course Fees
Instructors

Section Notes

Class sessions are recorded.

Guest Speakers:
Tara Laskowski, award-winning author Tamika Thompson, award-winning author, former journalist and producer Owen King, award-winning author

Please note: Students may acquire any format of the required books (audio, ebook, or print). For the first class, no reading is required. "Rosemary's Baby" will be discussed at this meeting, but viewing clips in class is sufficient for the concepts that will be discussed.

Required reading:
Tamika Thompson, "The Curse of Hester Gardens" (9781645663195)
Tara Laskowski, "The Weekend Retreat" (9780369702166)
Owen King, "Letter Slot" (9781662531569)
Recommended reading:
P.M. Raymond, "Things Are As They Should Be and Other Words To Die For" (9798251445343)

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