NAME: Danielle Gomes
CREATIVE FIELD: Author
WEBSITE: danielle-gomes-writes.com
AUTHOR LINKS:
Instagram: @danielle.n.gomes
AUTHOR BIO:
My first horror book, Roll Them Bones, was released earlier this year. In addition to writing, I’m a Margate City School Board Member, Humane Society of Atlantic County Board Member and CASA Advocate.
INTERVIEW
What got you into horror to begin with – what’s your core Horror memory?
My dad! He had me watching and loving horror movies from a VERY young age. Once I was a little older, he started sharing his favorite books with me.
One of the first movies I remember watching with him was Lost Boys.
Growing up, I struggled learning to read. After both my sons were diagnosed with dyslexia, I suspect that I’m also dyslexic. My dad also thought that he was. After struggling with reading for so many years I had come to hate it by the time I got to high school. Then, my dad gave me Jurassic Park and that book changed everything for me.
Do you have a favourite horror subgenre (or more than one) and if so, what is it? What/Who are your favourite books/films/podcasts/artists/creatives working in that subgenre?
Favorites in horror for me depend entirely on my mood and the season, especially when it comes to subgenre.
In fall, I tend to crave cozy reads which (for me), means witches and historical horror.
Two recent favorites were Slewfoot by Brom and Buffalo Hunter Hunter by SGJ.
Christmas favorites are Nos4a2 by Joe Hill, Krampus by Brom, and Christmas Carol. Winter is usually something more fantastical…
I’m currently reading King Sorrow by Joe Hill.
In spring and summer anything goes. Other all time favorite authors are Adam Nevill, Stephen King, Catroina Ward, and Rachel Harrison.
What is the horror project of your heart – perhaps something you’ve already got out there, something you’re working on now, or something you’d like to do?
Roll Them Bones is based on a real life haunted casino that I worked at with my dad before he passed. The property has this incredible history as well as some lingering ghosts. It was fun to put it into a horror story.
Which 5 horror books can you not stop thinking about, or have influenced you most in some way? (If not books, you can pick 5 films, 5 pieces of art, 5 songs… or mix & match!)
Buffalo Hunter Hunter
Rosemary’s Baby
Flowers in the Attic
Lost Boys
The Stand
If you had to describe the tones and themes of your own work in terms of movies, books, songs, or art, what would you choose and why?
There’s always an element of history and truth woven through all of my stories. I think there are so many incredible stories in history and for me, that’s where I find inspiration. I think it’s fun to weave together different timelines and imagine all the different ways one tiny point in history could change the trajectory of a character.
Introduce us to something you’ve created, and pitch it to the audience!
Roll Them Bones set in a real life haunted casino. The story weaves together the true history of the property and the occult fascinations of that period with a modern casino setting.
As someone who grew up in a casino, this world is familiar to me so I bring an insider’s perspective to this setting. I also spent a lot of time touring and learning about the real casino the story is based on and the many ghosts that remain there…
Roll Them Bones Book Overview:
A gripping supernatural thriller where the house always wins—unless you’re willing to burn it all down.
When Lilith Umbra flees Las Vegas for a fresh start at the Golden Sands Casino in Atlantic City, she thinks she’s escaping her tragic past. But some fates can’t be outrun. Strange occurrences plague the crumbling casino: phantom sounds, impossible shadows, and visions that feel disturbingly real.
Local journalist Sharp insists the building is cursed, while her charismatic boss Amon dismisses such claims as nonsense. But when Lilith uncovers a mysterious book detailing the rituals of a powerful occult organization, she realizes the truth is far more sinister than any ghost story.
As ancient prophecies collide with modern ambition, Lilith discovers she hasn’t stumbled into evil’s path—she’s been guided there. With allies who may be enemies and time running out, she faces an impossible choice that will determine not just her fate, but the fate of humanity itself.
Perfect for fans of supernatural thrillers who love unreliable narrators, shocking twists, and stories where nothing is as it seems.