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Discover the Haunting World of Seminary: A Gothic Horror Novel

Dive into the chilling narrative of Seminary, where suspense and supernatural elements intertwine in a gothic setting, promising an unforgettable reading experience.

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Unleash Your Fears

Explore the Depths of Horror

Dive into the chilling world of ‘Seminary,’ where gothic elements intertwine with suspenseful storytelling, promising an unforgettable reading experience.

What is the theme of “Seminary”?

Seminary explores how psychological trauma creates doorways for supernatural evil. The story follows Sarah Fletcher, whose grief and childhood abuse make her vulnerable to an ancient daemon that once claimed her soul in a previous lifetime. Set against the backdrop of an abandoned Victorian seminary in County Durham, the novel examines the cyclical nature of evil, the failure of institutions meant to protect us, and the terrifying possibility that some wounds span lifetimes. At its core, Seminary asks whether healing is possible when the very act of seeking answers leads directly to damnation.

When will “Seminary” be released to the public?

“Seminary” is set to be released in the fall of 2030. Stay tuned for updates on the exact date and pre-order information, as we will share more details soon.

Who is the target audience for this book?

Seminary is written for adult horror enthusiasts who appreciate psychological terror over gore-based scares. The novel will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy gothic fiction with atmospheric, location-based horror where the setting becomes a character itself. My target audience includes fans of authors like Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, and Paul Tremblay—readers who understand that the most effective horror comes from the gradual erosion of sanity rather than shock value. The book will also resonate with those interested in supernatural horror involving possession narratives, cyclical evil, and stories where trauma becomes a gateway for ancient forces. Additionally, readers drawn to British horror fiction, particularly those familiar with northern English settings and gothic architecture, will find the County Durham backdrop and early 2000s timeframe especially compelling.

What inspired the writing of “Seminary”?

Seminary was born from my fascination with abandoned sacred spaces and how places of former devotion can become something far more sinister. The real Ushaw Moor Seminary, with its Victorian Gothic architecture and empty halls, sparked the initial idea—what if some buildings never truly let go of those who enter them? I became captivated by the concept that psychological trauma creates doorways for supernatural forces, making our deepest wounds the very points where ancient evil can take hold. The story explores how grief and unprocessed pain don’t just hurt us—they make us vulnerable to influences that span lifetimes. Combined with my interest in the early 2000s setting, when the internet was becoming invasive but still mysterious, Seminary emerged as a psychological horror that examines the cyclical nature of evil and the terrifying possibility that some debts follow us across centuries.

Are there any similar books to “Seminary”?

Yes, readers who enjoy gothic horror and suspenseful thrillers may find similarities with works like “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson or “The Silent Companions” by Laura Purcell, which also explore dark themes and eerie settings.

Sign Up Below

Seminary is approaching completion, and I’m looking for dedicated horror fans to join my beta reader program. You’ll get exclusive early access to the full manuscript and the chance to help shape this psychological horror before its official release. I’m seeking readers who appreciate atmospheric, character-driven terror over cheap scares. Follow this space and my social media for the beta reader application launch—but be warned, once you enter the Seminary, you may never leave.

J E Cowie

Author