No Strings Attached #1 — AuthorCon VI, Purgatory, and a Peek Behind The Marionette
Your official update from the twisted desk of Mike Schuhler
No Strings Attached — Issue #1
Welcome to the first issue of No Strings Attached. I’m Mike Schuhler — U.S. Marine Corps veteran, gothic horror author, and creator of Purgatory and the upcoming The Marionette.
This newsletter is where I’ll share exclusive updates, creepy sneak peeks, book drops, horror event appearances, and whatever’s rattling inside my skull. If you’re into fog-shrouded islands, cursed dolls, or the occasional fictional bloodbath, you’re in the right place.
Now let’s get into it…
Big News: I’m Back In Florida!
In the last few months, I have made the move (once again) to southwest Florida, rejoining the awesome and wonderful people that make up the Florida Chapter of the Horror Writers Association. The move had a slight impact in temporarily slowing my writing progress, but I am back in full force!
Bigger News: I’m Coming to Scares That Care AuthorCon VI
That’s right! I’ll be coming to Williamsburg, Virginia at Scares That Care AuthorCon VI in February 2026, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. This convention is a mix of horror fandom and heart, raising money for folks in need — and it’s stacked with amazing authors and fans.
I’ll be there signing books, talking horror, and trying not to disappear into the dark corners of the hotel. If you’re planning to attend, make sure to stop by my table and say hello!
Still Need to Read Purgatory?
My gothic horror novella Purgatory is still out there lurking — a descent into madness set on a remote island where the dead don’t rest and the living can’t escape.
If you haven’t snagged a copy yet:
Already read it?
Then I Need You (Yes, You)
If Purgatory left you chilled, disturbed, or just vaguely uncomfortable in the best way — please take a moment to leave a review on Amazon. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just honest.
Reviews help me reach more readers and keep the machine running.
Quick Update: Progress on The Marionette
My debut novel The Marionette is moving along smoothly — edits are underway, strings are tightening, and the cursed doll at the heart of it all is more menacing than ever. I can’t wait to share the first excerpts in future issues of this newsletter.
Think small-town secrets, vengeful forces, and a mother willing to sacrifice everything to protect her daughter from a darkness she thought she’d escaped years ago. It’s coming. And it’s hungry.
Until Next Time…
Thanks for being here. Seriously. These stories don’t live unless someone reads them — and you showing up means everything. If you like this newsletter, share it with a fellow horror lover.
Talk soon… and until then, keep your lights low and your doors locked.
– Mike
mikeschuhler.com | thedarkjester.com
P.S.
Got a favorite horror read or movie lately? Hit reply and let me know.