I have a “weird fiction” story in the current print edition of Aoife’s Kiss. June 2009 — Issue #29. 8th Anniversary Edition. Published quarterly by Sam’s Dot Publishing. Other talented muses include Mercurio D. Rivera, Karen L. Newman, Bruce Boston and Marge Simon. Be sure to pick up a copy; it’s a pretty thick issue. Good stories, too. Available through The Genre Mall and various cons.
Fiction and Poetry by: Carol Hightshoe, Luvia Swanson, Matthew Keville, Michael John Grist, Selina Rosen, Matthew Johnson, Lawrence R. Dagstine, Melissa Mead, Michael Swaim, Mark Allan Gunnells, Mercurio D. Rivera, Jason Palmer, Lee Clark Zumpe, David Kopaska-Merkel, Elissa Malcohn, Jason D. Wittman, Bruce Boston, Marge Simon, Karen L. Newman, Shelly Bryant, Neal Wilgus, Sarah Wagner, Scott Virtes, Angel Favazza, Viridion Girl, Lubov, and Garrett Dechellis.
New Monsters! It’s about time… Hmm, am I making any sense? I don’t know, I might not make any sense ever again. Fanboy-ism aside, and as a science fiction writer to boot, I’m here today to declare my love yet again for one of the longest running shows in TV history. That’s right — Doctor Who! Torchwood would probably come in second or third for me. And, as we all know, David Tennant regenerates after this year and becomes The Eleventh Doctor. This role will go to the then 27-year old Matt Smith.
Now I will admit, at first I wasn’t too keen on the idea of Smith taking over the role; I had fingers crossed for Paterson Joseph, Adrian Lester, or even Colin Salmon. But I guess it’s only right that we give the boy a chance. After all, Stephen Moffat is a remarkable writer and it’s as if he were born to lead such a fantastic show. Also, Matt Smith promises to bring a lot to the role as the Doctor — retracing the 70’s show model, Matt and Stephen? — and you know these newbies, one night they’re nobody, the next they’re a guaranteed success and eating the pie from the Actor’s Guild. Matt Smith you have my attention. I will give you a chance, I promise. But what adversaries will you face? What monsters will you go up against? What surprises does Moffat have in store for us in 2010?
I know the one monster I don’t want to see anymore is The Daleks — NO MORE! They’ve been done to death. Russell T. Davies abused them enough, I think. I love the Cybermen, don’t get me wrong… but please exit right. And it’s safe to bet that the Sontarans were just a “one-time” gig. I want monsters that harken back to the Baker years. Or they should be, at the very least, considered.
I have read rumors (and they are only that), that the “Weeping Angels” will be making their return. I’ve seen The Sea Devils being tossed about the Net. The Troclafane were mentioned on one “source” forum, but I hope they weren’t serious. And like the Sea Devils, my money is on the Ice Warriors all the way! I wouldn’t be surprised if they are a major villain in Series Five.
There are so many monsters that haven’t returned, that should. I mean, what about the Nimon? These were Minotaur-like monsters who could shoot you down with their horns. In the insect department, you have the Wirrn, who are most memorable from Baker’s second story, The Ark in Space. A Horror of Fang Rock-like story involving the Rutans would be kind of interesting. Or how about using CGI to remake The Gravis and a new sort of Tractator? Perhaps The Zarbi? No, even better, how about the Rani?
As I get ready for PLANET OF THE DEAD, I wonder what surprises are in store for Matt Smith. And us…
What monsters do YOU want to see return to Doctor Who? Would you like to cast a vote?
Come, take a Doctor Who poll with me…
For another Matt Smith/Doctor Who related poll, go here:
Ancient Egypt that is! Minus the Scifi novella, a look into one of five upcoming projects between 2009 and 2010 that should wet any reader’s appetite. This should give my fans and peers a look into what I do for inspiration and, at times, research. From the ashes of a New Yorker’s mind, a non-fiction and fiction tale is born. Think of an article or story like a work of architecture — Like any building, it needs a foundation drafted, then crafted, in order to stand. A good story can also be like a work of art. Colorful and priceless, depending on the artist. With any dedicated and enthusiastic study, life experience also plays a major role in creation.
Lawrence Dagstine does Egypt
Lawrence Dagstine does Egypt
Lawrence Dagstine does Egypt
Whether it’s freelancing pre-dynasty non-fiction or fantasy, alternate history or occultist horror, Dagstine will do it! That’s for sure. The hints to one of my next tales sits on this screen — well, rather yours — in front of you. Will it have lots of mummies and real mystery? Will it involve Cleopatra? Will it showcase ancient gods and pyramids in an adventure the likes you’ve never read? I guess you’ll have to wait and see…
Lawrence Dagstine does Egypt
By the way, there’s tiny scarabs and children’s remains — mummified, I might add — in that tomb behind me (just kidding). Coffins such as these were used by pharoahs or kings for royal pets, such as cats. Lots of times they were mummified and buried with their owners. Personal belongings were included for their long journey into the next world.
Sound juicy so far? Well, you better stay tuned then…
And here’s a quick appearance from over two months ago to THE RANDOM EYE: An Ezine Dedicated to Alternatives. You can find a lot of cool stuff here (from alternate history to parallel universes). SFWA member Rick Novy is also in this issue, and I believe we’ll be appearing in some other stuff together later in the year. Great writer, and an even greater fella to chat with. In the meantime, be sure to read the premiere edition; it’s only published once per year.
Featuring Work by: Robert Freese, Eric Steele, Robert Paul Blumenstein, M. Jones, Jeffrey Sims, Richard S. Levine, Rick Novy, Emily Neiley, Lawrence R. Dagstine, and Mark Fewell. Edited by Melissa Jones.
Lawrence Dagstine: Author 
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