What happens when grief, abuse, and horror collide in the most intimate spaces of our lives? In this episode, I sit down with author Emma E. Murray to discuss her searing new novel, Shoot Me in the Face on a Beautiful Day. We explore the psychology behind toxic relationships, how abusers weaponize love and grief, and why the real horror often hides in plain sight.

Emma opens up about writing through the eyes of both victims and predators, the influence of abnormal psychology on her characters, and the visceral power of body horror to express what words alone cannot. We also dive into her haunting depictions of decomposition, the blurred line between care and control, and the shame that clings tighter than any monster.

This is not just a conversation about horror fiction—it’s about the human condition, survival, and the stories we carry in silence.

👉 If you value these kinds of deep conversations, support The Dark Mind Podcast on Patreon and help me keep bringing you the voices shaping dark literature today.

Official Website:

• ​https://emmaemurray.com

About Page / Bio:

• ​https://emmaemurray.com/about-me/

Anthologies:

• ​https://emmaemurray.com/anthologies/

Instagram:

• ​https://www.instagram.com/emmaemurray_

X (Twitter):

• ​https://x.com/emurrayauthor

Representative / Literary Agency:

• ​https://www.therightsfactory.com/Authors/emma-e.-murray

Interviews & Features:

• ​https://horrortree.com/the-crushing-weight-of-horror-a-conversation-with-emma-e-murray/
• ​https://christinogle.substack.com/p/emma-e-murray-dark-and-visceral-horror
• ​https://ivygrimes.substack.com/p/interview-with-emma-e-murray

Where to Buy Emma E. Murray’s Books:

• ​"The Drowning Machine and Other Obsessions" (Undertaker Books shop): https://undertakerbooks.com/products/the-drowning-machine
• ​Target (The Drowning Machine): https://www.target.com/p/the-drowning-machine-and-other-obsessions-by-emma-e-murray-paperback/-/A-1004581104
• ​Thriftbooks Author Page: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/emma-e-murray/5717854/
• ​Goodreads Author Profile: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/21520496.Emma_E_Murray