John Manning (1947–2015) was a horror and dark fantasy writer whose lifelong fascination with macabre storytelling shaped his career. Born on Halloween night in Wyandotte, Michigan, he drew inspiration from classic authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Fyodor Dostoevsky. His debut novel, "Black Stump Ridge," co-written with Forrest Hedrick, garnered critical acclaim, earning a spot on the 2011 Nebula Recommended Reading List and placing tenth in the Editors & Preditors Poll for Best New Horror Novel. Manning also contributed short stories to several anthologies, including "Disclaimer" in "Lawyers in Hell," "Showdown at Brimstone Arsenal" in "Rogues in Hell," and "Asylum" in "Sha'Daa III – Pawns."
Manning's work often explored themes of terror and the supernatural, reflecting his deep appreciation for the horror genre. He expanded his influence as an editor, helming the anthology "What Scares the Boogeyman?" under his own imprint, Iron Clad Press. His "Night Chills" series, beginning with "Terror by Gaslight," showcased his ability to craft chilling tales. Manning's career was marked by perseverance, as he overcame years of rejection before achieving recognition. He passed away in 2015 after a prolonged battle with leukemia, leaving behind a legacy of eerie and imaginative storytelling.