Justin Gustainis

Justin Gustainis is an American author and academic known for his works in supernatural fiction and occult detective stories. Born in Northeast Pennsylvania in 1951, he has published several novels, including "The Hades Project," "Black Magic Woman," and "Evil Ways," as well as the anthology "Those Who Fight Monsters: Tales of Occult Detectives." His "Quincey Morris" series, featuring an occult investigator, has garnered particular attention for its blend of mystery and supernatural elements. Gustainis's writing has earned critical acclaim, with his short stories winning the Graverson Award for Horror twice and recognition in the Raymond Carver story competition.

Before pursuing fiction writing, Gustainis held diverse roles, including military service, speechwriting, and professional bodyguarding. He later transitioned to academia, earning a Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University and becoming a Professor of Communication at Plattsburgh State University. His academic background influences his writing, often incorporating meticulous research and intellectual depth into his narratives. Themes of the occult, moral ambiguity, and investigative intrigue recur throughout his work, reflecting his fascination with the intersection of the supernatural and human nature.

Gustainis began writing fiction in the mid-1990s while balancing his academic career, initially focusing on short stories before expanding to novels. In 2008, he attended the Odyssey Writing Workshop, further honing his craft. His novel "Hard Spell," part of the "Occult Crimes Unit Investigations" series, explores a world where supernatural beings coexist with law enforcement. Despite personal loss following the death of his wife, Patricia Grogan, in 2007, Gustainis has continued to contribute to the speculative fiction genre, blending dark fantasy with detective storytelling.