WIHM 2026: Meet Christina Persaud

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you contribute to the horror genre.
Hi there! My name is Christina Persaud and I’m a horror writer in Florida. I grew up in the sunshine state but have lived in many different states and cities. Writing was always my passion but not my first profession. After graduating from The George Washington University, I entered the non-profit sector. While fulfilling, writing was something I always wanted to try on a professional level.

In 2014, I began working on my first novel and two years later, I started Articles of Horror, a website that was both a passion project and a place where I could share my love for the genre as a place for genre interviews, reviews, and analysis. Then, in 2020, I received the Ladies in Horror Fiction Writing Grant. Today, my articles and short stories can be found in numerous magazines, anthologies, and podcasts. 

What drew you to the horror genre?
I think it was my upbringing. My parents immigrated from Guyana in the 80s and I was raised in an environment where shared stories were highly valued and sought after - especially scary ones! My culture embraces superstitions and the unknown, and because Guyana is composed of many different peoples from around the world, our folklore is incredibly rich. Listening to horror stories naturally led to wanting to see movies I probably should not have been watching as a kid and reading everything in the horror genre I could get my hands on, including Goosebumps and books by Stephen King. I just love how horror can address social issues, add to existing folklore and superstitions in their historical context, and embrace fear, whether for fun or to gain a better understanding of ourselves and others. 

What positive changes have you seen happening in the horror community and what are some areas the community can still improve?
Definitely increased diversity. What was once dominated by white, male authors has become a more impactful genre celebrating stories from peoples of all races, genders, and walks of life. I am always excited to read stories from underrepresented authors. My hope is to see this trend continue to grow.

When folks look back at the Women in Horror movement of today’s day and age, what do you think the defining characteristic will be?
Women are incredibly strong. We persevere and speak our stories unflinchingly with our whole chest. Whether about equal rights, unfairness and injustices, or our uniquely shared experiences - there is nothing like a strong woman with a pen, and that’s what I see in every woman who is a horror writer today. 

Who are some women in horror you think more people should discover?
Stephanie E. Jensen is a kickass writer who doesn’t hold back. I absolutely loved “Bad Cree” by Jessica Johns. Another author I’d mention is Mel Harlan, whose works I recently discovered. I’d recommend her stories to every horror fan.

Where can folks find you these days?
To learn more, please visit www.christinapersaud.com and find me on social media. I invite folks to visit my horror website www.articlesofhorror.com as well. Thank you!