Pen Name:
None
Genres:
Articles, Flash Fiction, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Short Stories, Suspense, Thriller
Website:
Social Media:
Contact Information:
dita@ditadow.com
Instagram @ditadow
Bio
Dita Dow is an award-winning, best-selling author who loves crafting stories that will keep you awake far past your bedtime. With over three decades of experience in law enforcement, private investigations, and consulting, she brings a sharp eye for detail and a knack for unraveling the complexities of the human psyche. If there’s a mystery to solve or a supernatural twist to uncover, Dita’s already ten steps ahead.
A proud New Mexico native, Dita finds endless inspiration in the state’s rugged landscapes and rich history. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring hiking trails, uncovering archaeological wonders, or sharing her home with a plump cat, a pampered horse, and a surprisingly spry tortoise.
Whether globetrotting for adventure or diving into the dark corners of the human mind, Dita Dow’s stories will leave you breathless, curious, and maybe even sleeping with the lights on.
More from Dita
I love writing short stories because they allow me to hone my craft in ways that are both challenging and exhilarating. As I often say, “Short stories are the maestros of suspense, grabbing you by the collar and refusing to let you go until you’ve gasped, shivered, and questioned the safety of your dimly lit room.” They offer a creative reprieve while I work on my longer projects, delivering an adrenaline rush and a sense of accomplishment that keeps me energized and inspired.
If I could share one piece of advice with new writers, it would be this: NEVER EVER QUIT. Fifteen years ago, I joined a critique group, but one negative comment derailed my writing journey for ten years. Looking back, I see how much time I lost and how much I could have grown had I persisted. Writing is a lifelong pursuit, filled with learning curves, setbacks, and triumphs. Embrace them all, and don’t let a single moment of discouragement define your journey.
Anthologies
Title: Winter Horrorland
Publisher: Undertaker Books/December 2024
“Winter’s Lullaby”
Evelyn and Thomas seek solace in a remote mountain cabin, but the storm outside is nothing compared to the darkness within. Strange laughter, shifting shadows, and a presence that knows their deepest fears turn their getaway into a nightmare. As the line between reality and terror blurs, they must unravel the cabin’s deadly secrets before it claims them. In Winter’s Lullaby, the quiet of the snow hides something far more chilling.
What horrors lurk in the snow-covered landscape? Plunging into the frozen depths of winter, ten authors reveal monsters ranging from humans to the supernatural and weave stories that will chill you to the core. STORIES BY: Kathleen Palm, Alex McGilvery, Andy Coe, Theresa Jacobs, Brittni Brinn, Cassandra Daucus, Dita Dow, Rainie Zenith, Morgan Chalfant, and L.S. Kunz.
Available for Sale
Title: Mosaic Voices (The 2024 SWW Winners Anthology)
Publisher: Independently published (September 8, 2024)
“Cuffs & Kisses”
Chloe Monroe is no stranger to chaos. As a quick-witted bounty hunter with a penchant for trouble, she thrives on the thrill of the chase—until cocky private investigator Ethan Blake steps into her line of fire. Their latest case brings them face-to-face with Carlos DeLuca, a slippery conman whose antics are as laughable as they are infuriating. But what starts as a simple pursuit soon spirals into a whirlwind of danger, unexpected alliances, and simmering chemistry. Can love blossom in the midst of mayhem, or will their differences pull them apart?
The latest SWW anthology Mosaic Voices features the award-winning prose and poetry from the 2024 SWW Writing Contest. This year over 400 entries were received in twenty-five categories from talented writers and artists eager to share their work. Our winning entries came from all over the country and beyond. The writers are from a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, and education. Like the pieces of a mosaic, these voices come together in beautiful patterns that enrich each other while also maintaining their own identity.
Available for Sale
Articles/Essays
“Ghosts Prefer the Night Shift: Deep Thoughts from the Mystery Writer’s Desk” ♦ Killer Nashville Magazine, 04/12/2024
Poetry
“Whispers of the Night: A Thriller’s Rhyme” ♦ Killer Nashville Magazine, 02/20/2024
Short Stories
“Carnival of the Dead” ♦ Genre: Horror
“The Haunting Feast of All Hallows Eve” ♦ Genre: Urban Fantasy
“The Unholy Script: The Thrilling Prequel to The Saqqara Conspiracy” ♦ Genre: Suspense Thriller
“Mirror of the Damned: A Gothic Horror Short Story” ♦ Genre: Horror
“Cave of Terror” ♦ Genre: Psychological Thriller
“The Legend of Thornewood Manor” ♦ Genre: Ghostly Thriller
“The Legend of Whispering Pines Inn” ♦ Genre: Ghostly Thriller
“The Deceiver’s Casket” ♦ Genre: Magical Realism
