What is horror? Why is it scary? HOW is it scary? Forced by their grandfather's will to spend an entire night in his spooky mansion, our podcasters gather to discuss the nuts and bolts of what horror is (and isn't) and how it works behind the scenes. Here's a hint: as with pretty much everything else in writing, the secret comes down to compelling conflicts with engaging characters. Be warned: Howard is going to say something scary, so don't listen to this podcast alone and/or in the dark.

This week's Writing Excuses is brought to you by something close to Dan's heart.