**Exploring the Dark Corners of Louisiana: "Beasts Like Us"**

Hello, fellow horror enthusiasts! I'm thrilled to share some exciting news about my upcoming book, "Beasts Like Us," which is set to be released on October 31, 2024. This collection of short horror tales dives deep into the eerie and often overlooked folklore of Louisiana, bringing to life vampires, cryptids, and witches in ways you've never seen before.

Growing up in Louisiana, I was always fascinated by the stories whispered in hushed tones at family gatherings or shared around campfires. These tales, often kept as family secrets or rarely discussed, sparked my imagination and inspired me to write "Beasts Like Us." I wanted to move away from the typical and well-trodden narratives of vampires and ghosts haunting the bayous, and instead, delve into the lesser-known legends that lurk in the shadows of our state's rich history.

One of the stories in my book explores the legend of the Rougarou, a fearsome creature from Cajun folklore. Unlike the familiar tales of werewolves, the Rougarou is a cursed human who transforms into a beastly form, prowling the swamps and woods of southern Louisiana. This cryptid has been used for generations to scare children into good behavior and adults into adhering to religious traditions. In "Beasts Like Us," I reimagine the Rougarou's tale, blending historical elements with a fresh, terrifying twist.

Another tale in the collection features the enigmatic vampires of New Orleans. While many are familiar with the glamorous, seductive vampires popularized by modern media, my stories draw from the darker, more sinister legends that have been part of the city's folklore for centuries. From the mysterious Casket Girls of the Ursuline Convent to the chilling accounts of Jacques St. Germain, these vampires are rooted in the eerie history of New Orleans, offering a fresh perspective on the undead that roam our streets.

Witches also make their presence known in "Beasts Like Us." Louisiana's history is rich with tales of witchcraft and voodoo, and I've woven these elements into my stories to create a chilling atmosphere. These witches are not the caricatures often depicted in popular culture; they are complex, powerful, and deeply connected to the land and its mysteries.

Writing "Beasts Like Us" has been a trek into the unknown, uncovering the hidden stories that make Louisiana such a unique and haunted place. Each tale is a tribute to the state's rich folklore, bringing to light the strange and supernatural occurrences that have been passed down through generations.

So if you're a fan of horror, folklore, or just love a good gasp, I hope my book will transport you to the dark and mysterious world of Louisiana's lesser-known legends. Mark your calendars for October 31, 2024, and prepare to be haunted by the stories that have been lurking in the shadows, waiting to be told.

Walking By ACHEEKYBUDDHIST