Picture an English storyteller who spins tales so chilling they cling to your bones—meet Alison Rumfitt! This trailblazing trans author has redefined horror with her raw, transgressive novels that dive deep into the queer experience, blending supernatural dread with sharp social commentary. From her debut Tell Me I’m Worthless to the visceral Brainwyrms, Rumfitt’s work is a fearless exploration of identity, trauma, and the terrors of modern life.
With a style that’s been dubbed part of 'The New Gross,' Rumfitt’s stories are unapologetically bold, earning her comparisons to literary giants like Daphne du Maurier and Angela Carter. Ready to discover the mind behind these haunting narratives? Let’s dive into her world!
The Making of Alison Rumfitt
Born and raised in the UK, Alison Rumfitt found her voice in the vibrant literary scene of Brighton, where she studied English Literature at the University of Sussex. Her early love for gothic romance, folklore, and speculative fiction shaped her unique perspective. As a transgender writer, Rumfitt began crafting poetry and essays that tackled gender and identity, with works like her poetry pamphlet The T(y)ranny (2019) deconstructing Margaret Atwood’s dystopias through a trans lens. Her bold, personal storytelling soon caught attention, setting the stage for her leap into horror fiction.
Alison Rumfitt’s Unforgettable Stories
Rumfitt’s debut novel, Tell Me I’m Worthless (2021), is a haunting tale of a fascist-leaning haunted house terrorizing its queer protagonists. Praised as a 'triumph of transgressive queer horror' by Publishers Weekly, it blends slow-burn dread with biting commentary on modern Britain. Her follow-up, Brainwyrms (2023), takes a gorier turn, using body horror to explore transphobia as a parasitic infection. The New York Times called it 'The Last of Us dunked in the toilet bowl,' highlighting its grotesque yet gripping prose.
In 2024, Rumfitt ventured into sci-fi with her novelization of the Doctor Who episode Space Babies, proving her versatility. Her poetry and essays, published in outlets like Glass: A Journal of Poetry and The Final Girls, showcase her range, often weaving humor and horror with political satire. Rumfitt’s style—raw, provocative, and unflinchingly queer—challenges horror’s boundaries, making every page a visceral experience.
Whether she’s crafting novels or poems, Rumfitt’s work is deeply personal, reflecting her experiences as a trans woman navigating a hostile world. Her ability to balance extreme horror with emotional depth has cemented her as a standout voice in contemporary literature.
Why Alison Rumfitt Matters
Alison Rumfitt’s impact lies in her fearless storytelling, which amplifies marginalized voices in a genre often dominated by conventional narratives. Her novels confront real-world issues like transphobia and fascism, using horror as a lens to expose societal rot. By centering trans and queer characters, she’s carved out a vital space for inclusive narratives, inspiring readers and writers alike. Her work’s raw honesty and punk energy have made her a cult favorite, with fans eagerly awaiting her next move.
Rumfitt’s influence extends beyond books—she’s a cultural force, challenging readers to face uncomfortable truths while embracing the grotesque beauty of her worlds. Her growing acclaim, including nominations like the Rhysling Award, signals a lasting legacy in horror and beyond.
- Key Works: Tell Me I’m Worthless (2021), Brainwyrms (2023), Doctor Who: Space Babies (2024)
- Notable Recognition: Nominated for the Rhysling Award (2018), Brainwyrms named a Best Book of 2023 by Tor.com
- Hometown: Brighton, UK
Snag Tell Me I’m Worthless or Brainwyrms and dive into Alison Rumfitt’s thrilling, boundary-pushing horror! Her stories will leave you shaken, stirred, and hungry for more.