Picture a clinical psychologist who trades therapy sessions for spine-chilling tales by night—meet Carissa Orlando! This American horror author burst onto the literary scene with her 2023 debut, The September House, a haunted house novel that’s as emotionally gripping as it is terrifying. With a doctorate in clinical-community psychology, Orlando weaves her deep understanding of the human psyche into horror fiction, creating stories that linger long after the last page.
Orlando’s unique blend of psychological insight and love for the macabre has made her a rising star in horror. Her work doesn’t just scare—it explores resilience, family secrets, and the shadows of the mind, all with a darkly funny twist. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore how this psychologist-turned-author is redefining horror.
The Making of Carissa Orlando
Born with a vivid imagination, Carissa Orlando was crafting stories from childhood, filling notebooks with comic strips and worlds for her action figures. She studied creative writing in college, but her path took a turn toward psychology. Earning a doctorate in clinical-community psychology, she focused on improving mental health care access for children and adolescents. Yet, her love for horror never faded—think late-night horror movie marathons and a knack for spotting every haunted house trope.
While supervising graduate students and navigating a demanding internship in Florida, Orlando found herself drawn back to writing. Isolated during her internship year, she poured her creativity into The September House, a novel sparked by a simple thought: what if someone lived in a haunted house and was totally fine with it? This whimsical idea, born while getting ready for work, marked the start of her literary journey.
Carissa Orlando’s Unforgettable Stories
Orlando’s debut, The September House (2023), is a genre-blending masterpiece that flips the haunted house trope on its head. The story follows Margaret, a pragmatic woman who refuses to abandon her dream home despite its blood-dripping walls and ghostly pranksters. With dark humor and psychological depth, Orlando explores themes of endurance, family trauma, and mental health, earning praise from horror giants like Grady Hendrix and Simone St. James.
Her second novel, It Will Only Hurt for a Moment (2024), dives into feminist thriller territory, examining the monsters we idolize and those we create. Critics lauded its fresh take on familiar themes, with Delilah S. Dawson calling it “glorious and compelling.” Orlando’s style is unmistakable: suspenseful pacing, richly drawn characters, and a knack for blending horror with emotional truths.
She also contributed to Grimdark Magazine, Issue 35 (2023), showcasing her versatility in short fiction. Whether it’s a haunted Victorian or a chilling psychological tale, Orlando’s stories are grounded in her understanding of human behavior, making every scare feel achingly real.
Why Carissa Orlando Matters
Carissa Orlando is more than a horror author—she’s a trailblazer who brings psychological authenticity to a genre often dominated by jump scares. Her work resonates with readers who crave stories that challenge perceptions of fear, survival, and family. By drawing on her expertise as a psychologist, she crafts narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are terrifying, earning her a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
In a crowded horror landscape, Orlando’s voice stands out for its wit, empathy, and fearless exploration of the human condition. She’s proof that horror can be both entertaining and profound, inviting readers to confront their deepest fears while laughing in the face of ghosts.
- Key Works: The September House (2023), It Will Only Hurt for a Moment (2024), Grimdark Magazine, Issue 35 (2023)
- Education: Doctorate in clinical-community psychology
- Fun Fact: Her debut novel was inspired by a random thought while getting ready for work!
About Carissa Orlando
Snag The September House and dive into Carissa Orlando’s thrilling, psychologically rich horror! Whether you’re a horror fanatic or just love a good story, her books promise a wild, unforgettable ride.