Picture a Scottish storyteller spinning tales of ancient vampires, cosmic horrors, and gritty detectives under the misty glow of a Glasgow night—meet William Meikle! Born in 1958, this prolific author has crafted over thirty novels and 300 short stories, blending horror, fantasy, and historical mystery with a distinctly Scottish flair. His knack for suspense and atmospheric storytelling has earned him a global following, making him a standout in speculative fiction.
Now living in Newfoundland, Canada, Meikle’s stories transport readers from the craggy moors of Scotland to the icy shores of the Atlantic, all while weaving pulp-inspired adventures that pulse with energy. Ready to dive into his world of monsters, magic, and mayhem? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this master of the macabre!
The Making of William Meikle
Born on January 25, 1958, in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, Scotland, William Meikle grew up surrounded by the rugged beauty and rich folklore of his homeland. A graduate of Glasgow University with a B.Sc. in 1980, he initially worked as a software developer before transitioning to technical writing in 1995. His love for genre fiction—sparked by comic books, Hammer horror films, and authors like H.P. Lovecraft and J.R.R. Tolkien—ignited his storytelling passion. By the early 2000s, Meikle was publishing horror novels, with his debut, Island Life (2001), marking the start of a prolific career.
Meikle’s Scottish roots deeply influence his work, infusing his stories with Celtic mysticism, misty landscapes, and pub-born tales of the weird. After moving to Newfoundland in 2007, he found new inspiration in its stark seascapes, blending them with his signature pulp style. His decision to write full-time reflects his dedication to crafting stories that resonate with readers who crave adventure and chills.
William Meikle’s Unforgettable Stories
Meikle’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genre-blending gems, spanning horror, fantasy, and historical mystery. His Midnight Eye Files series, starting with The Amulet (2005), follows Glasgow PI Derek Adams as he navigates Lovecraftian noir and supernatural threats. Fans praise its gritty atmosphere and sharp dialogue, with one reviewer noting, “Meikle makes you feel like you’re in the rain with Derek Adams, searching seedy pawn shops for answers.”
Another standout is the Watchers trilogy, beginning with The Coming of the King (2003), a fantasy epic set in 1745 Scotland where undead forces clash with brave warriors. For monster lovers, the S-Squad series, kicking off with Infestation (2017), delivers high-octane creature feature thrills as a military team battles scuttling horrors. Meikle’s novella The Auld Mither (2013) taps into Gaelic legend, weaving a chilling tale of a sinister hag that lingers long after the final page.
His style is unmistakably pulp—think big beasties, eldritch terrors, and sword-swinging heroes—but it’s grounded by vivid characters and a knack for tension. Whether he’s exploring Lovecraftian mythos, reimagining Sherlock Holmes, or conjuring Scottish folklore, Meikle’s stories are fast-paced, immersive, and endlessly entertaining.
Why William Meikle Matters
William Meikle’s impact lies in his ability to bridge classic pulp traditions with modern speculative fiction, creating stories that feel both timeless and fresh. His work celebrates Scotland’s mythology while embracing universal themes of fear, courage, and the unknown, resonating with readers worldwide. With publications in thirteen countries and appearances in prestigious outlets like NATURE Futures, Meikle has carved a niche as a versatile, prolific voice in horror and fantasy.
His influence extends to aspiring writers, proving that independent publishing and niche markets can sustain a thriving career. Living in Newfoundland with “whales, bald eagles, and icebergs for company,” Meikle continues to write, play guitar, and dream of “fortune and glory,” inspiring fans to embrace the weird and wonderful.
- Born: January 25, 1958, Kilwinning, Ayrshire, Scotland
- Key Works: The Amulet, The Coming of the King, Infestation, The Auld Mither
- Genres: Horror, Fantasy, Historical Mystery
- Fun Fact: Meikle’s stories often draw from real-life pub chats in Glasgow and Edinburgh!
Snag The Amulet or Infestation and dive into William Meikle’s thrilling world of monsters and mystery—you won’t be disappointed!