Dylan James Quarles Interview Published on: 27, Jun 2025
Congratulations on your film deal! How did the optioning of A Secret History of Port Townsend come about?
It’s still so surreal! A producer stumbled across the series through word-of-mouth and loved how the stories blend Pacific Northwest atmosphere with cosmic horror. The interconnected mythology really appealed to them.
What inspired you to write the Port Townsend series, and did you always envision it becoming a multi-book saga?I’m from Port Townsend. I’ve always been fascinated by how ordinary places can hide extraordinary secrets. Now, Port Townsend is far from ordinary—it has Victorian charm and history, and an underlying eeriness owing to its remoteness. The series grew organically as I realized how many untold stories were lurking beneath the surface here.
Port Townsend has such a rich, mysterious atmosphere in your books—how much of that is drawn from real-life experiences or history?A healthy amount! Being from Port Townsend has given me more time than most to explore the locations and history. The ruined Army bunkers, the Victorian mansions, the underground tunnels—it’s all real. I just ask “what if something ancient and terrible was hiding here, pulling all these forces together?”
Your books have achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. How do you balance artistic integrity with market appeal?It might sound glib, but I write the stories I want to read. Horror fans are incredibly smart - they appreciate genuine atmosphere and psychological depth. If you respect your readers, they’ll appreciate your work and help it spread.
What was the first spark of the story that eventually grew into your award-winning debut?Exploring Fort Worden’s tunnels as a kid. I really can’t remember a time when I wasn’t fascinated by the mysteries of that place. I used to imagine that the Army had built the old costal fort on top of the ancient foundations of an evil temple.
Has winning the Best Indie Book Award changed anything about your writing process or your relationship with readers?It’s given me confidence to push boundaries further. I think readers trust me now to take them into darker territory, which is liberating as a writer.
With your series headed for the screen, what aspects of your characters or storyline are you most protective of during adaptation?The atmosphere and the slow-burn tension. These aren’t jump-scare stories—they’re about creeping dread and psychological horror. That can’t be rushed.
How involved are you with the film production, and are you excited or nervous about seeing your characters brought to life?Very involved! I was hired to write the adaptation as the producers felt I could best maintain the authentic Pacific Northwest feel. I’m nervous but excited—especially about how they’ll handle the cosmic horror elements.
What themes do you feel resonate most with your audience, and why do you think that is?The idea that our familiar world sits on top of something much older and stranger. In uncertain times, that fear of hidden forces feels very real to people.
You’re a repeat Amazon bestseller—what strategies or lessons helped you achieve that consistency?Building genuine connections with readers and maintaining quality. Also, the interconnected universe keeps people coming back—they want to see how the mythology expands.
What has been the most surprising or rewarding feedback you’ve received from a reader?I’ve been compared to Crichton and Heinlein, to Lovecraft and Stephen King. But, having a group of movie producers tell me my stories are film worthy has been the most rewarding feedback I’ve yet received.
Do you see yourself staying within the mystery/suspense genre, or are there other genres you’re eager to explore?I’m drawn to any story that explores the thin line between the known and unknown. Genre is just a tool—it’s the atmosphere and characters that matter.
What advice would you give aspiring indie authors hoping to break through in today’s saturated market?Write something only you can write. Don’t chase trends. Find and create your own niche. And invest in professional editing and cover design. First impressions matter!
Can you give us a hint about what’s next for you—either in the world of Port Townsend or beyond?The producers have asked for another screenplay—an adaptation of the very popular Selkie story from the Secret History series…
What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?The community has been fantastic—very supportive of indie authors. I’m hoping to see that translate into more engagement and sales.
