Richard Alan Blackwood is a published author — with the pen name R A Blackwood — who primarily writes stories related to the horror genre, including “Non-Existent: A Montana Horror,” which is available on paperback/hardcover and e-reader through Amazon and Kindle.

He has worked in the lumber/hardware industry, food service, construction, public works, automotive, technology, and as an instructor and teacher.

Your Name: Richard Alan Blackwood (pen name R A Blackwood)

Age: 58

Business Name: Author of “Non-Existent: A Montana Horror”

Town/Neighborhood: Valley wide and Maricopa County

Hours of operation: 24 hours a day/seven days a week

Personal background highlights: I am a product of the 1960s and was raised in Southern California. I was fortunate enough to travel and see much of this great country, and lived in several states across America. For roughly 20 years, I called Montana my home. On a personal level, I am somewhat of an enigma, wrapped up in a riddle. My personal interests are vast and varied. I enjoy old film noir and pre-code movies, yet love the whole horror genre as well. I listen to old-time radio programs from the 1930s through the 1950s, and also enjoy heavy metal music (especially that from the late 1980s and early 1990s.) From the time I was little I always was a sponge for knowledge. In fact, from the time I could talk, one of my first words was “Why”... followed by “how.” I drove my parents nuts for sure. (LOL)

Professional background highlights: I have worked in the lumber/hardware industry, food service, construction, public works, automotive, technology, instructor and teacher.

What I do: I am a published author and primarily write stories related to the horror genre.

What I like most about doing business here: The bulk of my family lives in Arizona and I love being part of their daily lives.

What am I promoting: “Non-Existent A Montana Horror,” available on paperback/hardcover and e-reader through Amazon and Kindle. For every purchase made due to this article, I will give a free signature page (as well as a free preview from the next book in the series). See www.montanahorror.com for details.

Story Summary: In a world filled with greedy and self-absorbed people, there are always witnesses to catalog the misdeeds of the unpunished. It is these witnesses that conjure the spirits of reckoning and vengeance to balance the shift between good and evil. This particular story takes place during a long-awaited camping trip of like-minded outdoorsmen set in the plush forest within the mountains of western Montana. The protagonist of this tale will push the envelope of evil as he is so bound by the “Dark One.” My friends, this is not your ordinary camp out. The active participants in this story will never be the same as they encounter the non-existent.

What I’m excited about and why: Life! Enjoy each day and make them count.

Favorite community cause and why: I am a big supporter of all things that have a positive impact on the community.

Where I was before and why I left: Northeastern Montana. Winters are fierce and amenities are few.

My family: I am happily married to Renee Blackwood. We attended the same schools together and come from the same hometown in So Cal. We recently reconnected and got married on Jan. 1, 2023. We both have children from previous marriages. We both look at our kids as “our kids.” That being said, our kids are: Michael, Garrett, Jessica and Lindsey. We are also blessed with grandchildren. I have a huge family that has deep roots here in Arizona. Since you would need an entire newspaper to cover everyone, I will give a shout out to just a few of my Arizona family: Kelley Aubuchon, Paul Aubuchon; Susan Blackwood; Joseph Aubuchon; Amanda Aubuchon Singleton, Foster Singleton and Enzo; Rosalie Aubuchon; Lisa Aubuchon and Pete Pestalozzi; Kim Pestalozzi, Chris Woz and Bradley; Melissa Pestalozzi and Ben Boudreaux.

My interests & hobbies: American muscle cars, Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, home-restoration projects;, cooking new and proven recipes, technology.

People who inspire me (and how): Algernon Blackwood (1869-1951). In my humble opinion, he was the originator of the thriller/horror genre.

My guiding philosophy: Life is a buffet and enjoy all the courses.

My advice to today’s youth: I come from a very different time and place. I witness so many young people sitting around and complaining about life. My advice is to never stop learning or trying. With so many resources at your very fingertips, there is no excuse for leading a full and productive life.

Contact Info: montanahorror.com and RichardAlanBlackwood@gmail.com.