HOLLY RHIANNON

My name is Holly Rhiannon, and I’m a multi-faceted creator whose work spans writing, visual art, and the supernatural. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, I spent my early years immersed in a creative world, drawing inspiration from the city's harsh winters and introspective atmosphere. After studying Fine Arts at the University of Manitoba and becoming certified in photography, I self-published a novella and two graphic novels, while also founding and maintaining Drawn and Plastered, an interactive art event blending performance and visual media.​

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As part of Drawn and Plastered, I also explored the world of alternative modeling, which helped me become comfortable in front of the camera—a path I’ve followed for over 15 years. My love for cult cinema deepened after taking a background role as an angel in Father’s Day by Troma & Astron-6, an experience that sparked my appreciation for the b-movie genre. This appreciation has since permeated much of my work, from events, to publications to my YouTube channel.

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In 2015, I relocated to Montreal, where I rediscovered my creative voice and became deeply invested in the world of literature. As the co-founder (along with author Pae Veo) and CEO of The Stygian Society, I actively work to reshape my little corner of the publishing industry by prioritizing literary talent over trends, creating beautifully designed books, and supporting authors committed to human creativity and storytelling free from AI influence.

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In addition to my work at The Stygian Society, I co-host The Writing Craft Podcast with fellow author Jenna Streety, where we discuss writing and witchcraft. I also run Haunted Montreal, a YouTube channel where I adapt ghost stories collected by Donovan King into atmospheric video narratives, including French-language versions hosted by co-host Dr. Mab.

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My debut novel, A Time When Demons (2022), explores the world of a rebellious witch trapped in a magickal society defined by rigid societal expectations. My contributions to The Stygian Collection (2023), 13 Haunted Nights (2024), and The Stygian Zine (2024-2025) are inspired by my passion for the supernatural, dark fiction, and in-the-moment reflection. My upcoming fantasy debut, Synterra: Awakening (summer 2025), follows three strangers thrust into Synterra, a realm on the brink of war, where they must navigate forbidden magic, fractured loyalties, and a kingdom full of secrets.

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In keeping with my commitment to supporting human creativity, I served as Montreal’s Municipal Liaison for NaNoWriMo for three years, guiding writers through the challenges of storytelling. In 2020, alongside my first NaNoWriMo, I started my YouTube channel, running annual Preptober and November series' to educate and motivate writers. After resigning from NaNoWriMo in 2024 due to their stance on generative AI, I founded The Order of the Written Word to provide writers with a space that honors human imagination. That same year, I continued the tradition with a Fall series for Order participants, staying true to my commitment to supporting the writing community.