Every Tuesday, get to know a bit about the stories behind the books you love, and discover your next favourite novel.

Sabitha: We’re here for the weird and wonderful, which is why we’ve got C.E. Hoffmanto tell us about their anthology, Losers and Freaks. C.E., what do we have to look forward to in you book?

C.E.: Losers and Freaks is a short story collection of speculative and generally weird fiction. It’s my second full-length release!

Sabitha: What inspired you to write this book?

C.E.: For my second short story collection, I chose another theme that resonates with the collective shadow, and me personally. I tackled sexual stereotypes in Sluts and Whores, and sought to do the same for the losers and freaks of the world (and in my heart) with this collection. The theme isn’t as obvious or pointed as it is in my first collection, but I still think (and hope!) the message comes across.

Sabitha: If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

C.E.: Thank you for choosing me as your writer!

Sabitha: What books do you tell all your friends to read?

C.E.: For Coloured Girls Who Have Considered Suicide by Ntozake Shange, NW by Zadie Smith, Come and Join the Dance by Joyce Johnson, and The Grass Harp by Truman Capote.

Sabitha: How much research did you need to do for your book?

C.E.: Does living count as research?

Sabitha: What’s your next writing project?

C.E.: I’m pitching a horror novella and two more poetry chapbooks! I’m writing my first memoir and I’m editing MANY novels.

Sabitha: Thanks for sharing your story and your process. We’re looking forward to reading! Where can the Night Beats community find you and your book?

C.E.: I’m on Twtter as @CEHoffman2. cehoffman.net. Visit cehoffman.net, and buy Losers and Freaks here!