Description
Joe Mynhardt stands as a paragon in the horror literary world, a Bram Stoker Award-winning South African publisher, editor, author, story coach, public speaker, and mentor with over a decade of experience. As the founder and CEO of Crystal Lake, Joe has transformed a humble 2012 startup into a multifaceted Intellectual Property powerhouse.
With a track record of working with and publishing works by luminaries such as Clive Barker, Stephen King, Charlaine Harris, Ramsey Campbell, John Connolly, Jack Ketchum, Jonathan Maberry, Christopher Golden, Graham Masterton, Damien Angelica Walters, Adam Nevill, Lisa Morton, Elizabeth Massie, Joe R. Lansdale, Edward Lee, Paul Tremblay, and Wes Craven, Joe is the quintessential mentor for aspiring authors. His deep industry insights and extensive network place him in a unique position to guide both new and seasoned writers in the genre.
Joe is also the author of the Shadows & Ink series, a guide to horror writing and publishing.
Joe’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering author careers is at the heart of Crystal Lake Publishing’s ethos. His approach is not just about publishing books; it’s about building a community, sharing knowledge, and being a beacon of friendship and guidance in the often-intimidating world of horror writing.
Since leaving his day job in 2016 to focus full-time on his passion, Joe has also excelled as a work-from-home dad, a role he embraced in 2018. His daughter, Cayleigh, named after his childhood influences Bruce Lee and Stan Lee, is a testament to his belief in the power of storytelling across all mediums. Joe’s love for great narratives extends beyond literature, encompassing comics, games, film, and television, with favorites ranging from Poe, Doyle, and Lovecraft to King, Connolly, and Hill.
Joe Mynhardt isn’t just a figure in the horror industry—he’s a driving force behind it, leading a successful online business that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of publishing. Joe is also the creator and driving force behind The House of Shadows & Ink on YouTube and TikTok.
Discover more about Joe’s journey and Crystal Lake’s offerings at www.crystallakepub.com or connect with him on Facebook or Patreon (includes author tiers and a 7-day free trial), where he continues to inspire and lead the next generation of storytellers.
Editorial Reviews
“Joe is a friend and a support system, providing both a strong foundation and a helping hand to everyone who crosses his path. I don’t know how he finds the time to accomplish so much and support so many, but as an author and advocate of the literary arts, I am truly grateful for it!”—Diana Olney
“Before joining the CLP community, many told me, “Joe is the finest in the business. A true leader.” Optimistic, knowledgeable, generous, and surrounded by a network of skilled professionals, Joe has proven he certainly is a champion in the industry for authors and readers worldwide. His Shadows & Ink, Mastering the Art of Horror Writing and Publishing reflects his deep appreciation for storytelling and understanding for authors’ artistic achievements.”—Paula Cappa, author of soon-to-be-released Draakensky, A Supernatural Tale of Magick and Romance.
“Joe Mynhardt’s experience and vision has taken me from a content writer/ghostwriter and freelance editor/proofreader to finally having the courage to share my own dark speculative writing. Joe understands that rising tides raise all boats and his Crystal Lake Vision is a place I’m proud to be involved in.”—Pixie Bruner
“Joe Mynhardt is the first editor and publisher to believe in my work and offer a platform to share it. In under two years, I’ve had eighteen short stories published, including my first-ever paid submission. I’ve also appeared in three anthologies, two in print and one that reached #1 in new releases on Amazon (both hardcover and paperback). I feel blessed and grateful to work with Joe and be part of this incredible community.”—Gregg Stewart
“The past year has been filled with ups & downs but one shining star on my ever-learning journey as an author has been finding Crystal Lake Publishing & Joe Mynhardt. I’ve seen his advice put to the test and working for authors on Crystal Lake Publishing’s roster. It’s exciting to see someone with his knowledge willing to share his passion with us. I hope to work directly with him on my own work in the future!”—Melanie Sue
“When you work with Joe on any level, his experience is apparent, as is his ability to bring out the best in anyone looking to write professionally, as well as seasoned authors seeking fresh and valuable insights necessary to grow their careers.“—Ruthann Jagge, Author of Delevan House
“Joe at Crystal Lake Publishing was the first person to take a chance with me, publishing my first piece in the monthly Shallow Waters contest and subsequently the first publisher to pay me for my work and the first publisher to invite me into an anthology. That early encouragement and recognition by Joe helped propel me to keep going and to hone in on my craft. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without Joe and the incredible support he provides authors and the community he fosters within the horror community.“—Francesca Maria, Author of They Hide: Short Stories to Tell in the Dark
“Joe is a force to be reckoned with, and works tirelessly to support all his Authors, and I’m proud to count Joe as one of my inspirations and dearest friends. I can’t recommend working with Joe more highly.”—Dr. Fiona M Clements-Russell
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