Len Handeland’s Transition from Hairstyling to Writing

Handeland’s memoir offers insights into the hair industry and beyond

Len Handeland’s diverse career in fashion and hairstyling enriches his storytelling, blending horror and emotion in novels that explore vampirism, crime, and the paranormal, with a memoir offering industry insights.

Len Handeland, a distinguished author known for his captivating vampire and paranormal novels, has made a remarkable transition from the fashion and beauty industry to the literary world. His debut novel, “The Darkest Gift,” received critical acclaim and has piqued the interest of major networks for potential adaptation into a mini-series or motion picture. With a growing collection of works, including “Requiem for Miriam,” “Tales from the Chair,” “Transplanted Evil,” and “The Darkest Passages,” Len continues to captivate readers with his imaginative storytelling. As he gears up for the release of his sixth novel, “The Haunting of Wellsley Manor,” in the fall of 2024, Len reflects on how his diverse career experiences have shaped his writing.

Len’s background in fashion illustration, modeling, and hairstyling has significantly influenced his storytelling. He draws parallels between the creativity required in fashion and the imaginative narratives he crafts in his novels. His experience in modeling, where he learned to project allure and seduction, is mirrored in his vampire characters, who use their devastatingly handsome appearances to captivate and seduce. Similarly, his hairstyling career, which emphasized aesthetics and beauty, is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail in his characters’ appearances.

In his first novel, “The Darkest Gift,” Len explores themes of love, jealousy, and the supernatural through the lens of vampirism. His fascination with vampires and their immortal existence inspired him to delve into these themes, balancing horror with the emotional depth of his characters. The novel features two reluctant vampires who strive to retain their human emotions and a third vampire consumed by rage and a thirst for power.

Len’s ability to merge genres is evident in “Requiem for Miriam,” where he combines murder, crime drama, and the paranormal. He creates a unique narrative where the victim’s presence lingers, assisting detectives in solving the crime and seeking justice from beyond the grave. By exploring each character’s background, Len ensures readers remain engaged and emotionally connected throughout the story.

In “Tales from the Chair,” Len offers a behind-the-scenes look at his life in the hair industry. Writing this memoir differed from crafting fiction, as it involved conveying real experiences and emotions. The book provides insights and advice for those entering the industry, drawing from Len’s 27-year career and his experience owning three hair salons.

Len’s novels often feature paranormal and supernatural elements, and he draws inspiration from horror literature and media. Influenced by authors like Stephen King, Clive Barker, Dean Koontz, and Anne Rice, as well as horror movies and television shows, Len creates believable and immersive worlds. His deep interest in parapsychology and personal experiences with paranormal activity further enrich his storytelling.

As Len prepares to release “The Darkest Passages,” a sequel to “The Darkest Gift,” he continues to develop his characters and introduce new themes and challenges. The sequel features vampire royalty, a renowned vampire hunter, and a shocking secret about the feared vampire Stefan. Len’s emotional investment in his stories and characters ensures that readers remain captivated by his imaginative narratives.