Benjamin Rempel, a Collingwood-based author, describes his novels as “horror with heart,” emphasizing the significance of relatable characters amid themes of hope, courage, and family. His debut in the Feral Winter trilogy, titled Infect, was released in 2024 by Durham’s Chickenhouse Press. The story unfolds in the rural town of Barn Wood, where inhabitants develop a gruesome craving for flesh and blood, prompting a small band of survivors to navigate a world filled with despair and terror in search of supplies and a cure for the mysterious illness.
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In November 2025, Rempel published the second book, Mutate, which continues the narrative in Barn Wood. Just as the threat from the town’s chaotic inhabitants seemed to wane, a more cunning and violent breed emerges, leading the survivors into fresh chaos and bloodshed.
Currently, Rempel is at work on the third installment, which he promises will be more intense and darker, concluding the trilogy with a twist: “Don’t think for a minute that everyone gets a happy ending.” This final book is expected to hit stores in spring 2027.
Local readers will find familiarity in Rempel’s writing, as he draws inspiration from the landscapes of South Georgian Bay. Although he doesn’t classify himself as a horror enthusiast, he creates engaging narratives filled with tension and endearing characters, influenced by genres like crime noir and true crime.
Beyond the trilogy, Rempel plans a standalone novel that will delve into Barn Wood’s eerie secrets from a different perspective. He also aims to explore crime mysteries and thrillers in future projects.
Writing is not Rempel's only profession; he balances his literary pursuits with a full-time career and family life. He advises aspiring authors to prioritize their craft, suggesting they start with short stories to build a portfolio. Rempel emphasizes resilience, stating that rejection is common but stresses the importance of perseverance if writing is one's passion.
For more information on Benjamin Rempel, visit his website at www.benjaminrempel.com or follow him on Instagram @benjaminrempel_author. He is currently on a spring and summer book tour, with a scheduled appearance at The Book Hive in Meaford on Saturday, June 13, from 12 p.m., where fans can meet him and purchase signed copies of Infect and Mutate.