Madeleine Armstrong’s story, Who’s the Daddy?, went down a storm with readers last month. It’s one of those tales that starts off with an everyday feel but the reader has to keep adjusting as the sense of horror builds up fast.

So, Madeleine, what atmosphere were you looking to create?

I originally wrote this for another horror competition, with the theme of ‘secrets’. I didn’t have to think hard to come up with the most horrifying thing I’ve ever experienced – childbirth – and this seemed like a subject ripe for secrets. Obviously this story was heavily influenced by [the movie], Rosemary’s Baby, but I thought it’d be interesting to see things from the perspective of an interfering grandmother-to-be.

Does it have the potential to be longer?

I saw this as a complete story, but someone has asked for the sequel, so you never know!

What have you read over the last couple of years that’s made a deep impression?

So many, but I still can’t get over Forget Me Not by Leila Murton Poole, which won the NYC Midnight screenwriting challenge a couple of years ago Forget Me Not — nycmidnight

Your story was for the ‘Revolt’ call out. What topic would you choose for the next sub window and why?

Nature — this is a completely self-serving request, as I’ve recently written a horror story with a nature angle.

What’s on your writing agenda for 2026?

My main task is to finish editing my romantasy novel… but I’m procrastinating by writing all sorts of short stories. I’ve recently been trying out different writing genres and styles, everything from horror to noir to romance, so I’ll be seeking out any new challenges I can find

I tend to think procrastination is an activity in itself when it comes to writing (that’s my excuse anyway). Your story definitely hit the spot with readers –  thank you again for submitting and good luck with the novel.

You can read Who’s the Daddy? here https://urbanpigspress.co.uk/2026/01/27/whos-the-daddy-madeleine-armstrong/