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Putnam Today
By the People, for the People
Horror Author Johnny Compton Signs with Independent Artist Group
Compton's debut novel "The Spite House" was a critical success, and his follow-up "Dead First" is out now.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Horror author Johnny Compton has signed with Independent Artist Group for film and TV representation. Compton's debut novel "The Spite House" was named to several year-end 'best of' lists and nominated for best first novel at the Bram Stoker Awards. His follow-up novel "Dead First" was just published through Penguin Random House. Compton is also the creator and host of the horror podcast "Healthy Fears" and has had his short fiction featured in publications like "Pseudopod" and "Strange Horizons".
Why it matters
Compton's signing with Independent Artist Group signals growing interest in adapting his horror works for film and television. As a rising star in the genre, this deal could lead to new opportunities to bring his unique brand of horror storytelling to wider audiences.
The details
Compton's critically acclaimed debut novel "The Spite House" centers on a single father who takes a job documenting paranormal activity in a notorious Texas residence. His follow-up novel "Dead First" follows a private investigator summoned to the isolated mansion of an eccentric billionaire to help him figure out why he cannot die. In addition to his published novels, Compton is also known for his horror podcast "Healthy Fears" and has had his short fiction featured in various publications.
- Compton's debut novel "The Spite House" was published in February 2023.
- His follow-up novel "Dead First" was published today through Penguin Random House.
The players
Johnny Compton
A horror author whose debut novel "The Spite House" was critically acclaimed and whose follow-up "Dead First" was just published.
Independent Artist Group
A talent representation firm that has signed Compton for film and TV representation.
Lane Heymont
Compton's representative for publishing through The Tobias Literary Agency.
What’s next
With Compton's new representation at Independent Artist Group, fans can expect to see potential film or TV adaptations of his horror works in development in the coming years.
The takeaway
Compton's signing with Independent Artist Group highlights the growing demand for original, compelling horror stories across media. As a rising talent in the genre, his work has the potential to reach wider audiences through film and television adaptations.