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The Box Under The Bed: an anthology of 27 horror stories from 20 authors Kindle Edition
- LanguageEnglish
- Publication dateOctober 1, 2017
- File size2.9 MB
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Editorial Reviews
Review
WE REALLY LOVED READING THIS ANTHOLOGY. There is something here for everyone.
It would be hard to pick a favourite, for we loved them all. Some were scary, some mysterious, but every single one was a darn good read.Not exactly bed time reading, unless you want to have nightmares!
- Jenanita Book Reviews
5 STARS! SUBJECT MATTER FOR TINGLING THE SPINE
Dan can not only write fine horror stories but he also has a wide circle of friends who are successful in the same genre.After his many successes in writing humor Dan turns his attention to the paranormal/ghost/psychic/suspense book genre - and here he succeeds just as well.A fine collection, this. - Grady Harp, Amazon Hall of Fame, Top 500 Reviewer
Product details
- ASIN : B075C9D7L1
- Publisher : Great Oak Publishing
- Accessibility : Learn more
- Publication date : October 1, 2017
- Language : English
- File size : 2.9 MB
- Simultaneous device usage : Unlimited
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Not Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 233 pages
- Page Flip : Enabled
- Book 1 of 6 : The Box Under The Bed
- Best Sellers Rank: #1,873,207 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #3,174 in Horror Anthologies (Books)
- #3,727 in Fantasy Anthologies & Short Stories (Kindle Store)
- #17,230 in Paranormal Fantasy (Kindle Store)
- Customer Reviews:
About the authors
Frank Parker's writing has been likened to that of Laurie Lee, Ian McEwan and Charles Dickens. Not bad for a septuagenarian who came to writing late in life.
His most recent work, due to be published in Summer 2020, is a historical novel based on a real life, that of Arthur Kennedy. Appointed Poor Law Inspector in Kilrush, County Clare, towards the end of 1847, Kennedy exposed the practice of mass evictions carried out by wealthy landlords.
Frank is a retired Engineer. He was born close to the border between England and Wales and lived and worked in Coventry, North East Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. His work also took him to both Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic and to South Africa. Since retiring he has lived in County Laois in the Republic of Ireland where he paints, writes and gardens.
His first novel, "Honest Hearts", was written after reading about a Laois born man who became a gold miner in the Klondike and Alaska. Frank researched various aspects of life in North America at the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in order to provide authentic settings and experiences for his principal characters.
His second novel, "Summer Day", is set in 1947 in a small rural community, similar to that in which he grew up. It follows a small boy and his dog as they try to evade family members and others seeking him following a tragic accident.
"Strongbow's Wife" follows the events of the Norman occupation of Ireland in the latter part of the 12th century as seen through the eyes of the young woman given in marriage in return for Strongbow's leadership of the invasion.
"Transgression" deals with the changes in attitudes to sex and sexuality in Great Britain over the past 70 years and features a member of the British Parliament terrified his secret liaison with a young woman 40 years ago will be revealed.
In non-fiction, "A Purgatory of Misery" is an attempt to explain the historical, cultural and social context for the Irish famine of the mid-nineteenth century.
USA Today bestselling author Jenifer Ruff has crafted over fifteen gripping mystery-thriller and suspense novels that have captivated readers worldwide. Known for her intricate, twisty plots and compelling character development, Jenifer's work includes the award-winning Agent Victoria Heslin Series.
Visit Jenruff .com for more information and a world of page-turning intrigue and suspense.
USA Today bestselling author Dan Alatorre has published more than 50 titles and is read in over a dozen languages around the world.
His fast-paced thrillers have gripped readers all over the globe, notably his USA Today bestseller Gamma Sequence medical thriller series, his successful murder mystery Double Blind series, the new Jett Thacker mystery series, and more. Readers can't put his books down.
Dan resides in the Tampa area with his wife and daughter.
Check out his Readers Club at DanAlatorre.com and find out about new releases before anyone else!
NEW! Jett Thacker Mysteries, a murder mystery series
- Tiffany Lynn Is Missing
- Killer In The Dark
The Gamma Sequence, a medical thriller series
- The Gamma Sequence
- Rogue Elements
- Terminal Sequence
- The Keepers
- Dark Hour
Double Blind, a murder mystery thriller series
- Double Blind
- Primary Target
- Third Degree
Horror Anthology series:
- Dark Passages
- Dark Voodoo
- Dark Intent
- Dark Thoughts
- Shadowland
- Wings & Fire
- Spellbound
- Nightmareland
- Dark Visions
- The Box Under The Bed
Paranormal Thriller/Horror:
- A Place Of Shadows
Sci Fi Time Travel Adventure:
- The Navigators
Comedy Romance:
- The Italian Assistant
And many more!
Allison is a YA and mystery/suspense author, blogger, teacher, mom, wife, coffee and wine consumer, and owl enthusiast. Her blog includes humor posts, short stories, and posts on writing strategy, parenting, and teaching.
www.allisonmaruska.com
Joanne Larner was born in London and moved to Rayleigh in Essex (UK) in 2001. She has wanted to write a novel since the age of thirteen and finally managed it in 2015. She was helped by two things: National Novel Writing Month and Richard III. Richard was her inspiration and she became fascinated by him when she saw the Channel 4 documentary 'The King in the Car Park' in February 2013. She researched his life and times and read countless novels, but became fed up because they all ended the same way - with his death at the Battle of Bosworth.
So she decided to write a different type of Richard story and added a time travel element. The rest is (literally) history. She found his character seemed to write itself and with NaNoWriMo giving her the impetus to actually DO it, she succeeded.
Then came two sequels, making 'Richard Liveth Yet' a trilogy - a kind of 'Back to the Future' with Richard III!
She was asked by Susan Lamb, another Ricardian author, to collaborate on a humorous book about Richard, 'Dickon's Diaries', where Richard (aka Dickon) narrates in Olde Englishe the escapades of his household at his castle of 'Muddleham'. You can see the type of humour used on our Facebook page, Dickon for his Dames: https://www.facebook.com/Dickiethird/
In 2017 one of her Ricardian short stories was accepted for inclusion in an anthology of scary stories edited by Dan Alatorre: The Box Under the Bed
Transplanted from the monochromatic weather of the Silicon Valley with her hubby and kiddo, T.A. Henry now thrives in the rain and thunder of the Pacific Northwest. While a degree in History did not provide a lucrative career, it did teach this author how to research with the best of them. She reads non-fiction constantly and likes to use everything she absorbs as fodder for another novel.
I love writing, it`s my passion. My genres include fantasy, horror, urban fantasy, and a mixture of all those. I love telling stories;period. I am married to my wonderful wife, who is my rock. Our daughter and our dog, german shepherd collie cross, are also my passions. To experience a moment of pure love is to experience the world.
Creativity is something I couldn`t live without.
I am also a Supernatural geek, and love my music. Punk, Goth, Rockabilly and visual Kei music from Japan.
The paranormal is my normal.
oh, and I also totally believe in faeries.
Heather is not just an author. She is also a poet, a traveller, a photographer, a musician, a free spirit, an adventurer, a thrill seeker, a cycling nut, a wife and a mother. She wears all these hats with confidence and style and brings her entire self to everything she does.
She has cycled across entire countries, camped under freeways, trekked the Himalaya with a baby on her back, lived in a bamboo hut on a Thai beach, worked as a cleaner in a motel, taught English to the Japanese, and been executive assistant to a Deputy Prime Minister of Australia. There’s nothing she can’t do or won’t try – at least twice. If she doesn’t know, she makes it her mission to find out.
Heather currently lives on the Mid North Coast of NSW, Australia with her partner, Iain.
Anne Marie Andrus has been an equestrienne, chorale singer, EMT, and baseball fan.
Roaming the back roads of New Jersey with her family, she found great respect for antiques, historical locations and the stories they hold. Her current list of favorite pastimes include coffee, bourbon, and Les Miserables--which requires more bourbon. She has been known to attend sporting events just for the flyover.
The inspiration for Anne Marie's series, Monsters & Angels, is her fascination with the supernatural and her passion for everything New Orleans.
Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read book recommendations and more.
I've always maintained that life is what you make it.
My Internet articles, stories, and photography combined have won well over 100 Editor Awards.
As an advocate of self-publishing and through writing contests sponsored and edited by Amazon's bestselling author Dan Alatorre, I came to be part of "The Box Under the Bed" horror genre anthology. "Dark Visions" and "Nightmareland," two other Alatorre productions, also include my story contributions.
Other short stories I've written in several different genres appear on my WordPress blogs, as well as chapters from my handcrafted Novels In A Nutshell and excerpts from my self-published novels.
My photography awards may be found a WordPress - My County Fair Exhibit - and at Pixoto.
A list of all my article and photography blogs may be found at WordPress - My Writing Life Xposed.
I'm a graduate of the correspondent Famous Writers School of Westport, Connecticut, in Fiction Writing (1968); a certificate graduate of The University of Toledo Continuing Education's "How to Write Contemporary Fiction" (1995); the Writer's Digest School's "The Novel Writing Workshop" (1997); and WDS's "Writing and Selling Short Stories" (2002.)
For a number of years, in two different stints, I was employed as a reporter/photographer by the Northwest-Signal in Napoleon, Ohio and by other newspapers local to my native Ohio area.
From 1972 to 1980, I lived in Vermont and participated in the establishment of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church near the twin cities of Barre and Montpelier.
Back in Ohio, while employed at local factories, I edited and published stories submitted by young writers across the country to my self-published children's magazine, "Connections."
Born in Napoleon, Henry County, Ohio, I grew up in the nearby small farm communities of Malinta, Grelton, and Holgate, where I graduated in 1964. In 2008, I retired in Napoleon, where I continue my writing and photography endeavors.
Christine is an author, teacher, blogger, black cat aficionado and horror lover. She is a recipient of the Tennessee Williams Literature Award and the Writer's Digest Short Story Award. She holds degrees in English and Education. Check out Christine's horror stories in all volumes of 'The Box Under the Bed' series. If you dare!
Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read book recommendations and more.
Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read book recommendations and more.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find this horror anthology to be a remarkable collection of ghastly tales, with one review noting its interesting twists. The book is well-written and deeply descriptive, making it a fun and worthwhile read. They appreciate the author diversity, with one customer highlighting the potential of the 20 contributing authors.
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Customers enjoy the stories in this anthology, describing it as a remarkable collection of scary tales and a great spooky anthology for all.
"...stories include ‘a chilling ride on a ghost ship, experience eerie daydreams and psychotic killers, explore haunted houses, and send the deceased to..." Read more
"...Plausible horror without excessive gore. A tale-within-a-tale that is deeply descriptive and engaging. What I didn’t Like: ***..." Read more
"...Although they were all good stories, my favorites were:..." Read more
"...styles -- poetic and scary; touching and chilling; adventurous and frightening; vengeful and historical -- so something for just about everyone...." Read more
Customers find the book worth the money, describing it as a fun read that makes the entire experience worthwhile, with one customer noting it's perfect for a dark and lonely night.
"...This is a good read for anyone in the mood to try out new authors with a taste for short stories on the darker side." Read more
"...A tale-within-a-tale that is deeply descriptive and engaging. What I didn’t Like: ***Spoiler Alert*** The POV needs some work...." Read more
"This book was really great! I love to read but don’t always have the time to get wrapped up in a book...." Read more
"...are of various styles -- poetic and scary; touching and chilling; adventurous and frightening; vengeful and historical -- so something for just..." Read more
Customers find the book well written and deeply descriptive, with one customer specifically praising Eric Daniel Clarke's poetic prose.
"...It’s well written and pulls the reader into the mind of the protagonist. The utter hopelessness she feels, the urgent need for something new, better...." Read more
"...Most are very well-written with great endings, though there are a few that are obviously first chapters of books; however, one of the latter stands..." Read more
"...author, with a link to additional works so you can easily read more from your favorites. Great choice for Halloween and fall book clubs!" Read more
"...The selections and the order that they were published made for a smooth read with loads of interesting twists. Looking forward to more of these..." Read more
Customers appreciate the diversity of authors in the anthology, with one customer noting it's a great way to discover new writers.
"...Since there are 20 contributing authors, you’re sure to find a few with a writing style you enjoy!..." Read more
"...I'd say these authors have a lot of potential and they should keep writing because with some tweaks this could have been really good instead of so-..." Read more
"...I on the other hand enjoyed reading various authors." Read more
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2017Author and humorist Dan Alatorre became a first-time dad at the age of 47 - a daughter by the name of Savvy. His comedic debut book "Savvy Stories" tells humorous tales about a loving dad who sees the magic in children, and isn't a bumbling stooge about changing diapers like some TV sitcom. Dan was born in Ohio, and graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida before earning an MBA from Tampa College. Dan, Michele and Savvy live in the Tampa area. Beware! There is a problem with reading Dan Alatorre's book - Savvy Stories Series: They are addicting. Few writers today have that keen gift for finding the humor in challenging situations and Dan has a secure place at the top of the heap for comedic writing. He knows how youngsters think, and better ye he knows how to appreciate their joyful outlook ...and wisdom.
Now. After his many successes in writing humor Dan turns his attention to the paranormal/ghost/psychic/suspense book genre – and here he succeeds just as well. AN AGEL ON HER SHOULDER and THE NAVIGATORS proved that Dan can not only write fine horror stories but that he also has a wide circle of friends who are successful in the same genre. His frequent editor Allison Maruska joins Dan in this anthology of horror stories – tales of varying length and subject matter for tingling the spine.
Dan and Allison both offer their own stories to the collection and welcome Jenifer Ruff, Lucy Brazier, J. A. Allen, Juliet Nubel, T.A. Henry, Ann Marie Andrus, Heather Hackett, Barbara Anne Helberg, Scott Skipper, Joanne R. Larner, Christine Valentor, Adele Marie Park, Curtis Bausse, Annette Robinson, Frank Parker, Eric Daniel Clarke, and Maribel C. Pagan. AS the synopsis hints, the stories include ‘a chilling ride on a ghost ship, experience eerie daydreams and psychotic killers, explore haunted houses, and send the deceased to their final destination’ and more. The title of the book denotes Allison Maruska’s Prologue and Epilogue to the book and it is of note that Dan is now the editor and the one responsible for the collection. Dan also closes the book with a bonus story THE WATER CASTLE – worth waiting for! The book also comes wit a typical Dan Alatorre note of warning – ‘American and British spelling ahead. It’s not typos. Probably. A few stories words are olde English, too. So there’s that. But only a few. To enhance your reading experience and prevent confusion, I have noted the country of origin for each writer. I agree, it’s sad I had to do that.’
Even in relating horror stories Dan retains his consummate gift of humor. A fine collection, this. Grady Harp, October 17
- Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2017An anthology, especially one featuring several different authors of varying styles and nationalities, is never a sure thing, but the nice thing is the sheer amount variety contained within a single package. The Box Under the Bed is no exception. I eagerly grabbed this collection of scary short stories to help get myself into the Halloween spirit, however, there is plenty in here to enjoy year round.
Not all the stories are as polished as others and there were occasions I skipped ahead, but those that shone made the entire read worthwhile. I didn't even make it to the end before I was looking up specific authors and adding their longer works to my ever growing to be read pile.
This is a good read for anyone in the mood to try out new authors with a taste for short stories on the darker side.
- Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2018A “horror” anthology (and I do use that designation lightly) containing the following stories: ***WARNING*** SPOILERS MAY BE CONTAINED IN THE FOLLOWING
Prologue, The Box Under the Bed part one
Summary:
Two sisters, Tanya and Eileen, have the unwelcomed task of cleaning up their grandparents’ old house and ready it for sale. In the midst of her work, Tanya discovers some odd treasures under Grandpa’s bed.
What I liked:
A stylistic opening to an anthology. What could all those trinkets mean? Nice atmospheric setting. Creepy in just the right way.
What I didn’t Like:
Nothing to dislike here. It’s short and to the point. A nice way to open a suspenseful anthology.
Passion – Jenifer Ruff
Summary:
Young Brooke and family check into a beach resort for a little vacation. Brooke feels an urge for fun she hadn’t had in a long time and goes looking to satisfy that hunger.
What I liked:
It is a well written, fast paced horror story. The author paints an eerie tale that will stay with the reader long after the story is done.
What I didn’t Like:
I’m more of a creep than gore kinda guy. This has more gore than creep. Not on my list of faves, but that’s through no fault of the writer. Just preference.
The Clearer – Allison Maruska
Summary:
When Sasha’s friend Jayla agrees to seek help for her depression, Sasha agrees to watch her house and dog. What she discovers there goes against everything she holds as true. Ghosts converge on the house, and she’s the one they want.
What I liked:
Not at all what I expected, especially in a “horror” anthology, but I was pleasantly surprised. A unique take on the afterlife that actually made me smile.
What I didn’t Like:
Perhaps a bit predictable, but that doesn’t detract from the story. I would have liked a bit more atmosphere and description as well. There is some, but I think it could have used more.
The Death of Mrs. Billen – Dan Alatorre
Summary:
An excerpt from “An Angel On Her Shoulder by Dan Alatorre”. Doug Kenner sits at a train crossing and images flash before him. A woman and her baby, walking toward the train. Is it memory, or a connection to the things we can’t see with our eyes? Dark things.
What I liked:
It’s a good selection to add as part of the anthology. I’ve reviewed the book before on my blog. This still stands out to me as one of the creepier scenes of the book. Fits in with the tone of this story collection. In fact, alone, I think it fits better here than it did in the actual book.
What I didn’t Like:
Nothing to dislike about this story on its own. It works as a creepy, campfire story by itself.
Windows of the Soul – Lucy Brazier
Summary:
A Deputy Head Porter welcomes esteemed anthropologist, and alumnus, Dr. McGee to Old College. In unpacking his things, Dr. McGee unveils an old wooden doll he’s discovered in his research. A doll that he claims has a sketchy history. The Deputy Head Porter soon discovers there is more to the doll that its sketchy history.
What I liked:
Funny in ways that horror stories like this aren’t usually funny. The reactions of the main character come across to me more realistic than most horror story/movie characters. And the ending? Priceless.
And, I’m a cat person. This is just one more reason why everyone should be one. Just sayin’.
What I didn’t Like:
I would have like more in names than just Deputy Head Porter and Head Porter. Again, a bit predictable in the tale, save for the ending. We need more endings like this. (That should be part of the What I Liked section, but it flowed with my thought here).
Cassie – J. A. Allen
Summary:
The Red Death, a global plague, has wiped out most of the world’s population. One enclave of survivors eke out an existence on an island, cutoff from the rest of the world. When a broken ship arrives off the coast, protocol demands it be destroyed immediately. But when survivor Jackson spots a woman on board alone, he risks breaking protocol to find out more about her. Thing is, he might risk a lot more.
What I liked:
This story really intrigued me with the thought of how much we are willing to risk just to feel like we’re not alone. The things not said paint a bigger picture of the worldwide devastation than any info dump/backstory could have done.
What I didn’t Like:
Too short. Out of all the stories, so far, this is one that I wish would have had a bit more to it. There wasn’t enough tension. There is some, definitely, but not enough.
The Next One – Allison Maruska
Summary:
A dead body, an unnamed narrator, an unidentified killer. Who are any of them? Who will be next?
What I liked:
This is flash fiction to the extreme. I like flash fiction. The unanswered questions it leaves lingering in your mind. It kickstarts the imagination, and who knows where it will go.
What I didn’t Like:
This is a bit disorienting. But, there’s not a lot here to grasp for dislike or like. It serves its purpose, as flash fiction does.
Lovingly He Held Her Head Underwater – Juliet Nubel
Summary:
A man murdering his wife? For infidelity? Is everything as it seems?
What I liked:
The surprise ending. This one was definitely not predictable, especially in a horror anthology. Disturbing from the beginning, the end changes the entire tone. It raises questions that have no easy answers.
What I didn’t Like:
The writing could use some tightening, but otherwise this is a good story.
LabStor – T.A. Henry
Summary:
Divorce Lawyer Scott joins his wife at a University science party. While she chats away with grad students and faculty, he has a chance encounter with a beautiful woman. They flirt and she invites him to her office. Is this the fling he’d been hoping for, or something more sinister?
What I liked:
I do apologize, but I didn’t enjoy this one. Was it well written? Yes, I’ll give it that. A bit repetitious (how many time can a woman’s skirt shift open?), but otherwise professional. I do have to say that I liked the lack of gore and the focus on tension.
What I didn’t Like:
Again, predictability. You know what’s going to happen the from the first moment Scott lays eyes on Alison. While the author tried to use tension in the story, unfortunately it was spent on sexual tension instead of fright/fear. The big reveal played logically, but not emotionally.
Cobalt Point – Anne Marie Ardrus
Summary:
A young woman inherits an old mansion from a woman she didn’t know. Only, she’s not the only one.
What I liked:
The characters are interesting, and relatable. There is a lot of mystery here, and it’s a great scene from a larger work.
What I didn’t Like:
It’s not a horror story. At least, though it’s an excerpt, there’s nothing horror/scary about it. I liked it, but it doesn’t quite fit the rest of the anthology.
Mind Games – Heather Hackett
Summary:
A young woman’s hero turns out to be the villain bent on breaking her will and self-reliance.
What I liked:
The look into a woman’s emotional state in an abusive relationship is core to this story…
What I didn’t Like:
That said, there isn’t enough emotional pull in this. Not enough connection to the protagonist. The events described are horrific (though not a horror story), but there isn’t much investment demanded from the reader. Which, is horrible to even write that given the subject matter.
Interlock – Barbara Anne Helberg
Summary:
The journal of a killer? An investigation into the actions of an investigator? Crazed love gone awry? Interlock is a story about all of this. I think.
What I liked:
Unique. This story is definitely unique. It leaves you guessing what exactly is going on, even after you’ve finished reading it. I like stories that leave me with questions.
What I didn’t Like:
But, there were too many questions for me. Note: This is probably purely preference and not an indictment on the author’s skill. However, I was, and am, totally confused on what happened here and who it happened to. I think I know, but I can’t be sure. I understand the desired twist, but there are crucial elements missing for it to be a fully effective twist.
Hunter – Allison Maruska
Summary:
A young boy dreams that he is his dead older brother…who died before he was born.
What I liked:
An intriguing bit of flash fiction. Not scary, not horror, but definitely a supernatural vibe.
What I didn’t Like:
Again, too quick. Not enough to grab hold of here. Flash fiction is, by definition, quick, but it delivers a punch that satisfies. While I can’t fault the author in this story, not sure if it delivered the emotional shock/punch that such a story intended. Again, a preference rather than writing skill issue.
The Stainless Steel Coffin – Scott Skipper
Summary:
Some customer demands can be more than a nightmare. Said to be a “true story”.
What I liked:
The author’s writing style flows nicely and the story clips along at a good pace. This is dark humor, and it is funny in many parts. Nothing in the story goes beyond the plausible, even if it does reach some borderline absurdity.
What I didn’t Like:
Have to say it, but it grates me to no end when God or Jesus’s name is used as profanity. I know I’m old-fashioned that way, but it does. It can mark down a story for me quite a bit.
Repercussions – Joanne R. Larner
Summary:
One man’s betrayal is the devastation of an entire nation. A historical fiction look at the rise of Henry Tudor and the fall of King Richard.
What I liked:
I admit, it’s been a long time since I’ve studied any British history – and I’ve forgotten the little that is taught. This look into the ugly exchange of kings is interesting, though I will investigate what is true and what is a fiction author’s design. Still, it intrigued me.
What I didn’t Like:
Not much to dislike here. The pacing was a bit off at time, though. The switch in narration at times (slipped from 3rd person deep POV to a bit outside narrator a couple of times) needs some tightening. Other than those minor things, it read well. Again, not a horror tale really, though horrific in consequence.
Jack and Mary – Christine Valentor
Summary:
A tale of Jack the Ripper and Mary Kelly, told from their POVs.
What I liked:
I’ve got to be honest, I didn’t care for this one. The writing kept to first POV without any discernable problems.
What I didn’t Like:
The gore was too much for me. That’s a preference. The pacing, especially from Jack’s POV, dragged. There was too much telling, up until we reach Mary Kelly. The pacing picked up there. But again, the whole of the story gave too much detail into the gore. This is a horror story, true.
Genetic Aberrations – Adele Marie Park
Summary:
A young woman inherits her grandmother’s home. Did she inherit much more than just a house?
What I liked:
***Spoiler Alert*** I like the hopeful end of this, the connection between the woman and the house was a nice touch.
What I didn’t Like:
The strength of the writing was not there. There wasn’t enough tension, not enough emotion. The possibility for a deeper, rawer story exists, but is never delivered.
The Right Place – Curtis Bausse
Summary:
8 year old Susan sees things differently than most. People. Places. Including what might be the right place for her.
What I liked:
This was unique. Unlike anything I’ve read in a long, long time. The descriptions and atmosphere were pretty spot on.
What I didn’t Like:
The ending. Sorry, but no, I didn’t like it. Preference, yes, but still…come on…
Fireflies – Allison Maruska
Summary:
A night of pretend firefly catching becomes a spiritual awakening for a woman and her daughter.
What I liked:
Where do I start? Everything about this story is what a short story should be – the emotion, the pacing, the hints and pay-offs.
What I didn’t like:
Another story that doesn’t seem to fit a horror anthology, but it is such a good story that it doesn’t matter.
Betrayal – Annette Robinson
Summary:
A British journalist charged with finding out all she can about the German war machine in World War II falls in love with a French spy. Did she find the love of her life, or something more?
What I Liked:
It’s an intriguing tale – along the lines of old war movies about crazy mixed up lovers on the wrong sides of a war bigger than the both of them.
What I didn’t Like:
Too much time spent on tantalizing the reader. Thankfully, nothing graphic, but if some equal effort was spent on the tension and emotional torment, it would have been a better story. Also, this is another story that makes me scratch my head and wonder why it’s part of a horror anthology.
The Fateful Voyage of Patrick O’Brien – Frank Parker
Summary:
A gentleman shares a carriage ride with an old mariner who regales him with a tale of the sea to freeze the blood of any living person.
What I liked:
This has the markers of a classic scare story, one to tell around the campfire. Plausible horror without excessive gore. A tale-within-a-tale that is deeply descriptive and engaging.
What I didn’t Like:
***Spoiler Alert*** The POV needs some work. Not sure how the old man telling the story would get into the head of young Patrick to give him the life and agency that the character has, giving that the character doesn’t survive to tell the story from his POV to the old man. The events of the disaster at sea, sure, others could have told, but not with the same view as Patrick.
Destination Reached – Eric Daniel Clarke
Summary:
What happens when a man gives in to his desires? What price is he required to pay?
What I liked:
The poetic styling of this tale is unique and intriguing. It draws the reader in.
What I didn’t Like:
It’s hard to say. While I appreciate the lack of gore and graphic sex, the sexual charge of the story is still heavy. Perhaps that’s the point, though. The fate of those that live by that strong of a desire, to let temptation control you, can be life-destroying.
Diamond’s Promise – Allison Maruska
Summary:
A young girl takes driving lessons from her brother, and she’ll never forget them.
What I liked:
Another gem from Allison here – and, no, I didn’t mean the pun. A tale full of heart. Regret, pain, and hope all rolled together. Like life.
What I didn’t Like:
Not a dislike, but like other tales (notably from Allison), this isn’t a horror story. I like it a lot better than those that fit the horror story motif, but not sure if it should be in a horror anthology.
The Last Time She Saw Her Brother – Maribel C. Pagan
Summary:
A young woman recalls the one time she saw her brother when she was a toddler. Now, he remains hidden away in a room next to hers. What secrets lay hidden there, and what will she discover if the room opens?
What I liked:
Interesting that this follows immediately after Maruska’s Diamond’s Promise. Another tale of a young girl missing her brother. It’s short and sweet and full of emotion.
What I didn’t Like:
***Spoiler Alert*** Plausibility. Would a family keep such a secret from their daughter this long? Could they? While the tale is well-told, I can’t bring myself to buy-in on the premise. Also, not a horror story, but that isn’t a mark against it.
The Blind Tattooist – Allison Maruska
Summary:
Brit is dragged to a tattoo parlor by her friend. Reluctant as she is, the experience will change her life.
What I liked:
There is a theme with Allison’s tales. Shorter than most of the other stories in the anthology, they have a stronger punch. They are not horror, but spiritual in a way. They use the supernatural to make lasting emotional imprints on the reader. No exception with this one, either.
What I didn’t Like:
I feel like a broken record, but this is not horror. I prefer it, though.
Three Seconds of Grace – Anne Marie Andrus
Summary:
A young woman, long abused and disillusioned by the city of New Orleans, seeks to escape. A new life, freedom, anything but the nightmare she’d lived for so long. Will that freedom come from an unexpected place?
What I liked:
An excerpt from a larger book, this works as a short story – to a point. It’s well written and pulls the reader into the mind of the protagonist. The utter hopelessness she feels, the urgent need for something new, better. A release. Freedom. The reader can feel all of it.
What I didn’t Like:
I say this works as a short story, to a point. The point where it all falls apart is that there are too many questions left unanswered – and not in the normal way a flash fiction piece or short story conjures up questions. Too many plot holes that are probably filled with the longer book. That’s probably a preference problem, though.
Hair Razor – Carrie Ann Alexis
Summary:
Two hairstylists open up their very first salon after. They buy an older salon, abandoned after the death of the former owner. The place is perfect for everything they want, but the agent warns them the place might be haunted. Could there be more to this little salon than they had hoped?
What I liked:
It’s an engaging story. To walk with the main characters from when they buy the salon, through renovations, their grand opening, and beyond makes for a great story. The supernatural flair, mischievous more than malevolent, adds a nice touch. Not really a horror story, but the tension (albeit small) does keep the reader wondering at what will happen.
What I didn’t Like:
For a good portion of the story, the character of Michael seems stereotypical. The effeminate male hairstylist. While it doesn’t move away from this depiction, the story does finally add some depth to him. And heart. However, Nita could use a good dose of character development, too.
Mondays Are Who You Really Are – Lucy Brazier
Summary:
Benjamin Mountain, Legend, is adored by everyone. He showers his greatness on all he meets, except his wife. She only wishes everyone could see him the way she does, before he puts on his legend façade. One day, she gets her wish. Only, is this what she really wants?
What I liked:
A funny little tale that claims to have no moral to it, though there might be one lurking in there somewhere. The end does throw a nice little wrench in an otherwise predictable tale.
What I didn’t Like:
The POV dances around so much in this tale that it left me dizzy. Narrator to Eunice to Benjamin and around and around. Still, it was enjoyable enough to overlook this.
Epilogue, The Box Under the Bed part two
Summary:
The two sisters from the beginning of the anthology, Tanya and Eileen, take grandpa’s box of treasures and discover a collection of his stories. Each item in the box correlates to a story he wrote. They lose hours and themselves in the stories, closing the anthology with another tale that is more heart than horror.
What I liked:
It gave a good ending to the collection of stories. Short, to the point, and satisfying.
What I didn’t Like:
Nothing to dislike here.
Conclusion:
Honestly, this feels like it should have been called the Allison Maruska and Friends Anthology. A fifth of them were written by her, though that might actually be a strength for the whole book. There are a few diamonds in the rough in this collection, usually those that don’t actually fit the normal definition of a horror story. Overall, this anthology would better fit under a simple Supernatural heading than horror. There were some good creep factors, but some stories decided on gore rather than scare. Were there bad stories, yes. Not enough for me to tell others not to read it, though. The diamonds, the strong stories, are well worth the cost of the book alone.
Top reviews from other countries
- ChrissieReviewed in Canada on December 8, 2019
3.0 out of 5 stars Short stories with little depth.
Stories with no plot or endings. A few were pretty good. Many different authors. Not close to memorable. Quick read
- MargaretReviewed in Australia on August 21, 2018
5.0 out of 5 stars Stories before sleep
A wonderful collection of stories where I kept thinking 'just one more before I go to sleep' and just kept going till I couldn't stay awake any longer!
-
NightreaderReviewed in Germany on January 3, 2018
1.0 out of 5 stars Eine Rezension für ein kaum gelesenes Buch ist vielleicht unfair...
...aber mir ist bereits bei den ersten zwei "scary stories" dermaßen das Kotzen gekommen, dass ich mir den Rest geschenkt habe. Die Idee - zwei Erbinnen finden unter dem Bett des verstorbenen Großvaters eine Schachtel mit seltsamem Krimskrams, wobei jeder Gegenstand zu einer Geschichte gehört - ist zwar ausgezeichnet, aber nachdem schon in der ersten Geschichte zwei Opfer lebendig obduziert werden ... Nein danke. Muss nicht alles haben.
- Chris GrahamReviewed in the United Kingdom on September 15, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent bite size reads.
The stories range from the downright creepy, to the thought provoking, but every one of them is a little gem.
They’re also an excellent way to showcase the talents of the various writers, most of whom I’ll be checking out further.
- Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United Kingdom on May 20, 2018
4.0 out of 5 stars Short stories
Most of the stories were good but some of them were nonsensicle.On the whole,not a bad book