Tag Archives: Horror

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The Rule of Three

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I thoroughly enjoyed the Kindle World books as they offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the narrative from the perspectives of various authors. Specifically, the setting of the Extinction Cycle series takes a dramatic turn in New Zealand, providing a stark contrast to the familiar landscapes of America. This geographical shift introduces readers to a distinct terrain that significantly influences the story, and the author does a commendable job of vividly describing the environment, allowing us to visualize the challenges the characters face in this rugged landscape.

The characters, however, felt somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the depth often found in more intricate stories. While we gain a clearer understanding of the couple at the center of the narrative, their personalities and backgrounds could benefit from greater elaboration to enhance emotional investment in their journey.

Jack Gee, the protagonist, finds himself hiking through the breathtaking New Zealand mountains, blissfully unaware of the catastrophic events unfolding globally as the deadly virus approaches his remote location. His peaceful trek is abruptly interrupted when he receives a frantic call from his wife, Dee, pleading for him to return home immediately. This moment serves as a powerful catalyst, forcing Jack to abandon his adventure and rush back, only to face unforeseen detours along the way. His capture adds an intense layer of suspense, leaving him to devise a precarious escape plan that could jeopardize his very life.

Meanwhile, Dee Gee is not having an easy time either. She has barricaded herself within the confines of their home in Hamilton, retreating to the safety of the basement. Resourceful and determined, she has managed to mask her presence from the terrifying Variants that roam outside. When she witnesses a terrified group fleeing from the creatures, her instinct to help overrides her caution, leading her to invite them into her already precarious refuge. However, as the days pass and her supplies begin to dwindle, she faces a chilling reality: Jack has yet to return. Faced with the grim prospects of starvation, she realizes the necessity of leaving the basement behind, armed only with her Katana for protection. Her hope is twofold: to survive the treacherous outside world and, against the odds, find her husband amidst the chaos.

The series unfolds across three parts, allowing readers ample time to connect with a broader array of surviving characters. Throughout the narrative, there are numerous pop culture and movie references that enrich the storytelling experience. Additionally, I noticed a range of parallels to familiar zombie-themed media, encompassing various shows, films, and literature. While these similarities are apparent, they do not detract from the intrigue of the storyline but rather add layers of enjoyment for fans of the genre. Overall, this is a captivating read, and I find myself eagerly anticipating how the complete story will unfold in subsequent installments.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

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Deadlocked

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This marks my first encounter with the author A.R. Wise, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with this debut. Wise expertly crafts a gripping narrative filled with intense zombie scenes and resilient characters navigating this tumultuous world. From the very first pages, where we are introduced to the protagonist, David, I found myself immersed in the story, right up to the poignant conclusion that reveals his wife’s unexpected strength and determination.

The setting is a classic portrayal of a sprawling urban landscape, surrounded by water and filled with the remnants of civilization. The city’s infrastructure has crumbled, leaving cars as unreliable modes of transportation, which adds another layer of tension to an already perilous situation.

David’s harrowing journey unfolds as he finds himself trapped in his office when the zombie outbreak erupts without warning. Meanwhile, his wife and daughters are stranded atop their home, anxiously waiting for his return, hoping against hope that he will reach them before it’s too late. The narrative follows David as he traverses the chaos-stricken city, battling not only the relentless hordes of zombies but also the sinister individuals who exploit the apocalypse for their gain.

Brian Sutherland deserves commendation for his skillful character development, bringing to life a diverse cast of individuals, both male and female. Each character is vividly portrayed, adding depth to the story and eliciting empathy from the reader. This thrilling tale is sure to resonate with a wide audience, offering a captivating mix of suspense, emotion, and human resilience. It’s a journey worth experiencing, and I believe many readers will find it deeply enjoyable.

My rating: ☠☠☠☠☠

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The Bone Collector

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I have always been an enthusiastic fan of the Extinction Cycle series, so I was eager to dive into this new installment that enriches the series’ mythology. The character at the center of this story is one who remained underexplored in the original books, making it all the more intriguing to finally gain insight into his life before and after his transformation. Initially, the narrative didn’t captivate me right away, but as the plot unfolded, I found myself engrossed in the journey that reveals how events transpired not only for him but also for his companions.

The story revolves around Blake Chambers, a man who had wished for death just six weeks before the world around him crumbled. Ironically, in the wake of apocalyptic chaos, Blake struggles to recall the dark thoughts that once plagued him, as his mind has suffered too many injuries—each blow resulting in lost memories and relentless pain. The stakes heighten when Dwight shows up at his door, delivering shocking news: the world as Blake knew it is gone, everyone he once knew is dead, and terrifying monsters now roam the land. He can’t grasp the full weight of Dwight’s words, as he has been lost in a deep sleep for an extended period, wrapped in his own personal turmoil.

For avid readers of Nicholas Sansbury Smith’s novels, this book is a seamless integration into the established timeline, spotlighting significant events that align with the existing narrative. I appreciated this entry immensely, as it not only reconnected me with beloved characters but also deepened my understanding of their relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Bone Collector—a figure who looms large in the series. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that added layers to the tragic yet compelling universe of Extinction Cycle.

My rating: 💀💀💀💀

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Drunken Fireworks

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This book caught me completely off guard, not just in terms of its content but also in how much I genuinely enjoyed it. I typically don’t read much in the way of humor, and I had never considered exploring a humorous work by Stephen King before. However, it turns out he has a real talent for this genre. The main character is a fascinating archetype, one that feels all too familiar; you can probably recall meeting someone just like him at least once in your life.

Set against the backdrop of Maine, the story immerses us in a world full of quirky locals and the summer tourists who arrive each year, bringing with them their own unique brand of eccentricity.

The central figure, Alden, lives with his mother, a widow since the passing of his father. Their lives were expected to become a struggle following his father’s death, as they had always existed on the financial precipice. Surprisingly, however, he had invested wisely in a thorough insurance policy, which left them in a comfortable position. Just when things seem like they couldn’t get better, Alden’s mother finds herself winning the lottery—a stroke of luck that catapults them into a new realm of affluence.

This unexpected wealth allows them to enjoy a life of indulgence, particularly during the summer months, where they engage in a rather ridiculous feud with their neighbors. Yet, in true storytelling fashion, this newfound wealth and leisure lead to unexpected complications, sending their lives into a spiral of chaos.

The narrative is voiced by Tim Sample, who excels at bringing the character of the laid-back Alden to life with his unique storytelling style. He balances this with a compelling rendition of Alden’s mother, Mrs. McCausland, along with the diverse cast of side characters who flit in and out of their lives, enriching the tapestry of this humorous and unpredictable tale.

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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The Undead

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This short story is a compelling introduction to a cast of characters who each grapple with their own challenges as they fight for survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Dan Morgan shines in his role as the narrator, artfully bringing each character to life through distinct vocal performances that truly capture their personalities and temperaments. The story artfully balances moments of gripping action and gore with light-hearted banter and genuine camaraderie among the survivors, which adds depth to their relationships.

As the story unfolds, we follow Howie and his band of survivors after a harrowing day spent fending off a relentless horde of undead. As the sun begins to set, casting eerie shadows over the abandoned landscape, they realize the urgent need to find a safe place to shelter from the impending night. In their search, they navigate through the desolate remnants of a once-bustling town, finally arriving at an industrial estate. Here, they manage to break into a seemingly forgotten building and stumble upon an old, abandoned radio station, which offers both a refuge and a poignant reminder of the world that once was.

Inside the radio station, the group decides to record their thoughts and experiences for posterity, leaving behind a testament to their struggles and resilience. This moment of reflection serves not only as a coping mechanism but also as a means to connect with whatever remains of humanity.

Among them, we’re introduced to Howie, the group’s de facto leader who carries the weight of responsibility; Dave, who provides a witty counterbalance to the tension; and Meredith, the loyal dog, who adds warmth and comfort to their grim journey.

This engaging narrative has certainly piqued my interest in the series, as I find myself already invested in the characters and eager to follow their adventures further.

My rating: 💖💖💖💖💖

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To Hell in a Handbasket

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This is the first time I have immersed myself in the work of this author, despite having heard quite a bit about her talent and reputation. The characters in the story are captivating, though there’s an underlying juvenile quality to them that lingers even as they transition into adulthood. The adults in the narrative often come across as vindictive, which adds a layer of complexity but can be frustrating at times. While the plot itself is engaging and constructed well, there are moments when it feels like crucial backstory and deeper character insights are missing. Personally, I’ve never been a fan of short chapters; they tend to disrupt the flow of the story for me, making it feel like I’m flipping through many more pages than necessary.

The narrative begins with Tim Robertson as a child, showcasing a poignant moment from his youth. Along with his best friend, Damien, Tim embarks on a small yet ambitious venture selling cookies in their neighborhood to raise funds for an upcoming field trip. One fateful day, after a rather underwhelming sales effort, the boys decide to approach one final house before an impending storm rolls in. This house, directly across the street from Tim’s own home, belongs to two elderly ladies who are known in the neighborhood for their distinctive blue 1957 Cadillac parked prominently out front. When Damien volunteers to go inside the house to collect payment for the cookies, he mysteriously never reappears. As Tim stands outside, feeling a growing sense of unease, the unexpected strikes: he is hit by lightning for the first time.

Fast forward twenty years, and Tim still grapples with the trauma and unanswered questions surrounding his friend’s disappearance. Now a married man with a son whom he has named after Damien, Tim finds it hard to shake off the shadows of his past. Life takes another twist when the house across the street is sold, and the new residents eerily resemble the same elderly ladies from his childhood. As Tim’s life begins to unravel, he seeks someone to blame, fixating on these women from the past. However, he learns that the cycles of blame and the thirst for vengeance can have unforeseen and devastating consequences.

While I had the impression that this story aimed to evoke fear, perhaps I’ve become too jaded or desensitized to be easily frightened. I do hope that as I delve deeper into more works by this author, the intensity and scariness increase. I suspect others might experience this narrative on a more visceral level, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to explore it. Enjoy the read, and brace yourself for what comes next…

My rating: 🦋🦋🦋🦋

“He couldn’t escape that eerie feeling in the bottom of his stomach. It had been there for a long time now. Since the day he pulled that triathlete out of the river. It was like he was just waiting for something terrible to happen, like his entire life was on a direct course for disaster. What was it his grandmother always called it? Oh, yeah—it felt like it was all going to Hell in a Handbasket.”

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Nightmares and Dreamscapes Vol. 1

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I recently delved into a captivating anthology that presents an impressive collection of stories, each showcasing the diverse talents of various narrators. While I found the overall experience enjoyable, I hesitated to assign it a perfect rating of 5 stars. After careful consideration and evaluation of each story on its own merits, my average rating settled around 3.7 stars. However, in keeping with the practice of rounding up, I ultimately decided on a final score that reflects my appreciation for the anthology as a whole.

The anthology is thoughtfully divided into three distinct volumes, and the first volume neatly contains eight stories of varying lengths. Each narrative offers its own unique flavor, aided by a talented ensemble of narrators who breathe life into the tales with their distinctive vocal skills. One of my personal joys while listening was attempting to guess the identity of each narrator based solely on their signature voices—a delightful challenge that added another layer to my listening experience.

Among the standout stories in this volume is “Suffer the Little Children,” masterfully narrated by the esteemed Whoopi Goldberg. This chilling tale centers on Mrs. Sidley, a long-serving teacher who begins to notice unsettling changes in her classroom, particularly in her students’ behaviors. Her initial attempts to maintain control spiral into a desperate struggle as she attempts to confront these disturbing developments, leading to a narrative that is as gripping as it is unsettling. I rated this story a respectable 3 stars, appreciating Goldberg’s ability to impart a sense of dread and urgency to the narrative.

Another noteworthy piece is “Crouch End,” brought to life by the iconic Tim Curry. In this story, we are introduced to an unassuming small town that conceals a menacing secret beneath its surface. As unsuspecting visitors wander through its streets, they are blissfully unaware that the town harbors dangers from which not all can escape. Curry’s compelling narration enhances the eerie atmosphere, skillfully drawing listeners into the tension of the unfolding plot. I was thoroughly impressed, giving this tale a solid rating of 4 stars.

Then there’s “Rainy Season,” narrated by the talented Yeardley Smith, which transports listeners to a quaint Maine town where the locals are acutely aware of the perils associated with a once-in-seven-year rain. Tourists, however, often dismiss the ominous warnings and venture out, leading to terrifying consequences as the dread of the coming rainy season looms ever closer. The sheer intensity and build-up of this chilling thriller deserved every bit of its 5-star rating, and I found myself completely engrossed in the impending doom.

“Dolan’s Cadillac,” narrated by the charismatic Rob Lowe, presents a riveting tale of revenge steeped in tension and dark undertones. Following the brutal murder of a man’s wife—who planned to testify against a ruthless mobster—the protagonist embarks on an elaborate, meticulous scheme to avenge her death. As the plot unfolds, the tension escalates remarkably, particularly as Dolan continues to navigate a life of anonymity, ostensibly evading the repercussions of his heinous actions. This powerful narrative struck a chord with me, earning a notable rating of 4.5 stars for its compelling storytelling and depth of emotion.

In “The House on Maple Street,” narrated by the accomplished Tabitha King, readers follow the Bradbury children as they return home after an extended summer abroad, only to discover something unsettling lurking within their family abode. As they grapple with this eerie and unexpected development, they craft a plan to use this strange phenomenon to confront the emotional turmoil that has taken root in their lives. This intriguing story resonated with me, leading to a thoughtful rating of 3.5 stars as I appreciated its blend of suspense and familial dynamics.

“Umney’s Last Case,” read by the renowned Robert B. Parker, draws listeners into a noir-inspired world where Clyde Umney, a hard-boiled detective, finds his reality shifting in ways that defy his understanding. His encounter with a character named Sam Landry, who shares a poignant reflection on life and the complexities of existence, propels Umney into an existential journey that explores the boundaries of fiction and reality. This complex narrative was engaging, and I awarded it a rating of 4 stars for its deep thematic exploration.

Stephen King also contributes a piece titled “Head Down,” which departs from the traditional short story format and instead presents an essay that delves into the nuances of Little League Baseball. As someone who has never held a particular fondness for baseball, I found this essay to be somewhat lengthy and tedious, leading to a rating of 2.5 stars. It simply did not resonate with me as much as the other narratives.

Lastly, we encounter “Brooklyn August,” which is presented as a poem exploring the theme of baseball. While it offers a unique perspective, it ultimately received a rating of 2.5 stars due to its specialized nature, which might not appeal to all readers or listeners.

In summary, this anthology delivers a rich tapestry of compelling narratives that cater to a variety of tastes. Most of the stories are engaging, and as a long-time admirer of Stephen King’s work, I found this collection to be a rewarding listening experience. I would strongly encourage fans of the genre to consider exploring this anthology, as it has something to offer for many, ranging from eerie thrillers to contemplative explorations of life.

My rating: ⍣⍣⍣⍣

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The Dead Won’t Die

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I made a bit of a mistake by diving into this book before reading the first one in the series—something I’ve done once or twice before. This choice made following some of the plot points and character arcs a bit challenging, yet overall, I found it manageable. However, the pacing of the narrative left something to be desired. At times, the story moved along at a rapid pace, enticing me to read more, only to slow down significantly in certain sections, which affected my engagement.

The characters themselves were well-crafted, but since I missed some of the character development from the previous book, I felt a slight disconnect. Still, the author does provide enough context to give readers a sense of who these individuals are supposed to be, which helped. The world-building is commendable; the towns and countries portrayed in this narrative offer a fresh perspective, straying from the typical settings we often encounter in post-apocalyptic fiction. I particularly appreciated the references to “Stranger in a Strange Land,” one of my all-time favorite science fiction novels. The parallels between that classic and the experiences faced by the characters in this book were striking and resonated well with the themes of alienation and survival.

The story is set against the backdrop of a world irrevocably changed after the dead rose thirty years ago, resulting in the collapse of civilization as we knew it. The devastation left many perished, and those who survived faced the formidable task of rebuilding in the ashes of the old world. The new societies that emerged were often harsh and unforgiving, with governance that could be described as barbaric. In some instances, the punishments meted out seemed disproportionately severe compared to the crimes committed, reflecting a grim reality.

Off the coast of Texas, there lies an island that seems to offer a glimmer of hope for three weary travelers. This refuge could potentially provide salvation for some communities that have struggled to cope with the harshness of their new existence. Yet, typical of seemingly idyllic places, the island harbors dark secrets that are waiting to be unearthed. As our trio begins to uncover the unsettling truths lurking beneath the surface, they face a moral dilemma about how to respond to the shocking developments they learn about.

While I found this book to be a decent read, I must emphasize the importance of starting with the first novel in the series. There are numerous layers to unpack in this story, rich with political intrigue, fascinating technological advancements, and the resilience of ordinary people who have endured thirty years of survival in a transformed world. Having read the first book would have undoubtedly enhanced my understanding and appreciation of the complexities woven throughout this narrative.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟

“Yeah, I know, and that’s the deal here. Jacob, the thing with you is that you look at every problem you see like it’s a nail, and you’ve got the world’s only hammer.” “What? What in the hell does that mean?” “Jacob, don’t yell at me.” “I’m not . . .” He stopped for a second, took a breath, and tried again. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to yell. It’s just, sometimes, I have no idea what you’re talking about.” “It’s a Mark Twain quote. ‘To a man with a hammer, everything looks like a nail.’ ”

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Collected Christmas Horror Shorts

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In evaluating the collection, I would assign an average rating of 4.14 stars, which reflects my personal enjoyment of the individual stories contained within. As one might anticipate in an anthology of this nature, there are stories that shine brightly, others that falter, and a range of narratives that occupy the middle ground. With a total of twenty-nine stories of varying lengths and themes, readers are likely to find selections that resonate with their tastes. However, if you’re specifically seeking something frightening or suspenseful, I must advise against this book, as I found none of the tales genuinely eerie or terrifying. Though it features an ensemble of killers and a certain atmospheric quality, it lacks the spine-chilling thrills that typically accompany horror stories. The only thing that might send shivers down your spine would be the idea of encountering a man in a red suit during the dark of night.

Among the 29 stories, I discovered four that truly captivated me while the remainder fell into the category of mediocre.

One standout is “Tommy’s Christmas” by John R. Little, which presents a compelling twist on the holiday theme. The narrative follows a burglar disguised as Santa Claus who mistakenly invades the wrong home on what is supposed to be a joyous occasion. While the story doesn’t delve into the realm of horror, the clever twist at the end offers a satisfying surprise that elevates the overall experience.

Another noteworthy entry is “The Christmas Spirit” by Lisa Morton. This story explores the unraveling marriage of a couple who, in an effort to rekindle their connection, escape to the rustic country home of an aunt. Upon their arrival, they come across an old book that provides enjoyable entertainment until the plot thickens and complications arise. The story weaves a subtle gothic atmosphere throughout, effectively enhancing the emotional depth and tension as the couple’s adventure unfolds.

These stories, while not overtly scary, each offer unique elements that enrich the anthology, making them stand out among their peers.

‘Psychopathic Remix’ by J.C. Michael I found to be the most fun and macabre thing in this anthology. The Twelve Days of Christmas with a killer twist. I sang instead of just reading it and it was fun.

‘Deck The Halls by Xtina Marie is a nice poem that I liked and think that everyone else will too.

I found the above to be the most creative out the bunch though there were others that were good in their own way.

My rating: ☆☆☆☆

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The Haunting of Ashburn House

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I would likely have rated this book five stars if not for its somewhat slow start; however, once it gained momentum, I found it impossible to put down. The characters are exceptionally well-developed, and as I delved deeper into the story, I genuinely grew attached to their fates. Initially, the main character comes off as somewhat naive and childish, particularly in her attempts to rationalize the unexpected inheritance she has received. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, she gradually evolves into a more mature and relatable figure.

The setting of the story is a small town, which I believe is portrayed quite authentically based on typical small-town dynamics. The plot centers on Adrienne, who unexpectedly inherits Ashburn House from an aunt she had no idea existed, as her mother had always claimed that their family tree ended with her. Adrienne initially dismissed a vivid dream she had about the house as mere fantasy, only to discover that the dream was a prelude to this shocking reality—now the house belongs to her.

However, the seemingly idyllic inheritance is shadowed by ominous rumors and chilling myths surrounding both the house and her late aunt. The narrative reveals a dark history; the town has been haunted by a gruesome family murder committed many years ago, with no one ever brought to justice, and this haunting legacy looms over its residents like a dark cloud. As Adrienne unravels the secrets of her new home, she begins to confront the possibility of ghosts, both literal and metaphorical, as she fights to escape the eerie fate that seems ready to ensnare her.

The ending truly captivated me, completely blindsiding me with a twist I never saw coming. It’s a masterful turn of events that adds an incredible layer to the story. I wholeheartedly hope that others who read this book find as much enjoyment in it as I did!

My rating: ☺☺☺☺