Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Book Spotlight: The Joining: Scenes of Wedding Terror

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:54:00 +0000

Today's book spotlight is the anthology The Joining: Scenes of Wedding Terror edited by Jacob Steven Mohr.

The Joining: Scenes of Wedding Terror

Deadly Beloved, we are gathered here today for The Joining, a horror anthology like nothing you’ve ever read before.

Weddings are beautiful, terrible things. And in this chilling anthology from editor Jacob Steven Mohr (Dead Letters: Episodes of Epistolary Horror), you’ll see the happiest day of your life from both sides of the aisle... and the grave.

Undead bridesmaids feed on more than layer cake. Engagement parties spiral into blood-soaked horror and madness. Guests at a wedding feast must play a sinister Skin Game—for their lives.

Seventeen stories from horror’s rising stars deliver tension, gore and twisted romance, making this anthology perfect for fans of wedding horror. From the crackle of white lace to the blinding flash of the camera, no ceremony is safe in The Joining... and no guest can be trusted.

Curated with precision by Jacob Steven Mohr, The Joining confidently earns its seat at the feast of must-read horror anthologies.

Perfect Union by T.L. Bodine

Severed Blessings by J.A.W. McCarthy

Cut-a-Skin, Outside-In by Jes Malitoris

Of Vows Bone-Deep & Sacrosanct by Jonathan Louis Duckworth

Bride of the Black Isle by Jack Lothian

Another Dirt Wedding by Donn L. Hess

The False Bride by Rebecca Lyons

Speak Now Or— by Gordon B. White

—Forever Hold Your Peace by Steve Neal

Same Barn, Same Groom by Corey Farrenkopf

Ermintrude by Amelia Mangan

Polodski’s Bride by Simon Bestwick

Other People by Scott J. Moses

Starving Stones, Speaking Stones by Joe Koch

The Dead Do Not Want by J.R. Harlow

Samanthas by Jacob Steven Mohr

The Better Man by Michael Harris Cohen

Perfect for fans of wedding horror, supernatural thrillers, and dark suspense, The Joining delivers stories full of tension, gore, and twisted romance. From the crackle of white lace to the flash of the camera, no ceremony is safe—and no guest can be trusted.

Book Link: https://geni.us/TheJoining

About the Editor

Jacob Steven Mohr does not believe in human consciousness; his works emerge as though from the ether, fully formed and fully ominous. Selections of these can be observed in Cosmic Horror Monthly, Shortwave Magazine, Chthonic Matter Quarterly, Weird Horror Magazine, and The Best Horror of the Year Vol. 15. He exists in Columbus OH.

Instagram: @jacobstevenmohr

Book Spotlight: Bloodlines

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:10:00 +0000

Today's book spotlight is for the epic fantasy, Bloodlines by Rafael Canoa. Enjoy.

Bloodlines by Rafael Canoa

In a world forged by gods and divided by blood, three strangers are bound by a destiny older than time itself.

After the tragic loss of his parents, young orphan Flynn begins to suspect he played a horrifying role in their deaths. When his search for truth sets off a chain of mysterious events, he uncovers a revelation that will change his understanding of life—and of himself—forever.

Across the sea, the warrior Vurax is captured by raiders and sold into slavery in a brutal foreign land. Struggling to survive, he’s forced to confront a violent heritage that may grant him freedom—but at a price far darker than death.

Meanwhile, Ellianna, the sole survivor of a plague-stricken village, is haunted by dreams of a mysterious stranger. With the aid of her mentor, her grandfather, and a charming young thief by her side, she sets out to uncover the meaning behind her visions—and the ancient power that stirs within her veins.

Their paths fated to intertwine, these unlikely heroes are drawn toward a coming war between gods and mortals, where faith, betrayal, and destiny collide. Together, they must face the truth of their Bloodlines—and the divine power that unites them could either save their world… or end it.

Perfect for fans of The Lord of the Rings, Dragonlance, and The Belgariad, Bloodlines is an epic high-fantasy saga filled with magic, mystery, dark destiny, and the enduring power of friendship.

Book Link: https://geni.us/Bloodlines

About the Author

I was born in Portugal but moved to Canada in the early ‘80s as a teenager. After leaving high school and a brief and directionless foray into the world of computer information systems in college, I finally focused my studies on the English language at Simon Fraser University. Because reading books and living in the clouds doesn’t pay the bills, I ended up spending a couple of decades working in the hospitality industry. When that got old (as did I), it was time to go back to my first love—the written word. Going back to school in your midlife is no joke, but after getting my certification as an editor and working as a freelance contractor for a time, I concluded that as much as I enjoy editing, writing is my true calling. Now, with the support of my wife, I finally have the time to put pen to paper and see what I can do.

From an early age, I was always fascinated with science fiction, growing up watching Star Trek and Star Wars, and dreaming of discovering and visiting new worlds. Everything changed one day as a 15-year-old when I picked up a little book titled The Hobbit. Instantly captivated by this mysterious world of wizards, dragons, and magic rings, I was quickly drawn into the wider realm of Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, and the fantasy genre became my newest and greatest passion. Like many teens with the same interests, I began to play Dungeons & Dragons, and it wasn’t long before I began to not only expand upon published adventures and settings, but to write and develop my own. From these early scribblings and chaotic notes, a new realm was born from my imagination—one that was very much like the ones I’d dreamed of exploring as a child. The final and natural step was to compile these stories into my first series of novels, beginning with Bloodlines. Welcome to the world of Akar—I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it!

Book Spotlight: Humbug

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Today's book spotlight is for Humbug by Luciano Marano. Enjoy.

Humbug by Luciano Marano

From award-winning author Luciano Marano comes Humbug—a gruesome, noir-infused reimagining of A Christmas Carol that blends supernatural horror, crime thriller, and psychological suspense into one unforgettable holiday nightmare.

A terrifying new take on the most famous ghost story of all time.

In modern-day Seattle, Detective Stuart (Scrooge) Caine is a jaded homicide cop on the edge of burnout. Every Christmas brings another murder, but this year’s case is different. A brilliant psychopath—dubbed “Humbug” by the press—has made a tradition of killing an entire family every December 25th. With the investigation going cold and his career slipping away, Scrooge receives a visitation on Christmas Eve that shatters his skepticism: the ghost of his former partner, Marley, and three monstrous spirits—manifestations of history’s most notorious unsolved killers: Jack the Ripper, Zodiac, and The Cleveland Torso Murderer.

As the line between nightmare and reality blurs, Scrooge is forced to confront his past, his sins, and the darkness waiting for him on Christmas morning.

Sometimes, the ghosts of Christmas past don’t come to save you…they come to collect.

Humbug is a chilling holiday horror novella—a macabre fusion of ghost story, police procedural, and psychological redemption tale—perfect for fans of A Christmas Ghost Story, Candy Cain Kills, and Hark! The Herald Angels Scream.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/Humbug

“Luciano Marano extracts the DNA of Dickens’s classic tale and rewires it for his own gonzo spin on the noir detective story."—Matthew Mercier, author of Poe & I

About the Author

Luciano Marano is an award-winning writer, journalist, and photographer. He is the author of the werewolf novella trilogy The Ambush Moon Cycle (Raven Tale Publishing) and numerous works of short fiction appearing in anthologies such as Year’s Best Hardcore Horror and The Best New Weird Horror, among others, as well as Nightscript, PseudoPod, Chthonic Matter Quarterly, and Chilling Tales for Dark Nights. His written and photographic reporting has earned a number of industry accolades, and he was twice named a Feature Writer of the Year by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association. A U.S. Navy veteran originally from rural western Pennsylvania, he now resides near with his wife.

Book Spotlight: The Night Crew II: Bloodlust

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Today's book spotlight is for The Night Crew II: Bloodlust by Brad Ricks. Enjoy.

The Night Crew II: Bloodlust by Brad Ricks

The hunt never ends—especially when the prey hunts back.

The Night Crew thought they’d seen it all—werewolves, vampires, and things too monstrous to name. But after barely surviving their last mission, they’re about to face something far more dangerous: a supernatural killer with an insatiable thirst for blood and a plan to unleash chaos on New Orleans.

For Michael and the team, the city’s neon glow hides shadows that writhe with ancient hunger. Every lead drags them deeper into a twisted web of murder, betrayal, and forbidden magic. And this time, the enemy isn’t hiding in the dark—they’re walking boldly among the living, leaving a trail of corpses in their wake.

But the Night Crew isn’t just fighting to stop the bloodshed. They’re battling their own demons—haunting memories, deadly secrets, and the creeping fear that not all monsters are born. Some are made.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/NightCrew2

About the Author

Brad Ricks is an author of supernatural horror and thrillers, blending dark settings, paranormal terror, and psychological suspense.

His novels blur the line between psychological horror and terrifying thrillers. His NIGHT CREW SERIES delves deep into the shadows of the supernatural.

Inspired by masters like Edgar Allan Poe and Stephen King, Brad crafts stories that haunt readers long after the final page.

He lives in Central Texas with his wife and children, balancing his day job with late-night horror storytelling.

Website: https://www.bradricks.com

Book Spotlight: One-Shot

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Today's book spotlight is One-Shot by Jacy Morris from Torrid Waters.

One-Shot by Jacy Morris

In One-Shot, Jacy Morris crafts a haunting tapestry of Native American heritage and cosmic horror.

One-Shot, an Indigenous naturopathic insemination expert, is teetering on the brink of sanity. His life takes a sudden turn when he's tasked with transporting his grandfather's ashes from Pittsburgh, PA, to their ancestral reservation.

As he embarks on this cross-country odyssey, the scars of past traumas reawaken. The highways become a surreal landscape, where spectral figures from Native folklore and twisted horrors of a Lovecraftian nature emerge. These apparitions are not just hauntings but reflections of a fracturing mind, struggling to discern reality from nightmare.

With his grandfather's ashes as his solemn companion, One-Shot confronts these terrors, each mile bringing him closer to a harrowing truth. This journey is more than a physical traverse—it's a pilgrimage through the fragmented realms of memory, heritage, and fear.

What lies at the reservation is more than the end of a journey—it's the precipice of insanity.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/One-Shot

About the Author:

Jacy Morris is an Indigenous author. He is a registered member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz. At the age of ten he was transplanted to Portland, Oregon, where he developed a love for punk rock and horror movies, both of which tend to find their way into his writing. He has written several novels, including the "This Rotten World" series and the "One Night Stand at the End of the World" series. His latest novel, We Like It Cherry was published August 2025 by Tenebrous Press. His next work will be the novel One-Shot from Torrid Waters (November 2025).

Website: Jacymorris.com

Book Spotlight: Lilitu: Bloody Caleb

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Today I have a spotlight on the new release, Lilitu: Bloody Caleb by Jonathan Fortin, a gothic horror novel. Enjoy.

Lilitu: Bloody Caleb

Dante’s Inferno meets The Count of Monte Cristo in Lilitu: Bloody Caleb, the newcomer-friendly second volume in a Gothic Dark Fantasy saga of revenge, seduction, and the horrors of Hell.

22-year-old Caleb Schwartzenfeld is a vagrant violinist, struggling to survive the fog-choked streets of Victorian England. But when his search for a patron leads him into the clutches of a sinister cult, he is brutally sacrificed—and awakens in Hell, a nightmarish realm filled with demons who delight in torturing damned souls like him.

Refusing to let eternal agony break him, Caleb vows to escape from Hell, reunite with the woman he loves, and exact revenge on those who murdered him—even if it means becoming a demon himself. But as he becomes seduced into the twisted pleasures and deadly politics of Hell’s elite, Caleb must decide whether reclaiming his life is worth risking his soul.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/Lilitu2

Series link: https://geni.us/LilituSaga

About the Author

Jonathan Fortin is a neurodivergent author and voice actor from Oakland, California, whose dark fiction has been published by such presses as Crystal Lake Publishing, Dark Recesses Press, Mocha Memoirs Press, and Siren’s Call magazine. In 2017 he won the Next Great Horror Writer competition from HorrorAddicts.net. He is an affiliate member of the Horror Writers Association, a graduate of the Clarion Writing Workshop, and a summa cum laude graduate of San Francisco State University’s Creative Writing program. When not writing, Jonathan enjoys wearing Victorian gothic attire, growling along to black metal, and exploring all things odd and macabre in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Website: https://www.jonathanfortin.com/

Book Spotlight: The Exorcist’s House: Resurrection

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:31:00 +0000

A new book spotlight today for The Exorcist’s House: Resurrection by Nick Roberts.

The Exorcist’s House: Resurrection

The final chapter of The Exorcist's House trilogy brings an unrelenting battle against evil—where a mother’s love is tested by the darkest forces imaginable.

Christmas Eve,1999: A brutal tragedy occurs during Midnight Mass at the newly built church on Sunny Branch Way. Nora Hill, a woman still haunted by her past, suspects this isn’t just a random act of violence, but the omen she’s been dreading. As shocking visions continue to plague her, Nora is determined to protect her daughter, Maren, and bring some semblance of peace to their fractured lives, hoping to find her own happiness again. But no matter how far they run or how much time passes, it becomes clear that some demons refuse to let go.

In The Exorcist’s House: Resurrection, the unsettling story of Nora and Maren spans thirteen years, told through five pivotal moments in Maren’s life. And as the darkness slowly encroaches, Nora realizes the terrifying truth: to save her daughter’s soul, she must return to the sinister place where it all began, one last time. But some houses refuse to Fall…

Ideal for readers who enjoy dark horror, psychological suspense, emotionally complex characters, and chilling supernatural mysteries, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/THResurrection

About the Author

Nick Roberts is a native West Virginian and a doctoral graduate of Marshall University. He is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and the Horror Authors Guild. His works include Anathema, The Exorcist's House, It Haunts the Mind and Other Stories, Mean Spirited, and others. He currently resides in South Carolina with his family and is an advocate for people in recovery from substance use disorder.

Website: www.nickrobertsauthor.com

Book Spotlight: The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:55:00 +0000

A new book spotlight today for The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon by Barry Maher. Enjoy.

The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon by Barry Maher.

A wickedly funny dark humor horror novel that blends supernatural horror with a thrilling murder mystery.

“What a page turner! Witty, literate, scary, sexy, and powerfully evocative.”—Gayle Lynds, New York Times bestselling author

It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run from the law, finds himself caught in a supernatural thriller after an apparently innocent act of heroism—saving a woman from a vicious assault by a seemingly unstoppable wino. The woman, Victoria, is just part of a mystery Steve can’t unravel. Even as he’s looting the decomposing dead for the secrets of a self-proclaimed sorcerer. Even as he plummets into a nightmare of fire and blood and murder. Even then, Steve remains certain the sorcerer’s spells, the occult rituals—the supposed demons and supernatural horror—are simply delusion and fantasy. Steve is wrong.

Victoria, who has just bought a dilapidated church with a haunting past, entangles Steve in a deadly game of dark magic and rituals. As, unknown to him, the demon grows desperate, Steve plunges deeper into a world of crypts, grave robbing, and long-forgotten secrets, all while trying to escape his own haunted past. But when the face of the man Steve killed appears on his arm, the line between reality and nightmare begins to blur.

Book Link: https://geni.us/TheGreatDick

About the Author

Barry Maher is a product of four years at the University of Notre Dame, an hour and a half at the Graduate Journalism Program at U.C. Berkeley, and five befuddled weeks at Burger King’s Whopper College. In his misspent youth, his non-fiction appeared in perhaps a hundred different publications and, in order to eat, he held nearly that many different jobs. Sometimes he lived on the beach. Not in a house on the beach. On the beach. With the sand and the seagulls.

After a sentence with a Fortune 100 company, he started speaking professionally. He told stories to audiences across the country and around the world: his client list a Who’s Who of multi-national corporations and large associations. Eventually, that led to the Slightly Off-Kilter syndicated newspaper column.

You may have seen Barry on The Today Show, CNN or CNBC and he’s been featured in publications ranging from The New York Times, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal to, his persona favorite, Funeral Service Insider.

On the downside, Barry’s also been incarcerated twice. Once for not making a left hand turn out of a left hand turn lane, and once for aiding and abetting a loiterer. He’s deeply repentant.

Website: www.barrymaher.com

Book Spotlight: Kali’s Web

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0000

A new book spotlight today for Kali’s Web by Mark Matthews. Enjoy.

Kali’s Web by Mark Matthews

Kali's Web is a supernatural horror novel that delves into the darkest corners of addiction and the terrifying psychological effects it leaves behind.

Kaliana Cook, a heroin addict haunted by a traumatic past, is desperate to reunite with her child after being paroled. But what begins as a chance at freedom soon turns into a horrific nightmare. After making a daring escape, Kali finds herself trapped in a sinister web, pursued not only by a relentless parole agent but also by a monstrous presence she unwittingly unleashed.

This eerie entity, a grotesque fusion of nightmare spiders and a seemingly innocent child, embodies the horrors of addiction and the twisted distortions of the mind plagued by heroin. As Kali’s journey unravels, she discovers that escape isn’t just about outrunning physical pursuers. It’s about confronting the haunting specters of her past and the supernatural horrors they manifest.

Will Kali escape the grip of the terrifying web she’s tangled in, or will the darkness consume her?

Kali’s Web is a gripping supernatural thriller with an unsettling blend of psychological horror, bizarre creatures, and the raw desperation of addiction. Fans of Cronenbergian horror, surreal suspense, and folk horror will find themselves immersed in this twisted, nightmarish journey.

Book Link: https://geni.us/KalisWeb

About the Author:

Mark Matthews is a Shirley Jackson Award finalist and author On the Lips of Children, All Smoke Rises, Milk-Blood, and The Hobgoblin of Little Minds. His most recent novel, To Those Willing to Drown, was just released in March of 2025 to acclaimed reviews. Matthews is the editor of three 'addiction horror' anthologies including Orphans of Bliss, Lullabies for Suffering and Garden of Fiends. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and a licensed professional counselor who has worked in behavioral health for over 25 years.

Website: WickedRunPress.com

Kali's Web Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iS3-8iVXm-E

Book Spotlight: What Remains

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0000

A new book spotlight today for What Remains by Corey Niles. Enjoy.

What Remains by Corey Niles

In a world on the brink of collapse, the White, an ominous force of undulating clouds, sweeps across the northern United States, leaving nothing in its wake. As food runs out and supplies become scarce, extremist religious groups seize control, plunging society into chaos and anarchy.
In this devastating new reality, Alexander and Sebastian—ex-boyfriends fleeing from their painful past—embark on a perilous journey south, hoping to escape the White's deadly path. With their only hope of survival tied to reaching the equator, they are pushed to their limits, both physically and emotionally.
As they battle against the encroaching end of the world, they must also contend with their fractured relationship. What is the true cost of survival when everything they’ve known is collapsing? With danger lurking at every turn, the pair faces a fight for their lives—against not only the White but the demons within themselves.
What Remains is a gripping post-apocalyptic survival story, blending horror, heartache, and hope. In a world where society is on the brink of extinction, Alexander and Sebastian must decide what it truly means to survive.

Book Link: https://geni.us/WhatRemainsC

About the Author:

Corey Niles was born and raised in the Rust Belt. A graduate of Seton Hill’s MFA program, he has published over thirty works of short fiction and poetry, appearing in Nightmare Magazine, Space and Time Magazine, and The Horror Zine.

He is the author of Blood & Dirt, a novel, and Death & Other Forms of Devotion, a poetry collection. He lives in North Carolina with his partner, Sean, and a sizable army of cats and dogs.

Website: coreyniles.com

Book Spotlight: Dead Scalp

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 13:24:00 +0000

A new book spotlight today for Dead Scalp by Jasper Bark.

Dead Scalp by Jasper Bark

The West just got a whole lot weirder!

Legend has it, when you’re down on your luck.

When the law is on your tail and there’s nowhere left to run.

There’s one last place to hide…

Dead Scalp.

You won’t find Dead Scalp on any map. It’s not at the end of any trail. And your only way in is hard cash and dark magic. But if you’re willing to risk everything you might just make it. And if you make it, you might just live forever!

Outlaw James Briggs has nothing left to lose. Through a desperate gamble, he bluffs his way into Dead Scalp and onto the payroll of Big Bill Baldwin the boss of the whole violent burg. But something sinister stalks the bloody streets, something in search of retribution. A terror that defies belief and crushes what little faith James has left in humanity.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/DeadScalp

About the Author:

Multiple award-winning author Jasper Bark is infectious—and there’s no known cure. If you’re reading this you’re already contaminated. The symptoms will manifest any time soon. There’s nothing you can do about it. There’s no itching or unfortunate rashes, but you’ll become obsessed with his mind-bending books, from the acclaimed Draw You In trilogy and the ground-breaking Bark Bites Horror series, to graphic novels like Bloodfellas and Beyond Lovecraft.

Then you’ll want to tell everyone else about his visionary horror, about its originality, its wild imagination and how it takes you to the edge of your sanity. Don’t fight the urge, embrace it.

Get bitten by the Bark bug and love it!

Website: www.jasperbark.com

Book Spotlight: Murder in the Monashee Mountains

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today for Murder in the Monashee Mountains by JP Behrens, the second book in the Travis Daniels Investigation series. Enjoy.

Murder in the Monashee Mountains

After barely escaping the haunted streets of Arkham and Miskatonic University, Travis Daniels is on the run with his ward, Leslie Owens. Seeking refuge in the remote woods of Monashee Mountain, their lives take another dark turn when they witness a brutal, savage murder. Now, they’re thrust into a web of deceit, danger, and old grudges as they are drawn into a conflict between warring factions in the small town of Tonasket.

Travis must navigate the escalating tension between the town’s residents, the Native American tribes, and the ancient, shadowy creatures that dwell in the wilderness. The clock is ticking as dangerous rivalries between Sasquatch and werewolves threaten to erupt, and the local logging operations are sabotaged by forces more sinister than anyone can imagine.

As Travis works to uncover the truth behind the murder, he must decide who he can trust before it’s too late. With danger closing in, only one thing is certain: the truth will come at a cost.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/MonasheeMountains

About the Author

JP Behrens is the author of Portrait of a Nuclear Family, We Don’t Talk Anymore and Other Dark Fictions, and The Travis Daniels Investigations series. A graduate of the Yale Writers’ Workshop, he spend his days writing, reading, and practicing Kung Fu. In his spare time he builds Legos, hang out with his family, and occasionally gets some sleep.

Website: JPBehrensauthor.com

Book Spotlight: Servants of Stone

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today for the historical, supernatural horror novel, Servants Of Stone by Sean Eads and Josh Viola. Enjoy.

Servants Of Stone

Evil has a new home--and it’s a place called New Vineland.

The town appeared almost overnight, as if summoned from the shadows, complete with a looming stone tower at its heart and a general store that promises to fulfill your deepest desires... for the price of your soul.

Drawn by a witch’s secret summons, the curious and the desperate are flocking to New Vineland, unaware of the doom that awaits them. But the witch didn’t count on Harold Goodman--an adventurous young Englishman with an unshakable moral compass and a burning desire to uncover the truth behind the tower's dark power.

Joined by an enigmatic stonemason, a salty old sailor with more wisdom than he lets on, a haunted warhorse with a hero’s heart, and a gifted young girl just awakening to her magic, Harold sets out to challenge the evil that fuels New Vineland.

The battle for the town--and the souls within it--is about to begin.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/Servants

About the Authors

Sean Eads is a writer and librarian living in Denver, Colorado. He is originally from Kentucky and has a Masters degree in literature from the University of Kentucky and a Masters degree in library science from the University of Illinois. His first novel, The Survivors, was a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award. His third novel, Lord Byron’s Prophecy was a finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award and the Colorado Book Award. His fifth novel, Confessions, was also a finalist for the Colorado Book Award. His favorite writers are Ray Bradbury, Herman Melville, Cormac McCarthy and Ernest Hemingway.

Website: www.seaneadswriter.com

Joshua Viola is a Colorado Book Award winner and Splatterpunk Award nominee. He co-authored Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver - The Dead Shall Rise, an official prequel to the beloved video game series, which became the 4th most funded graphic novel of all time on Kickstarter, raising over $1.4 million. He edited the Denver Post #1 bestselling horror anthology Nightmares Unhinged and co-edited Cyber World, named one of the best science fiction anthologies of 2016 by Barnes & Noble. He co-authored the comic book slasher series True Believers with Stephen Graham Jones, featuring official cameos from icons like Jamie Lee Curtis, R.L. Stine, Jeffrey Combs, and Barbara Crampton. As a producer, he has contributed to films such as Aliens Expanded, The Thing Expanded, TerrorBytes, Shelby Oaks, Shrine of Abominations, Deathgasm II: Goremageddon, and the recent Deathstalker reboot directed by Steven Kostanski (The Void, Psycho Goreman), starring Daniel Bernhardt (The Matrix, John Wick) and produced with Slash from Guns N’ Roses. In 2024, he founded Bit Bot Media with musician Klayton (Celldweller), a multimedia company focused on original and licensed IP, including The Terminator, Legacy of Kain, Evil Dead 2, and more. Bit Bot also collaborates with Canadian film studio Raven Banner Entertainment on film productions, merchandise, and distribution, including titles like The Autopsy of Jane Doe and the documentary Hate to Love: Nickelback. Joshua’s video game development includes work on titles such as The Rocky Horror Show, Pirates of the Caribbean: Call of the Kraken, Unioverse, The Smurfs, TARGET: Terror, and others. He is the owner and chief editor of Hex Publishers and resides in Denver, CO, with his husband and son.

Website: www.joshuaviola.com

Book Spotlight: 24 Frames Per Second

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today for the latest Dark Tide anthology, 24 Frames Per Second (Dark Tide 21) with novellas by Tim Waggoner, Andrew Nadolny, and Gary A. Braunbeck. Enjoy.

24 Frames Per Second (Dark Tide 21)

Step into the terrifying world of Hollywood horror, where the line between fiction and reality blurs, and the consequences of cinematic creation become all too real. In 24 Frames Per Second, three chilling novellas bring to life the darkest corners of the movie industry—where horror isn’t just confined to the screen.

“The Last Zombie Movie” by Tim Waggoner: A group of student filmmakers embark on a project to create a zombie holocaust script—but soon, their fictional nightmare begins to unfold in real life. As their imagined horrors come to life, they must face the terrifying reality of their own creation.

“I Am the Rainbringer” by Andrew Nadolny: A woman is transformed into a serial killer by her father’s dying wish, and her husband turns her deadly past into a movie. But the ghosts of his parents—and her brutal history—soon rise to haunt them both, blurring the line between the living and the dead in a nightmare that can’t be escaped.

“This Is Not My Movie” by Gary A. Braunbeck: After a movie theater is consumed by fire, the charred ruins become a nexus for ghosts and alternate realities. A haunting tale of how a beloved movie theater’s destruction births a dark, sentient force, trapping the souls of those killed in the blaze.

In 24 Frames Per Second, horror reaches beyond the screen and becomes part of the fabric of reality, where the true cost of creation is more horrifying than any fictional tale. Each novella is a unique exploration of terror, art, and the boundaries of reality, set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s darkest secrets.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/DarkTide21

About the Authors

Tim Waggoner

Tim Waggoner's first novel came out in 2001, and since then, he's published over sixty novels and eight collections of short stories. He writes original dark fantasy and horror, as well as media tie-ins. He's written tie-in fiction based on Supernatural, The X-Files, Alien, Doctor Who, Conan the Barbarian, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Grimm, and Transformers, among others, and he's written novelizations for films such as Ti West’s X-Trilogy, Halloween Kills, Terrifier 2 and 3, and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. He’s a four-time winner of the Bram Stoker Award, a one-time winner of the Scribe Award, and he’s been a two-time finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award and a one-time finalist for the Splatterpunk Award. He’s also a full-time tenured professor who teaches creative writing and composition at Sinclair College in Dayton, Ohio.

Website: www.timwaggoner.com

Andrew Nadolny

Andrew is a trans writer living in Ohio with his family and other assorted oddities. He looks forward to one day being devoured by his own mitochondrial DNA.

Bluesky: cyrelia-j.bsky.social

Gary A Braunbeck

Gary A. Braunbeck was born in Newark, Ohio (the city that serves as the model for the fictitious Cedar Hill in a majority of his novels and stories) where he graduated from Newark High School in 1978, briefly studied for the priesthood (until he didn’t), worked as a supervisor for developmentally disabled adults, then in the paste-up room at the Newark Advocate, as well as a bartender (numerous times), a janitor (again, numerous times), a dog groomer, a short-order cook, and a salaried actor for one season of summer stock, (he would go on to work as a professional actor for several years –including as an extra in the Robert Redford film Brubaker, and the mini-series Centennial.

He made his first professional fiction sale to Twilight Zone’s NIGHTCRY (selling three additional stories to the magazine after that), and went on to place work in other pro magazines such as Cemetery Dance, The Horror Show, The Blood Review, 2 A.M., and such anthologies as The Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror, Borderlands, Masques, and Scare Care. His fiction has been translated into Japanese, French, Italian, Russian, German, Czech, and Polish. Nearly 250 of his short stories have appeared in various publications. His work has won the Bram Stoker Award 7 times, an International Horror Guild Award, and has been nominated for The Pushcart Prize, The World Fantasy Award, and Le Grand Prix de L’Imaginaire.

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/gary.braunbeck/

Book Spotlight: Path of Totality

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 23 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today for the new horror novel Path of Totality by KN Gould, released by Crystal Lake Publishing. Enjoy.

Path of Totality by KN Gould

This world is a cruel and arbitrary place. Hope cannot last when it turns its gaze upon you.

With a simple phrase, Tucker Gibsen is taken back to the day when, as a child, he came face to face with a madman and barely escaped with his life. Now, as an adult, he finds himself embroiled in a decades-old grudge between two modern-day witches, putting his life, and the lives of those he cares for most, in danger. What chance does one ordinary person have when threatened by uncaring supernatural forces set in motion long ago?

KN Gould’s Path of Totality, an atmospheric novel of horror, despair, revenge, and fate, will leave the reader questioning how much control they really have over their own lives. Perfect for fans of psychological thriller books.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/PathOfTotality

About the Author

KN Gould lives in Oregon with his wife, children, and dog. He is a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears and Van Halen (with Sammy Hagar).

His work has been included in more than a dozen anthologies, including Stories of the Dead: A Tribute to George Romero, Weirdbook #36, Krampus Tales, Grey Matter Monsters, and Cosmic Horror Monthly #41. His debut novella, Out of Whack, was published in 2024.

Path of Totality is his first full-length novel.

Instagram: @k_n_gould

Book Spotlight: Dark Tide 20: Urban Legends

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 09 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today with the new Dark Tide anthology from Crystal Lake Publishing. Releasing today is Urban Legends (Dark Tide 20) with novellas by Nick Roberts, Leigh Kenny and Dan Franklin.

Urban Legends (Dark Tide 20)

Enter the world of terrifying urban legends where the lines between myth and reality blur into a nightmare of unexplainable horrors. In this spine-chilling volume, the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and familiar fears are taken to unimaginable heights.

Features a foreword by Adam Cesare, the author of Clown in a Cornfield (now a feature film).

“Nesting” by Dan Franklin:

Amanda can’t shake the idea that her newborn baby isn’t hers…and maybe isn’t a baby at all.

Not even one full day postpartum, and Amanda can’t shake the certainty that the baby isn’t hers. The charts say he is, the nurses and doctor all agree, but in her heart she can’t help but know better. His hair is wrong. He doesn’t quite smell right…and he has a tooth.

“Knock on Wood” by Leigh Kenny:

If he knocks, it’s too late. He’s already inside.

The house on Hawthorne Avenue has an unfortunate past. The adults think it’s just bad luck. The kids believe it’s something worse. Sometimes truth is scarier than legend.

“Poltergeist Password” by Nick Roberts:

“Have you heard of Poltergeist Password?”

A reporter presents the unedited transcript of the final episode of the Broadcasts from the Grave podcast in which three hosts test an urban legend known as “Poltergeist Password.” Whether it’s real or an elaborate hoax, three people remain missing. You be the judge.

Dark Tide 20 takes you on a terrifying journey through some of the most unsettling myths and folklore, where terror lurks in the shadows and urban legends come alive in the most horrific ways. Prepare for twists, fear, and truths you may not want to know.

Book Link: http://getbook.at/DarkTide20

About the Authors

Nick Roberts is a native West Virginian and a doctoral graduate of Marshall University. He is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and the Horror Authors Guild. His works include Anathema, The Exorcist's House, It Haunts the Mind & Other Stories, Mean Spirited, and others. He currently resides in South Carolina with his family and is an advocate for people in recovery from substance use disorder. Website: www.nickrobertsauthor.com.

Leigh Kenny was born and raised in the garden county of Wicklow, Ireland. She lives by the Irish Sea with the love of her life, two wonderful boys, a black Labrador, and a three-legged cat that hates people. She describes herself as being both feral and aggressively friendly and apologises in advance for swearing in front of your children. You can find out more about Leigh’s work and any upcoming releases at www.leighkennywrites.com.

Dan Franklin wrote his first attempt at a horror novel when he was seven. It was terrible. He has, since, improved. The Amazon best selling author of These Things Linger, Down Into the Sea, and The Eater of Gods, Dan Franklin lives in Maryland with his extremely understanding wife, his cosmically radiant children, and a socially crippling obsession with things that creep. Website: Danfranklinauthor.com.

Book Spotlight: Enough Time

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 02 May 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today with the new release from Crystal Lake Publishing, Enough Time by J. Edwin Buja. Enjoy.

Enough Time by J. Edwin Buja

What if every forty years you are murdered?

Every January, Emma Ranahan has horrible nightmares about torture and murder. At the Wycliff Point Library, Emma laments the arrival of January, when storms beat against the cliffs and horrible nightmares invade her dreams. By mid-month, terrible scars reappear on her body. The keloid along her neck will last the longest. She’ll wear a turtleneck so no one will see. By February Emma’s scars fade, and all she remembers are four words—Savior, Victim, Beast, and Friend.

Even Emma thinks she’s crazy. But when the Beast arrives at the Wycliff Point Inn, her nightmares come to life in crashing waves of memory—Emma’s dreams were real, and she is the Victim. But who is the Friend and how will she discover the Savior?

Imagine Somewhere in Time with lots of blood.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/EnoughTime

About the Author

J. Edwin Buja has spent his life surrounded by books. He discovered early on that researching and writing hold the key to happiness. Who else would think scanning through decades of microfilm to index an old newspaper would be a dream job?

For more than forty years, he has been married to the most wonderful woman on the planet. Although he lives in a small village somewhere in Canada, his heart and second home reside with his horror family in New England.

His novels include The King of the Wood (2019) and The Consort (2022). He has also had more than twenty short stories published. He is currently working on the final novel of The Wood series, and another novel based on concerts he attended in Detroit in the 1970s.

He also writes Young Adult novels under the name John Buja. His latest release is Coverdale (2024). In 2000-2001, he published two middle-grade time travel/history books.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.buja/

Book Spotlight: Demon Drink

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today with the new release from Crystal Lake Publishing, Demon Drink by Kris Ashton. Enjoy.

Demon Drink by Kris Ashton

A night out becomes a nightmare in this dark supernatural novel that blends demonic possession, occult rituals, and the chilling consequences of temptation.

Times are tough in Black Wattle. Drought and forest fires have ravaged the town and its lifeblood, tourism, is on the wane. Nobody is feeling the pinch more than divorcee Shirley Goodsall, who is trying to keep the historic Ironstone Hotel afloat while quelling animosity between her ex-husband and their teenage daughter. So when the business manager for a microbrewery, Damon Prince, offers her a promotional deal that includes free kegs of beer, it’s a deal that seems too good to be true.

And it is. Shirley’s elation soon turns to horror as she discovers she has unwittingly helped Prince unleash dark forces in her town. Black Wattle’s residents are plunged into a nightmare of infection and blood-curdling transformations. Shirley and a handful of survivors band together to try to foil Prince’s fiendish plot, but Prince is no ordinary man. He will stare into their souls and turn their most shameful personal demons against them…

Fans of King’s earlier novels such as ’Salem’s Lot and Needful Things will revel in every ghastly, page-turning detail of Demon Drink, a master class in small-town horror from Australian Shadows Award Winner, Kris Ashton.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/DemonDrink

About the Author

Award-winning writer and editor Kris Ashton has published several novels and nearly fifty short stories. He is best known for his tales of horror and dark speculative fiction and is also a noted essayist, taking out the Australian Shadows Award for non-fiction in 2023.

Kris graduated from Western Sydney University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in creative writing and literature. He has had a 25-year career as a journalist and is currently editor of Open Road, one of the most widely-read magazines in Australia.

He lives in the wilds of south-western Sydney with his wife, two children and a crippling mortgage.

Website: krisashtonwrite.com

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/kris.ashton.5

TikTok: @ashtontheauthor

Instagram: @ashtontheauthor

Book Spotlight: What Swallows The Light

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today, for the latest Dark Tide anthology, What Swallows The Light (Dark Tide 19) by John Durgin, Gage Greenwood, and Andrew Van Wey. Enjoy.

What Swallows The Light (Dark Tide 19)

Three stories. One terrifying truth: we are not alone!

Suffocating Skies by John Durgin:

Working Thanksgiving was supposed to be an escape for Carrie Richardson—a shift at Sinclair Pharmaceuticals meant avoiding her abusive boyfriend. But when the sky darkens and the office goes silent, escape becomes a trap. Whispers slither through the air, colleagues freeze in eerie trances, and something hungry moves unseen in the halls. As reality unravels and terror closes in, Carrie must uncover the truth hidden within Sinclair’s walls—before it suffocates her.

We Were Who We Were by Gage Greenwood:

Sometimes it looks like an accident, until you discover who is really pulling the strings.

When Tess visits the man who killed her brother in a drunk driving accident, she discovers the facts were not as they appeared to be, and someone else may have been involved. Her investigation brings her down a path of horror, lies, secrets, and a mysterious figure who haunted her brother for years.

Dark Matter Dreams by Andrew Van Wey:

An alien vessel powered by dreams. A human nightmare on board.

For millennia, the Grays have visited earth, seeing humans as simple and safe. They were wrong.

Aboard their living, star-spanning vessel, a forgotten horror awakens. Born of primal fear, stalking humanity since the dawn of time. Watching and waiting. Hungry to twist our desires against us.

As reality warps and crew members succumb, researcher Jin’qua-33 must forge an unlikely alliance with those he once abducted. Because there is something worse in the darkness than the aliens looking down. There is an unrelenting nightmare that will fill the cosmos with screams.

Book Link: https://geni.us/DarkTide19

About the Authors

Andrew Van Wey was born in the San Francisco Bay Area, spent his high school years in New England, and lived as an expatriate abroad for nearly a decade.

His debut novel, Forsaken, has been downloaded 95,000 times (and counting), and undergone film development at multiple production companies. His travel narrative of esports in Korea, Keyboard Dreams, won a Lowell Thomas award, the highest honor in the field. His short fiction has been featured in eFiction Magazine and Lamp Light.

Andrew is passionate about literacy, education, and cutting-edge pedagogies. He holds a B.A. in Screenwriting and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Prior to writing full time, he taught for over a decade.

Currently, he lives in Northern California with his wife and their Old English Sheepdog, Arthas.

Website: andrewvanwey.com

Gage Greenwood is the best-selling author of the Winter's Myths Saga, and Bunker Dogs. He's a proud member of the Horror Writers Association and Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers association.

He's been an actor, comedian, podcaster, and even the Vice President of an escape room company. Since childhood, he's been a big fan of comic books, horror movies, and depressing music that fills him with existential dread.

He lives in New England with his girlfriend and son, and he spends his time writing, hiking, and decorating for various holidays.

Website: www.gagegreenwood.com

John Durgin is a proud active HWA member and lifelong horror fan. Growing up in New Hampshire, he discovered Stephen King much younger than most probably should have, reading IT before he reached high school—and knew from that moment on he wanted to write horror.

He had his first story accepted in the summer of 2021. His debut novel, The Cursed Among Us was released June 3, 2022, and went on to become an Amazon bestseller. Next up, his sophomore novel titled Inside The Devil’s Nest, released in January of 2023, followed by his debut collection, Sleeping In The Fire in June of 2023. In 2024 he released two more novels, starting with Kosa which released to stellar reviews, and Consumed by Evil through Crystal Lake Publishing in November 2024.

Website: johndurginauthor.com

Book Spotlight: What Fresh Hell Is This?

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today, for the horror collection, What Fresh Hell Is This? by Del Howison. Enjoy.

What Fresh Hell Is This? by Del Howison

Step into the twisted mind of Del Howison with this unflinching collection of dark tales. What Fresh Hell Is This? brings together stories from across Howison’s prolific career, each one exploring the eerie and the macabre, examining humanity’s deepest fears and desires.

Drawing on his rich life experiences—from being baptized in a river and attending a private Christian college to his ownership of the famed Horror bookstore Dark Delicacies—Howison crafts tales that delve into the darkest corners of the human soul.

These tales push boundaries, blending the supernatural with psychological terror, and invite readers into worlds where the unimaginable becomes real. From paranormal happenings to supernatural horrors, Howison’s storytelling prowess ensures that these stories will stay with you long after you turn the last page.

Book Link: https://getbook.at/WhatFreshHell

About the Author

Del Howison is an author, journalist, SAG actor including the upcoming horror film Big Baby directed by Spider One and produced by Krsy Fox, and the Bram Stoker Award-winning editor of the anthology Dark Delicacies: Original Tales of Terror and the Macabre by the World’s Greatest Horror Writers.

He has written articles for Fear.net, Gauntlet Magazine, and Writers Digest among others. Del’s short story Cul-de-Sac appeared in Weird Tales Magazine #369. His western short story The Lost Herd was turned into the premiere (and highest rated) episode, The Sacrifice, for the series Fear Itself. His dark western novel The Survival of Margaret Thomas was shortlisted for the Peacemaker Award given out by the Western Fictioneers.

He has been shortlisted for over half a dozen awards including the Shirley Jackson Award and the Black Quill. He was the cofounder and owner (with his wife, Sue) of Dark Delicacies, a book and gift store known as “The Home of Horror,” located in Burbank, California. The store won the “Il Posto Nero” award from Italy and has been inducted into the Rondo Hatton Hall of Fame.

Book Spotlight: The Night Crew

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:45:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today, for the horror book, The Night Crew by Brad Ricks. Enjoy.

The Night Crew by Brad Ricks

Vampires, vengeance, and a quest for survival—The Night Crew is a heart-pounding supernatural thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

After the brutal murder of his wife, Michael White is thrust into a world of unimaginable horrors. With no help from the local authorities, he embarks on a personal investigation that uncovers a chilling truth—vampires are real.

When he confronts his wife’s killer, he discovers the true nature of the monster who tore apart his life—a bloodthirsty vampire who has already claimed countless victims. On the brink of becoming the undead himself, Michael is saved by a team of vampire hunters known as The Night Crew. They offer him a chance at revenge and a shot at redemption.

Teaming up with these skilled hunters, Michael must navigate a dark, dangerous world filled with vampires and other supernatural creatures. But the road to vengeance is fraught with peril, and Michael’s humanity is at risk as he battles to destroy the creature that killed his wife.

Will Michael be able to seek vengeance against the vampire that shattered his life while retaining his own humanity, or will he succumb to the darkness that threatens to consume him?

Book Link: https://getbook.at/NightCrew

About the Author:

Brad is the author of “Fear Not The Dead” (Unveiling Nightmares, 2024) and the Christmas Horror “To Hell With Hallmark” (Unveiling Nightmares, 2024).

A lifelong Texan, Brad lives in Central Texas with his wife and their kids. He pulls inspiration from horror masters like Poe and King, but also enjoys reading classical literature from authors like Dickens, Hugo, and Wells.

Website: https://www.bradricks.com

Book Spotlight: Midnight Vintage

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today, for the story collection Midnight Vintage by Sean Eads and Josh Viola. Enjoy.

Midnight Vintage by Sean Eads and Josh Viola

A collection of haunting short stories that delve into the darker sides of the human soul, this horror book explores raw emotions of desire, despair, and obsession. Each tale is set in an atmospheric world where shadows loom large, and the pursuit of unattainable goals leads characters to face terrifying consequences. Whether it’s the unsettling grip of supernatural forces, the harrowing effects of self-destruction, or the chilling embrace of violence, these stories invite readers to explore the depths of horror, grief, and madness. With unique and frightening twists, these tales will keep you on edge long after the last page is turned.

Step into the unknown, if you dare!

Book Link: https://getbook.at/MidnightVintage

About the Authors:

Website: www.seaneadswriter.com

Website: www.joshuaviola.com

Book Spotlight: Hotel Macabre

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Another book spotlight today, for the anthology Hotel Macabre Vol.1 edited by Joe Mynhardt. Enjoy

Hotel Macabre Vol.1

Step into the halls of Hotel Macabre, where horror meets innovation.

Where horror knows no bounds…

And every turn reveals a new nightmare.

Hotel Macabre Vol.1 is not your typical horror anthology. It’s an immersive experience that breaks the boundaries of conventional storytelling. This one-of-a-kind collection gathers the chilling voices of horror’s most imaginative minds, presenting a rich blend of flash fiction, short stories, poetry, a suspenseful play, a novella, and even an illustrated comic book section, guaranteeing a diverse feast for horror fans like never before.

Whether you crave the suspense of flash horror, the depth of a full-bodied short story, or the haunting rhythm of dark poetry, Hotel Macabre Vol.1 has it all. And for those looking for something truly unique, this anthology includes a link to an exclusive dramatic reading, bringing the terror to life in a way you’ve never heard before. Each story and poem opens a door to new terrors, while the comic and play sections add a visual and theatrical thrill, making this anthology a must-read for fans of horror anthologies and short horror stories alike.

Dare to enter Hotel Macabre and discover a groundbreaking anthology that will redefine your expectations of horror.

Book Link: https://geni.us/HotelMacabre1

Contributing Authors:

Jonathan Winn, Grant Longstaff, Jonny Gensler, Jennifer Osborn, Devin Anderson, Diana Olney, Stephanie M. Wytovich, Joshua Viola, Jasper Bark, Patrick Malka, Alessandro Manzetti, Derek Odom, Alex McCarthy, John Smith, Bridgett Nelson, Mark Gunnells, Amanda M. Blake, Pixie Bruner, Tom Deady, Melissa Meachen, Maxwell I. Gold, Sean Eads, Mia Dalia, Nick Roberts, Chrissy Winters, Matthew R. Davis,Dylan Wells, Brandon Wills, Karen Bayly, Gregg Stewart, Larry Hinkle, Jamal Hodge, Gary McMahon, Claire Davon, Wil Dalton, John Palisano, Linda D. Addison, Naiad, Chris Phelon, Robin Brown, Naching T. Kassa, Esteban Vargas, and Michael Lawrence.

Book Spotlight: We All Go Into The Dark

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Today I have a spotlight for the new Crystal Lake Publishing horror collection, We All Go Into The Dark by Kevin Lucia. Enjoy.

We All Go Into The Dark by Kevin Lucia

It's waiting for us, regardless of who we are. Banker. Lawyer. Teacher. Carpenter. No matter our station in life, someday, we will all go into the dark. And no town is more acquainted with darkness than Clifton Heights, NY. So take your chance and step into the dark throughout these four tales:

Zootown: A lost man seeking a new purpose and life finds something ancient and sinister in the ruins of a carny town just outside Clifton Heights.

The Man Who Sits in His Chair: There is a man who sits in his chair in front of his house, just across from The Motor Lodge in Clifton Heights. Why does he sit there? What does he see? A corporate lawyer on vacation will find out, much to his despair.

In the Court of the Spider King: A photography enthusiast visits Clifton Heights to photograph the area’s spiders, and discovers a dark eldritch secret huddled in the ruins of the Freivald Health and Wellness Spa, out on Bassler Road.

To Slip the Surly Bonds of Earth: The burned out and cynical host of the paranormal YouTube show Ghost Coasters finds something to believe in again as he searches the ruins of Raedeker Park Amusement Park for ghosts, and finds something much worse.

Book Link: https://geni.us/IntoDark

About the Author

Kevin Lucia’s short fiction has been published in many venues, most notably with Neil Gaiman, Clive Barker, David Morell, Peter Straub, Bentley Little, and Robert McCammon. His first novel, The Horror at Pleasant Brook, was released from Crystal Lake Publishing, October 2023.

Book Spotlight: Consumed by Evil

noreply@blogger.com (A. F. Stewart) — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Today I have a spotlight for the new Crystal Lake Publishing horror novel Consumed by Evil by John Durgin. Enjoy.

Consumed by Evil by John Durgin

“Small towns hold the biggest secrets…”

In the chilling aftermath of the Halloween homecoming massacre, the town of Newport struggles to recover from the terror unleashed by Jessica Black. But as the survivors come to terms with their losses, a new breed of horror lurks just beneath the surface, threatening to plunge them back into chaos.

Fifteen-year-old Howie grapples with the grief of losing his friends, haunted by memories of that fateful night. Cory is tormented by disturbing visions and violent urges that threaten to consume him. Meanwhile, Bethany finds herself ensnared in a fatal web of deceit as dark forces conspire against her.

Determined to uncover Newport’s buried secrets and dismantle the coven's sinister influence, Howie, Cory, and Bethany must confront their pasts and the malevolent entities that refuse to let go. As they delve deeper into the town’s dark history, they realize that the true horror lies not just in the shadows of Newport, but within themselves.

In Consumed by Evil, John Durgin weaves a gripping tale of survival, friendship, and the relentless fight against darkness. Perfect for fans of psychological horror and supernatural thrillers, this sequel expands on the chilling narrative of The Cursed Among Us, promising even more heart-pounding suspense and unexpected twists.

Are you ready to uncover the secrets that lurk in the shadows?

Book Link: https://getbook.at/ConsumedByEvil

About the Author

He had his first story accepted in the summer of 2021. His debut novel, The Cursed Among Us was released June 3, 2022, and went on to become an Amazon bestseller. Next up, his sophomore novel titled Inside The Devil’s Nest, released in January of 2023, followed by his debut collection, Sleeping In The Fire in June of 2023. In 2024 he is set to release two more novels, starting with Kosa which released to stellar reviews, and Consumed by Evil through Crystal Lake Publishing in November 2024.