Home » Posts tagged "horror fiction" (Page 102)

Book Review: The Final Transmission by Brian F.H. Clement

The Final Transmission by Brian F.H. Clement
Damnation Books, 2013
ISBN: 978-1629291109
Available: paperback, ebook

The Final Transmission is what I call a kitchen sink book. The story follows occult detective Benoit Michaud as he investigates the deaths of a group of cultists and their victim, and the consequences of those deaths. The first-time author has thrown all his ideas and flights of fancy into this brief novel. As a result it is cluttered, creating a surreal blur of frantic scenes. In this case, that works to his advantage, to heighten the sense of urgency and set a relentless pace that will keep the reader glued to the narrative.

Equal parts horror, science fiction, and detective novel, the story defies easy classification, and that is part of its charm. With a rich, diverse cast, anchored by Detective Michaud, Clement does an excellent job of creating unique voices and near-cinematic exposition that lends to the overall atmosphere of fear and dread.

While there are missteps, this is a fine first novel and one I would suggest without reservation, especially if occult detectives are your cup of tea. Recommended.

Contains: occultism, adult situations, violence

Reviewed by Bob Freeman

 

Posted on May 4, 2015 by , Reply

Magazine Review: Black Static Magazine, Issues 44 & 45

  

 Black Static Magazine: Issues 44 & 45.

TTA Press: January and February, 2015.

Available: Print, Kindle edition

Very few magazines are worth the price of subscription– ever.  Black Static is a rare exception. In my opinion, Black Static is the best international magazine of dark fiction out there.  TTA Press has consistently produced a fine, slick, quality, digest-sized product,with plenty of visual appeal, on a regular publication schedule.  Editor Andy Cox ensures that each issue of Black Static is packed with top-notch material. Black Static is a perfect choice for readers who prefer fine fiction, reviews, and columns.

Issue #44 is one of my favorite issues to date. From cover to cover, it is 96 pages of great darkness. Stephen Volk’s opening column, “How To Stay Insane, Pt. 2”, is excellent, and his insights about writing horror resonate long after reading. In her column, Lynda E. Rucker tackles the World Fantasy Award and how horror fits into the argument. Both Volk and Rucker have consistently penned strong columns, frequently about the writing and business of horror, both bringing their own unique slant to the genre. Peter Tennant and Tony Lee continue to cover books and movies in detailed fashion with keen eyes for novelty and innovation.  Tennant typically spotlights authors or publishers. This time he spotlights Tim Waggoner, with an insightful interview. Of course, there are also a plethora of reviews of DVDs and fiction. Strong novellas by Simon Avery and Tyler Keevil are followed by short stories by Priya Sharma, E. Catherine Tobler, and Jackson Kuhl.

#45 is just as impressive. Volk discusses the selling of souls and other commodities and Rucker covers the topic of the female body and horror. Tennant focuses on the talented Helen Marshall. Issue #45 also contains short stories by S.P. Miskowski, Laura Mauro, Stephen Hargadon, Emily Cataneo, Andrew Hook, Cate Gardner, Danny Rhodes, and the always mesmerizing Steve Rasnic Tem.  The countless reviews seem to expand with each issue, and while many skewer the films and shows, the honesty behind the opinions rings true.

Once again, the task is simple: pick up a subscription to this fine magazine or if you’re across the pond, get yourself to the store grab a copy.  Not many things are worth the money these days and few are guaranteed to entertain consistently, but this is one that fulfills without fault every time.

Highly recommended magazine for any fans of the genre.

Reviewed by Dave Simms (Note: Dave Simms also reviews for Cemetery Dance magazine.)

 

Posted on April 26, 2015 by , Reply

Book Review: Things Slip Through by Kevin Lucia

Things Slip Through by Kevin Lucia

2013, Crystal Lake Publishing

ISBN 978-0992170707

Availability: paperback

 

In the small Adirondack town of Clifton Heights, four friends have gathered for their weekly poker night. Chris, the town sheriff, has decided he’d rather have answers than play cards. There have been strange disappearances since Chris came to Clifton Heights a year ago, disappearances that he has been unable to solve. Gavin, a teacher and former writer, is the one who will give Chris the answers he seeks. Gavin hands over a journal with short stories he has written about the strange happenings, from the original shooting that brought the four friends together, to Gavin’s story of alcoholism and redemption, as well as what happened to those who seemingly disappeared into thin air. As Chris reads through the stories, he ends up with even more questions.

Things Slip Through is a short story collection brilliantly disguised as a novel. Kevin Lucia spins an entertaining tale that allows the individual stories to seamlessly coalesce into one story of a very weird and creepy little town and some of its odd residents. The characters are well-developed, and I really empathized with Chris and his unique situation. Lucia’s prose is dark, sharp, and inventive and kept me hooked– I read the book in two sittings. I, for one, hope to see some of these characters again, especially the villainous Dr. Jeffers and his disturbing hospital. I highly recommend Things Slip Through. Highly recommended.

Contains: some blood and gore, adult language

Reviewed by Colleen Wanglund

Posted on April 16, 2015 by , Reply
First « 100101102103104 » Last