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Interview with Horror Author Red Lagoe
Interview with Horror Author Red Lagoe
1. First, a HUGE CONGRATS on your anthology Nightmare Sky making the Stoker Preliminary Ballot! As a fan of yours (I absolutely loved your Lucid Screams short story collection), I was THRILLED to see your name on that list! We’re going to talk more about that, but first, let’s step back in time. When did you first develop a love of writing?
Thank you, Nico! I was thrilled, too!
Even though I wrote a short story when I was eleven years old (and it was a horror story), I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer. I’m not one of those people who can say, “I’ve always wanted to be a writer.” That wasn’t me. I was the outdoorsy kid. The one playing sports and adventuring alone into the woods behind my house. But I have always had an active imagination. I spent a lot of time as a kid playing make-believe alone in my head. However, I’d play the same scenario over and over for days, changing the scenes, and upping the stakes for the hero. I was creating stories in my head and never writing them down. These imagined scenarios and stories matured with me into my teens and into adulthood, and I locked them away as my little secrets. It wasn’t until my 30s—maybe about a decade ago—that I realized I should start sharing those stories through writing. I fell in love with it as soon as I started.
2. What sparked your interest in the horror genre?
I grew up on 80’s slashers and Alfred Hitchcock, Tales from the Crypt, and Twilight Zone. When my mom was out, my brothers and I had full control of the VCR, and it was gore, gore, and more gore all night long. However, when I started writing, I didn’t gravitate straight to horror. I wrote and illustrated a children’s book first, and from there I tried writing in other genres, but everything I wrote ventured a little too far into the darkness. Once I realized I was writing horror stories, there was no turning back. Horror is in engrained in my psyche from those countless unsupervised hours in front of that big wooden box of a TV as blood splattered across the screen. It’s locked inside of me, brought on by life’s traumas that had been packed away and ignored for too many years. Writing horror is a release valve on all those feelings and the creativity that’s been bottled up.
3. Do you have a favorite author and if so, who and why?
The first author that comes to mind is Paul Tremblay. I’ve loved every book of his that I’ve read. The prose, the intensity, the pacing, and all those ambiguous endings make for a storytelling cocktail that I really enjoy reading.
Author Red Lagoe
But there are so many other authors whom I adore, and who inspire me. Sara Tantlinger’s prose is lyrical and dark. V. Castro has a voice that is so real and visceral. Josh Malerman takes creativity to another level. There’s a lot of great authors out there right now and I’m excited that I get to say I know them!
4. Okay, let’s focus on your anthology Nightmare Sky. For readers who have yet to experience this beautiful collection, can you tell everyone what this anthology is about and what your inspiration was?
Well… (cracks knuckles)… Astronomy was my first love. Long before writing, long before I loved any human, I loved the sky—I was fascinated by it. I won’t write twelve paragraphs about why, but I am the one always looking up the moment I step outside, about why I have a few telescopes for dabbling in amateur astronomy and sharing views of the sky through public outreach, or why it feels like I am tethered to the sky—it’s my constant in the ever-spinning-out-of-control world. People across the planet, since the dawn of humanity, have been looking to the sky for answers. We look to it for peace, for prayer, for science, for inspiration, for navigation and hope…and we look to it with wonder…and sometimes horror. That’s what I wanted Nightmare Sky to be. That connection we all have to the cosmos. What draws our eyes up? What terrible things lurk in the dark spaces between the pinpricks of light? What monsters creep through the shadows here on earth when we’re distracted by those lights? We are many different people with different stories living under one beautifully nightmarish sky, and I wanted the anthology to show that.
In its pages, there are a variety of subgenres of horror—psychological, apocalyptic, sci-fi…There are ghosts and witches and monsters. But all of the stories are deeply rooted in that human connection to the stars.
5. What was your reaction to seeing your name on the Stoker Preliminary Ballot? How did you celebrate this awesome achievement?
I was stunned. I know people say things like “I wasn’t expecting it.” But I mean it! There’ve been years past when I opened that list thinking my book or story probably wouldn’t make it, but secretly I was hoping it would. However, this time, I truly 100% didn’t even feel that twinge of hope. I’d accepted it wouldn’t be on the ballot this year. Not because I don’t think it’s on par with those other anthologies—I believe it is—but rather, because it just released in November. The TOC isn’t packed with a lot of familiar names, so it doesn’t sell that well. And it simply hasn’t had the time to make a splash in the community. So, when I was scrolling through, I was looking for my friends’ names. Then I saw Nightmare Sky, and I froze. I read it a couple times, like maybe I’d read it wrong. I was literally shaking (but it was cold in my office, so it might’ve been that, too.)
I shared the news with a few people, made a couple posts, but I’m not celebrating yet. I’ll reserve celebration for the Final Ballot if it makes it that far. We’ll see what happens. There are some epic titles on that list, and I’m so proud to have mine among them. I will say that I was proud of this anthology before it made the list, and I’ll be proud of it still if this is as far as it goes.
6. Out of the 256 submissions, you selected 28 for this collection. Can you tell us a little bit about the behind the scenes process of being an anthology editor and selecting which pieces got included?
It was a lot of work. I lost so many hours of writing time which were sacrificed to this project, but I’m okay with that because it helped me create something that I think is pretty darn special. Once submissions opened, I tried to keep up with them as they came in, reading several stories a day if I could. I kept three files: Yes, Maybe, Probably Not. After reading each story, I placed it in a file and moved on. But that wasn’t the final decision, because every file in the Maybe and Probably Not section got a second look—maybe not a full read-through, but at least a skim—to be sure I was making the right call. There’s actually one story (I won’t name it) that was originally in the file that would get a rejection, but after giving it a second look, it grew on me, and seeing how it would fit with some of the other stories that made it, it ended up in the acceptance folder. By the time I’d selected all the stories that needed to be in the anthology, I had about 60 stories—120,000 words! Which was far too much, so I had to cut out half of them. That was the hardest part. It was rough. In the end, I chose a variety of stories that touched on different themes, mood and tone. Each story title was written on an index card with the length, the underlying themes, the POV, the tone… and I put them in an order that flowed from one story to another without feeling abrupt. Each selected story had to feel like it stayed true to that central theme of our human connection to the stars. And I did have “Stoker eligible” guidelines in mind when creating this book—the length, the quality, the attention to detail—I wanted to set the bar high, and get as close as I could to that bar with what resources I had.
7. Is this the first anthology you’ve edited and published? What have you learned from the experience that you wish you had known beforehand?
It is the first anthology I’ve ever edited! That’ so wild, and I’m even more humbled to have made the list because of that. I gained a lot of experience from doing this, and I have zero regrets putting in the work. The open call, the reading, the curating, and editing…that all felt like I had it under control. It was a lot of work, but I was expecting that. Most of what I experienced on the editing side, I think I was well prepared for, aside from thinking I’d have more time for my own writing.
The big surprises came from the publishing side of things, even though I’ve published books before. I made a call to release two months early because I was so ahead of schedule on everything. I figured the authors wouldn’t mind another publishing cred right at the end of 2022. I kicked myself for that because that’s when I ran into roadblocks with printing the paperback which made me fall way behind schedule, I couldn’t even get review copies out before the publication date. However, if I hadn’t pushed it to November, then it wouldn’t have made that preliminary ballot this year! So…I guess it worked out.
8. Any plans to put out another anthology?
Another anthology is in the works now! I’m taking less of an editor role, and more of a publisher role on this one. It is a Virginia-themed charity anthology that’s kind of a collaboration of efforts between several Virginian authors. We’re just now finalizing the TOC, and announcements will come soon, but it will benefit the 501(c)3 organization, Scares That Care. Other than that, it might not be until 2024 that I’ll consider doing another anthology, just so I can fulfill other obligations.
9. What else is in store for you? Do you have any writing projects you’re able to share with us?
I am dying to share!! But there’s a couple things I can’t share quite yet. I will say that I’ve got a novel contract signed and the announcement for that should be coming soon. I’ve also been contracted to write a novella (which I’m working on now) that will be part of a project with a couple other phenomenal writers! That news should also be coming soon. My novella “In Excess of Dark” is currently being pitched. And I have a collection of 4 short stories that will appear in an anthology of collections with authors Sara Tantlinger, Jessica Ann York, and Cory Farrenkopf through Cemetery Gates Media releasing early this year.
10. Where can readers find you to learn more?
My website www.RedLagoe.com is a good place to start and I can be found across social media platforms, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as @RedLagoe.
11. Finally, thank you so much for joining me! Is there anything else you’d like readers to know?
Thank you for inviting me! I’ll be at Authorcon in Williamsburg at the end of March 2023! So, if you’re there, and I look angry or unapproachable, please don’t be scared. That’s just what my face looks like; on the inside, I’m super nice and want people to come say ‘hello’.
Upcoming Publications: Short Stories!
Here are a few of my upcoming short story publications (the ones I can announce * wink wink *)
Title: “The One Who Came to Save Her” (folk horror)
Publication: HorrorScope: A Zodiac Anthology
Release Date: Feb 20, 2023
Title: “Chrysalis” (menopause horror)
Publication: Ooze: Little Bursts of Body Horror
Publication Date: March 2, 2023
Secret project coming out later this year!
Happy Reading!
Holiday Gift Ideas for Book Lover
It’s that time of year! It’s time to relax, enjoy the holidays, and do some shopping for the book lover in your life! But what if you want to find them something other than a copy of a book or a bookstore gift card? Here are some fun unique ideas for the literature lover on your shopping list:
DIY Miniature Kit Book-Nook: Sunshine Town (TGB02) by Hands Craft
I had no idea that book nooks existed until I saw an image on Twitter. Now, I’m obsessed! They come in a variety of genres, styles, and prices. The DIY versions are a bit more affordable (although still a higher end item), and this sunshine town comes complete with a backing mirror and LED lights. It’s sold by HandsCraftUS out of California. $49.99
Add an enchanting scene to your bookshelf with this illuminated shelf insert. A mirrored backing gives the illusion of an endless scene, while the LED lamps add warmth and life.
📚 [BOOK NOOK SHELF INSERT] This kit is one of 3 book nook kits. We also have Sakura Tram and Time Travel. Great for men, women, boys, and girls, this quiet activity is perfect for the entire family (ages 14+).
💡 [TOUCH-ACTIVATED LED LIGHTS] The kit includes light fixtures with tiny LED bulbs to illuminate each little room. This vibrant and cozy lighting will add the finishing touch to your book nook. Comes with the needed LED lights, wiring, and battery box along with detailed instructions to make this as simple as possible for you! 🔋 2 AAA batteries required; batteries not included
🌳 [BEAUTIFUL DECOR] This model comes with laser-cut pieces and printed designs to give a more realistic miniature scene. Intricate, laser-engraved details on buildings enhance the scene, and the mirror backing elongates the scene. With such amazing decor and details, this modern DIY house is sure to impress.
🎁 [AMAZING GIFT IDEA] Makes an amazing gift as either a DIY activity or pre-assembled as home décor.
1️4️⃣ Recommended for ages 14+.
Assembled size: 7.28 x 3.94 x 9.53 in
246 pieces
🔋 2 AAA batteries required; batteries not included
Does anyone else buy post cards and frame them as pieces of art? No? Just me? Well, I highly recommend, especially with these classic literature postcards that come in a ten pack sold by BookishlyUK
out of Northampton, United Kingdom. $13.29
Etsy Description This postcard set features literary book covers in a classic art style. There's ten different designs including The Secret Garden, Anne of Green Gables, Pride and Prejudice, Frankenstein, Moby Dick and more.
Each set of postcards contains ten different designs. Our postcards are made from 300gsm white textured card each one has a blank postcard design on the reverse. Your postcard pack will arrive in a board back envelope. A6: 10.5cm x 14.8cm.
How about flowers that will never wilt? These are handcrafted from PagesGarden Etsy shop out of Chula Vista, California and come as either a dozen, 18, or 24 roses with the option for gift wrap. The dozen roses without gift wrap costs $32.95.
Etsy Description:
These book page flowers come in a set of 12, 18, or 24 and are made by recycled book pages. Each paper rose is hand cut and rolled to give its own unique form.
*** Vase is NOT included in this listing ***
Flower sizes vary from 1 3/4" - 2 1/4" in diameter and are approximately 1.5" - 2" tall. The stem is made out of floral wire and measures around 9" long. Color of book pages may slightly vary from light to dark ivory/cream.
Add a special touch with these book flowers to any vintage theme or book theme party, wedding bridal shower party, baby shower, or home decor.
This paper rose bouquet also makes such a unique gift! Give it to any book lover, librarian, or teacher. It also makes for the perfect birthday gift for her or wedding first anniversary gift.
Paper roses are available to be gifted, just select "Gift Wrapped" under drop down menu. They are specially wrapped with gift tissue paper (color and design may vary) and a brown paper bag as shown in the picture above if selected.
Okay, this one might be a little more for the writer in your life, but who doesn’t need an extra pencil? These Book Nerd pencils come in a variety of quantity and colors, sold by PerryPencilCo out of Memphis, TN, and start at a five pack of $8.50.
Etsy Description:
The perfect gift for the book lover in your life!
Book Nerd Pencil 5 Pack
Hand pressed on high quality Tennessee made pencils.
**Multi-Brights color option shown in main picture**
While I admit I don’t know a lot about jewlery, this adorable locket seems like a bargain at only $15.18. It’s sold by HartsAndStarsUK out of Sheffield, United Kingdom, and for a little extra, it can come in a gift box. The inside has room for two pictures, one on either side. This is one of my favorite items on the list!
Etsy Description: Unique vintage look bronze locket necklace pendant, 50cm
What’s better than snuggling up on a rainy day and reading a book? Now, book lovers can do so with these adorable library card pillows. They’re sold by dirtsastudio out of Edison, New Jersey, handmade, and come in a variety of bright colors. Each has a width of 16 inches and length of 12 inches. $30.00
Etsy Description: These library card pillows with have you waxing nostalgic for the days when the librarian would flip to the back of the book and hand stamp the due date. Each is screen printed by hand on cotton canvas. Both front and back look like a classic library checkout card. Pillows measure approximately 12" x 16", poly-fil insert with zipper closure along bottom.
Look, we’ve all been there. We’re reading our favorite book, getting tired, decide to take a break, and search around for something to mark the spot. For a quick second, we think of dog earing the page, but instantly decided against it. We’re not animals. Instead, we grab the nearest item: a clean tissue, an old takeout receipt, our sock. Instant bookmark!
No! Time to get that book lover a marker they’ll love so much they’ll never use a hair tie to save their spot again! This David Rose wood bookmark is made by GrowandCompany out of Calgary, Canada. Buyer has to option of David wearing glasses or not, and it even can come in acrylic rather than wood. $11.62
Etsy Description: When your bookmark clearly states your intentions! Ew David!
The perfect gift for any occasion - housewarming, , graduation, birthday, Mother's Day, or Christmas!
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Maple wood, wood and engraving will contain natural variations in color and grain.
Ruler Dimension: 2" x 7"
If the book locket is my favorite, this comes in a close second. I love this idea! Custom book earrings perfect for the book lover (or author!!) in your life! Pick a classic or recent debut and they are turned into a unique memorable gift. This item is sold by ThatchAndClover out of Washington, DC and the earring come in either gold or silver.
Etsy Shop Description:
Handmade item
Drop length: .5 Inches; Length: .75 Inches; Width: .5 Inches
Materials: metal, paper, card stock
Location: Earlobe
Closure: Ear wire
Made to Order
Hop over to their site to learn how to customize your book earrings today! $24.99
Remember that rainy day I mentioned? The one where all a book lover wants to do is curl up and read? How about getting them this comfy sweater to help keep them warm while they dive into their latest fiction? As someone who loves all these things, this sweatshirt is perfect! It’s sold by YourWishCo out of Redlands, California for $28.00. Sadly, sizes only go from S - XL, so size inclusivity is lacking, but they also have a “Cats, Books, and Tea” shirt that offers a little more options in a range from S - 3X. $35.00 but currently (11/25/2022) on sale for $28.00
Etsy Description:
For every item purchased we donate $1 to an organization helping establish schools and education infrastructure in developing countries. It's our way of giving back!
All items are made-to-order from our at-home studio. The designs are printed on soft cotton (however some styles/colors may be a blend. Please feel free to message us regarding any possible variation before ordering if you’re curious) with high-quality heat transfer vinyl. Production usually takes 2-4 days, but we try our best to ship out our orders by next day.
Our shirts are washer and dryer safe, but for best quality we recommend turning the shirt inside-out and hand washing in cold water.
This petite book ring comes in a US4 - US12 size and makes for a lovely gift for someone who likes jewelry! This ring is sold from pamelahattie and ships free to the U.S.!
Etsy Description: Handmade item
Materials: Silvering
ring size: 1 mm, Come with gift box wrap
Style: Victorian
Can be personalized
Made to Order
Sterling silver will oxidation after some time this is a normal process, just use polishing cloth or a polishing lotion or Toothpaste, detergent at home for that nice shine
That’s my list for the 2022 holiday season! I hope you found something perfect for the book lover in your life or even a little something to treat yourself. Happy Holidays!
HellSans by Ever Dundas Book Review
HellSans by Ever Dundas
5 stars
Book Description:
When every word you read, whatever it says, fills you with euphoric calm - that's HellSans; a typeface used everywhere by the government. To keep people happy. Blissful. And controlled.
Unless you're allergic. And then every word is agony. Then HellSans is hell, and reading it will slowly kill you.
HellSans is the story of two women.
CEO Jane Ward is famous and successful, until she falls ill with the allergy and her life falls apart, dumping her in the ghetto with the other HSAs (HellSans Allergic). Where she meets...
Dr Icho Smith, a scientist who has a cure for the allergy. But she's on the run from the government, and the Seraphs, a terrorist group with their own plan for the HSAs...
HellSans innovative structure allows you to read either Jane or Icho's story first, before their lives meet in the terrifying finale.
HellSans is dystopia writ large. A novel where words can kill.
REVIEW
This is one of my favorite 2022 reads!
Dundas takes readers on a thrilling ride where words can literally set off an allergic reaction resulting in a variety of symptoms including boils, blisters, and possibly death. This dystopian world revolves around two dynamic woman: Dr. Icho Smith who is researching a cure and CEO Jane Ward who famously is in charge of the ominous Company which manufactures personal assistant machines to make life as easy as possible. Icho finds herself wrapped in a conspiracy with the only sliver of hope for her survival resting with Jane. Jane quickly discovers the horrors of the HellSans allergy when she becomes infected and dumped in the ghetto with the other forgotten and discarded members of society. Together, they must work towards unraveling a mystery before it’s too late.
Jane and Icho are perfectly matched. Jane’s ego, brisk nature, and flaunting of wealth make her the slightly less sympathetic of the two, but Icho softens Jane’s edges. The book is divided into three parts allowing readers to pick Icho or Jane’s point-of-view to begin the book. While these two sections can be read in either order, Jane’s story explains the technology in more detail and might be more desirable to those who want a more thorough understanding of the assistant machines the Company manufactures. Icho is arguably the more likeable of the two, so those looking to have an instant connection with a character are encouraged to being with her section.
As the plot progresses, themes of reliance on technology and the difference between the “haves” and the “have nots” becomes apparent. Characters are quick to gobble up the lies of politicians and those in affluent positions while they turn up their noses at the most vulnerable in their community. The parallel between fiction and reality often becomes unsettling as Dundas forces readers to hold a mirror up, not only to themselves, but to the world we live in. With expert writing and thrilling tension, the suspense becomes palpable in the final section where everything comes together, readers are left contemplating the morals of this dystopian world.
I highly recommend checking this one out! Buy it here.
The Butcher by Laura Kat Young
The Butcher Book Review
4.5 stars, rounded up for Goodreads and NetGalley
Young presents readers with a world where questioning authority has deadly results. Lady Mae is set to inherit her mother's job as the town Butcher. The Butcher is required to settle atonements. When a citizen breaks the law, they are sentenced to a certain number of atonements. Each atonement equates to a body part being chopped off by the Butcher. As Lady Mae's time to take over grows closer, she is challenged to question the way the government is run. She is faced with a challenge. Should she follow the law of follow her conscious?
This stunning cast of characters reaches out of the page and captures the emotions of the reader. Lady Mae's mother Winona shows a deep devotion to her daughter, and their bond holds fast in a world that hates them. This mother-daughter relationship shows a tenderness in a world of harsh consequences. As the plot unravels, the characters are faced with moral dilemmas that test their bravery. Each y-in the road build tension and sucks the reader deeper into this tense and compelling premise. Some readers may even become teary eyed; the connection Young develops between reader and story is that strong. This dystopian emotional horror is perfect for those looking for a unique premise with heartfelt characters and high tension.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
The Haunting of Alejandra by V. Castro Book Review
The Haunting of Alejandra by V. Castro
Five Star Review
Castro weaves a haunting tale of motherhood that reaches through the pages, grips reader’s hearts, and squeezes tight. Alejandra is a stay-at-home mother whose identity has gotten lost in the shuffle of daily mundane activities. Her condescending husband is no help as Alejandra spirals into a deep depression and begins seeing haunting visions. Desperate to fight her way out of the darkness, she consults a therapist and together, they dig into Alejandra’s Mexican heritage to search for a way to combat the growing ghostly threat. It’s up to Alejandro to face her demons in order to survive.
Castro’s masterful horror takes readers through generations of Mexican women’s lives and the struggles they endured. Each point-of-view digs into the women’s sorrow, but it also shines a light on their love for their children and a strong connection with their heritage. Alejandra is relatable; she loves her children but feels the heaviness and loneliness of being a mother. Her search for identity mirrors reality, and Alejandra’s strength transcends the page and provides inspiration for those also hurting.
The haunting story of La Llorona (a tragic tale of a mother who drowned her children) intertwines with the characters and plot using a fresh and compelling perspective. Horror elements terrify thanks to Castro’s visceral descriptions. Heavy themes of family, resilience, and motherhood saturate the pages and leave the reader wanting more. Those looking for an emotional journey of self-discovery will devour this expertly crafted horror.
Readers who enjoyed Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder and Full Immersion by Gemma Amor will enjoy the deep emotional journey of The Haunting of Alejandra. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Marionette by Antonia Rachel Ward
Marionette by Antonia Rachel Ward Book Review
3 Stars
Ward crafts a compelling premise complete in this spicy supernatural horror. Cecile Dulac is a French prostitute turned dancer/performer who gets roped into a séance. A vengeful spirit is conjured into her body, forcing Cecile to fight for her autonomy. Meanwhile, the charming George Dashwood swoons over Cecile and is determined to play the role of knight in shining armor, but at what cost? Will Cecile and George survive the spirit's deadly intentions?
Cecile is a sex-positive character who falls prey to the spirit who overtakes the woman's body and uses it for lustful acts while Cecile is unable to stop the events from occurring. Since Cecile can't offer her consent, some readers will find the actions in this book a bit troubling, despite the woman's own love for intimacy. George is equality polarizing as some readers may find his attraction and attention to Cecile romantic, while others will reason that his connection is based largely, if not entirely, on her shapely body. His desire to be with her seems less about love and more about lust, which makes his motivations throughout the plot a little challenging to believe.
In spite of these hiccups, Ward weaves a quick paced tale of revenge and thwarted love. Readers looking for a spicy spooky read will enjoy this one.
Thank you to NetGalley for my review copy!
Full Immersion by Gemma Amor Book Review
Full Immersion Book Review
5 Stars
Back Cover:
A traumatised woman with amnesia finds her own dead body and sets out to uncover the truth of her demise in a race against time, sanity, crumbling realities and the ever-present threat of the Silhouette.
When Magpie discovers her own dead body one misty morning in Bristol, it prompts her to uncover the truth of her untimely demise. Her investigations take her on a terrifying journey through multiple realities, experimental treatments, technological innovations and half-memories in a race against time and sanity. Accompanied by a new friend who is both familiar and strange, and constantly on the run from the terrifying, relentless presence of the mysterious predator known only as Silhouette, Magpie must piece together the parts of her life previously hidden. In doing so, she will discover the truth about her past, her potential, and her future
Review:
Amor weaves a beautifully haunting tale of post-partem depression with dark imagery and eerie tones. A mother on the verge of self-harm makes one last attempt to save herself by applying to an experimental therapy program. Suddenly, she wakes up and comes face-to-face with her own dead body. Now, she must navigate a blurred world between truth and illusion in order to uncover her deepest secret.
This story is exquisitely written with a sympathetic protagonist that seeps into the reader’s soul and latches on for dear life. Amor bravely bares her heart on the page for inspection as the mother character must journey into her past in order to save her future. The drama unravels in a satisfyingly slow and steady pace with enough tension to keep the reader engaged from start to finish. While this premise has been explored by other authors, Amor spins the familiar tale of motherhood with a unique and personal perspective. This story will stick with readers longer after the final word.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Ebola Saves the Planet and Other Wholesome Tales by Matthew A. Clarke
Ebola Saves the Planet and Other Wholesome Tales Book Review
This is a wild ride worth taking!
Matthew A. Clarke compiles a bizzaro collection featuring eleven short stories with unique scenarios. Whether it's Pinocchio prostituting himself or an unusual girl with button eyes, the characters are imaginative and memorable as they navigate a variety of weird and eclectic scenarios. Several stories relate to the end of the world or realities where humanity must adapt to a new world which makes this a fascinating and unnerving collection.
With the eleven stories sit a few that stood out.
The collection starts with "Best Birthday Ever." A man gets to participate in his favorite game show. This story takes a hard look at how far someone would go to win a state-of-the-art cheese grater and a wheel of mature Frayton cheese.
"Mortal coil" will pull at reader's softer side as two young friends navigate life Post-Coil. Yes, the world is littered with grenade-like coils. Touch one and blow up. Teddy and friend Speedo must steer clear of these deadly devices as they go on an adventure.
This collection is well developed with a strong sense of voice from Clarke. Readers who love bizzaro horror and aren't squeamish will enjoy this five star collection! Buy it here!