H. A. Pruitt
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The anthology is made up of poems and short stories that are dark fiction. The works are considered dark because they contain eerie elements like death, ghosts, curses, and evil, but the theme of the anthology is not to be dark for the purpose of being scary. The idea behind the anthology is to explore our fears and the darkness in our lives in order to overcome the darkness with light. The poems and stories show that we do not have to remain in the dark (in our fear or hurt or shame) but we can put our hope in the light (the truth of God) and step out of darkness.
Some of the poems and stories beautifully illustrated that theme, and others contain the theme but not as clearly. Some, if I didn't know the theme, I wouldn't have noticed it. That doesn't necessarily mean I didn't like them or they weren't well done; it just means some were powerful deep stories, some were thoughtful, and some were just a fun read.
Some of my favorites (that really captured the theme)
The Ghost in the Thicket by Emily Barnett
Ember by Natalie Noel Truitt
Nightfall by D.A. Randall
The Headless Henswoman by Kristiana Sfirlea
The Nightwalkers by Emily Barnett
When Darkness Breathes Its Last by Savannah Jazowski
Some that I enjoyed (they were fun to read)
Don't Feed the Leprechauns by Laura E. Madden
Poems at the end of the 2nd section by Effie Joe Stock, Megan Mullis, and Kristiana Sfirlea
Possession by L.A. Thornhill
I want to go into depth about two stories by the same author: Emily Barnett. When you read her stories, it's like walking up to a pond in winter and knowing you're looking at this beautiful, still surface etched with details that feel so familiar--and then suddenly you realize you're looking at your own reflection, except distorted and surrounded by the depth of you and your new discovery, and it all comes together and abruptly ends and leave you haunted by something you always and never knew about yourself. Her stories haunt you and cling to you because they show you truth--deep, real, personal truth--and show you exactly the light you need.
Aisling
⭐⭐⭐⭐
You guys are definitely going to want to get a copy of this anthology! This delightfully spooky book is a perfect read for October and it's hard to pick a favorite among the numerous short stories and poems that are included. Some are downright creepy while others are humorous, but all have a common thread running through them. The power of light. The works have us contemplate fear and darkness, while also showcasing the power of light, hope, and faith. So yes, there might be some shivers up your spine while reading this, but you'll also be left with a sense of hope. Anne has worked her butt off getting this book ready, as have all the others involved in its publication. I can't wait to get a physical copy of this gorgeous book to put on my shelves!
