Mark Matthews (4)

I haven't had a great time lately with anthologies. For whatever reason, they haven't been overly positive for me. It might just be that I want a longer story. Something with more impact than a quick intro, problem, and conclusion. At the same time, I did like two stories in this collection. Considering it is only eight stories in total, 25% is not that bad. Anyway, here's my two favorites.

"A Wicked Thirst" by Kealan Patrick Burke - A couple on a date that becomes a night and more

"Returns" by Jack Ketchum - A man returns as a ghost. I'm not saying more because it will ruin the story and this one wrenches at the heart hard!!… (mais)

In this fast paced sequel to "Milk Blood" we are once again immersed in the seedy underbelly of drug addiction.
Lilly is not in great shape. She can hear the voices of the dead though she herself seems neither dead nor alive. She is dumped in the home of a psychiatric nurse along with these very pages which must be read. In these pages we learn what happened to Lilly after the fire. We also get to know Crystal, who was the mother of Oscar from Milk Blood. Crystal is still reeling from her time in jail after Oscar's death, and is desperate to keep up appearances for the sake of her parole officer, but not desperate enough to really make any genuine effort to avoid parole violations. It is difficult for me to say more without giving too much away and I pride myself on never posting spoilers. I will just say that the ending was spectacular.

I received a complimentary copy for review.
… (mais)

This story is unusual in that it is told from the point of view of each main character.
Zach who is taking care of his elderly mother, as best as her monthly checks allow, Latrice his girlfriend who finds herself pregnant after a strange encounter with Jervis.. the squatter in a burned out hovel, and Lilly the product born of that encounter.

This was a very unique story. A tale of poverty, child neglect, drug abuse, and sprits that do not rest in peace. The real star of this show would be Lilly, who is uncomfortable at her best and suffering pain at her worst. Often left alone and hungry and friendless. It was a dark and disturbing read.

I received a complimentary copy for review… (mais)