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Midnight in the Pentagram Kindle Edition
Catherine Cavendish (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Todd Keisling (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Tony Tremblay (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Michael Patrick Hicks (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Stephanie Ellis (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Tim Meyer (Author) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
Kenneth W. Cain (Editor) Find all the books, read about the author, and more. See search results for this author |
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$19.99
- LanguageEnglish
- Publication dateOctober 13, 2020
- File size4812 KB
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Product details
- ASIN : B08GCSHGLR
- Publication date : October 13, 2020
- Language : English
- File size : 4812 KB
- Simultaneous device usage : Unlimited
- Text-to-Speech : Enabled
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Not Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 520 pages
- Page numbers source ISBN : 1951043146
- Lending : Enabled
- Best Sellers Rank: #424,975 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #775 in Horror Short Stories
- #2,916 in Occult Horror
- #4,329 in Occult Fiction
- Customer Reviews:
About the authors
Mark Steensland self-published his first book while in fourth grade and has been telling stories ever since—some of them true. He became a professional journalist before graduating high school, writing about movies for such magazines as Prevue, Millimeter, and American Cinematographer. He holds a bachelor's in film studies from UC Santa Barbara, a master's in creative writing from CSU Sacramento, and an MFA in screenwriting from Chapman University. His award-winning films (including Peekers and The Ugly File) have played in festivals around the world. His first novel—Behind the Bookcase—was published in 2012 by Random House. A movie based on The Special, a novella co-written with James Newman, was released in October 2020. He most recently wrote Jakob's Wife, starring Barbara Crampton, Larry Fessenden, and Bonnie Aarons.
JG Faherty is the Bram Stoker Award®- and ITW Thriller Award-nominated author of 8 novels, 10 novellas, and more than 75 short stories. He writes adult and YA horror/sci-fi/fantasy, and his works range from quiet, dark suspense to over-the-top comic gruesomeness.
A lifelong resident of New York's highly haunted Hudson Valley region, JG grew up amid Revolutionary War graveyards, haunted roads, and woods filled with ghostly apparitions. His varied professional career includes working as a resume writer, laboratory manager, accident scene photographer, zoo keeper, scientist, and salesman. He began writing fiction in 2001, and his short stories, poetry, and articles have appeared in numerous magazines and anthologies.
For more information about his books, or to arrange signings or readings, visit www.jgfaherty.com, www.facebook.com/jgfaherty, or www.twitter.com/jgfaherty.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 3, 2020
Top reviews from the United States
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I have a handful of favorites in here. Brian Moreland’s “The Corn Maidens” involves a young woman with a disturbing power, and a village with equally disturbing traditions. I absolutely love how this one played out.
Top billing (in my mind) should go to Laurel Hightower’s “The Other.” It’s a fascinating look at a possessed man’s life. He’s losing time, his wife suddenly seems to hate him, and his things get moved around. This is an incredibly powerful story.
“Angel Dust,” by Shannon Felton, is a bizarre story of drugs, possession, and demons that’s oddly intriguing. James Newman’s “I Know He Loves Me (He Just Has a Funny Way of Showing It)” is another possession story that takes things in an unexpected and fascinating direction. There seems to be a bounty of excellent possession stories, like P.D. Cacek’s “Diminishing Returns,” in which a woman with Alzheimer’s seems to be possessed.
Todd Keisling’s “The Gods of Our Fathers,” set in the same universe as his “Devil’s Creek,” is absolutely beautiful, and very dark. A girl whose father turned away from the Old Gods to the Christian god tries to find a way out of her life of pain and terror.
“A Night Above,” by John Quick, is a hilarious (and oddly touching!) story of a demon summoned to a slumber party, and I loved it!
Charlotte Platt’s “Family Business” introduces us to Lisa, who has followed in her family’s business of restoring and repairing antiques. A mysterious visitor named Levi brings her an artifact to be repaired, and things get strange from there. Action, horror, and a nice shiver down your spine!
Many other stories are quite good–there are plenty of possessions, summonings, and other intriguing stories to read.
Things that made some of the other stories not as good for me included one in which an aging aunt is completely and utterly stereotypical, right down to magically taking a pie out of the oven just as her unexpected visitors arrive (there are a couple of other stories with very stereotypical characters, but not many). Some stories feel like they end just a tad bit too soon, not quite taking us to an adequate resolution. One story has an odd clumsy rhythm; I think it’s because typically high-stress parts of a story have at least some shorter sentences to help convey that choppy feeling, and this story just kept the same “normal” pace throughout (it takes away from the tension and drama). A few stories seem to hurry their way through, and could have used a bit more detail.
Content note for: self-harm, racial slurs, child molestation and abuse, animal harm, rape, abuse and murder of slaves, death of a baby, highly detailed torture, xenophobia, and of course, since this book contains a wide range of horror stories, gore. I definitely recommend reading this one. Many stories are just wonderful, and most of the rest are very good. The theme is covered very well, and all of the stories feel as though they fit.
it features a Best-Of of today's horror authors and also introduces some new authors I hope to read more of in the future. There is not one disappointing story to be found, only loads of well-written traditional, original and also unexpected ideas that lead you into the twisted land of demons, witches, possession and other horrors. The biggest strength of this volume is its widespread variety, though I especially enjoyed stories with a humorous streak.
Among my favorites are 'The Corn Maidens', 'Legion Cast Forth', 'What I Wouldn't Give', 'Dog Eat God', 'Discovering Mr. Jones', 'The Gods of Our Fathers', 'Diminishing Returns' and 'Witches' Night'. My personal number one story is the hilarious 'A Night Above' - the first and only story that made me pity the demon...
For fans of short stories with demons/occult themes offering a mix of creepy, hilarious, moving, and downright horrific tales, I promise you cannot go wrong with this collection!
"The Corn Maidens" by Brian Moreland - A young girl gets exiled from her hometown during the Depression era. But will Hannah Creed be able to start again and finally find acceptance in a new home? Loved this story and Hannah. This is a perfect start to the collection!
"Father MacLeod" by Tony Tremblay - A priest fights to exorcise his nephew, but he's losing the battle. Until the demon makes him an offer he can't refuse. This story was terrific, a unique and horrific take on exorcisms but with surprising splashes of humor.
"Opening the Door" by Kenneth McKinley - Two pickers hit up their next spot, an old cottage they hope is loaded with treasures. They hit the motherload, for sure, but one relic turns out to be far more than they bargained for. Not trying to spoil but the minute they found the record, I literally gasped knowing whatever else happened I would love this story--and I did!
"The Other" by Laurel Hightower - A man experiences a vicious type of night terror/sleep paralysis, loss of time, and is growing increasingly estranged from his wife. What is happening? Well, I won't tell you. But this story, as with anything Ms. Hightower writes, is brilliant. The creeping dread is palpable, and it's one of my absolute favorites of the lot.
"Legion Cast Forth" by Robert Ford - A pig farmer has a special relationship with the local priests, helping them out with some exorcism troubles. Again...no spoilers, but SERIOUSLY! I loved this story, such an original concept, and I will be looking to read more from Mr. Ford.
"Angel Dust" by Shannon Felton - There's a new drug in town, sending a lost girl on a wild and dark adventure to find herself. This was so well written and again, something so original that I thoroughly enjoyed myself throughout.
"What I Wouldn't Give" by Chad Lutzke - A man is trying to make a deal with a demon, but if you think you know how this story will unfold, think again. Chad's stories are always amazing, and this is simply a must-read, especially for fans of horror and rock music. I laughed out loud during many exchanges, even forcing my guitarist/metal fan boyfriend to read along because it was too good not to share.
"Hellseed" by Tim Curran - A woman is about to give birth, but this is no ordinary baby... Creepy as hell, this story is definitely one that will keep you up at night. And maybe make one consider getting some birth control!
"Devil's Ink" by Mark Towse - He just wants to write his story, why won't the world just let him be? Excellent story for people who love the writer as the MC trope in horror.
"Baby Teeth" by Azzurra Nox - Melissa's tale begins with her in prison, sharing the story of her daughter's possession. This story... just wow. Another one of my favorites from the collection, it really messed my head up in so many ways. Absolutely brilliant work by another author who I am dying to read more of!
"My Body" by Wesley Southard - Cynthia's a failed chef turned restaurant critic who has to visit the new French restaurant in her small town. How in the world do they make that food so tasty? As a 25yr restaurant veteran, I instantly love any tale in that setting. This one, though... I've rarely felt such simultaneous hunger and revulsion in my life lol--thank you, Mr. Southard!
"The Red Butcher of Wroclaw" by Graham Masterson - Making a movie is hard, especially when the weather sucks and it seems like nothing will cooperate. Why not spend the time sharing scary local legends? It's all fun and games until it seems the story may be more than just a legend. Super fun story with entertaining characters!
"Dog Eat God" by Kenneth W. Cain - Father Menendez isn't one's ideal priest, but his faith receives the test of a lifetime when Mrs. Brown and her dog visit. This story was another that hooked me with it's blend of horror and humor and totally original plot, so much fun to read!
"The Oubliette of Elie Loyd" by Catherine Cavendish - Mia's on vacation with her boyfriend, but the trip isn't what she hoped for...until she makes a new friend. Elie Loyd is captivating, offering a proper sightseeing tour that's too good to resist--just what Mia wanted! Be careful what you wish for. Another win for Ms. Cavendish, who excels at chilling tales with unexpected twists.
"Discovering Mr. Jones" by Cameron Ulam - A group of guys are hired to clean out a hoarder's home. What they find in the rubble will make your hair stand on end. This story... omg, scary as hell! This is my first time reading anything by Ms. Ulam but I'm definitely a fan now!
"The Gods of Our Fathers" by Todd Keisling - It's bad enough Mary lost her mom and grandfather, but she also lost her connection to their religion. Instead she's stuck with her wicked Dad and Brother and their oppressive beliefs. My heart absolutely broke for Mary, even bringing tears to my eyes. Prepare yourself for reading this one because the emotions it generates will punch you. Beautifully written!
"I Know He Loves Me" by James Newman - Any story that begins with quotes from Love, Actually and The Exorcist has already one me over. Excellent story and such a unique perspective. I've not read Mr. Newman yet, but this was a great introduction to him. I can't wait to read more!
"Second Sight" by Allan Leverone - Rebecca Danvers (love the name!) has been blind for most of her life, but after an eye transplant her life should be perfect... except some side effects pop up that she cannot ignore. Such a great story, and I enjoyed the PoV shift between Rebecca and her husband. The end was super creepy, well done!
"Family Reunion" by Stephanie Ellis - Agnes and her husband are Satanists, and it's time again for the big ritual. But Agnes isn't happy with how the coven is going and decides to do things a little differently this year. Pro-Tip, don't tattle to the Dark Mother unless you're fully prepared for her to get involved and sort out your problem. Loved this wickedly dark tale!
"A Night Above" by John Quick - Just another summons, no big deal the demon thinks... until he's called to a room full of preteen girls eager to have the best satanic ritual ever! As a former preteen girl who played ridiculous occult games with my friends, I felt this story on many levels. A hilarious breath of fun amidst so many super-dark stories, loved it!
"Brujeria" by Michael Patrick Hicks - Marcus Blake is invited to a screening at his much more successful best friend's house, a lost film showing an occult ritual. Tacos, beer, friends, movies--what could go wrong? Excellent story for fans of found footage, I enjoyed every minute!
"White Walpurgis" by Tim Meyer - Marla's hired on to photograph a wedding, which should be a blast. The bride has cancer, so that's a bummer. And it is a little weird they asked for Marla specifically... Nah, it'll be great--everyone loves a wedding, right? Dark and wicked little story with a cool twist!
"Family Business" by Charlotte Platt - Lisa's in charge of the family business now, which we soon realize is more than just the average antique shop. A cute guy brings in a family heirloom, asking for her help, but they're both in for a surprise when another pair of visitors come intent on causing trouble. This was another totally unique story with an exciting buildup to an awesome ending. I would love to read more from this author!
"Flaking Red Paint" by Armand Rosamilia - A new neighbor moves in, creepy and old but he pays good money for lawn mowing and... cat fetching? Dark and twisted little tale that kept me on the edge of my seat!
"Diminishing Returns" by P.D. Cacek - Father Paul is trying to help Miranda cope with the onset of Alzheimer's. But little do they both realize, there's a lot more going on with Miranda than the Alzheimer's... This story packs a good bit of emotion while also delivering the scares, brace yourselves!
"The Story of a Lifetime" by JG Faherty - Nick Leiter's a pretty sleazy guy, a reporter with a drinking problem and a penchant for seducing his interviewees. His next assignment is with Demora Chow, a real high priestess who's more gifted than any other occult figure he's met. And oh boy does she have a surprise for him!
"The Furious Pour" by Amanda Hard - Richard spends an evening drinking with his former brother in law, McLaren, as they mourn the loss of Alice. Both men have some hard truths to share before the night is over, but at least the whiskey will continue to flow. Loved where this story went, as I totally didn't expect it.
"A Virgin Birth" by William Meikle - A student heads to Germanstown, frantic to finish his folklore paper before the deadline. But once he gets there, everything starts falling into place and the beer is fantastic! As a fan of folk horror and beer, I enjoyed this one!
"Complex" by Jason Parent - Carrie and Liam are on a grand nature adventure, hiking with friends and... their messiah? Oh yes, expect some delicious cultish goodness in this one!
"Black Jar Man" by Mark Steensland - Do you want to know about the Black Jar man? Well I sure did, and gobbled this story up so fast my head was spinning. Dark, brutal, terrifying... an amazing tale to keep you awake long after bedtime. I am definitely looking forward to more from this author.
"Babylon Falling" by Brian Keene - It's 2003, war rages in Iraq, Led Zeppelin is playing in the background, and a group of soldiers stumble into a sandstorm... and since it's Brian Keene, you know to brace yourself for one terrifying ride through the darkness. This story is not for the fainthearted, and I'll never think of "Kashmir" the same!
"Express" by Edward M. Erdelac - Dion's a security guard at the Sturgill Building, not a bad job and it's fun to watch the oddball characters go by. But when the oddest one goes upstairs and never comes back down, Dion fills with dread knowing soon enough he'll have to find out what happened.
"Witches' Night" by Owl Goingback - It's 1974 and a group of teenagers begins talking about the biggest movie of the year, The Exorcist--who actually saw it and who's lying to make themselves seem cooler? Yep, I'm totally sold on this story already. Once it continues and the boys meet up with their one female friend, Sally, she invites them to the graveyard for some fun later. It's Witches Night, after all, so it's the time to experiment with her new spell book. Another one of my favorites, this story was so full of emotion and topics I completely related to. I loved Paul and Sally, and I had to see what sort of witchy trouble they got into. Beautiful story from the amazing Mr. Goingback, and a perfect end to the collection.
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