2: 17 Am: Eyes in the Dark

by Kathrin Brückmann

What if fear becomes so overpowering, nothing else matters? What if you can't ever escape your pursuer? That's what happened to me. I'm Danni.

I'm Danni, and I once had a life. A trivial, ordinary life. And I was satisfied. Until I drew this man's gaze, or rather: his eyes dug into me. They uprooted me and tossed me around like tumbleweed... But read for yourself.

A thrilling short story.

Genres: Horror

22 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 6, 2013

About the author

Hi, I'm Kathrin Brückmann. Born 1966 in Mainz, Germany, I spent most of my youth in Bremen. Since 1985, I live in Berlin.

Quite early, I developed an interest in the history of Ancient Egypt. In consequence, I chose to study the exotic combination egyptology, archaeology and Judaism.

After giving birth to two children, realization dawned on me that digging Egypt top to bottom and being a single parent might not go together all too well. So I tried something different.

In 2011, I started writing and, in doing so, returned to my roots. The novel Sinuhe, Sohn der Sykomore (Sinuhe, Son of the Sycamore, so far only available in German) is about a young Egyptian scribe in Twelfth Dynasty Egypt and tells the famous story of Sinuhe as recorded on numerous papyri. The book was received so well, I decided to become a freelance writer. Some short stories in various genres followed my debut novel, one of which won a writing contest by a well known publisher.

Since writing is a fickle business, I also work as an editor in Berlin. This was how I came to know Edith Parzefall and her novels. Soon I fell in love with her funny and quick-witted style of writing and also read some of her English novels. One day she offered me a deal: In exchange for her translation of one of my short stories I should look for typos in her latest novel. Well, why not? Good decision, I simply love what she did with my story! Our combined styles fit together like a well worn glove over the owner's hand.

In 2013, I developed the concept for a historical mystery series about two young physicians investigating murders and other crimes in Ancient Egypt—not exactly of their own free will. Apprenticed to Anubis is the first novel in this series.

The idea of Edith translating it lurked at the back of our minds. Still, I didn't think it would ever come true. One day, when she was between books and awaiting a work project, she decided to make a stab at it, no guarantees. Daily word count progress mails kept me hopeful. And she did finish the project in two months, not knowing if it will ever pay.

This is where you come into play, dear readers! You liked the novel? Tell your friends. You want a sequel? Tell even strangers.

Reviews

[bex · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very creepy story. I received this one as a gift from a friend. Unfortunately she didn't realize I'm not a huge fan of scary stories, and this one definitely fits that category. It's a very creepy story and it definitely made me think, which I am sure was the point. I am sure those who like scary stories will enjoy it more.

[Neats · Rating 5 out of 5]

2:17 AM - Eyes in the Dark is a short story translated from German into English that's well worth a read.

Danielle is on a night out with her friends Kendra and Barbara when a man sends across a drink for her and the nightmare begins.

The first thing she notices about this man is his eyes, pale, almost white and piercing.

But once she's seen them they're not easy to forget and the man is everywhere. . . . . .or is he?

This short story will certainly get you thinking. Can you really believe everything you see or do your eyes really play tricks on you?

Kind thanks to the author Kathrin for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a short tale, this one packed a lot of punch! It left behind a very creepy feeling of paranoia and the need to look over my shoulder.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stop Watching Me! For a short tale, this one packed a lot of punch!  It left behind a very creepy feeling of paranoia and the need to look over my shoulder.