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Dark Tide Horror Novellas #13
The Devil's Backbone
Join three of horror’s finest storytellers on a journey through the dark heart of Appalachia…
AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD by Ronald When the children of Bowden Ayres mysteriously disappear in the woods near their homestead, he enlists the aid of Uriah Coldcreek, a seventh son and purveyor of mountain magic. Together, they travel into the deepest depths of the Devil’s Backbone, intent on locating a place known as the Netherwild… the realm of the Coveter, an otherworldly being who steals away the mountains’ youth for its own selfish needs.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel For generations, Jude and her coven of witches have co-existed peacefully with the citizens of Arnett, providing them with remedies and top shelf bourbon, especially valued during the draconian days of Prohibition. But when too many townsfolk go missing and dead, trust is broken and the witches find themselves on shaky ground, facing threats from frightened families, from the mountain they protect, and the very magic they steward.
THE GATHERER by Red Gray Hollow lies at the foot of evil—a dark part of the forest home to The Devil’s Bathtub. Martin is skeptical of the local folklore warning of the dangers of dipping even a toe into its waters. However, after his brother leaves for Vietnam, more people fall victim to the water's summoning darkness, and Martin struggles to make sense of it all, determined to hold onto life's fraying reality.Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Tales from the Darkest Depths.
AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD by Ronald When the children of Bowden Ayres mysteriously disappear in the woods near their homestead, he enlists the aid of Uriah Coldcreek, a seventh son and purveyor of mountain magic. Together, they travel into the deepest depths of the Devil’s Backbone, intent on locating a place known as the Netherwild… the realm of the Coveter, an otherworldly being who steals away the mountains’ youth for its own selfish needs.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel For generations, Jude and her coven of witches have co-existed peacefully with the citizens of Arnett, providing them with remedies and top shelf bourbon, especially valued during the draconian days of Prohibition. But when too many townsfolk go missing and dead, trust is broken and the witches find themselves on shaky ground, facing threats from frightened families, from the mountain they protect, and the very magic they steward.
THE GATHERER by Red Gray Hollow lies at the foot of evil—a dark part of the forest home to The Devil’s Bathtub. Martin is skeptical of the local folklore warning of the dangers of dipping even a toe into its waters. However, after his brother leaves for Vietnam, more people fall victim to the water's summoning darkness, and Martin struggles to make sense of it all, determined to hold onto life's fraying reality.Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Tales from the Darkest Depths.
- GenresHorrorAnthologies
222 pages, Paperback
Published February 17, 2024
28 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Ronald Kelly
98 books408 followersRonald Kelly was born and raised in the hills and hollows of Middle Tennessee. He became interested in horror as a child, watching the local "Creature Feature" on Saturday nights and "The Big Show"---a Nashville-based TV show that presented every old monster movie ever made ---in the afternoons after school. In high school, his interest turned to horror literature and he read such writers as Poe, Lovecraft, Matheson, and King. He originally had dreams of becoming a comic book artist and created many of his own superheroes. But during his junior year, the writing bug bit him and he focused his attention on penning short stories and full-length novels. To date, he has had thirteen novels and twelve short fiction collections published. In 2021, his extreme horror collection, THE ESSENTIAL SICK STUFF, won a Splatterpunk Award for Best Collection.
He currently lives in Brush Creek, Tennessee with his wife, young'uns, and an ultra-hyper Jack Russel named Toby.
He currently lives in Brush Creek, Tennessee with his wife, young'uns, and an ultra-hyper Jack Russel named Toby.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 22, 2024
When I saw this gorgeous cover pass through my feed, with the names Laurel Hightower and Ronald Kelly, I barely read the description before I begged, pleaded, threatened, and cajoled a review copy out of the publisher. (Kidding! I asked politely. Always be polite and do not threaten publishers.)
Red Lagoe was not a familiar name to me and is not currently a name that appears in my TBR or on my bookshelves but I plan to remedy that as soon as possible.
In Ronald Kelly's story AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD, Two children are lured into the woods by a figure that appears to them as their deceased mother. What is it really and how many children has it stolen? Their father will embark on a dangerous journey in an attempt to rescue them.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel Hightower features a group of moonshining witches who have selflessly protected the mountain and the townsfolk. They have always borne the burden of keeping things in balance. Now that too many townspeople have turned up dead, the witches are the first to be blamed.
THE GATHERER by Red Lagoe was my favorite story. Deep in the woods where people are forbidden to go, lies the devil's bathtub. A body of water that will grant your desire to know the unknowable... for a price. Would you be able to resist? Things don't bode well for those who take a dip.
This trio of authors have created a powerhouse of folk horror. Old traditions, superstitions, unexpected heroes, magic, and sacrifices that will break your heart share these pages with otherworldly beings. The Devil's Backbone was a lot of fear-filled fun to read.
5 out of 5 stars.
My thanks to Crystal Lake Publishing.
Red Lagoe was not a familiar name to me and is not currently a name that appears in my TBR or on my bookshelves but I plan to remedy that as soon as possible.
In Ronald Kelly's story AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD, Two children are lured into the woods by a figure that appears to them as their deceased mother. What is it really and how many children has it stolen? Their father will embark on a dangerous journey in an attempt to rescue them.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel Hightower features a group of moonshining witches who have selflessly protected the mountain and the townsfolk. They have always borne the burden of keeping things in balance. Now that too many townspeople have turned up dead, the witches are the first to be blamed.
THE GATHERER by Red Lagoe was my favorite story. Deep in the woods where people are forbidden to go, lies the devil's bathtub. A body of water that will grant your desire to know the unknowable... for a price. Would you be able to resist? Things don't bode well for those who take a dip.
This trio of authors have created a powerhouse of folk horror. Old traditions, superstitions, unexpected heroes, magic, and sacrifices that will break your heart share these pages with otherworldly beings. The Devil's Backbone was a lot of fear-filled fun to read.
5 out of 5 stars.
My thanks to Crystal Lake Publishing.
February 23, 2024
A Bibliophilia Templum Review
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/02/23/the-devils-backbone-appalachian-horror/
The Devil’s Backbone: Appalachian Horror is Book 13 in the Dark Tide Series from Crystal Lake Publishing. This book is comprised of three thoroughly engrossing folkhorror novellas by three masterful authors: Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower, and Red Lagoe. These authors take us into Appalachia to a fictitious mountain ridge known as The Devil’s Backbone, where history and legend are rich with mystery, peril, and dark horrors kept hidden.
“Afoot in the Netherwild” by the legendary Ronald Kelly is everything you want a Ronald Kelly story to be. Kelly’s magical wordsmithing pulls you deep into the tragedy, the determination, and the mountain woods. The suspense and mystery were mesmerizing even as the incredibly dark and ominous storyline created a tension bordering on hesitancy. A truly outstanding folkhorror story, this one speaks to the folklore about those dark and frightening things that live deep in the mountain.
“Spirit Coven” by Laurel Hightower is a complex and powerful story not only about a coven up on the mountain but also about the light and dark sides of people and society. It’s about women through history and women’s trials and sisterhood, about prejudice, about oppression, and, most of all, it’s about accountability and dire consequences. This compelling story is full of intrigue and speaks to the mountain history and folklore of the earthy magic, the dark mysteries, and the powers that protect the mountain.
“The Gatherer” by Red Lagoe is a dark and driving story about choices and repercussions and the evil lore surrounding the small natural pool they call the Devil’s Bathtub. This is an incredible and disturbing story with vivid and evocative characters. A truly horrifying tale on many levels, it speaks to folklore surrounding evil and accursed places in remote areas of the mountains.
The Devil’s Backbone: Appalachian Horror is a masterful anthology. Each story is set in a different time and area, and together, they encompass the horrors of Appalachian folklore. It’s a must have/ must read for any horror aficionado and a true gem in the library of folkhorror fans. A highly recommended 5-star read!
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/02/23/the-devils-backbone-appalachian-horror/
The Devil’s Backbone: Appalachian Horror is Book 13 in the Dark Tide Series from Crystal Lake Publishing. This book is comprised of three thoroughly engrossing folkhorror novellas by three masterful authors: Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower, and Red Lagoe. These authors take us into Appalachia to a fictitious mountain ridge known as The Devil’s Backbone, where history and legend are rich with mystery, peril, and dark horrors kept hidden.
“Afoot in the Netherwild” by the legendary Ronald Kelly is everything you want a Ronald Kelly story to be. Kelly’s magical wordsmithing pulls you deep into the tragedy, the determination, and the mountain woods. The suspense and mystery were mesmerizing even as the incredibly dark and ominous storyline created a tension bordering on hesitancy. A truly outstanding folkhorror story, this one speaks to the folklore about those dark and frightening things that live deep in the mountain.
“Spirit Coven” by Laurel Hightower is a complex and powerful story not only about a coven up on the mountain but also about the light and dark sides of people and society. It’s about women through history and women’s trials and sisterhood, about prejudice, about oppression, and, most of all, it’s about accountability and dire consequences. This compelling story is full of intrigue and speaks to the mountain history and folklore of the earthy magic, the dark mysteries, and the powers that protect the mountain.
“The Gatherer” by Red Lagoe is a dark and driving story about choices and repercussions and the evil lore surrounding the small natural pool they call the Devil’s Bathtub. This is an incredible and disturbing story with vivid and evocative characters. A truly horrifying tale on many levels, it speaks to folklore surrounding evil and accursed places in remote areas of the mountains.
The Devil’s Backbone: Appalachian Horror is a masterful anthology. Each story is set in a different time and area, and together, they encompass the horrors of Appalachian folklore. It’s a must have/ must read for any horror aficionado and a true gem in the library of folkhorror fans. A highly recommended 5-star read!
February 28, 2024
The 13th entry in Crystal Lake Publishing's Dark Tide Anthology Series, 'The Devil’s Backbone: Appalachian Horror,' has three well-known and super-talented authors conjuring one folk horror tale each, out of the creepiest place in Appalachia that never was: the fictional mountain ridge of "The Devil's Backbone," where family drama and local lore combine with witchery and sinister legends into sweetly dark and unsettling horror stories.
Since the authors need no special introduction, I pass directly to the stories, offering a few words on each: Ronald Kelly's “Afoot in the Netherwild” is set in the 1800s, and focuses on a father's quest to get his children back from the Coveter, an evil entity, something between a demon and a fae, with a special taste for kiddies. Kelly has infused his tale with mystery, suspense, and imagination, but what really impressed me was his sense of place: I could easily picture every scene up the mountain, feel every turn of the mountain paths. This was a very pleasant story to read, and the lingering mystery (What was in the doll?! I NEED to know) kept on my toes to the end. Laurel Hightower's “Spirit Coven” is set in the 1920s and has witches, mobs, strong females, earthquakes, and alcohol, lots of it - for strictly witchy purposes! The dialogue in this story was incredible: I was engrossed in the tale, charmed by the author's strong sense of history, about mountain folk and the sacrifices they occasionally have to make. Finally, Red Lagoe's “The Gatherer,” set in the 1970s, touches on Vietnam, and pits desire versus knowledge, brother versus brother, and love versus need and longing. It's the most intricate story of the bunch, not easy to summarize without spoilers, chock-full of atmosphere and strong emotions.
The Dark Tide series is always showcasing some awesome themes, always bringing together a trio of terrific authors. This book I recommend for another reason also: the stories are about the land and the people, not merely about the regional horror or its lore. They really go local and provide you with a feel of the internal landscapes as well!
Since the authors need no special introduction, I pass directly to the stories, offering a few words on each: Ronald Kelly's “Afoot in the Netherwild” is set in the 1800s, and focuses on a father's quest to get his children back from the Coveter, an evil entity, something between a demon and a fae, with a special taste for kiddies. Kelly has infused his tale with mystery, suspense, and imagination, but what really impressed me was his sense of place: I could easily picture every scene up the mountain, feel every turn of the mountain paths. This was a very pleasant story to read, and the lingering mystery (What was in the doll?! I NEED to know) kept on my toes to the end. Laurel Hightower's “Spirit Coven” is set in the 1920s and has witches, mobs, strong females, earthquakes, and alcohol, lots of it - for strictly witchy purposes! The dialogue in this story was incredible: I was engrossed in the tale, charmed by the author's strong sense of history, about mountain folk and the sacrifices they occasionally have to make. Finally, Red Lagoe's “The Gatherer,” set in the 1970s, touches on Vietnam, and pits desire versus knowledge, brother versus brother, and love versus need and longing. It's the most intricate story of the bunch, not easy to summarize without spoilers, chock-full of atmosphere and strong emotions.
The Dark Tide series is always showcasing some awesome themes, always bringing together a trio of terrific authors. This book I recommend for another reason also: the stories are about the land and the people, not merely about the regional horror or its lore. They really go local and provide you with a feel of the internal landscapes as well!
February 23, 2024
What an amazing anthology. I've never read from any of these authors before but after reading these short stories I can't wait to explore their other work.
Each of these stories were chilling, creepy, and dark. I loved how each story was self-contained but occurred on the same geographical feature, the Devil's Backbone. And they even mentioned each other a couple of times. I liked how each story took place in a different time period and explored how the issues of each time affected the interactions people had with the land. I thought the character work in particular was spectacularly done in all the stories. I felt like I would recognize these characters if I saw them walking down the street. The horror aspects were different in each story, but they were all very well done and truly scary. Overall, this was a fantastic read.
Each of these stories were chilling, creepy, and dark. I loved how each story was self-contained but occurred on the same geographical feature, the Devil's Backbone. And they even mentioned each other a couple of times. I liked how each story took place in a different time period and explored how the issues of each time affected the interactions people had with the land. I thought the character work in particular was spectacularly done in all the stories. I felt like I would recognize these characters if I saw them walking down the street. The horror aspects were different in each story, but they were all very well done and truly scary. Overall, this was a fantastic read.
February 28, 2024
This collection "The Devil's Bone" was my introduction to Crystal Lakes Publishing's Dark Tide Books series and I'm looking forward to reading more.
The three novellas that make up this collection AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD, SPIRIT COVEN, and THE GATHERER excel at creating an dark atmosphere with this book time ceased to exist (that means the writing is sharp and it flows well.)
AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD by Ronald Kelly (3.5/5)
This story started out strong, two siblings retrieving a pail of water late at night in the Appalachians something is lurking in the night. The author developed a gripping intro, the first couple of pages had me hooked, however I feel the narrative lost some of it's momentum in the middle. It recovered in the end but I feel it was missing the unpredictability of the other two. Still I feel it was a good intro to the collection. It helps set the mood.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel Hightower (4.2/5)
This one was phenomenal, great from the beginning to the end witches, alcohol, weather, a possible apocalypse of biblical proportions. Phenomenal, I loved the character development and chaos in this one. The narrative flew and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
THE GATHERER by Red Lagoe (4/5)
Wow! This one started out very strong (apparition, folklore, atmosphere) and remained strong (temptation, evil, seduction) through the whole story, there was darkness, fog, a mythic entity, a longing. I'll repeat again wow! This one was an emotional rollercoaster, with twist and turns at every corner. Excellent story.
Overall I recommend this collection, the writing is strong, the atmosphere is dark, I loved the setting and the folklore in each of these stories. I like how the collection starts out dark and sort of mellow (kind of like an old traditional campfire story), then all hell breaks loose but in the best of possible ways, in the final story the overall chaos (sort of) calms but the emotional/ psychological ante rises. The folklore is strong and highly imaginative through the collection. This is a collection that I cannot wait to reread, the three writers are masters at their craft and I will definitely be picking up more of their work.
The three novellas that make up this collection AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD, SPIRIT COVEN, and THE GATHERER excel at creating an dark atmosphere with this book time ceased to exist (that means the writing is sharp and it flows well.)
AFOOT IN THE NETHERWILD by Ronald Kelly (3.5/5)
This story started out strong, two siblings retrieving a pail of water late at night in the Appalachians something is lurking in the night. The author developed a gripping intro, the first couple of pages had me hooked, however I feel the narrative lost some of it's momentum in the middle. It recovered in the end but I feel it was missing the unpredictability of the other two. Still I feel it was a good intro to the collection. It helps set the mood.
SPIRIT COVEN by Laurel Hightower (4.2/5)
This one was phenomenal, great from the beginning to the end witches, alcohol, weather, a possible apocalypse of biblical proportions. Phenomenal, I loved the character development and chaos in this one. The narrative flew and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
THE GATHERER by Red Lagoe (4/5)
Wow! This one started out very strong (apparition, folklore, atmosphere) and remained strong (temptation, evil, seduction) through the whole story, there was darkness, fog, a mythic entity, a longing. I'll repeat again wow! This one was an emotional rollercoaster, with twist and turns at every corner. Excellent story.
Overall I recommend this collection, the writing is strong, the atmosphere is dark, I loved the setting and the folklore in each of these stories. I like how the collection starts out dark and sort of mellow (kind of like an old traditional campfire story), then all hell breaks loose but in the best of possible ways, in the final story the overall chaos (sort of) calms but the emotional/ psychological ante rises. The folklore is strong and highly imaginative through the collection. This is a collection that I cannot wait to reread, the three writers are masters at their craft and I will definitely be picking up more of their work.
February 20, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book Review
The Devil's Backbone [short story Anthology] Dark Tide Book 13 By Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower and Red Lagoe
"True, the spine of the Backbone itself was healthy and dependable. However, it was the marrow deep within that was unfavorable. Wrought with a dark cancer—poisonous—pure evil, through and through. For the most part, it remained mercifully hidden. But when it decided to venture forth into the world they knew and loved . . . it was a terrifying and troubling thing to behold."
I'm never let down by Ronald Kelly's writing. From his chapbooks to his full length novels, he's an auto-buy author for me. In this latest anthology he shares the spotlight with two other authors that I was unfamiliar with before reviewing this. I enjoyed every page. If you like well written, historical horror, short stories you will love these. Preorder now, it releases Feb 23rd.
The Devil's Backbone [short story Anthology] Dark Tide Book 13 By Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower and Red Lagoe
"True, the spine of the Backbone itself was healthy and dependable. However, it was the marrow deep within that was unfavorable. Wrought with a dark cancer—poisonous—pure evil, through and through. For the most part, it remained mercifully hidden. But when it decided to venture forth into the world they knew and loved . . . it was a terrifying and troubling thing to behold."
I'm never let down by Ronald Kelly's writing. From his chapbooks to his full length novels, he's an auto-buy author for me. In this latest anthology he shares the spotlight with two other authors that I was unfamiliar with before reviewing this. I enjoyed every page. If you like well written, historical horror, short stories you will love these. Preorder now, it releases Feb 23rd.
February 20, 2024
Folk Horror is one of my obsessive interests, and this 13th Dark Tides installment delivers exactly that. Even better, this themed multiple-author trilogy is set in Appalachia, the oldest mountain range on the North American continent (1.1 billion years): think how many deaths over millennia, human and wildlife; think what kind of rituals might have been performed since the Earth was new; what kind of spirits?
These three stories center on a geological feature, The Devil's Backbone, extending from Kentucky into Virginia and Tennessee. If you love reading about Earth magic, Folk Horror, Spirits from before prehistory, do jump right in!
These three stories center on a geological feature, The Devil's Backbone, extending from Kentucky into Virginia and Tennessee. If you love reading about Earth magic, Folk Horror, Spirits from before prehistory, do jump right in!
February 28, 2024
Extremely talented authors brought together in one delightful edition of Appalachian Horror. Get ready for thrills, chills and sleeping with the lights on.
March 10, 2024
Three amazing stories that take place in the depths of Appalachia by Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower and Red Lagoe! I am so impressed by all three of these. They were each terrifying in different ways and all left me thinking about them for days after.
There is something deeply frightening about small mountain towns in the middle of nowhere. Places that you probably couldn’t find on a map placed there by the devil himself. I could read 100 more stories like these and hope there are more someday.
Kelly, Hightower and Lagoe did a fabulous job of incorporating huge terrors in these small town stories and I applaud them. They really know how to write to get under your skin.
There is something deeply frightening about small mountain towns in the middle of nowhere. Places that you probably couldn’t find on a map placed there by the devil himself. I could read 100 more stories like these and hope there are more someday.
Kelly, Hightower and Lagoe did a fabulous job of incorporating huge terrors in these small town stories and I applaud them. They really know how to write to get under your skin.
March 31, 2024
Three stories from three of the best voices in modern horror, all sharing a common thread, and a common desire to keep readers from walking out into the woods at night. Ronald Kelly's "Afoot in the Netherwild" sets the tone magnificently because nobody does Appalachian horror, nefarious backwoods happenings, and mountain magic quite like Ron Kelly. Laurel Hightower's "Spirit Coven" takes the world and inhabits it, fleshing out the region making hair stand up on arms. Finally, Red Lagoe's "The Gatherer" is a Vietnam-era tale of forbidden places and what exactly makes them forbidden. Each story flows seamlessly into the next covering a couple hundred years of mountain-born evil and the way it sprawls and affects those who live in the area. A must-buy for fans of any of these writers, and a great place to start if you have yet to read them.
April 5, 2024
Creepy and fun
This collection of three Appalachian horror stories centers around each author's interpretation of the mysterious Devil's Backbone. With distinct styles and atmospheres, the stories take place across different timelines as our protagonists are faced with otherworldly horrors. In this book you'll find fantastical creature, mysterious magic, and a bit of cosmic dread. Highly recommended!
This collection of three Appalachian horror stories centers around each author's interpretation of the mysterious Devil's Backbone. With distinct styles and atmospheres, the stories take place across different timelines as our protagonists are faced with otherworldly horrors. In this book you'll find fantastical creature, mysterious magic, and a bit of cosmic dread. Highly recommended!
June 9, 2024
Really enjoyed all three stories
8/10
8/10
September 12, 2024
*I'm not going to give you the whole 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. I haven’t read much Appalachian horror, but I love listening to podcasts or perusing social media based in Appalachia; I’m not sure why that hasn’t translated into my reading. So, when Ronald Kelly himself asked if I’d be interested in reading this installment of the Dark Tide series, I had to say yes, and I’m so glad I did. Appalachia is fascinating, y’all. I’d love to say I don’t believe in all the lore, but you surely aren’t gonna catch my ass looking in the trees after dark!
2. The first story in this collection of 3 is “Afoot In The Netherwild” by Ronald Kelly. This story takes place in the late 1800s, which I don’t normally care for; I’m much more a contemporary plot person. However, there are certain themes that transcend time, and Kelly hits on one of them in his story – a parent’s love. (A good parent of course…I know we can’t paint all parents with the same brush) I loved following Bowden on his otherworldly trek to bring his children back from the clutches of a witch? fae? Whatever she is, she’s creepy, and this story had some Hansel and Gretel vibes that I was a fan of. I also really enjoyed the mystery of Bowden’s escort, Uriah. Kelly’s story tugged at my heartstrings and was expertly written, of course, as one would expect from THE Ronald Kelly.
3. The second story is from Laurel Hightower and is titled: “Spirit Coven”. In this story, we meet a coven of witches who are responsible for keeping the peace with nature, which is both a fascinating and terrifying concept when I really thought about it. Especially when coupled with old mine towns where disaster happened and the stereotypical mindset of a rural mountain community. Like the first story, love is a theme that runs throughout, but not necessarily romantic love. Hightower has a way of making scenes come to life with words, so this story was an easy one to picture while reading and incredibly enjoyable, especially since it was also a little sad. You know I love a story that makes me feel those pesky feelings!
4. The third and last story is from a new-to-me author: Red Lagoe. Lagoe may have been a new name for me, but her story “The Gatherer” turned out to be my favorite of the 3. It was filled with so. many. emotions. and was so viscerally relatable that I tore through it and was left a little sad when it was over. As with the first 2 stories, love is a main theme - brotherly love, parental love, romantic love, etc. but not in the corny stereotypical ways. Lagoe’s story reminded me a bit of M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Village’ – I can’t really say more without giving too much away, but this one left me with a story hangover for a couple of days.
5. I will be looking into more Appalachian horror after dipping my toe in with this collection of novellas!
1. I haven’t read much Appalachian horror, but I love listening to podcasts or perusing social media based in Appalachia; I’m not sure why that hasn’t translated into my reading. So, when Ronald Kelly himself asked if I’d be interested in reading this installment of the Dark Tide series, I had to say yes, and I’m so glad I did. Appalachia is fascinating, y’all. I’d love to say I don’t believe in all the lore, but you surely aren’t gonna catch my ass looking in the trees after dark!
2. The first story in this collection of 3 is “Afoot In The Netherwild” by Ronald Kelly. This story takes place in the late 1800s, which I don’t normally care for; I’m much more a contemporary plot person. However, there are certain themes that transcend time, and Kelly hits on one of them in his story – a parent’s love. (A good parent of course…I know we can’t paint all parents with the same brush) I loved following Bowden on his otherworldly trek to bring his children back from the clutches of a witch? fae? Whatever she is, she’s creepy, and this story had some Hansel and Gretel vibes that I was a fan of. I also really enjoyed the mystery of Bowden’s escort, Uriah. Kelly’s story tugged at my heartstrings and was expertly written, of course, as one would expect from THE Ronald Kelly.
3. The second story is from Laurel Hightower and is titled: “Spirit Coven”. In this story, we meet a coven of witches who are responsible for keeping the peace with nature, which is both a fascinating and terrifying concept when I really thought about it. Especially when coupled with old mine towns where disaster happened and the stereotypical mindset of a rural mountain community. Like the first story, love is a theme that runs throughout, but not necessarily romantic love. Hightower has a way of making scenes come to life with words, so this story was an easy one to picture while reading and incredibly enjoyable, especially since it was also a little sad. You know I love a story that makes me feel those pesky feelings!
4. The third and last story is from a new-to-me author: Red Lagoe. Lagoe may have been a new name for me, but her story “The Gatherer” turned out to be my favorite of the 3. It was filled with so. many. emotions. and was so viscerally relatable that I tore through it and was left a little sad when it was over. As with the first 2 stories, love is a main theme - brotherly love, parental love, romantic love, etc. but not in the corny stereotypical ways. Lagoe’s story reminded me a bit of M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Village’ – I can’t really say more without giving too much away, but this one left me with a story hangover for a couple of days.
5. I will be looking into more Appalachian horror after dipping my toe in with this collection of novellas!
May 16, 2024
This anthology features novellas by Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower and Red Lagoe, all centering around a stretch of the Appalachians known colloquially as The Devil's Backbone, rumored for centuries to be the heart of evil within the region.
Kelly's story takes place in 1880 in Tennessee. When two small children go missing at the hands of their dead but returned mother, their father must enlist the aid of a seventh son who knows the ways of mountain magic and such things. It featured the nuanced western-influenced writing I've come to expect from him.
Hightower's tale takes place in 1925 in Kentucky and centers around a "coven" of sorts, namely a handful of women who produce "cures" for the townfolk in the form of alcohol while Prohibition is on. Though they have a reputation as being benign healers, some still think of them as evil witches. When the rains won't stop, the creek starts to overflow and people start dying, some in the town start to turn against the women. But they don't know that the coven is responsible to keeping the balance between the town and the mountain from which they have mined too much. Full of rich emotion normally found in her writing.
Lagoe's entry jumps ahead to 1971 in rural Virginia where rumors of an insidious pool called The Devil's Bathtub leads to damnation for any foolish enough to enter it. When his neighbors begin doing just that, young Marting must try to save them and himself, but things only get more complicated when his brother unexpectedly returns from war.
While the three tales take place in different regions along the the Devil's Backbone, and in different time periods, they nonetheless flow together well in the book and feel like they are different chronicles of the same central idea.
Kelly's story takes place in 1880 in Tennessee. When two small children go missing at the hands of their dead but returned mother, their father must enlist the aid of a seventh son who knows the ways of mountain magic and such things. It featured the nuanced western-influenced writing I've come to expect from him.
Hightower's tale takes place in 1925 in Kentucky and centers around a "coven" of sorts, namely a handful of women who produce "cures" for the townfolk in the form of alcohol while Prohibition is on. Though they have a reputation as being benign healers, some still think of them as evil witches. When the rains won't stop, the creek starts to overflow and people start dying, some in the town start to turn against the women. But they don't know that the coven is responsible to keeping the balance between the town and the mountain from which they have mined too much. Full of rich emotion normally found in her writing.
Lagoe's entry jumps ahead to 1971 in rural Virginia where rumors of an insidious pool called The Devil's Bathtub leads to damnation for any foolish enough to enter it. When his neighbors begin doing just that, young Marting must try to save them and himself, but things only get more complicated when his brother unexpectedly returns from war.
While the three tales take place in different regions along the the Devil's Backbone, and in different time periods, they nonetheless flow together well in the book and feel like they are different chronicles of the same central idea.
August 20, 2025
I've never been to the Appalachian region of the United States. But after reading this Dark Tide Book 13 of three novellas written by a trio of the best independent authors around Ronald Kelly, Laurel Hightower and Red Lagoe-- I got a very good picture of this region and the very real place called "The Devil's Backbone" which runs as a slant across the Appalachian mountains from southeast of Lexington Kentucky, cutting through the southwest tip of Virginia and descending into northeast Tennessee. Kelly, Hightower and Lagoe do a top-notch job of making the Devil's Backbone feel like a horror ridden and stricken area -- just like Stephen King could make Maine feel like a horror ridden and stricken state.
Each author takes a specific area of the region. And writes a very compelling tale. And each tale come at different points of time. Each novella is well-written. And, keeps you engaged throughout the whole story.
Ronald is up first with his tale of "Afoot in the Netherwild" which takes place in 1880 in the small of Morgan's Mill, TN. The Netherwild is an area below the Earth's crust and deep down below the Devil's Backbone. There are dark tales of a spectral figure haunting the woods near Morgan's Mill called the Coveter who steals many children. And, takes them down to the Netherwild.
Bowden Ayers who is a widower who does the best he can to provide for his young son Nash and young daughter Anna Mae. Both children go missing after venturing down to the creek to fetch a bucket of water. However, the Coveter showed up in the form of their mother who died shortly after giving birth to Anna Mae.
An elderly gentleman -- Uriah Coldcreek -- known as the seventh son of a seventh son. And, therefore is well known to be a purveyor of mountain magic comes to the aid of Bowden. And they hope to make down to the Netherwild before it's too late. There is also a very intriguing twist with the Granny Woman.
Laurel is up next with her tale of "Spirit Coven" which takes place in Arnett, Ky. during the prohibition era in 1925. There is a small coven of witches who occupy a mountainous region of an abandoned mine -- shut down a few years ago because of a horrific cave-in.
These witches aren't of the Halloween kind but a group of young women who practice the nature religion of Wiccan.
Jude -- a woman -- who appears to be in her mid 40s is the leader of the group. For generations -- this coven as peacefully co-existed with the people of Arnett -- providing them many healing remedies when people fall ill. And plenty of bourbon. But then people go missing and turn up dead. And trust is broken. And, the people turn on the coven. A family turns up dead. And, have appeared to have drown in a near-by lake. But an accident happens during a funeral possession. Corpses spill out of their coffins with their mouths filled with mud.
Later on short earthquakes happen which swallow up a fair number of people. Later on there are twists and turns. The coven isn't responsible for what's going on. However, the people of Arnett try to burn one of the younger witches at the stake. And, Jude decides to ritually sacrifice herself in a gruesome matter -- taking off her clothes then cutting her body in various places before throwing herself into a small pound in the mountain. Jesus's crucificti0n came to my mind when I read this. is there a vengeful spirit in the mountain? Can anything be done to save the people of Arnett, KY.
Then comes Ms. Red Lagoe with her tale of "The Gatherer." This story takes place in 1971 in a small area called Gray Hollow of Blackmoor, VA. The bulk of the story revolves around an area called the "Devil's Bathtub" up in the Devil's Backbone where Gray Hollow is located. It's said the Devil's Bathtub -- a small pond of turquoise-looking water functions a lot like the Tree in the Garden of Eden. And, how it affected Adam and Eve.
People who dip into the Devil's Bathtub can obtain of a lot knowledge and have their questions answered. But there personalities and lives change for the worse. And, there has been a history of people hiking in the woods of Gray Hollow -- only to disappear without trace. A victim of the Gatherer -- a Bigfoot-like creature with many spikes Later on the Gatherer is revealed. And, it's not what we seemed.
The story revolves around 20-something Martin Forsyth who would like to be in college learning about the goings-on in outer space. But is home in the Hollow to take care of his mom Victoria while his older brother Gary is away at Vietnam. They haven't received a letter from Gary in over a year.
Then there is Elle-Mae Matheson -- best friend to Martin and fiance of Gary. Elle-Mae's mom Rebecca is seriously as she ventured into the Devil's Bathtub to find out why her husband abandoned her.
It also turns out Victoria Forsyth has an interesting backstory deal with her teenage years. The twists and turns are very good while we near the climax.
Each author takes a specific area of the region. And writes a very compelling tale. And each tale come at different points of time. Each novella is well-written. And, keeps you engaged throughout the whole story.
Ronald is up first with his tale of "Afoot in the Netherwild" which takes place in 1880 in the small of Morgan's Mill, TN. The Netherwild is an area below the Earth's crust and deep down below the Devil's Backbone. There are dark tales of a spectral figure haunting the woods near Morgan's Mill called the Coveter who steals many children. And, takes them down to the Netherwild.
Bowden Ayers who is a widower who does the best he can to provide for his young son Nash and young daughter Anna Mae. Both children go missing after venturing down to the creek to fetch a bucket of water. However, the Coveter showed up in the form of their mother who died shortly after giving birth to Anna Mae.
An elderly gentleman -- Uriah Coldcreek -- known as the seventh son of a seventh son. And, therefore is well known to be a purveyor of mountain magic comes to the aid of Bowden. And they hope to make down to the Netherwild before it's too late. There is also a very intriguing twist with the Granny Woman.
Laurel is up next with her tale of "Spirit Coven" which takes place in Arnett, Ky. during the prohibition era in 1925. There is a small coven of witches who occupy a mountainous region of an abandoned mine -- shut down a few years ago because of a horrific cave-in.
These witches aren't of the Halloween kind but a group of young women who practice the nature religion of Wiccan.
Jude -- a woman -- who appears to be in her mid 40s is the leader of the group. For generations -- this coven as peacefully co-existed with the people of Arnett -- providing them many healing remedies when people fall ill. And plenty of bourbon. But then people go missing and turn up dead. And trust is broken. And, the people turn on the coven. A family turns up dead. And, have appeared to have drown in a near-by lake. But an accident happens during a funeral possession. Corpses spill out of their coffins with their mouths filled with mud.
Later on short earthquakes happen which swallow up a fair number of people. Later on there are twists and turns. The coven isn't responsible for what's going on. However, the people of Arnett try to burn one of the younger witches at the stake. And, Jude decides to ritually sacrifice herself in a gruesome matter -- taking off her clothes then cutting her body in various places before throwing herself into a small pound in the mountain. Jesus's crucificti0n came to my mind when I read this. is there a vengeful spirit in the mountain? Can anything be done to save the people of Arnett, KY.
Then comes Ms. Red Lagoe with her tale of "The Gatherer." This story takes place in 1971 in a small area called Gray Hollow of Blackmoor, VA. The bulk of the story revolves around an area called the "Devil's Bathtub" up in the Devil's Backbone where Gray Hollow is located. It's said the Devil's Bathtub -- a small pond of turquoise-looking water functions a lot like the Tree in the Garden of Eden. And, how it affected Adam and Eve.
People who dip into the Devil's Bathtub can obtain of a lot knowledge and have their questions answered. But there personalities and lives change for the worse. And, there has been a history of people hiking in the woods of Gray Hollow -- only to disappear without trace. A victim of the Gatherer -- a Bigfoot-like creature with many spikes Later on the Gatherer is revealed. And, it's not what we seemed.
The story revolves around 20-something Martin Forsyth who would like to be in college learning about the goings-on in outer space. But is home in the Hollow to take care of his mom Victoria while his older brother Gary is away at Vietnam. They haven't received a letter from Gary in over a year.
Then there is Elle-Mae Matheson -- best friend to Martin and fiance of Gary. Elle-Mae's mom Rebecca is seriously as she ventured into the Devil's Bathtub to find out why her husband abandoned her.
It also turns out Victoria Forsyth has an interesting backstory deal with her teenage years. The twists and turns are very good while we near the climax.
November 20, 2024
Well, I know two of these authors and met the third when I bought the book and fortunately had all three of them sign it (yay me!).
Three stories take place in the same setting of The Devil's Backbone but they are all stand-alone stories happening at different times.
First: A Foot in the Netherwold is by Ronald Kelly (5/5)
Look, I am bias. Pretty much anything Ron writes I enjoy. So far that's been true and remains so for this one. Two siblings, something lurking in the night. What's not to love?
Second: Spirit Coven by Laurel Hightower (4/5)
A nuce dose of witches, apocalypse, and chaos.
Third: The Gathered by Red Lagoe (4.5/5)
Apparitions, Folklore, temptation, darkness, a mythic entity ... this is a wild ride you can't put down once you start it.
Three stories take place in the same setting of The Devil's Backbone but they are all stand-alone stories happening at different times.
First: A Foot in the Netherwold is by Ronald Kelly (5/5)
Look, I am bias. Pretty much anything Ron writes I enjoy. So far that's been true and remains so for this one. Two siblings, something lurking in the night. What's not to love?
Second: Spirit Coven by Laurel Hightower (4/5)
A nuce dose of witches, apocalypse, and chaos.
Third: The Gathered by Red Lagoe (4.5/5)
Apparitions, Folklore, temptation, darkness, a mythic entity ... this is a wild ride you can't put down once you start it.
December 31, 2025
Ah, Appalachia, what a wonderful place! A spooky and funn anthology with just a couple of slow points that quickly get left behind as you jump from one story to another. A fun, creepy weekend read for sure.
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