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The Horror Collection #19
The Horror Collection: Topaz Edition
Book 19 in The Horror Collection series brings you a multiplicity of horror stories, written by some of horrors best known names, Bram Stoker award winners, and rising stars.
- GenresHorror
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2024
180 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Lee Mountford
62 books1,056 followersI am an author with a huge love of horror.
Of course, other genres float my boat as well; Sci-Fi, Thrillers, pretty much any Dark Fiction, but Horror is what I call home.
My first novel, Horror in the Woods, was released on in May 2017, and the second, The Demonic, on the the following July hitting multiple best seller lists. Since then, I have authored a number of horror novels that have terrified fans for the past few years.
You can find out more about me on my website, but also, don't forget to claim your FREE ebooks
: http://eepurl.com/dIaS0r
- Lee
Of course, other genres float my boat as well; Sci-Fi, Thrillers, pretty much any Dark Fiction, but Horror is what I call home.
My first novel, Horror in the Woods, was released on in May 2017, and the second, The Demonic, on the the following July hitting multiple best seller lists. Since then, I have authored a number of horror novels that have terrified fans for the past few years.
You can find out more about me on my website, but also, don't forget to claim your FREE ebooks
: http://eepurl.com/dIaS0r
- Lee
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 2, 2024
Well, it's pretty clear by now that you can't go wrong with a Kevin Kennedy-edited anthology. The Topaz Edition is by far one of the best volumes I've read in The Horror Collection series! In fact, the stories are so good that even the slightest mistep would have produced major disappointment; happily, the book is flawless, each story showcasing the best of each author's storytelling skills; I really lost count how many favorites I found among these top quality tales.
The Topaz Edition is the 19th entry in the series, it has no common theme tying the stories together, the diversity of settings, horror tropes and characters is absolutely astonishing, so each story can be enjoyed on its own - there are no repeats, no ambiguous endings, no hand-waving, facile non-explanations. This is horror at its best. Kennedy has brought together a group of amazing authors and invited them to give vent to their wildest imaginations. Seriously, it doesn't get better than this.
A few words on each story:
"Culpa" by Lex H Jones: a very strong ghost story, perfectly written, reminiscent of those famous, good old ghost stories everyone enjoys reading still. Children keep being found dead, the keeper of a lighthouse has to face old guilt and resolve the mystery.
"Damn Wrinklies" by Hunter Shea: a blend of cosmic horror with creature feature and witchcraft; this one is pure entertainment, great dialogue, subtle humor, nice ending. A remote hotel owner has to cater to his guests, a group of rich old ladies, but nothing is at it seems.
"The Ancestors" by D.W. Hitz: this could have been a nice boy-girl love story - but Hitz turns it, almost immediately, into a post-apocalyptic folk horror tale with a fantastic impact. This is the second time I read this story (it's found in Hitz's short story collection), and it held up perfectly.
"Rescue Mission of the Krikos" by Veronica Smith: sci-fi horror with extreme horror vibes; the ancient circus ship Krikos, previously thought lost in space is found - the rescue mission turns into a slaughterhouse.
"The Hopper" by Lee Mountford: supernatural horror; quite short, a morality tale about how even supernaturally-powered mischief does not always pay.
"In Name, Only" by Steve Stred: a complex revenge story, nicely paced; a female athlete discovers her true heritage, her long-hidden anger rises to the surface, and decides to show some hard love.
"Every Last Drop" by John Everson: a sex-driven story blending sci-fi horror with supernatural suspense; an excellent tale of lust gone wrong, or how you CAN have too much of a good thing.
"Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy" by Gary A. Braunbeck: a short, but very effective cosmic horror tale of a couple of 'Nam vets's encounter with something ungodly. Superb writing style.
"High Desert" by Lisa Morton: a story about cults and love gone wrong; magnificent narrative voice, original idea, interesting visuals, creepy ending.
"The Wages of Sin" by Graeme Reynolds: I found this story hilarious; it takes the "mad inventor" trope, and builds and builds on it, and when you think you know where it's going, it's time to laugh.
"ASMR" by Mark Towse: with his usual great psychological insight, Towse paints a picture of bullying among girls, and then throws a nice surprise taking it in an entirely different direction. Noone is innocent in this triggering tale!
"Freaks" by Christina Bergling: a great supernatural story of hope and female empowerment (or is it?); a performer in a travelling circus faces abuse, finds love, and loses it twice. Third time is the charm, but this being a horror story, take this with a pinch of salt.
"Henry" by Glenn Rolfe: a very very short, though exemplary, tale of body horror. Teenager Henry discovers that acne's demands may not be only skin-deep.
"Grave Danger" by Devin Cabrera: a terrifying story of claustrophobia and the undead! This was really hard to read, it's amazingly written, and it makes the horror a palpable, immersive, harrowing experience! Better go blind into this.
"Outpouring" by Jeff Strand: hilariously funny, yet absolutely horrific! Girlfriend finds a sore on boyfriend's back - too bad she can quote Scripture and especially lines from the Revelation.
"The Visitor" by Callum Pearce: the rules say you have to allow the old woman in; unfortunately the gay couple in this story are completely ignorant of this. Mayhem ensues.
"Dealer of Needs" by Brian Moreland: corrupted undercover cop faces addiction to a mysterious drug; an awesome story of cosmic horror, intricate, detailed, well-written.
"The Party" by Daemon Manx: this is a story about a couple going to a party; something happens on the way; but... go into this blind, you'll enjoy it more. Manx is a terrific writer, and here the story brims with atmosphere. The ending provides food for thought.
"AutoBurger" by Leigh Kenny: although it's not difficult to see where this is going, it's so well-done, you really need to reach the end and watch everything happen. I wouldn't be surprised to learn there's an actual urban legend behind this story - if not, I'll start one myself!
"A Monstrous Hunger" by Simon Clark: top quality short sci-fi horror; people wake up on a "cemetery planet" and discover why noone's had been allowed to visit.
OK, this review has become too long. 5 solid stars from me!
The Topaz Edition is the 19th entry in the series, it has no common theme tying the stories together, the diversity of settings, horror tropes and characters is absolutely astonishing, so each story can be enjoyed on its own - there are no repeats, no ambiguous endings, no hand-waving, facile non-explanations. This is horror at its best. Kennedy has brought together a group of amazing authors and invited them to give vent to their wildest imaginations. Seriously, it doesn't get better than this.
A few words on each story:
"Culpa" by Lex H Jones: a very strong ghost story, perfectly written, reminiscent of those famous, good old ghost stories everyone enjoys reading still. Children keep being found dead, the keeper of a lighthouse has to face old guilt and resolve the mystery.
"Damn Wrinklies" by Hunter Shea: a blend of cosmic horror with creature feature and witchcraft; this one is pure entertainment, great dialogue, subtle humor, nice ending. A remote hotel owner has to cater to his guests, a group of rich old ladies, but nothing is at it seems.
"The Ancestors" by D.W. Hitz: this could have been a nice boy-girl love story - but Hitz turns it, almost immediately, into a post-apocalyptic folk horror tale with a fantastic impact. This is the second time I read this story (it's found in Hitz's short story collection), and it held up perfectly.
"Rescue Mission of the Krikos" by Veronica Smith: sci-fi horror with extreme horror vibes; the ancient circus ship Krikos, previously thought lost in space is found - the rescue mission turns into a slaughterhouse.
"The Hopper" by Lee Mountford: supernatural horror; quite short, a morality tale about how even supernaturally-powered mischief does not always pay.
"In Name, Only" by Steve Stred: a complex revenge story, nicely paced; a female athlete discovers her true heritage, her long-hidden anger rises to the surface, and decides to show some hard love.
"Every Last Drop" by John Everson: a sex-driven story blending sci-fi horror with supernatural suspense; an excellent tale of lust gone wrong, or how you CAN have too much of a good thing.
"Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy" by Gary A. Braunbeck: a short, but very effective cosmic horror tale of a couple of 'Nam vets's encounter with something ungodly. Superb writing style.
"High Desert" by Lisa Morton: a story about cults and love gone wrong; magnificent narrative voice, original idea, interesting visuals, creepy ending.
"The Wages of Sin" by Graeme Reynolds: I found this story hilarious; it takes the "mad inventor" trope, and builds and builds on it, and when you think you know where it's going, it's time to laugh.
"ASMR" by Mark Towse: with his usual great psychological insight, Towse paints a picture of bullying among girls, and then throws a nice surprise taking it in an entirely different direction. Noone is innocent in this triggering tale!
"Freaks" by Christina Bergling: a great supernatural story of hope and female empowerment (or is it?); a performer in a travelling circus faces abuse, finds love, and loses it twice. Third time is the charm, but this being a horror story, take this with a pinch of salt.
"Henry" by Glenn Rolfe: a very very short, though exemplary, tale of body horror. Teenager Henry discovers that acne's demands may not be only skin-deep.
"Grave Danger" by Devin Cabrera: a terrifying story of claustrophobia and the undead! This was really hard to read, it's amazingly written, and it makes the horror a palpable, immersive, harrowing experience! Better go blind into this.
"Outpouring" by Jeff Strand: hilariously funny, yet absolutely horrific! Girlfriend finds a sore on boyfriend's back - too bad she can quote Scripture and especially lines from the Revelation.
"The Visitor" by Callum Pearce: the rules say you have to allow the old woman in; unfortunately the gay couple in this story are completely ignorant of this. Mayhem ensues.
"Dealer of Needs" by Brian Moreland: corrupted undercover cop faces addiction to a mysterious drug; an awesome story of cosmic horror, intricate, detailed, well-written.
"The Party" by Daemon Manx: this is a story about a couple going to a party; something happens on the way; but... go into this blind, you'll enjoy it more. Manx is a terrific writer, and here the story brims with atmosphere. The ending provides food for thought.
"AutoBurger" by Leigh Kenny: although it's not difficult to see where this is going, it's so well-done, you really need to reach the end and watch everything happen. I wouldn't be surprised to learn there's an actual urban legend behind this story - if not, I'll start one myself!
"A Monstrous Hunger" by Simon Clark: top quality short sci-fi horror; people wake up on a "cemetery planet" and discover why noone's had been allowed to visit.
OK, this review has become too long. 5 solid stars from me!
June 19, 2024
KJK Publishing has put out another amazing collection! You’ll want to grab the “Topaz Edition” asap and while you’re at it, grab a few more from this publisher as well.
What I like about these horror collections is the variety of authors and tales within. Some names are renowned, some are new to me, and some I know from the indie community. You’ll not only get to read horrifying tales, but maybe find a new favourite author as well (win/win!).
While I enjoyed each story, I’d like to shoutout two particular ones that stood out for me: “AutoBurdger” by Leigh Kenny & “The Ancestors” by D.W. Hitz.
I really hope to see KJK Publishing and the editor(s) put out more anthologies and collections! A sea/water horror themed one would be amazing to read!
What I like about these horror collections is the variety of authors and tales within. Some names are renowned, some are new to me, and some I know from the indie community. You’ll not only get to read horrifying tales, but maybe find a new favourite author as well (win/win!).
While I enjoyed each story, I’d like to shoutout two particular ones that stood out for me: “AutoBurdger” by Leigh Kenny & “The Ancestors” by D.W. Hitz.
I really hope to see KJK Publishing and the editor(s) put out more anthologies and collections! A sea/water horror themed one would be amazing to read!
June 4, 2024
Well phew what can I say about the topaz edition Kevin never fails to scare the bejezuz out of every hole in your body they may only be short stories but bloody hell your on ya own listening to every bit of noise around you the wind the creaks thinking someone’s talking to you and it’s in your head hahahahah keep them coming Kevin
August 5, 2025
If you've never read any of Kevin's collections, you're really missing out on something special. While Ellen Datlow is undoubtedly my Anthology Queen, I wholeheartedly believe that I've found my Collection King! Normally, I'd talk about a couple of my favourites, but as all these stories could be in favourite contention, I'll instead pick out a few that really caught my attention:
'Henry' by Glenn Rolfe and 'ASMR' by Mark Towse gave me the skin shivers. In a society ruled by appearance more than anything, they both did an excellent job of showing the lengths that people will go to impress someone they like or to make sure they look better than everyone else, even if those lengths are to the extreme.
'The Hopper' by Lee Mountford gave me a bit of fun nostalgia as it reminded me a lot of one of my favourite TV shows, Quantum Leap. Only in Mountford's version, Sam would've been a whole lot more self-serving, and the consequences for those around him way more horrifying.
'In Name, Only' by Steve Stred and 'AutoBurger' by Leigh Kenny were especially horrifying as I sort of had an idea for where the stories were going, but they both blew my expectations and had me making faces at my phone once the reveal happened.
'Freaks' by Christina Bergling was a longer story in the collection, but well worth every second spent reading it! I really gained a lot of sympathy for Dorothy and her children while I was reading, and it made the ending so much sweeter when I got there.
I could go on and on about every story in this collection; they're all so good, and I'm honestly sorry to see the end of this book! Huge thank you to Kevin for letting me read this early, and I can't wait to see this release to the wider world!
'Henry' by Glenn Rolfe and 'ASMR' by Mark Towse gave me the skin shivers. In a society ruled by appearance more than anything, they both did an excellent job of showing the lengths that people will go to impress someone they like or to make sure they look better than everyone else, even if those lengths are to the extreme.
'The Hopper' by Lee Mountford gave me a bit of fun nostalgia as it reminded me a lot of one of my favourite TV shows, Quantum Leap. Only in Mountford's version, Sam would've been a whole lot more self-serving, and the consequences for those around him way more horrifying.
'In Name, Only' by Steve Stred and 'AutoBurger' by Leigh Kenny were especially horrifying as I sort of had an idea for where the stories were going, but they both blew my expectations and had me making faces at my phone once the reveal happened.
'Freaks' by Christina Bergling was a longer story in the collection, but well worth every second spent reading it! I really gained a lot of sympathy for Dorothy and her children while I was reading, and it made the ending so much sweeter when I got there.
I could go on and on about every story in this collection; they're all so good, and I'm honestly sorry to see the end of this book! Huge thank you to Kevin for letting me read this early, and I can't wait to see this release to the wider world!
June 8, 2024
Another color was added to the spectacular Horror Collection series with the addition of Topaz and a whole new slew of stories by some of the greatest writers in Indie Horror.
Culpa - Children are being murdered by a vengeful spirit, and the only salvation lies in a lighthouse keeper who might have to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Damn Wrinklies - The CETO society at first seems to be a group of elderly women who like to talk about religion. However, they have a much darker agenda.
The Ancestors - The town's ancestors are not as dead as believed.
Rescue Mission of the Krikos -
A circus ship dead in space is filled with horrors never encountered before.
The Hopper - A man who can switch bodies learns a deadly lesson.
In Name, Only - A woman who has a brutal father takes revenge, but all is not as it seems to be.
Every Last Drop - This woman desires a man's flesh for a horrifying reason you would never imagine.
Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy - In a horror tale worthy of Lovecraft, monsters exist in our realm, and only the unfortunate can see them.
High Desert - A Satanic cult disappeared in the desert, leaving a bunch of trees in their wake.
The Wages of Sin - An inventor creates a deadly iron suit for one of the most brutal serial killers in history.
ASMR - A bullied girl takes very creative revenge against her tormentors.
Freaks - They look like innocent children with deformities, but get on their bad side, and you will pray for death.
Henry - A teenager with severe acne comes up with a horrifying solution on how to get rid of it.
Grave Danger - A boy who is trapped in an open grave discovers tunnels where terrifying creatures live.
Outpouring - A man's back sore is the sign of Armageddon.
The Visitor - When an old witch asks for shelter, it would behoove you to abide by her wishes.
Dealer of Needs - A cop in search of a hallucinatory drug has Hell to pay to obtain it.
The Party - You will be horrified to learn the reason why a strange green light reverses the aging process.
Autoburger - An amputee discovers a restaurant with the most delicious burgers until he discovers the reason they taste so good.
A Monstrous Hunger - On a cemetery planet, those that are mistaken to be dead serve a monstrous purpose
Culpa - Children are being murdered by a vengeful spirit, and the only salvation lies in a lighthouse keeper who might have to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Damn Wrinklies - The CETO society at first seems to be a group of elderly women who like to talk about religion. However, they have a much darker agenda.
The Ancestors - The town's ancestors are not as dead as believed.
Rescue Mission of the Krikos -
A circus ship dead in space is filled with horrors never encountered before.
The Hopper - A man who can switch bodies learns a deadly lesson.
In Name, Only - A woman who has a brutal father takes revenge, but all is not as it seems to be.
Every Last Drop - This woman desires a man's flesh for a horrifying reason you would never imagine.
Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy - In a horror tale worthy of Lovecraft, monsters exist in our realm, and only the unfortunate can see them.
High Desert - A Satanic cult disappeared in the desert, leaving a bunch of trees in their wake.
The Wages of Sin - An inventor creates a deadly iron suit for one of the most brutal serial killers in history.
ASMR - A bullied girl takes very creative revenge against her tormentors.
Freaks - They look like innocent children with deformities, but get on their bad side, and you will pray for death.
Henry - A teenager with severe acne comes up with a horrifying solution on how to get rid of it.
Grave Danger - A boy who is trapped in an open grave discovers tunnels where terrifying creatures live.
Outpouring - A man's back sore is the sign of Armageddon.
The Visitor - When an old witch asks for shelter, it would behoove you to abide by her wishes.
Dealer of Needs - A cop in search of a hallucinatory drug has Hell to pay to obtain it.
The Party - You will be horrified to learn the reason why a strange green light reverses the aging process.
Autoburger - An amputee discovers a restaurant with the most delicious burgers until he discovers the reason they taste so good.
A Monstrous Hunger - On a cemetery planet, those that are mistaken to be dead serve a monstrous purpose
June 6, 2024
The horror collection topaz edition
This horror collection from the past in Vietnam to the future in space does not disappointment. A variety of tales, each pulling you in and captivating you. None the same. They stand on their own in creativity and intrigue. If you love horror for horrors sake you will love this. I personally got caught up in more than a few of the stories, the kind that stick with you, that you can’t stop thinking about after you read them. I give the collection a 5 out of 5 it was pure entertainment from the first.
This horror collection from the past in Vietnam to the future in space does not disappointment. A variety of tales, each pulling you in and captivating you. None the same. They stand on their own in creativity and intrigue. If you love horror for horrors sake you will love this. I personally got caught up in more than a few of the stories, the kind that stick with you, that you can’t stop thinking about after you read them. I give the collection a 5 out of 5 it was pure entertainment from the first.
June 8, 2024
Horrors
Bodies discovered on a beach reveal a haunting tale. A strange group book all the rooms in a small motel they are very interested in the lake in the dead of night. Henry hears voices in his head. What if he listens to them? These are only some of the tales of horrors awaiting.
Bodies discovered on a beach reveal a haunting tale. A strange group book all the rooms in a small motel they are very interested in the lake in the dead of night. Henry hears voices in his head. What if he listens to them? These are only some of the tales of horrors awaiting.
June 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this collection of stories. Each one was very different from the last and all were well written. This book is a great way to discover and sample authors thst you may not have had the chance to try. My personal favourite tale has to be "The Visitor" by Callum Pearce.
June 21, 2024
A Bibliophilia Templum Review
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/06/21/the-horror-collection-topaz-edition/
The Horror Collection: Topaz Edition from KJK Publishing collects a whopping 20 horror stories from a diversity of fantastic horror authors. This is book 19 in the series, and the variety of themes, subgenres, and styles is truly impressive.
The anthology begins with the dark and haunting story “Culpa” by Lex H. Jones, which is followed by the ominous and entertaining “Damn Wrinklies” by Hunter Shae. “The Ancestors” by D.W. Hitz is a dystopian mystery with a seriously shocking and brilliant reveal, and “Rescue Mission of the Krikos” by Veronica Smith is a riveting sci-fi horror tale.
Next is Lee Mountford’s intense and disturbing story “The Hopper,” then Steve Stred’s tale of torment, “In Name, Only.” “Every Last Drop” by John Everson is a complex and engrossing story of deception and obsession, and “Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy” by Gary A. Braunbeck is a unique and mysterious Lovecraftian tale.
“High Desert” by Lisa Morton is a suspenseful and creepy story with some strong undertones, and “The Wages of Sin” by Graeme Reynolds is a great dark steampunk style read. Next is the gruesome and wicked “ASMR” by Mark Towse, then the impactful and horrifying “Freaks” by Christina Bergling.
“Henry” by Glenn Rolfe is a darkly evocative, gut- and heart-wrenching read, and “Grave Danger” by Devin Cabrera is a pressing story of terror. “Outpouring” by Jeff Strand is, of course, a twisted little tale with amazing irreverent humor, and “The Visitor” by Callum Pearce is an excellent supernatural folkhorror story.
Brian Moreland’s “Dealer of Needs” is bizarre, surreal horror, and Daemon Manx’s “The Party” is compelling and poignant. Next is the truly twisted and fantastic story “AutoBurdger” by Leigh Kenny, then the final story is the driving sci-fi horror “A Monstrous Hunger” by Simon Clark.
There is no way for me to do all of these stories justice in one simple review. But I can say that together, they make for a phenomenal horror anthology, one of KJK’s best yet.
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/06/21/the-horror-collection-topaz-edition/
The Horror Collection: Topaz Edition from KJK Publishing collects a whopping 20 horror stories from a diversity of fantastic horror authors. This is book 19 in the series, and the variety of themes, subgenres, and styles is truly impressive.
The anthology begins with the dark and haunting story “Culpa” by Lex H. Jones, which is followed by the ominous and entertaining “Damn Wrinklies” by Hunter Shae. “The Ancestors” by D.W. Hitz is a dystopian mystery with a seriously shocking and brilliant reveal, and “Rescue Mission of the Krikos” by Veronica Smith is a riveting sci-fi horror tale.
Next is Lee Mountford’s intense and disturbing story “The Hopper,” then Steve Stred’s tale of torment, “In Name, Only.” “Every Last Drop” by John Everson is a complex and engrossing story of deception and obsession, and “Shoo Fly Pie and Apple Pan Dowdy” by Gary A. Braunbeck is a unique and mysterious Lovecraftian tale.
“High Desert” by Lisa Morton is a suspenseful and creepy story with some strong undertones, and “The Wages of Sin” by Graeme Reynolds is a great dark steampunk style read. Next is the gruesome and wicked “ASMR” by Mark Towse, then the impactful and horrifying “Freaks” by Christina Bergling.
“Henry” by Glenn Rolfe is a darkly evocative, gut- and heart-wrenching read, and “Grave Danger” by Devin Cabrera is a pressing story of terror. “Outpouring” by Jeff Strand is, of course, a twisted little tale with amazing irreverent humor, and “The Visitor” by Callum Pearce is an excellent supernatural folkhorror story.
Brian Moreland’s “Dealer of Needs” is bizarre, surreal horror, and Daemon Manx’s “The Party” is compelling and poignant. Next is the truly twisted and fantastic story “AutoBurdger” by Leigh Kenny, then the final story is the driving sci-fi horror “A Monstrous Hunger” by Simon Clark.
There is no way for me to do all of these stories justice in one simple review. But I can say that together, they make for a phenomenal horror anthology, one of KJK’s best yet.
June 8, 2024
Kevin Kennedy knocks it out of the park with another amazing anthology!
Although I have a story in this anthology I am only reviewing the other stories, not my own. This unthemed horror anthology was full of stories that really dug. I've read many stories by some of these authors and loved them. Others are new and I'll be checking them out on Amazon right away. I loved all the stories but I had a few that were my personal favorites:
"AutoBurger" by Leigh Kenny
I kind of knew where this one was headed, but it didn't spoil a thing. It was an enjoyable and fun story to read. I loved every part of this story! It was the lasts story in the book but I quickly realized it would be my ultimate favorite.
"Outpouring" by Jeff Strand
Although not religious, I'm very familiar with Revelations. This story had all the fun horror in it that I love.
"The Hopper" by Lee Mountford
This story may be shorter, but it packs a punch. I loved every part of this one.
"Damn Wrinklies" by Hunter Shea
This was an enjoyable story and it had a twist to it at the end that I did not see coming.
"Freaks" by Christina Bergling
I've loved every story I've ever read by Christina Bergling and this was no exception.
Great characters and storyline.
Although I have a story in this anthology I am only reviewing the other stories, not my own. This unthemed horror anthology was full of stories that really dug. I've read many stories by some of these authors and loved them. Others are new and I'll be checking them out on Amazon right away. I loved all the stories but I had a few that were my personal favorites:
"AutoBurger" by Leigh Kenny
I kind of knew where this one was headed, but it didn't spoil a thing. It was an enjoyable and fun story to read. I loved every part of this story! It was the lasts story in the book but I quickly realized it would be my ultimate favorite.
"Outpouring" by Jeff Strand
Although not religious, I'm very familiar with Revelations. This story had all the fun horror in it that I love.
"The Hopper" by Lee Mountford
This story may be shorter, but it packs a punch. I loved every part of this one.
"Damn Wrinklies" by Hunter Shea
This was an enjoyable story and it had a twist to it at the end that I did not see coming.
"Freaks" by Christina Bergling
I've loved every story I've ever read by Christina Bergling and this was no exception.
Great characters and storyline.
June 18, 2024
A fantastic collection of horror stories written by some new to the scene writers and veterans but you'd by hard pressed to know the difference. Each tale is written well, some I connected with more than others but there is definitely a tale here for everyone, whether you're into sci-fi, cosmic, supernatural, creature feature, body horror or revenge driven horror, it's all here.
My favourites being Jeff Strand's tale, written in his trademark humorous style about a girlfriend who finds a sore on her boyfriends back and goes off into a direction that only he could go, ASMR written by Mark Towse which and Autoburger by Leigh Kenny which goes in a direction you'd expect but is written to perfection.
There is not a bad story among this collection so if you're after a quality anthology of horror, then you can't look past this one.
My favourites being Jeff Strand's tale, written in his trademark humorous style about a girlfriend who finds a sore on her boyfriends back and goes off into a direction that only he could go, ASMR written by Mark Towse which and Autoburger by Leigh Kenny which goes in a direction you'd expect but is written to perfection.
There is not a bad story among this collection so if you're after a quality anthology of horror, then you can't look past this one.
July 8, 2024
KJK Publishing has done it again! The Horror Collection: Topaz Edition is another collection of killer tales. So many stories within these pages had me squirming in my seat while reading. These nightmares are going to haunt me… I’m not sure I’ll be able to look at a razor or a burger the same way again.
Check out my full review here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/the-h...
Check out my full review here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/the-h...
August 1, 2024
Good reads!
Good stories. Some are really good…others are ok. I like to read before bed & this book served my desire for the macabre quite well. Thank you Mark!
Good stories. Some are really good…others are ok. I like to read before bed & this book served my desire for the macabre quite well. Thank you Mark!
June 12, 2024
Epic
I know I'm going to be thinking about these stories for a long time. My personal favorite was about the Carrie and her children.
I know I'm going to be thinking about these stories for a long time. My personal favorite was about the Carrie and her children.
June 21, 2024
Stunner of a collection. Full review to come on the British Fantasy Society
January 13, 2025
Most of the stories were really good.
Couldn't finish the glitter one, but all the others were interesting. I'm a fan of horror and short stories, so this was just my thing.
Couldn't finish the glitter one, but all the others were interesting. I'm a fan of horror and short stories, so this was just my thing.
June 9, 2024
Topaz anthology -
I'm a big fan of anthologies. I've loved reading short stories since I was a kid. I love to read a good story and then put the book away for a while, only to dive back into a new, different story. They're the only books I buy without reading the blurb.
This is another great collection of horror KJK anthologies series. Every one is a gem, and only a few stories in this one didn't really do it for me. I've read and own several of Kennedy's horror collections, and what I liked about this one is that some of the stories are more in the speculative fiction genre. I'm not really into slash/gore horror; as I am a visual thinker, and found it difficult to finish reading the story about Henry and his first shave, and ASMR…
Some of the stories could be classified as novelettes; I thought In Name Only was not really horror, but very well written, and then the twist at the end. Wow! This is what you'd call what goes around, comes around …
Every Last Drop is especially good for those who know how spiders devour their catch - it's soup that's for dinner, they drink the soft tissue of their catch, and it works miracles on…..
Shoo Fly Pie & Apple Pan Showdy is written in slang and is a fantastic cosmic horror story, you wonder if it's a bad trip or a hallucination, when ‘something ancient is materialising on tv screens, wallpapers, jumping out of the toilet, endlessly…
One of my favourite stories is undoubtedly The Wages of Sin, a Victorian steampunk tale featuring an iron maiden.
ASMR is a dark story about the revenge of a person who has been bullied. I found it very intense, I'm a visual thinker and it took me a while to get that story out of my system.
The very, very best story in this collection is undoubtedly Freaks, where the theme is 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' - it's a bit like Caraval, and in terms of the writing style it reminded me of The Ballad of the Sad Cafe (Carson McCullers) - I'm a mum of 3 and this story just broke my heart, a stunning and heart-breaking story about love, betrayal and revenge. Sublime and unforgettable.
There are also some short stories based on folktales and myths, such as the story of The Visitor, which reminded me a bit of Baba Yaga, there are stories about shapeshifter who can jump from one body to another, as well as ‘Pennywise in Space’ - which I found really very scary (I'm terrified of clowns myself) so please read what happens on this abandoned spaceship.
Some stories are based on Grimm or other world famous works (A Stranger in a Strange Land), or on the manifestation of a Tulpa. In the very first story of this anthology, sad things happen on the beach and at the lighthouse. Evil can only rest if an old debt is paid.
The Ancestors should be filmed; a group of old women rent a hotel to enjoy themselves in peace. The story is a little reminiscent of The Wickerman, although there are other forces at work here too…
Another story I will remember for a long time, because it immediately reminded me of one of my favourite writers, is The Ancestors: a close-knit community whose inhabitants are not allowed to leave the village and can only eat from their own 'plot', the produce of which goes to the village cooperative. The seemingly peaceful community hides a terrible secret.
The story initially reminded me very much of The Lottery, and bears a strong resemblance to Shirley Jackson's pen, in which the juxtaposition of peace and violence, human nature, and where conformity plays a vital role for its survival…
I loved The Party, it's very Wells - something pulsating crashes to earth, lighting up the whole sky green. A group of adults on their way to a Halloween party don't know what hit them - when the party's over, a whole new world opens up for them....
More short stories about an AI burger joint where you can eat the tastiest burgers in the US, and a planet where 'Lazzers' have to run for their lives....
All in all, once again, brilliant, frightening, emotional, steampunk, slash horror in space short stories/novelettes. I enjoyed reading this volume immensely, and would give it 5+ stars. A must-read, there is something in here for everyone to enjoy!
I received a review copy, for which I thank Kevin Kennedy 🌷- another great addition to this fantastic series. I'm already looking forward to more issues!
I'm a big fan of anthologies. I've loved reading short stories since I was a kid. I love to read a good story and then put the book away for a while, only to dive back into a new, different story. They're the only books I buy without reading the blurb.
This is another great collection of horror KJK anthologies series. Every one is a gem, and only a few stories in this one didn't really do it for me. I've read and own several of Kennedy's horror collections, and what I liked about this one is that some of the stories are more in the speculative fiction genre. I'm not really into slash/gore horror; as I am a visual thinker, and found it difficult to finish reading the story about Henry and his first shave, and ASMR…
Some of the stories could be classified as novelettes; I thought In Name Only was not really horror, but very well written, and then the twist at the end. Wow! This is what you'd call what goes around, comes around …
Every Last Drop is especially good for those who know how spiders devour their catch - it's soup that's for dinner, they drink the soft tissue of their catch, and it works miracles on…..
Shoo Fly Pie & Apple Pan Showdy is written in slang and is a fantastic cosmic horror story, you wonder if it's a bad trip or a hallucination, when ‘something ancient is materialising on tv screens, wallpapers, jumping out of the toilet, endlessly…
One of my favourite stories is undoubtedly The Wages of Sin, a Victorian steampunk tale featuring an iron maiden.
ASMR is a dark story about the revenge of a person who has been bullied. I found it very intense, I'm a visual thinker and it took me a while to get that story out of my system.
The very, very best story in this collection is undoubtedly Freaks, where the theme is 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' - it's a bit like Caraval, and in terms of the writing style it reminded me of The Ballad of the Sad Cafe (Carson McCullers) - I'm a mum of 3 and this story just broke my heart, a stunning and heart-breaking story about love, betrayal and revenge. Sublime and unforgettable.
There are also some short stories based on folktales and myths, such as the story of The Visitor, which reminded me a bit of Baba Yaga, there are stories about shapeshifter who can jump from one body to another, as well as ‘Pennywise in Space’ - which I found really very scary (I'm terrified of clowns myself) so please read what happens on this abandoned spaceship.
Some stories are based on Grimm or other world famous works (A Stranger in a Strange Land), or on the manifestation of a Tulpa. In the very first story of this anthology, sad things happen on the beach and at the lighthouse. Evil can only rest if an old debt is paid.
The Ancestors should be filmed; a group of old women rent a hotel to enjoy themselves in peace. The story is a little reminiscent of The Wickerman, although there are other forces at work here too…
Another story I will remember for a long time, because it immediately reminded me of one of my favourite writers, is The Ancestors: a close-knit community whose inhabitants are not allowed to leave the village and can only eat from their own 'plot', the produce of which goes to the village cooperative. The seemingly peaceful community hides a terrible secret.
The story initially reminded me very much of The Lottery, and bears a strong resemblance to Shirley Jackson's pen, in which the juxtaposition of peace and violence, human nature, and where conformity plays a vital role for its survival…
I loved The Party, it's very Wells - something pulsating crashes to earth, lighting up the whole sky green. A group of adults on their way to a Halloween party don't know what hit them - when the party's over, a whole new world opens up for them....
More short stories about an AI burger joint where you can eat the tastiest burgers in the US, and a planet where 'Lazzers' have to run for their lives....
All in all, once again, brilliant, frightening, emotional, steampunk, slash horror in space short stories/novelettes. I enjoyed reading this volume immensely, and would give it 5+ stars. A must-read, there is something in here for everyone to enjoy!
I received a review copy, for which I thank Kevin Kennedy 🌷- another great addition to this fantastic series. I'm already looking forward to more issues!
September 21, 2024
always enjoy these collections
Have read all of the collections up to this one and have enjoyed them all from the very first book, there are sometimes stories that don’t really do it for me but as a whole o really enjoy the series and hope there’s many more to come.
Certainly something for every horror fan in each book, nice to see a varied range of tales in each book, looking forward to the next instalment
Have read all of the collections up to this one and have enjoyed them all from the very first book, there are sometimes stories that don’t really do it for me but as a whole o really enjoy the series and hope there’s many more to come.
Certainly something for every horror fan in each book, nice to see a varied range of tales in each book, looking forward to the next instalment
November 17, 2024
This collection of horror shorts is a great one to enjoy. Unlike most of the other anthologies by KJK Publishing, this one had no theme, so the horror shorts were unrelated and random...which was awesome. Sure, having a theme is great, but the suspense of not knowing what you're getting yourself into, is much more thrilling. These fast-paced stories are short but far from sweet. There's a story for everyone inside just waiting for you.
May 31, 2024
A fantastic assortment of horror from authors around the world. Check out the Damn Wrinklies, Freaks and Grave Danger, to name a few. No worries, there are no bad ones only seriously disturbing stories. Have fun!
October 22, 2024
I loved this book with all the variety of short stories. Some were wild, some gross, crazy or just plain weird! They are the perfect length for a quick read before bedtime. I promise they won’t keep you awake! Enjoy!
October 24, 2024
A fun read. Some of the stories had an ending you could see a mile off, but others were really different.
Quotes (not many, this time round):
His eyes would follow the layers of boards, white-washed yearly to maintain the look of civility. He would wonder about the land beyond.
Quotes (not many, this time round):
His eyes would follow the layers of boards, white-washed yearly to maintain the look of civility. He would wonder about the land beyond.
November 4, 2024
few favourite indie authors
This was my first read of the KJK horror collection but I’ll definitely be reading some more. Great collection of stories with some familiar names in there. Not one disappointed
This was my first read of the KJK horror collection but I’ll definitely be reading some more. Great collection of stories with some familiar names in there. Not one disappointed
September 3, 2024
This anthology is full of creepy stories that will haunt your dreams!
September 24, 2024
This is by far my favorite of the series. Awesome job
October 23, 2024
Stories are not well written. pretty boring Lack intrigue. suspense, and depth. Don't waste your time. Did help me fall asleep at night
October 27, 2024
Great collection of horror short stories.
August 17, 2025
Another collection by Kevin means another group of stories that you can’t go wrong with. Every collection he puts out is awesome!
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