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Slumber Nevermore
In ‘The Stolen Child,’ Mae returns to her family’s cabin in a mysterious forest to search for her sister, who vanished without a trace. One night, she drifts to sleep in bed only to awaken in the depths of the woods, surrounded by eerie, indiscernible voices. She now faces the daunting task of finding her missing sister while struggling to escape the forest’s grasp.
A young man unexpectedly inherits his estranged grandfather's secluded house in ‘Ping.’ Eager to make the place his own, he installs a doorbell camera for security. However, instead of peace of mind, he finds himself bombarded with unsettling notifications from unwelcome and ominous visitors.
‘The Axeman Among Us’ takes us back to 1918 and is inspired by true events. Two young Italian boys catch a chilling glimpse of the infamous Axeman of New Orleans fleeing a neighbor’s home following a brutal attack. In a desperate bid to prevent further bloodshed, the boys delve into the mystique of Voodoo in the French Quarter.
From murder to cannibalistic clans, immortal beings who siphon youth, and even a fairy or two, Slumber Nevermore is a collection of dark and twisty tales sure to keep you up at night.
A young man unexpectedly inherits his estranged grandfather's secluded house in ‘Ping.’ Eager to make the place his own, he installs a doorbell camera for security. However, instead of peace of mind, he finds himself bombarded with unsettling notifications from unwelcome and ominous visitors.
‘The Axeman Among Us’ takes us back to 1918 and is inspired by true events. Two young Italian boys catch a chilling glimpse of the infamous Axeman of New Orleans fleeing a neighbor’s home following a brutal attack. In a desperate bid to prevent further bloodshed, the boys delve into the mystique of Voodoo in the French Quarter.
From murder to cannibalistic clans, immortal beings who siphon youth, and even a fairy or two, Slumber Nevermore is a collection of dark and twisty tales sure to keep you up at night.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2024
1 person is currently reading
2100 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Garcia
7 books356 followersR.J. Garcia is a wife, proud mom, and writer. Her first two novels, Nocturnal Meetings of the Misplaced and Call of Death, were Amazon and Kobo best sellers. She writes dark and twisty tales with heart. If you would like to learn more about R.J.'s novels, go to: https://www.facebook.com/writerr.j.ga...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 6, 2024
An addicting collection of alluring short stories that I didn’t want to put down!
November 23, 2024
This was such an atmospheric and chilling collection of short stories. There was a little bit of everything mixed into this compilation of short stories and they were all very unique and engaging. Full of suspense and intrigue, these stories are sure to leave you thinking about them long after you finish reading them.
January 16, 2025
Some books manage to grip you from the start, but Slumber Nevermore doesn’t just grip you—it wraps its cold fingers around your imagination and pulls you into its shadowy world. This collection of seven stories feels like stepping into a vivid, unsettling dream where each tale is a thread in a larger web of mystery and dread.
The stories are wonderfully varied yet bound by a shared sense of unease that makes you second-guess the ordinary. Take The Stolen Child, for example. Mae’s search for her missing sister in a haunting forest feels both heartbreakingly personal and eerily universal. The forest is practically a character itself, alive with whispers and menace, leaving you unsure of what’s real and what’s imagined. And the way the story keeps you suspended between hope and dread? Brilliant.
Then there’s Ping, which might ruin doorbell cameras for me forever. The idea of something so mundane becoming a portal to terror is genius. Every “ding” made my heart race—not just for the characters but for my own front door. It’s the kind of story that lingers in your mind during the most ordinary moments, which makes it all the more terrifying.
But The Axeman Among Us—that one hit differently. Blending real history with dark fiction is a bold move, and it paid off here. The vivid setting of 1918 New Orleans, combined with the desperation of two young boys who delve into Voodoo to save their community, was both captivating and deeply unsettling. It’s not just a story about fear; it’s about courage in the face of it, which made it even more powerful.
What ties this collection together is the writing—it’s so atmospheric. You don’t just read about these places; you feel them. The forest in The Stolen Child feels damp and alive, the French Quarter in The Axeman Among Us is vibrant yet ominous, and even the quiet moments have a pulse, as if the stories themselves are holding their breath.
I also appreciated how the author never leaned on shock value or gore. The horror here is layered, often rooted in emotional stakes and the unknown. There’s a sophistication to it, a deliberate restraint that makes each unsettling moment hit harder because it feels earned.
Slumber Nevermore is the kind of book you don’t just read; you let it seep into you. If you enjoy stories that blur the line between the real and the supernatural, that make you feel both terrified and oddly exhilarated, this is a must-read. Just be prepared—once you’ve stepped into these worlds, they’ll follow you into your own.
The stories are wonderfully varied yet bound by a shared sense of unease that makes you second-guess the ordinary. Take The Stolen Child, for example. Mae’s search for her missing sister in a haunting forest feels both heartbreakingly personal and eerily universal. The forest is practically a character itself, alive with whispers and menace, leaving you unsure of what’s real and what’s imagined. And the way the story keeps you suspended between hope and dread? Brilliant.
Then there’s Ping, which might ruin doorbell cameras for me forever. The idea of something so mundane becoming a portal to terror is genius. Every “ding” made my heart race—not just for the characters but for my own front door. It’s the kind of story that lingers in your mind during the most ordinary moments, which makes it all the more terrifying.
But The Axeman Among Us—that one hit differently. Blending real history with dark fiction is a bold move, and it paid off here. The vivid setting of 1918 New Orleans, combined with the desperation of two young boys who delve into Voodoo to save their community, was both captivating and deeply unsettling. It’s not just a story about fear; it’s about courage in the face of it, which made it even more powerful.
What ties this collection together is the writing—it’s so atmospheric. You don’t just read about these places; you feel them. The forest in The Stolen Child feels damp and alive, the French Quarter in The Axeman Among Us is vibrant yet ominous, and even the quiet moments have a pulse, as if the stories themselves are holding their breath.
I also appreciated how the author never leaned on shock value or gore. The horror here is layered, often rooted in emotional stakes and the unknown. There’s a sophistication to it, a deliberate restraint that makes each unsettling moment hit harder because it feels earned.
Slumber Nevermore is the kind of book you don’t just read; you let it seep into you. If you enjoy stories that blur the line between the real and the supernatural, that make you feel both terrified and oddly exhilarated, this is a must-read. Just be prepared—once you’ve stepped into these worlds, they’ll follow you into your own.
December 27, 2024
As usual, R.J. Garcia's writing draws me in and makes me feel moved, scared, and in suspense the whole freaking time. There is beauty within these pages, heartfelt angst, and the right amount of horror. I like her characters and concepts. She is my favorite indie writer.
The standout stories in this collection are Stolen Child and The Axeman Among Us, though Ping is worthy of a mention. Stolen Child still has me thinking about Mae. The Axeman Among Us wasn't what I was expecting. It wasn't the scariest story in the collection, but it is a great coming-of-age story with the most unexpected twist. Ping had me creeped out. If I were Eloy, I would have been out of that house! It was a new take on a haunting.
The standout stories in this collection are Stolen Child and The Axeman Among Us, though Ping is worthy of a mention. Stolen Child still has me thinking about Mae. The Axeman Among Us wasn't what I was expecting. It wasn't the scariest story in the collection, but it is a great coming-of-age story with the most unexpected twist. Ping had me creeped out. If I were Eloy, I would have been out of that house! It was a new take on a haunting.
January 14, 2025
I loved the little blurbs before each story so I'll include a mini extract before each review.
The stolen child : Mae returns to her family's cabin in a mysterious forest to search for her sister who vanished, but the forest seems to have other, my sinister plans for Mae.
This first story in the collection was just okay for me. I didn't find it to be super convincing in its plot line or find much of a connection to our main character and her turmoil, but it was all right. It was easy reading and I did like the aspect of the fae Folk.
The cannibal's daughter: James is on the run falls into the clutches of a cannibalistic family soon catching the eye of the clan's daughter, but is simple infatuation enough to save him?
This was an up and down story for me. There were parts I was intrigued by, largely being Kit's upbringing with the cannibles, and James's out casting from his village, but it got a bit too strange and nonsensical for me to follow by the end.
Lipstick: Billy encounters an evil clown at a carnival that has come to town. The clown makes a chilling offer, requesting just a small exchange... The first girl Billy falls in love with... Will the clown return to collect his due?
I think I liked this story the best out of the three so far. It was brutal, violent and gory and the events that transpired arose from the split decision of traumatized child.
Murder 101: Whitelaw becomes obsessed with committing the perfect murder, forming a connection with a young prisoner on the cusp of freedom.
Oh, I liked the turn of this one. I wasn't super captivated by it, but I liked the twist. Really wasn't expecting that!
Sister witches: Three immortal sisters engage in a dark ritual to siphon youth from their victims. One of them is murdered by a sense of morality, choosing to visit one of the ages victims in his nursing home...
The start of the premise made me think of the Sanderson Sisters. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I thought it was both parts interesting and sweetly romantic. I really liked our main character but I'm sad I didn't get to learn her name.
Ping: Eloy unexpectedly inherits his estranged grandfather secluded house eager to make the place's own. He decides to install a doorbell camera for security. However, he finds himself pinged with unsettling notifications from unwelcome visitors.
An absolutely heartbreaking and chilling ghost story. Enjoyed this one a lot and liked the closure we had at the end. It felt like a much more fleshed out story.
The axeman among us: Based on a real life infamous killer from New Orleans, the axeman allegedly penned a letter to the paper on 13/03/1919 saying he would spare anyone playing or listening to jazz on that faithful night.
As a final story, it wasn't super strong but I liked the character of Vincent and that this short story was based off of a real crime. I thought that was intert, especially with the superstition surrounding it and the wider indrest of the Great War and racism within Louisiana, specifically. It didn't feel like it ended though, rather just... Stopped.
To conclude simply: I didn't fall in love with all of the stories equally and there didn't seem to be a consistent theme to the short stories included. I also found the writing to a be inconsistent, pulling me in at times and distancing me at others. However, the stories that really shone for me were Lipstick, Sister Witches and Ping. Those three had my interest the most, whether that was through the characters or the story, respectively. Overall, it's a short horror collection that could be good for beginners wanting to try a little bit of everything within the genre, with low commitment.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy!
The stolen child : Mae returns to her family's cabin in a mysterious forest to search for her sister who vanished, but the forest seems to have other, my sinister plans for Mae.
This first story in the collection was just okay for me. I didn't find it to be super convincing in its plot line or find much of a connection to our main character and her turmoil, but it was all right. It was easy reading and I did like the aspect of the fae Folk.
The cannibal's daughter: James is on the run falls into the clutches of a cannibalistic family soon catching the eye of the clan's daughter, but is simple infatuation enough to save him?
This was an up and down story for me. There were parts I was intrigued by, largely being Kit's upbringing with the cannibles, and James's out casting from his village, but it got a bit too strange and nonsensical for me to follow by the end.
Lipstick: Billy encounters an evil clown at a carnival that has come to town. The clown makes a chilling offer, requesting just a small exchange... The first girl Billy falls in love with... Will the clown return to collect his due?
I think I liked this story the best out of the three so far. It was brutal, violent and gory and the events that transpired arose from the split decision of traumatized child.
Murder 101: Whitelaw becomes obsessed with committing the perfect murder, forming a connection with a young prisoner on the cusp of freedom.
Oh, I liked the turn of this one. I wasn't super captivated by it, but I liked the twist. Really wasn't expecting that!
Sister witches: Three immortal sisters engage in a dark ritual to siphon youth from their victims. One of them is murdered by a sense of morality, choosing to visit one of the ages victims in his nursing home...
The start of the premise made me think of the Sanderson Sisters. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I thought it was both parts interesting and sweetly romantic. I really liked our main character but I'm sad I didn't get to learn her name.
Ping: Eloy unexpectedly inherits his estranged grandfather secluded house eager to make the place's own. He decides to install a doorbell camera for security. However, he finds himself pinged with unsettling notifications from unwelcome visitors.
An absolutely heartbreaking and chilling ghost story. Enjoyed this one a lot and liked the closure we had at the end. It felt like a much more fleshed out story.
The axeman among us: Based on a real life infamous killer from New Orleans, the axeman allegedly penned a letter to the paper on 13/03/1919 saying he would spare anyone playing or listening to jazz on that faithful night.
As a final story, it wasn't super strong but I liked the character of Vincent and that this short story was based off of a real crime. I thought that was intert, especially with the superstition surrounding it and the wider indrest of the Great War and racism within Louisiana, specifically. It didn't feel like it ended though, rather just... Stopped.
To conclude simply: I didn't fall in love with all of the stories equally and there didn't seem to be a consistent theme to the short stories included. I also found the writing to a be inconsistent, pulling me in at times and distancing me at others. However, the stories that really shone for me were Lipstick, Sister Witches and Ping. Those three had my interest the most, whether that was through the characters or the story, respectively. Overall, it's a short horror collection that could be good for beginners wanting to try a little bit of everything within the genre, with low commitment.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy!
December 31, 2024
I didn't like all stories equally, but Lipstick absolutely got me!!
I love the stories which give commentary on real life struggles, like the Stolen Child and the Sister Witches.
Overall, not the best horror stories I've ever read, but if you wanna tip your toes into the horror genre I totally recommend this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the stories which give commentary on real life struggles, like the Stolen Child and the Sister Witches.
Overall, not the best horror stories I've ever read, but if you wanna tip your toes into the horror genre I totally recommend this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2024
This collection of short horror stories was FANTASTIC!! I’ve always enjoyed Garcia’s work, her original and unique style and ideas. If you haven’t checked out any of her stories, YOU MUST!!
I LOVED every story in this collection, my favorite was DEFINITELY The Stolen Child, but they were all great and very memorable!! I’m going to buy the print version when it comes out, because I could definitely read these over and over again!
If you enjoy creepy little horror stories, reminiscent of Twilight Zone episodes, then you will LOVE this collection!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!!!
I LOVED every story in this collection, my favorite was DEFINITELY The Stolen Child, but they were all great and very memorable!! I’m going to buy the print version when it comes out, because I could definitely read these over and over again!
If you enjoy creepy little horror stories, reminiscent of Twilight Zone episodes, then you will LOVE this collection!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!!!
January 28, 2025
R.J. Garcia has crafted a masterful collection of dark and twisted tales in "Slumber Nevermore," a book that truly lived up to its promise of keeping me up at night! Each story is a miniature masterpiece of suspense, expertly blending the unsettling with the truly terrifying. From the first page to the last, I was completely enthralled, and honestly, a little bit spooked.
"The Stolen Child" immediately grabbed my attention. Garcia’s depiction of Mae's desperate search for her sister in the eerie, whispering forest is both captivating and deeply unsettling. The feeling of isolation and dread is palpable, and the way the narrative blurs the line between dreams and reality is incredibly effective. I found myself holding my breath, desperate to know what was lurking in the shadows, and I wasn't disappointed.
"Ping" brings the terror into the modern age with its insidious take on home security. The idea of a doorbell camera becoming a portal to the uncanny is brilliant, and Garcia ratchets up the tension slowly but surely, leaving me looking over my own shoulder. It's a chilling reminder that our sense of security can be just an illusion, and the threat can often lie within the mundanity of everyday life.
The historical setting of "The Axeman Among Us" was a fantastic change of pace. Inspired by true events, this story is a gripping dive into the terrifying legacy of the Axeman of New Orleans. Garcia perfectly captures the atmosphere of the French Quarter in 1918, and the boys' desperate attempt to delve into Voodoo adds another layer of fascination and dread to the narrative. It’s a chilling look at the darkness that can lurk in both the human heart and the unknown.
R.J. Garcia is a master of atmosphere and suspense, and his writing is incredibly evocative. He knows how to build tension, creating a sense of unease that permeates every page. "Slumber Nevermore" is not just a collection of horror stories; it’s an immersive and unsettling experience that will linger long after you turn the final page. If you're a fan of dark, twisty tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then look no further. This book is a must-read! Prepare to lose sleep – you won't regret it.
"The Stolen Child" immediately grabbed my attention. Garcia’s depiction of Mae's desperate search for her sister in the eerie, whispering forest is both captivating and deeply unsettling. The feeling of isolation and dread is palpable, and the way the narrative blurs the line between dreams and reality is incredibly effective. I found myself holding my breath, desperate to know what was lurking in the shadows, and I wasn't disappointed.
"Ping" brings the terror into the modern age with its insidious take on home security. The idea of a doorbell camera becoming a portal to the uncanny is brilliant, and Garcia ratchets up the tension slowly but surely, leaving me looking over my own shoulder. It's a chilling reminder that our sense of security can be just an illusion, and the threat can often lie within the mundanity of everyday life.
The historical setting of "The Axeman Among Us" was a fantastic change of pace. Inspired by true events, this story is a gripping dive into the terrifying legacy of the Axeman of New Orleans. Garcia perfectly captures the atmosphere of the French Quarter in 1918, and the boys' desperate attempt to delve into Voodoo adds another layer of fascination and dread to the narrative. It’s a chilling look at the darkness that can lurk in both the human heart and the unknown.
R.J. Garcia is a master of atmosphere and suspense, and his writing is incredibly evocative. He knows how to build tension, creating a sense of unease that permeates every page. "Slumber Nevermore" is not just a collection of horror stories; it’s an immersive and unsettling experience that will linger long after you turn the final page. If you're a fan of dark, twisty tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then look no further. This book is a must-read! Prepare to lose sleep – you won't regret it.
January 21, 2025
What makes a true horror story scary is the possibility of it being true. It's much scarier to have a serial killer than a vengeful ghost. These stories are scary because they have that "it can happen" feel to them and that is terrifying.
This short story compilation had a mixture of real stories, meaning human killers, and paranormal killings. Some stories had a mixture of both. Either way they were terrifying and worth the read. I can't wait for the next story Emmie's Slumber and Other Dark and Twisty Tales. I believed the two scariest stories in my opinion were The Stolen Child and Sister Witches for very different reasons. In the Stolen Child Emmie is taken/stolen and we never hear from her again. The Story follows her sister and the horrible things their stepdad did to them. This is why this story was so scary to me. Even more so when police reports come out and their own mother Then we have Sister Witches this was scary because I made connections to the movie Skeleton Key that still scares me to this day. The other stories were also scary. There's something for everyone.
Short Stories in Book:
The Stolen Child
The Cannibal's Daughter
Lipstick
Murder 101
Sister Witches
Ping
The Axeman Among Us
This short story compilation had a mixture of real stories, meaning human killers, and paranormal killings. Some stories had a mixture of both. Either way they were terrifying and worth the read. I can't wait for the next story Emmie's Slumber and Other Dark and Twisty Tales. I believed the two scariest stories in my opinion were The Stolen Child and Sister Witches for very different reasons. In the Stolen Child Emmie is taken/stolen and we never hear from her again. The Story follows her sister and the horrible things their stepdad did to them. This is why this story was so scary to me. Even more so when police reports come out and their own mother Then we have Sister Witches this was scary because I made connections to the movie Skeleton Key that still scares me to this day. The other stories were also scary. There's something for everyone.
Short Stories in Book:
The Stolen Child
The Cannibal's Daughter
Lipstick
Murder 101
Sister Witches
Ping
The Axeman Among Us
January 17, 2025
Slumber Nevermore by RJ Garcia
A fantastic, unique and chilling collection of short horror stories. Each tale is very different from the other, but all have the right amount of twists, chills and suspense to keep you hooked to the very end!
Well thought out and put together.
My favourite was probably “Stolen Child”, where Mae has returned to the family cabin, in search of her missing sister. She falls asleep and wakes up in the middle of the wood, and is surrounded by voices…
A really fantastic collection and one that I’ll definitely be coming back to. Well worth a read!
A fantastic, unique and chilling collection of short horror stories. Each tale is very different from the other, but all have the right amount of twists, chills and suspense to keep you hooked to the very end!
Well thought out and put together.
My favourite was probably “Stolen Child”, where Mae has returned to the family cabin, in search of her missing sister. She falls asleep and wakes up in the middle of the wood, and is surrounded by voices…
A really fantastic collection and one that I’ll definitely be coming back to. Well worth a read!
October 30, 2024
I loved these stories from R.J. Garcia. Each is unique, chilling, and different. Some of the stories are historical fiction, some are supernatural, some are too real, and heartbreaking. All will keep you up at night, thinking.
If you’re looking for a gamut of creepy stories then this is the book for you. I highly recommend!
If you’re looking for a gamut of creepy stories then this is the book for you. I highly recommend!
December 26, 2024
This was a very unique collection of beautiful short stories. Some paranormal, some historical, managed to surprise me every time.
November 25, 2024
If you enjoy dark, ghostly stories then this short story collection is for you! Some stories are so creepy that you’ll want to check under your bed before going to sleep! While I’m a chicken and afraid of the dark, I’ve always enjoyed all of the books written by @writer_rjgarcia and this one is no exception. I enjoyed all the stories but my favourites were: The Stolen Child, Lipstick, and Ping. Ping has made me not want to stay home alone! 😬 So, if creepy is what you are going for then don’t hesitate and pick this one up next!
November 25, 2024
This collection of dark tales made me feel a gamut of emotions: anticipation, anxiety, and major heartache. But I enjoyed every minute of it! My favorite stories were Stolen Child and Ping, but they were all well-crafted and drew me in.
December 24, 2024
The chapters are so long, I wish each story was broken up a little bit. Longer chapters makes me less motivated to read. I really enjoyed some of the stories, like the Axeman one and the lost sister one but others I couldn’t get into. It was just a very mixed book like sometimes the writing was good and sometimes it was bad, sometimes I was invested and sometimes I wasn’t, sometimes I was going to rate it a 3 stars and sometimes it was a 2 stars.
January 11, 2025
R.J. Garcia knows how to keep Readers up at night. With the anthology, Slumber Nevermore she crosses genres to give the Readers a full effect of dark twisted tales that deliver on chills, ominous energy, and unforgettable mental images.
There are seven stories but the best are:
“The Stolen Child”-This story is a Dark Fantasy that plays on those frightening magical creatures: Fairies.
Garcia refrains from the wholesome fairytale Disney image of fairies and focuses instead on the variations from myth and legends where they are powerful, capricious, demand to be respected, and should be kept at a safe distance.
Mae is anxious about her sister, Emmie, who disappeared right in front of her. She has this sensation that they had been watched and out of the corner of her eye, she thinks that strange figures appear and disappear. She always suspected that there were fairies in the woods. Could she be right? Spoiler Alert: She is.
The fairies are written as ominous and secretive. They appear as orbs of light, shrill whistles, or silhouettes. Mae isn't sure if they are dreams or if they are real. Then when she finally talks to them, she isn't sure if they are good, evil, or neutral with their own moral code. They could go either way. Their ambiguity is their strength and while she is with them, Mae is completely at their mercy. As long as she is in their world, they could do whatever they want to her and no one would know about it.
“The Stolen Child” is a modern fairy tale told to a Horror loving audience. Anyone who reads fairy tales knows that fairies can be sinister or helpful but are rarely the main antagonists. Instead the real villains are often a lot closer to the protagonist’s home than that. Those villains are cruel, malicious, and bring the worst misfortunes.
“Lipstick”-This story is a Paranormal Horror that should not be read by anyone with coulrophobia.
10 year old Billy sneaks out one night to see a carnival. The night of rickety rides, junk food, and fun to be scared thrills turns to terror when he encounters a demonic looking clown. The clown not only makes a formidable impression but makes him an offer that haunts him for years.
Dark carnivals might be cliched and scary clowns even more so, but they are used so often because they work. Carnivals can give off a sinister vibe when one thinks about it. These places of supposed amusement contain rides that are quickly put together by people who might have dubious reputations and are certainly in a hurry. A guest’s safety depends on them. Is it any wonder that they inspire fear? If you read books like Something Wicked This Way Comes or saw movies like Freaks or Carnival of Souls among others, you know what I am talking about.
Then there are clowns. They hide their true faces, come up close and face to face with children, seem impossibly cherry, and wear garish makeup. Lest we forget fictional clowns like Pennywise or real ones like John Wayne Gacy who certainly had dark sides. A clown can be terrifying. A carnival can be spooky. A clown in a carnival is frequent but also can give you that instant chill down the spine, the chill that warns you that maybe you should have stayed home.
Billy ignored that chilly warning and ultimately paid a huge price for it. This brief moment changes his life in many disturbing ways that leaves him traumatized and alone. The final paragraphs show the complete impact that this demonic clown had over his life to the point that Billy can't separate himself from him.
“Sister Witches”-It’s rare to have a Horror short story told from the point of view of the monster, but this story does and turns a story that would normally herald fear for the victim instead invites pity and regret for the monster.
Cassandra is one of three witches. The other two are her sisters, Sheba and Celeste. The trio kill mortals and absorb their youth to remain forever young and beautiful. Their latest victim is Tommy, an aging man who is residing in a nursing home.
The witches' goal is to preserve their youth. Their absorption of others’s essences is graphic but is comparable to an addiction rather than an unexplainable supernatural or demonic force. It ruins the mortals but also the witches as well.
Cassandra and her sisters absorb the essence not because they want to, but because they think that they have to and are unable to survive without it. This takes a toll on Cassandra in particular. She has become someone who isn't terrifying or frightening. Instead, she's weary and tired of life. She is ready to die but is unable to.
In a way the fear doesn't come from an outside source, but from within. If we compare their immortality to an addiction, the fear comes from feeling forced to get that immortality and what it would be like to live without it. Cassandra fears what they have done, what they will do, and what would happen if that eternity would end. She is simultaneously longing for death and afraid of what happens if it comes.
“The Axeman Among Us”-Of the stories, this is the most realistic. Instead of Dark Fantasy or Supernatural Horror, this is more like a Psychological Thriller. It features an infamous real life serial killer. The Axeman of New Orleans was a serial killer who murdered mostly Italian immigrants or Italian-American men from 1918-1919. Most notably, a letter allegedly from The Axeman said that he would not kill anyone on a certain night in homes where jazz played. Musicians played in hundreds of homes that night. The Axeman was never identified and no arrests were made.
Vincent and his friends, Mikey and Dupree are startled one night by the sound of a scream and a dark mysterious figure hastily leaving a building with an ax in hand. They suspect that he might be the Axeman. The trio become obsessed with the case and go to extreme lengths to stop the Axeman's reign of terror.
This story’s tone and atmosphere are on point. The Axeman is certainly human but he carries a demonic aura. He haunts Vincent's dreams and is described more of as an otherworldly presence than an actual human being. He invites the possibility that he might not be human at least in this version. But the fact that he is, somehow makes him even more chilling. He has a human way of planning and analyzing how to commit the murders without getting caught and an inhuman desire to hack a human body to pieces.
There are some interesting twists to the story. Since it is set in New Orleans, we get motifs like voodoo and jazz. Voodoo presents the only supernatural link in the story and even that might just be within the minds of those who believe in it. It also makes sense that in absence of any physical legal help to stop the Axeman, the boys would turn to more esoteric means. Voodoo is a large part of New Orleans life but it is also held in suspicion by non-practitioners. There is something supernatural and eerie about it, the type of thing that would draw someone like the Axeman. The boys are using one unusual potentially dark path to capture one unusual dark person.
Jazz music also plays a large part most prominently practiced by Vincent's brother, Peter. It not only plays into the physical location but the time period as well. Jazz is improvisation mixed with deep emotion like pain, anger, sadness, and love. While popular, it was also controversial and considered an outsider’s choice of music like rock or rap would be later. The kind of music someone who stands on the outside fringes of society would listen to.
It's also worth noting that Peter is a WWI veteran. This is the time of the Lost Generation, when soldiers returned home with deep trauma. Where flappers and college kids decided to live freely without a care. It was a time where people were aware that life could end at any moment, so might as well grab all that you can. This deep emotion is played by someone who saw death up close and killed people because his government told him to. Maybe Peter feels a disturbing connection to the Axeman, an understanding about what it's like to live on the outside fringe, with longing and emotions that he can't express openly, and living with a violent and bloody past.
These stories deliver scares to the characters and the Reader making their sleep a truly unpleasant one.
There are seven stories but the best are:
“The Stolen Child”-This story is a Dark Fantasy that plays on those frightening magical creatures: Fairies.
Garcia refrains from the wholesome fairytale Disney image of fairies and focuses instead on the variations from myth and legends where they are powerful, capricious, demand to be respected, and should be kept at a safe distance.
Mae is anxious about her sister, Emmie, who disappeared right in front of her. She has this sensation that they had been watched and out of the corner of her eye, she thinks that strange figures appear and disappear. She always suspected that there were fairies in the woods. Could she be right? Spoiler Alert: She is.
The fairies are written as ominous and secretive. They appear as orbs of light, shrill whistles, or silhouettes. Mae isn't sure if they are dreams or if they are real. Then when she finally talks to them, she isn't sure if they are good, evil, or neutral with their own moral code. They could go either way. Their ambiguity is their strength and while she is with them, Mae is completely at their mercy. As long as she is in their world, they could do whatever they want to her and no one would know about it.
“The Stolen Child” is a modern fairy tale told to a Horror loving audience. Anyone who reads fairy tales knows that fairies can be sinister or helpful but are rarely the main antagonists. Instead the real villains are often a lot closer to the protagonist’s home than that. Those villains are cruel, malicious, and bring the worst misfortunes.
“Lipstick”-This story is a Paranormal Horror that should not be read by anyone with coulrophobia.
10 year old Billy sneaks out one night to see a carnival. The night of rickety rides, junk food, and fun to be scared thrills turns to terror when he encounters a demonic looking clown. The clown not only makes a formidable impression but makes him an offer that haunts him for years.
Dark carnivals might be cliched and scary clowns even more so, but they are used so often because they work. Carnivals can give off a sinister vibe when one thinks about it. These places of supposed amusement contain rides that are quickly put together by people who might have dubious reputations and are certainly in a hurry. A guest’s safety depends on them. Is it any wonder that they inspire fear? If you read books like Something Wicked This Way Comes or saw movies like Freaks or Carnival of Souls among others, you know what I am talking about.
Then there are clowns. They hide their true faces, come up close and face to face with children, seem impossibly cherry, and wear garish makeup. Lest we forget fictional clowns like Pennywise or real ones like John Wayne Gacy who certainly had dark sides. A clown can be terrifying. A carnival can be spooky. A clown in a carnival is frequent but also can give you that instant chill down the spine, the chill that warns you that maybe you should have stayed home.
Billy ignored that chilly warning and ultimately paid a huge price for it. This brief moment changes his life in many disturbing ways that leaves him traumatized and alone. The final paragraphs show the complete impact that this demonic clown had over his life to the point that Billy can't separate himself from him.
“Sister Witches”-It’s rare to have a Horror short story told from the point of view of the monster, but this story does and turns a story that would normally herald fear for the victim instead invites pity and regret for the monster.
Cassandra is one of three witches. The other two are her sisters, Sheba and Celeste. The trio kill mortals and absorb their youth to remain forever young and beautiful. Their latest victim is Tommy, an aging man who is residing in a nursing home.
The witches' goal is to preserve their youth. Their absorption of others’s essences is graphic but is comparable to an addiction rather than an unexplainable supernatural or demonic force. It ruins the mortals but also the witches as well.
Cassandra and her sisters absorb the essence not because they want to, but because they think that they have to and are unable to survive without it. This takes a toll on Cassandra in particular. She has become someone who isn't terrifying or frightening. Instead, she's weary and tired of life. She is ready to die but is unable to.
In a way the fear doesn't come from an outside source, but from within. If we compare their immortality to an addiction, the fear comes from feeling forced to get that immortality and what it would be like to live without it. Cassandra fears what they have done, what they will do, and what would happen if that eternity would end. She is simultaneously longing for death and afraid of what happens if it comes.
“The Axeman Among Us”-Of the stories, this is the most realistic. Instead of Dark Fantasy or Supernatural Horror, this is more like a Psychological Thriller. It features an infamous real life serial killer. The Axeman of New Orleans was a serial killer who murdered mostly Italian immigrants or Italian-American men from 1918-1919. Most notably, a letter allegedly from The Axeman said that he would not kill anyone on a certain night in homes where jazz played. Musicians played in hundreds of homes that night. The Axeman was never identified and no arrests were made.
Vincent and his friends, Mikey and Dupree are startled one night by the sound of a scream and a dark mysterious figure hastily leaving a building with an ax in hand. They suspect that he might be the Axeman. The trio become obsessed with the case and go to extreme lengths to stop the Axeman's reign of terror.
This story’s tone and atmosphere are on point. The Axeman is certainly human but he carries a demonic aura. He haunts Vincent's dreams and is described more of as an otherworldly presence than an actual human being. He invites the possibility that he might not be human at least in this version. But the fact that he is, somehow makes him even more chilling. He has a human way of planning and analyzing how to commit the murders without getting caught and an inhuman desire to hack a human body to pieces.
There are some interesting twists to the story. Since it is set in New Orleans, we get motifs like voodoo and jazz. Voodoo presents the only supernatural link in the story and even that might just be within the minds of those who believe in it. It also makes sense that in absence of any physical legal help to stop the Axeman, the boys would turn to more esoteric means. Voodoo is a large part of New Orleans life but it is also held in suspicion by non-practitioners. There is something supernatural and eerie about it, the type of thing that would draw someone like the Axeman. The boys are using one unusual potentially dark path to capture one unusual dark person.
Jazz music also plays a large part most prominently practiced by Vincent's brother, Peter. It not only plays into the physical location but the time period as well. Jazz is improvisation mixed with deep emotion like pain, anger, sadness, and love. While popular, it was also controversial and considered an outsider’s choice of music like rock or rap would be later. The kind of music someone who stands on the outside fringes of society would listen to.
It's also worth noting that Peter is a WWI veteran. This is the time of the Lost Generation, when soldiers returned home with deep trauma. Where flappers and college kids decided to live freely without a care. It was a time where people were aware that life could end at any moment, so might as well grab all that you can. This deep emotion is played by someone who saw death up close and killed people because his government told him to. Maybe Peter feels a disturbing connection to the Axeman, an understanding about what it's like to live on the outside fringe, with longing and emotions that he can't express openly, and living with a violent and bloody past.
These stories deliver scares to the characters and the Reader making their sleep a truly unpleasant one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
A suspenseful collection of short stories with a twisty feel to it
Read
January 6, 2025Having read and loved Slumber Nevermore by R.J. Garcia, I can confidently say it’s a masterfully written anthology that leaves a lasting impression. Each story is uniquely crafted, immersing the reader in eerie and atmospheric worlds filled with suspense, intrigue, and often a touch of the supernatural.
What stood out most was the seamless way Garcia builds tension. From the mysterious forest in The Stolen Child to the historical depth and cultural mystique of The Axeman Among Us, each tale felt rich and immersive. The characters are compelling, their struggles and fears pulling you deeper into the narrative, making it almost impossible to put the book down.
The blend of genres—suspense, fantasy, horror, and even historical fiction—ensures there’s something for every reader who enjoys a well-told, darkly imaginative story. Garcia’s ability to evoke emotion and create vivid imagery is remarkable, and the stories linger in your mind long after you finish them.
For anyone who enjoys unsettling yet thought-provoking tales, Slumber Nevermore is an absolute must-read. It’s the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place.
What stood out most was the seamless way Garcia builds tension. From the mysterious forest in The Stolen Child to the historical depth and cultural mystique of The Axeman Among Us, each tale felt rich and immersive. The characters are compelling, their struggles and fears pulling you deeper into the narrative, making it almost impossible to put the book down.
The blend of genres—suspense, fantasy, horror, and even historical fiction—ensures there’s something for every reader who enjoys a well-told, darkly imaginative story. Garcia’s ability to evoke emotion and create vivid imagery is remarkable, and the stories linger in your mind long after you finish them.
For anyone who enjoys unsettling yet thought-provoking tales, Slumber Nevermore is an absolute must-read. It’s the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place.
March 6, 2025
Slumber Nevermore by R.J. Garcia is the kind of chilling anthology you’ll want to read with all the lights on. Garcia masterfully wrote a great suspense in the seven stories, making them distinct yet equally good.
"The Stolen Child" pulled me in immediately with its atmosphere and heart-pounding suspense. Mae’s desperate search for her sister in the sinister woods felt genuinely nerve-wracking, and the sense of dread lingered long after the story concluded. I think that was my favortite one.
The atmospheric horror shines throughout, mixing supernatural thrills with psychological terror. Stories involving immortality, cannibalism, and folklore, making it hard to pick a favorite.
Slumber Nevermore is perfect for fans of spine-chilling short stories. Each story is hauntingly memorable, promising sleepless nights filled with shivers and shadows. A definite recommendation for those who enjoy their scares with depth and subtlety.
"The Stolen Child" pulled me in immediately with its atmosphere and heart-pounding suspense. Mae’s desperate search for her sister in the sinister woods felt genuinely nerve-wracking, and the sense of dread lingered long after the story concluded. I think that was my favortite one.
The atmospheric horror shines throughout, mixing supernatural thrills with psychological terror. Stories involving immortality, cannibalism, and folklore, making it hard to pick a favorite.
Slumber Nevermore is perfect for fans of spine-chilling short stories. Each story is hauntingly memorable, promising sleepless nights filled with shivers and shadows. A definite recommendation for those who enjoy their scares with depth and subtlety.
December 8, 2024
What could be better than a good short story collection with an emphasis on the supernatural? These horror tales fit the bill if you’re looking for some unsettling works of short fiction that will send tingles up your spine. “The Axeman Among Us,” which deals with the infamous New Orleans serial killer, is a standout. So is “The Stolen Child,” where a sister tries desperately to recover her sister who has been spirited away by forest denizens.
It's rare to find a collection of short fiction works that so ably plumb the depths of the subconscious mind as this one does. Reminiscent of works by such diverse authors as Stephen King, Lovecraft, Shirley Jackson, and Clive Barker, the stories contained in these pages range from the disquieting to the downright grotesque. You’ll need a nightlight after spending some time in this author’s unquiet mind.
It's rare to find a collection of short fiction works that so ably plumb the depths of the subconscious mind as this one does. Reminiscent of works by such diverse authors as Stephen King, Lovecraft, Shirley Jackson, and Clive Barker, the stories contained in these pages range from the disquieting to the downright grotesque. You’ll need a nightlight after spending some time in this author’s unquiet mind.
June 9, 2025
It was alright, it's just I believe the author did not go into enough depth with the characters and storyline. So many of these short stories have so much potential, they just lacked fluidity and power. Had the author added a few more pages, or a paragraph, it would have gone deeper and explained more. I also loved the settings, as I love a historical setting and story. I also especially loved the last story, I believe that it was the strongest of all. Overall, congrats to the author, especially since short stories are possibly the hardest to write, it's just there needed to be more depth. I want to root for the characters and understand the storyline. I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 17, 2024
The truth is that I started reading this book because of the cover, because I thought it was beautiful, because of the combination of colors that makes the book eye-catching.
But what a surprise I got when I started reading it, and I found some stories, full of mystery, with characters that live unimaginable adventures, full of suspense and fear.
What surprised me the most is that I did not want to stop reading and I liked each story more.
It is a book that is written in such an easy to understand way, that it takes the reader by the hand and makes us go through different feelings such as fear and curiosity among others.
But what a surprise I got when I started reading it, and I found some stories, full of mystery, with characters that live unimaginable adventures, full of suspense and fear.
What surprised me the most is that I did not want to stop reading and I liked each story more.
It is a book that is written in such an easy to understand way, that it takes the reader by the hand and makes us go through different feelings such as fear and curiosity among others.
January 18, 2025
I have never been a fan of a collection of short stories. But. This book. Wow. I have no words. My heart was pounding with each story! I cannot wait for the next book to learn what happened to Emmie!
I give it a 3 start only because a few of the stories, while yes I thought they were great. They had a weird twist that threw the story off completely. Like the cannibals daughter. It was great up until the weird twist at the end that threw it off for me. While reading I was thinking. Dang this could make a great movie. But then a werwolf appears and it threw it for me. Ping is the best one for me! But definitely give it a read!
I give it a 3 start only because a few of the stories, while yes I thought they were great. They had a weird twist that threw the story off completely. Like the cannibals daughter. It was great up until the weird twist at the end that threw it off for me. While reading I was thinking. Dang this could make a great movie. But then a werwolf appears and it threw it for me. Ping is the best one for me! But definitely give it a read!
December 5, 2024
For those who love a little dark mystery and spookiness in your stories, Slumber Nevermore is just what the witch doctor ordered. From witches to werewolves, this collection of short stories delivers in SPADES. Garcia’s skill in building on suspense and surprise makes this a fun group of stories that both entertain and make you wonder about that noise you hear in the middle of the night.
I’ve been a long-time fan of Garcia’s books, and this is a delightful peek into her creepy and diabolical mind. It will make a great Christmas gift for that little ghoul reader on your list.
I’ve been a long-time fan of Garcia’s books, and this is a delightful peek into her creepy and diabolical mind. It will make a great Christmas gift for that little ghoul reader on your list.
December 11, 2024
I don't usually read short stories because I don't connect much with these types of tales, but I must say that "Slumber Nevermore" by R.J. García has short stories full of mystery, suspense and horror, which made me get caught up in the reading from start to finish. I liked it a lot because I connected to each of the stories; I was completely immersed in each tale, and one of the things I liked the most was how the author manages to introduce the reader into dark worlds where mystery and terror are perfectly intertwined. I definitely recommend this book if you love good suspense stories.
January 4, 2025
This book is a true gem for lovers of dark and suspenseful stories. Slumber Nevermore presents seven chilling tales, each one gripping in its own unique way. R.J. Garcia does an incredible job mixing mystery, fantasy, and horror into every page.
I think that the author's ability to create immersive settings and unforgettable characters is remarkable. The mix of fantasy elements, such as immortal beings and fairy-like creatures, alongside real-world horrors, kept me guessing and turning the pages late into the night.
I think that the author's ability to create immersive settings and unforgettable characters is remarkable. The mix of fantasy elements, such as immortal beings and fairy-like creatures, alongside real-world horrors, kept me guessing and turning the pages late into the night.
March 30, 2025
I'm not usually the biggest fan of short story collections, I like to really get into a book/story, but all of the stories in this collection were amazing.
All had very different themes and had so much content packed into them.
Ping was definitely my favourite, although it did make me slightly wary of the doorbell notifications at night 😂
Great for dark fiction fans, people who maybe don't have much time but still want to read and this is the sort of book I'd recommend to get you out of a reading slump! Can definitely recommend!!!
All had very different themes and had so much content packed into them.
Ping was definitely my favourite, although it did make me slightly wary of the doorbell notifications at night 😂
Great for dark fiction fans, people who maybe don't have much time but still want to read and this is the sort of book I'd recommend to get you out of a reading slump! Can definitely recommend!!!
November 3, 2024
Good luck not binge-reading this one. Slumber Nevermore is suspenseful, heartbreaking, and haunting. Each story will leave you saying, “No, this one's my favorite!”
From The Axeman of New Orleans to an evil clown and even Death, there is something unexpected around every corner. It is filled with beautiful prose, memorable characters, and suspense. I loved it!
From The Axeman of New Orleans to an evil clown and even Death, there is something unexpected around every corner. It is filled with beautiful prose, memorable characters, and suspense. I loved it!
January 13, 2025
I don't usually like short stories as much, but this collection of suspenseful reads captivated me from start to finish. My new favorite short story is Stolen Child, a stunning mix of real-life suspense with hints of magic and fae. I am also still thinking about the atmospheric vibe of The Axeman Among Us and of Vincent and Noola's little love story. The stories, Ping and Lipstick got to me and were the scariest of the collection. All the stories are unique and worth a read.
January 11, 2025
Not usually interested in short stories. I made an exception for this book and am I ever glad that I did. The stories are fun and the writing is terrific.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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