Euphoria and Other Stories

by Steven Bruce, Malgorzata Bruce (Illustrator)

From award-winning author Steven Bruce comes Euphoria and Other Stories , a jagged collection of flash fiction that gouges deep. In these ten tightly wound tales, the ordinary gives way to the monstrous, the mystical, and the macabre. From cursed knights to digital horrors, forbidden therapies to fatal romances, this collection is perfect for those who like their horror sharp, strange, and impossible to forget.

Winner of the 2025 Midnight Quill Book Award

Praise for Euphoria and Other Stories
Just when you think you know where a tale might lead, Bruce twists it, often to the grisliest extremes, relishing the macabre journey.
─ Karen Almeida, Literary Titan Book Award

Bruce’s command of suspense and terror makes him a standout voice in the world of flash horror fiction.
─ Steven Borg, Chiron Book Award

A creative and inventive writer, Steven Bruce has a real knack for drawing you into a story.
─ Stephanie J Bardy, World of Myth Magazine

100 pages, Paperback

Published May 16, 2025

Reviews

[Emily Dacho · Rating 5 out of 5]

EUPHORIA AND OTHER STORIES AND OTHER STORIES by Steven Bruce is a collection of ten short stories. It depicts darkness in the souls and the consequences of our choices. Here, a plumber goes to work thinking of his daughter, unaware his damned soul is already taken. A woman finds her independence eventually, but it's all painful. A Serial killer goes on a date, and what follows horrifies. A once-noble man is now an outcast, killing to survive, with rats as his companions, and is betrayed in the end. A widower is rescued by a gnome.

The characters make good and bad choices, and it's commendable that they live and die by their choices. Some are just doing their jobs, for which they're good at, oblivious of the horror lurking by. Some deserve second chances, yet they get none.

Bruce's writing also adds to the collection's strength. He writes simply and immerses the reader into the plot and the scenes.

Some stories end painfully, pulling surprises on the reader.

Horror fans will no doubt enjoy.

[R.F. Whong · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gifted writer

Having followed Steven Bruce’s poetry, I have always been deeply moved by the emotional depth he brings to his writing. While this collection of short stories leans more into the macabre and didn't hit me with quite the same raw power as his verse, it is still a very strong read. Bruce has a way of twisting reality that stays with me long after I finish a story. If you appreciate sharp, atmospheric horror and nuanced writing, this is worth your time. I’m looking forward to seeing what he releases next.

[Tom Leverett · Rating 5 out of 5]

These stories tend to be very horrific and well-written at the same time, which for some reason does not give me nightmares. The author is a great poet; maybe that's why they pack an emotional punch - and he wins prizes. There are many books with Euphoria in the name, but this one will really stand out in the crowd.

[Beenish Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Collection of short stories

The tales are perfect for readers who enjoy quick, chilling reads that leave a lasting impression. You can get a thrilling and thoughtful experience in a short amount of time. Recommended for those interested in a mix of horror, mystery, and psychological depth.

[Kelly Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Euphoria and other Stories” by Steven Bruce is a fascinating anthology featuring short tales of horror and suspense. Bruce’s prose is evocative and intelligent, elevating these chilling tales a step above most short story collections. This is a real treat for horror fans!

[Chrissie Hubb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gruesome tales that will awaken your thoughts and crawl into your imagination. A good book with many short stories of evil and revenge!