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Tales of Tinfoil: Stories of Paranoia and Conspiracy
What is TALES OF TINFOIL?
It is a dark reimagining of every conspiracy theory that ever lived. It is the JFK assassination, Area 51, the moon landing, the surveillance state. It is a French spy posing as Abraham Lincoln, it is a video game designed by the CIA, it is "Suicide Mickey." It is Adolf Hitler and it is Elvis Presley.
In this short story collection, today's top fiction authors pull back the curtain on the biggest conspiracies of all time. Who really killed JFK? What happened in Roswell, New Mexico? Is Elvis still alive? With stories that run the gamut from touching to thrilling to utterly deranged, Tinfoil will take you on a tour of paranoia you won't soon forget.
Twelve short stories, twelve conspiracy theories, twelve twisted rabbit holes.
Hold on to your hats.
It is a dark reimagining of every conspiracy theory that ever lived. It is the JFK assassination, Area 51, the moon landing, the surveillance state. It is a French spy posing as Abraham Lincoln, it is a video game designed by the CIA, it is "Suicide Mickey." It is Adolf Hitler and it is Elvis Presley.
In this short story collection, today's top fiction authors pull back the curtain on the biggest conspiracies of all time. Who really killed JFK? What happened in Roswell, New Mexico? Is Elvis still alive? With stories that run the gamut from touching to thrilling to utterly deranged, Tinfoil will take you on a tour of paranoia you won't soon forget.
Twelve short stories, twelve conspiracy theories, twelve twisted rabbit holes.
Hold on to your hats.
540 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2015
118 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 23, 2015
In short, this is an anthology focused on conspiracies that raise the reader’s blood pressure by the sheer level of conceivable paranoia it creates. Each story blends fact and fiction with just enough authenticity to make it seem real, causing the reader to question whether the conspiracy just might be true after all. Combine that with the sense of paranoia each tale induces and you have an outstanding anthology that makes you want to make a tinfoil hat of your own.
The very beginning is a fascinating introduction about real-life conspiracies and how they have infiltrated popular culture. Who hasn’t heard a conspiracy theory? Who doesn’t believe at least a few of them? Social scientist Joseph Uscinski explores their fascination and how they affect society.
“Under the Grassy Knoll” (Richard Gleaves) – An older man sells DVDs of the Zapruder film in Dealey Plaza, trying to earn a living in a mostly empty life. Consumed by the JFK assassination, he tries educating others on the various conspiracy theories out there. After his iPad gets knocked into a storm drain, he discovers something never before found. 4 stars.
“The Long Slow Burn” (Ernie Lindsey) – An antiquities dealer coming off of a big job gets recruited by the Financial Crimes Division to steal an everlasting light bulb, a secret hidden away from the world. This story is one surprise after another and secrets are reveled with each twist and turn, right up to the last sentence. It’s well-written and works as a slick heist caper, as well. 4 stars.
“Day for Night” (Forbes West) – A bartender in 1981 encounters strange things happening in the Florida Keys. When a mysterious video game is brought into his bar, strange things start occurring, with an unusual demon-filled dimension overlaying his own, complete with sacrifices and a mission to save the earth from those who would invade it. 3 stars.
“Chukotka” (Lucas Bale) – Two Americans running supplies by boat to the west coast of Alaska are caught in a mysterious storm which comes up out of nowhere. On land, an old man following the old ways is on his way to die to give himself honor one final time. The two stories intersect but the struggle doesn’t end until the very last tragic page. 5 stars.
“That’s a Wrap from The Sea of Tranquility” (Eric Tozzi) – In 1969, respected Hollywood filmmaker Harry McNixon is asked to make a movie for the federal government, a movie showing a fake landing on the moon, to be broadcast worldwide. He embarks on a quest to make his greatest achievement that no one will ever know was made. The author definitely does his best to sell it and make it sound completely believable. The reason why this film had to be made is awesome in and of itself. 5 stars.
“Disappear” (Wendy Paine Miller) – A mother living in a surveillance state has recurring nightmares about her activist 16-year-old daughter being abducted. Going through her daily routine, she realizes how intrusive the government is in observing everyone. Is it paranoia if they’re really out to get you? This is a chilling, breathtaking thriller. 5 stars.
“One Arm of the Octopus” (Michael Bunker) – In 1985, college freshman Matthew meets Paul, who is slowly grooming him for recruitment into the war on drugs being waged in Nicaragua. Traveling there under the auspices of observing this war in person, he gets educated courtesy of the Octopus, a shadow CIA organization manipulating the war for its own benefit. The conflict here is a fascinating character study, and the narrative immerses the reader with every meticulous detail. 5 stars.
“Heil Hitler!” (Peter Cawdron) –Suzanne talks with her husband’s shrink about his schizophrenic episodes. When she wakes up two days later with no memory of what happened, Suzanne has little clue as to what is really going on, leading to a crazy ending in sheer lunacy and brilliant in its explanation. 4 stars.
“The French Deception” (Chris Pourteau) –American soldiers going through a French embassy in 1944 find info that Napoleon III led a conspiracy to further tear the United States so the Confederacy could win the Civil War. The confessional letter they find tells the captivating story of a Lincoln impostor who manipulated the war to his own ends. Capturing the writing style of the time and intermingling it with real events made for a fascinating, entertaining read. 4 stars.
“Manufacturing Elvis” (Jennifer Ellis) – 26-year-old Anna goes to Bermuda to help an avid Elvis aficionado track down leads of the latest Elvis sighting, finding what appears to be unsubstantiated rumors and drawing disparate conclusions from them. When they meet someone who looks like he could be Elvis’s son, they are drawn into a web of intrigue. 3 stars.
“The Final Flight of Michael Aoki” (Edward W. Robertson) – In 1947, Michael is a pilot who crashes his strange vehicle into the sand, having strange dreams of a woman and child dying in a fire. He cannot remember much about his life prior to that except that he is the only one that can win the war for America against the Soviets once and for all. Mysteries are slowly unraveled as Michael discovers his memories and finally puts together all of the perplexing pieces into this suspenseful story that shocks the reader with its final act. 3 stars.
“Fear of the Unknown and Loathing in Hollywood” (Nick Cole) – Doc Midnite, former State Department employee, reinvents himself as a reporter in the dark underbelly of Hollywood. Searching for the scoop on Mark-Paul Gosselaar and his sudden rise to stardom in “Saved by the Bell”, he lives in a drug-induced, alcoholic haze. This is hard-boiled noir, a convoluted story of one man’s search for the (fake) truth. 3 stars.
The very beginning is a fascinating introduction about real-life conspiracies and how they have infiltrated popular culture. Who hasn’t heard a conspiracy theory? Who doesn’t believe at least a few of them? Social scientist Joseph Uscinski explores their fascination and how they affect society.
“Under the Grassy Knoll” (Richard Gleaves) – An older man sells DVDs of the Zapruder film in Dealey Plaza, trying to earn a living in a mostly empty life. Consumed by the JFK assassination, he tries educating others on the various conspiracy theories out there. After his iPad gets knocked into a storm drain, he discovers something never before found. 4 stars.
“The Long Slow Burn” (Ernie Lindsey) – An antiquities dealer coming off of a big job gets recruited by the Financial Crimes Division to steal an everlasting light bulb, a secret hidden away from the world. This story is one surprise after another and secrets are reveled with each twist and turn, right up to the last sentence. It’s well-written and works as a slick heist caper, as well. 4 stars.
“Day for Night” (Forbes West) – A bartender in 1981 encounters strange things happening in the Florida Keys. When a mysterious video game is brought into his bar, strange things start occurring, with an unusual demon-filled dimension overlaying his own, complete with sacrifices and a mission to save the earth from those who would invade it. 3 stars.
“Chukotka” (Lucas Bale) – Two Americans running supplies by boat to the west coast of Alaska are caught in a mysterious storm which comes up out of nowhere. On land, an old man following the old ways is on his way to die to give himself honor one final time. The two stories intersect but the struggle doesn’t end until the very last tragic page. 5 stars.
“That’s a Wrap from The Sea of Tranquility” (Eric Tozzi) – In 1969, respected Hollywood filmmaker Harry McNixon is asked to make a movie for the federal government, a movie showing a fake landing on the moon, to be broadcast worldwide. He embarks on a quest to make his greatest achievement that no one will ever know was made. The author definitely does his best to sell it and make it sound completely believable. The reason why this film had to be made is awesome in and of itself. 5 stars.
“Disappear” (Wendy Paine Miller) – A mother living in a surveillance state has recurring nightmares about her activist 16-year-old daughter being abducted. Going through her daily routine, she realizes how intrusive the government is in observing everyone. Is it paranoia if they’re really out to get you? This is a chilling, breathtaking thriller. 5 stars.
“One Arm of the Octopus” (Michael Bunker) – In 1985, college freshman Matthew meets Paul, who is slowly grooming him for recruitment into the war on drugs being waged in Nicaragua. Traveling there under the auspices of observing this war in person, he gets educated courtesy of the Octopus, a shadow CIA organization manipulating the war for its own benefit. The conflict here is a fascinating character study, and the narrative immerses the reader with every meticulous detail. 5 stars.
“Heil Hitler!” (Peter Cawdron) –Suzanne talks with her husband’s shrink about his schizophrenic episodes. When she wakes up two days later with no memory of what happened, Suzanne has little clue as to what is really going on, leading to a crazy ending in sheer lunacy and brilliant in its explanation. 4 stars.
“The French Deception” (Chris Pourteau) –American soldiers going through a French embassy in 1944 find info that Napoleon III led a conspiracy to further tear the United States so the Confederacy could win the Civil War. The confessional letter they find tells the captivating story of a Lincoln impostor who manipulated the war to his own ends. Capturing the writing style of the time and intermingling it with real events made for a fascinating, entertaining read. 4 stars.
“Manufacturing Elvis” (Jennifer Ellis) – 26-year-old Anna goes to Bermuda to help an avid Elvis aficionado track down leads of the latest Elvis sighting, finding what appears to be unsubstantiated rumors and drawing disparate conclusions from them. When they meet someone who looks like he could be Elvis’s son, they are drawn into a web of intrigue. 3 stars.
“The Final Flight of Michael Aoki” (Edward W. Robertson) – In 1947, Michael is a pilot who crashes his strange vehicle into the sand, having strange dreams of a woman and child dying in a fire. He cannot remember much about his life prior to that except that he is the only one that can win the war for America against the Soviets once and for all. Mysteries are slowly unraveled as Michael discovers his memories and finally puts together all of the perplexing pieces into this suspenseful story that shocks the reader with its final act. 3 stars.
“Fear of the Unknown and Loathing in Hollywood” (Nick Cole) – Doc Midnite, former State Department employee, reinvents himself as a reporter in the dark underbelly of Hollywood. Searching for the scoop on Mark-Paul Gosselaar and his sudden rise to stardom in “Saved by the Bell”, he lives in a drug-induced, alcoholic haze. This is hard-boiled noir, a convoluted story of one man’s search for the (fake) truth. 3 stars.
April 10, 2015
One helluva wild ride. Exhilarating and just plain fun. Stand out stories are: "Under the Grassy Knoll" by Richard Gleaves. As close as you can get to a perfect short story. "That's a Wrap from the Sea of Tranquillity" by Eric Tozzi and "Heil Hitler!" by Peter Cawdron - that last story offering up not just a plausible explanation for every conspiracy theory ever, but also a mad scientist! Count me in.
Other cool stories are "Manufacturing Elvis" by Jennifer Ellis, "Chukotka" by Lucas Bale and "The Final Flight of Michael Aoki" by Edward W. Robertson.
This anthology does what every good anthology should do - introduce authors worthy of a wide readership.
I definitely look forward to reading more from the writers I encountered here.
Other cool stories are "Manufacturing Elvis" by Jennifer Ellis, "Chukotka" by Lucas Bale and "The Final Flight of Michael Aoki" by Edward W. Robertson.
This anthology does what every good anthology should do - introduce authors worthy of a wide readership.
I definitely look forward to reading more from the writers I encountered here.
April 15, 2015
With some of the best indie fiction authors like Ernie Lindsey (Sara's Game, Sky Noise), Michael Bunker (Pennsylvania, Brother,Frankenstein), Nick Cole (Soda Pop Soldier, The Wasteland Saga) and Peter Cawdron (Anomaly, Monsters), just to name a few, this anthology doesn't miss a beat. This anthology takes well known conspiracy theories, closes the blinds to what you think you know and hands you a few rolls of tinfoil for the paranoia that ensues. From the JFK Assassination to Elvis Preseley, deals with the Devil in Hollyweird to Area 51, these authors provide wonderful tales that back up even some of the strangest theories. Not only that, each individual story has a short summary that describes the original theory, which gives you even more bang for your buck!
I highly recommend you pick up Tales of Tinfoil if you are into conspiracy theories or even if you are just a casual fan of excellent fiction. If you enjoy the book, make sure to check out other works by the authors. You won't regret it!
I highly recommend you pick up Tales of Tinfoil if you are into conspiracy theories or even if you are just a casual fan of excellent fiction. If you enjoy the book, make sure to check out other works by the authors. You won't regret it!
April 16, 2015
Hold on to your customized Tinfoil Hat! Clear your schedule, get your favorite reading spot ready. Not only will you enjoy the stories in this book, but your "To Be Read" pile is sure to grow with new authors you will meet. I don't do synopsis in my reviews, there is one in the book, plus many reviewers will do that for you. I will say, you will love at least 3 of the stories, pick any three. You will think to yourself, "I always thought that's what happened" on at least two, pick your two. One or two will give you a new perspective on a story, and at least one is going to change your entire world.
I was given the honor of an ARC in exchange for an honest review. That doesn't put dinner on the table or keep our indie authors writing, so I have also pre-ordered a copy about 2/3 of the way through the book.
Go get your hat and get to reading, enjoy, I sure did!
I was given the honor of an ARC in exchange for an honest review. That doesn't put dinner on the table or keep our indie authors writing, so I have also pre-ordered a copy about 2/3 of the way through the book.
Go get your hat and get to reading, enjoy, I sure did!
April 12, 2015
This was an absolute home-run collection of stories. I didn't want it to end, and will be eagerly awaiting the second tinfoil anthology. Some of my favorites were, "Under the Grassy Knoll," "Fear of the Unknown and Loathing in Hollywood," (I must pause here and give Nick Cole a Standing-O for so perfectly capturing Hunter S Thompson's style) "One Arm of the Octopus," "Heil Hitler," but there wasn't a boring story in the bunch. Every story in the collection is based in some way on a real-life conspiracy theory. I don't know if it's true, but I heard that David Gatewood made a deal with the Illuminati to get the best authors in the world to contribute some of their best work they have ever written for this collection. I heard that rumor from Elvis when we shared coffee in a Chemtrail planning facility with a group of reptilians. We had to cut the meeting short because of shadow people creeping about the corners of the room, but I believe every word Elvis told us. Why would the King lie to me, Tupac, and Biggie Smalls anyway?
April 18, 2015
Definitely earned that five stars. This book was awesome. Intriguing and exciting, and every story was well-written. I can find nothing to complain about. The conspiracies chosen were perfect--a great mix of well-known and some not so well-known. Watching how these conspiracies affected every day people captured me.
At the risk of sounding like a fangirl, Lucas Bale is quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors. His story in this antho was gorgeous and terrifying. Dear lord, this man can write.
His fellow authors were just as strong. Most definitely check this one out.
At the risk of sounding like a fangirl, Lucas Bale is quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors. His story in this antho was gorgeous and terrifying. Dear lord, this man can write.
His fellow authors were just as strong. Most definitely check this one out.
May 16, 2024
4.5 rounded up
Nice collection of stories. I really enjoyed "Under the Grassy Knoll" and "One Arm of the Octopus." Will definitely look for other works by most of the authors
Nice collection of stories. I really enjoyed "Under the Grassy Knoll" and "One Arm of the Octopus." Will definitely look for other works by most of the authors
May 21, 2015
I decided the easiest way to come back from my vacation was to read some short stories to get back in the flow. Unlike some of the previous short story collections I have reviewed, this one was more of a mixed bag for me. There was one story that kept my attention so that I could have read an entire book about it, a couple of others that I found pretty interesting and some that just fell flat in my opinion. I'm going to go through the stories I enjoyed the most and leave you to explore the rest on your own.
Under the Grassy Knoll (Richard Gleaves)
I’m not usually much for conspiracy theories, but I decided to put that aside and just enjoy this book as a collection of stories. Mr. Gleaves did a good job with his main character. I felt the main character’s hopelessness and despondency over what others considered to be him wasting his life for many years. This story was an interesting look at people who become so obsessed with a topic or trying to solve a mystery that it takes over their lives. It was also a story that weighed the needs of many to have an answer over the life of one man. On the whole this was an interesting story and I enjoyed the ending.
The Long Slow Burn (Ernie Lindsey)
Unfortunately, with short stories and especially those in this collection, it is difficult to talk about the shorter stories without giving too much away. Our main character, Bo, is the criminal sort and finds himself in some unusual circumstances and faced with an equally unusual task. Though the item he is asked to find seems innocuous at first thought, it turns out to be a more far-reaching problem than he could possibly believe. Plenty of twists and turns in this story to keep things interesting.
Chukotka (Lucas Bale)
I loved this story. The story is told from two perspectives, a man from the U.S. and an old Chukchi hunter. This story is about so much more than the conspiracy theory that shapes it. The characters are vibrant and real. This is a story of different cultures, language barriers, fear, compassion and bonding together to help one another even when we don't understand. I could have read an entire book based upon the characters that Mr. Bale created. This was a beautiful story. I read a lot of stories, but this one truly touched my heart. The language barrier between the characters led to misunderstandings and somewhat harsh judgments, but it was interesting to see the characters move toward understanding and having compassion for one another as the story progressed. I'd add this story to the must read list and am looking forward to checking out some of Mr. Bale's other work.
That's a Wrap from the Sea of Tranquility (Eric Tozzi)
That's a Wrap from the Sea of Tranquility was definitely an interesting take on why the original moon landing would be faked. It's very much got that feel of the movie, Wag the Dog, if any of you have seen that. I enjoyed the story, it was written well and the reason for the faked moon landing was handled pretty well. All things considered this was a good story and I'd be interested in reading other things from this author given what I've seen thus far. It was definitely a different take on the reasoning behind why we would fake a moon landing.
The French Deception (Chris Pourteau)
The French Deception took an original turn and created a new conspiracy theory for Abe Lincoln. This is a story I could truly ruin by saying too much. Let's just say that things aren't quite the way you would expect with Abe and that Booth is only an afterthought of this story. The conspiracy here is so much bigger than just assassination. A pretty good story and I definitely liked the direction it took from an entertainment perspective.
Manufacturing Elvis (Jennifer Ellis)
This was a cute story. Dolores, our main character's grandfather's girlfriend, is an avid Elvis fan and convinced that he is still alive. This belief leads Dolores and Anna to the Bermuda Triangle to investigate Dolores' leads. I had never investigated it, but there seems to be quite a bit of complexity to the Elvis theories. In addition to their search for Elvis, there is some soul-searching and a little romance for Anna. Altogether a pretty good story and I was interested by some of the real life tidbits that I learned along the way.
This collection is full of interesting stories and, once again, I found some new authors to explore, which is really my favorite part of reading short fiction. I've read several anthologies edited by David Gatewood and they have all been pretty good. As I stated earlier, I've never been one to be interested in most conspiracy theories, but very much enjoyed the fictional stories presented in this collection. Happy reading.
Under the Grassy Knoll (Richard Gleaves)
I’m not usually much for conspiracy theories, but I decided to put that aside and just enjoy this book as a collection of stories. Mr. Gleaves did a good job with his main character. I felt the main character’s hopelessness and despondency over what others considered to be him wasting his life for many years. This story was an interesting look at people who become so obsessed with a topic or trying to solve a mystery that it takes over their lives. It was also a story that weighed the needs of many to have an answer over the life of one man. On the whole this was an interesting story and I enjoyed the ending.
The Long Slow Burn (Ernie Lindsey)
Unfortunately, with short stories and especially those in this collection, it is difficult to talk about the shorter stories without giving too much away. Our main character, Bo, is the criminal sort and finds himself in some unusual circumstances and faced with an equally unusual task. Though the item he is asked to find seems innocuous at first thought, it turns out to be a more far-reaching problem than he could possibly believe. Plenty of twists and turns in this story to keep things interesting.
Chukotka (Lucas Bale)
I loved this story. The story is told from two perspectives, a man from the U.S. and an old Chukchi hunter. This story is about so much more than the conspiracy theory that shapes it. The characters are vibrant and real. This is a story of different cultures, language barriers, fear, compassion and bonding together to help one another even when we don't understand. I could have read an entire book based upon the characters that Mr. Bale created. This was a beautiful story. I read a lot of stories, but this one truly touched my heart. The language barrier between the characters led to misunderstandings and somewhat harsh judgments, but it was interesting to see the characters move toward understanding and having compassion for one another as the story progressed. I'd add this story to the must read list and am looking forward to checking out some of Mr. Bale's other work.
That's a Wrap from the Sea of Tranquility (Eric Tozzi)
That's a Wrap from the Sea of Tranquility was definitely an interesting take on why the original moon landing would be faked. It's very much got that feel of the movie, Wag the Dog, if any of you have seen that. I enjoyed the story, it was written well and the reason for the faked moon landing was handled pretty well. All things considered this was a good story and I'd be interested in reading other things from this author given what I've seen thus far. It was definitely a different take on the reasoning behind why we would fake a moon landing.
The French Deception (Chris Pourteau)
The French Deception took an original turn and created a new conspiracy theory for Abe Lincoln. This is a story I could truly ruin by saying too much. Let's just say that things aren't quite the way you would expect with Abe and that Booth is only an afterthought of this story. The conspiracy here is so much bigger than just assassination. A pretty good story and I definitely liked the direction it took from an entertainment perspective.
Manufacturing Elvis (Jennifer Ellis)
This was a cute story. Dolores, our main character's grandfather's girlfriend, is an avid Elvis fan and convinced that he is still alive. This belief leads Dolores and Anna to the Bermuda Triangle to investigate Dolores' leads. I had never investigated it, but there seems to be quite a bit of complexity to the Elvis theories. In addition to their search for Elvis, there is some soul-searching and a little romance for Anna. Altogether a pretty good story and I was interested by some of the real life tidbits that I learned along the way.
This collection is full of interesting stories and, once again, I found some new authors to explore, which is really my favorite part of reading short fiction. I've read several anthologies edited by David Gatewood and they have all been pretty good. As I stated earlier, I've never been one to be interested in most conspiracy theories, but very much enjoyed the fictional stories presented in this collection. Happy reading.
April 15, 2015
If you see an anthology edited by David Gatewood get it... I've come to trust David's work and Tales of Tinfoil is no exception.
This is a book filled with conspiracy theories. These theories are so pervasive in our society filled with just enough realism that the line between what's real and what's fiction is blurred. This book plays with those theories. I bet you've heard of most of them and it takes them in fresh new directions. And if you find some new to you theories, be amazed. The book starts out with Under the Grassy Knoll, for me it was an emontional punch and it goes on from there. With stories about Hitler, Lincoln, and Elvis to mention a few. Also any book/story that mentions Portland and Powell's makes me so happy (no I'm not prejudice).
So I'm telling you to get the book and find your favorites, you may find that you love 'em all. It is edited by one of the best.
This is a book filled with conspiracy theories. These theories are so pervasive in our society filled with just enough realism that the line between what's real and what's fiction is blurred. This book plays with those theories. I bet you've heard of most of them and it takes them in fresh new directions. And if you find some new to you theories, be amazed. The book starts out with Under the Grassy Knoll, for me it was an emontional punch and it goes on from there. With stories about Hitler, Lincoln, and Elvis to mention a few. Also any book/story that mentions Portland and Powell's makes me so happy (no I'm not prejudice).
So I'm telling you to get the book and find your favorites, you may find that you love 'em all. It is edited by one of the best.
April 12, 2015
A terrific collection of stories, Conspiracy theories have been around forever and these tales hit on all the major ones,
Elvis and the Bermuda Triangle, and Area 51, the Kennedy assassination, Lincoln, even Hollywood and the old selling one's soul to the Devil(this one was especially good in the "star" that sold his soul and who just might be the Devil).
Had a great time with this set.
Highly recommended.
Elvis and the Bermuda Triangle, and Area 51, the Kennedy assassination, Lincoln, even Hollywood and the old selling one's soul to the Devil(this one was especially good in the "star" that sold his soul and who just might be the Devil).
Had a great time with this set.
Highly recommended.
April 27, 2015
Conspiracy? Who does not love conspiracy theories? In this collection you have 12 short stories from the best indies authors around. You won't regret having read it, provided that secret services let you talk about it! :)
May 16, 2018
An interesting and sometimes thought-provoking anthology of some well known conspiracy theories that have been picked apart for years.
I found some of the stories very creative and this is a book I will read again.
I found some of the stories very creative and this is a book I will read again.
April 12, 2015
When I think of tinfoil, I think of leftovers. Day-old pizza, a cover for a bowl of soup, you know...tinfoil. At least, that’s what they want to you to think.
You know who I’m talking about. Could be the government (which one? Take your pick.)...maybe its the Masons...the Illuminati...maybe whoever is covering up the truth is so skillful we have no idea as to their identity.
We’re all a little desperate to uncover the real truth behind the whitewashed truth we’re given in the media. We all believe something we might call a conspiracy theory. Because of those beliefs, David Gatewood’s latest short story anthology, Tales of Tinfoil, has a certain ring of truth to it, but also a whole lot of crazy.
I won’t go through all the stories, but suffice it to say the whole collection is a great addition to the world of indie publishing with some amazing stand-outs.
Now, you should definitely read past the first story, but the highlight of the collection for me was Richard Gleaves’ “Under The Grassy Knoll.” I debated for a while of whether the story was as good as I thought since it covered the ground of perhaps the biggest conspiracy theory of them all -- JFK’s assassination. As I went back and forth, I realized that the original theory itself was partly what made this such an outstanding story. So many people have theories as to what actually happened that day, and Gleaves certainly showcases how own in the story.
Chris Pourteau’s story The French Deception is another treat, taking a look at another presidential assassination -- this one of our nation’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln.
And just to prove not all conspiracies surround presidents or moon landings, Ernie LIndsey’s story The Long Slow Burn surrounds the creation of a light bulb that will last forever. If one was built, would it ever see the light of day, or do so many jobs and money depend on the continuation of light bulb replacement that it would just get swept under the rug?
The Tales of Tinfoil is a wonderful collection of 12 stories all devoted to conspiracy theories. Each one is a wild ride into the secrets we hold, or like to think exist behind the curtain. I would recommend the collection, not only to those with interest in conspiracies, but also to just anyone who loves a great short story.
You know who I’m talking about. Could be the government (which one? Take your pick.)...maybe its the Masons...the Illuminati...maybe whoever is covering up the truth is so skillful we have no idea as to their identity.
We’re all a little desperate to uncover the real truth behind the whitewashed truth we’re given in the media. We all believe something we might call a conspiracy theory. Because of those beliefs, David Gatewood’s latest short story anthology, Tales of Tinfoil, has a certain ring of truth to it, but also a whole lot of crazy.
I won’t go through all the stories, but suffice it to say the whole collection is a great addition to the world of indie publishing with some amazing stand-outs.
Now, you should definitely read past the first story, but the highlight of the collection for me was Richard Gleaves’ “Under The Grassy Knoll.” I debated for a while of whether the story was as good as I thought since it covered the ground of perhaps the biggest conspiracy theory of them all -- JFK’s assassination. As I went back and forth, I realized that the original theory itself was partly what made this such an outstanding story. So many people have theories as to what actually happened that day, and Gleaves certainly showcases how own in the story.
Chris Pourteau’s story The French Deception is another treat, taking a look at another presidential assassination -- this one of our nation’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln.
And just to prove not all conspiracies surround presidents or moon landings, Ernie LIndsey’s story The Long Slow Burn surrounds the creation of a light bulb that will last forever. If one was built, would it ever see the light of day, or do so many jobs and money depend on the continuation of light bulb replacement that it would just get swept under the rug?
The Tales of Tinfoil is a wonderful collection of 12 stories all devoted to conspiracy theories. Each one is a wild ride into the secrets we hold, or like to think exist behind the curtain. I would recommend the collection, not only to those with interest in conspiracies, but also to just anyone who loves a great short story.
April 17, 2015
Sometimes I leave more detailed reviews, especially when it comes to anthologies, but I don’t want to sit here and tell you that one story is better than another, or has more meaning, or more truth—and somewhere between these pages there is truth. Some truth. Maybe just a little.
Tales of Tinfoil is an experience to be lived. Or read at least, because you probably don’t want to live most of these stories. Especially the last one with the crazy Doc Midnite. And although they couldn’t come out and state these things as factual, they did gave us some warnings. Staying away from pinball machines is an easy one. I’ve seen Tommy, and if you think the Pinball Wizard is someone to be leery of, then you obviously haven’t read the truth between the lines that is Tales of Tinfoil. History isn’t what we think it is, and four score and some odd years ago the President Lincoln who appeared on Star Trek was more real than the phony who gave us the Gettysburg Address.
The one story that everyone is raving about is Under the Grassy Knoll. My question is, why should this come as a surprise to us? Watch some late night cable, and learn these things before the history books get revised yet again. As for the Octopus, well, I’m still not allowed to talk about it. But you can get the book and see for yourself.
Regarding Elvis, Dolores is on the right track, folks. But you knew that all along, didn’t you?
No doubt this anthology is so entertaining that we need to keep passing the word so folks will read it. And soon. Before “they” find out and remove it. I definitely look forward to the other promised entries of this series of educational “tales.” Especially the one on so-called “hoaxes.” Will Bigfoot be in it? If not, I suspect a cover-up of some sort. For years we were shown that grainy film, then they came right out and admitted the truth that he not only exists, but came from outer space, only to be confronted by The Six Million Dollar Man.
If you never thought you’d live long enough to find out the answers to some of life’s questions, or if you’ve never questioned things and always wondered why, or if you just want to be completely entertained for a few hours, now you know that all the answers are waiting for you between the pages of Tales of Tinfoil.
Tales of Tinfoil is an experience to be lived. Or read at least, because you probably don’t want to live most of these stories. Especially the last one with the crazy Doc Midnite. And although they couldn’t come out and state these things as factual, they did gave us some warnings. Staying away from pinball machines is an easy one. I’ve seen Tommy, and if you think the Pinball Wizard is someone to be leery of, then you obviously haven’t read the truth between the lines that is Tales of Tinfoil. History isn’t what we think it is, and four score and some odd years ago the President Lincoln who appeared on Star Trek was more real than the phony who gave us the Gettysburg Address.
The one story that everyone is raving about is Under the Grassy Knoll. My question is, why should this come as a surprise to us? Watch some late night cable, and learn these things before the history books get revised yet again. As for the Octopus, well, I’m still not allowed to talk about it. But you can get the book and see for yourself.
Regarding Elvis, Dolores is on the right track, folks. But you knew that all along, didn’t you?
No doubt this anthology is so entertaining that we need to keep passing the word so folks will read it. And soon. Before “they” find out and remove it. I definitely look forward to the other promised entries of this series of educational “tales.” Especially the one on so-called “hoaxes.” Will Bigfoot be in it? If not, I suspect a cover-up of some sort. For years we were shown that grainy film, then they came right out and admitted the truth that he not only exists, but came from outer space, only to be confronted by The Six Million Dollar Man.
If you never thought you’d live long enough to find out the answers to some of life’s questions, or if you’ve never questioned things and always wondered why, or if you just want to be completely entertained for a few hours, now you know that all the answers are waiting for you between the pages of Tales of Tinfoil.
September 22, 2015
I’m a lot like that kooky cop from “Law & Order” in that I never met a conspiracy theory I did not like, at least on some level, from UFO cover-ups and JFK’s assassination to chem-trails and HAARP. All of which, I guess, makes me the perfect reader for this anthology of fictionalized conspiracy theories. As with all anthologies built around a proscribed theme, there are highs and lows, but what is surprising here is that there are so few lows, and the lows are not all that low, stemming more from a simplistic approach to the subject rather than anything really being wrong with the writing or storytelling. At the low end of the spectrum we have stories like “Under the Grassy Knoll,” which is well written, but takes a direct and literal approach to the JFK assassination, launching a direct assault on the accepted story with the intended goal to “expose the truth.” Of course, as author Richard Gleaves admits in his afterword, the truth isn’t what it used to be, and often is not what people are looking for. At the other end of the spectrum are many stories which not only look at a particular conspiracy from an oblique angle, but manage to evoke the ambiguity of the subject and the paranoia that afflicts everyone who considers the reality of conspiracy theories, even those whose investigations into behind-the-scenes machinations amount only to dabbling. Some of the stories are quite fun, such as the pulpish “Heil, Hitler!”, which postulates the reality of all conspiracy theories, not just the ones that are obvious and celebrated, but also the obscure ones (perhaps even my favorite—Moon Nazis) and the ones that have escaped notice by everyone…all real, at least in some timeline. Each story if followed by an afterword by the author, sometimes providing an insight into the conspiracy behind the story, more often giving an illumination of the author’s inspiration or mind-set. As a diversion, “Tales of Tinfoil” is quite enjoyable and a fun read, and it’s all fiction…yeah, you keep telling yourself that.
April 30, 2015
Sometimes you just fall in love with a title! This is an anthology of stories on the theme of conspiracy theories. They are not simply rehashes of the theories themselves but fictional extrapolations or possible explanations of the things that won’t lie down. We’ve all heard about the JFK theories, of how many people think Elvis didn’t die and the suspicion that the Apollo 11 moon landing was a fake. You’ll probably have heard of Roswell and Area 51 and you may have heard of the HAARP project. If you haven’t, each story is followed by a little piece on the current theories which abound on that topic.
This is a slightly off-the-wall collection in which each story is very well told and the historic setting explained but the whole idea is quirky and imaginative. The title comes from the idea that conspiracy theorists are middle-aged men who live in their mothers’ basements and wear tinfoil on their heads ‘so nobody will read their thoughts’. It’s tongue in cheek but the introduction is written by an academic who studies conspiracy theory – and there’s a lot of it out there. If you’re looking for a collection of well-crafted stories, many of which will make you smile and all of which will give you pause for thought, this is the book for you. It’s an extraordinarily good read and I enjoyed it immensely.
This is a slightly off-the-wall collection in which each story is very well told and the historic setting explained but the whole idea is quirky and imaginative. The title comes from the idea that conspiracy theorists are middle-aged men who live in their mothers’ basements and wear tinfoil on their heads ‘so nobody will read their thoughts’. It’s tongue in cheek but the introduction is written by an academic who studies conspiracy theory – and there’s a lot of it out there. If you’re looking for a collection of well-crafted stories, many of which will make you smile and all of which will give you pause for thought, this is the book for you. It’s an extraordinarily good read and I enjoyed it immensely.
April 17, 2015
This collection has gathered some of my favorite authors for a fun and exciting twist on conspiracy theories. Each story is deliberately different, yet all have the common thread of intrigue. I found it a very good mix of writing talents and thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Forbes West is very graphic in his wonderful dark tale. Peter Cawdron has exquisitely pushed the edge of creepiness. The very believable and alarming history lessons by Michael Bunker and Chris Pourteau. Eric Tozzi has brilliantly out did himself with his highly detailed story. An endearing tale by Jennifer Ellis. Richard Gleaves’ story has an impact that will remain. Ernie Lindsey will wrap you up and you won’t see it coming. Lucas Bale is so vivid, this could be non-fiction. Wendy Paine Miller produced a thrilling parental nightmare. Edward W. Robertson wonderfully pulls our patriotic heartstrings. Nick Cole takes you on a magnificent and humorous joy-ride.
I received an advanced copy for review. It was a pleasure.
Forbes West is very graphic in his wonderful dark tale. Peter Cawdron has exquisitely pushed the edge of creepiness. The very believable and alarming history lessons by Michael Bunker and Chris Pourteau. Eric Tozzi has brilliantly out did himself with his highly detailed story. An endearing tale by Jennifer Ellis. Richard Gleaves’ story has an impact that will remain. Ernie Lindsey will wrap you up and you won’t see it coming. Lucas Bale is so vivid, this could be non-fiction. Wendy Paine Miller produced a thrilling parental nightmare. Edward W. Robertson wonderfully pulls our patriotic heartstrings. Nick Cole takes you on a magnificent and humorous joy-ride.
I received an advanced copy for review. It was a pleasure.
October 8, 2015
It was okay...
The first short story in Tales of Tinfoil was about the JFK conspiracy. That story was creative and sucked me right in. Unfortunately, it was very inconsistent in quality after that. Some stories were littered with profanity and sex. Some were just poorly written and hard to follow. There were a couple that I skimmed reading right over because they were such a waste of time. There is another story near the end that I really enjoyed, about Elvis Presley. I got this book for free, but I would not recommend paying for it unless you are really interested in conspiracies. Even then, I would warn you away from it. The 2 stars are for the 2 short stories that I enjoyed.
The first short story in Tales of Tinfoil was about the JFK conspiracy. That story was creative and sucked me right in. Unfortunately, it was very inconsistent in quality after that. Some stories were littered with profanity and sex. Some were just poorly written and hard to follow. There were a couple that I skimmed reading right over because they were such a waste of time. There is another story near the end that I really enjoyed, about Elvis Presley. I got this book for free, but I would not recommend paying for it unless you are really interested in conspiracies. Even then, I would warn you away from it. The 2 stars are for the 2 short stories that I enjoyed.
July 16, 2015
Tales of Tinfoil is a fantastic set of stories that stretches the imagination. Using twelve very well know conspiracy theories to create twelve very inspired stories with a twist . Stories like Sara's game and Sky noise by Ernie Lindsey, Manufacturing Elvis by Jennifer Ellis just to name a few A truly fantastic read curl up in your favorite reading spot shut off your phone this is a do not disturb type of read. If you enjoy conspiracy theory stories i highly recommend you read Tales of Tin foil.
May 21, 2015
Some of the stories were VERY good. (Like the ones written by Richard Gleaves, Lucas Bale, Jennifer Ellis and Nick Cole). Others were just OK. And there were a couple where I found myself fast-forwarding until the end. But overall I really like the anthologies edited by David Gatewood and I will probably read more of them in the future. They have been a great way to be introduced to new and talented independent authors.
September 17, 2015
great little eBook. enjoyed it immensely, anthology of well done paranoia!
February 27, 2022
4 stars for the good stories
The problem with any anthology is that it is highly unlikely you will enjoy all of the stories it contains. All you can really hope for is that you enjoy more than you don’t.
This had some great stories, some that were okay and a couple I speed read. I did enjoy the explanations behind the stories after each one (even on the stories I didn’t enjoy that much).
So worth reading for the good stories but I guess you’ll decide which ones are the good ones.
The problem with any anthology is that it is highly unlikely you will enjoy all of the stories it contains. All you can really hope for is that you enjoy more than you don’t.
This had some great stories, some that were okay and a couple I speed read. I did enjoy the explanations behind the stories after each one (even on the stories I didn’t enjoy that much).
So worth reading for the good stories but I guess you’ll decide which ones are the good ones.
November 6, 2023
A fun collection of stories about conspiracy theories.
I especially liked Michael Bunker's One Arm of the Octopus. This seemed pretty plausible. Manufacturing Elvis by Jennifer Ellis was also pretty good. It reminded me of a Connie Willis story, funny with a bit of a romantic angle.
I especially liked Michael Bunker's One Arm of the Octopus. This seemed pretty plausible. Manufacturing Elvis by Jennifer Ellis was also pretty good. It reminded me of a Connie Willis story, funny with a bit of a romantic angle.
September 19, 2023
Truly delightful - almost story in this collection is pure gold! So incredibly engaging, fun to read, and each author shares a little post-script about the conspiracy theory they wrote about. If you're looking for a quick, fun book of short stories this is the book for you.
I enjoyed it so much I'm now looking for more books and stories written by the authors in this collection. Highly recommended!
I enjoyed it so much I'm now looking for more books and stories written by the authors in this collection. Highly recommended!
March 16, 2019
A collection of short stories dealing with conspiracy theories and paranoia.
It starts with a decent story about JFK's assassination, but unfortunately the following stories are either downright dull or don't make much sense.
It was cheap, so no loss really.
It starts with a decent story about JFK's assassination, but unfortunately the following stories are either downright dull or don't make much sense.
It was cheap, so no loss really.
February 17, 2022
Loved it!
Amusing and often imaginative takes on many of the classic and contemporary conspiracy theories. The short story format makes for a quick read, if you don't have much time, or a constant pageturner, if you have more.
Amusing and often imaginative takes on many of the classic and contemporary conspiracy theories. The short story format makes for a quick read, if you don't have much time, or a constant pageturner, if you have more.
April 29, 2018
Yuch...poorly written stories about conspiracies...not good at all.
October 3, 2018
Book
Twenty or more words required. Fun banana pants madness. The final story (Hunter tribute) worth price of admission. Words, talking words for review requirement.
Twenty or more words required. Fun banana pants madness. The final story (Hunter tribute) worth price of admission. Words, talking words for review requirement.
September 6, 2023
I liked “Day for Night” by Forbes West
March 7, 2025
don’t bother
Some, several were good but many, especially the last, were pitiful. 20 minutes of my life I will never recover
Some, several were good but many, especially the last, were pitiful. 20 minutes of my life I will never recover
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