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Dark Minds
A collection of short stories from some of your favourite authors
You think you know darkness? Think again.
Bloodhound Books presents Dark Minds – a collection of stories by authors who have come together to produce an anthology that will lure, tantalise and shock its readers.
What took place By the Water?
What goes on behind A Stranger’s Eyes?
And what is so special about Slow Roast Pork?
From master authors such as Lisa Hall, Steven Dunne, Louise Jensen and Anita Waller, readers can expect a one hell of a ride…
Dark Minds is a collection of 40 crime and thriller short stories from authors including; Louise Jensen, L.J. Ross, Lisa Hall, Steven Dunne, Betsy Reavley, M.A. Comley, Alex Walters and Anita Waller plus many more.445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 18, 2024
I've been reading this anthology over the last few months, dipping in and out of it as I like to do with any anthology.
This is a stunning collection of stories from some fantastic authors. Each story has a dark theme to it, whether it's a crime story, a twisted psychological thriller or something on the bizarre side. Every story is unique and this anthology offers top reading material!
What I love about it so much is that it's introduced me to some new authors. I'm keen to read more from many of these. Amongst these were authors I'm already a huge fan of. What more could I possibly want?
I think short stories and anthologies are often overlooked and underrated by many. Whether you read each story one by one or dip in and out like I did, don't go past this great collection for your bookshelf!
5 whopping happy stars from this eager reader for this top-notch anthology!
I read a paperback copy of this book that I won in a charity auction by the publisher. As the highest bidder I was blessed with a signed copy. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
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Thanks so much for reading my review!
I hope you enjoyed it, if you did I’d be delighted if you leave me a “like” and I love to read your comments. If you’d like to connect you can follow me or please send me a friend request.
You can also find me on Amazon U.K. where I am a Top 500 Reviewer.
If you are an Author or Publisher and you’d like me to consider reading and reviewing your book(s) please just message me.
This is a stunning collection of stories from some fantastic authors. Each story has a dark theme to it, whether it's a crime story, a twisted psychological thriller or something on the bizarre side. Every story is unique and this anthology offers top reading material!
What I love about it so much is that it's introduced me to some new authors. I'm keen to read more from many of these. Amongst these were authors I'm already a huge fan of. What more could I possibly want?
I think short stories and anthologies are often overlooked and underrated by many. Whether you read each story one by one or dip in and out like I did, don't go past this great collection for your bookshelf!
5 whopping happy stars from this eager reader for this top-notch anthology!
I read a paperback copy of this book that I won in a charity auction by the publisher. As the highest bidder I was blessed with a signed copy. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
::~~~~~~:::::~~~~~:::::~~~~~:::::~~~~~~::
Thanks so much for reading my review!
I hope you enjoyed it, if you did I’d be delighted if you leave me a “like” and I love to read your comments. If you’d like to connect you can follow me or please send me a friend request.
You can also find me on Amazon U.K. where I am a Top 500 Reviewer.
If you are an Author or Publisher and you’d like me to consider reading and reviewing your book(s) please just message me.
December 13, 2016
This collection of short stories focuses on the dark and mysterious, and crime and it's repercussions. It is a fantastic assortment of stories and styles of writing, with a mix of well known and soon to be better known authors. With all royalties being donated to two very worthwhile charities - Hospice UK and Sophie’s Appeal, I recommend these stories to anyone who likes their fiction on the dark side. I would like to give a special mention to Jenna-Leigh Golding, the 17 year old author of the final story. An exceptional talent for such a young age!
I voluntarily chose to read and review an ARC copy of this book
I voluntarily chose to read and review an ARC copy of this book
December 14, 2016
Dark Minds is a novel made up of forty one short stories by various authors.
There is a vast array of talented authors that are at different stages of their writing journeys. From one young author who is just starting out, to newly established, to the very much established authors. There really is something in here for everyone who likes their stories on the darker side.
For fans of crime books such as the DI Damen Brook series by Steven Dunne and the Aidan Snow SAS thriller series by Alex Shaw, readers will be pleased to see both characters featured in here. It’s great to catch up with some very well known characters and get a quick fix of them.
The stories are a mixture of horror and crime. As there are so many stories it is hard and would be way to long to review each one, so can only base my review on the overall collection. What you will find, is that this will introduce you to new authors whose books you have never read, but after reading the shorts in here, believe me you are going to want to.
I enjoyed all the stories. They are all unique and highly entertaining but the ones that really stood out are as follows:
London’s Crawling by Emma Pullar
Never Tell A Lie by Tara Lyons
A Christmas Killing by Richard T Burke
By The Water by Betsy Reavley
Slow Roast Pork by S E Lynes
The Shepherd’s Bothy by L J Ross
I’ve Gone by Anita Waller
Dangerous Actions by M A Comley
Captive by Stephen Edger
The Retreat by Jane E James
Bonus Story by Jenna-Leigh Golding
As previously mentioned, the stories are a mix of crime and horror. There is a whole array of different crimes and horrors in this collection. Plenty to shock, scare and horrify!
Dark Minds is a truly wonderful collection that is a great way to get a fix when you are in need of something dark and twisted. Best of all, money raised from the book go to two great charities. Great book and highly recommended.
There is a vast array of talented authors that are at different stages of their writing journeys. From one young author who is just starting out, to newly established, to the very much established authors. There really is something in here for everyone who likes their stories on the darker side.
For fans of crime books such as the DI Damen Brook series by Steven Dunne and the Aidan Snow SAS thriller series by Alex Shaw, readers will be pleased to see both characters featured in here. It’s great to catch up with some very well known characters and get a quick fix of them.
The stories are a mixture of horror and crime. As there are so many stories it is hard and would be way to long to review each one, so can only base my review on the overall collection. What you will find, is that this will introduce you to new authors whose books you have never read, but after reading the shorts in here, believe me you are going to want to.
I enjoyed all the stories. They are all unique and highly entertaining but the ones that really stood out are as follows:
London’s Crawling by Emma Pullar
Never Tell A Lie by Tara Lyons
A Christmas Killing by Richard T Burke
By The Water by Betsy Reavley
Slow Roast Pork by S E Lynes
The Shepherd’s Bothy by L J Ross
I’ve Gone by Anita Waller
Dangerous Actions by M A Comley
Captive by Stephen Edger
The Retreat by Jane E James
Bonus Story by Jenna-Leigh Golding
As previously mentioned, the stories are a mix of crime and horror. There is a whole array of different crimes and horrors in this collection. Plenty to shock, scare and horrify!
Dark Minds is a truly wonderful collection that is a great way to get a fix when you are in need of something dark and twisted. Best of all, money raised from the book go to two great charities. Great book and highly recommended.
December 20, 2016
You can find all my reviews at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
Dark Minds is definitely a book any crime and horror thriller lover will love, it’s a collaboration of a group of 41 amazingly talented authors, Louise Jensen, L.J. Ross, Lisa Hall, Steven Dunne, Betsy Reavley, M.A. Comley, plus many more, so you see you really are spoilt for choice. All profits from this book go to two charities, Hospice UK and Sophie’s Appeal so not only do you get a gripping book, but you are also helping two worthy charities.
When I picked up Dark Minds I faced my first dilemma, there really are so many fantastic authors included in this book I really didn’t know where to start (I felt like a kiddie in a sweet shop!), but then I decided to do what I normally do when I pick up a book and that’s start at the beginning, simple! There are a wide range of stories some more chilling than others but each and everyone is deliciously dark and sometimes disturbing.
The one I’m going to mention is London’s Crawling by Emma Pullar, oh my, oh my this was one dark and creepy story, the authors descriptive writing allowed me to image the fear, the setting and much more, so much so it gave me the heebie jeebies. The author takes the reader on a terrifying trip through London, Jody is alone, with no signal on her phone, and someone appears to be following her, what happens next is blood curdling.
Don’t think for one minute that just because they are short stories they are going to lack depth. London’s Crawling only took me five minutes to read, but it felt like much longer as the plot was so detailed. Emma Pullar certainly doesn’t lack imagination as each page of this short story was filled with horror and dread.
Each story is worthy of a mention, unfortunately it would take too long to review each one, but for me personally it’s giving me a welcome introduction to some new authors, whose books I’m certainly going to order at a later date. Dark Minds is one of those books you can dip into when the mood takes, or you could read the WHOLE book in a couple of sittings. It’s a collection of short stories that fit all the cliches you can think of….spine-tingling, gripping and thrilling, this book also brilliantly showcases the diversity of crime fiction. I would highly recommend you get a copy of Dark Minds, why? Because not only are you guaranteed a damn good read, but all proceeds go to two very worth while charities, win win in my opinion.
Dark Minds is definitely a book any crime and horror thriller lover will love, it’s a collaboration of a group of 41 amazingly talented authors, Louise Jensen, L.J. Ross, Lisa Hall, Steven Dunne, Betsy Reavley, M.A. Comley, plus many more, so you see you really are spoilt for choice. All profits from this book go to two charities, Hospice UK and Sophie’s Appeal so not only do you get a gripping book, but you are also helping two worthy charities.
When I picked up Dark Minds I faced my first dilemma, there really are so many fantastic authors included in this book I really didn’t know where to start (I felt like a kiddie in a sweet shop!), but then I decided to do what I normally do when I pick up a book and that’s start at the beginning, simple! There are a wide range of stories some more chilling than others but each and everyone is deliciously dark and sometimes disturbing.
The one I’m going to mention is London’s Crawling by Emma Pullar, oh my, oh my this was one dark and creepy story, the authors descriptive writing allowed me to image the fear, the setting and much more, so much so it gave me the heebie jeebies. The author takes the reader on a terrifying trip through London, Jody is alone, with no signal on her phone, and someone appears to be following her, what happens next is blood curdling.
Don’t think for one minute that just because they are short stories they are going to lack depth. London’s Crawling only took me five minutes to read, but it felt like much longer as the plot was so detailed. Emma Pullar certainly doesn’t lack imagination as each page of this short story was filled with horror and dread.
Each story is worthy of a mention, unfortunately it would take too long to review each one, but for me personally it’s giving me a welcome introduction to some new authors, whose books I’m certainly going to order at a later date. Dark Minds is one of those books you can dip into when the mood takes, or you could read the WHOLE book in a couple of sittings. It’s a collection of short stories that fit all the cliches you can think of….spine-tingling, gripping and thrilling, this book also brilliantly showcases the diversity of crime fiction. I would highly recommend you get a copy of Dark Minds, why? Because not only are you guaranteed a damn good read, but all proceeds go to two very worth while charities, win win in my opinion.
December 24, 2016
An exceptional collection of short stories with a dark theme running through them.
From an array of amazingly talented author's.
Profits to go to two deserving charities.
Hospice UK and Sophies Appeal.
Highly recommended for a great way to read some new author's.
From an array of amazingly talented author's.
Profits to go to two deserving charities.
Hospice UK and Sophies Appeal.
Highly recommended for a great way to read some new author's.
December 17, 2016
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
I have to start by saying that the proceeds from the sale of this brilliant collection go to two very worthy causes, Sophie’s Appeal and Hospice UK. I’m honored to be one of the stops for the blog tour today and can’t wait to tell you all about this phenomenal compilation. Check out the book trailer as well.
Since there are forty stories in this collection I won’t review every single one separately, but I do want to mention that as a whole they are fantastic. There were none I actively disliked, I really enjoyed something about each of them. I’ll highlight my favorite ones, but there really is something for everyone here, especially if you’re a thriller fan. I haven’t read many short stories but this experience opened up my eyes and made me realize how enjoyable it can be. Who knew a few pages could pack such a huge punch?
The Shoes Maketh the Man by Louise Jensen
Being a huge Jensen fan I was ecstatic to see she was one of the participating authors for Dark Minds. Her story is about an elderly man named Bill who’s wife Maureen has passed leaving him a widow. Pensioners are being murdered in his area, is he next? It was creepy and pulled off quite a twist within a few pages.
Never Tell a Lie by Tara Lyons
This is about an un named man who has an obsession with a beautiful woman named Fiona who he meets when she visits the coffee shop where he works. It’s obsessive, dark and menacing.
By The Water by Betsy Reavley
Christine wakes up in a mental institution and has no idea why or what happened to land her there. Freaks me out just thinking about it! This was very chilling.
Slow Roast Pork by S. E. Lynes
An un named woman this time who’s husband, Peter disappears. She seems distraught but does she know where he is? Or is she just a good actress? This was chilling in its intensity.
Sticky Fingers by J. T. Lawrence
Nikki is a kleptomaniac, she’s not hurting for money she’s actually a wealthy housewife. She just can’t help herself, but is her time finally up? I loved the glimpse into her twisted mind and thought processes.
Hidden by K. A. Richardson
Don’t want to say anything besides it is extremely creepy and graphic but excellent in its depravity.
I’ve Gone by Anita Waller
Laura’s husband Kevin is missing all that’s left is a note that says I’ve gone. This one was heartbreaking and shocking.
Be Careful What You Wish for by Peter Best
Sammy has found herself unwittingly entangled with the mafia in NYC. This is very action packed and there are twists until the very last sentence.
Dangerous Actions by M. A. Comley
Joanne and Beth are two best friends who meet a new guy on Facebook but social media can be deadly… I can’t say much more than that, but I was thoroughly impressed!
Captive by Stephen Edger
Daisy is kidnapped by Tim when she’s 6. There is quite a lot of action and intensity for a short story. My pulse was pounding as waited to see what her fate would be.
That’s just a taste of what this amazing collection has to offer, there are so many excellent stories that you have to read for yourself! It’s SUCH a good cause, grab your copy, you won’t be disappointed. (Buy links are at the top of this post)
I have to start by saying that the proceeds from the sale of this brilliant collection go to two very worthy causes, Sophie’s Appeal and Hospice UK. I’m honored to be one of the stops for the blog tour today and can’t wait to tell you all about this phenomenal compilation. Check out the book trailer as well.
Since there are forty stories in this collection I won’t review every single one separately, but I do want to mention that as a whole they are fantastic. There were none I actively disliked, I really enjoyed something about each of them. I’ll highlight my favorite ones, but there really is something for everyone here, especially if you’re a thriller fan. I haven’t read many short stories but this experience opened up my eyes and made me realize how enjoyable it can be. Who knew a few pages could pack such a huge punch?
The Shoes Maketh the Man by Louise Jensen
Being a huge Jensen fan I was ecstatic to see she was one of the participating authors for Dark Minds. Her story is about an elderly man named Bill who’s wife Maureen has passed leaving him a widow. Pensioners are being murdered in his area, is he next? It was creepy and pulled off quite a twist within a few pages.
Never Tell a Lie by Tara Lyons
This is about an un named man who has an obsession with a beautiful woman named Fiona who he meets when she visits the coffee shop where he works. It’s obsessive, dark and menacing.
By The Water by Betsy Reavley
Christine wakes up in a mental institution and has no idea why or what happened to land her there. Freaks me out just thinking about it! This was very chilling.
Slow Roast Pork by S. E. Lynes
An un named woman this time who’s husband, Peter disappears. She seems distraught but does she know where he is? Or is she just a good actress? This was chilling in its intensity.
Sticky Fingers by J. T. Lawrence
Nikki is a kleptomaniac, she’s not hurting for money she’s actually a wealthy housewife. She just can’t help herself, but is her time finally up? I loved the glimpse into her twisted mind and thought processes.
Hidden by K. A. Richardson
Don’t want to say anything besides it is extremely creepy and graphic but excellent in its depravity.
I’ve Gone by Anita Waller
Laura’s husband Kevin is missing all that’s left is a note that says I’ve gone. This one was heartbreaking and shocking.
Be Careful What You Wish for by Peter Best
Sammy has found herself unwittingly entangled with the mafia in NYC. This is very action packed and there are twists until the very last sentence.
Dangerous Actions by M. A. Comley
Joanne and Beth are two best friends who meet a new guy on Facebook but social media can be deadly… I can’t say much more than that, but I was thoroughly impressed!
Captive by Stephen Edger
Daisy is kidnapped by Tim when she’s 6. There is quite a lot of action and intensity for a short story. My pulse was pounding as waited to see what her fate would be.
That’s just a taste of what this amazing collection has to offer, there are so many excellent stories that you have to read for yourself! It’s SUCH a good cause, grab your copy, you won’t be disappointed. (Buy links are at the top of this post)
February 9, 2017
A fantastic collection of short stories told by many wonderful authors. There are several stories that stand out, sadly too many to mention without confusing myself, but for me, the best was KA Richardson's Hidden. Thanks Bloodhound Books for such a wonderfully entertaining read.
January 1, 2017
Well I take my hat off to the folk at Bloodhound Books. What an achievement! For those who haven’t heard of Dark Minds, let me explain.
Bloodhound Books are one of my favourite crime publishers and over the last year they’ve gone from strength to strength. 2016 has seen some fantastic signings and new releases from the Bloodhound kennel (my favourite being The Optician’s Wife which will remain in my ‘favourite books of all time’ list for, well, ever!) Bloodhound decided they wanted to produce a crime anthology where all net proceeds go to charity. What they needed though was the input of generous, selfless authors to put pen to paper (or fingers to keys!) and write some blisteringly good dark stories for inclusion in the book. Surely it would be a struggle to get authors on board, particularly as there was no personal gain to the authors involved. They needn’t of worried. Within the covers of this book you will find 41 brilliantly crafted dark stories by 41 talented writers. Some names you’ll recognise, some not so much (at this point I would like to say to 17 year old Jenna-Leigh Golding who has a story in the anthology; keep on writing, I think you have a bright future ahead of you!). There really is something for everyone; a short story collection that caters to all crimey tastes. And if that doesn’t get your attention then the eBook is a mere £1.99 in the Kindle store at the moment! If you love crime, Dark Minds is a must-buy.
I had wanted to review each story individually but it’s nearly Christmas and I’m sure you all have things to do. So instead I will explain why I loved this book. First off, this year has been an exceptional booky year for me and other devoted crime readers. I’ve read some astoundingly good books such as The Sister and The Gift by Louise Jensen, Valentina by S.E. Lynes, The Optician’s Wife and Frailty by Betsy Reavley, In the Shadows by Tara Lyons and Death do us Part by Steven Dunne to name a few. All of the aforementioned authors have written a story for Dark Minds. It was such an enjoyable experience to read more from these writers and in this restricted format. How would they adapt their style to fit, would the characters still have the same believability, would I still enjoy their stories? The answer to that last question is a big fat YES!
Then we come to the fact that I am a crime fiction blogger who is yet to read some very prominent author’s work. There were names on the contents page that leapt out at me. Authors who I have been wanting to read for some time but haven’t managed to squeeze in (as yet!). Authors such as Lisa Hall, Jim Ody, L.J. Ross, Lucy V. Hay and Paul D. Brazill to name a few (in all honesty, there were quite a few names which I ooh’ed and ahh’ed over!). It was an exciting prospect which delivered again and again.
And finally we come to the stories where I NEED to read more by these authors. Their short story has drawn me in and I’m adding them to my ‘authors to watch’ list. The book opens with a blisteringly good piece from B.A. Morton. DS Fuller and DC Harte felt like fully established characters to me and I would love to read more. A Christmas Killing by Richard T Burke is immediately intriguing and very compelling reading. I thoroughly enjoyed Sticky Fingers by J.T. Lawrence; reading about Nicolette antics and her heartbreaking conclusion. Pop Dead – The Pension Papers by Pete Adams made me laugh out loud. And Jane E. James’ take on a writer’s retreat gave me goosebumps. Thanks to Dark Minds I’ve added so many new authors to my favourites list.
Would I recommend this book? If you’re a crime fiction fan then you’d be silly not to buy a copy. Not only do you have 41 brilliant stories to dip into as and when needed but you’re supporting two brilliant charities at the same time. It’s a win-win situation. I firmly believe there is something for everyone in this book. Outstanding reading!
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an ARC of Dark Minds but I will be purchasing my own copy.
Bloodhound Books are one of my favourite crime publishers and over the last year they’ve gone from strength to strength. 2016 has seen some fantastic signings and new releases from the Bloodhound kennel (my favourite being The Optician’s Wife which will remain in my ‘favourite books of all time’ list for, well, ever!) Bloodhound decided they wanted to produce a crime anthology where all net proceeds go to charity. What they needed though was the input of generous, selfless authors to put pen to paper (or fingers to keys!) and write some blisteringly good dark stories for inclusion in the book. Surely it would be a struggle to get authors on board, particularly as there was no personal gain to the authors involved. They needn’t of worried. Within the covers of this book you will find 41 brilliantly crafted dark stories by 41 talented writers. Some names you’ll recognise, some not so much (at this point I would like to say to 17 year old Jenna-Leigh Golding who has a story in the anthology; keep on writing, I think you have a bright future ahead of you!). There really is something for everyone; a short story collection that caters to all crimey tastes. And if that doesn’t get your attention then the eBook is a mere £1.99 in the Kindle store at the moment! If you love crime, Dark Minds is a must-buy.
I had wanted to review each story individually but it’s nearly Christmas and I’m sure you all have things to do. So instead I will explain why I loved this book. First off, this year has been an exceptional booky year for me and other devoted crime readers. I’ve read some astoundingly good books such as The Sister and The Gift by Louise Jensen, Valentina by S.E. Lynes, The Optician’s Wife and Frailty by Betsy Reavley, In the Shadows by Tara Lyons and Death do us Part by Steven Dunne to name a few. All of the aforementioned authors have written a story for Dark Minds. It was such an enjoyable experience to read more from these writers and in this restricted format. How would they adapt their style to fit, would the characters still have the same believability, would I still enjoy their stories? The answer to that last question is a big fat YES!
Then we come to the fact that I am a crime fiction blogger who is yet to read some very prominent author’s work. There were names on the contents page that leapt out at me. Authors who I have been wanting to read for some time but haven’t managed to squeeze in (as yet!). Authors such as Lisa Hall, Jim Ody, L.J. Ross, Lucy V. Hay and Paul D. Brazill to name a few (in all honesty, there were quite a few names which I ooh’ed and ahh’ed over!). It was an exciting prospect which delivered again and again.
And finally we come to the stories where I NEED to read more by these authors. Their short story has drawn me in and I’m adding them to my ‘authors to watch’ list. The book opens with a blisteringly good piece from B.A. Morton. DS Fuller and DC Harte felt like fully established characters to me and I would love to read more. A Christmas Killing by Richard T Burke is immediately intriguing and very compelling reading. I thoroughly enjoyed Sticky Fingers by J.T. Lawrence; reading about Nicolette antics and her heartbreaking conclusion. Pop Dead – The Pension Papers by Pete Adams made me laugh out loud. And Jane E. James’ take on a writer’s retreat gave me goosebumps. Thanks to Dark Minds I’ve added so many new authors to my favourites list.
Would I recommend this book? If you’re a crime fiction fan then you’d be silly not to buy a copy. Not only do you have 41 brilliant stories to dip into as and when needed but you’re supporting two brilliant charities at the same time. It’s a win-win situation. I firmly believe there is something for everyone in this book. Outstanding reading!
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an ARC of Dark Minds but I will be purchasing my own copy.
December 19, 2016
Great collection of short stories by some brilliant authors just in time for Christmas (and proceeds going to 2 very worthwhile charities!)
Everything from fear, horror and fun all wrapped up in one book!
Everything from fear, horror and fun all wrapped up in one book!
January 7, 2018
It is difficult to rate this collection of short stories because some are very good and others are not appealing to me. I am keeping it on my kindle for a bit longer to try to give some of the stories a second chance.
December 18, 2016
What could be better than a collection of 40 short stories from some of the best authors around just now? One that is donating all proceeds of the sales to charity, that’s what!! I’m over the moon to be part of the Blog Tour for Dark Minds, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute cracker. There is something for everyone, and would be perfect for reading over Christmas with a glass of wine, or a mince pie (if you’re the type of person to find having your toes curling and spine tingling relaxing…) This book combines a mixture of crime, thriller, mystery and horror, all stories set to provoke you and get into the darkest recesses of your mind (literally). I can’t review every single story, although I loved them I would be here all night, so I have chosen a few of my favourites to get a special mention:
Slow Roast Pork by S E Lynes – I’ve never read anything by this author before but will now have to as I loved this. A woman’s husband is reported missing whilst she is at home cooking his favourite meal of roast pork.
Jimmy Jimmy by Steven Dunne – A homeless man reflects on his relationship with prostitute Neeta.
Never Tell A Lie by Tara Lyons – A young handsome man used to getting what he wants becomes obsessed with a married woman.
By The Water – A woman Christine wakes up one day and finds she is in a mental institution and has no memory or idea why or how she got there. This story terrified me as it’s one of my worst fears!
I will be honest, there was not one story that I disliked, they were all fantastic in their own way. As is the way with short stories, they finish abruptly, enhancing the fear factor, and cranking the feelings of unease to the max. There is some dark humour in there to put a sardonic smile on your face every once in a while aswell.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, it’s for charity people, BUY IT and enjoy! Overall rating from me, five fantastic starts. Thanks to everyone over at Bloodhound Books for sending me a copy and including me in the blog tour.
Slow Roast Pork by S E Lynes – I’ve never read anything by this author before but will now have to as I loved this. A woman’s husband is reported missing whilst she is at home cooking his favourite meal of roast pork.
Jimmy Jimmy by Steven Dunne – A homeless man reflects on his relationship with prostitute Neeta.
Never Tell A Lie by Tara Lyons – A young handsome man used to getting what he wants becomes obsessed with a married woman.
By The Water – A woman Christine wakes up one day and finds she is in a mental institution and has no memory or idea why or how she got there. This story terrified me as it’s one of my worst fears!
I will be honest, there was not one story that I disliked, they were all fantastic in their own way. As is the way with short stories, they finish abruptly, enhancing the fear factor, and cranking the feelings of unease to the max. There is some dark humour in there to put a sardonic smile on your face every once in a while aswell.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, it’s for charity people, BUY IT and enjoy! Overall rating from me, five fantastic starts. Thanks to everyone over at Bloodhound Books for sending me a copy and including me in the blog tour.
December 17, 2016
The Suspense and Mystery Book for Charity
It is December again, these are the weeks before Christmas and what better time to think of those who are less privileged, to share a little bit of our good fortune and happiness with people who need it the most? With this fantastic crime novel you attribute to Britain’s charities Sophie’s Appeal and Hospice UK – and have 41 thrilling stories to read!
The initiative for this collection lies with Bloodhound Books and co-founder Fred Freeman has written a beautiful foreword. In his words 'Dark Minds’, with so many awesome contributors, is: “a celebration of crime fiction.” May I add that the dedication and commitment of Bloodhound Books, all those wonderful authors and least but not least my fellow book bloggers, for me truly represents the spirit of Christmas.
It’s impossible to capture the 41 stories in this review (check my website for the extended version of this review) – just let me tell you it’s a wonderful and exciting mixture of expertly written thrillers, horrors, detectives and crime stories. Almost every story comes with an awesome plot twist that will catch you unawares, you will keep guessing until the plot is revealed. It's a fascinating compilation of sinister plots and you can treat yourself to a story or two a day or just dive in completely. Enjoy the riveting tales of 41 masters of suspense!
I am proud to participate in this fantastic initiative by writing a review: a crime book with 41 short stories of which the proceeds go to charity. It's truly fitting with the December spirit and I hope that many people will buy the book. The stories are entertaining, engaging, horrific, lovely and thrilling. Among my favourites are Tony Cox' two elderly ladies chatting over a cup of coffee, Pete Adams' naughty story, Emma Pullar’s horror tale and David Evans' story of love.
On my website I've written an extended review on this very special collection - with one or two sentences about every story in the book. Check it out here:
https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/dark-m...
It is December again, these are the weeks before Christmas and what better time to think of those who are less privileged, to share a little bit of our good fortune and happiness with people who need it the most? With this fantastic crime novel you attribute to Britain’s charities Sophie’s Appeal and Hospice UK – and have 41 thrilling stories to read!
The initiative for this collection lies with Bloodhound Books and co-founder Fred Freeman has written a beautiful foreword. In his words 'Dark Minds’, with so many awesome contributors, is: “a celebration of crime fiction.” May I add that the dedication and commitment of Bloodhound Books, all those wonderful authors and least but not least my fellow book bloggers, for me truly represents the spirit of Christmas.
It’s impossible to capture the 41 stories in this review (check my website for the extended version of this review) – just let me tell you it’s a wonderful and exciting mixture of expertly written thrillers, horrors, detectives and crime stories. Almost every story comes with an awesome plot twist that will catch you unawares, you will keep guessing until the plot is revealed. It's a fascinating compilation of sinister plots and you can treat yourself to a story or two a day or just dive in completely. Enjoy the riveting tales of 41 masters of suspense!
I am proud to participate in this fantastic initiative by writing a review: a crime book with 41 short stories of which the proceeds go to charity. It's truly fitting with the December spirit and I hope that many people will buy the book. The stories are entertaining, engaging, horrific, lovely and thrilling. Among my favourites are Tony Cox' two elderly ladies chatting over a cup of coffee, Pete Adams' naughty story, Emma Pullar’s horror tale and David Evans' story of love.
On my website I've written an extended review on this very special collection - with one or two sentences about every story in the book. Check it out here:
https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/dark-m...
May 1, 2017
This book is just brilliant. A sample of every genre going, and then more than you'll ever imagine.
Getting all these fantastic authors together was fascinating and very exciting. BloodhoundBooks achieved a game-changer, here. Following the time it's taken me to read this book, I've learned so much about new and inspiring authors.
Every story is 100% unique, and most of the time it's shocking, funny, horrible, sad, happy, thoughtful...I could go on; a bit of everything!
Every shelf should have this book on it. You could read it in a sitting, but I preferred just reading a few at a time!
Top Recommendation!
Getting all these fantastic authors together was fascinating and very exciting. BloodhoundBooks achieved a game-changer, here. Following the time it's taken me to read this book, I've learned so much about new and inspiring authors.
Every story is 100% unique, and most of the time it's shocking, funny, horrible, sad, happy, thoughtful...I could go on; a bit of everything!
Every shelf should have this book on it. You could read it in a sitting, but I preferred just reading a few at a time!
Top Recommendation!
December 13, 2016
A brilliant compilation of short stories from some of the best authors around for a worthy cause.
December 16, 2016
Great collection of short stories, with a bit of horror, ghosts, crime and even some laughter. Not only does it give you the chance to get acquainted with authors you don't know, but the proceeds of the sale go to two very worthy UK charities.
January 17, 2019
(2.5 rating) —- I wasn’t overly impressed with this short story collection. A lot of the stories were boring, didn’t make sense or were poorly written but there were a couple of good ones that I really enjoyed and they were a solid 3/4 star. The ones I would recommend are:
- The Shoes Maketh the Man by Louise Jensen was really good. I was completely taken in by the main character’s sad story and this made the twist a great surprise.
- Never Tell a Lie by Tyra Lyons was a strange, dark and twisted story about an angry, misogynistic, entitled and arrogant stalker. I was really interested in the characters and their backstories/motivations and found myself wanting more.
- By The Water by Betsy Reavley had an interesting concept which plays around with reliable narrator/s. Didn’t see the twist coming and thought it tied everyone up nicely at the end.
- Jimmy Jimmy by Steven Dunne has a first person stream of consciousness which I enjoyed, and again the twist was good.
- Captive by Stephen Edger was good, it kept me interested all the way through and I loved the twist at the end.
- Love You to Death by Lucy V Hay had a predictable ending but it was an enjoyable and entertaining short story.
- The Retreat by Jane E James had a great setting and I thought it was very atmospheric. I really liked the main character and thought the twist was great.
- Everything Comes by B A Steadman had great writing and even though very short it raised certain questions regarding intent, influence and revenge which I enjoyed.
- #106 by Jenna-Leigh Golding was very dark, probably the most graphic one of the whole book, but I enjoyed the pacing and the goriness.
- The Shoes Maketh the Man by Louise Jensen was really good. I was completely taken in by the main character’s sad story and this made the twist a great surprise.
- Never Tell a Lie by Tyra Lyons was a strange, dark and twisted story about an angry, misogynistic, entitled and arrogant stalker. I was really interested in the characters and their backstories/motivations and found myself wanting more.
- By The Water by Betsy Reavley had an interesting concept which plays around with reliable narrator/s. Didn’t see the twist coming and thought it tied everyone up nicely at the end.
- Jimmy Jimmy by Steven Dunne has a first person stream of consciousness which I enjoyed, and again the twist was good.
- Captive by Stephen Edger was good, it kept me interested all the way through and I loved the twist at the end.
- Love You to Death by Lucy V Hay had a predictable ending but it was an enjoyable and entertaining short story.
- The Retreat by Jane E James had a great setting and I thought it was very atmospheric. I really liked the main character and thought the twist was great.
- Everything Comes by B A Steadman had great writing and even though very short it raised certain questions regarding intent, influence and revenge which I enjoyed.
- #106 by Jenna-Leigh Golding was very dark, probably the most graphic one of the whole book, but I enjoyed the pacing and the goriness.
September 18, 2017
With most collections of short stories as there's usually some gems and the odd dud but this collection was entirely excellent.
Each story is chillingly macabre, I was amazed at how each story developed over the course of a few pages, they are very short and very good.
A very well curated collection!
Each story is chillingly macabre, I was amazed at how each story developed over the course of a few pages, they are very short and very good.
A very well curated collection!
December 15, 2019
The short stories was a nice change of pace. Some stories were truly sick and twisted and left me feeling ill. A few had a theme of science fiction, while some reminded me of stories I have read before. Definitely wish others had continued, as it would have made for a great book.
I enjoyed most of them, but think I'll stick to a book next time instead of collections. .
I enjoyed most of them, but think I'll stick to a book next time instead of collections. .
June 5, 2024
Some good stories, some not so good.
This seemed like an interesting collection and I hope the purchase still goes to charity. These stories represent several genres, mostly crime and murder but some horror and fantasy. Some are really good, others are meh. None are bad, though. I read every one.
This seemed like an interesting collection and I hope the purchase still goes to charity. These stories represent several genres, mostly crime and murder but some horror and fantasy. Some are really good, others are meh. None are bad, though. I read every one.
March 11, 2017
Just so-so
As other reviewers have said, some of the stories read as fully-developed tales, well written and well conceived, whereas others read like excerpts from longer works. Overall, worthwhile, just very uneven.
As other reviewers have said, some of the stories read as fully-developed tales, well written and well conceived, whereas others read like excerpts from longer works. Overall, worthwhile, just very uneven.
December 19, 2017
Excellent!
I liked the fact that every story was different,with varying degrees of horror or fright.an excellent collection of stories that are well worth the read & the feel good factor that with each book bought,some money goes to charity.
I liked the fact that every story was different,with varying degrees of horror or fright.an excellent collection of stories that are well worth the read & the feel good factor that with each book bought,some money goes to charity.
December 16, 2018
Well written collection
I loved every short story in this collection. Well done all of the authors and well done to the compilers also. Nice short, sharp stories that grabbed you in straight away.
I loved every short story in this collection. Well done all of the authors and well done to the compilers also. Nice short, sharp stories that grabbed you in straight away.
February 25, 2017
Very scary stories!
Rating 5really deserved for the gripping tales those authors deserve every possible plaudits for putting this book together well done!
Rating 5really deserved for the gripping tales those authors deserve every possible plaudits for putting this book together well done!
July 23, 2017
A great collection of short, horror stories. There were only a few I wasn't a fan of, but overall, well written and pretty creepy.
November 30, 2020
Very good compilations of short stories really enjoyed the chapters are not to long and easy to read
July 29, 2021
Interesting collection of stories, a few misses, but mainly hits!
January 18, 2017
What a brilliant thrilling collection of stories. The bonus story was also a wow especially as it was from a young new author. One of my particular favorites was about the fear women have walking home alone in the dark...wonderful.
March 5, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and unusually for me took my time and read each story slowly and carefully. The stories were all written for charity and donated free of charge. They deserved to be savoured and read in their own right, they were all excellent stories and all completely different from each other.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
December 23, 2016
Firstly, a big thank you to Bloodhound books for allowing me to be part of this blog tour..
THIS IS A MUST BUY AND MUST READ!
These amazing authors have combined some outstanding, spooky short stories for you all to enjoy. One not to be missed. As stated above all proceeds from this book will be going to two amazing charities and the authors have really worked hard on this one. I loved and enjoyed every single story in this book. Dark minds is perfect for all you short story fans and each story is very individual and different from all the others giving you a variety of haunting, spooky, horror and suspense filled hours/days ahead!
I couldn’t put it down, I was hooked. I even found myself reading it at 3 AM in the morning when I couldn’t sleep. I would recommend you keep the lights on for some of these twisted stories though. Highly recommend from me. So it is a WIN/WIN you buy this book and you get 41 YES! 41! Short stories and donate to charity at the same time, what’s not to love? Another one of my best reads of 2016! Below are the authors who have participated in writing stories in this book and some will be familiar to you! A well deserved five stars from me. Enjoy, I loved it and devoured it.
THIS IS A MUST BUY AND MUST READ!
These amazing authors have combined some outstanding, spooky short stories for you all to enjoy. One not to be missed. As stated above all proceeds from this book will be going to two amazing charities and the authors have really worked hard on this one. I loved and enjoyed every single story in this book. Dark minds is perfect for all you short story fans and each story is very individual and different from all the others giving you a variety of haunting, spooky, horror and suspense filled hours/days ahead!
I couldn’t put it down, I was hooked. I even found myself reading it at 3 AM in the morning when I couldn’t sleep. I would recommend you keep the lights on for some of these twisted stories though. Highly recommend from me. So it is a WIN/WIN you buy this book and you get 41 YES! 41! Short stories and donate to charity at the same time, what’s not to love? Another one of my best reads of 2016! Below are the authors who have participated in writing stories in this book and some will be familiar to you! A well deserved five stars from me. Enjoy, I loved it and devoured it.
February 11, 2017
A book of short story's by some of the best authors about. All for charity as well.
Thrillers, freaky, weird and covering a range of excellent topics.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and can recommend it completely.
Thrillers, freaky, weird and covering a range of excellent topics.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and can recommend it completely.
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