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Do You Dare?
A compilation of 10 short stories from the twisted mind of James D Armstrong. Some familiar concepts as well as some new.
The Author - Have those he's mistreated in the past, with his writing come back to haunt him.
Mirror Mirror - Have you wondered if there's another dimension behind that mirror, just out of eyesight.
The Sandman - An old fairy-tale, or something much more horrific?
My Enemy - A woman scorned has nothing on a Witch scorned.
Changes - In death, life changes.
Dream Web - The line between dreams and reality not just blurred.
Mind Rider - Often wondered about the voice in your head, or voices?
Devil's Halo - A new world order.
The Last - The ancient world of Gargoyles under threat.
Town Spirit - Unusually fanatical town spirit. More to these towns folk than meets the eye.
The Author - Have those he's mistreated in the past, with his writing come back to haunt him.
Mirror Mirror - Have you wondered if there's another dimension behind that mirror, just out of eyesight.
The Sandman - An old fairy-tale, or something much more horrific?
My Enemy - A woman scorned has nothing on a Witch scorned.
Changes - In death, life changes.
Dream Web - The line between dreams and reality not just blurred.
Mind Rider - Often wondered about the voice in your head, or voices?
Devil's Halo - A new world order.
The Last - The ancient world of Gargoyles under threat.
Town Spirit - Unusually fanatical town spirit. More to these towns folk than meets the eye.
- GenresHorror
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2018
7 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 11, 2018
Do You Dare? By James D. Armstrong is a compilation of 10 scary short stories. I don't know if it is because I grew up enjoying my love of vampires, witches as well as the supernatural and paranormal, but I found these stories tame in the way of horror. The writing and the individual plot lines are well written and I like the fact that the stories were not long winded.
The Author: Andrew is an author who is hunted down by the characters he created. He has to stay one step ahead of them or they were going to be his destruction. A little predictable in the beginning but you don't know what to expect near the end.
Mirror Mirror: David disappears into an alternative world behind the mirror and what awaits him, you'll never guess. There's little surprise in the story but if you put yourself in the character's shoes, no one would want to experience what he suffered.
The Sandman: The author takes a childhood story and turns it into one of darkness. Sarah is haunted by the sandman who took her sister. Sarah has to be strong in order for her to survive and save her family. I like the way he put this one together and sometimes the most helpful character is not who you would expect.
My Enemy: Chis is cheating on his wife with someone he didn't expect would destroy his life. This story was not what I expected but the turns and twists will keep you reading to the end.
Changes: Gabriel encounters a vampire that changes his life forever. With typical vampire stories, you would expect any encounter with them would affect your life, but the author shows you a different way of looking at things.
Dream Web: Anna gets into an accident and transcends into a series of dreams but she can't tell the dreams from reality. When a dream is so intense you can't tell the difference, that's where the scariness comes in. The story seemed a bit disjointed but it comes back together in the end.
Mind Riders: Robert is telling his side of the story in the first person. It was as if the character was trying to give his readers some advice of how we live in a world full of mysteries and we must be aware of the darkness that lurks around us. This story was interesting because we never truly know what we are capable of until something pushes us to do unspeakable things.
Devil's Halo: Having a baby during a storm seems brutal but Adrian, believed to be a devil's spawn, is more of a nightmare. I like the title of this story and it fits with the plot. It starts off a little confusing but it takes an interesting turn once the character meets up with James.
The Last: Jarrod is a gargoyle hunter who not only meets his match but finds an unexpected ally. One of my favourite stories as it shows the eventuality of two people from different worlds trying to understand each other.
Town Spirit: Dale finds out he was adopted in a most unconventional way and goes to seek answers of his birth parents and his past. His adventure takes him down a road he wished he never pursued. I didn't think Dale was a very strong main character but the plot was strong and it came together to be very enjoyable in the end.
The cover of the book is scary and disturbing but I did not find the stories to be “spine chillin”. They definitely support the paranormal and supernatural theme and was enjoyable to read. I love reading them and wouldn't have wanted to miss getting the opportunity to spend my time delving into the mind of the author.
The Author: Andrew is an author who is hunted down by the characters he created. He has to stay one step ahead of them or they were going to be his destruction. A little predictable in the beginning but you don't know what to expect near the end.
Mirror Mirror: David disappears into an alternative world behind the mirror and what awaits him, you'll never guess. There's little surprise in the story but if you put yourself in the character's shoes, no one would want to experience what he suffered.
The Sandman: The author takes a childhood story and turns it into one of darkness. Sarah is haunted by the sandman who took her sister. Sarah has to be strong in order for her to survive and save her family. I like the way he put this one together and sometimes the most helpful character is not who you would expect.
My Enemy: Chis is cheating on his wife with someone he didn't expect would destroy his life. This story was not what I expected but the turns and twists will keep you reading to the end.
Changes: Gabriel encounters a vampire that changes his life forever. With typical vampire stories, you would expect any encounter with them would affect your life, but the author shows you a different way of looking at things.
Dream Web: Anna gets into an accident and transcends into a series of dreams but she can't tell the dreams from reality. When a dream is so intense you can't tell the difference, that's where the scariness comes in. The story seemed a bit disjointed but it comes back together in the end.
Mind Riders: Robert is telling his side of the story in the first person. It was as if the character was trying to give his readers some advice of how we live in a world full of mysteries and we must be aware of the darkness that lurks around us. This story was interesting because we never truly know what we are capable of until something pushes us to do unspeakable things.
Devil's Halo: Having a baby during a storm seems brutal but Adrian, believed to be a devil's spawn, is more of a nightmare. I like the title of this story and it fits with the plot. It starts off a little confusing but it takes an interesting turn once the character meets up with James.
The Last: Jarrod is a gargoyle hunter who not only meets his match but finds an unexpected ally. One of my favourite stories as it shows the eventuality of two people from different worlds trying to understand each other.
Town Spirit: Dale finds out he was adopted in a most unconventional way and goes to seek answers of his birth parents and his past. His adventure takes him down a road he wished he never pursued. I didn't think Dale was a very strong main character but the plot was strong and it came together to be very enjoyable in the end.
The cover of the book is scary and disturbing but I did not find the stories to be “spine chillin”. They definitely support the paranormal and supernatural theme and was enjoyable to read. I love reading them and wouldn't have wanted to miss getting the opportunity to spend my time delving into the mind of the author.
October 4, 2022
A compilation of short paranormal and supernatural stories.
The Author — 4/5★
This story is about Andrew, an author that finds himself face to face with his characters. And they don't have good intentions with him.
Mirror Mirror — 3/5★
This story is about David, who finds himself stuck in a mirror world that's almost exactly the same as his own.
The Sandman — 5/5★
This story is about Sarah, who's still dreaming about her baby sister that got taken by the Sandman but now she fears that he's after her son instead.
My Enemy — 3/5★
This story is about Chris who has been cheating on his wife with a younger woman.
Changes — 4/5★
This story is about Gabriel who finds himself to be newly turned into a vampire.
Dream Web — 4/5★
This story is about Anna, who can't tell her dreams from reality anymore.
Mind Riders — 4/5★
This story is about Robert who lately has been talking to himself a lot. Until he realizes the voice inside his head is someone else altogether.
Devil's Halo — 4/5★
This story is about Adrian, a half demon who needs to decide which side he'll be on.
The Last — 3/5★
This story is about Jarrod, who started hunting gargoyles after they murdered his entire family and friends.
Town Spirit: 3/5★
This story is about Dale, who finds out he got saved from being sacrificed as a baby and decides to figure out where exactly he's come from.
The Author — 4/5★
This story is about Andrew, an author that finds himself face to face with his characters. And they don't have good intentions with him.
Mirror Mirror — 3/5★
This story is about David, who finds himself stuck in a mirror world that's almost exactly the same as his own.
The Sandman — 5/5★
This story is about Sarah, who's still dreaming about her baby sister that got taken by the Sandman but now she fears that he's after her son instead.
My Enemy — 3/5★
This story is about Chris who has been cheating on his wife with a younger woman.
Changes — 4/5★
This story is about Gabriel who finds himself to be newly turned into a vampire.
Dream Web — 4/5★
This story is about Anna, who can't tell her dreams from reality anymore.
Mind Riders — 4/5★
This story is about Robert who lately has been talking to himself a lot. Until he realizes the voice inside his head is someone else altogether.
Devil's Halo — 4/5★
This story is about Adrian, a half demon who needs to decide which side he'll be on.
The Last — 3/5★
This story is about Jarrod, who started hunting gargoyles after they murdered his entire family and friends.
Town Spirit: 3/5★
This story is about Dale, who finds out he got saved from being sacrificed as a baby and decides to figure out where exactly he's come from.
September 7, 2022
I enjoy short story volumes because they always seem an easy read, if I'm in the mood for something lighter than a novel. With short stories, you get a mixed bag, a variation of characters and storylines.
All of the short stories in this volume were well-written, and they all surprised, intrigued or unsettled me in a different way, which is what I hope for when I read volumes like this one. All of these stories seemed to be about ordinary people who ended up in bizarre and unfortunate situations.
As each story is different, it's difficult to choose one that stands out as a favourite, but this is definitely the sort of book that would catch my attention if I were to see it in a bookshop. I often consider volumes of horror stories to read around Halloween, and this is probably the kind of thing that I would choose.
All of the short stories in this volume were well-written, and they all surprised, intrigued or unsettled me in a different way, which is what I hope for when I read volumes like this one. All of these stories seemed to be about ordinary people who ended up in bizarre and unfortunate situations.
As each story is different, it's difficult to choose one that stands out as a favourite, but this is definitely the sort of book that would catch my attention if I were to see it in a bookshop. I often consider volumes of horror stories to read around Halloween, and this is probably the kind of thing that I would choose.
November 18, 2018
I’m usually not a fan of these kind of books or stories but my teen is so I decided to give Mr Armstrong’s book a try. I am so glad I did! I expected typical horror with gore or nasty creatures but was pleasantly surprised with well thought out characters that you could tell the author put a lot of effort into. His stories were perfect in that they gave you the characters, plot, suspense, and thrills all in short tales. I honestly would have been fine reading full books about several of his characters. I think “Sandman” was my favorite for some reason. Something about it just really grabbed me and I would love to read a full length book on the backstory for it.
As I said, I didn’t hold much hope for this book because it’s not my usual genre and still isn’t but this collection of short stories is definitely one I will be keeping to read again when I’m in the mood for a nice bit of thrill and suspense.
As I said, I didn’t hold much hope for this book because it’s not my usual genre and still isn’t but this collection of short stories is definitely one I will be keeping to read again when I’m in the mood for a nice bit of thrill and suspense.
September 17, 2019
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I’m too old for this. Finishing Do You Dare left me nearly as exhausted as the protagonist of the last story in the collection, but the effect was cumulative. There are a total of 10 stories to savor here, crafted with atmosphere and only tasty accents of gore, flavored with perfect dashes of pure fear.
The first, “The Author” is something rare and wonderful in horror fiction. It’s different. An idea I hadn’t seen before in any book, short story or movie in the genre before. The story is, as you might expect, about an author, but that’s where the validity of your expectations ends. Armstrong keeps you on edge through the rest of the tale and, while I won’t spoil the fun by telling you the ending, I will say, you won’t expect it either.
In “Mirror, Mirror” poor David has an awful night, and just trying to get home from work is more dangerous than he’d ever imagined anything could be. This one, you might want to wait until daylight to read.
“The Sandman” deftly reminds the reader that oh, so many children’s nursery stories began in fear and horror, and some never venture too far from their gnarled, twisted roots.
“My Enemy” I’m not sure what to say about this one without giving anything away, but if you thought Alex, the bunny-boiling nutcase from “Fatal Attraction” was a woman to avoid, well, she’s Mother Goose compared to Michelle.
“Changes” made me so very happy! A good, scary vampire story, but focused on the actual conversion process, with a few details not seen before. No sparkly nonsense either, I must add, and it offers a deliciously twisted ending.
“Dream Web” Another brand new idea, rendered in scary, disorienting form. Again, it’s difficult to find much to say that won’t spoil the story, other than it is less terrifying than thought-provoking and disconcerting.
“Mind Rider,” like a Law and Order episode pulls its inspiration from the real horrors of the daily news then adds a very different spin. Are mass shootings caused by drugs, or video games, or something else completely different?
“Devil’s Halo” is, I really think, my favorite of the collection. The ancient and on-going battle between good and evil, beaten into a hackneyed cliché by decades of use in horror fiction, is given a new, fresh perspective here. My one and only complaint is that I wished for a slightly different ending. The ending it has hasn’t bad, just mildly unsatisfying. Still, the rest of the tale is well worth the time.
“The Last” I don’t know about you, but I savor a story that has some ambiguity about who to root for. Is the hero really the hero, or is the villain more heroic at heart? No matter what you decide, it’s a good adventure that knows how to use suspense.
“Town Spirit” A brilliant finale to the collection. A little Rog Serling, a lot Wes Craven, and just a spot of Nicholas Roeg. We all know that story about that creepy little town that nobody can get away from, but give it a 90 degree twist and make it a tiny Australian outback town where nobody leaves OR arrives. The actual narrative is, once again, different from any variation I’ve seen before, and the last two pages will leave you breathless.
James Armstrong gets a full five stars for this effort. He creates believable, relatable characters that actually hurt, get hungry, get tired, not leaping up like a movie hero after a major beating. They have failings large and small. With a couple of exceptions, you root for them and want them to “win,” or at least come out alive. Sometimes, they do.
I’m too old for this. Finishing Do You Dare left me nearly as exhausted as the protagonist of the last story in the collection, but the effect was cumulative. There are a total of 10 stories to savor here, crafted with atmosphere and only tasty accents of gore, flavored with perfect dashes of pure fear.
The first, “The Author” is something rare and wonderful in horror fiction. It’s different. An idea I hadn’t seen before in any book, short story or movie in the genre before. The story is, as you might expect, about an author, but that’s where the validity of your expectations ends. Armstrong keeps you on edge through the rest of the tale and, while I won’t spoil the fun by telling you the ending, I will say, you won’t expect it either.
In “Mirror, Mirror” poor David has an awful night, and just trying to get home from work is more dangerous than he’d ever imagined anything could be. This one, you might want to wait until daylight to read.
“The Sandman” deftly reminds the reader that oh, so many children’s nursery stories began in fear and horror, and some never venture too far from their gnarled, twisted roots.
“My Enemy” I’m not sure what to say about this one without giving anything away, but if you thought Alex, the bunny-boiling nutcase from “Fatal Attraction” was a woman to avoid, well, she’s Mother Goose compared to Michelle.
“Changes” made me so very happy! A good, scary vampire story, but focused on the actual conversion process, with a few details not seen before. No sparkly nonsense either, I must add, and it offers a deliciously twisted ending.
“Dream Web” Another brand new idea, rendered in scary, disorienting form. Again, it’s difficult to find much to say that won’t spoil the story, other than it is less terrifying than thought-provoking and disconcerting.
“Mind Rider,” like a Law and Order episode pulls its inspiration from the real horrors of the daily news then adds a very different spin. Are mass shootings caused by drugs, or video games, or something else completely different?
“Devil’s Halo” is, I really think, my favorite of the collection. The ancient and on-going battle between good and evil, beaten into a hackneyed cliché by decades of use in horror fiction, is given a new, fresh perspective here. My one and only complaint is that I wished for a slightly different ending. The ending it has hasn’t bad, just mildly unsatisfying. Still, the rest of the tale is well worth the time.
“The Last” I don’t know about you, but I savor a story that has some ambiguity about who to root for. Is the hero really the hero, or is the villain more heroic at heart? No matter what you decide, it’s a good adventure that knows how to use suspense.
“Town Spirit” A brilliant finale to the collection. A little Rog Serling, a lot Wes Craven, and just a spot of Nicholas Roeg. We all know that story about that creepy little town that nobody can get away from, but give it a 90 degree twist and make it a tiny Australian outback town where nobody leaves OR arrives. The actual narrative is, once again, different from any variation I’ve seen before, and the last two pages will leave you breathless.
James Armstrong gets a full five stars for this effort. He creates believable, relatable characters that actually hurt, get hungry, get tired, not leaping up like a movie hero after a major beating. They have failings large and small. With a couple of exceptions, you root for them and want them to “win,” or at least come out alive. Sometimes, they do.
September 16, 2022
A Collection of horror stories the has a taste of darkness, suspense, and humor. Although some tales are known like "The Sandman" and "Mirror Mirror" but the author added an angle made it unique.
The author chose different horror and creature for each story, and the way each story developed were very well thought of, and kept me wondering about its ending.
I found the first one titled "The Author" very remarkable, as I continue reading next chapters, I was imaging all those characters coming for The Author for the horrors they are seeing.
"The Sandman", a Story about Sarah who kept seeing the same dream over and over to find at the end that her dreams was caused by an evil entity that wants to take her child, the ending was very overwhelming
"Dream web" was sad how Anna lost in a never ending dream, living over and over the night of a terrifying accident.
"Town Spirit" the last in the collection and I was on the edge of my seat wondering how it will ends it was the most thrilling in my opinion.
Thanks to the Author and good luck on your other projects.
The author chose different horror and creature for each story, and the way each story developed were very well thought of, and kept me wondering about its ending.
I found the first one titled "The Author" very remarkable, as I continue reading next chapters, I was imaging all those characters coming for The Author for the horrors they are seeing.
"The Sandman", a Story about Sarah who kept seeing the same dream over and over to find at the end that her dreams was caused by an evil entity that wants to take her child, the ending was very overwhelming
"Dream web" was sad how Anna lost in a never ending dream, living over and over the night of a terrifying accident.
"Town Spirit" the last in the collection and I was on the edge of my seat wondering how it will ends it was the most thrilling in my opinion.
Thanks to the Author and good luck on your other projects.
July 12, 2018
I've heard the term 'spine-chilling' before but never experienced said feeling until I read JD Armstrong's book Do You Dare? Armstrong's ten eerie tales include stories of otherworldly beasts both corporeal and in one's own mind, fictional characters come to life and a deadly extramarital affair with a witch. Armstrong writes as though he is there with his characters; this makes the reader feel sympathetic for their plights and wondering what they would do if they were in the same horrible situation. My favorite story is Mirror Mirror, where an evil entity uses mirror to pull a man into a terrifying mirage of his own life. Another is The Last in which a man comes face to face with a gargoyle: one he plans to destroy but, as he quickly discovers, it isn't going to go down without a fight. Now the question is: Do you dare to read this book alone in the dark?
October 3, 2022
Do you Dare is a collection of 10 short horror stories by James D Armstrong. So just to be clear with the exception of vampire stories horror is not my favourite genre. However, I found these really enjoyable/petrifying!
Each deals with a different horror some familiar such as vampires and body snatchers to some not so traditional (I don't want to give too much away). Some of the stories remind me of Goosebumps but very much for Adults. Some are fantastical others are really dark! Some left me unable to sleep others were just good twists on old tales.
Town Spirit & The last were my two favourites for very different reasons. The last felt almost like a folkstory with a few twists, where as The Last I was desperate to know what happened next, what was going on in this town.
Each deals with a different horror some familiar such as vampires and body snatchers to some not so traditional (I don't want to give too much away). Some of the stories remind me of Goosebumps but very much for Adults. Some are fantastical others are really dark! Some left me unable to sleep others were just good twists on old tales.
Town Spirit & The last were my two favourites for very different reasons. The last felt almost like a folkstory with a few twists, where as The Last I was desperate to know what happened next, what was going on in this town.
September 16, 2022
Do You Dare by J D Armstrong is an exciting and enjoyable read. I cannot say that the stories were very much full of horror but they have the thrill. All the stories are supernatural and the author has done a commendable job. It is one of those books which can be read within a fortnight. Perfect for a beginner of horror books. My favorite is The Sandman which has magic and emotions so beautifully woven in words.
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to @Booktasters for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to @Booktasters for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
September 11, 2022
Not always a fan of short stories. I find often it’ll take a bit to get into a story and then by the time it’s starting to get interesting it’s over. Most of the stories in this book were good. Some were very strange. Hard to give a rating where the stories vary so much but I did enjoy reading this book. Each story was unique and held a different world.
November 14, 2018
Yes, I dared to read "Do You Dare?", a collection of ten short horror stories By James D Armstrong. A short and scary read, in its pages we find wolfish monsters coming straight out of nightmares, killed-off characters that persistently haunt an author, a newly transformed and extremely thirsty vampire, gigantic and fierce gargoyles and many more. At times, the sinister forces might invade a victim's mind causing him/her to do their bidding. Often the protagonist is stuck in a series of recurring nightmares with no way to wake up. In other cases, they would rather sleep than face the grisly occurrences.
Even with ten consecutive stories of the same genre, there was no sense of repetition. Instead, the author very skillfully instills a distinct flavor in each one. I would like sharing two points about the book that struck me as marvelous.
Foremost, the author shows the psychology of both the victim and the monsters elaborately. Not many horror stories grant the readers a peek at the workings of a monster’s mind. Here you get a glimpse of their perspectives that at times compel you to sympathize with them.
Furthermore, the author makes many areas of the book distinctly gray. The difference between the good and the evil are not always so clear. Even without taking the supernatural into consideration, evil lurks within all of us. That devilishness becomes evident in the author’s characterization of his protagonists. On the other hand, some good may stay hidden within an apparently malevolent being. This point is specifically highlighted in the story Devil’s Halo, my personal favorite in the book.
All things considered, reading "Do You Dare?" has been an absolutely thrilling experience. The smooth pace and the suspense kept me going until I made it to the end of the book. I will recommend it to anyone who would like a touch of a scare in their otherwise mundane life.
Even with ten consecutive stories of the same genre, there was no sense of repetition. Instead, the author very skillfully instills a distinct flavor in each one. I would like sharing two points about the book that struck me as marvelous.
Foremost, the author shows the psychology of both the victim and the monsters elaborately. Not many horror stories grant the readers a peek at the workings of a monster’s mind. Here you get a glimpse of their perspectives that at times compel you to sympathize with them.
Furthermore, the author makes many areas of the book distinctly gray. The difference between the good and the evil are not always so clear. Even without taking the supernatural into consideration, evil lurks within all of us. That devilishness becomes evident in the author’s characterization of his protagonists. On the other hand, some good may stay hidden within an apparently malevolent being. This point is specifically highlighted in the story Devil’s Halo, my personal favorite in the book.
All things considered, reading "Do You Dare?" has been an absolutely thrilling experience. The smooth pace and the suspense kept me going until I made it to the end of the book. I will recommend it to anyone who would like a touch of a scare in their otherwise mundane life.
December 13, 2018
I enjoyed this collection of stories about monsters and other mysterious creatures with bad intent. I am a hardcore fan of horror so the book really appealed to me. The stories are easy reading and may also appeal to young adults with the same interest. An anthology like this could spark their interest in reading and keep it going.
James excels at descriptive details of time and place. The Devil's Halo was a favorite, but all of the stories showed a great sense of imagination, especially as the creatures themselves were concerned. My one critique is that the appearances of the monsters or dark characters felt somewhat abrupt. They explained their own back stories to the protagonists, and I can see that it's for the sake of brevity. I think James could take any one of those stories and develop it into a full-length novel that would allow the creatures' origins to become part of the unfolding story. In sum though, very pleasant reading.
James excels at descriptive details of time and place. The Devil's Halo was a favorite, but all of the stories showed a great sense of imagination, especially as the creatures themselves were concerned. My one critique is that the appearances of the monsters or dark characters felt somewhat abrupt. They explained their own back stories to the protagonists, and I can see that it's for the sake of brevity. I think James could take any one of those stories and develop it into a full-length novel that would allow the creatures' origins to become part of the unfolding story. In sum though, very pleasant reading.
October 14, 2018
The stories are very nice, well constructed plots, nice depictions of horror themes. I enjoyed the stories but well I wasn’t much scared by them. The element of horror is potent though. And I pointed some grammatical errors too especially in the first story. However one thing none of these stories are for faint hearts and none except the last story have happy endings. But they are nice. My personal favorite is The Last, because I liked the ending and that is a story that has potential to have a sequel.
Overall 4 out of 5
Thanks to the author J D Armstrong and Booktatsers for providing me with digital copy of this book to read and review.
Overall 4 out of 5
Thanks to the author J D Armstrong and Booktatsers for providing me with digital copy of this book to read and review.
November 5, 2018
Every story in this collection was creepy and entertaining. Anyone who likes to read horror should enjoy these stories. My favorite was Dream Web because I really felt I was experiencing everything the character in that story felt. I hope to read more from James Armstrong in the future.
Thanks to the author and booktasters for providing a free digital copy.
Thanks to the author and booktasters for providing a free digital copy.
March 26, 2019
Strange and Twisted: A Do You Dare? Review
Horror is not necessarily my forte, but I have to say that Do You Dare? by James D. Armstrong is one compilation of horror stories that you do not want to miss. The book is a collection of ten short stories. Each story is satisfying, and there is a ton of variety. I guarantee that you will find something you like here.
The stories ranged from scary to creepy to a bit head-trippy in some cases. Each one was well-crafted and beautifully written. I had to take a break after reading each story because there was a lot to ponder. In “Mind Reader,” what happens when you can hear voices that aren’t yours? In “Dream Webb,” what happens if your dreams are within a dream within a dream—and so on. I loved each one because I never knew what to expect going into each story. Armstrong’s stories are not only in-depth but are long in breadth.
My favorites were “Author” and “Sandman” for a few different reasons. I related a lot to “Author” because not only am I a writer, but I suffer from mental illness. I connected to the main character quite a bit. “Sandman” is very different, and I will have to say that it scared the hell out of me as a mother. It takes the fairy-tale of the Sandman and makes it to a gut-wrenching tale that will creep you out right up until the end.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with some serious scares, I would highly recommend Do You Dare? Armstrong has a solid collection of stories that will have any horror lover in heaven—or should I say hell?
Horror is not necessarily my forte, but I have to say that Do You Dare? by James D. Armstrong is one compilation of horror stories that you do not want to miss. The book is a collection of ten short stories. Each story is satisfying, and there is a ton of variety. I guarantee that you will find something you like here.
The stories ranged from scary to creepy to a bit head-trippy in some cases. Each one was well-crafted and beautifully written. I had to take a break after reading each story because there was a lot to ponder. In “Mind Reader,” what happens when you can hear voices that aren’t yours? In “Dream Webb,” what happens if your dreams are within a dream within a dream—and so on. I loved each one because I never knew what to expect going into each story. Armstrong’s stories are not only in-depth but are long in breadth.
My favorites were “Author” and “Sandman” for a few different reasons. I related a lot to “Author” because not only am I a writer, but I suffer from mental illness. I connected to the main character quite a bit. “Sandman” is very different, and I will have to say that it scared the hell out of me as a mother. It takes the fairy-tale of the Sandman and makes it to a gut-wrenching tale that will creep you out right up until the end.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with some serious scares, I would highly recommend Do You Dare? Armstrong has a solid collection of stories that will have any horror lover in heaven—or should I say hell?
September 4, 2022
I've never personally met a writer of horror stories, but they must be fascinating people. I mean, what kind of person would imagine that characters in stories might seek revenge against that author for the way in which he wrote about them? Who thinks like that? I suspect that we have all imagined being followed, but who goes on to describe exactly the beast which is doing the following and tells what the beast's goal is? Do You Dare?, by James Armstrong, contains 10 such imaginative, slightly off kilter stories, many of which are remarkable for the degree of imagination which was required in creating them. Here's a brief summary of the others:
- The Sandman, which famously brings about sleep, is actually after the souls of sleepers
-A man cheating on his wife meets the worst type of fatal attraction, a witch
-Gabriel finds out that he has enjoyed the evening so much because he has been turned into a vampire
-Anna can't tell dreams from reality and accidentally has severe problems
-Jalen, a man from several hundred years ago, can take over peoples' thoughts
-The devil has hired a representative
-Jarrod spends his life actively hunting gargoyles
-The town of Ravensthorpe has a unique method of population control
I confess, I preferred the more original stories, the ones that did not include vampires, or gargoyles, or witches, but, as I mentioned, all demonstrate imagination. If you like horror stories, you will certainly appreciate these.
- The Sandman, which famously brings about sleep, is actually after the souls of sleepers
-A man cheating on his wife meets the worst type of fatal attraction, a witch
-Gabriel finds out that he has enjoyed the evening so much because he has been turned into a vampire
-Anna can't tell dreams from reality and accidentally has severe problems
-Jalen, a man from several hundred years ago, can take over peoples' thoughts
-The devil has hired a representative
-Jarrod spends his life actively hunting gargoyles
-The town of Ravensthorpe has a unique method of population control
I confess, I preferred the more original stories, the ones that did not include vampires, or gargoyles, or witches, but, as I mentioned, all demonstrate imagination. If you like horror stories, you will certainly appreciate these.
August 5, 2025
The short stories were a fun light read, a little spooky but nothing too scary at the surface level, most of the stories are not the type that makes your body hair stand or tingle the back of your neck save for a few of them.
What I really like about these short stories are the concepts they introduce, the mirror world or the mind raiders or the characters from a book coming to life, or my personal favorite, Dream Web.
Its the type of horror story that you need to think about it for it to be scary. There’s a monster in the mirror? Sure scary, but give it some thought and wandering and it will cross your mind each time you look into a mirror.
What if you never really woke up? And you’re still dreaming? How can you know if you’re not? Or if you actually are dreaming?
All these ideas are really fascinating and I wish to see them further explored with more details and deeper characters.
Overall a really fun short read that will give you something to think and be scared about
What I really like about these short stories are the concepts they introduce, the mirror world or the mind raiders or the characters from a book coming to life, or my personal favorite, Dream Web.
Its the type of horror story that you need to think about it for it to be scary. There’s a monster in the mirror? Sure scary, but give it some thought and wandering and it will cross your mind each time you look into a mirror.
What if you never really woke up? And you’re still dreaming? How can you know if you’re not? Or if you actually are dreaming?
All these ideas are really fascinating and I wish to see them further explored with more details and deeper characters.
Overall a really fun short read that will give you something to think and be scared about
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2022
As a lover of horror and ghost stories whose taste in this genre was shaped and heavily influenced by what are considered its classics, I always hesitate before picking a book written, well, by a contemporary of mine. “Do You Dare” took me by surprise and I am happy I chose to read it. The ten-story collection is a classic-horror-charm meets modern-life-woes. I enjoyed the pace of the stories, the twists and turns, and the writing style. To me, the stories are not merely your regular horror stories. Instead, I read them as a symbol of what our 21st century life is like, expressed in a more articulate, literary manner. As my city experienced several episodes of power outage, reading the “Do You Dare” stories made for a perfect companion of battery-fed mock candlelight. I definitely recommend horror genre lovers to read this book.
January 17, 2023
It is a spooky scary book with ten short stories that will keep you on edge, be sure you don't bite your nails while reading the book.
Each story has an uncommon beginning and so many twists that the end is unpredictable. I liked the characterization of Dream Web story, which makes you wonder about the difference between the real and virtual world. The author has taken readers to different dimensions and meta-verse through his writing.
A thorough creepy book in the horror genre that will make you think before you turn your head on a silent street. So if you are a spooky book lover, this book can give you chills in December.
Each story has an uncommon beginning and so many twists that the end is unpredictable. I liked the characterization of Dream Web story, which makes you wonder about the difference between the real and virtual world. The author has taken readers to different dimensions and meta-verse through his writing.
A thorough creepy book in the horror genre that will make you think before you turn your head on a silent street. So if you are a spooky book lover, this book can give you chills in December.
September 28, 2018
James D Armstrong stories keep you at the edge of your seat. I love the endings. The story I liked the most is "The Author." I guess I relate to the story, being a writer and all. It does make you think what would happen if your characters that died in the stories would do if they entered reality.
"The Last" story reminds of the saying, “Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster... for when you gaze long into the abyss. The abyss gazes also into you.” ― Friedrich W. Nietzsche
"The Last" story reminds of the saying, “Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster... for when you gaze long into the abyss. The abyss gazes also into you.” ― Friedrich W. Nietzsche
September 21, 2022
This was a really good book! I took out one star because of the second to last story. I don't like tales about angels and demons and suchlike lol but it's very well written. It's a horror anthology comprised of several different stories which were all pretty solid. It isn't easy to write small stories because of how much space there is to fit a whole plot and characters into but the author manages it pretty well. If you're a fan of horror and you'd like to read some great stories, this is the one. Would 100% recommend it.
September 30, 2022
I normally don't do these short stories. But this one sort of grabbed my attention on a list of books I could try and I'm glad I selected this one. It did take me a while as I've had a lot going on but I found it amusing and entertaining. Yet it was also gripping and kept me thru until the last page. Definitely worth the read!
October 4, 2022
I received this book for free by booktasters and I must answer at the question in the title with a:
"Yes, I dare!".
10 great short stories full of mysteries and horror, The Sandman my favourite, good to read at night, alone and even your own shadow will scare you...
"Yes, I dare!".
10 great short stories full of mysteries and horror, The Sandman my favourite, good to read at night, alone and even your own shadow will scare you...
October 19, 2022
I started reading the book hoping to get a thrill, I was not disappointed. The compilation of stories was exciting and scary at the same time. The story reminded me of Stephen King in his early days. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to get into horror.
October 6, 2022
I was up midnight reading this and regretted immediately.
What a terrific ride this is. The stories are scary.
Surely next time I couldn't see a mirror when I am alone.
Horror ,horror!
What a terrific ride this is. The stories are scary.
Surely next time I couldn't see a mirror when I am alone.
Horror ,horror!
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October 14, 2022James d Armstrong
These are the type of stories I enjoy! It was like a different play for me; it kept me on my feet, and I got very excited about the great effort the author was mixing up.
These are the type of stories I enjoy! It was like a different play for me; it kept me on my feet, and I got very excited about the great effort the author was mixing up.
October 9, 2022
10 scary stories, mind bending & twisted while you are aware and awake, it’s not a dream. You’d think you’re careful - well think again you’d be haunted still. These stories tend to stay in the mind like it’s been part of my life especially Mirror Mirror really got me. I’ve seen plenty horror movies, but still the authors imagination in this book is so new and so unexpected. It’s a different perspective on horror. Thank you so much for this book. I enjoyed each story.
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