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The 13 #2
The 13: Tales of Macabre
Can you survive all 12?
Killer watermelons, murderous jewelry boxes, centenarian sea whisperers, creatures of myth/legend, and more...
This supernatural story collection will make you reconsider everything you thought you knew. At night you'll hover under your covers while looking over your shoulder in the day.
Down, down in the depths they fell; bodies in the dark of a liquid hell.
Can you survive all 12?
Killer watermelons, murderous jewelry boxes, centenarian sea whisperers, creatures of myth/legend, and more...
This supernatural story collection will make you reconsider everything you thought you knew. At night you'll hover under your covers while looking over your shoulder in the day.
Down, down in the depths they fell; bodies in the dark of a liquid hell.
Can you survive all 12?
149 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2018
113 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Ayers
60 books294 followersA creative ninja with a dark mind and a quirky nature, Stephanie Ayers writes all the words and spins twisted tales filled with horror, fantasy, suspense, and anything in between. With a trunk full of tricks thanks to a checkered past, she haunts Irish castles and snowy mountaintops in her dreams while living the unicorn life in Ohio disguised as a human. When she isn’t listening to the voices in her head, she spends her days as a mom, Gigi, cat lover, and Netflix binger, while avoiding housework at all costs.
Her debut novella, Til Death Do Us Part, was published in 2013, and her work appears in several anthologies and collections. Along with many solo works, she currently has two serials to her name, the stand-alone horror volumes of The 13 series, and her epic 5 book fantasy series, Destiny Defined.
To find out more about Stephanie's daily living and all about her books and writing, subscribe to her newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/o6e0l9
Her favorite quote is: "The blank page is a canvas on which the writer paints a story."-Stephanie Ayers
Her debut novella, Til Death Do Us Part, was published in 2013, and her work appears in several anthologies and collections. Along with many solo works, she currently has two serials to her name, the stand-alone horror volumes of The 13 series, and her epic 5 book fantasy series, Destiny Defined.
To find out more about Stephanie's daily living and all about her books and writing, subscribe to her newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/o6e0l9
Her favorite quote is: "The blank page is a canvas on which the writer paints a story."-Stephanie Ayers
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 16, 2019
This book is the best macabre book I have ever read!! I so was not disappointed in this book. You have 13 spine tingling stories. Some was flash fiction at its best.
My spine tingled when I read the last story. Let me tell you, this made my fear of clowns even more so. I don't like clowns even more now.
This book is a great read and I highly recommend this book. It's a good book to read out loud around a campfire.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
My spine tingled when I read the last story. Let me tell you, this made my fear of clowns even more so. I don't like clowns even more now.
This book is a great read and I highly recommend this book. It's a good book to read out loud around a campfire.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
April 28, 2024
Vampires, a haunted music box, killer watermelons and more fill this book with darkness of all kinds. Each story was gripping, even the shorter ones. Ayers did a brilliant job with this collection. It’s well written and would be great for those that enjoy some creepy stories without tons of gore. My favorites were Frequent Flyer Livery Service and Send in the Clowns. I loved the setting in Frequent Flyer Livery Service. The story was great as is but a part of me wished it was longer. I wanted to get lost in the world of Count Marcel. Send in the Clowns was so surreal and a bit shocking. Everything in this story was so unexpected and I loved it.
January 13, 2019
Ayers has crafted a second collection of the quick and creepy. These stories are bloodier than the first collection, but just enough to make you squirm, not lose your lunch.
“I am amused that one such as yourself traveled this dark route.” (p14)
I enjoy how Ayers gives a little twist to typical legends like vampires or the neighborhood vacant house. Each story has a unique angle and a variety of characters. I liked the twist in The Skeptic – it held great suspense and really could have been longer to give this story its full due.
A Cry in the Night was such a unique, haunting concept. I could see this one being both eerie and poetic in film! As it stands, it feels like a riveting introduction to a bigger story. It would be intriguing to see it build into a scene with character interaction.
Beautiful imagery in Phoenix Rising and a comical Beetlejuice vibe to Off With His Head. I really liked the small- town legend aura of Matilda and Mary Jane.
And Send in the Clowns, with that creepy music box, and, c’mon… CLOWNS! I was almost afraid to turn to the next page as I never really knew what might happen next. It’s stuck with me and still giving me the heeby-jeebies!
“I am amused that one such as yourself traveled this dark route.” (p14)
I enjoy how Ayers gives a little twist to typical legends like vampires or the neighborhood vacant house. Each story has a unique angle and a variety of characters. I liked the twist in The Skeptic – it held great suspense and really could have been longer to give this story its full due.
A Cry in the Night was such a unique, haunting concept. I could see this one being both eerie and poetic in film! As it stands, it feels like a riveting introduction to a bigger story. It would be intriguing to see it build into a scene with character interaction.
Beautiful imagery in Phoenix Rising and a comical Beetlejuice vibe to Off With His Head. I really liked the small- town legend aura of Matilda and Mary Jane.
And Send in the Clowns, with that creepy music box, and, c’mon… CLOWNS! I was almost afraid to turn to the next page as I never really knew what might happen next. It’s stuck with me and still giving me the heeby-jeebies!
January 27, 2020
Horror Stories
I like Stehanies' style of writing, but only 2 of the stories in this book gave pause and left me with that hair raising feeling on my neck. It is hard to get a seasoned horror book lover such as myself to be scared. I've been into the horror books and film since the age of five.
I like Stehanies' style of writing, but only 2 of the stories in this book gave pause and left me with that hair raising feeling on my neck. It is hard to get a seasoned horror book lover such as myself to be scared. I've been into the horror books and film since the age of five.
October 27, 2025
Review for “The 13 Tales of Macabre” by Stephanie Ayers
It’s the second book from “The 13” series written by the bestseller author, Stephanie Ayers. It begins with a foreward written by speculative fiction author, JM Ames and it consists of a poem and twelve spooky stories that are a delight to horror fans and that teach us valuable lessons like always follow our instinct, never let ourselves be blinded by hate, things aren’t what they seem, appearances can be deceiving, listen to the other side of the story before judging him, be observant and do a detailed investigation before blaming others for the bad deed, curiosity kills the cat etc.
Mrs. Ayers attracts the readers with her simple writing style that can be easily digested. The world she created reminds us of twisted fairy tales and classic horror literature like Edgar Allan Poe’s, H. P. Lovecraft’s and Stephan King’s style for example.
Certain stories resemble: medieval and fairy tale style as seen in Stacy Overby’s poem “Introduction” (p. 5); Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”, the movie “Hotel Transylvania” with a twist and the animated movie “Batman and Mr. Freeze: Sub Zero” – “Frequent Flier Livery Service” (pp. 7 – 30); the twisted version of Disney’s “Lilo and Stitch” and “Moana” – “Matilda” (pp. 31 – 33); R. L. Stine’s „The Scarecrow Walks at Midnight” and the „Friday the 13” movie series – „The Forgetting” (pp. 34 – 37); the “Dark Deception” videogame, the twisted version of J. M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” book series and Dante’s “Inferno” – “Off to Never Neverland” (pp. 38 – 45); a twisted version of a Christmas tale – “A Bloody Good Meal” (pp. 50 – 52); the legend of Romulus and Remus and Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” – “A Cry in the Night” (pp. 53 – 54) and a psychological thriller – “Send In the Clowns” (pp. 75 – 98).
Love, ambition, a second chance, determination, innocence, salvation, sacrifice, redemption, decisions, self-discipline, willpower, curiosity, exploration and motherly instinct are some of the themes discussed throughout the stories.
The writer doesn’t shy away from serious issues like sorrows, grief, lust, hunger for power, greed, slyness, skepticism, mental illness, madness, guilt, remorse, dysfunctional family, narcissistic parents, misinterpretation, betrayal, death, suicide, massacre, irresponsibility, anger, hate, revenge, pinning the blame on someone else for our problems and misfortunes etc.
There are certain things with a symbolic meaning: the color grey – refined, dignified, elegant, authoritative, conservative, distant, disconnected, morally questionable matters; the number four – balance, stability, support, trusting our intuition, self-discipline, change, bad luck and death in Japanese folklore; the afternoon – time of decision and action, the optimal moment for rituals; the storm – turmoil, chaos, grief, rage, repression, adversity; the water – purity, fertility, cycle of birth, life and death, adaptability etc.
The Beast mentioned in “Off to Never Neverland” (pp. 38 – 45) can be interpreted as instinct, inner demon, past, the devil, a monster or the shadow in Carl Jung’s studies of the human soul. In “Phoenix Rising” (pp. 46 – 49), the way the victims catch fire out of thin air and turn into a phoenix can be a metaphor for spontaneous combustion.
Readers will be shocked by the plot twists; will receive a dose of fear and cry at certain scenes.
Along with J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, J. K. Rowling, Laura Știrbu, B. K. Boes, R. L. Stine, Neil Gaiman, Chris Riddell, Richard H. Stephens, K. M. Jenkins, Elena Kedros, Paula Harrison, Emily Martha Sorensen and many others, Stephanie Ayers revolutionized fantasy horror literature through her writing style and the world which she created out of pure imagination.
I recommend this book to readers 18+ because there are scenes that are too scary and that can’t be understood by younger readers.
Recenzie “Cele 13 Povești Macabre” de Stephanie Ayers
Este a doua carte din seria “Cele 13” scrisă de autoarea de bestseller, Stephanie Ayers. Aceasta începe cu o prefață scrisă de autorul de ficțiune speculativă JM Ames și cuprinde o poezie și douăsprezece povești de groază, care sunt un deliciu pentru fanii literaturii horror și care ne învață lecții importante cum ar fi să ne urmărm mereu instinctul, să nu ne lăsăm orbiți de ură, lucrurile nu sunt ceea ce par, aparențele înșală, să ascultăm și povestea celuilalt înainte să-l judecăm, să fim atenți la detalii și să efectuăm o investigație detaliată înainte să dăm vina pe alții pentru faptele rele, curiozitatea ne aduce probleme etc.
Doamna Ayers îi atrage pe cititori prin stilul simplu care poate să fie ușor de digerat. Lumea creată de ea ne amintește de basmele întunecate și de literatura de groază clasică (ex. Stilul lui Edgar Allan Poe, H. P. Lovecraft și a lui Stephan King).
Anumite povești se aseamănă cu: stilul medieval și al basmelor așa cum se poate observa în poezia „Introducere” (p. 5) de Stacy Overby; “Dracula” de Bram Stoker, o versiune macabră a filmului animat „Hotel Transilvania” și filmul animat „Batman and Mr. Freeze: SubZero” – “Frequent Flier Livery Service” (pp. 7 – 30); versiunea de groază a filmelor animate Disney „Lilo și Stitch” și “Vaiana” – „Matilda” (pp. 31 – 33); jocul video „Deziluzie Întunecată” (Dark Deception), versiunea horror a seriei “Peter Pan” de J. M. Barrie și „Infernul” lui Dante – “Plecat la Tărâmul de Nicăieri” (pp. 38 – 45); o poveste de Crăciun macabră – “A Bloody Good Meal” (pp. 50 – 52); legenda lui Romulus și Remus și „Cartea Junglei” de Rudyard Kipling – „Urletul Nopții” (pp. 53 – 54) și un thriller psihologic – “Trimite Clovnii!” (pp. 75 – 98).
Iubirea, ambiția, a doua șansă, hotărârea, inocența, mântuirea, izbăvirea, deciziile, auto-disciplina, voința, curiozitatea, explorarea și instinctul matern sunt câteva din temele discutate de-a lungul poveștilor.
Autoarea nu se teme să abordeze probleme serioase ca: mâhnirea, durerea, pofta trupească, setea de putere, lăcomia, viclenia, scepticismul, problemele mentale, nebunia, vinovăția, remușcările, familia disfuncțională, părinții narcisiști, interpretarea greșită a lucrurilor, trădarea, moartea, sinuciderea, masacrul, iresponsabilitatea, furia, ura, răzbunarea, învinuirea altui om pentru problemele și nenorocirile noastre etc.
Există lucruri cu o semnificație aparte: culoarea gri – rafinat, demn, elegant, autoritar, conservator, distant, detașat, situații și probleme dubioase din punct de vedere moral; cifra patru - echilibru, stabilitate, susținere, încredere și intuiție, autodisciplină, schimbare, ghinion și moarte în folclorul japonez; după-amiaza – vremea de a lua decizii și de a acționa, momentul oportun pentru ritualuri; furtuna – agitație, dezordine, haos, mâhnire, necaz, furie, refulare, represiune, dificultate, adversitate; apa – puritate, fertilitate, ciclul naștere, viață și moarte, flexibilitate etc.
Bestia menționată în “Plecat la Tărâmul de Nicăieri” (pp. 38 – 45) poate fi interepretată ca instinct, demonul interior, trecutul, diavolul, un monstru sau umbra din studiile lui Carl Jung despre sufletul uman. În “Phoenixul în Ascensiune” (pp. 46 – 49), felul în care victimele iau foc din senin și se transformă într-o pasăre phoenix poate să fie o metaforă pentru combustia spontană.
Cititorii vor fi șocați de răsturnările de situație, vor primi o doză de frică și vor plânge la anumite scene.
Alături de J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, J. K. Rowling și Laura Știrbu, B. K. Boes, R. L. Stine, Neil Gaiman, Chris Riddell, Richard H. Stephens, K. M. Jenkins, Elena Kedros, Paula Harrison, Emily Martha Sorensen și mulți alții, Stephanie Ayers a revoluționat literatura fantastică de groază prin stilul unic și lumea pe care a creat-o din imaginație pură.
Recomand această carte cititorilor 18+ pentru că există unele scene care cititorii mai mici nu le pot înțelege și sunt prea înfricoșătoare.
It’s the second book from “The 13” series written by the bestseller author, Stephanie Ayers. It begins with a foreward written by speculative fiction author, JM Ames and it consists of a poem and twelve spooky stories that are a delight to horror fans and that teach us valuable lessons like always follow our instinct, never let ourselves be blinded by hate, things aren’t what they seem, appearances can be deceiving, listen to the other side of the story before judging him, be observant and do a detailed investigation before blaming others for the bad deed, curiosity kills the cat etc.
Mrs. Ayers attracts the readers with her simple writing style that can be easily digested. The world she created reminds us of twisted fairy tales and classic horror literature like Edgar Allan Poe’s, H. P. Lovecraft’s and Stephan King’s style for example.
Certain stories resemble: medieval and fairy tale style as seen in Stacy Overby’s poem “Introduction” (p. 5); Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”, the movie “Hotel Transylvania” with a twist and the animated movie “Batman and Mr. Freeze: Sub Zero” – “Frequent Flier Livery Service” (pp. 7 – 30); the twisted version of Disney’s “Lilo and Stitch” and “Moana” – “Matilda” (pp. 31 – 33); R. L. Stine’s „The Scarecrow Walks at Midnight” and the „Friday the 13” movie series – „The Forgetting” (pp. 34 – 37); the “Dark Deception” videogame, the twisted version of J. M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” book series and Dante’s “Inferno” – “Off to Never Neverland” (pp. 38 – 45); a twisted version of a Christmas tale – “A Bloody Good Meal” (pp. 50 – 52); the legend of Romulus and Remus and Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” – “A Cry in the Night” (pp. 53 – 54) and a psychological thriller – “Send In the Clowns” (pp. 75 – 98).
Love, ambition, a second chance, determination, innocence, salvation, sacrifice, redemption, decisions, self-discipline, willpower, curiosity, exploration and motherly instinct are some of the themes discussed throughout the stories.
The writer doesn’t shy away from serious issues like sorrows, grief, lust, hunger for power, greed, slyness, skepticism, mental illness, madness, guilt, remorse, dysfunctional family, narcissistic parents, misinterpretation, betrayal, death, suicide, massacre, irresponsibility, anger, hate, revenge, pinning the blame on someone else for our problems and misfortunes etc.
There are certain things with a symbolic meaning: the color grey – refined, dignified, elegant, authoritative, conservative, distant, disconnected, morally questionable matters; the number four – balance, stability, support, trusting our intuition, self-discipline, change, bad luck and death in Japanese folklore; the afternoon – time of decision and action, the optimal moment for rituals; the storm – turmoil, chaos, grief, rage, repression, adversity; the water – purity, fertility, cycle of birth, life and death, adaptability etc.
The Beast mentioned in “Off to Never Neverland” (pp. 38 – 45) can be interpreted as instinct, inner demon, past, the devil, a monster or the shadow in Carl Jung’s studies of the human soul. In “Phoenix Rising” (pp. 46 – 49), the way the victims catch fire out of thin air and turn into a phoenix can be a metaphor for spontaneous combustion.
Readers will be shocked by the plot twists; will receive a dose of fear and cry at certain scenes.
Along with J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, J. K. Rowling, Laura Știrbu, B. K. Boes, R. L. Stine, Neil Gaiman, Chris Riddell, Richard H. Stephens, K. M. Jenkins, Elena Kedros, Paula Harrison, Emily Martha Sorensen and many others, Stephanie Ayers revolutionized fantasy horror literature through her writing style and the world which she created out of pure imagination.
I recommend this book to readers 18+ because there are scenes that are too scary and that can’t be understood by younger readers.
Recenzie “Cele 13 Povești Macabre” de Stephanie Ayers
Este a doua carte din seria “Cele 13” scrisă de autoarea de bestseller, Stephanie Ayers. Aceasta începe cu o prefață scrisă de autorul de ficțiune speculativă JM Ames și cuprinde o poezie și douăsprezece povești de groază, care sunt un deliciu pentru fanii literaturii horror și care ne învață lecții importante cum ar fi să ne urmărm mereu instinctul, să nu ne lăsăm orbiți de ură, lucrurile nu sunt ceea ce par, aparențele înșală, să ascultăm și povestea celuilalt înainte să-l judecăm, să fim atenți la detalii și să efectuăm o investigație detaliată înainte să dăm vina pe alții pentru faptele rele, curiozitatea ne aduce probleme etc.
Doamna Ayers îi atrage pe cititori prin stilul simplu care poate să fie ușor de digerat. Lumea creată de ea ne amintește de basmele întunecate și de literatura de groază clasică (ex. Stilul lui Edgar Allan Poe, H. P. Lovecraft și a lui Stephan King).
Anumite povești se aseamănă cu: stilul medieval și al basmelor așa cum se poate observa în poezia „Introducere” (p. 5) de Stacy Overby; “Dracula” de Bram Stoker, o versiune macabră a filmului animat „Hotel Transilvania” și filmul animat „Batman and Mr. Freeze: SubZero” – “Frequent Flier Livery Service” (pp. 7 – 30); versiunea de groază a filmelor animate Disney „Lilo și Stitch” și “Vaiana” – „Matilda” (pp. 31 – 33); jocul video „Deziluzie Întunecată” (Dark Deception), versiunea horror a seriei “Peter Pan” de J. M. Barrie și „Infernul” lui Dante – “Plecat la Tărâmul de Nicăieri” (pp. 38 – 45); o poveste de Crăciun macabră – “A Bloody Good Meal” (pp. 50 – 52); legenda lui Romulus și Remus și „Cartea Junglei” de Rudyard Kipling – „Urletul Nopții” (pp. 53 – 54) și un thriller psihologic – “Trimite Clovnii!” (pp. 75 – 98).
Iubirea, ambiția, a doua șansă, hotărârea, inocența, mântuirea, izbăvirea, deciziile, auto-disciplina, voința, curiozitatea, explorarea și instinctul matern sunt câteva din temele discutate de-a lungul poveștilor.
Autoarea nu se teme să abordeze probleme serioase ca: mâhnirea, durerea, pofta trupească, setea de putere, lăcomia, viclenia, scepticismul, problemele mentale, nebunia, vinovăția, remușcările, familia disfuncțională, părinții narcisiști, interpretarea greșită a lucrurilor, trădarea, moartea, sinuciderea, masacrul, iresponsabilitatea, furia, ura, răzbunarea, învinuirea altui om pentru problemele și nenorocirile noastre etc.
Există lucruri cu o semnificație aparte: culoarea gri – rafinat, demn, elegant, autoritar, conservator, distant, detașat, situații și probleme dubioase din punct de vedere moral; cifra patru - echilibru, stabilitate, susținere, încredere și intuiție, autodisciplină, schimbare, ghinion și moarte în folclorul japonez; după-amiaza – vremea de a lua decizii și de a acționa, momentul oportun pentru ritualuri; furtuna – agitație, dezordine, haos, mâhnire, necaz, furie, refulare, represiune, dificultate, adversitate; apa – puritate, fertilitate, ciclul naștere, viață și moarte, flexibilitate etc.
Bestia menționată în “Plecat la Tărâmul de Nicăieri” (pp. 38 – 45) poate fi interepretată ca instinct, demonul interior, trecutul, diavolul, un monstru sau umbra din studiile lui Carl Jung despre sufletul uman. În “Phoenixul în Ascensiune” (pp. 46 – 49), felul în care victimele iau foc din senin și se transformă într-o pasăre phoenix poate să fie o metaforă pentru combustia spontană.
Cititorii vor fi șocați de răsturnările de situație, vor primi o doză de frică și vor plânge la anumite scene.
Alături de J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Sophie Audouin-Mamikonian, J. K. Rowling și Laura Știrbu, B. K. Boes, R. L. Stine, Neil Gaiman, Chris Riddell, Richard H. Stephens, K. M. Jenkins, Elena Kedros, Paula Harrison, Emily Martha Sorensen și mulți alții, Stephanie Ayers a revoluționat literatura fantastică de groază prin stilul unic și lumea pe care a creat-o din imaginație pură.
Recomand această carte cititorilor 18+ pentru că există unele scene care cititorii mai mici nu le pot înțelege și sunt prea înfricoșătoare.
November 14, 2018
This is my review of The 13: Tales of Macabre the second book in the 13 series by Stephanie Ayers. This book was published by Ayers Creative Concepts in October of 2018. This book is considered to be horror, fiction, and short stories. In this book, you will find a forward page by JM Ames and an Introduction page by Stacey Overby.
In Frequent Flyer Livery Service, you will find a lovestruck vampire who kills people so he can bring his love back to life. The ending was not what I expected. I enjoyed this book. In Matilda, you will read about a girl who was floating in the ocean. This short story is about a girl named Matilda who was found dead in the ocean who shouldn't have been there. You will find out what happens because of this poor dead girl and the consequences. You will find Cooper, (who has been bullied by other children growing up) who grows watermelons in The Forgetting. People from miles away come just for his watermelons. Things happen when they are given a watermelon. After a person is given a watermelon, he or she dies within a week after. Off to Never Neverland is about a soul in limbo, innocence, and death. It's not really creepy but it is still interesting to read. Phoenix Rising is about the rebirth of a phoenix. It is a short story that would be great if it was longer. Is a witch who was burned at the stake in 1692 the Phoenix? You will have to read this book to find out. In A Bloody Good Meal, a couple invites the husbands' mother over for a Christmas dinner of leftovers which includes people of various ages and sizes. A Cry in the Night is a short story about a wolf mother and a baby. I really loved The Strangest Thing of All. As soon as I started reading this story, I was spellbound. I had goosebumps reading this. This was a longer story than the other stories. Mary Jane is about a brother and a sister who befriends a ghost that no one knows about except for a blind woman.
Most of these short stories are not creepy but different. What I like is that most of these stories could be written into longer stories or some even a book on its own. There is a story for everyone. Stephanie Ayers doesn't disappoint in this book. She knows how to write and get the reader engaged. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good horror, creepy, or different kind of book
In Frequent Flyer Livery Service, you will find a lovestruck vampire who kills people so he can bring his love back to life. The ending was not what I expected. I enjoyed this book. In Matilda, you will read about a girl who was floating in the ocean. This short story is about a girl named Matilda who was found dead in the ocean who shouldn't have been there. You will find out what happens because of this poor dead girl and the consequences. You will find Cooper, (who has been bullied by other children growing up) who grows watermelons in The Forgetting. People from miles away come just for his watermelons. Things happen when they are given a watermelon. After a person is given a watermelon, he or she dies within a week after. Off to Never Neverland is about a soul in limbo, innocence, and death. It's not really creepy but it is still interesting to read. Phoenix Rising is about the rebirth of a phoenix. It is a short story that would be great if it was longer. Is a witch who was burned at the stake in 1692 the Phoenix? You will have to read this book to find out. In A Bloody Good Meal, a couple invites the husbands' mother over for a Christmas dinner of leftovers which includes people of various ages and sizes. A Cry in the Night is a short story about a wolf mother and a baby. I really loved The Strangest Thing of All. As soon as I started reading this story, I was spellbound. I had goosebumps reading this. This was a longer story than the other stories. Mary Jane is about a brother and a sister who befriends a ghost that no one knows about except for a blind woman.
Most of these short stories are not creepy but different. What I like is that most of these stories could be written into longer stories or some even a book on its own. There is a story for everyone. Stephanie Ayers doesn't disappoint in this book. She knows how to write and get the reader engaged. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good horror, creepy, or different kind of book
October 23, 2018
Stephanie Ayers doesn't disappoint with book two in her, The 13 series. The 13: Tales of Macabre opens with an epic story of love and betrayal pulling you in. As with Tales of Illusory you will find a story to spark your inner horror fancies around this most wonderful time of year. No I'm not talking about the horrid Christmas season, I'm talking about the best holiday ever! Halloween.
If you don't know me or the fact that I am the proud mother of two twin 1 year-old boys then you will understand how epic this book is to me. I started my morning sitting down to just read one story, before the monsters woke up for breakfast. The Tales of Macabre had me so captivated I sat down between screaming fits and read to the end within a two hour period.
Her beautifully crafted stories and technique with creating such a master piece has inspired the writer in me. I now am planning to do my own horror story collection for next year and here's hoping Stephanie is too. Looking forward to book 3 Stephanie so keep them coming.
If you don't know me or the fact that I am the proud mother of two twin 1 year-old boys then you will understand how epic this book is to me. I started my morning sitting down to just read one story, before the monsters woke up for breakfast. The Tales of Macabre had me so captivated I sat down between screaming fits and read to the end within a two hour period.
Her beautifully crafted stories and technique with creating such a master piece has inspired the writer in me. I now am planning to do my own horror story collection for next year and here's hoping Stephanie is too. Looking forward to book 3 Stephanie so keep them coming.
October 24, 2018
This is the very first book of Author Stephanie Ayes I have read and I must admit this will not be my last.
I LOVE books that you start to read and you just immerse yourself completely.
The collection of stories reminded me of sitting around my living room listening to different scary stories with friends and family in which some you could walk away fine and others that stayed with you throughout the night.
For a woman who grew up watching horror films and listening to old time Spanish fork lore I would suggest grabbing this book now especially with Halloween around the corner.
You will not be disappointed 😊
I LOVE books that you start to read and you just immerse yourself completely.
The collection of stories reminded me of sitting around my living room listening to different scary stories with friends and family in which some you could walk away fine and others that stayed with you throughout the night.
For a woman who grew up watching horror films and listening to old time Spanish fork lore I would suggest grabbing this book now especially with Halloween around the corner.
You will not be disappointed 😊
December 9, 2018
Another awesomely creepy and dark read from this author! I loved each story. They pull you into each story and the darkness takes hold and grips you on until the end! Each story was fantastic! I really love shorter reads sometimes and these are perfect to just read, stop and pick back up at the next story.
November 14, 2019
A collection of 13 horror tales with clever twists from author Stephanie Ayers plus an introductory scary poem by Stacy Overby constitute this set, a sort of sequel to the author's earlier collection 13: TALES OF THE ILLUSORY. I found the stories' unexpected twists and turns remarkable.
December 25, 2019
This is a great collection of spooky short stories! My favorite was definitely the story called "Send in the Clowns." It was eerie and surreal--I only wish it had been longer!
November 17, 2020
Although the book was well written and edited, I guess this just isn't my genre. I didn't find the tales all that spine-chilling, to tell the truth—perhaps because I myself write crime novels, and what criminals do I find takes the cake when it comes to horror. There were some shifts in formatting that I found distracting; that should perhaps be fixed. It's a short read with a number of different tales of differing lengths, so for those who like a short anthology in the horror genre, this might be a good book.
February 13, 2020
This is probably the best horror Anthology I have read in awhile. A lot of them usually fall flat with me, but this one managed to keep my attention, creep me out a bit (clowns) and excite me. All the stories were good creepy fun. Although not scary (I can't get scared from reading a book), they do manage to have a great scary mood to them.
A quick read that will delight and entertain in a macabre manner.
A quick read that will delight and entertain in a macabre manner.
March 1, 2021
CHILLING!!!
This is the first book I've read by Stephanie Ayers, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Let me just say that I loved every dark, gruesome word. Each tale is well written and sure to unnerve any horror fan. I found the stories engrossing and rather creepy. Exactly what I want in a grisly tale. Kudo's to Stephanie Ayers. I'll definitely be reading more of her work.
This is the first book I've read by Stephanie Ayers, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Let me just say that I loved every dark, gruesome word. Each tale is well written and sure to unnerve any horror fan. I found the stories engrossing and rather creepy. Exactly what I want in a grisly tale. Kudo's to Stephanie Ayers. I'll definitely be reading more of her work.
August 24, 2020
Wonderful departure
This book was a wonderful departure from the known world into one of inherent creepiness. I loved it because it had wonderful changes in thought while keeping the feeling of the stories intact.
This book was a wonderful departure from the known world into one of inherent creepiness. I loved it because it had wonderful changes in thought while keeping the feeling of the stories intact.
September 6, 2020
A collection of quick bizarre and creepy tales. To what lengths would you go to bring your beloved back to life? How are the biggest, sweetest watermelons grown? These and more wonderfully weird little stories. Oh, don't forget the family supper... You're invited of course!
August 16, 2021
Loved it
This is a awesome book. The plot was really interesting and the characters were well thought out. The short story never neverland didn't make much sense but that was probably just me. It was a great book and I loved it.
This is a awesome book. The plot was really interesting and the characters were well thought out. The short story never neverland didn't make much sense but that was probably just me. It was a great book and I loved it.
January 6, 2022
The best stories were way too short.
A couple are over before you can figure out what they're about.
The first one involved...phlebotomy tools, but was otherwise interesting.
Not a bad collection, but I'd prefer the ones I liked to have been longer.
A couple are over before you can figure out what they're about.
The first one involved...phlebotomy tools, but was otherwise interesting.
Not a bad collection, but I'd prefer the ones I liked to have been longer.
February 8, 2020
Excellent
I absolutely enjoyed this book. The stories are amazing. I highly recommend this series. They will make your imagination soar to new heights!
I absolutely enjoyed this book. The stories are amazing. I highly recommend this series. They will make your imagination soar to new heights!
August 26, 2021
Macabre tales
This book is very interesting. I enjoyed the stories. This book has a little bit of everything for a horror conisuer.
This book is very interesting. I enjoyed the stories. This book has a little bit of everything for a horror conisuer.
May 22, 2023
I enjoyed this mix of different scary stories. The stories were short little chapter stories that kept you guessing what was coming next.
October 31, 2023
Loved this. Halloween is my favorite holiday. Reminded me of tales from the crypt. However, I am scared to death of clowns and Send in the clowns will haunt me forever.....
August 27, 2025
13 horror tales
October 15, 2019
Don't read alone!
Killer watermelons, murderous jewelry boxes, centenarian sea whisperers, creatures of myth/legend, and more...
This supernatural story collection will make you reconsider everything you thought you knew. At night you'll hover under your covers while looking over your shoulder in the day. Down, down in the depths they fell; bodies in the dark of a liquid hell.
This is the second collection in The 13 series.
Will you survive all 13?
With foreward by JM Ames and poetry by Stacy Overby.
Wow!! What a great set of quick reads that are bloody to boot!
Wonderful well written plot and story line for each that are very engaging.
Well written fleshed out characters in each.
Superb set of bloody horror tales to get you in the halloween spirit or if you just love your horror like me!
Recommend reading!!!
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Killer watermelons, murderous jewelry boxes, centenarian sea whisperers, creatures of myth/legend, and more...
This supernatural story collection will make you reconsider everything you thought you knew. At night you'll hover under your covers while looking over your shoulder in the day. Down, down in the depths they fell; bodies in the dark of a liquid hell.
This is the second collection in The 13 series.
Will you survive all 13?
With foreward by JM Ames and poetry by Stacy Overby.
Wow!! What a great set of quick reads that are bloody to boot!
Wonderful well written plot and story line for each that are very engaging.
Well written fleshed out characters in each.
Superb set of bloody horror tales to get you in the halloween spirit or if you just love your horror like me!
Recommend reading!!!
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
October 30, 2019
A lot of creepy horror stories. There are 13 stories so you are bound to find a few you will enjoy. The cover is awesome and really drew me into the book. Mary Jane was probably my favorite, it had a slight Twilight Zone/urban legend feel to it. Like all anthologies I liked some stories more than others and since everyone is different you may love the stories I did not really get. I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2019
This book has some really great creepy horror stories that I really enjoyed reading. Each story is well written and draws you in. I love horror books and this did not disappoint. I definitely recommend reading. (I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
May 30, 2020
13 tales which will have you jumping out of your skin at every tiny sound you hear even in the middle of the night.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2024
Received as a review copy, this is an honest review. Another collection of distinctive haunting stories that will give you a good a case of goosebumps... in a good way. Highly recommended.
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