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The Razorblades in my Head
Scars are not a sign of where we have healed, they are a reminder of what we have buried beneath the skin:
A talking toaster. A crabbing voyage that descends into chaos. Malevolent snowmen. The debut of a mysterious indie wrestler. A sacrifice in need of an hourglass. A paranormal cremator in search of a friend...and other choice cuts from the mind of Donnie Goodman.
The razorblades have emerged.
It is time to dig.
A talking toaster. A crabbing voyage that descends into chaos. Malevolent snowmen. The debut of a mysterious indie wrestler. A sacrifice in need of an hourglass. A paranormal cremator in search of a friend...and other choice cuts from the mind of Donnie Goodman.
The razorblades have emerged.
It is time to dig.
145 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2021
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1050 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 18, 2021
This debut collection and much-anticipated release from Donnie Goodman boasts a killer cover by Justin T. Coons and twelve tales of terror inspired in no small part by the mass market horror paperback explosion of the 1970s and 1980s. Affectionately referred to as ‘Paperbacks From Hell’ named for the recent Grady Hendrix book of the same name that chronicles their history, these lurid covers and unashamedly gory content has inspired a whole generation of writers, and the influence on Goodman’s inaugural release is clear to see before you’ve even started reading. Everything about the book screams fast-paced, fun and gory good times and, if his ‘sneak peek’ release of the short story ‘The Old Bay King’ back in February is any indication, that is exactly what we can expect.
The Razorblades in My Head
It’s easy to see why Goodman chose to lead with this story, as it very much sets the tone for what is to follow, and more than any story in this collection demonstrates a range that few writers can boast. As a pure body horror story, it is very effective. The titular premise is surreal and unpleasant and the story gets good and disgusting, but dig a little deeper and there is more going on that first meets the eye. As fun as it is as a gross-out piece, the story is also a very relatable and slightly melancholy metaphor, one which I initially read as almost a take on PTSD, and the minds unwillingness to let go of past traumas. Horror readers just wanting a fun read will leave very happy, but genre fans wanting a little more substance over style get that here as well, and the balance between the two is perfect. An incredibly strong opener.
Third Grade
Told from the perspective of a third-grader writing a letter to his teacher, the story starts off rather sweet and endearing but gets very dark very quickly. Goodman gets a lot of mileage out of childhood innocence here, his letter writer clearly positioned as well-intentioned rather than leaning into the trope of ‘evil children’ and the fun of this short is how the reveal comes gradually, almost mentioned as a passing thought until the lurid details come out. Goodman nails the voice of an eight/nine-year-old, their focus all over the place, the structure of the letter messy, almost ‘stream of consciousness’ in style and I enjoyed the unique format and thought the overall piece, experimental as it was, worked incredibly well.
Stargazing
This one came as a bit of a surprise as it is, to begin with at least, a much more quiet and reflective story, focusing on character as opposed to concept. Following a young woman still mourning the untimely death of her younger brother, who was taken by leukaemia when he was a child, a lot of the story’s events are told through this lens of tragedy and it informs everything that happens, even when things take a more peculiar turn. The whole story has a surreal, dream-like quality to it and is more impactful for choosing to tell such a big scale story through such personal means.
Gobble, Gobble
I love Creature Features and read any I can get my hands on. I’ve read stories featuring the unlikeliest of killer animals. Pigs, Moths, Cows, Frogs, Slugs, Jellyfish, Worms, Pikes, Cormorants, Kangaroos, I’ve read them all. I believe this was my first ever ‘Death by Turkey’ though and, for such a silly premise, Goodman actually manages to wring a surprising amount of tension out of it. Not to say it’s not as out there and as funny as the title suggests, but a genuinely creepy story about a Turkey is no mean feat.
Magic in the Hat
Reading like a ‘Tales From the Crypt’ Christmas Special, this fun and festive short follows three troublemaking boys who get some creative comeuppance when they choose the wrong house to prank. You’ll see the ending coming a mile off but the fun is in the journey with this story. Goodman seems to have a knack for characters and dialogue, especially when his leads are children, and I loved to hate the three naughty kids in this one. There is some vivid yuletide body horror in the finale and hints at a much wider story, giving you a lot to get your teeth into for such a seemingly straightforward cautionary tale.
It’s Not Always Why
“I want to know why”
This phrase comes up a lot in this story, which is far darker and more serious-minded than most in this collection. It’s an apt mantra because, until the very end, we’re kept in the dark as to exactly what is going on, and answers are not necessarily forthcoming. Fans of Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (‘Resolution’ in particular) will find a lot in common between the filmmaking duos work and ‘It’s Not Always Why’. A chilling set-up and a build-up that delivers a lot, but does not offer the ‘whys’ readily, building to a vaguely defined and wholly unexpected cosmic finale. When the story starts the young protagonist has power over the reader because she seems to have an understanding of what is happening, which is not afforded to us. By the end, we’re in the same position she is; we’ve seen the forces at play, but are no closer to understanding what they are or why they are here, and that is what makes this one of the collections more disturbing offerings.
The Stranger in the Squared Circle
The longest story in the collection also happens to be my favourite. Mixing professional wrestling and classic monsters is inspired, and the result is just as enjoyable as you’d expect. Resisting the temptation to get straight into the ring, a lot of time is spent getting to know the lead character first, then setting the final confrontation into motion by building up the suspense and upping the stakes until the final showdown. The ending is perfect, and while being somewhat unexpected, it is exactly the way the story needed to end. I’d love to read more stories in this vein, which perfectly balanced the horror and the fun factor.
Toasted
A short and sweet piece of flash fiction that revels in the strange, this was another story that subverted my expectations by keeping things off-kilter and telling a strange tale that doesn’t go too big or opt for a classic twist ending. We’re never quite sure whether the protagonist is in the midst of a psychotic break or if she is genuinely experiencing something profoundly supernatural. A brisk and well-told short that sets up a lot in such a short page count and delivers a satisfying ending while still leaving plenty of things unsaid or unanswered.
Teddy
In the short story notes at the book of the book, Goodman mentions that he intends to write a longer piece of fiction in the near future and, for what it’s worth, my vote goes to an expanded adventure with Wallace and the rest of the cast of ‘Teddy’. The premise of this short has so much potential for more stories set in this world. I picture a mixture of The Warrens meets Indiana Jones, with some secret societies thrown in for good measure. If this does prove to be a one and done then it was a fun ride, with its period setting and bleak worldview.
A Bloody Heist
A high concept story that does exactly what it says on the tin (there is a heist… and I’ll not spoil how the blood comes into play). I thought the way Goodman described the action was incredible. Its very precise language and quick sentences, keeping the momentum going on a story that is almost 100% bank robbery and car chase. I flew through this one and it proves that the author is equally capable at tackling other genres (thriller in this case) as he is horror, even if the temptation to throw in something supernatural proves a little too tempting.
Hourglass
Easily the collections most overtly comedic short (and yes, I’m including the killer turkeys story in that statement). This one actually had me laughing out loud (“Are these gluten-free?”). It was a little weird to read the story notes on this story and hear that this had its origins when Goodman was working on a short film because as I was reading it I absolutely thought to myself what a great 5-10 minute short film this would make.
The Old Bay King
This was the only story I was familiar with going into the collection and remains one of my favourites. This is the kind of story the book's design leads you to expect. It’s a love letter to the mass market horror paperback boon, in particular, the Guy N. Smith ‘Crabs’ series and it’s as much fun as these bloody stories were, with the added bonus of interesting, well-rounded characters and a worthy plot to hang things on. It is one of the longest stories of the collection, and the perfect one to end the book on, leaving us on a strong and memorable note.
Wrapping up with some story notes that cover some insightful looks into the themes and inspirations behind the stories, as well as some fun anecdotes behind their inception, the book feels over far too soon. The passion behind the stories and the personal touches that have gone into the release shine through and I was left craving more. ‘The Razorblades in my Head’ delivers on its promise of big entertainment and exuberant, blackly funny carnage, but there is also a surprising number of stories that are a little quieter, more heartfelt, and these are a welcome addition, mixed in with stories of killer turkeys and sinister snowmen. It is hard to believe that these stories come from a debut writer, as the voice behind them is so assured and distinctive and I’m excited to see what Donnie Goodman has lined up for us next.
This review was initially written for and published by Horroroasis.com.
Check out their site for horror book and movie reviews, articles, giveaways and more.
The Razorblades in My Head
It’s easy to see why Goodman chose to lead with this story, as it very much sets the tone for what is to follow, and more than any story in this collection demonstrates a range that few writers can boast. As a pure body horror story, it is very effective. The titular premise is surreal and unpleasant and the story gets good and disgusting, but dig a little deeper and there is more going on that first meets the eye. As fun as it is as a gross-out piece, the story is also a very relatable and slightly melancholy metaphor, one which I initially read as almost a take on PTSD, and the minds unwillingness to let go of past traumas. Horror readers just wanting a fun read will leave very happy, but genre fans wanting a little more substance over style get that here as well, and the balance between the two is perfect. An incredibly strong opener.
Third Grade
Told from the perspective of a third-grader writing a letter to his teacher, the story starts off rather sweet and endearing but gets very dark very quickly. Goodman gets a lot of mileage out of childhood innocence here, his letter writer clearly positioned as well-intentioned rather than leaning into the trope of ‘evil children’ and the fun of this short is how the reveal comes gradually, almost mentioned as a passing thought until the lurid details come out. Goodman nails the voice of an eight/nine-year-old, their focus all over the place, the structure of the letter messy, almost ‘stream of consciousness’ in style and I enjoyed the unique format and thought the overall piece, experimental as it was, worked incredibly well.
Stargazing
This one came as a bit of a surprise as it is, to begin with at least, a much more quiet and reflective story, focusing on character as opposed to concept. Following a young woman still mourning the untimely death of her younger brother, who was taken by leukaemia when he was a child, a lot of the story’s events are told through this lens of tragedy and it informs everything that happens, even when things take a more peculiar turn. The whole story has a surreal, dream-like quality to it and is more impactful for choosing to tell such a big scale story through such personal means.
Gobble, Gobble
I love Creature Features and read any I can get my hands on. I’ve read stories featuring the unlikeliest of killer animals. Pigs, Moths, Cows, Frogs, Slugs, Jellyfish, Worms, Pikes, Cormorants, Kangaroos, I’ve read them all. I believe this was my first ever ‘Death by Turkey’ though and, for such a silly premise, Goodman actually manages to wring a surprising amount of tension out of it. Not to say it’s not as out there and as funny as the title suggests, but a genuinely creepy story about a Turkey is no mean feat.
Magic in the Hat
Reading like a ‘Tales From the Crypt’ Christmas Special, this fun and festive short follows three troublemaking boys who get some creative comeuppance when they choose the wrong house to prank. You’ll see the ending coming a mile off but the fun is in the journey with this story. Goodman seems to have a knack for characters and dialogue, especially when his leads are children, and I loved to hate the three naughty kids in this one. There is some vivid yuletide body horror in the finale and hints at a much wider story, giving you a lot to get your teeth into for such a seemingly straightforward cautionary tale.
It’s Not Always Why
“I want to know why”
This phrase comes up a lot in this story, which is far darker and more serious-minded than most in this collection. It’s an apt mantra because, until the very end, we’re kept in the dark as to exactly what is going on, and answers are not necessarily forthcoming. Fans of Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (‘Resolution’ in particular) will find a lot in common between the filmmaking duos work and ‘It’s Not Always Why’. A chilling set-up and a build-up that delivers a lot, but does not offer the ‘whys’ readily, building to a vaguely defined and wholly unexpected cosmic finale. When the story starts the young protagonist has power over the reader because she seems to have an understanding of what is happening, which is not afforded to us. By the end, we’re in the same position she is; we’ve seen the forces at play, but are no closer to understanding what they are or why they are here, and that is what makes this one of the collections more disturbing offerings.
The Stranger in the Squared Circle
The longest story in the collection also happens to be my favourite. Mixing professional wrestling and classic monsters is inspired, and the result is just as enjoyable as you’d expect. Resisting the temptation to get straight into the ring, a lot of time is spent getting to know the lead character first, then setting the final confrontation into motion by building up the suspense and upping the stakes until the final showdown. The ending is perfect, and while being somewhat unexpected, it is exactly the way the story needed to end. I’d love to read more stories in this vein, which perfectly balanced the horror and the fun factor.
Toasted
A short and sweet piece of flash fiction that revels in the strange, this was another story that subverted my expectations by keeping things off-kilter and telling a strange tale that doesn’t go too big or opt for a classic twist ending. We’re never quite sure whether the protagonist is in the midst of a psychotic break or if she is genuinely experiencing something profoundly supernatural. A brisk and well-told short that sets up a lot in such a short page count and delivers a satisfying ending while still leaving plenty of things unsaid or unanswered.
Teddy
In the short story notes at the book of the book, Goodman mentions that he intends to write a longer piece of fiction in the near future and, for what it’s worth, my vote goes to an expanded adventure with Wallace and the rest of the cast of ‘Teddy’. The premise of this short has so much potential for more stories set in this world. I picture a mixture of The Warrens meets Indiana Jones, with some secret societies thrown in for good measure. If this does prove to be a one and done then it was a fun ride, with its period setting and bleak worldview.
A Bloody Heist
A high concept story that does exactly what it says on the tin (there is a heist… and I’ll not spoil how the blood comes into play). I thought the way Goodman described the action was incredible. Its very precise language and quick sentences, keeping the momentum going on a story that is almost 100% bank robbery and car chase. I flew through this one and it proves that the author is equally capable at tackling other genres (thriller in this case) as he is horror, even if the temptation to throw in something supernatural proves a little too tempting.
Hourglass
Easily the collections most overtly comedic short (and yes, I’m including the killer turkeys story in that statement). This one actually had me laughing out loud (“Are these gluten-free?”). It was a little weird to read the story notes on this story and hear that this had its origins when Goodman was working on a short film because as I was reading it I absolutely thought to myself what a great 5-10 minute short film this would make.
The Old Bay King
This was the only story I was familiar with going into the collection and remains one of my favourites. This is the kind of story the book's design leads you to expect. It’s a love letter to the mass market horror paperback boon, in particular, the Guy N. Smith ‘Crabs’ series and it’s as much fun as these bloody stories were, with the added bonus of interesting, well-rounded characters and a worthy plot to hang things on. It is one of the longest stories of the collection, and the perfect one to end the book on, leaving us on a strong and memorable note.
Wrapping up with some story notes that cover some insightful looks into the themes and inspirations behind the stories, as well as some fun anecdotes behind their inception, the book feels over far too soon. The passion behind the stories and the personal touches that have gone into the release shine through and I was left craving more. ‘The Razorblades in my Head’ delivers on its promise of big entertainment and exuberant, blackly funny carnage, but there is also a surprising number of stories that are a little quieter, more heartfelt, and these are a welcome addition, mixed in with stories of killer turkeys and sinister snowmen. It is hard to believe that these stories come from a debut writer, as the voice behind them is so assured and distinctive and I’m excited to see what Donnie Goodman has lined up for us next.
This review was initially written for and published by Horroroasis.com.
Check out their site for horror book and movie reviews, articles, giveaways and more.
June 5, 2021
This is a 4.5 review from me rounded up to 5 for Goodreads and Amazon.
The Razorblades in my Head - well damn, what a way to kick off the collection and a brilliant introduction to Donnie’s work. This one has the weird horror vibes that I love, think Sarah Hall, Emily Harrison and Angela Readman (all writers you should be checking out) - I love my weird horror and this is just all of that and more, body horror and the healing of old wounds in the most macabre way.
Third Grade - I loved the tone of voice in this piece, the clipped dialogue really gets you into the characters mind. A young boy with an idea sets about helping his teacher get over her grief in the way only a child could think of. Well if that child was deranged! I actually mixed this one up, I read it along with listening to Donnie read this story for Celebrate Horror 2021 which was hosted by Sadie Hartmann on the Nightworms YouTube channel - I’d recommend doing it that way if you can, I love authors reading their own work and Donnie does a terrific job.
Stargazing - here we’re treated to an apocalyptic vision, an invasion of sorts as our protagonist wakes to find the place belongs under attack. He brother returns to guide her to the place beyond, because he also knows what their mother called her ‘Stargazer’ - a great little change in tone and genre here, it’s less horror more science fiction / apocalyptic dread.
Gobble, Gobble - a nice dip into one of favourite sub genres the ‘Creature Feature’ - I have to say when I read the title I was thinking stuff was going to get sick, but after the first line I realised that we were going to be treated to something a little different - think Herbert’s The Rats but with Turkey’s and you’ll be in that wheelhouse! It’s absurd but I loved it!
Magic in the Hat - we’re treated to a slice os seasonal horror here, Goodman does a great job at bringing this coming of age tale to a dramatic and horrifying conclusion and it reminded me of those 80’s style horror books and films - where the unthinkable the unimaginable happens, it’s crazy, you know it’s mad - but you just can’t help but love it! Frosty the Snowman has nothing on these guys!
It’s Not Always Why - this one read like a perfect blend of Adam Nevill (horror) and Cormac McCarthy (crazy) - a young girl breaks into a hospital abs steals a newborn child, for what purposes you’ll need to read and find out - but the ending is not what you’d ever imagine!
The Stranger in the Squared Circle - I’m going on the record here to say that there are not enough wrestling horror stories out there. This one is a beaut, all the action and escapism one gets from watching the real thing great the reader on the page and the subtle horror that becomes bright lights and popcorn horror was something I never knew I wanted until I had it. An enjoyable crazy read - just my level of vampiric, not too much, just enough!
Toasted - all I can say is WHAT??? Madness I tell you, utter weird mad horror!
Teddy - working in a crematorium might be a strange job to want but for our protagonist it’s everything she wants right now. It’s a lonely existence for her, but she finds a friend - Teddy and all her troubles just melt away! This ones a slow burn with creepy undertones - I liked the mix up of pace to the other stories in the collection.
A Bloody Heist - this is brilliant. The twist in this book of fabulous, it’s like the film ‘Heat’ but with some crazy twist - also you gotta admire the chops of Goodman for writing about a terrorist bomb or terrorist cell - it’s the first one I’ve read and I feel some people (since recent history) stay away from this subject. But the subject is horrific and I feel horror is a great platform to tackle such hard hitting subject - also this is handled with care and precision throughout!
Hourglass - I really enjoyed this one, a comical look at sacrifice - the details are handled to perfection and I did a few chuckles as reading. Woodman did a fabulous job balancing the horror with the comedy and the ending was perfect - like something out of a horror film!
The Old Bay King - I think this is the longest story in the collection and was also previously released as a single story as a teaser for this collection (great promo Donnie). And what I have to say is this story shows the true brilliance of Goodman’s work - he excels in the longer story, his prose is sharp as a scalpel and his words are drenched in his deep love of all things horror. This had some real Guy N Smith vibes which I loved - creature feature is a sub genre I love and Goodman takes it to the next level with some Benchley vibes too.
At the back of the collection we find the author notes about each story, so you can read and find out where these ideas came from, what inspired them and how they came to be - I do love these appearing in short story collections / they give you a glimpse behind the macabre curtain.
A fabulous debut collection, some (some) of the stories had a Goosebumps vibe to them and one I didn’t vibe with (Goosebumps is not really my thing - they weren’t available when I was at school so the nostalgia they bring to readers is lost on me a little) - but having said that I can still see the creative brilliance on offer. I’m also not a fan of the vampiric (although I read it) and Goodman does a great job at incorporating this trope but not drowning the stories in it - so hats off to you man!
When this collection gets dark, it gets damn crazy and you’ll be repeating ‘it’s just a book, it’s just a book!’ - I want more of that darkness from Goodman’s pen!
I’m excited and desperate to see what Donnie does next and hope it’s something bigger - a novella or a novel, something I can really sink my teeth into and devour!
Also - damn that cover is amazing! Cover of the year contender if that’s a thing or not - it should be!
The Razorblades in my Head - well damn, what a way to kick off the collection and a brilliant introduction to Donnie’s work. This one has the weird horror vibes that I love, think Sarah Hall, Emily Harrison and Angela Readman (all writers you should be checking out) - I love my weird horror and this is just all of that and more, body horror and the healing of old wounds in the most macabre way.
Third Grade - I loved the tone of voice in this piece, the clipped dialogue really gets you into the characters mind. A young boy with an idea sets about helping his teacher get over her grief in the way only a child could think of. Well if that child was deranged! I actually mixed this one up, I read it along with listening to Donnie read this story for Celebrate Horror 2021 which was hosted by Sadie Hartmann on the Nightworms YouTube channel - I’d recommend doing it that way if you can, I love authors reading their own work and Donnie does a terrific job.
Stargazing - here we’re treated to an apocalyptic vision, an invasion of sorts as our protagonist wakes to find the place belongs under attack. He brother returns to guide her to the place beyond, because he also knows what their mother called her ‘Stargazer’ - a great little change in tone and genre here, it’s less horror more science fiction / apocalyptic dread.
Gobble, Gobble - a nice dip into one of favourite sub genres the ‘Creature Feature’ - I have to say when I read the title I was thinking stuff was going to get sick, but after the first line I realised that we were going to be treated to something a little different - think Herbert’s The Rats but with Turkey’s and you’ll be in that wheelhouse! It’s absurd but I loved it!
Magic in the Hat - we’re treated to a slice os seasonal horror here, Goodman does a great job at bringing this coming of age tale to a dramatic and horrifying conclusion and it reminded me of those 80’s style horror books and films - where the unthinkable the unimaginable happens, it’s crazy, you know it’s mad - but you just can’t help but love it! Frosty the Snowman has nothing on these guys!
It’s Not Always Why - this one read like a perfect blend of Adam Nevill (horror) and Cormac McCarthy (crazy) - a young girl breaks into a hospital abs steals a newborn child, for what purposes you’ll need to read and find out - but the ending is not what you’d ever imagine!
The Stranger in the Squared Circle - I’m going on the record here to say that there are not enough wrestling horror stories out there. This one is a beaut, all the action and escapism one gets from watching the real thing great the reader on the page and the subtle horror that becomes bright lights and popcorn horror was something I never knew I wanted until I had it. An enjoyable crazy read - just my level of vampiric, not too much, just enough!
Toasted - all I can say is WHAT??? Madness I tell you, utter weird mad horror!
Teddy - working in a crematorium might be a strange job to want but for our protagonist it’s everything she wants right now. It’s a lonely existence for her, but she finds a friend - Teddy and all her troubles just melt away! This ones a slow burn with creepy undertones - I liked the mix up of pace to the other stories in the collection.
A Bloody Heist - this is brilliant. The twist in this book of fabulous, it’s like the film ‘Heat’ but with some crazy twist - also you gotta admire the chops of Goodman for writing about a terrorist bomb or terrorist cell - it’s the first one I’ve read and I feel some people (since recent history) stay away from this subject. But the subject is horrific and I feel horror is a great platform to tackle such hard hitting subject - also this is handled with care and precision throughout!
Hourglass - I really enjoyed this one, a comical look at sacrifice - the details are handled to perfection and I did a few chuckles as reading. Woodman did a fabulous job balancing the horror with the comedy and the ending was perfect - like something out of a horror film!
The Old Bay King - I think this is the longest story in the collection and was also previously released as a single story as a teaser for this collection (great promo Donnie). And what I have to say is this story shows the true brilliance of Goodman’s work - he excels in the longer story, his prose is sharp as a scalpel and his words are drenched in his deep love of all things horror. This had some real Guy N Smith vibes which I loved - creature feature is a sub genre I love and Goodman takes it to the next level with some Benchley vibes too.
At the back of the collection we find the author notes about each story, so you can read and find out where these ideas came from, what inspired them and how they came to be - I do love these appearing in short story collections / they give you a glimpse behind the macabre curtain.
A fabulous debut collection, some (some) of the stories had a Goosebumps vibe to them and one I didn’t vibe with (Goosebumps is not really my thing - they weren’t available when I was at school so the nostalgia they bring to readers is lost on me a little) - but having said that I can still see the creative brilliance on offer. I’m also not a fan of the vampiric (although I read it) and Goodman does a great job at incorporating this trope but not drowning the stories in it - so hats off to you man!
When this collection gets dark, it gets damn crazy and you’ll be repeating ‘it’s just a book, it’s just a book!’ - I want more of that darkness from Goodman’s pen!
I’m excited and desperate to see what Donnie does next and hope it’s something bigger - a novella or a novel, something I can really sink my teeth into and devour!
Also - damn that cover is amazing! Cover of the year contender if that’s a thing or not - it should be!
July 3, 2021
What a kickass debut collection from Donnie Goodman! Covering so many creepy topics and spooky themes, Goodman clearly demonstrates his love and passion for horror. From body horror to creepy kids, sci fi, animals, cults, and more, he is able to show us just a fraction of what is on his mind and the stories he has in his repertoire. A few of these stories made my jaw drop on those final words - which is always a great feeling as a reader. He is able to pull the reader right into the story with ease and engage fully until the end. I cannot wait for what comes next - I will be there for it! 4.5 rounded up for Goodreads
And always a huge shoutout to Justin T. Coons for BRILLIANT and incredible cover art!
And always a huge shoutout to Justin T. Coons for BRILLIANT and incredible cover art!
June 14, 2021
This short, sharp collection has more bite than I expected! Goodman's work is evocative, and he presents some grotesque imagery that is sure to stick with you long after you've finished reading.
June 27, 2022
"Intentó gritar mientras sus sentidos fallaban, pero no se le ocurrían últimas palabras.
No tenía últimos pensamientos."
Antes de comenzar con la reseña voy a comenzar con la conclusión: dadme de fumar lo mismo que al señor Goodman 😀
¡Qué locura de antología se ha marcado este señor!
Doce estupendos relatos con un pestazo a noche de Halloween, al motor quemado de los reproductores VHS y de las películas que alquilábamos en el videoclub en nuestros años mozos que me encanta. Los que leéis mis reseñas sabéis que tiendo al terror más intelectual y oscuro que nos hace pensar en nuestra existencia y en el origen del mal y el sentido de la vida y nos hace ser mejores personas y bla bla bla. Pero disfrutar con ese tipo de narraciones no es para nada incompatible con gozar de la perspectiva del terror que tiene Donnie Goodman. En esta antología se reencarna en El Guardián de la Cripta y nos ofrece toda la iconografía ochentera y noventera que tenemos en nuestras cabezas y la lanza en doce relatos muy divertidos, muy bien hilados, sobre todo muy bien escritos y con un ritmo que nos obliga a saltar de uno a otro y fulminar el libro de un tirón. Por estas páginas desfilan peluches asesinos, luchadores de pressing catch misteriosos, pavos muy chungos... pero sobre todo sangre, mucha sangre.
De entre todos los relatos los que más me han gustado son Las cuchillas de mi cabeza (una historia de venganza con la que muchos nos sentimos identificados), La magia de la chistera (me encantaría ver esta historia filmada en stop-motion, sería una flipada) y El desconocido en el cuadrilátero, el relato más largo y el que da la impresión que Goodman ha madurado más tiempo en su cabeza.
El nivel es consistente a lo largo de toda la antología. Si hay picos de sierra en la diferencia de lo que nos transmite de un relato a otro quizás se deba a las preferencias por lo que nos está contando porque la verdad están todas a un nivel muy equilibrado.
Por poner alguna crítica... personalmente me han sobrado las anotaciones que el autor hace sobre los relatos. Que te desvele que la mayoría de ellos son esbozos de futuras novelas y/o de ideas que en el futuro quiere desarrollar está por un lado bien porque te deja lanzado el anzuelo y con ganas de devorar la obra donde finalmente desarrolle la idea, pero por otro lado me ha cortado un poco el punto porque te deja la sensación de haber leído un producto menor de su cosecha, cuando en absoluto es así (pero ojo, que puede que esto sea sólo cosa mía...)
¿Qué os parece?¿La habéis leído?¿Os llama la atención?¿Conocéis más libros en esta línea?
No tenía últimos pensamientos."
Antes de comenzar con la reseña voy a comenzar con la conclusión: dadme de fumar lo mismo que al señor Goodman 😀
¡Qué locura de antología se ha marcado este señor!
Doce estupendos relatos con un pestazo a noche de Halloween, al motor quemado de los reproductores VHS y de las películas que alquilábamos en el videoclub en nuestros años mozos que me encanta. Los que leéis mis reseñas sabéis que tiendo al terror más intelectual y oscuro que nos hace pensar en nuestra existencia y en el origen del mal y el sentido de la vida y nos hace ser mejores personas y bla bla bla. Pero disfrutar con ese tipo de narraciones no es para nada incompatible con gozar de la perspectiva del terror que tiene Donnie Goodman. En esta antología se reencarna en El Guardián de la Cripta y nos ofrece toda la iconografía ochentera y noventera que tenemos en nuestras cabezas y la lanza en doce relatos muy divertidos, muy bien hilados, sobre todo muy bien escritos y con un ritmo que nos obliga a saltar de uno a otro y fulminar el libro de un tirón. Por estas páginas desfilan peluches asesinos, luchadores de pressing catch misteriosos, pavos muy chungos... pero sobre todo sangre, mucha sangre.
De entre todos los relatos los que más me han gustado son Las cuchillas de mi cabeza (una historia de venganza con la que muchos nos sentimos identificados), La magia de la chistera (me encantaría ver esta historia filmada en stop-motion, sería una flipada) y El desconocido en el cuadrilátero, el relato más largo y el que da la impresión que Goodman ha madurado más tiempo en su cabeza.
El nivel es consistente a lo largo de toda la antología. Si hay picos de sierra en la diferencia de lo que nos transmite de un relato a otro quizás se deba a las preferencias por lo que nos está contando porque la verdad están todas a un nivel muy equilibrado.
Por poner alguna crítica... personalmente me han sobrado las anotaciones que el autor hace sobre los relatos. Que te desvele que la mayoría de ellos son esbozos de futuras novelas y/o de ideas que en el futuro quiere desarrollar está por un lado bien porque te deja lanzado el anzuelo y con ganas de devorar la obra donde finalmente desarrolle la idea, pero por otro lado me ha cortado un poco el punto porque te deja la sensación de haber leído un producto menor de su cosecha, cuando en absoluto es así (pero ojo, que puede que esto sea sólo cosa mía...)
¿Qué os parece?¿La habéis leído?¿Os llama la atención?¿Conocéis más libros en esta línea?
Read
February 8, 2023Review removed
August 16, 2022
Relatos de terror puro y duro, con su punto sobrenatural y monstruoso. Cada uno distinto pero con un sello que creo que es muy de Donnie: la cercanía de lo habitual para convertirlo en terrorífico.
Los que más me han sorprendido han sido los relatos de Las cuchillas de mi cabeza, El Viejo Rey de la Bahía y El desconocido en el cuadrilátero, por su originalidad y su planteamiento.
Es cierto que algunos relatos parecen esbozos de ideas que Goodman planea desarrollar en el futuro (como él bien explica al finalizar cada relato), pero en mi opinión eso no los desmerece. Al contrario, te hace querer esperar lo siguiente que será capaz de crear.
Así que quedo a la espera de más cuchillas que salgan de su cabeza.
Los que más me han sorprendido han sido los relatos de Las cuchillas de mi cabeza, El Viejo Rey de la Bahía y El desconocido en el cuadrilátero, por su originalidad y su planteamiento.
Es cierto que algunos relatos parecen esbozos de ideas que Goodman planea desarrollar en el futuro (como él bien explica al finalizar cada relato), pero en mi opinión eso no los desmerece. Al contrario, te hace querer esperar lo siguiente que será capaz de crear.
Así que quedo a la espera de más cuchillas que salgan de su cabeza.
June 27, 2022
Hay una sensación, casi indescriptible, que se produce cuando conectas con una lectura desde el principio.
Conoces el rollo, ya sabes.
Has calado al autor y dejas de leer para que sea él mismo quién te narre la historia, directamente a tu cabeza.
"Las cuchillas de mi cabeza", antología de 12 relatos que supone el debut de Donnie Goodman,editada por Dimensiones Ocultas Paperback, ha teniendo ese efecto en mí.
Puro entretenimiento de terror, de parte de un autor que derrocha ideas.
El mundo propio que maneja Goodman es casi inabarcable, ya sean ideas que forman el esqueleto de un relato o (casi más interesante) como infinitos añadidos que adornan y aportan complejidad.
Donnie Goodman maneja el género de terror, conoce muchísimos elementos y sabe encajarlos, con un estilo directo A ratos puede parecer hasts juvenil, luego se desmadra y las cosas explotan, chorrean, se evisceran o se sacrifican a algún ser.
"Las cuchillas de mi cabeza" es justo lo que promete su portada (obra de Justin T. Coons). Goodman maneja cualquier tipo de expresión del terror y las mezcla, desde body horror a seres ancestrales, relatos apocalípticos, moradores de la oscuridad, elementos que parecen sacados de Creepy, Tales from the crypt o cualquier paperback de los que colecciona, sin caer en la nostalgia.
La edición en castellano de Dimensiones Ocultas respeta la portada original y cuenta con una buena traducción de Luis M. Cuena. Una inmejorable forma de terminar la primera temporada de la editorial.
Hell yeah!
Tenéis una reseña más amplia en: https://capsulaslj.blogspot.com/2022/...
Conoces el rollo, ya sabes.
Has calado al autor y dejas de leer para que sea él mismo quién te narre la historia, directamente a tu cabeza.
"Las cuchillas de mi cabeza", antología de 12 relatos que supone el debut de Donnie Goodman,editada por Dimensiones Ocultas Paperback, ha teniendo ese efecto en mí.
Puro entretenimiento de terror, de parte de un autor que derrocha ideas.
El mundo propio que maneja Goodman es casi inabarcable, ya sean ideas que forman el esqueleto de un relato o (casi más interesante) como infinitos añadidos que adornan y aportan complejidad.
Donnie Goodman maneja el género de terror, conoce muchísimos elementos y sabe encajarlos, con un estilo directo A ratos puede parecer hasts juvenil, luego se desmadra y las cosas explotan, chorrean, se evisceran o se sacrifican a algún ser.
"Las cuchillas de mi cabeza" es justo lo que promete su portada (obra de Justin T. Coons). Goodman maneja cualquier tipo de expresión del terror y las mezcla, desde body horror a seres ancestrales, relatos apocalípticos, moradores de la oscuridad, elementos que parecen sacados de Creepy, Tales from the crypt o cualquier paperback de los que colecciona, sin caer en la nostalgia.
La edición en castellano de Dimensiones Ocultas respeta la portada original y cuenta con una buena traducción de Luis M. Cuena. Una inmejorable forma de terminar la primera temporada de la editorial.
Hell yeah!
Tenéis una reseña más amplia en: https://capsulaslj.blogspot.com/2022/...
October 7, 2022
Snowmen terrorize a group of delinquents that love causing trouble. A group of old buddies share beers while preparing for ritualistic human sacrifice. A crab catcher finds an ancient treasure on a ghost ship filled with corpses. An indie wrestler that takes his vampire gimmick a little too seriously...
The Razorblades in my Head is a mixed bag of flashy weird stories that play around with some original ideas with Tales from the Crypt style storytelling filled with lots of funny references for long-term horror fans. Terrorists wearing Dracula, Nosferatu and Lestat masks, indie wrestlers with names like King, Laymon, Ketchum and Straub, and lots of fun parodies of the 70's/80's paperback horror era.
While I like the ideas presented in all of the stories, I felt the delivery was often hit or miss. Some stories were over too fast, some had too little characterization, and some completely flew over my head. But the book was fun overall and there were a few I really enjoyed.
Old Bay King is my favorite story of the bunch. It felt like a modern reimagining of H.P. Lovecraft's Dagon.
My rating: 3.4/5
The Razorblades in my Head is a mixed bag of flashy weird stories that play around with some original ideas with Tales from the Crypt style storytelling filled with lots of funny references for long-term horror fans. Terrorists wearing Dracula, Nosferatu and Lestat masks, indie wrestlers with names like King, Laymon, Ketchum and Straub, and lots of fun parodies of the 70's/80's paperback horror era.
While I like the ideas presented in all of the stories, I felt the delivery was often hit or miss. Some stories were over too fast, some had too little characterization, and some completely flew over my head. But the book was fun overall and there were a few I really enjoyed.
Old Bay King is my favorite story of the bunch. It felt like a modern reimagining of H.P. Lovecraft's Dagon.
My rating: 3.4/5
May 27, 2021
This collection has everything.
Gorgeous cover? Check
Revenge? Check.
Cosmic horror? Check.
A heist? Check.
Professional wrestling? Yup, that's in here too.
I have never experienced a more wildly diverse collection of stories in all my years of reading. Goodman throws in a little of everything for readers. This was such a fast and easy read.
My favorites were
Teddy
A Bloody Heist
Hourglass
If you are looking for a little variety in your horror reads, pick this up! You will not be disappointed. "It's time to dig" into this wild assortment of tales.
Gorgeous cover? Check
Revenge? Check.
Cosmic horror? Check.
A heist? Check.
Professional wrestling? Yup, that's in here too.
I have never experienced a more wildly diverse collection of stories in all my years of reading. Goodman throws in a little of everything for readers. This was such a fast and easy read.
My favorites were
Teddy
A Bloody Heist
Hourglass
If you are looking for a little variety in your horror reads, pick this up! You will not be disappointed. "It's time to dig" into this wild assortment of tales.
January 1, 2023
Un recital de lo más variado en esta ópera prima, que he devorado en cuestión de horas. Algunos de sus relatos me piden novela, otros adaptación al cine y otros formar parte de un universo más amplio. Me lo he pasado en grande y me ha recordado a las primeras antologías de King.
October 28, 2021
With all the 5 star reviews I had high hopes, but none of these pulled me in. 2 of them are ok, the rest just meh.
March 1, 2022
Was hoping to get the same thrill out of this that I got from reading Goosebumps and Fear Street as a kid. But the short stories were neither scary nor funny or good satire. Some were way too short to build any tension. The first two stories + the wrestling one were decent, did not care much for the others. Felt like reading writing exercises with plots that the author got from other (better) pieces of media.
June 16, 2021
These stories were a lot of fun. There was a nice variety to the types of stories told. I think if I had to choose favorites they would be Teddy, Stargazing, It's Not Always Why and Hourglass! The inclusion of story notes in the back was great too. An impressive debut!
Read
July 21, 2023Removing my review due to recent discoveries about author
November 26, 2024
Una colección muy variada con relatos que parecen sacadas del Guardián de la cripta y a la que quizás le sobre la preponderancia de relatos cortos que habrían podido llegar a más. Dimensiones ocultas es una nueva editorial que apuesta por el terror en España y esto siempre es una buena noticia. Es una buena colección para un autor nuevo al que ya se le intuyen buenas ideas en algunos relatos. Los que más me han gustado son:
El desconocido en el cuadrilátero(****): Un luchador de wrestling es invitado a pelear contra un extraño oponente que no está dejando títere con cabeza en el circuito profesional y que parece tner una fuerza sobrehumana.
La magia de la chistera(****): Tres abusones adolescentes se dedican a destrozar todos los muñecos de nieve de la ciudad pero todo cambiará cuando encuentren un extraño libro y estos cobren vida.
El viejo rey de la bahía(*****): La mejor historia de la colección para mí. Aquí un par de pesqueros extorsionados por un mafiosos salen a por cangrejos y encuentran una caja de oro en un barco abandonado. Esta caja puede que resuelva todos sus problemas o que les proporcione otros más gordos.
El desconocido en el cuadrilátero(****): Un luchador de wrestling es invitado a pelear contra un extraño oponente que no está dejando títere con cabeza en el circuito profesional y que parece tner una fuerza sobrehumana.
La magia de la chistera(****): Tres abusones adolescentes se dedican a destrozar todos los muñecos de nieve de la ciudad pero todo cambiará cuando encuentren un extraño libro y estos cobren vida.
El viejo rey de la bahía(*****): La mejor historia de la colección para mí. Aquí un par de pesqueros extorsionados por un mafiosos salen a por cangrejos y encuentran una caja de oro en un barco abandonado. Esta caja puede que resuelva todos sus problemas o que les proporcione otros más gordos.
September 10, 2022
Outstanding!
An incredible collection. I enjoyed all the stories, but my favorites were "Picasso," "Stargazing," "Hourglass," and "It's Not Always Why." I'm looking forward to reading more from Goodman. Highly recommended!
An incredible collection. I enjoyed all the stories, but my favorites were "Picasso," "Stargazing," "Hourglass," and "It's Not Always Why." I'm looking forward to reading more from Goodman. Highly recommended!
March 6, 2024
This was a bit of a mixed bag for me. Loved some stories and really disliked others.
June 21, 2022
Este libro está compuesto por varios relatos cortos. Algunos de ellos, más que relatos son ideas, tramas, casi anotaciones para construir algo en el futuro.
Lo que más me ha gustado es que al finalizar cada relato, hay una nota del autor ampliando información: de donde nace la idea, cuales son sus motivaciones, sus inspiraciones, si ese fragmento es parte de un guión, de una trama para una novela larga, etc.
Aunque he sentido que leía ideas sin pulir, y algunas de ellas se alejaban de mi gusto, ha sido entretenido. Es un libro corto, se lee rápido y es una lectura fresca. Lo recomendaría para llevar de viaje, de vacaciones o para un rato de desconexión.
Algunas ideas del autor si me han conquistado y me encantaría en un futuro leer novelas suyas porque su pluma me ha convencido, a pesar de no haberlo hecho la totalidad de esta obra.
Lo que más me ha gustado es que al finalizar cada relato, hay una nota del autor ampliando información: de donde nace la idea, cuales son sus motivaciones, sus inspiraciones, si ese fragmento es parte de un guión, de una trama para una novela larga, etc.
Aunque he sentido que leía ideas sin pulir, y algunas de ellas se alejaban de mi gusto, ha sido entretenido. Es un libro corto, se lee rápido y es una lectura fresca. Lo recomendaría para llevar de viaje, de vacaciones o para un rato de desconexión.
Algunas ideas del autor si me han conquistado y me encantaría en un futuro leer novelas suyas porque su pluma me ha convencido, a pesar de no haberlo hecho la totalidad de esta obra.
December 21, 2021
This collection of stories with an absolutely fantastic cover was on my wish list ever since it came out earlier this year. I had been hearing good things about it, so I pulled the plug on it a few months ago. I'm glad I did.
The stories in this collection are swift and sharp. Many of them start out with a simple premise, making them inherently believable, before they turn dark and bloody. There are some off-kilter ideas in this book, but I like it when an author isn't afraid to get a little weird. My favorite story happened to be the last one, THE OLD BAY KING. I loved the sense of hopeful despair felt throughout, and the bleak ending was wistfully perfect.
This was a quick read for me, polishing it off in two short evening reading sessions. There's something for everyone in this collection, so I definitely recommend you check it out. You'll never look at turkeys, snowmen, or teddy bears quite the same way ever again.
The stories in this collection are swift and sharp. Many of them start out with a simple premise, making them inherently believable, before they turn dark and bloody. There are some off-kilter ideas in this book, but I like it when an author isn't afraid to get a little weird. My favorite story happened to be the last one, THE OLD BAY KING. I loved the sense of hopeful despair felt throughout, and the bleak ending was wistfully perfect.
This was a quick read for me, polishing it off in two short evening reading sessions. There's something for everyone in this collection, so I definitely recommend you check it out. You'll never look at turkeys, snowmen, or teddy bears quite the same way ever again.
January 2, 2022
Where do I begin? The Razorblades in my Head is one hell of a ride through different, short, horror stories. This has a bit of everything sprinkled throughout; creatures, creepiness, supernatural, aliens, body horror and just plain bizarre. I absolutely loved this book! The first story was just so gross and over the top, but it also hooked me right in. If you love horror and can handle some squeamish parts, give this one a read!
January 5, 2022
Not every story hit for me, but this was pretty good for a debut collection from a first-time author. His passion and enthusiasm for the horror genre certainly shines through. And that cover art is solid!
Standouts:
The Stranger In The Squared Circle
A Bloody Heist
The Old Bay King
Standouts:
The Stranger In The Squared Circle
A Bloody Heist
The Old Bay King
July 14, 2021
I had no idea what to expect when I picked this book up, having missed the teaser release of The Old Bay King which came out right before the book. What I *really* didn't expect was so much variety.
It's been a weird year for me, in that I've read more collections than I ever usually would. Some have been thematically quite strongly inter-related, or share a location, but this was quite the opposite, moods and settings shifting from one story to the next.
There were, of course, themes present in the writing. One is the harking back to the golden age of slasher horror movies, and some of the sceneries here recreated those films perfectly. Another is revenge on dreadful humans, which I am fully supportive of.
The lengths of the stories is something that varied greatly, too, with a couple of novelettes here, alongside some tales which were not much longer than flash fiction. This meant there was always that sense of uncertainty over what was coming next, and often led me to take the plunge to the next story.
Overall, an excellent collection and I'll certainly be keeping my eyes peeled for what Goodman serves up next.
It's been a weird year for me, in that I've read more collections than I ever usually would. Some have been thematically quite strongly inter-related, or share a location, but this was quite the opposite, moods and settings shifting from one story to the next.
There were, of course, themes present in the writing. One is the harking back to the golden age of slasher horror movies, and some of the sceneries here recreated those films perfectly. Another is revenge on dreadful humans, which I am fully supportive of.
The lengths of the stories is something that varied greatly, too, with a couple of novelettes here, alongside some tales which were not much longer than flash fiction. This meant there was always that sense of uncertainty over what was coming next, and often led me to take the plunge to the next story.
Overall, an excellent collection and I'll certainly be keeping my eyes peeled for what Goodman serves up next.
August 2, 2021
4.5 stars
I wrote in my review of “The Old Bay King” (one of the short stories in this collection) that Donnie Goodman could go toe-to-toe with Brian Keene. That statement still rings true after completing The Razorblades In My Head.
While every story in this collection is great, the aforementioned “Old Bay King” and “A Bloody Heist” are the 2 standouts.
Whatever you do, don’t sleep on Donnie Goodman. He’s one of those rare talents that will only continue to hone his craft and get better with each new story. Looking forward to a full length soon.
I wrote in my review of “The Old Bay King” (one of the short stories in this collection) that Donnie Goodman could go toe-to-toe with Brian Keene. That statement still rings true after completing The Razorblades In My Head.
While every story in this collection is great, the aforementioned “Old Bay King” and “A Bloody Heist” are the 2 standouts.
Whatever you do, don’t sleep on Donnie Goodman. He’s one of those rare talents that will only continue to hone his craft and get better with each new story. Looking forward to a full length soon.
September 14, 2021
2 out of 12 ain’t bad
12 stories. 2 great stories and 10 not so good.
Those 10 are either under-developed or predictable. I think 10 of these shorts could have been really good if they had a couple of extra pages.
Okay, now for the good: “A Stranger in the Squared Circle “ is so good, it’s worth the price of the book. I think it’s also the longest one. The other one I loved is “The Old King Bay”.
I’m really looking forward to Donnie Goodman’s future books! I know he can write!
12 stories. 2 great stories and 10 not so good.
Those 10 are either under-developed or predictable. I think 10 of these shorts could have been really good if they had a couple of extra pages.
Okay, now for the good: “A Stranger in the Squared Circle “ is so good, it’s worth the price of the book. I think it’s also the longest one. The other one I loved is “The Old King Bay”.
I’m really looking forward to Donnie Goodman’s future books! I know he can write!
Read
August 8, 2021Setting this one aside for the time being, although not because it's not worth a read! It is very well written, but I think I started it too late at night and now I'm terrified of razorblades coming out of my forehead :O Great for horror fans, for sure! I'll probably come back to this around Hallowe'en or when I'm feeling braver, haha.
October 30, 2021
A really fantastic debut. As I say every single goddamn time I review a short collection or anthology - I'm very picky about them. I often get bored and it takes me a long time to read them because I feel the need to pause and take a break between stories. So when I truly enjoy one, I think it's noteworthy. The one point of criticism I have is that there were a few stories that I just wish were taken even further. I wanted the author to really push into them. But hey, that's short stories for you.
And can we talk about the fucking artwork here? Kudos to Justin T Coons. I loved reading the stories in this collection and going back to the cover art to see where they were represented.
Really, a great debut. Lots of different themes explored. You can tell the author has a clear sense of the voice in his stories, and made sure to change it up so they didn't all take the same note. Definitely worth the read.
And can we talk about the fucking artwork here? Kudos to Justin T Coons. I loved reading the stories in this collection and going back to the cover art to see where they were represented.
Really, a great debut. Lots of different themes explored. You can tell the author has a clear sense of the voice in his stories, and made sure to change it up so they didn't all take the same note. Definitely worth the read.
April 2, 2022
3.5 stars
My favorites were Hourglass and Teddy.
My favorites were Hourglass and Teddy.
June 21, 2021
The Rocks in My Head...
No spoilers. 3 stars. I anxiously awaited the release of this collection because of reading the author's short story THE OLD BAY KING which was excellent...
There are 12 stories in this collection but sadly not all of them were as stellar as THE OLD BAY KING. I've rated each story individually...
THE RAZORBLADES IN MY HEAD: 3 stars.
A man discovered a painful acne-like lump on his head one morning and concludes that scars are not a sign of healing but are a reminder of what we have buried beneath the skin...
THIRD GRADE: 3 stars.
A little boy journals his (innocent?) exploits in the third grade...
STARGAZING: 3 stars.
Imani wakes from a nightmare in which her little brother is swallowed by deep dark chasm only to wake up to the real nightmare...
GOBBLE, GOBBLE: 2 stars.
Garth and Clint prepare to kill their last lot of turkeys at the processing plant but they find that these turkeys have a longer shelf life...
MAGIC IN THE HAT: 3 stars.
The 3 boys called themselves The Priviledged Kids Gang and every winter they raised hell in their gated community but this year they picked the wrong house to vandalize...
IT'S NOT ALWAYS KNOWING WHY: 2 stars.
A young girl shambles toward a hospital maternity ward from the Shenandoah mountains to steal a baby boy. She wants to know why (and I still don't know why)...
THE STRANGER IN THE SQUARED CIRCLE: 4 stars.
Luke is scheduled to spar in the boxing ring with an unknown talent known as the Stranger. What Luke doesn't know is that this match is going to make them both famous and they will be working together in the future (I get no punch from boxing stories)...
TOASTED: 2 stars.
Rachael carefully paces in her living room: I am done, this is over, she says...
TEDDY 3 stars.
The devil doesn't have a face but he is real and the earth is full of evil things so Wallace becomes a paranormal cremator. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, as they say...
A BLOODY HEIST. 3 stars.
Four vampires plan to hijack an armored truck for some very valuable cargo...
HOURGLASS: 4 stars.
Jerry is attending his very first sacrifice. The victim is tied to a chair and everything is in place when one of the attendees drops and breaks the ceremonial hourglass...
THE OLD BAY KING: 5 stars.
This is a seafaring story of two men marooned at sea on their crabbing trawler while trying to catch a great load of crabs to pay back a loan to local thug Otis, also known as The Old Bay King because of his seafood chain of plants...
Overall I would give this collection 3 stars. The standouts were THE OLD BAY KING, THE STRANGER IN THE SQUARED CIRCLE and TEDDY.
No spoilers. 3 stars. I anxiously awaited the release of this collection because of reading the author's short story THE OLD BAY KING which was excellent...
There are 12 stories in this collection but sadly not all of them were as stellar as THE OLD BAY KING. I've rated each story individually...
THE RAZORBLADES IN MY HEAD: 3 stars.
A man discovered a painful acne-like lump on his head one morning and concludes that scars are not a sign of healing but are a reminder of what we have buried beneath the skin...
THIRD GRADE: 3 stars.
A little boy journals his (innocent?) exploits in the third grade...
STARGAZING: 3 stars.
Imani wakes from a nightmare in which her little brother is swallowed by deep dark chasm only to wake up to the real nightmare...
GOBBLE, GOBBLE: 2 stars.
Garth and Clint prepare to kill their last lot of turkeys at the processing plant but they find that these turkeys have a longer shelf life...
MAGIC IN THE HAT: 3 stars.
The 3 boys called themselves The Priviledged Kids Gang and every winter they raised hell in their gated community but this year they picked the wrong house to vandalize...
IT'S NOT ALWAYS KNOWING WHY: 2 stars.
A young girl shambles toward a hospital maternity ward from the Shenandoah mountains to steal a baby boy. She wants to know why (and I still don't know why)...
THE STRANGER IN THE SQUARED CIRCLE: 4 stars.
Luke is scheduled to spar in the boxing ring with an unknown talent known as the Stranger. What Luke doesn't know is that this match is going to make them both famous and they will be working together in the future (I get no punch from boxing stories)...
TOASTED: 2 stars.
Rachael carefully paces in her living room: I am done, this is over, she says...
TEDDY 3 stars.
The devil doesn't have a face but he is real and the earth is full of evil things so Wallace becomes a paranormal cremator. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, as they say...
A BLOODY HEIST. 3 stars.
Four vampires plan to hijack an armored truck for some very valuable cargo...
HOURGLASS: 4 stars.
Jerry is attending his very first sacrifice. The victim is tied to a chair and everything is in place when one of the attendees drops and breaks the ceremonial hourglass...
THE OLD BAY KING: 5 stars.
This is a seafaring story of two men marooned at sea on their crabbing trawler while trying to catch a great load of crabs to pay back a loan to local thug Otis, also known as The Old Bay King because of his seafood chain of plants...
Overall I would give this collection 3 stars. The standouts were THE OLD BAY KING, THE STRANGER IN THE SQUARED CIRCLE and TEDDY.
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