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A Blackness Absolute: A Collection of Short Horror
A Blackness Absolute is a collection of short horror stories by up-and-coming Canadian author Caitlin Marceau. The collection takes in uncertainties of perception, feelings of vulnerability—to the weather, the natural world, the tenuousness of sanity—and mixes these elements with a strong sense of history and folklore. From the title piece, which evokes the pure claustrophobic terror of becoming lost and disoriented in a cave-system, to the final tale, Doireann, where a woman performs unusual funeral rites in a starving community, each story layers ambiguities to create an unnerving effect that will get under your skin.
If you love great storytelling, creepy atmospherics, and stories that instil a sense of dread that will return to you in the dead of night, then you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this masterful collection. These stories will linger long after you close the book.
PRAISE FOR A BLACKNESS ABSOLUTE : “Caitlin Marceau explores the familial bonds that tie us together and break us down like no other. Her work bleeds Canadiana like thick maple syrup and lingers long after you've left the page.”
— Lor Gislason, author of Inside Out "In her latest collection, Caitlin Marceau continues to display her boundless creativity and inventiveness. With surgical precision, she cuts into the hearts and minds of her doomed characters, extracting gothic tales of ghostly betrayal, teenage revenge, cloying claustrophobia, statuesque sirens and more. Marceau understands the terror that waits in the dark places beyond the seemingly Everyday. Fans will not be disappointed, and new readers will find themselves falling deep into A Blackness Absolute."
-- Laura Keating, author of Agony's Lodestone "A sharp tongue stretching deep into the collective unconscious, like campfire stories, to divine a vast array of hells to chill you with. A Blackness Absolute stitches together Junji Ito-esque horrors that crawl into some atavistic part of your brain and take root there, shading your dreams with dread and uncertainty. Marceau has written a reflection on the terrifying ways in which time stains everything, unforgivably, into states of ruin. She cuts, with serrated edge, into the pure, disturbing imagination of nightmares, and sustains terror from start to finish. Creepy as hell. Utterly addictive and compellingly frightening. A remarkable ride I cannot recommend enough."
-- Sofia Ajram, author of The Arborglyph "Another dark and desolate collection from a fantastic new talent; Marceau understands how to tap into the root of deep, inescapable fear, and applies it with calculated precision. The title of the collection functions as both a siren and a warning—there are no happy endings here, no last-minute saviours. Creeping, incremental dread unspools around you like cold rope, pulling you down into a dark and infinite void, and the last lines of these stories gut-punch hard, leaving you winded but wanting more."
-- Lindz McLeod, author of Turducken
If you love great storytelling, creepy atmospherics, and stories that instil a sense of dread that will return to you in the dead of night, then you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this masterful collection. These stories will linger long after you close the book.
PRAISE FOR A BLACKNESS ABSOLUTE : “Caitlin Marceau explores the familial bonds that tie us together and break us down like no other. Her work bleeds Canadiana like thick maple syrup and lingers long after you've left the page.”
— Lor Gislason, author of Inside Out "In her latest collection, Caitlin Marceau continues to display her boundless creativity and inventiveness. With surgical precision, she cuts into the hearts and minds of her doomed characters, extracting gothic tales of ghostly betrayal, teenage revenge, cloying claustrophobia, statuesque sirens and more. Marceau understands the terror that waits in the dark places beyond the seemingly Everyday. Fans will not be disappointed, and new readers will find themselves falling deep into A Blackness Absolute."
-- Laura Keating, author of Agony's Lodestone "A sharp tongue stretching deep into the collective unconscious, like campfire stories, to divine a vast array of hells to chill you with. A Blackness Absolute stitches together Junji Ito-esque horrors that crawl into some atavistic part of your brain and take root there, shading your dreams with dread and uncertainty. Marceau has written a reflection on the terrifying ways in which time stains everything, unforgivably, into states of ruin. She cuts, with serrated edge, into the pure, disturbing imagination of nightmares, and sustains terror from start to finish. Creepy as hell. Utterly addictive and compellingly frightening. A remarkable ride I cannot recommend enough."
-- Sofia Ajram, author of The Arborglyph "Another dark and desolate collection from a fantastic new talent; Marceau understands how to tap into the root of deep, inescapable fear, and applies it with calculated precision. The title of the collection functions as both a siren and a warning—there are no happy endings here, no last-minute saviours. Creeping, incremental dread unspools around you like cold rope, pulling you down into a dark and infinite void, and the last lines of these stories gut-punch hard, leaving you winded but wanting more."
-- Lindz McLeod, author of Turducken
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2023
11 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Caitlin Marceau
69 books292 followersCaitlin Marceau is a queer Canadian author and illustrator based in Montreal. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing, is an Active Member of the Horror Writers Association, and has spoken about genre literature at several Canadian conventions. Her work includes Femina, A Blackness Absolute, and her award-winning novella, This Is Where We Talk Things Out. Her second novella, I’m Having Regrets, and her debut novel, It Wasn’t Supposed To Go Like This, are set for publication in 2024. For more, visit CaitlinMarceau.ca or find her on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 9, 2024
the second story, "Sarah" was absolutely my favorite!
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February 21, 2023All manner of unfortunate creatures and events plague the characters in A BLACKNESS ABSOLUTE: ghosts, curses, cruelty, bad luck. Curiosity is rarely rewarded here, but YOU will be enthralled and creeped out by this dark collection of stories by Caitlin Marceau.
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October 4, 2024
4.5 Stars
I thought that this was a great collection of Horror stories that were exactly as advertised!
A Blackness Absolute: A great morbid story to kickoff this book. Paranoia and delusion were well executed.
Sarah: A cool and creepy revenge horror story.
The Broomway: This one was my favorite. It started out a little difficult for me to understand the formatting, but once finished I really appreciated the olde time "Spookiness" this story emulated.
In Obeisance Park: Probably the most f*cked up lol! Definitely was not expecting that ending!
Gordon: Creepy and haunting.
The Blue: A very cool little Mythological/Urban Legend like story.
Barmbrack: I think this was the most tame out of the stories, it was okay for me.
Doireann: I didn't quite understand this one, but I think that falls on me as the reader for not being familiar with some of the source material. Creepy, but some of it went over my head.
I thought that this was a great collection of Horror stories that were exactly as advertised!
A Blackness Absolute: A great morbid story to kickoff this book. Paranoia and delusion were well executed.
Sarah: A cool and creepy revenge horror story.
The Broomway: This one was my favorite. It started out a little difficult for me to understand the formatting, but once finished I really appreciated the olde time "Spookiness" this story emulated.
In Obeisance Park: Probably the most f*cked up lol! Definitely was not expecting that ending!
Gordon: Creepy and haunting.
The Blue: A very cool little Mythological/Urban Legend like story.
Barmbrack: I think this was the most tame out of the stories, it was okay for me.
Doireann: I didn't quite understand this one, but I think that falls on me as the reader for not being familiar with some of the source material. Creepy, but some of it went over my head.
August 29, 2023
incredibly predictable
June 8, 2023
A Blackness Absolute
Extremely predictable for starters…
Being stuck in a dark cave should be horrifying, but somehow, this story had me rolling my eyes in annoyance more than fearful. Like yes, let’s just run blindly in the dark after some figure who we think is our boyfriend, but who is completely disregarding you and leading you into a narrower and narrower tunnel, to lodge yourself into and die.. Makes sense to me. 🙄 1/5
Sarah
Meh. I wish she would’ve taken that anger out on her sad excuse of a father. 1.5/5
The Broomway
Crappy man who had terrible plans for his family, but that came back to haunt him.
0/5 just because I found this one extremely boring. Okay, 1/5 since I did at least finish it.
In Obeisance Park
This was a decent read. I was at least curious to see how this one ended. It was weird, but not bad. 2.5/5
Gordon
This was the longest story in here and it wasn’t bad at all. In fact, it was the best one. Was Penny really going “crazy” or was there really some creepy old ghost dude in her house? 3/5
The Blue
I found this one to be over far too quickly. It was a bit disappointing. 2/5
Barmbrack
I’m seriously trying not to be an asshole here or overly critical, but I’m seriously questioning whether I’m reading the same stories as everyone else. This one was too short and again, not scary even a little.
Doireann
1/5
I understand these are short stories and this is a novella, but these stories just feel incomplete. None are scary and I understood this to be a horror novel…. I guess I expected something different than this. Odds are, I won’t be checking out any other of this author’s works because this was a complete and utter disappointment, which sucks because I was extremely excited for this. Overall, 1.5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2025
Usually with short story collections there’s one or two in the bunch that I like and the rest are meh. This collection is really special because I ADORED every single story! They all got under my skin in their own way and left me craving more from this author, they msg even become a new auto buy author. That’s how good this collection is! And to make it even sweeter, the author is based in my hometown of Montreal!
March 2, 2023
Overall, I think this is a really strong collection! Just felt like a few of the stories needed more explanation and/or description. It was great otherwise! Will definitely read more from this author in the future 😀
October 20, 2023
Absolutely Fantastic!
This is my second read by Caitlin Marceau and I am blown away by her talent. 8 stories. 8 absolutely brilliant stories that will make you feel uneasy, will haunt you, or make you ponder over for days. This is how horror is done right!
This is my second read by Caitlin Marceau and I am blown away by her talent. 8 stories. 8 absolutely brilliant stories that will make you feel uneasy, will haunt you, or make you ponder over for days. This is how horror is done right!
January 30, 2023
This is my first time reading this authors work, Caitlin is definitely worthy of your time. This novella contains 8 short stories each one has its own creepiness to it. Her story tell is top notch and I'll definitely be reading more of her work!
December 31, 2023
I squeezed another book into 2023, so now I can finish on the beautiful number of 111. I shouldn't get as much of a kick out of that but I do. Book was just fine though. Another spontaneous find for me, considering I am usually such a planned and organized reader, I had quite a number of spur of the moment books. Which I don't mind, I would like to go a bit more with my mood and what life/ bookshops/ libraries flow at me but I had lost that a bit in the past because my to-read list is kind of intimidating, deviating from the plan always seemed like I would never get through that list. Not sure why my attitude has changed but I actually really enjoy more in this style. Hope I can bring that over into the new year.
Doesn't mean every book I choose that way will be a slam dunk. This collection here was really just fine and in a year where I had several absolutely amazing collections, "just fine" is rather underwhelming. I liked Marceau's writing but something about how she lays out most of these tales wasn't for me. Truth to be told, they were often very predictable. Going with that I think there is too much tell vs show: if a short story requires you to give a ton of background info on the character or the situation or you need several pages to explain the curse, then maybe it should've been a longer story so this could be webbed more organically into the story. Whenever Marceau lets a story simply unfold, this gets good. 2 stories in particular do that, unsurprisingly those were the slightly longer ones. She gives room to breathe and develop on its own and it works. Those went directions that weren't completely foreseeable, I could get invested in what was going on here.
But she doesn't operate like that often, in most of these stories we get some clunky tell moment and some over enunciated foreshadowing of what's to come. Doesn't mean I wouldn't read from her again because I think this is definitely something a writer can easily improve on. And given how good and atmospheric her writing is, her sentence by sentence work is what I liked. I actually think she might shine much stronger in a novel or novella. While some writers can switch back and forth, others are truly better in certain lengths. Or maybe these were just not my cup of tea (though isn't 'show don't tell' something most of us readers prefer?).
It was a quick read, 9 short pieces. I had no problem churning this out in under 48 hours while I was emotionally not necessarily in the best place. It was easy reading, and I actually needed some easy reading. I just wish these stories had been more captivating.
2.5*
My top 3:
3) A Blackness Absolute
2) Gordon
1) Doireann
My bottom 3:
3) In Obeisance Park
2) The Blue
1) The Broomway
Doesn't mean every book I choose that way will be a slam dunk. This collection here was really just fine and in a year where I had several absolutely amazing collections, "just fine" is rather underwhelming. I liked Marceau's writing but something about how she lays out most of these tales wasn't for me. Truth to be told, they were often very predictable. Going with that I think there is too much tell vs show: if a short story requires you to give a ton of background info on the character or the situation or you need several pages to explain the curse, then maybe it should've been a longer story so this could be webbed more organically into the story. Whenever Marceau lets a story simply unfold, this gets good. 2 stories in particular do that, unsurprisingly those were the slightly longer ones. She gives room to breathe and develop on its own and it works. Those went directions that weren't completely foreseeable, I could get invested in what was going on here.
But she doesn't operate like that often, in most of these stories we get some clunky tell moment and some over enunciated foreshadowing of what's to come. Doesn't mean I wouldn't read from her again because I think this is definitely something a writer can easily improve on. And given how good and atmospheric her writing is, her sentence by sentence work is what I liked. I actually think she might shine much stronger in a novel or novella. While some writers can switch back and forth, others are truly better in certain lengths. Or maybe these were just not my cup of tea (though isn't 'show don't tell' something most of us readers prefer?).
It was a quick read, 9 short pieces. I had no problem churning this out in under 48 hours while I was emotionally not necessarily in the best place. It was easy reading, and I actually needed some easy reading. I just wish these stories had been more captivating.
2.5*
My top 3:
3) A Blackness Absolute
2) Gordon
1) Doireann
My bottom 3:
3) In Obeisance Park
2) The Blue
1) The Broomway
August 3, 2023
Something I’ve really come to love with Caitlin Marceau’s writing is her ability to make something small, innocent, and honestly sort of pleasant into horror. Nice little hike? HORROR. Finding a little toy boat on a nice peaceful little lake? HORROR. A Blackness Absolute is filled with these types of stories. Something quiet that turns into something chilling or unsettling in a way that only Marceau could accomplish. Another of Marceau’s strengths are her characters; I feel we have met these people at least once in our lives. Another solid collection and great read from one of the best modern horror writers in the indie scene. K thx.
February 22, 2023
A new pet might have friends.. A trip to a old mine leads to danger. And other tales to chill you.
January 19, 2024
Rating: 4 stars.
A short collection of horror shorts. Strong themes of death and helplessness, the inevitability of disaster and tragedy once the ball starts rolling.
A short collection of horror shorts. Strong themes of death and helplessness, the inevitability of disaster and tragedy once the ball starts rolling.
December 17, 2022
Caitlin Marceau is blessed with the ability to tell a story that evokes so much emotion that it lingers with you long after you finish reading. The stories range from science fiction/fantasy to supernatural to horror. When I got to the end, I immediately wanted to go back to the start and read them all over again.
My favorite, Sarah, not only had an extremely vile male antagonist, it also had a sinister twist that I never saw coming. My heart started beating faster as I read the last paragraph and it stayed with me long after finishing the book. Another favorite, The Broomway, was slightly reminiscent of Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart. I love that the storytelling immerses you into the story so well that you feel that you are there and feeling the emotions of the characters.
Marceau is definitely not a one trick (or one genre) pony. She excels at every story she writes and is a true literary talent. She has quickly become a “must-read” author for me.
My favorite, Sarah, not only had an extremely vile male antagonist, it also had a sinister twist that I never saw coming. My heart started beating faster as I read the last paragraph and it stayed with me long after finishing the book. Another favorite, The Broomway, was slightly reminiscent of Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart. I love that the storytelling immerses you into the story so well that you feel that you are there and feeling the emotions of the characters.
Marceau is definitely not a one trick (or one genre) pony. She excels at every story she writes and is a true literary talent. She has quickly become a “must-read” author for me.
August 23, 2023
Honestly, I don't know if its personal preference or being delulu. But this book didn't hit like I thought it would.
For a horror collection. Nothing was at all scary. I've seen reddit AITA posts that are scarier.
A few were super predictable or the main character was stupid. Some were mildly confusing.
I felt like for most there was info that was needed and should of been replaced with tension and build up.
However, I'm going to give this a crisp 2 star because 1 or 2 stories, if fleshed out, I would of greatly enjoyed as their own novellas.
For a horror collection. Nothing was at all scary. I've seen reddit AITA posts that are scarier.
A few were super predictable or the main character was stupid. Some were mildly confusing.
I felt like for most there was info that was needed and should of been replaced with tension and build up.
However, I'm going to give this a crisp 2 star because 1 or 2 stories, if fleshed out, I would of greatly enjoyed as their own novellas.
May 14, 2023
Darkness looms just beyond our fingertips in Caitlin Marceau's quiet, astounding new collection. You'll be enreated to claustrophobic panic in the titular story, haunting revenge in "The Broomway", darkened ambitions in "Sarah" and more. Marceau lures you in with nostalgia and normalcy until you're close enough for her to snap the trap down. Let yourselves be swallowed in A BLACKNESS ABSOLUTE.
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February 8, 2025These short stories are eery and disturbing, and wonderfully written. Each of the characters, background, and plot of each story are wildly unique. Many of the characters are battling their own inner demons and they show the darker side of humanity. I also LOVE the genderqueer/nonbinary representation in "BARMBRACK." Queer representation is very much needed and appreciated by those of us in the LGBTQ+ community.
It's easy to read Caitlin's work as the writing is always fluid and keeps your attention. I'm currently reading my fourth book by her and have really liked all of them so far! Definitely give this one a read if you like short, light horror stories!
It's easy to read Caitlin's work as the writing is always fluid and keeps your attention. I'm currently reading my fourth book by her and have really liked all of them so far! Definitely give this one a read if you like short, light horror stories!
March 6, 2023
A well-executed, creepy and often unsettling collection of short horror/dark fiction stories.
I am sure there will be something here for everyone, and the two stories I enjoyed the most are:
-Sarah: A cruel short tale about a father with strong religious bias and a child who is trying to live with a facial disfigurement.
-The Broomway: A haunting and bleak tale about a man’s terribly dark plan for his family.
Will definitely read more from this author.
I am sure there will be something here for everyone, and the two stories I enjoyed the most are:
-Sarah: A cruel short tale about a father with strong religious bias and a child who is trying to live with a facial disfigurement.
-The Broomway: A haunting and bleak tale about a man’s terribly dark plan for his family.
Will definitely read more from this author.
January 4, 2023
"He hadn’t wanted to come back to the small town, and once there he’d been desperate to leave"
.
ABA is a collection of short stories from Caitlin and includes the following;
A Blackness Absolute --> In an abandoned mineshaft, Zoey and her boyfriend Liam go on an adventure. But disaster is right around the corner... File this one under what could be called a "real world horror". There is that sense of this story could be based on a true story. It is very well done, and you do get a sense of the terror Zoey is experiencing throughout this one. A strong opener, with an interesting element towards the end. 4.5/5
Sarah --> Sarah's life is one dominated by her father, Clifford, a Lutheran reverend. In a rare moment of kindness, Sarah's request for a birthday party leads to an unexpected conclusion... I like the 1950/60s setting to this. Adds a certain charm to it. Then there's the cruelty level. Something is not outright said, but your mind fills in the gaps of what's there. An unexpected, but a satisfyingly twisted end to this one. 4.5/5
The Broomway --> Edgar is determined to cross the Broomway, and we hear of his deeper connection with the river... I don't want to say too much about this one, for fear of spoilers BUT what I shall say is it is a good story which plays on a familiar theme and topic. I did see a few things coming, but this is still another well done story and I did enjoy it. 4.25/5
IN OBEISANCE PARK --> Not too long ago, Obeisance Park was a nice place to visit. Now, it's been left to its own devices. Tucker takes a short cut through the abandoned park, but on his travels finds a ship floating in a pond, and retrieves it but gets a great surprise... This is nice. I like it. You do get a real sense of what the park is like, and can picture being there with Tucker. The plot does get a bit unusual, but it's still good. I can't help but feel the ending could have been longer, but it was still good. 4.25/5
Gordon --> Penny, a lonely older woman, has been gifted a new friend in the form of a ginger cat named Gordon. The cat soon makes itself at home, but as it does, strange events begin to plague Penny... This one plays on a familiar trope of whether it is all real vs is Penny imagining it, and it makes for a really exciting read because of that notion. There is a lot that is heavily implied and hinted at through this story and never outright said, and I think that works well. Probably my favourite in the collection. 5/5
The Blue --> Thomas and Reid are going on an adventure, kayaking. But Thomas isn't keen on the idea... An interesting one, which deals with desire and what the price of such desires can be. I enjoyed it again, and don't want to sa to much as spoilers. 4.25/5
Barmback --> An Irish family gather for a special Halloween meal, and Rileigh wants more... A bit difficult to explain this one, but I did enjoy the Irish angle Caitlin took this time, and the sort of cultural exploration with this tale has. It's good, fast paced, but I do wish it was longer, and we had more. 4/5
Doireann --> Doireann has survived many harsh winters, and has lost many friends along the way.... Again, a nice Irish angle to this one. A good story, but I do wish it was longer, and we explored things that bit more. 4/5
.
Overall 4.25/5 for this collection. A superb collection of short fiction which shows why Marceau is one of the hottest talents in the horror game. Many thanks to Caitlin and the good people of Ghost Orchid Press for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
.
ABA is a collection of short stories from Caitlin and includes the following;
A Blackness Absolute --> In an abandoned mineshaft, Zoey and her boyfriend Liam go on an adventure. But disaster is right around the corner... File this one under what could be called a "real world horror". There is that sense of this story could be based on a true story. It is very well done, and you do get a sense of the terror Zoey is experiencing throughout this one. A strong opener, with an interesting element towards the end. 4.5/5
Sarah --> Sarah's life is one dominated by her father, Clifford, a Lutheran reverend. In a rare moment of kindness, Sarah's request for a birthday party leads to an unexpected conclusion... I like the 1950/60s setting to this. Adds a certain charm to it. Then there's the cruelty level. Something is not outright said, but your mind fills in the gaps of what's there. An unexpected, but a satisfyingly twisted end to this one. 4.5/5
The Broomway --> Edgar is determined to cross the Broomway, and we hear of his deeper connection with the river... I don't want to say too much about this one, for fear of spoilers BUT what I shall say is it is a good story which plays on a familiar theme and topic. I did see a few things coming, but this is still another well done story and I did enjoy it. 4.25/5
IN OBEISANCE PARK --> Not too long ago, Obeisance Park was a nice place to visit. Now, it's been left to its own devices. Tucker takes a short cut through the abandoned park, but on his travels finds a ship floating in a pond, and retrieves it but gets a great surprise... This is nice. I like it. You do get a real sense of what the park is like, and can picture being there with Tucker. The plot does get a bit unusual, but it's still good. I can't help but feel the ending could have been longer, but it was still good. 4.25/5
Gordon --> Penny, a lonely older woman, has been gifted a new friend in the form of a ginger cat named Gordon. The cat soon makes itself at home, but as it does, strange events begin to plague Penny... This one plays on a familiar trope of whether it is all real vs is Penny imagining it, and it makes for a really exciting read because of that notion. There is a lot that is heavily implied and hinted at through this story and never outright said, and I think that works well. Probably my favourite in the collection. 5/5
The Blue --> Thomas and Reid are going on an adventure, kayaking. But Thomas isn't keen on the idea... An interesting one, which deals with desire and what the price of such desires can be. I enjoyed it again, and don't want to sa to much as spoilers. 4.25/5
Barmback --> An Irish family gather for a special Halloween meal, and Rileigh wants more... A bit difficult to explain this one, but I did enjoy the Irish angle Caitlin took this time, and the sort of cultural exploration with this tale has. It's good, fast paced, but I do wish it was longer, and we had more. 4/5
Doireann --> Doireann has survived many harsh winters, and has lost many friends along the way.... Again, a nice Irish angle to this one. A good story, but I do wish it was longer, and we explored things that bit more. 4/5
.
Overall 4.25/5 for this collection. A superb collection of short fiction which shows why Marceau is one of the hottest talents in the horror game. Many thanks to Caitlin and the good people of Ghost Orchid Press for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
August 2, 2023
Ok, dos cosas.
Primera: no me gusta ser innecesariamente negativo, en especial con libros que son de géneros cercanos a mi corazón y aún más con autores emergentes en estos géneros. Negatividad literaria ya hay, de sobra, no se necesita mucho más de eso.
Con eso dicho... Este libro se me hizo tan, tan malo. Ni siquiera malo en una forma interesante, sino aburridamente malo. La primera historia (la que titula el libro) parece salida uno libro de Goosebumps y no de los buenos. No me explico porqué decidieron titular la colección como este cuento tan chimbo, a menos que sea una decisión de marketing para acompañar la portada (qué es maravillosa, hay que decirlo).
Hay unos cuentos que tienen potencial: The Bromwood, es gozador aunque uno sabe en la segunda página cómo va a terminar. Gordon es el cuento más largo y tiene potencial, si algo porque incluye gatos. Doireann fue por mucho mi cuento favorito, el final me encantó. Ese cuento por si sólo es la única razón por la que le pongo dos estrellas y no una.
El resto de cuentos son desesperadamente obvios. No les sentí ningún transfondo emocional y la estructura del *gotcha* moment en la última página para el tercer cuento ya te tiene molesto. En casi todos los cuentos supe el desenlace mucho antes de que se acabara el cuento (en especial en en cuento de la hija del pastor, santa madre).
Segunda cosa: me dio por mirar otras reseñas de este libro aquí en Goodreads mientras escribía la mía , y me encontré gente hablando de "game changer", "chilling" y no sé qué más términos de marketing digital que... Parce, ¿Leeímos el mismo libro? ¿"Arriesgado y atmosférico"? ¿Dónde putas?
Voy a seguir leyendo a la autora, definitivamente hay potencial ahí. Ahora esas reseñas hechas por equipos de marketing para subir calificación se me hacen re deshonestas. Es casi como intentar cañar al lector.
Llevaba resto de tiempo sin arrepentirme por comprar un libro solamente por su portada, sin buscar nada con anterioridad. Ahí tengo pues.
Primera: no me gusta ser innecesariamente negativo, en especial con libros que son de géneros cercanos a mi corazón y aún más con autores emergentes en estos géneros. Negatividad literaria ya hay, de sobra, no se necesita mucho más de eso.
Con eso dicho... Este libro se me hizo tan, tan malo. Ni siquiera malo en una forma interesante, sino aburridamente malo. La primera historia (la que titula el libro) parece salida uno libro de Goosebumps y no de los buenos. No me explico porqué decidieron titular la colección como este cuento tan chimbo, a menos que sea una decisión de marketing para acompañar la portada (qué es maravillosa, hay que decirlo).
Hay unos cuentos que tienen potencial: The Bromwood, es gozador aunque uno sabe en la segunda página cómo va a terminar. Gordon es el cuento más largo y tiene potencial, si algo porque incluye gatos. Doireann fue por mucho mi cuento favorito, el final me encantó. Ese cuento por si sólo es la única razón por la que le pongo dos estrellas y no una.
El resto de cuentos son desesperadamente obvios. No les sentí ningún transfondo emocional y la estructura del *gotcha* moment en la última página para el tercer cuento ya te tiene molesto. En casi todos los cuentos supe el desenlace mucho antes de que se acabara el cuento (en especial en en cuento de la hija del pastor, santa madre).
Segunda cosa: me dio por mirar otras reseñas de este libro aquí en Goodreads mientras escribía la mía , y me encontré gente hablando de "game changer", "chilling" y no sé qué más términos de marketing digital que... Parce, ¿Leeímos el mismo libro? ¿"Arriesgado y atmosférico"? ¿Dónde putas?
Voy a seguir leyendo a la autora, definitivamente hay potencial ahí. Ahora esas reseñas hechas por equipos de marketing para subir calificación se me hacen re deshonestas. Es casi como intentar cañar al lector.
Llevaba resto de tiempo sin arrepentirme por comprar un libro solamente por su portada, sin buscar nada con anterioridad. Ahí tengo pues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2023
This is my first contact with Marceau's work, and it was a pleasant surprise as I'm used to reading short story collections that only one or two stories actually worth my time.
I have three favorites from this book: "A Blackness Absolute," "Gordon," and "Doireann" and while I didn't connect with the rest of the stories that much, they were definitely well-written and had enough of the horror/gore you'd expect in a horror collection.
Marceau's strength lies in how she builds tension. "Gordon" is an excellent example of sl0w-burn tension and horror in-between the lines; "A Blackness Absolute" made me feel uneasy because I'm claustrophobic, but I was so eager to read on, and "Doireann" is visceral and horrific in the subtle way it introduces desperate actions in desperate times.
What I would have liked to see more is experimentation with POVs and form. I feel like 3rd POV has been used so often across so many books and stories; I always prefer reading 1st POV or weird POVs or multi-POVs within the same story as it makes it look less 'safer,' and it gives off a kind of unique voice. However, this is just personal preference.
All in all, this has to be one of the most remarkable short story collections I've read so far in 2023 and overall in the horror genre. I'll definitely keep an eye out for Caitlin's work. It unsettles you and keeps you on edge, like what good horror is supposed to do.
I have three favorites from this book: "A Blackness Absolute," "Gordon," and "Doireann" and while I didn't connect with the rest of the stories that much, they were definitely well-written and had enough of the horror/gore you'd expect in a horror collection.
Marceau's strength lies in how she builds tension. "Gordon" is an excellent example of sl0w-burn tension and horror in-between the lines; "A Blackness Absolute" made me feel uneasy because I'm claustrophobic, but I was so eager to read on, and "Doireann" is visceral and horrific in the subtle way it introduces desperate actions in desperate times.
What I would have liked to see more is experimentation with POVs and form. I feel like 3rd POV has been used so often across so many books and stories; I always prefer reading 1st POV or weird POVs or multi-POVs within the same story as it makes it look less 'safer,' and it gives off a kind of unique voice. However, this is just personal preference.
All in all, this has to be one of the most remarkable short story collections I've read so far in 2023 and overall in the horror genre. I'll definitely keep an eye out for Caitlin's work. It unsettles you and keeps you on edge, like what good horror is supposed to do.
March 11, 2023
(Rounded up from 4 1/2)
I do have one complaint about this collection of short stories that I just want to get out of the way, because I think it is unlikely to be an issue for most readers, and it's the only thing keeping me from giving it the full 5 stars.
I thought the stories were too short.
I have been absolutely spoiled by Marcaeu's work, and I have fallen so in love with her novellas. My complaint with virtually every story in this collection is that I thought the characters were interesting, I loved the premise, and I wanted to see each entry last about 100-200 pages.
Unfortunately for me, none of them did. That's not how short stories work.
Otherwise, I thought the collection was great. All of the entries brought something to the table, a vivid setting, a compelling premise, flawed characters, twists. I think the collection has a little something for everyone.
My favorite from the collection was the titular "A Blackness Absolute" which I think had the best pacing and some of the strongest prose.
I would highly recommend this if you're looking for short horror or are a fan of Caitlin's other work.
I do have one complaint about this collection of short stories that I just want to get out of the way, because I think it is unlikely to be an issue for most readers, and it's the only thing keeping me from giving it the full 5 stars.
I thought the stories were too short.
I have been absolutely spoiled by Marcaeu's work, and I have fallen so in love with her novellas. My complaint with virtually every story in this collection is that I thought the characters were interesting, I loved the premise, and I wanted to see each entry last about 100-200 pages.
Unfortunately for me, none of them did. That's not how short stories work.
Otherwise, I thought the collection was great. All of the entries brought something to the table, a vivid setting, a compelling premise, flawed characters, twists. I think the collection has a little something for everyone.
My favorite from the collection was the titular "A Blackness Absolute" which I think had the best pacing and some of the strongest prose.
I would highly recommend this if you're looking for short horror or are a fan of Caitlin's other work.
January 28, 2024
A Blackness Absolute is a collection of short stories - the title piece and seven others. Each one crafted by an exquisitely talented hand.
I think some people would expect horror to rely on the monsters under your bed and demons from hell to provide the scares, but a truly talented writer uses their environment to unsettle you.
Caitlin makes incredible use of the setting itself to make your skin crawl. The use of the dark, the cold, the general unease of the things about you to get the little hairs on your neck stranding straight up, and she does it masterfully.
These tales are all uncomfortable, but each in their own different way. I devoured them all and while ‘A Blackness Absolute’ and ‘In Obeisance park’ were front runners, I have to say that ‘Sarah’ was the stand out story for me. I can only dream about writing something that perfect.
I think even if traditional horror isn’t your thing, then this book could still be for you as it absolutely falls into the realm of unsettling tales over killer clowns and cryptids.
I think some people would expect horror to rely on the monsters under your bed and demons from hell to provide the scares, but a truly talented writer uses their environment to unsettle you.
Caitlin makes incredible use of the setting itself to make your skin crawl. The use of the dark, the cold, the general unease of the things about you to get the little hairs on your neck stranding straight up, and she does it masterfully.
These tales are all uncomfortable, but each in their own different way. I devoured them all and while ‘A Blackness Absolute’ and ‘In Obeisance park’ were front runners, I have to say that ‘Sarah’ was the stand out story for me. I can only dream about writing something that perfect.
I think even if traditional horror isn’t your thing, then this book could still be for you as it absolutely falls into the realm of unsettling tales over killer clowns and cryptids.
January 4, 2025
I love horror short story collections, and this one did not disappoint! This is my second read from Caitlin Marceau (I read her novella This is Where We Talk Things Out last month) and I continue to be impressed by her work. Everything she writes manages to be the perfect blend of atmospheric and unnerving—Marceau’s brand of horror is more subtle, and she pulls it off well.
All of the stories contained here are fantastic, but the standouts for me were “Sarah” and the titular “A Blackness Absolute.”
(Side note: I met Caitlin Marceau over the past summer at a local horror book fest, and she was SO kind and signed all of the books I purchased from her. Definitely check out her stuff!)
All of the stories contained here are fantastic, but the standouts for me were “Sarah” and the titular “A Blackness Absolute.”
(Side note: I met Caitlin Marceau over the past summer at a local horror book fest, and she was SO kind and signed all of the books I purchased from her. Definitely check out her stuff!)
December 4, 2023
3.5/5 - creepy, subtle, unsettling.
I liked Caitlin Marceau's writing style overall.
The thing about this book is some of the creepiness is more subtle than you'd think looking at the cover. Marceau is great in each of the stories at building suspense, slowly enticing you into her world, and then subsequently ripping out your heart at the end.
Though I understand they're short stories a bit of a knock as some I felt were too short and could benefit from building a bit more of a relationship with the characters to really hammer home the fear.
I liked Caitlin Marceau's writing style overall.
The thing about this book is some of the creepiness is more subtle than you'd think looking at the cover. Marceau is great in each of the stories at building suspense, slowly enticing you into her world, and then subsequently ripping out your heart at the end.
Though I understand they're short stories a bit of a knock as some I felt were too short and could benefit from building a bit more of a relationship with the characters to really hammer home the fear.
December 19, 2022
In "A Blackness Absolute", Caitlin Marceau offers us eight creepy and fantastical tales. She weaves her narrative deftly and obviously does the research required to get the details right; this is particularly evident in tales like "In Obeisance Park" and "Doireann". My personal favourite, however, is "Sarah", a tale about a girl with a cleft lip and an impending birthday party. If you've not read Caitlin's work before, this is a great place to start.
January 8, 2023
A Blackness Absolute is another knock out collection by Marceau! A Blackness Absolute, Sarah and Gordon are my favorites, but each story promises unforgettable moments and characters that will stay with you long after you are done reading.
I love how Marceau takes realistic or relatable situations and then BAM! A horrific twist. Lovers of horror will soon find a favorite author within Marceau's work. I know I have!
Highly recommend
I love how Marceau takes realistic or relatable situations and then BAM! A horrific twist. Lovers of horror will soon find a favorite author within Marceau's work. I know I have!
Highly recommend
February 8, 2024
I tried to pace myself, so as to savour the quality of the stories longer, but ended up galloping through this almost compulsively.
There’s such a fantastic range of subjects, from creepy to supernatural, and some real emotional gut punches in the sharp conclusions to stories like The Broomway and Barmbrack, plus the fabulous conclusion, Doireann.
Can’t wait to get started on the next Marceau book.
There’s such a fantastic range of subjects, from creepy to supernatural, and some real emotional gut punches in the sharp conclusions to stories like The Broomway and Barmbrack, plus the fabulous conclusion, Doireann.
Can’t wait to get started on the next Marceau book.
March 15, 2025
I loved how each story was like entering a snapshot of someone's life. The setting and atmosphere were immersive and believable. My only critique is some of the plots for these stories felt predictable. Despite this, I did discover a favorite in this collection, called "In Obeisance Park". In this mini story, a young boy finds an unusual toy ship and gets transported to the crew. The twist was unexpected and I thought it was well done.
March 18, 2023
Fun short stories but I would have liked tighter writing. Some environmental horror that really stuck with me. A couple very short fable-like stories I liked. Good to read around a campfire or out loud with friends!
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