Forrest’s Reviews > The Double Star and Other Occult Fantasies > Status Update

I'm not overly fond of fiction set in ancient times. Not sure why, but by and large the "Classical" ages of Egypt, Greece, and Rome mostly bore me. Still, if this story goes as horribly wrong as I expect it will, that will over-ride my feelings about setting.

Another circus story, this one entitled "Red Lust," isn't quite as effective as "Sapho," as it misses the cleverness of the former tale. La Vaudere has a fascination with black panthers and circuses, I've noticed. Still, a good story, well-told. It could have benefited with a little more background on the antagonist, Antonia. A solid four stars, though.

"Sapho" is a clever little story. Very clever. Very short. Who is the real hunter and prey in this tale? It all depends on your perspective. Five stars.

"Yvaine" is a convoluted, engrossing tale of love, betrayal, incest, murder, black magic, and spectral vengeance. The framing mechanisms' dated feel do not lessen the impact of the story. Like all great horrific tales, this one extends far beyond the pages, with an ending full of frisson. How this story was not anthologized several times over, I don't know. To me, it is a Classic. This story is worth the book's $. 5*

"Sorcerer". Huh. Didn't see that one coming. This tale has become even more intriguing.

And there's the story's pivot. And the twist . . .?

A bit of a slow start to "Yvaine," but I've warmed up to it. Sometimes languorous beginnings lead to exciting endings!

"Astral Amour" suffers from the same structural weakness-of-frame as "Reincarnation", and is more predictable in its ending. It is not quite as effective as the preceding tale, but it still stands with a high degree of quality and writerly aplomb. Four stars.

This page contains the most eloquent description of anti-natalism I've ever read. And making anti-natalism into a thing of eloquence is quite a feat.