Monday, February 3, 2020

Review: SHORT HORROR STORIES VOLUME 10 (SCARE STREET)


5 Stars

"Pictures On The Wall" by Ron Ripley: 
This short story delightfully reminded me both of H. P. Lovecraft's "Picture In The  House," and of characters in Grade B horror films.  You know whom: they consult Ouija boards, hold seances, enter abandoned buildings at night, all because their egotism is even greater than their skepticism. 

Such is the protagonist here: a wealthy, successful,  author, Neil buys a triptych of an early Colonial manor. Once a single painting,  it was divested into three sections.  So naturally Mr. Ego, disregarding the testament he discovers hidden in the frame,  hangs the sections as one unit again.  Oh well. Pride and hubris always precede a fall. What a horrific Avenue to discovery!

"Photography " by Ron Ripley: 

Lindy is a dedicated Spirit Photographer. Convinced that often Spirits are trapped in objects, she searches yard sales, estate sales, and flea markets for whatever objects psychically move her, then photographs them in her home. Finally,  she endeavours to release the Spirits so they may find Peace. 

Unfortunately sometimes good intentions have the road to hell.

"An Artist's Purpose " by Rowan Rook:

This story also reminds me of Lovecraft: of Dreaming Cthulhu calling to the minds of men (primarily artists, writers, poets, and other creatives) with Strange and Arcane dreams.  A Seattle artist planning for an upcoming showcase purchases a too-cheap, damaged, cabin on Mt. Baker, seeking inspiration in the absolute quiet of isolation.  Inspiration results--but the cost is horrifying nightmares, not just for the Artist. 

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