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The Darkest Night: 22 Winter Horror Stories
From some of the biggest names in horror comes an Advent calendar of short stories perfect for the darkest nights of the year. Edited by award-winning author and anthologist Lindy Ryan, this horrific anthology will chill you to the bone.From New York Times bestselling author of Bird Box Josh Malerman, a story of a dark Christmas past in “Children Aren’t The Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents Are Hidden.” From national bestselling author Rachel Harrison, “Thaw,” in which a couple spends their first Christmas together in a cabin—but are they alone, or does something else watch them from the tree line? New York Times bestselling authors, Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon’s “Wintry Blue” sets an innocent child on the road with a strange and monstrous creature. Bram Stoker Award®-winning screenwriter of Netflix’s Haunting of Bly Manor and The Fall of the House of Usher, in Jamie Flanagan’s “Bruiser,” something sinister stalks the chilling hallways of a nursing home at night. Author of Such a Pretty Smile, Kristi DeMeester, tells a tale of “Eggnog” a Christmas party, an over-friendly female coworker, and an angry wife are the recipe for a deadly cocktail party. Plus stories by Nat Cassidy, Darcy Coates, Clay McLeod Chapman, Tim Waggoner, and many more, with an introduction by George C. Romero and art by renowned British horror artist Mister Sam Shearon.
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 24, 2024
About the author
Lindy Ryan
27 books341 followersLINDY RYAN is a Bram Stoker Awards®-nominated and Silver Falchion Award-winning editor, author, short-film director, and professor. Ryan is the current author-in-residence at Rue Morgue, the world’s leading horror culture and entertainment brand, and a columnist at Booktrib. Her guest articles and features include NPR, BBC Culture, Irish Times, Daily Mail, and more. In 2022, she was named one of horror's most masterful anthology curators, alongside Ellen Datlow and Christopher Golden, and has been declared a "champion for women's voices in horror" by Shelf Awareness (2023). Her animated short film, TRICK OR TREAT, ALISTAIR GRAY, based on her children's book of the same name, won the Grand Prix Award at the 2022 ANMTN Awards.
Ryan is currently a full-time professor at Rutgers University in the Masters of Professional Science program, She is also a guest faculty mentor in Western Connecticut State’s MFA program. In 2017, Ryan founded Black Spot Books, an independent press focused on amplifying underrepresented voices in horror, acquired in 2019 as an imprint of Vesuvian Media Group. Ryan served from 2020 to 2022 on the Board of Directors for the Independent Book Publishers Association and was named one of Publishers Weekly‘s 2020 Star Watch Honorees.
Ryan is currently a full-time professor at Rutgers University in the Masters of Professional Science program, She is also a guest faculty mentor in Western Connecticut State’s MFA program. In 2017, Ryan founded Black Spot Books, an independent press focused on amplifying underrepresented voices in horror, acquired in 2019 as an imprint of Vesuvian Media Group. Ryan served from 2020 to 2022 on the Board of Directors for the Independent Book Publishers Association and was named one of Publishers Weekly‘s 2020 Star Watch Honorees.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 22, 2024
My thanks to Lindy Ryan, Crooked Lane books and Netgalley.
This was not as terrific as I was hoping for.
Truth is that I nearly d.n.f.'d this thing. So many wonderful authors that I figured this would be pretty damned good. Oops! I'm not going to say who I thought stunk, but I will say that some of the stinkiest came from established authors.
I do often wonder if some established authors send in their crap to lesser known editors and publishers. If so, then it was on full display here.
It did take me up until the forth or fifth story to even find something that I liked. And that's usually too late.
There are most certainly some really decent shorties here. There's just enough bad ones though that makes me give this anthology a middle of the road rating.
This was not as terrific as I was hoping for.
Truth is that I nearly d.n.f.'d this thing. So many wonderful authors that I figured this would be pretty damned good. Oops! I'm not going to say who I thought stunk, but I will say that some of the stinkiest came from established authors.
I do often wonder if some established authors send in their crap to lesser known editors and publishers. If so, then it was on full display here.
It did take me up until the forth or fifth story to even find something that I liked. And that's usually too late.
There are most certainly some really decent shorties here. There's just enough bad ones though that makes me give this anthology a middle of the road rating.
August 22, 2024
I was excited to receive this ARC as it promised chilling yuletide stories from some of the top names in modern horror: Josh Malerman, Clay McLeod Chapman, M. Rickert, Nat Cassidy, Rachel Harrison, Darcy Coates, and more! With tales of grief and familial disputes to creature features and hauntings, there is bound to be something in this collection for every kind of horror lover. Best read—I imagine—with a cup of hot apple cider on a snowy day during the winter solstice.
Thoughts:
It’s a bold move to begin a collection with two stories told in second person narrative as I know this could turn a lot of people off. While reading the second story, I found myself begging with the short story gods that this was not going to be a recurring theme and that all of the stories would not be in second person. Luckily, my prayers were answered. Still, many of the stories in this collection were rather mundane and failed to grasp me in their claws. Some were great, some were not. And since the audience seems so skewed on their likes and dislikes, I can’t really recommend one story over another… You will just have to read and find your own favorites!
Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the digital copy! Out 09/24/2024!
Thoughts:
It’s a bold move to begin a collection with two stories told in second person narrative as I know this could turn a lot of people off. While reading the second story, I found myself begging with the short story gods that this was not going to be a recurring theme and that all of the stories would not be in second person. Luckily, my prayers were answered. Still, many of the stories in this collection were rather mundane and failed to grasp me in their claws. Some were great, some were not. And since the audience seems so skewed on their likes and dislikes, I can’t really recommend one story over another… You will just have to read and find your own favorites!
Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the digital copy! Out 09/24/2024!
September 3, 2024
“Snow! It pelted the windows. It drifted softly. It hardened to ice. It blew in angry swirls like the dust of ghosts. It came with a howling wind. It arrived in the night, hushed as whispers.”
While in the midst of autumn, it’s never too early to start dreaming of darker nights in the bitter cold of winter. And if you’re wondering what to read when the icy fingers of winter’s frost come knocking at your door, might I suggest a short story collection?
THE DARKEST NIGHT features 22 wintery stories ranging from dark fantasy to pure horror and written by many of our favorite authors. In Josh Malerman’s Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents Are Hidden, a repressed memory has returned to haunt its holiday-hating protagonist. In Clay Chapman McLeod’s Mr. Butler, a child’s imaginary friend (or foe?) returns at his doorstep. Eric LaRocca’s I Hope This Finds You Well follows a narrator who receives a letter from an acquaintance about ominous concerns involving a very exclusive gentlemen's club. And author Lee Murray’s Father’s Last Christmas is a contemporary retelling of a dark Brothers Grimm fairytale.
Many of these stories center grief, loss, death, and melancholy memories–perfect for a season where all life is in hibernation or met its end. Get a head start on your winter reading list by adding this collection to your shelves when it arrives September 24th, and prepare for the chills!
(Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for this early review copy!)
While in the midst of autumn, it’s never too early to start dreaming of darker nights in the bitter cold of winter. And if you’re wondering what to read when the icy fingers of winter’s frost come knocking at your door, might I suggest a short story collection?
THE DARKEST NIGHT features 22 wintery stories ranging from dark fantasy to pure horror and written by many of our favorite authors. In Josh Malerman’s Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents Are Hidden, a repressed memory has returned to haunt its holiday-hating protagonist. In Clay Chapman McLeod’s Mr. Butler, a child’s imaginary friend (or foe?) returns at his doorstep. Eric LaRocca’s I Hope This Finds You Well follows a narrator who receives a letter from an acquaintance about ominous concerns involving a very exclusive gentlemen's club. And author Lee Murray’s Father’s Last Christmas is a contemporary retelling of a dark Brothers Grimm fairytale.
Many of these stories center grief, loss, death, and melancholy memories–perfect for a season where all life is in hibernation or met its end. Get a head start on your winter reading list by adding this collection to your shelves when it arrives September 24th, and prepare for the chills!
(Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for this early review copy!)
August 25, 2024
These 22 wintery horror stories are a great way to wave goodbye to the heat of summer and kick off the start of spooky season.
I enjoyed the thrills, chills and a bit of dark humor.
A girl seeks out the help of a witch to heal her brother's failing heart.
A teenager on the cusp of adulthood learns that his final childhood gift from Santa will be a lump of coal. Is there time to get on the nice list before Christmas Eve is over? His attempts are gruesome and hilarious.
A very good boy learns from an elf that working conditions are unbearable at the North Pole. It would be so much easier at Santa's workshop if the naughty list was longer. Of course any good child would want to help make that happen, with bloody and horrific results.
An exhausted new mother is made to feel like a frumpy house frau by the office flirt at her husband's work party. Revenge is not a dish served cold, but a festive glass of Christmas cheer.
A woman who blames herself for a Christmas tragedy gets a chance for a do-over.
A romantic weekend in a cozy cabin complete with festive decorations and a snowman in the yard doesn't go quite as planned as a woman starts to notice some traits of toxic masculinity... and hey is that snowman coming closer?
A good Samaritan stops his car on an icy mountain road to help an injured woman, and puts himself and his daughter at risk.
An empty box mysteriously appears on the porch and there is no way to be rid of it until it gets what it wants.
The Darkest Night is 322 pages of delightfully deadly fun.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books.
I enjoyed the thrills, chills and a bit of dark humor.
A girl seeks out the help of a witch to heal her brother's failing heart.
A teenager on the cusp of adulthood learns that his final childhood gift from Santa will be a lump of coal. Is there time to get on the nice list before Christmas Eve is over? His attempts are gruesome and hilarious.
A very good boy learns from an elf that working conditions are unbearable at the North Pole. It would be so much easier at Santa's workshop if the naughty list was longer. Of course any good child would want to help make that happen, with bloody and horrific results.
An exhausted new mother is made to feel like a frumpy house frau by the office flirt at her husband's work party. Revenge is not a dish served cold, but a festive glass of Christmas cheer.
A woman who blames herself for a Christmas tragedy gets a chance for a do-over.
A romantic weekend in a cozy cabin complete with festive decorations and a snowman in the yard doesn't go quite as planned as a woman starts to notice some traits of toxic masculinity... and hey is that snowman coming closer?
A good Samaritan stops his car on an icy mountain road to help an injured woman, and puts himself and his daughter at risk.
An empty box mysteriously appears on the porch and there is no way to be rid of it until it gets what it wants.
The Darkest Night is 322 pages of delightfully deadly fun.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books.
July 5, 2024
This anthology is absolutely stacked with some of my favorite horror authors so, naturally, I was thrilled to be able to receive this ARC. And, man, it did not disappoint!
All of these stories are set in the cold, icy, forlorn months of winter, the perfect setting for some serious scares. You'll find such a superb diversity of themes and tropes that it's extremely difficult to pick favorites.
You have the creepy and strange, the bloody and gory, the sad and terribly haunting, and even the slightly more humorous tongue in cheek.
From Santa to wood witches. Lovers and Kings. Loneliness and longing. They're all in this collection.
Clay McLeod Chapman even manages to bring terror to something as simple as an empty cardboard box! Hailey Piper gives us a story of profound loss which turns into something darkly fantastical. Jeff Strand and Nat Cassidy both bring stories which bring the pain... and some chuckles. Eric Larocca gives us a creepy look into a secret society. The list goes on and on.
This is an absolutely stellar collection of horror stories and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
All of these stories are set in the cold, icy, forlorn months of winter, the perfect setting for some serious scares. You'll find such a superb diversity of themes and tropes that it's extremely difficult to pick favorites.
You have the creepy and strange, the bloody and gory, the sad and terribly haunting, and even the slightly more humorous tongue in cheek.
From Santa to wood witches. Lovers and Kings. Loneliness and longing. They're all in this collection.
Clay McLeod Chapman even manages to bring terror to something as simple as an empty cardboard box! Hailey Piper gives us a story of profound loss which turns into something darkly fantastical. Jeff Strand and Nat Cassidy both bring stories which bring the pain... and some chuckles. Eric Larocca gives us a creepy look into a secret society. The list goes on and on.
This is an absolutely stellar collection of horror stories and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
May 22, 2024
The Goodreads description for this anthology says “Perfect for Halloween” but this is actually a Winter/holiday collection, and even then many of them follow that theme very loosely. I do enjoy a good frosty scare, and personally I would recommend reading something like this in November - January.
However, let me caution you that this collection is not what I would call “scary.” My overall critique will probably sound harsh, but I’ve read several of these holiday anthologies now and it’s getting pretty tough to find good ones. I’m also a bit letdown that a dusting of snow on the ground at one point in the story for a brief moment is enough to qualify some of these for the theme.
Out of 22 stories I only liked maybe 8 or 9 of them, and as I went through and gave them individual ratings I would say only a few got 4 or 5 stars.
A couple of tales in this collection would do pretty well in a gross out contest, many were just kind of boring or mediocre, and a few were a bit cringe. I’ve definitely seen better from most of these talented and established authors. I even disliked some stuff here by writers whose work I usually enjoy. (Examples: Nat Cassidy, M Rickert and Clay McLeod Chapman.)
The stories that I did like were good because they were either very unique or extremely holiday forward and fun. It’s always interesting to read other reviews and see how nobody ever likes the same pieces that I did. A few highlights (for me) were:
- “Threads of Epiphany” by Sara Tantlinger, a beautiful and haunting folk tale (typically not my thing!)
- “The Vermin Moon” by Hailey Piper. Really fucking weird and I liked it a lot. Many reviewers seemed to dislike this one but I was surprised by how much it appealed to me, especially considering that this author’s work hasn’t been my thing in the past.
- “Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents Are Hidden” by Josh Malerman. Very creepy and effective, but also felt like a companion story for his upcoming novel “Incidents Around the House,” which I loved.
- “Wintry Blue” by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon. So much more action and plot than all the others. A little trope-y but I’ll forgive it because it was exciting and the closest thing to actual Winter horror in this whole anthology. Except for maybe….
- “Thaw” by Rachel Harrison, *Cute* and very Christmasy. I love her books.
There are indeed lots of big authors in this story collection, but I would personally recommend that you seek out their solo works or look elsewhere if you want a truly satisfying Wintery or holiday horror experience. This is not their shining moment, for the most part, nor did it make me feel the chills I was hoping for.
Regardless, thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
TW: Child death, Animal harm/death, Suicide, Domestic abuse, Cannibalism, Depression, Mention of SA
However, let me caution you that this collection is not what I would call “scary.” My overall critique will probably sound harsh, but I’ve read several of these holiday anthologies now and it’s getting pretty tough to find good ones. I’m also a bit letdown that a dusting of snow on the ground at one point in the story for a brief moment is enough to qualify some of these for the theme.
Out of 22 stories I only liked maybe 8 or 9 of them, and as I went through and gave them individual ratings I would say only a few got 4 or 5 stars.
A couple of tales in this collection would do pretty well in a gross out contest, many were just kind of boring or mediocre, and a few were a bit cringe. I’ve definitely seen better from most of these talented and established authors. I even disliked some stuff here by writers whose work I usually enjoy. (Examples: Nat Cassidy, M Rickert and Clay McLeod Chapman.)
The stories that I did like were good because they were either very unique or extremely holiday forward and fun. It’s always interesting to read other reviews and see how nobody ever likes the same pieces that I did. A few highlights (for me) were:
- “Threads of Epiphany” by Sara Tantlinger, a beautiful and haunting folk tale (typically not my thing!)
- “The Vermin Moon” by Hailey Piper. Really fucking weird and I liked it a lot. Many reviewers seemed to dislike this one but I was surprised by how much it appealed to me, especially considering that this author’s work hasn’t been my thing in the past.
- “Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents Are Hidden” by Josh Malerman. Very creepy and effective, but also felt like a companion story for his upcoming novel “Incidents Around the House,” which I loved.
- “Wintry Blue” by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon. So much more action and plot than all the others. A little trope-y but I’ll forgive it because it was exciting and the closest thing to actual Winter horror in this whole anthology. Except for maybe….
- “Thaw” by Rachel Harrison, *Cute* and very Christmasy. I love her books.
There are indeed lots of big authors in this story collection, but I would personally recommend that you seek out their solo works or look elsewhere if you want a truly satisfying Wintery or holiday horror experience. This is not their shining moment, for the most part, nor did it make me feel the chills I was hoping for.
Regardless, thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
TW: Child death, Animal harm/death, Suicide, Domestic abuse, Cannibalism, Depression, Mention of SA
April 10, 2024
The Darkest Night is a collection of winter-themed horror that offers something to satisfy almost any reader. While many of the stories are just above average in quality, there are very few that are below average. If you're in the mood for a return to the Christmas season, or you just want to read a few thoughtful, dark stories by good writers, this book is for you. Standouts include contributions by Clay McLeod Chapman, Nat Cassidy, Jeff Strand and Jamie Flanagan.
A frosty thank you to Penguin Random House and Edelweiss+ for the ARC.
A frosty thank you to Penguin Random House and Edelweiss+ for the ARC.
April 9, 2024
Horror stories are my favorite but want to know what my absolute favorite is…dark winter horror anthologies with so many of my favorite authors! That’s right!!! This book was packed with so many good spooky gems…22 😱 to be exact! I think I loved every single one of them and don’t even ask me to choose a favorite. Loved them all honestly! You’ll be thinking about these stories long after you’ve read them.
Take your time, open up the book and read one or two or more curled up in a cozy chair with a warm drink! I love setting these out on my coffee table for some evening reading. This needs to be on your TBR!! Even in summer—it’s a good time for a good ghostly story around the campfire right?!
Thank you @netgalley and @crookedlanebooks for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Take your time, open up the book and read one or two or more curled up in a cozy chair with a warm drink! I love setting these out on my coffee table for some evening reading. This needs to be on your TBR!! Even in summer—it’s a good time for a good ghostly story around the campfire right?!
Thank you @netgalley and @crookedlanebooks for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2024
I devoured these spooky holiday stories, each with their own terrifying twist. While horror can (and should) be read year round, I feel these are best suited for the winter holidays.
Like most anthologies, some stories resonated better than others, but none of them completely missed the mark. Standouts to me were tales from Josh Malerman (had to turn the lights on to read it), Clay McLeod Chapman (What's in the Box?!), Kristi DeMeester (FAFO), Rachel Harrison (loved that ending), Mercedes M. Yardley (got me feeling feelings), and Jamie Flanagan (perfect storytelling).
I recommend this to any reader who likes a bit of horror with their hot cocoa.
Like most anthologies, some stories resonated better than others, but none of them completely missed the mark. Standouts to me were tales from Josh Malerman (had to turn the lights on to read it), Clay McLeod Chapman (What's in the Box?!), Kristi DeMeester (FAFO), Rachel Harrison (loved that ending), Mercedes M. Yardley (got me feeling feelings), and Jamie Flanagan (perfect storytelling).
I recommend this to any reader who likes a bit of horror with their hot cocoa.
May 4, 2024
Dark, eerie, ominous, and entertaining! This is a fantastic collection of short stories by an outstanding group of authors. I found this to be extremely well written, with a mix of first-, second-, and third-person pov. I loved the winter and holiday themes. Holifay horror is one of my favorite horror themes. While there were a few stories I didn't care for, I really liked the majority of them.
August 19, 2024
What a great winter anthology! I love horror in all its forms and cold weather horror is no exception. A few favorite stories were from Nat Cassidy, Rachel Harrison, Josh Malerman, Clay McLeod Chapman and Jamie Flanagan. Thank you so much to Crooked Lane & NetGalley for the ARC. This book publishes September 24, 2o24. You don't want to miss adding this to your winter TBR!
May 12, 2024
Mediocre collection of wintertime horror tales from a varying group of authors. Nothing great contained in here, as even the better stories are not particularly memorable. The worst is by Jeff Strand, a lame attempt at dark humor with Santa and a misbehaving 17-year-old. So cringy. Felt like the authors just submitted something they had lying around to get a place in the book. 2-2.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2024
Review to come upon release
August 10, 2024
So many of my favourite authors are in this and I can say they didn’t disappoint. Nice by Nat Cassidy was probably my favourite but Eric LaRocca and Clay McLeod Chapman were also standouts for me.
June 26, 2024
There are some powerful writers and voices that explode across the page in this collection.
The Darkest Night is a collection put together by Lindy Ryan and with a star studded lineup, I knew I immediately I had to read this. Not to mention the introduction is done by George C. Romero and that just sets the stage for these words to haunt me for times to come! As I found myself devouring this collection, each story blends masterfully and just tells truly a dark version of those cold and frigid nights.
What follows are some of my immediate thoughts and reactions as I finished each story in this collection.
To Hell With Hibernation
- I loved this to start out this collection. It’s campy but also has tinges of what I hope comes later! I’ve also never had a collection start with artwork like this making this a unique start!
The Mouthless Body in the Lake
- This was eerie and haunting. It gave me creepy vibes and has the best folk horror type ending!
Cold as Ice
- First of all, any time that I see Tim Waggoner’s name I get a special chill because his writing is just dark and twisted and he really is a master of horror writing.
- This story was exactly what I’ve come to to expect from Mr. Waggoner. This was dark, mysterious, had some fun fantastical elements and ended with a tongue in cheek ending that I never saw coming!
Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know
Where the Presents are Hidden
- Josh Malerman knows how to write some twisted family dynamics. Dynamics so twisted that when evil is introduced it feels welcomed. And these twists always unnerve me. Like I’m truly creeped out reading this.
The Vermin Moon
- Literary horror at its most squirmiest! This gave me the biggest ick like only Hailey Piper is able to do.
The Body of Leonora James
- Oh WOW! Okay this one surpassed me and I would KILL to get more of this story but told in an epic folk horror slasher!
Mr. Butler
- Clay. MCLEOD. CHAPMAN!!! Not only is this man a master of making the ordinary - petrifying, but his stories keep you nestled deep inside until he is ready to deliver the final soul crushing word. Loved this 100000%!!
Feast of Gray
- The mire that I continue to read by Lindy Ryan the more that I’m finding myself completely enmeshed with the story. The writing here is clean and superb but made me dark and seedy by the end of it!
I Hope This Finds You Well
- Eric LaRocca’s writing is positively despicable and disgusting and I for one CANNOT GET ENOUGH OF IT!! This story was unsettling to start and left me gasping for air by the end!
The Buried Child
- 😱😱😱 - this was as shocking as it was misleading! I find myself dry heaving just from the visual imagery alone!
Father’s Last Christmas
- This was amazing and I hope it is simply a prequel for a future Grim Dark series to come because this was a perfectly evil story from start to finish that surpassed any expectations I could have had!
The Warmth of Snow
- This was poetic and haunting! Not only did this feel beautiful but its lyrical composition grips the reader intensely!
Wintry Blue
- First of all Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon is a powerhouse duo!
- What a fun and interesting twist on the idea of a Wendigo. This myth has always been something I’ve enjoyed and this was a fun story showcasing it!
Carol of the Hells
- Dark and deliciously fun! A bit predictable in the end but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
Full of Toys
- Another really creative component of this collection that I think sets this apart from everything else!
Nice
- Nat Cassidy - you are one evil despicable person. But the way your brain works is truly next level horror. I’ve never had a harder time picking my jaw off of the floor. The buckets of blood abounded and I now worry about myself because of how much I really loved this.
Thaw
- I might have missed the catch on this one, but as anything Rachel Harrison writes, this was a campy good time! Though I definitely might be haunted by the Snowman from this story.
Candy Cane
- Ughhh this was creative and dark. This is another story that I’d love to get more from. I think there is so much more to explore and hope that we might see something similar or expanded in here!
Eggnog
- After Such a Pretty Smile, I knew that this writing style and theme exploration is one I’m into. However, this story reminded me even more how dark and twisted being a new mom can be. Gosh this was evil, but it was great.
- Perfect for upcoming fans of The Eyes are the Best Part!
Threads of Epiphany
- This is another GrimDark Esque story and was a fun adventure!
The Ladies’ Society for the Dead
- This story gave me goosebumps. It was mystical and magical and the last sentence was tragic and beautiful!
Being Nice
- When you think of campy Christmas horror this will forever be the story that comes to mind. Jeff Strand created yet another hysterical, but vastly enjoyable and dark, story!
Ghosted
- A fun tongue in cheek story where you can decide certain parts of it yourself!
Bruiser
- This is a resounding end to this collection and really I think pulls one last emotional impact!
After 22 entries in this collection, I can honestly say that I loved every moment of this. Readers are going to delight getting to experience some of the darkest nights that I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about!
The Darkest Night is a collection put together by Lindy Ryan and with a star studded lineup, I knew I immediately I had to read this. Not to mention the introduction is done by George C. Romero and that just sets the stage for these words to haunt me for times to come! As I found myself devouring this collection, each story blends masterfully and just tells truly a dark version of those cold and frigid nights.
What follows are some of my immediate thoughts and reactions as I finished each story in this collection.
To Hell With Hibernation
- I loved this to start out this collection. It’s campy but also has tinges of what I hope comes later! I’ve also never had a collection start with artwork like this making this a unique start!
The Mouthless Body in the Lake
- This was eerie and haunting. It gave me creepy vibes and has the best folk horror type ending!
Cold as Ice
- First of all, any time that I see Tim Waggoner’s name I get a special chill because his writing is just dark and twisted and he really is a master of horror writing.
- This story was exactly what I’ve come to to expect from Mr. Waggoner. This was dark, mysterious, had some fun fantastical elements and ended with a tongue in cheek ending that I never saw coming!
Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know
Where the Presents are Hidden
- Josh Malerman knows how to write some twisted family dynamics. Dynamics so twisted that when evil is introduced it feels welcomed. And these twists always unnerve me. Like I’m truly creeped out reading this.
The Vermin Moon
- Literary horror at its most squirmiest! This gave me the biggest ick like only Hailey Piper is able to do.
The Body of Leonora James
- Oh WOW! Okay this one surpassed me and I would KILL to get more of this story but told in an epic folk horror slasher!
Mr. Butler
- Clay. MCLEOD. CHAPMAN!!! Not only is this man a master of making the ordinary - petrifying, but his stories keep you nestled deep inside until he is ready to deliver the final soul crushing word. Loved this 100000%!!
Feast of Gray
- The mire that I continue to read by Lindy Ryan the more that I’m finding myself completely enmeshed with the story. The writing here is clean and superb but made me dark and seedy by the end of it!
I Hope This Finds You Well
- Eric LaRocca’s writing is positively despicable and disgusting and I for one CANNOT GET ENOUGH OF IT!! This story was unsettling to start and left me gasping for air by the end!
The Buried Child
- 😱😱😱 - this was as shocking as it was misleading! I find myself dry heaving just from the visual imagery alone!
Father’s Last Christmas
- This was amazing and I hope it is simply a prequel for a future Grim Dark series to come because this was a perfectly evil story from start to finish that surpassed any expectations I could have had!
The Warmth of Snow
- This was poetic and haunting! Not only did this feel beautiful but its lyrical composition grips the reader intensely!
Wintry Blue
- First of all Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon is a powerhouse duo!
- What a fun and interesting twist on the idea of a Wendigo. This myth has always been something I’ve enjoyed and this was a fun story showcasing it!
Carol of the Hells
- Dark and deliciously fun! A bit predictable in the end but I enjoyed it nonetheless!
Full of Toys
- Another really creative component of this collection that I think sets this apart from everything else!
Nice
- Nat Cassidy - you are one evil despicable person. But the way your brain works is truly next level horror. I’ve never had a harder time picking my jaw off of the floor. The buckets of blood abounded and I now worry about myself because of how much I really loved this.
Thaw
- I might have missed the catch on this one, but as anything Rachel Harrison writes, this was a campy good time! Though I definitely might be haunted by the Snowman from this story.
Candy Cane
- Ughhh this was creative and dark. This is another story that I’d love to get more from. I think there is so much more to explore and hope that we might see something similar or expanded in here!
Eggnog
- After Such a Pretty Smile, I knew that this writing style and theme exploration is one I’m into. However, this story reminded me even more how dark and twisted being a new mom can be. Gosh this was evil, but it was great.
- Perfect for upcoming fans of The Eyes are the Best Part!
Threads of Epiphany
- This is another GrimDark Esque story and was a fun adventure!
The Ladies’ Society for the Dead
- This story gave me goosebumps. It was mystical and magical and the last sentence was tragic and beautiful!
Being Nice
- When you think of campy Christmas horror this will forever be the story that comes to mind. Jeff Strand created yet another hysterical, but vastly enjoyable and dark, story!
Ghosted
- A fun tongue in cheek story where you can decide certain parts of it yourself!
Bruiser
- This is a resounding end to this collection and really I think pulls one last emotional impact!
After 22 entries in this collection, I can honestly say that I loved every moment of this. Readers are going to delight getting to experience some of the darkest nights that I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about!
March 28, 2024
'The Darkest Night' delivers exactly what it promises: 22 short stories of chilling holiday horror, every one a gem, with top quality writing and entertaining, original ideas. I was immediately intrigued by the anthology's concept (winter holiday horror). It's been a while since I've spent time on an anthology full of big names in the horror genre, and whose stories actually do stand up to the buzz. Usually, the stories by τhe so-called "big-names" turn out rather weak; so it's best for one to have low expectations. Not so here: the editor has made sure that the anthology has some really strong stories, by the likes of Tim Waggoner, Gwendolyn Kiste, Josh Malerman, Hailey Piper, Eric LaRocca, and so many others! Though it's not easy to pick favorites, I'll mention three groups of stories I found myself coming back to again and again. The first group are those stories which stood out for me far above the rest, not only due to the writing but also due to content: "Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents are Hidden" by Josh Malerman -creepy imagery, family trauma, genuine Christmas horror, and an incredible ending! Worth the price of the anthology alone; "The Mouthless Body in the Lake" by Gwendolyn Kiste, exactly what the title says, an absolute joy to read; again memorable visuals, this time combined with suspense and atmosphere, and another great ending! "Nice" by Nat Cassidy - a hilarious romp that turns very dark very fast, creepy child horror with a nasty ending. All these three stories have very satisfying endings! Then there's the group of three stories I enjoyed because they were entertainingly horrific and fantastically imaginative: "I Hope This Finds You Well" by Eric LaRocca, epistolary horror that manages to build its own world from scratch and end up with a unique last line whose subtlety lies in nothing ever being shown, the true horror left entirely to the reader's imagination; "The Vermin Moon" by Hailey Piper - the Piper story is difficult to summarize, as it rests on dialogue and introspection - haunting in its own peculiar way, very different from all the other stories in the anthology. This is the kind of story that's better experienced, plus the ending is totally unexpected! "Mr. Butler" by Clay McLeod Chapman: this story is unique for its originality - uncanny concepts, sinister vibes, great subtlety; it's as if Chapman was challenged to create a horror story out of a cardboard box (pun intended!) and came up with a wonderful little story setting your teeth on edge till the ending. Finally, three stories I'd recommend to anyone who has some time in their hands and just wants to read something good: "Cold as Ice" by Tim Waggoner - this story rests on one situation revealed in the beginning, and ends up filling it out till another big reveal in the end, a creature feature that turns into, well, something else; well-worth the read! "Thaw" by Rachel Harrison, a standard cabin-in-woods horror story, very well-written, a snapshot of cleverly told horror; "Wintry Blue" by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon, another creature feature with a monster in a snow storm, but with a twist: you actually watch the monster being created, not once, but twice! Before I finish the review, I ought to mention that if dark humor is your thing, there's a charming story by Jeff Strand, "Being Nice," a really funny story about naughtiness and Santa. It reads like a long joke, with a great punchline!
Overall, this is not an anthology to be missed: it has something for everyone, brimming with talent and outstanding ideas! Highly recommended to all!
Overall, this is not an anthology to be missed: it has something for everyone, brimming with talent and outstanding ideas! Highly recommended to all!
March 31, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC copy of The Darkest Night.
Okay, so I definitely requested this because I'm constantly chasing the terror "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark" gave me as a 7 year old (eg. the girl with the green ribbon) 😅 Some of these stories were so great and creepy, while some others were just really bad or unnecessarily gross or vulgar. I gave each story it's own rating and then averaged those for an overall rating, 3 stars!
The Mouthless Body in the Lake by Gwendolyn Kiste- 4 stars
Cold as Ice by Tim Waggoner- 4 stars
Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents are Hidden by Josh Malerman- 4 stars
The Vermin Moon by Hailey Piper- 1 star
The Body of Leonora James by Stephanie M. Wytovich- 1 star
Mr. Butler by Clay McLeod Chapman- 3 stars
Feast of Gray by Lindy Ryan and Christopher Brooks- 2 stars
I Hope This Finds You Well by Eric LaRocca- 3 stars
The Buried Child by M. Rickert - 2 stars
Father’s Last Christmas by Lee Murray - 5 stars
The Warmth of Snow by Cynthia Pelayo- 2 stars
Wintry Blue by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon - 4 stars
Carol of the Hells by Kelsea Yu - 3 stars
Nice by Nat Cassidy - 1 star
Thaw by Rachel Harrison - 2 stars
Candy Cane by Thommy Hutson - 5 stars
Eggnog by Kristi DeMeester - 4 stars
Threads of Epiphany by Sara Tantlinger - 5 stars
The Ladies’ Society for the Dead by Darcy Coates - 3 stars
Being Nice by Jeff Strand - 4 stars
Ghosted by Mercedes M. Yardley - 3 stars
Bruiser by Jamie Flanagan - 2 stars
Okay, so I definitely requested this because I'm constantly chasing the terror "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark" gave me as a 7 year old (eg. the girl with the green ribbon) 😅 Some of these stories were so great and creepy, while some others were just really bad or unnecessarily gross or vulgar. I gave each story it's own rating and then averaged those for an overall rating, 3 stars!
The Mouthless Body in the Lake by Gwendolyn Kiste- 4 stars
Cold as Ice by Tim Waggoner- 4 stars
Children Aren’t the Only Ones Who Know Where the Presents are Hidden by Josh Malerman- 4 stars
The Vermin Moon by Hailey Piper- 1 star
The Body of Leonora James by Stephanie M. Wytovich- 1 star
Mr. Butler by Clay McLeod Chapman- 3 stars
Feast of Gray by Lindy Ryan and Christopher Brooks- 2 stars
I Hope This Finds You Well by Eric LaRocca- 3 stars
The Buried Child by M. Rickert - 2 stars
Father’s Last Christmas by Lee Murray - 5 stars
The Warmth of Snow by Cynthia Pelayo- 2 stars
Wintry Blue by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon - 4 stars
Carol of the Hells by Kelsea Yu - 3 stars
Nice by Nat Cassidy - 1 star
Thaw by Rachel Harrison - 2 stars
Candy Cane by Thommy Hutson - 5 stars
Eggnog by Kristi DeMeester - 4 stars
Threads of Epiphany by Sara Tantlinger - 5 stars
The Ladies’ Society for the Dead by Darcy Coates - 3 stars
Being Nice by Jeff Strand - 4 stars
Ghosted by Mercedes M. Yardley - 3 stars
Bruiser by Jamie Flanagan - 2 stars
April 7, 2024
Wow, that was quite a wild ride! If you are like me and not that into the holidays, this is actually a pretty decent read. The book features a lot of heavy hitters and therefore is the reason why I requested this ARC (thank you NetGalley & the publisher for an ebook) and let me say, they don't disappoint one bit. But the tone and the theme varies GREATLY between the stories, and so does the talent.
I did take notes and rated each story by itself, and then I also happened to compare them to the "whole". There were a few stories, that I felt missed the mark. Or maybe the authors were trying to stand out. I will not be posting my full review because I rather people judge it for themselves. I see other people already posted and what they consider a 1 Star story, I have as a 5 Star story. So, to each their own, right? That's what reading is all about.
However, I would like to bring to light my delighted surprise at discovering a few (new to me) authors I have not read before: Hailey Piper, Lee Murray, Christopher Golden, Nat Cassidy, Kristi deMeester, & Jeff Strand. I will be on the lookout for their books!
My favorite story in the entire collection is probably because I am in a silly mood today and I loved the dialogue was 'Being Nice' by Jeff Strand. This story had me cracking up. Thank you!
I did take notes and rated each story by itself, and then I also happened to compare them to the "whole". There were a few stories, that I felt missed the mark. Or maybe the authors were trying to stand out. I will not be posting my full review because I rather people judge it for themselves. I see other people already posted and what they consider a 1 Star story, I have as a 5 Star story. So, to each their own, right? That's what reading is all about.
However, I would like to bring to light my delighted surprise at discovering a few (new to me) authors I have not read before: Hailey Piper, Lee Murray, Christopher Golden, Nat Cassidy, Kristi deMeester, & Jeff Strand. I will be on the lookout for their books!
My favorite story in the entire collection is probably because I am in a silly mood today and I loved the dialogue was 'Being Nice' by Jeff Strand. This story had me cracking up. Thank you!
July 19, 2024
I was quite looking forward to this read. I'm not a huge short story fan, but the idea of horror tales based around Christmas and winter was appealing. Reminds me of some of those old horror movies, like Silent Night Deadly Night. Sometimes taking that jolly theme and turning it on its head can be fun!
Unfortunately, a lot of the short tales failed to deliver, and I only found a few that I would highly rate. Every story is written to theme, which was promising. But I'm sure that other readers will enjoy the stories I didn't, which I suppose is the beauty of a collection like this. There's always something for everyone.
The stories I really enjoyed are:
Nice, by Nat Cassidy: this really twisted the Christmas spirit and I enjoyed the idea of the mischievous elf.
Eggnog, by Kristi DeMeester: I can see some readers shying away from the ending of this, but I thought it very well done.
The Vermin Moon, by Hailey Piper: this really built well and I liked the blend of emotion and horror.
Wintry Blue, by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon: this took me back to some of the horror novels I read in the 90s. Really enjoyed it.
There are many big authors in this collection, so I'm sure there's something for everyone. There are some not listed above that are still worth a read, but they just weren't centred in my wheelhouse.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a free copy for an honest review.
Unfortunately, a lot of the short tales failed to deliver, and I only found a few that I would highly rate. Every story is written to theme, which was promising. But I'm sure that other readers will enjoy the stories I didn't, which I suppose is the beauty of a collection like this. There's always something for everyone.
The stories I really enjoyed are:
Nice, by Nat Cassidy: this really twisted the Christmas spirit and I enjoyed the idea of the mischievous elf.
Eggnog, by Kristi DeMeester: I can see some readers shying away from the ending of this, but I thought it very well done.
The Vermin Moon, by Hailey Piper: this really built well and I liked the blend of emotion and horror.
Wintry Blue, by Christopher Golden and Tim Lebbon: this took me back to some of the horror novels I read in the 90s. Really enjoyed it.
There are many big authors in this collection, so I'm sure there's something for everyone. There are some not listed above that are still worth a read, but they just weren't centred in my wheelhouse.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a free copy for an honest review.
May 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
This is a really nifty little compendium of spooky horror reads, with some stories better than others (which is always the way in compilations anyhow!). It definitely doesn't fit the bill of a Halloween compendium, with a distinct Christmas lilt to most of the stories within. I am ordinarily not a huge fan of spooky Christmas fare, but I did enjoy reading some of the stories within this set of tales.
There were a couple of standouts in here, but I didn't find myself absolutely adoring any of them (which is really a shame!). I was hoping that there would be something a little more novel in here, or at least a more memorable one or two than what I ended up with. I really appreciate the opportunity to read this one, but I didn't find that it was quite for me unfortunately.
This is a really nifty little compendium of spooky horror reads, with some stories better than others (which is always the way in compilations anyhow!). It definitely doesn't fit the bill of a Halloween compendium, with a distinct Christmas lilt to most of the stories within. I am ordinarily not a huge fan of spooky Christmas fare, but I did enjoy reading some of the stories within this set of tales.
There were a couple of standouts in here, but I didn't find myself absolutely adoring any of them (which is really a shame!). I was hoping that there would be something a little more novel in here, or at least a more memorable one or two than what I ended up with. I really appreciate the opportunity to read this one, but I didn't find that it was quite for me unfortunately.
March 21, 2024
ARC for review. To be published September 24, 2024.
Twenty-two short horror stories about winter and the Christmas holidays by authors including Josh Malerman (BIRDBOX) and Rachel Harrison (BLACK SHEEP).
Short story collections are always a mi Ed bag but this one was actually pretty strong overall. Some really good talent here. I was surprised, though, to see a story from the editor as one of the selections…is that a thing? Anyway, my favorites were “I Hope This Finds You Well” by Eric LaRocca (definitely my favorite thing I’ve read of his,) “Mr. Butler” by Clay McLeod Chapman, “Eggnog” by Kristi DeMeester and “Threads of Epiphany” by Sara Tantlinger. If you enjoy horror anthologies don’t miss out on this one.
Twenty-two short horror stories about winter and the Christmas holidays by authors including Josh Malerman (BIRDBOX) and Rachel Harrison (BLACK SHEEP).
Short story collections are always a mi Ed bag but this one was actually pretty strong overall. Some really good talent here. I was surprised, though, to see a story from the editor as one of the selections…is that a thing? Anyway, my favorites were “I Hope This Finds You Well” by Eric LaRocca (definitely my favorite thing I’ve read of his,) “Mr. Butler” by Clay McLeod Chapman, “Eggnog” by Kristi DeMeester and “Threads of Epiphany” by Sara Tantlinger. If you enjoy horror anthologies don’t miss out on this one.
July 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
The Darkest Night.
I'm wary of short story collections but if its horror, sign me up!
The Darkest Night features short stories centered the happiest of all seasons, Christmas, from some of today's popular horror and thriller writers.
Just because it's Christmas doesn't mean it can't also be horrifying!
Usually, I only like one or a few stories in a compilation but I'm happy to say there were a lot of stories I enjoyed including "Nice."
There's a little something for everyone here; from creepy to spooky to downright gory blood-soaked mayhem.
This is a great collection of stories for any horror fan or readers who enjoy Christmas themed stories that aren't...jolly.
I'm wary of short story collections but if its horror, sign me up!
The Darkest Night features short stories centered the happiest of all seasons, Christmas, from some of today's popular horror and thriller writers.
Just because it's Christmas doesn't mean it can't also be horrifying!
Usually, I only like one or a few stories in a compilation but I'm happy to say there were a lot of stories I enjoyed including "Nice."
There's a little something for everyone here; from creepy to spooky to downright gory blood-soaked mayhem.
This is a great collection of stories for any horror fan or readers who enjoy Christmas themed stories that aren't...jolly.
August 5, 2024
Thank you Crooked Lane Books & Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I thought this collection of short stories was...fine. None of them were true standouts for me, unfortunately. Most of them were mundane, and failed to spook me on any level. A few stories were good, but as a whole, I can't really recommend this book to horror lovers. Again, there were a few that could work for some people, but not the majority of them. There's a lot of great (or so I hear) authors that lent their work to this book, so I think I'll seek out their individual work instead! Like Josh Malerman. I liked his writing (even if the story was eh) - so I'm at least intrigued by his larger work.
This releases 9/24/24!
I thought this collection of short stories was...fine. None of them were true standouts for me, unfortunately. Most of them were mundane, and failed to spook me on any level. A few stories were good, but as a whole, I can't really recommend this book to horror lovers. Again, there were a few that could work for some people, but not the majority of them. There's a lot of great (or so I hear) authors that lent their work to this book, so I think I'll seek out their individual work instead! Like Josh Malerman. I liked his writing (even if the story was eh) - so I'm at least intrigued by his larger work.
This releases 9/24/24!
August 22, 2024
The Darkest Night is a must for the horror reader later this year! I really enjoyed this collection. Most notably Nat Cassidy’s story “Nice”, of course Rachel Harrison, and the first story of the collection from Gwendolyn Kiste. There were a couple of stories that didn’t fully capture my attention but as a whole, this is a great collection for some seasonal horror. I definitely plan to revisit this on a snow day.
Thanks so much Crooked Lane Books, Lindy Ryan, and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy!
Thanks so much Crooked Lane Books, Lindy Ryan, and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy!
June 10, 2024
Dark, spooky winter stories! This is a collection of 22 short stories based in winter and over winter holidays. Some stories I found to be very well written, exciting and spooky. However, there is a handful that I was underwhelmed reading.
I enjoyed Cold As Ice by Tim Waggoner the best. It is such an original and interesting story!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this fun collection of short stories. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed Cold As Ice by Tim Waggoner the best. It is such an original and interesting story!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this fun collection of short stories. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
March 28, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to preview The Darkest Night.
What a little treasure of Christmas horror tales. Written novellas by top authors, these little gems are the best to offer.
Some are better than others but all in all it is a fun read.
From Josh Mallerman , Darcey Coates and others these tales have you thinking well after you finish them.
Enjoyed reading them. 4 stars
What a little treasure of Christmas horror tales. Written novellas by top authors, these little gems are the best to offer.
Some are better than others but all in all it is a fun read.
From Josh Mallerman , Darcey Coates and others these tales have you thinking well after you finish them.
Enjoyed reading them. 4 stars
April 30, 2024
Fabulous collection of horror short stories for the darkest…. Coldest time of the year. So many amazing authors contributed making this a must read for those that love horror short stories
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read early. I’m leaving this review voluntarily
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read early. I’m leaving this review voluntarily
Want to read
March 22, 2024I LOVE Anthologies, especially of horror stories! I can't wait to read this one!!
Pub Date: Sept 2024
Pub Date: Sept 2024
July 18, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC for this anthology of horror stories.
I actually enjoyed most of them. These short stories are a perfect blend of gore, murder, death, revenge, supernatural stuff, and creepy horror. As with most of the anthologies, some stories were definitely better than the others. But all in all, these stories will make for a perfect read during chilly winter nights as the title suggests.
Most of them are set around the time of holidays and snowfall. The ones that include witches and magic and folklore are literally eerie and gripping. You keep on guessing about their end.
And one thing is for sure, once you start reading them, you will want to read them all as fast as you can even in case of you finding a few of them confusing or dull. They certainly keep the reader hooked.
I actually enjoyed most of them. These short stories are a perfect blend of gore, murder, death, revenge, supernatural stuff, and creepy horror. As with most of the anthologies, some stories were definitely better than the others. But all in all, these stories will make for a perfect read during chilly winter nights as the title suggests.
Most of them are set around the time of holidays and snowfall. The ones that include witches and magic and folklore are literally eerie and gripping. You keep on guessing about their end.
And one thing is for sure, once you start reading them, you will want to read them all as fast as you can even in case of you finding a few of them confusing or dull. They certainly keep the reader hooked.
April 10, 2024
I’m all for new winter anthologies, especially featuring some of my favorite horror writers including Nat Cassidy, Clay McLeod Chapman, Darcy Coates, Rachel Harrison, and Josh Malerman. Most of these stories were fantastic and only a couple fell short. Surprisingly Jeff Strands story was hilarious and probably my favorite of the book.
This book comes out in September, just in time for the holiday season! Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
This book comes out in September, just in time for the holiday season! Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
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