A Dark Version of Santa | AstraDaemon

THE HAUNTING OF THE NORTH POLE (AND OTHER FESTIVE HORRORS) by Matt Shaw is a very dark collection, and if you aren't familiar with the author's work, you should go read the OCTOPUS or FULL MOON trilogy first. Consider yourselves warned:

THERE'LL BE PEACE THIS CHRISTMAS - a man just wants to relax, but his family won't give him a moment of peace

SANTA'S SACK - absolutely heartbreaking; Shaw reminds readers monsters don't always have fangs or claws

SANTA'S GIFT - this story made me laugh, and I'll probably burn for it

DEAR SANTA - one of my favorites; I appreciate the perspective

THE COST OF COAL - one of Shaw's darkest stories

HE IS REAL! - frightening, with a bit of dark humor

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS - another favorite; this is why I'm a fan of Shaw

#METOO - a horrifying description of Santa's punishment

LAST CHRISTMAS - another interesting perspective on the holiday

THE COST OF COAL (PART 2) - a sinister ending to this collection

After reading these stories, I'm afraid to ask Shaw where he gets his inspiration from. The psychological horrors within are proof he is an excellent storyteller, and his reputation for vulgarity is just a small aspect of his overall talent. Shaw had such a productive year in 2020, I can't wait to see what he does in 2021!

As always,

AstraDaemon