Shout At The Devil

BLACK WATER by Haldan Black is a supernatural horror short about a boy fighting the devil. The author attempts to mix voodoo with folklore, but the story is such a sloppy mess, I can't even believe this is the same author who wrote A Good Boy.

Some of the issues: underdeveloped characters, overused stereotypes, and no follow-up on any of the decent parts. Black should've have just picked one angle, such as the train track ritual and focused on that, instead of bringing in so many elements and haphazardly tying them together.

A Good Boy was written after Black Water, so at least I can say the author's writing has improved.

As always,
AstraDaemon

Living Secret Lives

Josephine Wattley had called the police three times already and was still no closer to finding her son. “I don’t think you understand,” Josephine coughed into the receiver, “I can’t find him. Something’s wrong. Ronnie’s always been a good boy.”

A GOOD BOY by Haldan Black is a flash fiction story about a psychological affliction which affects many families. The realism of Josephine's personal horror is heartbreaking. The ending is somewhat predictable, but no less devastating.

I applaud the author for bringing attention to a problem which is often hidden behind closed doors, but affects many different kinds of people.

As always,
AstraDaemon