Soul Searching

SHEPHERDS ON THE HILLS OF ETERNITY by Gary Jonas is a fantastic metaphysical story! I thought I would be reading a vampire story...I suppose in some ways it is, but the author has put an interesting twist on this particular predator.

I think all readers will be able to relate to Steve's thoughts and feelings, as he faces an inner struggle on multiple levels. The ending is thrilling, and I wish the author had written an entire novel to include Brother Benjamin's personal history.

As always,
AstraDaemon

Under The Gun

What would you do if someone jammed a gun to your head?
Let Larry live the experience so you don't have to.
But the real question is: would you have his reaction?

SINCE I HAD A GUN TO MY HEAD by Gary Jonas is an extremely disturbing flash fiction piece. I felt extreme sympathy for Larry, considering the post-traumatic stress he suffered from. The ending shocked me. 

This is not horror, as much as a personal drama. While I appreciate the attention Jonas gives to a very real problem, I prefer the author's paranormal stories far more.
As always,
AstraDaemon

It's Just A Question

When Alex Peterson touches people, he gets flashes of the terrible things they've done. When he admits this in a game of Truth or Dare, his friends dare him to touch the creepy neighbor, who may be a murderer.

TAKING THE DARE by Gary Jonas begins with a fascinating hook: seeing people's guilty memories, quickly followed up with rumors of a child killer in the neighborhood. For some reason, one line in particular hit me like a strobe light, so I thought I knew what would unfold, but Jonas managed to surprise me.

This is only the second story I've read by this author, but I really enjoy his writing style, so far.

As always,
AstraDaemon

When Even Death Can't Stop Someone

A paranormal investigator tries to help a boy deal with the ghost of his dead, but still abusive father. Of course, the investigator has a secret of his own.

By Death Abused by Gary Jonas is a flash fiction piece about the worst kind of ghost dad, still terrorizing his children from beyond the grave. I appreciate the way the author avoids going into detail about the abuse...what little is revealed is horrific enough. It's not difficult to imagine the physical and psychological trauma inflicted on Paula and Davey.

Having the story told from Davey's POV brings a perfect balance of fear and determination, as the young boy is determined to protect his teenage sister. I only wish more had been revealed about the investigator, Sherrod. I'd like to know why he felt he owed "paybacks." I'm not sure if he is trying to make up for something he did or not.

As always,
AstraDaemon