Get Your Fix, Or Be Fixed

HAPPINESS IS A COMMODITY by The Behrg is presented as an ongoing blog by a man living in a dystopian society, where Happiness is something which must be "punched" into one's arm, and the high is fleeting. Without a dose of Happiness every now and then, apathy takes over. For example, many pets die because owners don't care enough to keep their companions alive.

The narrator is very long-winded, and it's bad enough to nearly put me off the story, but the author provides just enough tidbits about a conspiracy to keep me hooked. While some might describe this novella as psychological horror, I could have a freaking field day with the sociological aspects of Jerry's experiences. The parallels to real-life are just too damn accurate for my comfort.

As if Jerry's end revelation isn't jarring enough, the author's note really laid me out. Especially with mental health being such a huge growing concern, no longer being a subject discussed in hushed tones behind closed doors.

As per the author's request (at the end of the note):
*EVERY MOMENT WITH MY SON
*EVERY WAG OF MY DOG'S TAIL

As always,
AstraDaemon

The Other Side

THE LINES by The Behrg is about a girl who keeps trying to kill herself. There is so much imagery, I felt a little lost at times. I thought maybe the girl had survived some kind of apocalypse, not realizing the apocalyptic event in her life is depression.

The story horrified me for personal reasons I don't feel like sharing in a review. "A Dark Literary Story" is very accurate.

I love the author's note at the end. I truly appreciate the thought he put into this publication. This is why I love horror authors.

As always,
AstraDaemon

Trigger Warning: Stillbirth

STILL BORN by The Behrg is a very disturbing story about the loss of a baby, with an even darker supernatural element. As if a stillborn baby wouldn't be heartbreaking enough, what Joel and Sam hear through the monitor drives them into total madness.

This is such a tragic turn of events, I don't think anyone who has suffered through a miscarriage or stillbirth should read this one. This is definitely a drama-based horror.

As always,
AstraDaemon