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It Started with a 1968 Impala
Automobilia is an anthology of short stories and poems that use automobiles as a central motif to explore a tapestry of human experiences. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
I’ve loved automobiles since the day my father bought a new 1968 Impala from a dealer and drove it home. I was seven years old. He pulled into the driveway with the shiny, big car and it was a huge moment of excitement for the family. I still have that car today. In my early years of writing–when I was learning how to write a good story or poem–I had experiences related to automobiles that made me write about them. One was a poem I wrote about a high school acquaintance who was killed in an automobile crash just a few years after our graduation. A few years later I had a dream about someone killed by an automobile. And then I read a poem in a copy of Modern Maturity magazine that featured a writer’s memory of being a boy riding in the backseat of the family car, watching the moon following along on the ride. Those three things made me think that assembling an anthology of stories (and poems) by others featuring the automobile might be a cool idea that some readers might enjoy.
What were some goals you set for yourself as the editor of this book?
I wanted to assemble a collection of stories featuring automobiles as an integral part of the plot from famous or established authors like Matheson, Finney, and Nolan, along with newer writers. I also included some poems because the first professional sales I made as a new writer were poems to a couple science fiction and horror magazines. Stories from all genres were welcome in the anthology — from mainstream to science fiction to ghost stories — since the automobile is such an influential technology on the planet. Just about every perspective for a possible story can be connected to an automobile.
What was the process you used to collect the stories and poems for this collection and then narrow them down?
First, I set about looking for stories from known writers I might be able to buy reprint rights from. Each of those authors–or their agents for those no longer living–were very accommodating. I cannot thank them enough. Then I issue a call-for-submissions to the major writer’s markets listed on the internet, like Duotrope. I believe in paying writers (since I’m a writer too) a fair wage for their work. So, I offered the Science Fiction Writers Association per-word minimum at the time, which was eight cents per word and a dollar a line for poems.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the next anthology take readers?
Thank you for that good hope! There were so many GOOD stories featuring automobiles I could not get the rights to or include in a single volume I plan to publish two more anthologies featuring autos to make a trilogy. Right now, however, I already have a call for submissions out for the next two thematic anthologies. One is ALIENS AMONG US and the other is TRAIN TALES. I’m open for submissions for those until November 30, 2024. I’m paying a little more this time: 10 cents per word and $2 per line for poems. Publication for both books is planned for the first quarter of 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
41 stories • 9 poemsSince the first automobiles rolled down a street, the range of human emotions attached to these machines has run from love to hate, humor to horror, joy to sadness. This book is a sampling of how fiction writers have viewed the automobile, from yesteryear to tomorrow.
Famous writers, experienced story tellers, and new literary voices are mixed together between these covers.
Automobilia is the first in a trilogy of stories and poems featuring that one machine that has changed the face of the earth, for the good and for the bad…the automobile.
Authors include: Jack Finney, George Clayton Johnson, Richard Christian Matheson, Richard Matheson, J. P. Seewald, Bruce Boston, Marge Simon, Kevin David Anderson, Katherine Tomlinson, James S. Dorr, William F. Nolan, Dean Wild, Sarah Key, Robbie Sheerin, and J.R. Hayslett, among many others.
Automobilia
Automobilia, compiled and edited by Jason J. Marchi and Jeffery L. Buford Jr, is an intriguing anthology that interweaves short stories and poems, using automobiles as a central motif to explore a tapestry of human experiences. This collection skillfully spans multiple genres, including thriller, drama, and horror, providing a varied literary landscape.
In this anthology, vehicles are not merely background elements but pivotal to the narrative structure. For instance, “Duel” is a gripping tale where protagonist Mann faces off against a relentless truck driver in a high-stakes road chase to San Francisco. “Passages” delves into the poignant story of Beth, grappling with the loss of her boyfriend Rick and his Mustang in a tragic accident. Meanwhile, “Homeless” introduces us to Max, whose late-night walk leads to an unexpected encounter at an accident site.
The stories in Automobilia are characterized by their exploration of themes such as loss, grief, resilience, redemption, courage, and the bonds of friendship. Each narrative offers a unique perspective on life’s complexities, enhancing the reader’s appreciation of the human condition. A standout feature of these stories is their unpredictability, which injects a sense of excitement and keeps the reader engaged. The use of automobiles as a unifying theme is not only original but demonstrates remarkable creativity. The stories are crafted with skill, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and a flair for capturing the reader’s imagination. While the anthology presents a rich variety of stories, a broader cultural context in some narratives could have offered an even more diverse and enriching experience. The writing throughout is concise and compelling, making each story a satisfying read.
Automobilia contains mature themes and hence, is more suitable for an adult audience. Readers who appreciate an inventive approach to storytelling and the exploration of human emotions and experiences will find this book particularly engaging.
Pages: 299 | ASIN : B0CVPZY4QV
The Curse of Balar
The Curse of Balar by Marcel M. du Plessis is a notable addition to the horror genre. It presents a series of interconnected stories that delve into the supernatural and the human psyche. The book commences with “The Sharpest Shadows,” a tale laced with tragedy and retribution. The murder of a young woman leads to a chilling sequence of vengeful events. This story sets the tone for the book, blending the eerie and the grotesque with a poignant examination of guilt.
In another gripping narrative, “The Beast of Scaffold Hill,” du Plessis crafts a vivid depiction of the decaying town of Balar, a setting that becomes a character in its own right. The story’s protagonists, Cutter and Scratch, are grave robbers whose grisly profession leads them into a spiral of supernatural encounters. The tension escalates as Cutter, haunted by memories of his abusive father, confronts both the literal and metaphorical ghosts of his past. du Plessis excels in creating an atmosphere that is both foreboding and immersive. The book’s setting, with its dark woods, ominous church, and ruined castle, plays a crucial role in heightening the sense of dread. The stories, while rooted in the supernatural, offer a profound exploration of themes like the consequences of one’s actions, guilt, and supernatural justice. Through characters like Cutter, du Plessis explores the complex interplay of past trauma and present horrors. While the book’s supernatural elements are compelling, it is the human element – the exploration of characters’ moral dilemmas and their struggles with guilt and punishment – that resonates most deeply.
The Curse of Balar is a spine-tingling horror recommendation that is sure to send shivers down your spine. This captivating tale not only scares but also delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the darker aspects of the human condition. With its thought-provoking narrative and expertly crafted plot, this collection of short stories is a must-read for any fan of horror.
Pages: 349 | ASIN : B0C99HBPTY
Trials and Tribulations: A Collection of Flash Fiction Stories Volume II.
Trials and Tribulations: Volume II by author Brian Keith Higgins is a rich tapestry of flash fiction, each crafted to explore the intricate nuances of human experience. Set predominantly in rural America, these tales traverse the spectrum of emotions, from love and loss to fear and fortitude.
The writing style is both evocative and accessible, drawing readers into each narrative with ease. The author excels at creating vivid, relatable characters, plunging them into situations that test their mettle. For instance, “I Miss You” poignantly captures the bittersweet dynamics of a family grappling with Alzheimer’s. Similarly, “Attacks on Livestock” provides a compelling glimpse into the hardships of 19th-century farming life. Each story, though brief, is packed with emotional depth, making the collection a testament to the power of flash fiction.
The book is a medley of survival, resilience, and the unforeseen paths of life. Stories like “Thy Neighbor” and “Mountain Lion” highlight not only nature’s unpredictability but also the strength of community and family bonds. In contrast, “Hitchhiker” and “One Foggy Night” delve into darker territories, exploring sinister and supernatural elements. This thematic diversity adds layers to the collection, ensuring that each reader finds stories that resonate with them.
The collection shines in its ability to weave complex themes into concise narratives. Whether it’s tackling the trauma of a shark attack in “Swimming in The Channel” or the emotional turmoil in “The Path Taken,” the stories manage to be both thought-provoking and deeply human. This balance is the collection’s greatest strength, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates the breadth and depth of human experiences.
Trials and Tribulations: Volume II is recommended for readers who enjoy flash fiction with rich character development and a blend of realistic and fantastical elements. It’s perfect for those who appreciate flash fiction’s beauty and ability to convey powerful stories in a condensed form.
Pages: 43 | ASIN : B0CW1GC7F3
Different But Fun
Twilight Perils offers readers a riveting anthology of short stories nestled in the horror genre, showcasing a diverse range of characters and narratives. Where did the idea for this collection of stories come from?
They were stories in my head that I wanted to create for a while. It helped when I put my thoughts on paper. It then took time to make different ideas for them.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I liked all the characters in this collection. Each story had its challenges.
What draws you to the horror genre and makes it ripe for you to write such gripping short stories in it?
I wanted to do something different but fun at the same time. Since mystery is my main niche, I wanted to explore other genres like horror, paranormal, supernatural, and dark fantasy. I took classic monsters and villains and used them to create captivating stories. It was a lot of fun, but it took time to create this collection.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Expect my next book, The Angel City Rapture: A Gale Queen Murder Mystery, to be out on Valentine’s Day-February 14, 2024. It is my first Christian fiction book that centers on Detective Gale Queen and the Rapture. It is available for purchase as a pre-order. Grab it here for $0.99 on Amazon before the price rises.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Website
Unearth the depths of darkness in Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr.’s spine-chilling collection, Twilight Perils. Brace yourself for a riveting journey through the macabre, where eight tales of horror, thriller, and mystery collide to send shivers down your spine.
Behind closed doors, secrets fester, and in Twilight Perils, Hernandez invites you to step into a realm where the mundane transforms into the malevolent. Each story, a haunting echo of the unknown, explores the sinister corners of the human psyche, leaving readers teetering on the edge of terror.
From ghosts and monsters to ancient curses and alien invasions, Hernandez weaves a tapestry of fear that will grip you from the first page to the last. Unravel the enigma of the inexplicable, confront the demons within, and be prepared for a journey that will leave you questioning the very fabric of reality.
As the shadows lengthen and the unknown beckons, Twilight Perils invites you to confront your deepest fears.
Are you ready to face the terrors that lurk in the dark?
Then come this way…but remember, once you enter, there’s no turning back!
Twilight Perils: A Collection of Eight Secret Stories
Miguel Angel Hernandez’s Twilight Perils offers a riveting anthology of short stories nestled in the horror genre, showcasing a diverse range of characters and narratives. This collection artfully oscillates between suspenseful thrillers, unsettling horror, and intriguing mysteries. Standout stories include “The Forbidden Hunger,” “A Virtual Crisis,” and “Hunting a Nightmare.”
In “The Forbidden Hunger,” readers meet Joshua, who, in his desperation to find a cure for terminal cancer, encounters unforeseen consequences after seeking help from a witch. “A Virtual Crisis” introduces Autumn, a dispirited virtual reality gamer. Her reluctant alliance with a ghost investigator to vanquish an evil spirit adds an intriguing layer to the tale. Meanwhile, “Hunting a Nightmare” offers an intense pursuit, featuring a detective’s relentless quest to apprehend a cunning, sadistic vampire serial killer.
The narrative consistently engages the reader, weaving a dramatic journey where characters must outmaneuver formidable adversaries and overcome harrowing obstacles. The stories evoke a spectrum of emotions, from the despair of victims succumbing to their adversaries to the exhilaration of others fighting valiantly for survival. This emotional journey provokes reflection on one’s own potential for bravery and resourcefulness under similar circumstances. Hernandez’s writing shines in its ability to deliver unexpected conclusions. The pacing is meticulously crafted, building tension and horror that culminates at precisely the right moments. The anthology features an array of iconic monstrous figures — ghosts, vampires, werewolves, among others — each story standing distinct in its portrayal and narrative style.
The fusion of horror and suspense is masterfully executed, making Twilight Perils a compelling read. The book contains mature themes, and as such, I feel it is more suited for an adult audience. For those with a penchant for horror, Hernandez’s collection promises an immersive and thrilling experience.
Pages: 221 | ASIN : B0CPT3VWMJ
An Anthology from the Padded Room
Not every story culminates in the expected rainbows, sunshine, and a fairytale ending. Instead, there are instances where the conclusion takes an unexpected turn, leaving the reader wondering about the fate of the characters. Crafting an anthology of short stories that evoke a sense of melancholy is a challenging feat, but one that Eli Pope has successfully accomplished.
An Anthology from the Padded Room by Eli Pope is a compilation of short stories that range from poignant to downright peculiar. Each story has a distinct length, yet each one packs a powerful punch by the end. Pope has created compelling tales, from inexplicable happenings surrounding a silo on a farm to insects fighting back. Every narrative draws readers into the characters’ aspirations, fears, and nightmares. Of particular interest is a second-person point-of-view story that portrays a woman seeking vengeance against her abusive partner. The reader internalizes the protagonist’s emotions as she contemplates taking extreme measures. My favorite story in the collection is titled The Firefly Wars. The initial two chapters may seem disjointed but gradually become intertwined as the story progresses. It is a tale of retaliation and the uncertainty of which of God’s creatures possess souls. The meandering prose in some of the stories effectively immerses the reader in the characters’ bizarre encounters.
An Anthology from the Padded Room is a gripping collection of short horror stories that venture into psychological fiction. Every story in this anthology fits perfectly with that theme and adds to the intrigue. I recommend this collection to anyone who likes their novels a little weird and supernatural.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0BXHTWCT3
Some Good Writ
Some Good Writ: Christmas, Cancer, Dad, Wine, Sex and Jeff is a poignant anthology of poems that intimately chronicles the salient moments in Jeffrey Bailey’s life. Through his verse, Bailey explores the importance of embracing freedom and acting with resolve as he underscores the fragility and value of life. The collection thoughtfully delves into themes of suffering, the quest for equilibrium between labor and reward, and the danger of losing sight of life’s ephemeral nature amidst work demands. Bailey candidly recounts his familial circumstances, unafraid to bare his flaws, vulnerabilities, and most trying experiences. Consequently, his poetry offers an unvarnished yet deeply resonant portrayal of the adversity he has faced.
Employing an exquisite poetic style, Bailey accentuates the necessity of exertion and the acceptance of life’s inescapable tribulations. His words resonate profoundly as he acknowledges that life often unfolds in unexpected ways. Embracing this reality can be challenging, but it is essential for personal growth and perseverance. By drawing upon his encounters, Bailey’s objective lens bolsters his ideas’ potency. One particularly moving subject Bailey addresses is the harrowing impact of a loved one’s battle with cancer. He poignantly conveys the heartache and helplessness accompanying this plight, articulating his anguish with striking clarity and emotional depth. Throughout the anthology, Bailey masterfully weaves his intricate narrative.
Bailey’s poetry in Some Good Writ: Christmas, Cancer, Dad, Wine, Sex and Jeff is compelling and evocative; at times, its allegorical nature allows readers to create their own interpretation. The collection will particularly resonate with those who have endured profound experiences, regardless of differing circumstances, as well as readers seeking to ruminate on family, love, and self-discovery. I commend Bailey’s courage in sharing his personal journey and highly recommend this work to seasoned poetry enthusiasts eager to contemplate themes of life, death, and the human experience.
Pages: 95 | ASIN : B0BRGKWGYJ
LITERARY TITAN 