🩸 Horror Fiction

A Darkling Plain

✍️ Mary Sangiovanni
Reader Score
4.4
(1 review)
$14.99
In stock — ready to ship Ships in 1–2 business days
📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A collection of short horror stories by Mary Sangiovanni with author notes.

This anthology focuses on diverse horror scenarios through individual short stories. Sangiovanni uses specific titles to hint at the content, ranging from psychological unease to supernatural encounters. The inclusion of story notes allows for a deeper look into her method. The book does not rely on a single overarching plot but stands as a series of distinct experiences. It appeals to readers who value variety in their horror consumption. The structure is straightforward, presenting each tale separately. There are no complex interweaving narratives or extensive world-building exercises. It is designed for quick reading sessions where the reader wants immediate impact. The author notes serve as a bridge between the fiction and the creator's intent.

Key Themes
supernatural horror gothic elements short fiction
Literary Context

Published in 2013 by Createspace Independent Publishing Platform, this work sits within the tradition of self-published horror collections. It reflects a period where independent authors could reach readers directly without major house constraints. The book is part of the broader landscape of American horror fiction available through digital and print-on-demand channels.

Difficulty
● Easy
Recommended For Fans Of
Shirley Jackson · Stephen King · Ramsey Campbell · Clive Barker
🩸
Horror Fiction
🏛 Createspace Independent Publishing Platform 📅 2013 📖 164 pages 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781492818229

📝 Description: A Darkling Plain

Mary Sangiovanni presents a collection of short horror fiction in A Darkling Plain. This volume gathers tales that explore the supernatural and the macabre through distinct narratives. The book includes stories such as Kins, which likely examines family dynamics within a dark context. The Nurses of Haversham suggests a setting involving medical or institutional horror. Readers will encounter The Eleventh Hour Syndrome, Andi, Skincatchers, and Deadsies, each offering a unique perspective on fear. The Amazing Morpheus and Goth and Crow add variety to the themes, touching on dreams and subcultures. The Days After the World Went Away implies a post-apocalyptic or existential dread. Letting Go provides a conclusion to the collection of fears. Sangiovanni includes story notes from the author, offering insight into her creative process. This addition helps readers understand the origins of each tale. The book is organized as a series of standalone stories rather than a continuous narrative. It suits readers who enjoy varied horror subgenres and appreciate author commentary. Those seeking long-form novels or non-fiction will not find their match here. The collection draws on traditional horror elements without specifying a single period or location beyond the story titles. It is a compact volume for fans of short fiction who prefer direct engagement with the text over extensive exposition.

💎 Our verdict on A Darkling Plain

“
🩸
Horror Reads editorial team
Horror desk
A Darkling Plain stands as a robust collection of standalone horror tales, effectively utilizing distinct narratives to explore diverse fears without relying on complex plotting. Sangiovanni’s inclusion of author notes adds significant value, offering readers a deeper understanding of the origins and methods behind each story. The volume excels in providing immediate atmospheric impact through titles like 'The Nurses of Haversham' and 'Skincatchers,' which hint at institutional and visceral terrors. It is best suited for enthusiasts of short fiction who enjoy varied subgenres, including gothic and psychological horror. Readers looking for non-fiction or continuous novels may find this structure less appealing, but those valuing concise, potent storytelling will appreciate the direct engagement this collection offers.
✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking variety in their horror consumption will find this anthology particularly satisfying. Sangiovanni delivers distinct narratives that range from psychological dread to supernatural terror, offering immediate impact without the commitment of a long novel. The inclusion of author notes provides a unique bridge between the fiction and the creator's intent, appealing to those who appreciate insight into the creative process. This book is ideal for quick reading sessions where one desires a compact volume that respects the reader's time while delivering substantial fear. It suits fans of traditional horror elements who prefer direct engagement with the text over extensive exposition or interweaving plots.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.4
Based on 1 reviews
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Horror Reads editorial team

A Darkling Plain stands as a robust collection of standalone horror tales, effectively utilizing distinct narratives to explore diverse fears without relying on complex plotting. Sangiovanni’s inclusion of author notes adds significant value, offering readers a deeper understanding of the origins and methods behind each story. The volume excels in providing immediate atmospheric impact through titles like 'The Nurses of Haversham' and 'Skincatchers,' which hint at institutional and visceral terrors. It is best suited for enthusiasts of short fiction who enjoy varied subgenres, including gothic and psychological horror. Readers looking for non-fiction or continuous novels may find this structure less appealing, but those valuing concise, potent storytelling will appreciate the direct engagement this collection offers.

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