🩸 Horror Fiction

Close to Midnight

✍️ Mark Morris
Reader Score
4.5
(1 review)
$26.95
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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A curated collection of twenty original horror stories edited by Mark Morris.

This anthology diverges from traditional themed collections by offering twenty distinct narratives that explore various facets of fear. Sixteen stories come from top-tier genre professionals, while four are chosen from a large pool of open submissions. This mix ensures both high production values and fresh perspectives. The book does not rely on a single motif but instead showcases the breadth of contemporary horror writing. Readers will encounter different styles and subjects, reflecting the diverse nature of the supernatural fiction community. The structure allows for a varied reading experience, moving seamlessly between established legends and new talent.

Key Themes
supernatural fiction original short stories gothic horror
Literary Context

Published by Flame Tree Press in 2022, this volume continues an annual tradition of presenting original horror works. It reflects the ongoing evolution of the genre by balancing established names with new voices discovered through open submissions.

Difficulty
●● Medium
Recommended For Fans Of
Stephen King · Clive Barker · Shirley Jackson · Joe R. Lansdale
🩸
Horror Fiction
🏛 Flame Tree Press 📅 2022 🌐 English 📔 Hardcover ISBN: 9781787587250

📝 Description: Close to Midnight

Mark Morris, an editor known for curating high-quality genre fiction, presents Close to Midnight as the third installment in a series of annual horror anthologies. This collection distinguishes itself by rejecting a single unifying theme, allowing for a broader exploration of fear through twenty original short stories. The volume features sixteen tales commissioned directly from established masters of the craft, ensuring a professional and polished reading experience. Additionally, four entries were selected from hundreds of submissions received during a brief two-week open call, offering readers a glimpse into emerging voices within the field. The book appeals to dedicated fans of supernatural fiction who appreciate variety in tone and subject matter. It suits readers seeking fresh perspectives on classic horror tropes without being bound by a specific seasonal or stylistic constraint. Those preferring tightly themed collections might find this volume less cohesive, but it rewards those willing to jump between different narrative styles. The inclusion of both renowned authors and newly discovered talents creates a dynamic structure that highlights the current state of short-form horror writing. This anthology serves as proof of the vitality of original genre fiction, bringing together diverse voices under one cover.

💎 Our verdict on Close to Midnight

“
🩸
Horror Reads editorial team
Horror desk
Mark Morris curates a compelling showcase of contemporary horror that prioritizes variety over uniformity. By rejecting a single theme, the anthology allows twenty distinct narratives to explore fear through multiple lenses, highlighting the breadth of supernatural fiction. The inclusion of sixteen commissioned stories from top-tier professionals ensures high production values and polished execution, while the four selected open submissions inject fresh, unexpected perspectives into the mix. This structure creates a seamless reading experience that moves between established legends and new talent effectively. It suits readers who enjoy diverse voices and varied tones, offering a robust snapshot of the field's current health and creative energy.
✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a dynamic exploration of fear without the constraints of a single unifying motif will find this collection rewarding. It appeals to dedicated fans of supernatural fiction who appreciate variety in tone and subject matter, offering fresh perspectives on classic horror tropes. The blend of sixteen tales from established masters and four from new talent provides both polished professionalism and exciting discovery. Those willing to jump between different narrative styles will gain a comprehensive view of the current state of short-form horror writing. This volume is ideal for those who value the breadth of the supernatural fiction community over tight cohesion, serving as proof of the genre's enduring vitality and diverse potential.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.5
Based on 1 reviews
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Horror Reads editorial team

Mark Morris curates a compelling showcase of contemporary horror that prioritizes variety over uniformity. By rejecting a single theme, the anthology allows twenty distinct narratives to explore fear through multiple lenses, highlighting the breadth of supernatural fiction. The inclusion of sixteen commissioned stories from top-tier professionals ensures high production values and polished execution, while the four selected open submissions inject fresh, unexpected perspectives into the mix. This structure creates a seamless reading experience that moves between established legends and new talent effectively. It suits readers who enjoy diverse voices and varied tones, offering a robust snapshot of the field's current health and creative energy.

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