Dark Discoveries - Issue #23

Name: Dark Discoveries - Issue #23
Price: 11.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781936564880

✍️ James Beach

Reader Score

4.6

(1 review)

$11.95

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A curated anthology of horror fiction and genre criticism edited by James Beach.

This issue balances original short fiction with critical discourse on horror and fantasy literature. The editorial team includes contributors like Trever Nordgren, who provides a recommended reading list for Sword and Sorcery novels and discusses the Throne of Bones article. Aaron French also examines Brian McNaughton’s work. The volume acknowledges industry figures through a tribute to David B. Silva and highlights Stoker Winners in the WHC/HWA section. Joel Kirkpatrick contributes another interview with Sean Costello and an article on Andy Golub’s photography. The inclusion of Hellnotes Reviews and book reviews rounds out the content, offering a comprehensive look at the current state of the genre through both creative and analytical lenses.

Key Themes

Robert E. Howard legacy Sword and Sorcery traditions Horror criticism

Literary Context

Published in 2013 by JournalStone, this issue reflects the ongoing dialogue between classic pulp fiction and contemporary horror studies. It bridges the gap between mid-century sword and sorcery authors and modern genre enthusiasts through curated interviews and critical essays.

Difficulty

●● Medium

Recommended For Fans Of

Robert E. Howard · Karl Edward Wagner · Jonathan Maberry · Ramsey Campbell

🗡️

Dark Fantasy

🏛 JournalStone 📅 2013 📖 114 pages 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781936564880

📝 Description: Dark Discoveries - Issue #23

Dark Discoveries Issue #23, edited by James Beach, presents a curated collection of horror fiction and critical essays. The volume opens with short stories such as Jonathan Maberry’s Like Part of the Family and Ramsey Campbell and Robert E. Howard’s Castle of the Devil. These narratives explore supernatural themes through established genre traditions. Additional fiction includes works by Angeline Hawkes, Steve Rasnic Tem, Weston Ochse, and Joe McKinney. Beyond the prose, the issue features interviews with notable figures in the field. Readers can find a conversation with Jonathan Maberry conducted by Joel Kirkpatrick and an interview with artist Boris Vallejo. The nonfiction section offers critical analysis, including Aaron French’s examination of Karl Edward Wagner and Trever Nordgren’s piece on Game of Thrones. John Caruso contributes an article on Robert E. Howard accompanied by Allen K artwork. The publication also addresses genre dynamics through Yvonne Navarro’s essay Double X Chromosome: Why I hate Women in Horror and Amy Shane’s reviews of Young Adult titles. This collection suits readers interested in the intersection of classic sword and sorcery traditions and modern horror criticism. It provides specific insights into the works of Robert E. Howard and Karl Edward Wagner. Those seeking only standalone novels may find the mix of fiction, interviews, and critical essays less appealing than a traditional narrative structure.

💎 Our verdict on Dark Discoveries - Issue #23

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🩸

Horror Reads editorial team

Horror desk

Dark Discoveries Issue #23 successfully balances original short fiction with rigorous genre criticism, creating a multifaceted reading experience. The inclusion of stories by established authors like Ramsey Campbell and Jonathan Maberry grounds the issue in traditional horror, while essays on Game of Thrones and Young Adult titles provide modern relevance. The interviews with figures like Boris Vallejo offer unique insights into the artistic side of the genre. While the mix of formats may challenge readers seeking a linear narrative, it rewards those willing to engage with both creative and analytical perspectives. This volume is best suited for dedicated horror fans who appreciate scholarly discourse alongside their fiction.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers passionate about the evolution of horror and fantasy will find this anthology indispensable for its dual focus on creative fiction and critical analysis. It offers deep dives into the works of genre giants like Robert E. Howard and Karl Edward Wagner, providing context that enhances appreciation for their legacy. Fans of sword and sorcery will appreciate the curated recommendations and discussions surrounding classic tropes. Additionally, those interested in industry dynamics benefit from interviews with prominent artists and authors, as well as essays addressing contemporary issues within the horror community. This collection is ideal for enthusiasts who view horror not just as entertainment but as a rich field for academic and artistic exploration.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Horror Reads editorial team

Dark Discoveries Issue #23 successfully balances original short fiction with rigorous genre criticism, creating a multifaceted reading experience. The inclusion of stories by established authors like Ramsey Campbell and Jonathan Maberry grounds the issue in traditional horror, while essays on Game of Thrones and Young Adult titles provide modern relevance. The interviews with figures like Boris Vallejo offer unique insights into the artistic side of the genre. While the mix of formats may challenge readers seeking a linear narrative, it rewards those willing to engage with both creative and analytical perspectives. This volume is best suited for dedicated horror fans who appreciate scholarly discourse alongside their fiction.