I Burn: And Other Stories

Name: I Burn: And Other Stories
Price: 15.99 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781099170843

✍️ Wes Laurie

Reader Score

4.5

(1 review)

$15.99

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Twelve dark stories by screenwriter Wes Laurie blending horror with everyday settings.

Laurie combines his background in visual storytelling with prose to create a varied anthology. The stories range from alien invasions in rural areas to blood rituals in urban apartments. Each tale stands alone, offering distinct tones and settings. The inclusion of the Father of Evil adds a touch of dark humor to the final piece. Laurie’s approach feels grounded in specific locations rather than abstract horror concepts.

Key Themes

alien invasion pyromaniac obsession Midwest legends

Literary Context

The work sits within contemporary independent publishing, reflecting modern American fears through regional settings like Missouri and Los Angeles. It bridges screenwriting techniques with short fiction, appealing to readers interested in the intersection of visual media and literary horror traditions.

Difficulty

● Easy

Recommended For Fans Of

Stephen King · Clive Barker · Joe Hill · Shirley Jackson

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Horror Fiction

🏛 Independently Published 📅 2019 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781099170843

📝 Description: I Burn: And Other Stories

Wes Laurie, an author and screenwriter, presents twelve dark and often amusing stories in I Burn: And Other Stories. The collection spans diverse settings, from the rural landscapes of Missouri to the subterranean tunnels beneath Los Angeles. Laurie adapts his screenplay work into prose, offering readers a mix of supernatural horror and strange fiction. The title story, "I Burn," follows a pyromaniac obsessed with a woman, burning everything in his path. In "Country Girls Can Survive," two teenagers defend their home against an alien invasion. Readers travel to Missouri for "Mo," where friends confront a creature from regional legends. The narrative shifts to Los Angeles in "A Hot Meal," exploring the city's dark underbelly. Another tale, "Wretch," involves a webcam model seeking to resurrect her best friend through blood magic. The collection concludes with a visit to a convenience store featuring the Father of Evil and man-eating squirrels. This book suits fans of short-form horror who appreciate screenwriting techniques applied to literature. It may not appeal to readers seeking traditional gothic atmospheres or long-form narratives. Laurie’s work draws on Midwest legends and modern urban fears, blending the mundane with the monstrous without relying on established literary traditions beyond these specific influences.

💎 Our verdict on I Burn: And Other Stories

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Horror Reads editorial team

Horror desk

Wes Laurie delivers a compelling anthology that leverages his screenwriting expertise to craft vivid, fast-paced horror tales. By grounding supernatural events in specific, relatable locations like Missouri and Los Angeles, he creates a sense of eerie familiarity that enhances the terror. The collection excels in its variety, moving seamlessly from rural alien invasions to urban blood magic, ensuring no two stories feel alike. While it lacks traditional gothic atmosphere, its strength lies in its modern sensibility and visual clarity. This book is best suited for fans of short-form horror who appreciate structural efficiency and a blend of dark humor with genuine dread. It offers a fresh perspective on classic tropes without relying on established literary traditions.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

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Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a diverse collection of standalone terror will find this anthology particularly rewarding. Wes Laurie’s background in screenwriting ensures that each tale maintains a tight, visual pace, making the horror feel immediate and grounded rather than abstract. Those who enjoy seeing everyday settings—such as rural Missouri or urban Los Angeles—twisted by supernatural elements will appreciate the blend of the mundane with the monstrous. The book offers variety, ranging from alien invasions to blood rituals, catering to fans of both cosmic and psychological horror. It is ideal for those who prefer concise narratives over long-form epics, providing quick hits of dread and dark humor without sacrificing atmospheric depth or character engagement.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.5

Based on 1 reviews

Horror Reads editorial team

Wes Laurie delivers a compelling anthology that leverages his screenwriting expertise to craft vivid, fast-paced horror tales. By grounding supernatural events in specific, relatable locations like Missouri and Los Angeles, he creates a sense of eerie familiarity that enhances the terror. The collection excels in its variety, moving seamlessly from rural alien invasions to urban blood magic, ensuring no two stories feel alike. While it lacks traditional gothic atmosphere, its strength lies in its modern sensibility and visual clarity. This book is best suited for fans of short-form horror who appreciate structural efficiency and a blend of dark humor with genuine dread. It offers a fresh perspective on classic tropes without relying on established literary traditions.