Monstrum: 15 Tales of Faith, Flesh and Revelation

Michael Alan Riddell presents Monstrum, a collection of fifteen horror stories that examine the intersection of religious devotion and physical corruption. The author explores themes where worship bleeds into grotesque acts, creating an atmosphere of sacred unease rather than traditional fright. This volume appeals to readers who enjoy gothic fiction with theological undertones, while those seeking pure action or lighthearted supernatural tales may find the tone too heavy. The stories within this collection focus on specific instances of bodily and spiritual violation. One narrative involves a woman hearing her deceased son move inside her own body, blending maternal grief with visceral horror. Another tale follows a painter who realizes that every saint he depicts remains alive, suggesting an unnatural persistence in art. A third story describes a cult consuming its own fear to achieve a divine experience, highlighting the destructive nature of blind faith. These narratives draw on gothic and supernatural traditions, using religious iconography as a source for terror. Riddell’s work is organized around these distinct vignettes, each offering a separate revelation about the human condition under extreme spiritual pressure. The book suits fans of dark fantasy and literary horror who appreciate detailed descriptions of psychological and physical decay. It does not cater to readers looking for fast-paced adventure or clear moral resolutions. The collection stands as a cohesive exploration of faith’s darker corners, leaving the reader with lingering questions about the nature of the divine.