Tales from the Canyons of the Damned No. 20
A collection of five dark science fiction and horror short stories curated by Rhett C Bruno.
This volume gathers five writers to explore the boundaries of speculative fiction through short, sharp narratives. The contributors include Eamon Ambrose, who handles first contact themes, and Jessica West, whose story offers a lunar viewpoint. Bob Williams examines colonial choices, while Daniel Arthur Smith advances the Off-World Kick Murder Squad saga. Rhett C Bruno adds his own tale regarding colonial decisions. The collection functions as a compact anthology, delivering satirical and suspenseful content that mirrors the style of televised anthologies like Outer Limits or Night Gallery. It appeals to readers who appreciate concise storytelling that blends horror with science fiction concepts. The work is organized by author contribution rather than thematic grouping, allowing each voice to stand independently while contributing to the overall dark tone.
Published in November 2017 by Holt Smith Ltd, this issue continues a series started in 2015. It positions itself as a literary equivalent to television anthologies like Twilight Zone or Black Mirror, focusing on dark science fiction and slipstream genres for an American audience.
📝 Description: Tales from the Canyons of the Damned No. 20
💎 Our verdict on Tales from the Canyons of the Damned No. 20
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who appreciate concise, impactful storytelling that blends horror with science fiction concepts will find this collection rewarding. It appeals to those interested in satirical narratives that question societal norms through a dark lens rather than traditional ghost stories or long-form epics. The anthology offers sharp, thought-provoking tales that function like short episodes of classic television anthologies. Fans of speculative fiction and slipstream will enjoy the diverse voices exploring first contact, lunar perspectives, and colonial choices. It is ideal for readers seeking compact horror that challenges conventional expectations while delivering suspenseful plotting and unsettling visions of the future.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Rhett C Bruno curates a compelling anthology that pushes the boundaries of speculative fiction through five distinct, sharp narratives. The collection excels in its satirical approach to horror, blending science fiction themes with traditional dread. Contributors like Eamon Ambrose and Jessica West offer varied perspectives on first contact and lunar settings, while Daniel Arthur Smith advances his unique saga. The book operates effectively as a literary magazine in book form, providing unsettling visions that mirror the tone of Black Mirror. It suits readers who enjoy concise storytelling that challenges societal norms. Those preferring conventional horror may find the speculative edge difficult, but fans of dark satire will appreciate the independent yet cohesive voices.
📖 Read on the blog
📖 From the series “Tales from the Canyons of the Damned”
🏛 Books from this publisher Holt Smith Ltd
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