Terror Nova: Writers Retreat

Name: Terror Nova: Writers Retreat
Price: 29.99 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9781774780572

✍️ Kelley Power

Reader Score

4.5

(1 review)

$29.99

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A horror anthology of twelve tales set at a haunted writer's retreat.

This volume gathers twelve distinct narratives from prominent Newfoundland writers, anchored by a framing device involving an author seeking relief from creative stagnation. Kelley Power, known for Tombstories, curates works that explore the intersection of isolation and supernatural terror. Contributors like Paul Carberry and Jon Dobbin offer varied approaches to horror within the confines of a historic merchant estate. The stories emerge from the fog and the estate’s history, suggesting that immersion in such places alters reality. The collection does not follow a single protagonist through every tale but rather uses the setting as a unifying element for diverse storytelling styles.

Key Themes

writer's block Halloween weekend merchant estate

Literary Context

Published by Engen Books in 2021, this anthology highlights Newfoundland's literary scene. It features local talents alongside established names like Kate Sparkes Tanith Frost. The work connects to the tradition of horror short fiction and regional gothic storytelling.

Difficulty

●● Medium

Recommended For Fans Of

Paul Carberry · Jon Dobbin · Brad Dunne

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Horror Fiction

🏛 Engen Books 📅 2021 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9781774780572

📝 Description: Terror Nova: Writers Retreat

Kelley Power presents a collection of twelve horror short stories set during a Halloween weekend at a centuries-old merchant estate. The narrative frame follows an author struggling with writer's block who accepts an invitation to this retreat, hoping to find inspiration. Instead, he discovers that the fog surrounding the property holds deep, penetrating secrets that demand participation. The book features contributions from Newfoundland's top talents, including Kate Sparkes Tanith Frost, CH Newell, Paul Carberry, Jon Dobbin, and Brad Dunne. These writers bring their distinct voices to tales where scary stories write themselves. The collection draws on gothic traditions of isolation and supernatural intrusion within historic settings. It appeals to readers who enjoy ensemble casts and regional horror from Newfoundland. The structure relies on multiple authors contributing individual narratives rather than a single continuous plot. This format allows for varied perspectives on the same haunting environment. Fans of Kelley Power’s previous work, such as Tombstories, will recognize his style here. The book is suitable for those seeking atmospheric dread and short-form fiction. It may not suit readers looking for long-form novels or fast-paced action. The stories focus on psychological tension and supernatural elements rooted in the specific locale.

💎 Our verdict on Terror Nova: Writers Retreat

“

🩸

Horror Reads editorial team

Horror desk

Terror Nova: Writers Retreat successfully utilizes a historic merchant estate as a unifying element for twelve distinct horror tales. The framing device of an author seeking relief from stagnation effectively grounds the supernatural intrusions in psychological tension. Contributors like Kate Sparkes Tanith Frost and CH Newell bring varied approaches to the haunting environment, ensuring no single tone dominates. This format allows for rich, atmospheric storytelling that rewards patience. It is best suited for readers who enjoy ensemble casts and regional horror. The collection avoids fast-paced action in favor of deepening dread, making it a perfect fit for fans of short-form fiction and gothic isolation.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers who appreciate atmospheric dread and the intersection of isolation with supernatural terror will find this collection compelling. It offers a unique glimpse into Newfoundland’s horror landscape through diverse voices, making it ideal for those seeking regional flavor in their short fiction. Fans of Kelley Power’s previous work, such as Tombstories, will recognize his curatorial style here. The book suits enthusiasts of gothic traditions and ensemble narratives more than those preferring long-form novels or fast-paced action. It provides a structured yet varied experience where the setting itself becomes the primary antagonist.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.5

Based on 1 reviews

Horror Reads editorial team

Terror Nova: Writers Retreat successfully utilizes a historic merchant estate as a unifying element for twelve distinct horror tales. The framing device of an author seeking relief from stagnation effectively grounds the supernatural intrusions in psychological tension. Contributors like Kate Sparkes Tanith Frost and CH Newell bring varied approaches to the haunting environment, ensuring no single tone dominates. This format allows for rich, atmospheric storytelling that rewards patience. It is best suited for readers who enjoy ensemble casts and regional horror. The collection avoids fast-paced action in favor of deepening dread, making it a perfect fit for fans of short-form fiction and gothic isolation.