This wonderfully diverse collection brings together an array of Latino writers. A broad mix of styles and flavours means there is something here for everyone from gory creature horror to magical realism, and a hefty dose of traditional myths and superstitions. Here are my thoughts on each story.
Sangre Derramada by Hector Acosta
Strange creature horror set in a chicken abbatoir. Hints of a vintage King short with a Latino twist. Great start to the anthology.
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Black Sheep by Sarah Davis
A cool idea is slightly undone by the writing but this tale of a reporter covering a vigilante killer has a great sting in its tail.
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Morning of the Teeth by Rios de la Luz
A surreal Exorcism story filled with dreamlike imagery where memories & nightmares collide. Has a fable like quality to it.
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Frijoles by Laura Diaz de Arce
This story deals with an age old family curse which sees family members die at a certain age. Filled with fascinating oral history told by various family members, two cousins resolve not to live in fear & return to the source of the curse. A highlight of the collection.
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Come, Play by Sergio Gomez
Urban myth & folklore combine in this magical tale of demons that prey on the young. Evocative & spooky with a memorable ending.
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The Organometallic God by Arasibo Campeche
A short but mesmerising delve into Santeria and magic. We meet Sara, already dead but still conscious, the recipient of her husbands ‘elixir’ which is supposed to cure her of a terminal illness. A dark & magical tale.
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Galán by Richie Narvaez
This fun story is a humorous look at the clash between tradition & technology when a family in the near future buy a home help robot who starts to develop some peculiar habits.
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The Devil With Me by Baillie Puckett
A short & sweet tale of demonic possession & like a few stories in the collection has a family with a history of supernatural phenomena.
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The Throats of Neptune by Monique Quintana
Filled with dark magic this tale of mermaids held in captivity is a strange but vivid story.
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Behind the Mountain by E. Reyes
With hints of Pet Sematary, this cool story deals with resurrecting dead family members & the consequences.
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Imperial Slaughterhouse by A.E. Santana
A fantastic story of a woman facing down the demon who holds sway over her dying father.
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Pancho Claus Vs. Krampus by V. Castro
A collision of cultures & myths makes for a fun finale to the book.
4 out of 5.
Published by Burial Day Books.