Fangoria's Dreadtime Stories

This second volume of horror shorts (see LJ 11/15/12, p. 47) features six stories from authors Max Allan Collins, M.J. Elliott, Barry Richert, and others. Collins's "Mercy" reveals how a blonde bombshell cheerleader finds religion and brings other sinners to salvation through bloody retribution. "Talking in the Dark" by Dennis Etchinson explores the loneliness of Victor Rippon, who rarely interacts with anyone since his wife left. His only entertainment is reading books by Rex Christian, who amazingly arrives at his door after receiving Victor's fan letter. The harrowing events that follow may be a preview of Christian's next book. Richert's "Final Battlefield" explores the troubled memories of Daniel Conway, a veteran who is haunted by dreams of the Hangman, a brutal Viet Cong officer who tortured him as a POW. Has the Hangman followed him to Iowa? Or perhaps Conway never left Nam. Suggestive of old mystery and horror radio shows, the sound effects here are so loud and authentic that listeners will think their own doorbell or phone is ringing. Each story contains is read by a cast of versatile actors. Malcolm McDowell again serves as the host, and his deep voice emphasizes the thrills and surprises to come.