A review by karlakayjenniges
Where Demons Dine by Sidney Shiv

dark tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

"If I'm not good enough for those pearly gates, and demons want to dine on my soul. so be it."

In this debut collection of single author short stories, Sidney writes with no restraint. His imagination and creativity shines through like a brand new penny. 

There are many elements throughout, adding to the terrors within. Dystopian lands with an untraditional story of Adam and Eve which is disturbing at its core. Organized religion filled with utter hypocrisy and zeal. A dream within a dream where demons dwell, may all your wishes come true, you only have to sell your soul. Gaming that levels up and delves into the horrors of real life struggles ending in despair. Human monsters, terrorizing and controlling, not wanting to let go of a narcissistic behavior, but revenge is sweet in the end. 

Not finished yet, but I am going to break into "Body House". This one was my absolute favorite of the eight stories included. This one was creepy as hell, and disturbingly disgusting. The whole story was engaging and the build up was exciting. Elements of occult practices, an underbelly of society, apparitions, and lots of surprises within. A satisfying ending!

I am also going to touch on "Ascension" as this one is the most heartbreaking and disturbing of them all. The subject matter is rough and tough to get through. It rips right into the soul! The redemption occurs in the end and what a damn great redemption it is! Thank you, Sidney, well done!!

Other elements include witchcraft and an everlasting curse upon all descendants. The power of a mother's love. Visceral torment and splatter galore!

Take note that there are illustrations with each story, created by Sidney, that add an enrichment and is very appreciated. The cover art was also created by Sidney, amazing, isn't it? 

As you can see, the author put a lot of thought into this debut collection and it truly shows. A labor of love. 

Excellent writing!

(A special thank you for including the Bonus Features, I loved reading it as it gave insight to your inspiration of writing these stories.)