Black Corners of a Blood-Red Room Review

It's rare to find a book that is truly scary, but this one is! The stories are diverse, and trying to predict how each tale will end is all but impossible. The author has a way with flash, a difficult length to write in. In only a few short paragraphs, he is able to set tone, describe scenery and throw in all the needed twists and suspense. In other words, his flash fiction (the opening section of the book) is rich enough that it doesn't feel like flash. My favorite story in the flash section is 'Reunion in a Small Town Bar'--Poor Aphrodite! 'Better With Time' is another favorite. The twist is especially satisifying in BWT and not expected!

The longer stories are just as diverse and exciting. There are no fillers. No Saturday night specials. Each tale is written with care and the language is always top drawer. 'A Bitter Harvest' is one of the best stories in the entire book. The descriptions in Harvest are clever. The reader is able to see just what the author is describing. 'The Manace' feels like a classic tale, but it's told here with new energy, making it fresh and enjoyable. 'The Screaming of the Ants' is right down strange but in a good way.

One would think that such a diverse collection of stories would feel scattered, but good writing and careful arrangement pulls the collection together. A reader knows that he or she is reading one author, and Patrick Ratigliano never strays from his own unique voice.

There are stories for every possible taste here. And the writing is good . . . sometimes perfect. All the thrills but several cuts above genre. One of the best collections I've read in years.

Highly recommended!