Nocturnal Offerings


Book Description

Bitternest’s favorite radio disc jockey and debunker of supernatural myths Nick Kubrick is on vacation and on his way to Montreal to surprise his big brother. When he gets there, he finds his brother’s mailbox overflowing with mail and the lawn hasn’t been mowed in weeks. No sign of him anywhere. He decides to stick around town and try to find out where he is. Nick rapidly realizes that the city of Montreal isn’t so different from his spooky hometown of Bitternest as a string of bizarre, gruesome murders are shocking the city. After bumping into an old high school buddy named Lance, Nick is invited to a gated community that Lance and his wife designed. It’s a postcard-perfect spot, but there is definitely something odd about the place. No one’s over forty, there aren’t any kids anywhere, and its residents all look like supermodels. Things come full circle when Nick returns to eerie Bitternest and is approached by private eye Jim Coffin who requests his assistance to investigate a series of strange, ghastly murders. Are these murders linked to the ones in Montreal? Meanwhile, a mysterious traveling carnival rolls into town. Nick and Jim are in for a few surprises and when all will be said and done, Nick will never be the same again….




Restless Dead


Book Description

"[This work] will represent the principal study of ancient Greek beliefs in the intervention of the dead, a topic of acute relevance to the study of classical literature, Greek religion, and the later cultures that spawned curse tablets and versions of Christianity."—David Frankfurter, author of Religion in Roman Egypt "This is an incontestably useful book. . . . The author's scholarship is remarkable and her competence indisputable. Her laudably courageous and original analysis of the Erinyes leads us from archaic poetry, via the purificatory rituals and reforms of cult brought about by the mysterious Epimenides, to the Orphic tradition recently discovered in the Derveni papyrus—all of which enables Sarah Johnston to conclude by proposing an enthralling rereading of Aeschylus' Oresteia."—Philippe Borgeaud, author of The Cult of Pan in Ancient Greece




Socialist Escapes


Book Description

During much of the Cold War, physical escape from countries in the Eastern Bloc was a nearly impossible act. There remained, however, possibilities for other socialist escapes, particularly time spent free from party ideology and the mundane routines of everyday life. The essays in this volume examine sites of socialist escapes, such as beaches, campgrounds, nightclubs, concerts, castles, cars, and soccer matches. The chapters explore the effectiveness of state efforts to engineer society through leisure, entertainment, and related forms of cultural programming and consumption. They lead to a deeper understanding of state–society relations in the Soviet sphere, where the state did not simply “dictate from above” and inhabitants had some opportunities to shape solidarities, identities, and meaning.




Ancient Roman Holidays


Book Description

Ancient Roman Holidays is a remarkable book that explores the ancient seasons and religious observance practices of the ancient Romans. Mab Borden’s meticulous research paints a vivid picture of the interconnectedness between mankind and the Gods. This book is invaluable for those interested in the religious traditions of ancient Rome. Ancient Roman Holidays invite readers to embark on a captivating journey into the enchanting realm of sacred days, months, and seasons, unearthing the profound significance of these ancient observances. Immersed in meticulously detailed accounts, as each sacred day unfurls, this book reveals the venerated deities and the intricacies of the accompanying social and ceremonial practices. Within the pages of Ancient Roman Holidays, the reader will discover comprehensive explanations of the ancient Roman calendar, forging a deep understanding of the interplay between celestial rhythms and religious rituals. The appendices provide a treasure trove of knowledge, mapping deity holidays to their corresponding months. This added layer of insight offers a panoramic view of the intricate spiritual tapestry that was interwoven throughout ancient Roman society. The reader will embark on a mesmerizing expedition through festivals dedicated to revered Gods and Goddesses such as Jupiter, Minerva, and Bacchus, delving into the wisdom encapsulated within the rites, ceremonies, and beliefs that molded ancient Roman spirituality. The reader will be transported to a world where every day bores a sacred connection to the divine. Witness the solemnity of religious processions and partake in the jubilant revelries of harvest festivals, as the ancient Roman holidays spring to life in vivid detail. These ancient traditions allow the reader to introspect upon their own spiritual practices, finding resonance in the timeless wisdom of the past. Inviting the reader to rediscover the exquisite beauty of these spiritual observances, Ancient Roman Holidays unveil the secrets and traditions that shaped the Roman calendar. The immersive journey through the vibrant tapestry of ancient Roman spirituality will invite the reader to renew their appreciation for the sacred rhythms that once resonated throughout the lives of these remarkable people.




The Night It Got Out


Book Description

During a blustery winter night, two retired Navy Seals transporting a top secret cargo to NORAD are besieged by an unexpected blizzard. A terrible car accident unleashes a creature with unparalleled killing capacity. Within hours dozens of people are carved up and dismembered in the town of Mangas Pass, Colorado with no end in sight to the carnage. Police Chief, Don Girard pairs up with retired Green Beret Colonel, Elliot Harmon to try to stop the creature from decimating the entire town. Harmon will be forced to face the sins of his past, while Girard helplessly agonizes over every death in an effort to protect the town and his own family. As the bloody body count rises, both men become consumed by a horrifying sequence of events that will forever change their lives The Night It Got Out! From the author of the popular short story collection, Blood Verse, comes a horrifying novel of suspense and terror that you won't be able to put down!




More Evil Houses


Book Description

Let your fascination run wild into the dark places where childish nightmares rule. Open the door to your escape and enter another’s house tonight. For tonight you discover the terrible secrets in the stranger’s house down the street. Maybe a horrible evil is hidden in the attic, leaching from the eyes of innocent dolls. Maybe the house sits on cursed earth where witchcraft was born from the torture of innocence. Or perhaps you’re an interloping drifter who happens to stumble upon a home in the woods, abandoned for a good reason. Enter and watch as your loved one is seduced by bloody evil. But wait. The tornado is rising and preparing to wipe the earth clean of the putrid evil in hell’s basement. Hidden tombs rot your soul and reveal the unspeakable as you walk the halls of death in the path of the coming destruction. You’re still here, and the best is last. A house so steeped with hatred, wild beasts patrol its outskirts as the welcome alternative to what lies in wait within its walls. Witness the rivers of blood and the roaring specters preparing to carry your soul to its final end.




From Paradise to Hell


Book Description

From motorcycle zombies to enigmatic vampires, bloodthirsty beasts, vengeful specters, “skinwalkers,” hauntings, killer Walking Dolls to ghost stories straight from the author's past, let author Tom Sawyer take you on an exciting and perilous road trip/exploration of the darker shadows and what lurks within them throughout the otherwise “Pleasant Peninsula” of the Great Lakes: Michigan! From the author of the Dracula sequel Shadows in the Dark and acclaimed supernatural/horror collections including Dark Harbors! With From Paradise to Hell, Tom Sawyer takes us on thrilling and terrifying escapades through his home state, incorporating locals myths, legends, history and dark folklore from one end to the other, from top to bottom, from Paradise to Hell.




Blessings from the Darkness


Book Description

Blessings from the Darkness complied by Kelly J Koch and published by Nicholas Grabowsky with Black Bed Sheet Books and a dedication by G.L. Lentz. For those of you who have never experienced a family illness that completely wipes the family out emotionally and mentally as well as monetarily then you have no idea what it can do to a family. Blessings from the Darkness the brain child of G.L. Lentz for a family that is going through that very thing is so worth every penny spent on it. The thirty plus authors who have given up their stake in the book have written stories, poems and flash fiction that will wrench your very heart out of your chest, put tears in your eyes and make you look at life in ways you never have before. While the book is titled Blessings from the Darkness- it is not all horror stories. There are stories of everyday experiences, thoughts, wishes (some that do not turn out so well) and emotions. "When Angels Fall" will have you weeping as you turn each page and read each line, "The Third Wish" will make one think twice before wanting to deal with a Genie, "Death of a Parent" will cause you to weep. These are just a few of the wonderful writings by up and coming authors and writers who have never been published before- but you need to keep on your radar. This is a book that you will want to add to your library and to read over and over again.




It Happened on Negro Mountain


Book Description

Matthew Abraham is a drug dealer being forced out of his empire in Baltimore, Maryland. Rather than submitting to the pressures of the younger dealers, he decides to destroy his empire and leave his neighborhood turf with his baby mother and seven year old daughter Destiny, leaving behind a gang war to take up residence in Negro Mountain, located along the Mason-Dixon line. Destiny, disturbed and frightened by her parents’ gang banging lifestyle, turns to the spirits of her departed grandmother and of Negro Mountain itself who speak to her through the dolls she plays with, and bestow upon her powers to manipulate nature through prayer. The saying is, Negro Mountain is a place where bad things happen to bad people. So when negative energy meets with the energy resting in Negro Mountain the outcome is always the same. The Mountain wins.




Tokyo Tales: A stranger in the Metropolis of 100 Villages


Book Description

A personal word from the Author As I reflect on the pages of "Tokyo Tales: Stories of Life in Japan's Bustling Metropolis," I find myself immersed in a world of wonder, a tapestry of stories that have touched my heart and left an indelible mark on my soul. Through the captivating narratives and vivid descriptions, I have been transported to the vibrant streets of Tokyo, experiencing the city's essence through the eyes of its inhabitants. Tokyo, a city that breathes with a life of its own, is a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions. It is a place where tradition dances hand in hand with innovation, where the past intertwines with the present, creating a harmonious blend that is uniquely captivating. In these stories, I have witnessed the delicate balance between honoring age-old customs and embracing the relentless tide of progress. Tokyo is a city that embraces its rich cultural heritage while eagerly exploring the frontiers of the future. The people who inhabit this bustling metropolis are the heart and soul of its enchantment. Their dreams, hopes, and struggles reverberate through each tale, creating a tapestry of humanity that is both universal and deeply personal. From the stoic salaryman navigating the demands of corporate life to the artist seeking solace and inspiration in the city's hidden corners, the characters in "Tokyo Tales" have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one's passions. In Tokyo, I have discovered a place where contradictions coexist harmoniously. Amidst the labyrinthine streets and towering skyscrapers, there is a serenity that can be found in the simplicity of a traditional tea ceremony or the tranquility of a Japanese garden. It is a city that celebrates the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant colors of autumn leaves, reminding us of the transient nature of life itself. Yet, Tokyo is also a city that pulses with the energy of modernity. Its neon-lit streets, crowded intersections, and technological marvels create a sensory overload that is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. In these tales, I have marveled at the fusion of ancient traditions with cutting-edge advancements, where futuristic architecture rises alongside centuries-old temples, and where the virtual world seamlessly merges with reality. Beyond the physical landscape, Tokyo is a city of connections. It is a place where strangers become friends, where a shared smile or a moment of kindness transcends language and cultural barriers. In the stories of "Tokyo Tales," I have experienced the warmth and hospitality of Tokyoites, their willingness to embrace diversity and welcome outsiders into their vibrant community. Tokyo has taught me the value of human connection, the power of empathy, and the beauty of forging bonds that transcend borders. As I reach the final pages of this literary journey, I carry with me the memories of Tokyo's tales, the sights, the sounds, and the emotions that have enveloped me throughout this remarkable adventure. The stories have not only provided a glimpse into the lives of Tokyo's inhabitants but have also invited me to reflect on my own journey, my own dreams, and the power of embracing the unknown.