Reviews

The Mark of the Shadow Grove by Marcus Pizarro, Ross Smeltzer

justinemanzano's review

5.0

The Mark of the Shadow Grove is a collection of three short stories following the Schermerhorn women through generations of troubling encounters with the men in their lives. The author has a rich vocabulary, and a talent for evocative description. The characters are just twisted enough for these dark tales, and just likable enough for the reader to worry about them despite their own folly. As each tale unfolds, the reader is carefully reminded of the danger of dabbling with that which cannot be understood. This is an engaging read that will leave you haunted.

lilyn_g's review

4.0

The Mark of the Shadow Grove is a beautifully written exploration of some of the more intriguing and dark aspects of the old world. From necromancy to insanity and beyond, Smeltzer gives you three soft horror tales to ensnare the senses. It's easy to lose yourself within the masterful exercise of the man's vocabulary, as he neatly walks the narrow line between too much and not enough in terms of description. It's obvious he loves his words, and just as clear that he knows how to avoid overuse of them.

These stories make you think and sweep you away. A creepiness that settles under your skin, the clench of your heart at the pain of young lives lost, the fascination of watching impertinent people plunge willingly into places they aren't meant to go.  One thing I am pleased to point out about The Mark of the Shadow Grove is that while child loss - still birth & death due to illness - are mentioned within (2nd story), the author handles it very well. There are no graphic descriptions, just a fleeting mention and flashback to the agony without utilizing unnecessary visuals. That's how it's meant to be done.

Ross Smeltzer is definitely an author to pay attention to. I think we'll see great things from this author in the future. It's hard to believe that this is his debut work.  While this isn't what I would call true horror, but more a dance around the edge of paranormal creepiness, it is still a delight to read and I think that especially the first story will creep lots of readers out.