David Parkinson’s Tales of Terror and Torment Volume 1 is an anthology book of five horror stories, but they reach far beyond the trappings of the genre and go deep into philosophy, science fiction, adventure, and eroticism.
There is a passage in the third story that is so astonishingly well written I had to sit back and marvel at Parkinson’s sheer creativity. His description of a multi-generational conquest was mind-expanding and horrific. I mean it when I say it’s one of the best passages I’ve read in science fiction… ever!
In the dark first tale, I was hooked in by a brutal opening which very quickly takes a left turn into something quite ethereal and existential before resolving into something different again. The story did not end up anywhere near where I thought it would. It was a brilliant start to the anthology.
The descriptions and world building in all of these tales are economical and poetic. In another story, I felt real dread as a couple explore a mysterious subculture reminiscent of Society and Eyes Wide Shut.
No word or sentence of Parkinson’s prose is wasted. His stories flow beautifully. His writing is assured, and very readable. Volume 1 is a classy book, and I’m excited to embark on the myriad of journeys that Volumes 2 and 3 hold in store.