Prompted with the imagery of a storm that is looming, violent, and receding, this collection of short stories takes the prompt in clever and imaginative directions while still holding true to the ominous and destructive force that a storm can offer. Fifteen stories about trauma, letting go, fantastic creatures, and perfectly normal but notable days are provided here. Each author brings their own perspective and their own style, ranging from lyrical poetry to fantasy to cataclysmic dread to historical drama. What stays consistent is the gravity, the poignancy, and the fascinating windows to new worlds opened up by every short story contained within. From a quiet look at a dying man’s inner monologue to a hurricane overshadowed by grief, loss, and two people severing the last of their ties to one another, these stories make their presence felt with complete urgency.

In spite of being sourced by so many minds and pens, this volume is perfectly curated so that each piece stands out in its own way and has plenty to offer the reader. The theming and imagery are given so much room to breathe and evolve into various shapes that readers will feel they need to start each new story after finishing the previous one and will likely be quickly pulled into another exciting and fascinating new world. The editors also helpfully include content warnings for each story, as many of them deal with either graphic scenes or traumatic experiences in their own way, so the audience can avoid anything that they might find upsetting or emotionally challenging. Gorgeous, evocative imagery pairs with unique, fresh ideas and voices in this collection that is the perfect companion for anyone getting stuck inside from the rain.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review

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