Craig Laurance Gidney

Bereft is the story of a boy dealing with harsh realities. It is simply told in a voice that tries very hard to stay strong in a world that seems mostly against him. This is not today's typical YA novel full of suspense that seems to be popular. It is a simple easy read delving into a story that is not usually discussed, being homosexual and a minority.
I felt an immediate kinship with Rafe, even though I am a white 35 year old woman. I wanted his world to be fixed but knew that he had to face his demons and grow from experiences. I was so proud of how far he had come in the end.
If you're looking for an ending wrapped up in a pretty bow, the resolution will not make you happy. Life is never perfect but things can get better, when you are able to overcome some obstacles and see the silver linings.… (more)

The short story compilation The Nectar of Nightmares by Craig Laurence Gidney is exactly what it sounds like: a horror short story compilation. Gidney is deft with tone; each entry feels very sinister and atmospheric from almost the first word. The characters all feel unique, and each story seems original and interesting. Some were better than others, but all of the stories felt worth reading, and the queer representation throughout felt natural.

I think my biggest complaint with this anthology is that some of the stories are so short that they feel less like short stories and more like well written story ideas; Gidney could perhaps have expanded these further to add more satisfying plot progression or character development. A few of the stories also feel like the endings pulled their punches; rather than the satisfyingly dark ending you are expecting, the characters escape with near misses. Overall I would recommend these for any fans of horror who want bite-size spooks without needing to invest in a full length horror novel.… (more)