Sometimes we make good choices, sometimes not so good. Sometimes our choices are perfect and sometimes they are fatal. Perfect Choices is an unforgettable and fun story with an ending that you will remember for the rest of your life.Below is a review of DarkTales: A Collection of Sick Twisted Scary Stories and DarkTales: Volume Two from Ron Wynn of the Nashville City PaperNashville author Steven R. Zellers originally penned the first volume of DarkTales almost 11 years ago, but he’s now updated it and penned a second collection. As the title suggests, these are stories that can shock, stun, frighten or delight, and sometimes manage all those things within their tightly constructed frameworks. Zellers knows how to manipulate details, but also he varies his approach. Sometimes things accelerate right from the opening paragraph, and the remaining narrative simply sustains what’s already been generated. Other times he’ll slowly build the tension, working to a strong conclusion and injecting surprise elements that nicely wrap the story.There are 18 entries in the initial volume and 12 more in the sequel. While readers’ choices and preferences will differ depending on their perspectives and interests, some recommendations from DarkTales include “Tinman,” “Smokey Mountain Rain,” “Freak,” “Grandma’s Secret” and most interestingly “Writer’s Block.” Anyone who’s ever had a problem composing a letter or finishing an assignment will find it quite intriguing. His opening story “My Wife” and final entry “Jewels” are also outstanding.Prime pieces in DarkTales: Volume Two include “Ice Queen,” “Northern Lights,” “Seven Dates from MySpace” and “Till Death,” as well as “Halloween” and “Trust.” Some horror/suspense writers, most notably the late Rod Serling, used the genre as a social message tool. There are some stories with underlying or implied themes, but overall Zellers is mainly interested in spinning a compelling yarn rather than examining a particular social ill.The DarkTales volumes offer fine examples of both striking horror pieces and excellent short story writing. Ron Wynn Nashville City Paper
