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Dark Celebrations #11
Unidentified Fatherly Object
Fred Garcia decides Father’s Day is the perfect time to find out what happened to his father. As he prepares to search the old, abandoned military base where his father used to work, he hopes for clues as to what might have occurred. Lights at the base, however, indicate that it’s not as inactive as suggested. Fred discovers the truth. Unfortunately, the truth is a dark and dangerous operation that cannot be unseen or escaped.
A short story.
(Collected in Dark Celebrations)
A short story.
(Collected in Dark Celebrations)
27 pages, ebook
First published June 15, 2017
1 person is currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
Calvin Demmer
85 books499 followersCalvin Demmer is a South African author of horror, dark fantasy, science fiction, and crime. His books include the flash fiction collection The Sea Was a Fair Master and the short story collections Dark Celebrations, Her Heart Beats for Ancient Beasts, Through the Ravenous Night We Ride, Duel the Darkness for Nightmare Rule, and The Town That Feared Dusk. When not writing, he is intrigued by that which goes bump in the night and the sciences of our universe.
You can find him online at calvindemmer.com or sign up for his newsletter to stay up to date with his latest projects.
You can find him online at calvindemmer.com or sign up for his newsletter to stay up to date with his latest projects.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 10, 2021
Fred's father is reported dead by the military. But his son doesn't believe in his death. Instead he does some research on his own and comes across some really terrifying going-ons (Area 51 related). What happened to his father? Why did the military cover up his death? What about Fred? Will he come out unharmed investigating the military area near his home? Absolutely uncanny horror story with a good shot of sci-fi in it. Very intriguing. It also reminded me a bit on Roald Dahl. Really recommended!
June 20, 2017
Fred’s father worked on a military base until he disappeared, no note, no news, nothing. With Father’s Day coming, Fred is determined to go into the now abandoned base and search for any clue as to what happened to the man he called Dad. What Fred found is far beyond human comprehension, far darker and far more terrifying than he ever could have imagined, and yes, he now knows what happened to his father.
Calvin Demmer has left no holiday unscathed as he finally puts his own spin on Father’s Day that is definitely memorable. UNIDENTIFIED FATHERLY OBJECT is part horror, part family reunion and even with so few pages, Calvin Demmer gets his tale told like a pro! For those who like quick reads that pack a story and a half between its pages, while allowing one to use their own imagination to picture “the rest of the story,” this is it, a Father’s Day like no other when one son finds the truth about his father, while getting a heads up on his own future.
I received this copy from Calvin Demmer in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Dark Celebrations - Book 11
Publication Date: June 15, 2017
Publisher: Calvin Demmer
Genre: Scifi | Fantasy
Print Length: 27 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Calvin Demmer has left no holiday unscathed as he finally puts his own spin on Father’s Day that is definitely memorable. UNIDENTIFIED FATHERLY OBJECT is part horror, part family reunion and even with so few pages, Calvin Demmer gets his tale told like a pro! For those who like quick reads that pack a story and a half between its pages, while allowing one to use their own imagination to picture “the rest of the story,” this is it, a Father’s Day like no other when one son finds the truth about his father, while getting a heads up on his own future.
I received this copy from Calvin Demmer in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Dark Celebrations - Book 11
Publication Date: June 15, 2017
Publisher: Calvin Demmer
Genre: Scifi | Fantasy
Print Length: 27 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 12, 2023
I loved this short story where on Father's Day, Fred Garcia decides to sneak into the old abandoned military base where his father used to work to try to find any clues as to what really happened to him. You feel compelled to follow along with him, and when he discovers the dark, frightening truth, it cannot be unseen! However, it's too late and twists into a scary consequence for Fred at the end. Demmer has truly done it again, highly recommended!
June 1, 2020
“Unidentified Fatherly Object” was one of the creepiest stories for me. Fred’s father, a scientist, mysteriously died while working on a classified military project at the local military base. It had been a closed-casket ceremony, and Fred always thought his father was still alive somewhere. As Father’s Day nears, Fred breaks into the military base to find out what happened to his father. He makes a gruesome and freaky discovery.
There is a great level of detail in the story to where I could feel everything Fred was going through, but it wasn't a slow-moving story by any means. It kept me guessing the whole time. I could see this being a movie, where the story takes place in the 1960's or 70's. For some reason, that's the kind of style I saw for the characters' clothes, vehichles, houses, etc. as I was reading the story.
Thanks to Calvin for sending me this story in exchange for an honest review! :)
There is a great level of detail in the story to where I could feel everything Fred was going through, but it wasn't a slow-moving story by any means. It kept me guessing the whole time. I could see this being a movie, where the story takes place in the 1960's or 70's. For some reason, that's the kind of style I saw for the characters' clothes, vehichles, houses, etc. as I was reading the story.
Thanks to Calvin for sending me this story in exchange for an honest review! :)
March 25, 2020
Am I jealous of Calvin Demmer?
Absolutely.
Imagine having the ability of creating a story - a fully formed story - in 25 pages. We're talking back story, character development, narrative and plot movement and then adding in feelings, emotions and scares.
I've said it before - Demmer is a living legend in my eyes. We have our King's and our Barker's and our Pyper's absolutely. But they all excel and destroy us with novella's and novels, most of epic lengths. Demmer is the living king of flash fiction and quick pieces of prose.
I recently read 'Unidentified Fatherly Object' in Demmer's 'Dark Celebrations' and while this was the second to last story, it was one of the major highlights.
This one focused on a son searching for the truth of what happened to his father. We get an Area 51 setting with government forces, secret places and otherworldly entities. We get mystery and intrigue and we get that familial connection that drives the story.
This one has such a grand cinematic quality to it and it's yet another example of Demmer's ability to grab the reader and bring you into his world.
Stunning. Just stunning.
Absolutely.
Imagine having the ability of creating a story - a fully formed story - in 25 pages. We're talking back story, character development, narrative and plot movement and then adding in feelings, emotions and scares.
I've said it before - Demmer is a living legend in my eyes. We have our King's and our Barker's and our Pyper's absolutely. But they all excel and destroy us with novella's and novels, most of epic lengths. Demmer is the living king of flash fiction and quick pieces of prose.
I recently read 'Unidentified Fatherly Object' in Demmer's 'Dark Celebrations' and while this was the second to last story, it was one of the major highlights.
This one focused on a son searching for the truth of what happened to his father. We get an Area 51 setting with government forces, secret places and otherworldly entities. We get mystery and intrigue and we get that familial connection that drives the story.
This one has such a grand cinematic quality to it and it's yet another example of Demmer's ability to grab the reader and bring you into his world.
Stunning. Just stunning.
March 20, 2020
Unidentified Fatherly Object is another enjoyable quick read from Calvin Demmer. Although this works fine as a standalone short story, those who have read the other Dark Celebrations short stories will see nods to the other tales.
As always, Calvin Demmer packed plenty into this short story. It kept me hooked throughout and I happily devoured it. Although I enjoyed it, I feel it was a bit of a tease as it only hinted at an explanation of what had been going on in all the stories. It was fun, but it did leave me wanting.
Well worth the read if you’re wanting to connect the Dark Celebrations stories.
As always, Calvin Demmer packed plenty into this short story. It kept me hooked throughout and I happily devoured it. Although I enjoyed it, I feel it was a bit of a tease as it only hinted at an explanation of what had been going on in all the stories. It was fun, but it did leave me wanting.
Well worth the read if you’re wanting to connect the Dark Celebrations stories.
February 16, 2023
Wow! This was just great! The turn this one took was my kind of story, very good. Definitely 5 stars!
March 16, 2023
Oh man,
I really appreciated what the author was trying to do here.
This story builds the connection between all the stories in Dark Celebrations, leading up to the final story Independence Denied.
This one focuses on a son looking for his father, who was a scientist working for a government entity - and who was presumed dead after a terrible accident.
Very promising, and when the son went snooping for answers, he certainly got them.
No spoilers, this is a good one though :)
I really appreciated what the author was trying to do here.
This story builds the connection between all the stories in Dark Celebrations, leading up to the final story Independence Denied.
This one focuses on a son looking for his father, who was a scientist working for a government entity - and who was presumed dead after a terrible accident.
Very promising, and when the son went snooping for answers, he certainly got them.
No spoilers, this is a good one though :)
July 4, 2017
The latest entry in Calvin Demmers 'Dark Celebration' series changes things up as more of a sci-fi offering. However, the main focus is the same as a young protagonist struggles with his place in larger world, trying to figure out its mysteries and unprepared that it indeed has designs on them. There is a nice call back to the other stories in this series as well, jigsaw pieces falling into place, an unveiling of a larger design.Fast paced and well written. Recommended.
November 23, 2023
solid story
Another above average short story from Demmer. I liked this a little less than his others. Also, it’s hard not to compare him to my favorite authors. They’re fun little stories and knowing they come in a collection is also pretty neat. His stories read like a slightly more mature Goosebumps book.
Another above average short story from Demmer. I liked this a little less than his others. Also, it’s hard not to compare him to my favorite authors. They’re fun little stories and knowing they come in a collection is also pretty neat. His stories read like a slightly more mature Goosebumps book.
November 6, 2023
It was quick and enjoyable.
It felt like I was reading a Goosebumps book.
I will say I loved the ending.
It felt like I was reading a Goosebumps book.
I will say I loved the ending.
June 30, 2017
Unidentified Fatherly Object is the latest tale in Calvin Demmer's extraordinary Dark Celebrations series; Prom Screams, She Will Rise, Hungry Ghosts, Labor Day Hunt, Thanks Sinning, Trick or Death, Three Dead Men Happy Dark Year and Spring Outbreak. They are all available on Amazon for less than a pound or dollar depending where you live!
In the 11th instalment of this epic Dark Celebrations Series we meet Fred Garcia a young man in the throes of bereavement but what he needs most are answers. His father passed away in mysterious circumstances, an accident at work in a top secret military bunker.
His aunt and uncle tell him to leave it alone, to accept what has happened and move on with his life, surely that's what his father would have wanted for him?
But Fred just can't let things lie, he has to know, he has suspicions that just won't go away. One night he decides to go out into the desert and see for himself the strictly prohibited area in which his father died. Will he find his answers? Will he be able to handle the truth?
Another great story from Calvin Demmer. I don't want to give too much away but the ending is particularly gruesome. Calvin has a unique ability to make his readers squirm with dread. I'm so happy I'm not one of his characters! There's a some very clever references to his past tales included within which I thought was a great touch.
I really enjoyed reading Unidentified Fatherly Object and can't wait for the next instalment of the Dark Celebrations series.
In the 11th instalment of this epic Dark Celebrations Series we meet Fred Garcia a young man in the throes of bereavement but what he needs most are answers. His father passed away in mysterious circumstances, an accident at work in a top secret military bunker.
His aunt and uncle tell him to leave it alone, to accept what has happened and move on with his life, surely that's what his father would have wanted for him?
But Fred just can't let things lie, he has to know, he has suspicions that just won't go away. One night he decides to go out into the desert and see for himself the strictly prohibited area in which his father died. Will he find his answers? Will he be able to handle the truth?
Another great story from Calvin Demmer. I don't want to give too much away but the ending is particularly gruesome. Calvin has a unique ability to make his readers squirm with dread. I'm so happy I'm not one of his characters! There's a some very clever references to his past tales included within which I thought was a great touch.
I really enjoyed reading Unidentified Fatherly Object and can't wait for the next instalment of the Dark Celebrations series.
June 20, 2017
One of Demmer's best stories to date! It's hard to discuss the piece without giving anything away, but I will tell you this--it's a gripping page turner. You will get sucked in and be amazed and horrified at the shocking conclusion. I particularly enjoyed Demmer's descriptions here. They are vivid and well-imagined. And, you will be left feeling haunted, and that something like this could really happen. The author's depiction of events is very convincing. Even if you don't buy into the sci-fi premise, you will be engaged and entertained nonetheless.
July 11, 2017
"Don't do it!" is something you often want to yell at characters in horror stories, and this young man needs that advice at every turn. At the same time, you get why he does what he does.
This short had a twist that you can kind of see coming because, well, Area 51 is mentioned. But the "Fatherly Object" part was something different that I wasn't expecting.
As with a lot of this author's shorts, this story was complete unto itself, but I also wanted to know more, like this could be an opening chapter in a full-length novel.
This short had a twist that you can kind of see coming because, well, Area 51 is mentioned. But the "Fatherly Object" part was something different that I wasn't expecting.
As with a lot of this author's shorts, this story was complete unto itself, but I also wanted to know more, like this could be an opening chapter in a full-length novel.
July 3, 2017
I hesitate less and less to read Demmer's work. The Dark Celebrations is something I contually look forward to with every nearing holiday. U.F.O. Is no different. Maybe my favorite of the collection yet. Sci-Fi usually carries hints of horror, and horror does Sci-Fi. U.F.O. does an exceptional job in blending both into a great thrill ride. Do not hesitate to join Fred in his search for his father, you won't regret it!
May 7, 2021
Unexpectedly Chilling
The premise of this story, to find a missing (presumably dead) father, takes a very dark and interesting turn involving aliens. Despite finding exactly what he was looking for, it is abundantly clear that Fred should have just stayed home. Some things are better left unknown...and unseen.
This is one of the better Dimmer short stories that I have read. The storytelling is seamless and believable. It has just a touch of mystery, terror, and a whole lot of thrill.
The premise of this story, to find a missing (presumably dead) father, takes a very dark and interesting turn involving aliens. Despite finding exactly what he was looking for, it is abundantly clear that Fred should have just stayed home. Some things are better left unknown...and unseen.
This is one of the better Dimmer short stories that I have read. The storytelling is seamless and believable. It has just a touch of mystery, terror, and a whole lot of thrill.
November 17, 2023
This has got to be one of the top three stories in the Dark Celebration collection. I loved the call back to many of the other stories and can’t wait for the finally to tie this entire collection into a pretty bow.
August 24, 2017
This was a very odd tale. Kind of came out left field and was rather unexpected. I had a hard time feeling the fear, but I could roll with this tale. Its unnaturalness carried it.
October 24, 2023
Different type of story
This had the normal area 51 creep feel. Different things happened but mostly what you would think. Not scary just unsettling.
This had the normal area 51 creep feel. Different things happened but mostly what you would think. Not scary just unsettling.
December 6, 2023
NGL I kinda wanna be a floating head
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2023
Curiosity killed the cat, Fred. 🛸
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews