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The Gatherings
The Gatherings were supposed to bring world peace. What they brought was the apocalypse.
Celebrities, politicians, and other prominent figures put together The Gatherings, an event to be held worldwide promoting global peace. When a friend invites Emily to one of the gatherings in a secluded apple orchard, she obliges. Sure, she is an introverted writer, but the world is so fractured that The Gatherings are something even she can get behind.
Everything is great until the dancing begins. Then it happens...
In most apocalyptic tales, the end comes by way of viral plague, world war, or robot invasion. Never in a million years could Emily imagine it would be this way. Will Emily survive to see what happens after the end of the world?
Celebrities, politicians, and other prominent figures put together The Gatherings, an event to be held worldwide promoting global peace. When a friend invites Emily to one of the gatherings in a secluded apple orchard, she obliges. Sure, she is an introverted writer, but the world is so fractured that The Gatherings are something even she can get behind.
Everything is great until the dancing begins. Then it happens...
In most apocalyptic tales, the end comes by way of viral plague, world war, or robot invasion. Never in a million years could Emily imagine it would be this way. Will Emily survive to see what happens after the end of the world?
74 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 7, 2020
8 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
Jeremy Ray
7 books369 followersJeremy Ray graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a MFA in Dramatic Writing. He is the recipient of the Max K. Lerner Playwriting Fellowship for his play Boiling Point and the Shubert Playwriting Fellowship for his play Sisters of Transformation. His work has been performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, and his screenplays have placed in the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards Competition, The Academy Nicholl Fellowship, and the ScreenCraft Drama Contest.
However, he is most fond of prose. He spends his free time devouring books like the bookworm he is.
🐛🐛🐛𝗪𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀? 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄 ...
https://litelink.at/jeremyraystories
However, he is most fond of prose. He spends his free time devouring books like the bookworm he is.
🐛🐛🐛𝗪𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀? 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄 ...
https://litelink.at/jeremyraystories
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
October 30, 2025
One of the best short horror stories that I've read in some time. Jeremy Ray created a very unique and intriguing apocalyptic situation that distanced itself from anything else that I've read. He managed to cram an incredible amount of detail and depth into 60 short pages. It definitely left me wanting more, but also very satisfied with the content that was given. I also really liked the subtle touch of our lead writing this out like the rough draft of a journal entry. Lines crossed out, words replaced, etc, just made it all feel that much more real. A great way to spend 30 minutes if you're into horror, end of the world type plots, or even creature features.
October 23, 2020
I found this novella to be quite unnerving and it really packed a punch for only being 74 pages long.
So, without divulging too much information, The Gatherings is definitely, as it says, an apocalyptic tale centered around an event referred to as the gatherings. What takes place during and immediately after these "gatherings" are events that kinda remind me of The Human Centipede meets Invasion Of The Body Snatchers. *insert bulging eyes and freaked out faces here*
I really enjoyed reading this. The writing was well executed and the author created an interesting, unreliable narrator that propelled the story to disturbing heights. I found myself squirming and a bit grossed out and that reaction is extremely difficult to draw from me.
I'm just sitting here trying to figure out how I'm gonna get this sort of a review past the Amazon crew (chuckles nervously).
I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this as a quick, disturbing read for my fellow horror junkies.
So, without divulging too much information, The Gatherings is definitely, as it says, an apocalyptic tale centered around an event referred to as the gatherings. What takes place during and immediately after these "gatherings" are events that kinda remind me of The Human Centipede meets Invasion Of The Body Snatchers. *insert bulging eyes and freaked out faces here*
I really enjoyed reading this. The writing was well executed and the author created an interesting, unreliable narrator that propelled the story to disturbing heights. I found myself squirming and a bit grossed out and that reaction is extremely difficult to draw from me.
I'm just sitting here trying to figure out how I'm gonna get this sort of a review past the Amazon crew (chuckles nervously).
I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this as a quick, disturbing read for my fellow horror junkies.
August 6, 2020
The Gatherings is not your average apocalyptic story. The world does not seemingly begin ending the way we have seen in the past. It's not brought on by a virus, aliens, world war, etc. And that is just one of the many reasons this short story is a step up above others I have read!
So what does happen?? Well, a collection of simultaneous worldwide events are being hosted by celebrities and politicians (think Hands Across America meets "We Are The World" meets Live Aid almost) called The Gatherings. These events are promoting world peace, but what unfolds when the gatherings and dancing begin is anything BUT peaceful. Body parts will be dropping from the sky, children will be devoured by something unknown, and life as we know it will be smothered from all existence.
Author Jeremy Ray has such a wonderful style of writing full of descriptive imagery. And a lot of the imagery evokes childhood memories. Without giving too much away, two images resonate off the top of my mind. There's one about stretching bubblegum with your tongue and another about watching water zig zag down the sides of the shower/bathtub that totally took me back to the innocence of being a kid... and it's kind of wild that I thought I was the only person who noticed those types of things?!
Ray developed a sense of isolation with our main character, Emily, and I was rooting from her from the beginning... and I really needed to know the rest of her story! I felt the same fear and desperation she did the whole time. I can definitely see this as a setup for a larger body of work, set of short stories, novellas, etc. I had a great time reading this... it was haunting, disturbing, and would be my worst nightmare! 4.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads!
Thank you to the author for this free copy in exchange for an honest review.
So what does happen?? Well, a collection of simultaneous worldwide events are being hosted by celebrities and politicians (think Hands Across America meets "We Are The World" meets Live Aid almost) called The Gatherings. These events are promoting world peace, but what unfolds when the gatherings and dancing begin is anything BUT peaceful. Body parts will be dropping from the sky, children will be devoured by something unknown, and life as we know it will be smothered from all existence.
Author Jeremy Ray has such a wonderful style of writing full of descriptive imagery. And a lot of the imagery evokes childhood memories. Without giving too much away, two images resonate off the top of my mind. There's one about stretching bubblegum with your tongue and another about watching water zig zag down the sides of the shower/bathtub that totally took me back to the innocence of being a kid... and it's kind of wild that I thought I was the only person who noticed those types of things?!
Ray developed a sense of isolation with our main character, Emily, and I was rooting from her from the beginning... and I really needed to know the rest of her story! I felt the same fear and desperation she did the whole time. I can definitely see this as a setup for a larger body of work, set of short stories, novellas, etc. I had a great time reading this... it was haunting, disturbing, and would be my worst nightmare! 4.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads!
Thank you to the author for this free copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2021
This creepy and unique post-apocalyptic horror read follows a young writer, Emily, who attends one of the many events being held worldwide called the gatherings to promote global peace. However, what originally seemed like peaceful events that were created to bring people together soon turn into something dark and deadly. This short story is one that really makes you question everything around you and look at seemingly innocent things in a whole new light. Jeremy Ray has once again written a spine tingling horror that makes it impossible not to devour it in one sitting. I love the dark humour and sarcasm he brings into his books to keep things slightly light and ominous before opening the flood gates of his horror writing style and freaks you out. If you like the old film A Little Shop of Horrors and are into post-apocalyptic reads then I definitely recommend this. I just really hope we hear more to this story because the ending really left me hooked 🙈
November 6, 2021
I received a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via the author.
The Gatherings is a fast paced, short horror story that is a unique and gruesome spin on the apocalypse.
This book made me squirm and made my skin crawl but I couldn't pull away.
Around the world, Gatherings are taking place to unite people for world peace. However, once the dancing begins,you'd better run for your life!
Emily is at one of the gatherings and can't believe her eyes at first. Teffified she tries to escape. I lived how the author captured her sense of isolation and desperation. It made my heart pound when she was hidden in the greenhouse.
The only other book I've read of Jeremy Ray's, so far, has been the houseplant, and although completely different stories, I loved the writing style and emotions Jeremy's writing provoked.
The Gatherings is a fast paced, short horror story that is a unique and gruesome spin on the apocalypse.
This book made me squirm and made my skin crawl but I couldn't pull away.
Around the world, Gatherings are taking place to unite people for world peace. However, once the dancing begins,you'd better run for your life!
Emily is at one of the gatherings and can't believe her eyes at first. Teffified she tries to escape. I lived how the author captured her sense of isolation and desperation. It made my heart pound when she was hidden in the greenhouse.
The only other book I've read of Jeremy Ray's, so far, has been the houseplant, and although completely different stories, I loved the writing style and emotions Jeremy's writing provoked.
August 8, 2020
I let me impulse mood reading self take me away. I put everything down to read this book. This book was infectious and I picked it up immediately! I saw a friend had read it and knew I had to see what this craziness was about. It’s a great fast paced read in one sitting kinda book. It had a few head nods to the pandemic we are feeling now. I’m not sure when the author wrote this book but it’s eerily relatable in some areas.
The narrator sits down to write their story of how the apocalypse started. But this isn’t your normal apocalypse story. The narrator and her friend are invited to a gathering that’s all about coming together as one for peace but turns out to be more like a cult. The scenes are fun, gory and intense. I was screaming at the narrator listen to your instincts!!! But I mean what fun would that be?
I really enjoyed the perspective the author took on this book and jumping right into the fun stuff. If you love cosmic horror and high anxiety reads then this is for you. It takes on new ideas and doesn’t follow the norm to leave you wanting more. This author gets major points for originality! I also loved the relationship between the narrator and her friend. I just wish we could have explored more of that and built up the relationship. I would have loved to have more of that connection fleshed out in this book. Lastly, I read this on my kindle and I’m not sure how the physical formatting is but I loved the words being crossed out. If you end up reading this book you will know what I’m talking about. Dear author, I can’t wait to read what you have waiting up your sleeves for your next horror book! Claps all around for this debut novella. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 4/5 ⭐️
Also I don’t think I was meant to get a connection “𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒐𝒅𝒂𝒚.”
The narrator sits down to write their story of how the apocalypse started. But this isn’t your normal apocalypse story. The narrator and her friend are invited to a gathering that’s all about coming together as one for peace but turns out to be more like a cult. The scenes are fun, gory and intense. I was screaming at the narrator listen to your instincts!!! But I mean what fun would that be?
I really enjoyed the perspective the author took on this book and jumping right into the fun stuff. If you love cosmic horror and high anxiety reads then this is for you. It takes on new ideas and doesn’t follow the norm to leave you wanting more. This author gets major points for originality! I also loved the relationship between the narrator and her friend. I just wish we could have explored more of that and built up the relationship. I would have loved to have more of that connection fleshed out in this book. Lastly, I read this on my kindle and I’m not sure how the physical formatting is but I loved the words being crossed out. If you end up reading this book you will know what I’m talking about. Dear author, I can’t wait to read what you have waiting up your sleeves for your next horror book! Claps all around for this debut novella. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 4/5 ⭐️
Also I don’t think I was meant to get a connection “𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒐𝒅𝒂𝒚.”
September 30, 2021
Jeremy Ray should absolutely be on your radar if he isn't yet. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you could ever talk to (and his boyfriend thinks I'm funny so YAY 😉), but he is quite talented. As someone who has a love/hate relationship with short stories/novellas, he's really turning it around for me and that's saying something! This is my third story by Ray and I really loved this spin on how the human race will die. Warms my black soul.
If the world ever does a 'gathering' to promote global peace, ala Hands Across America etc., I'm taking my "I read a lot of horror so I know what's gonna happen" ass and skedaddling. This is pretty powerful for it's 74 pages, which I read on my commute home last night from work. There's so many things happening and we get to see it happen straight through Emily's widened eyes. Oh the things she witnessed.... I have visions of all kinds of things. For instance, at one point I had a The Ruins meets The Human Centipede/Slither going on in my head... and I wasn't hating it.
This story is just as infectious as the meat centipedes contained within. That's right. You heard me. The only thing I wished for was more background but fuck it, some things maybe don't need to be known. Go snag yourself a copy.. it's Spooky Season and you deserve it!
If the world ever does a 'gathering' to promote global peace, ala Hands Across America etc., I'm taking my "I read a lot of horror so I know what's gonna happen" ass and skedaddling. This is pretty powerful for it's 74 pages, which I read on my commute home last night from work. There's so many things happening and we get to see it happen straight through Emily's widened eyes. Oh the things she witnessed.... I have visions of all kinds of things. For instance, at one point I had a The Ruins meets The Human Centipede/Slither going on in my head... and I wasn't hating it.
This story is just as infectious as the meat centipedes contained within. That's right. You heard me. The only thing I wished for was more background but fuck it, some things maybe don't need to be known. Go snag yourself a copy.. it's Spooky Season and you deserve it!
August 7, 2020
Emily’s story is written at a desk, surrounded by the end of the world as we know it. She is one of the few survivors of a new type of apocalypse, not brought on by plagues, pandemics or infections but by events simply known as The Gatherings.
The Gatherings felt like a modern John Wyndham or H.G. Wells type apocalypse with little hints of Jeff Vandermeer thrown it. I found it refreshing and unique to the genre and enjoyed my time in this world, as with many short stories, I would’ve loved there to be more. A creepy, atmospheric debut by Jeremy Ray and I’m excited to see what he releases in the future. I’ll be watching.
I would recommend to people who enjoy: Apocalyptic horror, John Wyndham, H.G. Wells, speculative elements, possible sci-fi vibes, isolation/desolation.
Disclaimer: I was provided a free kindle copy of The Gatherings from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2022
An invasive, omnivorous, destructive plant species has taken over the planet. The story told from the perspective of the main character, Emily, in an almost diary, or letter style, complete with crossed out word corrections that was perfect for an apocalyptic story. Dystopia is my favorite, and this definitely has all the elements of an apocalypse. So much struggle, loss and fear was fit into a short space and it made it feel like such a well rounded complete story. I love the bits of humor put in throughout; my favorite part was reading the story between Emily and Monica and how it changed, and listening to Emily’s hindsight perspective on all her would’ve, could’ve, should’ves. This is only my second Jeremy Ray book, and he continues to deliver a well written, interesting story that keeps me hooked until the end.
September 8, 2020
Meat centipede. Let me say that again...
MEAT CENTIPEDE!
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I’m just going to come right out with it. I loved this story.
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The cover is creepy, the story - original, the protagonist Emily - loveable.
Gross, disturbing creatures all make for one hell of fast, fun cosmic type horror trip!
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I would loved to of seen/known more about Emily and Monica’s relationship, but this would be my only (very small) issue with an otherwise astonishing debut.
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I urge you to go pick this up and enjoy.
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Thank you Jeremy for providing me with this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
MEAT CENTIPEDE!
-
I’m just going to come right out with it. I loved this story.
-
The cover is creepy, the story - original, the protagonist Emily - loveable.
Gross, disturbing creatures all make for one hell of fast, fun cosmic type horror trip!
-
I would loved to of seen/known more about Emily and Monica’s relationship, but this would be my only (very small) issue with an otherwise astonishing debut.
-
I urge you to go pick this up and enjoy.
-
Thank you Jeremy for providing me with this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2021
“The Gatherings”, by Jeremy Ray
“The Gatherings” is my third novella by Jeremy Ray. If you have not read any of his work, I urge you to do so. His collection of micro-stories is next on my TBR short list. He is such a great writer that I am eagerly awaiting a full length novel.
“The Gatherings” is an apocolyptic horror tale centered around a gathering. I know, another apocalyptic story ?! This one really stands out among the the saturated market.
Unlike most apocalyptic stories that begin with a plague or some biohazard, this one starts with an event. The narrator, Emily, explains her experience with the ‘Gathering’, which starts out simple enough with singing, dancing and peace lovng hippie stuff. Then the hand holding turns into biting and the horror begins.
Ray did an amazing job at developing Emily as a character. She watched the world crumble around her; felt fear, panic, isolation and her feelings were flawlessly transferred to the reader. Ray keeps the focus on the narrators experience and her need for survival. He does not bog the reader down with any surronding details that detract from the main story.
“The Gatherings” is an extremely short story that flawlessly strikes a balance between world building and character development that really shakes you to the core. I really enjoyed the end. The additional micro-story at the end was the cherry on top. It is the perfect horror novella for the Thanksgiving season.
Thank you for my review copy.
“The Gatherings” is my third novella by Jeremy Ray. If you have not read any of his work, I urge you to do so. His collection of micro-stories is next on my TBR short list. He is such a great writer that I am eagerly awaiting a full length novel.
“The Gatherings” is an apocolyptic horror tale centered around a gathering. I know, another apocalyptic story ?! This one really stands out among the the saturated market.
Unlike most apocalyptic stories that begin with a plague or some biohazard, this one starts with an event. The narrator, Emily, explains her experience with the ‘Gathering’, which starts out simple enough with singing, dancing and peace lovng hippie stuff. Then the hand holding turns into biting and the horror begins.
Ray did an amazing job at developing Emily as a character. She watched the world crumble around her; felt fear, panic, isolation and her feelings were flawlessly transferred to the reader. Ray keeps the focus on the narrators experience and her need for survival. He does not bog the reader down with any surronding details that detract from the main story.
“The Gatherings” is an extremely short story that flawlessly strikes a balance between world building and character development that really shakes you to the core. I really enjoyed the end. The additional micro-story at the end was the cherry on top. It is the perfect horror novella for the Thanksgiving season.
Thank you for my review copy.
January 31, 2021
Not too long ago I read Jeremy’s short story The Houseplant and I absolutely loved it. I told him now I need to read your horror story. He was kind enough to send it to my in exchange for an honest review.
The Gatherings is my first 5 star read of the year. It’s not your average apocalyptic tale. Instead of a plague or zombies we have a cross between Scott Smith’s The Ruins and a crazy cult story.
The protagonist, Emily, sits at a desk telling her story of the end of the world. Her relationship with her friend/love interest Monica is especially endearing and I loved their relationship.
Imagine a world taken over by vines made of human bodies. ( Meat centipedes! 😱)So creepy and I loved it!
To say anymore about the plot would spoil it. Just do yourself a favor and pickup this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Jeremy Ray is definitely an author to watch. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next!
The Gatherings is my first 5 star read of the year. It’s not your average apocalyptic tale. Instead of a plague or zombies we have a cross between Scott Smith’s The Ruins and a crazy cult story.
The protagonist, Emily, sits at a desk telling her story of the end of the world. Her relationship with her friend/love interest Monica is especially endearing and I loved their relationship.
Imagine a world taken over by vines made of human bodies. ( Meat centipedes! 😱)So creepy and I loved it!
To say anymore about the plot would spoil it. Just do yourself a favor and pickup this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Jeremy Ray is definitely an author to watch. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next!
December 15, 2021
This is beyond creepy. It’s super short but don’t let that trick you, it punches you in the gut. It’s strong, this novela. There was so much emotion. So much pain and hurt and loss. For some reason I fixated on the birds and that’s what got me to really want to cry. I guess I was also in shock, up until that part of the story.
My only complaint is that we never find out what it was? Where it came from? It was horrific.
My only complaint is that we never find out what it was? Where it came from? It was horrific.
August 29, 2022
An apocalyptical tale that will give you a nightmare or two…
Organised by celebrities, world leaders and other prominent figures, the gatherings were meant to bring about world peace. But all they did was declare the end of life on Earth as we know it. When Emily is invited by a friend to one of these “gatherings”, never in a million years did she think that the celebrations would bring about a sinister end to everything she holds dear.
Jeremy has a skill in writing some of the most dramatic (and terrifying) short stories I’ve come across. The Gatherings is fast moving, a truly horrifying take on an apocalyptical tale. It’s unnerving and it will make your skin literally crawl! Don’t eat when you’re reading the 60 pages of this story- you will thank me when you’re finished!
Without giving too much away, think Human Centipede meets Invasion of the Body Snatchers and you’re kind of on the right track. Jeremy’s individuality and originality makes it a thoroughly enjoyable (or maybe truly terrifying is the best description for this experience!) story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it.
5 star horror! Perfect for the spooky season.
Thank you to Jeremy for the gifted ebook in exchange for my honest review. The Gatherings is available to purchase as an ebook on Amazon right now. Go check it out!
Organised by celebrities, world leaders and other prominent figures, the gatherings were meant to bring about world peace. But all they did was declare the end of life on Earth as we know it. When Emily is invited by a friend to one of these “gatherings”, never in a million years did she think that the celebrations would bring about a sinister end to everything she holds dear.
Jeremy has a skill in writing some of the most dramatic (and terrifying) short stories I’ve come across. The Gatherings is fast moving, a truly horrifying take on an apocalyptical tale. It’s unnerving and it will make your skin literally crawl! Don’t eat when you’re reading the 60 pages of this story- you will thank me when you’re finished!
Without giving too much away, think Human Centipede meets Invasion of the Body Snatchers and you’re kind of on the right track. Jeremy’s individuality and originality makes it a thoroughly enjoyable (or maybe truly terrifying is the best description for this experience!) story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it.
5 star horror! Perfect for the spooky season.
Thank you to Jeremy for the gifted ebook in exchange for my honest review. The Gatherings is available to purchase as an ebook on Amazon right now. Go check it out!
July 25, 2024
Jeremy Ray's brief (only 49 pages) story is incredible. There was almost nothing I didn't love about this story. Although there was animal death, and I always have a hard time reading that, I know that's a personal preference rather than an actual critique.
Ray captures both the feeling of hopelessness and the desire for/fear of having hope that an actual survivor of an apocalyptic event probably would feel. Our narrator Emily is a writer, and The Gatherings is formatted as her writing her story for anyone who possibly would find it. This framing device fit the story really well, and Emily as a character is all the more relatable because of it. As a reader, I really felt everything Emily was feeling, her sorrow and awe and fear. Her relationship with Monica particularly drew me in. Monica is the reason Emily has survived and the reason she doesn't give in to hope, and the flashbacks of their relationship were incredibly touching.
The text itself is rich and readable, particularly when describing the somewhat surreal horror befalling the earth. I was glued to the page, enraptured and intent on seeing each new terror that unfurled. Ray is an excellent writer, and I eagerly await whatever else he has in store for us.
Ray captures both the feeling of hopelessness and the desire for/fear of having hope that an actual survivor of an apocalyptic event probably would feel. Our narrator Emily is a writer, and The Gatherings is formatted as her writing her story for anyone who possibly would find it. This framing device fit the story really well, and Emily as a character is all the more relatable because of it. As a reader, I really felt everything Emily was feeling, her sorrow and awe and fear. Her relationship with Monica particularly drew me in. Monica is the reason Emily has survived and the reason she doesn't give in to hope, and the flashbacks of their relationship were incredibly touching.
The text itself is rich and readable, particularly when describing the somewhat surreal horror befalling the earth. I was glued to the page, enraptured and intent on seeing each new terror that unfurled. Ray is an excellent writer, and I eagerly await whatever else he has in store for us.
September 3, 2020
A short read that took me about an hour “The Gatherings” from Jeremy Ray was a first time read for me from said author. I really enjoyed the concept but I did feel like sometimes the writing got a bit clunky but with everything in life it just takes practice. I would’ve said 3.5 stars but rounded up to 4 because I truly feel like Jeremy has potential as a novelist and hopefully in the future we can get a novel with this concept. Happy reading!
August 21, 2020
Absolutely loved this apocalyptic short story!
It had everything you need in a weird, unimaginable end of the world story.
It had everything you need in a weird, unimaginable end of the world story.
October 22, 2021
If you loved The Human Centipede, you'll love this short story!! You'll definitely get the ick vibes from the imagery that came with this story. I loved how the story was written as somebody was hurriedly writing everything that transpired. I honestly wish that the story was longer, I would have read all of it. I want to know what the other's stories are, what can bring down this monstrosity. I just wanted to read more and sadly it ended, with a bit of hope, maybe???? Also, I love the wlw rep, but in a horror/thriller.
Disclosure: I received The Gatherings as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Disclosure: I received The Gatherings as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 14, 2020
When I saw this book on a fellow #bookstagrammer friend's feed, I was immediately drawn to the unsettling cover. Creepy covers are everything, and they're even better when the story behind them is disturbing and creepy too!
I really enjoyed this twist on an apocalyptic horror. Although I do love my zombies and plagues, the environmental element at play in this story was a welcomed element. With the current era that we are living in, it was impossible for readers not to draw some parallels between our current pandemic and the events of the story, which made this novella that much more "real" and relatable.
The narrator, Emily, very candidly explains her experiences with the beginning of the end...or "The Gatherings." These events start out innocent enough- think lots of singing, dancing, hand holding- you know...hippy peace and love stuff. But then the singing starts to take over, and next comes the biting and the gorific horror....straight up gruesome things! (Some of these things reminded me vaguely of the Human Centipede *cringe*, but I'm going to steer away from that topic, because it was only a fleeting thought I had when the assimilation occurred, so it wasn't quite that kind of horror, thank goodness.)
I loved the disturbing imagery, the narrative voice, and the anxiety produced throughout these pages. Yes, I just said that I liked the anxiety (haha, weird, huh?) Ray did a superb job of conveying the fear, isolation, and panic that Emily feels as she watches everything go to hell around her. I could feel what Emily was feeling, and I wasn't hating it, because this book made me feel something and connect with the protagonist.
Okay, so when do we get a second installment of "The Gatherings"? I will certainly be anxiously awaiting any stories that Jeremy Ray releases in the future. This was a very original, unique, and well thought out debut!
**Thank you to the author for providing me a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.**
I really enjoyed this twist on an apocalyptic horror. Although I do love my zombies and plagues, the environmental element at play in this story was a welcomed element. With the current era that we are living in, it was impossible for readers not to draw some parallels between our current pandemic and the events of the story, which made this novella that much more "real" and relatable.
The narrator, Emily, very candidly explains her experiences with the beginning of the end...or "The Gatherings." These events start out innocent enough- think lots of singing, dancing, hand holding- you know...hippy peace and love stuff. But then the singing starts to take over, and next comes the biting and the gorific horror....straight up gruesome things! (Some of these things reminded me vaguely of the Human Centipede *cringe*, but I'm going to steer away from that topic, because it was only a fleeting thought I had when the assimilation occurred, so it wasn't quite that kind of horror, thank goodness.)
I loved the disturbing imagery, the narrative voice, and the anxiety produced throughout these pages. Yes, I just said that I liked the anxiety (haha, weird, huh?) Ray did a superb job of conveying the fear, isolation, and panic that Emily feels as she watches everything go to hell around her. I could feel what Emily was feeling, and I wasn't hating it, because this book made me feel something and connect with the protagonist.
Okay, so when do we get a second installment of "The Gatherings"? I will certainly be anxiously awaiting any stories that Jeremy Ray releases in the future. This was a very original, unique, and well thought out debut!
**Thank you to the author for providing me a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.**
January 26, 2024
Actual rating: 3,5 stars
I really love to read about a apocalyps and how humanity survives in one. It makes those books one of my favorite kind of dystopian horrors. And everyone who knows me, knows I really do love a good one.
This book was so unique and unlike anything other I have ever read before. Most times when I read books about the apocalyps it's about the falling of the moon or zombies. Not ever like I have experienced inside this book and the little hairs on my arms stood up a lot of times. There was a certain eerie vibe to this book that made me think a lot of times. Like I said, the concept was just so unique and one of a kind... It scares me! The author really knows what he is doing.
Sometimes however I wasn't sure what was actually happening, and a lot of things felt like the present where they were supposed to be a flash back. That confused me just a little, but that is alright. The rest of this book is brilliantly executed and I loved the vibes I got from seeing this book from the survivor's POV. The story flow was good and fast paced, and very unexpected at turns.
If you are into spooky reads, who really makes you give the goosebumps, please try any of Jeremy Ray's work. This man is a genius when it comes to writing horror.
Book is available for free on Amazon Kindle Unlimited, or to be bought on the Amazon Kindle.
I really love to read about a apocalyps and how humanity survives in one. It makes those books one of my favorite kind of dystopian horrors. And everyone who knows me, knows I really do love a good one.
This book was so unique and unlike anything other I have ever read before. Most times when I read books about the apocalyps it's about the falling of the moon or zombies. Not ever like I have experienced inside this book and the little hairs on my arms stood up a lot of times. There was a certain eerie vibe to this book that made me think a lot of times. Like I said, the concept was just so unique and one of a kind... It scares me! The author really knows what he is doing.
Sometimes however I wasn't sure what was actually happening, and a lot of things felt like the present where they were supposed to be a flash back. That confused me just a little, but that is alright. The rest of this book is brilliantly executed and I loved the vibes I got from seeing this book from the survivor's POV. The story flow was good and fast paced, and very unexpected at turns.
If you are into spooky reads, who really makes you give the goosebumps, please try any of Jeremy Ray's work. This man is a genius when it comes to writing horror.
Book is available for free on Amazon Kindle Unlimited, or to be bought on the Amazon Kindle.
November 26, 2020
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of The Gatherings in exchange for an honest review!
The Gatherings is an event hosted by leaders in order to create world peace — but instead, it brought on the apocalypse. In a very small number of pages, Jeremy Ray creates the end of the world in a way that we’ve never seen before.
I am absolutely in love with the way Jeremy Ray wrote this — not only is his writing & descriptions phenomenal — but we hear what’s being told through the main character, Emily, who’s writing at a desk & trying to share the story with someone who might stumble upon it.
As mentioned, The Gatherings is short. It’s definitely worth the read & can be devoured in one sitting. I am looking forward to reading more of Jeremy’s future work, because if he’s able to create a full apocalyptic tale in less than 100 pages, I can only imagine what he can accomplish in a full-length work.
The Gatherings is an event hosted by leaders in order to create world peace — but instead, it brought on the apocalypse. In a very small number of pages, Jeremy Ray creates the end of the world in a way that we’ve never seen before.
I am absolutely in love with the way Jeremy Ray wrote this — not only is his writing & descriptions phenomenal — but we hear what’s being told through the main character, Emily, who’s writing at a desk & trying to share the story with someone who might stumble upon it.
As mentioned, The Gatherings is short. It’s definitely worth the read & can be devoured in one sitting. I am looking forward to reading more of Jeremy’s future work, because if he’s able to create a full apocalyptic tale in less than 100 pages, I can only imagine what he can accomplish in a full-length work.
August 7, 2020
The Gatherings is not your average apocalyptic story. It all begins with worldwide events that are being held simultaneously, called The Gatherings. They are about promoting world peace but what occurs is anything but peaceful. Life as we know it will cease from all of existence. We follow Emily through isolation, grief and survival as she tells us her story that’s full of fear and desperation in a world that has been ravished. Without giving too much away, I had a great time reading this and will be looking forward to reading more written by this author.
‘I was really looking forward to it, too, until I looked at her face. She was smiling at me. It was such a fragile expression, like she had to endure many years of pain to be able to smile at me that way; it just seemed wrong to tear it down.’
‘I was really looking forward to it, too, until I looked at her face. She was smiling at me. It was such a fragile expression, like she had to endure many years of pain to be able to smile at me that way; it just seemed wrong to tear it down.’
September 5, 2020
Unique Apocalyptic Tale
This short story seemed eerily possible in the very beginning but the excitement really happens once the narrator goes to a "Gathering" event. I was actually on the edge of my seat through most of the story. The plot was unique to me and I haven't read anything like this before, which is refreshing. I liked the book from the beginning to the end. I look forward to reading more of Jeremy's books in the future.
4/5
This short story seemed eerily possible in the very beginning but the excitement really happens once the narrator goes to a "Gathering" event. I was actually on the edge of my seat through most of the story. The plot was unique to me and I haven't read anything like this before, which is refreshing. I liked the book from the beginning to the end. I look forward to reading more of Jeremy's books in the future.
4/5
January 13, 2021
This apocalyptic tale begins at its infancy where Emily is trying to make heads or tails of what she’s witnessing. The apocalyptic genre has been played out but this was a refreshing spin...this felt like Slither meets The Ruins. Incredible detail, full of imagery that puts you right into the story. This definitely felt like a tease of a much larger work of fiction and I NEED MORE.
February 27, 2021
Working toward world peace, everyone on the planet gets together at the same moment to hold hands and unite as one. Well it partly worked. The end comes quickly and indiscriminately. Can Emily survive? Would you want to? Quick and creepy thriller
August 13, 2020
"We came here as individuals, we leave as one."
Much of my reading in July was consumed by horror novels. I've always been a fan of the genre, so it was really fun to devote so much of my reading time to it. As we entered August (how is it already August?!), I really wanted to vary my reading a bit more. I've got some non-fiction sprinkled in with a thriller or two and even a YA romance all set to be read this month. But when author Jeremy Ray reached out to me for a review of his debut short story, an apocalyptic horror story at that, I just couldn't resist it. So here I am, defaulting back to a genre that has sustained me for the past several weeks. The Gatherings is the perfect excuse for a short detour from my regularly scheduled reading. I have no doubt that you'll want to veer off your reading path to include it too.
The story opens with our heroine Emily writing an account of the past several days with the only paper and pen that she's been able to find. In reading her writing, we learn that the world as we currently know it has ceased to exist. Most people are gone, leaving the few remaining individuals to reckon with the changes that have happened and to fight to stay alive. Look up in the sky and you may be lucky enough to spot a bird or two, doing everything in its power to stay airborne and stay alive. This isn't your ordinary end of the world scenario. There was no virus, no nuclear blast, not blood-thirsty zombies hungry for your brains. If it weren't for the invasive vines covering every inch of occupiable land, you probably wouldn't even know anything was wrong.
The Gatherings were advertised as an almost magical experience. Famous celebrities, sports icons, and prominent elected officials all touted the potential for global peace and connection that could only be achieved by attending one of the events. Despite her introverted nature, Emily was convinced to attend her local gathering by her beautiful yoga instructor. The two women had quite the potential romance brewing, and Emily was not going to let her reserved nature keep her from spending time with the instructor. The couple approaches the sight of The Gathering, a sprawling orchard right outside of the city, to see the crowd assembling. The mayor begins the event by praising the wonderful effects of The Gatherings, and then the singing and dancing begin. The crowd is immediately overcome by a trance-like bliss, moving and swaying as a collective group. Emily is the only one who notices what is happening, the only one who sees the vines creeping toward the collective group, and the only one who has a chance at escaping the botanical hell that is quietly overtaking the world.
The Gatherings sees author Jeremy Ray enter the literary scene with a bang. This short story packs a punch that will leave you shaken, even after you finish the final page. The short story as a form is always a tricky balance of world-building, character development, and a fully formed narrative arc. Ray achieves all of these with the ease of a tenured storyteller, never veering too far into one area at the disservice of the other. Strong, descriptive imagery helps bring this apocalyptic world to life. Connecting this world-ending event to images of nature and classical art grounds the writing into a reality that makes the fiction all the more horrifying. Combine the terror with a relatable heroine who is easy to root for, and you've got a killer combo that maintains both suspense and pace. I read this short work in one sitting, not able to put it down before I knew how it ended. If this is any indication of the quality of work that we can expect from Jeremy Ray, then I'm really excited to see where is writing will take us next.
Much of my reading in July was consumed by horror novels. I've always been a fan of the genre, so it was really fun to devote so much of my reading time to it. As we entered August (how is it already August?!), I really wanted to vary my reading a bit more. I've got some non-fiction sprinkled in with a thriller or two and even a YA romance all set to be read this month. But when author Jeremy Ray reached out to me for a review of his debut short story, an apocalyptic horror story at that, I just couldn't resist it. So here I am, defaulting back to a genre that has sustained me for the past several weeks. The Gatherings is the perfect excuse for a short detour from my regularly scheduled reading. I have no doubt that you'll want to veer off your reading path to include it too.
The story opens with our heroine Emily writing an account of the past several days with the only paper and pen that she's been able to find. In reading her writing, we learn that the world as we currently know it has ceased to exist. Most people are gone, leaving the few remaining individuals to reckon with the changes that have happened and to fight to stay alive. Look up in the sky and you may be lucky enough to spot a bird or two, doing everything in its power to stay airborne and stay alive. This isn't your ordinary end of the world scenario. There was no virus, no nuclear blast, not blood-thirsty zombies hungry for your brains. If it weren't for the invasive vines covering every inch of occupiable land, you probably wouldn't even know anything was wrong.
The Gatherings were advertised as an almost magical experience. Famous celebrities, sports icons, and prominent elected officials all touted the potential for global peace and connection that could only be achieved by attending one of the events. Despite her introverted nature, Emily was convinced to attend her local gathering by her beautiful yoga instructor. The two women had quite the potential romance brewing, and Emily was not going to let her reserved nature keep her from spending time with the instructor. The couple approaches the sight of The Gathering, a sprawling orchard right outside of the city, to see the crowd assembling. The mayor begins the event by praising the wonderful effects of The Gatherings, and then the singing and dancing begin. The crowd is immediately overcome by a trance-like bliss, moving and swaying as a collective group. Emily is the only one who notices what is happening, the only one who sees the vines creeping toward the collective group, and the only one who has a chance at escaping the botanical hell that is quietly overtaking the world.
The Gatherings sees author Jeremy Ray enter the literary scene with a bang. This short story packs a punch that will leave you shaken, even after you finish the final page. The short story as a form is always a tricky balance of world-building, character development, and a fully formed narrative arc. Ray achieves all of these with the ease of a tenured storyteller, never veering too far into one area at the disservice of the other. Strong, descriptive imagery helps bring this apocalyptic world to life. Connecting this world-ending event to images of nature and classical art grounds the writing into a reality that makes the fiction all the more horrifying. Combine the terror with a relatable heroine who is easy to root for, and you've got a killer combo that maintains both suspense and pace. I read this short work in one sitting, not able to put it down before I knew how it ended. If this is any indication of the quality of work that we can expect from Jeremy Ray, then I'm really excited to see where is writing will take us next.
November 2, 2021
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An e-copy of the book has been provided by the author, Jeremy Ray, in exchange for an honest review.
What seems to be an event to promote peace becomes nothing more than what it was supposed to be.
The Gatherings wasn’t as effective in creeping me out as Petrified Women but I can see why people are telling that the “monsters” in the story is resemblant of those human shaped vines from Annihilation.
I love the concept of writing that was executed in this book. It was not a full-on epistolary, taking in consideration that it was a continuous writing. But it was definitely a long-arse journal where the writer [main character] shares her experiences before the event that took place. As I began reading the story, I was already processing the conceptualization of how the book would be executed. I wanted it to have writing errors to give it a realistic feel to it. Lo and behold, Ray did not disappoint!
In the progression of the story, it really introduces many possible tangents. One that I absolutely loved was a moment where I questioned the reliability of the main character. It was an interesting point and it really propelled the story for me. It rattled the entire story, gave it a façade, and allows the reader to contemplate on the authenticity of the story. A marvelous situational placement that provided a strong character to the story.
In the depth of this story lies something so real and seemingly innocent. There is a confusing line that separates people and their actions, and it is hard to distinguish definitely if the act is pure and genuine or something that is done in light of making face. I regret that I did not connect with this story more than I want to but it would be a lie to say that I did not like the writing. Jeremy Ray is truly someone to look into if you want a short and fun (more like creepy) read — he writes so well — and I’m very much looking forward to him putting out a novel.
An e-copy of the book has been provided by the author, Jeremy Ray, in exchange for an honest review.
What seems to be an event to promote peace becomes nothing more than what it was supposed to be.
The Gatherings wasn’t as effective in creeping me out as Petrified Women but I can see why people are telling that the “monsters” in the story is resemblant of those human shaped vines from Annihilation.
I love the concept of writing that was executed in this book. It was not a full-on epistolary, taking in consideration that it was a continuous writing. But it was definitely a long-arse journal where the writer [main character] shares her experiences before the event that took place. As I began reading the story, I was already processing the conceptualization of how the book would be executed. I wanted it to have writing errors to give it a realistic feel to it. Lo and behold, Ray did not disappoint!
In the progression of the story, it really introduces many possible tangents. One that I absolutely loved was a moment where I questioned the reliability of the main character. It was an interesting point and it really propelled the story for me. It rattled the entire story, gave it a façade, and allows the reader to contemplate on the authenticity of the story. A marvelous situational placement that provided a strong character to the story.
In the depth of this story lies something so real and seemingly innocent. There is a confusing line that separates people and their actions, and it is hard to distinguish definitely if the act is pure and genuine or something that is done in light of making face. I regret that I did not connect with this story more than I want to but it would be a lie to say that I did not like the writing. Jeremy Ray is truly someone to look into if you want a short and fun (more like creepy) read — he writes so well — and I’m very much looking forward to him putting out a novel.
August 8, 2020
8,5/10
I was given the opportunity to read this short story by @jeremyraystories... (on Instagram)here are my thoughts...
The story:
Emily is a somewhat misanthropic woman who is smitten with her yoga instructor. The two women go to a gathering in Rover Park where people start to sing a song that brings on a trance. Emily is the only one to not be influenced by it, thus witnessing a world shattering event!
My thoughts (some small spoilers possible):
The first thing I thought when I saw the cover of this story was a resemblance to Scott Smith’s The Ruins (which I also mentioned to the writer) but once I started reading the story, that thought melted away. And I know for sure, people will say:’No, not another apocalyptic event, please!’ (In times of Corona, we might not cherish the idea) but I kind of like those stories. It’s a short little tale of survival, even of love in a loveless world (albeit a shortlived love, maybe) and the main character is recognisable (to me, personally) as a misanthrope (I’m sorry but I do like being alone 🙈)
The writing is in a clear language, lots of imagery and metaphors. And it left me wanting more... what about the other survivors, the birds... where do the invaders come from? That’s the advantage (as a writer): you can make people salivate for more and leave them unsatisfied and as a reader you love that salivating feeling of a hunger for more... let your imagination do the rest of the talking, is what @jeremyraystories says to us! 😂 This was an hour or two well spent! Thanks for the opportunity you’ve given me!
I was given the opportunity to read this short story by @jeremyraystories... (on Instagram)here are my thoughts...
The story:
Emily is a somewhat misanthropic woman who is smitten with her yoga instructor. The two women go to a gathering in Rover Park where people start to sing a song that brings on a trance. Emily is the only one to not be influenced by it, thus witnessing a world shattering event!
My thoughts (some small spoilers possible):
The first thing I thought when I saw the cover of this story was a resemblance to Scott Smith’s The Ruins (which I also mentioned to the writer) but once I started reading the story, that thought melted away. And I know for sure, people will say:’No, not another apocalyptic event, please!’ (In times of Corona, we might not cherish the idea) but I kind of like those stories. It’s a short little tale of survival, even of love in a loveless world (albeit a shortlived love, maybe) and the main character is recognisable (to me, personally) as a misanthrope (I’m sorry but I do like being alone 🙈)
The writing is in a clear language, lots of imagery and metaphors. And it left me wanting more... what about the other survivors, the birds... where do the invaders come from? That’s the advantage (as a writer): you can make people salivate for more and leave them unsatisfied and as a reader you love that salivating feeling of a hunger for more... let your imagination do the rest of the talking, is what @jeremyraystories says to us! 😂 This was an hour or two well spent! Thanks for the opportunity you’ve given me!
August 12, 2020
Jeremy Ray offers readers a truly unique take on the post-apocalyptic story. Written in an epistolary format, the story is a letter written by one survivor (Emily) recounting her experience at the end of the world in hopes that other survivors might exist and find her letter.
Ray’s writing and pacing are excellent, which allows him to weave a lot of story, experiences, and emotions into so few pages (something other authors require hundreds of pages to achieve). The story kept me enthralled and in suspense until the very end, which I wasn’t ready for.
In all honesty, I wasn’t 100% a fan of how the world ended in this story, although I applaud the uniqueness and creativity of it and the nod to some classic horror stories and movies. But it was the ending, the wrapping up of Emily’s letter, that solidified my love for this story, preying on the fear that we all have experienced throughout this COVID-19 era, and makes The Gatherings a truly chilling tale.
Ray’s writing and pacing are excellent, which allows him to weave a lot of story, experiences, and emotions into so few pages (something other authors require hundreds of pages to achieve). The story kept me enthralled and in suspense until the very end, which I wasn’t ready for.
In all honesty, I wasn’t 100% a fan of how the world ended in this story, although I applaud the uniqueness and creativity of it and the nod to some classic horror stories and movies. But it was the ending, the wrapping up of Emily’s letter, that solidified my love for this story, preying on the fear that we all have experienced throughout this COVID-19 era, and makes The Gatherings a truly chilling tale.
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