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Dread Softly
A woman struggles to outsmart the demon who bargained for her father’s soul. An elderly shut-in with a monstrous secret is tormented by a door-to-door salesman. Six-eyed creatures congregate on the ceiling of a remote bungalow, puzzling a newly rescued tabby cat. An imp’s loyalties are torn between a vulnerable child and the god of dreams.
In her debut horror collection, award-winning author Caryn Larrinaga spreads her nightmares under your feet. Fed by the dread her anxiety brings her, each of these eleven tales is a journey into an unsettling universe just parallel to our own—one populated by haunted objects, unwanted urges, and creatures from beyond human understanding. Dread softly.
In her debut horror collection, award-winning author Caryn Larrinaga spreads her nightmares under your feet. Fed by the dread her anxiety brings her, each of these eleven tales is a journey into an unsettling universe just parallel to our own—one populated by haunted objects, unwanted urges, and creatures from beyond human understanding. Dread softly.
- GenresHorrorShort Stories
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2021
2 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Caryn Larrinaga
26 books212 followersCaryn Larrinaga is an internationally best-selling mystery and horror author. She has won multiple awards for her work, including the League of Utah Writers Gold Typewriter and the Cat Writers Association Muse Medallion. In 2021, she was named Writer of the Year by the League of Utah Writers.
In addition to her novels and short story collections, Caryn has written for tabletop RPGs, podcasts, literary journals, newspapers, and zines. Her work has been adapted for audio, short films, and a forthcoming animation. Her spooky supernatural whodunit, DONN'S HILL, topped the Amazon best seller lists for psychic mysteries and cozy animal mysteries.
Watching scary movies through split fingers terrified Caryn as a child, and those nightmares inspire her to write now. Her 90-year-old house has a colorful history, and the creaking walls and narrow hallways send her running (never walking) up the stairs. Exploring her fears through writing makes Caryn feel a little less foolish for wanting a buddy to accompany her into the tool shed.
Caryn lives near Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband and their clowder of cats. She is an active member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, the Cat Writers Association, and the League of Utah Writers.
Visit www.carynlarrinaga.com for free short fiction and true tales of haunted places.
In addition to her novels and short story collections, Caryn has written for tabletop RPGs, podcasts, literary journals, newspapers, and zines. Her work has been adapted for audio, short films, and a forthcoming animation. Her spooky supernatural whodunit, DONN'S HILL, topped the Amazon best seller lists for psychic mysteries and cozy animal mysteries.
Watching scary movies through split fingers terrified Caryn as a child, and those nightmares inspire her to write now. Her 90-year-old house has a colorful history, and the creaking walls and narrow hallways send her running (never walking) up the stairs. Exploring her fears through writing makes Caryn feel a little less foolish for wanting a buddy to accompany her into the tool shed.
Caryn lives near Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband and their clowder of cats. She is an active member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, the Cat Writers Association, and the League of Utah Writers.
Visit www.carynlarrinaga.com for free short fiction and true tales of haunted places.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 19, 2021
I’m honored and delighted to be the first person to rate and review this book. This was a great random Netgalley find and I sincerely hope my reviews will inspire more readers to check it out.
I like trying out new genre authors, but having had one too many disappointments, I do try to make sure the quality is there, so there are certain tests, not foolproof, but it’s something. Superficially this book passed every one of those tests and then I read it an lo and behold, the context matches. Don’t you just love it when the innards match up with the outwards.
The outwards were the awesome cleverly punny title, excellent cover, the warm introduction by the author, a bonafide genre fan…and then the atmospheric black and white photo for each story and a very nice afterword discussing how each tale came to be.
The innards were the stories themselves. Subtle and spooky original takes on traditional genre concepts, ghost, cannibals, etc. and some new subjects, inspired by the author’s Basque origins and her current Utah location and author’s own anxieties and fears. It’s very much a case of use what you know done right. Neatly twisted at the end, disturbing scary stories told without relying on guts and gore. Just things going Boo in the night. Very nicely done. I’m impressed.
Sometimes it pays to judge the book by the cover. I really enjoyed reading this collection. It was spooky and slim and easily done in one late night sitting, which is really the best time for this sort of thing…if you dare. Recommended for genre fans. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
I like trying out new genre authors, but having had one too many disappointments, I do try to make sure the quality is there, so there are certain tests, not foolproof, but it’s something. Superficially this book passed every one of those tests and then I read it an lo and behold, the context matches. Don’t you just love it when the innards match up with the outwards.
The outwards were the awesome cleverly punny title, excellent cover, the warm introduction by the author, a bonafide genre fan…and then the atmospheric black and white photo for each story and a very nice afterword discussing how each tale came to be.
The innards were the stories themselves. Subtle and spooky original takes on traditional genre concepts, ghost, cannibals, etc. and some new subjects, inspired by the author’s Basque origins and her current Utah location and author’s own anxieties and fears. It’s very much a case of use what you know done right. Neatly twisted at the end, disturbing scary stories told without relying on guts and gore. Just things going Boo in the night. Very nicely done. I’m impressed.
Sometimes it pays to judge the book by the cover. I really enjoyed reading this collection. It was spooky and slim and easily done in one late night sitting, which is really the best time for this sort of thing…if you dare. Recommended for genre fans. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
July 22, 2021
Previously, the only work I had read by Caryn Larrinaga was a short story titled For Scrying Out Loud that was included in the Wasatch Witches anthology. It was one of my favorites in that book and after reading a whole story collection by this author I feel safe in saying she is now on my must read list. There is a content warning at the beginning of this book and I am just going to mention that one story contains mental illness. The rest I'm going to condense to say this is for horror fans and all lovers of dark fiction. It is not hard core gut ripping gore, and doesn't need or aim to be. There is no over the top "extreme" horror.
These 11 tales are delightfully dark and full of unnerving surprises. I love that each one is accompanied by an illustration.
I enjoyed every minute of reading every single story and was amazed that even the shortest among them had room for the unexpected. In Dread Softly you will find stories to chill and thrill, and break your heart. There are stories of desperation, hunger, and a nightmare creature that wreaks havoc in a single parent household when a small child is threatened in his sleep. There is also a bit of humor in a tale told from the cat's point of view which now has me walking room to room holding mine up towards the ceiling to see if she can tell me where the "watchers" are. You don't have to love cats to love this story but I think it will be one of your favorites if you do.
Every story is expertly crafted and my only complaint is that I never wanted it to end. More please!!
I received a signed paperback which I will treasure forever.
These 11 tales are delightfully dark and full of unnerving surprises. I love that each one is accompanied by an illustration.
I enjoyed every minute of reading every single story and was amazed that even the shortest among them had room for the unexpected. In Dread Softly you will find stories to chill and thrill, and break your heart. There are stories of desperation, hunger, and a nightmare creature that wreaks havoc in a single parent household when a small child is threatened in his sleep. There is also a bit of humor in a tale told from the cat's point of view which now has me walking room to room holding mine up towards the ceiling to see if she can tell me where the "watchers" are. You don't have to love cats to love this story but I think it will be one of your favorites if you do.
Every story is expertly crafted and my only complaint is that I never wanted it to end. More please!!
I received a signed paperback which I will treasure forever.
October 11, 2022
If I had to describe its overall vibe, I'd say this collection is like what would happen if Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark grew up a bit and had more detailed, engaging writing. The stories are bite-sized and have surprise twists that often defy expectations in entertaining ways, not unlike well-crafted ghost stories for the campfire. Most of them were short enough to push through my reading slump yet long enough to not feel incomplete.
Overall, I enjoyed the collection, though I actively disliked a couple of stories. My absolute favourite among the stories, Watchers' Warning, makes up for every bit of annoyance I felt, though. (Seriously, turn that one into a series of paranormal novels!)
One major gripe I have is that the book doesn't provide content warnings in the front. It says to go to the back for them, but 'story notes' contains spoilers and talk of inspiration for each of the tales. In a physical book, finding the content warnings on the very last page is easy. In digital form, I went to the final section from the table of contents and didn't want to keep skimming spoilers to see if the warnings were in them. Thus I gave up, only to find the warnings I wish I'd had on the final page - long after I'd read the stories, two of which I'd have really appreciated being able to brace for beforehand. So, to spare anyone else with a digital edition from the same experience, here you go, copied directly from the book. I don't want to delve into spoilers for certain stories best experienced with no expectations, so I will not be discussing all of these topics.
Content Warnings: Death and dying; Death of a loved one; Mental illness; Murder; Mutilation of corpses; Threatening a child
And now, for a brief overview of each story.
No Soliciting
There's not much mystery to what, exactly, Doris does that sets her apart from other people; that's telegraphed from nearly the very beginning. Even so, it's engaging and the ending took me off-guard in a very good way.
I enjoyed this one. It was fun and had a nice element of making the reader wanna cheer for the monster. I'm fond of stories like this!
Empire of Dirt
Obviously, I had a certain Nine Inch Nails song stuck in my head the entire time. Unfortunately, I like the song more than the story.
The premise is interesting, and I enjoyed bits and pieces of it, but the ending left me feeling unsatisfied. I also couldn't quite shake the ick factor of . The story was much better before the consequences kicked in regarding the spoiler-tagged element. But then, I also am not a big fan of body horror in general, so there's that.
The Fishermen
A story that mixes ogres and modern weapons feels wrong to me on so many levels, but it works here in ways I can't divulge. I felt a bit like I was reading the opening scene of a classic Supernatural episode blended with a touch of The Walking Dead. And then it flew off the rails so fast I think I maybe got whiplash, but it was fun like a carnival ride with an ending I never would have guessed.
Without spoiling anything, because this story needs to be read without foreknowledge, I'll say there's more to the lore than just ogres and I quite liked the direction it went. Another good one!
The Devil's Way Out
The story begins with the narrating character calling fresh-brewed peppermint tea a foul stench and explaining they feel this way because of something a demon has done. I can think of no eviler a beast than one who takes the enjoyment of peppermint tea away from its victims!
I jest, but if I interpreted the slightly vague ending of this one correctly then I'm also right in the worst of ways. This one aches, and touches on something that's really uncomfortable for me - - but I was deeply interested from the very beginning. I liked it and wanted to see where it would go, and now I'm not sure how to feel about it after seeing the outcome.
Would love to see an alternate ending where things remain planted firmly and unquestionably in the paranormal realm.
Family Time
I don't get it. I mean, yeah, and that's cathartic on some level, but I still feel confused. The lore of this one just doesn't make sense and I didn't feel surprised by the ending. This felt like reading a never-ending stream of psychological abuse lobbed onto a middleschool-aged child (the main character) for no real reason and no worthwhile payoff. Think: Harry Potter if he never finds out he's a wizard and the series is just about how much he's mistreated by everyone in his life.
Watchers' Warning
This one reeled me in from the moment it revealed the narrating character is a cat, and I was glued to every word until the end. I would love to see more of Ripley the cat and his human, Fiona, dealing with the spooky world around them. Make this one a novel or series, please!
Until Death
Meh. The twist at the end ruined this one for me. Like, I get that it's horror and isn't presenting itself as a story about a healthy relationship, but it just doesn't personally sit well with me to have that emotional whiplash from thinking she's to realizing that, no, she's just . Both are emotionally taxing for me, but the sudden swap from sadness to fury when reading the two-page tale was not enjoyable.
A Friend in Need
I thought I knew where this one was going, and was intrigued. Then I feared I knew how it would end, and braced for annoyance. But in the end, I actually had no clue, and was a little stunned by the revelation. Fascinating and legitimately spooky!
The Bump
Meh... This one is too silly for my tastes, and I was able to guess where it was going from the first page. I'm not a big fan of silly children's rhymes, either, so the plot hinging on one didn't do it any favours in my eyes.
The Thing Inside Jacky Jensen's Garage
This one left me wondering, in a good way. Who was the bad guy, and who was badder? Did the good folk make a big mistake, or do something noble? And what, exactly, was the thing in the garage? I both do and don't know, and the more I think about it the more I waffle between positions.
I love this one! It has an early seasons The X-Files vibe, and that brings me joy.
Inguma We Trust
My initial thought: "Will this be about a religious cult?" My final thought: "Wow, I was not expecting those emotions!"
I don't even know how to describe this one, but it has flavours of grief and psychological horror wrapped in a paranormal covering. I enjoyed it a lot, though it did at times drag a bit longer than I'd like with the occasional bits of unnecessary backstory better suited for a novella.
Story Notes
Here, the author explains the various inspirations for each story. Most of them were what I'd have expected, though all were insightful. Now I somewhat know what was in Jacky Jensen's garage, though I'm still not sure if the ending was good or bad for the residents of his hometown. And I also know why The Bump felt so juvenile: it was intentionally written as homage to middle grade horror. And while I suppose I have an answer to what was up with the peppermint tea demon, I kind of wish I didn't.
I'm still deeply confused about the reference to her cats barking at birds, though...
Overall, I enjoyed the collection, though I actively disliked a couple of stories. My absolute favourite among the stories, Watchers' Warning, makes up for every bit of annoyance I felt, though. (Seriously, turn that one into a series of paranormal novels!)
One major gripe I have is that the book doesn't provide content warnings in the front. It says to go to the back for them, but 'story notes' contains spoilers and talk of inspiration for each of the tales. In a physical book, finding the content warnings on the very last page is easy. In digital form, I went to the final section from the table of contents and didn't want to keep skimming spoilers to see if the warnings were in them. Thus I gave up, only to find the warnings I wish I'd had on the final page - long after I'd read the stories, two of which I'd have really appreciated being able to brace for beforehand. So, to spare anyone else with a digital edition from the same experience, here you go, copied directly from the book. I don't want to delve into spoilers for certain stories best experienced with no expectations, so I will not be discussing all of these topics.
Content Warnings: Death and dying; Death of a loved one; Mental illness; Murder; Mutilation of corpses; Threatening a child
And now, for a brief overview of each story.
No Soliciting
There's not much mystery to what, exactly, Doris does that sets her apart from other people; that's telegraphed from nearly the very beginning. Even so, it's engaging and the ending took me off-guard in a very good way.
I enjoyed this one. It was fun and had a nice element of making the reader wanna cheer for the monster. I'm fond of stories like this!
Empire of Dirt
Obviously, I had a certain Nine Inch Nails song stuck in my head the entire time. Unfortunately, I like the song more than the story.
The premise is interesting, and I enjoyed bits and pieces of it, but the ending left me feeling unsatisfied. I also couldn't quite shake the ick factor of . The story was much better before the consequences kicked in regarding the spoiler-tagged element. But then, I also am not a big fan of body horror in general, so there's that.
The Fishermen
A story that mixes ogres and modern weapons feels wrong to me on so many levels, but it works here in ways I can't divulge. I felt a bit like I was reading the opening scene of a classic Supernatural episode blended with a touch of The Walking Dead. And then it flew off the rails so fast I think I maybe got whiplash, but it was fun like a carnival ride with an ending I never would have guessed.
Without spoiling anything, because this story needs to be read without foreknowledge, I'll say there's more to the lore than just ogres and I quite liked the direction it went. Another good one!
The Devil's Way Out
The story begins with the narrating character calling fresh-brewed peppermint tea a foul stench and explaining they feel this way because of something a demon has done. I can think of no eviler a beast than one who takes the enjoyment of peppermint tea away from its victims!
I jest, but if I interpreted the slightly vague ending of this one correctly then I'm also right in the worst of ways. This one aches, and touches on something that's really uncomfortable for me - - but I was deeply interested from the very beginning. I liked it and wanted to see where it would go, and now I'm not sure how to feel about it after seeing the outcome.
Would love to see an alternate ending where things remain planted firmly and unquestionably in the paranormal realm.
Family Time
I don't get it. I mean, yeah, and that's cathartic on some level, but I still feel confused. The lore of this one just doesn't make sense and I didn't feel surprised by the ending. This felt like reading a never-ending stream of psychological abuse lobbed onto a middleschool-aged child (the main character) for no real reason and no worthwhile payoff. Think: Harry Potter if he never finds out he's a wizard and the series is just about how much he's mistreated by everyone in his life.
Watchers' Warning
I didn’t respond. I’d long since learned humans couldn’t understand Cat, but I absorbed the compliment, pleased she recognized my charisma.
This one reeled me in from the moment it revealed the narrating character is a cat, and I was glued to every word until the end. I would love to see more of Ripley the cat and his human, Fiona, dealing with the spooky world around them. Make this one a novel or series, please!
Until Death
Meh. The twist at the end ruined this one for me. Like, I get that it's horror and isn't presenting itself as a story about a healthy relationship, but it just doesn't personally sit well with me to have that emotional whiplash from thinking she's to realizing that, no, she's just . Both are emotionally taxing for me, but the sudden swap from sadness to fury when reading the two-page tale was not enjoyable.
A Friend in Need
I thought I knew where this one was going, and was intrigued. Then I feared I knew how it would end, and braced for annoyance. But in the end, I actually had no clue, and was a little stunned by the revelation. Fascinating and legitimately spooky!
The Bump
Meh... This one is too silly for my tastes, and I was able to guess where it was going from the first page. I'm not a big fan of silly children's rhymes, either, so the plot hinging on one didn't do it any favours in my eyes.
The Thing Inside Jacky Jensen's Garage
This one left me wondering, in a good way. Who was the bad guy, and who was badder? Did the good folk make a big mistake, or do something noble? And what, exactly, was the thing in the garage? I both do and don't know, and the more I think about it the more I waffle between positions.
I love this one! It has an early seasons The X-Files vibe, and that brings me joy.
Inguma We Trust
My initial thought: "Will this be about a religious cult?" My final thought: "Wow, I was not expecting those emotions!"
I don't even know how to describe this one, but it has flavours of grief and psychological horror wrapped in a paranormal covering. I enjoyed it a lot, though it did at times drag a bit longer than I'd like with the occasional bits of unnecessary backstory better suited for a novella.
Story Notes
Here, the author explains the various inspirations for each story. Most of them were what I'd have expected, though all were insightful. Now I somewhat know what was in Jacky Jensen's garage, though I'm still not sure if the ending was good or bad for the residents of his hometown. And I also know why The Bump felt so juvenile: it was intentionally written as homage to middle grade horror. And while I suppose I have an answer to what was up with the peppermint tea demon, I kind of wish I didn't.
I'm still deeply confused about the reference to her cats barking at birds, though...
September 21, 2021
Dread Softly by Caryn Larrinaga was twisted little collection that felt reminiscence of campfire tales and scary stories that we used to tell each other in high school to try to scare each other at sleep overs. I loved reading each tale in this collection with each of their unique horror twist that only unravels at the end of each tale.
This is a quick read and is perfect if you want something to read before bed or a quick read here and there. The stories flow well and always have a surprising ending that you do not see coming. The horror element is creepy but not too over the top so that it would make you have nightmares or be too much for some people to read. I found this collection to be horror popcorn where you can snack on them as you please and enjoy them back to back or one here and there. They are deliciously spooky however you choose to take them!
This is a quick read and is perfect if you want something to read before bed or a quick read here and there. The stories flow well and always have a surprising ending that you do not see coming. The horror element is creepy but not too over the top so that it would make you have nightmares or be too much for some people to read. I found this collection to be horror popcorn where you can snack on them as you please and enjoy them back to back or one here and there. They are deliciously spooky however you choose to take them!
June 26, 2023
Eleven short stories that are more chiller than blood-curdling horror, which I'm happy for. There are unexpected perceptual shifts in a couple of them. Beware of disturbing content in a couple. There are creative creatures that would be terrifying to meet face to face. I really like the way the main characters keep a level head when encountering the creatures. One favorite story is the first one, "No Soliciting," about an elderly "woman" with particular appetites who decides to make an exception to her no soliciting rule when a particularly persistent young salesman comes to call. Another favorite story is, "Watcher's Warning," about a young woman who moves frequently and decides to adopt a cat to go with her on her latest move. What's fun about that story is that it is told from the cat's perspective.
If you like chiller short stories with creative creatures and calm-headed protagonists, you are sure to enjoy, "Dread Softly."
If you like chiller short stories with creative creatures and calm-headed protagonists, you are sure to enjoy, "Dread Softly."
September 13, 2021
I received a paperback ARC of Dread Softly, authored by Caryn Larrinaga, from Twisted Tree Press Publication, for review consideration. Cover: Rooster Republic Press. What follows below is my honest review, freely given.
I rated this debut collection 5 stars.
NO SOLICITING
Jacko was my Nannie’s African Grey parrot; he could impersonate both of my grandparents well enough to fool even them into coming downstairs at his calling, and then he would chuckle. He would get along well with Frankie I think. Like all good stories, I am left wanting to know more.
EMPIRE OF DIRT
A favorite. The title’s connection to the story is just brilliant imo, which had this audacious Resident Evil feel to it. Great for fiction, very much never want to have happen in reality. Love it.
THE FISHERMAN
A favorite. When you think about it, deep down in your darkest corners of your apocalyptic loving mind—the part that knows gasoline doesn’t last long enough for 10 seasons of your favorite zombie show to have working cars—this is what happens out there.
THE DEVIL’S WAY OUT
This one is a kick to the gut. Difficult to read, in that heart rending way you cannot really prepare for. Fair warning.
FAMILY TIME
I never seem to get stories that involve grandfather clocks, not sure why. I focus too much on the why of the clock maybe?
WATCHERS’ WARNING
Top favorite. I’ve always operated under the rule that if I hear creepy things in my living space, and my cat is still sleeping; everything’s cool, no spooky danger. I hear a noise and my cat freaks out or goes on point? Panic time! So this story made me deliriously happy.
UNTIL DEATH
A favorite. Can’t give any detail without really spoiling it, it’s flash fiction I believe. Made me think. Makes me think still, actually.
A FRIEND IN NEED
This is just a messed up story, full stop. I like it, well written, but messed up. I could see this being an episode of a show or even a movie.
THE BUMP
What I really enjoyed about this one was the feeling of a schoolyard tale, passed from one class to the next. Year after year, growing in detail and casualties.
THE THING INSIDE JACKY JENSEN’S GARAGE
A favorite. I want to believe. If you are old enough to get the reference, congrats. If not, sorry, use Google.
INGUMA WE TRUST
Night terrors have been my jam since I was a wee lass, so this story was really interesting to read. I liked the lore.
I rated this debut collection 5 stars.
NO SOLICITING
Jacko was my Nannie’s African Grey parrot; he could impersonate both of my grandparents well enough to fool even them into coming downstairs at his calling, and then he would chuckle. He would get along well with Frankie I think. Like all good stories, I am left wanting to know more.
EMPIRE OF DIRT
A favorite. The title’s connection to the story is just brilliant imo, which had this audacious Resident Evil feel to it. Great for fiction, very much never want to have happen in reality. Love it.
THE FISHERMAN
A favorite. When you think about it, deep down in your darkest corners of your apocalyptic loving mind—the part that knows gasoline doesn’t last long enough for 10 seasons of your favorite zombie show to have working cars—this is what happens out there.
THE DEVIL’S WAY OUT
This one is a kick to the gut. Difficult to read, in that heart rending way you cannot really prepare for. Fair warning.
FAMILY TIME
I never seem to get stories that involve grandfather clocks, not sure why. I focus too much on the why of the clock maybe?
WATCHERS’ WARNING
Top favorite. I’ve always operated under the rule that if I hear creepy things in my living space, and my cat is still sleeping; everything’s cool, no spooky danger. I hear a noise and my cat freaks out or goes on point? Panic time! So this story made me deliriously happy.
UNTIL DEATH
A favorite. Can’t give any detail without really spoiling it, it’s flash fiction I believe. Made me think. Makes me think still, actually.
A FRIEND IN NEED
This is just a messed up story, full stop. I like it, well written, but messed up. I could see this being an episode of a show or even a movie.
THE BUMP
What I really enjoyed about this one was the feeling of a schoolyard tale, passed from one class to the next. Year after year, growing in detail and casualties.
THE THING INSIDE JACKY JENSEN’S GARAGE
A favorite. I want to believe. If you are old enough to get the reference, congrats. If not, sorry, use Google.
INGUMA WE TRUST
Night terrors have been my jam since I was a wee lass, so this story was really interesting to read. I liked the lore.
April 28, 2021
Before diving into Dread Softly, the only other thing I’d read from Caryn Larrinaga was the audio version of her book Hide and Seek. I’d been incredibly impressed with that, so it was easy to want to grab this collection.
Every story in this collection is a winner. There isn’t a story inside that was lacking for anything. From the very first story, the author had me flying through pages, barely able to put the book down. Usually, I can stop for a little bit in a story if I have to, but not with this collection. I stopped between stories, or not at all. I actually read about 3/4 of the collection in one single sitting (when I was supposed to be sleeping–whoops!)
I love the subtle scares. Stories like “The Fishermen” and “Until Death” where brilliantly written in such a way where I physically got goosebumps/felt the hair on my neck stand on end. There’s not much I can say in praise of “Until Death” without spoiling the flash story, but it was so good I went back and read it again before moving on.
Larrinaga has a way of taking you into strange, fantastical POVs without ever making you wonder how you got there or what you’re doing there. “Watcher’s Warning” is a perfect example of such a story, and I ended up glad I don’t have a cat for fear of what they’re really looking at when they stare into dark corners.
This collection left me wanting more, staring confusedly at the end of the last story wondering why I wasn’t getting another one. I really love the story notes, too, getting a little insight from the author about where the stories came from and what they mean to her. I’ll add a small note of appreciation, too, that this came after the collection itself and not as a foreword, since I like going into stories not quite sure what I’m getting from them.
The collection is a perfect mix of horror, a tiny bit of fantasy, and a good amount of the author working through her own fears–all the ingredients for a perfect collection of stories.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Every story in this collection is a winner. There isn’t a story inside that was lacking for anything. From the very first story, the author had me flying through pages, barely able to put the book down. Usually, I can stop for a little bit in a story if I have to, but not with this collection. I stopped between stories, or not at all. I actually read about 3/4 of the collection in one single sitting (when I was supposed to be sleeping–whoops!)
I love the subtle scares. Stories like “The Fishermen” and “Until Death” where brilliantly written in such a way where I physically got goosebumps/felt the hair on my neck stand on end. There’s not much I can say in praise of “Until Death” without spoiling the flash story, but it was so good I went back and read it again before moving on.
Larrinaga has a way of taking you into strange, fantastical POVs without ever making you wonder how you got there or what you’re doing there. “Watcher’s Warning” is a perfect example of such a story, and I ended up glad I don’t have a cat for fear of what they’re really looking at when they stare into dark corners.
This collection left me wanting more, staring confusedly at the end of the last story wondering why I wasn’t getting another one. I really love the story notes, too, getting a little insight from the author about where the stories came from and what they mean to her. I’ll add a small note of appreciation, too, that this came after the collection itself and not as a foreword, since I like going into stories not quite sure what I’m getting from them.
The collection is a perfect mix of horror, a tiny bit of fantasy, and a good amount of the author working through her own fears–all the ingredients for a perfect collection of stories.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2022
These tales of horror are a lighter brand of the genre, very much in line with the other works of Larrinaga I have reviewed. The style is engaging and makes every one of them a read leaving you with the desire to turn the page. But then, the story ends and leaves you with the ponderings of what happens now.
The use of different points of view gives us tales with new perspectives. Some are from the point of view of the monster, or the predator, while others are from the prey or another who happens to be able to see it unfold. The stories have twists that left me with questions of what the character’s reality was.
These are brief interludes into to the philosophical realms that make genre writing a joy to read.
If you have read other books by Caryn Larrinaga, you should be adding this anthology to your collection.
I recommend Dread Softly for readers who enjoy horror that provides possibilities and views into the what if reality. It is also a lighter form for those who are interested in reading horror for the first time.
Read the complete review at http://guildmastergaming.blogspot.com...
The use of different points of view gives us tales with new perspectives. Some are from the point of view of the monster, or the predator, while others are from the prey or another who happens to be able to see it unfold. The stories have twists that left me with questions of what the character’s reality was.
These are brief interludes into to the philosophical realms that make genre writing a joy to read.
If you have read other books by Caryn Larrinaga, you should be adding this anthology to your collection.
I recommend Dread Softly for readers who enjoy horror that provides possibilities and views into the what if reality. It is also a lighter form for those who are interested in reading horror for the first time.
Read the complete review at http://guildmastergaming.blogspot.com...
July 26, 2021
Fun little collection of short horror stories, and I think that this author definitely has potential. One of the stories, however, had a HUGE emotional impact with me- Dealing With Demons. I really can't recommend that one enough.
Overall, though, some of these didn't feel fleshed out enough, or just came across a bit too "surface level" to really stick with me on a deeper level. Which is fine, as all of the stories were fun and highly readable, I just prefer a bit more depth and stories that will really stick in my mind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
Overall, though, some of these didn't feel fleshed out enough, or just came across a bit too "surface level" to really stick with me on a deeper level. Which is fine, as all of the stories were fun and highly readable, I just prefer a bit more depth and stories that will really stick in my mind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 30, 2021
I enjoyed this collection very much. So much that I finished it in one sitting. Some of the stories had that folklore, fairy tale vibe that I always find rewarding. Some of the stories felt like they’d be told around a campfire, with a nostalgic quality. Overall, a captivating collection.
May 10, 2021
This book had me hooked from story one. Gory and unpredictable and just ugh! (that's a good thing in horror) Loved the collection of stories from different subgenres, but always with that horror element! Looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 2, 2021
Dread Softly by Caryn Larringa is a collection of 11 tales that will delight the horror lover in you! Full of stories to grab you by the throat and the heart. Great read for this most wonderful time of the year! October!! Get your spooky read on with this one!
Highly recommend!
Highly recommend!
May 7, 2021
You all will want to get this when it comes out!
October 16, 2022
Placeholder. Full review upcoming.
September 15, 2021
What fantastic book! I was especially blessed to receive from the author and whoa, I collection of carefully crafted horror short stories. I didn’t have a favorite, all of them top rated. Monsters, apocalyptic horror, cryptid mayhem, you name it and there is something for everyone here.
Caryn Larrinaga sits on top of female horror authors that have taking the genre by the reigns and made their own. I cannot recommend this book enough or anything you get your hands on by her. I’m a solid fan and I look forward to more! Release date 9/14.
Be ready and if you hear noises in your shed at night? Don’t go alone. You’ve been warned. Enjoy!!
Caryn Larrinaga sits on top of female horror authors that have taking the genre by the reigns and made their own. I cannot recommend this book enough or anything you get your hands on by her. I’m a solid fan and I look forward to more! Release date 9/14.
Be ready and if you hear noises in your shed at night? Don’t go alone. You’ve been warned. Enjoy!!
March 27, 2022
Dread Softly is a collection of well-written horror stories that feel like the beginning of larger tales. Each story flows well and is constructed with a sharp and expertly crafted writing style. I found every one of the stories enjoyable, and I thought a few of them could have had more to say at the end and left me wanting more (which isn't necessarily a bad thing for a story to do).
My favorite stories here were "No Soliciting", "Watcher's Warning", "Until Death" (short and sweet), "The Thing Inside Jacky Jensen's Garage" (a fun cryptid story), but my absolute favorite in the whole book is the last story, "Inguma We Trust". That one is something special. I love faerie/folk tales, and the story of Inguma and the Galtzagorriak is right in my wheelhouse. I was sad when it ended because I feel like there is so much more to tell about these characters. I would read an entire book about Zazpi and his further adventures. I liked the story so much that when I finished this book I immediately bought Caryn Larrinaga's other book GALTZAGORRIAK AND OTHER CREATURES so I could read more about them.
Thanks go out to the author Caryn Larrinaga for sending me an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure to read this wonderful collection. I look forward to reading more of her work.
My favorite stories here were "No Soliciting", "Watcher's Warning", "Until Death" (short and sweet), "The Thing Inside Jacky Jensen's Garage" (a fun cryptid story), but my absolute favorite in the whole book is the last story, "Inguma We Trust". That one is something special. I love faerie/folk tales, and the story of Inguma and the Galtzagorriak is right in my wheelhouse. I was sad when it ended because I feel like there is so much more to tell about these characters. I would read an entire book about Zazpi and his further adventures. I liked the story so much that when I finished this book I immediately bought Caryn Larrinaga's other book GALTZAGORRIAK AND OTHER CREATURES so I could read more about them.
Thanks go out to the author Caryn Larrinaga for sending me an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure to read this wonderful collection. I look forward to reading more of her work.
October 3, 2021
An excellent collection of stories that may cause you to have great apprehension or fear as you read these them. It’s definitely a taste of horror that will be delightful to read if you are into horror as I am. The stories have haunted objects, unwanted desires and creatures that will surprise you. My only complaint of this book is it stopped too soon — I wanted more stories!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
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