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All Things Deadly: Salem Stories
Salem, Massachusetts. A town with a rich history of spirits and witches. It’s a place Adam Frost, a former paranormal investigator, never intended to visit again. But his teenage daughter is troubled and shows early signs of self-harm. Can the trip save their fractured relationship? Only time, and a haunted house, will tell.
All Things Deadly (Salem Stories) is Hanson’s debut horror collection. Surrounding the Frost storyline is a series of tales that utilize the coastal city to ratchet up the chills. Read if you dare.
All Things Deadly (Salem Stories) is Hanson’s debut horror collection. Surrounding the Frost storyline is a series of tales that utilize the coastal city to ratchet up the chills. Read if you dare.
- GenresHorrorShort Stories
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2021
2 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 2, 2025
So this was an interesting debut novel for EC Hanson. It consists of quite a few stories, with an overlapping account of the Frost family debacle. Now I think that the writing, much as I stated on Wicked Blood, is really done well. Hanson is a talented writer, without a doubt. The story of the Frosts was deep and meaningful, with a nice conclusion, and Stalker 101 was hands down my favorite of the collection. Now, as much as it was a good experience, there were a number of things that didn't work for me. I felt like Salem, MA, while it did play somewhat of a role in certain tales, was just used a bit of a default location for a strong majority. It was just referenced in certain parts of the collection very briefly, but the remainder of the book had nothing really to do with the location. That seemed like a missed opportunity, and odd thing to call so much attention to, with such little development. Also, some of the stories also felt like they were left very open-ended. That left me unsure of whether I was supposed to keep track of these dozens of characters, as it related to the ongoing Frost saga, or if that was just how their stories were going to be finalized. It was just a bit confusing at times, but a unique way to structure a collection like this. As always, these are just my two cents, and I'm sure plenty of others will disagree with my take. But after my second outing with the author, I think that if E.C. Hanson begins to focus more on developing his core plots, before expanding them elsewhere, it will make his future works really shine bright.
October 18, 2021
I try not to compare or contrast authors or their story collections but the foremost thought in my mind after reading this is that it shares a similarity to Goblin by Malerman except that E.C. Hanson didn't forget to connect the stories together at the end.
The main story features a father and his daughter who barely speaks to him on a road trip to Salem. There they will meet someone who used to be a friend but now seems to be a frenemy. Interspersed are short stories set in or around Salem with a diverse cast of characters, some of who will suffer grisly deaths, or cause the demise of others. There is some dark humor mixed in and some very bizarre situations. In between these stories we head back to the father/daughter road trip and eventually reach their destination. The reason for this trip is bittersweet and may be what is needed to heal their broken relationship.
This was a quick read, perfect for October or really any time of year you're in the mood to visit Salem.
I received a complimentary copy from the author with no obligation to write a review.
The main story features a father and his daughter who barely speaks to him on a road trip to Salem. There they will meet someone who used to be a friend but now seems to be a frenemy. Interspersed are short stories set in or around Salem with a diverse cast of characters, some of who will suffer grisly deaths, or cause the demise of others. There is some dark humor mixed in and some very bizarre situations. In between these stories we head back to the father/daughter road trip and eventually reach their destination. The reason for this trip is bittersweet and may be what is needed to heal their broken relationship.
This was a quick read, perfect for October or really any time of year you're in the mood to visit Salem.
I received a complimentary copy from the author with no obligation to write a review.
November 10, 2021
What a unique way to write a collection of stories. The main storyline of Adam and Sutton Frost was incredibly heartbreaking. The interspersed short stories were completely outside of the main story line but in the end you wonder were they really?
I loved this book and wish I could unread it so I could read it again for the first time.
I loved this book and wish I could unread it so I could read it again for the first time.
April 10, 2022
First of all I want to thank the author and publisher for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
All Things Deadly really took me by surprise. I absolutely loved this book.
The book is about Adam and Sutton Frost. Sutton is a teenager who cuts herself and is ignoring her father completely. Adam wants nothing more than connect with his daughter again.
Then his pal Terry calls him and asks him to come back to Salem again. He eventually agrees and takes Sutton with him.
Their story is split up in a few small chapters. And between those chapters were deadly stories about Salem. And I absolutely LOVED those.
SPOILER ALERT:
The first short story is called Drips and it is one of my favorites. It is about Billy. A boy who goes trick or treating in his apartment complex. He has a weird encounter with a clown and vampire which gave me chills. When he goes home again, he sees that the front door is open. He finds a bloody knife between his candy and in the kitchen he finds his mother all cut up. She points to the phone. But Billy is so scared that he will the only suspect that he runs away and lets his mother bleed to death.
When I read that I was immediately like, this is book is definitely for me! The book has scary chapters, weird chapters that'll make you frown and chapter that you almost relate to the killer and understand why he does what he does.
The Five Day Fisherman story still has me wondering. What exactly did happen? I like that some chapters are more open ended than others. It keeps up the mystery in the book.
Regress really tore at my heartstrings. I wish I could slap Sally! I truly do. I understood Jonathan through and through.
Storage facility made me tear up in the end. It felt like the husband and police gave up quite easily. My heart still hurts for Jacky.
And Mister Shotgun! My lord! The pain in that one. That f***ing aunt. I do think she played a part in everything that happened in that chapter.
Bernie/Bernadette story is so sad as well. I admired the smile on her/his face in the end.
Red couch was really enjoyable too. I can just see the smirk on Samantha's face as Lynn drives off.
Crunchy bits was deliciously evil! Damn I love that chapter. He was a genious in a way. And I just loved reading his enjoyment throughout the chapters.
It even made me wonder. Are I, or someone close to me able to turn around in such a fashion? Or do we do have the boundaries that William let go?
Homage and Stalker 101 had a bit of a similiar feel to it. I really enjoyed both chapters. Same goes for the chapter with the bride. And the chapter through the cat's eyes was just brilliant. I am a huge cat person. And I do admire them for their intelligence. So I found that scene very fitting. And the one about the virus/covid. I love how dark that was too. And how that one ends. I did wonder what the hell did - SPOILER ALERT - grandma do?
I absolutely love the bond between Terry and Sutton. I know they lash out and growl. But in my opinion they instantly connect. I love how later on he tells her the truth. I also love the trust Adam has in his daughter. And the way how Sutton handles the truth. Love it. I am glad father and daughter reconnect in the end.
The epilogue really tied everything together. And if I am honest. I would love to read a sequel through Sutton's eyes. With the choice she made. I would love to follow her on her future path and seeing how much she learns about paranormal activity.
Really brilliant, brilliant book. 5 very well deserved stars from me! Absolutely loved it.
All Things Deadly really took me by surprise. I absolutely loved this book.
The book is about Adam and Sutton Frost. Sutton is a teenager who cuts herself and is ignoring her father completely. Adam wants nothing more than connect with his daughter again.
Then his pal Terry calls him and asks him to come back to Salem again. He eventually agrees and takes Sutton with him.
Their story is split up in a few small chapters. And between those chapters were deadly stories about Salem. And I absolutely LOVED those.
SPOILER ALERT:
The first short story is called Drips and it is one of my favorites. It is about Billy. A boy who goes trick or treating in his apartment complex. He has a weird encounter with a clown and vampire which gave me chills. When he goes home again, he sees that the front door is open. He finds a bloody knife between his candy and in the kitchen he finds his mother all cut up. She points to the phone. But Billy is so scared that he will the only suspect that he runs away and lets his mother bleed to death.
When I read that I was immediately like, this is book is definitely for me! The book has scary chapters, weird chapters that'll make you frown and chapter that you almost relate to the killer and understand why he does what he does.
The Five Day Fisherman story still has me wondering. What exactly did happen? I like that some chapters are more open ended than others. It keeps up the mystery in the book.
Regress really tore at my heartstrings. I wish I could slap Sally! I truly do. I understood Jonathan through and through.
Storage facility made me tear up in the end. It felt like the husband and police gave up quite easily. My heart still hurts for Jacky.
And Mister Shotgun! My lord! The pain in that one. That f***ing aunt. I do think she played a part in everything that happened in that chapter.
Bernie/Bernadette story is so sad as well. I admired the smile on her/his face in the end.
Red couch was really enjoyable too. I can just see the smirk on Samantha's face as Lynn drives off.
Crunchy bits was deliciously evil! Damn I love that chapter. He was a genious in a way. And I just loved reading his enjoyment throughout the chapters.
It even made me wonder. Are I, or someone close to me able to turn around in such a fashion? Or do we do have the boundaries that William let go?
Homage and Stalker 101 had a bit of a similiar feel to it. I really enjoyed both chapters. Same goes for the chapter with the bride. And the chapter through the cat's eyes was just brilliant. I am a huge cat person. And I do admire them for their intelligence. So I found that scene very fitting. And the one about the virus/covid. I love how dark that was too. And how that one ends. I did wonder what the hell did - SPOILER ALERT - grandma do?
I absolutely love the bond between Terry and Sutton. I know they lash out and growl. But in my opinion they instantly connect. I love how later on he tells her the truth. I also love the trust Adam has in his daughter. And the way how Sutton handles the truth. Love it. I am glad father and daughter reconnect in the end.
The epilogue really tied everything together. And if I am honest. I would love to read a sequel through Sutton's eyes. With the choice she made. I would love to follow her on her future path and seeing how much she learns about paranormal activity.
Really brilliant, brilliant book. 5 very well deserved stars from me! Absolutely loved it.
August 10, 2021
When I came across this author on Twitter and IG and read that he had written a short story collection about ghoulish happenings in Salem, I had to read it! You see, I am an avid Salem visitor! The husband and I travel to Salem every two years, but we have now decided to travel yearly because if this pandemic taught us anything, it is to just take life by the horns and enjoy it while you can.
But I digress. Erik Hanson has gifted us this masterfully creepy collection that takes place in or around Salem and it was an entertaining and spine-tingling read. The collection is made up of short stories that are intertwined with the main story of Adam Frost and his daughter Sutton, who experience a disconnected and somewhat dysfunctional relationship ever since the loss of Rebecca Frost, wife and mother. If ever there was a setting to stir haunting and chilling imagery coupled with its history, it is Salem! Erik Hanson has done a brilliant job in his writing and evoking such dread and at times “WTF” exclamations.
I look forward to reading future works from this author. If you want a collection to get you into the Halloween spirit, pick this up immediately! Thank you to the author for the review copy!
But I digress. Erik Hanson has gifted us this masterfully creepy collection that takes place in or around Salem and it was an entertaining and spine-tingling read. The collection is made up of short stories that are intertwined with the main story of Adam Frost and his daughter Sutton, who experience a disconnected and somewhat dysfunctional relationship ever since the loss of Rebecca Frost, wife and mother. If ever there was a setting to stir haunting and chilling imagery coupled with its history, it is Salem! Erik Hanson has done a brilliant job in his writing and evoking such dread and at times “WTF” exclamations.
I look forward to reading future works from this author. If you want a collection to get you into the Halloween spirit, pick this up immediately! Thank you to the author for the review copy!
July 29, 2022
7,5/10
🅐🅛🅛 🅣🅗🅘🅝🅖🅢 🅓🅔🅐🅓🅛🅨, Salem Sories by @haddonfieldhanson (E.C. Hanson)
I was offered the chance to read this one by the author, for which I am very grateful. I really enjoyed this collection of horror stories, all based in the Massachusetts’ town Salem (haunted by witches, ghouls and people with very strange habits) and centred in this collection is the story of the Frosts, Adam and Sutton. The death of Rebecca Frost so many years ago still has an impact on both Adam and Sutton. When Adam’s former business partner Terry calls him, the memories flood back. In the meantime, Salem is overrun by the supernatural but also by those with eerie and creepy thoughts. Murder is on their mind. Pets are protection their master, kids on a revenge spree and a certain movie makes for increase of the sale of vegetables, one in particular it seems…
😼
Peppered with a lot of humor, these stories are short but captivating enough. At times you’re wondering: ‘what the hell am I reading?’ and next you’re laughing for the outcome! The story ‘Stalker’ could even be a huger one, expanded even to be a novella-sized story, in my opinion!
Hanson is a great addition to the indie horror writers of these times… and I’m sure we can expect great things from the man!
👏👏👏
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookreview #booksbooksbooks #menreadtoo #looneybooks79 #arcreader #echanson #allthingsdeadlysalemstories #gayreader #belgianreader #lezer #boekenlezer #bookaddict #bookaddiction #book64of2021 #shortstorycollection #bookaddicted #horrorandhumor #salemmassachusetts #perfecthalloweenread #bookreviewer #bookblog #bookblogger #booklover
🅐🅛🅛 🅣🅗🅘🅝🅖🅢 🅓🅔🅐🅓🅛🅨, Salem Sories by @haddonfieldhanson (E.C. Hanson)
I was offered the chance to read this one by the author, for which I am very grateful. I really enjoyed this collection of horror stories, all based in the Massachusetts’ town Salem (haunted by witches, ghouls and people with very strange habits) and centred in this collection is the story of the Frosts, Adam and Sutton. The death of Rebecca Frost so many years ago still has an impact on both Adam and Sutton. When Adam’s former business partner Terry calls him, the memories flood back. In the meantime, Salem is overrun by the supernatural but also by those with eerie and creepy thoughts. Murder is on their mind. Pets are protection their master, kids on a revenge spree and a certain movie makes for increase of the sale of vegetables, one in particular it seems…
😼
Peppered with a lot of humor, these stories are short but captivating enough. At times you’re wondering: ‘what the hell am I reading?’ and next you’re laughing for the outcome! The story ‘Stalker’ could even be a huger one, expanded even to be a novella-sized story, in my opinion!
Hanson is a great addition to the indie horror writers of these times… and I’m sure we can expect great things from the man!
👏👏👏
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookreview #booksbooksbooks #menreadtoo #looneybooks79 #arcreader #echanson #allthingsdeadlysalemstories #gayreader #belgianreader #lezer #boekenlezer #bookaddict #bookaddiction #book64of2021 #shortstorycollection #bookaddicted #horrorandhumor #salemmassachusetts #perfecthalloweenread #bookreviewer #bookblog #bookblogger #booklover
August 29, 2021
Just like most of you, after July is over, I’m very much ready for Halloween. Honestly I’m ready for Halloween 365. To say this collection really got me into the ~spirit~ is an understatement. 🎃🖤👻
Although this is a collection of short stories, at its core we also have a larger story involving the Frost Family weaved in throughout. Adam & Sutton are a father/daughter duo grieving the loss of their wife/mom and the complicated relationship dynamic that loss has caused.
I have never read a collection setup that same way that All Things Deadly is and I really enjoyed that.
The stories were creepy, composed and very well-written. I also thought the length of each story were spot on for a collection.
Check out All Things Deadly to really get you in the Halloween spirit this year.
Although this is a collection of short stories, at its core we also have a larger story involving the Frost Family weaved in throughout. Adam & Sutton are a father/daughter duo grieving the loss of their wife/mom and the complicated relationship dynamic that loss has caused.
I have never read a collection setup that same way that All Things Deadly is and I really enjoyed that.
The stories were creepy, composed and very well-written. I also thought the length of each story were spot on for a collection.
Check out All Things Deadly to really get you in the Halloween spirit this year.
August 11, 2021
“All Things Deadly” is the debut collection of short stories penned by author E. C. Hanson. Hanson has a long list of short plays that have been produced in the US, as well as many fiction and non-fiction pieces that have been published by Horror Oasis, Curious Blue Press, Collective Tales, and Ghost Orchid Press, among others.
“All Things Deadly” marks his return to fiction with an excellent collection of short stories that are based in one of America’s creepiest towns, Salem, home of the witch trials. The stories seem to be unrelated but a pattern soon appears as the story of the Frost Family is woven in-between the other tales.
Each short story delivers a relatable character with a disturbing story line, each one just a bit more chilling than the last. Some are a bit humorous while a few others stick to a darker dose of humanity and horror. I had a couple of favorite stories, other than the Frost Family central story, which kept me intrigued to the very end. My favorite short story was “Crunchy Bits” because I loved the dark humor it held and the sense of irony that was carried throughout. I love when a story reveals the darker side of human nature and this one delivered it exceptionally well.
This is an impeccable collection of short stories that sets itself apart from the rest by carrying a central story along with the rest. Well-written, carefully-planned, “All Things Deadly” carries the chills that Salem is known to deliver. Five stars for this debut by E.C. Hanson.
“All Things Deadly” marks his return to fiction with an excellent collection of short stories that are based in one of America’s creepiest towns, Salem, home of the witch trials. The stories seem to be unrelated but a pattern soon appears as the story of the Frost Family is woven in-between the other tales.
Each short story delivers a relatable character with a disturbing story line, each one just a bit more chilling than the last. Some are a bit humorous while a few others stick to a darker dose of humanity and horror. I had a couple of favorite stories, other than the Frost Family central story, which kept me intrigued to the very end. My favorite short story was “Crunchy Bits” because I loved the dark humor it held and the sense of irony that was carried throughout. I love when a story reveals the darker side of human nature and this one delivered it exceptionally well.
This is an impeccable collection of short stories that sets itself apart from the rest by carrying a central story along with the rest. Well-written, carefully-planned, “All Things Deadly” carries the chills that Salem is known to deliver. Five stars for this debut by E.C. Hanson.
July 28, 2021
All Things Deadly follows the Frost family, Adam, Rebecca, and Sutton Frost. Sutton frost is an edgy teenager with her own demons. Adam tries his best to connect with his daughter, after the loss of her mother Rebecca. Adam receives a call for help from a friend, forcing the Frosts to face their past, ultimately discovering the truth.
Let me get this out there right off the bat, as a practicing witch and a lifetime New Englander, there is no place more magical than Salem. I know I’m being a basic witch, but I absolutely adored that the setting of this collection takes place in one of my favorite Spooky towns.
Hanson tells the story of different townies living in Salem in between the main story. Each one is unique and ends with the perfect amount of creepiness. Some of the stories have humor, some are satisfying and some are bone-chilling. They touch on current events and sensitive subjects. All the short stories are realistic, with a dark, disturbing twist of course. From creepy stalkers, to regretful ghost stories, there’s a perfect mix.
Honestly, I enjoyed every short story but if I list them all I’ll run out of space 😅 That being said I’ll mention two, “Crunchy Bits,” which is about a serial killer. I’ll leave it at that as to not give away anything because it’s my favorite and I still think of it weeks later. The other story is “Under Surveillance,” which i adored because the narrator is a cat and what witch doesn’t love her cat? 🐈⬛
This book is written so well, it really gave me the spooks. I like how the main story’s ending wraps up neatly, leaving readers satisfied. Also kudos to the author for writing colorful characters that you can relate to. Considering how many characters are in this book, that’s not an easy feat.
Sometimes I’m asked by the author for constructive criticism but for me that’s not always possible. I loved this book and have no personal criticisms to give. I will say this, if you’re a reader who doesn’t like flipping between perspectives, this won’t be your cup of tea.
Anyway, go pick it up for yourself! It’s perfect to have for the upcoming spooky season. 🎃👻
August 6, 2021
All Things Deadly by E.C. Hanson is an amazing collection of short tales all centered on events occurring in and around Salem, but there’s more than just location that ties them all together.
If you enjoy collections that will keep you on your toes as you just have no idea what to expect next, you don’t want to miss this one!
While I would put this collection solidly in the horror category, it’s a collection that is sure to provoke a variety of emotional responses. Some tales will make you feel uncomfortable, some will spook you, some will downright terrify you or disgust you, while others will make you smile, and some will make you laugh.
There’s truly something here for everyone!
I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I had a blast reading these tales and already can’t wait to revisit them again soon!
Full disclosure: I was given a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating in any way.
More here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/book-...
If you enjoy collections that will keep you on your toes as you just have no idea what to expect next, you don’t want to miss this one!
While I would put this collection solidly in the horror category, it’s a collection that is sure to provoke a variety of emotional responses. Some tales will make you feel uncomfortable, some will spook you, some will downright terrify you or disgust you, while others will make you smile, and some will make you laugh.
There’s truly something here for everyone!
I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I had a blast reading these tales and already can’t wait to revisit them again soon!
Full disclosure: I was given a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating in any way.
More here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/book-...
October 28, 2021
Thank you to the author for sending me an e-copy to read.
DNF @ 60%
This one just wasn't for me. I was looking forward to spooky stories about Salem and this book just included mini horror stories that could've taken place anywhere but the fact they were in Salem was inserted.
None of the stories really did it for me and I found myself rolling my eyes multiple times at things said. I did enjoy one story "Drips" and wish it could have been longer and more drawn out.
I just can't recommend this one. Instead I would recommend Goblin by Josh Malerman which has the similar concept of short stories surrounding a town but was done much better.
DNF @ 60%
This one just wasn't for me. I was looking forward to spooky stories about Salem and this book just included mini horror stories that could've taken place anywhere but the fact they were in Salem was inserted.
None of the stories really did it for me and I found myself rolling my eyes multiple times at things said. I did enjoy one story "Drips" and wish it could have been longer and more drawn out.
I just can't recommend this one. Instead I would recommend Goblin by Josh Malerman which has the similar concept of short stories surrounding a town but was done much better.
April 21, 2022
Hanson's debut horror collection features short stories centered around Salem that range from dark and disturbing to unsettling and disgusting. Interwoven between these stories we follow an installment of Adam Frost and his teenage daughter Suttton who are on a road trip to Salem in hopes of mending their broken relationship in a haunted house linked to their past.
There were some pretty good stories I enjoyed from this collection. My favorites include: Drips (my favorite - featuring a creepy clown), Mister shotgun, Regress, The aged man and Under surveillance. While I loved these stories, I do wish they were a bit longer and more drawn out since it left me wanting more! Which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
The writing style is simple and easy to follow which made for a quick read. While I wanted to love the collection as a whole there were a few stories that missed the mark for me. Specifically, "Zukes" which just read like a long dirty joke and "Revenge Tour", which is about a kid with a deadly virus getting revenge by coughing and spitting all over his school - this one disgusted me to the point of almost DNF'ing. The rest of the stories were pretty mediocre with the majority of them being based around alcohol abuse.
Overall, a solid enough collection to pass the time.
Thanks to the author for an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger Warnings:
Self harm
Alcohol abuse
Suicide
Sitophilia
Covid inspired story
There were some pretty good stories I enjoyed from this collection. My favorites include: Drips (my favorite - featuring a creepy clown), Mister shotgun, Regress, The aged man and Under surveillance. While I loved these stories, I do wish they were a bit longer and more drawn out since it left me wanting more! Which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
The writing style is simple and easy to follow which made for a quick read. While I wanted to love the collection as a whole there were a few stories that missed the mark for me. Specifically, "Zukes" which just read like a long dirty joke and "Revenge Tour", which is about a kid with a deadly virus getting revenge by coughing and spitting all over his school - this one disgusted me to the point of almost DNF'ing. The rest of the stories were pretty mediocre with the majority of them being based around alcohol abuse.
Overall, a solid enough collection to pass the time.
Thanks to the author for an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger Warnings:
Self harm
Alcohol abuse
Suicide
Sitophilia
Covid inspired story
August 30, 2021
Life with a teenage daughter is not easy, and for Adam Frost, being a single parent, it was confusing and heartbreaking. He would do anything for his daughter, Sutton, and only hope to get a glance in return. When Adam notices that Sutton has been cutting, he gets desperate and takes her on a trip that has a great possibility of going horribly wrong.
All Things Deadly is a combination short story collection and a novella, with the short stories sprinkled within the chapters of the novella.
Some of the short stories had me very intrigued and wanting more while other stories wishing for a mind eraser.
Overall the main story was excellent and I think that it could have been fleshed out into a complete novel. I do wish the other stories had a little more to do with Salem. When you hear “Salem Stories” you expect witches, but they seemed to just be a collection of horrors set in Salem.
All Things Deadly is a combination short story collection and a novella, with the short stories sprinkled within the chapters of the novella.
Some of the short stories had me very intrigued and wanting more while other stories wishing for a mind eraser.
Overall the main story was excellent and I think that it could have been fleshed out into a complete novel. I do wish the other stories had a little more to do with Salem. When you hear “Salem Stories” you expect witches, but they seemed to just be a collection of horrors set in Salem.
November 5, 2021
All Things Deadly follows a former paranormal investigator and his daughter as they revisit their old hometown of Salem, Massachusetts while working through relational issues.
Sprinkled throughout the main story’s chapters are short stories about weird happenings in Salem.
Hanson mastered the art of combining everyday horror, uncomfortably funny moments, and the paranormal. I could almost hear the narrator reading these stories in my mind and envisioned everything unfolding as if I were watching a production at the theatre. I do not know whether that vibe was intentional, but it made for a fun reading experience.
If you enjoy short horror stories with real-life elements thrown into the mix, this is the book for you!
Sprinkled throughout the main story’s chapters are short stories about weird happenings in Salem.
Hanson mastered the art of combining everyday horror, uncomfortably funny moments, and the paranormal. I could almost hear the narrator reading these stories in my mind and envisioned everything unfolding as if I were watching a production at the theatre. I do not know whether that vibe was intentional, but it made for a fun reading experience.
If you enjoy short horror stories with real-life elements thrown into the mix, this is the book for you!
December 7, 2021
Hanson is a fantastic writer. You do not need to read far into this book before you realize that you’re in the hands of a master storyteller. The stories are often very surprising, and as a collection, they are nicely varied. They run the gamut from seriously dark to quite tender. The collection also enjoys the type of strong characterization one is likely to find in a well-written play; it’s, therefore, fitting to discover that Hanson is also an accomplished playwright. The only flaw I noticed, which is certainly outweighed by the book’s many praiseworthy aspects, is that there are a few instances of relatively heavy-handed political content. Regardless, I am very much looking forward to whatever Hanson has next in store.
October 27, 2021
Spooky, bizzare and darkly funny, All Things Deadly is a collection of short stories set in Salem, Massachusetts. It's Halloween and it's residents are giving into their worst instincts. Enjoyable small town horror. Thank you to E.C. Hanson for the ARC.
September 11, 2021
It’s totally normal to cry at the end of a horror anthology, right?! Ok 😭! This collection of stories are loosely framed around the town of Salem, Massachusetts, all connected by the story of a troubled teenage girl and her father, desperate to make a connection, taking a road trip to Salem. Each story has a unique voice but really focuses on the darkest parts of humanity while still maintaining a healthy dose of humor and redemption. While I enjoyed all of these stories my favorite by a landslide was “under surveillance,” told from the perspective of a house cat and a wonderful reminder that it’s always important to be kind to animals, especially when you think no one is looking. Extremely well written, thought provoking, unique, and utterly satisfying, I highly recommend “All Things Deadly”, especially if you are looking for a fresh perspective on the horror genre.
January 21, 2023
Mini review.
All things deadly was full of surprises, this book had some unsettling stories and I mean that in the best possible way. Each story had chilling moments and they will keep you hooked to the story until the very end.
Salem, Massachusetts, a place of myth and legend, you name it, spirits, witches and the unsolved mysteries. We meet Adam Frost, a former paranormal investigator, once a resident but eventually comes back to help his troubled teenager daughter. I definitely loved all these short stories but my absolute favorites were Drips and Storage Facility.
All things deadly was full of surprises, this book had some unsettling stories and I mean that in the best possible way. Each story had chilling moments and they will keep you hooked to the story until the very end.
Salem, Massachusetts, a place of myth and legend, you name it, spirits, witches and the unsolved mysteries. We meet Adam Frost, a former paranormal investigator, once a resident but eventually comes back to help his troubled teenager daughter. I definitely loved all these short stories but my absolute favorites were Drips and Storage Facility.
December 23, 2021
This is a pretty solid short story collection. Though I expected more tales about witches and the Salem trials, I really enjoyed the majority of the stories and found them quite unsettling. I also liked the structure and the intertwining of the "main" story between other stand-alone ones. Overall, very enjoyable and entertaining.
December 29, 2021
It seems that everyone assumes writing a full-length novel is the most difficult task to complete for a writer, but I disagree. Flash fiction requires that an author craft three-dimensional characters and a full plot arc in 1000 words or fewer, something most scribes (myself included) find torturous compared to the open-air freedom of a 70,000+ word tome. I mention this because I first encountered E.C. Hanson’s writing in a flash fiction magazine. I knew going into All Things Deadly that the author had the skill to paint a believable world without wordiness. What I discovered was that Hanson’s talent extends even further than that.
Initially, I was unsure if Deadly was a short story collection or a novella comprised of interconnected vignettes. It turns out, it’s something else entirely: while the majority of the entries are stand-alone stories, those dark tales are sewn loosely together by a shared setting (Salem, Massachusetts), bookended by the shared story of the Frost family, and sporadically sliced into by the ongoing conflict within that Frost family. The result is a club-sandwich of sorts with the Frost narrative acting as the bread, and this unique approach works.
Very few of the short piece protagonists are likeable in the traditional sense, but I have always been a fan of antiheroes, and despite their flaws, a number of Hanson’s characters grow on the reader rather quickly. Some stand-outs among the tales include:
Samsara: Babs is a day-drinking alcoholic, and while waiting for a local brewery to open, she peruses the goods at a nearby New Age trinkets store. When she spots a bat perched in the taxidermy display, it releases the final domino in the downward spiral she’d been sliding down.
Free Write Friday: By far my favorite in the collection because of its final moments, the tale features a fourth-grade teacher on her last day at school before retirement and one of her students, a boy who hides his family’s alcoholism in his creative writing.
Red Couch is a fascinating snapshot of two women being suffocated by the entitled, lazy men in their lives and the piece of furniture that connects them.
Stalker 101: Following the sudden death of his mum, lifelong bachelor Harold Roberts takes inventory of his life and discovers that his “I never” list is woefully too long. His wanderings land him on the social media feed of a local young woman, and what evolves is every gal with a public profile’s worst nightmare.
Revenge Tour: Relative germophobe Edward thought he had a bad cold, but as it turns out, he has “the virus,” a thinly-disguised amalgam of Covid-19 and the flu. Hanson takes a very topical horror and uses it to examine the resentful teenage brain and the thin line between adolescent narcissism and blossoming sociopathy.
I was fortunate to find Hanson’s collection on Audible, and narrator Jacob Buchholz’s vocalization is both effective and strangely nostalgic, and after the first few tales, I realized the reason for the latter. Buchholz’s voice sounds nearly identical to that of Brian O’Halloran (Clerks), and exudes exactly the cadence this fast-paced collection requires.
Initially, I was unsure if Deadly was a short story collection or a novella comprised of interconnected vignettes. It turns out, it’s something else entirely: while the majority of the entries are stand-alone stories, those dark tales are sewn loosely together by a shared setting (Salem, Massachusetts), bookended by the shared story of the Frost family, and sporadically sliced into by the ongoing conflict within that Frost family. The result is a club-sandwich of sorts with the Frost narrative acting as the bread, and this unique approach works.
Very few of the short piece protagonists are likeable in the traditional sense, but I have always been a fan of antiheroes, and despite their flaws, a number of Hanson’s characters grow on the reader rather quickly. Some stand-outs among the tales include:
Samsara: Babs is a day-drinking alcoholic, and while waiting for a local brewery to open, she peruses the goods at a nearby New Age trinkets store. When she spots a bat perched in the taxidermy display, it releases the final domino in the downward spiral she’d been sliding down.
Free Write Friday: By far my favorite in the collection because of its final moments, the tale features a fourth-grade teacher on her last day at school before retirement and one of her students, a boy who hides his family’s alcoholism in his creative writing.
Red Couch is a fascinating snapshot of two women being suffocated by the entitled, lazy men in their lives and the piece of furniture that connects them.
Stalker 101: Following the sudden death of his mum, lifelong bachelor Harold Roberts takes inventory of his life and discovers that his “I never” list is woefully too long. His wanderings land him on the social media feed of a local young woman, and what evolves is every gal with a public profile’s worst nightmare.
Revenge Tour: Relative germophobe Edward thought he had a bad cold, but as it turns out, he has “the virus,” a thinly-disguised amalgam of Covid-19 and the flu. Hanson takes a very topical horror and uses it to examine the resentful teenage brain and the thin line between adolescent narcissism and blossoming sociopathy.
I was fortunate to find Hanson’s collection on Audible, and narrator Jacob Buchholz’s vocalization is both effective and strangely nostalgic, and after the first few tales, I realized the reason for the latter. Buchholz’s voice sounds nearly identical to that of Brian O’Halloran (Clerks), and exudes exactly the cadence this fast-paced collection requires.
September 27, 2021
If someone would ask me to describe Halloween in the best possible way, I'd hand them a copy of E.C Hanson's 'All Things Deadly (Salem Stories).
The author was awesome enough to send me his debut horror collection for review and got me instantly hooked, right from the cover.
E.C sets the foundations of his stories in Salem Massachusetts. A place with a history chilling enough and stories weird enough to cause nightmares. A place where Adam Frost, former paranormal investigator, dreads to visit again. A place where his family will eventually have to visit to exorcise old personal demons and face new ones.
With the Frost family in its center, E.C delivers one stab after the other in the form of short stories involving colorful, extremely well crafted characters. Even though seemingly unrelated, the stories blend perfectly and deliver the solution to the hauntingly good puzzle of the storyline.
Deliciously dark humor interwovens perfectly with spine-chilling horror to reveal the darkness of the human nature and the demons lurking under the surface of the human suit.
From ghosts to stalkers and from killers to cat narrators, the author manages to deliver a unique blend of horrors and achieves lovely spooky goodness in just 160 pages.
Beautifully crafted atmosphere and the fantastic ability to evoke strong feelings, make this terrific and terrifying collection a must have for Halloween.
A must read to anyone who wants to experience a different, unique, exciting and wonderfully written book.
Get it at : https://www.amazon.com/All-Things-Dea...
The author was awesome enough to send me his debut horror collection for review and got me instantly hooked, right from the cover.
E.C sets the foundations of his stories in Salem Massachusetts. A place with a history chilling enough and stories weird enough to cause nightmares. A place where Adam Frost, former paranormal investigator, dreads to visit again. A place where his family will eventually have to visit to exorcise old personal demons and face new ones.
With the Frost family in its center, E.C delivers one stab after the other in the form of short stories involving colorful, extremely well crafted characters. Even though seemingly unrelated, the stories blend perfectly and deliver the solution to the hauntingly good puzzle of the storyline.
Deliciously dark humor interwovens perfectly with spine-chilling horror to reveal the darkness of the human nature and the demons lurking under the surface of the human suit.
From ghosts to stalkers and from killers to cat narrators, the author manages to deliver a unique blend of horrors and achieves lovely spooky goodness in just 160 pages.
Beautifully crafted atmosphere and the fantastic ability to evoke strong feelings, make this terrific and terrifying collection a must have for Halloween.
A must read to anyone who wants to experience a different, unique, exciting and wonderfully written book.
Get it at : https://www.amazon.com/All-Things-Dea...
November 18, 2021
@haddonfieldhanson ‘s All Things Deadly: Salem Stories, begins with the introduction of Adam Frost, a former paranormal investigator and his daughter Sutton, a dysfunctional family in desperate need of connecting after the loss of their wife and mother. Interspersed with the Frost family’s story are a collection of short stories that all have some connection to Salem.
Hanson has written an evocative and chilling collection. Not all of the stories are set in Salem, but there is a link to this eerie city in all of them. The stories run the gambit from full on horror to disturbing to darkly humorous. This is a collection that has something for everyone. I found each of these short stories to be well written and engrossing. What I loved the most is that as you read along, between the individual tales, you get more and more of the story of the Frost family. This longer tale is the one that really spoke to me and by the end of the book I was left with many emotions.
These bite size bits of stories make for a quick, easy and enjoyable read. This would be a great read for lovers of Salem or just fans of good writing. I look forward to seeing what Mr. Hanson will do next. Thank you to E. C. Hanson for gifting me this ebo
Hanson has written an evocative and chilling collection. Not all of the stories are set in Salem, but there is a link to this eerie city in all of them. The stories run the gambit from full on horror to disturbing to darkly humorous. This is a collection that has something for everyone. I found each of these short stories to be well written and engrossing. What I loved the most is that as you read along, between the individual tales, you get more and more of the story of the Frost family. This longer tale is the one that really spoke to me and by the end of the book I was left with many emotions.
These bite size bits of stories make for a quick, easy and enjoyable read. This would be a great read for lovers of Salem or just fans of good writing. I look forward to seeing what Mr. Hanson will do next. Thank you to E. C. Hanson for gifting me this ebo
September 6, 2023
I thought I would read a couple of stories and be done for the night… nope! I couldn’t put it down!!
It starts with Adam and Sutton Frost and we follow them, totally connecting with their Father/Daughter relationship from beginning to end. Sprinkled throughout their story we meet so many characters sharing their wild stories. Like Billy who goes trick or treating and meets a very friendly clown… Jason who quit is first job at the theater before his shift even ended… thanks zucchini 😆 Bernie who has spent his entire life only wanting to be his true self and isn’t able to do so until the passing of his wife… Ms. Fredericks, an elementary school teacher who joins her students on Freewrite Friday with her own story called Smother… William who opens a candy store and his most popular item is called Crunchy Bits…
These are just a few of the awesome stories in this book, there’s so many more! I’m so happy I chose it to get me out of a slump because it had my spooky, morbid self giggling 🤭 And I’m tickled to death that I discovered E.C. Hanson! This is the third book of his that I’ve read and I’m obsessed with his writing!! If you haven’t read his work yet, I highly recommend it because I’m on to the next one!
It starts with Adam and Sutton Frost and we follow them, totally connecting with their Father/Daughter relationship from beginning to end. Sprinkled throughout their story we meet so many characters sharing their wild stories. Like Billy who goes trick or treating and meets a very friendly clown… Jason who quit is first job at the theater before his shift even ended… thanks zucchini 😆 Bernie who has spent his entire life only wanting to be his true self and isn’t able to do so until the passing of his wife… Ms. Fredericks, an elementary school teacher who joins her students on Freewrite Friday with her own story called Smother… William who opens a candy store and his most popular item is called Crunchy Bits…
These are just a few of the awesome stories in this book, there’s so many more! I’m so happy I chose it to get me out of a slump because it had my spooky, morbid self giggling 🤭 And I’m tickled to death that I discovered E.C. Hanson! This is the third book of his that I’ve read and I’m obsessed with his writing!! If you haven’t read his work yet, I highly recommend it because I’m on to the next one!
November 21, 2021
Hanson’s debut horror collection “All Things Deadly (Salem Stories)” is a fantastic gathering of short stores (some very short, which I love) filled with horror, dread, and themes that make you think.
Hanson is not afraid to make you feel uncomfortable and that leads the stories contained in these pages to be both unpredictable and memorable.
Interspersed throughout the stories is a longer narrative about Adam Frost and his daughter that works as a terrific framing device for the rest of the (sorta unrelated, but still impactful) tales.
My personal favorite stories were “Freewrite Friday” and “Taunt That Witch” which are both deliciously dark and showcase an author in total control of his narratives!
As we get closer to winter and long dark nights, you should grab yourself a copy of “All Things Deadly” and spend a few hours within the boundaries of Salem and it’s variety of horror. There is truly something for everybody!
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of “All Things Deadly” in exchange for my honest and fair review.
Hanson is not afraid to make you feel uncomfortable and that leads the stories contained in these pages to be both unpredictable and memorable.
Interspersed throughout the stories is a longer narrative about Adam Frost and his daughter that works as a terrific framing device for the rest of the (sorta unrelated, but still impactful) tales.
My personal favorite stories were “Freewrite Friday” and “Taunt That Witch” which are both deliciously dark and showcase an author in total control of his narratives!
As we get closer to winter and long dark nights, you should grab yourself a copy of “All Things Deadly” and spend a few hours within the boundaries of Salem and it’s variety of horror. There is truly something for everybody!
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of “All Things Deadly” in exchange for my honest and fair review.
September 29, 2021
ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ
All things deadly - E C Hanson
All things deadly is a collection of short stories surrounding a main storyline, all based in or about the residents of infamous Salem.
I was confused at first, as the introduction to the Frost’s, Adam and daughter Sutton, came to abrupt end with the following story seemingly unrelated.
Once I realised the format the author had weaved I relaxed, and enjoyed the ride.
The stories are all well written, disturbing and at times hilarious- if like me you find dark humour inappropriate and funny!
The characters are relatable and developed well considering their stories length.
Overall this is an exemplary collection from a very promising author on his debut.
Image inspiration comes from story ‘Zukes’🥒 (Instagram followers)
Thank you Eric and D&T Publishing for providing me with this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
All things deadly - E C Hanson
All things deadly is a collection of short stories surrounding a main storyline, all based in or about the residents of infamous Salem.
I was confused at first, as the introduction to the Frost’s, Adam and daughter Sutton, came to abrupt end with the following story seemingly unrelated.
Once I realised the format the author had weaved I relaxed, and enjoyed the ride.
The stories are all well written, disturbing and at times hilarious- if like me you find dark humour inappropriate and funny!
The characters are relatable and developed well considering their stories length.
Overall this is an exemplary collection from a very promising author on his debut.
Image inspiration comes from story ‘Zukes’🥒 (Instagram followers)
Thank you Eric and D&T Publishing for providing me with this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2021
Brilliant collection of stories that feature in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. The stories are fun, frightening and some horrifyingly shocking one even made me gasp out loud no way!!!
But there is also a continuing story about Adam Frost and his daughter Sutton which snippets of there story pops up every so often.
Adam was a former paranormal investigator and he promised himself he'd never return to the coastal town but a turn of events lead him to go back, their father daughter relationship is on a rocky road will they be able to save it.
The individual stories I loved them the book was a great page turner thoroughly loved it. As This is my first read by this author, it definitely won't be the last. But the author cleverly concluded the book with a twist I didn't see coming.
Cracking read for the horror season of October!!
But there is also a continuing story about Adam Frost and his daughter Sutton which snippets of there story pops up every so often.
Adam was a former paranormal investigator and he promised himself he'd never return to the coastal town but a turn of events lead him to go back, their father daughter relationship is on a rocky road will they be able to save it.
The individual stories I loved them the book was a great page turner thoroughly loved it. As This is my first read by this author, it definitely won't be the last. But the author cleverly concluded the book with a twist I didn't see coming.
Cracking read for the horror season of October!!
Read
February 1, 2022E.C. Hanson takes readers on a trip to Salem, Massachusetts in his short story collection, All Things Deadly. With an overarching short story (almost a novella) that follows a father and his daughter smarting after the untimely death of Rebecca, beloved wife and mother. Their drama plays out in brief glimpses. Interspersed between these are brief stories set in and around Salem, of which my favorites were “Free Write Friday,” with a teacher who provides a surprising inspiration and a story told from the perspective of a feline. “One should always be kind to cats, because they see all.” Many of the stories end abruptly. Some are sad. Surprisingly, there are fewer witches than one might expect, but there are several murderers. I’m charmed by Salem and understand how it inspired E. C. Hanson to write this unusual collection.
October 4, 2021
This is an amazing, moody collection of tales that all take place in or around Salem, Massachusetts. The standalone stories that range from shocking to heartbreaking to funny (zucchinis: that's all I'll say about that) are broken up by segments of a longer story about a former paranormal investigator, Adam, and his teenage daughter, Sutton.
I loved the format, as it felt like the best of both worlds with regards to the immediate punches to the gut provided by the shorts and the immersion into the longer story.
The range of characters we meet is incredible. Some have truly evil hearts, some are innocent, some are terribly misguided. Some had a paranormal vibe, while, in others, humans and chance drove the story. No story is like another, each one amazing in its own right.
I loved the format, as it felt like the best of both worlds with regards to the immediate punches to the gut provided by the shorts and the immersion into the longer story.
The range of characters we meet is incredible. Some have truly evil hearts, some are innocent, some are terribly misguided. Some had a paranormal vibe, while, in others, humans and chance drove the story. No story is like another, each one amazing in its own right.
December 22, 2022
I went into All Things Deadly without knowing anything about the plot. I was greeted with what appeared to be short stories that ranged from disturbing to outrageous. Every one of them contained delightful dark humour. I found myself laughing at parts that wouldn’t be polite to admit I found entertaining. I love how everything tied together in the end.
I finished reading this novel in one sitting, which is a great indicator of how much I got immersed in the book. I will be adding other books by E. C. Hanson to my bookshelf.
I received a copy of All Things Deadly by the author. All opinions are my own.
I finished reading this novel in one sitting, which is a great indicator of how much I got immersed in the book. I will be adding other books by E. C. Hanson to my bookshelf.
I received a copy of All Things Deadly by the author. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2021
This book was a fun ride. We're immediately introduced to Adam and Sutton Frost, a father and his troubled daughter, trying to reconnect on a long car trip to Salem. Yup, that Salem. The inhabitants of said city are a strange bunch, and it was delightfully enlightening to get a peek into some of their troubled lives. I really liked the running story of father and daughter throughout the book. The author painted a big, colourful picture made up of myriad smaller ones. I loved this book from start to finish. This is an excellent debut for a very promising author.
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