First published 2006
This anthology represents Jerry Williamson's last editorial project before his passing in late 2005. The collection brings together contemporary horror writers who focus on psychological terror rather than gore and shock tactics. These authors explore the internal demons that plague human consciousness, examining fears that emerge from within rather than external supernatural threats. The stories move beyond traditional horror tropes like vampires, haunted houses, and serial killers to investigate the darker territories of the human psyche. Contributors include Ray Bradbury, Richard Matheson, Poppy Z. Brite, Jack Ketchum, and Ray Garton. The anthology captures horror fiction's evolution over the fifteen years since the previous Masques edition, reflecting how the genre has regained popularity while shifting toward more sophisticated psychological exploration. Clive Barker provided the cover artwork for this final volume in the series.
Genres: literary-fiction, horror, psychological-thriller
Vibes: dark, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: anthology, found-family
Period: 2005
469 pages · Hardcover · Gauntlet Pr