Happy Spooky Season, friends! In honor of October, and all things spectacularly scary, I read the short story “Gethen Manor” by Samantha Shaw. “Gethen Manor” is a quick and delightfully horrific tale of a Halloween party gone wrong. I highly recommend this story to fans of horror, demons, and writing that keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat.
The story opens with a group of college students in an SUV. Aiden gets angry upon learning that his brother Ezra, the driver, is taking everyone to their home, Gethen Manor. Anna, who has a crush on Aiden, is unsure why Aiden is so upset. Despite Aiden’s protests, the group goes to the manor anyway. Upon arriving, the young adults begin playing Halloween music and drinking – celebrating and partying. However, a game of hide and seek will show that things are not what they seem. Who will die and who will survive?
Eek! Shaw’s descriptions allowed me to perfectly visualize what was happening. The story has great tension, and I love the background on Gethen Manor. At one point, I thought the story was going to be about vampires, but was pleasantly surprised with the demonic twist Shaw spins. However, there are questions left unanswered at the end of the story – I wish there had been a bit more.
Overall, I give this short story 4.5/5 stars. I think it is a great story for adults who want to get spooked, this season or any time of the year!
Order “Gethen Manor” on Amazon here.
