In the Woods, Dark and Deep

by D.L. Rhodes

Genre: Short Stories / Science Fiction & Fantasy

ISBN: 979-8362781569

Print Length: 251 pages

Graphic, disturbing, and insightful: In The Woods, Dark and Deep is a joy ride through horror and fantasy.

Embark on a vivid and disturbing journey through horror and fantasy with “Into the Woods,” a collection of interconnected short stories that transports readers to the town of West Liberty—a place teeming with secrets, suffering, and the potential for redemption. In this delightfully morbid book, author DL Rhodes pushes the boundaries of the genre, offering a unique and captivating reading experience.

The collection begins with the concise and unsettling tale, “Juice,” introducing readers to a woman who finds pleasure in unconventional sources. From there, the stories delve deeper into taboo and grotesque themes, pushing the boundaries of graphic and imaginative storytelling. Rhodes skillfully balances the graphic narrative with insightful dialogue, allowing the most unlikely characters to provide profound observations.

One of the standout characters is the enigmatic Mrs. C, who embodies the essence of Hecate and appears throughout the stories. The clandestine atmosphere surrounding her presence adds a sense of intrigue from the very beginning. Without revealing too much, there is a particular scene later in the collection that exudes female strength and energy, compelling readers to join the characters in the deep, dark woods. The allure and mystery of the ancient forest serve as the perfect backdrop for the dark and disturbing narratives.

While each story in “Into the Woods” carries its own brand of terror, some push the boundaries to the point where a heart of stone might be required. Paradoxically, this is one of the collection’s most exciting aspects. The challenge lies in navigating the unsettling narratives without succumbing to feelings of discomfort. These stories confront death, destruction, and existential questions about life, purpose, survival, suffering, justice, and the nature of good and evil.

At the core of the collection, a recurring poignant question arises: Can evil truly be thwarted? Is it an inevitable force? Is it inherent or learned? In one story, the possibility of fundamentally altering a person’s molecular makeup to eliminate guilt and remorse is explored. Such ethical dilemmas linger long after reading, leaving readers contemplating the limits of human agency and the consequences of playing God.

“Into the Woods” is not for the faint of heart, as it delves into heavy and unsettling topics. It is advisable to heed the content warnings, but for those who appreciate the horror genre and its niche subgenres, this collection offers a captivating and thought-provoking experience. Prepare to be immersed in a world of dark secrets, twisted mysteries, and introspective exploration as you venture “Into the Woods.”