The Measure of Sorrow: Stories

The Measure of Sorrow is a collection of ten dark speculative fiction stories by J. Ashley-Smith, exploring themes of mystery, horror, and the human condition. The stories are intelligent, emotionally complex, and defying easy classification, offering a glimpse into a world that is both wondrous and horrifying.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2023
Publisher: Meerkat Press

The Measure of Sorrow is a captivating collection of ten dark speculative fiction stories by the acclaimed author J. Ashley-Smith. This remarkable debut showcases Ashley-Smith's exceptional talent and mastery of the genre. Within these pages, a mysterious black reef holds the key to an enigmatic coastal limbo, where time seems to stand still. A father navigates the complexities of reconnecting with his estranged children in a post-bushfire wilderness, where survival is the only certainty. An artist embarks on a poignant journey, recording her final days in conversation with her unborn child, reflecting on the fragility of life and the profound connections between generations. A brother and sister are abandoned to the madness of their uncle, trapped in a world of hallucinations and paranoia. A suburban neighborhood succumbs to an inexplicable malaise, where ordinary lives are disrupted by an eerie presence. Teenage ravers find themselves drawn into the enigmatic folds of an eldritch crowd, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. A sensitive New Age guy resorts to a terminal act of passive-aggression, seeking solace in the depths of his own despair. A plane crash unearths the secrets of the Garden of Eden, offering a glimpse of a utopian world that contrasts sharply with the harsh realities of our own. A new boy arrives in the village, only to fall victim to a fatal ruse that reveals the darker side of human nature. And lastly, a husband's unexpressed grief finds expression in the haunting shadows of a crumbling country barn, a silent witness to the unspoken emotions that linger within the hearts of those who have suffered loss.

The Measure of Sorrow is a testament to Ashley-Smith's ability to delve into the depths of the human psyche and explore the darkest corners of the imagination. With each story, she weaves a tapestry of emotions, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the intricate web of mystery and suspense. The characters in these stories are complex and multi-dimensional, their motivations and actions often shrouded in ambiguity, adding to the layers of intrigue and mystery. The settings, whether it's the desolate post-bushfire wilderness or the enigmatic coastal limbo, are vividly portrayed, creating a sense of foreboding and unease that permeates every page.

In conclusion, The Measure of Sorrow is a must-read for fans of dark speculative fiction. J. Ashley-Smith's exceptional storytelling and vivid prose transport readers to a world where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred, and where the consequences of human actions can be both horrifying and awe-inspiring. This collection showcases Ashley-Smith's talent as a rising star in the genre and promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its dark and enigmatic realms.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781946154774