Spooky Appalachia by S. E. Schlosser: A Mixed Bag | Book Review

This short story collection is a mixed bag. There are a lot of just okay stories, but also several that I really enjoyed. The book is divided into two parts: “Ghost Stories” and “Powers of Darkness and Light.”

Most of the ghost stories felt weaker, lacking thematic relevance and regional distinctness. “Fifty Cents”, “The Death Watch”, and “The Bell Ringer” stand out as they employ strong visuals, sounds, and settings. The punishing revenge and the marriage of the natural and the supernatural makes “Raw Head” read like a good fairy tale.

Most of my favorites are toward the end of the collection. “The Minstrel” and “Witch Dance” prominently feature song and dance, something very relevant to Appalachian culture. Like “The Death Watch”, “The Murdered Miner” identifies the significance of mining to this region. It demonstrates dedication and corrupting greed. “Spear-Finger” mirrors “Raw Head” in its fairy tale ferocity, and “The Devil’s Book” and “Jack-o’-Lantern” follow that tone with tales of Faustian bargains. These stories are what make Spooky Appalachia worth the read.

Although it’s a short collection, I do think there was too much filler. Many of the stories felt too familiar to be appreciated, in motifs and otherwise. I already knew of “The Bell Witch” and “Mothman” and, unfortunately, these iterations don’t particularly stand out. There was a decent version of “Bloody Mary” (in “Flaming Reflection”) and of “Bigfoot” (or “Boojum”).

Overall, I would’ve preferred an even smaller collection if it meant a more polished product. I am still glad I read the whole thing, though, because it packed the best stuff in the end!

Have you read Spooky Appalachia or any of the other “spooky” books in that series? What were your thoughts? Do you have any favorite spooky short stories/collections? Any Appalachian-themed favorites? Let me know in the comments below!