R.A. Clarke’s "DON’T LOOK, JUST RUN" is a masterful short story anthology that delivers pure nightmare fuel. Published by Page Turn Press and a book tour sponsored by Rockstar Book Tours, this collection is a must-read for horror lovers, blending eerie scenarios, wickedly creative premises, and even a bit of dark humor to keep you on edge. If you’re a fan of bite-sized horror with plenty of surprises, this book will have you devouring one tale after another.
My Review
This anthology isn’t just horror—it’s a cautionary tale wrapped in the macabre. Each story feels like a warning whispered in the dark, daring you to peek through the cracks. From a witch with a deadly holiday hobby to a bloodthirsty camera, Clarke explores imagination's terrifying and absurd corners.
Some standouts include:
"The Finisher": A visceral tale that left me breathless.
"Malady": A chilling narrative of "who dun it".
"How the Other Half Lives": Equal parts creepy and clever.
Whether it’s a demon family “trick-or-treating” or neighbors locked in a deadly feud, the stories deliver creative scares alongside some genuinely funny moments—who knew demons could be so relatable?
What I Loved
I adore horror anthologies, especially ones that blend chills and clever storytelling. Clarke excels at creating vividly creepy worlds, and her tales hit all the right notes: suspenseful, eerie, and deliciously unsettling. The variety of formats—short stories, flash fiction, and even poetry—keeps the collection dynamic and engaging. While the stories aren’t explicitly connected, the overall theme of "facing (or fleeing from) danger" ties the collection together nicely.
Room for Improvement
My only wish? A stronger connection between the stories. Anthologies where characters or settings overlap add an extra layer of immersion I truly enjoy. While this wasn’t the case here, it’s a minor complaint given the overall quality of the tales. Also, the author may want to go back and fix the page numbers in her chapter outline since the page numbers don't match up.
Final Thoughts
DON’T LOOK, JUST RUN is a riveting read for horror lovers. With a mix of spine-chilling scenarios and just the right dash of dark humor, it’s perfect for late-night page-turning. Clarke has a gift for crafting memorable, terrifying tales that linger long after you’ve read the last page.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
If you’re in the mood for something spooky, clever, and deeply unsettling, grab a copy today—or read it free with Kindle Unlimited! Just remember... don’t look too closely.
Thank you so much for reading and for this amazing, detailed review. I love hearing about which tales impact readers and how. I'm glad you enjoyed it.