Douglas Clegg is a leader in the post King/Koontz/Saul generation of horror authors, along with being one of the most prolific. In "The Nightmare Chronicles" he brings thirteen short stories to life in one of the most clever ways I've ever seen. The book begins with what you think is the first story, but it's actually a framework story that continues around each of the mini-thrillers contained here. It's a good story by itself and you find yourself waiting to see what happens next in the "frame" story as well. This is probably one of the best collections I've read in a long time. There's a lot of variety in style, setting, time periods, subjects and, of course, horror factor. The stories are graphic in ways you don't expect, which takes them out of the "wallow in blood and guts" type of horror, but the shock value is WAY up there. This book is a great way to get a fast intro to an author who dares to stray from formulaic horror.
