Short story: “Shadow Transit”

 “Shadow Transit,” by Ferret Steinmetz

Appeared in Buzzy Mag on July 5th, 2013; featured in Pseudopod episode 418, December 26th, 2014

3,868 words

A clever take on the incomprehensible Lovecraftian horror trope. I find some parts overwritten and over-explained, especially towards the beginning when Michelle is handling her daughter’s toys. But the ultimate horror is explained just enough to be sinister while remaining utterly cryptic.

Short story: “Devour”

“Devour,” by Ferrett Steinmetz

From episode 331 of Escape Pod, released February 9, 2012 (read and listen here)

5,625 words

I really like the concept and execution of this. The science is a bit fuzzy, but I can live with it.

Short story: “‘Run,’ Bakri Says”

“‘Run,’ Bakri Says,” by Ferrett Steinmetz

Appeared in the December 2011 issue of Asimov’s (buy here); featured in episode 339 of Escape Pod on April 5, 2012 (read and listen here)

3,832 words

I’m impressed by the concept and by certain aspects of the writing—the last two paragraphs are very satisfying to me. The story as a whole doesn’t completely convince me, but I have to say I find it more interesting than any of the latest batch of Hugo-nominated short stories.