OMG! I binged this book yesterday. I loved this collection of stories. I write horror stories also and I appreciated how personal, weird and heartbreaking these stories were. Really solid collection. I look forward to reading more by SJ Townend who after I checked her website was excited to see that a novel is coming soon.

I love collections of short stories, and this one hit. From the opening piece that struck at my fears as a parent, to a weird little tale about eating disorders, I was captivated from the opening sequence. Some stories did more for me than others, as is apt to happen with a collection. For instance, the story that personified depression was a really good read, but won't necessarily stick with me as much as some the stories later in the book. I devoured this all in a few days, and am definitely looking to read more from this author moving forward. If you want a collection that you can go to for quick hits of moody horror, this one is it.

**Review of *Sick Girl Screams***

*Sick Girl Screams* by SJ Townend is a haunting debut collection that deftly intertwines themes of grief, childhood specters, and the complexities of femininity within a tapestry of dark fiction. Townend's writing is both visceral and poignant, drawing readers into a world where sorrow and the supernatural coalesce in unsettling ways.

The collection features a blend of reprints and original stories, each woven with a "black ribbon of grief" that ties the narratives together. Townend’s ability to evoke deep emotions while exploring the darker corners of the human experience is truly remarkable. The prose is rich and evocative, immersing readers in a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the last page.

One of the standout aspects of this collection is its exploration of feminism, subtly interlaced with the eerie tales. Townend doesn’t shy away from addressing the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, all while crafting chilling narratives that resonate on multiple levels. The theme of haunted children adds another layer of depth, serving as a metaphor for lost innocence and the weight of unresolved trauma.

The stories are eclectic in style and tone, offering a varied reading experience that keeps you engaged. From ghostly encounters to unsettling reflections on the human condition, each tale invites you to unravel the complexities of life, death, and everything in between. Townend's mastery of imagery and atmosphere ensures that every story is not just read, but felt.

Prepare to be unsettled, as *Sick Girl Screams* challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about grief, identity, and the infinite cycles of pain and healing. It’s a thought-provoking collection that leaves you contemplating the shadows that linger in our lives and the stories we tell to make sense of them.

In summary, *Sick Girl Screams* is a captivating exploration of darkness that skillfully balances emotional depth with chilling narratives. SJ Townend has crafted a collection that is sure to resonate with fans of dark fiction, and I eagerly anticipate what she will create next.

I was fortunate enough to land an ARC through netgalley of "Sick Girl Screams", which as it (thankfully) turned out is an excellent short story collection to breeze through in the spirit of autumn / "spooky season". Each story stands on its own and as a collection it's a lot like walking through an art gallery and taking the time to process each piece on its own. Some of the stories within are more direct and others are more speculative -in some instances the horror is more abstract and in others it feels more like traditional, standard horror fare. Which is to say, really, that there is something for everyone who even has a slight interest in the umbrella of horror as a whole.

I feel like it comes with the territory of short story collections that some offerings will land more cleanly than others, but I found that even the titles that didn't particularly latch my interest it didn't feel like a chore to get through and onto the next story.

If you're into a lingering sense of grief permeating into your horror and a consistent thread of feminism woven throughout your stories, then I strongly recommend picking up a copy! I'll definitely put a pin next to SJ Townend's name so that I can try to get my eyeballs on any other works to come in the future!

(4.5 rounded up)

Although I typically don't gravitate towards short stories, I found myself drawn in by the concept. As a fan of short story collections, this one really resonated with me. Each story, from the initial piece that played on my parental fears to the strange tale of eating disorders, had me hooked from the start. While some stories may have impacted me more deeply than others, as is common with a compilation, I found the one personifying depression particularly well-written. Even though it may not stick with me as much as some of the later stories in the book, I devoured the entire collection in just a few days and am eager to read more from this author in the future. If you're seeking a collection that delivers quick doses of chilling horror, this one is definitely worth checking out.

Sick Girl Screams by S.J. Townsend is a poignant collection of short stories that explores the nuances of illness and the strength of the human spirit. Each tale is skillfully crafted, offering a unique perspective that resonates with raw emotion and honesty. Townsend's ability to blend vulnerability with hope makes this collection a compelling read that lingers long after the last page.

*Sick Girl Screams* by SJ Townend is an impressive debut collection of dark fiction that tackles themes like grief, childhood ghosts, and femininity. Townend's writing is emotional and immersive, drawing readers into a haunting world where sorrow meets the supernatural.

The collection features a mix of reprints and original stories, all connected by grief. Townend skillfully explores societal pressures on women while weaving chilling narratives. The concept of haunted children symbolizes lost innocence and unresolved trauma.

Each story has its own unique style, keeping the reading experience engaging. From eerie encounters to deep reflections on life and death, the tales provoke thought about complex issues. Townend’s vivid imagery makes the stories resonate on a deeper level.

Overall, *Sick Girl Screams* invites readers to confront uncomfortable truths about grief and identity. It’s a captivating exploration of darkness that will resonate with fans of dark fiction, leaving them eager for more from Townend.