The Haunting Scent of Poppies

“I finished reading the Gothic novella "The Haunting Scent of Poppies" in one go; it was easy to read, addictive, and made me reflect on the horrors of war and the devastating impact of mustard gas in the trenches… Brilliantly executed, the flashbacks in the post-war setting depicted the horrors of war. The smooth transportation between present and past and vice versa unsettled me and kept me on edge.” (Books and Bacon blog)

“There is so much packed in to this historical fiction novella – Williamson skilfully pens a compelling tale that captures our attention, weaving a chilling web of lies, greed and terror… I read this haunting story in one-sitting. It’s easy to get lost in the pages and the captivating prose as we explore actions and their consequences, and perhaps the role of karma in deciding our fate. Can the irredeemable be redeemed?” (Books with DanSamEnd blog)

“I love Christmas themed horror stories. Victoria Williamson has amazing talent at writing complex, flawed characters. ‘The Haunting Smell of Poppies’ is a great gothic Christmas ghost story. It’s hard to read a story about The Great War and not be moved to tears. The author captures the time period perfectly. This is a moving, sad, and suitably chilling historical holiday horror.” (Zombie Inkpot)

“This was written like a very traditional ghost story and I absolutely loved that because it gave me chills.” (Bookshortie blog)

“The Haunting Scent of Poppies is a captivating historical fiction novella that immerses readers in the tumultuous landscape of the First World War. Written by the talented Victoria Williamson, this book skillfully weaves together a compelling narrative that combines historical accuracy with engaging characters to provide a vivid and emotional portrayal of a pivotal period in human history.” (Yvonne – The Horror Hive)

“A lovely little short story, just 100 pages long, so read in one go. a petty thief lying low in a little village steals a valuable book from the local book store, only to find himself haunted by dark dreams and flashbacks to the horrors of the trenches of the first world war - a war he had lied and cheated to avoid. It's difficult to say more without spoiling the story as it is such a quick read, so I will just say thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.” (Library Lady blog)

“I read this superb Gothic novella “The Haunting Scent of Poppies” in one sitting, it was easy to read, very addictive and does leave you pondering on the horrors of war and how awful the use of mustard gas must have been in the trenches.” (A Mother’s Musings blog)