First Time Dead vol 1

Let me caveat this by saying that where this anthology shone, it was blinding. There were a few stories that could have used an editorial redraft, though, with strong ideas but awkward execution. And then there were those stories that made this anthology completely worth it - “Twisted Words” by Andy Stockton is so reminiscent of a good gothic that its scary to think this might be one of his first publications; Rebecca Snow's “He's Not Heavy” is just awesome; “Forgive Me, Father, For I Have....Burp” is a touch comic, but certainly a fresh (and senses engaging) story; “The Overpass” by John Lemut really should be expanded and made into a novel in its own right. 4 out of 5 to balance the yin with the yang - all had strong stories and concepts, the balance of the stars coming from polished and still rough.