The Stove and Other Stories of Pardon County

High fences guard Pardon County from the forest, but the evil that twists around the people can't be boarded up. It slides down the chimney, waits patiently in the garden, enjoys a game at the carnival, and walks right up to the front door. These short dark tales of terror and wonder explore the horrifying descent of ordinary life into new nightmarish reality in Pardon, Mississippi.The Crows of Pardon CountyA sleepy night in Pardon seems ordinary until an unexpected darkness sweeps through the county in this mood-setting preface.The StoveA naïve couple moves to Pardon and takes up residence in a house with a gory history and find it is controlled by an unexpected monster.StrawAn abusive drunkard becomes convinced his scarecrow is moving around the cornfield just to torture him.MollycoddlesIt's a new start for a small family renting a generously cheap house. However, there's a price to pay for every gift, no matter how well-meant, and the debt collection begins right away.Peter and the WolvesExtinct wolves roam the county, and a ravenous creature not seen in decades lurks behind a broken fence, waiting to feed in the homes of Pardon.Smoky JoeAt Pardon's Harvest Festival, a chain-smoker shakes on a seemingly amusing bet, but neglects to learn the complete conditions of the wager.Long SpoonsAn aging widow and widower let hate control their lives and reap the inevitable rewards.The Whistling ManTwo teens walk hand-in-hand to follow an off-key siren song heard only by them.He's Up at the Door and He's Ringing the BellWhile ringing the doorbell and pounding on her door, a grisly voice tells a terrified woman what to expect on the other side. Read more