Meet New Books
Book Cover

Borderlands 1

Book 1 in the series:Borderlands

Save:
Find on Amazon

Who Would Like This Book:

If you like your horror weird, original, and boundary-pushing, Borderlands 1 is a treat. This anthology skips the usual vampires and zombies for stories that veer into psychological, surreal, and body horror - think everything from gory laughs to ideas that will stick with you (even if you wish they wouldn’t). With early works from now-iconic authors like Joe R. Lansdale and Poppy Z. Brite, plus top-notch editing, it’s a treasure trove for horror connoisseurs and anyone hungry for unconventional chills.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers aren’t fans of strong sexual content or stories that disgust as much as they scare, and there’s definitely a dose of both here. A few found certain tales too transgressive, overly bleak, or just not their taste, and if you’re looking for classic monsters or a safe, predictable scare, this book is probably not your cup of tea. Additionally, the editor’s controversial public statements in recent years may give some cause for pause.

A cult-favorite horror anthology packed with gutsy, unforgettable stories - definitely for adventurous readers who want their horror served raw and unfiltered.

About:

'Borderlands 1' by Thomas F. Monteleone is a collection of horror short stories that delve into unique and unconventional themes, steering clear of typical horror tropes like ghosts, vampires, and zombies. The stories featured in this anthology are described as extraordinary, versatile, and well-written, showcasing a panorama of extraordinary talents and a variety of styles and characterizations. The plot explores a wide range of horror elements, from psychological terror to gruesome horror tales, offering readers a diverse and captivating reading experience.

Characters:

The characters in the stories are diverse and complex, often exhibiting deep flaws and engaging in intricate relationships that may be unsettling.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style varies across the collection, showcasing vivid imagery and emotional depth, with elements of surrealism and philosophical reflection.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative features a collection of 25 unique horror stories, moving beyond traditional storytelling to include themes that shock and engage the reader.

Setting:

The settings range from unsettling small towns to chaotic urban environments, often evoking a post-apocalyptic or dystopian atmosphere.

Pacing:

The pacing of the anthology is inconsistent, with some stories taking time to build suspense while others deliver immediate shock.
Michael Dixon was a grunt at an early Borderlands Press Writers Boot Camp, and he submitted the following story as the culmination of his weekend assignment. We liked it so much we promised we’d take ...

Notes:

The first Borderlands anthology contains 25 original horror stories.
Editor Thomas F. Monteleone sought stories with no ghosts, vampires, zombies, or werewolves.
Many stories explore unconventional horror themes, providing a unique reading experience.
Notable stories in the anthology include John Shirley’s 'Delia and the Dinner Party' and Joe R. Lansdale’s 'By Bizarre Hands.'
Monteleone is known for successfully curating well-written stories that stick with readers.
The anthology includes work from authors who became icons in the horror genre during the 90s and 2000s.
Readers found the stories to blend various styles including surrealism and psychological horror.
Several stories provoke strong emotional reactions and tackle difficult themes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The anthology includes themes of violence, trauma, psychological horror, and dark subject matters that may be disturbing to some readers.

From The Publisher:

It's hard to believe, but this anthology first appeared 28 years ago. In re-reading the stories in this gathering of the weirdest tales, I am also reminded of how strikingly fresh and original the material remains.

As its title implies, Borderlands contains fiction that resides out there on the edge, on the perimeter of what's being done in the field of horror, dark fantasy, and suspense literature. When I solicited material for what I hope will be the first of many volumes, I made it clear I didn't want stories that employed any of the traditional symbols and images of the genre. I wanted writers to expand the envelope, to look beyond the usual metaphors, and bring me something new.

Some fresh meat, so to speak.

So, dig in

Stories by

David B. Silva * Nancy Holder * John DeChancie * Francis J. Matozzo * Bentley Little * Darrel Schweitzer * Michael Green * Poppy Z. Brite * Jeffrey Osier *

John Shirley * Lee Moler * Nina Kriki Hoffman * T. E. D. Klein *

Chet Williamson * Ed Gorman * Jack Hunter Daves, Jr. * Thomas Tessier * Les Daniels * David B. Silva * Karl Edward Wagner * Elizabeth Massie * Charles L. Grant * G. Wayne Miller * Joe R. Lansdale

October 1990
480 pages

Reader Stats (1):

Want To Read (1)
 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.