In the Closet, Under the Bed

This collection of 15 short stories by Stoker and Lambda award-winning author Thomas (Stained) makes a worthwhile read for horror fans. The common theme among the stories (six reprints, nine originals) is the multitude of repressed adult secrets that become hidden monsters, as noted in David Thomas Lord's foreword. Standouts include ""I Know You're There,"" in which a man's unsuccessful attempt to control his employee's creepy abilities to spy on corporate targets (and his employer) through astral projection lead to extreme tactics. The science-fictional ""Tears to Rust"" explores the recurring theme of reality and perception through the eyes of an abused husband trapped in an artificially maintained marriage, literally unable to be his own person. ""Appetite of the Cyber Tribes"" reads like a cross between Lovecraft and Clive Barker, as one man discovers the horrifying extremes by which people aren't what they seem. Thomas's extremely visceral descriptions and ability to tap into universal fears make this best read in small doses, with the lights on.