Scream Queen and Other Tales of Menace

This enticing collection from Shamus Award–finalist Gorman (Noir 13) features 14 short stories mainly drawn from his work in the 1990s. The author ranges across a variety of genres, shifting effortlessly from “The Brasher Girl,” an homage to Stephen King, and “The Scream Queen,” a violent coming-of-age story, to “Angie,” a noir examination of parenthood, and “Famous Blue Raincoat,” a dark tale of destructive love. Although his stories are often grim, frequently horrific, Gorman is not without sympathy for his flawed characters or those unfortunate to be in close proximity to them; were the central figures not so human these tales would not be nearly as effective as they are. Tom Piccirilli supplies an appreciative introduction. In addition to an afterword, Gorman provides brief editorial comments for each entry that leave the reader wanting more. This volume will appeal both to those familiar with his fiction and those who have yet to discover it. (Apr.)