TERRIFYING TALES OF
THE
BROTHERHOOD OF THE EVER-TOLLING BELL
By Richard Pembroke
Ever-Tolling Editions
241 pgs
Truth be told, we’re generally not horror fans. Still, having read an earlier tale by the author, and enjoyed it, we decided to give this collection a try. The basic set-up is an ancient secret society operating somewhere in England during the Victorian period is constantly creating new men to join their Brotherhood. The only requirement for admittance is the invited candidate must relate a true tale of horror that they have experienced.
Pembroke waste no time in getting the ball rolling when the first recruit we encounter is a fellow who supposedly encountered Victor Frankenstein while on a hiking climb through the Alps. Shortly thereafter we are introduced to a former British General whose search for fame and glory resulted in the death of his entire company while on campaign in Africa. Then there’s the so-called Jack the Ripper and his exploits followed shortly by the heart wrenching account of a Dr. Henry Jekyll and his quest to purge the human psyche of all evil intents.
Yes, dear readers, the entire volume is an wonderful homage to the classic gothic horror classics most of us have grown up leaning. As a writer Pembroke, is a skilled word-slinger and he imbues all these characters with a pathos that is both unusual and touching. In the end, the book delivers on its promise of offering up a terror-filled feast of delights. Highly recommended for even the most jaded horror enthusiast.
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