Set within a decadent Paris this is a rich and sumptuous erotic horror novella.

The descriptive language that accompanies George’s arrival in the French capital wonderfully sets the scene. He is travel-worn after his long sea crossing from England but rendezvousing with his friend Bastian it is off to the Paris Theatre rather than cocoa and bed.

The delightful animated avenues and boulevards are exchanged for the stalls and stage of the music hall.

George who was warned by his father of the dangers of becoming distracted by the delightful women of the City is lost with the first glimpse of a dancer’s ankle. Sponsored by his father to further a career as an artist in Paris, poor George, just nineteen has fallen on his first night there. Besotted by the sexual charisma and physical attraction of lead performer, Cecile Dulac. The poor lad didn’t have a chance. “George began to find her somehow beguiling, with her caramel hair and forget-me-not blue eyes. It was the sensuous way she danced.”

But Cecile, (Cece) is being drawn into a darker world, chosen to become a puppet caught up in debauchery and sexual manipulation.
George seeing her as exploited and in danger, under some evil influence and mind control.
Can he save her and at what cost to himself?

I found the writing absorbing and immediate, placing you into the story. The language is rich and colourful, bringing to life the earlier liberated time in the late 19th century. The concept of malevolent spirits was credible, more so against the ideas of hypnosis and erotic exhibitionism.

This is quite an explicit story of carnal desire and sexual gratification; however, I felt this reflected the period and the message within the narrative well. Indeed it speaks to our own time regarding exploitation in the sex industry, modern day slavery and the control and role of men in society.

Aside from all that. This is a great short story full of action and excitement. An enjoyable read.