Exploring Dark Short Fiction #7
A Primer to Gemma Files
by Eric J. Guignard
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Pub Date Feb 04 2025 | Archive Date Feb 28 2025
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Description
Named “One of the genre's most original and innovative voices” (L.A. Review of Books) and “An expert at terrifying prose” (LitReactor), Canadian author Gemma Files has been penning gritty and macabre fiction since 1993, earning industry awards and critical acclaim from sources such as National Public Radio, Publishers Weekly, and The National Post. Files imbues her cross-genre work with layers like dark stratum: heartbreak upon horror, built over the vignettes of life we may find ourselves in, but for one slight turn of reality.
Dark Moon Books and editor Eric J. Guignard bring you this introduction to her work, the seventh in a series of primers exploring modern masters of literary dark short fiction. Herein is a chance to discover—or learn more of—the evocative voice of Gemma Files, as beautifully illustrated by artist Michelle Prebich.
Included within these pages are:
• Six short stories, one written exclusively for this book
• Author interview
• Biography and bibliography
• Academic commentary by Michael Arnzen, PhD (former humanities chair and professor of the year, Seton Hill University)
• … and more!
Enter this doorway to the vast and fantastic: Get to know Gemma Files.
A Note From the Publisher
Number of pages: 220 pgs at 5.5" x 8.5" trim
Hardback 13-digit ISBN: 978-1-949491-47-0
Paperback 13-digit ISBN: 978-1-949491-45-6
e-book 13-digit ISBN: 978-1-949491-46-3
Price: $24.95 hardback; $14.95 paperback; $4.99 e-book
Advance Praise
“A fascinating study for fans seeking new reads and for librarians developing wide-ranging collections.” —Library Journal
“Refreshing and much-needed... Addresses significant themes and figures within the horror field.” —Locus Magazine
“An insightful look at the working methods and underlying concerns of some of the foremost exponents of the short story form, appealing to both intellect and the emotions.” —Black Static Magazine
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9781949491456 |
| PRICE | $14.95 (USD) |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Anna H, Reviewer
Thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
What a great idea! These are selected short stories by Gemma Files (whose novel Experimental Film has been on by TBR for years), followed by short comments after each story as well as some commentary about the writer, a short interview and an essay about her craft by herself. Perfect primer, really.
The stories are amazing, I loved the writing style that was often unexpectedly gentle and pretty without being purple and hit hard when needed. Each story had it's very own style and tone which I thought impressive. Who knew I could be interested in and feeling for undead cowboys?
Extra bonus points for The King in Yellow reference!
I was hoping for a little more academic approach on the commentary for my own sake but I think the included commentaries etc. are a great starting point for discussion in class (or bookclub?) or simply to get the private reader thinking. Again: Fabulous idea!
I will try to read more of this Primer series with authors I haven't read yet and absolutely will read more by Gemma Files.
Jamie B, Reviewer
I've been seeing a lot of people mention Gemma Files in horror lately, and was intrigued but overwhelmed by her body of work and unsure where to start. Then Exploring Dark Short Fiction #7: A Primer to Gemma Files popped up on NetGalley and I was saved!
First we get Files's abbreviated autobiography, then several of her short stories followed by short, insightful commentary from Michael Arzen. An essay on why Gemma Files matters in the greater scheme of things, an interview with her, and an essay written by Files herself on her trademark twist on epistolary fiction.
If it sounds academic (and it is), it's also incredibly accessible and engaging.
The stories are pulled from throughout Files's career and broad range of horror and dark fantasy, showing the scope of her work. A full bibliography is included at the end, because after this sampling you'll definitely want more. I'm glad I got the opportunity to read this, and I'm going to keep an eye out on the rest of the Exploring Dark Short Fiction series as well.
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