The debut short story collection from the acclaimed author of The Chalk Man, featuring ten bone-chilling and mind-bending tales
Timeslips. Doomsday scenarios. Killer butterflies. C. J. Tudor’s novels are widely acclaimed for their dark, twisty suspense plots, but with A Sliver of Darkness, she pulls us even further into her dizzying imagination.
In Final Course, the world has descended into darkness, but a group of old friends make time for one last dinner party. In Runaway Blues, thwarted love, revenge, and something very nasty stowed in a hat box converge. In Gloria, a strange girl at a service station endears herself to a cold-hearted killer, but can a leopard really change its spots? And in I’m Not Ted, a case of mistaken identity has unforeseen, fatal consequences.
Riveting and explosively original, A Sliver of Darkness is C. J. Tudor at her most wicked and uninhibited.
I’ve had The Chalk Man in my TBR for longer that I’d like, but so many books! When I was offered an ARC of the author’s short stories, I knew the time had come to get acquainted with her. And now I’m kicking myself for waiting this long to read her novels.
One of the things I liked best about this collection was the author’s introduction to each story – personal experiences that sparked the idea, where she was when the idea came to her, etc. I always love hearing origin stories. Each of these captivated me, and I could probably have finished the book in one sitting (it’s a little over 250 pages), but I did have a few favorites.
End of the Liner – What if a pandemic/apocalyptic event/catastrophe made living on land impossible? In this story some passengers have lived their whole lives on a cruise ship that never docks. Once they turn seventy-five they’re “retired”. And by retired I mean tossed overboard.
Runaway Blues – The author says this is probably her “most King-esque short story”. Maybe that’s why I enjoyed it so much. Blues music, dancing, young couples in love, and hat boxes that you may not want to open.
Dust – A woman checks into a hotel to get away from the stresses of being dumped by her boyfriend. But is that where she really is? Sometimes it’s hard to face the consequences of our actions.
If you’re looking for a compelling, quick read, A Sliver of Darkness will keep you glued to the pages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Books and Such 
This sounds like a wonderful collection of stories and right up my street. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Teri 💕🙂
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It’s probably one of the best collections I’ve read, Harmony. A great variety, but all pretty creepy.
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I really enjoyed this collection, and I have read all of the author’s novels and recommend them as well, Teri.
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After reading this, I have no doubt I’ll enjoy her other books, Olga. Can’t believe it’s taken me this long to read her!
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Wow, blues and hats. Maybe I should read this one.
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I actually thought of Lizzie when I read that one, Craig, lol. But that hat box – not something I’ve seen in the Lizzie stories, but it sure would give you ideas.
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I have soooo many ideas now. Might still check it out.
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I love hearing about back stories too!
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Yes! It’s always interesting to see how another person’s mind works. The ideas can come from some of the most unexpected places.
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Thanks, Teri
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It’s hard to review anthologies and collections, but you did a good job with Tudor’s collection!
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Thanks, Priscilla! I’ve got an ARC of her next book, so I’m excited to read it – especially after enjoying this collection so much.
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Hmm. I’m on the fence. I’m probably one of the few readers who was disappointed in The Chalk Man—I rated it 3 stars when I anticipated a 5-star read—but your review has me intrigued.
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I get that. I started the first book in a series that had fabulous reviews – and it just didn’t work for me. The author completed that series and started another that called to me – and I loved it. Guess you could flip a coin?
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LOL!
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I love a book that has great author notes, I’m always fascinated by why they write what they write and how they come up with their ideas.
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That was one of my favorite parts of the book, Wendy. I love hearing what sparks an idea and how it evolves into a story. Sometimes it can be the strangest things.
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The only books of short stories I find compelling are ones like this where the author explains their inspiration or talks somehow about the story before each. This one sounds wonderful. Excellent review!
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Thanks, Tessa! I’m one of those people that always reads the acknowledgments and author notes because I enjoy learning about the story behind the book. Sounds like this might be one for you.
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This sounds amazing collection. I’m most interested in End of the Liner as I already love the concept. Excellent review!
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That story started off the collection, and it immediately hooked me, Yesha. The author mentioned she came up with the idea during Covid – totally makes sense.
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