Title: New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird
Author: Paula Guran
First published October 24, 2011
528 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781607012894 (ISBN10: 1607012898)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
In the world of supernatural fiction, few names stand as tall as H.P. Lovecraft. For over eight decades, his works have inspired writers, artists, and filmmakers to create their own chilling tales of cosmic horror.
Now, in a time where climate change looms and the mysteries of the universe continue to elude us, Lovecraft’s themes of cosmic indifference and the insignificance of humanity are more relevant than ever.
New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird presents some of the finest Lovecraftian fiction of the 21st century. These stories are not mere imitations of Lovecraft’s work, but rather, they build upon his legacy with their own unique twists and terrifying creatures.
Filled with metaphysical musings, unsettling atmosphere, and darkly appealing characters, this collection of tales will leave you feeling both fascinated and disturbed.
If you crave tales of eldritch horror and the unknown, then New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird is a must-read. Experience the best of modern supernatural fiction and immerse yourself in the twisted, terrifying world of Lovecraftian horror.
About the Author
Meet Paula Guran, a senior editor at Prime Books. She played a significant role in editing the Juno fantasy imprint, starting from its small press beginning to its evolution as an imprint of Pocket Books.
Paula is also a senior editor for Masque Books, Prime’s digital imprint scheduled to launch soon. She is famous for editing the annual Year’s Best Dark Fantasy and Horror series, along with several other anthologies.
Paula’s career started when she created the weekly email newsletter DarkEcho, which won her two Stokers, an IHG award, and a World Fantasy Award nomination. She then moved on to editing Horror Garage, earning another IHG and a second World Fantasy nomination.
Paula’s writing skills are remarkable, and she has contributed her reviews, interviews, and articles to several professional publications.
Editoral Review
New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird, edited by Paula Guran, is a collection of short stories that pay homage to the works of H.P. Lovecraft and expand upon the Cthulhu mythos. Guran, an award-winning editor and anthologist, compiles twenty-eight contemporary authors who are masters of the weird tale.
The book was first published on October 24, 2011. The Cthulhu mythos, named after Lovecraft’s best-known creation, is a subgenre of horror that presents a cosmic, menacing reality beyond human understanding.
Lovecraft’s use of the term “weird fiction” was meant to convey a sense of supernatural horror that exists beyond the ordinary world. New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird stays true to that vision, centering on cosmic horror, eldritch beings, and mind-bending landscapes.
The stories each feature a protagonist who’s confronted with a reality that defies rational explanation. From the lost city of R’lyeh to the Dreamlands, these stories explore the cosmic terrors lurking in the world beyond.
Without giving away any spoilers or surprises, the various stories in this anthology feature vividly-drawn characters, different settings, and various conflicts. The short story format enables each author to create a mini-universe within a few pages.
The attention to detail given to the world building in each story is remarkable, as they draw vivid landscapes from the fantastical worlds. While each author’s writing style and approach differ, Guran has curated an anthology that feels cohesive and balances the undercurrent of cosmic dread with nuanced prose.
Reading these stories, you’ll feel a sense of unease, but also a longing to understand the unfathomable. New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird is an essential addition to the evergreen works of Lovecraft.
The collection brings together the best of the contemporary weird fiction genre and expands upon its traditions. It’s a must-read for those who are fans of horror, science fiction, or the darker side of speculative fiction.
The anthology stands out as it not only celebrates Lovecraft’s legacy but also gives a fresh perspective of the genre. The stories in it enhance the world of Cthulhu by taking a modern approach.
The writing is top-notch, and the pacing ensures that readers stay hooked throughout. Overall, reading New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird is an immersive experience.
The fascination and horror that the anthology conjures up linger long after you’ve finished the last page. The book serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of Lovecraft’s vision and the ways it inspires contemporary writers.
I rate this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
