Tackling themes of redemption, salvation, darkness, and the supernatural, A Darker Demise is a treat to read for fans of the horror genre. ★★★★★ – Explore Authors Magazine
A Darker Demise: A Compilation of Dark Shorts by M C Ryder contains three individual stories that take the reader through a series of plots filled with mythical and supernatural beings, from a witch that chooses dark magic over light, only to suffer an endless parade of consequences to a vampire who falls in love while seeking revenge on his creator. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys semi-dark fantasy stories that resonate with defiant characters. Of the three stories, my favorite was A Unity Of Balance: Immilla's Journal. Readers can easily identify with the witch who wants nothing more than to find herself, even if that means questioning the rules she was taught to live by. ★★★★ Amy Raines for Readers' Favorite
M. C. Ryder's A Darker Demise can be read and understood as a standalone, but imaginative writing, a riveting plot, and innovative world-building had me hurrying to get the remaining titles in the series: The Darkest Side of the Moon, and Dance Between Light and Darkness. The bleak book cover establishes the atmosphere in this book. While dark and paranormal, these stories are intriguing and action-packed, with flawed protagonists on their way to redemption. Fast-paced with slow character development, I enjoyed reading Immilia's journal and how her story and prophecy influenced the rest of the book. Fans of vampire and werewolf stories will fall in love with this book, which is highly refreshing and has no dull moments. ★★★★ Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite
MC Ryder has crafted an interwoven collection of dark short stories that don't shy away from depicting dominance, violence, bloodshed, mortality, or death. Younger readers can be drawn to the intriguing characters they encounter, as each story features a protagonist who is the rebel, the black sheep, or the defiant one. The plots can also be a bit complicated and fast-paced, but all seem to involve achieving self-realization, the discovery of the full potential of one's soul, or how to be your best, whether you're a human, vampire, or wolf. The main theme is love, which in some cases can be selectively interpreted as something that it is not. The tales are set in a fantasy world with some improbable yet striking mental images whose tone mirrors what's going on inside a young person's mind. A Darker Demise is a feast for fans of the author who are familiar with her captivating writing style. They will enjoy the rollercoaster ride of unpredictable plot twists. The anthology is an exciting read, especially for young adults who are into supernatural, unearthly tales of drama, action, and romance. ★★★★ Carmen Tenorio for Readers' Favorite
A Darker Demise is a captivating collection of short narratives that delve into the eerie and the uncanny. While separate in their unique themes and conflicts, these tales beckon the reader into an exploration of darkness, mystery, and the supernatural... Ryder exhibits a knack for storytelling through diverse writing styles... In light of Ryder's impressive breadth of imagination and skillful crafting of three suspenseful and consistent stories, I would be remiss not to recommend A Darker Demise. ★★★★★ Literary Titan (Literary Titan Gold Award winner June 2023)
"A Darker Demise is a phenomenal anthology that captivated me from the start thanks to the unique premise, addictive literature, and shocking/moving elements laced throughout them! Never before have I read such an imaginative and mysterious collection of stories..." ★★★★★ Red Headed Book Lover
