“I licked you so I could ingest your goody essence.”

Licking is a collection of short stories sure to give you creepy, eerie vibes. From a couple trying to have a baby to Black kids on a field trip, these stories take a deep dive into the darkest corners of our minds. 

The introduction tells us that these stories are derived from the dark dreams of the author and the book definitely makes you feel like you’re in the midst of a fever dream. The stories are eerie, creepy, and disturbing. 

At a little of 100 pages, this is a quick read. I would love to see more from this author. Absolutely enjoyed taking a quick little trip into her dark mind. But because it was a quick read, some of the stories I felt seemed a little rushed and could have used another page or two. 

Ultimately, I enjoyed the stories (and poems). Great imagery, engaging stories, and super eerie! 

Special thanks to J.V. Sadler. I received an ARC of Licking. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

I was lucky enough to get an advance reader's copy of J.V. Sadler - Author/Poet debute collection of short stories, Licking. When trigger warnings were listed, I knew I was all in: murder, domestic violence, and cannibalism!

Sadler describes the stories as coming from her dreamscape (or nightmarescape), and what follows is a collection of surreal horror fiction where there is no clear line between the living and dream world. Even the format of the collection messes with you as it's a blend of flash fiction, short fiction, and poetry. The poem "New Baby Smell" sets the tone, and the stories, Licking, The Decrepit Ones, and Family: Dinner, crush your soul.

If anything, I wish there was just a bit more to sink my claws into, but as it is, a pretty great collection of surreal horror. Easily one of the best self published books I've read! It just went live on Amazon, and I highly recommend you all check it out!

Cheers!