Review of Contact 3: War is Hell (CONTACT! Military-Horror Anthology Series)
As a devoted reader of both horror and military fiction, I was instantly drawn to Contact 3: War is Hell. The combination of these genres promises thrills that dig into the primal fears of humanity. With contributions from renowned authors like Jonathan Maberry, alongside award-winning voices such as Pauline Yates and Pamela Jeffs, I knew I was in for a wild experience. The dedication to James A. Moore—a master of blending horror and human experience—set a serious yet thrilling tone for the anthology, making me eager to dive in.
This collection delivers nine fiercely vivid stories that traverse not just space but time, taking readers from the icy desolation of the Antarctic to the oppressive heat of the Australian Outback and even deep underwater. Each tale is a gritty exploration of horror-infused military encounters, where the external threats often mirror the internal battles faced by soldiers. From the onset, I appreciated how the authors infused a palpable sense of realism into their narratives; this isn’t just horror for the sake of horror—it’s a deep dive into the psychological turmoil that accompanies warfare.
The standout entry for me was the Joe Ledger adventure "A Footnote in the Black Budget" by Maberry. It was a thrilling blend of military strategy and supernatural dread, rich with a tension that made me consider the blurred lines between what we can perceive and the horrors hiding just out of sight. The pacing of each tale varied nicely throughout the anthology, ensuring that I was never left wanting for action or psychological depth.
One of the remarkable themes that resonated with me was camaraderie in the face of terror. Whether dealing with supernatural entities or the horrors that come from war, the stories depicted how bonds between soldiers are forged in unimaginable circumstances. This theme sparked a reflection on the nature of fear—how it can both unite and alienate.
What truly elevates Contact 3: War is Hell beyond mere anthology status is the authenticity of the narratives. Many authors in this collection are veterans themselves or have intimately studied the military experience, adding layers of authenticity that resonate deeply. There’s a rawness to the prose that strips back any gloss, revealing the truth of fear, bravery, and the toll war takes on the human psyche. "Helluva collection!" one reviewer exclaimed, and I couldn’t agree more.
Overall, Contact 3: War is Hell is a compelling read for anyone with an interest in horror or military fiction, particularly those who appreciate stories that delve into the psychological dimensions of both genres. I emerged from reading this anthology with a mix of exhilaration and contemplation, a reminder of what it means to confront both external and internal demons. If you enjoy stories that are as haunting as they are action-packed, you’ll find this collection to be a memorable tour of duty. Suit up and prepare for a journey where the ultimate conflict is fought not only in the trenches but in the deepest corners of the mind.
You can find Contact 3: War is Hell (CONTACT! Military-Horror Anthology series) here >>