Blessings From The Darkness is an anthology where horror and humanity meet. In its pages, the supernatural and the unsettling sit alongside a deeply personal purpose. My contribution, "The Sanctuary," follows a woman who can recognize the monsters in her town, but whose warnings make her the person everyone fears.
As one of the contributing authors, I can honestly say this collection is special - not just because it's filled with haunting stories, but because it carries real heart and purpose. Published by Black Bed Sheet Books, Blessings From The Darkness brings together over 30 writers from around the world, each sharing their own unique twist on horror, fantasy, and the human spirit.
You'll find tales that inspire, thrill, and terrify - sometimes all at once - with just enough emotion to make you pause and reflect. What makes this book truly meaningful, though, is that it was created to help a fellow author's family in need.
Originally published in 2014 and compiled and edited by Kelly J. Koch, this anthology has a history worth remembering. I am proud to have contributed to a project that brings writers together around both storytelling and compassion. Readers can also explore my other published books and the announcement about my contribution to this anthology.
An Anthology With a Purpose
What drew me to Blessings From The Darkness wasn't just the opportunity to publish alongside such talented authors - it was the heart behind the project. This anthology was created in dedication to Yvonne Mason, an award-winning and bestselling author who has spent her career encouraging, mentoring, and inspiring others. She's the kind of person who always says, "Pay it forward," and truly lives by those words.
All proceeds from this book - both now and in the future - go directly to support Yvonne's son, who has faced ongoing health challenges and has been unable to work. This is more than a collection of stories; it's a show of love and solidarity within the writing community. Every copy sold helps lift a family during a difficult season.
Inside the Pages of Blessings From The Darkness
This isn't your average horror collection. Blessings From The Darkness is an eclectic mix of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and heartfelt prose, written by authors who each bring their own voice and vision to the page.
Some stories will send chills down your spine, others will make you think deeply about life, love, and loss. It's that emotional variety that makes the anthology so memorable. There's something for everyone - whether you enjoy eerie twists, emotional depth, or imaginative tales that dance between shadow and light.
Among the talented contributors are:
Scott Nicholson · Barbara Watkins · Rick Powell · Sage Sinclair · Matt Haynes · Vicky Carter · T.G. Reaper · Ian Bush · Cinta Garcia De La Rosa · Todd Propst · Christopher Adams · Luis Vera · David Schütz II · Shawna Platt · Sandy Rozanski · Sharon Sobolik · Alan Gravitt · Michael Gersony · Sheri Ann Richerson · Jynell Hull · T.O. Gade · Tara Atkinson · W. Freedreamer Tinkanesh · Mary Genevieve Fortier · Marvin Anderson · E.A. Irwin · and G.J. Lentz.
It's humbling to see my name listed among so many creative voices, each of us lending our words to a cause that matters.
My Story: "The Sanctuary"
One of the most meaningful parts of contributing to Blessings From The Darkness was sharing my short story, "The Sanctuary." What happens when the only person who can see the monsters is the one everyone fears?
It's a haunting, introspective piece that explores isolation, courage, and the quiet strength it takes to keep believing in what others refuse to see.
The woman at the heart of "The Sanctuary" can see the supernatural creatures moving among the townspeople and knows why innocent people are disappearing. When she tries to warn her neighbors, they accuse her instead. She retreats behind locked gates, growing much of her own food and building a private refuge from their cruelty, but her knowledge of the danger never leaves her.
When she learns that newborn twins are the creatures' next targets, remaining safely inside her sanctuary is no longer an easy choice. She must decide whether to risk everything to save two lives in a town that has already turned against her.
Without giving away the ending, "The Sanctuary" asks how far someone will go to do what is right when everyone else believes she is wrong. As the story puts it: "She would save the twins or die a terrible death."
It's eerie, emotional, and deeply human - the kind of story that lingers long after you've turned the last page. If you enjoy exploring my darker fiction, you can also read about two more horror anthologies featuring my work.
Why This Project Means So Much to Me
Writing has always been about connection for me - finding common ground through stories, even when they come from the darkest corners of the imagination. When I was invited to contribute to Blessings From The Darkness, I didn't hesitate. There's something powerful about knowing that your creativity can bring comfort, awareness, and support to someone else's life.
As I worked on my piece for the anthology, I kept thinking about how intertwined fear and hope can be. Sometimes, the darkest moments are what teach us the most about ourselves. This book captures that balance beautifully - every story is a reminder that light can exist even in the shadows.
Where to Get Your Copy
You can find Blessings From The Darkness on Amazon or order directly from Black Bed Sheet Books. It's available in both Kindle and paperback editions, and if you like to sample before you buy, Amazon offers a free Kindle preview so you can read the opening pages first.
If stories about courage, isolation and the struggle between darkness and compassion speak to you, I invite you to read "The Sanctuary" alongside the other contributions in Blessings From The Darkness. View the book on Amazon or visit Black Bed Sheet Books to check current formats and availability.
A Story That Gives Back
Blessings From The Darkness isn't just about monsters, ghosts, or shadows - it's about humanity. It's about love, courage, and generosity shining through even the most unsettling tales.
I'm proud to be part of this project, and I hope readers feel the heart behind every story. So, if you're looking for something dark, moving, and meaningful, give this anthology a try. Not only will it keep you turning pages late into the night, but you'll also be helping to make a difference in someone's life - and that's the kind of story worth being part of.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blessings From The Darkness
Q: What is Blessings From The Darkness about?
A: Blessings From The Darkness is a powerful anthology filled with horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and emotional storytelling. Each author brings their own style and voice to the collection, creating a reading experience that's thrilling, thought-provoking, and full of heart.
Q: Who are some of the featured authors in this anthology?
A: This book features over 30 talented writers, including Sheri Ann Richerson, Scott Nicholson, Barbara Watkins, Rick Powell, Sage Sinclair, and many others. Every story offers a different glimpse into the beauty and mystery of the dark.
Q: What makes Blessings From The Darkness unique?
A: What makes this anthology truly special is its purpose. It was created in dedication to bestselling author Yvonne Mason, with all proceeds donated to help support her son through ongoing health challenges. It's storytelling with compassion and heart.
Q: Where can I buy Blessings From The Darkness?
A: You can find it on Amazon or directly through Black Bed Sheet Books. It's available in both paperback and Kindle editions, and there's even a free sample if you'd like to preview it before you buy.
Q: Is Blessings From The Darkness suitable for all readers?
A: While this anthology focuses on dark themes - horror, suspense, and emotional reflection - it's written by a diverse group of authors, so there's something for nearly every reader who enjoys well-crafted stories with meaning.
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