Tag: Michael R. Goodwin

Short Story Review: The Ritual: A Holiday Folk Horror Story by Michael R. Goodwin

The Ritual: A Holiday Folk Story
Author: Michael R. Goodwin

Published: December 25, 2021
17 Pages

Reviewed By: Kim
Kim’s Rating: 4.5 stars

Book Description:

“Let us bow our heads and close our eyes,” the villagers chanted, “for the Bell waits not for the one who dies.”

In the square, the villagers had gathered for The Ritual, which hasn’t been performed in more than thirty years. Only those old enough to have been at the last one knew the full gravity of what was to come. Everyone (even the children) knew why they had gathered, but there was only so much that could be conveyed through the retelling of a tale.

Some things you had to see for yourself to truly understand.

Kim’s Review:

I’m a huge Shirley Jackson fan: I remember reading The Lottery back in high school and I loved it. (See mine and Jessica’s double review here). For some reason, my mom is still freaked out by that story. But that’s neither here nor there. The Ritual was simple and effective. Similar to The Lottery, but definitely its own story. I know y’all know exactly what I’m gonna say, “I need more information!” Well, you’re right. This could easily be stretched out to a full length novel and I would totally read it! But, it’s an easy to read short story that I really enjoyed!! Definitely a good one for any level horror fan!

Purchase Links:
Amazon US
Amazon UK