Lola – This was another of those stories that I felt I could take in more than way, which makes it all the richer. It also offers a different take on the vampire, one that is a blood drinker against her will rather than as a monster of the night. The conclusion where she is finally freed might be the freedom of death, or is she actually being let free? Excellent
J Riff – The first thing that hit me about this one was the incredible creativity behind the names, Fangette particularly was an immediate favourite. It gives a different view of the vampires at the festive season, and their never-ending gifts of blood. Amusing, creative and with a perfect punchline another cracker.
Parson – I thought this was good when I first read it, but upon a second reading I realised just how outstanding it. Beautiful almost in giving a twist on the vampire, where redemption is available even for such a creature, a miracle coming from its choice of victim. The use of words and the meaning that comes with them, the wordplay is simply incredible. Life a single malt, this is one to be savoured.
TheTomG – Well, a totally different take on Father Christmas, one that feels like an uncovered myth, something from the past that unveils a forgotten truth. There is almost a sympathetic edge to it, a sacrifice made, becoming a bloodsucker in order to bring join to billions. Just a life a year in return. Is it worth it? Another wonderful entry.
Warren – There may well be a feeling of loss, as a vampire mourns his mortal life, but does that mean Father Christmas will not visit? Well from the story here I can only hope not, because it seems this particular bloodsucker is determined to strip others of the joys that he has lost, and only death waits the jolly one. Unless of course it is the Santa from the previous story....
