Murder by Six

Murder by Six
Edited by G. W. Thomas
Rage Machine Publishing
ISBN: 1-897013-16-7
Fiction, Mystery, Crime, Anthology
Reviewed by Eugen M. Bacon

G. W. Thomas sets the anthology rolling with an appetite-whetting intro of the crime genre, its evolution in Pulps, and now growing popularity in Ezines and electronic shorts outlets, if not paperback anthologies.
Nick Andreychuk chases this great opening with Accidents Happen. Sharp dialogue and a weave of humor move the story along to a sparkling ending. The hilarity of Car Trouble makes up for the gruesome nature of Bleeding Heart. Amy Grech gives a surprise twist in Hell’s Kitchen, and builds good atmosphere for Cold Comfort. Patricia Harrington’s She Scrawled M for Murder stands out as a favorite of her charming little tales, fine competition, in fact, for Edward C. Lynskey’s Turkey adventure, followed by a hearty chuckle and subsequent chill in Shiny Hammers, Sharp Nails, and the mysterious Jael.
Stephen D. Rogers originally drew me to this anthology, as I have always relished and made connection with his mystery shorts. True to promise, the clinical execution of Axe Falls Thus grabbed me at once. Emily’s mundane life collapses in fast paced suspense. G. W Thomas finishes what the intro starts with an intriguing concept behind From Thy Face I Shall be Hidden and a fine joint venture of The Case of the Windermere Woman.
Short and tight or thriller type road runner, at 15,000 words max apiece, the authors of this collection move fast and easy to spread their talents and offer priceless choice. Loved it.