The Channel: Stories From L.A.: 07/20/10

Some cities evoke the tropes of certain genres. Old Los Angeles, in the days of the pueblo is action adventure (thanks mostly to Zorro) and twentieth century Los Angeles brings to mind hard boiled detective novels. Since the mid 1990s Los Angeles has been recast as a site of paranormal activity. There are a few earlier exceptions: some episodes of The Twilight Zone and Amazing Stories were set in Los Angeles, but it was really with Angel, Constantine and similar films and shows that the city became a paranormal haven.

The Channel by Susan Alcott Jardine is a ten story collection that combines the hardboiled style of writing with the paranormal themes, some reminiscent of The Twilight Zone and some more modern. The stories take place in different decades eras from recent history to a possible near future.

As a lover of short stories especially those in the science fiction, fantasy and horror genres, I found the book a quick and enjoyable read. I would like to read more stories by Susan Alcott Jardine.

In closing, the stories remind me very favorably of two Connie Willis novellas with a Los Angeles connection: D.A. and An Inside Job (review coming).

I received the book for review from the author.

Comments (0)

Comment #1: Thursday, July, 22, 2010 at 04:36:54

Susan Alcott Jardine

Dear Sarah Sammis,

Thank you for the wonderful review of my book THE CHANNEL: Stories From L.A.

I'm happy that you enjoyed it.

Best,
Susan Alcott Jardine

Comment #2: Saturday, July 24, 2010 at 20:02:43

Pussreboots

Thank you for the offer to review your book.