Lansdale shows exactly why critics continue to compare him to Elmore Leonard, Donald Westlake, Flannery O’Connor, and William Faulkner.

Readers are immediately plunged into this gritty world of crime fiction. If you have read my blog for a while, you know that I am very cautious about reading horror – only in daylight hours – only highly recommended – etc. 

Unlike many conventional crime fiction novels, Things Get Ugly manages to transcend mere horror, delving into the complexity of the human psyche and the profound consequences of an individual’s actions. Imagine the worst of humankind and what they can do. Now, take one more (or a few more) steps into even more horrific, and that’s where most of these stories landed for me.

This collection is some of Lansdale’s favorites, and while they might not be his best, the stories clearly demonstrate that the author’s strength lies in his portrayal of characters who are the worst of our world yet realistic. Lansdale skillfully weaves their backgrounds, motivations, and flaws, making them relatable, authentic, and that much more scary for this reader.

The collection falters in maintaining a consistently high standard across all the stories. Some tales lack the punch and depth of others, leaving readers with a sense of unevenness that may not appeal to traditional short story readers. Additionally, the book occasionally delves into clichéd plotlines, diluting the freshness established by its authentic characters.

While the book may not be for me, I would recommend it because I appreciate the talent needed to make these stories so realistic and creepy. Lansdale’s prose demonstrated an undeniable talent for crafting vivid and atmospheric settings, immersing readers into the murky underworld of crime. The stories are rife with unexpected twists and turns, successfully keeping the audience engaged throughout.