Berger’s Doll Seed is a collection of short stories with psychological / speculative horror themes. They are woven through with unsettling ideas about such things as ethical concerns regarding technology, or questions surrounding identity. These aren’t stories full of splatterpunk, full of gore, pagely death, and jump scares like the cheesy B flicks of the ‘70s-’90s. The horror is subtle, easing in and taking residence before you realize it.

One thing that really spoke to me is how Berger has woven in the complexities of generational trauma. She explores how we pass such trauma down, what growing up with such trauma can do, and sometimes, how we can break the chains. This struggle is visceral for me. I’m processing my own generational trauma ‘gifts’, and working to break them. Acknowledgement is half the battle though, toch? Within these tantalizing tales, the characters’ trauma inevitably becomes yoked to the preternatural and supernatural occurrences.

As with any collection of short stories, Doll Seed has stories you are sure to love, and others you skim over, eager for the next. One thing is certain- each of these stories is sure to prompt the grey matter into action, and give you ideas/ concepts to mull over. Some of my faves include: Etta, Zora, The Wishing Well, and Cemetery Sisters. Not too long after reading this, I came across an article that referenced the historical Zora! I love book synchronicity.

Recommended for those who enjoy psychological or speculative horror, quick read horror, or thought-provoking tales of terror.

***Many thanks to Netgalley & Aunt Lute Books for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.