Book review of Don't Look, Just Run

by R.A. Clarke (Author)

Updated at: 17/02/2025

In R.A. Clarke's chilling collection, Don't Look, Just Run, nightmares take center stage. This cautionary tale weaves together short stories, flash fiction, micro fiction, and poems, each a terrifying glimpse into the unsettling corners of reality. From a witch with a deadly holiday obsession to experimental skin therapy with horrifying consequences, and drug-fueled encounters gone wrong, the stories build suspense and dread. Expect escalating neighbor feuds, bloodthirsty cameras, and even demon trick-or-treaters. Prepare for a spine-tingling ride through a landscape of escalating horror—a collection guaranteed to leave you breathless and with one overriding message: Don't look, just run!

4.7 / 14 ratings

Review Don't Look, Just Run

Oh my goodness, "Don't Look, Just Run" by R.A. Clarke is a wild ride! I absolutely devoured this collection of short stories, flash fiction, micro-fiction, and poems – it’s a truly eclectic mix that kept me on the edge of my seat (and sometimes jumping!). The author has a real knack for crafting these little snapshots of pure horror, each one leaving a lasting impression, even the incredibly brief ones. It’s like she’s expertly curated a series of unsettling vignettes, each with a unique flavor and tone.

One minute I'm creeped out by a terrifyingly realistic portrayal of experimental skin therapy gone wrong, the next I'm giggling nervously at a family of demons trick-or-treating, and then BAM! – I'm completely engrossed in a chilling tale of college students and a truly bad drug trip. The variety is fantastic. It's not just jump scares; it's a blend of psychological dread, body horror, and even a bit of dark humor, all cleverly woven together. The poems, too, are surprisingly effective, adding another layer of unsettling atmosphere to the whole experience.

Some of the stories really stood out for me. "Sphere," for instance, is a masterclass in brevity, capturing intense change within a ridiculously short page count. "A Giant Tale" has this wonderfully classic fairy tale feel, but with a truly disturbing twist that I won't spoil. "Oculus" is another personal favorite; the storytelling is superb, leaving you genuinely unsettled. And "Malady"? Chilling. I've rarely read something so effectively unnerving.

R.A. Clarke shows a real talent across various horror subgenres – there's sci-fi, fantasy, paranormal, and apocalyptic elements, all woven together seamlessly. She has a remarkable ability to conjure disturbing imagery and create truly memorable characters, even with limited word counts. I especially loved the way she subverts expectations; many of the stories had twists I didn't see coming, which was both thrilling and terrifying.

The pacing is perfect; the shorter pieces provide a breath between the longer, more intense tales, preventing the book from becoming overwhelming. I found myself racing through some of the stories, completely captivated, only to then slow down and savor the lingering unease of others. The book is brilliantly paced, expertly playing with the reader's expectations and comfort levels.

If you're looking for a horror anthology that's both diverse and deeply unsettling, this is it. It's perfect for a spooky season read-through, but be warned: you might need to sleep with the lights on for a while afterward. And yes, you'll probably get a cramp from turning the pages too fast, just like the author warned! But trust me, it's worth it. Five stars!