"The five star reviews are pretty much what I'd say -- however, I'll add that I'm amazed how well written this book is, reading as non-fiction, yet a sea monster enters the picture! it's as realistically described as the battles ongoing in the Dardanelles, 1915. I also wasn't alware that the Maori voluntarily fought on the British side so preceding their involvement in World War II. This is a gem of a book. Highly recommended!"

"I love historical and horror, so I was very excited to get an ARC of Lee Murray's latest book. The juxtaposition of eldritch monsters with the very real horrors of war was so brilliantly done and makes the reader ponder which is really the most horrifying.

As an American, most WWI stories I've been exposed to were from the view of Americans, Canadians, or the English. So it was VERY refreshing and intriguing to learn about the Austrailians, Maori, and New Zealand's role in the war.

And instead of the played out settings of France, England, and Germany, we get to read about a battle set in the Dardanelles strait in Turkey. The author's meticulous research shone through and gave the reader real historical details of that battle along with sympathetic characters, and some very scary monsters.

A very fun read! I highly recommend it! "

"An amazing collection of spooky, eerie, confronting stories and poems all set in Aotearoa. There are plenty of Maori myths and legends involved here as well. I loved it!

Lee Murray is the editor of this collection of talented wordsmithing - I have always loved her stories too because of their deep roots in the Aotearoan landscape.

So nice to get to know other authors and their talents in this way. Not normally a fan of short stories but these are very well crafted indeed.

If you are easily offended or scared, this may not be the read for you. For the rest of you, dive in and enjoy!

5 stars - given without reservation.

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