Honest review of Pretty Girls Make Graves: A Feminine Rage Horror Anthology

by River Gardner (Author) Sage Mitchell (Author)

Updated at: 17/02/2025

Unleash your darkest desires with Pretty Girls Make Graves: A Feminine Rage Horror Anthology. This collection of 18+ stories explores the terrifying power of women wielding revenge. Forget damsels in distress; here, female characters forge their own justice, enacting brutal and satisfying retribution against those who have wronged them. From the chilling tales of River Gardner and Sage Mitchell to the contributions of a diverse array of talented authors, Pretty Girls Make Graves delves into the depths of feminine rage, offering a visceral and unforgettable reading experience. Prepare for a wild ride—reader discretion is advised.

4.4 / 9 ratings

Review Pretty Girls Make Graves

"Pretty Girls Make Graves: A Feminine Rage Horror Anthology" is a wild ride, and I mean that in the best possible way! If you're a fan of horror that's both thrilling and deeply satisfying, this collection is definitely for you. The anthology's central theme – feminine rage – is explored with a refreshing and unapologetic energy. It's a potent cocktail of revenge, justice, and the raw power of women reclaiming their narratives. The book isn't afraid to delve into dark territory; it tackles themes of abuse, exploitation, and the various ways women can (and do) fight back.

I especially appreciated the diversity of stories presented. While all centered on the theme of feminine rage, each tale took a unique approach. Some were shockingly violent, others subtly unnerving, and a few even incorporated a touch of dark humor. This variety kept the anthology engaging from beginning to end. It prevented the feeling of monotony that can sometimes plague anthologies. There's a story about a sex robot rising up against its creator, revenge porn narratives that explore the devastating consequences of these actions, and even a heartwarming (in a dark, horror-adjacent way) story involving a dog, which nicely balances the grimmer tales. The range of narratives was impressive, from the supernatural to the deeply grounded in reality.

As with any anthology, there were some stories that resonated more with me than others. While a couple fell a little flat for my personal tastes, the sheer number of excellent offerings easily outweighs those that didn't quite hit the mark. For example, I found "Agent of Wrath" and "Night's Embrace" particularly gripping, while "The Wood of Bug-Eyed Maud" and "The Bear Chooses You" showcased a truly imaginative approach to horror. The final novelette provided a satisfying conclusion to the book, cleverly weaving together various threads of the preceding stories.

I found myself nodding along, muttering, "Good for her!" more times than I can count. The anthology celebrates female strength and empowerment in a way that's both thrilling and empowering. It's a cathartic experience to see women take control, enact their revenge, and ultimately find their power within the darkest of circumstances. The anthology does contain graphic content, so it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Be prepared for violence, bloodshed, and some truly disturbing scenes. However, the intensity of the stories is justified by the powerful message they convey. This is a collection that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

Overall, "Pretty Girls Make Graves" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark, female-driven horror. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the diverse talents of the many authors involved. While not every story will be a perfect five-star read for every individual, the overall experience is richly rewarding and deeply satisfying. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone who appreciates unflinching narratives and the sheer, terrifying power of feminine rage.

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