Nothing But Blackened Teeth

A thrill-seeking group of friends travel to Japan for a stay at a mansion with a tragic history. According to legend, buried under the historic manor are the bones of a bride-to-be whose lover died before they could wed. The five friends start the night with food, drinking, and an ancient samurai game designed to test their bravery. As the night progresses, secrets better left hidden are revealed, not only by the friends but also by the house they are staying in.

Nothing But Blackened Teeth is the latest novelette by author and award-winning game writer Cassandra Khaw. This eerie tale combines the myths and historic fashions from ancient Japan, while set in the modern-day. Khaw masterfully portrays grief, fear, and dread in this paranormal thriller. The author enlists the ghost with blackened teeth and yōkai – spirits and demons from Japanese folklore – to claim another sacrifice for the house. Khaw introduces Japanese lore in this spine-chilling tale. This is a quick read for horror and mystery fans who like learning about ancient lore. The book may seem too short, leaving the reader wanting more, just like the house demanding more lives.