Reviewing this collaboration between Lutzke and Boden presents a unique challenge, as discussing the story without spoiling its essence is a tightrope walk. This was my introduction to Boden's work, and it's left me eager to explore more of his creations in the future. Lutzke, on the other hand, is becoming a distinguished name in the horror landscape for good reason. His brand of horror doesn’t rely on jump scares but rather cultivates a deep-seated eeriness that lingers. He possesses the rare ability to evoke profound emotional responses, delving into territories that might be even more unsettling to a true horror aficionado than conventional frights. This depth of feeling, however, brings into question whether the nuanced terror Lutzke crafts could ever be fully realized in film form.

The story itself, while gripping, ends on a note that left me wanting, hence my rating of 4 stars instead of 5. This sentiment echoes my usual critique of shorter narratives: they often conclude too abruptly, leaving an unresolved aftertaste. Despite this, the collaboration excels in the atmosphere, weaving suspense, and an undercurrent of dread with masterful precision. The writing is sharp, and the premise is compelling, managing to pique curiosity and maintain engagement throughout. Yet, as the mystery unravels toward its climax, the resolution feels lacking, particularly in fleshing out the character of Maggie, whose potential depth and destiny remain just beyond reach. Furthermore, the actual story is diluted by an excess of promotional material filling the last portion of what is already a brief read, detracting from the overall experience. In summary, while this novella stands as a potent example of horror that probes deeper than mere surface scares, it also leaves a yearning for a more comprehensive exploration of its characters and their fates.