The cottage

Name: The cottage
Author: Frank Belknap Long

By Frank Belknap Long

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories

About This Book

A bitter, hard-eyed man returns to his rural home determined to test and punish his stepchildren, bringing a finely crafted dollhouse intended to elicit their private feelings. The children respond with wonder while their mother feels mounting dread, and the narrative examines the man's bitter rationalizations alongside the family's tense, fearful dynamics. Set against a strange desert backdrop, the story hints that his cruelty will trigger unforeseen, punitive consequences beyond his control, transforming a domestic tableau into the seed of a darker reckoning.

About the Author

Frank Belknap Long

Frank Belknap Long was an American author known for his contributions to the science fiction genre. His works often explore themes of space travel and the unknown, reflecting the anxieties and fascinations of the early to mid-20th century. Among his notable titles is "Mars is My Destination," which showcases his imaginative storytelling and ability to blend adventure with speculative concepts. Long's writing is characterized by a unique blend of humor and horror, making him a distinctive voice in the literary landscape of his time. He was also associated with the Cthulhu Mythos, further cementing his place in the pantheon of speculative fiction.