Beyond the Veil by Clifton Brown is an anthology of short stories and the first volume of the Wicked Shadow Whispers series. In "The Z-Word," genetically modified operative Manqoba collaborates with Carbian agent Bonnie to track down a rogue bioengineer whose mutated organisms pose a global threat. Following a destructive encounter with one such creature, they regroup for a final operation targeting the source. In "24 Days," Alex attends a theater performance structured around a reimagined Advent incorporating Pagan elements. As the show progresses, attendees, including Alex, find themselves awakening to the revelation of a plan for a mission that is out of this world.

Beyond the Veil by Clifton Brown is a sharp, inventive collection where every story stands entirely on its own while contributing to a wide range of tones and concepts. The writing throughout is deliberate, unexpected, and precise. The collection presents speculative narratives on multiple fronts involving hidden realities that exceed all ordinary understanding. Though every piece delivers, the one that stayed with me most is "Chronicles of the Asé-Born: Snipe Hunt." Eddie ventures into a forest to trap a Snipe, instead finding Luna Nightshade, tied up and surrounded by attackers. After reaching safety, Luna reveals she is Aradia, a divine being, and they form a soul-sharing bond, granting Eddie new powers. After a crucial battle, the need for additional training intensifies, as Eddie comes to a horrifying realization. All the stories are remarkable, and each totally holds its ground. Overall, this is a brilliant anthology, and I am absolutely on board for volume two. Very highly recommended.

Wicked Shadow Whispers, Volume 1 (Beyond the Veil) by Clifton Brown is a captivating collection of paranormal stories centered around mythological and dark fantasy themes. Readers follow the journey of Jase, a man haunted by his first love, Lealu. His life takes a grim turn when he chooses a new love over her and is subsequently pursued by a sinister force. As Jase learns about the dark realm, he battles against demonic entities such as Apate and Tokoloshe. In another story, The Z-word, a forbidden love blossoms between Bonnie, a carbon-breathing girl, and Manqoba, a unique Prime-Z, a genetically enhanced being. Their epic romance is challenged when a mad scientist goes rogue and begins creating mutant creatures using dark forces and gene mutation. The collection also includes tales of blood-sucking creatures facing a religious militia, an interracial couple from different financial backgrounds, and a young warrior in a forest who rescues a girl with secrets.

Wicked Shadow Whispers, Volume 1 (Beyond the Veil) takes readers on action-packed and emotionally charged adventures. Each story is detailed and rich in mythology, exploring Nigerian culture, the legend of the devil’s horns on Cheyenne Mountain, and ancient Egyptian gods. Clifton Brown skillfully integrates biblical themes, such as the Great Flood—also mentioned in various religious texts—and the Tower of Babel, which was constructed to reach the heavens. The settings of the stories vary from dystopian worlds filled with oppression to futuristic landscapes where people possess superpowers, including the ability to fly and extraordinary strength. This diverse array of stories ensures something appealing for every reader. The narratives subtly cover racial discrimination and interracial relationships, societal pressures, and family legacy. I truly enjoyed this collection and eagerly await the next volume. The cliffhanger endings left me excited to discover what will happen next. I highly recommend this book to fans of dark fantasy and paranormal tales infused with elements of romance and action.