Dark Pennine Tales

Sticky Valves Chapter 5

A seemingly starless night and a persistent drizzle set a mystifying backdrop at Blackfriars Grange, a place echoing with anticipation for the traditional Bonfire Night. With a ragdoll signaling the usual disappointment yet drowned in the spirit of the band's upcoming performance, nothing seemed out of the ordinary—until it did. Dive into this riveting narrative of intrigue, ambition, and unexpected choices in "Sticky Valves Chapter 5".

As the story unfurls, we witness the laudable, ambitious, and seemingly ordinary man, Michael Thompson, drawn into a world of power, wealth, and allure. The lure of the beautiful host and the seductive power she possesses starts a chain reaction, merging Thompson's path with the enigmatic Mr. Morgan, a man of influence, wealth, and hidden darkness.

The promise of a greater destiny for a seemingly average man becomes a defining moment in his life as he becomes deeply entangled in a web of manipulation, deceit, and dark desires. His journey of self-discovery is guided by Norman, a vampire who plays a sophisticated game, using Michael as a mere pawn in his grand scheme.

Meanwhile, a grand compromise sets in between Kate, the seductive host, and Norman, adding a shocking turn to Michael's ambitious journey. The once oblivious local band and community become part of this thrilling story, unknown to them the terrifying transformations and dark ambitions unfolding in the quiet of their neighborhood.

Uncover the unfolding journey of desire and ambition and the price one has to pay for it. Will Michael achieve the life he dreams of? Or will destiny have its own story to tell?

"Sticky Valves Chapter 5" offers an engaging and thrilling glimpse into the manipulation of ambition and the unseen cost of desire. It's a tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover what lies ahead. Prepare to be captivated in this twist of desire and deception.

Skin Deep

Delve into the heart of "Skin Deep", a chilling Pennine tale penned by the celebrated Angela Blythe. Unravel the twisted story of Vicky and her group of friends - four well-off women on the brink of their fifties, who are about to have their predictable lives shaken by a looming zombie menace. Their mundane lives take a shocking turn when Vicky's husband, Peter, a bright scientist intent on halting the zombie pandemic, makes a startling discovery that dangles the alluring promise of youth in front of them.

Just as the ladies are swept up in the exhilarating discovery, Peter's work takes an incredible turn. He uncovers the antidote to the zombie invasion, ironically derived from the rejuvenation serum meant for the ladies. This not only heightens their standard of living but ominously foreshadows their access to the age-defying product being cut off, potentially dashing dreams and hopes. Engage in this riveting narrative where vanity clashes with survival, and friendship is stretched to its limits.

When Peter contracts a debilitating illness that stubbornly persists, it uncovers his steadfast dedication to his profession and colleagues. Even as his disease progresses to a severe virus depleting his strength, he is determined to conduct an experiment that may reveal the nature of his sickness. Despite the decline in health and mounting work stress, it is his resolute spirit that forms the essence of his character. Peter's worsening health is disquieting to all and fears about possible grave outcomes are raised; yet the team forges ahead, focusing on finding a solution regardless of any impending threaths.

Peter's gruesome transformation into a zombie, albeit terrifying, serves as a blessing in disguise for the scientific endeavor. His meticulous research and a dedicated team ensures hope for a cure is sustained. Amid the fear and confusion, his lifeless form continues to play a crucial part in their cause, serving as the only remotely salvageable zombie specimen. While grieving Peter's loss, the team perseveres in their mission, following his research notes to create a potent serum. Peter's parting words reveal his role in unintentionally infecting himself with the virus, causing a shock amid the team yet serving as a crucial piece of information needed for their cause.

Sticky Valves Chapter 4

New occupant of the Grange stirs up intrigue and curiosity in an otherwise quiet neighbourhood. Curious Christine Baker dedicates much of her time peering out her window, observing the mysterious exterior renovations to the Grange and eagerly waiting to meet her new neighbour. Soon, peculiar events and a misdelivered mail propel her into the life of the impeccably dressed stranger, Mr. Norman Morgan.

As Christine enters the newly refurbished Grange, she can't shake off the feeling that something about Norman's constant poised exterior feels sinister. His charm and cultured persona, while alluring, isn't enough to fully mask the aura of the unknown trailing behind him. Christine's instincts are intrigued by Norman's unusual interest in the local traditions and willingness to integrate into their way of life. Despite her instincts, Christine ends up assisting Norman to blend in with the local community.

Unfolding events set a thrilling pace to a tale filled with questions, offering a cryptic glimpse into the life of a mysterious man who once was a stranger and now an exciting puzzle. The fine line between curiosity and suspicion begins to blur as Christine immerses herself deeper into Norman's world.

Sticky Valves Chapter 3

This transcript takes us on a journey through a tumultuous night at the Freer Mare Band's practice, interrupted by spontaneous laughter, heated disagreements, hectic preparations for Armistice Day and Christmas concerts, and the unexpected booking of a ten-piece band performance.

Ernie, Barry and Susan - the de facto leaders of the band - struggle to navigate the chaotic cacophony of personalities and tasks throughout the evening. Be it Barry's fiery personality, Susan's constant battle to keep Bob's texting in check, or Ernie's futile attempts to introduce some much-needed organization into the band's plans.

Amidst the existing chaos, Ernie drops the bombshell about a last-minute booking for a ten-piece band at a high-profile housewarming party on the upcoming Bonfire night. Despite initial protests, Ernie skillfully entices the band with promises of a lavish buffet and an abundance of wine - all provided by their wealthy host. The prospect of playing at the grand, old Blackfriars Grange seems to seal the deal.

This seeming chaos masked by shared laughter and mutual respect captures the quintessential spirit of a community brass band, where camaraderie and collective passion for music prevail above all else. The episode ends with a palpable sense of anticipation for the band's imminent performance.

Sticky Valves Chapter 2

Immerse yourself in the rich, layered history of Saddleworth, a picturesque area straddling the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. Gracefully embraced by the Pennines' windswept slopes, this region is known for its fresh air, vibrant autumn foliage, and the serene River Tame. Discover the ghostly whispers of Saddleworth's past arising from artifacts and architecture dating back to the Stone Age, Roman era, and the 13th century church. This ancient land is mentioned in the Domesday Book, and is ornamented with centuries-old boundaries marked by crumbling stone walls and elusive, time-ravaged milestones.

Saddleworth's tale turns the pages to the Industrial Revolution, when booming woollen and cotton mills fuelled economic and population growth, forging the enduring character of its villages. As these mills diminished, modern Saddleworth reinvented itself as a cultural and heritage hub. Savour a coffee at one of the newly spruced, brightly painted houses turned into bustling cafes. Enjoy local festivals, traditional pubs, sports clubs, trendy boutiques, and everything else Saddleworth has to offer.

At the heart of Saddleworth is Friar Mare, the largest village named after long-gone black friars. It is dotted with age-old dwellings, contemporary homes, a busy bus route and breath-taking views. Yet, nestled within its charm is a dark secret - the deserted Friar's Grange, a 17th-century manor cut off from society and seething with ominous mystery.

Step into the world of Christine, a resident whose fascination with the grange borders on obsession. Through her, uncover the eerie occurrences at the seemingly empty grange and encounter unseen horrors lurking in its shadows. This is a tale of intrigue and suspicion that shows sometimes, in Saddleworth, the past never truly fades away, it haunts us, reminding us of its indelible mark on the present.

Sticky Valves Chapter 1

In the opening chapter of Angela Blythe's compelling new vampire series, Sticky Valves is filled with intense fear, the unknown, and the thrill of the survival instinct. After a horrifying cellar captivity, the chapter begins with a frantic escape of a man from his captor, a menacing and bloodthirsty vampire.

In contrast, a lively local band is unknowingly linked to the vampire's insidious plans, creating a chilling connection between the two seemingly detached narratives. The everyday life of the villagers takes an unsettling turn when they cross paths with the traumatized escapee, setting the stage for the impending terror.

A deadly game has started, and the vampire is ready to turn the villagers into his blood cows. Excitement, anticipation, and dread are expertly knitted into this narrative, making the readers question - who will be the next prey? The thrilling chase sequences and the chilling fear will keep the readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages of this unforgettable saga. The captivating first chapter is an ominous precursor to the mayhem that ensues, drawing readers into a spine-chilling journey of survival.

Dark Pennine Tales - Falling Stars

Hi 

Welcome to the latest episode of Dark Pennine Tales.

This time I am reading a short story from Samuel Minier, called "Falling Stars". 

I hope you enjoy it

If you would like to submit your on stories to Dark Pennine Tales please contact us through the website https://www.angelablythe.com

Thanks

 

Dark Christmas Tales - Krampus

He’s coming down your chimney tonight.

Krampus comes just once a year.

Lock up your naughty children as he’ll Ho Ho Hoist them away.

It’s all part of the service.

He wishes you a very Merry Christmas.

Dark Christmas Tales - Bells

Ding dong Christmas Bells are ringing.

What a Merry time we’ll have.

Sanctuary.

An oasis in a flood.

A psycho.

Dry clothes. Warmth and a welcome.

Wait..what was that? A psycho!!!!

Dark Christmas Tales - Family

You can’t pick your family, especially your mother-in-law.

Traditions are important.

There is no stopping some people if they want to practice them.

Voodoo anyone?