In Teleportasm by Joshua Millican we found out what happens when four friends stumble upon a mysterious VHS tape that allows them the ability to teleport short distances with euphoric effects. This kicks off a dangerous trend as copies are made with varying results.
The concept behind Teleportasm is simply wonderful, entertaining and intriguing. Millican crafts a story that brings both nostaglia and horror into one seamless novella. The viewing of a VHS tape that feels almost orgasmic as well as teleports you is amazing on it’s own, but add in the fact that the results may not be the same for everyone as copies are made and different groups view just adds to the depth of the narrative. It’s a refreshing take on the classic trope of exploring unknown powers through old technology.
Similar to the other books in the Shortwave Publishing Killer VHS Series, there are parallels we can pull from shows like The Twilight Zone and even The X-Files or the classic Goosebumps books by R.L. Stine. Teleportasm captures the nostalgic vibes that fans of those series will appreciate. This novella has the perfect blend of horror, mystery and science fiction to create a compelling read.
While the entire novella is one story, we felt like the break up of chapters gave us short stories from a wide span of time with sometimes graphic results to view the VHS tape. Millican does not shy way from exploring the possible visceral effects of teleportation on our human bodies as well as the unknown. Some chapters had us squirming in our seats with vivid descriptions and attention to detail that made each scene come alive.
Teleportasm is an outstanding addition to the Killer VHS Series. A great blend of horror and science fiction. Joshua Millican’s writing brings an original take on familiar tropes from some of our favorite classic series and the best part is this book is a novella which means it was read in almost one sitting and can be picked up again and again for a bit of fun.
Teleportasm hits bookstores everywhere on June 25, 2024.
