Seth Porter

*I received a free copy of this in exchange for a review.*

Whenever I think of literary magazines, I think of straight-laced, boring stories trying too hard to be meaningful. (To be fair, I don't read many. I'm sure there are quite a few that would change my opinion.) Thankfully, The Rag isn't like that at all. I like this issue's collection of gritty stories that take some controversial approaches to taboo subjects such as necrophilia -- such as in "Memento Mori" -- or exploring the difference between justice and law -- such as in "Yes, Officer."

As always with collections of works by different authors, there were stories that just weren't for me. Three or four stories included in here just didn't resonate with me at all. There were, however, stories that I loved: the two that I previously mentioned, and "Not Giving to the Alumni Fund" are notable examples. I think that this is a nice mix of stories, so that anyone reading it will have a few favorites that really grab their interest, which is exactly what a lit magazine should offer.

Along with stories and poetry, this magazine publishes art pieces. I absolutely loved the art included with this issue. It was interesting and I found myself staring at each piece for quite awhile trying to absorb all the details and make sense of it.

If you're looking for some well-written pieces that are darker than the norm, then this is the magazine for you. This particular issue's theme is thought-provoking and the stories are well worth the read.… (meer)

I received this literary magazine from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I’ve never read a literary magazine before, much less a digital one, but when contacted about reviewing one, I figured I’d give it a shot.

I read this on my Kindle, because that’s what I’m most comfortable with reading, but The Rag: Winter/Spring 2013 is available in many formats.

The Rag is filled with short stories, interesting artwork, and a few poems. I consider it to be “bookish” even though it’s considered a magazine, because I read it cover to cover, as I would a book.

I loved the artwork. My favorites were the ones where human heads had been replaced by animal heads. Super cool stuff.

There are many short stories included in the book, all by different authors. Here are short synopses of my favorites:

For the full review, visit Love at First Book… (meer)