Mysterion, December 2025
Reviewed by Eric Kimminau
Set against the backdrop of a desolate Christmas Eve in a decaying urban landscape, “Stray” by Wes Berger explores the psychological and moral conflict of a man struggling to maintain his humanity. The story follows a protagonist burdened by personal failures and a strained relationship with his young son as he encounters a mysterious, unsettling stranger during a brutal winter storm. His decision to provide refuge for the woman triggers a series of events that blur the line between reality and nightmare, forcing him to confront his own internal demons while navigating a city that seems to be descending into an inexplicable, cataclysmic state.
The prose utilizes a heavy atmosphere of dread and isolation to examine themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the weight of one’s promises. Through the lens of the protagonist’s deteriorating circumstances, the text delves into the struggle for sobriety and the desperate need to provide a sense of stability for the next generation. As environmental and personal crises converge, the narrative reaches a fever pitch that challenges conventional perceptions of charity and consequence. It ultimately offers a profound meditation on the nature of suffering and the human spirit when faced with forces beyond its comprehension. My own life has been touched by the 12-step program due to a severely alcoholic parent. I feel the author must have more than a passing experience with them as well. The end of this story left me wanting to know “what happens next?”. A thought provoking read with many unanswered questions.
Eric Kimminau is a BBS geek turned IT professional seeking the next Great Adventure. Let’s Go!