3 out of 5 stars

Greed Box by Molly Garcia is a horror novella that builds on the “Be careful what you wish for” trope. The character descriptions are well done; however some of the setting descriptions could be filled out a little more. The reader can relate to the main characters’ (Jack and Meg) emotions as they find themselves in various predicaments seemingly brought on by bad luck. Who among us hasn’t made a wish or two in our lifetime? Also, would you give everything back if what you wished for brought more than you can handle? This story goes on to answer the question, “What would you do to ensure the success of your wish completion?”

Jack and Meg are out and about in town one day and come across a shop with an interesting store front. After entering the shop, Jack spies an intriguing and well-made wooden box. The shop curator soon tells the couple of the story and warning behind the box. In spite of the warning, Jack purchases the box almost as if bidden to do so by an unnatural force.

After having the box displayed in their home for a short while, Jack wonders if there was any truth behind the shop curator’s story. Jack contemplates what he should do as he and Meg suffer some setbacks. He picks up the box, opens it, and whispers his wish. What happens afterward is a bit predictable at times, but nonetheless keeps the reader cheering for Jack and Meg to overcome the new obstacles in their lives. Garcia’s thorough character descriptions keep the reader going until the end.

There are a few unresolved questions at the end (that might bother some readers), and various grammatical and punctuation errors throughout that detract a little from the story. However, this quick horror read is an interesting take on “Be careful what you wish for.”