Russian Roulette

A porcelain doll feels emotions after observing a growing girl's behavior-and reciprocates unexpressed love for the girl's father.

A woman steps out of herself to cut the back of her hair, hurriedly hopping back in when she fears another version of her will jump inside instead.

A man gets high on life after playing Russian roulette-but can't put the gun down when he realizes love is hit-and-miss as well.

This is just a peek into the Gothic world of Jane Kim, a Los Angeles author and illustrator who specializes in the macabre. Kim shares six of her fantasy stories in the collection "Russian Roulette." Surreal and suspenseful with a tinge of darkness, each tale is equal parts sadness and beauty.

Filled with Kim's own illustrations, "Russian Roulette "is a perfect break from the mainstream-and a thrilling leap into darkness. Each story paints a unique impressionistic Gothic picture, offering tantalizing glimpses into the imagination of a visionary writer.