Audio Review // Predator: Eyes of the Demon
Audio Review: Predator – Eyes of the Demon
Edited by Bryan Thomas Schmidt
Oh, it feels good to be back in the Predator-verse again. I’ve missed these alien hunters from beyond and was genuinely excited to dive into this collection of short stories. At first, I thought about reviewing two or three at a time, but honestly, that felt a little pointless since most follow a similar rhythm. So instead, one review to rule them all.
The Details
Title: Predator: Eyes of the Demon
Editor: Bryan Thomas Schmidt
Authors: Stephen Graham Jones, Linda Addison, Jonathan Maberry, Scott Sigler, Peter Briggs, Tim Lebbon, Nancy A. Collins, A. R. Reddington, Robert Greenberger, Ammar Habib, Gini Koch, Kim May, Yvonne Navarro, Joshua Pruett, and Bryan Thomas Schmidt
Blurb: Fifteen brand-new short stories set in the expanded Predator universe, featuring the ultimate hunters, the Yautja. From the recent past to the far future, on Earth and in the darkest reaches of space, this anthology brings together a diverse lineup of award-winning SF and horror authors. Contributors include Stoker Award winners, New York Times bestsellers, screenwriters, and familiar voices from the Alien/Predator mythos.
Available on: Amazon (Affiliate link – thanks for supporting!)
Review
As you may already know, I have a deep affection for both Xenomorphs and Predators. They hooked me as a kid and never let go. Eyes of the Demon is part of the new wave of Predator fiction, and I couldn’t be happier.
Let’s be clear, though: this isn’t high-brow sci-fi packed with morals or life lessons. This is pure popcorn pulp, action-packed, over-the-top, and wildly entertaining. Precisely what I want from a Predator anthology.
Most of the stories land well, staying true to what makes Predator stories fun: brutal hunts, deadly showdowns, and glimpses into Yautja culture. In fact, one of the surprises here was how much female representation there is. Nearly every lead character, and even several Predators, are female-identifying. It’s a trend I’ve noticed in Predator fiction lately, but it’s refreshing in a genre that can sometimes default to macho marines with big guns.
Standout Stories:
“The Monster” – A Predator vs. Sasquatch setup? Yes, please! It had me hooked from the start, though I was a bit disappointed the climactic fight never actually happened.
“Trophy” – A tale where the prey comes back from the dead to hunt the Predator in return. Revenge stories always hit, and this one delivered.
The LARPing Story – I won’t spoil too much, but it’s comical, fun, and just the right amount of gross.
The Misses
Not every choice worked for me, and even some that did work also fell into this category.
Predator vs. Sasquatch… No fight! Don’t set that up and then fade to black! Please give me the claws, the roars, the gore! I was left wanting more.
Sexy Predators. Yeah… no thanks. I don’t need Yautja romance. What I do want are strong, cunning female leads who earn their survival through grit, brains, and toughness. That’s far more interesting than awkwardly trying to make Predators seductive. But I’m sure there is a niche out there haahha.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Eyes of the Demon is a blast. It’s not perfect, but as an anthology it delivers plenty of memorable hunts, some creative twists, and a few new layers of Predator lore. If you’re a fan of the franchise, it’s absolutely worth your time.
A great listen, and I recommend it for Predator fans old and new.
