When Ashes was originally released by Parchman's Press, A.L. Mengel broke new ground in supernatural storytelling. Blending realism with fiction, weaving together the paranormal with the theology of Catholicism, superstition and common myths, he introduced a simple story with a profound message and deep, spiritual elements. The majority of the message resides between the prose, while other themes are flung into the reader's face. "Ashes" does not hold back in addressing issues of bigotry and intolerance, alcoholism, betrayal, sexual identity and broken relationships. The story opens with Antoine, an abandoned immortal, longing for the company of his maker once again. Antoine seeks to resurrect him, and bargains for the ultimate payment - his soul. Antoine manages to escape, but not without those pursuing him at every corner. "Ashes" has unexpected complexity and undeniable impact and and delivers a profound message. That a scratched surface is merely scratched.