In the literary landscape of dark fantasy anthologies, "The Lovely Dark" by Juliette Cross establishes itself as a formidable contender, delving into a realm where the shadows of myth, magic, and horror blend into an entrancing mosaic. Cross’s collection features a series of short stories, each uniquely embracing the eerie and the mystical with a narrative intensity that grips the reader’s imagination and refuses to let go.

The anthology begins with "Whispers in the Wood," a spine-chilling tale about a haunted forest that is as beautiful as it is deadly. Cross expertly crafts an atmosphere thick with suspense and dread, her prose rich and evocative, setting the tone for the stories that follow. The forest, almost a character in its own right, whispers secrets of ancient magic and entwines the fates of all who dare wander its paths. The story not only challenges the boundaries of its characters' understanding of their world but also tests their mental and physical limits in the face of the unknown.

Another standout story, "Mirror, Mirror," dives into the gothic horror of a cursed mirror owning a peculiar power over those who gaze into it. This tale masterfully mixes elements of psychological horror with visceral fears, touching on themes of vanity, reality, and the warped perceptions that can lead to ruin. Cross's ability to describe scenes in vivid detail, combined with her sharp, concise dialogue, amplifies the eerie atmosphere, making it a particularly compelling read.

What makes Cross's anthology exceptional is her adept use of diverse settings and historical periods. Each story, while rooted in dark fantasy, explores different cultures and eras, from an ancient cursed temple in Asia to a futuristic dystopian city. Such variety not only lends global scale and relevance to her collection but also showcases her versatility and deep research.

For example, in "The Heart of the Storm," readers find themselves in a storm-ravaged coastal town during the late 19th century, where a young woman confronts a sea deity. The elemental and mythic intertwine in a narrative that is both a battle for survival and a profound exploration of the human spirit’s resilience against natural calamities. This particular story is a vivid demonstration of Cross’s ability to blend the fantastical with the deeply human, creating a powerful emotional resonance that lingers long after the story concludes.

Themes of love, betrayal, and redemption recur throughout the collection, weaving a complex tapestry of human emotions into the fabric of more fantastical elements. In "The Painter’s Cat," a lonely artist's fate becomes inexplicably linked to that of a mystical cat that comes to his studio. This story, a mix of magic realism and dark fantasy, explores the themes of creativity, isolation, and transformation. It stands out for its poetic language and the tender yet surreal exploration of companionship in the face of the supernatural.

Cross’s anthology is not without its moments of lightness, though. Humor and wit sparkle subtly across her narratives, bringing a balance to the pervasive darkness and intensity. This can be seen in "Lady of the Lake," where the character’s sharp wit makes an otherwise gloomy scenario both engaging and darkly humorous.

Of particular mention is Cross’s engaging narrative voice that changes deftly according to the perspective of each tale but maintains a consistent quality that is both lush and precise. Her dialogue is always character-appropriate and she delivers suspense and shocks without descending into predictability, maintaining the reader’s interest with clever plot twists and complex character arcs.

The final story in the collection, "The Keeper’s Vow," ties the themes and elements presented in the earlier stories with a masterful stroke. Here, the balance between the supernatural and the human reaches a poignant culmination, offering a satisfying resolution that mirrors and subtly alters the darker, earlier themes into something akin to hope and redemption.

Juliette Cross's "The Lovely Dark" is a glowing gem in the genre of dark fantasy. It is thought-provoking, hauntingly beautiful, and richly inventive. This anthology is a testament to Cross’s exceptional talent and her ability to create worlds that captivate and enchant while exploring the depths of human emotion and the eerie corners of the supernatural.

For fans of gothic tales and dark fantasy, "The Lovely Dark" provides an enthralling escape into worlds where darkness is not just something to be feared, but also to be explored and even embraced. Cross's eloquent prose and captivating story arcs make this anthology a compelling read and a standout contribution to the genre.