Since Dave included my thoughts on The Hortlak in the feedback segment of this episode, I wanted to add to the discussion of this story (and others). My prior comments were somewhat of a rant, and it'd do PodCastle a great injustice if the one comment I shared was so negative, when overall PodCastle is such an outstanding podcast, with wonderful stories and excellent narration and production!
I liked this story, it was a very enjoyable ride. I especially liked the characters. Moon Doggy was a good protagonist, with a good mix of motivations. He was basically a good guy, and just wanted to be with the one he fell in love with. But he's done some things he's not proud of in pursuit of that, and fights with fear and uncertainty. Which of us cannot say that about ourselves? And Prissy is an interesting character. Captured and wings clipped, but still returning love. Her balance of knowing she needs to make drastic changes to restore a natural balance, but being laid back about it and wanting the best for Moon Doggy, seems to fit well with the California surfer vibe.
Dave did an awesome job at the narration; I don't know who could have done this particular piece better. He played the "surfer dude" theme well, and I greatly enjoyed listening to this one.