Stephanie
Hope Wharf is a small town with around 200 locals. Tourists flock there every summer, enjoying local food, beautiful beaches, and basking in the sun. Once summer is over they're on their way. Sounds perfect right? Well, locals are never allowed to leave. The one local, Tommy who tried to leave, met with his untimely demise.
Ryan and Zac are the best of pals. Ryan is quiet, anxious and shy, the complete opposite of Zac. But Ryan has a special talent, one that can sense when something isn't right. Together, Ryan and Zac question why they cant leave this island, ultimately coming face to face with evil itself.
Let's start by saying this book caught me off-guard. I literally had no idea where it was going to go and I'm not disappointed. That ending
I didn't enjoy this story as much as the other readers on here. I read a few of the reviews that mentioned it was “really dark and disturbing,” but I guess I missed something? I guessed the ending of the story right off the bat. Characters, plot, and overall backstory could be developed more but I understand this is a short story.
I didn't find any elements of the story to be horrifying. I wanted more horror, shock, disgust etc...
Although the author's intentions were there, the story fell short with me on readability. It switched from past tense, to present tense to future tense. It was sort of everywhere for me.
I think with time, revision and practice Kyra will be an excellent storyteller, but this one missed the mark for me.
It took me forever to get through this book, partly because I listened to the audiobook. I fell in love with the cover and unfortunately I didn't enjoy the story as much as I anticipated. At first I thought this was going to be a good whodunnit, but it felt stretched out and the ending was confusing. I had a hard time liking the main character. I didn't dislike her, but I didn't like her either.
It was cool to hear about recipes and Filipino dishes, but it was overkill. I feel like the book could have been shortened and it would have been more enjoyable If some of the recipes were cut short, or taken out.
Also, it's strange how none of the characters seem bothered by death and crime throughout the story. I feel like the author half-heartedly put together a story without much effort. The detective was unrealistic, her own investigations were simple and rushed and this book was a disappointment.
Once we found out who killed Derek and why, It kind of sunk the ship for me. Once again, I feel like the author rushed to wrap up the story. The food and recipes were basically the main focus. It's almost like the murder storyline was thrown in.
I wanted to like this, but I'm happy it's over. Maybe it felt dragged out because I decided to go the audio route.
All Things Deadly follows the Frost family, Adam, Rebecca, and Sutton Frost. Sutton frost is an edgy teenager with her own demons. Adam tries his best to connect with his daughter, after the loss of her mother Rebecca. Adam receives a call for help from a friend, forcing the Frosts to face their past, ultimately discovering the truth.
Let me get this out there right off the bat, as a practicing witch and a lifetime New Englander, there is no place more magical than Salem. I know I'm being a basic witch, but I absolutely adored that the setting of this collection takes place in one of my favorite Spooky towns.
Hanson tells the story of different townies living in Salem in between the main story. Each one is unique and ends with the perfect amount of creepiness. Some of the stories have humor, some are satisfying and some are bone-chilling. They touch on current events and sensitive subjects. All the short stories are realistic, with a dark, disturbing twist of course. From creepy stalkers, to regretful ghost stories, there's a perfect mix.
Honestly, I enjoyed every short story but if I list them all I'll run out of space
Abiding sins follows main character Erik and his mission to uncover what really happened to his parents years ago. After receiving a letter from his deceased aunt claiming his parents did not perish in a fire, he receives a partial address of a house his father purchased. Erik believes that his parents abandoned him to escape to a new town. Shortly after arriving, Erik discovers the grim, horrific truth about his parents as well as a small towns deadly secret.
Overall, I enjoyed the plot of this story. It's original and unexpected. I did like the bits of horror and gore throughout the story. I also think the setting gave the story a creepy, eerie ambience. The story itself is dark, spooky and it fills the reader with dread, hoping the MC triumphs. Without spoiling it, the “monster” is brutal and unforgiving. There will be death.
I didn't connect to the characters and I had to go back and read previous chapters to refresh my memory on a few of them. I'd like to see a bit more character development, but maybe that happens in future volumes. My favorite character was the Witch and I do wish there was more about her, perhaps it will be revealed in a future book as well. I enjoyed the overall spookiness of the witch and the descriptions of her and what she did to her victims.
The writing style of this book tends to be a little confusing for me, and there are added words that aren't needed. At times I found myself having to reread certain parts to absorb the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the horror elements, specifically with the witch character, but I feel like the book could have used another edit to eliminate extra words to help the story flow better. I recommend this book for readers who like a little mystery as well as creepy cults in the woods.
I received a copy of Abiding Sins: Volume 1, in exchange for an honest review.✨
I listened to this short story collection on audiobook. I enjoy short stories on audiobook because they are quick and to the point, therefore I don't become distracted or lost. I must say the narration and sound effects/music brought a spooky ambience. The narrator, Johnathan Sleep did an excellent job keeping my attention.
Chatterbox, Werewolf Cemetery, The Delivery and Vic were my favorites. Michael Jess Alexander did an excellent job with character development for such short stories. I love that this collection has many different themes, sci-fi, classic monsters, suicide, possession and a bonus of humor throughout the stories. I suggest checking out the audiobook for some bite-sized horror stories that deliver the scares at the end of the story. Perfect for a long drive.
Craig, Kerry, Tess, Landon and Angie all receive a cryptic message from their once good friend Paige, that ends with them all traveling back to a cabin they frequented during high school. Once there, drama unfolds due to past mistakes and tension between friends and ex lovers. To make matters worse, it's the cabin where one of their friends, Kyra, committed suicide and the guest are experiencing horrific hallucinations. Paige tries desperately to figure out what's going on, hoping to keep her circle of friends reunited.
It's always nice to see representation in books. The author includes characters of different race and sexual orientation, which gives the book that little extra. People can relate to characters, which is smart because it keeps readers interested.
Hooper has songs throughout the story which is a nice added touch.
The story is fast paced and if you enjoy drama, there's some of that too.
Hooper delivers the horror factor in the hallucinations the characters experience. It's scary how someone/something can get into your head and cause you to take actions you normally wouldn't. I also like the setting. Alone in a creepy cabin, hallucinating crazy scenarios and searching for a missing friend? That's a set up for disaster.
Overall Dead Friends by Miles Hooper is a fast paced, enjoyable read that's straightforward and delivers a perfect amount of scares.
Thank you so much for a copy of Dead Friends in exchange for an honest review
I like anthologies because they're short and to the point. In this anthology, Kev Harrison delivers thirteen stories that span multiple genres including horror, sci-fi, suspense and thriller. Each story is unique and bizarre, showcasing the authors dark, terrifying thoughts.
One thing that stood out in this collection is the variety of setting within each different story, which makes each story unique. The setting change definitely makes this collection stand out from others.
I particularly enjoyed the stories “Snap,” “The Fourth Wall,” “Contaminated,” “No Such Thing as a Free Lunch,” “The Waiting Game,” and “Communion,” with “The Fourth Wall” being my favorite.
Characters in the stories were fleshed out well and not shallow.
All of the stories were well written and the author's writing style is easy to read and enjoyable. I like how Harrison incorporates the right amount of supernatural in everyday situations.
If you enjoy short stories that span all different genres within the horror genre, this is for you.
Calisade Mountain College is like any typical party-school. If you're looking for a good time, go there. However, underneath the surface, something strange is happening. An alcoholic man hallucinates seeing his son that he never had. An officer of the law with a dirty secret for young coeds hears something strange on his radio. Amanda, a student at the college witnesses a suicide but when the police show, there's no body. One thing is certain, something is amiss, and there will be disaster in the near future.
Ungodly starts as a slow burn that builds a sense of mystery throughout the story. Each situation is unique and ties together, but how? The second half of the book picks up fast, and you're left racing to the end wondering how it will conclude. Ungodly is a book that you need to read through to grasp the story and enjoy it.
The book gives me a post-apocalyptic vibe, and delivers that “What if this really happened?,” fear and dread.
Braedon Riddick has excellent prose and his writing flows. Dialogue is kept light and not boring.
Ungodly has a creepy atmosphere that really absorbs you into the story. At times the story possessed Sci-if themes which I liked. I don't want to spoil it but I like what the author did with the “creatures” in the book. They were different which is always nice to see in horror.
Riddick's writing reminds me of Stephen King's earlier work and I love the similarities between the Dark Tower and the tower in Ungodly. All things serve the beam.
The Awakening is an excellent debut novella. The story is short and sweet and horrifying. Kirsten McCully delivered a story that nightmares are made of.
Her pacing was superb, leaving the reader yearning to see where the story goes, and it gets terrifying.
I loved the ending and the twist was both eerie and too close to home considering “it” could actually happen in the real world.
Definitely a must read.
The collection of poems is considered “horror” with some HP Lovecraft tones but I'd say it wasn't too horrific. I did like a few of the poems, as the meaning was clear and powerful but the rest fell short.
I don't understand using the terms “I is,” when “I am” would have allowed the poem to flow, but to each their own. The writing is confusing at times and a bit wordy. I understand poetry is different than novels but if the author wrote with more clarity, I feel their would be more positive feedback.
At times the topics were a bit shallow, specifically the poems about autographs from famous rappers. I don't understand the significance of celebrities.
One and done for me.
I received this as an e-ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A warning to readers, please heed the author's warning message as this book is disturbing.
Tortured Innocence follows a teenage girl named Nicole (Nikki) and her tragic, truly unlucky life. As a child Nicole witnesses her mother's murder by 2 nefarious men seeking revenge on her father who is in the Military. After the brutal incident, which Nicole witnessed, they relocate to a small town in the mountains where strange voices start to plague Nicole, as well as intense nightmares. Soon, Nicole's world will be turned upside down in a true tale of terror.
Ok, remind yourself to breathe and take breaks when reading this horrifying story. Nicole is dealt the most unlucky hand in life. Shantel Brunton wrote her characters so well that as a reader you feel for them and the experiences they go through. The more you read, the more you feel a sick dread creep up into your stomach. You think to yourself, ok this is about as bad as it gets, but there's always more...
Brunton sheds light on some tough topics, including something both scary and realistic; Stockholm Syndrome. The more I read, the more disturbing the relationship between Nicole and her captor became.
Also, if you enjoy books with a lot of torture and blood, this is the perfect read for you as there is plenty of that to go around.
The author adds an interesting twist when the Mecrathin, Twenty, starts to show his humanity with Nicole by allowing her an escape to her never-ending torture. Twenty uses the Joseph Campbell quote “ Find a place inside where there's joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.” That quote is perfect when describing Nicole's “safe-Haven” to her terrifying life in the Shadowlands. It goes to show what a person is willing to endure for a little piece of happiness.
I still find myself taken aback by what I read and this is definitely one of those books that get under your skin and stays there for quite awhile.
After Me, The Great Flood by Jayson Robert Ducharme does a good job portraying the descent into mental illness/depression. The reader can sympathize with the main character, as well as understand her mental decline. The book also sheds some light on dealing with addiction.
Ducharme does a good job with character development, specifically Ellis. Ellis is like-able, and interesting. The author does an excellent job showing relationships between characters, Lena and her mother, and Lena and Ellis.
For the first hundred pages not too much was happening and towards the end the plot was a bit everywhere for me. The well could be more of a focal point in the story considering it played a major role in the reason for the events. The ending of the book was interesting and I was eagerly waiting to read more about Lena's discovery in the well, ( I don't want to spoil that part) and would have liked to see more about the well in general (why it contains what is down there, etc)
Overall, an interesting read. I didn't dislike the book, I just wanted more horror elements and more story.
Includes spoilers
Hungry Hill by K.J. Sargeant is a disturbing novella that takes the reader into a world of terror, that is frightening and possible.
A small warning to readers, the content in this book is 18+ and does include graphic scenes so it's not for the faint of heart.
The story reads from multiple different character perspectives so understand that you will be jumping around. Although some readers don't like this style, Sargeant does it with ease.
Hungry Hill is a fast-paced, thrilling read that throws you right into the gore. The descriptions are disgusting, especially to those squeamish to bodily harm and death. K.J. Sargeant does a tremendous job creating visuals as you read that give the book that horrifying factor.
The setting of the story brings “Hills have eyes” and “Wrong Turn” vibes.
Sargeant's main characters are simple, but done well. As a reader, you find yourself rooting for the “good guys” You also find yourself scared for your own life imagining yourself in the situation.
Sargeant's shining star is the character Violet. Violet is violent, impulsive, scary and truly terrifying. She's also mentally messed up. I don't want to spoil too much so let's leave it at that.
I do like that Sargeant gives humanity to his monster towards the end.
Literally the only thing I didn't understand about the story was how the antagonist kept up their reign of terror without raising any suspicion.
K.J. Sargeant writes in a way that has you gobbling up the story chapter by chapter. Hungry Hill is bone-chilling.
Trigger Warnings: Suicide, Drug Use
This novella is inspired by the televised suicide of R. Budd Dwyer. A group of teenage friends were kicking it one Friday night and wanted to download some porn. Kind of like The days of Limewire and ThePirateBay. Well, in their search for Farrah Fawcett they come across an unusual, disturbing video of a man shooting himself in the head, ultimately killing himself (obviously) After watching the video, each teen has nightmares about killing themselves in the same fashion as Congressman Benjamin Hardy (the man in the video) They also experience disturbing hallucinations. Come to find out, each person that watches the video becomes haunted by it, almost like a chain letter.
I enjoyed this book for a few reasons.
First, Keislings writing style is great. It hooks you and makes you want to read more. He knows how to set the tone. I also felt some vibes from the movie The Ring with the whole chainletter/video arc.
That leads me to my second reason, and that's the tone and mood of the novella. I could feel the characters dread. Reading this book was enjoyable but uncomfortable at the same time. I like to be brought out of my comfort zone so Keisling put a good impression on me with this one.
Lastly I enjoyed this book because Keisling wrote from personal experience making the story more realistic and believable.
Overall Scanlines gets 4/5 stars for its overall creepiness, dread and interesting storyline.
3.5⭐️. It wasn't bad. I will give the author credit because he writes well and his attention to detail is superb. I loved the descriptions of the aliens and other space creatures/plants etc.. The storyline was unique. I gave it a 3.5 because I wasn't afraid of anything in this novella and I didn't feel a sense of fear or an atmosphere of fear like other readers had mentioned in their reviews. Perhaps that is due to personal preference? However, it's not a bad read and I would read it again in the future. I'm also interested in future works by Russell Coy. It's a nice addition to my bookshelf.
Wow, where do I begin? I'm kind of mad at myself for not reading this sooner. This is a disturbing book. I can't even begin to get my thoughts down about this one. Haunting, terrifying and sad. The pacing of the story was perfect. Ketchum writes so well, I'm officially hooked to read more of his work. I will write more of a review once I process the story a bit more and let it sit with me.
Okay so I have a few things to say about this novella. The story was interesting and definitely unique but I realized I just wanted it to be over. I expected something different. With the title Night of the Mannequins I expected creepy mannequins popping up around town or something more spooky.
This is my first time reading Stephen Graham Jones and I don't know if I'm a fan. His writing is too wordy and kind of veers off often with descriptions and tidbits I feel are unnecessary for the story. To be honest, I feel like there are too many run-on sentences that make the story confusing and overwhelming at points. It's like an information overload. I want to read his other works specifically The Only Good Indians, but I'm reluctant to because I could barely get through a novella of only 131 pages. I can't imagine trying to read an entire novel of run on sentences and extra descriptive words. It sounds tedious and boring. I gave the novella 1 star. I did enjoy some parts of the story but his writing style is not for me.
