Wednesday, 27 September 2023
This Novella is Done!
Thursday, 21 September 2023
THE FOLLY by Gemma Armor

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was lucky enough to get an eARC copy of this novella and couldn't wait to get stuck into it.
After being convicted for the murder of his wife, Morgan's father spent six years in jail. Now that he's been released, she's determined to help him get back into the swing of life outside of prison. It starts with selling their tainted house and heading to the coast to stay in The Folly. A place in a lovely but harsh setting that hopefully helps heal past wounds. But strange things happen almost instantly, and Morgan has to face a reality she's been trying very hard to avoid...
Wow. What an intriguing novella!
I was hooked on this story straight away. Morgan's tragic situation dragged me in as quickly as the strength of her voice. It doesn't take long to realise that although she shares so much, she's obviously holding back certain details. And I couldn't stop reading.
When the weird and super creepy stuff hit, I was riveted. Totally hooked on the events that turned everything upside down. Suddenly, nothing seemed normal anymore, or remotely okay, and I shared Morgan's confusion and suspicion.
This is the kind of tale that grips the reader so tightly, it refuses to let go. I wanted to speed through, to get to the nitty-gritty of the mystery at the heart of everything. At the same time, I wanted to take my time because I didn't want it to end.
I think the pacing is as perfect as the ominous shadow that seems to follow Morgan and Owen. No matter what's happening, the dread is always there, dripping from every page.
Another beautiful thing about this novella is the location. This coastal structure Morgan and her father are staying in seems to have a life of its own, is as cruel as the ocean always ready to steal away careless souls. Not to mention how well the pandemic fits in with everything that's going on.
The Folly is an amazing story that delves deep into the effects of close familial ties after a horrifying tragedy. It's about how the past is never really gone, and shows that secrets have a way of festering. Until one day, everyone has to face their greatest fears.
I really loved everything about this tale, and the ending was unexpected. In the best way possible.
Wednesday, 20 September 2023
Still Revising...
How are you today?
Friday, 15 September 2023
PRE-APPROVED FOR HAUNTING AND OTHER STORIES by Patrick Barb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I'd like to thank the publisher for sending me an eARC of this short story collection.
The first thing I want to mention is the cover, which seems very simple at first glance, but perfectly sets the tone for the eighteen dark stories within.
PRE-APPROVED FOR HAUNTING AND OTHER STORIES is packed full of strange and weird tales featuring a cast of very different characters who lead their own personal haunted lives. No story is the same in theme or even format. But they're all an interesting variation of horror in its many forms, and each one stands out for its own eerie reason/s.
As is typical with collated tales, some grabbed me more than others. My personal favourites are: Lost Boy Found in His Bear Suit because of its subtle but strong horror, A Portrait of the Artist as an Angry God (in Landscape) because it's a fever dream of art and obsession, Rose from the Ashes because it's an intriguing revenge fantasy, Iggy Crane and the Headless Horse Girl because it's fascinating, and The Giallo Kid in the Cataclysm’s Campgrounds because it's slasher with a difference.
Another thing I really like are the actual story titles. There are some very clever and creative titles in this bunch.
Overall, I really enjoyed this collection.
Thursday, 14 September 2023
PARASOCIAL by Wendy Dalrymple

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Firstly, I want to thank the author for sending me an ARC of this very freaky book.
Casey is nineteen and barely pays attention to the people in her real life. She likes animals and works in a pet store, but her obsession is social media. She's especially into StreamVid and idolises Della. When Della gets sick, Casey decides to set up a fund for medical expenses, but her helpful nature leads to an unexpected nightmare...
Wow. 😳
This novella is one hell of a ride! As soon as I started reading Casey's story, I was hooked and didn't stop until I finished. That's right, I read it in one sitting.
There's nothing better than a cautionary horror tale wrapped in a seriously messed-up social commentary package. And this one packs quite a punch.
I really liked Casey, and often sympathised with her helpful nature. While also cringing because the way she gets swept up in someone she doesn't really know is a situation that is often seen online. For every authentic person, there are a hundred with nefarious intentions. And this story takes that reality and spins it upside down, turns it into a super creepy story with a touch of body horror and plenty of gross imagery.
Like I said, this is highly addictive and relentless, kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last word.
Well, this is another Wendy Dalrymple gem! I seriously love Wendy's addictive writing style, and can't get enough.
View all my reviews
Wednesday, 13 September 2023
I'm back in Revision Town!
Hey! How's it going?
FUNNYBONES by Allan Ahlberg & Tim Burton's the Nightmare Before Christmas Colouring book

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a kid's book my husband showed me because he thought I might like it. Of course I was interested. Not only does it feature skeletons, which I love, but the cover glows in the dark!
And I really enjoyed it.
The skeleton family consists of an adult, a kid, and a dog. They live in a basement and decide to go for a walk one night. It's really all harmless fun that does have a bit of a creepy edge. I mean, they're skeletons. 😅
It's a lot of fun and it's going on my keeper shelf.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Yeah, you better believe I'm going to review this lovely colouring book. 😁
The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of my favourite movies. It's also one of my favourite things to collect. I love anything featuring Jack and Sally. And that explains why my husband picked this up for me!
Seriously, though. The illustrations are very pretty. So pretty I don't think I'll be able to do any actual colouring in. 😅
Saturday, 9 September 2023
HIDE by Kiersten White

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the next book hubby chose for me, and it's another good one!
Fourteen seemingly very different people are selected to play a game in an abandoned amusement park. They have to survive a week of hiding. The last one standing gets $50,000. Except, the odds are stacked against them because there's something they didn't expect...
I REALLY enjoyed this book! I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't wait to find out how everything was going to end. And when I eventually got there, after the heart-pounding race to the conclusion, I was very pleased.
Definitely made all the sacrifice, the lies and gore worth it. The roller-coaster might be out of commission at Amazement Park, but this story is one hell of a thrill ride.
The story starts with Mack, a woman who survived a very traumatic ordeal and carries the guilt with her. Getting a place in this game is her way out of the miserable existence she's found herself in. But she's not the only character. And we catch a glimpse of a LOT of other POVs, which adds to the tension.
Other than Mack, who I really liked, Ava was great. And so was Brandon and LeGrand. A group of selfless individuals who didn't know what they needed was the camaraderie they discover.
I also liked the very interesting reveal about what's really happening and why.
Not only is this a very entertaining horror survival story about a group of damaged people who find a common goal, but it's also a very clever commentary of the injustices in this world.
Had a great time with this book!
Wednesday, 6 September 2023
YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO DIE TONIGHT by Kalynn Bayron

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Yesterday, I was looking for a book to read, but because I have SO MANY on my TBR pile and want to read all of them at the same time, I got my husband to pick one for me.
And he picked this one! ☺️
During the summer, Charity is the 'final girl' in a horror camp simulation game in the middle of nowhere. Here, she works with a group of fellow teenagers who welcome groups of people who want to have the experience of 'surviving' a slasher. In the same location where one was actually filmed in the early 80s. But this year, the staff are leaving without notice, there are strange sounds coming from the lake, and it's obvious something weird is going on...
Wow. What a great slasher! I love that it fits so well within the subgenre expectations, yet still provides a unique twist. And that ending! 😳
The story is narrated by Charity, who is a final girl to the core. She takes her job seriously, her responsibilities are the most important thing, and she's a caring, concerned friend who wants to keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, this is a slasher and we all know how hard it is to stay out of danger. Let alone, survive the night.
Still, I really liked her voice and determination. No matter what, she wanted to keep pushing through all the obstacles in her way. And trust me when I say, there were many.
I REALLY enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more stories written by this author. I like her writing style. The narrative and bleak situations were as well-written as the gore. And I was on the edge of my seat all the way through.
Awesome fun! 🔪
View all my reviews
Friday, 1 September 2023
The Revision is Done!
Friday, 25 August 2023
More Revision!
Thursday, 17 August 2023
Revision Time!
Hey! How are you today? I know I'm a little late, but welcome to August. Yay.
Have a great day!!
Thursday, 10 August 2023
MY FIRST BOOK OF GIRL POWER by Julie Merberg

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My husband found this book today while we were thrifting, and of course we had to buy it. I mean, it's a book about girl power featuring a bunch of very cool women who also happen to be superheroes.
I think this is a terrific way of introducing comic book heroes to kids. I think both girls and boys would benefit from reading this. Little girls so they can feel represented, and little boys so they learn early that it's not only men who can be superheroes. Besides, the characters in this book will appeal to everyone.
The pictures are bright and lovely. The superpowers are simplified perfectly for a much younger audience. And I love the message.
Oh, and I might not be the target audience, but I really enjoyed this book! 😁
KINDRED by Octavia E. Butler

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I've had this book on my TBR pile for a while. It was one I found during our pre-Covid thrifting. So, I decided to see if I liked the sounds of it... and once I started, I couldn't stop reading.
On her twenty-sixth birthday, Dana is transported from her comfortable life in 1976 to another time. A time in history when white people used slaves and didn't much value anything or anyone. While she struggles to find the reason why this is happening, she's forced to endure awful hardships that alter her life forever...
Wow. Saying that I really enjoyed this book sounds both blasphemous and accurate. It's such a powerful work of fiction, an essential book that delves deep into the harsh and unjust lives of slaves in the nineteenth century. What Dana is forced to endure, as well as what she witnesses and hears about what others are put through, is despicable. And so very sad.
I was uncomfortable during most of this book. My heart broke with every new chapter. I found Dana's voice compelling and strong. A modern woman who is thrust into a past that is full of danger for someone like her. And in spite of all the cruelty and pain, she remains determined to see this mysterious circumstance to the very end.
While I REALLY liked Dana and Kevin, as well as Nigel, Alice, Sarah, Carrie, and all the other unforgettable slaves, I DESPISED Rufus and John. Actually, all the white people (except for Kevin) in this book were atrocious. Absolutely vulgar and heartless. A product of their time and willing to be awful just to satisfy their own status. Utterly disgusting.
Anyway, I have a lot to say about that, but I won't. Instead, I'll praise this extraordinary piece of literature.
Tuesday, 8 August 2023
SCARLETT by Brian Bowyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I picked this up and read it in one sitting. Yes, it's that good!
Myla's had a bad year and pretty much lost everyone she cared about. At least she's still got her job, which is how she ends up getting back into dating. With some unexpected consequences...
As soon as I started reading this novelette, it hooked me in. I felt so bad for Myla because she suffered a lot of heartache and loss in the last year. No wonder she has trust issues and isn't keen on dating. But then she agrees to meet a mysterious man. He's good looking and seems nice enough, but the story he shares is a lot more interesting than he could ever be.
That's how Myla meets the painting. The one made from the blood of the victim. One who has a lot to say to anyone who will listen.
I love the unpredictability of this short tale. It's fast-paced, fascinating, and leads to a very satisfying conclusion.
Brian's writing style grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go until you've raced from start to finish. And then you want to grab another one of his books!
View all my reviews
REAL LIFE SUCKS LOSERS DRY by Cassandra Daucus

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I picked up a copy of this novella the other day and was looking forward to reading it. I mean, look at that awesome cover. And how can I resist a book named after a quote from Heathers? I love that movie!
When Blade—Archibald to everyone but himself—meets the new girl in school, he's totally smitten. Chrissy is different and she actually likes him. Listens to him. And even though she keeps him at a safe distance, she does make him feel good. Until everything changes...
OMG. This story is SO engrossing. I almost read it in one sitting, but it got too late and I had to put it aside to get some sleep.
Anyway, I really enjoyed this vulgar little tale from the POV of a guy who's only real concern is getting off. 😅 So, when he meets a girl who seems to match his energy, he's ecstatic. Except, all is not as it seems. And before Blade realises what he's doing and what is happening, it's too late.
This is a great, bloody story with a nightmarish vibe. Definitely worth checking out.
Monday, 7 August 2023
D&D DUNGEON CLUB: ROLL CALL by Molly Knox Ostertag

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have to admit that I'm not a huge D&D fan and have never actually played the game. But between Stranger Things and the Dungeons & Dragons movie, I've managed to enjoy D&D from an outsider's perspective.
So when we found this graphic novel for a bargain price over the weekend, we picked it up. And I thought I'd give it a go.
Olivia and Jess are best friends who attend middle school. They're also D&D fans and have been for years. When Olivia wants to invite other players to join them, Jess is opposed to the idea and their friendship hits a rough patch...
Well, this turned out to be an utter delight! The characterisation is amazing. Not to mention how easily these characters managed to weave their way into my head and affect me emotionally. Olivia is an outgoing nice girl who wants to make new friends. Jess is a shy introvert who is happy with the way things are. There's a lot about her past that has shaped and twisted her, made her mistrust and not want to get to know anyone else.
She's also getting bullied, which only adds to her anger and frustration. And when those two emotions combine, she ends up hurting the one person she truly cares about. 😫
Seriously, this is such a great story about friendship and growing up. About not letting the past sour the present, and realising that new people aren't the enemy. It's also about two very creative girls who love D&D.
Loved the artwork, too.
E.T. by Arie Kaplan & Chris Fennell + JAWS by Geof Smith & Kaysi Smith + BACK TO THE FUTURE by Arie Kaplan & Meg Dunn

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was really young when E.T. was released back in the 80s, and I went to the cinema to watch the movie. I never forgot this adorable alien, or the human friends who loved him enough to help him find his way home. 😢
The story contained within the pages of this adorable Little Golden Book might be simplified, but it still captures the magic and wonder that E.T. always brings out in me. The illustrations are beautiful and bright.
I loved everything about this. It's definitely a keeper! 🛸
View all my reviews

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As soon as I saw this book, I HAD to have it. I mean, it's Jaws. A classic movie we've all watched and enjoyed at one time or another. Sometimes more than once.
I was also very curious about how they would adapt such a violent and bloody story to make it kid-friendly. Well, they TOTALLY did. Not only is this set in the same place and has the same characters, but it constantly mentions the iconic music we all know and love—Da-dum, Da-dum.
And Jaws, well, if you're wondering how that man-eating shark can be portrayed as cute, you'll have to read this beautiful book. Loved the ending, too.
This one's another keeper! 🦈
View all my reviews

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ah, Back to Future. Another 80s classic! Who can ever forget Marty McFly and Doc? No one, I suppose.
This is another cute adaptation that follows the story exactly the same way the movie did. It's a lot simpler and very fast-paced, but it's very much the same. Unfortunately, though, even a Little Golden Book with its pretty illustrations and bright colours, can't erase the cringe situation between Marty and his mum in the 50s. 😬
This will be a lovely addition to the growing library! 🕔⚡
Friday, 4 August 2023
A little (unexpected) writing...
How are you today?
Well, I didn't expect to be posting any sort of update this early in the month, but productivity hits when it wants to. LOL.
As the title states, I wasn't planning on starting a new writing project this month. Instead, my plan was to revise the novella I wrote in June. I mean, I would still like to tackle this revision, but had to push it back a bit.
During one of my daily afternoon walks a few weeks ago, a new story idea struck. It's an unexpected tale that came out of nowhere. It's also one that I dismissed as soon as it struck. I mean, there was no way this story was going to work! 😅
The problem is, the next day more moving parts slid into my mind. Still, I didn't want to commit. I already had plans to revise and besides, this thing that wanted to be written was not going to happen. Seriously. How could it when I kept fighting against it?
Yet, in spite my own personal protests, bits and pieces continued to swamp my brain. So, I finally stopped fighting and decided to start taking notes...
Before I realised what was happening, I had PAGES full of stuff. I even started doing research, and naming characters, casting them too. This story was demanding to be told and wasn't going to take no for an answer.
Finally, against my better judgement, I gave it a go. Tried it on for size. And I kept writing, writing, and writing some more.
Here's how it all went down:
- 26/7: 4,563w (+2344 to original beginning)
- 27/7: 7,454w (+2891)
- 28/7: 11,128w (+3674)
- 31/7: 15,112w (+3984)
- 1/8: 19,687w (+4575)
- 2/8: 23,256w (+3,569)
- 3/8: 27,498w (+4242)
- 4/8: 30,161w (+2663)
Sunday, 30 July 2023
Where did July go?
Hey! How are you today? Can you believe this month is almost over? Personally, I think July went a bit too fast. Not sure why, but that's just how it feels to me. 😬
Well, we're currently in the middle of winter, but you wouldn't know it because the weather has been quite warm. Sure, it's still cold in the morning and at night, but the days are quite warm.
I usually take it easy in July. Mainly because it's my birthday month. I ended up doing a bit of reading, a bit of subbing, and a lot of thinking. Pretty much a bit of everything in equal small measure. 😅
We also went to the dentist and got some blood tests done. And my head has been full of stuff. Not just a bunch of different ideas forming at their own pace, but also lots of thoughts about my online presence.
If you've been reading my blog for any amount of time, you know how much I enjoy Twitter. But the new owner has decided to make it really hard to spend time over there. After fourteen years, I find myself slowly stepping away.
I even set up Instagram and Threads accounts.
So, if you're over there and I haven't found you yet, please feel free to find me. 😁
I also have a Substack newsletter. Actually, I posted a little more about my Twitter/Threads thoughts yesterday.
BTW, can you believe that my horror novella has been out in the wild for over a month and has over 80 ratings on Goodreads?! I can't believe it. It's so exciting to know that readers are actually checking out my story.
Whether you like it or not, THANK YOU for checking it out!!
Well, I guess that's about it for now. It hasn't been a very productive writing month but I did get an unexpected idea that I've kinda started writing. And a few almost-there rejections, which always get me like this: 😫... before I dust myself off and shrug away the sting.
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, 20 July 2023
SILVER NITRATE by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Wednesday, 12 July 2023
I AM AI by Ai Jiang

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A few weeks ago, I was very lucky and won a copy of this adorable novelette. I've been itching to read it since it arrived and tonight, I finally got the chance to sit down and enjoy it.
Okay, let me make something clear about my use of the word adorable. The subject matter isn't what's adorable, it's the actual book. Not only is the cover bright and gorgeous, but the actual paperback is small and very aesthetically pleasing. I also consider myself very lucky to have a signed copy.
Now, onto this wonderful story. 😁
Ai is a cyborg, but she's also a writer who has managed to keep enough of her humanity to stand out with her AI writing program. That still hasn't gotten her out of debt, and no amount of subscribers can help her keep up with personal maintenance. She's tired of the constant fight to stay charged and craves the silence an absence of emotion could provide...
I absolutely loved this tiny little tale that is full of heart, even though it's wrapped inside a very bleak package of the future. Ai's world is dystopian, and although everyone has access to augmentation, many still live under the shadow of the city's repressive lights.
This is such a terrific tale for many reasons. Found family is always something that gets me, and the support system around her is exactly that. Kind hearted people surviving within an oppressive city where everything has been stripped away but they still manage to actually care about each other is bound to get my attention. And all of the above definitely gels these characters together.
As well as the writing, of course. Ai's voice (both the character and the author) is very strong and kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. I couldn't put it down and loved every minute of it.
It's a heartfelt story about what it means to be human. Or what it means to resent our own humanity.
Anyway, I don't want to say anything else because that would mean getting into spoiler territory and I'm not going to go there. I think you should definitely check this out. You won't regret it.
View all my reviews
Sunday, 9 July 2023
ALIVE UNDEAD by Brian Bowyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love vampires in all of their undead glory, so when I found out that Brian Bowyer had a vamp story available, I couldn't wait to check it out.
Valkolar is a very old vampire. Delarosa is a faithless priest. Jamie and Kirsten are young lovers looking for music and adventure. Olivia and Sirius are gifted undead children living their lives recklessly. Naomi is an ambitious musician with an alcohol problem. Mohammed stalks the night. And Rosalie, she's a whole different kind of monster...
Well, this is one hell of a violent and bloody ride! And I enjoyed every gory minute of it.
The fast-paced pages of this book are fuelled by short and crisp chapters that grab you by the throat and refuse to let go. There are a lot of dark characters in this depraved tale, but every single one feels different and their alternating POVs move the overall story until you're thrust headfirst into the shocking conclusion.
I do have to mention that this isn't for the squeamish, or for anyone who can't bring themselves to read violence against children. But if you can stomach extreme horror of the true-crime kind, mixed with an interesting take on vampirism, then this book is definitely worth your time.
Personally, I was hooked from beginning to end, and couldn't wait to find out where everything was going to go. And where everyone was going to land.
I look forward to checking out more books written by Brian.
View all my reviews
Wednesday, 5 July 2023
THE DISMEMBERED by Jonathan Janz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I'm going to start this review by saying that I love the cover for this novella. It reminds me of those old gothic covers from yesteryear, but also totally captures the story vibes.
Arthur Pearce is an American writer who has escaped to England because his marriage fell apart. But his plans to write a new novel change during a chance meeting with Sarah Coyle. A stranger who asks for his help, and her strange situation captures his imagination so much, that Arthur finds himself at the stunning Altarbrook, in the middle of some unexpected trouble...
Well, this was a fantastic story! I was captivated from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see where Arthur was going to end up. And boy, it didn't disappoint.
Not only is this story gothic to the core in the way of characters, locations, plot, and lavish households, but it's also quite adventurous. It's unpredictable and violent. Plus so bloody, in the most menacing and crude way. I loved every moment of it.
Actually, I loved everything about this novella, but have to give a special mention to Lizzie. She's such a great character, and SO freaking cool.
Another brilliant thing about this gothic nightmare are all the female characters. None was a damsel, and each had their very own good and not-so good traits.
Oh, and Arthur was pretty cool, too.
I enjoyed this so much!
View all my reviews
Friday, 30 June 2023
June Update!
Hey! How are you today? What have you been up to? Can you believe we're halfway into 2023 already?!
Yikes. Where does the time go, right?
In Oz, June means winter, and you (probably) already know this is my least favourite season. 😫 I have to admit that it took longer than usual for the cold to settle in but now that it's here, it's seeping into my bones. FFS. I hate feeling cold. I much prefer spring and summer. Autumn used to be nice, too. But now the seasons are all muddled up anyway.
On to other things...
In case you missed it, my horror novella, SUFFER THE DARKNESS, was released by DarkLit Press almost two weeks ago, and it's been a whirlwind of awesomeness.
Check it out:
Thursday, 29 June 2023
EERIELLA: SUPER-FIEND by Sophie Ingley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was really looking forward to reading this story because I love the cover and the concept sounded so cool.
After a really bad night, in which Ella gets dumped by her girlfriend and gets so drunk she doesn't remember a single thing, she wakes up the next day without a hangover. But there's a painful, lumpy growth on her knee. One that slowly transforms her into something else...
Well, this gory and bloody novelette turned out to be such a fun trip!
Not only is Ella a very cool and interesting character, but the strange situation she's thrown into had me turning the gruesome pages fast because I couldn't wait to find out what was happening to her. I was also totally intrigued by her mysterious friend, and when the twists and turns started to take me into unexpected and exciting territory, I couldn't stop until the truth was revealed.
And it didn't disappoint.
Loved this quirky, wicked tale. 😈
Wednesday, 28 June 2023
THE HIBISCUS AND THE GRAVE by Wendy Dalrymple

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In 1920, a new governess arrives at Hibiscus House, an estate on Tybee Island, GA. As soon as she gets there, she has a good feeling about the place and instantly likes the little girl she'll be looking after. She even likes the owner of the estate, but it doesn't take long before strange things start to happen...
Wow. I was hooked from start to finish, and couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next.
The Rebecca vibes are felt throughout this lovely gothic gem, but it's got a unique style that sweeps you under until you get to the end. The mysterious circumstances are both spooky and intriguing, and the atmosphere is so strong I could taste the salt in the air. Felt the cold seep into my bones because every description about the old, but grand house is so very lush.
Not to mention how much I liked the characters because they all felt authentic in their own way. Each had a role to play, and played it well. I also enjoyed the touch of romance.
Well, I absolutely LOVED this! It's another fantastic Wendy Dalrymple book. She's got an addictive writing style that really appeals to my reading tastes.
Thursday, 15 June 2023
BELOW ECONOMIC THRESHOLDS by Adam Hulse

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Here's another novella I've been looking forward to getting stuck into that didn't disappoint.
After a brutal civil war, demons stalk the slums where the starving people are trying to survive. Kurt works for the Agency to get rid of the demonic pests stalking the buildings, and his payment is barely enough to feed him. But when he stumbles on a plan to rebel, Kurt gets caught up in a fight he can't walk away from...
Well, this is a fast-paced, action-packed ride through a very bleak future! And I mean that in the best way possible because I couldn't put it down.
This story is sad and infuriating because people are treated like scum just because they're in a dire situation that wasn't even their fault. It totally echoes a lot of the shitty things that are going on right now in our world because the rich are never satisfied and continually want to oppress everyone. And that's before considering the vermin who are willing to do their bidding. Wilkes, I'm looking at you. 😐
Sure, Kurt and all the other poor but brave souls live in a dystopian version of our world with the added problem of demonic beings, but the social commentary in this novella is very familiar and perfectly woven into a violent, dystopian story with intriguing supernatural elements.
Another thing I really enjoyed were the main characters. I mean, Kurt is suffering from severe PTSD and leads a very lonely life, yet he's still empathetic and willing to help whenever he can. They're all very relatable and sympathetic, totally had me cheering for them every step of the way.
This is another excellent book by a very talented author.
View all my reviews
Wednesday, 14 June 2023
28 DAYS SASSIER by Damien Casey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I've had my eye on this novella for a while, so I'm glad I finally got the chance to check it out.
Jim Tiptree is the last man on Earth. It was just his luck to be left behind when humans escaped to another dimension after a goblin invasion. As the lonely days go by, he slowly realises that he's actually not the last one left on Earth. There's also Bigfoot...
OMG. This book is hilarious. I couldn't stop cackling because it was just SO MUCH FUN!
Okay, the situation Jim finds himself in is quite disturbing: the world is overrun by deadly goblins who eat concrete. The idea of these creatures is outrageously funny. Yet, also quite terrifying. I swear these little assholes reminded me of those rude Gremlins.
If only they were the worst of it, though. Imagine being left behind with a bunch of conspiracy nuts. Ugh. The thought makes me ill.
I really enjoyed this story because it's original and quirky. Jim's voice is interesting and humorous. What he goes through is both funny and scary. I mean, there might be a lot of lighthearted stuff going on here, but there's still plenty of violence and horror packed within these pages.
And finally, I have to mention Bigfoot. Who turns out to be a charming and super cool character who surprised me every step of the way.
This is a great post-apocalyptic adventure with extra sass.
View all my reviews
Tuesday, 13 June 2023
HUNGERS AS OLD AS THIS LAND by Zachary Rosenberg

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I've been looking forward to reading this novella for several weeks now, and it didn't disappoint.
Esther and Siobhan live in the safe and prosperous town of Grey's Bluffs with Esther's father. In order to stay safe, they have a pact with the Hungers who dwell in the nearby mountains. But during their latest trip, they cross paths with Cyril, a man from her father's past who now leads the unscrupulous Blackhawks and has gold in his sights...
I really enjoyed everything about this story, which turned out to be a fast-paced and very entertaining novella through some rough terrain, interesting characters, and even darker secrets.
The heroines in this story are tough, devoted, and never sway from their loyalty to their people or each other. The villains are despicable men who only have violence and wealth on their minds. As for the monsters, I loved how they were portrayed and thought they took up just enough page time to make them fascinating without revealing everything.
Sometimes, less is more. And that's why I liked this approach to the Hungers.
This story is also very well written, and features a sweet love story between two strong women with even stronger ties to their Jewish faith.
A great addition to the splatter western genre!
Sunday, 11 June 2023
A little writing...
I can't believe it's already June! Yikes. 😳
In Oz, this means that winter is here. As you might already know, I'm not a big fan of winter. I don't like the cold and definitely have a hard time adapting to shorter days. But this year, I'm trying not to let it get me down too much. I'm also trying not to concentrate on the rising Covid numbers. I mean, no one else seems to care anymore, right?
Also, not having Loki around makes me sad because he used to get really affectionate during the colder weather. It's been over three months since he passed away and I still miss him every day. We used to spend most of the day together, so it's hard sometimes. There are a lot of reminders around the apartment, and I can't seem to shake the sadness whenever I think about him.
So much, that I ended up spending the last few weeks writing a story that first came about because of how much his loss is affecting me.
I think it's easier to add the tweet I posted about it because it explains what I mean:
Thursday, 8 June 2023
EXPECTATIONS by B.T. Hayes

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this novel and I have to say, I was hooked as soon as I started reading.
This story doesn't waste any time getting started and throws the reader into a very violent and confronting scene. Who is this man and why is he doing this? How did we get here? But there are enough hints to start putting the clues together when we're introduced to the main characters.
I enjoyed the way the three POVs flow with each other and allow the story to grow. Jamie and Dale are such great narrators, two smart kids who finally get together and face a lot more trouble than they suspect. I also couldn't shake the unnerving dread. The closer I got to the end, the more I didn't want to get there.
Expectations is an engrossing and very disturbing read that I couldn't put down. On one hand, it's about the normal everyday complications. On the other, it's about the depravity of the human mind when exposed to stimuli secretly craved but not realised. It's also quite sad, really. And definitely delivers a devastating knockout.
Definitely worth your time.
View all my reviews
Friday, 2 June 2023
Q&A with Nico Bell
I have a guest on my blog today. Nico Bell writes awesome horror stories and she's dropping in for a Q&A.
Hi Nico. Congratulations on your latest release.
1. What was the inspiration behind your new book?
My insomnia mixed in with my addiction to Zillow! These two ended up sparking my idea to write a haunted house story but in a mansion where all of the locks are controlled by smart tech. This was an important element of the story and one that gave the villain a little more latitude with their scheme.
2. You described your novella as 'a twist on a haunted house' story, can you expand on that?
Haunted house stories are a blast because there’s so many ways the plot can turn! For example, in the movie Poltergeist, we see a supernatural haunting, while in Shirley Jackson’s House on Haunted Hill, a case can be made that the real haunting was happening within the mind of the protagonist. Sometimes ghosts aren’t exactly who they seem to be, like in the movie The Others (2001), or sometimes the ghosts are family, like in The Amityville Horror. When I say a “twist” on a haunted house, I’m referring to the way a ghost story can be so much more than a spooky spirit lurking in the shadows, just as they are in these examples.
3. If you were only allowed three adjectives to describe your book, what would they be?
Wicked, wild, and fast! It’s a quick fun read!
4. What came first Caleb, the mysterious woman, or the house?
The house started the brainstorming process. I wanted to dive into the haunted house world and come up with something fun! Then, I developed Caleb, and it’s actually my first time publishing a book with a male protagonist. I typically write largely femme, if not entirely women, casts, but it just made sense to write from his point-of-view. The mystery woman was always lurking around in my brain, but I developed her last. It was important to get her motives right, so she required a bit more work.
5. If your book was made into a movie, who would play the leads?
I envisioned Caleb as a smoothing talking, young, arrogant man who cares a little too much about his appearance. I think an actor like Timothée Chalamet would pull that off. The mystery woman is a clever antagonist who is the perfect match for Caleb’s ego. In my mind, I was picturing Scarlett Johansson.
6. Are you a plotter, a pantser, or a combination of both?
When I started writing, I was 100% plotter. Outlines were my lifeline to story writing. As I’ve gotten a little more comfortable with writing and character development, I’ve be able to incorporate a bit of “pantsing” into the process. I usually do fast drafts of the first act and the middle of the book, and then I go back and plot everything out. This helps ensure that there is enough material to work with.
7. Authors always have the best (and most disturbing!) Google search histories. What kind of research, if any, did you do for this book?
I researched a lot of million-dollar homes. I saw one with its very own spa and hair salon, which was wild to me. I also researched home security systems and how smart tech has been incorporated into those.
8. How much research do you do for your stories?
The amount of research usually depends on the project. For example, I have a sci-fi horror novella coming out October 2023 entitled Static. That one required a bit more since I wanted to explore technology and the supernatural. I’m currently working on a sapphic vampire horror which I’ve been researching a ton in order to have a strong foundation for my vampire lore. For Open House, I researched a few key ideas and then got to drafting!