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sdsmith80's reviews
68 reviews
Candy Cain Kills by Brian McAuley
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I love Brian McAuley! Seriously, Curse of the Reaper is one of my favorite novels ever so when I got a chance to check out this quick novella from him, I leapt at the chance to read it. It did not disappoint in the least.
This was a quick read, I finished it in a couple of hours over one of my many sleepless nights. It was fun, gory, and the twists were great. Even when I thought I knew what was coming next, it occasionally surprised me, while still following the typical 80’s style slasher format.
If you’re looking for a fun, well written, holiday read, you REALLY need to check this one out!
Let The Woods Keep Our Bodies by E.M. Roy
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
Ugh, I’ve been in a writing slump and am so far behind on my reviews! So apologies to the author for this late review. It had everything to do with me.
I was pretty excited for this book based on the description, especially that it was a cross between the X-Files and My Best Friend’s Exorcism, which is by one of my top three favorite authors, so I knew that I had to check it out!
Right away I was drawn in when Leo’s dog was injured in the woods. My dog had recently been hurt, so it was a great hook, personally. I loved Leo and Tate’s love story, and how Leo had tried to defend Tate’s honor. The detective was so unlikeable, which I believe was the goal, especially with his ableism. Also Tate was an interesting character. As likable as she was most of the time, she also took some actions that were creepy at the least, and scary at the worst.
The last part of the book lost me a bit. It got weird very quickly, however I had a hard time comprehending what actually happened and how it all worked. So that part wasn’t really for me, I do prefer to know how the things in a book happen, but I know that many will love the unexplainable quality to the end of the story.
Overall I think that if you’re a fan of a love story with a mysterious dive into the unknown, you should check this out.
The Last Haunt by Max Booth III
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
5.0
<b>Extreme haunts are tragedies in the making</b>
As soon as I heard about this novella, I knew I had to read it. My husband has worked in haunts off and on since the mid 90's, and a lot of the people in the industry are still our friends. Hell, the Queen of Screams (owner of Rocky Point Haunted House) herself was at our wedding. So to say I'm hungry for any horror based in that world would be an understatement.
The first thing I have to say is just how real it all feels. The cop is a total asshole, and seems reluctant to actually do his job. The description of the kinds of people that become actors, special effects artists, and even open haunts is also true to life. It takes all kinds, and I know our local community happily calls themselves "Freaks". Many of the people are on the fringes of society, and haunting gives them a place to call home.
As for the depiction of Gus McKinley and his "extreme haunt", it's very true that real haunters, the ones that are in it for the joy of giving someone a scare, do not accept these extreme places as haunts. I like that we get to see a little of the motivations that bring someone to open a place like this. Of course we can't really get inside the minds of the people who do it in real life, but I feel that this author is probably pretty close.
I love the way that this book shows how these places can easily go wrong, and why they should be heavily regulated, if showed to exist at all. They aren't about the scares, they're about true torture, and holding that power over someone. Honestly, I believe that this author is also spot on about the prize that some of these places offer. It's nothing more than a truck to lure in more people, but isn't actually real.
I also love the way this book is written, just as interviews that term the story. It's something I really enjoy, so I'm always down to read a book written this way. Almost epistolary. Lastly, the Easter eggs of all of the character names was so much fun!
As soon as I heard about this novella, I knew I had to read it. My husband has worked in haunts off and on since the mid 90's, and a lot of the people in the industry are still our friends. Hell, the Queen of Screams (owner of Rocky Point Haunted House) herself was at our wedding. So to say I'm hungry for any horror based in that world would be an understatement.
The first thing I have to say is just how real it all feels. The cop is a total asshole, and seems reluctant to actually do his job. The description of the kinds of people that become actors, special effects artists, and even open haunts is also true to life. It takes all kinds, and I know our local community happily calls themselves "Freaks". Many of the people are on the fringes of society, and haunting gives them a place to call home.
As for the depiction of Gus McKinley and his "extreme haunt", it's very true that real haunters, the ones that are in it for the joy of giving someone a scare, do not accept these extreme places as haunts. I like that we get to see a little of the motivations that bring someone to open a place like this. Of course we can't really get inside the minds of the people who do it in real life, but I feel that this author is probably pretty close.
I love the way that this book shows how these places can easily go wrong, and why they should be heavily regulated, if showed to exist at all. They aren't about the scares, they're about true torture, and holding that power over someone. Honestly, I believe that this author is also spot on about the prize that some of these places offer. It's nothing more than a truck to lure in more people, but isn't actually real.
I also love the way this book is written, just as interviews that term the story. It's something I really enjoy, so I'm always down to read a book written this way. Almost epistolary. Lastly, the Easter eggs of all of the character names was so much fun!
Scarewaves by Trevor Henderson
adventurous
challenging
dark
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
<b>Kids vs Monsters!</b>
I don't care how old I get, YA and middle grade books will always be fun. I've been following Trevor Henderson for a while and love his artwork, so picking this up was an easy choice.
The way the kids seem to be the only ones who notice that anything is really happening feels like something straight out of a Stephen King novel. The kids are also smart, and resourceful, and I found myself getting attached quickly.
The monsters are inventive and interesting as well. I would love to know more about them, their histories, etc. I don't know if there are plans for a series, or if this is a one off, but regardless, I would like to see more of Henderson's creations in the future.
Since this was an advance, I wasn't able to see all of the illustrations, and honestly can't wait to pick up a physical copy to check them out!
I don't care how old I get, YA and middle grade books will always be fun. I've been following Trevor Henderson for a while and love his artwork, so picking this up was an easy choice.
The way the kids seem to be the only ones who notice that anything is really happening feels like something straight out of a Stephen King novel. The kids are also smart, and resourceful, and I found myself getting attached quickly.
The monsters are inventive and interesting as well. I would love to know more about them, their histories, etc. I don't know if there are plans for a series, or if this is a one off, but regardless, I would like to see more of Henderson's creations in the future.
Since this was an advance, I wasn't able to see all of the illustrations, and honestly can't wait to pick up a physical copy to check them out!
Out There Screaming: An Anthology of New Black Horror by Jordan Peele, John Joseph Adams
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
This is one book I was so excited to read, and it didn't let me down. There are 19 stories from new black authors and although they all have some sense of horror, the subjects and subgenres are all over the place.
There were several stories that stood out for me. The very first story turns an all too common practice in our world, profiling done by police, on its head.
In 'The Other One', I found some very personal ties. I really empathized with the main character because of that. It's so rare for me to see someone with my specific disorder painted in a more sympathetic light.
Tananarive Due's entry was just wonderful, and captured a time I absolutely love learning about. Others dealt with mythology and folklore, which always holds my interest.
There are a couple that are tied for my favorite, honestly. 'The Norwood Trouble', for my love of stories of fighting for what's right. 'Your Happy Place', however, is definitely the scariest for me, just because it's something I can see happening in the not so distant future.
The tales are so varied, I can almost guarantee that everyone who reads this book will find at least one new favorite short story within.
There were several stories that stood out for me. The very first story turns an all too common practice in our world, profiling done by police, on its head.
In 'The Other One', I found some very personal ties. I really empathized with the main character because of that. It's so rare for me to see someone with my specific disorder painted in a more sympathetic light.
Tananarive Due's entry was just wonderful, and captured a time I absolutely love learning about. Others dealt with mythology and folklore, which always holds my interest.
There are a couple that are tied for my favorite, honestly. 'The Norwood Trouble', for my love of stories of fighting for what's right. 'Your Happy Place', however, is definitely the scariest for me, just because it's something I can see happening in the not so distant future.
The tales are so varied, I can almost guarantee that everyone who reads this book will find at least one new favorite short story within.
The Handyman Method by Andrew F. Sullivan, Nick Cutter
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
<b>Toxic Masculinity is Terrifying!</b>
I heard so much praise for this book, I was both excited to dive in, and afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype. Luckily, it very much did. This book made me so uncomfortable and hurt my heart at times. These are the traits I'm looking for in books!
The first thing that popped into my head was "does too much Home Depot cause toxic masculinity?" Obviously I knew that wasn't what was going on, but damn. Also I love the Home Depot contractors. I could totally picture them in my mind. I even saw a little of myself in his addiction to the store, although without the negative traits. I just really want to buy all the equipment and fix up our house!
As Trent's attitude and behaviors got worse, I was so incredibly uncomfortable. Especially with the incident on the playset. My kiddos have some similar qualities to Milo, so it HURT. I will say that was the hardest part of the book for me to get through, personally. I just have to say, sometimes someone you love, not understanding you, and intentionally not even making an effort to, can feel worse than any physical abuse.
There was also a decent about of gore and body horror. Some of the things that really got me were the fingernail, Ned, and a moment that makes me wonder, what does Nick Cutter have against *******‽ Again, trying to avoid spoilers, lol.
Overall this was a dark, distributing, yet at times humorous, book. More than anything, it's made me hate the color pink! I don't know if I'll be able to stomach Pepto Bismol every again! I can't wait to check out both author's books in my TBR.
I heard so much praise for this book, I was both excited to dive in, and afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype. Luckily, it very much did. This book made me so uncomfortable and hurt my heart at times. These are the traits I'm looking for in books!
The first thing that popped into my head was "does too much Home Depot cause toxic masculinity?" Obviously I knew that wasn't what was going on, but damn. Also I love the Home Depot contractors. I could totally picture them in my mind. I even saw a little of myself in his addiction to the store, although without the negative traits. I just really want to buy all the equipment and fix up our house!
As Trent's attitude and behaviors got worse, I was so incredibly uncomfortable. Especially with the incident on the playset. My kiddos have some similar qualities to Milo, so it HURT. I will say that was the hardest part of the book for me to get through, personally. I just have to say, sometimes someone you love, not understanding you, and intentionally not even making an effort to, can feel worse than any physical abuse.
There was also a decent about of gore and body horror. Some of the things that really got me were the fingernail, Ned, and a moment that makes me wonder, what does Nick Cutter have against *******‽ Again, trying to avoid spoilers, lol.
Overall this was a dark, distributing, yet at times humorous, book. More than anything, it's made me hate the color pink! I don't know if I'll be able to stomach Pepto Bismol every again! I can't wait to check out both author's books in my TBR.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death
Moderate: Child abuse
What Kind of Mother by Clay McLeod Chapman
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
<b>Being a parent is exhausting!</b>
I've never been a fan of Gothic horror, however Southern Gothic is another story! I've been waiting on pins and needles since this was announced, and I'm glad I was able to preorder it and of course it skipped the line on my TBR pile!
Unlike Ghost Eaters, this book didn't have any big personal connections, but it was able to draw me in anyway, which was wonderful. Clay McLeod Chapman always does a great job of bringing the reader into the lives of these characters, getting you invested in their well-being. It's one reason he's in my top 4 authors.
I had so many thoughts while reading, the biggest, and most often repeated being, WTF? Every time I thought I was staying to get a grasp on the story, it would take another wild turn. I was never able to guess what was coming next, which is one of my favorite things in a book.
I will admit that both Kendra and Donny annoyed me, for different reasons. Kendra because she reminded me a bit of my own teen, who can be completely self absorbed, as teenagers tend to be. Donny because the way he handled things was just horrible.
I still don't completely understand what happened, and it will definitely have me thinking about it for a long time. Unlike other readers though, I'm really craving some crab legs.
I've never been a fan of Gothic horror, however Southern Gothic is another story! I've been waiting on pins and needles since this was announced, and I'm glad I was able to preorder it and of course it skipped the line on my TBR pile!
Unlike Ghost Eaters, this book didn't have any big personal connections, but it was able to draw me in anyway, which was wonderful. Clay McLeod Chapman always does a great job of bringing the reader into the lives of these characters, getting you invested in their well-being. It's one reason he's in my top 4 authors.
I had so many thoughts while reading, the biggest, and most often repeated being, WTF? Every time I thought I was staying to get a grasp on the story, it would take another wild turn. I was never able to guess what was coming next, which is one of my favorite things in a book.
I will admit that both Kendra and Donny annoyed me, for different reasons. Kendra because she reminded me a bit of my own teen, who can be completely self absorbed, as teenagers tend to be. Donny because the way he handled things was just horrible.
I still don't completely understand what happened, and it will definitely have me thinking about it for a long time. Unlike other readers though, I'm really craving some crab legs.
Edenville by Sam Rebelein
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
<b>Praise to the Mind!</b>
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. Academic horror? Maybe a cult? I definitely wasn't expecting this mashup of multiple horror subgenres. Creatures, cults, cosmic, even some body horror, at least to me.
I had a hard time really getting hooked into this one. I'm not really sure why. It's well written, and the elements should be over the top and ridiculous, but the author makes it all work.
I really loved the way the characters approached everything happening, saying they weren't going to be like characters in a horror movie. Even if things play out differently in the end, the way a lot of their choices were framed was refreshing and smart.
I also loved that once everything started going off the rails, simple ideas and tropes were turned on their heads. I want to give an example, but I try to stay away from spoilers in my reviews, so you'll just have to message me if you want to talk about it!
I enjoyed this book. Maybe not as much as some others that I've read recently, but I definitely think that's more about me as a reader. It's well written with interesting ideas, and is definitely worth the read. Go check it out!
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. Academic horror? Maybe a cult? I definitely wasn't expecting this mashup of multiple horror subgenres. Creatures, cults, cosmic, even some body horror, at least to me.
I had a hard time really getting hooked into this one. I'm not really sure why. It's well written, and the elements should be over the top and ridiculous, but the author makes it all work.
I really loved the way the characters approached everything happening, saying they weren't going to be like characters in a horror movie. Even if things play out differently in the end, the way a lot of their choices were framed was refreshing and smart.
I also loved that once everything started going off the rails, simple ideas and tropes were turned on their heads. I want to give an example, but I try to stay away from spoilers in my reviews, so you'll just have to message me if you want to talk about it!
I enjoyed this book. Maybe not as much as some others that I've read recently, but I definitely think that's more about me as a reader. It's well written with interesting ideas, and is definitely worth the read. Go check it out!
Wrath Becomes Her by Aden Polydoros
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
<b>A beautifully written WWII based fantasy</b>
I chose to pick up this book because I really enjoyed the author's previous book, Bone Weaver. Outside of the realization that it's harder for me to get into fantasy books now, this didn't disappoint.
I haven't read much historical fiction and definitely little based in WWII, so this was very interesting. It takes place in Lithuania, which is an area I honestly haven't heard much about, especially not in the context of the Holocaust.
I enjoyed the character of Vera, and empathized with her existential struggles. Even though she wasn't human, she still embodied so much humanity. I constantly wondered what her future was going to be, or even what it could be.
Specifically, there's a moment when Vera realizes the scope of the war, and how little they can do in the grand scheme of things. I really felt that, since we're fighting on new fronts now (and some of the current struggles are continued from that time as well) and sometimes it feels hopeless. Like Vera though, we can't give up.
I'm also a sucker for stories based in mythology from various cultures, and feel there needs to be more tales like this, especially. It was definitely different than other golem stories I've seen and read.
Once again, Aden Polydoros has crafted a wonderfully vibrant world, and brought to life an under represented mythos. I can't wait to see what he does next!
I chose to pick up this book because I really enjoyed the author's previous book, Bone Weaver. Outside of the realization that it's harder for me to get into fantasy books now, this didn't disappoint.
I haven't read much historical fiction and definitely little based in WWII, so this was very interesting. It takes place in Lithuania, which is an area I honestly haven't heard much about, especially not in the context of the Holocaust.
I enjoyed the character of Vera, and empathized with her existential struggles. Even though she wasn't human, she still embodied so much humanity. I constantly wondered what her future was going to be, or even what it could be.
Specifically, there's a moment when Vera realizes the scope of the war, and how little they can do in the grand scheme of things. I really felt that, since we're fighting on new fronts now (and some of the current struggles are continued from that time as well) and sometimes it feels hopeless. Like Vera though, we can't give up.
I'm also a sucker for stories based in mythology from various cultures, and feel there needs to be more tales like this, especially. It was definitely different than other golem stories I've seen and read.
Once again, Aden Polydoros has crafted a wonderfully vibrant world, and brought to life an under represented mythos. I can't wait to see what he does next!
Silent Key by Laurel Hightower
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
<b>A tense thriller with a supernatural twist!</b>
I'm so happy I got a chance to check this book out! Laurel Hightower is such a great author, and an amazing human to boot! This book blended thriller and crime themes with the supernatural and it worked wonderfully.
At first the book seemed a bit wordy for my taste, but soon the pace picked up and the ride started in earnest. I really identified with the main character as a single mom doing whatever it takes to protect her child. She was a strong, independent woman, which we need more of in everything!
The characters felt believable and authentic. Usually I don't love books with a young child prominently featured because I feel it's hard to write them in a way that feels real. This book definitely didn't fall into that trap, and I was able to get fully invested in all the of characters.
There were also many dead ends and twists throughout. I was kept guessing about who she could trust until the very end. The fact that there were a couple of leads mentioned, but ultimately not followed up on, bothered me a little at first, but by the end I wonder if they were intentionally left in to throw the reader off course. If so, they definitely worked.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable book, and I do wonder if there will be another story to come for these characters, just from the way things ended.
I'm so happy I got a chance to check this book out! Laurel Hightower is such a great author, and an amazing human to boot! This book blended thriller and crime themes with the supernatural and it worked wonderfully.
At first the book seemed a bit wordy for my taste, but soon the pace picked up and the ride started in earnest. I really identified with the main character as a single mom doing whatever it takes to protect her child. She was a strong, independent woman, which we need more of in everything!
The characters felt believable and authentic. Usually I don't love books with a young child prominently featured because I feel it's hard to write them in a way that feels real. This book definitely didn't fall into that trap, and I was able to get fully invested in all the of characters.
There were also many dead ends and twists throughout. I was kept guessing about who she could trust until the very end. The fact that there were a couple of leads mentioned, but ultimately not followed up on, bothered me a little at first, but by the end I wonder if they were intentionally left in to throw the reader off course. If so, they definitely worked.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable book, and I do wonder if there will be another story to come for these characters, just from the way things ended.