Review: The Horror Writer

Author: Jerry Jay Carroll
Started reading: July 22nd 2019
Finished the book: July 27th 2019
Pages: 282
Genres: Fiction
Published: March 2rd 2017
Source: Physical copy from the author
Goodreads score: Not enough ratings
My score:

Synopsis

Horror writer Thom Hearn runs a fiction factory that pumps out bestsellers like Jimmy Dean does sausages. He’s got fame and fortune, but where’s the respect? He’s a sensitive guy and it hurts nobody admits they read the books or see the movies. Then he gets invited to a conference for big shots. His ego is soothed until he’s told somebody made a big mistake. And then characters from his books begin showing up. The homicidal maniac wants to kill him…slowly.

My thoughts

If you think this is a standard horror story after reading the title, you're wrong! It's more a fiction book with some exciting parts in it! I remember the book slowly unfolding. The vibe overall was kinda creepy, but it's perfectly readable for people who don't usually read horror.

Pros

• Unique: This book was unusual for me in a good way. I needed 10 pages to get into it and after that I loved it. The writing style is unique and I think that if I'd read more by Mr. Carroll, I'd be easily able to pick his writing style among others. This in combination with the unique story made it a whole new experience for me.
• Hearn: I LOVE HIM. Thom Hearn is so cynical and sarcastic. It's exactly the character I need once in a while. The way he questions everything that is happening makes it much more believable. He's an observant character that takes in everything he experiences and sees. And usually he delivers a witty remark on it. Great character.
• Creepy vibe: The resort overall has a creepy vibe. You just FEEL something is going on, but can't figure it out. It felt a bit sci-fi, dystopian and a little bit horror-y, but not that much. Just a good mix of the three.

Cons

• References: A lot of references in the book were towards shows, books, and other things that weren't familiar to me, since I'm from The Netherlands. That made me not always understand everything.
• Complex: The ending was SO complex. After a while I didn't really understand what was going on. I also wanted MUCH MORE from Gar-eee since he's being portrayed as the #1 serial killer. I needed him on more pages.

Overall

An unique book with an awesome main character. I think this book is readable for a wide audience since it has a mix of all kinds of genres and characters.

The writing style in combination with this story made it an unique read for me.

Memorable quotes from this book

"Our intentions have always been good - the best."

"That's what the road to hell is paved with."

Thanks for reading!

I'd love to talk books; please let me know what you think about this book/review