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The Special
In a house on the edge of town, there is a room. In that room, there is a box. And in that box await pleasures beyond your wildest imagination…
Jerry Harford is fed up. Overworked. Underpaid. And damn near certain his wife is cheating on him. He’s never been one for revenge, but his friend Mike talks him into thinking about JERRY just this once.
Now Jerry can’t get enough of The Special. He’s obsessed, and he wants it all to himself.
Before long, Jerry’s going to learn that pleasure has a price and whoever said “Hell is the truth seen too late” was right … terribly right.
Jerry Harford is fed up. Overworked. Underpaid. And damn near certain his wife is cheating on him. He’s never been one for revenge, but his friend Mike talks him into thinking about JERRY just this once.
Now Jerry can’t get enough of The Special. He’s obsessed, and he wants it all to himself.
Before long, Jerry’s going to learn that pleasure has a price and whoever said “Hell is the truth seen too late” was right … terribly right.
88 pages, Paperback
First published August 10, 2018
4 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 26, 2018
James Newman and Mark Steensland’s story “The Special” begins in a bar, as all such fanciful stories should. Mike and Jerry are co-workers and friends sharing a few brewsikies at their local watering hole when Jerry confesses to Mark that he believes his wife is being unfaithful to him and cheating on him.
Mike convinces Jerry “What is good for the goose is good for the gander”, and that immediately tonight he needs to teach his wife a lesson by needing to “set a precedent” in order to save his marriage by going out and “experiencing the most mind-blowing, out-of-this-world orgasm you have ever known”.
Jerry, having been faithfully and meekly married for twenty years doesn’t know how to go about doing this deed. But never fear, Mike will take Jerry to a place where he can indulge in the ultimate sexual experience. All he has to do is pay 100 bucks, which Mike will lend him, and ask for “The Special”
Now I was in a bit of a quandary as what to call this type of story. Was it a parable or a fable ? So I looked up the definitions of those words in Webster’s. It appears that parable has enough religious connotations that religion would not want to get anywhere near this story, and even so, would need to take a good long cleansing shower for even contemplating the thought. Yet, the story is more than a fable.
Having no desire to give away more of this darkly hilarious (whatever one wants to name it), I will end this review with the quote printed at the beginning of the book from William S. Burroughs: “Whether you sniff it, smoke it, eat it or shove it up your ass the result is the same, addiction”.
This hardcover book is one of 50 produced and is the sixth book in the Nightmare Alley series. The book is signed by James Newman and Mark Steensland. Note: 20 lettered copies were also produced.
Mike convinces Jerry “What is good for the goose is good for the gander”, and that immediately tonight he needs to teach his wife a lesson by needing to “set a precedent” in order to save his marriage by going out and “experiencing the most mind-blowing, out-of-this-world orgasm you have ever known”.
Jerry, having been faithfully and meekly married for twenty years doesn’t know how to go about doing this deed. But never fear, Mike will take Jerry to a place where he can indulge in the ultimate sexual experience. All he has to do is pay 100 bucks, which Mike will lend him, and ask for “The Special”
Now I was in a bit of a quandary as what to call this type of story. Was it a parable or a fable ? So I looked up the definitions of those words in Webster’s. It appears that parable has enough religious connotations that religion would not want to get anywhere near this story, and even so, would need to take a good long cleansing shower for even contemplating the thought. Yet, the story is more than a fable.
Having no desire to give away more of this darkly hilarious (whatever one wants to name it), I will end this review with the quote printed at the beginning of the book from William S. Burroughs: “Whether you sniff it, smoke it, eat it or shove it up your ass the result is the same, addiction”.
This hardcover book is one of 50 produced and is the sixth book in the Nightmare Alley series. The book is signed by James Newman and Mark Steensland. Note: 20 lettered copies were also produced.
January 2, 2022
Jerry suspects his wife is screwing around behind his back. His friend Mike has an idea how to get her love back and introduces him to an old fortune teller. She has something very special for Jerry. Do you want to know what it is? Great tale with uncanny elements, satire, twists and some brutality. Really enjoyed this unusual little horror story. It was fast paced with an absolutely unpredictable ending. This is fantastic modern horror. Highly recommended!
January 26, 2020
"What is in the box?"
Did you see the movie SE7EN?
"What is in the BOX?!?!"
Well, dude, it doesn't even matter if it is Gwyneth Paltrow's head:
You do Not - and I want to make this perfectly clear - NOT stick your dick in there!
Not a bad story, but utterly predictable from about 15%.
Did you see the movie SE7EN?
"What is in the BOX?!?!"
Well, dude, it doesn't even matter if it is Gwyneth Paltrow's head:
You do Not - and I want to make this perfectly clear - NOT stick your dick in there!
Not a bad story, but utterly predictable from about 15%.
December 15, 2018
“We’re here for the Special.”
Jerry’s wife Lisa cheated on him. “Riding some other dude like a Harley on a bad piece of road.”
Luckily for him, Mikey knows just how to get over this.
Jerry needs a Special. That’s right. Special with a capital “S”.
Just what the doctor ordered!
Boy, Mikey sure is a great friend.
I enjoyed everything about this one.
It was fast, fun, gross, inappropriate and bloody.
Yep. Just how I like it.
Jerry’s wife Lisa cheated on him. “Riding some other dude like a Harley on a bad piece of road.”
Luckily for him, Mikey knows just how to get over this.
Jerry needs a Special. That’s right. Special with a capital “S”.
Just what the doctor ordered!
Boy, Mikey sure is a great friend.
I enjoyed everything about this one.
It was fast, fun, gross, inappropriate and bloody.
Yep. Just how I like it.
September 19, 2018
THE SPECIAL, by James Newman and Mark Steensland is a Thunderstorm Books "Nightmare Alley" Signed H/C, limited to 50 copies. What it's about is a little more difficult to explain without giving much away. . . Luckily, as a novella, you can easily read this in one sitting. Believe me--once you start in on it, you'll *need* to keep going!
I honestly don't know how to categorize this one completely. It was definitely horror, but a "dark comedic" kind. I had several laugh out loud moments that many may find questionable, but it really was that kind of book. I loved every minute of it, and then questioned my sanity afterwards.
(Not unusual for me).
The story begins with two friends at a bar--the one thinking his wife cheated on him. Once we get to the Special, things REALLY get good. Sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing . . .
"I understand . . . Too much is not enough . . ."
This one you just have to read to believe!
Recommended!
I honestly don't know how to categorize this one completely. It was definitely horror, but a "dark comedic" kind. I had several laugh out loud moments that many may find questionable, but it really was that kind of book. I loved every minute of it, and then questioned my sanity afterwards.
(Not unusual for me).
The story begins with two friends at a bar--the one thinking his wife cheated on him. Once we get to the Special, things REALLY get good. Sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing . . .
"I understand . . . Too much is not enough . . ."
This one you just have to read to believe!
Recommended!
October 22, 2018
Like a really gross Twilight Zone episode.
October 26, 2018
I love reading James Newman's books. I thought I knew what to expect from him. Man, was I wrong! Ok, THE SPECIAL was fast moving and well written - that's a no-brainer. But to say anything else, well, the book defies description as it is.. I had a tough time tagging it. The horror is not extreme, the humor is genuine, not juvenile and THE SPECIAL should be bought and read immediately.
Don't wait. Buy it for yourself and gift it to a friend. Tell them this one is on you.
Don't wait. Buy it for yourself and gift it to a friend. Tell them this one is on you.
November 3, 2018
I was either grinning or cringing throughout this story! First part mostly grin, with a cringe here and there. Second part, mostly cringe and a stray grin. Moral of the story, be careful where you stick it! LOL. Oh, and I share a name with the main character... yeeeeee. Loved it tho. Quick read, didn't want to put it down.
December 1, 2021
Well that was certainly an original and bizarre tale! I didn't know what I was expecting going in but it wasn't what I got and that's always a good thing. I was shocked and appalled and actually quite satisfied with the ending lol.. if you've read this than you know, and if you haven't than you need to. 4/5 squishy skulls 💀
July 21, 2019
A nice little horror story.
June 24, 2019
This is a fun horror novella that'll gross you out more than it'll frighten. Jerry thinking his wife is cheating on him laments with his friend, Mike, who takes him to a psychic to get "The Special". Once is not enough for Jerry and despite warnings he seeks it out again until it's all he wants.
This is a blast to read and leaves you cringing, laughing and more than a little creeped out. Look forward to their next collaboration which is released next week.
This is a blast to read and leaves you cringing, laughing and more than a little creeped out. Look forward to their next collaboration which is released next week.
October 13, 2020
It's a tale as old as time, so true and important that its everlasting impact upon the generations has even been recorded in song with the following blueprint handed down from upon high by the ancients:
1. Cut a hole in a box.
2. Put your dick in that box.
The third and crucial step, of course, is to ultimately derive enjoyment, either singularly or with another (or perhaps even a group 0f) consenting adult(s).
After suspecting his wife of an affair, and thanks to the prodding of his best friend Mike, Jerry finds himself at a crucial juncture in his life. Emboldened by booze and his buddy's prodding, he then finds himself sticking his dick in a box. It's not just any box, though! This black lacquered wooden construct with a hole cut into one side is as dangerous as it is intriguing. Madame Zhora calls it The Special, and it is the sex toy to end all sex toys for men. The Special will instantly make you forget all about ribbed masturbation sleeves, spit-lubed jerks, prostate massagers, and unfaithful wives, thanks to the incredible, out of the world orgasms it gives its users.
Just don't use it too often. Don't be like Jerry.
Jerry, that sad sack... obsessed with a black box, lusting to feel it around him, craving its companionship, talking to it sotto voce in a darkened motel room where he fills it with his seed...
Jerry. Fucking Jerry. That sad sack has got some problems. And it turns out, marital infidelity is just the least of them.
James Newman and Mark Steensland craft one hell of a strange, rapid-fire novella of erotic horror with The Special. It's opening pages move like a freight train thanks to a dialogue-heavy opening that expertly lays out all the exposition you need to get you up to speed and raring to go.
At just shy of 110 pages, this is a really light read, but the authors manage to pack in plenty of commentary with a minimum of fuss. Jerry's nicely developed as an insecure man approaching middle-age who knows his wife is out of his league. His sex addiction comes on fast and furious following his discovery of The Special, rapidly spiraling into out of control obsession. Then things get really bonkers!
I dug the way Newman and Steensland explored the dangers of box humping and the ill effects that can transpire from sticking your nose, and other assorted parts of one's anatomy, into things you shouldn't. This is a really swift moving novella, and the authors don't waste their time with teasing. Instead, they hunker down and race right on toward the climax, gently alternating their storytelling rhythms as story beats rise and fall toward the grand finale.
The Special has a wry sort of cautionary message in its deliberation on the premise that two wrongs do not make a right, and how quickly pleasure can lead to addiction. It's not subtle, oh no, not at all - but that's part of its charm, I think. The authors know this is meant to be a fun one-off romp, just a quick roll in the hay, and they let their imaginations steer the narrative wildly out of control in the best, most enjoyable, ways possible. Thankfully, it never feels like a PSA on the evils of self-love, and it's certainly less of insane anti-masturbation screed than Kellogg's Corn Flakes (seriously, look that shit up!), but it does rightly remind us that too much of a good thing can certainly turn bad. Maybe even downright deadly. (Find out if leaving genital chafing untreated is right for you!)
The Special might be the dirtiest, nastiest, messiest After School Special that never was, coupling its box banging obsessions with some awfully filthy body horror and plenty of murders as Newman and Steensland chart a descent into madness. It also reminds us, as Jack Nicholson sagely intoned in Batman (1989), "Never rub another man's rhubarb!"
1. Cut a hole in a box.
2. Put your dick in that box.
The third and crucial step, of course, is to ultimately derive enjoyment, either singularly or with another (or perhaps even a group 0f) consenting adult(s).
After suspecting his wife of an affair, and thanks to the prodding of his best friend Mike, Jerry finds himself at a crucial juncture in his life. Emboldened by booze and his buddy's prodding, he then finds himself sticking his dick in a box. It's not just any box, though! This black lacquered wooden construct with a hole cut into one side is as dangerous as it is intriguing. Madame Zhora calls it The Special, and it is the sex toy to end all sex toys for men. The Special will instantly make you forget all about ribbed masturbation sleeves, spit-lubed jerks, prostate massagers, and unfaithful wives, thanks to the incredible, out of the world orgasms it gives its users.
Just don't use it too often. Don't be like Jerry.
Jerry, that sad sack... obsessed with a black box, lusting to feel it around him, craving its companionship, talking to it sotto voce in a darkened motel room where he fills it with his seed...
Jerry. Fucking Jerry. That sad sack has got some problems. And it turns out, marital infidelity is just the least of them.
James Newman and Mark Steensland craft one hell of a strange, rapid-fire novella of erotic horror with The Special. It's opening pages move like a freight train thanks to a dialogue-heavy opening that expertly lays out all the exposition you need to get you up to speed and raring to go.
At just shy of 110 pages, this is a really light read, but the authors manage to pack in plenty of commentary with a minimum of fuss. Jerry's nicely developed as an insecure man approaching middle-age who knows his wife is out of his league. His sex addiction comes on fast and furious following his discovery of The Special, rapidly spiraling into out of control obsession. Then things get really bonkers!
I dug the way Newman and Steensland explored the dangers of box humping and the ill effects that can transpire from sticking your nose, and other assorted parts of one's anatomy, into things you shouldn't. This is a really swift moving novella, and the authors don't waste their time with teasing. Instead, they hunker down and race right on toward the climax, gently alternating their storytelling rhythms as story beats rise and fall toward the grand finale.
The Special has a wry sort of cautionary message in its deliberation on the premise that two wrongs do not make a right, and how quickly pleasure can lead to addiction. It's not subtle, oh no, not at all - but that's part of its charm, I think. The authors know this is meant to be a fun one-off romp, just a quick roll in the hay, and they let their imaginations steer the narrative wildly out of control in the best, most enjoyable, ways possible. Thankfully, it never feels like a PSA on the evils of self-love, and it's certainly less of insane anti-masturbation screed than Kellogg's Corn Flakes (seriously, look that shit up!), but it does rightly remind us that too much of a good thing can certainly turn bad. Maybe even downright deadly. (Find out if leaving genital chafing untreated is right for you!)
The Special might be the dirtiest, nastiest, messiest After School Special that never was, coupling its box banging obsessions with some awfully filthy body horror and plenty of murders as Newman and Steensland chart a descent into madness. It also reminds us, as Jack Nicholson sagely intoned in Batman (1989), "Never rub another man's rhubarb!"
April 9, 2019
** Edited as Review is now live on Kendall Reviews! **
So, a bit of confession here – I completely confused James Newman with someone else and didn’t realize this was the same author as Odd Man Out. Insane, right?
My first foray down Newman’s literary output was Odd Man Out (for which you can read my review here) and it made me confront some realities that occur in life. That story is brutal, heart wrenching and it forced me to think back to my teen years, when we’d made jokes that were awful.
The Special (Newman teaming up with Steensland) is almost a companion piece to Odd Man Out. Where that was a tale of teens put together and confronting a reality, The Special is a tale that showcases the ‘stuck in a routine’ working schlub. The guy who has married, has a house, has a 9-5 and isn’t too happy with where he’s at. That’s Jerry Harford. You see, Jerry’s at that point in life that we all want to avoid – working at a job he hates, now having gained some weight and his only joy in life is a few beers after work with his co-worker Mike.
Then the kicker – it looks like his wonderful wife Lisa is cheating on him.
From that meager opening, Steensland and Newman unleash a horrendous decent into madness and obsession, as Jerry goes down the rabbit hole. This is a hard tale to review, because I don’t want to spoil anything, but seeing how this is readily available in the synopsis, I can say that Mike convinces Jerry to go to a nondescript house where in that house, there is a room. And in that room, there is a box. And inside that box is the greatest pleasure you’ve ever experienced.
The narrative closely follows the downward spiral of many drug addicts and alcoholics, those who’ve convinced themselves that they can handle ‘just one more hit or sip.’
This book rockets along with breakneck speed and if I wasn’t reading four other books, I would’ve easily finished this in one sitting (much like Odd Man Out). Now I’m a bit glad I read it over two sittings, just so I could have a bit more time with the box.
I might need to reread this. Just one more time… just to experience it… one more time.
A truly ‘Special’ offering, one that’ll make you want to know, what’s in the box.
So, a bit of confession here – I completely confused James Newman with someone else and didn’t realize this was the same author as Odd Man Out. Insane, right?
My first foray down Newman’s literary output was Odd Man Out (for which you can read my review here) and it made me confront some realities that occur in life. That story is brutal, heart wrenching and it forced me to think back to my teen years, when we’d made jokes that were awful.
The Special (Newman teaming up with Steensland) is almost a companion piece to Odd Man Out. Where that was a tale of teens put together and confronting a reality, The Special is a tale that showcases the ‘stuck in a routine’ working schlub. The guy who has married, has a house, has a 9-5 and isn’t too happy with where he’s at. That’s Jerry Harford. You see, Jerry’s at that point in life that we all want to avoid – working at a job he hates, now having gained some weight and his only joy in life is a few beers after work with his co-worker Mike.
Then the kicker – it looks like his wonderful wife Lisa is cheating on him.
From that meager opening, Steensland and Newman unleash a horrendous decent into madness and obsession, as Jerry goes down the rabbit hole. This is a hard tale to review, because I don’t want to spoil anything, but seeing how this is readily available in the synopsis, I can say that Mike convinces Jerry to go to a nondescript house where in that house, there is a room. And in that room, there is a box. And inside that box is the greatest pleasure you’ve ever experienced.
The narrative closely follows the downward spiral of many drug addicts and alcoholics, those who’ve convinced themselves that they can handle ‘just one more hit or sip.’
This book rockets along with breakneck speed and if I wasn’t reading four other books, I would’ve easily finished this in one sitting (much like Odd Man Out). Now I’m a bit glad I read it over two sittings, just so I could have a bit more time with the box.
I might need to reread this. Just one more time… just to experience it… one more time.
A truly ‘Special’ offering, one that’ll make you want to know, what’s in the box.
July 9, 2020
There’s no easy way to describe this novella. And there’s no easy way to review it without giving any spoilers, which I won’t do ‘cause I need you to go “Ewwwww” when you read it.
It starts with three quotes but the last one really hit the spot.
“Whether you sniff it, smoke it, eat it or shove it up your ass, the result is the same: addiction.” William S. Burroughs
I believe that everyone is addicted to something. Wether it is cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, sodas, make up, food, clothing, books... you got the point. So, why does anyone become addict to anything? That is the main question here and the central point of the story. No one intends to become and addict. I guess you don’t wake up and say “Hum, today I’m going to became addict to heroin.” It has to become an habit, and for something to become an habit you need to repeat it at least 3 or 4 months. And if you let it take control of you, it will control your life. It’ll become a huge monkey in your back almost impossible to shake off. It becomes a part of you. I know what I’m talking about. Believe me.
So, Jerry is having drinks with his very good friend Mike. He thinks his wife Lisa has cheated on him. And Mike has a terrific idea that will send Jerry downward an spiral of urging madness.
James Newman and Mark Steensland story is frantic and you want to know what “The special” is, and how the story is going to end. You definitively need to read this.
The only thing I have to add is that Thunderstorm Books made a special edition for this title, and the cover is gorgeous. It is spot on. If you can get it. Do it! It’s worth any penny.
I’ll just leave you with another quote that I think it’s accurate as hell.
“An over-indulgence of anything, even something as pure as water, can intoxicate.” Criss Jami
It starts with three quotes but the last one really hit the spot.
“Whether you sniff it, smoke it, eat it or shove it up your ass, the result is the same: addiction.” William S. Burroughs
I believe that everyone is addicted to something. Wether it is cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, sodas, make up, food, clothing, books... you got the point. So, why does anyone become addict to anything? That is the main question here and the central point of the story. No one intends to become and addict. I guess you don’t wake up and say “Hum, today I’m going to became addict to heroin.” It has to become an habit, and for something to become an habit you need to repeat it at least 3 or 4 months. And if you let it take control of you, it will control your life. It’ll become a huge monkey in your back almost impossible to shake off. It becomes a part of you. I know what I’m talking about. Believe me.
So, Jerry is having drinks with his very good friend Mike. He thinks his wife Lisa has cheated on him. And Mike has a terrific idea that will send Jerry downward an spiral of urging madness.
James Newman and Mark Steensland story is frantic and you want to know what “The special” is, and how the story is going to end. You definitively need to read this.
The only thing I have to add is that Thunderstorm Books made a special edition for this title, and the cover is gorgeous. It is spot on. If you can get it. Do it! It’s worth any penny.
I’ll just leave you with another quote that I think it’s accurate as hell.
“An over-indulgence of anything, even something as pure as water, can intoxicate.” Criss Jami
March 6, 2019
The Special is a great collaboration between James Newman and Mark Steensland! As a fan of Newman's writing, I felt confident that I was in for a treat when I picked up this novella.
I typically don't include a synopsis in my reviews, and I'm sticking with that in this scenario. Especially since this story is only 84 pages. Here's what I can tell you about The Special: it's a cautionary tale, and it has the best elements of a well-written story. Relatable characters, excellent plot and pacing, and cringe-worthy moments. There's humor at the appropriate moments, and I also found myself using the wide-eyed emoji in my reading updates a time or two. This is a wild ride for the reader, as we experience what happens when Jerry encounters too much of a "good thing" in his life.
This novella is currently being made into a film, and I'm definitely here for it. Also, I give bonus points to any story that mentions one of my favorite Led Zeppelin songs.
I typically don't include a synopsis in my reviews, and I'm sticking with that in this scenario. Especially since this story is only 84 pages. Here's what I can tell you about The Special: it's a cautionary tale, and it has the best elements of a well-written story. Relatable characters, excellent plot and pacing, and cringe-worthy moments. There's humor at the appropriate moments, and I also found myself using the wide-eyed emoji in my reading updates a time or two. This is a wild ride for the reader, as we experience what happens when Jerry encounters too much of a "good thing" in his life.
This novella is currently being made into a film, and I'm definitely here for it. Also, I give bonus points to any story that mentions one of my favorite Led Zeppelin songs.
October 11, 2020
STICK IT IN HERE
I’d really like you to buy or borrow this book, right now. Don’t hesitate, just do it. Read it, right now. Trust me. Before you watch the movie. Please?
Oh. My. God.
Seriously...
Oh. My. God.
5/5 Skulls
☠️☠️☠️☠️☠️
I’d really like you to buy or borrow this book, right now. Don’t hesitate, just do it. Read it, right now. Trust me. Before you watch the movie. Please?
Oh. My. God.
Seriously...
Oh. My. God.
5/5 Skulls
☠️☠️☠️☠️☠️
August 27, 2018
Review to come. This is a signed limited edition with 50 copies made.
February 20, 2019
There's a lot of great stories, but this was one of those books where I finish it and sit there feeling a whole lot of satisfied and blown away by how great the book was. There's so many aspects that I loved about THE SPECIAL. I loved the gore side of the story and the humour as well. The message that JAMES NEWMAN and MARK STEENSLAND formed together was great. The moral of the story getting across about addiction was interesting. As addiction comes in many forms and too much of anything is good for nothing. This book shows what happens when addiction takes over. James and Mark have created a page turner, and I can't wait for the movie. Can't wait to see how this looks on screen. I read this in one sitting, I wasn't able to put it down.
.
I started this book with knowing nothing about the story line, because those who know me, know I prefer starting books this way. I enjoy events and twists better that way.
THE SPECIAL tells a story of a man named Jerry who thinks his wife cheated on him. His best friend, Mike decides that the best way to get back at her is to have the best fuck of his life. What was meant to be a friend helping a friend, turns out so much worse in the next week. Jerry becomes obsessed with the strange box with the hole that gave him the best orgasm of his life. He's addicted to having that experience over and over again. Nothing else matters to him. Jerry chooses the box over his wife, his friends, even work. It turns bloody, and ends with the special back on the menu, with different management.
.
I started this book with knowing nothing about the story line, because those who know me, know I prefer starting books this way. I enjoy events and twists better that way.
THE SPECIAL tells a story of a man named Jerry who thinks his wife cheated on him. His best friend, Mike decides that the best way to get back at her is to have the best fuck of his life. What was meant to be a friend helping a friend, turns out so much worse in the next week. Jerry becomes obsessed with the strange box with the hole that gave him the best orgasm of his life. He's addicted to having that experience over and over again. Nothing else matters to him. Jerry chooses the box over his wife, his friends, even work. It turns bloody, and ends with the special back on the menu, with different management.
March 16, 2021
LOVED it.
April 18, 2022
Special
Such a great story. On so many levels. A great sense of humour alongside a deep understanding and representation of addiction. Beautifully detailed, yet concise.
Such a great story. On so many levels. A great sense of humour alongside a deep understanding and representation of addiction. Beautifully detailed, yet concise.
June 15, 2022
The special is about addiction. It's a short hard hitting novella. It's about the horror of what happens when someone wants too much of something. There is also a movie version.
December 29, 2022
An odd, disturbing, and creepy little book. At first, I thought the cover art was an 80's era hard-disk... Boy. I could NOT have been more wrong.
October 25, 2023
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a short 75 page read, and let me tell you; it packs so much into the pages. From a well developed main character to a plot of obsession, I finished this book so quickly that I wish I hadn’t. This story also created some interesting questions particularly about the ending and the causation of the main characters affliction. I really enjoyed the pacing too which is usually tricky to get right with novellas this short. Encyclopocalypse and their authors put out yet another banger.
This book is a short 75 page read, and let me tell you; it packs so much into the pages. From a well developed main character to a plot of obsession, I finished this book so quickly that I wish I hadn’t. This story also created some interesting questions particularly about the ending and the causation of the main characters affliction. I really enjoyed the pacing too which is usually tricky to get right with novellas this short. Encyclopocalypse and their authors put out yet another banger.
January 24, 2020
Another brilliant James Newman and Mark Streensland collaboration.
What a blast.
I read IN THE SCRAPE a month or so ago, not realising they wrote another story together. Man, what a nice surprise.
I don't want to give anything away but it's about obsession and addiction in a sexual way.
Also... There's a box in it.
Haha. Hopefully, that should be vague enough to peak your interest.
Anyway, just go read the damn thing.
It's a good way to spend a couple of hours.
Trust me.
And after you've read that, go read IN THE SCRAPE.
Five stars.
What a blast.
I read IN THE SCRAPE a month or so ago, not realising they wrote another story together. Man, what a nice surprise.
I don't want to give anything away but it's about obsession and addiction in a sexual way.
Also... There's a box in it.
Haha. Hopefully, that should be vague enough to peak your interest.
Anyway, just go read the damn thing.
It's a good way to spend a couple of hours.
Trust me.
And after you've read that, go read IN THE SCRAPE.
Five stars.
April 22, 2020
When I was little, I had a Treble - a stuffed animal like the little guys on Star Trek. It purred when you petted it! The Special reminds me of my little Treble... more so if I'd cut it's hair off like my Cher Barbie!
My original Amazon and Goodreads reviews are missing, and sadly I can't remember a lot of the post. I can just tell you that I laughed - heartily. And, no...I wasn't crying at that one part. You can't prove anything.
My original Amazon and Goodreads reviews are missing, and sadly I can't remember a lot of the post. I can just tell you that I laughed - heartily. And, no...I wasn't crying at that one part. You can't prove anything.
December 18, 2019
This one goes under the adage of too much of a good thing...A particularly nasty little book by a particularly talented author. Soon to be a movie.
February 22, 2024
Quick 2.16 hour audiobook about a special little box that Jerry becomes obsessed with. He just can’t get enough of it!!! What will happen to Jerry? Read to find out. Sexual
Content and gore.
Content and gore.
June 1, 2025
I guessed the ending like seventy five percent in, but it didn’t make it less fucked up or make me enjoy this less. I suck at guessing endings, though, so I was surprised I got it right.
That being said, I needed some really disgusting horror right now and got it here.
That being said, I needed some really disgusting horror right now and got it here.
April 27, 2019
Proper review coming soon.
January 5, 2020
Honestly, I can't think of anything to say that wouldn't get me banned. I'll just say... I'm here for the special.
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