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Cutter's Deep: Welcome to Hell
Down a lonely stretch of highway stands the deserted town of Cutter's Deep. Except it's not as desolate as it seems. In fact, there's quite a lot going on behind its decaying facade and for those unfortunate to find themselves within its shadow, it's almost always deadly.
Within its guarded walls lives a young man named Arlington Woods. He's about to meet an outsider who's going to trigger something hidden deep within him that just might destroy Cutter's Deep.
And the rest of the world with it.
Within its guarded walls lives a young man named Arlington Woods. He's about to meet an outsider who's going to trigger something hidden deep within him that just might destroy Cutter's Deep.
And the rest of the world with it.
- GenresHorror
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2023
10 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Ronald McGillvray
8 books109 followersRonald McGillvray is a writer from Ottawa, Canada. He’s published short stories, scripts, novellas and his most recent novel “The Candy Witch,” available now as a print or ebook. He is currently working on a new novel. His novel, “Cutter’s Deep,” his short horror story collection, “Tales From The Parkland,” and his fantasy novella, “James’ Journey To Dreamland,” are all available as a print or ebook. "Tales From The Parkland" is also available as an audiobook.
His writing credits include the short story, “The Garbage Collectors,” which was published in Horror Library Volume 2 as well as in their best of anthology. His short story “Ukrainian Chimes” was published in the anthology Screaming For Peace. An audio version of his story, “Big Boy,” was produced by Pseudopod and his story, “A Night Out,” was published by Dark Fire Fiction.
Two of his film scripts, “The Storm” and “Chimes,” were produced by Cellardweller Projects. “The Storm” was chosen as one of the films to be screened at the World Horror Convention. It also screened at the Shocklines Film Festival in New York City. His story, “Head Case,” was made into a film produced by Columbia College in Chicago. His film script, “Magic Man,” was optioned by Hyde Park Media.
His stage play, “The Line,” was chosen as part of the reading series by the Saint John Theatre Company.
Find out more about Ronald McGillvray at:
www.ronaldmcgillvray.com
His writing credits include the short story, “The Garbage Collectors,” which was published in Horror Library Volume 2 as well as in their best of anthology. His short story “Ukrainian Chimes” was published in the anthology Screaming For Peace. An audio version of his story, “Big Boy,” was produced by Pseudopod and his story, “A Night Out,” was published by Dark Fire Fiction.
Two of his film scripts, “The Storm” and “Chimes,” were produced by Cellardweller Projects. “The Storm” was chosen as one of the films to be screened at the World Horror Convention. It also screened at the Shocklines Film Festival in New York City. His story, “Head Case,” was made into a film produced by Columbia College in Chicago. His film script, “Magic Man,” was optioned by Hyde Park Media.
His stage play, “The Line,” was chosen as part of the reading series by the Saint John Theatre Company.
Find out more about Ronald McGillvray at:
www.ronaldmcgillvray.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 10, 2023
"Horror"fic Fun!
Small backstory:
Cutter's Deep is like no other place on earth as finding it only works if you have a certain kind of necklace charm and once you are there you can never leave. When people end up within the place it can become a nightmare to get out of and trying to leave becomes almost impossible so when Claire along with her parents end up in Cutter's Deep they wish there was a way out.
Claire hooks up with a man named Arlington who has always known Cutter's Deep as home but as time goes on Arlington starts to realize that there might be another life "outside" of Cutter's Deep but breaking the rules of Cutter's Deep is not an option or is it?
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory so if you want to know more than go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book was one of the coolest stories I have read in awhile as the book enfolds horror, dark fantasy, and science fiction within its pages. I had already read one book by this author which I loved and wanted to check out a full length novel by him which is this one. I am so happy that I did as I loved this book! It will definitely be going on my favorites shelf and it will definitely be worth a reread in the future.
When I first started reading it I wasn't sure where the story would be taking me as it starts out with lots of horror and gore, but as time goes on it becomes something else as it delves deep into a dark fantasy world with highlights of sci-fi thrown in for spice. There is also a little bit of romance which was written well within this book between the two main characters of Claire and Arlington but all in all I felt that this story was unique and creative.
The pace is fast within the story as there is always something happening in this book - there is never a dull moment and at times I would be reading either late into the night or during the night as my insomnia would kick in and I would be scrunched down in my comfy chair totally absorbed within this story! Looking forward to reading more books by this author. Giving this book five "Terror Twisted" stars!
Small backstory:
Cutter's Deep is like no other place on earth as finding it only works if you have a certain kind of necklace charm and once you are there you can never leave. When people end up within the place it can become a nightmare to get out of and trying to leave becomes almost impossible so when Claire along with her parents end up in Cutter's Deep they wish there was a way out.
Claire hooks up with a man named Arlington who has always known Cutter's Deep as home but as time goes on Arlington starts to realize that there might be another life "outside" of Cutter's Deep but breaking the rules of Cutter's Deep is not an option or is it?
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory so if you want to know more than go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book was one of the coolest stories I have read in awhile as the book enfolds horror, dark fantasy, and science fiction within its pages. I had already read one book by this author which I loved and wanted to check out a full length novel by him which is this one. I am so happy that I did as I loved this book! It will definitely be going on my favorites shelf and it will definitely be worth a reread in the future.
When I first started reading it I wasn't sure where the story would be taking me as it starts out with lots of horror and gore, but as time goes on it becomes something else as it delves deep into a dark fantasy world with highlights of sci-fi thrown in for spice. There is also a little bit of romance which was written well within this book between the two main characters of Claire and Arlington but all in all I felt that this story was unique and creative.
The pace is fast within the story as there is always something happening in this book - there is never a dull moment and at times I would be reading either late into the night or during the night as my insomnia would kick in and I would be scrunched down in my comfy chair totally absorbed within this story! Looking forward to reading more books by this author. Giving this book five "Terror Twisted" stars!
December 15, 2023
Wow, what a wild ride into a mysterious town that inhibits a carnival of horrors. The story started very strong with an eerie town not visible for everyone. People are disappearing. A strange howling is going on. Two characters are getting younger level by level. That was real horror, frightening. When all the demons, witches, the House of Mirage, the wishers and more fantastic elements start to dominate the action it becomes a bit soapy and predictable. Personally I would have liked it to be more on the hard horror side (Keith) not that slip into cheesy love story (Arlington/Claire), strange magic beings and amusement park horror (the White Witch). Besides the background story on James Cutter and the pyramid would have been more interesting. An interesting mixture between fantasy and horror. I'd preferred the dark horror version though to be honest. Nevertheless very readable and page turning. Really recommended!
December 6, 2023
3.5/5
I’ve had this novel languishing on my Kindle since release date, slowly making its way up through my miles deep TBR, but I knew I wanted to do my best to fit it in by this year’s end. So, when November rolled around, I read chapter one and got it started, making sure my brain would get back to it.
I’ve known Ronald for a few years now and had the pleasure of finally meeting him this past May in Toronto. His ‘Tales from the Parkland’ collection was fantastic, so I was excited going in to see what he’d done in the long format.
What I liked: The story takes place in the odd little town of Cutter’s Deep. According to the mythology of the town, a lumberjack – last name Cutter – seemingly uncovered a way to prosper here in the woods. Through this, he built a pyramid, formed a town and then disappeared. To the average eyes, its simply a ghost town when driving through, seemingly abandoned and run down. But if you’re wearing a special necklace or the town itself wants you to see it, it’ll reveal itself to you.
It’s kind of like the hotel in The Eagles ‘Hotel California.’ You can check out any time you like but you can never leave. Once you’re there, you’re there. And the town is filled with all types of strangeness.
We follow Arlington and Claire. Arlington is a young man who has lived his whole life in Cutter’s Deep. Claire is visiting. And when her parents go missing, she meets Arlington and the two connect. A connection that Arlington never expected, which opens up new feelings within him. This is the basis of the rest of the story. The two working together to get to the bottom of what’s going on, why things are the way they are and if there is any potential for the two of them to leave and live together in the wider world beyond.
The scope of this story is MASSIVE. McGillvray fills it with different societies, groups, creatures and all types of magic and lore. Taken in bit parts it felt a lot like the movies I grew up watching in the 80s felt, or for something a bit more modern, even how True Blood expanded from a simply vampire drama to include all types of creatures.
The ending absolutely leaves the stage open for a second novel. I’m not sure if Ronald is planning a sequel, but taken on face value, it would seem like we’d be getting more, which would allow Ronald to cover even more ground.
What I didn’t like: Two things stuck out to me really. Reading this, I became overwhelmed with just how much was happening. There’s A LOT of directions this goes in and a lot of moving parts. Taken in bite sized chunks it was manageable, but some of the random extra stuff would’ve been nice to have been paired down. I was fascinated by the parking garage sequence, but it never really got explained, and same with the hotel, or really why some were chosen to see the place and others weren’t.
Secondly, the content felt more YA (not a bad thing) than Adult, but the Adult components kind of looped me out of the YA comfort. The writing did change between those areas, with a harder edge for the Adult aspects and a bit more toned down for YA, so at times it felt like I was reading two stories that had been put together into one release.
Why you should buy this: If you’re looking for a massive, sprawling, epic horror-fantasy tale that brings you into the middle of nowhere to one of the strangest places you’ll ever visit, look no further.
This one reads like McGillvray had a blast writing it and it’ll be one that’ll suck you in and not let go. Especially if you’re out past midnight and the howling begins.
I’ve had this novel languishing on my Kindle since release date, slowly making its way up through my miles deep TBR, but I knew I wanted to do my best to fit it in by this year’s end. So, when November rolled around, I read chapter one and got it started, making sure my brain would get back to it.
I’ve known Ronald for a few years now and had the pleasure of finally meeting him this past May in Toronto. His ‘Tales from the Parkland’ collection was fantastic, so I was excited going in to see what he’d done in the long format.
What I liked: The story takes place in the odd little town of Cutter’s Deep. According to the mythology of the town, a lumberjack – last name Cutter – seemingly uncovered a way to prosper here in the woods. Through this, he built a pyramid, formed a town and then disappeared. To the average eyes, its simply a ghost town when driving through, seemingly abandoned and run down. But if you’re wearing a special necklace or the town itself wants you to see it, it’ll reveal itself to you.
It’s kind of like the hotel in The Eagles ‘Hotel California.’ You can check out any time you like but you can never leave. Once you’re there, you’re there. And the town is filled with all types of strangeness.
We follow Arlington and Claire. Arlington is a young man who has lived his whole life in Cutter’s Deep. Claire is visiting. And when her parents go missing, she meets Arlington and the two connect. A connection that Arlington never expected, which opens up new feelings within him. This is the basis of the rest of the story. The two working together to get to the bottom of what’s going on, why things are the way they are and if there is any potential for the two of them to leave and live together in the wider world beyond.
The scope of this story is MASSIVE. McGillvray fills it with different societies, groups, creatures and all types of magic and lore. Taken in bit parts it felt a lot like the movies I grew up watching in the 80s felt, or for something a bit more modern, even how True Blood expanded from a simply vampire drama to include all types of creatures.
The ending absolutely leaves the stage open for a second novel. I’m not sure if Ronald is planning a sequel, but taken on face value, it would seem like we’d be getting more, which would allow Ronald to cover even more ground.
What I didn’t like: Two things stuck out to me really. Reading this, I became overwhelmed with just how much was happening. There’s A LOT of directions this goes in and a lot of moving parts. Taken in bite sized chunks it was manageable, but some of the random extra stuff would’ve been nice to have been paired down. I was fascinated by the parking garage sequence, but it never really got explained, and same with the hotel, or really why some were chosen to see the place and others weren’t.
Secondly, the content felt more YA (not a bad thing) than Adult, but the Adult components kind of looped me out of the YA comfort. The writing did change between those areas, with a harder edge for the Adult aspects and a bit more toned down for YA, so at times it felt like I was reading two stories that had been put together into one release.
Why you should buy this: If you’re looking for a massive, sprawling, epic horror-fantasy tale that brings you into the middle of nowhere to one of the strangest places you’ll ever visit, look no further.
This one reads like McGillvray had a blast writing it and it’ll be one that’ll suck you in and not let go. Especially if you’re out past midnight and the howling begins.
October 9, 2025
Hell is being raised in this deserted town, somewhere in the middle of nowhere called Cutter’s Deep. Killing and being killed is the day-to-day business… and business is good.
I wish I enjoyed this story more. The hell-like universe that was created was great, and I liked that a lot; however, the main characters did not do it for me. It explored the politics and rules of hell, which wasn’t bad, but it also had a ridiculous love story, which was the heart of the whole book—not my jam. The world that was created had some sincere potential for a great horror narrative and that’s what kept me interested.
I wish I enjoyed this story more. The hell-like universe that was created was great, and I liked that a lot; however, the main characters did not do it for me. It explored the politics and rules of hell, which wasn’t bad, but it also had a ridiculous love story, which was the heart of the whole book—not my jam. The world that was created had some sincere potential for a great horror narrative and that’s what kept me interested.
March 19, 2023
An Incredible Novel!
This book starts like an acid trip at a hotel in Hell, and only gets crazier from there. It's fast, intense, and immensely entertaining. If you're a fan of horror, suspense, dark fantasy, or just great writing, you need to feast your eyes on CUTTER'S DEEP. I'm looking forward to more from McGillvray. Highly recommended!
This book starts like an acid trip at a hotel in Hell, and only gets crazier from there. It's fast, intense, and immensely entertaining. If you're a fan of horror, suspense, dark fantasy, or just great writing, you need to feast your eyes on CUTTER'S DEEP. I'm looking forward to more from McGillvray. Highly recommended!
June 25, 2023
The last time someone gave me a necklace that I had to wear in order to visit their town I said no thanks, I ended up missing out on a corn dog festival and that’s a bummer. I was ready to change my stance on the whole necklace thing until reading Cutter’s Deep. Ronald McGillvray has written what Silent Hill would feel like if it were just a little more monster movie and fantasy. Cutter’s deep reads like Barker’s Weaveworld in a lot of ways, it feels like horror blended in perfect amounts with fantasy which is a tough combo to find(at least for me, but I would love some recs!) The horror here is creepy and brutal, some scenes made me feel heavy. McGillvray has a knack for lifting that weight within the next few sentences as something weird is thrown at you that distracts you. Kind of like when you’re a sad kid and your teacher gives you a squishy dinosaur. Something I want to point out about the craft, the MC in this book lives in Cutter’s Deep, he sees all of the weirdness daily. McGillvray absolutely let us feel that way. When writing from the MC perspective events felt very “same old same old” but felt big and wild from the visitors perspective. This was the stand out about the book for me, that detail to perspective. Just don’t go visiting any towns you have to wear a necklace for. K thx.
March 3, 2024
Part urban fantasy and part horror, Cutters Deep is a rocking good time about a small town with VERY deep dark secrets.
In this town, the Guardians rule all. Made up of the heads of various groups (vampires, werewolves, witches, cults, etc) the town is home to a giant thrumming pyramid with supposed healing powers. But there's something much more nefarious going on. People who visit never leave. Visitors are sacrificed, their children taken in to be raised by the rules of this town. And it's invisible to all except those who are wearing a pyramid necklace imbued with the power of the town.
It's a place of death. The howling takes place each night followed by a reset every morning. Then there's the Eye. And you're going to have to read this to find out about those. It's horrifying though, especially if you're out after midnight.
Secrets run deep and not everything or everyone will be as it appears. There are alliances, factions, and a power struggle which could change things forever.
Arlington and Claire are are two young people who find themselves in the middle of all of this as Arlington's "calling" is revealed. Claire is an outsider, on vacation with her parents. But when they begin a forbidden relationship, they are thrust into this wild, chilling, full speed adventure with terrifying consequences.
This is a fantastic novel and one I highly recommend. It's great for fans of horror and fantasy alike. The writing is smooth and the narrative flows at a great pace. You'll want to pick this one up.
In this town, the Guardians rule all. Made up of the heads of various groups (vampires, werewolves, witches, cults, etc) the town is home to a giant thrumming pyramid with supposed healing powers. But there's something much more nefarious going on. People who visit never leave. Visitors are sacrificed, their children taken in to be raised by the rules of this town. And it's invisible to all except those who are wearing a pyramid necklace imbued with the power of the town.
It's a place of death. The howling takes place each night followed by a reset every morning. Then there's the Eye. And you're going to have to read this to find out about those. It's horrifying though, especially if you're out after midnight.
Secrets run deep and not everything or everyone will be as it appears. There are alliances, factions, and a power struggle which could change things forever.
Arlington and Claire are are two young people who find themselves in the middle of all of this as Arlington's "calling" is revealed. Claire is an outsider, on vacation with her parents. But when they begin a forbidden relationship, they are thrust into this wild, chilling, full speed adventure with terrifying consequences.
This is a fantastic novel and one I highly recommend. It's great for fans of horror and fantasy alike. The writing is smooth and the narrative flows at a great pace. You'll want to pick this one up.
July 29, 2023
This is probably one of the most imaginative reads I’ve read this year. Immediately, I was reminded of The Twilight Zone from when I was a kid. A parallel universe of monsters and magic and calamity. The first half of this read was filled with dread as the characters navigated this hell scape while you actively try and understand what the hell is going on.
Intertwined in the dread is an epic love story where family prevails. I really enjoyed the ride of Cutter’s Deep and am so glad I picked this up for Canadian Indie Horror Month. If you’ve not checked out McGillvray yet, you definitely need to!
Intertwined in the dread is an epic love story where family prevails. I really enjoyed the ride of Cutter’s Deep and am so glad I picked this up for Canadian Indie Horror Month. If you’ve not checked out McGillvray yet, you definitely need to!
October 18, 2023
CUTTER'S DEEP is a Horror novel unlike any other I can remember in decades of reading Horror. This novel is both deep and expansive, extraordinarily imaginative, and really in-depth in characterization. There were some unsettling segments (it is Horror, after all), and many, many times my jaw dropped in absolute astonishment. I definitely recommend this one, and I'm thankful that among all these monsters and monstrosities there are several characters I can greatly admire.
October 5, 2024
A great dark fantasy
Arlington works in a hotel but this is not a normal hotel, his town isn't ordinary either. His town has roving gangs of all sort of creatures, coven of witches, and a black van that drives itself killing people. Its all normal they have to bring outsiders in as a sort of sacrifice to keep their world going. Though one day Arlington falls for an outsider and that starts him thinking and that leads to a lot of changes.
Highly recommended, A dark fantasy that has great world building and interesting characters. Keeps your interest and moves well. Really looking forward to reading more from this author.
Arlington works in a hotel but this is not a normal hotel, his town isn't ordinary either. His town has roving gangs of all sort of creatures, coven of witches, and a black van that drives itself killing people. Its all normal they have to bring outsiders in as a sort of sacrifice to keep their world going. Though one day Arlington falls for an outsider and that starts him thinking and that leads to a lot of changes.
Highly recommended, A dark fantasy that has great world building and interesting characters. Keeps your interest and moves well. Really looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 2, 2023
Simply saying I enjoyed this crazy book from top to bottom, would be itself a crazy understatement! I totally loved McGillvray’s debut novel. This is the kind of horror book that gives many hours of reading pleasure; it delivers twists, surprises, unusual characters, original settings, unsettling atmosphere, action-packed adventures. The sheer variety of plotlines and horrific situations, coupled with a love story, a dark family history, and small town horror, erupts into an incredible tale of suspenseful dark fantasy, bringing all the different aspects into what ends up to be one huge, super cool coming-of-age story! How to describe adequately the amount of work involved in such a project? McGillvray’s imagination has no bounds: his fictional town of Cutter’s Deep upends many of those well-worn small town horror motifs and reconceives them into something never seen before. The book starts right in the middle of things, focusing on the town’s hotel, which, after midnight, becomes a nightmare place straight from Hell: infinite hallways, gory creatures, mad elevators, a Backrooms-type of insanity with a dose of Barker-kind of horrors. Those early chapters raise the bar quite high. Slowly, the action coalesces around a hotel employee, young Arlington. Bit by bit, we realize that things are much worse in this town than previously understood: all kinds of nasty creatures have found shelter there, outsiders are invited but no one ever leaves, plus there’s a gigantic Pyramid close to the town. And then Arlington falls in love with Claire, an outsider. From that moment on, everything goes into high gear, and doesn’t stop till the end. Grab a copy and find out what McGillvray has in store for these characters: you’ll find plenty of thrills and chills!
April 8, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect from this novel by one of the best supporters out there in the horror community, but I sure wanted to read it. I've said many times, for me anyway, that getting the most from a book is often the headspace I am in, and, at the moment, I'm more into the emotional depth of character. Sadly this lacked for me here, but that's not to say this is a bad novel. Far from it. In fact it's very good and well structured. I really enjoyed the story, the ideas, the way everything unfolds, but like I say, I need that emotional tie at the moment. So, I think a fair score here from me would be 3.5.
I am happy to round it up to 4, though because it's deserved. It's nicely paced and solid enough, and that will always be held in high regards with me.
The signs of an author who cares.
If you are looking for a dark fantasy, a sprinkle of horror, and that feeling of not knowing where a story is going, then this one is definitely worthy of your time.
Good stuff.
I very much look forward to reading more of Ronald's work.
I am happy to round it up to 4, though because it's deserved. It's nicely paced and solid enough, and that will always be held in high regards with me.
The signs of an author who cares.
If you are looking for a dark fantasy, a sprinkle of horror, and that feeling of not knowing where a story is going, then this one is definitely worthy of your time.
Good stuff.
I very much look forward to reading more of Ronald's work.
June 2, 2023
McGillvray decided he'd start layering on the hellscape that is Cutter's Deep straight from the get-go. Creatures and creeps sprint out of the blocks and assault the readers's senses as we're simultaneously introduced to our lead characters. The world building on display is exemplary, and it's a smart move to immerse the reader within it from start to finish. It's an exhausting experience in a thrilling way. This is the second book I've read by this author, and I'm once again impressed by the classic horror voice that McGillvray has. The dread that his world instils is similar to early experiences of Barker and Masterton. Personally, I feel the high points are when Cutter's Deep is portrayed in all its crazy malevolent glory. It's a nightmare of a place, and McGillvray excells at describing it. Great stuff!
October 5, 2023
This was a fun read. I enjoyed all of the craziness happening in this town. The characters are interesting and give different perspectives. There are so many kinds of horrors in this one and the insanity just goes on and on (in a good way!). Give this one a read if you enjoy non-stop twists and turns.
September 5, 2023
I really enjoyed Ron's short story collection 'Tales of the Parkland'. So when he announced the release coming up for Cutter's Deep, I was on board!
There are a lot of things going on in this book, so if you like really out there and fast paced stories, this is going to be a good one to check out. Ron's ability to jump from insane scenario to insane scenario took me off guard. I wouldn't have expected such a chaotic story to flow so seamlessly together.
The story starts out through a few different events that help us get a better understanding of how nuts this place is. From pyramid magic, to cults, to monsters, you'll find that quite literally everything lives in Cutter's Deep, and you aren't safe from any of it.
I found myself thinking often that the mystery around the town and the happenings, reminded me a lot of the tv show From. What Cutter's Deep has that From doesn't, is a more intricate webbing of stories. While a majority of our story is told through our townie Arlington, he has to be one of the most relatable characters in the story. You feel for him and often times you find yourself ranging in the same emotions he does as things in Cutter's Deep shift.
There are parts of the story that connect to the outside world, and over all the events reminded me of something akin to Into the Mouth of Madness. There is absolutely nothing in this story that feels dull or forced. You'll never get a moment to catch your breath. Which is good, because once you go into Cutter's Deep, you won't have time to do anything except run.
There are a lot of things going on in this book, so if you like really out there and fast paced stories, this is going to be a good one to check out. Ron's ability to jump from insane scenario to insane scenario took me off guard. I wouldn't have expected such a chaotic story to flow so seamlessly together.
The story starts out through a few different events that help us get a better understanding of how nuts this place is. From pyramid magic, to cults, to monsters, you'll find that quite literally everything lives in Cutter's Deep, and you aren't safe from any of it.
I found myself thinking often that the mystery around the town and the happenings, reminded me a lot of the tv show From. What Cutter's Deep has that From doesn't, is a more intricate webbing of stories. While a majority of our story is told through our townie Arlington, he has to be one of the most relatable characters in the story. You feel for him and often times you find yourself ranging in the same emotions he does as things in Cutter's Deep shift.
There are parts of the story that connect to the outside world, and over all the events reminded me of something akin to Into the Mouth of Madness. There is absolutely nothing in this story that feels dull or forced. You'll never get a moment to catch your breath. Which is good, because once you go into Cutter's Deep, you won't have time to do anything except run.
May 14, 2023
“Down a lonely stretch of highway stands the deserted town of Cutter's Deep. Except it's not as desolate as it seems.”
Those 2 lines were enough to tempt me to buy Cutter’s Deep: Welcome to Hell. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed McGillvray’s short story collection, Tales from the Parkland, I’d hoped his debut full-length novel would be more of the same. That is, great characterizations, snappy dialogue, and well-plotted action. I wasn’t disappointed as he created unforgettable characters, ranging from a young woman experiencing first love, to a hardened police officer dealing with crippling grief, to a business man just looking to get a good night’s sleep. With deft writing, he puts his characters into situations that test their mettle as they slowly realize the horrifying reality that is Cutter’s Deep. The characters of the townspeople are equally fleshed out and you’re never quite sure who is good or evil, or maybe somewhere in-between, until the end. It’s a horrifying and enjoyable ride though, that I highly recommend.
Those 2 lines were enough to tempt me to buy Cutter’s Deep: Welcome to Hell. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed McGillvray’s short story collection, Tales from the Parkland, I’d hoped his debut full-length novel would be more of the same. That is, great characterizations, snappy dialogue, and well-plotted action. I wasn’t disappointed as he created unforgettable characters, ranging from a young woman experiencing first love, to a hardened police officer dealing with crippling grief, to a business man just looking to get a good night’s sleep. With deft writing, he puts his characters into situations that test their mettle as they slowly realize the horrifying reality that is Cutter’s Deep. The characters of the townspeople are equally fleshed out and you’re never quite sure who is good or evil, or maybe somewhere in-between, until the end. It’s a horrifying and enjoyable ride though, that I highly recommend.
July 18, 2023
I finished Cutter's Deep by Ronald McGillvray last night and thought it was fantastic!! The action-packed story was so incredibly enticing with the imagery and the story plot, I loved it! You know it's a great story if you spend time thinking about it in between readings, and wondering how it'll turn out. And there was a twist at the end that was awesome, but I won't give any of it away. Highly recommend this book, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
January 12, 2025
A delightful fever dream of a story. Highly imaginative. Now I really want to read The Candy Witch.
October 16, 2023
A visit to the town of Cutter’s Deep is like taking a trip into madness. It’s a haunted and darkly magical place where horrific events occur at all hours of the day and night, especially during the howling! Central to the mystical proceedings is the Fairwind Hotel where employee/protagonist Arlington Woods first becomes intrigues with guest/heroine Claire Pointe.
Cutter’s Deep is a wonderfully intriguing tale that had me hooked from its horrific opening scenes, and I quickly became wrapped up in the mysterious events that occur in the town, and in this book. It’s a well-written tale of monstrous events and magical places, filled with fascinating characters and situations. I highly recommend this book.
Cutter’s Deep is a wonderfully intriguing tale that had me hooked from its horrific opening scenes, and I quickly became wrapped up in the mysterious events that occur in the town, and in this book. It’s a well-written tale of monstrous events and magical places, filled with fascinating characters and situations. I highly recommend this book.
June 24, 2023
Just an absolute fever dream of a novel in the best way. Whirlwind book that is like Silent Hill meets Journey To The Center of the Earth with a seasoning of the X Files.
I can’t describe it and I won’t try any further. Definitely worth checking out a stellar debut novel.
I can’t describe it and I won’t try any further. Definitely worth checking out a stellar debut novel.
February 4, 2024
Very enjoyable! Has you shaking your head from the first page. Fun read. For me, it gave off Silent Hill vibes.
August 24, 2025
I was outside the Reread bookstore when I picked up a free copy of a chapter of a Ronald McGillvray story which I really enjoyed. I then picked up Cutter's Deep which is a fast paced read that reminds me a little of Welcome to Nightvale and The Good Place (well the Bad Place from The Good Place). I've since gone back and purchased his other titles Tales from the Park Land and James Journey to Dream Land. Looking for to reading more from this local author.
January 10, 2024
Amazing novel. Excitement from start to finish! Plenty of super imaginative characters and story twists. Very cool horror and occult reading. Great mix of horror and scary Wizard vibes.
Highly recommended!
p 22.
Highly recommended!
p 22.
June 30, 2023
Every once in a while you come across a book that is so unique and different from anything else you have read that defining said book becomes very difficult. Cutter's Deep by Ronald McGillvray is one of those books.
There are moments of horror and dark fantasy woven together with a love story, which you would think should not work, but the author has found a way to make it happen, delivering an absolute banger in the process.
I went into this one blind, and I have to say that it proved to be a great decision. You should all take a visit to Cutter's Deep and embrace the horrors contained within.
There are moments of horror and dark fantasy woven together with a love story, which you would think should not work, but the author has found a way to make it happen, delivering an absolute banger in the process.
I went into this one blind, and I have to say that it proved to be a great decision. You should all take a visit to Cutter's Deep and embrace the horrors contained within.
October 24, 2024
When you read a lot of one genre, it's refreshing to read something that is really unique. Unique but at the same time has elements that remind you of other books you love- such as the Shining, Gun Slinger, the elevator from Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy. Sometimes the amount of elements can be overwhelming, but I found the pay off for creativity worth it. I'm also not a huge fan of romance, so found some relationship stuff a bit cheesy- but that's just my personal taste. Since starting the book, I think about the few chapters that take place in the hotel at least once a day (when brushing my teeth, in the shower, driving to work, etc).
I'm so glad I picked this up at a local book event- nice to be more aware of talent in the community.
I'd recommend this book to someone who likes dark horror and who enjoys a ride on the strange side 😎
I'm so glad I picked this up at a local book event- nice to be more aware of talent in the community.
I'd recommend this book to someone who likes dark horror and who enjoys a ride on the strange side 😎
September 2, 2023
Really entertaining, creepy but with some humor as well. I thought it had a Twilight Zone feel, but that could just be me. A good read.
May 19, 2023
Awesome book!
This was a fun read. It’s got a unique storyline. It’s creepy and cool and adventurous. I will definitely recommend to friends.
This was a fun read. It’s got a unique storyline. It’s creepy and cool and adventurous. I will definitely recommend to friends.
October 19, 2024
Awesome adventure in a strange city where under the guise of normalcy lies a city of horrors.
Great storytelling creative characters in a world where things that seem dormant are deadly.
Enjoyed the macbre ride.
Great storytelling creative characters in a world where things that seem dormant are deadly.
Enjoyed the macbre ride.
April 27, 2023
A new indie author I'm adding to my watch list is def Ronald McGilvray, author of CUTTER'S DEEP. This book was so creepy at times I had to pause and let it sink in, and absorb wtf I'd just read. To highlight the delicious, weird creepiness for you, I've included a few snippets:
"Arlington turned his head and witnessed what could be best described as a large, slick, pulsating worm pulling itself out of one of the boxed planters which lined the street."
"The sign read Cutter’s Deep and there before them was a town that Alan was almost positive hadn’t been there a few hours ago. And even worse was the fact that there was a giant pyramid seemingly reaching for the stars behind the once empty ghost town."
"He also noticed what seemed to be bodies littered on the ground and what looked like blood splattered on the walls, but maybe it was just a trick of the light."
So, Cutter's Deep.... it is a town that doesn't let go of its visitors. It is a town that doesn't show up on the map. If you come across it, you will only see skeletal buildings, debris, and overgrowth. But there is ONE way you can see what is actually there. The pyramid attracts many new age groups, all they have to do to go and see the town and its pyramid is to wear the necklace. But little do they know the creatures that inhabit the place. But why are the creatures there? Arlington is coming of age where our story begins and is beginning to see things differently (a little later in age than a nonresident would) after becoming strangely attracted to a visitor. Ok, i will say no more. Read it!
"Arlington turned his head and witnessed what could be best described as a large, slick, pulsating worm pulling itself out of one of the boxed planters which lined the street."
"The sign read Cutter’s Deep and there before them was a town that Alan was almost positive hadn’t been there a few hours ago. And even worse was the fact that there was a giant pyramid seemingly reaching for the stars behind the once empty ghost town."
"He also noticed what seemed to be bodies littered on the ground and what looked like blood splattered on the walls, but maybe it was just a trick of the light."
So, Cutter's Deep.... it is a town that doesn't let go of its visitors. It is a town that doesn't show up on the map. If you come across it, you will only see skeletal buildings, debris, and overgrowth. But there is ONE way you can see what is actually there. The pyramid attracts many new age groups, all they have to do to go and see the town and its pyramid is to wear the necklace. But little do they know the creatures that inhabit the place. But why are the creatures there? Arlington is coming of age where our story begins and is beginning to see things differently (a little later in age than a nonresident would) after becoming strangely attracted to a visitor. Ok, i will say no more. Read it!
March 16, 2023
An Excellent Debut Novel from a Seasoned Storyteller
I had the opportunity to read a couple early iterations of this book prior to its publication. I therefore feel very confident in saying that “Cutter’s Deep” is a novel that any fan of speculative fiction, and particularly the horror and paranormal sub-genres, should seriously consider reading.
What if you grew up in a small, isolated town where horrifying events occur on a daily basis as a matter of course, raised by a man who might well be a monster, or simply doing his job? What if you stumbled upon such a place as an outsider, unprepared and ill-equipped to deal with, much less comprehend, its true nature? These are just some of the compelling and thought-provoking questions this story addresses via its extensive and thorough world building and character development, even as it provides copious thrills and chills for those seeking a more punchy and visceral reading experience.
For me, “Cutter’s Deep” is a prime example of a book that works on multiple levels, greatly benefiting from the author’s attempts to not simply tell a story, but tell it with healthy doses of polish, depth, and style that I believe significantly elevate it beyond its fundamental premise.
In short, I highly recommend it.
I had the opportunity to read a couple early iterations of this book prior to its publication. I therefore feel very confident in saying that “Cutter’s Deep” is a novel that any fan of speculative fiction, and particularly the horror and paranormal sub-genres, should seriously consider reading.
What if you grew up in a small, isolated town where horrifying events occur on a daily basis as a matter of course, raised by a man who might well be a monster, or simply doing his job? What if you stumbled upon such a place as an outsider, unprepared and ill-equipped to deal with, much less comprehend, its true nature? These are just some of the compelling and thought-provoking questions this story addresses via its extensive and thorough world building and character development, even as it provides copious thrills and chills for those seeking a more punchy and visceral reading experience.
For me, “Cutter’s Deep” is a prime example of a book that works on multiple levels, greatly benefiting from the author’s attempts to not simply tell a story, but tell it with healthy doses of polish, depth, and style that I believe significantly elevate it beyond its fundamental premise.
In short, I highly recommend it.
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