What do you think?
Rate this book
Arcranium™: The Future of Horror Literature is Now: The Future is Arcranium™
Four horror authors with four vulnerable egos, square off against one another in the virtual world to find out who is the scariest. Welcome to Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. It's all in good fun, but with so much pride at stake, things are bound to get a little bumpy once the gloves come off. So, strap your headset on, and don't forget the safe word. The future of literature is about to get an upgrade. The future is … Arcranium™
187 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2023
19 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Mark Towse
94 books479 followersMark Towse is an English horror writer living in Australia. He would sell his soul to the devil or anyone buying if it meant he could write full-time. Alas, he left it very late to begin this journey, penning his first story since primary school at the ripe old age of forty-five. Since then, he's been published in over two hundred journals and anthologies, had his work made into full theatrical productions for shows such as The No Sleep Podcast and Tales to Terrify, and has penned fourteen novellas, including Nana, Gone to the Dogs, 3:33, and Crows. He also has two very well-received story collections, 'There's Something Wrong with Aunty Beth,' and 'You Only Live Once.' Chasing The Dragon is his debut novel.
'Mark Towse is an exciting new discovery. His stories are hidden gems that glint in the darkness. His characters draw you into their worlds, making you care, then plunge you into the abyss, leaving only a memory of warmth. These tales will linger in your mind long after the telling. His are heart-felt stories with an icy edge. Highly recommended.'
Trevor Denyer – Editor and Publisher – Midnight Street Press
https://twitter.com/MarkTowsey12
https://www.facebook.com/mark.towse.75
https://marktowsedarkfiction.wordpres...
'Mark Towse is an exciting new discovery. His stories are hidden gems that glint in the darkness. His characters draw you into their worlds, making you care, then plunge you into the abyss, leaving only a memory of warmth. These tales will linger in your mind long after the telling. His are heart-felt stories with an icy edge. Highly recommended.'
Trevor Denyer – Editor and Publisher – Midnight Street Press
https://twitter.com/MarkTowsey12
https://www.facebook.com/mark.towse.75
https://marktowsedarkfiction.wordpres...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
February 26, 2024
The titular story was pretty good, the authors' styles mesh pretty seamlessly. 4/5
The one by Towse alone was kind of a letdown, surprisingly because I normally really enjoy his work. Fat bodies don't really work like that and a tragic character becoming fat and creepy is kind of a lazy trope that I really don't care for. 2/5
The one by Manx alone was good enough but I would have liked more from it. 3.5/5
3.20 rounded down.
The one by Towse alone was kind of a letdown, surprisingly because I normally really enjoy his work. Fat bodies don't really work like that and a tragic character becoming fat and creepy is kind of a lazy trope that I really don't care for. 2/5
The one by Manx alone was good enough but I would have liked more from it. 3.5/5
3.20 rounded down.
June 7, 2024
⭐️ 2.5 stars ⭐️
// Four horror writers decide to figure out once and for all who’s the best at their craft. Welcome to the future, where Arcranium™ let’s you explore all your horror knowledge.. and your deepest darkest nightmares.//
The concept of the main story was fascinating for sure — an AI program that helps you create any story your brain can cook up, a horror simulator that grabs all the notions of the genre and where the ‘narrator’ can make the others live whatever scenario, whatever emotion, whatever nightmare they want.
The way these characters ended up using this powerful program was unfortunately pretty disappointing.
Right off the bat, all four characters come off as egotistical and fame hungry.
Where I was expecting a fun collection of different horror stories within the story itself, what we get is more of a pissing contest, a battle of pride.
The only story that managed to give me a chill was the Asian urban legend , but the others were either plain gross or nonsensical, most equating pain to fear, gore to scariness.
I wanted it to be a stand-off between mind blowing horror writers, but it seemed all four weren’t that great at their job.
The ending was predictable, therefore pretty boring.
The mini author stories
The second one, Scream In The Dark, is merely an excerpt, but seemed like a creepy slasher horror. Left me mildly intrigued, but not overly wowed.
The first one, Happy Returns, was problematic on multiple levels. It wasn’t horror or creepy or scary or anything. The author took an abused character and made her the villain. Not only made her a ridiculous villain, but mocked her, dehumanized her.
I didn’t enjoy the vibe or the message that left me with.
Final Thoughts
The main story had potential to achieve something exceptionally creepy, but missed the mark with the characterizations and the bland horror simulations. It was gross sure, gory also, but scary? Unsettling? Not at all.
Rounding up more for what it could’ve been than for what it turned out to be.
If I could rate the short story Happy Returns by itself, it would be negative five stars.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
“Taps into the subconscious; stimulates it, unlocking all natural inhibitors.” He looked around again before ushering his friends in even closer. “It can bring out the best of us, unlock our true potential.”
// Four horror writers decide to figure out once and for all who’s the best at their craft. Welcome to the future, where Arcranium™ let’s you explore all your horror knowledge.. and your deepest darkest nightmares.//
The concept of the main story was fascinating for sure — an AI program that helps you create any story your brain can cook up, a horror simulator that grabs all the notions of the genre and where the ‘narrator’ can make the others live whatever scenario, whatever emotion, whatever nightmare they want.
The way these characters ended up using this powerful program was unfortunately pretty disappointing.
Right off the bat, all four characters come off as egotistical and fame hungry.
Where I was expecting a fun collection of different horror stories within the story itself, what we get is more of a pissing contest, a battle of pride.
The only story that managed to give me a chill was the Asian urban legend , but the others were either plain gross or nonsensical, most equating pain to fear, gore to scariness.
I wanted it to be a stand-off between mind blowing horror writers, but it seemed all four weren’t that great at their job.
The ending was predictable, therefore pretty boring.
The mini author stories
The second one, Scream In The Dark, is merely an excerpt, but seemed like a creepy slasher horror. Left me mildly intrigued, but not overly wowed.
The first one, Happy Returns, was problematic on multiple levels. It wasn’t horror or creepy or scary or anything. The author took an abused character and made her the villain. Not only made her a ridiculous villain, but mocked her, dehumanized her.
I didn’t enjoy the vibe or the message that left me with.
Final Thoughts
The main story had potential to achieve something exceptionally creepy, but missed the mark with the characterizations and the bland horror simulations. It was gross sure, gory also, but scary? Unsettling? Not at all.
Rounding up more for what it could’ve been than for what it turned out to be.
If I could rate the short story Happy Returns by itself, it would be negative five stars.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 4, 2023
Horror Bookworm Reviews
Arcranium by Mark Towse & Daemon Manx
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Four horror writers gather on the second Tuesday of every month to discuss projects, productivity and the passion of writing. This reunion slowly evolves into jealousy towards one another’s chosen genre bringing forth a friendly competition. The group decides to use a new underground technology called Arcranium to determine who is the scariest author. However when an ulterior motive is uncovered, ominous and evil intentions cross all lines of reverence.
Mark Towse & Daemon Manx combine their literary talents into one clever story capturing stereotypes of the horror genre. From extreme to gothic to psychological, pushing the experience of terror and madness to the limits are what this author duo does best. A definitive representation of fear and manipulation are boldly told through disturbing images of unnatural horror. So much so that a safe word is needed for protection. The reader is at the mercy of Towse & Manx as they tap into the question…what is real horror?
Competitiveness, resentment, envy and ego are all plugged into this emotional machine of evil intentions. With a bit of Altered States meets Videodrome, this fusion of flesh and algorithms brings forth a breeding ground of vengeful spirits and urban legends. But wait! There’s more! In each and every book you also receive a short horror Towse story built around an 80’s tale of terror, where Game Over takes on a new meaning. You also get a short horror Manx story of a haunted sanatorium ready to be explored by six unsuspecting high school students.
Adjust your sensory input/output, choose your destination and let your imagination be your guide but never compare how big your readership is…size doesn’t matter, it’s how you write it. A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Reviews.
Arcranium by Mark Towse & Daemon Manx
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Four horror writers gather on the second Tuesday of every month to discuss projects, productivity and the passion of writing. This reunion slowly evolves into jealousy towards one another’s chosen genre bringing forth a friendly competition. The group decides to use a new underground technology called Arcranium to determine who is the scariest author. However when an ulterior motive is uncovered, ominous and evil intentions cross all lines of reverence.
Mark Towse & Daemon Manx combine their literary talents into one clever story capturing stereotypes of the horror genre. From extreme to gothic to psychological, pushing the experience of terror and madness to the limits are what this author duo does best. A definitive representation of fear and manipulation are boldly told through disturbing images of unnatural horror. So much so that a safe word is needed for protection. The reader is at the mercy of Towse & Manx as they tap into the question…what is real horror?
Competitiveness, resentment, envy and ego are all plugged into this emotional machine of evil intentions. With a bit of Altered States meets Videodrome, this fusion of flesh and algorithms brings forth a breeding ground of vengeful spirits and urban legends. But wait! There’s more! In each and every book you also receive a short horror Towse story built around an 80’s tale of terror, where Game Over takes on a new meaning. You also get a short horror Manx story of a haunted sanatorium ready to be explored by six unsuspecting high school students.
Adjust your sensory input/output, choose your destination and let your imagination be your guide but never compare how big your readership is…size doesn’t matter, it’s how you write it. A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Reviews.
January 24, 2023
Manx and Towse mash up nicely. Sounded like one voice. Great premise, fantastic manipulation of all the characters. Very satisfying ending. Well Done!
July 8, 2024
Artificial intelligence and Virtual reality can not be termed anymore as 'technology round the corner'. We are already living in a world propelled by generative AI and Metaverse.
Arcranium™ is built on the concept of metaverse which lets creators generate a simulated narrative and participants to interact with it virtually. The concept is interesting and the most promising part of the book. The underlying message that this may not be a science fiction and we may soon be experiencing it, is what makes it the true horror story. The society is heading towards a virtual reality where the lines between good and evil may easily get blurred between what is a fact and what is just a fun game.
The four egomaniac horror authors decide to use Arcranium™ technology to settle the score and decide who can create the most scariest narrative. The book proceeds to have 4 horror stories each by one author, which is then experience by the 3 others differently. In short, if we do proper permutation and combination mathematical formula, we get 12 different short stories, none of which I found scary enough and struggled to get them over. Somewhere along the line author mentions, "Gore is not horror' and I cant agree more. I know the publisher advised the reader about this trigger warning, but gore can not be the only content to generate horror and mystery. Alien parasites inside oesophagus, ear and even womb is just creepy and gross. Anyone experiencing it in virtual reality will definitely tap out using the 'safe word' that doesnt mean its a high class horror.
[image error]
The underlying theme of ego clashes and how twisted and clouded it can make someone's thinking, is thought provoking. The constant check on humanity and its thoughts which are being dominated by technology. We may be our own end, technology may just have to wait and watch.
Thanks to Netgalley and Last Waltz publishing for the digital ARC in exchange of honest review.
Trigger warning : Excessive violence and gore, as well as strong sexual content.
Arcranium™ is built on the concept of metaverse which lets creators generate a simulated narrative and participants to interact with it virtually. The concept is interesting and the most promising part of the book. The underlying message that this may not be a science fiction and we may soon be experiencing it, is what makes it the true horror story. The society is heading towards a virtual reality where the lines between good and evil may easily get blurred between what is a fact and what is just a fun game.
The four egomaniac horror authors decide to use Arcranium™ technology to settle the score and decide who can create the most scariest narrative. The book proceeds to have 4 horror stories each by one author, which is then experience by the 3 others differently. In short, if we do proper permutation and combination mathematical formula, we get 12 different short stories, none of which I found scary enough and struggled to get them over. Somewhere along the line author mentions, "Gore is not horror' and I cant agree more. I know the publisher advised the reader about this trigger warning, but gore can not be the only content to generate horror and mystery. Alien parasites inside oesophagus, ear and even womb is just creepy and gross. Anyone experiencing it in virtual reality will definitely tap out using the 'safe word' that doesnt mean its a high class horror.
[image error]
The underlying theme of ego clashes and how twisted and clouded it can make someone's thinking, is thought provoking. The constant check on humanity and its thoughts which are being dominated by technology. We may be our own end, technology may just have to wait and watch.
Thanks to Netgalley and Last Waltz publishing for the digital ARC in exchange of honest review.
Trigger warning : Excessive violence and gore, as well as strong sexual content.
January 15, 2023
I've read both of these authors before, and thoroughly enjoyed what I read. They have come together brilliantly as one in this futuristic tale of competition, jealousy, and the need to be the best, whatever it takes..
The book is set in 2032 and follows four authors at their last ever reunion in their local pub, not that they know this yet! They are discussing the fears and anxieties that come with being a writer, imposter syndrome, what makes a good story, how to win the readers' hearts and ultimately, what scares people the most!!
Noah has a way of finding out! In his day job he has come across a new AI software program called ARCRANIUM! This program will allow them to bring the utmost fear and anxieties to life in the minds of the participants, those participants being himself and the other authors! They will get to experience each others stories first hand.
Just imagine being able to tell a story, and for your readers to imagine it EXACTLY as you do! With all the thoughts and feelings you intended….and the pain and suffering too! Thats the idea behind this little experiment, but things take a horrifically, brilliant, sadistic turn!
With each author upping the game when its their turn to narrate their story! Playing on the others raw emotions and dark memories. Where the imagination truly does come to life….
This was like a cyber, futuristic, splatterpunk, extreme Flatliners!! The imagery was brilliantly vivid, the anxiety levels were sky high and the tension was extremely palpable. Eerily unsettling, creepy and chilling, this story is nightmare fuel for sure! 🖤 Fast paced, with a brilliantly satisfying ending, payback really is a bitch!
Oh, and DONT FORGET THE SAFEWORD!! 😉
**Also, there is an extra little something from each author at the end of this book, so like with a good Marvel film, dont leave before the credits or youll miss out!
Theres a crazy, one sided love/revenge story from Mark and an excerpt from The Okanox: Book 1 by Daemon, which, well, you had me at Sanitorium!! And I really want to explore further……
The book is set in 2032 and follows four authors at their last ever reunion in their local pub, not that they know this yet! They are discussing the fears and anxieties that come with being a writer, imposter syndrome, what makes a good story, how to win the readers' hearts and ultimately, what scares people the most!!
Noah has a way of finding out! In his day job he has come across a new AI software program called ARCRANIUM! This program will allow them to bring the utmost fear and anxieties to life in the minds of the participants, those participants being himself and the other authors! They will get to experience each others stories first hand.
Just imagine being able to tell a story, and for your readers to imagine it EXACTLY as you do! With all the thoughts and feelings you intended….and the pain and suffering too! Thats the idea behind this little experiment, but things take a horrifically, brilliant, sadistic turn!
With each author upping the game when its their turn to narrate their story! Playing on the others raw emotions and dark memories. Where the imagination truly does come to life….
This was like a cyber, futuristic, splatterpunk, extreme Flatliners!! The imagery was brilliantly vivid, the anxiety levels were sky high and the tension was extremely palpable. Eerily unsettling, creepy and chilling, this story is nightmare fuel for sure! 🖤 Fast paced, with a brilliantly satisfying ending, payback really is a bitch!
Oh, and DONT FORGET THE SAFEWORD!! 😉
**Also, there is an extra little something from each author at the end of this book, so like with a good Marvel film, dont leave before the credits or youll miss out!
Theres a crazy, one sided love/revenge story from Mark and an excerpt from The Okanox: Book 1 by Daemon, which, well, you had me at Sanitorium!! And I really want to explore further……
January 14, 2023
Holy smokes! I couldn't give this book less than 5 stars simply due to the story itself. I've never read a book like this before and it was fantastic! Creepy, chilling, has the right amount of gore. I wasn't surprised that I loved this because Manx and Towse are two of my favorite authors.
January 27, 2023
I have read several books by Mark Towse and so far, I have yet to be disappointed. This is my first-time reading Daemon Manx.
The story is set in 2032. Four horror authors, Noah, Mike, Alex and Yas, are having what turns out to be their last writers meeting at a local pub called The Gardener's Arms. They are sitting around debating who is the scariest author. Who is the most original and who is tired and worn out using the same old formula and tropes as always.
Noah has a suggestion on just how to figure out who is the scariest author amongst them. He lets them in on a secret he's been working on during his day job. A device known as Arcranium. In the program, the AI seeps into your deepest thoughts, fears, anxieties and darkest desires. You can also allow others to experience your thoughts etc, as well. He offers to allow them to experience the program and in turn, find out once and for all which of them is the scariest storyteller.
Each author takes their turn and each one ups the ante each time. The program also allows the authors to tap into each other's fears and deep memories using their emotions to really mess with them. The session was set up with a safe word so that if things get too intense, they can opt out.
This story was very interesting, and I really enjoyed it. The AI program really reminded me of "the box" that the Riddler uses to take over the Gothamites in Batman Forever. It's also has a very cyberpunk feel to it. The book is fast paced, and the descriptions are incredible. Very graphic and detailed, making it feel like you too are on this journey with them. The end of the book has one little story from each author, and I am very interested in reading more from Manx.
The story is set in 2032. Four horror authors, Noah, Mike, Alex and Yas, are having what turns out to be their last writers meeting at a local pub called The Gardener's Arms. They are sitting around debating who is the scariest author. Who is the most original and who is tired and worn out using the same old formula and tropes as always.
Noah has a suggestion on just how to figure out who is the scariest author amongst them. He lets them in on a secret he's been working on during his day job. A device known as Arcranium. In the program, the AI seeps into your deepest thoughts, fears, anxieties and darkest desires. You can also allow others to experience your thoughts etc, as well. He offers to allow them to experience the program and in turn, find out once and for all which of them is the scariest storyteller.
Each author takes their turn and each one ups the ante each time. The program also allows the authors to tap into each other's fears and deep memories using their emotions to really mess with them. The session was set up with a safe word so that if things get too intense, they can opt out.
This story was very interesting, and I really enjoyed it. The AI program really reminded me of "the box" that the Riddler uses to take over the Gothamites in Batman Forever. It's also has a very cyberpunk feel to it. The book is fast paced, and the descriptions are incredible. Very graphic and detailed, making it feel like you too are on this journey with them. The end of the book has one little story from each author, and I am very interested in reading more from Manx.
April 9, 2024
4 horror authors take their competition for scariest story into an AI virtual program known as Arcranium.
Each person has their own unique style of story telling and draws on their creativity to scare the others. I loved Yas’ turn at the controls as her urban legend story was the scariest in my opinion.
I would’ve liked to see the characters developed a bit further; the reader only gets glimpses of their past and motivations and what drives them. We do learn more about Noah for obvious reasons.
Arcranium was a unique concept for a story, and incorporates scifi, gothic, splatter, & supernatural sub genres of horror.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Last Waltz Publishing for a copy!
Each person has their own unique style of story telling and draws on their creativity to scare the others. I loved Yas’ turn at the controls as her urban legend story was the scariest in my opinion.
I would’ve liked to see the characters developed a bit further; the reader only gets glimpses of their past and motivations and what drives them. We do learn more about Noah for obvious reasons.
Arcranium was a unique concept for a story, and incorporates scifi, gothic, splatter, & supernatural sub genres of horror.
Thank you to the authors, NetGalley, and Last Waltz Publishing for a copy!
December 10, 2022
Mike, Yas, Alex, and Noah are horror authors. Unable to discuss their work with family and friends, they formed their little group and meet every other month at The Gardener’s Arms to discuss their current projects. What started out as a good thing eventually turned into bitterness between the authors. Criticism and insults begin to fly between the group while Noah patiently waits for the right moment to mention Arcranium. Noah insists this will help them decide the argument of who is the scariest writer. Arcranium taps into the subconscious and stimulates it unlocking all inhibitors. He tries to sell the others on this experiment, saying it can unlock their true potential. What it unlocks is actually nightmare fuel and more terrifying than any of the authors ever imagined.
The characters were well done. The disdain they had for each other was very clear, especially once they entered Arcranium. The aggression quickly wipes away any compassion they may have had for each other. The gloves come off as the authors tap into each others memories and traumas and use them to manipulate each other. Towse and Manx did an amazing job creating this tense and hostile environment. You could literally feel this as the reader.
I thought the whole story idea was very creative and unique. The pacing is perfect, and the writing is flawless. Towse and Manx have truly created a brilliant story here that is sure to capture your attention. It's dark, engrossing, and full of suspense with a plot twist you won’t see coming. Arcranium has earned its spot in my top reads.
“His head was a world of confusion and fear, a blanket of indifferent darkness wrapping around and providing no comfort.”
The characters were well done. The disdain they had for each other was very clear, especially once they entered Arcranium. The aggression quickly wipes away any compassion they may have had for each other. The gloves come off as the authors tap into each others memories and traumas and use them to manipulate each other. Towse and Manx did an amazing job creating this tense and hostile environment. You could literally feel this as the reader.
I thought the whole story idea was very creative and unique. The pacing is perfect, and the writing is flawless. Towse and Manx have truly created a brilliant story here that is sure to capture your attention. It's dark, engrossing, and full of suspense with a plot twist you won’t see coming. Arcranium has earned its spot in my top reads.
“His head was a world of confusion and fear, a blanket of indifferent darkness wrapping around and providing no comfort.”
January 3, 2023
I have read Daemon Manx and Mark Towse separately and have loved and raved about their works. But friends, oooooooh friends, ARCRANIUM is something special.
Four writer “friends”, Alex, Mike, Yas, and Noah, (I say friends because well, competition and jealousy, am I right?) meet weekly at a local pub. When Noah snitches on a top secret, decommissioned virtual reality project he had worked on, the four friends are bound and determined to out do the others stories… even if it means exposing secrets and wounds that have not healed. Who wins in this battle royals of storytellers?
Guys, guys, listen. I love different POVs in stories, I always have and this one is so damn clever and inventive that I don’t think I have ever read anything like it! Each author takes a turn telling a story in the ARCRANIUM virtual realm and we follow each of the other characters through their part in it. HOW FUCKING COOL IS THAT?!! Not to mention what Manx and Towse do with their own narrative, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This is brutal, bloody, and will leave you with your jaw on the floor numerous times. I absolutely recommend this for one of your first reads of 2023.
Available today through Amazon. I suggest you lay back, breathe as Danny gives you a shot, and enter ARCRANIUM at your own risk.
Four writer “friends”, Alex, Mike, Yas, and Noah, (I say friends because well, competition and jealousy, am I right?) meet weekly at a local pub. When Noah snitches on a top secret, decommissioned virtual reality project he had worked on, the four friends are bound and determined to out do the others stories… even if it means exposing secrets and wounds that have not healed. Who wins in this battle royals of storytellers?
Guys, guys, listen. I love different POVs in stories, I always have and this one is so damn clever and inventive that I don’t think I have ever read anything like it! Each author takes a turn telling a story in the ARCRANIUM virtual realm and we follow each of the other characters through their part in it. HOW FUCKING COOL IS THAT?!! Not to mention what Manx and Towse do with their own narrative, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This is brutal, bloody, and will leave you with your jaw on the floor numerous times. I absolutely recommend this for one of your first reads of 2023.
Available today through Amazon. I suggest you lay back, breathe as Danny gives you a shot, and enter ARCRANIUM at your own risk.
November 3, 2023
One of the authors sent me a review copy of this and I’m glad he did! Just released so check it out!
Four horror writers want to find out which of them is the best. They attempt to do this by using Arcranium, a developing software that allows people to unlock their full potential. It’s like a super advanced, fully immersive AR/VR that lets you experience everything as if it were real.
I loved the set up of four friends meeting at a bar to discuss their writing, careers, and reception. Over time the friendships wane with their growing jealousy and insecurities. Each of them is a different kind of horror writer, each with their own ideas of what’s the best kind of scare.
With this being a novella, it reads like one giant climax. Going in and out of their stories is the only short reprieve, but each is high intensity from the get go. Part of me absolutely loved this factor, while on the other hand, if it was lengthened to a novel, it would have been really cool for each story to have the space to fully play out as their perspective genre shifts. It didn’t take away from my enjoyment at all, but for the more atmospheric styles, time to grow is important.
Personally a 5/5*. Tons of screaming, cursing, bleeding, and horror.
Four horror writers want to find out which of them is the best. They attempt to do this by using Arcranium, a developing software that allows people to unlock their full potential. It’s like a super advanced, fully immersive AR/VR that lets you experience everything as if it were real.
I loved the set up of four friends meeting at a bar to discuss their writing, careers, and reception. Over time the friendships wane with their growing jealousy and insecurities. Each of them is a different kind of horror writer, each with their own ideas of what’s the best kind of scare.
With this being a novella, it reads like one giant climax. Going in and out of their stories is the only short reprieve, but each is high intensity from the get go. Part of me absolutely loved this factor, while on the other hand, if it was lengthened to a novel, it would have been really cool for each story to have the space to fully play out as their perspective genre shifts. It didn’t take away from my enjoyment at all, but for the more atmospheric styles, time to grow is important.
Personally a 5/5*. Tons of screaming, cursing, bleeding, and horror.
September 1, 2023
Fantastic fear-filled read. I really enjoyed the storytelling and writing of this. So much that I'm going to see if the authors would like to collaborate. Definitely check this book out.
April 5, 2024
It's a bloody brilliant book. It's such an immersive and gripping tale. I definitely recommend checking it out as an audiobook!!
Full review coming soon.
Full review coming soon.
December 14, 2025
WOW! I absolutely loved this. It's dark, twisted, and original. I listened to this one on audio and the audio version takes this already spine chilling story to a whole new level. Possibly my favorite horror book this year.
January 12, 2023
Behold! My review from bookstagram!
📚
Soooo this was one bloody, creepy af joyride, just as I expected. 😁 Towse never failed me and it seems he's good at choosing fellow authors to work with too.
Aaanyway, here are some random af thoughts of mine, cuz I can't write a proper review for the life of me.
📚
The beginning of the story when the "amazing" four are having a debate over at The Gardener's Arms was SO well done. I loved everything about it and Noah sums my thoughts on the topic pretty well:
"As far as I'm concerned, the only intention is to scare."
I knew some stuff about Japanese yokai (Rikuo Nura fan in da haus), but I never heard of Kashima Reiko or the Teke teke urban legend, so thanks for that. 😁
I also need to ask both @towseywrites and @daemonmanx one thing - What's wrong with wanking over Barker and King? Especially Barker! One doesn't just read the Damnation Game without… I mean, c'mon! 👀😁
All of the "creative efforts" of the cheerful quartet were terrific, especially the way Alex worked the Arcranium by inserting herself in it and bringing Mike back to the Gardener's. That one was most impressive in my opinion
I didn't particularly like any of the four protagonists (antagonists?), but if I had to choose I'd go for Yas. Just so we're clear, they're all egomaniacs, so you won't like them either. Also, I felt sorry for Mike when he pissed himself. I know I'm not supposed to, but I did. Sue me. 😁
Here's some basic info (thnx Goodreads), without getting into spoiler territory.
Four horror authors with four vulnerable egos, square off against one another, in the virtual world, to find out who is the scariest. Welcome to Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. It's all in good fun, but with so much pride at stake, things are bound to get a little bumpy once the gloves come off. So, strap your headset on and don't forget the safe word. The future of literature is about to get an upgrade. The future is … Arcranium™
In the end I'll tap out with one word and one word only - SKYNET.
📚
Soooo this was one bloody, creepy af joyride, just as I expected. 😁 Towse never failed me and it seems he's good at choosing fellow authors to work with too.
Aaanyway, here are some random af thoughts of mine, cuz I can't write a proper review for the life of me.
📚
The beginning of the story when the "amazing" four are having a debate over at The Gardener's Arms was SO well done. I loved everything about it and Noah sums my thoughts on the topic pretty well:
"As far as I'm concerned, the only intention is to scare."
I knew some stuff about Japanese yokai (Rikuo Nura fan in da haus), but I never heard of Kashima Reiko or the Teke teke urban legend, so thanks for that. 😁
I also need to ask both @towseywrites and @daemonmanx one thing - What's wrong with wanking over Barker and King? Especially Barker! One doesn't just read the Damnation Game without… I mean, c'mon! 👀😁
All of the "creative efforts" of the cheerful quartet were terrific, especially the way Alex worked the Arcranium by inserting herself in it and bringing Mike back to the Gardener's. That one was most impressive in my opinion
I didn't particularly like any of the four protagonists (antagonists?), but if I had to choose I'd go for Yas. Just so we're clear, they're all egomaniacs, so you won't like them either. Also, I felt sorry for Mike when he pissed himself. I know I'm not supposed to, but I did. Sue me. 😁
Here's some basic info (thnx Goodreads), without getting into spoiler territory.
Four horror authors with four vulnerable egos, square off against one another, in the virtual world, to find out who is the scariest. Welcome to Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. It's all in good fun, but with so much pride at stake, things are bound to get a little bumpy once the gloves come off. So, strap your headset on and don't forget the safe word. The future of literature is about to get an upgrade. The future is … Arcranium™
In the end I'll tap out with one word and one word only - SKYNET.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2023
Arcranium™ by Mark Towse and Daemon Manx is an intense and ruthless trip through the horror subgenres and into the human ego. It’s an evocative and riveting read.
The story begins with fun and brutal bar conversation between four horror authors, who may or may not be friends, and turns into an exploration of how horrifying each author’s preferred subgenre and style can be as, through Arcranium™, they inflict their best and worst on each other.
Japanese yurei horror, sci-fi horror, gothic horror, slasher horror—you will never look at these subgenres quite the same again. You may never quite look at authors the same again. The character interaction is both entertaining and disturbing, and ultimately, it’s more than a bit frightening.
This is a sensory and gripping read. The authors engage all your senses as they take you through each character’s Arcranium™ induced scenario. The tension and horrors consume you in a compulsively page-turning experience.
It’s a must-read for those with the intestinal fortitude.
The story begins with fun and brutal bar conversation between four horror authors, who may or may not be friends, and turns into an exploration of how horrifying each author’s preferred subgenre and style can be as, through Arcranium™, they inflict their best and worst on each other.
Japanese yurei horror, sci-fi horror, gothic horror, slasher horror—you will never look at these subgenres quite the same again. You may never quite look at authors the same again. The character interaction is both entertaining and disturbing, and ultimately, it’s more than a bit frightening.
This is a sensory and gripping read. The authors engage all your senses as they take you through each character’s Arcranium™ induced scenario. The tension and horrors consume you in a compulsively page-turning experience.
It’s a must-read for those with the intestinal fortitude.
June 6, 2024
What if you could participate in a horror story? Take part in the terror, feel the pain, the anxiety, taste the copper as you bite down on your tongue and try not to scream. What if this story was customized just for you? Customized by someone you know.
Fears and guilt pulled straight from the hidden folds of your mind and thrust unceremoniously in your face.
New technology brings out the worst in people.
That is what Arcranium can do…but don’t worry, there is a safe word if you are a chicken and want to lose the challenge.
There are two short stories tacked on to the end of this. The one by Towse was blatantly fat shaming and I was disappointed. I kept waiting for a come back or redemption but *spoiler alert* it just got worse. I’m not going to say it should be removed from the book but it is just one big WTF
The story by Manx is actually the first bit of his new book which I have and will be reading soon so I didn’t start it yet
Fears and guilt pulled straight from the hidden folds of your mind and thrust unceremoniously in your face.
New technology brings out the worst in people.
That is what Arcranium can do…but don’t worry, there is a safe word if you are a chicken and want to lose the challenge.
There are two short stories tacked on to the end of this. The one by Towse was blatantly fat shaming and I was disappointed. I kept waiting for a come back or redemption but *spoiler alert* it just got worse. I’m not going to say it should be removed from the book but it is just one big WTF
The story by Manx is actually the first bit of his new book which I have and will be reading soon so I didn’t start it yet
January 9, 2023
This book chronicles the vicious power of selfish competition. The four authors, Alex, Mike, Noah, and Yas, have massive egos that approach cruelty. They each believe they are outstanding writers who are better than the others. It's time to end the debate: who is the superior writer? They agree to a "friendly" competition to prove their skills. However, it quickly becomes anything but friendly. The showdown is a competitive war that is destructive and evil, leaving everyone involved horrified. It's an intriguing book that explores the horrors of artificial intelligence.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great read that kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good thriller. Mr. Manx is a noteworthy author, and I will certainly be reading more of Mr. Towse's books in the future.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great read that kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good thriller. Mr. Manx is a noteworthy author, and I will certainly be reading more of Mr. Towse's books in the future.
October 22, 2023
Thank you so much to Mark Towse for a code to listen to this fantastic audiobook! It was a blast and I enjoyed every second of it!
I loved the story but I think that the amazing job done by the narrators really made it such a unique and terrifying experience! With different people impersonating the different characters and the perfect sounds effects!!
The plot written by Mark Towse and Daemon Manx is very clever, with four horror writers competing with each other to show off their talent in Arcranium. This is a state of the art AI that gets into the authors' minds enhancing their abilities, delving into their memories and subconscious. But as every author is determined to win, things can get a bit too much, but just how far would they go?
Well see for yourself and get ready for a scary ride, just be sure to remember the safe word!! This was such a great listen and one I'm going to come back to, even for the experience alone!
As always this is my honest review.
I loved the story but I think that the amazing job done by the narrators really made it such a unique and terrifying experience! With different people impersonating the different characters and the perfect sounds effects!!
The plot written by Mark Towse and Daemon Manx is very clever, with four horror writers competing with each other to show off their talent in Arcranium. This is a state of the art AI that gets into the authors' minds enhancing their abilities, delving into their memories and subconscious. But as every author is determined to win, things can get a bit too much, but just how far would they go?
Well see for yourself and get ready for a scary ride, just be sure to remember the safe word!! This was such a great listen and one I'm going to come back to, even for the experience alone!
As always this is my honest review.
October 21, 2023
It was super good!!
I actually got to meet Daemon Manx while I was on vacation and got the book signed by him. He is such a sweet guy!
I loved the book! It was super fast-paced, didn't take me long to finish, and the plot twist at the end was great!! I loved that they had Noah go insane, or he was already insane, and plotted their whole demise! And I love that Danny took their whole thing and made books out of them and got famous 😂 even though he was kinda a pedo, I liked his character. He didn't say much, but I still liked him.
But yeah, great read! Totally recommend
I actually got to meet Daemon Manx while I was on vacation and got the book signed by him. He is such a sweet guy!
I loved the book! It was super fast-paced, didn't take me long to finish, and the plot twist at the end was great!! I loved that they had Noah go insane, or he was already insane, and plotted their whole demise! And I love that Danny took their whole thing and made books out of them and got famous 😂 even though he was kinda a pedo, I liked his character. He didn't say much, but I still liked him.
But yeah, great read! Totally recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2025
Four horror authors, once the best of friends, have devolved into bitter enemies. Jealousy oozes from their pores: gothic, ghosts, old school sci-fi, and extreme all jockey for who is superior. Enter an experimental technology and a grueling bet, where no one will emerge unscathed.
This is a horror story that manages to merge and explore multiple sub-genres and the limita of the human psyche all at once. The premise was intriguing, especially as I am currently involved with a group of writers. I hope we never do THAT to one another. I also enjoyed how Manx and Towse poked fun at several horror stereotypes without becoming cliche. This is a short, yet engrossing read that will pull you under.
This is a horror story that manages to merge and explore multiple sub-genres and the limita of the human psyche all at once. The premise was intriguing, especially as I am currently involved with a group of writers. I hope we never do THAT to one another. I also enjoyed how Manx and Towse poked fun at several horror stereotypes without becoming cliche. This is a short, yet engrossing read that will pull you under.
July 21, 2024
A really fun and creative journey into some of the worlds darkest minds...
4 horror authors of different horror sub genres argue that they can write the scariest horror novel. Luckily, one of them has access to a highly classified AI technology that can attach to your brain and let you experience your darkest thoughts realistically...smells and physical pain are 100% there, and play a big role.
So obviously, they give it a go, and each author exposes the others to their darkest story via the VR type experience.
Although I initially thought this to be an anthology, it is much more than that. It is a collection of short stories through 4 very different minds that flows so perfectly that it is in itself it's own story all together.
With some seriously creepy stories, sci-fi tech, and some twists and turns that absolutely make the end, this is the one of the most unique and creative competitions I've ever had the pleasure of participating in...
Perfect for fans of Black mirror hands down
4 horror authors of different horror sub genres argue that they can write the scariest horror novel. Luckily, one of them has access to a highly classified AI technology that can attach to your brain and let you experience your darkest thoughts realistically...smells and physical pain are 100% there, and play a big role.
So obviously, they give it a go, and each author exposes the others to their darkest story via the VR type experience.
Although I initially thought this to be an anthology, it is much more than that. It is a collection of short stories through 4 very different minds that flows so perfectly that it is in itself it's own story all together.
With some seriously creepy stories, sci-fi tech, and some twists and turns that absolutely make the end, this is the one of the most unique and creative competitions I've ever had the pleasure of participating in...
Perfect for fans of Black mirror hands down
June 16, 2024
Oh, now! How twisted was this story!!!
The authors explored the minds of four friends left with only greed, resentment, and jealousy between them. Using AI to compete against each other as to who tells the scariest stories, they use their creativity (and cruelty) to show pettiness and contempt.
A gore, emotionally scary, unpredictable novella that kept me wondering and shuddering page after page!
The authors explored the minds of four friends left with only greed, resentment, and jealousy between them. Using AI to compete against each other as to who tells the scariest stories, they use their creativity (and cruelty) to show pettiness and contempt.
A gore, emotionally scary, unpredictable novella that kept me wondering and shuddering page after page!
December 17, 2022
Towse and Manx have created something unique with Arcranium™. I was hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down. The whole concept blew me away. I recommend this to everyone, whether you love horror or not - and to those of you that are horror writers - you will love this.
When I start reading a story, the most important thing is that I gel with the characters and want to keep reading about them. Mike, Yas, Alex and Noah are unpleasant to one another, and I thought they were all unlikeable in some way - but that was the intent, and it works so well. There is a battle of egos here to prove who is the best horror writer, each writing in different sub-genres, trying to convince the others how scary their work can be when written well. The tension here oozes from the page as they tear each other's writing apart, which leads to some laugh-out-loud dialogue. It also had me thinking from a writer's perspective about what makes a solid, scary horror story. Their heated conversation ultimately leads them to Arcranium™, where each writer gets to showcase the horrific depths of their imagination and creativity. There is no holding back as they each manipulate their fellow writers' worst fears and traumatic memories to their full advantage, showing how far they will go to prove they write the scariest horror.
Arcranium™ is a fantastic story full of different tropes - an eclectic mix of delicious horror - from the supernatural to old-school blood and gore that will horrify and disturb. The pacing was perfect, with a writing style that flowed well, keeping the story fast-moving and intense. It is also a dark, chilling, suspenseful read with a plot twist that will surprise you. Hands down, this is one of the best books that I have read this year, without a doubt. It had everything I could want in a horror story, and it has me questioning how far I would go to play the game and prove myself as a horror writer.
Come and join me in Arcranium™. Just don't forget the safe word.
When I start reading a story, the most important thing is that I gel with the characters and want to keep reading about them. Mike, Yas, Alex and Noah are unpleasant to one another, and I thought they were all unlikeable in some way - but that was the intent, and it works so well. There is a battle of egos here to prove who is the best horror writer, each writing in different sub-genres, trying to convince the others how scary their work can be when written well. The tension here oozes from the page as they tear each other's writing apart, which leads to some laugh-out-loud dialogue. It also had me thinking from a writer's perspective about what makes a solid, scary horror story. Their heated conversation ultimately leads them to Arcranium™, where each writer gets to showcase the horrific depths of their imagination and creativity. There is no holding back as they each manipulate their fellow writers' worst fears and traumatic memories to their full advantage, showing how far they will go to prove they write the scariest horror.
Arcranium™ is a fantastic story full of different tropes - an eclectic mix of delicious horror - from the supernatural to old-school blood and gore that will horrify and disturb. The pacing was perfect, with a writing style that flowed well, keeping the story fast-moving and intense. It is also a dark, chilling, suspenseful read with a plot twist that will surprise you. Hands down, this is one of the best books that I have read this year, without a doubt. It had everything I could want in a horror story, and it has me questioning how far I would go to play the game and prove myself as a horror writer.
Come and join me in Arcranium™. Just don't forget the safe word.
February 9, 2023
I consider myself fortunate enough to receive an abundance of magnificent horror gems for review. The majestic 'Arcranium' by Mark Towse and Daemon Manx is amongst the top ones.
It puts the blurb in the review or it gets the hose hose again:
Four horror authors whose relationship deteriorated through the years from friends to frienemies, decide during one of their regular meetings and after several drinks, to settle once and for all, who has the biggest di... eeer.. who is the scariest of them all.
So they hook themselves into Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. That will determine who's the best.
When they get in the narrative, they will discover that whatever terrifying nightmares they've put so far in paper, cannot sum up to the sheer terror and unspeakable madness they are about to experience.
Because hell follows whenever an author is wronged.
So, strap your headset on and don't forget the safe word... if you are in a condition to utter that word.
Be it haunting Japanese supernatural horror, be it gory old school horror with mutant bugs from outer space or be it etherial creatures that cast no shadows or reflection in the mirror and with an exceptional taste for blood, this tale of madness and author imagination pulls you in slowly and then it derails into terrifying territories of nightmarish landscapes of the mind.
The result is sublime indeed. The authors manage to deliver a brilliantly executed, twisted horror tale radiating 'Misery', 'Inception' and 'Existenz' with House on Haunted Hill vibes, that plays like a fiiiiiine horror film in your head with the main characters extremely well penned and the atmosphere utterly cinematic.
As with the rest of the works of Mr Manx and Mr Towse, I am once again blown away by the prose and delivery of the story. Trust me people, this is one hell of a thrill-ride, that you definitely do not want to get off.
It puts the blurb in the review or it gets the hose hose again:
Four horror authors whose relationship deteriorated through the years from friends to frienemies, decide during one of their regular meetings and after several drinks, to settle once and for all, who has the biggest di... eeer.. who is the scariest of them all.
So they hook themselves into Arcranium™, a powerful technology that fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creation, immersing other participants in the narrative. That will determine who's the best.
When they get in the narrative, they will discover that whatever terrifying nightmares they've put so far in paper, cannot sum up to the sheer terror and unspeakable madness they are about to experience.
Because hell follows whenever an author is wronged.
So, strap your headset on and don't forget the safe word... if you are in a condition to utter that word.
Be it haunting Japanese supernatural horror, be it gory old school horror with mutant bugs from outer space or be it etherial creatures that cast no shadows or reflection in the mirror and with an exceptional taste for blood, this tale of madness and author imagination pulls you in slowly and then it derails into terrifying territories of nightmarish landscapes of the mind.
The result is sublime indeed. The authors manage to deliver a brilliantly executed, twisted horror tale radiating 'Misery', 'Inception' and 'Existenz' with House on Haunted Hill vibes, that plays like a fiiiiiine horror film in your head with the main characters extremely well penned and the atmosphere utterly cinematic.
As with the rest of the works of Mr Manx and Mr Towse, I am once again blown away by the prose and delivery of the story. Trust me people, this is one hell of a thrill-ride, that you definitely do not want to get off.
January 2, 2023
Arcranium is a book with three stories. The first story is a collaboration by both authors and what a wild ride it is. The last two stories are short stories by each author individually.
Arcranium begins with four authors who are friends that routinely gather to discuss books, plots and writing in general. They are competitive with each other and wonder how they can decide which of them is the best writer. One of the authors believes there is a way! The government is working on a top secret immersive AI called Arcranium. It works by one person’s thoughts and emotions feed the computer while the other players are subjected to the narrative. The players are given a safe word that will pull them out from the narrative when they can’t take it anymore.
This occurs with each author as their competition turns from friendly to devious. Beware of the skeletons in the closet!
I enjoyed Arcranium and the element of AI brought to the story. Be prepared to be taken to a whole new level of horror with this story.
Happy Returns by Mark Towse is about a guy who loves video games. He’s ordered the last game he needs to complete his game collection. The lady who works at the store has plans of her own for excellence in customer service.
Scream in the Dark by Daemon Manx is a thriller! A group of teenagers follow an old road to the foot of a mountain where the abandoned sanatorium stands. The plan for teenage shenanigans quickly changes when strange shadows appear.
This was a great read! I really enjoyed the change of pace that each story gave. Get your copy of Arcranium when it drops on January 3rd!
Arcranium begins with four authors who are friends that routinely gather to discuss books, plots and writing in general. They are competitive with each other and wonder how they can decide which of them is the best writer. One of the authors believes there is a way! The government is working on a top secret immersive AI called Arcranium. It works by one person’s thoughts and emotions feed the computer while the other players are subjected to the narrative. The players are given a safe word that will pull them out from the narrative when they can’t take it anymore.
This occurs with each author as their competition turns from friendly to devious. Beware of the skeletons in the closet!
I enjoyed Arcranium and the element of AI brought to the story. Be prepared to be taken to a whole new level of horror with this story.
Happy Returns by Mark Towse is about a guy who loves video games. He’s ordered the last game he needs to complete his game collection. The lady who works at the store has plans of her own for excellence in customer service.
Scream in the Dark by Daemon Manx is a thriller! A group of teenagers follow an old road to the foot of a mountain where the abandoned sanatorium stands. The plan for teenage shenanigans quickly changes when strange shadows appear.
This was a great read! I really enjoyed the change of pace that each story gave. Get your copy of Arcranium when it drops on January 3rd!
January 22, 2023
Four horror authors want to settle a debate on who is the scariest writer. They end up using a powerful technology called Arcranium™. They each take turns immersing each other in their worlds as the device fuses with the author's mind to stimulate their best possible creations. Everything can be felt, including pain. And when they decide to play on each others grief and trauma to make a point, no mercy will be shown and blood will surely shed!
This was such an exciting and original story that I quickly devoured. I loved the idea of a virtual world where imagination meets reality, especially when it comes to manifesting horror. It was also a clever way of incorporating Asian horror, vampires, sci-fi horror and gore all in one neat package. I loved each narrative these authors came up with but if I had to choose, Yas was my favorite! I’m a sucker for creepy urban legends and it was cool to see the Japanese legend of Kashima Reiko (aka Teke Teke) included in this story.
I’ve yet to be disappointed by any of Towse’s stories, they’ve all been so good! There’s even a short story he wrote in at the end of the novella titled “Happy Returns” and it was so hilarious yet kind of brutal, you’ll have to check it out. This is the first time I got a taste of Manx writing, and it just flows so well. He has an excerpt from The Ojanox: Book 1 titled “Scream in the Dark” at the very end of the novella that I really enjoyed and wanted more of.
I highly recommend checking this out as Towse and Manx fused their minds and together came up with something pretty fun and entertaining that will surely please any horror fan.
This was such an exciting and original story that I quickly devoured. I loved the idea of a virtual world where imagination meets reality, especially when it comes to manifesting horror. It was also a clever way of incorporating Asian horror, vampires, sci-fi horror and gore all in one neat package. I loved each narrative these authors came up with but if I had to choose, Yas was my favorite! I’m a sucker for creepy urban legends and it was cool to see the Japanese legend of Kashima Reiko (aka Teke Teke) included in this story.
I’ve yet to be disappointed by any of Towse’s stories, they’ve all been so good! There’s even a short story he wrote in at the end of the novella titled “Happy Returns” and it was so hilarious yet kind of brutal, you’ll have to check it out. This is the first time I got a taste of Manx writing, and it just flows so well. He has an excerpt from The Ojanox: Book 1 titled “Scream in the Dark” at the very end of the novella that I really enjoyed and wanted more of.
I highly recommend checking this out as Towse and Manx fused their minds and together came up with something pretty fun and entertaining that will surely please any horror fan.
December 6, 2022
"Arcranium™" by Mark Towse and Daemon Manx
As always, thank you @towseywrites for sending me another one of your weird and wonderful worlds!
Wow what an adventure. I recommend this book to all, but seriously.... Horror writers, you'd LOVE this! I really enjoyed the debate at the beginning over what is scary and what is not, what do the readers want and does it matter what the readers want because surely writing is about being free and digging into our own imaginations?
These characters were pretty unlikeable which is deffo the intention. They have huge egos....are all jealous of one another, don't actually like one another and seem to think their opinion is actually a fact! They were so cruel too! Using people's past traumas or dead relatives against them?! Ouch.
Yet when it all becomes completely unhinged, I could not help but feel a sense of sympathy! I won't spoiler it though because damn, I wasn't expecting it to play out that way.
It reminded me of a Black Mirror episode I watched a while ago, where the ending distressed me greatly 🤣 It had me wondering "What nightmare / what memory could be used against me in this situation and could I handle it even if a safe word was in place?"
So here are the questions I suppose.....
How dark is your mind?
What would be the limit for you?
How much horror could you present to another person?
I mean, wouldn't we all like to be the next Stephen King, don't we all feel frustrated when we run out of ideas and see others with what seems like an endless supply of creativity....but would we really go this far for it?!
As always, thank you @towseywrites for sending me another one of your weird and wonderful worlds!
Wow what an adventure. I recommend this book to all, but seriously.... Horror writers, you'd LOVE this! I really enjoyed the debate at the beginning over what is scary and what is not, what do the readers want and does it matter what the readers want because surely writing is about being free and digging into our own imaginations?
These characters were pretty unlikeable which is deffo the intention. They have huge egos....are all jealous of one another, don't actually like one another and seem to think their opinion is actually a fact! They were so cruel too! Using people's past traumas or dead relatives against them?! Ouch.
Yet when it all becomes completely unhinged, I could not help but feel a sense of sympathy! I won't spoiler it though because damn, I wasn't expecting it to play out that way.
It reminded me of a Black Mirror episode I watched a while ago, where the ending distressed me greatly 🤣 It had me wondering "What nightmare / what memory could be used against me in this situation and could I handle it even if a safe word was in place?"
So here are the questions I suppose.....
How dark is your mind?
What would be the limit for you?
How much horror could you present to another person?
I mean, wouldn't we all like to be the next Stephen King, don't we all feel frustrated when we run out of ideas and see others with what seems like an endless supply of creativity....but would we really go this far for it?!
March 6, 2024
Imagine if a video game could actually kill you. That is the premise of Arcranium. I was a big gamer when I was younger, so I knew I was in for a treat. However, this story proved to be much deeper than just AI gone wrong. It shows the power of AI when it's misused as four authors debate who is the best horror author.
A program called Arcranium is created and it's able to tap into the deepest darkest memories of all four writers. With every 'story' created by the AI, the ante continues to go up and the situations turn darker. What makes this story scary is that this could be a reality sometime in the distant future. It was a different kind of horror that proved to be a fresh take on the genre.
Dameon and Mark team up to deliver a banger. I also read both bonus short stories and enjoyed them as well. It was a short but sweet read.
All I will say is... SKYNET! That is all...
A program called Arcranium is created and it's able to tap into the deepest darkest memories of all four writers. With every 'story' created by the AI, the ante continues to go up and the situations turn darker. What makes this story scary is that this could be a reality sometime in the distant future. It was a different kind of horror that proved to be a fresh take on the genre.
Dameon and Mark team up to deliver a banger. I also read both bonus short stories and enjoyed them as well. It was a short but sweet read.
All I will say is... SKYNET! That is all...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews