Deep Dark

by G.D. Bowlin

Cawley “Caw” McMackin lost his father when he was just a boy. More specifically, he saw his dad get torn apart by a massive monster that was slumbering beneath the surface of a North Carolina lake. Now he’s a grown man who has dedicated himself to guarding the very same lake, ensuring that no one else awakens the creature. That is until the arrival of Vaha Verma, a hotshot tech CEO who claims to want to buy the lake and turn it into a vacation spot. Desperate to get out, and assured her team of mercenaries can handle anything beneath the surface, Caw agrees to let Verma’s team out on the water. It soon becomes clear that Vaha has a different plan entirely, and the monster of Caw’s childhood is more powerful than he could have ever imagined. It’s up to him to defeat the terrifying creature and get back to dry land alive.

Genres: Horror

154 pages, Paperback

Published July 5, 2023

Reviews

[Peter Topside · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read from GD Bowlin. At first, it looked like a standard deep sea thriller, but it actually became something much more. Much deeper...and I'm not just referring to the depth of the lake. Our lead, Caw, was a really good character to keep in the spotlight, as he had a great amount of background, emotional depth, and progression. The other characters, including Dierdre, fell a little short of having enough development and purpose, but they all managed to support Caw, in his journey, just fine. Now, there were some areas of the plot that were a little unclear and far-fetched, but overall it was enjoyable. The creatures were very unique and interesting, leaving me wanting more, even after the story concluded. The ending itself felt incomplete, but that may just be my preference of not preferring open conclusions. All in all, I had a good time here and look forward to Bowlin's other offerings.

[Janie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gods or monsters? Fantasy or horror? It depends on your point of view. Crater Lake is a grave to some, a destiny for others. Bright lights abound in the veins of a colorwheel. Focus on characters reveals trauma, perception and deception. The expanse of consciousness plunders the depths of minds and nature. Me, I would want to see beyond the fluid horizon.

[Travis · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting summer read that seems to call back to the horror films of the 1950s.

[Bobby Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was engaging, easy to read, and a really fun blend of humor, sadness, and horror. The tone is super eclectic (in a good way!), which really sets it apart.
The story follows a fairly likable guy with some issues the reader really feels for, and it takes him on a violent, horrifying, funny, dramatic ride. The mystery of what exactly is in the lake, what it's doing, and why is the jelly of the story. Bowlin tells the story in such a fun and unique way. (That's the peanut butter) It reminded me of a lot of some beloved sci-fi and horror films. Not for kids. (#bread)
Give this a read! I flew through this one. Super entertaining!

[G.D. Bowlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the author of this book, I heartily endorse it.