Fiction Land

by R.R. Haywood

From multimillion bestselling Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Amazon and Audible author RR Haywood, creator of the worldwide bestselling Extracted, and The Code trilogies, the phenomenal Undead Series, and the heart-pounding thriller DELIO PHASE ONE, comes Fiction Land, a laugh-out-loud blockbuster adventure

"Imagine John Wick wakes up in a city full of characters from novels - That's Fiction Land"

"Brilliant, original, and very funny"

"Haywood writes on another level"

A delivery driver finds himself inside a world occupied by characters from unfinished novels and must accept he is not real. But the world around him doesn’t feel right, and when he starts asking questions, the authorities soon take extreme measures to stop him finding the truth about Fiction Land.

Not many men get to start over.
John Croker did and left his old life behind – until crooks stole his delivery van, but no van means no pay, which means his niece doesn’t get the life-saving operation she needs, and so in desperation, John uses the skills of his former life one last time. While everything he thought he knew starts to unravel.

Genres: Audiobook, Fantasy, Fiction, Science Fiction, Humor, Action, Science Fiction Fantasy

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2023

About the author

"One of the most original voices of our time." - Richard Moriarty, The Sun

"Whether it's gritty horror, spectacular sci-fi, or insane comedy, RR Haywood delivers in style." - Chris Riches, Daily Express

RR Haywood is a Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and Audible bestselling author with over 4 million books sold and more than 30 Kindle Bestsellers. As one of the top ten most downloaded indie authors in the UK, Haywood has captivated readers worldwide with his diverse storytelling.

His creations include the global sensation EXTRACTED, the riveting CODE TRILOGY narrated by Colin Morgan, the phenomenal UNDEAD Series, the blockbuster DELIO, PHASE ONE, and the chart-topping A TOWN CALLED DISCOVERY. His latest work, FICTION LAND, narrated by Game of Thrones star Gethin Anthony, has been hailed as "an outrageously funny tour de force."

A former police officer, Haywood now resides with his dogs on the north coast of the Isle of Wight. He entertains audiences and shares his expertise on TikTok with his Writing Class for the Working Class.

Reviews

[Samantha · Rating 2 out of 5]

This reminds me a lot of the Thursday Next books, maybe with a dash of Elliott James’ Pax Arcana series. It does not, however, remind me of John Wick as advertised, so fair warning if that is what drew you to the book.

It’s a great concept for a story, and unfortunately better in theory than in execution. Too many stylistic elements and too many literary, worlds collide moments make the narrative feel jumbled and at times nonsensical, and the “mystery” of what’s happening isn’t anything wonderful.

But the inclusion of other literary worlds is clever and fun, and the book’s best moments plot-wise and in terms of humor stem from that. I wish the writing had been better (loads of clunky and clumsy action sequences reminiscent of sci fi novels that are, um, not especially literary, as well as some really wooden dialogue).

The book needed to be smarter and more clearly plotted to be a success, but I liked the concept behind it, and it’s entertaining and mostly well-paced.

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

[Ben · Rating 2 out of 5]

A truly brilliant idea with terrible execution.
I am relieved this is over.

Unfortunately I have very little praise for this book other than the idea is great and I enjoyed the opening chapters but the longer you spend with these characters the worse it becomes.
The main cast are all genuinely so irritating and written so badly. The dialogue just feels so clunky and poor that it has to be a parody of the poorly written characters and unfinished themes which... I mean I get it, but that also means you are just reading bad characters and bad writing. It's a mess.

The overarching plot was enough to keep me going but with each new chapter you'll only find diminishing returns.

It's got humor, it's got potential but ultimately this was incredibly disappointing.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down and finished it in two days. The description of the book and reviews don't do it justice. This book is HILARIOUS. If you've read a lot of different genres of fiction or have watched a wide variety of popular movies, you'll especially adore this book. Easter eggs for readers are peppered throughout the book. Every fiction trope and stereotype appear in this delicious mashup of stories including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Fifty Shades of Gray, John Wick, Lord of the Rings, pirate novels, westerns, and more.

[Aaron Esthelm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll tell you, I know the beginning is supposed to be shitty and eye rolling cause that's what that characters story was. Man was it hard to get through. BUT once you do get through it it's a pretty great book which I've come to expect from Haywood having read the extracted series and elfor. I had multiple moments where I laughed audibly super fun. As always not a fan of sequel bait but I get it. steady income and all that.

[Millie · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘It’s like Tolkien and Martin did acid with Pratchett and made a city’

Fiction land is the home of characters from unfinished novels. They turn up on a bench in the city and go about their quests as they were written. But something is different, they don't recognise where they are or know anyone around. Suddenly, they aren't in Kansas anymore.

John Croaker is a John Wick-inspired character and we follow his story as he meets a group of like-minded people from around Fiction Land. In his novel he has been on a mission to hunt down bad guys in the search for his van, as it slowly dawns on him that he has no van and no one to save, he begins to accept his new life.

WOW! I loved this book so much. This was such a laugh to read. If you watch a lot of movies or TV shows this is the book for you. There were so many references to different genres and films. I am an ex-film student so I loved every second of the references to things like Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars, John Wick, James Bond, and Harry Potter and even the conversations with the fictional Nietzsche and Freud were incredibly well-written; I really felt like it was coming from them.

Haywood gave a very concise voice to everyone in this book and that made this band of unlikely heroes such a fun read. Honestly, by the end of the book I forgot there was even meant to be an underlying plot, I was so wrapped up in their friendship and their adventures I forgot what was happening and it was a complete bonus to it. Griff has my whole heart, he was such a simple character but him being present throughout the whole story was so well integrated.

Also, the fourth wall-breaking moments were chef's kiss. Each time they caught me off guard. Beautifully done. 5 stars!

[Andrew Green · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fiction land is set in well... Fiction land. It is a world full of characters from unfinished books and fan fiction. We follow a John Wick knock-off as he navigates this peculiar world and unravels a plot as a John Wick should.

As ever Haywood has great ideas for stories, and a group of likeable main characters. However the writing isn't his best, lazy or even irritating in places. Some of the dialogue and characters feel like copies of his other books (best/worst *something* ever!), but maybe this is some meta-commentary about his own characters and the fallibility of the author.

I found the first chapters hard work, HOWEVER, once I was in to it, it was the fun adventure we expect from Haywood, with all the classic character bonding and banter. And again, the idea is pretty great. I'll read a sequel if it comes.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wicked fun! Fiction Land by R.R. Haywood is a book about characters from unfinished books and where they go when the author leaves the work unfinished. Snarky and witty dialogue keeps you reading even when unsure where the plotline leading you. My only slight complaint is that there is no resolution to the storyline, much like an action-adventure movie with no real ending letting you know this will be a series. Despite this, I am looking forward to the continuation.

[Joanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not as good as his usual stuff

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

5/10 An unchallenging and humorous read. I had liked the premise but felt a little let down in the execution. I was keen to finish the book and hoped the ending might redeem it. It didn't.

[Marjorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creative, different, funny, and enjoyable. First 5 star read of year for me.

[Sammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one has a great gimmick, but it gets a bit old around halfway through.

Strangely, I felt an irresistable urge to watch John Wick after finishing this...

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is great fun. It started off like the kind of book it is satirizing, so you have to stick with it for a few chapters, but then it becomes great fun. It's clear that Haywood has been reading a lot of Jasper Fforde; this book could be one of his, but that doesn't make it derivative. It's a great romp through the world of fiction--from Harry Potter, to Lord of the Rings to James Bond. All of the characters just missing the plots.

[Nicole Fortuna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve loved every RR Hayward book that I’ve read but this one wasn’t for me. About a quarter of the way in I had to jump ahead to about 60% and was still able to follow the story. I read a bit and then jumped ahead again to almost 90% until the end. It was too much of the same for too long. Not sure if this just isn’t my genre or if I’m so used to his sci-fi books that I’m making an unfair comparison. Either way, this book didn’t “land” for me.

[Anne - Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unforgettable ride

Imagine waking up in a city full of characters from unfinished books. This is exactly what happens to John . A delivery driver with a hidden past (trained killer) . When the reality of the situation starts to dawn on him he feels that something about it isn't quite right. He goes on to discover a much deeper conspiracy .

[MadBob · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am 6+ hours into the audiobook, I have purchased and listened to every book Rich has written (more than once) and enjoyed them all, but this is a terrible, lazy story and I just want to switch it off.

[elizalicart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiction Land by RR Haywood is an exhilarating dive into a meta-fictional world that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. When John Croker, a delivery driver, finds himself in a bizarre realm inhabited by characters from unfinished novels, he must grapple with the shocking revelation that he is not real. The plot thickens as John questions the fabric of Fiction Land, prompting extreme measures from the authorities determined to keep the truth hidden.

Upon starting this book, my expectations were high, thanks to glowing reviews and a recommendation from my brother. I'm pleased to report that Fiction Land did not disappoint in terms of humor—I found myself laughing out loud several times, appreciating Haywood's knack for comedic timing and witty dialogue.

The opening chapters set a frantic pace, mirroring John’s bewildering awakening to his strange new reality. The narration is intentionally disorienting, packed with inconsistent details that contribute to a sense of chaos. This approach demands that readers go with the flow, suspending disbelief to fully enjoy the ride. However, the breakneck speed can be exhausting, making it difficult to catch a breath or fully immerse oneself in the setting.

Haywood's writing style leans heavily on dialogue, which accelerates the story but sometimes at the cost of deeper immersion. The rapid-fire exchanges effectively convey action and setting indirectly, though I occasionally wished for more descriptive passages to balance the relentless pace. Despite this, the dialogue is sharp and engaging, often driving the narrative forward in unexpected ways.

The cast of characters is a vibrant array of recognizable stereotypes and archetypes, each with a distinctive voice that ensures they stand out—except for Pat and Rachel, who lacked the same distinctiveness as the others. This dynamic ensemble adds richness to the story, making interactions lively and unpredictable.

One notable section involves a lengthy conversation between John and two renowned psychologists. While initially intriguing, the chapter soon bogs down with dense psychological discourse, prompting me to skim to the more action-packed parts. This minor hiccup is easily forgiven, as the twist midway through the book reignites the narrative's momentum, introducing new and eclectic characters that reenergize the plot.

The portrayal of the authorities in Fiction Land is masterfully frustrating, highlighting their manipulative control and propaganda. This added layer of tension enhances the reader's investment in John's quest for the truth.

By the climax, Fiction Land achieves a perfect balance of slower, introspective moments, intense action, and humor. Each character gets a moment to shine, showcasing Haywood’s ability to manage a large cast without losing focus. The conclusion left me eagerly anticipating the promised sequel, excited to see where the story goes next.

In summary, Fiction Land is a fast-paced, chaotic, and thoroughly entertaining read. Despite its occasional overwhelming speed and dense segments, the unique premise, humor, and dynamic characters make it a worthwhile journey. RR Haywood has crafted a novel that keeps readers guessing and laughing, solidifying Fiction Land as a must-read for fans of meta-fiction and high-octane storytelling.

[Vance Knox · Rating 5 out of 5]

In essence, this is a mystery novel. And with all good mysteries, there are a couple of red herrings.

I loved the idea behind this, using characters throughout from books that are unfinished and books that are nearly completed or completed. Most characters don’t keep whatever skills they had in the books they starred in, but John Croaker did.

Fiction Land is a captivating journey into a realm where imagination knows no bounds. This novel invites readers to explore a world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, and the power of storytelling takes center stage.

Haywood weaves a masterful tapestry of genres, seamlessly blending elements of fantasy, adventure, and mystery. The narrative unfolds uniquely and unpredictably, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The author’s ability to create a vivid and immersive setting allows readers to escape into a place where the impossible becomes plausible and the extraordinary is the norm.

The characters in Fiction Land are both relatable and extraordinary, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the story. Haywood skillfully develops their personalities, making them feel like old friends by the end of the novel. The protagonist’s journey is not only a physical one but also a deeply personal exploration of self-discovery and growth.

One of the standout features of this novel is the author’s attention to detail. Whether describing fantastical landscapes, intricate plot twists, or the subtle nuances of the characters’ emotions, Haywood’s prose is both eloquent and evocative. The descriptive language used throughout the book enhances the overall reading experience, making it easy for readers to visualize and immerse themselves in the world of “Fiction Land.”

The plot unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense and revelation. Haywood keeps readers guessing until the very end, and just when you think you have it all figured out, a new twist throws you for a loop. The pacing is well-managed, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, reflective scenes, creating a dynamic and engaging reading experience.

Fiction Land is not just a story; it’s an exploration of the power of storytelling itself. Through its pages, readers are reminded of the magic that lies in the ability to create and share tales that transport us to different worlds and ignite our imaginations.

[Gordon Sinclair · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to the audio book of this novel by R R Haywood and I will say from the start that I wish I had gone for the book instead. That isn't to say the narrator was bad, in fact he was bloody good, a little too good in fact. His myriad of voices for all the characters was impressive to say the least, but I found it all a bit much and yearned to read it myself with the characters having the voices my brain chose. I feel like the review score would be half a point higher if I had read rather than listened, but have no evidence to base that on!

The book itself is a fairly tame, but enjoyable affair that gives us a guided tour of Fiction Land, an island inhabited by fan-fiction characters (based on big name pop-culture heroes or series) from the perspective of a disparate bunch of underdogs and their new charge John Croker (a generic action hero in the John Wick mould) as he struggles to accept his new found enlightenment. I did struggle at the start as we are treated to John Candle's repetitive and derivative awakening and after 10 (short) chapters I was almost ready to give up. That is until it becomes clear that this was a completely deliberate plot mechanic and the world then suddenly opens up into the story proper.

Once we get to know all the characters and their individual back stories it is hard not to start to empathise with them and go along with their journey as a happy and willing participant. The plot and theming will surely not win any awards and the ending feels a bit like you have just finished Super Mario Bros and been told the princess is in another castle, but I enjoyed being in the company of John and team and will certainly look out for the inevitable sequel.

[Elli Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humour-Scifi Per-fiction

🧡 This had me smiling from start to end. The premise alone tickled me - think TV show Once Upon a Time, but instead of fairy tales, you have main characters from unfinished fan fiction - and Haywood really pulls it off.

💚 The biggest strength of this story is in its characters and their dynamic as a group. There’s that camaraderie and banter you might get in a Peter Clines novel or on Buffy. It also reminded me of Nick Hornby’s A Long Way Down, one of my all-time faves, both in its humour and in that it unifies disparate characters into an unlikely yet tight knit gang.

💜 And - AND - it seems like this is the first of a series.

Soundbite

🎧 This is a genuinely fun listen. Gethin Anthony seems to morph seamlessly into every character he narrates - myriad accents included - and still manages to hit the comic beats.

Big thanks to NetGalley and W.F. Howes Ltd for providing me with an ALC in return for an honest review.

Find more bird’s eye view audiobooks reviews at Audiobooks Nest.

[Paul Spence · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a step away from Haywood's typical style, but it is just as epic. It is a funny, well-written, unpredictable adventure full of surprises from the very first chapter. I really enjoyed the main character and every friend he made along the way.

Fiction Land is easily R.R. Haywood's most accessible book yet, using satire, comedy, and action to its advantage in telling a story we've never quite seen before. The world of the novel is incredible, and Haywood stuffs it full of his trademark banter and fisticuffs.

Where it really stands out, however, is with its characters and themes, saying more than meets the eye about archetypes, owning your flaws, and becoming your own person. Its cast is lovable, the direction of its narrative surprising, and its tone as optimistic as they come.

It was fascinating to see how the writer's frame of mind is represented in this story, particularly in terms of the overflow of subpar fiction that is rife within the literary world today. I left this book feeling I had learned more about RR Haywood and appreciated his vulnerability.

Honestly, as impossible as it seems, I like him even more now. Thank you, kind sir. Your mastery of storytelling and evocation has made you one of my favourite authors of all time.

It's a great place to start with Haywood's bibliography, and its a brilliant place to continue if you're already a fan.

[Adrian · Rating 2 out of 5]

What did I just read? It’s like a hodgepodge of fan-fiction writers got together and wrote 25 different stories and put them all in the same world and made it as confusing as it could be.

I will read everything RR Haywood writes and I have thoroughly enjoyed nearly every book I have read (listened to) by him. This was the worst book I have read by him. I mean, at least one book has to be the worst, but I did not like this book. I listened to the whole thing, but it was not my “cup of tea”.

Oh well, I still look forward to any new books he writes. His choice of audiobook narrators have been terrific.

Audiobook narrator Gethin Anthony rating: 5 stars
Renly Baratheon was amazing. I hope he does more books. I am thoroughly surprised by his American accents (and of course, his British ones and Irish-ish ones). I am not even sure that people would know he wasn’t American except for how he pronounced “garage” and “produce” (as in fruit).

Oh, and Audible still sucks. I don’t know how long their mobile app is going to be the worst piece of garbage ever, but I am guessing that won’t change.

[Katerina Constantinides · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I need to find my van.”

This was a great book! So much fun!

I love the characters, the plot, everything!

I loved every single one of the characters! All of them subverting the clichés they were meant to be! Alice is spot on in fitting each of them into a cliché, but they all go and turn that cliché on its head.

Their group dynamics are a lot of fun and it’s beautiful to see how sometimes a bunch of misfits can achieve great things, working together, trusting each other and caring for each other.

The whole plot and all of the commentary of the place and the people and what they feel! It was all great, and so very much on the nose.

This book is a great silly fantasy read, but it’s also a great commentary on our society, how people view themselves and each other, and how everyone just wants to live their lives, choosing not to question things too deeply to live more comfortably and peacefully.

“Just because we’re characters doesn’t mean we’re not real people.” That is the greatest summary of this story.

It’s hard to find a favourite character, since all of them are so amazing, but Alice and L are probably mine.

Shoutout to the narrator of the audiobook since he made all the characters come to life in a beautiful and hilarious way!

“There is no van.”

[Sofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. This was exceptionally funny, especially the audiobook version I listened to via Audible. John Croker is a delightful action figure who finds himself reckoning with the fact that he's a mostly formed fictional character.

I had to dock half a star for three reasons. First, because the ending was just a bit unsatisfactory. Second, because the author is clearly British—and uses Britishisms throughout that the American protagonist simply wouldn't ("parcel," "trainers," "scheme," narrator of my audiobook must be English (but doing American accents). And three, because I'm pretty sure the narrator of the audiobook is also British and, as a result, would pronounce things in a way that doesn't accord with an American speaker (BAT-in instead of bah-tawn).

May one day we all find the van we're looking for!

[Sam Veltre · Rating 5 out of 5]

R.R. Hayward out does himself with this rip of a humorously adventure tearing up all the genre tropes that are hot in fiction today. each genre is treated with respect and understanding as seen in all the characters from their respective story types. Many memorable characters and scenes. I was surprised at the character growth and world R.R. has built. While maybe not an original concept it is a unique spin on it. I laughed out loud dozens of times.
I highly recommend the audio version as the narrator (Gethin Anthony) does amazing work given the range of characters. More please!!
thank you to netgally the author narrator and publisher for a free ARC in exchange for unbiased review.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Take a chance on this one…. the audio version of this book is hilarious. I’m honestly not sure I’d have finished it if I’d had to read it though as it’s Very visual and too character conversational for it to maybe come across well? For me anyway.
Loved the whole original premise of the book and thought each kooky character was sublime. The really clever weaving of known fictional stories and genres was nothing short of genius and brought to life by a clever narrator. I’m not sure I want to say more about it, but it did make me laugh out loud in places and that, my friends, is pretty hard to do from a book.

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fiction Land is an interesting book that you will either love or hate. There's nothing I can say in a review that will change your mind but here's the thing. Your mind has to be open to what the story is about and just how aware these characters soon become and that's what I found so interesting about this book. As they each reach the end to this part of the story it takes you to places you never would have thought about or even what happens to characters who exist only in fan fic pieces that are written by want to be writers who in some cases haven't even finished their own stories. Interesting book that makes you think about stories and the art of story telling

[Dean Bown · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does he do it!?!?

Another amazingly unique and enthralling story that takes you on a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. Mr Haywood is by far my favourite author; the journey he takes you on, never goes where you expect but always delights. The characters he creates are some of the funniest and likeable I’ve ever encountered. And the emotions his stories elicit are just unparalleled.

If this is the first RR Haywood book you’ve read of intent to read, then lucky you. There’s a whole host to attack once you’ve devoured this one 😁

[Elena Bradbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and twisty

Fun and twisty. Nice to read a whole new concept. I really enjoyed the idea of there being a world for characters to go when their stories are finished/abandoned. I really enjoyed the comedy especially the in jokes of the core group of characters. I felt the relationships between the core group of characters was developed really well. I was just a little surprised that the ending seemed a touch rushed after such a long build up but I think it set it up to continue into a sequel

[Mandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I am a massive RR fan and have read the majority of what he has written but this, now this is on a new level.
Absolute genius.
How can a scenario so simple (easy to say once someone else has done it) be so riveting?!
And the imagination that has gone into the characters and story! I can’t wait for the next instalment as I think this could be my new Undead (which I have read 3 times (end to end) and about to read again)!
Love love love it!