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Honeycomb
Big Brother meets Black Mirror in this high-concept thriller in which six strangers take part in a mysterious medical experiment in an isolated mansion.After winning the popular reality talent show Searching for a Star and a subsequent record deal at the age of nineteen, Amanda Pearson was the hottest thing in the UK. But as her short-lived fame began to fade, the cracks began to stumbling and mumbling on stage, slurring during live TV interviews, suspicious photos of her at nightclubs with powder around her nostrils. The dream was over. Amanda Pearson would forever be a one-hit wonder.Six years later, after cleaning her act up but failing to reestablish her career, her ex-manager informs her of an unexpected opportunity that will help alleviate her dire financial situation and potentially thrust her back into the spotlight. The proposal is Six strangers alone in a mansion, under constant observation, for the duration of a week. Every day they take a pill. Five people are taking a placebo, but one person will be taking an experimental drug, which they are assured has no side adverse effects.The other participants - a dinner lady who moonlights as a comedian, an eccentric theatre actor, a popular YouTuber, a dance choreographer, and a car salesman - all seem normal at first. However, as each day goes by, cracks begin to show in the group. Paranoia leads to violence. Who is taking the real pill, and what does it do? Amanda realises that this is no normal she is trapped, the old mansion is rigged, and there is no way out.Can she find a way out of this nightmare with her sanity in tact?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2024
30 people are currently reading
1170 people want to read
About the author
S.B. Caves
5 books81 followersS.B. Caves was born and raised in North London. He loves crime and thriller novels, classic horror movies, Korean/Japanese thriller films and true crime documentaries. He is also a huge boxing fan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
August 12, 2024
Amanda Pearson was once the *it* girl. A talented singer with the world at her fingertips. Everyone wanted a piece of her or to be near her in some capacity.
That was then this is now....
Amanda is struggling to pay her rent and bills. No one wants anything to do with her any longer after she spectacularly crashed and burned on cocaine and alcohol with her own Youtube videos to prove it. She would do anything, give up anything, to be adored by fans and back in the spotlight.
Be careful what you wish for....
Amanda is given an opportunity. She will need to spend one week in a mansion with five other people to test an experimental drug. The rules say five will receive a placebo while the one other guest will receive the actual drug but not to worry because there are no side effects. None at all. Easy peasy. Of course, no one will know who is actually taking the drug versus the placebo but with no side effects at all it won't matter, right? In the end you will be rewarded $250 thousand pounds. What could go wrong?
EVERYTHING!!!!
Hoo boy! This one went dark fast. This is a book where you need to suspend a shit ton of disbelief because everything about the premise is over the top and unbelievable. But, you know what else? It's incredibly entertaining.
I liked Amanda and was rooting for her the entire time. The other houseguests leave much to be desired so be prepared for some unsavory characters.
This book quickly morphs into nightmare fuel. I can't say much more about the goings on but know that it becomes a bloody, gory mess for all involved. Definitely not for the feint of heart or gore adverse readers. So while I enjoyed this I can't say that other readers will have the same experience. So I recommend this one with caution. If your a horror lover then you'll be fine but if you mostly stick to rom-coms and women's fiction then this definitely won't be for you. 3.5 stars! 🐝
Thanks to Overdrive for the loan!
That was then this is now....
Amanda is struggling to pay her rent and bills. No one wants anything to do with her any longer after she spectacularly crashed and burned on cocaine and alcohol with her own Youtube videos to prove it. She would do anything, give up anything, to be adored by fans and back in the spotlight.
Be careful what you wish for....
Amanda is given an opportunity. She will need to spend one week in a mansion with five other people to test an experimental drug. The rules say five will receive a placebo while the one other guest will receive the actual drug but not to worry because there are no side effects. None at all. Easy peasy. Of course, no one will know who is actually taking the drug versus the placebo but with no side effects at all it won't matter, right? In the end you will be rewarded $250 thousand pounds. What could go wrong?
EVERYTHING!!!!
Hoo boy! This one went dark fast. This is a book where you need to suspend a shit ton of disbelief because everything about the premise is over the top and unbelievable. But, you know what else? It's incredibly entertaining.
I liked Amanda and was rooting for her the entire time. The other houseguests leave much to be desired so be prepared for some unsavory characters.
This book quickly morphs into nightmare fuel. I can't say much more about the goings on but know that it becomes a bloody, gory mess for all involved. Definitely not for the feint of heart or gore adverse readers. So while I enjoyed this I can't say that other readers will have the same experience. So I recommend this one with caution. If your a horror lover then you'll be fine but if you mostly stick to rom-coms and women's fiction then this definitely won't be for you. 3.5 stars! 🐝
Thanks to Overdrive for the loan!
June 19, 2024
What the heck did I just read?? This is highly disturbing. Pay very close attention to the prologue.
People say they want to be adored, to be famous…but what is the price of fame? Honeycomb explores this question in a rather interesting experiment.
CW: A boatload of violence. You’ve been warned.
Thank you to NetGalley and Datura Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Look for this in three weeks!
People say they want to be adored, to be famous…but what is the price of fame? Honeycomb explores this question in a rather interesting experiment.
CW: A boatload of violence. You’ve been warned.
Thank you to NetGalley and Datura Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Look for this in three weeks!
October 30, 2024
This was an interesting read that’s for sure.
Six strangers are invited to stay in a mansion for a week to undergo an experiment. Each day they are to take a pill. One will be taking the real thing, the others are taking a placebo. They are not told what the pill will do but that it has no adverse side effects.
These people all have secrets. Our protagonist, Amanda was an interesting character. I was definitely rooting for her. The others are just down right nasty.
Things get ugly fast and this turns into a bloodbath. Perfect for horror fans.
Thank you Datura and SB Caves for the gifted copy.
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Six strangers are invited to stay in a mansion for a week to undergo an experiment. Each day they are to take a pill. One will be taking the real thing, the others are taking a placebo. They are not told what the pill will do but that it has no adverse side effects.
These people all have secrets. Our protagonist, Amanda was an interesting character. I was definitely rooting for her. The others are just down right nasty.
Things get ugly fast and this turns into a bloodbath. Perfect for horror fans.
Thank you Datura and SB Caves for the gifted copy.
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 19, 2024
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
Let’s take a moment to celebrate my first full five win from a thriller/horror ARC. And wow, what a win.
Honeycomb was extremely immersive and breath-catching. Literally.
The anxiety this gave me is exactly what I look for in a thriller — the twists and turns had me audibly gasping, cursing to myself and muttering about all the theories and conspiracies.
When I saw the blurb said “Big Brother meets Black Mirror” I gotta say my expectations were high, being a huge Black Mirror fan. And I was not disappointed.
But let’s get into the actual book.
SPOILER FULL REVIEW.
//One experiment, six strangers. A pill with mysterious effects. Who is taking the pill?
And who will manage to survive the week?//
A pill that supposedly ‘boosts your ego’, that makes people want to be with you, a pill that has people flocking to you, adoring you.
But what happens when adoration becomes obsession? When a simple and innocent want turns into a furious and unrelenting need?
Not only was the initial premise intriguing enough for me to pick this up, but the writing and plot-building and character depth had me absolutely enthralled and glued to the page.
The characters were all perfectly designed to fit this crazy story, all the twists studied to drop at just the right gasping and unexpected moment.
For once, I didn’t care that the characters were unlikeable, because they were meant to be that way. We were meant to doubt everyone and everything, and not knowing who to trust just elevated that sense of paranoia and made this read that more thrilling.
The pacing was incredible. There’s a steady crescendo of craziness every dosage, every day something weirder happens until no one can deny who the Queen Bee is, and that’s when shit really starts getting wild. That subtle increase into an epic finale death battle was nerve-wracking and I kind of loved it.
The ending, even though pretty sad and depressing, still fit the narrative. No one is meant to have such a power, and those who come in touch with it suffer the consequences. Not even the Queen Bee was spared, having to live the rest of her life with the guilt of what happened at the mansion. Yes, she might be famous again, and loved and known…but at what cost?
Apart from the super sad ending this was an awesome and unforgettable read. I’m definitely gonna have to check out more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Graphic Violence
- Scenes of homelessness
- Mentions of drug use
- Death and gore
- Graphic SH on page
«She was in a madhouse and she had no control. And there were still five days to go.»
Let’s take a moment to celebrate my first full five win from a thriller/horror ARC. And wow, what a win.
Honeycomb was extremely immersive and breath-catching. Literally.
The anxiety this gave me is exactly what I look for in a thriller — the twists and turns had me audibly gasping, cursing to myself and muttering about all the theories and conspiracies.
When I saw the blurb said “Big Brother meets Black Mirror” I gotta say my expectations were high, being a huge Black Mirror fan. And I was not disappointed.
But let’s get into the actual book.
SPOILER FULL REVIEW.
//One experiment, six strangers. A pill with mysterious effects. Who is taking the pill?
And who will manage to survive the week?//
A pill that supposedly ‘boosts your ego’, that makes people want to be with you, a pill that has people flocking to you, adoring you.
But what happens when adoration becomes obsession? When a simple and innocent want turns into a furious and unrelenting need?
«They obeyed her. She realized then that they would do anything she asked, and the prospect intimidated her. She did not want to be their cult leader. She did not want a flock of devoted followers.»
Not only was the initial premise intriguing enough for me to pick this up, but the writing and plot-building and character depth had me absolutely enthralled and glued to the page.
The characters were all perfectly designed to fit this crazy story, all the twists studied to drop at just the right gasping and unexpected moment.
For once, I didn’t care that the characters were unlikeable, because they were meant to be that way. We were meant to doubt everyone and everything, and not knowing who to trust just elevated that sense of paranoia and made this read that more thrilling.
«They could love her to death if she wasn’t careful.»
The pacing was incredible. There’s a steady crescendo of craziness every dosage, every day something weirder happens until no one can deny who the Queen Bee is, and that’s when shit really starts getting wild. That subtle increase into an epic finale death battle was nerve-wracking and I kind of loved it.
«Amanda was theirs, and nothing was going to convince them otherwise. If they couldn’t have her, then nobody could.»
The ending, even though pretty sad and depressing, still fit the narrative. No one is meant to have such a power, and those who come in touch with it suffer the consequences. Not even the Queen Bee was spared, having to live the rest of her life with the guilt of what happened at the mansion. Yes, she might be famous again, and loved and known…but at what cost?
“What was it like to have that feeling back?” the Overlord asked. “To have people love you, willing to do anything to please you? How seductive is success, Amanda?”
Apart from the super sad ending this was an awesome and unforgettable read. I’m definitely gonna have to check out more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Graphic Violence
- Scenes of homelessness
- Mentions of drug use
- Death and gore
- Graphic SH on page
May 26, 2025
Think Big Brother, but on crack. Fucking hell.
Before reading this, I was so bloody intrigued upon reading the synopsis, it sounded right up my street.
We have a fallen pop star, Amanda, who is trying to rebrand and take part of an experiment that lasts a week, where her and 5 others take an experimental drug. Only one actually takes it, others have a placebo. With the promise of reclaiming her status, money and no side effects, she is persuaded into doing it... But obviously shit hits the fan... And oh boy, does it hit the fan.
Now, I guessed pretty early on what was gonna happen, so I didn't really see it as much of a "oh my gosh, plot twist!" kinda moment. But that doesn't necessarily make it a bad thing, if anything it made me more intrigued, plus bonus serotonin I got it right. The book has moments of uneasiness, cringe and intensity, with gore and destruction.
Most the characters were insufferable. Minus Amanda and Claude. I understood Amanda, I understood her need and want to be adored again, after having that adoration for 5 minutes till her fall from stardom. I was rooting for her all the way. But hey, the cost of fame, huh? She definitely wants the quiet life now, aye! Claude, whilst his reveal was also a little obvious, he was a little gem and he deserved better.
I understood the criticism of not answering every single question, but I kinda dig it? It kinda makes it creepier, a pharmaceutical company making a drug that makes everyone love you to the point of obsession and craziness AND not knowing who they really are? Not knowing why they are doing it?
The way it ended??? I would not be mad if we got a sequel, I have so many questions that I'd love answered! What happened to at the other House? How is Amanda coping? Where is that company now? What will happen to Wish? I need to know, I'm invested! But at the same time, do I want to know?
Before reading this, I was so bloody intrigued upon reading the synopsis, it sounded right up my street.
We have a fallen pop star, Amanda, who is trying to rebrand and take part of an experiment that lasts a week, where her and 5 others take an experimental drug. Only one actually takes it, others have a placebo. With the promise of reclaiming her status, money and no side effects, she is persuaded into doing it... But obviously shit hits the fan... And oh boy, does it hit the fan.
Now, I guessed pretty early on what was gonna happen, so I didn't really see it as much of a "oh my gosh, plot twist!" kinda moment. But that doesn't necessarily make it a bad thing, if anything it made me more intrigued, plus bonus serotonin I got it right. The book has moments of uneasiness, cringe and intensity, with gore and destruction.
Most the characters were insufferable. Minus Amanda and Claude. I understood Amanda, I understood her need and want to be adored again, after having that adoration for 5 minutes till her fall from stardom. I was rooting for her all the way. But hey, the cost of fame, huh? She definitely wants the quiet life now, aye! Claude, whilst his reveal was also a little obvious, he was a little gem and he deserved better.
I understood the criticism of not answering every single question, but I kinda dig it? It kinda makes it creepier, a pharmaceutical company making a drug that makes everyone love you to the point of obsession and craziness AND not knowing who they really are? Not knowing why they are doing it?
The way it ended??? I would not be mad if we got a sequel, I have so many questions that I'd love answered! What happened to at the other House? How is Amanda coping? Where is that company now? What will happen to Wish? I need to know, I'm invested! But at the same time, do I want to know?
July 16, 2024
Thank you Datura and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a very anticipated read for me and sadly it did not hit like I wanted it to. With the Big Brother comparison, I thought there would be a reality show element, but it was quickly explicitly stated by the characters that that wouldn't be the case, so that was a little bit of a bummer. I felt like the story was missing something to give it more dimension. Maybe more chapters following the people conducting the experiment, or hey maybe a reality show/audience experience (lol not bitter at all ). But really, my biggest gripe with this book was it felt like it should've ended no less than 4 different times. It felt like the last 5 chapters were all alternate endings that were all just kept in the book.
Despite those two complaints, it really wasn't a horrible book and my mouth did drop at one scene nearing (one of) the end(s) (lol). It was somewhat entertaining with an interesting idea, but probably won't stand out in my mind long term.
This was a very anticipated read for me and sadly it did not hit like I wanted it to. With the Big Brother comparison, I thought there would be a reality show element, but it was quickly explicitly stated by the characters that that wouldn't be the case, so that was a little bit of a bummer. I felt like the story was missing something to give it more dimension. Maybe more chapters following the people conducting the experiment, or hey maybe a reality show/audience experience (lol not bitter at all ). But really, my biggest gripe with this book was it felt like it should've ended no less than 4 different times. It felt like the last 5 chapters were all alternate endings that were all just kept in the book.
Despite those two complaints, it really wasn't a horrible book and my mouth did drop at one scene nearing (one of) the end(s) (lol). It was somewhat entertaining with an interesting idea, but probably won't stand out in my mind long term.
May 28, 2024
Whelp, this was disturbing.
Honestly, I went into this thinking it was going to be a same-old/same-old plot. Ooh, strangers locked up together. Ooh, there’s a baddy. Ooh, people die. And, okay, yes there’s all that – but there’s so much more. The author gives us a surprise in the plot that I was not expecting – and if this were real, it would be horrifically terrifying and disheartening.
I’m trying really hard not to spoil this one. I’ll say that the basic concept isn’t terribly new, but it’s also not something frequently seen these days and it was a nice (?) surprise. (Actually, it was horrifying in an entertaining way.)
I definitely enjoyed the read, but will warn you that there’s quite a bit of violence and some truly awful characters!
Would read the author again.
• ARC via publisher
Honestly, I went into this thinking it was going to be a same-old/same-old plot. Ooh, strangers locked up together. Ooh, there’s a baddy. Ooh, people die. And, okay, yes there’s all that – but there’s so much more. The author gives us a surprise in the plot that I was not expecting – and if this were real, it would be horrifically terrifying and disheartening.
I’m trying really hard not to spoil this one. I’ll say that the basic concept isn’t terribly new, but it’s also not something frequently seen these days and it was a nice (?) surprise. (Actually, it was horrifying in an entertaining way.)
I definitely enjoyed the read, but will warn you that there’s quite a bit of violence and some truly awful characters!
Would read the author again.
• ARC via publisher
June 2, 2024
I’m still unsure on the ending (which wasn’t bad by any means, just not what I expected) but the rest was perfection.
October 29, 2024
Amanda is a washed up former pop star, who is given an opportunity to make more money than she has in years. All she has to do is stay in a locked mansion with five other people and take an experimental pill each day. She’s been guaranteed no ill side effects and with only ONE of them getting the drug, she might get the placebo. It’s too good to pass up. What could go wrong?
WoW did this go OFF. THE. RAILS! Right from the eerie opening with Roland, the rat, this fast paced thrill ride didn’t let up. It got progressively more and more crazed and unhinged and I had no idea what would happen next! Boy oh boy do weird, gross and cringe worthy things happen. I even found myself thinking “ewwwwwww”, more than once. The other house guests are an eclectic group of people and we get a peek into each of their stories. As people start to descend into madness, it’s anybody’s guess as to WHO will do WHAT and to WHOM! Being inside the head of people as they LOSE THEIR MINDS, is fascinating and disturbing. The intensity quickly ramps up and the feeling of dread and foreboding gets worse and worse. The anticipation of what I KNEW had to be coming made me antsy in my seat!
We get little glimpses of the man behind the curtain of this demented social experiment, and he is creepy and terrifying. Some things did play out the way I thought they might and others took me by surprise! There was no way to predict the insanity that would ensue or the resulting horrifying behavior. The ending though....oooo weeee! What does the pill do? I’m not telling. You’ll have to read to find out! Here’s a hint though, love and adoration are wonderful things, in moderation. S.B. Caves delivers a deranged thriller that will keep you GLUED to the pages and on the edge of your seat. HONEYCOMB is a FUN one folks; don’t miss this twisted mind game!
Thank you S.B. Caves, Datura Books and Kaye Publicity for my gifted copy. All opinions are mine
Potential spoiler content warnings below.
⚠️Content Warnings: language, self harm, assault, violence, mild gore, mention of: animal experimentation, drug use & addiction
WoW did this go OFF. THE. RAILS! Right from the eerie opening with Roland, the rat, this fast paced thrill ride didn’t let up. It got progressively more and more crazed and unhinged and I had no idea what would happen next! Boy oh boy do weird, gross and cringe worthy things happen. I even found myself thinking “ewwwwwww”, more than once. The other house guests are an eclectic group of people and we get a peek into each of their stories. As people start to descend into madness, it’s anybody’s guess as to WHO will do WHAT and to WHOM! Being inside the head of people as they LOSE THEIR MINDS, is fascinating and disturbing. The intensity quickly ramps up and the feeling of dread and foreboding gets worse and worse. The anticipation of what I KNEW had to be coming made me antsy in my seat!
We get little glimpses of the man behind the curtain of this demented social experiment, and he is creepy and terrifying. Some things did play out the way I thought they might and others took me by surprise! There was no way to predict the insanity that would ensue or the resulting horrifying behavior. The ending though....oooo weeee! What does the pill do? I’m not telling. You’ll have to read to find out! Here’s a hint though, love and adoration are wonderful things, in moderation. S.B. Caves delivers a deranged thriller that will keep you GLUED to the pages and on the edge of your seat. HONEYCOMB is a FUN one folks; don’t miss this twisted mind game!
Thank you S.B. Caves, Datura Books and Kaye Publicity for my gifted copy. All opinions are mine
Potential spoiler content warnings below.
⚠️Content Warnings: language, self harm, assault, violence, mild gore, mention of: animal experimentation, drug use & addiction
July 18, 2024
3.75
This is a ton of fun. Down on her luck, washed up, one hit wonder Amanda Pearson is grasping for one last brush with fame. When her former agent reaches out with an outlandish proposal - locked in a house with five strangers, all taking one mystery pill a day for a week - Amanda shoots her down. It sounds like the set up for a cruel reality TV show, aimed at destroying her fledgling sobriety. But the people behind the medical research have a long reach. They can offer Amanda more than just the quarter million pounds the contract promises. They can relaunch her music career.
Honeycomb gets tense and bloody and chaotic in ridiculously entertaining ways. Although this is neither a slasher nor an over the top horror movie parody, I think this would appeal to fans of both. A great palate cleanser kind of read.
This is a ton of fun. Down on her luck, washed up, one hit wonder Amanda Pearson is grasping for one last brush with fame. When her former agent reaches out with an outlandish proposal - locked in a house with five strangers, all taking one mystery pill a day for a week - Amanda shoots her down. It sounds like the set up for a cruel reality TV show, aimed at destroying her fledgling sobriety. But the people behind the medical research have a long reach. They can offer Amanda more than just the quarter million pounds the contract promises. They can relaunch her music career.
Honeycomb gets tense and bloody and chaotic in ridiculously entertaining ways. Although this is neither a slasher nor an over the top horror movie parody, I think this would appeal to fans of both. A great palate cleanser kind of read.
May 23, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
What the heck did I just read. Holy disturbing.
A locked in style crazy premise that incudes experimental drugs and Amanda, a washed up pop star looking for her comeback.
All she ever wanted is now at her fingertips. Adored and coveted by her ‘people’ doesn’t feel as she hoped. Now she just has to stay alive and get away. Everyone wants something from her. No, they NEED something from her.
Ok…so this is absolutely 🦇💩 crazy and at first it’s in a good way but it goes off the rails as the story goes on but by bit. Fever dream vibes for sure.
I love the idea of this premise but ultimately wanted more details about the drug, the company and their mission. It was a bit vague at the end which drove me nuts but it sure wasn’t boring. I binged this one quickly as I was dying to know what happens. I’m still not sure I know all there is to know.
Overall - a fun, different slice of thriller/locked in/horror with some serious gore and social commentary. I will be reading this author again, I can’t help myself. 🤷♀️ Was I drugged too?! I enjoyed it and it’s so different!
This is one wild book. You’ll have to decide yourself if it’s your kind of crazy (or not). 🤪
Thanks to @datura for this interesting, crazy read.
What the heck did I just read. Holy disturbing.
A locked in style crazy premise that incudes experimental drugs and Amanda, a washed up pop star looking for her comeback.
All she ever wanted is now at her fingertips. Adored and coveted by her ‘people’ doesn’t feel as she hoped. Now she just has to stay alive and get away. Everyone wants something from her. No, they NEED something from her.
Ok…so this is absolutely 🦇💩 crazy and at first it’s in a good way but it goes off the rails as the story goes on but by bit. Fever dream vibes for sure.
I love the idea of this premise but ultimately wanted more details about the drug, the company and their mission. It was a bit vague at the end which drove me nuts but it sure wasn’t boring. I binged this one quickly as I was dying to know what happens. I’m still not sure I know all there is to know.
Overall - a fun, different slice of thriller/locked in/horror with some serious gore and social commentary. I will be reading this author again, I can’t help myself. 🤷♀️ Was I drugged too?! I enjoyed it and it’s so different!
This is one wild book. You’ll have to decide yourself if it’s your kind of crazy (or not). 🤪
Thanks to @datura for this interesting, crazy read.
May 20, 2024
ARC for review. To be published July 9, 2024.
Once Amanda Pearson was a rising star but that was before a vet public alcohol and drug fueled breakdown. Now she’s old news and broke.
Then her old manager pops up with an offer; she and five others will stay in an isolated mansion for a week under constant observation. Each day each of them will take a pill; five of them will be taking placebos, one is taking a new drug with no side effects (but, um, not telling what the new drug is, and its INTENTIONAL effect is to liquify your liver, maybe, I might have made that up, but who knows?) But, the pay is great!
And, of course, it’s areas of saying, “hey, you know what? This sounds shady as hell, illegal AND a perfect way to get trafficked,” Amanda agreed. Ah, sweet, sweet youth!
As you might guess this doesn’t turn out well. It’s a weird thing. Creepy. So if it sounds intriguing you might like this book. There’s a fair amount of blood, so be warned on that score. I liked it OK.
Once Amanda Pearson was a rising star but that was before a vet public alcohol and drug fueled breakdown. Now she’s old news and broke.
Then her old manager pops up with an offer; she and five others will stay in an isolated mansion for a week under constant observation. Each day each of them will take a pill; five of them will be taking placebos, one is taking a new drug with no side effects (but, um, not telling what the new drug is, and its INTENTIONAL effect is to liquify your liver, maybe, I might have made that up, but who knows?) But, the pay is great!
And, of course, it’s areas of saying, “hey, you know what? This sounds shady as hell, illegal AND a perfect way to get trafficked,” Amanda agreed. Ah, sweet, sweet youth!
As you might guess this doesn’t turn out well. It’s a weird thing. Creepy. So if it sounds intriguing you might like this book. There’s a fair amount of blood, so be warned on that score. I liked it OK.
July 11, 2024
Review originally on JamReads
Honeycomb is a high-concept thriller novel which dips its toes into the horror territory, written by S.B. Caves, and published by Datura Books. A spine-tingling plot that uses a well-fleshed cast of characters to develop a story full of twists and that conceptually remembers a bit to a Black Mirror chapter, including the shocking ending.
Amanda Pearson is a forgotten star; her life was ruined by drugs. Now a forgotten star, six years after her fall from grace, her ex-manager unexpectedly has a new opportunity that could put her back in the spotlight and alleviate her financial situation. The proposal is simple: six strangers in a locked mansion for a week, five taking a placebo pill and the other taking an experimental drug with supposedly no side effects; all under constant vigilance, a harmless experience, they say.
With this premise, Caves weaves a twisted thriller, using a cast of apparently normal people, which he gives some snippets of their past to create a wider background of them; some details around the pill are also thrown at the start, but the really interesting part is to see how fast the things derail with each dose.
The first dose is just the first nail in the coffin, making some of the participants to act a bit weird; but with the progressive build-up, chaos is unleashed, and the worst aspects of obsession manifests, putting in danger those inside the home. Caves masterfully creates an anxiety inducing atmosphere, bordering the horror provoked by the scariest aspects of human nature, unleashing the final pandemonium.
I'm trying to not give much details on this review, as I feel part of the fun in this book is experiencing it by yourself. The pacing is excellent, starting with a slower set-up which spreads some secrets in the narration, which progressively accelerates until it's a total chaos, in a really cinematographic experience (I would say you could feel the parallel with the Midsommar's experience).
Honeycomb is an excellent and twisted thriller, a recommendation if you liked Black Mirror; bordering horror, it won't let you feel indifferent, a great proposal around the question of which is the prize of being loved by everybody. Dear readers, you don't want to miss on this book!
Honeycomb is a high-concept thriller novel which dips its toes into the horror territory, written by S.B. Caves, and published by Datura Books. A spine-tingling plot that uses a well-fleshed cast of characters to develop a story full of twists and that conceptually remembers a bit to a Black Mirror chapter, including the shocking ending.
Amanda Pearson is a forgotten star; her life was ruined by drugs. Now a forgotten star, six years after her fall from grace, her ex-manager unexpectedly has a new opportunity that could put her back in the spotlight and alleviate her financial situation. The proposal is simple: six strangers in a locked mansion for a week, five taking a placebo pill and the other taking an experimental drug with supposedly no side effects; all under constant vigilance, a harmless experience, they say.
With this premise, Caves weaves a twisted thriller, using a cast of apparently normal people, which he gives some snippets of their past to create a wider background of them; some details around the pill are also thrown at the start, but the really interesting part is to see how fast the things derail with each dose.
The first dose is just the first nail in the coffin, making some of the participants to act a bit weird; but with the progressive build-up, chaos is unleashed, and the worst aspects of obsession manifests, putting in danger those inside the home. Caves masterfully creates an anxiety inducing atmosphere, bordering the horror provoked by the scariest aspects of human nature, unleashing the final pandemonium.
I'm trying to not give much details on this review, as I feel part of the fun in this book is experiencing it by yourself. The pacing is excellent, starting with a slower set-up which spreads some secrets in the narration, which progressively accelerates until it's a total chaos, in a really cinematographic experience (I would say you could feel the parallel with the Midsommar's experience).
Honeycomb is an excellent and twisted thriller, a recommendation if you liked Black Mirror; bordering horror, it won't let you feel indifferent, a great proposal around the question of which is the prize of being loved by everybody. Dear readers, you don't want to miss on this book!
December 18, 2024
This was a locked room thriller with a dash of lite horror that I really enjoyed. The audio was well done and added to the suspense that was building throughout. It is fast-paced, twisty, and kept my attention the entire time. Six strangers are invited to a mansion for a week to take part in a medical experiment, where every day they will take a pill, five are given a placebo and one is taking the real one. One of these strangers is a one hit wonder who self-destructed six years ago. They will all be paid nicely after the week, as long as they make it through. There are zero side effects, so what could go wrong? I think we know, basically everything.
Like I said this was interesting, twisty, and fast paced, and the multiple POVs worked well here as clearly things are not as they seem and it spirals pretty quickly.
A huge thank you to @kayepublicity @daturabooks and the author @s.b_caves for sending me this finished copy to review.
Like I said this was interesting, twisty, and fast paced, and the multiple POVs worked well here as clearly things are not as they seem and it spirals pretty quickly.
A huge thank you to @kayepublicity @daturabooks and the author @s.b_caves for sending me this finished copy to review.
February 19, 2025
Honeycomb by S.A. Caves is a psychological thriller with Black Mirror vibes!
It follows Amanda, and as quickly as her fame arrived, it disappeared. She could do nothing else but clean up her life. Her manager then comes to her with an opportunity that could get her that fame back. So, Amanda, along with 5 strangers, stays in a mansion to participate in an experiment with a new drug. But just one of the participants will actually be taking the drug.
I enjoyed this one so much. The atmosphere of the story was great. It felt like a total paranoia inducing setting. Imagine moving into a mansion with strangers and no way to communicate with the outside world?! Yea, no thanks!
The story was super twisted and disturbing, and I WANT MORE!!! It had super interesting and untrustworthy characters. The elements of obsession were so good. A major page turner! It really makes you ask, what would you do for fame?
It follows Amanda, and as quickly as her fame arrived, it disappeared. She could do nothing else but clean up her life. Her manager then comes to her with an opportunity that could get her that fame back. So, Amanda, along with 5 strangers, stays in a mansion to participate in an experiment with a new drug. But just one of the participants will actually be taking the drug.
I enjoyed this one so much. The atmosphere of the story was great. It felt like a total paranoia inducing setting. Imagine moving into a mansion with strangers and no way to communicate with the outside world?! Yea, no thanks!
The story was super twisted and disturbing, and I WANT MORE!!! It had super interesting and untrustworthy characters. The elements of obsession were so good. A major page turner! It really makes you ask, what would you do for fame?
July 10, 2024
Disturbing. Interesting. Violent.
These three words sum up the plot of Honeycomb. Strangers assembled and locked into a mansion... Okay. But, what unfolds is an odd look into the price of fame and adoration and what happens when things are taken too far.
Add in some rich weirdos relishing in the pain of others for fun and poof, you've got a wild and sometimes upsetting story.
My one gripe is that things aren't wrapped up. There's a thread which seems to be dropped entirely.
These three words sum up the plot of Honeycomb. Strangers assembled and locked into a mansion... Okay. But, what unfolds is an odd look into the price of fame and adoration and what happens when things are taken too far.
Add in some rich weirdos relishing in the pain of others for fun and poof, you've got a wild and sometimes upsetting story.
My one gripe is that things aren't wrapped up. There's a thread which seems to be dropped entirely.
May 17, 2024
I want to thank Datura and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
this was I think the most different type of book I’ve ever read. It definitely kept me wondering what was gonna happen to all these people in this house! I did get a bit bored at times but still kept me on my toes wanting to know more! In conclusion this was not bad of a book! Very fast paced!
this was I think the most different type of book I’ve ever read. It definitely kept me wondering what was gonna happen to all these people in this house! I did get a bit bored at times but still kept me on my toes wanting to know more! In conclusion this was not bad of a book! Very fast paced!
September 19, 2024
Really cool crazy story about a very unique designer drug. Tested in a big brother style environment. with a bunch of fascinating fleshed out characters. Highly recommend
July 9, 2024
A massive thank you to the publisher who provided a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
TWs: Blood, murder, mentions of drug use/addiction.
All throughout this book I must've said WTF at least 30 times. It's wild, it's weird, and messed up in all the ways I wanted it to be.
Described as Big Brother meets Black Mirror, six strangers are given the opportunity to make some easy money. All they have to do is spend a week in a mansion, under constant watch, and take a pill every morning. One of the six is taking the real pill, which supposedly has no side effects, and the rest are taking a placebo.
It doesn't take long for things to turn weird and aggressive. Who is Amanda, the MC, really locked in the house with? And despite the assurance only one person is taking the real pill, why is everyone acting different?
Told from multi-POV, there's a great insight into each of the characters, giving a deeper look into them prior to entering the mansion. It also exposes their motives for taking part in this, and what the money could mean to each of them. As well as this, we see how each character is changed as the days in the experiment begin.
There's a perfect, creepy vibe throughout, and the setting is a great choice, really adding to the confusion and overwhelming emotions the characters feel. As a reader you're pulled along by the hand, thrown into the mix, and left unsure of just what the people in the house are capable of.
There's enough thrills and twists to satisfy any horror/thriller lover, but don't be surprised if you have this finished quite quickly, the pages flew by for me after I was sucked into the storyline, and the pacing is right for the plot.
I'll definitely be looking into the authors previous books, because if they're as weird as this, I'm in.
Did I like the book? Yes.
Did I love it? Yes.
Would I recommend it? 100%. It's a horror/thriller that will leave you wanting more.
This review can also be found at Finally Got Around to It
TWs: Blood, murder, mentions of drug use/addiction.
All throughout this book I must've said WTF at least 30 times. It's wild, it's weird, and messed up in all the ways I wanted it to be.
Described as Big Brother meets Black Mirror, six strangers are given the opportunity to make some easy money. All they have to do is spend a week in a mansion, under constant watch, and take a pill every morning. One of the six is taking the real pill, which supposedly has no side effects, and the rest are taking a placebo.
It doesn't take long for things to turn weird and aggressive. Who is Amanda, the MC, really locked in the house with? And despite the assurance only one person is taking the real pill, why is everyone acting different?
Told from multi-POV, there's a great insight into each of the characters, giving a deeper look into them prior to entering the mansion. It also exposes their motives for taking part in this, and what the money could mean to each of them. As well as this, we see how each character is changed as the days in the experiment begin.
There's a perfect, creepy vibe throughout, and the setting is a great choice, really adding to the confusion and overwhelming emotions the characters feel. As a reader you're pulled along by the hand, thrown into the mix, and left unsure of just what the people in the house are capable of.
There's enough thrills and twists to satisfy any horror/thriller lover, but don't be surprised if you have this finished quite quickly, the pages flew by for me after I was sucked into the storyline, and the pacing is right for the plot.
I'll definitely be looking into the authors previous books, because if they're as weird as this, I'm in.
Did I like the book? Yes.
Did I love it? Yes.
Would I recommend it? 100%. It's a horror/thriller that will leave you wanting more.
This review can also be found at Finally Got Around to It
November 11, 2024
This book was wild. I was so excited for the story because I have always believed that pheromones play a way bigger part in our lives than we know. Like- you know those people who others just... flock to? Always being fawned over, both platonically and romantically? We all know these folks. Maybe they aren't even all that "conventionally attractive", have an average-seeming personally and such, but they're always swarmed with admirers and you just don't know why. My theory has been pheromones. I have bad ones, according to my hypothesis, and so this whole concept of taking a pill to boost one's appeal? Oh I was so on board!
And it definitely delivered! I mean, throwing these people into a house, on top of it? It's like The Real World on crack, but like, actually drugs not even kidding. I was quite invested in the story, and Amanda's character. She reminded me of a Lindsay Lohan sort, or a less famous Britney Spears, a teen idol who was now in the periphery at best, having dealt with the fallout of young stardom. When she gets the chance to turn her life around with a nice payday, who could blame her? I probably would have taken the offer too, tbh.
But things get wild, and fast. I won't tell you any more, because you should figure it out for yourselves. But everything in the house is unsettling from the start, and devolves in a hurry. It is impossible to put down, because I was so invested in the outcome, and what the cast of characters was going to do next. I liked that we got a little insight into each of them, even though Amanda was the main character. My only qualm was that I probably would have liked a bit more from the ending, but overall, it was a really solid story with a very cool premise that delivered what it promised.
Bottom Line: This was bananas, increasingly dark, and wholly entertaining.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
And it definitely delivered! I mean, throwing these people into a house, on top of it? It's like The Real World on crack, but like, actually drugs not even kidding. I was quite invested in the story, and Amanda's character. She reminded me of a Lindsay Lohan sort, or a less famous Britney Spears, a teen idol who was now in the periphery at best, having dealt with the fallout of young stardom. When she gets the chance to turn her life around with a nice payday, who could blame her? I probably would have taken the offer too, tbh.
But things get wild, and fast. I won't tell you any more, because you should figure it out for yourselves. But everything in the house is unsettling from the start, and devolves in a hurry. It is impossible to put down, because I was so invested in the outcome, and what the cast of characters was going to do next. I liked that we got a little insight into each of them, even though Amanda was the main character. My only qualm was that I probably would have liked a bit more from the ending, but overall, it was a really solid story with a very cool premise that delivered what it promised.
Bottom Line: This was bananas, increasingly dark, and wholly entertaining.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
October 17, 2024
This is really more of a 3.5 for me than a 4, but such is Goodreads. Anywho, Honeycomb was the first selection of a newly formed book club, Espooky Bookies. As a horror fan, I'm all about a horror book club.
Honeycomb is a decent though fairly imperfect novel. It has an interesting premise and thematic resonance about the nature of celebrity and how much attention is too much. The bottle nature of the story as well, with five random people thrown into a mansion together taking an experimental drug, is a good way of writing fun character interactions. And each of the main characters has enough of a personality that is a highlight of the book.
But there issues arise from such structure problems. It's a book that feels lacking in an Act 2, ramping up suddenly from the premise towards Act 3 craziness and then little new of substance happening. It makes for creepy depictions of behavior and gore, but once you realize nothing new is getting added, Honeycomb loses momentum and steam.
The book also only halfway plays around with backstories for everyone outside of the protagonist Amanda and the mysterious corporation running everything. We get glimpses enough to tease bigger ideas, but they come across underbaked since there is a lack of follow-through.
It was a fun enough read for awhile and credit to S.B. Caves for their ability to write good characters. But either her editor ruined things by cutting too much or she needed a better editor to help her flesh out more. Either way, this just needed a bit more to it.
My Casting
Dua Lipa as Amanda
Mark Strong as Arthur
Ruth Negga as Wish
Emma Thompson as Sherry
Matthew Macfadyen as Claude
Dan Stevens as Justin
Ken Watanabe as Moshida
Honeycomb is a decent though fairly imperfect novel. It has an interesting premise and thematic resonance about the nature of celebrity and how much attention is too much. The bottle nature of the story as well, with five random people thrown into a mansion together taking an experimental drug, is a good way of writing fun character interactions. And each of the main characters has enough of a personality that is a highlight of the book.
But there issues arise from such structure problems. It's a book that feels lacking in an Act 2, ramping up suddenly from the premise towards Act 3 craziness and then little new of substance happening. It makes for creepy depictions of behavior and gore, but once you realize nothing new is getting added, Honeycomb loses momentum and steam.
The book also only halfway plays around with backstories for everyone outside of the protagonist Amanda and the mysterious corporation running everything. We get glimpses enough to tease bigger ideas, but they come across underbaked since there is a lack of follow-through.
It was a fun enough read for awhile and credit to S.B. Caves for their ability to write good characters. But either her editor ruined things by cutting too much or she needed a better editor to help her flesh out more. Either way, this just needed a bit more to it.
My Casting
Dua Lipa as Amanda
Mark Strong as Arthur
Ruth Negga as Wish
Emma Thompson as Sherry
Matthew Macfadyen as Claude
Dan Stevens as Justin
Ken Watanabe as Moshida
July 31, 2024
I received a copy of Honeycomb in exchange for an honest review.
Honeycomb had me HOOKED. Wow. It took me by surprise so many times and I couldn’t put it down, I thought I knew what was going on but there were still moments that really caught me out.
This is a great high-concept thriller with a central plot that utterly hooked me. The idea of putting six people together in a locked house and giving them an experimental drug is such a great concept and S.B. Caves pulls it off so so well. It’s hinted from the very start as to what the experimental drug is doing. You start to see the effects of the drug subtly from early on and it ramps up to an utterly insane experience by the end of the book. It gives off the feeling of watching something horrifying that you know you should look away from but you just can’t.
Amanda is a great central character, a pop star fallen from grace you can empathise with her now-normal life, but yet she still has this edge of stardom that explains why she’d put herself in this position in the first place, and maybe why she doesn’t realise things earlier. She’s manipulated by those around her and she doesn’t even notice. I really liked her as a character but I was definitely frustrated by her inability to see the insanity that is unfolding in the earlier parts of the book.
Honeycomb is the perfect binge read. It’ll reel you in and keep you until the very last page.
Honeycomb had me HOOKED. Wow. It took me by surprise so many times and I couldn’t put it down, I thought I knew what was going on but there were still moments that really caught me out.
This is a great high-concept thriller with a central plot that utterly hooked me. The idea of putting six people together in a locked house and giving them an experimental drug is such a great concept and S.B. Caves pulls it off so so well. It’s hinted from the very start as to what the experimental drug is doing. You start to see the effects of the drug subtly from early on and it ramps up to an utterly insane experience by the end of the book. It gives off the feeling of watching something horrifying that you know you should look away from but you just can’t.
Amanda is a great central character, a pop star fallen from grace you can empathise with her now-normal life, but yet she still has this edge of stardom that explains why she’d put herself in this position in the first place, and maybe why she doesn’t realise things earlier. She’s manipulated by those around her and she doesn’t even notice. I really liked her as a character but I was definitely frustrated by her inability to see the insanity that is unfolding in the earlier parts of the book.
Honeycomb is the perfect binge read. It’ll reel you in and keep you until the very last page.
July 9, 2024
I’d like to thank both NetGalley and Datura Books, from whom I received an ARC of Honeycomb for review.
I’ve been on a bit of a fantasy kick lately, but when I saw the blurb for Honeycomb, I knew I had to read it ASAP. It was such a fun, fast-paced thriller, one one disturbing enough be horror too, or at least border on it.
I spent the first half of my time with it doing some detective work, trying to figure out if the six drug trial participants had been lied to by the doctor running experiment, if the drug was working as intended, wondering how far the doctor would truly let things go, hoping Amanda could find someone to trust, you know, normal stuff. But the second half of my time with the book was basically just me thinking “oh shit, oh shit, oh shit!”
I appreciated that while the story centered on Amanda and her experience, we were also given glimpses into both the points of view and pasts of the other five participants of the drug trial. I liked that Claude, Arthur, Wish, Sherry, and Justin were all deeper than just nobody side-characters put there to give Amanda a hard time. I also found it really interesting how each of them responded to the drug trial in their own way. I thought their behavior would more or less be identical and I’m convinced the differences made the whole book even better.
It must be said, though I can’t explain: Honeycomb is the perfect name for the drug (and this book). Once you read it, you’ll know why!
I’ve been on a bit of a fantasy kick lately, but when I saw the blurb for Honeycomb, I knew I had to read it ASAP. It was such a fun, fast-paced thriller, one one disturbing enough be horror too, or at least border on it.
I spent the first half of my time with it doing some detective work, trying to figure out if the six drug trial participants had been lied to by the doctor running experiment, if the drug was working as intended, wondering how far the doctor would truly let things go, hoping Amanda could find someone to trust, you know, normal stuff. But the second half of my time with the book was basically just me thinking “oh shit, oh shit, oh shit!”
I appreciated that while the story centered on Amanda and her experience, we were also given glimpses into both the points of view and pasts of the other five participants of the drug trial. I liked that Claude, Arthur, Wish, Sherry, and Justin were all deeper than just nobody side-characters put there to give Amanda a hard time. I also found it really interesting how each of them responded to the drug trial in their own way. I thought their behavior would more or less be identical and I’m convinced the differences made the whole book even better.
It must be said, though I can’t explain: Honeycomb is the perfect name for the drug (and this book). Once you read it, you’ll know why!
June 20, 2024
4.5⭐️
This is such a good but strange read! I don’t know what’s in this book but I was disturbed the whole way through while also not being able to put it down, and after not being able to put it down my first thought was “what have I just read” I have honestly never read anything quite like this!
Spoilers below
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My biggest thing is Amanda at the end! Hun.. why are you still taking these bloody pills?🤣 I really enjoyed the ending, I quite like how the author hasn’t given loads away and left a few questions! Eg- who are they? What’s happened to them? What happened in the other house? How have the families of those died not found out? Where is Wish? I feel like I have so many questions with some books would annoy me, but strangely the mystery in this just WORKS!
There’s no doubt that this is strange! But the creepy element!!!! The scene right off the bat was amazing, I got such creepy mansion vibes straight away. I loved the challenges I think it really added something to the book which was great and kept the reader hooked! Such a creepy read!
Thank you NetGalley for my first ARC! Will definitely be on the look out for more from this author!✍️
This is such a good but strange read! I don’t know what’s in this book but I was disturbed the whole way through while also not being able to put it down, and after not being able to put it down my first thought was “what have I just read” I have honestly never read anything quite like this!
Spoilers below
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.
.
.
.
.
My biggest thing is Amanda at the end! Hun.. why are you still taking these bloody pills?🤣 I really enjoyed the ending, I quite like how the author hasn’t given loads away and left a few questions! Eg- who are they? What’s happened to them? What happened in the other house? How have the families of those died not found out? Where is Wish? I feel like I have so many questions with some books would annoy me, but strangely the mystery in this just WORKS!
There’s no doubt that this is strange! But the creepy element!!!! The scene right off the bat was amazing, I got such creepy mansion vibes straight away. I loved the challenges I think it really added something to the book which was great and kept the reader hooked! Such a creepy read!
Thank you NetGalley for my first ARC! Will definitely be on the look out for more from this author!✍️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2024
What would you give up for a shot at fame? Your health? Your well-being? Even your sanity?
If you’re a thrill-seeking, horror movie-loving, adrenaline junkie like me, you will gulp this book down in one sitting.
S.B. Caves perfectly intertwines six strangers’ lives together in an intricate web of lies, deception, and backstabbing to the point of no return. We are first introduced to the focus of the experiment, Amanda, who is a washed-up celebrity on the brink of a new beginning. When she’s given the chance to be famous again, she chooses to see her opportunity through rose-colored glasses, and accepts the sketchy offer in return for the feeling of being wanted again. Even though she’s a recovering addict of drugs and an eating disorder, the money she takes for taking an experimental unnamed pill for a week is too good to turn down, for hope of turning her life around.
During the week of this paid prescription trial, it quickly turns into a psychological experiment, where boundaries are tested, alliances are formed, and all hope is lost. While each participant shares their story of despair and desperation, we come to realize that they are all just rats in a never-ending maze, doomed from the start. But just when you think the story is starting to become predictable, S.B. throws a final blow, shattering the idea of safety and content.
This book ultimately begs the question-should you trust your gut? Or should you risk it all for a chance at life you’d never be given otherwise?
If you’re a thrill-seeking, horror movie-loving, adrenaline junkie like me, you will gulp this book down in one sitting.
S.B. Caves perfectly intertwines six strangers’ lives together in an intricate web of lies, deception, and backstabbing to the point of no return. We are first introduced to the focus of the experiment, Amanda, who is a washed-up celebrity on the brink of a new beginning. When she’s given the chance to be famous again, she chooses to see her opportunity through rose-colored glasses, and accepts the sketchy offer in return for the feeling of being wanted again. Even though she’s a recovering addict of drugs and an eating disorder, the money she takes for taking an experimental unnamed pill for a week is too good to turn down, for hope of turning her life around.
During the week of this paid prescription trial, it quickly turns into a psychological experiment, where boundaries are tested, alliances are formed, and all hope is lost. While each participant shares their story of despair and desperation, we come to realize that they are all just rats in a never-ending maze, doomed from the start. But just when you think the story is starting to become predictable, S.B. throws a final blow, shattering the idea of safety and content.
This book ultimately begs the question-should you trust your gut? Or should you risk it all for a chance at life you’d never be given otherwise?
July 2, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Datura Books for my arc copy of Honeycomb by S.B Cave
In this book, we follow Amanda, a former pop idol, as she enters a house with four other people as part of an experiment similar to a mix of "Big Brother" and "Black Mirror" with a hint of "Saw." I enjoyed getting to know these characters as we followed the experiment involving taking a particular drug. However, it becomes evident that this experiment is also life-threatening as the others become obsessed with Amanda. There were a few unexpected twists and turns. I rated this book four stars because some parts of the story were left unresolved, and I found myself questioning the purpose of the experiment and the background of the characters without any significant resolution. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read.
#Netgalley #DaturaBooks #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #UnexpectedTwists #CharacterDevelopment #MysteryNovel #BookLovers #ReadingCommunity #PageTurner
In this book, we follow Amanda, a former pop idol, as she enters a house with four other people as part of an experiment similar to a mix of "Big Brother" and "Black Mirror" with a hint of "Saw." I enjoyed getting to know these characters as we followed the experiment involving taking a particular drug. However, it becomes evident that this experiment is also life-threatening as the others become obsessed with Amanda. There were a few unexpected twists and turns. I rated this book four stars because some parts of the story were left unresolved, and I found myself questioning the purpose of the experiment and the background of the characters without any significant resolution. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read.
#Netgalley #DaturaBooks #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #UnexpectedTwists #CharacterDevelopment #MysteryNovel #BookLovers #ReadingCommunity #PageTurner
July 18, 2024
A designer drug claiming to deliver incredible benefits for morale, ensuring that entertainers continue performing at their highest potential, is ready for human trials.
Singer Amanda Pearson lost her career thanks to an out-of-control drug habit. Now drug-free, she’s been offered a chance to participate in a social experiment with five other people. The catch? The group will stay in a secluded mansion for a week and will be required to take a daily pill. Five will be taking a placebo.
Author S.B. Caves lays the foundation for a thrilling ethical adventure in Honeycomb. With diverse characters, there’s no doubt that conflict will happen.
As the backstories unfold, strange behavior begins taking place. Locked in, monitored by cameras, the impact of the drug escalates to a breaking point.
Honeycomb serves up a social experiment with unexpected outcomes. ~ Amy for Novels Alive
Singer Amanda Pearson lost her career thanks to an out-of-control drug habit. Now drug-free, she’s been offered a chance to participate in a social experiment with five other people. The catch? The group will stay in a secluded mansion for a week and will be required to take a daily pill. Five will be taking a placebo.
Author S.B. Caves lays the foundation for a thrilling ethical adventure in Honeycomb. With diverse characters, there’s no doubt that conflict will happen.
As the backstories unfold, strange behavior begins taking place. Locked in, monitored by cameras, the impact of the drug escalates to a breaking point.
Honeycomb serves up a social experiment with unexpected outcomes. ~ Amy for Novels Alive
June 28, 2024
This was a really interesting, fast, and cool book to read. Amanda Pearson is a fading rock star struggling to pay her bills. She's sought out specifically by a company wanting to test a new product, and though she doesn't want to say yes, she needs the money. Once Amanda is brought to a secluded house with several others, they all start taking a mysterious drug once a day. It's not too long before Amanda realizes she's the only one who hasn't been affected, since everyone else seems to be obsessive and dangerous. When they turn their obsessions to her, things get deadly. There were many good twists, but there were also several loose ends that didn't get tied up. I wanted more in different places of the book, so I did leave a bit disappointed.
May 26, 2024
Honeycomb surprised me in the best way! I wasn't sure what to expect - the cover looks a bit amateur, and I was hesitant when I saw the references to popular TV shows. Usually, books don't stand up to much hype. But Honeycomb is the exception!
Honeycomb, with its echoes of Big Brother, Black Mirror, and even Squid Games, delivers a plot that is both gripping and unputdownable. The vivid and fast-paced writing style adds to the thrill of the story. This psychological thriller has earned a spot on my list of top reads for the year.
📚 Fast-paced, captivating, and unputdownable
📚 Well written and makes you feel like you are in the locked house with the cast of characters.
📚 Unique take on the locked-room trope
📚 No boring, repetitive, or tediousness
A huge 'Thank You' to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Honeycomb, with its echoes of Big Brother, Black Mirror, and even Squid Games, delivers a plot that is both gripping and unputdownable. The vivid and fast-paced writing style adds to the thrill of the story. This psychological thriller has earned a spot on my list of top reads for the year.
📚 Fast-paced, captivating, and unputdownable
📚 Well written and makes you feel like you are in the locked house with the cast of characters.
📚 Unique take on the locked-room trope
📚 No boring, repetitive, or tediousness
A huge 'Thank You' to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!
July 9, 2024
This is a great locked room thriller. I loved getting all the character POVs and the overall story was really interesting. It was twisty, fast paced and addictive, I read the entire book in one sitting. The author did a great job creating and atmosphere of unease through the story. I think the ending let the book down a bit as it felt very abrupt, I would have liked a little more at the end but I can see why it ended the way it did. I really enjoyed this and would highly recommend
Thanks to NetGalley, Datura Books and S.B Caves for this e-ARC
Thanks to NetGalley, Datura Books and S.B Caves for this e-ARC
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