What do you think?
Rate this book
Carni
Meet Carni, your master of ceremonies in a carnival of terror!
In the grip of public disgrace and desperate to resurrect his career, journalist Dag Altan stumbles upon a compelling lead that could be his ticket to redemption. A captivating encounter with a bewitching young woman, consumed by an eerie fascination with a once-thriving amusement park now desolate island, ignites Dag's journalistic instincts. Drawn to the enigma of the abandoned location and the unnerving series of deaths surrounding it, Dag plunges headfirst into the heart of the story, utterly unaware of the peril awaiting him.
As his investigation intensifies, Dag becomes entangled in a treacherous web of dark secrets, where the line between reality and nightmare blurs. At the center of it all stands the elusive figure known only as Carni. Initially perceived as a mere legend, Carni soon sheds his mythical cloak, morphing into a living, breathing embodiment of terror. With each step Dag takes closer to the truth, Carni's presence grows more palpable, and the menacing game he plays becomes grimmer.
As the carousel of confusion spins ever faster, Dag finds himself ensnared in a captivating yet chilling spectacle. Can he outmaneuver the sinister forces at play, or will he join the ranks of those consumed by the sinister grip of Carni? In this heart-stopping tale of suspense and terror, Dag Altan races against time to expose the true nature of Carni before he becomes the latest victim in this nightmare realm.
In the grip of public disgrace and desperate to resurrect his career, journalist Dag Altan stumbles upon a compelling lead that could be his ticket to redemption. A captivating encounter with a bewitching young woman, consumed by an eerie fascination with a once-thriving amusement park now desolate island, ignites Dag's journalistic instincts. Drawn to the enigma of the abandoned location and the unnerving series of deaths surrounding it, Dag plunges headfirst into the heart of the story, utterly unaware of the peril awaiting him.
As his investigation intensifies, Dag becomes entangled in a treacherous web of dark secrets, where the line between reality and nightmare blurs. At the center of it all stands the elusive figure known only as Carni. Initially perceived as a mere legend, Carni soon sheds his mythical cloak, morphing into a living, breathing embodiment of terror. With each step Dag takes closer to the truth, Carni's presence grows more palpable, and the menacing game he plays becomes grimmer.
As the carousel of confusion spins ever faster, Dag finds himself ensnared in a captivating yet chilling spectacle. Can he outmaneuver the sinister forces at play, or will he join the ranks of those consumed by the sinister grip of Carni? In this heart-stopping tale of suspense and terror, Dag Altan races against time to expose the true nature of Carni before he becomes the latest victim in this nightmare realm.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2023
24 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
R. Saint Claire
35 books248 followersRegina writes adult and young adult fiction, but always with a dark flair. Writing honors include a Watty Award for best horror novel and multiple screenwriting awards, including a Webby Honoree. Regina is also the contributing editor of the bestselling Local Haunts: A HorrorTube Anthology. Find Regina, and her alter-ego Batilda, at her BookTube channel, Regina's Haunted Library, and on her blog RSaintClaire.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 17, 2023
I got arc for review on netgally.
I liked some parts if it. The myth and such about Carni and the whole idea around it. But I just didn't like the main character Dag. It put my way out of the story.
I liked some parts if it. The myth and such about Carni and the whole idea around it. But I just didn't like the main character Dag. It put my way out of the story.
December 26, 2023
A thoroughly enjoyable killer clown novel with a dislikable but very credible protagonist. R Saint Claire does a great job of building tension right up until the thrilling climax. It’s one of those books where you can’t stop turning the pages to see how things turn out, even though you know it’s going to be horrific.
January 11, 2024
It's ok not to like these people because they're meant to be terrible. Evil clowns, child murder, this is a horror for the sake of horror. From the beginning to the end, there were terrible things happening, and it was written well enough that I felt like I was watching from the front row.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this.
April 6, 2024
I loved both the premise and the setting of this story. It opens with a bang, detailing a series of gruesome events that took place in Burlington Island back in the 1950s (I think), and have become a part of the place’s dark history.
Years later, journalist and certified POS Dag Altan dives into the island’s grisly past, with the help of his mysterious clown-obsessed girlfriend who seems to know a little too much about it. Along with Carni, the evil spirit tied to the legend, they form an unholy trinity of unlikeable characters riding a rollercoaster to disaster.
This is a very fun book to read. I was rooting for absolutely no one; there was only anticipation and excitement for things to go badly for the characters. And the action did not disappoint…. there was plenty of death and gore to go around!
I was satisfied with the scarce information we are given about Carni’s origin as it emphasises the urban legend aspect of the story but I could understand some readers wanting more of that. The story also offered a fun, original twist to the haunted carnival trope by adding a clown-worshipping cult, a journalistic investigation gone wrong, and even a sprinkle of sex magic.
I would recommend this book to horror lovers that also enjoy zany B-movies.
Years later, journalist and certified POS Dag Altan dives into the island’s grisly past, with the help of his mysterious clown-obsessed girlfriend who seems to know a little too much about it. Along with Carni, the evil spirit tied to the legend, they form an unholy trinity of unlikeable characters riding a rollercoaster to disaster.
This is a very fun book to read. I was rooting for absolutely no one; there was only anticipation and excitement for things to go badly for the characters. And the action did not disappoint…. there was plenty of death and gore to go around!
I was satisfied with the scarce information we are given about Carni’s origin as it emphasises the urban legend aspect of the story but I could understand some readers wanting more of that. The story also offered a fun, original twist to the haunted carnival trope by adding a clown-worshipping cult, a journalistic investigation gone wrong, and even a sprinkle of sex magic.
I would recommend this book to horror lovers that also enjoy zany B-movies.
December 12, 2023
A couple of days ago, I saw a book trailer for this on insta. It looked super fun and creepy but clowns aren't really my thing. Then I heard a booktuber talking about it and I was like, "hmm, sounds interesting." Then it popped up on netgalley and I was like, "ok universe, I get it, you want me to read the amusement park clown book! FINE!"
And you know what? The universe was doing me a solid because this was such a fun time. It's so much more than just a creepy clown. There's gore and cults and possession, and a main character who could not make a good choice if his life depended on it. So much bloody chaos. Such a page turner!
And you know what? The universe was doing me a solid because this was such a fun time. It's so much more than just a creepy clown. There's gore and cults and possession, and a main character who could not make a good choice if his life depended on it. So much bloody chaos. Such a page turner!
March 15, 2024
I first heard about this book on Instagram. I wasn't familiar with the author, and feeling that I needed more clown horror in my library, I decided to check it out.
The book was an okay read, but I found it to be very predictable. I called the ending after finishing Chapter 3. I kept reading, hoping the author would prove me wrong, but alas, there were no surprises here.
When dealing with clowns, especially within the context of this particular story, you run the risk of being compared to King's It, and that's the problem this author faces. At times that's exactly what I thought I was reading, but sadly, this book is but a pale shadow when compared to It. The second problem the authour encounters is the characters and how she chose to paint them. The colors used aren't pretty. You don't really like any of the central characters (they're either users, abusers, or both), so you never really become invested in them. There's no character growth, and no arc or journey, only a flat line that never blips. Any positives the author paints on the surface of the central character, Dag, are erased by internal dialogue. Anything that portrays him as redeemable is merely a facade, a mask created to show people he has changed, but his real thoughts are exposed to the reader. As a result, you don't really care what happens to him, or any of the characters. In situations like this, you usually end up rooting for the Big Bad, but even he fell flat for me. The author had the opportunity to build a platform/universe here ripe for future volumes, but it's squandered. There's some research involved that's performed by Dag and Aurora, but there's very little meat provided, only bare bones, and you're left hungry for more. It was as if the author was afraid of providing too much information for fear of bogging down the story, which is more plot driven than character driven. The author does set things up for a sequel, which I doubt I'll be checking; however, the writing in Carni is solid/strong enough that I would be interested in reading more from the author.
The book was an okay read, but I found it to be very predictable. I called the ending after finishing Chapter 3. I kept reading, hoping the author would prove me wrong, but alas, there were no surprises here.
When dealing with clowns, especially within the context of this particular story, you run the risk of being compared to King's It, and that's the problem this author faces. At times that's exactly what I thought I was reading, but sadly, this book is but a pale shadow when compared to It. The second problem the authour encounters is the characters and how she chose to paint them. The colors used aren't pretty. You don't really like any of the central characters (they're either users, abusers, or both), so you never really become invested in them. There's no character growth, and no arc or journey, only a flat line that never blips. Any positives the author paints on the surface of the central character, Dag, are erased by internal dialogue. Anything that portrays him as redeemable is merely a facade, a mask created to show people he has changed, but his real thoughts are exposed to the reader. As a result, you don't really care what happens to him, or any of the characters. In situations like this, you usually end up rooting for the Big Bad, but even he fell flat for me. The author had the opportunity to build a platform/universe here ripe for future volumes, but it's squandered. There's some research involved that's performed by Dag and Aurora, but there's very little meat provided, only bare bones, and you're left hungry for more. It was as if the author was afraid of providing too much information for fear of bogging down the story, which is more plot driven than character driven. The author does set things up for a sequel, which I doubt I'll be checking; however, the writing in Carni is solid/strong enough that I would be interested in reading more from the author.
December 23, 2023
Saint Claire is on a roll!
I read this in two days and that only got broken up by work. Let me tell you, I resented every minute at work that day as time I could have been finding out what happened next in Carni.
Carni is an entity of urban legend, located in an around an abandoned, derelict amusement park. His story may just be the thing that can get out flawed main character - disgraced journalist Dag Altan - back into the big league. But is Dag using the Carni legend, or is Carni real and using Dag for his own ends?
I've seen a lot of other reviewers rightly praising the lore and mythology of Carni but wishing there was more. I think that's a sign of a really well-balanced story. The lore that is sprinkled here and there is fascinating because it does only offer brief glimpses behind the veil. Any time that happens it feels important. It also means (he said selfishly, as a reader eager for more from this author) that there is room for another Carni novel, one that may dig a little deeper into the background of this villain.
For the most part the story is Dag's. We see him strive to redeem his reputation and career, all while getting deeper into a relationship with his source, the young, vibrant and intriguing Aurora. Dag's a character with a fatal flaw and the seeming inability to do anything about it. As his questionable relationship with Aurora develops you can see that some kind of car crash is coming, and a lot of the decisions he is making are clearly bad, but also completely real. I rooted for him, but also - as a gleeful horror fan - couldn't wait to see how he might crash and burn in the shadow of this weird entity of urban legend.
I don't want to give away any of the plot, but I do want to note Saint Claire's ability to keep her stories moving, to pull the reader along and make them want to read more. In her hands it seems deceptively simple, but it is something that takes a lot of skill and hard work.
I was blown away by her short story collection 'Women in Trouble'. Her last novel 'Code Red' was a wild ride that, I'm glad to see, appears to have been a hit with its audience. 'Carni' proves that Saint Claire is on a roll. I feel greedy saying that I can't wait to see what she gives us next, but here we are.
I read this in two days and that only got broken up by work. Let me tell you, I resented every minute at work that day as time I could have been finding out what happened next in Carni.
Carni is an entity of urban legend, located in an around an abandoned, derelict amusement park. His story may just be the thing that can get out flawed main character - disgraced journalist Dag Altan - back into the big league. But is Dag using the Carni legend, or is Carni real and using Dag for his own ends?
I've seen a lot of other reviewers rightly praising the lore and mythology of Carni but wishing there was more. I think that's a sign of a really well-balanced story. The lore that is sprinkled here and there is fascinating because it does only offer brief glimpses behind the veil. Any time that happens it feels important. It also means (he said selfishly, as a reader eager for more from this author) that there is room for another Carni novel, one that may dig a little deeper into the background of this villain.
For the most part the story is Dag's. We see him strive to redeem his reputation and career, all while getting deeper into a relationship with his source, the young, vibrant and intriguing Aurora. Dag's a character with a fatal flaw and the seeming inability to do anything about it. As his questionable relationship with Aurora develops you can see that some kind of car crash is coming, and a lot of the decisions he is making are clearly bad, but also completely real. I rooted for him, but also - as a gleeful horror fan - couldn't wait to see how he might crash and burn in the shadow of this weird entity of urban legend.
I don't want to give away any of the plot, but I do want to note Saint Claire's ability to keep her stories moving, to pull the reader along and make them want to read more. In her hands it seems deceptively simple, but it is something that takes a lot of skill and hard work.
I was blown away by her short story collection 'Women in Trouble'. Her last novel 'Code Red' was a wild ride that, I'm glad to see, appears to have been a hit with its audience. 'Carni' proves that Saint Claire is on a roll. I feel greedy saying that I can't wait to see what she gives us next, but here we are.
December 21, 2023
Thank you, R. Saint Claire and NetGalley for the ARC. I leave this review voluntarily and happily. Also, thank you publishers for your hard work!
Oh my God! I absolutely loved this book! Of course, the only thing I wished it had was more lore explaining Carni and just overall more of him. He truly was an interesting character. The momentshe you get to experience him were truly interesting, sinister, eerie, and I loved every moment of it. Is he a ghost, phantom, demon, or something else entirely? He could even be something that was created from pure rage and menevolent actions. Who knows. I just know I absolutely lived learning about him, and the book was full of murder, mystery, cult like atmosphere, and more.
The main character wasn't my favorite, but he was needed for something far more sinister than any of us can realize until the end of the book. What he's needed for suits me just fine in the end. He did, in a way, get what was coming to him. Does that make me cruel? Perhaps somewhat, but you read the book and tell me what you think by the end of everything. Did he deserve better or worse?
I loved the fact they added the small tide but about slender man and Carni being similar for this book. For this book, it certainly is true. Death follows Carnis story wherever it goes, and it keeps his story going, making him more famous. So, do you dare read and find out the story? I certainly did and now am a fan myself.
I plan to read this again in the future, if not soon.
Oh my God! I absolutely loved this book! Of course, the only thing I wished it had was more lore explaining Carni and just overall more of him. He truly was an interesting character. The momentshe you get to experience him were truly interesting, sinister, eerie, and I loved every moment of it. Is he a ghost, phantom, demon, or something else entirely? He could even be something that was created from pure rage and menevolent actions. Who knows. I just know I absolutely lived learning about him, and the book was full of murder, mystery, cult like atmosphere, and more.
The main character wasn't my favorite, but he was needed for something far more sinister than any of us can realize until the end of the book. What he's needed for suits me just fine in the end. He did, in a way, get what was coming to him. Does that make me cruel? Perhaps somewhat, but you read the book and tell me what you think by the end of everything. Did he deserve better or worse?
I loved the fact they added the small tide but about slender man and Carni being similar for this book. For this book, it certainly is true. Death follows Carnis story wherever it goes, and it keeps his story going, making him more famous. So, do you dare read and find out the story? I certainly did and now am a fan myself.
I plan to read this again in the future, if not soon.
January 15, 2024
I've read three books now by R. Saint Claire (who I discovered by chance while browsing BookTube videos a couple of years back) and I think Carni is possibly the best one out of those three. (The others being Ravenscroft Hall and Code Red.) I heard her talking about it on the writing-themed podcast she co-hosts and I thought it sounded like it was worth a read, so I decided to check it out.
The thing I loved about this book was the pacing. The story never really dragged, and the chapters were usually short but always ended in such a way that I wanted to continue reading. I'm surprised it took me as long as it did (about a week) to finish it because I was so engrossed in the story whenever I had time to sit down and read it.
Some readers might not like the protagonist, Dag, because he's a real jerk, but I think this adds to his personality. Dag is much more interesting that way; if he had been a typical hero, someone really likeable, he might have turned out a bit dull. I can't say I was always rooting for him, but I was definitely invested in finding out what happened to him.
If you like horror books, I'd recommend checking this one out. It's not my usual genre, but every so often I enjoy a good horror story, and Carni has the feel of a cult classic horror movie. Some sequences even played out like movie scenes.
The thing I loved about this book was the pacing. The story never really dragged, and the chapters were usually short but always ended in such a way that I wanted to continue reading. I'm surprised it took me as long as it did (about a week) to finish it because I was so engrossed in the story whenever I had time to sit down and read it.
Some readers might not like the protagonist, Dag, because he's a real jerk, but I think this adds to his personality. Dag is much more interesting that way; if he had been a typical hero, someone really likeable, he might have turned out a bit dull. I can't say I was always rooting for him, but I was definitely invested in finding out what happened to him.
If you like horror books, I'd recommend checking this one out. It's not my usual genre, but every so often I enjoy a good horror story, and Carni has the feel of a cult classic horror movie. Some sequences even played out like movie scenes.
March 16, 2024
If the Gathering of the Juggalos took place in the prelude to ‘In The Pines’ by Karl Edward Wagner, it would be the birthplace of ‘Carni’. Set partially on the real-life Burlington Island, the site of a burned-out and abandoned carnival at one time, it embodies the kind of evil clown energy that makes for a great horror story. After making some very piggish chauvinist decisions, Dag wants to reboot his career. Tired of hiding in his parent's basement, he begins writing articles following a group of people obsessed with the spirit of Carni–the clown mascot for a long abandoned carnival now overrun by wayward teens. While his attitude is long overdue for an adjustment, it is a magnet for the evil forces stirring in the spirits of the past. All three main characters, Dag and Carni included, are very unlikeable. However, the tug of war between the strange new girlfriend with her goal of hosting a Carni-cult revival and Dag’s motives as a journalist makes the whole situation doubly enticing. It's one to pick up if you want some action, intrigue, history and a madcap clown.
March 22, 2024
3.5 stars
In “Carni”, by R. Saint Claire, we meet Dag and Aurora. Dag, a washed-up news reporter, is a very flawed character. Aurora, an effervescent woman, knows all about Carni
“Carni centers around Dag. He wants to redeem his reputation and career, starts a relationship with Aurora, and wants to know everything about Carni. Dag was the most fleshed-out character. He was unlikeable but also changed the most. All the others seemed very stagnant with no real depth.
The story builds slowly and then things speed The short chapters always ended in such a way that I wanted to continue reading. Even with the buildup, I was engrossed in the story. Every time I found a moment, I would sit down and read it.
I would have liked more of a backstory in regards to Carni and how he came about. There was a little lore sprinkled throughout. An origin story might have made the story more well-balanced
“Carni” was a creepy clown story with a slasher feel. Definitely, a fun one for clown horror fans.
In “Carni”, by R. Saint Claire, we meet Dag and Aurora. Dag, a washed-up news reporter, is a very flawed character. Aurora, an effervescent woman, knows all about Carni
“Carni centers around Dag. He wants to redeem his reputation and career, starts a relationship with Aurora, and wants to know everything about Carni. Dag was the most fleshed-out character. He was unlikeable but also changed the most. All the others seemed very stagnant with no real depth.
The story builds slowly and then things speed The short chapters always ended in such a way that I wanted to continue reading. Even with the buildup, I was engrossed in the story. Every time I found a moment, I would sit down and read it.
I would have liked more of a backstory in regards to Carni and how he came about. There was a little lore sprinkled throughout. An origin story might have made the story more well-balanced
“Carni” was a creepy clown story with a slasher feel. Definitely, a fun one for clown horror fans.
April 10, 2024
Dag is a journalist who is trying hard to resurrect his career. When he meets Aurora, who is an oddball, he thinks this could be his chance, as she is obsessed with Carni and the now defunct amusement park called Island Wonderland. Maybe the dark history and deaths would be enough to breathe new life into his writing career.
This was just an okay read for me. I felt so much of this book just dragged, and the characters didn’t really pull me in. Dag was a jerk and while the author may have intentionally written him that way, he just didn’t interest me. Same thing for Aurora. She was just an odd character with not much to her. Both of them and their weird relationship pulled me out of the story too much.
The story idea was interesting but could have been executed better. More backstory on Carni would have been great. I enjoy clown horror and really hoped to enjoy this more, but there was too much missing for me.
This was just an okay read for me. I felt so much of this book just dragged, and the characters didn’t really pull me in. Dag was a jerk and while the author may have intentionally written him that way, he just didn’t interest me. Same thing for Aurora. She was just an odd character with not much to her. Both of them and their weird relationship pulled me out of the story too much.
The story idea was interesting but could have been executed better. More backstory on Carni would have been great. I enjoy clown horror and really hoped to enjoy this more, but there was too much missing for me.
December 22, 2023
3.5 / 5
Carni is another solid and well-written story by R. Saint Claire, though it didn't quite live up the high expectations set by my previous read from her, Code Red.
I would have liked to see a little bit more explanation and lore of the spirit of Carni, and maybe have gotten to the action a bit sooner, but I still found this to be an engaging read and I look forward to more from this author in the future!
Carni is another solid and well-written story by R. Saint Claire, though it didn't quite live up the high expectations set by my previous read from her, Code Red.
I would have liked to see a little bit more explanation and lore of the spirit of Carni, and maybe have gotten to the action a bit sooner, but I still found this to be an engaging read and I look forward to more from this author in the future!
November 9, 2025
Denne boka var en del av «25 bøker jeg vil lese i 2025»-lista mi (som jeg jobber meg gjennom så godt jeg klarer). Jeg har lenge abonnert på R. Saint Claire sin YouTube-kanal, og setter alltid på hennes videoer når jeg trenger noe rolig og koselig å se på! Dette er derimot første bok jeg leser fra henne, og jeg likte den godt!
Dette er en over-the-top, cheesy og ikke minst erotisk skrekkroman, med et gammelt, nedlagt tivoli, en skremmende og farlig klovn, og en sexkult som forguder klovnen Carni! Altså, orgier, kjønnshår formet som et oppned kors og blodbad, blir det bedre enn det? Derimot var den til tider også litt langdryg, og karakterene (eller mest hovedpersonen kanskje) var ikke alltid like lette å sympatisere med. Men jeg gleder meg til å lese mer fra R. Saint Claire!
Dette er en over-the-top, cheesy og ikke minst erotisk skrekkroman, med et gammelt, nedlagt tivoli, en skremmende og farlig klovn, og en sexkult som forguder klovnen Carni! Altså, orgier, kjønnshår formet som et oppned kors og blodbad, blir det bedre enn det? Derimot var den til tider også litt langdryg, og karakterene (eller mest hovedpersonen kanskje) var ikke alltid like lette å sympatisere med. Men jeg gleder meg til å lese mer fra R. Saint Claire!
February 12, 2024
Dag is a disgraced journalist looking to fix his broken career after meeting a woman called Aurora she introduces him to an abandoned amusement park with a dark history of a clown known as Carni. Dag soon finds himself involved in something in which he isn't sure what's real and what isn't. Can Dag get away, or does Carni have him in his grip already.
This book had me gripped from the first page I couldn't stop reading ! Clowns are my ultimate scary in horror, so I had high hopes on the scare factor, and this did not disappoint!
Thank you to Netgalley, Books go social and R. Saint Claire for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had me gripped from the first page I couldn't stop reading ! Clowns are my ultimate scary in horror, so I had high hopes on the scare factor, and this did not disappoint!
Thank you to Netgalley, Books go social and R. Saint Claire for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2023
YEOW!!! Stephen King and Chuck Wendig look out..here comes R. Saint Claire, I wonder if she went through Derry to write this creepy book. It's got an IT clown in it so similar in looks to Stephen Kings. I love this noire clown freakout story...Incredibly vulgar, scary, explicit and bloody. What an imagination...R. Saint Claire has. I look forward to reading more of her books. Every fan of King and Wendig needs to read this, but keep the lights on!!
January 10, 2024
It wasn’t bad and may be for another book lover just not me, I am however happy I had the chance to read it and fascinated that such an island and park existed
A disgraced journalist, looking to get back into his career meets a semi cult woman fascinated about an abandoned amusement park with a dark history of a clown known as Carni. He soon finds himself involved way over his head
This book had me wanting more of Louie at the beginning but became same ish / predictable with other clown horror
It has its fair share of gore, possession, blood, death ect
Thank you
Netgalley and R. Saint Claire for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
A disgraced journalist, looking to get back into his career meets a semi cult woman fascinated about an abandoned amusement park with a dark history of a clown known as Carni. He soon finds himself involved way over his head
This book had me wanting more of Louie at the beginning but became same ish / predictable with other clown horror
It has its fair share of gore, possession, blood, death ect
Thank you
Netgalley and R. Saint Claire for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
Great story
This was hard to put down. From beginning to end it was a twisting turning thrill ride through the mind of a reporter who gave in to his dark side. A dark side called Carni.
This was hard to put down. From beginning to end it was a twisting turning thrill ride through the mind of a reporter who gave in to his dark side. A dark side called Carni.
January 9, 2024
This one starts with a bang. The beginning of Carni sets the scene. You're introduced to the amusement park and a few of its major players, including the very violent mascot, Carni. It's quick, violent, and gory. I was immediately hooked, but I'm a sucker for carnival-type environments and clowns.
***
The body of the book jumps in time to Dag, an unlikeable writer trying to make a return to his former glory. I thought maybe I'd grow to like him. I didn't. But, I don't think he's meant to be likeable. Still, it's odd to just abhor the main character of a book. It was enough to take me out of the narrative.
Still, the Carni process is interesting. If you like clown horror, give it a try for yourself.
2.5*
***
The body of the book jumps in time to Dag, an unlikeable writer trying to make a return to his former glory. I thought maybe I'd grow to like him. I didn't. But, I don't think he's meant to be likeable. Still, it's odd to just abhor the main character of a book. It was enough to take me out of the narrative.
Still, the Carni process is interesting. If you like clown horror, give it a try for yourself.
2.5*
September 2, 2024
This was wild! I loved it! I have a weird fascination with circus and carnival type books and this one did not disappoint! The details of the history of the island and the local obsession with the lore was very interesting to me.
January 8, 2024
Shades of "It" as an old evil, the clown (aren't they all evil?), weaves it's way through blood and death to gain a new form. Gory, creepy, insidious, and you may avoid carnivals ...
December 29, 2023
In August of 1928, a series of tragic events unfolded at Island Wonderland Park in Burlington, New Jersey resulting in multiple deaths and the destruction of the park property by fire. Responsible for this devastation is Louis Gallagher, the abused 15 year old son of an employee at the park who’s resentful at having been saddled with sole parental responsibility for the boy when the mother left. The youth is goaded into the killing spree by Carni, the fictional clown character who is the park’s figurehead. With such staggering loss of life and massive property damage, the park is abandoned and left for nature to reclaim for the next 95 years.
Fast forward to 2023 and we are introduced to Dag Altan, a down-on-his-luck journalist whose successful career was completely destroyed by an insensitive direct message to a former girlfriend following their breakup. He called her bad names and she used the message to publicly destroy him personally and professionally. Dag loses his job, home, car, and professional reputation; he is forced to move back to his parents’ at the age of 40. He learns of the Island Wonderland Park tragedy and Carni through his 20-something goth girlfriend who “hangs out” on the abandoned island with other 20-something acquaintances and her ex-boyfriend occasionally. Dag recognizes the potential for a successful story and pursues it hard. His girlfriend recognizes that the attention can be monetized and lead to the reincarnation of the park and Carni the clown.
To be honest, I didn’t like any of the characters, although I did sympathize with Dag’s mother and father. How horrifying to have your 40 year old son move back into his childhood bedroom and be expected to fix his meals and loan him your vehicle! His “relationship” with a woman nearly half his age is similarly juvenile and his perspective on their physical encounters came across as more befitting a 14 year old than a guy who is 40. Carni’s presence seems to be primarily in the form of an internal dialogue, which is not unique to any one individual. All of Aurora’s friends are in on Carni’s POV, as well. The ending was predictable, although not especially satisfying. I don’t exactly know what the author intended for readers to take away from the story. The setting had lots of potential for a great horror story, but unengaging, shallow character development and a flimsy, forced finale left me more disappointed than anything.
Fast forward to 2023 and we are introduced to Dag Altan, a down-on-his-luck journalist whose successful career was completely destroyed by an insensitive direct message to a former girlfriend following their breakup. He called her bad names and she used the message to publicly destroy him personally and professionally. Dag loses his job, home, car, and professional reputation; he is forced to move back to his parents’ at the age of 40. He learns of the Island Wonderland Park tragedy and Carni through his 20-something goth girlfriend who “hangs out” on the abandoned island with other 20-something acquaintances and her ex-boyfriend occasionally. Dag recognizes the potential for a successful story and pursues it hard. His girlfriend recognizes that the attention can be monetized and lead to the reincarnation of the park and Carni the clown.
To be honest, I didn’t like any of the characters, although I did sympathize with Dag’s mother and father. How horrifying to have your 40 year old son move back into his childhood bedroom and be expected to fix his meals and loan him your vehicle! His “relationship” with a woman nearly half his age is similarly juvenile and his perspective on their physical encounters came across as more befitting a 14 year old than a guy who is 40. Carni’s presence seems to be primarily in the form of an internal dialogue, which is not unique to any one individual. All of Aurora’s friends are in on Carni’s POV, as well. The ending was predictable, although not especially satisfying. I don’t exactly know what the author intended for readers to take away from the story. The setting had lots of potential for a great horror story, but unengaging, shallow character development and a flimsy, forced finale left me more disappointed than anything.
December 31, 2023
Dag Altan is a disgraced journalist, named as an abuser by an ex-fling, that is always on the look out for a scoop that could possibly get his name back on top. Enter Aurora and her blog about the legend of Carni, the mascot of Island Wonderland Park, a carnival that saw terrible tragedy in 1928 when the abused son of the owner claimed the lives of multiple people. Aurora believes it's all because of Carni. Dag decides to see what all of this is about because if nothing else, Aurora is half his age and attractive.
Dag is a terribly unlikable character with many misogynistic views and a user mentality. I know that sounds like a bad thing, but hear me out: it works amazingly for the plot. As things slowly start going off the rails as he learns more about the park and its surrounding events, if he was someone you wanted to cheer on, the unfolding of events would not make sense.
That said, the pacing of the story was a little off. I think we spend so much time learning that Dag is probably not redeemable, that when things start happening, you truly notice how slow the first 45% of the book actually moves. There is somewhat of a character arc for Dag, but it seems like every other character is stagnant, seemingly the same from the time they are introduced until the very end.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. This book is a bit like It with a slasher feel that is a fresh take on the creepy clown trope. I *hate* clowns and this did not help. Fellow sufferers of coulrophobia beware. Just don't skip it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to review this book.
Dag is a terribly unlikable character with many misogynistic views and a user mentality. I know that sounds like a bad thing, but hear me out: it works amazingly for the plot. As things slowly start going off the rails as he learns more about the park and its surrounding events, if he was someone you wanted to cheer on, the unfolding of events would not make sense.
That said, the pacing of the story was a little off. I think we spend so much time learning that Dag is probably not redeemable, that when things start happening, you truly notice how slow the first 45% of the book actually moves. There is somewhat of a character arc for Dag, but it seems like every other character is stagnant, seemingly the same from the time they are introduced until the very end.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. This book is a bit like It with a slasher feel that is a fresh take on the creepy clown trope. I *hate* clowns and this did not help. Fellow sufferers of coulrophobia beware. Just don't skip it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to review this book.
December 14, 2023
This is a fantastic slasher type novel that brings the scares with many different tropes that I just love in a novel like this.
The setting is an abandoned island that was once home to a permanent carnival. After a brutal series of murders take place (which we get to read in the first chapter), it's shut down. But what caused these tragic events lives on.
In the present day, our protagonist is a journalist, a young man who was cancelled after some tweets and video footage were released that painted him in a very bad light. He moves back in with his parents but accepts a writing job with the small local paper. After he meets a strange, cryptic, but beautiful woman who agrees to show him around this abandoned island he thinks he's back because the story she tells is too incredible not to go viral.
But, as these things tend to do in a horror book, separating fact from fantasy becomes blurred. The clown known as Carni is itching to come back. And he's very thirsty for blood.
This novel is well written, suspenseful, and doesn't cheat on the carnage. As events start to unfold and the body count rises, the full extent of this urban legend becomes apparent and it's horrifying. But it might be too late for everyone.
I really enjoyed this novel and the legend behind Carni. It made for a creepy, brutal read and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
The setting is an abandoned island that was once home to a permanent carnival. After a brutal series of murders take place (which we get to read in the first chapter), it's shut down. But what caused these tragic events lives on.
In the present day, our protagonist is a journalist, a young man who was cancelled after some tweets and video footage were released that painted him in a very bad light. He moves back in with his parents but accepts a writing job with the small local paper. After he meets a strange, cryptic, but beautiful woman who agrees to show him around this abandoned island he thinks he's back because the story she tells is too incredible not to go viral.
But, as these things tend to do in a horror book, separating fact from fantasy becomes blurred. The clown known as Carni is itching to come back. And he's very thirsty for blood.
This novel is well written, suspenseful, and doesn't cheat on the carnage. As events start to unfold and the body count rises, the full extent of this urban legend becomes apparent and it's horrifying. But it might be too late for everyone.
I really enjoyed this novel and the legend behind Carni. It made for a creepy, brutal read and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
September 10, 2024
Disgraced journalist Dag Altan is desperate to revive his career after an unfortunate event with an ex-girlfriend. (Geez, there is no pleasing women these days, eh?) When he gets a lead about a possible story involving an abandoned amusement park on Burlington island, he jumps at the chance to redeem his career. His source is a clown-obsessed young woman that takes him on a wild ride as he uncovers the secrets of the island and the past.
This was such a fun ride! It was nothing what I expected...in the best way! Aurora gave off Harley Quinn vibes, and kept the unlikeable Dag on his toes. I loved how unlikeable Dag was. Seriously, what catch he is, ladies! It just made the buildup to inevitable CARNage all that more enjoyable. The pacing in this novel was great. A slow buildup with splashes of action to get us ready for the big night at the end. I had a great time, and now feel the urge to play CarnEvil!
This was such a fun ride! It was nothing what I expected...in the best way! Aurora gave off Harley Quinn vibes, and kept the unlikeable Dag on his toes. I loved how unlikeable Dag was. Seriously, what catch he is, ladies! It just made the buildup to inevitable CARNage all that more enjoyable. The pacing in this novel was great. A slow buildup with splashes of action to get us ready for the big night at the end. I had a great time, and now feel the urge to play CarnEvil!
February 15, 2024
ARC review; thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the access to the book!
It was published in 2023, but I found it in the "read now" section and I was intrigued. Unfortunately, it didn't deliver for me, so it gets 2.5 stars. Not only is the main character deeply unlikeable, but this just didn't give the slasher, creepy clown vibes I was expecting.
I understand Dag is supposed to be unlikeable and that was successful because I hated everything about him. It just didn't make for an enjoyable read. It wasn't good for my health to want to punch him in the face every time he thought, said, or did anything.
The biggest disappointment was the clown, though, and the horror around it. I liked some elements and I could definitely see the references to other things, such as It, but it was lackluster in the end. I really wanted to like this, I love me a killer clown.
It was published in 2023, but I found it in the "read now" section and I was intrigued. Unfortunately, it didn't deliver for me, so it gets 2.5 stars. Not only is the main character deeply unlikeable, but this just didn't give the slasher, creepy clown vibes I was expecting.
I understand Dag is supposed to be unlikeable and that was successful because I hated everything about him. It just didn't make for an enjoyable read. It wasn't good for my health to want to punch him in the face every time he thought, said, or did anything.
The biggest disappointment was the clown, though, and the horror around it. I liked some elements and I could definitely see the references to other things, such as It, but it was lackluster in the end. I really wanted to like this, I love me a killer clown.
December 17, 2023
Talk about an opener. It was pure carnage with all of the casualties that Carni wreaked havoc on the carnival. From this point I was hooked. It was a while before Carni made an appearance again. So, if you are looking for an instant horror scare read, this is not that book. Yet, if you are looking for a very well written, creepy horror that is not in your face, then this is the book for you.
Aurora is a free spirit. She definitely gave off "cult" vibes. I was never sure what she was going to do next. To be honest, Dag is one of those people that is kind of unmemorable but due to what was happening to him, it makes him interesting.
The voice of Carni is creepy. The last several chapters of this book is where it really amps up. This book will not calm your phobia of scary clowns.
Aurora is a free spirit. She definitely gave off "cult" vibes. I was never sure what she was going to do next. To be honest, Dag is one of those people that is kind of unmemorable but due to what was happening to him, it makes him interesting.
The voice of Carni is creepy. The last several chapters of this book is where it really amps up. This book will not calm your phobia of scary clowns.
January 9, 2024
This one starts with a bang. The beginning of Carni sets the scene. You're introduced to the amusement park and a few of its major players, including the very violent mascot, Carni. It's quick, violent, and gory. I was immediately hooked, but I'm a sucker for carnival-type environments and clowns.
***
The body of the book jumps in time to Dag, an unlikeable writer trying to make a return to his former glory. I thought maybe I'd grow to like him. I didn't. But, I don't think he's meant to be likeable. Still, it's odd to just abhor the main character of a book. It was enough to take me out of the story itself, unfortunately.
I thought the whole Carni process was interesting. If you like clown horror, give it a look and decide for yourself.
2.5*
***
The body of the book jumps in time to Dag, an unlikeable writer trying to make a return to his former glory. I thought maybe I'd grow to like him. I didn't. But, I don't think he's meant to be likeable. Still, it's odd to just abhor the main character of a book. It was enough to take me out of the story itself, unfortunately.
I thought the whole Carni process was interesting. If you like clown horror, give it a look and decide for yourself.
2.5*
December 31, 2023
Clowns aren’t my favorite, but I’m not scared of them either, so whenever I came across this on the “Read Now” section on NetGalley, I decided I would do just that.
Carni is an entity of urban legend, located in and around an abandoned, derelict amusement park that has definitely see better days.
The story is centered around one main character, who is Dag, a journalist who is very flawed. He strives to redeem his once amazing career, through finding more out about Carni, his origin, & what exactly/who exactly Carni is.
I don’t wanna give away too much of the plot/storyline, but if you like clowns and/or are into horror, this will definitely be your jam.
Carni is an entity of urban legend, located in and around an abandoned, derelict amusement park that has definitely see better days.
The story is centered around one main character, who is Dag, a journalist who is very flawed. He strives to redeem his once amazing career, through finding more out about Carni, his origin, & what exactly/who exactly Carni is.
I don’t wanna give away too much of the plot/storyline, but if you like clowns and/or are into horror, this will definitely be your jam.
December 31, 2023
I am definitely not a clown fan or person. Only for weird old Pennywise and Twisty from AHS.
This novel of sorts definitely reminded me of the old carnival dark feelings. Curious as to where your fears take you. Complete carnage and chaos. A real quick read as you want to know what seriously comes next.
Horror fans will enjoy this book.
I just reviewed Carni by R. Saint Claire. #Carni #NetGalley
This novel of sorts definitely reminded me of the old carnival dark feelings. Curious as to where your fears take you. Complete carnage and chaos. A real quick read as you want to know what seriously comes next.
Horror fans will enjoy this book.
I just reviewed Carni by R. Saint Claire. #Carni #NetGalley
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews