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Violent Ends
From Steve Stark, author of A Hot Dose of Hell, now comes a Thrillogy of Stark Terrors, three grisly, splatter-filled tales of serial killers, sadistic home invaders, vicious thugs and a whole nightclub full of hedonistic revellers in scenes of mortal peril and supernatural horror...
Stark will take you on a Terrorific tour of his brutal, bizarre world, from the seedy streets of Scarmouth town to the harsh rural landscape of Lynchton, with all routes set to terminate in some very Violent Ends.
Buckle up, and keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.
This one's a Hell of a ride!
Stark will take you on a Terrorific tour of his brutal, bizarre world, from the seedy streets of Scarmouth town to the harsh rural landscape of Lynchton, with all routes set to terminate in some very Violent Ends.
Buckle up, and keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.
This one's a Hell of a ride!
236 pages, Paperback
Published January 23, 2024
8 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Steve Stark
7 books45 followersSteve Stark is the author of the novel “A Hot Dose of Hell” and the anthology “Violent Ends”. An avid fan of crime and horror fiction, he tends to write a mixture of both. Steve draws inspiration from a misspent youth on the English coast and an imagination fuelled by 80’s video nasties and pulp paperbacks.
His short stories have been published by Slaughterhouse Press, Punk Noir Magazine and Hellbound Books while his horror-related articles can be found at RedSun Magazine, Horrorworks and Whatculture. Steve has appeared on several YouTube book channels such as Molly Macabre’s Where The Macabre Things Are, Arron Hook’s book reviews, Beardofdarkness and the Red-Pilled Fiction Factory. You can also find him on Twitter and instagram.
His short stories have been published by Slaughterhouse Press, Punk Noir Magazine and Hellbound Books while his horror-related articles can be found at RedSun Magazine, Horrorworks and Whatculture. Steve has appeared on several YouTube book channels such as Molly Macabre’s Where The Macabre Things Are, Arron Hook’s book reviews, Beardofdarkness and the Red-Pilled Fiction Factory. You can also find him on Twitter and instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 13, 2024
Jeezus… Violent Ends was a god-damn wild ride. Gore? Yes! By the gods, yes. Cruelty? Tons. Nausea-inducing on the page graphic scenes? Yep, check. Sounds like all we need for a splatterpunk experience. Stark goes a step further. He makes things real. Too real. Stark has seen things, witnessed events and this is what makes these three stories even more harrowing – the link in between the real and fiction. When I read Stark’s afterword, I’m pretty sure it was like the 4th story in the book, except entirely real. So, Violent Ends? The book comes with all of the hazard warnings, trigger warnings, a simple “I’m telling you. This is a warning.” warning. Do NOT approach if you have a sensitive stomach, you can paint vivid images in your brain based on someone else’s word, you take offense to members of society being offended, etc, etc. Sirens blaring, red lights flashing, a audiovisual assault of the senses – Turn. Around. Now.
If you’re still hanging about, thinking – It’s okay. I can do this. I’m so going to read this book. Then by the gods, do buckle up for this descent to the depths of the very worst society has to offer. And you know what? The wild ride will be over way faster than you’d imagine. Violent Ends reads so fast! Stark writes neatly packaged stories, without waffling on yet still managing to give the reader everything. I have said it before, I will say it again, writing wholesome stories with less words is a skill.
“Spring-Heeled Jim”: a 30 something page story about Jimmy, which unravels slowly at the start, giving the reader a sense of “something’s not right” off the bat. Nothing about this story is nice. This story does make you wonder about how evil is born, is it within us from the very first breath we take or does it sprout and grow because evil is done upon us? Is it a mix of both? The fact is, once evil exists, there is not a damn thing that can be done to stop it. The host and the evil within will stop when breath stops. I might be waxing slightly poetic about the subject matter of this story, but make no mistake, this story is nasty throughout. Think serial killers, street thugs without a guilty conscious, vicious human beings with intent to do harm. Some die in the most gruesome ways, some continue to walk among the crowds. But the deaths are so damn graphic you can hear the bones cracking off the page.
If you’ve read A Hot Dose of Hell by Stark prior to Violent Ends (or if you go vice versa), you will recognize a couple of characters. Whilst the moment of recognition was “oh, heeeey!”, I think it can be called far from fucking pleasant.
“Bigmouth Strikes Again”: Whilst I enjoyed all three stories for the clever approaches and writing skill, particularly, I have to say, this one was my favorite. It simply had so much cause and effect happening, the story was travelling down the hill like an 80 kg tractor tire, no stopping it, destructing everything on its path, and once it stops, and the dust settles, and all is silent, and the thing that had just ripped through everything living and breathing, it holds for a beat, expecting a huge round of applause. In this story, a great evil is unleashed due the selfish ambitions of a soulless human being. A lot of people get hurt. A lot. And it’s a god-damned mess, because once folks start to flee for their lives en masse, they don’t give a fiddler’s fuck at what cost. Again, Stark describes and demonstrates the human nature at its most nastiest side. The most selfish side. And all for… THAT ending. I laughed. Out. So loud. Because…
Anyway… this story made me really nauseous. Like, truly, awfully nauseous. And it’s rare that horror has this effect on me, because usually I keep my awareness about me where the line in between reality and fiction runs, but this story takes the cake. Ugh, my worst nightmares were described in painfully disgusting detail.
As far as some keywords about this story? Think of a redundant church, think of sin, a business man, a nightclub, hundreds of people wanting to party, an ancient evil, drinking, hunger, dying. Dying, dying, dying. Some of the notes I took during reading this story were as follows: LOL! DUDE! EW! Stark, I bet you had to watch some TOWIE to create that dialogue, sorry. DUDE! MEAN!
“Nowhere Fast”: This story started out so sad. I was so pissed off and sad. You know, some people are just through and through evil. They’re psychopaths and no amount of trying to show them the way or rehabilitation is going to change them. So, truly, how does a society live this knowledge, that there is always danger from people who are simply, inherently horrible? It saddened me a whole lot finding out that yet again, Stark has drawn inspiration from real life experiences and events.
The story does take unexpected turns, however. There is a marital spat in the story as the Herbert couple is introduced and naturally, what they seem to be arguing over is beyond anything you actually think it is. I had a very set thing in my mind. And I was so wrong. Again, well done, Stark! Caught me there!
When in the first story the lines were slightly blurred into the morally grey area of who deserves to die for being evil, in this one, our bunch of evil-doers get served the sweetest revenge. Heck, I think it would have been a waste of opportunity for Belial himself to emerge and simply chew ’em up 😉 (IYKYK)
Yes! A lot of nuance from the characters, yet again. A lot of uncomfortable moments. A brilliant ending to this story, and perhaps even to this trio of stories. Maybe it’s meant to give all of the living some hope. There is something out there that can fight this evil after all?
Stark doesn’t just witness the world around him, he observes and absorbs and lives it. Maybe this is why these real stark horror stories are born. To reflect back, to process, to purge. Yes, damn it, Stark’s horror is so incredibly disgusting at times, it’s so incredibly horrific, but he also writes some of the most human characters and the reading experience is always a delight in a technical sense. So, yeah, if Stark writes it, I will read it.
If you’re still hanging about, thinking – It’s okay. I can do this. I’m so going to read this book. Then by the gods, do buckle up for this descent to the depths of the very worst society has to offer. And you know what? The wild ride will be over way faster than you’d imagine. Violent Ends reads so fast! Stark writes neatly packaged stories, without waffling on yet still managing to give the reader everything. I have said it before, I will say it again, writing wholesome stories with less words is a skill.
“Spring-Heeled Jim”: a 30 something page story about Jimmy, which unravels slowly at the start, giving the reader a sense of “something’s not right” off the bat. Nothing about this story is nice. This story does make you wonder about how evil is born, is it within us from the very first breath we take or does it sprout and grow because evil is done upon us? Is it a mix of both? The fact is, once evil exists, there is not a damn thing that can be done to stop it. The host and the evil within will stop when breath stops. I might be waxing slightly poetic about the subject matter of this story, but make no mistake, this story is nasty throughout. Think serial killers, street thugs without a guilty conscious, vicious human beings with intent to do harm. Some die in the most gruesome ways, some continue to walk among the crowds. But the deaths are so damn graphic you can hear the bones cracking off the page.
If you’ve read A Hot Dose of Hell by Stark prior to Violent Ends (or if you go vice versa), you will recognize a couple of characters. Whilst the moment of recognition was “oh, heeeey!”, I think it can be called far from fucking pleasant.
For he was the Spider, and this was his element.
“Bigmouth Strikes Again”: Whilst I enjoyed all three stories for the clever approaches and writing skill, particularly, I have to say, this one was my favorite. It simply had so much cause and effect happening, the story was travelling down the hill like an 80 kg tractor tire, no stopping it, destructing everything on its path, and once it stops, and the dust settles, and all is silent, and the thing that had just ripped through everything living and breathing, it holds for a beat, expecting a huge round of applause. In this story, a great evil is unleashed due the selfish ambitions of a soulless human being. A lot of people get hurt. A lot. And it’s a god-damned mess, because once folks start to flee for their lives en masse, they don’t give a fiddler’s fuck at what cost. Again, Stark describes and demonstrates the human nature at its most nastiest side. The most selfish side. And all for… THAT ending. I laughed. Out. So loud. Because…
Anyway… this story made me really nauseous. Like, truly, awfully nauseous. And it’s rare that horror has this effect on me, because usually I keep my awareness about me where the line in between reality and fiction runs, but this story takes the cake. Ugh, my worst nightmares were described in painfully disgusting detail.
As far as some keywords about this story? Think of a redundant church, think of sin, a business man, a nightclub, hundreds of people wanting to party, an ancient evil, drinking, hunger, dying. Dying, dying, dying. Some of the notes I took during reading this story were as follows: LOL! DUDE! EW! Stark, I bet you had to watch some TOWIE to create that dialogue, sorry. DUDE! MEAN!
Sniffing it in the air he cackled at his success – for crushing hope is the height of a good sport in Hell.
“Nowhere Fast”: This story started out so sad. I was so pissed off and sad. You know, some people are just through and through evil. They’re psychopaths and no amount of trying to show them the way or rehabilitation is going to change them. So, truly, how does a society live this knowledge, that there is always danger from people who are simply, inherently horrible? It saddened me a whole lot finding out that yet again, Stark has drawn inspiration from real life experiences and events.
The story does take unexpected turns, however. There is a marital spat in the story as the Herbert couple is introduced and naturally, what they seem to be arguing over is beyond anything you actually think it is. I had a very set thing in my mind. And I was so wrong. Again, well done, Stark! Caught me there!
When in the first story the lines were slightly blurred into the morally grey area of who deserves to die for being evil, in this one, our bunch of evil-doers get served the sweetest revenge. Heck, I think it would have been a waste of opportunity for Belial himself to emerge and simply chew ’em up 😉 (IYKYK)
Yes! A lot of nuance from the characters, yet again. A lot of uncomfortable moments. A brilliant ending to this story, and perhaps even to this trio of stories. Maybe it’s meant to give all of the living some hope. There is something out there that can fight this evil after all?
Across a lush green valley, the sun shone brightly, its warmth enveloping him as he hobbled onto the gravel path. Trees and hedgerows rustled their leaves in the gentle breeze. A squadron of honeybees hovered busily about the bluebells and poppies. And a distant clanking called his attention to the front security gate.
Stark doesn’t just witness the world around him, he observes and absorbs and lives it. Maybe this is why these real stark horror stories are born. To reflect back, to process, to purge. Yes, damn it, Stark’s horror is so incredibly disgusting at times, it’s so incredibly horrific, but he also writes some of the most human characters and the reading experience is always a delight in a technical sense. So, yeah, if Stark writes it, I will read it.
August 2, 2024
I loved this book! The three horror stories are all so different and creative, and I really enjoy Stark’s writing style. He’s so descriptive, adept at building that tension and suspense, and you easily become immersed in the atmosphere as you read on.
The three stories are: Spring-Heeled Jim, Bigmouth Strikes Again, and Nowhere Fast.
The first story is delightfully gruesome and a fun romp through murky territory, the second one (my favorite) is a wonderful juxtaposition of good vs. evil and and an all-out gorefest, and the third is a captivating slow burn with a fun twist.
The afterword was enjoyable to read as well, and it was good fun to learn about how Stark created these wicked tales from his own life experiences.
If you want to dive into some gory fun with stories that are also wonderfully written, definitely check this out!
The three stories are: Spring-Heeled Jim, Bigmouth Strikes Again, and Nowhere Fast.
The first story is delightfully gruesome and a fun romp through murky territory, the second one (my favorite) is a wonderful juxtaposition of good vs. evil and and an all-out gorefest, and the third is a captivating slow burn with a fun twist.
The afterword was enjoyable to read as well, and it was good fun to learn about how Stark created these wicked tales from his own life experiences.
If you want to dive into some gory fun with stories that are also wonderfully written, definitely check this out!
April 28, 2024
I'd first read Steve Stark with his first novel, A Hot Dose of Hell. It was a very English splatterpunk gorefest, and I was quickly enthralled with his work, and I could not wait for more from this author.
When Violent Ends came out, I jumped on a copy via Amazon, along with three other novels, and saved this one for last, as to savor the bloody fun. Boy, was I not disappointed.
Violent Ends is a horror antholgy collection of three short stories, all resulting in gory goodness.
Opening the trilogy is Spring-heeled Jim. A story about a serial killer with a depraved past who sets his sights on a certain woman that catches his eye, tracking her around dingy streets and alleys, waiting for the perfect time to strike. Readers of the previous novel are in for a treat, with a surprise, as well.
The second story, Bigmouth Strikes Again, starts off with a construction crew demolishing the insides of an old church, to make way for the hottest night-spot in town. Of course, this one does not end well, and like many anthologies, this middle one is the goriest, most memorable one for me, that will stick with me for a long time.
The final story, Nowhere Fast, is centered on a pack of teenage reprobates who go on a home invasion and killing spree, finally targeting the home of a young, married couple who have problems of their own to work out. Definitely a fantastic closure to this trio of page-turning bloodshed.
Violent Ends is my most favorite read of the year, and I highly suggest it to any gorehounds who remember reveling in Clive Barker's Books of Blood series. This reminded me if Philip Nutman wrote Rawhead Rex, and added in a sprinkle of A Clockwork Orange's Droogs. This is a must-read for every gorehound and horror reader who longs for the days of Splatterpunk past. 5/5 stars.
When Violent Ends came out, I jumped on a copy via Amazon, along with three other novels, and saved this one for last, as to savor the bloody fun. Boy, was I not disappointed.
Violent Ends is a horror antholgy collection of three short stories, all resulting in gory goodness.
Opening the trilogy is Spring-heeled Jim. A story about a serial killer with a depraved past who sets his sights on a certain woman that catches his eye, tracking her around dingy streets and alleys, waiting for the perfect time to strike. Readers of the previous novel are in for a treat, with a surprise, as well.
The second story, Bigmouth Strikes Again, starts off with a construction crew demolishing the insides of an old church, to make way for the hottest night-spot in town. Of course, this one does not end well, and like many anthologies, this middle one is the goriest, most memorable one for me, that will stick with me for a long time.
The final story, Nowhere Fast, is centered on a pack of teenage reprobates who go on a home invasion and killing spree, finally targeting the home of a young, married couple who have problems of their own to work out. Definitely a fantastic closure to this trio of page-turning bloodshed.
Violent Ends is my most favorite read of the year, and I highly suggest it to any gorehounds who remember reveling in Clive Barker's Books of Blood series. This reminded me if Philip Nutman wrote Rawhead Rex, and added in a sprinkle of A Clockwork Orange's Droogs. This is a must-read for every gorehound and horror reader who longs for the days of Splatterpunk past. 5/5 stars.
February 21, 2024
I’m going to review each badass slab of terror in this anthology as I finish them.
First up:
SPRING-HEELED JIM
The opening punch of this anthology of violence is a fast and brutal brass knuckle uppercut. It strikes hard with a serial killer, calling himself the Spider, as he stalks a whore in a red dress through the grimy streets of Scarmouth, introducing us to the festering stench of the seaside setting of A Hot Dose of Hell. Though reading Hot Dose is not a prerequisite, those who have will be treated to a ruthless twist of the blade by some old, particularly brutal friends. I loved every word! Stark's prose are vivid, his dialogue spot-on, and his action and violence as good as it gets.
BIGMOUTH STRIKES AGAIN
The second slab of brutality sees Stark descend into Hell, literally. A gigantic demon, Belial, has been trapped within an impenetrable stone tomb inside a Scarmouth church for the last couple hundred years. Unfortunately for the inhabitants of our favorite sea-side hellhole, the church has been purchased by a greedy, arrogant asshat who's decided to turn it into a night club. What follows is some of the most vivid, ghastly carnage I've ever had the pleasure of reading. Stark is an absolute MASTER at painting realistic, narcissistic, ignorant millennials who you simply can't wait to see impaled, ripped apart, decapitated, dissolved, chomped, chewed, digested, regurgitated, and burned alive. The camera never shies away, but instead zooms in for a close-up on all the gory madness. Buckle up. By the time Satan arrives, things have gotten slightly out of hand. Some of the most fun I've ever had reading a monster story!
NOWHERE FAST
Without question, Stark saved the best story for last. A gnarly twist on your standard home invasion tale. The tense argument between the couple at the beginning of Nowhere Fast is sooooo cleverly done, leading you, oblivious, down a seemingly known path. I had an inkling that things weren't quite as they seemed--this is a Steve Stark story after all--but two-thirds of the way through the story, right before the big reveal, I had absolutely zero clue what was about to hit me. The dialogue between the gang of violent youths is written in dialect yet still easily understood, all the while ringing real and true. Another clue that we are in the hands of a very skilled writer indeed. And then, of course, there's the violent end itself, which is, to say the very least, a ripping good time. What a tale. What a book!
BUY IT NOW!
First up:
SPRING-HEELED JIM
The opening punch of this anthology of violence is a fast and brutal brass knuckle uppercut. It strikes hard with a serial killer, calling himself the Spider, as he stalks a whore in a red dress through the grimy streets of Scarmouth, introducing us to the festering stench of the seaside setting of A Hot Dose of Hell. Though reading Hot Dose is not a prerequisite, those who have will be treated to a ruthless twist of the blade by some old, particularly brutal friends. I loved every word! Stark's prose are vivid, his dialogue spot-on, and his action and violence as good as it gets.
BIGMOUTH STRIKES AGAIN
The second slab of brutality sees Stark descend into Hell, literally. A gigantic demon, Belial, has been trapped within an impenetrable stone tomb inside a Scarmouth church for the last couple hundred years. Unfortunately for the inhabitants of our favorite sea-side hellhole, the church has been purchased by a greedy, arrogant asshat who's decided to turn it into a night club. What follows is some of the most vivid, ghastly carnage I've ever had the pleasure of reading. Stark is an absolute MASTER at painting realistic, narcissistic, ignorant millennials who you simply can't wait to see impaled, ripped apart, decapitated, dissolved, chomped, chewed, digested, regurgitated, and burned alive. The camera never shies away, but instead zooms in for a close-up on all the gory madness. Buckle up. By the time Satan arrives, things have gotten slightly out of hand. Some of the most fun I've ever had reading a monster story!
NOWHERE FAST
Without question, Stark saved the best story for last. A gnarly twist on your standard home invasion tale. The tense argument between the couple at the beginning of Nowhere Fast is sooooo cleverly done, leading you, oblivious, down a seemingly known path. I had an inkling that things weren't quite as they seemed--this is a Steve Stark story after all--but two-thirds of the way through the story, right before the big reveal, I had absolutely zero clue what was about to hit me. The dialogue between the gang of violent youths is written in dialect yet still easily understood, all the while ringing real and true. Another clue that we are in the hands of a very skilled writer indeed. And then, of course, there's the violent end itself, which is, to say the very least, a ripping good time. What a tale. What a book!
BUY IT NOW!
August 3, 2024
Steve Stark has been a huge part of my inspiration for wanting to be a writer. His way of making a story feel like it is happening to me and setting fire to his descriptions has helped me be a lifelong supporter and consumer of anything he writes. This short story collection contains everything I love about horror. I have feelings of nostalgia, past experiences, and memories with an overtone of his unique way of getting in my head that makes each story unique and terrifying.
March 5, 2024
First time I read an English book in paperback without Kindle and feel fulfilled.
I enjoyed reading so much even though there were many words and expressions that I don't know.
I had a hard time understanding the dialect in the conversations.
This novel is a trilogy and each story is exciting and surprising twists.
The descriptions of the stories give me vivid images while reading them.
I was immersed in the every story.
If you read the afterword, you will know the background about each story.
I recommend reading through to the end.
The above is the mostly same text on X (former twitter).
--------------------------------------------------------
The place of story is Scarmouth and the same place as Hot Dose of Hell. That was exciting me.
Spring-Heeled Jim
Spider, Jim, who is pursuing one woman is an unfortunate man.
Jim's bad luck may have been self-inflicted.
I thought the women would be in danger, but my expectations were betrayed.
The brutality of woman is outstanding.
Bigmouth Strikes Again
I had much fun, even though I don't have knowledge about Bible, the devil and myth.
Had I known that, I would have enjoyed it more.
I could vividly see the tragedy at the nightclub.
Nowhere Fast
I would especially like to see it made into a movie.
At the beginning parts, the barbarity of the Juse Foster’s gang was disgusting me, but the story suddenly changes at some point. 😁
I may not be able to explain everything well because of my poor English.
I enjoyed reading so much even though there were many words and expressions that I don't know.
I had a hard time understanding the dialect in the conversations.
This novel is a trilogy and each story is exciting and surprising twists.
The descriptions of the stories give me vivid images while reading them.
I was immersed in the every story.
If you read the afterword, you will know the background about each story.
I recommend reading through to the end.
The above is the mostly same text on X (former twitter).
--------------------------------------------------------
The place of story is Scarmouth and the same place as Hot Dose of Hell. That was exciting me.
Spring-Heeled Jim
Spider, Jim, who is pursuing one woman is an unfortunate man.
Jim's bad luck may have been self-inflicted.
I thought the women would be in danger, but my expectations were betrayed.
The brutality of woman is outstanding.
Bigmouth Strikes Again
I had much fun, even though I don't have knowledge about Bible, the devil and myth.
Had I known that, I would have enjoyed it more.
I could vividly see the tragedy at the nightclub.
Nowhere Fast
I would especially like to see it made into a movie.
At the beginning parts, the barbarity of the Juse Foster’s gang was disgusting me, but the story suddenly changes at some point. 😁
I may not be able to explain everything well because of my poor English.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
The first book I have read from Steve Stark and I will certainly be reading more. I will say the first story in this anthology did not grab me as much as the other two, but the author's use of adjectives to describe his character's demises in all three stories was excellent.
Overall, a well written and engaging collection of violent, gory stories that should please fans of hardcore horror.
Overall, a well written and engaging collection of violent, gory stories that should please fans of hardcore horror.
November 8, 2024
A Trilogy of Terrors
Three gruesome tales that are told well. First is a serial killer tale with a twist. Second is about a club opening in a church, but this desecration has consequences. Lastly a nasty home invasion that doesn't go as planned. Full of action and memorable characters, all three tales will pull you in.
Highly recommended, definitely a writer to keep track of.
Three gruesome tales that are told well. First is a serial killer tale with a twist. Second is about a club opening in a church, but this desecration has consequences. Lastly a nasty home invasion that doesn't go as planned. Full of action and memorable characters, all three tales will pull you in.
Highly recommended, definitely a writer to keep track of.
February 9, 2024
The second outing for Steve Stark steps into the anthology style. There are three stories offered, one shorter, and the others around one hundred pages or so.
The first story, ‘Spring-Heeled Jim’, had the wonderful feel of the old horror anthologies of the 60’s and 70’, such as Rod Serling’s ‘Night Gallery’ and ‘Hammer House of Horror’. These were, of course, a lot more nasty. Serial killers do tend to bring nasty to the table.
The second story ‘Bigmouth Strikes Again’ was more a consequences for my actions tale. Although those consequences are sort of akin to a tactical nuke used to take out a clown at a birthday party. (I’m not sure who or what was screwing with the guys wife though) *shrugs.
The third story ‘Nowhere Fast’ was my favorite. It was a great story of comeuppance and I didn’t have a clue what was happening until the reveal. The balance was great too. Too often writers drag out the villainy too long where, regardless of the punishment, it’ll never pay for its evil. Negan, The Walking Dead for example. I didn’t quit watching the crappy show because of his killing popular characters, but because he kept on, and on, and on with no punishment. Of the three stories, I reread ‘Nowhere Fast’ the next day to experience the interaction between the Herbert’s; sneaky Mr. Stark.
The aptly named ‘Violent Ends’ is a bit more splattery than I usually enjoy, but not like some I’ve stumbled into. I can deal with, over the top, supernatural, splatter much better than the what’s up with my neighbor psychological tropes. (I wont’ write a review for ‘The Girl Next Door’, by Jack Ketchum because I don’t want to think about that book again).
These stories are set in the same world as his first novel ‘A Hot Dose of Hell’, which I also suggest you read if you haven’t yet. There may be a darkness spreading out from Scarmouth. But this darkness could be growing everywhere and we’re only seeing it from this horrifying little corner of the world.
The first story, ‘Spring-Heeled Jim’, had the wonderful feel of the old horror anthologies of the 60’s and 70’, such as Rod Serling’s ‘Night Gallery’ and ‘Hammer House of Horror’. These were, of course, a lot more nasty. Serial killers do tend to bring nasty to the table.
The second story ‘Bigmouth Strikes Again’ was more a consequences for my actions tale. Although those consequences are sort of akin to a tactical nuke used to take out a clown at a birthday party. (I’m not sure who or what was screwing with the guys wife though) *shrugs.
The third story ‘Nowhere Fast’ was my favorite. It was a great story of comeuppance and I didn’t have a clue what was happening until the reveal. The balance was great too. Too often writers drag out the villainy too long where, regardless of the punishment, it’ll never pay for its evil. Negan, The Walking Dead for example. I didn’t quit watching the crappy show because of his killing popular characters, but because he kept on, and on, and on with no punishment. Of the three stories, I reread ‘Nowhere Fast’ the next day to experience the interaction between the Herbert’s; sneaky Mr. Stark.
The aptly named ‘Violent Ends’ is a bit more splattery than I usually enjoy, but not like some I’ve stumbled into. I can deal with, over the top, supernatural, splatter much better than the what’s up with my neighbor psychological tropes. (I wont’ write a review for ‘The Girl Next Door’, by Jack Ketchum because I don’t want to think about that book again).
These stories are set in the same world as his first novel ‘A Hot Dose of Hell’, which I also suggest you read if you haven’t yet. There may be a darkness spreading out from Scarmouth. But this darkness could be growing everywhere and we’re only seeing it from this horrifying little corner of the world.
December 17, 2024
......wtf
April 13, 2025
Three Cool Stories in One Book !!!!
While I have some friends in the UK, I still struggle sometimes with the vernacular. Some dialogue of the characters took me a minute to grasp.
Oh, I am so glad I stuck with it!!!
The first story is a wonderful spin on the serial killer! Jim was a surprisingly layered character.
The second story was fun! A big scary demonic... later, lap dog! :) I loved it!!!!
The third story included a cool twist that showed Starks mastery of doing twists. I didn't see it coming! I seriously would have liked to spend more time with Sofie, and I loved how Paul evolved by the end of the tale. One of the best lines in the book... "Sofie who?" Awesome!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS FUN READ!
Looking forward to reading more from Steve Stark!
While I have some friends in the UK, I still struggle sometimes with the vernacular. Some dialogue of the characters took me a minute to grasp.
Oh, I am so glad I stuck with it!!!
The first story is a wonderful spin on the serial killer! Jim was a surprisingly layered character.
The second story was fun! A big scary demonic... later, lap dog! :) I loved it!!!!
The third story included a cool twist that showed Starks mastery of doing twists. I didn't see it coming! I seriously would have liked to spend more time with Sofie, and I loved how Paul evolved by the end of the tale. One of the best lines in the book... "Sofie who?" Awesome!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS FUN READ!
Looking forward to reading more from Steve Stark!
March 2, 2024
This is the second book by Steve Stark I've read and I liked this one just as much as Hot Dose of Hell. You get 3 stories here and my favorite of the 3 was Bigmouth Strikes again but they're all solid. Big fan of Windows and Tez. Stark does a good job giving characters voice in few pages. The violence was gross but captivating.
March 8, 2025
As others have mentioned the author leaves his best work for the last story in this anthology. Don't want to explain as this would act as spoilers but the last story was everything I want in my horror
September 21, 2024
Violent Ends 'A Trilogy of Stark Terror' by Steve Stark. Well, the stories definitely live up to the book's title. The book has three stories of hard-life unfortunates who find themselves in even more unfortunate and horrifying situations. There are characters in this trilogy I disliked, some I hated, and a few I feared. The first story "Spring-Heeled Jim" evoked Victorian England with its odious, delusional character stalking the dark streets. I'm not sure if any of the characters in this book deserved their "violent ends", but if any, Spring-heeled Jim possibly did. The second story "Bigmouth Strikes Again" was truly a Lovecraftian horror for a modern age. The setting in this story was perfect for this tale of cosmic horror set loose on an uncomprehending, narcissistic throng. Great pacing and after a truly gruesome turn of events came an unforeseen ending. Loved it!
The third and my personal favorite is "Nowhere Fast". This one is hard to describe without spoilers, so let's just say this group of ne'er-do-wells manages to avoid killing each other only to get their brutal, well-earned, brutal comeuppance.
Violent Ends is a well-written and entertaining horror trilogy and I will need to read more of Steve Stark's work.
The afterword is excellent. I always enjoy a peek at the writer's process.
The third and my personal favorite is "Nowhere Fast". This one is hard to describe without spoilers, so let's just say this group of ne'er-do-wells manages to avoid killing each other only to get their brutal, well-earned, brutal comeuppance.
Violent Ends is a well-written and entertaining horror trilogy and I will need to read more of Steve Stark's work.
The afterword is excellent. I always enjoy a peek at the writer's process.
August 13, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this book, and after receiving my paperback a few days ago and reading it again, these three stories of supernatural horror and brutality were even better the second time round.
The stories are set in the run-down seaside town of Scarmouth, a location familiar to readers of Stark's previous novel, A Hot Dose of Hell. Each story is grounded in gritty realism, with convincing, well-drawn and totally believable characters. As with A Hot Dose of Hell, there’s a perfect balance of dark humour and horror, written in intensely cinematic, highly descriptive prose.
“Spring-Heeled Jim” and “Nowhere Fast” build an atmosphere of increasing dread and unbearable tension as the narratives are revealed piece by bloody piece. “Bigmouth Strikes Again” has a unique monster, an imaginative mythology, and an absolute gorefest of a finale. To give away any further details would spoil the surprising turns these stories take.
If you loved A Hot Dose of Hell, then you’re going to love this collection. If you haven’t read that book, then these three stories serve as a perfect introduction to Stark's unique brand of horror. Highly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable.
The stories are set in the run-down seaside town of Scarmouth, a location familiar to readers of Stark's previous novel, A Hot Dose of Hell. Each story is grounded in gritty realism, with convincing, well-drawn and totally believable characters. As with A Hot Dose of Hell, there’s a perfect balance of dark humour and horror, written in intensely cinematic, highly descriptive prose.
“Spring-Heeled Jim” and “Nowhere Fast” build an atmosphere of increasing dread and unbearable tension as the narratives are revealed piece by bloody piece. “Bigmouth Strikes Again” has a unique monster, an imaginative mythology, and an absolute gorefest of a finale. To give away any further details would spoil the surprising turns these stories take.
If you loved A Hot Dose of Hell, then you’re going to love this collection. If you haven’t read that book, then these three stories serve as a perfect introduction to Stark's unique brand of horror. Highly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable.
February 7, 2025
This is an anthology of bloody and brutal stories which pack a devastating visceral punch. They've also rich in detail which makes the ensuing carnage even more vivid.
The three stories in here are full of brutality and the worst of humanity. Some characters are morally grey at best and some are vile and disturbed. The first story is about a serial killer who thinks he's beyond being caught. But he's wrong. When he's discovered in the act of attacking his latest victim, it's not by the police but much worse.
Then there's a tale of a business man turning an ancient church into a nightclub. During renovations, the workers unleash an eternal evil and opening night is going to be hell... literally...as there's enough blood and body parts to fill a swimming pool.
The third one is a home invasion which is going to go horribly wrong. It features some truly despicable antagonists who will find out that crime doesn't always pay unless it's in gore.
This is a fantastic collection of violent but well written stories and I highly recommend it.
The three stories in here are full of brutality and the worst of humanity. Some characters are morally grey at best and some are vile and disturbed. The first story is about a serial killer who thinks he's beyond being caught. But he's wrong. When he's discovered in the act of attacking his latest victim, it's not by the police but much worse.
Then there's a tale of a business man turning an ancient church into a nightclub. During renovations, the workers unleash an eternal evil and opening night is going to be hell... literally...as there's enough blood and body parts to fill a swimming pool.
The third one is a home invasion which is going to go horribly wrong. It features some truly despicable antagonists who will find out that crime doesn't always pay unless it's in gore.
This is a fantastic collection of violent but well written stories and I highly recommend it.
September 3, 2025
Bloody violent, to be sure. Three dark stories in which people get what they asked for. These stories have great prose (with grotesque descriptions), and Stark did a perfect job in lining them up, from a slight twist in the first to a turn that I did not see coming in the last. (The author achieved his stated goal.) The characters are well-developed, even the ones who are meant to be shallow and self-obsessed. You know these people, even if you'd rather not, and can even identify with aspects of the worst of them. My only criticism was being a little lost as to the spatial layout in the second story, but it made no difference to the impact, and the descriptions of the monster took over. Great read!
January 12, 2026
I’d planned to read this at a leisurely pace, being that I’ve got a fair few plates to keep spinning, but over the course of an evening and an afternoon, I seem to have smashed the whole thing. Three very different, very distinctive stories, in which Steve Stark does what Steve Stark does best—namely takes an assortment of scallywags, scumbags, toffs, and hard nuts and throws wave after wave of chaos and carnage at them until something, or everything, breaks. There’s also an excellent little afterword that gives some insights into the man behind the stories. Highly recommended.
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