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The Adleparmeun
We are raised on stories of monsters, taught from an early age by our parents to fear those who by their very appearance are a mockery of our own.
Yet have you ever thought that they might be scared of us?
Welcome to The Adleparmeun, the ‘Parmeun to those who call it home.
A twenty-storey hotel rising out of the frozen wastes of Alaska, cut off from the world of man.
Within its rooms dwell all manner of cryptid; sasquatch, gorgon, minotaur, werewolf, ghost, nandi bear, goblins, djinn, satyr, a spider the size of a cow and many more, all waiting to be discovered, all wanting to live in peace.
So play nice, and mind your manners.
Each chapter, or room number, is a self composed story concerning the resident who resides there, yet each is a part of a larger mosaic of murder, death and betrayal.
Come stay a while at the ‘parmeun…
Yet have you ever thought that they might be scared of us?
Welcome to The Adleparmeun, the ‘Parmeun to those who call it home.
A twenty-storey hotel rising out of the frozen wastes of Alaska, cut off from the world of man.
Within its rooms dwell all manner of cryptid; sasquatch, gorgon, minotaur, werewolf, ghost, nandi bear, goblins, djinn, satyr, a spider the size of a cow and many more, all waiting to be discovered, all wanting to live in peace.
So play nice, and mind your manners.
Each chapter, or room number, is a self composed story concerning the resident who resides there, yet each is a part of a larger mosaic of murder, death and betrayal.
Come stay a while at the ‘parmeun…
127 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2024
9 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
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February 2, 2024This book started out as a creative venture, with various mythical creatures living together in a sentient building in the depths of lonely Alaska. Each being has its own unique story, populating the pages with monsters that include humans. I felt as if I was taken aback at some points, but simply dismissed my confusion. The writing style was a bit too oblique for this slowpoke.
September 6, 2024
For the Adlebrained
The Adleparmeum has been around for a long time. It is a very large and complex building that has a large population of monsters.
The monsters are doing monster things that are designed to make monstrous decisions. The decisions are based upon a certain number of creatures and people who are the tenants.
The monsters are the ones who are open to being seen by others and all who visit. The people who are there are mostly hidden from the creatures.
To be fair it is not them who are meant to be there. The Adleparmeun is a place for the monsters. The monsters will always be the ones who are the rulers and the reason why the Parmeun is there in the first place.
So stay away from the Adleparmeun and don’t get involved in anything that doesn’t happen to you. Because you don’t want to see yourself get hurt by them.
Four stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Adleparmeum has been around for a long time. It is a very large and complex building that has a large population of monsters.
The monsters are doing monster things that are designed to make monstrous decisions. The decisions are based upon a certain number of creatures and people who are the tenants.
The monsters are the ones who are open to being seen by others and all who visit. The people who are there are mostly hidden from the creatures.
To be fair it is not them who are meant to be there. The Adleparmeun is a place for the monsters. The monsters will always be the ones who are the rulers and the reason why the Parmeun is there in the first place.
So stay away from the Adleparmeun and don’t get involved in anything that doesn’t happen to you. Because you don’t want to see yourself get hurt by them.
Four stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 1, 2024
Oh, Adleparmeun, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways: Room 10, Room 22, Room 27, Room 44, Room 90, Room 97, Room 130, Room 153, Room 170, Room 190, the kitchen, the storeroom, the basement.
This book was utterly delightful! Megan Stockton and Kelvin V.A Allison populated their unique and remote Alaskan hotel with not only the greatest hits of cryptid lore but delved into the deep cuts as well. I can’t count how many times I had to go to the internets to find out if the creatures they introduced in such vivid living color were real (you know what I mean!), because behind every door, there was a new face and a fascinating new story. And these stories of what drove each of them to settle at The Adleparmeun give insight into who and what they are, and how their lives among humans went terribly, brutally, tragically wrong.
There is a light and spirited undercurrent that runs through the present-day hotel, but that doesn’t mean this story doesn’t go deep. Both Stockton and Allison created beautiful moments of emotional resonance across the spectrum – they made me laugh and jerked a few tears. A few infuriating characters really, really pissed me off a couple of times, but ultimately, these authors really know how to compensate their readers for what they put us through. It is a truly satisfying ending, harkening back to earlier events and tying all the pieces together perfectly.
Interesting side note: The Adleparmeun was inspired by an actual hotel in Whittier Alaska. The 14-story Begich Towers is referred to as 'town under one roof' because it houses a post office, police station, medical clinic, convenience store, church, and the majority of the 220-ish residents of Whittier. The school is connected to the hotel by an underground tunnel. Having spent a good chunk of my childhood in Alaska, I love finding books set there.
One final note: they might have finally redeemed the cymbal-clanging monkey for me 30-ish years later. IYKYK.
This book was utterly delightful! Megan Stockton and Kelvin V.A Allison populated their unique and remote Alaskan hotel with not only the greatest hits of cryptid lore but delved into the deep cuts as well. I can’t count how many times I had to go to the internets to find out if the creatures they introduced in such vivid living color were real (you know what I mean!), because behind every door, there was a new face and a fascinating new story. And these stories of what drove each of them to settle at The Adleparmeun give insight into who and what they are, and how their lives among humans went terribly, brutally, tragically wrong.
There is a light and spirited undercurrent that runs through the present-day hotel, but that doesn’t mean this story doesn’t go deep. Both Stockton and Allison created beautiful moments of emotional resonance across the spectrum – they made me laugh and jerked a few tears. A few infuriating characters really, really pissed me off a couple of times, but ultimately, these authors really know how to compensate their readers for what they put us through. It is a truly satisfying ending, harkening back to earlier events and tying all the pieces together perfectly.
Interesting side note: The Adleparmeun was inspired by an actual hotel in Whittier Alaska. The 14-story Begich Towers is referred to as 'town under one roof' because it houses a post office, police station, medical clinic, convenience store, church, and the majority of the 220-ish residents of Whittier. The school is connected to the hotel by an underground tunnel. Having spent a good chunk of my childhood in Alaska, I love finding books set there.
One final note: they might have finally redeemed the cymbal-clanging monkey for me 30-ish years later. IYKYK.
July 2, 2024
In the remotest regions of snowy Alaska, there exists a safe haven for the persecuted, maligned and misunderstood creatures of folklore and ghost stories. The Adleparmeum offers monsters and myths a place where they can live far from the reaches of humans who would do them harm. Here you will find gorgons and sasquatch, banshees and ghouls, vampires and minotaurs living in a sometimes peaceful, sometimes precarious, coexistence with their fellow outcasts, doing their best to manage love affairs, raise their children, and make the best of their exile. But unbeknownst to the residents, there is a threat lurking among them that may cause their extinction once and for all.
The Adelparmeum tells the story of this unique place and its denizens through a series of vignettes based in different rooms or areas of the building. The chapters are short and mostly shift from one creature to the next, giving snippets of where they came from and what their life is like now. The threat doesn't build up much until the very end and this novella as a whole is more fantasy and horror. There were times when the writing was a little clunky and not everything meshes together very well. I think the authors were trying to fit too many creatures and too much story into such a compact work, but overall, this was an entertaining read.
The Adelparmeum tells the story of this unique place and its denizens through a series of vignettes based in different rooms or areas of the building. The chapters are short and mostly shift from one creature to the next, giving snippets of where they came from and what their life is like now. The threat doesn't build up much until the very end and this novella as a whole is more fantasy and horror. There were times when the writing was a little clunky and not everything meshes together very well. I think the authors were trying to fit too many creatures and too much story into such a compact work, but overall, this was an entertaining read.
August 13, 2024
3.5 rounded up to a 4. I enjoyed this book and applaud the idea around it - a building in the middle of nowhere housing all types of monsters. Each chapter is titled as a room number and gives you a tale of the occupant. Sometimes they overlap with each other, which is a nice touch. Overall it was well written and different to anything I've read before. The ending left a lot to be desired though, it seemed to just stop, just as I felt that particular segment was getting going. Left a few questions, for which we never got answers. Maybe there will be a sequel....
February 13, 2024
The Adleparmeun, or Hotel ‘Parmeun, is a special kind of place, where humans are not allowed. In fact, it's a kind of sanctuary, a safe place away from humans, where all manner of monster, cryptid and Ancient’s reside. Now, it's them versus the Hunters, and only the hotel separating the two. Apart from Officers Stockton and Allison that is, who have been entrusted to oversee the running of the ‘Parmeun, and to interact with other humans only when strictly necessary.
At the very top of the hotel lives The Overseer, who decides who can and can't stay. And at the heart of the Hotel, and everything that happens there, is Serendipity, the Overseer’s assistant. She can sense a darkness within its icy walls… In the kitchen are Stephanie and Joy, ghost and gorgon, and the Storeroom conceals Mr Clink, a demon. Ali, the Mantis, holds one of the biggest secrets, and down behind the front desk resides a dark and mysterious box, containing its very own devious inhabitant, guarded over unknowingly by Briann, the hotel clerk, who has big, big plans for the place..
In between all of this are a myriad of monsters, The Grey Lady, Djinn’s, werewolves, ningen, banshee, vampyre, minotaur, and many, many more. There is a story behind every door, every character, and they all make up a bigger, epic tale when combined.
A wonderfully fantastical story, the narrative blends so well you wouldn't know it was written by two people, although Kelvin’s trademark cheeky humour does shine through as always! 😁 A story of love, loss, sex, rivalry and friendship, all with an underlying, dark, sinister twist, that's really cleverly done. I dare you not to say “WTF?” out loud! 😉 Sneaky little hints are dropped throughout, like a taunting, teasing trail of breadcrumbs, leading to a brilliant conclusion that will leave you shocked and in awe.
Enjoy your stay….I certainly did!
At the very top of the hotel lives The Overseer, who decides who can and can't stay. And at the heart of the Hotel, and everything that happens there, is Serendipity, the Overseer’s assistant. She can sense a darkness within its icy walls… In the kitchen are Stephanie and Joy, ghost and gorgon, and the Storeroom conceals Mr Clink, a demon. Ali, the Mantis, holds one of the biggest secrets, and down behind the front desk resides a dark and mysterious box, containing its very own devious inhabitant, guarded over unknowingly by Briann, the hotel clerk, who has big, big plans for the place..
In between all of this are a myriad of monsters, The Grey Lady, Djinn’s, werewolves, ningen, banshee, vampyre, minotaur, and many, many more. There is a story behind every door, every character, and they all make up a bigger, epic tale when combined.
A wonderfully fantastical story, the narrative blends so well you wouldn't know it was written by two people, although Kelvin’s trademark cheeky humour does shine through as always! 😁 A story of love, loss, sex, rivalry and friendship, all with an underlying, dark, sinister twist, that's really cleverly done. I dare you not to say “WTF?” out loud! 😉 Sneaky little hints are dropped throughout, like a taunting, teasing trail of breadcrumbs, leading to a brilliant conclusion that will leave you shocked and in awe.
Enjoy your stay….I certainly did!
January 31, 2024
This was… just wow. One of favorite tropes is stories within stories. Think Four Rooms (the one that started my obsession) then add in cryptids and you have a small understanding of the premise of this story.
Interweaving storylines and characters mixed with emotional situations and blood, guts and gore keep you turning the pages. What I found to be more remarkable than even the story was the cohesiveness of it. While Allison and Stockton have much different writing voices and styles, the reader can’t tell who wrote what or where they stopped. That is freaking talent.
Werewolves, a banshee, Medusa (my ABSOLUTE favorite), two human security guards, and so many more have a place in the ADLEPARMEUN. (Also, this is based off the entire community of Whittier, AK living in one building. It’s fascinating to see in person… even though the old tower is creepy as hell.)
The first entry on my Top Ten of 2024, other books will be held to this bar, and friends, it’s not going to be easily beaten.
A DOUBLE HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND 10/5.
Interweaving storylines and characters mixed with emotional situations and blood, guts and gore keep you turning the pages. What I found to be more remarkable than even the story was the cohesiveness of it. While Allison and Stockton have much different writing voices and styles, the reader can’t tell who wrote what or where they stopped. That is freaking talent.
Werewolves, a banshee, Medusa (my ABSOLUTE favorite), two human security guards, and so many more have a place in the ADLEPARMEUN. (Also, this is based off the entire community of Whittier, AK living in one building. It’s fascinating to see in person… even though the old tower is creepy as hell.)
The first entry on my Top Ten of 2024, other books will be held to this bar, and friends, it’s not going to be easily beaten.
A DOUBLE HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND 10/5.
January 18, 2024
Out in the middle of nowhere, away from man and cut off from the world, stands a hotel known to those who reside there as The Adleparmeun, or as it is also known, 'Parmeun. Situated in Alaska, this 20-story building resides things beyond your wildest imagination. Every room has a story to tell. These are some of the stories of those who live there.
The bar has been set for the most original story this year so far. I know it's early, but wow. WOW. This was fantastic, and surely it will be a title that sticks with me for some time. Allison and Stockton together have brought tales that will make you laugh, cringe, and tug at your heartstrings. It is impossible to put down. An absolute winner. Check it out!
5 severed fingers out of 5
The bar has been set for the most original story this year so far. I know it's early, but wow. WOW. This was fantastic, and surely it will be a title that sticks with me for some time. Allison and Stockton together have brought tales that will make you laugh, cringe, and tug at your heartstrings. It is impossible to put down. An absolute winner. Check it out!
5 severed fingers out of 5
January 18, 2024
Having received an early copy of The Adleparmeun, I had to share my thoughts on it before it gets released because this is a book I highly recommend.
Coming from the talented and creative minds of Kelvin VA Allison and Megan Stockton, The Adleparmeun is a hotel hidden away from humanity somewhere in Alaska.
Why is it hidden away? Well, if ever there was a spot on a map to write, 'Here be monsters,' this would be it. The Adleparmeun, known also as Parmeun to some of the younger residents, is a hotel. What makes it unique, besides the fact you won't find it on any holiday booking website, is that the residents are not human. A quiet walk through its shifting corridors will reveal all manner of beings: The scampering feet of children with horns on their heads or the features of a seal. The rustle of spider silk from behind a closed door. The aloof vampire, awaiting a fresh delivery of blood from room service or the thunderous roar of the minotaur. A lot happens within this multistorey Midian.
In fact, it would be accurate to refer to it as a multi-story Midian, for everyone has their own tales to tell within The Adleparmeun.
The book is, technically, a collection of short stories focusing on the different beings that dwell within the hotel. However, it doesn't feel like you are reading an anthology. The tales often intersect, a character from one appearing in another and then cropping up again later. It makes the hotel feel like a living, breathing place - and if you have read the story, you'll know exactly what I mean by that. This intercrossing of lives works amazingly. It creates a sense of mythology and gives hints of the lore behind The Adleparmeun and those that dwell there.
Allison and Stockton (the authors - not the similarly named security officers) have weaved something wonderful with this collaboration and I hope it's not the last time they do. Because, if I have a fault to pick with the book, it's that old cliche of there not being more. I could have spent a long time within the walls, getting to know the residents and getting peaks into their lives. As with everyone, some tales are happy, some are sad and others may be murderous or even tragic, but no matter what, they are all captivating.
Oh, mentioning the security officers, all of whom have been human throughout the years, it was fun to spot familiar names among them. However, I am curious to know what happened to the previous ones. Did they retire, or did they (as I suspect with the one I share a surname with) meet a gruesome end?
I have many questions concerning The Adleparmeun. Not because of gaps in storytelling, far from it, but because I want to know more about the world, the residents and the mysterious hunters.
I love this book. To be starting the year on such a well-told high point means the rest of us sure have our work cut out with our own writing. Yes, I want more Adleparmeun, but I also want to pick this up and read it all over again.
The Adleparmeun is highly recommended but one visit may not be enough. If you are like me, you'll be wanting to return.
Coming from the talented and creative minds of Kelvin VA Allison and Megan Stockton, The Adleparmeun is a hotel hidden away from humanity somewhere in Alaska.
Why is it hidden away? Well, if ever there was a spot on a map to write, 'Here be monsters,' this would be it. The Adleparmeun, known also as Parmeun to some of the younger residents, is a hotel. What makes it unique, besides the fact you won't find it on any holiday booking website, is that the residents are not human. A quiet walk through its shifting corridors will reveal all manner of beings: The scampering feet of children with horns on their heads or the features of a seal. The rustle of spider silk from behind a closed door. The aloof vampire, awaiting a fresh delivery of blood from room service or the thunderous roar of the minotaur. A lot happens within this multistorey Midian.
In fact, it would be accurate to refer to it as a multi-story Midian, for everyone has their own tales to tell within The Adleparmeun.
The book is, technically, a collection of short stories focusing on the different beings that dwell within the hotel. However, it doesn't feel like you are reading an anthology. The tales often intersect, a character from one appearing in another and then cropping up again later. It makes the hotel feel like a living, breathing place - and if you have read the story, you'll know exactly what I mean by that. This intercrossing of lives works amazingly. It creates a sense of mythology and gives hints of the lore behind The Adleparmeun and those that dwell there.
Allison and Stockton (the authors - not the similarly named security officers) have weaved something wonderful with this collaboration and I hope it's not the last time they do. Because, if I have a fault to pick with the book, it's that old cliche of there not being more. I could have spent a long time within the walls, getting to know the residents and getting peaks into their lives. As with everyone, some tales are happy, some are sad and others may be murderous or even tragic, but no matter what, they are all captivating.
Oh, mentioning the security officers, all of whom have been human throughout the years, it was fun to spot familiar names among them. However, I am curious to know what happened to the previous ones. Did they retire, or did they (as I suspect with the one I share a surname with) meet a gruesome end?
I have many questions concerning The Adleparmeun. Not because of gaps in storytelling, far from it, but because I want to know more about the world, the residents and the mysterious hunters.
I love this book. To be starting the year on such a well-told high point means the rest of us sure have our work cut out with our own writing. Yes, I want more Adleparmeun, but I also want to pick this up and read it all over again.
The Adleparmeun is highly recommended but one visit may not be enough. If you are like me, you'll be wanting to return.
February 8, 2024
Each room brings to our attention a unique character with their own story. The stories and characters, while being different, are craftily woven into a much larger story that slowly comes together into what was for me an AHA moment. This was a very fun and enjoyable read.
March 24, 2024
Beautifully written
I would give this 6 stars if it were possible. This book hooked me from the first page till the last sentence. It is unique in the way the book is set up. I just finished it and already wish I could read it for the first time again!
I would give this 6 stars if it were possible. This book hooked me from the first page till the last sentence. It is unique in the way the book is set up. I just finished it and already wish I could read it for the first time again!
April 27, 2024
Every story in this book is near masterpiece level. There was not a single character I felt indifferent about - some I loved and some I hated, but they were all unique and none were boring. I would love to see a more in-depth series come out of this, with full backstories on all of the inhabitants of the 'Parmeun.
February 27, 2024
What a great little read!
Considering it is only 125 pages long, the authors fit so much in and it didn't feel rushed at all.
I've never read a novella that managed to be so character-driven, and there were a lot of characters. I felt something for each of them, despite only spending a few pages with any one of them. A truly amazing achievement.
My only criticism is that I want more!
Considering it is only 125 pages long, the authors fit so much in and it didn't feel rushed at all.
I've never read a novella that managed to be so character-driven, and there were a lot of characters. I felt something for each of them, despite only spending a few pages with any one of them. A truly amazing achievement.
My only criticism is that I want more!
June 28, 2024
A hotel stands isolated in the Alaskan wilderness. The residents are a varied bunch, some living in the ‘Parmeun permanently while some stay for a short while. Of all the guests, only two are human, the rest are what society labels as “monsters”.
What a joy to read this fascinating and unique book with its remarkable cast of characters! I love that there was a Squonk staying at the hotel, and that the authors wrote themselves in as characters too!
I know that if both writers made a sequel or series starring the Adleparmeun, I would absolutely snap it up to add to my bookshelves.
What a joy to read this fascinating and unique book with its remarkable cast of characters! I love that there was a Squonk staying at the hotel, and that the authors wrote themselves in as characters too!
I know that if both writers made a sequel or series starring the Adleparmeun, I would absolutely snap it up to add to my bookshelves.
February 5, 2024
When Kelvin and Megan announced this co-authored project, I was very intrigued. The gist of the novella is that there’s an apartment building in remote Alaska where all of the monsters of the world reside. Away from mankind, they live in ‘peace’ and to make things even more intriguing for the reader, each ‘chapter’ is a short story, based on each of the individual apartments. I’ve previously read ‘The Trouble with Rabbits’ from Allison, which I enjoyed quite a lot, but I think I’ve only read a few short stories from Stockton, but possibly not? I looked through the various anthologies listed on Goodreads she’s appeared in, but it didn’t appear as though I’d read them. Saying that, I could swear I’ve read some of her stories! Oh well! I have read something from her now!
What I liked: Now, the word Adleparmeun had my ears pick up. I’d heard it somewhere before, and couldn’t remember where. Then it dinged somewhere in my massive head. While researching locations, stories and myths for my own novel, ‘Churn the Soil,’ I remembered reading something about it. I found the link (https://ethicsofsuicide.lib.utah.edu/...) which had this description;
“My people think this way: Kood-le-par-mi-ung (heaven) is upward. Every body happy there. All the time light; no snow, no ice, no storms; always pleasant; no trouble; never tried; sing and play all the time—all this continue with out end.
“Ad-le-par-me-un (hell) is downward. Always dark there. No sun; trouble there continually; snow flying all the time; terrible storms; cold, very cold; and a great deal of ice there. All who go there must always remain.
“All Innuits who have been good go to Koodleparmiung; that is, who have been kind to the poor and hungry—all who have been happy while living on this earth. Any one who has been killed by accident, or who has committed suicide, certainly goes to the happy place.
“All Innuits who have been bad—that is, unkind one to another—all who have been unhappy while on this earth, will go to Adleparmeun. If an Innuit kill another because he is mad at him, he certainly will go to Adleparmeun.” This was taken from Captain Charles Francis Hall, ‘Life with the Eskimaux,’ (Expedition 1860-1862) (London: Sampson Low, Son, and Marston, 1865). I’d thought it intriguing, because at one point, I’d considered ‘Churn the Soil’ as an allegorical tale of good versus evil, but ultimately switched it to a story about the people versus the land and new versus old.
But, getting back to this release, once that clicked together I was very intrigued and when taken as a shallow read, each story is just that – a fun little slab of horror. But when you dive into it deeper, each story is a revelatory discussion on where each of these monsters fit.
The story itself is held together by an over-arching premise of a few guards kind of keeping the creatures within, though as expected things don’t always go to plan.
Stockton and Allison write sublimely together. I honestly couldn’t tell you if they each wrote X number of stories or if they wrote them together as there’s no jarring shift between room stories and nothing stood out saying ‘AH HA! THAT WAS CLEARLY STOCKTON!’ which was wonderful to find. There isn’t an afterword or author’s note at the end either, so they kept the workload close to their hearts.
Throughout, we get a variety of characters who are all instantly characters you gravitate towards. I’m actually not going to single any of them out, purely because if you’re reading this, I want you to discover the joy of each as well as the layered complexities these two have so proficiently created here.
There is an ‘ending’ but honestly, with the way this one is structured and the narrative that started on page one and ended on page 125ish, there is ample room to expand, continue on or move to a different site.
What I didn’t like: As with any ‘collection’ (and I’m using this term VERY loosely simply for my observation here) some of the stories within each rooms, readers may or may not enjoy. I personally really dug each one and there seems to be a number of subtle Easter eggs throughout, which you’d expect based on a singular release revolving around a singular building.
Additionally, I did wish we got a tiny bit more info on the ‘why’ of this building etc. etc. But maybe we will in the future?
Why you should buy this: The complete package and completion of this work together is top notch. These two authors worked so cohesively together on a truly compulsive story idea that I raced through this. The characters within all could be pulled out and expanded upon, as could the location and the lore of the why and how.
Allison and Stockton hit this one out of the park and I truly hope they decide to return to this world again, no matter what ‘this world’ means to that new story.
What I liked: Now, the word Adleparmeun had my ears pick up. I’d heard it somewhere before, and couldn’t remember where. Then it dinged somewhere in my massive head. While researching locations, stories and myths for my own novel, ‘Churn the Soil,’ I remembered reading something about it. I found the link (https://ethicsofsuicide.lib.utah.edu/...) which had this description;
“My people think this way: Kood-le-par-mi-ung (heaven) is upward. Every body happy there. All the time light; no snow, no ice, no storms; always pleasant; no trouble; never tried; sing and play all the time—all this continue with out end.
“Ad-le-par-me-un (hell) is downward. Always dark there. No sun; trouble there continually; snow flying all the time; terrible storms; cold, very cold; and a great deal of ice there. All who go there must always remain.
“All Innuits who have been good go to Koodleparmiung; that is, who have been kind to the poor and hungry—all who have been happy while living on this earth. Any one who has been killed by accident, or who has committed suicide, certainly goes to the happy place.
“All Innuits who have been bad—that is, unkind one to another—all who have been unhappy while on this earth, will go to Adleparmeun. If an Innuit kill another because he is mad at him, he certainly will go to Adleparmeun.” This was taken from Captain Charles Francis Hall, ‘Life with the Eskimaux,’ (Expedition 1860-1862) (London: Sampson Low, Son, and Marston, 1865). I’d thought it intriguing, because at one point, I’d considered ‘Churn the Soil’ as an allegorical tale of good versus evil, but ultimately switched it to a story about the people versus the land and new versus old.
But, getting back to this release, once that clicked together I was very intrigued and when taken as a shallow read, each story is just that – a fun little slab of horror. But when you dive into it deeper, each story is a revelatory discussion on where each of these monsters fit.
The story itself is held together by an over-arching premise of a few guards kind of keeping the creatures within, though as expected things don’t always go to plan.
Stockton and Allison write sublimely together. I honestly couldn’t tell you if they each wrote X number of stories or if they wrote them together as there’s no jarring shift between room stories and nothing stood out saying ‘AH HA! THAT WAS CLEARLY STOCKTON!’ which was wonderful to find. There isn’t an afterword or author’s note at the end either, so they kept the workload close to their hearts.
Throughout, we get a variety of characters who are all instantly characters you gravitate towards. I’m actually not going to single any of them out, purely because if you’re reading this, I want you to discover the joy of each as well as the layered complexities these two have so proficiently created here.
There is an ‘ending’ but honestly, with the way this one is structured and the narrative that started on page one and ended on page 125ish, there is ample room to expand, continue on or move to a different site.
What I didn’t like: As with any ‘collection’ (and I’m using this term VERY loosely simply for my observation here) some of the stories within each rooms, readers may or may not enjoy. I personally really dug each one and there seems to be a number of subtle Easter eggs throughout, which you’d expect based on a singular release revolving around a singular building.
Additionally, I did wish we got a tiny bit more info on the ‘why’ of this building etc. etc. But maybe we will in the future?
Why you should buy this: The complete package and completion of this work together is top notch. These two authors worked so cohesively together on a truly compulsive story idea that I raced through this. The characters within all could be pulled out and expanded upon, as could the location and the lore of the why and how.
Allison and Stockton hit this one out of the park and I truly hope they decide to return to this world again, no matter what ‘this world’ means to that new story.
August 12, 2025
There were things I liked about this book and things I did not care for. I loved that this story was about the monsters and creatures that were living their life in a sanctuary apartment building. It made the audience have a different perspective on how they are like humans, living their life as “normal” as possible (whatever normal is to a creature/monster.) I loved that each section of the book was a different part of the building. There really isn’t any explanation as to how it all came to be which I like. There is only a little bit of info and the rest is a mystery. We never really see the endings to each section until later. This gave me some space to wonder. However, I felt that there were some sections of the book that were stronger than others. There were punctuation errors and words that repeated (not on purpose) something like “ he had he had the…”, which makes no sense in the sentence. This just made get out of the immersive experience of the story. I can understand a couple of errors but it was enough for me to notice and get annoyed at times- and I hold this level to any book I read no matter if it’s indie or bestseller. Overall I felt this book was okay and interesting.
January 18, 2024
From the messed up minds of Kelvin V A Allison - author and Megan Stockton. I managed to read this in a couple of hours, unable to put it down.
The Adleparmeun is a twenty-story hotel set in the frozen wastes of Alaska, and each room, or chapter, we find home to a different cryptid. Each with their own story.
Some horrific, others will invoke emotions. You either dispise the monster within or feel their sadness. Murder, betrayal, love or loneliness surrounds them as they go about their lives, hidden from the world.
Most of the chapters link in, till we get the the final few, to find that even the crypids need to be fearful, as not everything is as it seems. Love or fear them...it doesn't matter. This is their home. So play nice, mind your manners and treat them with respect. You don't want to be their next meal!
I give this a solid five stars, or skulls in this case 💀💀💀💀💀
The Adleparmeun is a twenty-story hotel set in the frozen wastes of Alaska, and each room, or chapter, we find home to a different cryptid. Each with their own story.
Some horrific, others will invoke emotions. You either dispise the monster within or feel their sadness. Murder, betrayal, love or loneliness surrounds them as they go about their lives, hidden from the world.
Most of the chapters link in, till we get the the final few, to find that even the crypids need to be fearful, as not everything is as it seems. Love or fear them...it doesn't matter. This is their home. So play nice, mind your manners and treat them with respect. You don't want to be their next meal!
I give this a solid five stars, or skulls in this case 💀💀💀💀💀
February 17, 2025
Another hotel I should be checking in to
The Adleparmeun is alive. Not just with activity, but the structure itself is a living, breathing entity. Several, if not all of its residents, are some type of creature from various mythologies. Mythological they are not though, for they exist within the walls of the Parmeun.
Their goal is to hide from the mortal world, from those who deem to hurt them, to eliminate them. The Parmeun is a sanctuary, an asylum.
But within its walls, an evil slips through the cracks. What is its intent? What does it plan for the future of the residents of the Parmeun?
A brilliant, mesmerizing read, to incorporate mythology with horror is to marry two genres that were always meant to be together.
Read on, visit the residents, stay and chat, they've got stories to tell.
The Adleparmeun is alive. Not just with activity, but the structure itself is a living, breathing entity. Several, if not all of its residents, are some type of creature from various mythologies. Mythological they are not though, for they exist within the walls of the Parmeun.
Their goal is to hide from the mortal world, from those who deem to hurt them, to eliminate them. The Parmeun is a sanctuary, an asylum.
But within its walls, an evil slips through the cracks. What is its intent? What does it plan for the future of the residents of the Parmeun?
A brilliant, mesmerizing read, to incorporate mythology with horror is to marry two genres that were always meant to be together.
Read on, visit the residents, stay and chat, they've got stories to tell.
February 2, 2024
This story is set up like individual short stories set mostly in numbered rooms. Yet they are all connected and come together at certain points, and are tied up wonderfully at the end.
The Adleparmeun is a large hotel, cut off from the world of man and located in the frigid depths of Alaska. Within its rooms reside all manner of creatures, wanting to be left in peace from humankind.
The Adleparmeun reminded me of Midian, each room occupied by a plethora of uniquely created creatures. I won’t call them monsters as they aren’t, it’s the humans that are the monsters in this world.
The characters were rich and well developed, and the story full of wonder and delight. It made me wish I could visit the ‘Parmeun (as the younger residents call it) myself.
The Adleparmeun is a large hotel, cut off from the world of man and located in the frigid depths of Alaska. Within its rooms reside all manner of creatures, wanting to be left in peace from humankind.
The Adleparmeun reminded me of Midian, each room occupied by a plethora of uniquely created creatures. I won’t call them monsters as they aren’t, it’s the humans that are the monsters in this world.
The characters were rich and well developed, and the story full of wonder and delight. It made me wish I could visit the ‘Parmeun (as the younger residents call it) myself.
September 29, 2025
Another incredible read from the talented Kelvin VA Allison. I've not read any of Megan's work before but will definitely look her work up after this.
The Adleparmeun is a place for monsters to call home.....and what an eclectic set of monsters we have, from vampire and werewolf, to spider and satyr.
I love the fact each chapter is a number of a room within the hotel, and introduces us to the inhabitant of said room, with the myriad of tales also intertwining to give us a read filled with death, destruction and betrayal. Outstanding
The Adleparmeun is a place for monsters to call home.....and what an eclectic set of monsters we have, from vampire and werewolf, to spider and satyr.
I love the fact each chapter is a number of a room within the hotel, and introduces us to the inhabitant of said room, with the myriad of tales also intertwining to give us a read filled with death, destruction and betrayal. Outstanding
June 11, 2024
Thank you to the authors for providing a review copy.
This book was a ton of fun, with a really cool concept (and, because I can't shut up about it, a character named after me). Cryptids are my jam, so a secret hotel filled with a variety of supernatural creatures is right up my alley. I enjoyed all the stories and normally would rate them individually, but this is much more of a mosaic novel. I'm surprised I haven't seen more buzz around the book, to be honest. 4.25 stars
This book was a ton of fun, with a really cool concept (and, because I can't shut up about it, a character named after me). Cryptids are my jam, so a secret hotel filled with a variety of supernatural creatures is right up my alley. I enjoyed all the stories and normally would rate them individually, but this is much more of a mosaic novel. I'm surprised I haven't seen more buzz around the book, to be honest. 4.25 stars
June 14, 2024
A whole plethora of cryptids and creatures live inside this massive apartment block , we get to meet an amazing array of fascinating creatures in this wonderful book , the first but hopefully not the last collaboration between one of the United Kingdom’s finest and one of the u.s.a’s finest writers today
January 31, 2024
Definitely a unique book with its interesting setup and fun morality tales slowly morphing into something more sinister. One of those books where everyone's favourite story will be different to everyone else's. A great read from two authors I really like.
February 3, 2024
All I can say is Wow! So many short stories relating to the main one , and each one more interesting than the last. I finished the entire book in one evening. Not wanting to put it down the entire time. I can only hope that these two, separately incredible authors , team up again!
February 23, 2024
My love for these two authors aside, this book was magical mayhem! I enjoyed every single page of it and this is absolutely one of my top reads ever. Ever ever! Well done, my wonderfully talented friends! You earned all the stars! All of them!!!
July 28, 2024
Cryptid loving me is in a happiness stupor. First of all, it is such a creative story, with characters that could have their own full length stories. Here we get a shortened snippet of their lives, in this... place. Creatures galore, I just ate this up. A lot of humour to go with the gross and gore. Delighted to see who was cast as the security people as well, nice touch there. I loved it and read it in one sitting.
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