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Poking Holes
People are holes waiting to be filled.
People are sharp, nervous blades dancing across skin and bone.
People are hungry, desperate, empty maws waiting to be fed.
Juan Valencia's Poking Holes is a collection of nine tales seeking to explore that emptiness, that volatile monstrosity and dangerous hunger that prevails through our encounters and self-destructions. Across bodies, across borders, across species, holes, gashes, and mouths open, letting fear and anger flow free.
People are sharp, nervous blades dancing across skin and bone.
People are hungry, desperate, empty maws waiting to be fed.
Juan Valencia's Poking Holes is a collection of nine tales seeking to explore that emptiness, that volatile monstrosity and dangerous hunger that prevails through our encounters and self-destructions. Across bodies, across borders, across species, holes, gashes, and mouths open, letting fear and anger flow free.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2022
61 people are currently reading
2537 people want to read
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February 20, 2024POKING HOLES now an Apocalypse Party release! 🪿🕳️
January 5, 2023
This book will bleed you dry. You will experience pain and heartbreak. What is difficult to comprehend is that this vicious, tender and deeply personal collection of stories is the author's debut. Juan Valencia writes like a man on fire, drawing visceral reactions from the reader, then decimating his audience with a feather. Transgressive with no holds barred, this is a collection for those who have the heart and soul to digest it. Highly recommended.
July 1, 2023
Extremely strong debut collection from Juan Valencia. The nine stories in here include body horror, Lovecraftian pastiche, Black Mirror style psychological terror and commentary on institutional racism and relationships.
The variety is impressive, but what’s even better is the fact that a consistent voice and set of themes ties the stories together. At its heart this is a book about power structures and the way they’re abused. Horror lends itself perfectly to such discussions, and Juan Valencia’s love and knowledge of the genre shines through again and again.
This is a VERY disturbing book at times, so approach it with that in mind. It’s also often excellent and memorable as much for its sensitivity as for its extreme content.
Full review coming soon on CriminOlly.com and my YouTube channel.
The variety is impressive, but what’s even better is the fact that a consistent voice and set of themes ties the stories together. At its heart this is a book about power structures and the way they’re abused. Horror lends itself perfectly to such discussions, and Juan Valencia’s love and knowledge of the genre shines through again and again.
This is a VERY disturbing book at times, so approach it with that in mind. It’s also often excellent and memorable as much for its sensitivity as for its extreme content.
Full review coming soon on CriminOlly.com and my YouTube channel.
October 12, 2022
Where do I begin.
I have loved short story collections for many years. One of my favorite things about a collection from one author is the small connections you see threaded through their work. Juan nailed that. The theme is there, in every story...yet in such different ways that you never get bored. I saw through so many eyes in this collection, and yet came back to one cohesive theme, always. I only know Juan via his channel (which is amazing, btw, if you don't know - Plagued by Visions, look it up) but I kinda feel like I saw some different sides to (what I guess is) his personality. And that is something that is, in my tiny opinion, a mark of good writing.
This is the longest review I've ever left for a book. Let that say something.
If you like horror that wraps itself around you, check this out. You won't be sorry!
I have loved short story collections for many years. One of my favorite things about a collection from one author is the small connections you see threaded through their work. Juan nailed that. The theme is there, in every story...yet in such different ways that you never get bored. I saw through so many eyes in this collection, and yet came back to one cohesive theme, always. I only know Juan via his channel (which is amazing, btw, if you don't know - Plagued by Visions, look it up) but I kinda feel like I saw some different sides to (what I guess is) his personality. And that is something that is, in my tiny opinion, a mark of good writing.
This is the longest review I've ever left for a book. Let that say something.
If you like horror that wraps itself around you, check this out. You won't be sorry!
February 16, 2023
The story "User" is really stomach-botheringly great and gets a Best Horror award from me, a five star classic, but the rest of this collection for me was full of too many people or things eating each other. (The things are always carefully not quite described. One had eight legs, could have been a big spider, and another had fur and quills, so maybe an echidna.) I always think modern horror writers should make sure they read a few books by Theodore Sturgeon before they accidently rewrite some of his stories.
If it was an echidna, it had unusual tastes, and it could talk.
If it was an echidna, it had unusual tastes, and it could talk.
October 12, 2022
Astonishing.
Like many other fans of Valencia's YouTube channel, I had been eagerly anticipating this debut. I knew it was gonna be good, but I didn't know it was gonna be this good. I don't think anyone did. Of the nine stories within, my favorites are "The Goose," "In a Hot Car," and "Chatty Chump," but every single story is sublime. I highly recommend you check out this collection. It ranks as one of the best I've ever read.
Like many other fans of Valencia's YouTube channel, I had been eagerly anticipating this debut. I knew it was gonna be good, but I didn't know it was gonna be this good. I don't think anyone did. Of the nine stories within, my favorites are "The Goose," "In a Hot Car," and "Chatty Chump," but every single story is sublime. I highly recommend you check out this collection. It ranks as one of the best I've ever read.
October 14, 2022
An outstanding anthology featuring stories that will burrow into the darkest parts of your brain...literally in some cases.
The prose is truly top notch and the stories flow expertly.
This is as impressive a short story collection as Clive Barker's Books of Blood. Juan is a talent to watch.
The only short story that I am still a bit undecided on was 'User', it was hard to tell if I genuinely disliked the story itself or if the story is just SO effective that I just want to shove it away.
That is definitely the minority and EVERY other story is absolutely exquisite.
Goose and In a Hot Car are stories I'll come back to AGAIN and AGAIN.
Even stories that at the outset might seem to be stories you've heard before like 'Empty Nesters', they are told in such a unique way that your jaw will be left on the floor.
Keep in mind the horror in this collection is definitely of the extreme variety.
This collection truly will leave you PLAGUED BY VISIONS.
The prose is truly top notch and the stories flow expertly.
This is as impressive a short story collection as Clive Barker's Books of Blood. Juan is a talent to watch.
The only short story that I am still a bit undecided on was 'User', it was hard to tell if I genuinely disliked the story itself or if the story is just SO effective that I just want to shove it away.
That is definitely the minority and EVERY other story is absolutely exquisite.
Goose and In a Hot Car are stories I'll come back to AGAIN and AGAIN.
Even stories that at the outset might seem to be stories you've heard before like 'Empty Nesters', they are told in such a unique way that your jaw will be left on the floor.
Keep in mind the horror in this collection is definitely of the extreme variety.
This collection truly will leave you PLAGUED BY VISIONS.
March 2, 2024
Man this collection was fuckin sicccckkkk disturbing brutal surprisingly emotional and I found that this collection was this author's debut.. This is just crazy good and the stories the goose and growing love will be stuck in my think sponge for awhile. Just a phenomenal horror collection from an author I'll definitely be reading more of
October 22, 2022
I, along with the rest of the horror side of Booktube, was ecstatic to hear that our own Juan Valencia had his first short story collection coming out. There was never any doubt that it would be great; we were all just waiting to see HOW great.
And the final verdict is…this is an excellent debut worthy of being read by anyone who enjoys esoteric horror of the disgusting, disturbing, and intellectual variety. At times philosophical and at others base and in-your-face, Juan tackles issues of racism, homosexuality, and mental illness with the grace and style of a seasoned author. The horror takes us through realms both human and inhuman, physical and existential. Trappings of John Langan, Richard Laymon (whether you like it or not, Juan!), and, undoubtedly, Joe R. Lansdale can be found in the exceptional variety of this collection.
Poking Holes will challenge the reader on what they can handle. Nothing and no one is sacred in Juan’s twisted world. There may be sections or even full stories the reader is forced to skip. Doesn’t that, more than anything, prove this to be effective horror? Pick it up and find out for yourselves. One last warning to be heeded: keep your windows closed and locked. There’s no telling what terrible creature might swoop in otherwise.
And the final verdict is…this is an excellent debut worthy of being read by anyone who enjoys esoteric horror of the disgusting, disturbing, and intellectual variety. At times philosophical and at others base and in-your-face, Juan tackles issues of racism, homosexuality, and mental illness with the grace and style of a seasoned author. The horror takes us through realms both human and inhuman, physical and existential. Trappings of John Langan, Richard Laymon (whether you like it or not, Juan!), and, undoubtedly, Joe R. Lansdale can be found in the exceptional variety of this collection.
Poking Holes will challenge the reader on what they can handle. Nothing and no one is sacred in Juan’s twisted world. There may be sections or even full stories the reader is forced to skip. Doesn’t that, more than anything, prove this to be effective horror? Pick it up and find out for yourselves. One last warning to be heeded: keep your windows closed and locked. There’s no telling what terrible creature might swoop in otherwise.
January 22, 2023
I went into Poking Holes mostly blind (aside from watching Juan's YT videos and having some idea of the types of books they like/recommend to their viewers).
This was my first read of 2023 and my first 'one sitting' read in a long time.
The stories contained within this book are not for the faint of heart (seriously), but they had me going through a full range of emotions as I read through each one. This book caters to no one but has underlying themes that most, if not all, people can relate to.
I won a signed copy of this book in a giveaway run by the author, but fully planned to purchase one (and likely still will to support their work). It will have a special place on my bookshelf and in the newly made hole in my brain!
My favorite stories after the first read are:
- Empty Nesters
- In A Hot Car
- Chatty Chump
- The Goose
But all nine stories have something to offer (whether or not you want it).
This was my first read of 2023 and my first 'one sitting' read in a long time.
The stories contained within this book are not for the faint of heart (seriously), but they had me going through a full range of emotions as I read through each one. This book caters to no one but has underlying themes that most, if not all, people can relate to.
I won a signed copy of this book in a giveaway run by the author, but fully planned to purchase one (and likely still will to support their work). It will have a special place on my bookshelf and in the newly made hole in my brain!
My favorite stories after the first read are:
- Empty Nesters
- In A Hot Car
- Chatty Chump
- The Goose
But all nine stories have something to offer (whether or not you want it).
October 22, 2022
Poking Holes is a grotesque pleasure to read through. Each story within this anthology is informed by a thematic hollowness &/or an emptiness resplendent with transgressive humanity. Recommended.
November 23, 2022
Thought-provoking and relentless, this debut collection of short-stories is not an easy book for sensitive people. Despite their size these tales of dread and despair are powerful. Much like the characters in it the reader never feels safe and there's no looking back once you plunge into these murky waters. The horrors portrayed are beyond material aggressions, through explorations of structural violence, trauma and cruel desires described in graphic, yet lyrical prose Juan achieves a sophisticated form of extreme fiction. Revolting, beautiful and always interesting. My favorite stories were: Growing Love, Hunger and Empty Nesters.
November 6, 2022
JUAN!! 🙈🙈
December 23, 2024
Poking Holes: 2/5
Empty Nesters: 3/5
Something about getting a brief glimpse of evil is sometimes more disturbing than the in-your-face exposure of it.
User: N/A
I skimmed through this one. Too gross and unpleasant for me.
In a Hot Car: 4 / 5
Wow. This was intense. I don't what else to say about it other than it was great.
Chatty Chump: 4 / 5
This one is about a talking sloth doll that starts using phrases outside of its programming... or does it?
I loved this. Juan takes the "living doll" trope and manages to twist it into something unique and... twisted. Some of what comes out of "Chatty Chump's" voice-box is quite disturbing. There's also some deep emotional resonance to the story that I found very effective and was intertwined perfectly with this classic horror idea. This one also has a slightly ambiguous ending that works perfectly. I loved the elements of psychological horror, as well. This might be my favorite story here.
Dirty Water: 3 / 5
This one was too brief and ambiguous for me to latch on to. What was it about, exactly? A kid swimming through a canal only to be cut up by an overhanging tree and some glass at the bottom, and to come out on the other side... changed in some way.
This one was okay, I guess. I suspect there is some meaning to this one that went way over my head.
The Goose: 1 / 5
Wtf. This one is not for me. Gross. Lol.
Growing Love: 3 / 5
This story is kind of experimental and abstract, and is no doubt full of meaning and symbolism, but...
Hunger: 3.5 / 5
...I find that this story does it better; which shares a very similar story structure and many of the same themes. Despite this one reaching into the territory of extreme... meaning, it made me extremely uncomfortable; I find it to be well written and rich with purpose and intent, even if I'm unable to entirely dissect and analyze it. There's something about this one that's simultaneously appealing and appalling.
Overall, this is a strong debut book by Juan Valencia. While this type of fiction isn't something I read much of, I really appreciated Hunger, and I highly enjoyed In a Hot Car and Chatty Chump, which are both contending for my favorite of this collection.
If you're into reading more extreme fiction definitely give this one a try.
Empty Nesters: 3/5
Something about getting a brief glimpse of evil is sometimes more disturbing than the in-your-face exposure of it.
User: N/A
I skimmed through this one. Too gross and unpleasant for me.
In a Hot Car: 4 / 5
Wow. This was intense. I don't what else to say about it other than it was great.
Chatty Chump: 4 / 5
This one is about a talking sloth doll that starts using phrases outside of its programming... or does it?
I loved this. Juan takes the "living doll" trope and manages to twist it into something unique and... twisted. Some of what comes out of "Chatty Chump's" voice-box is quite disturbing. There's also some deep emotional resonance to the story that I found very effective and was intertwined perfectly with this classic horror idea. This one also has a slightly ambiguous ending that works perfectly. I loved the elements of psychological horror, as well. This might be my favorite story here.
Dirty Water: 3 / 5
This one was too brief and ambiguous for me to latch on to. What was it about, exactly? A kid swimming through a canal only to be cut up by an overhanging tree and some glass at the bottom, and to come out on the other side... changed in some way.
This one was okay, I guess. I suspect there is some meaning to this one that went way over my head.
The Goose: 1 / 5
Wtf. This one is not for me. Gross. Lol.
Growing Love: 3 / 5
This story is kind of experimental and abstract, and is no doubt full of meaning and symbolism, but...
Hunger: 3.5 / 5
...I find that this story does it better; which shares a very similar story structure and many of the same themes. Despite this one reaching into the territory of extreme... meaning, it made me extremely uncomfortable; I find it to be well written and rich with purpose and intent, even if I'm unable to entirely dissect and analyze it. There's something about this one that's simultaneously appealing and appalling.
Overall, this is a strong debut book by Juan Valencia. While this type of fiction isn't something I read much of, I really appreciated Hunger, and I highly enjoyed In a Hot Car and Chatty Chump, which are both contending for my favorite of this collection.
If you're into reading more extreme fiction definitely give this one a try.
October 21, 2022
Like one of the ravenous monstrosities described in one of Juan Valencia's nightmarish tableaus, I consumed this short story collection only wanting more, more, more. What a remarkably deviant imagination is the mind of the author! I'm not sure if I was more afraid of the stories I read, or the thought that a 'normal' person could come up with such demented scenarios. Of course, I am being hyperbolic, but I have to say that if this is Juan Valencia's debut effort, I think he has a very bright future ahead of him as a published writer. You know, horror tends to be considered low brow by a lot of people. And, rightfully so. There are some fairly cheesy hacks who write horror. But, then you also have to consider those who write in the horror genre who are true auteurs. The Stephen Kings, the Shirley Jacksons, the Chuck Palahniuks, the Bram Stokers, the Mary Shelleys, and, now, the Juan Valencias. These are writers of horror whose scope is far greater than spinning scary tales. These are writers who fascinate and entertain the reader with the genius of their alternative realities, realities that one would never otherwise have entertained until reading their works. Bravo, Juan! I thoroughly enjoyed Poking Holes and look forward to whatever you have coming down the line in the future!
November 5, 2022
Fantastic, brutal, poetic, expertly written, and incredibly disturbing!
January 25, 2023
I worked on the illustrated edition of this, so I literally read this book more closely and intensively than anything else I picked up last year- yet somehow I forgot to record it on my good reads until right now.
Juan's commentary and curation has long been a guiding light for me through the darkest corners of literature. His debut collection continues that tradition of pushing my boundaries as a reader. There are parts of this book that are so downright revolting I found myself needing to take breaks.
But Poking Holes strength isn't just shocking moments, though it has them in spades. Like all great works of transgressive fiction, Juan is exploring the depths of grotesquery with deep purpose. Whether it's an unflinching depiction of the violence enacted by our cruel immigration system, the twisting of a child's plaything into a totem of abuse and trauma, or the lurid depths of sexual repression bubbling beneath suburbia- each of these stories has cutting and vital commentary hiding behind a disgusting exterior.
In talking to Juan through the process of illustration, I was stunned to find how personal some of these stories really are, drawing on Juan's own deepest fears and even his family's past. Transgressive fiction excels when it allows us to explore not just the ultraviolent, but the ultra-personal, the ultra-vulnerable. The stuff that we were too afraid to even think about. This collection is the perfect embodiment of those ideals of fearless literature.
This isn't a book I can recommend to everyone, because they'll think I'm crazy. But it's book everyone should read, because it's that good. Unless you don't like scary stuff. In which case, please don't read this.
BUY THE ILLUSTRATED EDITION OUT FEB 14 2023
Juan's commentary and curation has long been a guiding light for me through the darkest corners of literature. His debut collection continues that tradition of pushing my boundaries as a reader. There are parts of this book that are so downright revolting I found myself needing to take breaks.
But Poking Holes strength isn't just shocking moments, though it has them in spades. Like all great works of transgressive fiction, Juan is exploring the depths of grotesquery with deep purpose. Whether it's an unflinching depiction of the violence enacted by our cruel immigration system, the twisting of a child's plaything into a totem of abuse and trauma, or the lurid depths of sexual repression bubbling beneath suburbia- each of these stories has cutting and vital commentary hiding behind a disgusting exterior.
In talking to Juan through the process of illustration, I was stunned to find how personal some of these stories really are, drawing on Juan's own deepest fears and even his family's past. Transgressive fiction excels when it allows us to explore not just the ultraviolent, but the ultra-personal, the ultra-vulnerable. The stuff that we were too afraid to even think about. This collection is the perfect embodiment of those ideals of fearless literature.
This isn't a book I can recommend to everyone, because they'll think I'm crazy. But it's book everyone should read, because it's that good. Unless you don't like scary stuff. In which case, please don't read this.
BUY THE ILLUSTRATED EDITION OUT FEB 14 2023
January 2, 2023
Poking holes: A psychopath (not to kink shame) with a needle play fetish loses his shit and goes full ham.
Empty Nesters: Things are not okay in suburbia.
User: Bruce is pretty self righteous for an Asian-hating elder-abusing histrionic incest poser. Probably one of the most disturbing short stories I’ve ever read. LUKA MAGNOTTA type shit… like the Spanish short film “Aftermath” typa shit…. I am DEEPLY unsettled. It takes a lot to get me there.
In a Hot Car: disturbing as fuck… considering how it might be to die in this manner makes me thankful I always carry my leatherman. EASILY my favorite story so far.
Chatty chump: you know those annoying stuffed toys that your kid can record their voice on and it’ll repeat things back to them in a sped up voice or just parrot them? Imagine your child saying something totally fucked up and concerning to that toy when you weren’t home for you to discover… or… DID THEY? Part supernatural, with child’s-play-like voodoo doll sort of elements… 👌🏻 did I just ruin sloths for me?!
Dirty water: what if your childhood nightmare fantasy while out swimming with friends transformed into reality following the proud act you thought might gain you hierarchy amongst friends?
The goose: If you don’t think geese are terrifying, you’re absolutely fucking insane, and you should maybe read this story. They really DO have serrated tongues, by the way.
Growing love: a man is haunted internally by a fast growing and increasingly persuasive parasite that is using him as a human snail shell. The parasite’s appetite cannot be satiated. Absolutely disgusting.
Hunger: oof. I’m not sure where to start with this voyeuristic lovecraftian kink show…You should definitely read it though…
I’ll definitely be checking Juan Valencia’s YouTube channel, plagued by visions, after having read this. I was thoroughly impressed and hope to see more from him in the future!
Empty Nesters: Things are not okay in suburbia.
User: Bruce is pretty self righteous for an Asian-hating elder-abusing histrionic incest poser. Probably one of the most disturbing short stories I’ve ever read. LUKA MAGNOTTA type shit… like the Spanish short film “Aftermath” typa shit…. I am DEEPLY unsettled. It takes a lot to get me there.
In a Hot Car: disturbing as fuck… considering how it might be to die in this manner makes me thankful I always carry my leatherman. EASILY my favorite story so far.
Chatty chump: you know those annoying stuffed toys that your kid can record their voice on and it’ll repeat things back to them in a sped up voice or just parrot them? Imagine your child saying something totally fucked up and concerning to that toy when you weren’t home for you to discover… or… DID THEY? Part supernatural, with child’s-play-like voodoo doll sort of elements… 👌🏻 did I just ruin sloths for me?!
Dirty water: what if your childhood nightmare fantasy while out swimming with friends transformed into reality following the proud act you thought might gain you hierarchy amongst friends?
The goose: If you don’t think geese are terrifying, you’re absolutely fucking insane, and you should maybe read this story. They really DO have serrated tongues, by the way.
Growing love: a man is haunted internally by a fast growing and increasingly persuasive parasite that is using him as a human snail shell. The parasite’s appetite cannot be satiated. Absolutely disgusting.
Hunger: oof. I’m not sure where to start with this voyeuristic lovecraftian kink show…You should definitely read it though…
I’ll definitely be checking Juan Valencia’s YouTube channel, plagued by visions, after having read this. I was thoroughly impressed and hope to see more from him in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2023
The Most Disturbing Book I have ever read.
Nine short stories, divided into 3 sections: holes, cuts and bites. This is not a book for everyone. Juan creates these nightmarish scenarios with a deft touch. Every bodily fluid imaginable permeates these dark stories along with mental health issues and deep physical and mental pain. Each story is distinct yet there is an overarching theme of the abuse of power. My favorites were the central section 'Cuts': In a Hot Car, Chatty Chump and particularly Dirty Water about a young girl swimming in a broken glass lined canal towards some scary branches to prove to herself and her friends she was no coward. This is an impressive debut. These stories will stay with me a long time.
Nine short stories, divided into 3 sections: holes, cuts and bites. This is not a book for everyone. Juan creates these nightmarish scenarios with a deft touch. Every bodily fluid imaginable permeates these dark stories along with mental health issues and deep physical and mental pain. Each story is distinct yet there is an overarching theme of the abuse of power. My favorites were the central section 'Cuts': In a Hot Car, Chatty Chump and particularly Dirty Water about a young girl swimming in a broken glass lined canal towards some scary branches to prove to herself and her friends she was no coward. This is an impressive debut. These stories will stay with me a long time.
November 5, 2022
Read the Trigger Warnings. It’s so hard to describe this book… it’s definitely not going to be for everyone. The disturbing, extreme horrors are at times beautiful in execution. It’s ironic that I’ve watched movies equally as messed up as this but there’s just something that I find intimately more horrific with reading an extreme horror book. It’s like sharing a room with the worst things, not only imaginable but that the author’s brave enough to share as only a no holds barred taboo nightmare can conjure up and it makes me feel so vulnerable. The writing was amazing and I’d love to read something else (hopefully slightly less intense) from Juan Valencia.
December 3, 2022
What can I say about Poking Holes? It's brilliant, and that I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys twisted horror stories. Each one of the short stories is engaging, disturbing, and unique, which kept me wanting more. I still want more, much, much more from Juan in the future.
If I had to pick a favourite story, it would be Chatty Chump because it was the one that messed with my head the most. It disturbed me a lot, which is a good thing, because the theme should disturb anyone, and that is why it is so well written. I'd say more, but I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
The Goose is the first LGBTQ+ horror story I have read. I empathize with that feeling of deep loss of a loved one, and how much it tears away at you inside. It's always worthwhile connecting with other people's stories, even in horror, if that makes sense. I feel like this is why The Goose appealed to me so much.
I know that Chatty Chump and The Goose, as well as the other horrific stories in Poking Holes, are going to stay with me for a long time. Hopefully, you will enjoy reading Poking Holes as much as I have.
Finally, you should also check out Juan Valencia's YouTube channel Plagued by Visions, which explores the less savory corners of fiction. His most disturbing books videos are definitely worth a watch.
If I had to pick a favourite story, it would be Chatty Chump because it was the one that messed with my head the most. It disturbed me a lot, which is a good thing, because the theme should disturb anyone, and that is why it is so well written. I'd say more, but I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
The Goose is the first LGBTQ+ horror story I have read. I empathize with that feeling of deep loss of a loved one, and how much it tears away at you inside. It's always worthwhile connecting with other people's stories, even in horror, if that makes sense. I feel like this is why The Goose appealed to me so much.
I know that Chatty Chump and The Goose, as well as the other horrific stories in Poking Holes, are going to stay with me for a long time. Hopefully, you will enjoy reading Poking Holes as much as I have.
Finally, you should also check out Juan Valencia's YouTube channel Plagued by Visions, which explores the less savory corners of fiction. His most disturbing books videos are definitely worth a watch.
October 16, 2022
This collection is equal parts compelling and repulsive (purposely.) Which is a really interesting dichotomy. I'm not much of an extreme horror reader and I've only read a handful of what might be called transgressive fiction. So, I'll preface this by saying take my opinion with a grain of salt.
However, I can say the writing is smart and lyrical, even as it doesn't hold back on sheer human grossness. User is one of the worst things I've ever read, NOT in terms of quality, but subject matter. And even it has an entrancing underlying layer of subjective reality and mental decay that draws the reader in like a spiral.
In a Hot Car is transportive, tense, and claustrophobic. Dirty Water is another personal favorite, with atmospheric descriptions of a polluted canal and a witch tree. It's told with exactly the right amount of ambiguity. The Goose is as beautiful and moving as it is disturbing. The more I marinated on this story, the more impressed I was with it and the mythological parallels. Another excellent story is Growing Love, which features a creature and possession told in a very interesting way. I really enjoyed it.
This collection was outside my comfort zone, but I'm so glad I read it. The masterful balance of beauty and horror makes my brain itch. But, like, in a good way.
However, I can say the writing is smart and lyrical, even as it doesn't hold back on sheer human grossness. User is one of the worst things I've ever read, NOT in terms of quality, but subject matter. And even it has an entrancing underlying layer of subjective reality and mental decay that draws the reader in like a spiral.
In a Hot Car is transportive, tense, and claustrophobic. Dirty Water is another personal favorite, with atmospheric descriptions of a polluted canal and a witch tree. It's told with exactly the right amount of ambiguity. The Goose is as beautiful and moving as it is disturbing. The more I marinated on this story, the more impressed I was with it and the mythological parallels. Another excellent story is Growing Love, which features a creature and possession told in a very interesting way. I really enjoyed it.
This collection was outside my comfort zone, but I'm so glad I read it. The masterful balance of beauty and horror makes my brain itch. But, like, in a good way.
October 17, 2022
It is exciting to be able to read the first published book from an upcoming famous horror author. These short stories are pleasantly grotesque literary gems. The only example I can compare it to is Clive Barker's Books of Blood, which I enjoy rereading every Halloween season. Now I have a new halloween favorite!
October 14, 2022
I could have rated this 5 stars before even opening it.
I purchased the kindle version because I couldn't wait but I will most definitely be purchasing a signed copy directly from Juan as soon as they are available!
Would recommend to any one who enjoys well written literature and is a little sick in the head :)
I purchased the kindle version because I couldn't wait but I will most definitely be purchasing a signed copy directly from Juan as soon as they are available!
Would recommend to any one who enjoys well written literature and is a little sick in the head :)
November 12, 2022
Transgressive
I normally like horror stories. This book was too much.
Revolting on every page. I don't know why so many people like this book.
Skip it.
I normally like horror stories. This book was too much.
Revolting on every page. I don't know why so many people like this book.
Skip it.
November 28, 2022
I’m gonna do something a bit fun with this and do a ranked list. I promise i'm not bullying you for being a youtuber. This is just my first time reviewing a short story collection and I'm not sure how else to do it. Also minor spoilers but i spent like an hour writing this please someone read this. Get ready for the top 9 (I would do top 10 but there are only 9 of them) short stories in the book poking holes by Juan Valencia otherwise known as plagued by visions. Im such a dork I’m sorry (Julia was not sorry)
9. Empty Nesters: well one of them had to be at the bottom, this is mostly here because when I was scanning the table of contents this is the only one I couldn’t remember. The idea of a person committing horrible crimes and then proceeding to their mundane lives like nothing happened is genuinely chilling. The problem is that it feels like it should be longer to flesh out how this came to be. I understand that might undercut the point a little but as it feels just a tad directionless. The balance this is walking is super tight so it’s understandable to not get it perfect on your first try. Overall a genuinely interesting story that feels a bit undercooked
8. Poking Holes: there's nothing really wrong with this per say I just feel like the other stories in this collection explore its concept of pleasure and pain better. That description might make it sound like BDSM erotica but this is something more universal than that, something carnal and abusive that wiggles in the back of our minds like a parasite. I get why this is the title story.
7. In A Hot Car: I think this is a “it’s not you it’s me” thing. Yes, slowly scorching to death in a hot car is a university horrifying concept and it conveys the heat and claustrophobia disgustingly well. However it’s not imagery that really gets to me on a gut level because at no time where I live is it that hot for that long. If this was about somebody driving in the woods in the middle of february when it can get to as low as -40 F at night I promise you I would be shitting my pants. I should write that, actually. With that being said I must applaud Juan for the perspective shifts between the animals and Luis being clear because it can be very annoying when people do that wrong.
6. Growing Love: there's a mighty fine line between a symbiotic relationship and a parasitic one. How much are you willing to destroy your body and mind for pleasure? Probably more than you’d like to think. Especially if no one cares about you or you feel like they don’t. So why not let a gross bug kill you? You won't even remember when you're high. If this feels like an abstract plot summery its because I feel like this story explains itself
5. Dirty Water: this is one of the shorter ones so I won't go into much detail but I will say the reason I like this one so much is that it feels like one of those more narrative Backrooms articles.
4. Chatty Chump: A painful but ultimately sympathetic portrait of someone second guessing how to be a parent while their child suffers right under her noses. 2 people who refuse to face reality albeit for very different reasons. It slaps you in the face without feeling preachy, just human. I used to tell my dog my secrets because I assumed he wouldnt understand but now I'm not so sure. Real animals know more about what’s going on and how your feeling than you think, so why not a stuffed one?
3. The User: Firstly I’d like to say that this is feeding into an illness I have where whenever a story mentions the traditional religion/witchcraft of it’s area I’m compelled to do research about it. I was infected by Okami at a tender age and it hasn't gone away. Jokes aside, this is probably the grossest story. Main character is thoroughly unsympathetic but pathetic in a way where you want to keep watching. I say watch because there’s something a bit voyeuristic about all this I can't quite articulateThis is the story where the seesaw between humanity and animal this whole book is riding breaks.
2. The Goose: Oh god I might be the other kind of gay but this hits hard. We arent depraved because we’re gay we’re depraved because we’re human.
1. Hunger: This is the one your honor. Ok I’m biased because I love writing, drawing and reading about alien beings that are incomprehensible to the human mind, especially when they’re portrayed as neutral like the rest of us and not trying to kill everything for no reason. Perhaps this thing might even be the victim. Some poor saps punching bag they rail into (suggestive phrasing purposeful) in order to put on a straight face at work. Maybe they’re afraid of us. Can you honestly blame them?
9. Empty Nesters: well one of them had to be at the bottom, this is mostly here because when I was scanning the table of contents this is the only one I couldn’t remember. The idea of a person committing horrible crimes and then proceeding to their mundane lives like nothing happened is genuinely chilling. The problem is that it feels like it should be longer to flesh out how this came to be. I understand that might undercut the point a little but as it feels just a tad directionless. The balance this is walking is super tight so it’s understandable to not get it perfect on your first try. Overall a genuinely interesting story that feels a bit undercooked
8. Poking Holes: there's nothing really wrong with this per say I just feel like the other stories in this collection explore its concept of pleasure and pain better. That description might make it sound like BDSM erotica but this is something more universal than that, something carnal and abusive that wiggles in the back of our minds like a parasite. I get why this is the title story.
7. In A Hot Car: I think this is a “it’s not you it’s me” thing. Yes, slowly scorching to death in a hot car is a university horrifying concept and it conveys the heat and claustrophobia disgustingly well. However it’s not imagery that really gets to me on a gut level because at no time where I live is it that hot for that long. If this was about somebody driving in the woods in the middle of february when it can get to as low as -40 F at night I promise you I would be shitting my pants. I should write that, actually. With that being said I must applaud Juan for the perspective shifts between the animals and Luis being clear because it can be very annoying when people do that wrong.
6. Growing Love: there's a mighty fine line between a symbiotic relationship and a parasitic one. How much are you willing to destroy your body and mind for pleasure? Probably more than you’d like to think. Especially if no one cares about you or you feel like they don’t. So why not let a gross bug kill you? You won't even remember when you're high. If this feels like an abstract plot summery its because I feel like this story explains itself
5. Dirty Water: this is one of the shorter ones so I won't go into much detail but I will say the reason I like this one so much is that it feels like one of those more narrative Backrooms articles.
4. Chatty Chump: A painful but ultimately sympathetic portrait of someone second guessing how to be a parent while their child suffers right under her noses. 2 people who refuse to face reality albeit for very different reasons. It slaps you in the face without feeling preachy, just human. I used to tell my dog my secrets because I assumed he wouldnt understand but now I'm not so sure. Real animals know more about what’s going on and how your feeling than you think, so why not a stuffed one?
3. The User: Firstly I’d like to say that this is feeding into an illness I have where whenever a story mentions the traditional religion/witchcraft of it’s area I’m compelled to do research about it. I was infected by Okami at a tender age and it hasn't gone away. Jokes aside, this is probably the grossest story. Main character is thoroughly unsympathetic but pathetic in a way where you want to keep watching. I say watch because there’s something a bit voyeuristic about all this I can't quite articulateThis is the story where the seesaw between humanity and animal this whole book is riding breaks.
2. The Goose: Oh god I might be the other kind of gay but this hits hard. We arent depraved because we’re gay we’re depraved because we’re human.
1. Hunger: This is the one your honor. Ok I’m biased because I love writing, drawing and reading about alien beings that are incomprehensible to the human mind, especially when they’re portrayed as neutral like the rest of us and not trying to kill everything for no reason. Perhaps this thing might even be the victim. Some poor saps punching bag they rail into (suggestive phrasing purposeful) in order to put on a straight face at work. Maybe they’re afraid of us. Can you honestly blame them?
June 23, 2023
I’m usually not a huge short story fan but Juan’s Poking Holes was fantastic! So many times I found myself going wtf or whyyy and honestly isn’t that what you want when you read horror?
January 4, 2023
I loved this book because (full transparency) Juan is a dear friend of mine. With that said I can drop my bias opinion and tell you regardless of that factoid I’ll still rip it apart if it’s trash. This is anything but. Juan is a surgeon with his words and he can lure you in with his honey coated words then slam you in the face with the mutilated corpse of a battered and torn step mom. Or, he can show you what your grandparents have hidden in their basement with such grace and precision that you barely notice the horrors unfolding. I mean, you will notice. Obviously you will. However, it feels nice while you are in it. Smooth even. I can’t wait to see what he does next! Maybe a children’s book covering what happened to Sparky after he went to the vet? Just an idea I’m throwing out there for free
November 6, 2022
Not since The Journey by William "Willie" Wilson have I experienced such an astonishing foray into the prodigious depravity of human nature. Excellent work.
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