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Reboot: A Cosmic Horror
TURN IT OFF, THEN TURN IT ON AGAIN...
The sage advice IT Departments have been giving businesses since the dawn of the new technology.
Yet, it does work! If you follow this advice you may find you have something that can be used in a whole new way.
Carl Riggs is a typical IT engineer. Everything about his job annoys him, especially Gerard Medley, the CEO.
Medley is a VIP, a Very Insistent Pervert, and it’s Carl’s job to fix what he breaks. When Carl finds a strange icon hiding within the usual filth on the CEO’s laptop, against his better judgement, he clicks on it. Instantly, he is drawn down a rabbit hole, one of hideous horrors, strange perversions, and bizarre promises.
Something is coming, and Carl, aided by the unlikely ally of Gerard Medley, has been chosen to usher in the new regime.
His one job now is to turn them off and then turn them on again.
It’s what he’s best at.
A COSMIC HORROR is a disturbing tale of IT departments around the world. A dark and humorous horror from DE McCLUSKEY, author of The Twelve, Zola, CRACK and The Boyfriend.
The sage advice IT Departments have been giving businesses since the dawn of the new technology.
Yet, it does work! If you follow this advice you may find you have something that can be used in a whole new way.
Carl Riggs is a typical IT engineer. Everything about his job annoys him, especially Gerard Medley, the CEO.
Medley is a VIP, a Very Insistent Pervert, and it’s Carl’s job to fix what he breaks. When Carl finds a strange icon hiding within the usual filth on the CEO’s laptop, against his better judgement, he clicks on it. Instantly, he is drawn down a rabbit hole, one of hideous horrors, strange perversions, and bizarre promises.
Something is coming, and Carl, aided by the unlikely ally of Gerard Medley, has been chosen to usher in the new regime.
His one job now is to turn them off and then turn them on again.
It’s what he’s best at.
A COSMIC HORROR is a disturbing tale of IT departments around the world. A dark and humorous horror from DE McCLUSKEY, author of The Twelve, Zola, CRACK and The Boyfriend.
- GenresHorror
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2024
41 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
D.E. McCluskey
49 books459 followersI love horror, and I love Christmas. Some would say that the two are not mutually associated, I would tell you different.
I started writing at Christmas, back in the days of yore. I was reading The Night Before Christmas, by Clement Clarke Moore to my daughter who was too excited to sleep. But, I used my secret weapon, my boring voice she was soon catching the right amount of zzzzz's... As I tiptoed out of the room, giving Santa the space he needed to do his bit, I thought to myself, you know what? I could write something like that...
So I did...
The good Behaviour Act was written, the first story in Interesting Tymes, my very first publication.
I live in sunny Liverpool in the UK with my partner and daughters, I used to work in IT but don't anymore, and am the happier person for it. I love football, music and film... I also enjoy long walks, pretty flowers, and gratuitous violence and nudity...
I can be found mostly on Facebook @demccluskey_author
or on Twitter @dammagedpro @demccluskey1
my website is www.dammaged.com
I started writing at Christmas, back in the days of yore. I was reading The Night Before Christmas, by Clement Clarke Moore to my daughter who was too excited to sleep. But, I used my secret weapon, my boring voice she was soon catching the right amount of zzzzz's... As I tiptoed out of the room, giving Santa the space he needed to do his bit, I thought to myself, you know what? I could write something like that...
So I did...
The good Behaviour Act was written, the first story in Interesting Tymes, my very first publication.
I live in sunny Liverpool in the UK with my partner and daughters, I used to work in IT but don't anymore, and am the happier person for it. I love football, music and film... I also enjoy long walks, pretty flowers, and gratuitous violence and nudity...
I can be found mostly on Facebook @demccluskey_author
or on Twitter @dammagedpro @demccluskey1
my website is www.dammaged.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 10, 2025
I did not like this lol
I kept hoping it'd get better but it actually just got worse. The ending was ok though. I didn't realize this would be so sexual and sexual/horny horror just isn't my vibe apparently as this just sickened me. It was so over the top and ridiculous.
I love cosmic horror but not when done like this. It reminded me of all the worst, most try-hard parts of John Dies at the End (which, even though it's not a favorite, I recommend over this for similar vibes done better. If you want better than John Dies at the End then I recommend Tales from the Gas Station - comedic cosmic horror that doesn't come off as try-hard edge lord humor).
But it was decently written. Two stars. If you're into these vibes but this didn't click for you like it didn't click for me, I definitely recommend Tales From the Gas Station.
I kept hoping it'd get better but it actually just got worse. The ending was ok though. I didn't realize this would be so sexual and sexual/horny horror just isn't my vibe apparently as this just sickened me. It was so over the top and ridiculous.
I love cosmic horror but not when done like this. It reminded me of all the worst, most try-hard parts of John Dies at the End (which, even though it's not a favorite, I recommend over this for similar vibes done better. If you want better than John Dies at the End then I recommend Tales from the Gas Station - comedic cosmic horror that doesn't come off as try-hard edge lord humor).
But it was decently written. Two stars. If you're into these vibes but this didn't click for you like it didn't click for me, I definitely recommend Tales From the Gas Station.
May 31, 2024
McCluskey brings you the perfect mix of horror and humour in this tale of office networking with a Lovecraftian twist. Think The IT Crowd, but bloodier, funnier, and….smellier! It's a creepy, chilling and darkly funny read that you really won’t want to put down.
A fun mindfuck if you will.
With a great concept that comes to life cleverly and amusingly and with an unsettling dreamlike quality to it that will leave you with chills, you immediately become immersed and sucked down into the murky depths along with the smells and visions too. With every percentage gained, the anticipation and excitement are racked up alongside it.
An extremely attention grabbing and intriguing prologue sets this story up very nicely as we see Carl serving his Master, along with all that, that ent(r)ails.
Carl works in IT, and he HATES it!! He is having a particularly bad Monday morning when Gerard, the CEO of the company, a rather corrupt and perverted CEO at that, requests his help to get rid of something. It's the last thing Carl wants to do, and it's not the first time, reluctantly he proceeds to do as he is asked with his Boss’ laptop and when a strange pop-up keeps, well, popping up, he feels compelled to click on it, despite knowing that wouldnt produce anything good, and that's just the beginning of the strange goings on that will haunt him, and change him.
A weird phrase starts to follow him wherever he goes. He sees it, hears it and comes to dread it, along with the sensory hallucinations it brings. After catching his wife in a compromising situation, Carl discovers some interesting files on the laptop he brought home with him, files unveiling someone called HP, and The Master. With links to the dark web and something far worse…. the Old Ones, wanting to return and to dominate once again!
Before delving further into the laptops contents, Carl needs to deal with his own nightmares, which is precisely when things start to take a horrifically sinister turn. Carl has inadvertently gained a very important role now, more important than anyone could ever dare to imagine, he is there to serve The Master and to be chief ‘juice extractor’.
Together Carl and Gerard, an unlikely pairing, set out to help assist the reemergence of The Master, putting in place everything that is needed, whatever the cost. Gerard is a man used to getting his own way, whatever he wants, whenever he wants, and as utterly sick and depraved as he wants. The hilarity and horror that ensues is grossly captivating and highly entertaining, it'll get your tentacles in a glorious twist! I loved the cheeky little nod to D.E.’s Crack too 😉
TURN THEM OFF, THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN! (PREFERABLY WITHIN THE HOUR….!) 🖤💚🖤
A fun mindfuck if you will.
With a great concept that comes to life cleverly and amusingly and with an unsettling dreamlike quality to it that will leave you with chills, you immediately become immersed and sucked down into the murky depths along with the smells and visions too. With every percentage gained, the anticipation and excitement are racked up alongside it.
An extremely attention grabbing and intriguing prologue sets this story up very nicely as we see Carl serving his Master, along with all that, that ent(r)ails.
Carl works in IT, and he HATES it!! He is having a particularly bad Monday morning when Gerard, the CEO of the company, a rather corrupt and perverted CEO at that, requests his help to get rid of something. It's the last thing Carl wants to do, and it's not the first time, reluctantly he proceeds to do as he is asked with his Boss’ laptop and when a strange pop-up keeps, well, popping up, he feels compelled to click on it, despite knowing that wouldnt produce anything good, and that's just the beginning of the strange goings on that will haunt him, and change him.
A weird phrase starts to follow him wherever he goes. He sees it, hears it and comes to dread it, along with the sensory hallucinations it brings. After catching his wife in a compromising situation, Carl discovers some interesting files on the laptop he brought home with him, files unveiling someone called HP, and The Master. With links to the dark web and something far worse…. the Old Ones, wanting to return and to dominate once again!
Before delving further into the laptops contents, Carl needs to deal with his own nightmares, which is precisely when things start to take a horrifically sinister turn. Carl has inadvertently gained a very important role now, more important than anyone could ever dare to imagine, he is there to serve The Master and to be chief ‘juice extractor’.
Together Carl and Gerard, an unlikely pairing, set out to help assist the reemergence of The Master, putting in place everything that is needed, whatever the cost. Gerard is a man used to getting his own way, whatever he wants, whenever he wants, and as utterly sick and depraved as he wants. The hilarity and horror that ensues is grossly captivating and highly entertaining, it'll get your tentacles in a glorious twist! I loved the cheeky little nod to D.E.’s Crack too 😉
TURN THEM OFF, THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN! (PREFERABLY WITHIN THE HOUR….!) 🖤💚🖤
May 15, 2024
I want to start by saying this... If you aren't a cosmic horror fan then this book will most likely change your mind!
DE McCluskey has a writing style that regularly has me in a chokehold for what will happen next. His stories are absolute page-turners that have you feeling all the crazy "WTF is going on" feels. This was compelling from start to finish and had all of the hype that horror fans crave. Great plot, solid characters and plenty of blood and gore.
DE McCluskey has a writing style that regularly has me in a chokehold for what will happen next. His stories are absolute page-turners that have you feeling all the crazy "WTF is going on" feels. This was compelling from start to finish and had all of the hype that horror fans crave. Great plot, solid characters and plenty of blood and gore.
June 9, 2024
TURN THEM OFF
THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN.
I am not much of a fan of cosmic horror. However, I quite enjoyed this. The cosmic wasn't overly cosmic, IMO. Elements were definitely there, but they were woven so perfectly with the gore and crass humor that it just worked for me.
Carl, he might as well have been my spirit character. I work as a CSR, so while not IT... I get the irritation that comes with the mundane and repetition...day in and day out. I feel ya... I don't think I'll start offing people, but I get you! Haha.
Overall, another great addition to McCluskeys collection, once again just proving why he is an insta-read author for me. He has shown so much talent over an array of different genres. Definitely recommend checking this one out.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN.
I am not much of a fan of cosmic horror. However, I quite enjoyed this. The cosmic wasn't overly cosmic, IMO. Elements were definitely there, but they were woven so perfectly with the gore and crass humor that it just worked for me.
Carl, he might as well have been my spirit character. I work as a CSR, so while not IT... I get the irritation that comes with the mundane and repetition...day in and day out. I feel ya... I don't think I'll start offing people, but I get you! Haha.
Overall, another great addition to McCluskeys collection, once again just proving why he is an insta-read author for me. He has shown so much talent over an array of different genres. Definitely recommend checking this one out.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2025
The IT cure-all turned into a cosmic horror
“he allowed himself a moment of reflection, panting and throbbing but ultimately feeling good about himself, despite him only having one eye, a cracked skull, and no pen!s.”
Disturbing, creepy, disgusting, and horrific -these are a few of my favorite things, and when you toss in some humorous one liners, you have me hooked.
I loved this, take the classic IT cure-all and turn it into a cosmic horror story. That’s right, turn it off, then turn it back on again but with a whole new meaning.
I think we all know how mundane office life can be, and Carl is living this hel! everyday. Maybe mundane isn’t so bad compared to what he finds on his bosses computer.
I’m not going to say any more than that except that the ending was perfect. I was freaking cheering
“he allowed himself a moment of reflection, panting and throbbing but ultimately feeling good about himself, despite him only having one eye, a cracked skull, and no pen!s.”
Disturbing, creepy, disgusting, and horrific -these are a few of my favorite things, and when you toss in some humorous one liners, you have me hooked.
I loved this, take the classic IT cure-all and turn it into a cosmic horror story. That’s right, turn it off, then turn it back on again but with a whole new meaning.
I think we all know how mundane office life can be, and Carl is living this hel! everyday. Maybe mundane isn’t so bad compared to what he finds on his bosses computer.
I’m not going to say any more than that except that the ending was perfect. I was freaking cheering
April 1, 2025
I've never heard of cosmic horror until i saw this book. I'm glad I picked it up, though it's a funny yet gorey little read!
January 6, 2025
DE has triggered me.
As if that didn’t already haunt my poor, part-time IT brain enough to cause me to run screaming before reading this… well, at least now I know what to do the next time I get one of those calls!
This cosmic-help-desk-hell of a novel had me laughing and gagging in equal measure. Was this meant to be a 21st century cosmic annihilation how-to manual, cause I’m thinkin’ it just might work…?
My thanks to the author, D.E. McCluskey, for the complimentary copy. I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
“Turn them off. Turn them back on again.”
As if that didn’t already haunt my poor, part-time IT brain enough to cause me to run screaming before reading this… well, at least now I know what to do the next time I get one of those calls!
This cosmic-help-desk-hell of a novel had me laughing and gagging in equal measure. Was this meant to be a 21st century cosmic annihilation how-to manual, cause I’m thinkin’ it just might work…?
My thanks to the author, D.E. McCluskey, for the complimentary copy. I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2024
This one wasn’t for me. I felt the beginning was very slow and repetitive, with a lot of IT jargon and work descriptions dragging the momentum of the plot. It also dried up the horror aspects for me.
Carl, as a character, drove me nuts with his attitude and “humour” (aka sexual harassment of female colleagues). He thought he was so much better than everyone around him and that made him an unbearable narrator.
Carl, as a character, drove me nuts with his attitude and “humour” (aka sexual harassment of female colleagues). He thought he was so much better than everyone around him and that made him an unbearable narrator.
May 15, 2024
Just finished this masterpiece! First time I’ve read a cosmic horror, and it won’t be my last! DE McCluskey sure has a way with his words and knows how to hold you till the last page.
Was a creepy, fun read! Highly recommend you read this book. Well done McCluskey! Happy I can enjoy another subgenre of horror.
Was a creepy, fun read! Highly recommend you read this book. Well done McCluskey! Happy I can enjoy another subgenre of horror.
March 8, 2025
Reboot is about the IT department. We all know their most common - turn it off, then back on again. What if, that simple advice turns out to be more harmful than helpful, in the long run?
I thought everything about this book was amazing. The mental and emotional rollercoaster it took me on was a wild ride. The characters were developed well and the transition between the POV of each character was smooth.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a cosmic horror story. Ive only read a few cosmic horror, as im not really interested in this subgenre, but i am so glad I gave this one a go.
Or
If you are just looking for a good read with a wild ride, this is for you.
DE McCluskey never disappoints me with his stories.
I thought everything about this book was amazing. The mental and emotional rollercoaster it took me on was a wild ride. The characters were developed well and the transition between the POV of each character was smooth.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a cosmic horror story. Ive only read a few cosmic horror, as im not really interested in this subgenre, but i am so glad I gave this one a go.
Or
If you are just looking for a good read with a wild ride, this is for you.
DE McCluskey never disappoints me with his stories.
April 28, 2024
To start, I’m typically not a cosmic horror person, or maybe I just haven’t read a ton of them, but holy moly, I binge read this so QUICK. The plot and DE’s ability to tell a story is unmatched with this one. 🤓
I feel like DE’s writing style is one that always leaves you on edge, making you HAVE to turn to the next page, because there’s such crazy buildups that continue from beginning to end in his stories. Such is true with this tale of an IT department issue gone rogue. 👹
This book is quite trippy and has you saying WTF quite a bit, there’s an overall creepy feeling about the whole thing; all while providing a solid plot and equally solid characters to go along with it. ✔️
For the Zola fans, don’t you worry, there’s some good ole gag worthy parts with humor sprinkled in. 😝 For The Boyfriend fans, it’s definitely horrifying, 😦 and for the fans of CRACK, it’s equally as thrilling. 😎
I feel like DE’s writing style is one that always leaves you on edge, making you HAVE to turn to the next page, because there’s such crazy buildups that continue from beginning to end in his stories. Such is true with this tale of an IT department issue gone rogue. 👹
This book is quite trippy and has you saying WTF quite a bit, there’s an overall creepy feeling about the whole thing; all while providing a solid plot and equally solid characters to go along with it. ✔️
For the Zola fans, don’t you worry, there’s some good ole gag worthy parts with humor sprinkled in. 😝 For The Boyfriend fans, it’s definitely horrifying, 😦 and for the fans of CRACK, it’s equally as thrilling. 😎
August 3, 2025
3.5⭐️/5
Dear IT, from this day forward, I promise to always 'turn them off and then turn them back on again' before calling.
Ps. That was alot of eye-gouging 👀.
Dear IT, from this day forward, I promise to always 'turn them off and then turn them back on again' before calling.
Ps. That was alot of eye-gouging 👀.
June 20, 2024
A delicious cosmic horror for the digital age!
Carl hates his job in IT. Wiping the vile downloads from Gerard’s laptop - his perverted CEO - is a recurring task that sickens him. But what depths of depravity has Gerard entered into this time? And can Carl resist the call? Or will he TURN THEM OFF THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN?
Set in the ordinary and mundane surroundings of a nondescript office block, this modern day Lovecraftian tale assumes a horrific reality. The visuals ooze from every orifice; the interludes of trademark McCluskey dark wit providing welcome relief!
I seldom venture into the cosmic horror sub-genre, but I’m so glad I did. If this is what contemporary cosmic looks like, I need much more of it in my life!
Book releases on 20 Jun.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
Carl hates his job in IT. Wiping the vile downloads from Gerard’s laptop - his perverted CEO - is a recurring task that sickens him. But what depths of depravity has Gerard entered into this time? And can Carl resist the call? Or will he TURN THEM OFF THEN TURN THEM ON AGAIN?
Set in the ordinary and mundane surroundings of a nondescript office block, this modern day Lovecraftian tale assumes a horrific reality. The visuals ooze from every orifice; the interludes of trademark McCluskey dark wit providing welcome relief!
I seldom venture into the cosmic horror sub-genre, but I’m so glad I did. If this is what contemporary cosmic looks like, I need much more of it in my life!
Book releases on 20 Jun.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
April 7, 2024
I have a love hate relationship with lovecraft but if more were written like this I would enjoy the genre more.
I really enjoyed the depth of characters given but also those that didn't have a lot of depth were instantly recognisable from life.
I enjoyed reading about the character of Carl and I know that feeling all too well of hating your job and all the annoyances that other people give you.
Reading Tasha's downward spiral into madness and all her anxieties was unfortunately quite hard hitting. The way that the guys in her office don't see her as a woman because she's not that kind of woman and hire Jodi who is useless at her job but is just a bit of eye candy also hit hard. The kind of workplace where it doesn't matter how qualified or how hard you work, If you don't look pretty then you don't get the better jobs. I'm glad this sort of injustice was included in this book because it bought a lot of reality of the workplace into the novel. I didn't expect a cosmic horror to show a lot of injustice of an unfair workplace from the way people treat others because they didn't get an email or the internet speed not being fast enough but for some reason that is reason enough to shout and be angry at the the only person who can help you.
Gerald was so entitled and I'm glad he got the end he deserved. I definitely worked with someone like Gerald in the past. A justified and immensely satisfying ending
I really enjoyed the depth of characters given but also those that didn't have a lot of depth were instantly recognisable from life.
I enjoyed reading about the character of Carl and I know that feeling all too well of hating your job and all the annoyances that other people give you.
Reading Tasha's downward spiral into madness and all her anxieties was unfortunately quite hard hitting. The way that the guys in her office don't see her as a woman because she's not that kind of woman and hire Jodi who is useless at her job but is just a bit of eye candy also hit hard. The kind of workplace where it doesn't matter how qualified or how hard you work, If you don't look pretty then you don't get the better jobs. I'm glad this sort of injustice was included in this book because it bought a lot of reality of the workplace into the novel. I didn't expect a cosmic horror to show a lot of injustice of an unfair workplace from the way people treat others because they didn't get an email or the internet speed not being fast enough but for some reason that is reason enough to shout and be angry at the the only person who can help you.
Gerald was so entitled and I'm glad he got the end he deserved. I definitely worked with someone like Gerald in the past. A justified and immensely satisfying ending
May 30, 2024
As a horror devotee, I have a ton of respect for Lovecraft, I enjoy his work, and I acknowledge and appreciate the lasting impact that the Cthulhu Mythos has had, but Lovecraftian horror is not something that I will actively seek out. I guess that’s just a matter of preference.
I was fortunate enough to be provided with an ARC of this particular novel from the author. I’m a fan of the author’s other work and I was excited to read this; however I wasn’t expecting to love it. Thankfully, I was wrong. The story itself was gripping. As a fan of the extreme horror and splatterpunk genres, I find that the stories are sometimes lacking, but in this case, I felt I got the best of both worlds. I got into the story and couldn’t wait to see how it all played out, but I was pleasantly surprised by the graphic elements and the often grotesque imagery. It wasn’t excessive, at least in my opinion, and it wasn’t there solely for the shock or “ick” factor - it was integral for character development, as well as the story as a whole. The ending was unexpected, and I pieced it together as the author designed. It wouldn’t be a DE McCluskey novel without some brilliantly placed humor.
Lovecraftian horror fan? Looking for a fresh take on some classic horror? Hell, looking for something different and worth the time? Well then, I recommend you pick this up and give it a go!
I was fortunate enough to be provided with an ARC of this particular novel from the author. I’m a fan of the author’s other work and I was excited to read this; however I wasn’t expecting to love it. Thankfully, I was wrong. The story itself was gripping. As a fan of the extreme horror and splatterpunk genres, I find that the stories are sometimes lacking, but in this case, I felt I got the best of both worlds. I got into the story and couldn’t wait to see how it all played out, but I was pleasantly surprised by the graphic elements and the often grotesque imagery. It wasn’t excessive, at least in my opinion, and it wasn’t there solely for the shock or “ick” factor - it was integral for character development, as well as the story as a whole. The ending was unexpected, and I pieced it together as the author designed. It wouldn’t be a DE McCluskey novel without some brilliantly placed humor.
Lovecraftian horror fan? Looking for a fresh take on some classic horror? Hell, looking for something different and worth the time? Well then, I recommend you pick this up and give it a go!
October 13, 2024
From the opening paragraph I know I’m in safe hands. The setting, the writing style, the very British humour. Ticks all the boxes. Couple that with the WTF? opening and the ‘three days earlier trope’ which I love. This had all the markings of a very entertaining novel.
I was not disappointed.
Honestly, it feels like it was written at the gallop and I wanted to read it at that pace. You can sense how much the author enjoyed writing this ( a note at the end of the book reveals it was indeed quite a cathartic experience)
There’s a mantra that flows through nearly ever page. It’ll get in your head just as much as the main characters. It feels like you’re descending into Madness along side them. Visions of Cosmic horrors and old Gods abound, becoming ever more horrific as the story unfolds. The book certainly doesn’t hold back on the gore. Descriptions of mutilation and self-mutilation are plentiful but are usually accompanied with some dead pan humour to… erm… soften the blow.
It’s a modern take on Eldritch Horror that’s just dripping in Innsmouth. I was, very entertained
I read this on my Kindle but I’ll buy a physical copy just for the (perfect) cover.
I was not disappointed.
Honestly, it feels like it was written at the gallop and I wanted to read it at that pace. You can sense how much the author enjoyed writing this ( a note at the end of the book reveals it was indeed quite a cathartic experience)
There’s a mantra that flows through nearly ever page. It’ll get in your head just as much as the main characters. It feels like you’re descending into Madness along side them. Visions of Cosmic horrors and old Gods abound, becoming ever more horrific as the story unfolds. The book certainly doesn’t hold back on the gore. Descriptions of mutilation and self-mutilation are plentiful but are usually accompanied with some dead pan humour to… erm… soften the blow.
It’s a modern take on Eldritch Horror that’s just dripping in Innsmouth. I was, very entertained
I read this on my Kindle but I’ll buy a physical copy just for the (perfect) cover.
July 23, 2024
So, I work IT, and have the majority of my adult life, I also work with Alot of guys with the same personality as Carl, I can relate, some days, everything in this job irritates the absolute fuck out of me lol
I love this, I actually broke my rule and stayed up way too late reading and finishing this, during my work week??
So yeah I'm tired but this was worth it, this is how I prefer my cosmic horror, little crazy, little funny, and Alot fucked up.
I wasn't sure what to expect, considering my only other read has been The Boyfriend, which was a different type of thriller horror all together!
I also feel called out by have you tried turning it off and back on again ? I swear it works 90% of the time lol
DE hasn't dissapointed.
4/5 Stars
Reboot : A Cosmic Horror.
I love this, I actually broke my rule and stayed up way too late reading and finishing this, during my work week??
So yeah I'm tired but this was worth it, this is how I prefer my cosmic horror, little crazy, little funny, and Alot fucked up.
I wasn't sure what to expect, considering my only other read has been The Boyfriend, which was a different type of thriller horror all together!
I also feel called out by have you tried turning it off and back on again ? I swear it works 90% of the time lol
DE hasn't dissapointed.
4/5 Stars
Reboot : A Cosmic Horror.
July 13, 2024
Turns out Cosmic Horror is not my cup of tea, and that's okay.
The book is well written, as I've come to expect from the extremely talented Dave McCluskey. Is there a genre the guy doesn't write? (I hope not.)
I still definitely recommend this book, especially if you're in IT or some other job with repetitive daily tasks and somewhat irritating coworkers. Ha! The storyline is interesting and original. Go on, get reading.
The book is well written, as I've come to expect from the extremely talented Dave McCluskey. Is there a genre the guy doesn't write? (I hope not.)
I still definitely recommend this book, especially if you're in IT or some other job with repetitive daily tasks and somewhat irritating coworkers. Ha! The storyline is interesting and original. Go on, get reading.
July 13, 2024
Really loved this story on so many levels! Cosmic horror is one of my favorite sub-genres and this book was a lot of fun!
The story was quite original. The plot moved along at a good pace. There were characters I really felt for and those I really despised, but all were nicely fleshed out and reminded me people I know!
Good and gory! This one may get you queasy!
Turn them off, then turn them on again!
The story was quite original. The plot moved along at a good pace. There were characters I really felt for and those I really despised, but all were nicely fleshed out and reminded me people I know!
Good and gory! This one may get you queasy!
Turn them off, then turn them on again!
September 30, 2024
Sorry a DNF. For me. Couldn’t get on with it. Like it was on repeat.
August 4, 2025
Book 20 of the indie brawl
This book is about Carl, a man who works in IT who is sucked into a cosmic nightmare when he discovers something more sinister than usual on his boss's laptop.
The real horror of this book is working in IT. This book did a great job at creating an office dynamic that felt pretty realistic (I don't work in that environment so I don't actually know, but I believed it!). I thought the premise of this book was pretty good and I felt that it started out pretty strong. There was a lot here that felt fairly unique to me.
Gerard pretty much ruined this book for me. His character is so over the top that it was just unbelievable. It all started out with his journal entries. There probably are freaks like this out there in the world but the journal entries were just too much. I would like to think that most disgusting sick MFs would either be aware that their feelings/actions are incredibly taboo and keep those a secret, or simply not see anything wrong with what they're doing. Gerard knows everything he does is wrong but seems proud of it. Someone like that would probably get caught and be in jail immediately. His character didn't have to be that gross for this plot to work. I don't like when things feel like they're written only for shock value.
Actually, Carl's character is what really ruined this book, mostly in the later half. Carl starts off as a pretty normal guy. He has flaws, hates his job, but also seems to generally make the most of things. He falls into the horror quite by accident, on his part. I enjoyed reading about how he starts slipping mentally. He was a normal IT guy and didn't ask for any of the shit that happens to him.
I am a broken record in my horror reviews when I say that I'm annoyed that injuries aren't treated very realistically.
In the end, I didn't care about any of the characters. Everyone sucked. I didn't care how it ended or who won because there wasn't really any good guys. Maybe you could argue that Tasha was, but we didn't get enough time to get to know her to care that much.
I think the cosmic horror suffered from being over-explained.
This book is about Carl, a man who works in IT who is sucked into a cosmic nightmare when he discovers something more sinister than usual on his boss's laptop.
The real horror of this book is working in IT. This book did a great job at creating an office dynamic that felt pretty realistic (I don't work in that environment so I don't actually know, but I believed it!). I thought the premise of this book was pretty good and I felt that it started out pretty strong. There was a lot here that felt fairly unique to me.
Gerard pretty much ruined this book for me. His character is so over the top that it was just unbelievable. It all started out with his journal entries. There probably are freaks like this out there in the world but the journal entries were just too much. I would like to think that most disgusting sick MFs would either be aware that their feelings/actions are incredibly taboo and keep those a secret, or simply not see anything wrong with what they're doing. Gerard knows everything he does is wrong but seems proud of it. Someone like that would probably get caught and be in jail immediately. His character didn't have to be that gross for this plot to work. I don't like when things feel like they're written only for shock value.
Actually, Carl's character is what really ruined this book, mostly in the later half. Carl starts off as a pretty normal guy. He has flaws, hates his job, but also seems to generally make the most of things. He falls into the horror quite by accident, on his part. I enjoyed reading about how he starts slipping mentally. He was a normal IT guy and didn't ask for any of the shit that happens to him.
I am a broken record in my horror reviews when I say that I'm annoyed that injuries aren't treated very realistically.
In the end, I didn't care about any of the characters. Everyone sucked. I didn't care how it ended or who won because there wasn't really any good guys. Maybe you could argue that Tasha was, but we didn't get enough time to get to know her to care that much.
I think the cosmic horror suffered from being over-explained.
June 11, 2024
I struggled to get into this one a little. I did end up reading it fairly quickly, but I just couldn't throw myself into it as much as I wanted to.
I didn't like these characters. Carl was a grade A jerk who, despite saying that he's a people person and could get along with anyone, is emphatically not. His attitude toward his job and his behaviour at work (not taking into account the horror elements) would've gotten him at least written up if not actively fired. He just really grated on my nerves and really had no business working with the public.
I don't think the humour in this was for me either, truth be told. The somewhat frequent references to sexual harassment in the workplace and jokes of that nature didn't work for me. Being the recipient of those types of crude jokes and being in horrible situations at work is not a pleasant experience at all, and jokes about it will never be funny to me.
That being said, I enjoyed the plot itself despite the logistics of it giving me a slight headache. It was a really creative take on cosmic horror and the inside jokes in the IT field! I thought the ending itself was especially poetic, and someone definitely got exactly what they deserved.
While this one might not have been my favourite of McCluskey's works, it was still a unique and interesting story! Just remember....turn it off, then turn it back on. It'll solve most any problem!
I didn't like these characters. Carl was a grade A jerk who, despite saying that he's a people person and could get along with anyone, is emphatically not. His attitude toward his job and his behaviour at work (not taking into account the horror elements) would've gotten him at least written up if not actively fired. He just really grated on my nerves and really had no business working with the public.
I don't think the humour in this was for me either, truth be told. The somewhat frequent references to sexual harassment in the workplace and jokes of that nature didn't work for me. Being the recipient of those types of crude jokes and being in horrible situations at work is not a pleasant experience at all, and jokes about it will never be funny to me.
That being said, I enjoyed the plot itself despite the logistics of it giving me a slight headache. It was a really creative take on cosmic horror and the inside jokes in the IT field! I thought the ending itself was especially poetic, and someone definitely got exactly what they deserved.
While this one might not have been my favourite of McCluskey's works, it was still a unique and interesting story! Just remember....turn it off, then turn it back on. It'll solve most any problem!
November 3, 2025
💻🩸 Reboot by DE McCluskey 🩸💻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carl Riggs is a typical IT engineer. Everything about his job annoys him, especially Gerard Medley, the CEO. Medley is a VIP, a Very Insistent Pervert, and it’s Carl’s job to fix what he breaks. When Carl finds a strange icon hiding within the usual filth on the CEO’s laptop, against his better judgement, he clicks on it. Instantly, he is drawn down a rabbit hole, one of hideous horrors, strange perversions, and bizarre promises.
Something is coming, and Carl, aided by the unlikely ally of Gerard Medley, has been chosen to usher in the new regime. His one job now is to turn them off and then turn them on again. It’s what he’s best at.
Cosmic horror isn't normally my thing, but THIS book WAS my thing. The array of characters is awesome, and in a way where we all know people who are like them (in a good and bad way). The action is fast-paced, and the book really grabs you by the scruff of the neck and takes you on a wild ride. I also enjoyed McCluskey's writing style here, along with the humour which is sprinkled alongside the blood. Oh, and there's plenty of blood here.
So, if you're on the fence with this one, give it a try. I recommend it and will read more McCluskey in the future.
Just remember:
TURN THEM OFF
AND TURN THEM ON AGAIN
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carl Riggs is a typical IT engineer. Everything about his job annoys him, especially Gerard Medley, the CEO. Medley is a VIP, a Very Insistent Pervert, and it’s Carl’s job to fix what he breaks. When Carl finds a strange icon hiding within the usual filth on the CEO’s laptop, against his better judgement, he clicks on it. Instantly, he is drawn down a rabbit hole, one of hideous horrors, strange perversions, and bizarre promises.
Something is coming, and Carl, aided by the unlikely ally of Gerard Medley, has been chosen to usher in the new regime. His one job now is to turn them off and then turn them on again. It’s what he’s best at.
Cosmic horror isn't normally my thing, but THIS book WAS my thing. The array of characters is awesome, and in a way where we all know people who are like them (in a good and bad way). The action is fast-paced, and the book really grabs you by the scruff of the neck and takes you on a wild ride. I also enjoyed McCluskey's writing style here, along with the humour which is sprinkled alongside the blood. Oh, and there's plenty of blood here.
So, if you're on the fence with this one, give it a try. I recommend it and will read more McCluskey in the future.
Just remember:
TURN THEM OFF
AND TURN THEM ON AGAIN
July 26, 2024
Reboot- a Cosmic Horror by DE McClusky.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars 🤩
This is an epic lovecraftian story! A visual readers feast as we dive into chaotic adventure where through destruction and technology will bring forth a powerful force that will change the world…
Carl works in the IT department at a big company. He is good at his job even though he gets bored and frustrated sometimes. Carls boss ,Gerard is a dirty old bugger and part of carls job is deleting filth and corrupt files from Gerard’s laptop, which he does without question. While cleaning up the files he comes across an application that he has never seen before and then is manipulated into opening it…… once open it can’t be closed or forgotten, because it is not only in the computer system but in his head. He accidentally invited The Master into his world and he is an old God wanting to break through a barrier and take over the whole world. But of course those who serve the Master will be rewarded…….
I absolutely loved this story and the ending was mind blowing 🤯 there could be more……….
5 skull f@cked corpses out of 5 from me ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars 🤩
This is an epic lovecraftian story! A visual readers feast as we dive into chaotic adventure where through destruction and technology will bring forth a powerful force that will change the world…
Carl works in the IT department at a big company. He is good at his job even though he gets bored and frustrated sometimes. Carls boss ,Gerard is a dirty old bugger and part of carls job is deleting filth and corrupt files from Gerard’s laptop, which he does without question. While cleaning up the files he comes across an application that he has never seen before and then is manipulated into opening it…… once open it can’t be closed or forgotten, because it is not only in the computer system but in his head. He accidentally invited The Master into his world and he is an old God wanting to break through a barrier and take over the whole world. But of course those who serve the Master will be rewarded…….
I absolutely loved this story and the ending was mind blowing 🤯 there could be more……….
5 skull f@cked corpses out of 5 from me ❤️
September 11, 2025
Reboot by DE Mclusky
4/5
A darkly comic cosmic farce.
I enjoyed Mclusky's writing and his narrator voice was great, but I did feel like Reboot was different to what I imagined it would be.
I'm afraid of ever reading Zola, and after seeing how well Mclusky manages to write sickening details with such ease, I know I'm right to avoid it.
There's more than a smattering of The Hellbound Heart in Reboot. The same dispicable people getting their rocks off in the name of something unholy.
The main thing that made it hard for me to stay invested at times was that the characters in Reboot didn't really draw me in. They were funny, but I never really felt afraid for them.
There was a point where he almost started to lose me and I thought this was a 3 star book. But by christ did he turn it up in the third act.
The ending was so strong that I had to give it the extra star, even if the story wasn't the kind of thing I usually go for. I'm smart enough to know that fans of this particular sub genre of horror will certainly get a kick out of it.
This was my first book by Mclusky, and it won't be my last. I don't know which one I'll read next, but it won't be Zola.
4/5
A darkly comic cosmic farce.
I enjoyed Mclusky's writing and his narrator voice was great, but I did feel like Reboot was different to what I imagined it would be.
I'm afraid of ever reading Zola, and after seeing how well Mclusky manages to write sickening details with such ease, I know I'm right to avoid it.
There's more than a smattering of The Hellbound Heart in Reboot. The same dispicable people getting their rocks off in the name of something unholy.
The main thing that made it hard for me to stay invested at times was that the characters in Reboot didn't really draw me in. They were funny, but I never really felt afraid for them.
There was a point where he almost started to lose me and I thought this was a 3 star book. But by christ did he turn it up in the third act.
The ending was so strong that I had to give it the extra star, even if the story wasn't the kind of thing I usually go for. I'm smart enough to know that fans of this particular sub genre of horror will certainly get a kick out of it.
This was my first book by Mclusky, and it won't be my last. I don't know which one I'll read next, but it won't be Zola.
September 2, 2024
Wow, this book took some very strange and unique turns - I loved it!
I was given this ebook as an ARC, and with one thing and another was a bit delayed in reading it.... But I got there in the end! Hope you've forgiven me Dave lol...
So, this book is a strange mix of Sci fi, splatterpunk, and a power trip similar to American Psycho! Granted, McClusky has the perfect amount of balance between all the subgenres to keep all fans appeased.
It is strange actually how I found the character development in this story, as it made me root for different main characters throughout the book, and actually at one point I actually thought I had no idea who I was rooting for anymore, and to just enjoy the ride!
This is the first book (but by no means will be the last) I've read of DE McCluskey and now can see for myself why so many people rave about his writing style and completley random (but equally effective) storylines.
Pick up your copy of this and any of his other titles on Kindle Unlimited, or in his online store :)
I was given this ebook as an ARC, and with one thing and another was a bit delayed in reading it.... But I got there in the end! Hope you've forgiven me Dave lol...
So, this book is a strange mix of Sci fi, splatterpunk, and a power trip similar to American Psycho! Granted, McClusky has the perfect amount of balance between all the subgenres to keep all fans appeased.
It is strange actually how I found the character development in this story, as it made me root for different main characters throughout the book, and actually at one point I actually thought I had no idea who I was rooting for anymore, and to just enjoy the ride!
This is the first book (but by no means will be the last) I've read of DE McCluskey and now can see for myself why so many people rave about his writing style and completley random (but equally effective) storylines.
Pick up your copy of this and any of his other titles on Kindle Unlimited, or in his online store :)
September 18, 2024
Carl hates his job as an engineer in the IT department, his colleagues annoy him, the staff are constantly moaning and his boss, Gerard is a grade A pervert. When Gerard asks him to sort out his laptop he clicks on something that plunges him into the dark web where he is recruited to usher in a new age. All he has to do is turn them off and turn them on again.
A cosmic horror that leads you kicking and screaming through a charnel house of depravity. We’ve all worked in offices with people like this where you nod and agree when you really want to hug them round the neck with a rope! This takes that scenario to a whole other dimension!
It explores grotesque perversion, the sickening acts committed in the darkest recesses of the internet and the depths to which humans can plummet in pursuit of gratification or through psychological torture. It is also a hell of a cosmic horror, soaked in the bile of Lovecraft and vomited up from the depths of the darkest hell, absolutely fabulous!
A cosmic horror that leads you kicking and screaming through a charnel house of depravity. We’ve all worked in offices with people like this where you nod and agree when you really want to hug them round the neck with a rope! This takes that scenario to a whole other dimension!
It explores grotesque perversion, the sickening acts committed in the darkest recesses of the internet and the depths to which humans can plummet in pursuit of gratification or through psychological torture. It is also a hell of a cosmic horror, soaked in the bile of Lovecraft and vomited up from the depths of the darkest hell, absolutely fabulous!
May 5, 2025
Turn it off, turn it back on. I've used and given that advice plenty of times. Reboot takes that concept and builds up on it. This is one of the more creative tropes I've seen written. As a computer nerd, I found myself enjoying the story even more. There is plenty of IT jargon in this book. If you're not into computers as I am, it might put you off, but for me, I followed it easily. Yes, I'm an absolute nerd, lol.
There is plenty of humor in this one as well, which I came to enjoy. Carl was easily one of my most hated characters until Gerald came into the picture. If you know, you know.
The ending was as dark as I thought. All I can say is, Sever Room One will be stuck in my head for a while. As a bonus, this is based on DE's own experiences working in IT, which I thought was a nice touch. Overall, this was a fun comsic horror story and one that I found pretty creative.
TURN IT ON AND THEN TURN IT BACK OFF!
There is plenty of humor in this one as well, which I came to enjoy. Carl was easily one of my most hated characters until Gerald came into the picture. If you know, you know.
The ending was as dark as I thought. All I can say is, Sever Room One will be stuck in my head for a while. As a bonus, this is based on DE's own experiences working in IT, which I thought was a nice touch. Overall, this was a fun comsic horror story and one that I found pretty creative.
TURN IT ON AND THEN TURN IT BACK OFF!
May 30, 2024
The more I read from DE McCluskey, the more I want from him. His storyline is always gripping from start to finish. His character development is solid and thorough.
His storytelling ability has opened new genres for me that I know I wouldn’t have explored on my own. Each page had me eager to get to the next until I was finished … and even then, I wanted more words. I didn’t want the story to finish. Something as rote and mundane as IT has become - has turned a new corner and now I think I’ll always wonder what’s really happening any time I have to call my own IT department.
Creepy, edgy, horror, compelling, mental, with a smidge of dark humor, McCluskey bring this entire story together that will keep you on the edge of your seat seat and silently wondering what’s next? WTF is next?
Do yourself a favor and grab this one! You won’t be sorry!
His storytelling ability has opened new genres for me that I know I wouldn’t have explored on my own. Each page had me eager to get to the next until I was finished … and even then, I wanted more words. I didn’t want the story to finish. Something as rote and mundane as IT has become - has turned a new corner and now I think I’ll always wonder what’s really happening any time I have to call my own IT department.
Creepy, edgy, horror, compelling, mental, with a smidge of dark humor, McCluskey bring this entire story together that will keep you on the edge of your seat seat and silently wondering what’s next? WTF is next?
Do yourself a favor and grab this one! You won’t be sorry!
April 18, 2025
Cosmic horror meets the modern age in this dystopian IT based horror. Because what is more horrifying than working in IT?
When Carl is called to the boss’ office to sort his disease-ridden laptop, he finds a strange message that haunts him. Soon he finds himself drawn into a dark spiral, bringing forth something from the deep. All he has to do is reboot the world around him by feeding the machines.
This is a horror like no other. The mundane isolation of office life, Lovecraftian themes and modern technology all combine together to make something perverted and real. Every scene plays out vividly, with not a single wasted moment. Incredible pacing, good character development and depravity that will settle under your skin and make itself at home. I’ll never look at a network cable the same way again
When Carl is called to the boss’ office to sort his disease-ridden laptop, he finds a strange message that haunts him. Soon he finds himself drawn into a dark spiral, bringing forth something from the deep. All he has to do is reboot the world around him by feeding the machines.
This is a horror like no other. The mundane isolation of office life, Lovecraftian themes and modern technology all combine together to make something perverted and real. Every scene plays out vividly, with not a single wasted moment. Incredible pacing, good character development and depravity that will settle under your skin and make itself at home. I’ll never look at a network cable the same way again
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