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The Vast
Mark Wilson is trapped in an apartment. It's a place he knows all too well and he loathes visiting it. The room isn't just a physical manifestation of his inner turmoil, but this time around, it yearns to be his grave.
Mark must fight the darkness that clouds his mind and confront regressed demons that await him before the ghosts of his past return to claim his soul and take away everything he holds dear.
Mike is fighting for his life and his family, but time is running out
Mark must fight the darkness that clouds his mind and confront regressed demons that await him before the ghosts of his past return to claim his soul and take away everything he holds dear.
Mike is fighting for his life and his family, but time is running out
127 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 24, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 9, 2024
*Huge thanks to Matt for sending me a digital copy of this one!*
Over the last few years, I’ve read a number of Wildasin’s works and have grown to really enjoy the way he tells his stories. That’s always one thing I love about reading as widely as possible – discovering so many unique voices and cadences, so many ways of crafting prose and creating a story. Wildasin infuses his work with a world-weary drawl, a sense that just under the surface, things are tense, and with this one, ‘The Vast,’ it may very well be the most suffocating story he’s created yet.
What I liked: The authors note beforehand lays out what to expect. Real life’s not been easy for Wildasin and this book reflects just that. We then get thrown into the deep end, a man wakes in a room, a room he never wanted to return to, but is there regardless, and from that point on, the story details his fight to survive.
Wildasin has done a remarkable job of fictionalizing anxiety and depression. Of showcasing the internal fight many of us battle between our brains and what our eyes see. Our main character wants to live, but he doesn’t. He wants to do everything that it takes to put hardship behind, but he doesn’t know how and with each new setback, he feels the crushing weight of failure and darkness.
It’s a harrowing read, one that will connect with each reader in unique, individual ways, and one that chases hope. That was what kept me plugging away – the potential for hope that seemingly shines through the black.
The ending highlights that and I think, in this case, was a great way to wrap things up.
What I didn’t like: While the book reads with emotional context, one difficulty I had was the inability to tangible ground this somewhere. As the story unfolds (mostly within a mental context) there isn’t anything to solidly state “this is where the character is” and makes it tough to determine what events are real, if any, and what we should expect out of the environment and the characters.
Why you should buy this: Books that tackle mental health so specifically head-on can often be a tough sell, as many readers are looking for escape from their own struggles, but Wildasin turns that on its head and offers us a book that alludes to the mental health struggle while throwing the reader into a strange world where people from his past return in various forms. This one is heavy, but a heaviness that makes for a solid, engaging read.
Over the last few years, I’ve read a number of Wildasin’s works and have grown to really enjoy the way he tells his stories. That’s always one thing I love about reading as widely as possible – discovering so many unique voices and cadences, so many ways of crafting prose and creating a story. Wildasin infuses his work with a world-weary drawl, a sense that just under the surface, things are tense, and with this one, ‘The Vast,’ it may very well be the most suffocating story he’s created yet.
What I liked: The authors note beforehand lays out what to expect. Real life’s not been easy for Wildasin and this book reflects just that. We then get thrown into the deep end, a man wakes in a room, a room he never wanted to return to, but is there regardless, and from that point on, the story details his fight to survive.
Wildasin has done a remarkable job of fictionalizing anxiety and depression. Of showcasing the internal fight many of us battle between our brains and what our eyes see. Our main character wants to live, but he doesn’t. He wants to do everything that it takes to put hardship behind, but he doesn’t know how and with each new setback, he feels the crushing weight of failure and darkness.
It’s a harrowing read, one that will connect with each reader in unique, individual ways, and one that chases hope. That was what kept me plugging away – the potential for hope that seemingly shines through the black.
The ending highlights that and I think, in this case, was a great way to wrap things up.
What I didn’t like: While the book reads with emotional context, one difficulty I had was the inability to tangible ground this somewhere. As the story unfolds (mostly within a mental context) there isn’t anything to solidly state “this is where the character is” and makes it tough to determine what events are real, if any, and what we should expect out of the environment and the characters.
Why you should buy this: Books that tackle mental health so specifically head-on can often be a tough sell, as many readers are looking for escape from their own struggles, but Wildasin turns that on its head and offers us a book that alludes to the mental health struggle while throwing the reader into a strange world where people from his past return in various forms. This one is heavy, but a heaviness that makes for a solid, engaging read.
May 28, 2024
The Vast is a deeply emotional tale of psychological horror and torment. Very much inspired by the themes of Silent Hill, Matt takes you on a journey through a tormented mind. It’s brutal and heart breaking. Matt Wildasin shines when he explores the human psyche, and this is his finest work to date.
September 5, 2024
The Vast by Matt Wildasin
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is a very deep and intense psychological horror story that deals with severe mental illness and the debilitating effects it can have on a person.
Because of Matt’s depression, he is stuck inside his apartment, but takes several different “journeys” to outside places while dealing with his inner demons and great fears that he has. He has to deal with past choices he’s made that haunt him.
The story is beautiful written and such a moving book.
Thank you to Matt Wildasin for an ecopy of this truly amazing and heartfelt book.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is a very deep and intense psychological horror story that deals with severe mental illness and the debilitating effects it can have on a person.
Because of Matt’s depression, he is stuck inside his apartment, but takes several different “journeys” to outside places while dealing with his inner demons and great fears that he has. He has to deal with past choices he’s made that haunt him.
The story is beautiful written and such a moving book.
Thank you to Matt Wildasin for an ecopy of this truly amazing and heartfelt book.
December 10, 2024
Wildasin's protagonist wakes in a strange apartment, and must face his depression head on in the form of haunting and visceral scenarios. A brilliant and truly haunting look at depression and recovery, told by a truly unique horror author!
May 31, 2024
If you want a genuine, a true to life psychological horror, this is the book for you.
You take a deep dive into Mark's psyche as he fights his demons within himself.
This book will make you cry, give sympathy for this man and cheer him on in hopes that he will make it.
It also gives you a look into realizing everyone has their demons in different shapes and sizes.
At least for me, this book will sit with me rent free, but for all the right reasons.
You take a deep dive into Mark's psyche as he fights his demons within himself.
This book will make you cry, give sympathy for this man and cheer him on in hopes that he will make it.
It also gives you a look into realizing everyone has their demons in different shapes and sizes.
At least for me, this book will sit with me rent free, but for all the right reasons.
June 2, 2024
Wow this book hits you so hard!! This book is such an amazing metaphor for depression and facing your inner demons. The author did a phenomenal job putting you into the mind of the main character and you start to feel so strongly for him and can’t help but root for him. This was such an emotional read that will stick with me for a very long time!!!!
June 1, 2024
Vast
Matt is facing demons. They are hard to beat and determined. He must fight them to keep what he loves safe. A beautiful haunting book of psychological horror. Will tug on heart strings.
Matt is facing demons. They are hard to beat and determined. He must fight them to keep what he loves safe. A beautiful haunting book of psychological horror. Will tug on heart strings.
May 24, 2024
Matt Wildasin has always been a sure bet for readers craving a great horror story, but with The Vast, Matt Wildasin has reached a new frontier of his imagination.
This novel is his turning point.
The Vast is quite simply his finest hour. Matt has done what all great artists do: he bares his soul on the page. As soon as Mark Wilson answers that ominous phone call, you'll know Matt Wildasin has reached deep into the unfathomable emotional depths to bring you a haunting yet beautiful tale of righting the wrongs of the past and the finding the acceptance we all long for.
This will be the novel future readers will cite as the book they knew Matt Wildasin was undeniable force in horror fiction.
This is a classic tale that will survive long after we've departed.
You must read this book.
This novel is his turning point.
The Vast is quite simply his finest hour. Matt has done what all great artists do: he bares his soul on the page. As soon as Mark Wilson answers that ominous phone call, you'll know Matt Wildasin has reached deep into the unfathomable emotional depths to bring you a haunting yet beautiful tale of righting the wrongs of the past and the finding the acceptance we all long for.
This will be the novel future readers will cite as the book they knew Matt Wildasin was undeniable force in horror fiction.
This is a classic tale that will survive long after we've departed.
You must read this book.
June 1, 2024
Ummmmm...WOW!!!
This one is heavy, folks! A ride through Mark Wilson's past as he fights for his soul back. It's so worth the read! More Matt...MORE!!! Bravo 👏
This one is heavy, folks! A ride through Mark Wilson's past as he fights for his soul back. It's so worth the read! More Matt...MORE!!! Bravo 👏
May 28, 2024
An interesting, emotional, and dark ride through the character’s attempts at coming to grips with his past and learning to let go. Definitely recommend
December 28, 2024
I can safely say Wildasin can do it all. The first Wildasin I read was Gore, which was basically a DOOM novel. Now, this. The Vast is heavy. It feels like the castle in Mario 64 but if it were set in the Silent Hill universe. That doesn’t describe how powerful the book is though, it’s not a cheap romp. This is a passionate and deeply personal book that you can feel in your gut.
July 11, 2024
This is a book about the labyrinths inside of our mind, and how we must face and figure out how to really See ourselves, others, and the events that shape who we are. There is incredible tension building, beautiful descriptions and details that have you seeing this world that surrounds Mark, and the way that Depression and Anxiety, fear and past traumas are depicted, is truly art. "I don't deserve anything....No one does. But what I was gifted I would like to....cherish-" Join Mark on his heart wrenching, eye opening- BRAVE- journey. Even the beautiful pages, that look to me like crumpled paper that has been rescued from the trash or from an angry fist and was then attempted to be smoothed out- tie in the themes of attempted redemption, the past, and trying for a future.
This is beautiful, tragic, vulnerable- with the truth of how heavy and black and sticky the trap of Depression can be; this book will be a light for other readers who love horror and also struggle with Depression and Anxiety, and feel like they aren't seen, Can't be seen, truly, Even by themselves; this book shares that we're not alone
This is beautiful, tragic, vulnerable- with the truth of how heavy and black and sticky the trap of Depression can be; this book will be a light for other readers who love horror and also struggle with Depression and Anxiety, and feel like they aren't seen, Can't be seen, truly, Even by themselves; this book shares that we're not alone
June 13, 2024
If there could only be one book that I recommend to all my horror-reading friends this year, this is it.
The Vast by Matt Wildasin delves into the somber depths of a man’s inner turmoil. As he grapples with the burdens that bind him, the pressing question remains: Can he find solace and heal before the darkness consumes him entirely?
The Vast masterfully balances darkness and horror with the glimmer of resilience and the pursuit of closure. For those familiar with the depths of depression, it offers a uniquely resonant journey, ultimately leaving you in a happy place. For those unacquainted with depression, it’s a fun and captivating exploration of grief and cosmic horror.
CW: Death of a parent, child abuse, rape, mental health, and more.
Check out my full review here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/the-v...
The Vast by Matt Wildasin delves into the somber depths of a man’s inner turmoil. As he grapples with the burdens that bind him, the pressing question remains: Can he find solace and heal before the darkness consumes him entirely?
The Vast masterfully balances darkness and horror with the glimmer of resilience and the pursuit of closure. For those familiar with the depths of depression, it offers a uniquely resonant journey, ultimately leaving you in a happy place. For those unacquainted with depression, it’s a fun and captivating exploration of grief and cosmic horror.
CW: Death of a parent, child abuse, rape, mental health, and more.
Check out my full review here: https://www.ericarobynreads.com/the-v...
August 5, 2024
Words cannot describe the amount of emotions that come with reading this book by Matt Wildasin. I have never read anything that has adequately described in words what a life feels like inside the horrific confines of depression like this book does. Mr. Wildasin amazingly brought the reader into the mind of one who battles daily with depression and how the afflicted truly feel in this wearisome struggle of survival.
If you are looking for a book that will enlighten your mind to the true burdens that mental health issues bring, then look no further. Even if you, as a reader, have never felt the unbearable pain of what depression does to you personally, I recommend giving this amazing book a thorough read, as a great deal of insight can be gleaned from the words found within. All I can say is well done Mr. Wildasin.
If you are looking for a book that will enlighten your mind to the true burdens that mental health issues bring, then look no further. Even if you, as a reader, have never felt the unbearable pain of what depression does to you personally, I recommend giving this amazing book a thorough read, as a great deal of insight can be gleaned from the words found within. All I can say is well done Mr. Wildasin.
May 28, 2026
I want to cop out and just say I have no words, but that wouldn't do this book justice.
If you've ever suffered from depression and think no one understands what it's like, you'll want to read this book.
"Ya can't have such a traumatic thing happen to a person and expect there to not be some kind of darkness to stick around."
The way that Wildasin uses the locations of the story to represent the prison that depression can be was brilliant. The way that Mark battles his demons, the grief, regret, shame, past trauma, anger, and self hatred was absolutely heartbreaking to read.
The only ray of light in this book was Mark's determination to overcome the all consuming darkness of depression.
The green city had me bawling. And I cheered when Mark stood up to the Ghosts.
A dark and haunting journey, I'll never be the same again.
If you've ever suffered from depression and think no one understands what it's like, you'll want to read this book.
"Ya can't have such a traumatic thing happen to a person and expect there to not be some kind of darkness to stick around."
The way that Wildasin uses the locations of the story to represent the prison that depression can be was brilliant. The way that Mark battles his demons, the grief, regret, shame, past trauma, anger, and self hatred was absolutely heartbreaking to read.
The only ray of light in this book was Mark's determination to overcome the all consuming darkness of depression.
The green city had me bawling. And I cheered when Mark stood up to the Ghosts.
A dark and haunting journey, I'll never be the same again.
June 1, 2024
This was a very moving book. It was about a man battling against his depression. He always found himself in an apartment. That he had to find out the mysteries that were held within. Eventually, he finds out what he hast to do and goes on a journey speaking with those who have. Impacted his life. He talks to his mother, his father, who he had a bad relationship with, his grandfather, and finally, his deceased baby daughter. The story reminded me a lot of a Christmas Carol. Our main character was not evil like Ebeneezer Scrooge, but he had to learn life lessons. The ending of the story. really reminded me of that famous story. this was a very emotional book. I found myself tearing up over. The inner turmoil in our main character. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2024
The home of true horror, imo, real gut wrenching absolute fear, lives in our minds the strongest. We all have demons we have to battle. Some people win, and some people don't. But for most, it's a huge fight and we are left with deep scars that never quite heal.
So for the majority, this book will resonate. It felt to me, as if a lot of personal pain had been added and that really made the story come alive and feel real. It's brutal, but if you've ever been in the darkness, and I mean, real bleak, hopeless darkness, you'll get it. Others might find this tale disturbing and that's what horror is. It's a journey into terrible things.
This is definitely my favourite Matt Wildasin book so far.
So for the majority, this book will resonate. It felt to me, as if a lot of personal pain had been added and that really made the story come alive and feel real. It's brutal, but if you've ever been in the darkness, and I mean, real bleak, hopeless darkness, you'll get it. Others might find this tale disturbing and that's what horror is. It's a journey into terrible things.
This is definitely my favourite Matt Wildasin book so far.
June 8, 2024
The Vast is a surreal, haunting, (and ultimately) cathartic exploration of the true-to-life horrors of depression. The plot felt like a blend of The Yellow Wallpaper, parts of A Christmas Carol (with a more relatable protagonist) and one particular scene from 1408. The writing conveyed palpable examples of the characters’ feelings of inadequacy, failure, grief, and loss. I applaud the author for his fearless honesty and vulnerability in telling this story. It’s an important one, and I can only imagine the effort needed to bleed this particular monster onto the page and then set it free.
July 24, 2024
Cosmic horror with a deep, emotional story that will stay with you.
February 3, 2025
Although this story seemed a bit young adult at times, it was also very recognisable (as a fellow sufferer of depression) and really hit me in the feels.
July 3, 2024
What a beautiful story! I could really feel everything Mark felt as he battled his inner demons, which at times included monsters and other dark forces, and at other times was simply facing his family members and his past. It’s obvious Matt put his heart and soul into writing this novel, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone, whether you suffer from depression or not.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews