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Borderline
What would you do if you had the chance to change destiny?
In the wake of a devastating breakup, Atari is consumed by lost love. But when he takes an enigmatic pill while partying with a friend, his mind becomes ensnared in a twisted vision of the future where his ex takes her own life.
Determined to change fate itself, Atari unwittingly unleashes a force that threatens him and his friends. As time slips away and danger looms, Atari must find out what he's capable of in order to save his friends before it's too late.
Frantic, fast paced, and character focused, "BORDERLINE" delves into the complexities of mental illness through the perspective of a diverse group of individuals.
"With Borderline, Poff carries the reader on waves of poetic prose through the liminal spaces of the mind. This novella bends time and space, blurring the sense of self, the idea of others, and the security of reality. A beautifully evocative and surreal trip through the landscape of the bizarre and terrifying." – Mary SanGiovanni, author of Thrall and The Everywhere House
In the wake of a devastating breakup, Atari is consumed by lost love. But when he takes an enigmatic pill while partying with a friend, his mind becomes ensnared in a twisted vision of the future where his ex takes her own life.
Determined to change fate itself, Atari unwittingly unleashes a force that threatens him and his friends. As time slips away and danger looms, Atari must find out what he's capable of in order to save his friends before it's too late.
Frantic, fast paced, and character focused, "BORDERLINE" delves into the complexities of mental illness through the perspective of a diverse group of individuals.
"With Borderline, Poff carries the reader on waves of poetic prose through the liminal spaces of the mind. This novella bends time and space, blurring the sense of self, the idea of others, and the security of reality. A beautifully evocative and surreal trip through the landscape of the bizarre and terrifying." – Mary SanGiovanni, author of Thrall and The Everywhere House
180 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2024
2 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Robert Royal Poff
9 books17 followersRoyal Poff was born a baby, growing into adolescence where they were the first ever person to put pen to paper and hallucinate in word format. Royal Poff is best known for their first novella, SLEEPING AMONG WOLVES, which is a queer coming of age horror romance, as well as their Exquisite Corpse series which combines the voices of 13 different authors into one nightmareish continuous tale.
Royal Poff's writing focuses on the horror found in every day life, in addiction, the queer experience, and the wellbeing of those around you. Their quieter take on horror is more reflective and introspective but never forgets about the grime and gore of the genre!
Message Royal on Facebook (Royal Poff), Instagram (royalpoff.exe), or through email (robertroyalpoff@gmail.com)!
Royal Poff's writing focuses on the horror found in every day life, in addiction, the queer experience, and the wellbeing of those around you. Their quieter take on horror is more reflective and introspective but never forgets about the grime and gore of the genre!
Message Royal on Facebook (Royal Poff), Instagram (royalpoff.exe), or through email (robertroyalpoff@gmail.com)!
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 7, 2025
So good!!!
I have a lot of thoughts but not a lot of time today. I will be back asap though!
I have a lot of thoughts but not a lot of time today. I will be back asap though!
September 27, 2024
“What would you do if you had the chance to change destiny?”
If you would love to change your destiny and see the results. This is the book for you! This was a very gripping psychological horror written in very wonderful poetic prose and my first I read by Royal Poff. I will be honest at first I thought this book would be a dnf. But I pushed through and made it to the end and I’m so glad I did. I sooo cannot wait to read Royal’s future books.
If you would love to change your destiny and see the results. This is the book for you! This was a very gripping psychological horror written in very wonderful poetic prose and my first I read by Royal Poff. I will be honest at first I thought this book would be a dnf. But I pushed through and made it to the end and I’m so glad I did. I sooo cannot wait to read Royal’s future books.
December 21, 2024
Borderline is a captivating and emotionally charged story that plunges deep into the life of Atari. A character grappling with both internal and external struggles Atari finds himself entangled in the disturbing effects of a pill he took, which begins to wreak havoc on his mind. Poff masterfully portrays the uncertainty and confusion Atari experiences, creating a vivid sense of disorientation that hooks you from the start.
A huge standout for me is the depth and complexity of Atari’s character. The author has crafted him with such care that readers can truly feel everything he’s going through. The emotional rollercoaster of heartbreak, the terror of losing control, and the raw vulnerability that makes him easy to sympathize with. Atari quickly became my favorite character in the book, and his struggles felt incredibly real and relatable.
Borderline is more than just a psychological journey, it’s a perfect blend of friendship, love, loss, and horror. The themes intertwine seamlessly, and the horror elements add a layer of intensity that keeps the story gripping. Poff’s writing is engaging and immersive, making it easy to lose yourself in Atari’s world. It’s the kind of book that you don’t want to put down, as it pulls you deeper into the character’s psyche and the challenges he faces.
Borderline is a well-crafted and thought-provoking book. If you’re looking for a story that explores the complexities of the human mind, relationships, and the battle within oneself, this is a must-read.
A huge standout for me is the depth and complexity of Atari’s character. The author has crafted him with such care that readers can truly feel everything he’s going through. The emotional rollercoaster of heartbreak, the terror of losing control, and the raw vulnerability that makes him easy to sympathize with. Atari quickly became my favorite character in the book, and his struggles felt incredibly real and relatable.
Borderline is more than just a psychological journey, it’s a perfect blend of friendship, love, loss, and horror. The themes intertwine seamlessly, and the horror elements add a layer of intensity that keeps the story gripping. Poff’s writing is engaging and immersive, making it easy to lose yourself in Atari’s world. It’s the kind of book that you don’t want to put down, as it pulls you deeper into the character’s psyche and the challenges he faces.
Borderline is a well-crafted and thought-provoking book. If you’re looking for a story that explores the complexities of the human mind, relationships, and the battle within oneself, this is a must-read.
September 30, 2024
I loved the previous book from this author, so I was definitely excited to get my hands on a copy of this one. Poff's writing is fantastic, and Borderline is another example of his great way with words.
The story feels like we are watching the demise of the main character, Atari, as he struggles with a breakup and too much of a reliability on drugs to ease the pain.
Things take a turn when we find out that the visions he is having from a new drug is more than just a side effect from being high. It's an amazing reveal and one that takes the story in a new direction that leads to a satisfying conclusion.
The story feels like we are watching the demise of the main character, Atari, as he struggles with a breakup and too much of a reliability on drugs to ease the pain.
Things take a turn when we find out that the visions he is having from a new drug is more than just a side effect from being high. It's an amazing reveal and one that takes the story in a new direction that leads to a satisfying conclusion.
September 26, 2024
Robert Royal Poff's Borderline begins with a hauntingly vivid scene that immediately plunges readers into a world of loneliness and internal conflict. The protagonist, Atari, trudges through the rain, his figure obscured by darkness and uncertainty, setting a mood of eerie isolation. The opening scene, described with striking detail, captures the essence of Atari’s emotional state: weighed down by abandonment and struggling to find clarity. This haunting visual of him wandering aimlessly mirrors his internal turmoil, establishing the tone for a journey filled with desperation and self-discovery.
Atari’s confrontation with his ex, Wakley, in the opening chapter reveals his deep-rooted fear of being alone. This interaction sets the emotional stakes of the novel. Wakley’s rejection feels not just like a breakup but a brutal shattering of Atari’s identity and sense of worth. The dialogue is raw, capturing the painful dynamics of a relationship unraveling, while Atari’s vulnerability is palpable. The portrayal of his desperation—his need to cling to something that’s already slipping away—immediately hooks readers, making us sympathize with his emotional turmoil.
Poff crafts a story that deftly blends elements of psychological drama with supernatural intrigue. The book’s central premise revolves around Atari’s discovery of an enigmatic pill that offers him a disturbing vision of the future. As he sees his ex, Wakley, in danger, the narrative shifts into a high-stakes race against time, where Atari attempts to change destiny itself. This blend of mental anguish and suspense builds tension as Atari wrestles with his responsibility to save not only Wakley but also himself and his friends.
The character development is one of the strongest aspects of Borderline. Atari, consumed by his heartbreak and guilt, is an imperfect protagonist whose decisions often stem from impulsivity. His vulnerability, coupled with his desperation to rewrite the future, makes his journey both painful and compelling to follow. The side characters—particularly Trigger, who serves as a confidant of sorts—add further depth, as they are drawn into Atari’s chaotic attempts to prevent the tragic future he foresees.
Poff’s plot structure effectively balances moments of introspection with fast-paced action, as Atari’s reality begins to spiral out of control. The story plays with the concept of fate and self-determination, constantly asking the question: What lengths would someone go to in order to alter the future?
Overall, Borderline masterfully weaves together a narrative of love, loss, and the terrifying implications of trying to change destiny. Robert Royal Poff’s sharp prose, well-drawn characters, and gripping premise make this novel a thought-provoking and emotional journey from beginning to end. Atari’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human emotions and the dangers of dwelling in the past while fighting against the inevitable.
Atari’s confrontation with his ex, Wakley, in the opening chapter reveals his deep-rooted fear of being alone. This interaction sets the emotional stakes of the novel. Wakley’s rejection feels not just like a breakup but a brutal shattering of Atari’s identity and sense of worth. The dialogue is raw, capturing the painful dynamics of a relationship unraveling, while Atari’s vulnerability is palpable. The portrayal of his desperation—his need to cling to something that’s already slipping away—immediately hooks readers, making us sympathize with his emotional turmoil.
Poff crafts a story that deftly blends elements of psychological drama with supernatural intrigue. The book’s central premise revolves around Atari’s discovery of an enigmatic pill that offers him a disturbing vision of the future. As he sees his ex, Wakley, in danger, the narrative shifts into a high-stakes race against time, where Atari attempts to change destiny itself. This blend of mental anguish and suspense builds tension as Atari wrestles with his responsibility to save not only Wakley but also himself and his friends.
The character development is one of the strongest aspects of Borderline. Atari, consumed by his heartbreak and guilt, is an imperfect protagonist whose decisions often stem from impulsivity. His vulnerability, coupled with his desperation to rewrite the future, makes his journey both painful and compelling to follow. The side characters—particularly Trigger, who serves as a confidant of sorts—add further depth, as they are drawn into Atari’s chaotic attempts to prevent the tragic future he foresees.
Poff’s plot structure effectively balances moments of introspection with fast-paced action, as Atari’s reality begins to spiral out of control. The story plays with the concept of fate and self-determination, constantly asking the question: What lengths would someone go to in order to alter the future?
Overall, Borderline masterfully weaves together a narrative of love, loss, and the terrifying implications of trying to change destiny. Robert Royal Poff’s sharp prose, well-drawn characters, and gripping premise make this novel a thought-provoking and emotional journey from beginning to end. Atari’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human emotions and the dangers of dwelling in the past while fighting against the inevitable.
August 20, 2024
"Borderline" is an intense novel that completely drew me in from the start. The author crafts a multi-layered story that combines psychological depth with gripping horror elements, making it impossible to put down. What really stood out was the careful attention to detail in both the setting and the characters' inner worlds. The vivid descriptions create an atmosphere so immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters, living through their fears and emotions.
The portrayal of mental illness in the story is handled very well. The characters, especially Atari, face the overwhelming effects of intoxication-induced mental turmoil. The author's exploration of these difficult subjects made me want to see the outcome.
The horror in "Borderline" is unsettling in the best way possible. The tension steadily builds throughout the book, with each eerie moment creeping up on you, keeping you in suspense until the very end. The sense of dread is palpable, and the stakes feel real, making the horror elements both thrilling and thought-provoking.
What makes this novel truly shine is the relationships between the characters. Their interactions feel genuine and heartfelt. The dynamics between Atari and his friends are well-crafted and believable, making me care about what happens to them. It's rare to find a horror novel that also offers such a strong emotional core, but this author pulls it off brilliantly.
In short, "Borderline" is a fast-paced, emotionally complex journey. The blend of psychological exploration, horror, and character development makes it a standout read. Whether you're a fan of horror or simply enjoy stories with deep emotional resonance, this book is a must-read. It left me eagerly anticipating the author’s future works!
September 19, 2024
This is a very disturbing, intense, and horrific psychological horror novel, and I really enjoyed it. To be honest, after the first few pages, I began to think that it may be a DNF. There was a great deal of descriptive prose, almost to the point of being overdone, but it doesn't take long before you realize the author is setting you up beautifully with mood and atmosphere. Mr. Poff perfectly weaves this tale between mental illness and horror and, by the end, you don't know which is scarier. I read this in one day, the majority of which was read last night, when i couldn't put it down until it was done. Atari, the main protagonist, suffers from BPD, and the journey he and his friends are on may be too much for some readers. But, otherwise, this is a very strong piece of horror that I totally recommend.
January 21, 2025
Not often does a book leave me speechless. Borderline is like a fever dream of pain and suffering.
Atari is a young man that is introduced to Kronos. A drug that causes the ability to see a part of the world that should not exist. Through internal battles and struggles with his closest friends, we follow Atari as he tries to traverse this unusual place he experiences. The end goal, of course, is to save his friends... and if he can, himself.
A truly remarkable story that is very unique. This one will leave an impression in your mind and heart.
After you read this one, I highly recommend his other story Sleeping With Wolves.
Atari is a young man that is introduced to Kronos. A drug that causes the ability to see a part of the world that should not exist. Through internal battles and struggles with his closest friends, we follow Atari as he tries to traverse this unusual place he experiences. The end goal, of course, is to save his friends... and if he can, himself.
A truly remarkable story that is very unique. This one will leave an impression in your mind and heart.
After you read this one, I highly recommend his other story Sleeping With Wolves.
May 8, 2025
What would you do in your life if you could change your destiny? Hopefully not take a drug that'll screw with your mind. But that's what Atari does, and what he goes through is way beyond what anything that people use today. This story shows just how far a person will go to help others, even putting himself in danger that no one can ever imagine. This is a very well written story that takes the reader into a world that hopefully will never become reality.
June 11, 2025
A character-driven tale about a group of teens dealing with the aftermath of taking a new drug, I was fully invested from the first chapter until the last. With shades of Ghost Eaters and The Black Farm, Royal Poff peppers the dialogue with moving commentary about what it means to be a human without truly knowing your place in the world.
Relatable, cool as hell, and beautifully drawn to a close, this is one you don’t want to miss
Relatable, cool as hell, and beautifully drawn to a close, this is one you don’t want to miss
April 7, 2025
A take on friendship, addiction, and cosmic horror that is incredibly vivid, visceral, and violent, written with absolutely gorgeous prose. It checks boxes for creepy creatures, gore, and existential dread, while also making the reader feel almost like they are in a trance along with the MCs. Time/mind-melting, trippy, and otherworldly. Stunning read.
April 20, 2025
A gripping psychological Horror story weaved together with mental health issues make for a bloody disturbing, intense and emotional mess. Atari suffers from BPD and he is about to take a journey with his friends no one wants to go on but they can’t stop it from happening
“ like cum off the tongue, dribbling onto the blood-soaked ground” …. The imagery is so vivid
“ like cum off the tongue, dribbling onto the blood-soaked ground” …. The imagery is so vivid
August 19, 2025
After a breakup, Atari has a hard time and to take away the pain he takes a new drug but it's something like no other. Things take a turn when we find out that his "hallucinations " hes having from this is way more sinister than just a bad trip. This psychological horror is tense, disturbing and just brutal.
August 24, 2024
Horror and mental health issues meeting together in a bloody and emotional mess is always a win for me, and Poff doesn’t miss on the sadness that accompanies something like BPD.
June 18, 2025
This story was absolutely wild! Felt like a twisted mix of the Butterfly Effect with Hellraiser and Royal Poff doesn't hold back!
From the start, Royal brings us into a room filled with grotesque death, just a prelude to the nightmarish hell that will unfold throughout this story. Poff's poetic writing style with the blood-soaked imagery urged me to keep turning the page, looking for the abominations lurking within the pages.
I really liked this story. It is a story of obsession, be it drug addiction or clinging onto that lost loved who moved on but left you waiting behind. It is also a story of loss and living with the guilt of surviving, desperate for any chance to "make it right again." These themes heavily resonated with me, connecting me more and more with the main protagonist, Atari.
I feel it is accurate to compare Borderline to an onion, for they have many layers and offend the senses, but in the most delicious ways.
From the start, Royal brings us into a room filled with grotesque death, just a prelude to the nightmarish hell that will unfold throughout this story. Poff's poetic writing style with the blood-soaked imagery urged me to keep turning the page, looking for the abominations lurking within the pages.
I really liked this story. It is a story of obsession, be it drug addiction or clinging onto that lost loved who moved on but left you waiting behind. It is also a story of loss and living with the guilt of surviving, desperate for any chance to "make it right again." These themes heavily resonated with me, connecting me more and more with the main protagonist, Atari.
I feel it is accurate to compare Borderline to an onion, for they have many layers and offend the senses, but in the most delicious ways.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews