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Something Truly Dreadful
On October 13th, Wes Andrews and his friends set out to explore the local, rundown haunted house. Despite it being geared toward children, they figured that, with nothing better to do, it might be fun to heckle the low-budget attraction. But after that night, no one ever saw or heard from them again. The haunted house itself vanished without a trace, taking Wes, his friends, and a significant portion of their town with it.
All that remained at the scene of their disappearance were scattered Polaroid photos, a shattered camera, and unsettling traces—teeth, strands of hair, and fragments of bone.
The events that followed unfolded over seven chilling hours...
All that remained at the scene of their disappearance were scattered Polaroid photos, a shattered camera, and unsettling traces—teeth, strands of hair, and fragments of bone.
The events that followed unfolded over seven chilling hours...
67 pages, ebook
Published October 31, 2024
5 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
June 20, 2025
Tie It Up.
Matthew Salinas put a lot of himself into this book. As the saying goes…he put a leg and a foot in it. That’s how much he hurt this book. Which is a good thing.
Salinas doesn’t give you much of the characterizations of the teenagers in the story. Except he gives a brief view of Wes Andrew’s home life. Nothing is still known about him. Ditto for his four friends whose names l don’t remember.
I’m like that a lot when I don’t care for a character. I just forget their names. But I still remember the horror they experienced. I don’t hate any of the characters, but I don’t know them. So it’s hard to put much effort into feeling sympathy or despair for them.
Nonetheless, this is still a horror story. There is a moment in the end where the boy named Charley (hey l remember his name) is forced to go to the dentist. There are scenes of true horror in this story, which would make a great movie.
Also, this is why l am giving this book four stars. For those pure scenes of horror.
Four stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Matthew Salinas put a lot of himself into this book. As the saying goes…he put a leg and a foot in it. That’s how much he hurt this book. Which is a good thing.
Salinas doesn’t give you much of the characterizations of the teenagers in the story. Except he gives a brief view of Wes Andrew’s home life. Nothing is still known about him. Ditto for his four friends whose names l don’t remember.
I’m like that a lot when I don’t care for a character. I just forget their names. But I still remember the horror they experienced. I don’t hate any of the characters, but I don’t know them. So it’s hard to put much effort into feeling sympathy or despair for them.
Nonetheless, this is still a horror story. There is a moment in the end where the boy named Charley (hey l remember his name) is forced to go to the dentist. There are scenes of true horror in this story, which would make a great movie.
Also, this is why l am giving this book four stars. For those pure scenes of horror.
Four stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 30, 2025
Something Truly Dreadful by Matthew Salinas A solid 4.5 🌟
Five teenagers Wes, Louise, Veronica, Sydney and Charlie. Bored, and looking for something to do, Wes suggests a new pop-up haunted house in town that only costs a dollar. But upon arrival, they are told they need to write down what fears them most so "the next" haunted house will have new and fresh ideas on how to truly scare its guests. They were told they would enter three rooms, one after another and each room was to be more terrifying. They are sent into the haunted house in pairs and Wes would go alone and last.
What happens next is up to you to read and find out yourself, no spoilers here!
This was an incredibly fast-paced, spooky, creepy, atmospheric, haunting, thrilling, edge-of-your-seat well-written novella (albeit I listened to the audiobook) story. I'm super impressed with Matthew Salinas's writing. I'm shocked by how well the writing flowed, I can't believe how impressive it was. The fantastic storyline was a chef's kiss. The audiobook was just under two hours but wow was it good! The story packed a lot of punch in such a short time. My only critique is I wish the story was longer for more character development and more details of the horrors and possibly a sequel.
Five teenagers Wes, Louise, Veronica, Sydney and Charlie. Bored, and looking for something to do, Wes suggests a new pop-up haunted house in town that only costs a dollar. But upon arrival, they are told they need to write down what fears them most so "the next" haunted house will have new and fresh ideas on how to truly scare its guests. They were told they would enter three rooms, one after another and each room was to be more terrifying. They are sent into the haunted house in pairs and Wes would go alone and last.
What happens next is up to you to read and find out yourself, no spoilers here!
This was an incredibly fast-paced, spooky, creepy, atmospheric, haunting, thrilling, edge-of-your-seat well-written novella (albeit I listened to the audiobook) story. I'm super impressed with Matthew Salinas's writing. I'm shocked by how well the writing flowed, I can't believe how impressive it was. The fantastic storyline was a chef's kiss. The audiobook was just under two hours but wow was it good! The story packed a lot of punch in such a short time. My only critique is I wish the story was longer for more character development and more details of the horrors and possibly a sequel.
February 14, 2025
A haunted house, a group of teens, and their worst fears coming to life—sounds typical, right? But what makes Something Truly Dreadful stand out is the way it’s told. It’s a quick but chilling read that keeps you engaged with its unique structure.
Instead of a straightforward narrative, the story is presented after the events have unfolded, piecing together what happened through evidence and documents. The format gives it a true-crime feel, making it more immersive and eerie. And let’s not forget the creepy pictures—they add an extra layer of unsettling realism.
Instead of a straightforward narrative, the story is presented after the events have unfolded, piecing together what happened through evidence and documents. The format gives it a true-crime feel, making it more immersive and eerie. And let’s not forget the creepy pictures—they add an extra layer of unsettling realism.
January 19, 2025
What an excellent story! I wish it was longer and more drawn out but it was very good just the same.
August 29, 2025
I thought “Something Truly Dreadful” was a quick, fun, and upsetting read. If you like the movie “Trick r Treat” then you’ll definitely like this novella. Even though it was campy and had a lot of jokes, the scenes inside Doug’s Den of Insanity got surprisingly graphic! I was really unsettled at the end - going from a silly scene with corny jokes to one of torture in the span of a few pages got me nauseous.
I wish that this novella had been part of a collection because now I really want to read more from Salinas. I think I’ve only ever read novellas when they came in a collection of four or more, so this was a first for me. It being a solo novella didn’t affect my rating though. I just wanted to mention it in my review because I think a complete collection of Salinas’ other novellas would be the perfect thing to binge read on a stormy day or during October.
The only thing that I would consider a negative for “Something Truly Dreadful” is that I think the found footage format could have been improved upon. Found footage as a trope is one of my favorites for sure, so I can get kind of picky about it. In this novella, there were notes about how certain scenes were dramatizations based on footage, witnesses, and texts. But there was a couple scenes at the end where this made no sense because there was no witnesses or cameras or phones. It didn’t alter my enjoyment of the novella but it did take me out of it. I still recommend this for all fans of the found footage trope though!
Note: I received a copy of the novella from the author as a promo for its release, but all opinions are my own.
Date Read: 11/03/24
I wish that this novella had been part of a collection because now I really want to read more from Salinas. I think I’ve only ever read novellas when they came in a collection of four or more, so this was a first for me. It being a solo novella didn’t affect my rating though. I just wanted to mention it in my review because I think a complete collection of Salinas’ other novellas would be the perfect thing to binge read on a stormy day or during October.
The only thing that I would consider a negative for “Something Truly Dreadful” is that I think the found footage format could have been improved upon. Found footage as a trope is one of my favorites for sure, so I can get kind of picky about it. In this novella, there were notes about how certain scenes were dramatizations based on footage, witnesses, and texts. But there was a couple scenes at the end where this made no sense because there was no witnesses or cameras or phones. It didn’t alter my enjoyment of the novella but it did take me out of it. I still recommend this for all fans of the found footage trope though!
Note: I received a copy of the novella from the author as a promo for its release, but all opinions are my own.
Date Read: 11/03/24
November 7, 2024
Something Truly Dreadful by Matthew Salinas
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is an excellent creepy horror novella!! This story sure packs a punch for how short it is. It grabbed me from the start.
A group of 5 teenage friends decide to check out a haunted house attraction, for something to do. Each friend thought it was going to be a dumb experience made for younger kids, but they were quickly proven wrong. This wasn’t an ordinary haunted house and each friend had to face their own individual scary fears!
This book is amazing and so intense!! I didn’t move from my seat once I began reading! The story is so suspenseful and terror provoking!
I love how the story is written with the timeline of events. Also, the Polaroid pictures of things from that dreadful night are fun to see as well.
Thank you to Matthew Salinas for a copy of this super creepy short story!
*It’s out now and is a short, must read! *
October 3, 2025
Found footage- esque and utterly dark and scary. This had me cringing, laughing, and scared throughout in the best way. Even at only 67 pages I felt like we got a full, finished story but definitely would’ve read more!
November 9, 2024
Short and sweet novelette that goes surprisingly hard in its few pages. It’s easily a story you can devour in one sitting, if desired, and I found it difficult to put down.
Wes and his friends check out what’s been marketed as a haunted house for younger kids. They expect silliness and a good laugh but are in for quite the surprise at Doug’s Den of Insanity.
The characters are dimensional but we aren’t given much backstory since the story moves very quickly. As they progress through the haunted house in pairs we’re given so many deliciously creepy scenes. There’s also that element of feeling as though our characters have entered an unfamiliar, inhospitable dimension which definitely adds to the tension. I think a sequel to this one could be dope as we see what further demented ideas Salinas can conjure to wreak havoc on his characters.
I absolutely want to check out more work from Salinas. Even if he simply chose to expand on this story there’s so much depth there to work with. It has different horror themes from weird horror to traditional creep outs but Salinas manages to weave them together for a grisly enjoyable read. The story is well paced and I think it’ll hit the mark for most readers, so I’d recommend this one to anyone looking for a short read with some awesome imagery.
PS, if you’re a weirdo like me and use super tiny font on your Kindle then I’d recommend zooming in on the Polaroid pictures when you get to them. I didn’t think to do that (😅) until my second glance through the book and they made so much more sense.
Wes and his friends check out what’s been marketed as a haunted house for younger kids. They expect silliness and a good laugh but are in for quite the surprise at Doug’s Den of Insanity.
The characters are dimensional but we aren’t given much backstory since the story moves very quickly. As they progress through the haunted house in pairs we’re given so many deliciously creepy scenes. There’s also that element of feeling as though our characters have entered an unfamiliar, inhospitable dimension which definitely adds to the tension. I think a sequel to this one could be dope as we see what further demented ideas Salinas can conjure to wreak havoc on his characters.
I absolutely want to check out more work from Salinas. Even if he simply chose to expand on this story there’s so much depth there to work with. It has different horror themes from weird horror to traditional creep outs but Salinas manages to weave them together for a grisly enjoyable read. The story is well paced and I think it’ll hit the mark for most readers, so I’d recommend this one to anyone looking for a short read with some awesome imagery.
PS, if you’re a weirdo like me and use super tiny font on your Kindle then I’d recommend zooming in on the Polaroid pictures when you get to them. I didn’t think to do that (😅) until my second glance through the book and they made so much more sense.
November 15, 2024
First there was Z Martin with his book The Elevator Game! That makes me not want to ride an elevator anymore lol and now thanks to Matthew Salinas! I don’t ever want to go into a haunted house again lol. This book was wickedly horrific! It will definitely make you think twice before you go into a haunted house again. As you don’t want to end up like these 5 kids who on October 13th, enter a haunted house expecting cheap thrills—but they disappear without a trace, along with the house itself.
January 26, 2025
I had the pleasure of listening to Something Truly Dreadul by Matthew Salinas
Narrated by the one & only Joe Hempel
5 teens go to a haunted house that is aimed for kids. What happens next is far from what they expected.
The whole time, it felt like true crime meets paranormal occult, which are 2 of my favorite things.
If you're looking for your next quick listen (or read), this audiobook is 1 hour 45 minutes on normal speed
Narrated by the one & only Joe Hempel
5 teens go to a haunted house that is aimed for kids. What happens next is far from what they expected.
The whole time, it felt like true crime meets paranormal occult, which are 2 of my favorite things.
If you're looking for your next quick listen (or read), this audiobook is 1 hour 45 minutes on normal speed
November 2, 2024
Read this banger of a book this morning and was not disappointed! If you are looking for a quick read that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next, this is right up your alley. Little touches like photographs add to the wtf thoughts going through your head. A creepy little book that made me instantly want more. ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 4, 2024
I feel like there were a couple plot holes in this story. I’m sure if this was a full length novel, those points could’ve been made more clear. Salinas always has intriguing, spooky bits in his stories that I’d love to see fleshed out. But overall, this was a solid, quick read. It had me laughing, sad, and unsettled. I think it’s a good basis for a full length novel- murder mystery/cosmic horror. I always have a good time when reading Salinas and this was no different.
November 22, 2024
Fun and creepy read! Was lucky enough for the author to share this fun read with me. Found myself creeped out after I had set the book down for one reason or another. Definitely enjoyed and would definitely recommend and read more by the author.
Only nit pick I have is the last chapter should have been dated October 14th 😅
Only nit pick I have is the last chapter should have been dated October 14th 😅
October 11, 2025
This is a quick read that is perfect for Halloween. Teens go into a haunted house meant for little kids, and it becomes a nightmare. I really liked the found footage aspects throughout the book. It really made me want to know what really happened in the haunted house and I definitely wasn't expecting how it ended.
March 12, 2025
Fun and spooky novella. Def recommend!
December 11, 2025
Loved it!!
The book cover finally made sense, because it had be wondering 🤣
This was the perfect spooky, eerie, fear driven short story.
The book cover finally made sense, because it had be wondering 🤣
This was the perfect spooky, eerie, fear driven short story.
October 16, 2025
3.5 ⭐ rounded to 4.
I liked this short horror story based at a Halloween attraction where Wes and his friends go after not knowing what better to do with their evening. And how much they are going to regret this choice!
I found the idea of exploring our phobias in an unexpected way, very effective. I couldn’t avoid putting myself into the characters’ shoes and not be terrified at even the idea of something like this happening.
What I found a bit lacking was the full connection with the more cosmic side of the story, that although really intriguing, it wasn’t delved deep enough to be appreciated fully. Is perhaps a sequel in the works?
Overall, for such a short story I found it very enjoyable and soul searching in a way, a scary way I should say (lol). It was also very well narrated by Joe Hempel, a narrator that never disappoints.
Thanks to the author for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
I liked this short horror story based at a Halloween attraction where Wes and his friends go after not knowing what better to do with their evening. And how much they are going to regret this choice!
I found the idea of exploring our phobias in an unexpected way, very effective. I couldn’t avoid putting myself into the characters’ shoes and not be terrified at even the idea of something like this happening.
What I found a bit lacking was the full connection with the more cosmic side of the story, that although really intriguing, it wasn’t delved deep enough to be appreciated fully. Is perhaps a sequel in the works?
Overall, for such a short story I found it very enjoyable and soul searching in a way, a scary way I should say (lol). It was also very well narrated by Joe Hempel, a narrator that never disappoints.
Thanks to the author for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
January 13, 2025
The way Matthew Salinas wrote this novella had me questioning if it was real or not.
There were bright red flags that this group of teens didn't listen to. They were aware of these red flags, but they didn't heed the warnings.
Only $1 to get in. 5 friends, but only 2 could go in at a time, and the next 2 couldn't go in until 15 minutes later, and the final friend had to go in by himself? Yeah, no thanks!
This novella had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
There were bright red flags that this group of teens didn't listen to. They were aware of these red flags, but they didn't heed the warnings.
Only $1 to get in. 5 friends, but only 2 could go in at a time, and the next 2 couldn't go in until 15 minutes later, and the final friend had to go in by himself? Yeah, no thanks!
This novella had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
February 1, 2025
I jumped at the chance to read this haunted house attraction novella. There's something about stories that take place in a cheesy attraction that appeals to me right away, whether it's nostalgia, or the idea that something really could go haywire in such a place, and it would take people a while to catch onto things being seriously wrong.
“Something Truly Dreadful” is mostly a fast-paced read, written in epistolary style, where some things worked for me, and some things didn't.
While this book was on the shorter side, a length I really like for horror like this, I felt it would have benefited with more pages. There are quite a few characters, and I didn't feel like I got to know any of them enough to care what happened to them. Making the horror of the situation fall flat. At least two of the characters felt like throwaway characters, because all I remember about them is their fears.
Delving into fears, I love the idea of playing off a spectators fears. And some of the things that happened in this book did a great job bringing me back to some old school B- movies. Which was fun. But I won't go into that any further, because I don't want to ruin it for readers.
My biggest issue and appreciation for this book is the epistolary style. I love the idea of the found pictures (though they were hard to make out in my Kindle version). And the way that each finding was explained. Where this style didn't work for me were the sections that said they were reenactments of what is thought to have happened. Unless these reenactments were done by an out there paranormal show, I couldn't see mainstream investigators or media jumping to these conclusions. Begging the question, who is giving us all of this information on events?
Also, these reenactment sections were written where we get to see the characters’ thoughts and emotions, which wouldn't be present if we were watching a reenactment…unless maybe there was a narrator? In that case, maybe there should have been a script like interjection, but that would probably make things clunky…anyway, this style didn't work for me in the largest portion of the book, and I couldn't get past it.
All in all, the book could have used a little more meat, and had a few other things ironed out, but it does have some clever storytelling ideas, making for a decent read.
“Something Truly Dreadful” is mostly a fast-paced read, written in epistolary style, where some things worked for me, and some things didn't.
While this book was on the shorter side, a length I really like for horror like this, I felt it would have benefited with more pages. There are quite a few characters, and I didn't feel like I got to know any of them enough to care what happened to them. Making the horror of the situation fall flat. At least two of the characters felt like throwaway characters, because all I remember about them is their fears.
Delving into fears, I love the idea of playing off a spectators fears. And some of the things that happened in this book did a great job bringing me back to some old school B- movies. Which was fun. But I won't go into that any further, because I don't want to ruin it for readers.
My biggest issue and appreciation for this book is the epistolary style. I love the idea of the found pictures (though they were hard to make out in my Kindle version). And the way that each finding was explained. Where this style didn't work for me were the sections that said they were reenactments of what is thought to have happened. Unless these reenactments were done by an out there paranormal show, I couldn't see mainstream investigators or media jumping to these conclusions. Begging the question, who is giving us all of this information on events?
Also, these reenactment sections were written where we get to see the characters’ thoughts and emotions, which wouldn't be present if we were watching a reenactment…unless maybe there was a narrator? In that case, maybe there should have been a script like interjection, but that would probably make things clunky…anyway, this style didn't work for me in the largest portion of the book, and I couldn't get past it.
All in all, the book could have used a little more meat, and had a few other things ironed out, but it does have some clever storytelling ideas, making for a decent read.
July 31, 2025
I've read & listened to a few stories of Matthew Salinas. This is one of my favorite short story/novellas of his. I really liked the premise for the story. What could possibly go wrong with a bunch of teenagers at a haunted house, supposedly geared towards children?Guess you'll have to read the book. 🙃I liked the changes in view point from 3rd person via transcripts, reports and pictures & 1st person characters living the story. Reminds me of the old Twighlight zones episodes. The use of transcripts, pictures and reports gave it a true crime scene feel to it. I loved the clever twists of having the characters write down their own personal fears before entering the building. Made for some great horror scenes. Sending them in by groups of 2 every 15 minutes was great. It gave the story an opportunity to give a little bit of character development. It also set up more time and suspense to find out what their fears are. It made the story more suspenseful and creepy. I didn't want the audiobook to stop! I typically only listen to audiobooks in my car, on my commute to and from work. This story was so energetic & fast paced action, that I ended up listening to the story in the house. Joe Hempel did a great job with the narration.
The very end fell a bit flat for me. If they would have just drove away with just a brief glimpse into the MC's thoughts and feelings, that would have been a solid finish. I would have rated it a bit higher, if I didnt feel like it was a total set up for a sequel. I personally dislike when ending are used to set up for a sequel. A second story could easily start anywheres in the future timeline. Overall a great story!
The very end fell a bit flat for me. If they would have just drove away with just a brief glimpse into the MC's thoughts and feelings, that would have been a solid finish. I would have rated it a bit higher, if I didnt feel like it was a total set up for a sequel. I personally dislike when ending are used to set up for a sequel. A second story could easily start anywheres in the future timeline. Overall a great story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2024
This was an absolutely fantastic horror short. Don't let the ages of the characters fool you. Yes, they're teenagers, but this is definitely an adult read. The idea of going into a haunted house and knowing that it's just going to be gimmicky and a bit of fun, is what lulls us into a false sense of security, so having that security and safety taken away just when you've let your guard down, that's where the horror is. The way that the story was written was also fantastic, written as almost a crime scene file, there's the story that the police BELIEVE happened, and there's also little bits of evidence at the end of each of the chapters. I loved the addition of the photos as well.
The atmosphere was well written and took no time at all to appear, and I enjoyed the characters even though they weren't super fleshed out, this was about the story and what happened to these people, not so much about the people themselves, so being a plot driven story, this worked beautifully. I still really felt for all of the characters as the story progressed and I was filled with a strong sense of sadness and fear for them throughout the entire story.
All in all, this was a great story, and I look forward to reading more from Salinas. I'm hoping that we'll get to revisit this world with longer works down the track, and I'm interested to see where the story goes, as the ending is quite open ended while still giving full closure for this part of the story.
The atmosphere was well written and took no time at all to appear, and I enjoyed the characters even though they weren't super fleshed out, this was about the story and what happened to these people, not so much about the people themselves, so being a plot driven story, this worked beautifully. I still really felt for all of the characters as the story progressed and I was filled with a strong sense of sadness and fear for them throughout the entire story.
All in all, this was a great story, and I look forward to reading more from Salinas. I'm hoping that we'll get to revisit this world with longer works down the track, and I'm interested to see where the story goes, as the ending is quite open ended while still giving full closure for this part of the story.
March 29, 2025
THIS IS IT. This is exactly what I want out of a book. I swear I had a smile on my face the entire time I read this one. It was like a trick or treat bag of horror: so many different flavors, and they are all delicious. There is a haunted house, teenagers in danger, a creepy guy, and a variety of specific fears that I won't get into, because I don't want to give anything away. Just stop whatever you are doing and read this book. There is something spooky in it for everyone.
It kicked off with an AIM chat between a group of friends, and I was instantly transported back to the 2000s. Absolutely perfect way to bring the reader into the decade where the story takes place. The October/Halloween setting is always my favorite. Whenever a book can mentally bring me to that time of year, I am happy. I loved the use of the Polaroids throughout with notes on what was in the images and how they related to the disappearances. Those parts felt like a found footage movie.
It was short, so there was no fluff. No repetition. No unnecessary details. Something was happening the whole time, and I couldn't put it down.
I CANNOT WAIT for the sequel.
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
It kicked off with an AIM chat between a group of friends, and I was instantly transported back to the 2000s. Absolutely perfect way to bring the reader into the decade where the story takes place. The October/Halloween setting is always my favorite. Whenever a book can mentally bring me to that time of year, I am happy. I loved the use of the Polaroids throughout with notes on what was in the images and how they related to the disappearances. Those parts felt like a found footage movie.
It was short, so there was no fluff. No repetition. No unnecessary details. Something was happening the whole time, and I couldn't put it down.
I CANNOT WAIT for the sequel.
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2024
Wes just wants to go out with friends and do something fun on a Saturday night. What starts off as a harmless idea to poke fun at the haunted house attraction that landed in town, ends in total misery for Wes.
This was an interesting story that I went into completely blind. At 77 pages, I read it in about 90 minutes. It was a short read that packed a punch with lots of detail. I was unsure in the beginning if this would be something I enjoyed, I've never really read anything formatted in such a way. I was nervous that the news clipping/police report style would be something I could get into but in the end it really added to the intensity of everything going on. I found this story to be effective in creating dread and fear. Some of the things these kids went through would have found their way onto my piece of paper as I walked into the haunted house.
The way it ended left me wanting more. I need to know what goes on between Wes and Doug. The trippy horrific world that this story created would be quite fun to explore!
This was an interesting story that I went into completely blind. At 77 pages, I read it in about 90 minutes. It was a short read that packed a punch with lots of detail. I was unsure in the beginning if this would be something I enjoyed, I've never really read anything formatted in such a way. I was nervous that the news clipping/police report style would be something I could get into but in the end it really added to the intensity of everything going on. I found this story to be effective in creating dread and fear. Some of the things these kids went through would have found their way onto my piece of paper as I walked into the haunted house.
The way it ended left me wanting more. I need to know what goes on between Wes and Doug. The trippy horrific world that this story created would be quite fun to explore!
November 14, 2024
This novella was an absolute gem! From the very first page, I was hooked. As I read, vivid memories of the movie House of 1000 Corpses came to mind, especially during the circus opening scene—imagine a younger, gaunter Captain Spaulding brought to life in Doug! The story gave off that perfect blend of unsettling and captivating.
But beyond the thrills, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sadness for the kids and their inevitable fate. And can we talk about Wes? I’m seriously crossing my fingers for a follow-up novella about his revenge—I’d devour that in a heartbeat!
Despite its shorter length, this novella packed in a full story that felt complete. I loved the nostalgic touches, too—the nods to the early 2000s, AIM chats, and a world where cellphones weren’t glued to our hands. It was like being transported back in time, and I savored every moment of it.
To sum it up, this story was like a delightful dessert—sweet, dark, and satisfying. Matthew Salinas’s writing is captivating, and I can’t wait to read more of his work. Highly recommend!
But beyond the thrills, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sadness for the kids and their inevitable fate. And can we talk about Wes? I’m seriously crossing my fingers for a follow-up novella about his revenge—I’d devour that in a heartbeat!
Despite its shorter length, this novella packed in a full story that felt complete. I loved the nostalgic touches, too—the nods to the early 2000s, AIM chats, and a world where cellphones weren’t glued to our hands. It was like being transported back in time, and I savored every moment of it.
To sum it up, this story was like a delightful dessert—sweet, dark, and satisfying. Matthew Salinas’s writing is captivating, and I can’t wait to read more of his work. Highly recommend!
January 15, 2025
**REVIEW**
Title: Something Truly Dreadful
Author: Matthew Salinas
🖐 stars!
Jesus. I started this late at night and had a feeling of nostalgia while reading through the first chapter. I forced myself to stop reading for the night because I knew I was about to be in for one wild freaking ride.
Holy crap. I was not prepared. I read this while sitting in car rider line at school pickup, then while sitting in the dentist's office {{shiver}} waiting on my daughter. I was actually irritated that I had to stop reading to drive. This story is a short little novella that sucks you in with a story of 5 friends who go to a silly little kid's haunted house. It's written in the style of a police report, which is unique. And I had two new fears unlocked with this one.
If you ever come across a silly little kid's haunted house with a ticket seller who smiles a little too wide and laughs a little too loud, only charging you a dollar to get in? Turn around and run as fast as you can.
I can't wait to see what else Mr. Salinas has in store for us!
Title: Something Truly Dreadful
Author: Matthew Salinas
🖐 stars!
Jesus. I started this late at night and had a feeling of nostalgia while reading through the first chapter. I forced myself to stop reading for the night because I knew I was about to be in for one wild freaking ride.
Holy crap. I was not prepared. I read this while sitting in car rider line at school pickup, then while sitting in the dentist's office {{shiver}} waiting on my daughter. I was actually irritated that I had to stop reading to drive. This story is a short little novella that sucks you in with a story of 5 friends who go to a silly little kid's haunted house. It's written in the style of a police report, which is unique. And I had two new fears unlocked with this one.
If you ever come across a silly little kid's haunted house with a ticket seller who smiles a little too wide and laughs a little too loud, only charging you a dollar to get in? Turn around and run as fast as you can.
I can't wait to see what else Mr. Salinas has in store for us!
September 5, 2025
[Snack-Size Review] Something Truly Dreadful, by Matthew Salinas
Quick Bite: Lots of fun, creepy ideas that don’t quite gel.
What It’s About: In October, 2001, a group of five friends goes to a local haunted house, planning to goof off and maybe heckle the staff a little. But the place is not what it seems, and the kids are never seen again.
A Word From The Nerd: I’ll start with the obvious - Mr. Salinas had a great time writing this story, and it shows. It was very easy to picture him rubbing his hands in glee as he described the various nasties inside Doug’s Den of Insanity, and for a horror fan, just as much fun to read. But I think that the author hamstrung himself a bit by putting it right up front that the kids didn’t make it out alive. Doing so took a lot of the tension out of the rest of the book, as I already knew how it would end. I’m interested in what Mr. Salinas does next, however.
The Nerd’s Rating: THREE HAPPY NEURONS (and an old Polaroid camera, those things were cool as hell.)
Quick Bite: Lots of fun, creepy ideas that don’t quite gel.
What It’s About: In October, 2001, a group of five friends goes to a local haunted house, planning to goof off and maybe heckle the staff a little. But the place is not what it seems, and the kids are never seen again.
A Word From The Nerd: I’ll start with the obvious - Mr. Salinas had a great time writing this story, and it shows. It was very easy to picture him rubbing his hands in glee as he described the various nasties inside Doug’s Den of Insanity, and for a horror fan, just as much fun to read. But I think that the author hamstrung himself a bit by putting it right up front that the kids didn’t make it out alive. Doing so took a lot of the tension out of the rest of the book, as I already knew how it would end. I’m interested in what Mr. Salinas does next, however.
The Nerd’s Rating: THREE HAPPY NEURONS (and an old Polaroid camera, those things were cool as hell.)
January 30, 2025
'Something Truly Dreadful' is a story about a group of friends who visit a haunted house attraction geared for kids. We are told at the start that none of them were heard from again so we know that things won't turn out well for them.
Overall I found this to be a creepy story. There's an element of found footage present (we are given descriptions of grisly photographs discovered afterwards) which gives the story a sense of foreboding that it might not have otherwise had. There's a variety of scares and it can get surprisingly gruesome at times; the story isn't recommended if you have a phobia of dentists.
The narrator for the audiobook does a good job reading the story and delivering the right amount of emotion and variations with the characters' voices. At less than two hours it's short enough that you can listen to it one sitting.
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I found this to be a creepy story. There's an element of found footage present (we are given descriptions of grisly photographs discovered afterwards) which gives the story a sense of foreboding that it might not have otherwise had. There's a variety of scares and it can get surprisingly gruesome at times; the story isn't recommended if you have a phobia of dentists.
The narrator for the audiobook does a good job reading the story and delivering the right amount of emotion and variations with the characters' voices. At less than two hours it's short enough that you can listen to it one sitting.
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2025
Next up, I had the extreme pleasure of reading Something Truly Dreadful, by Matthew Salinas. A relatively short book, it still left quite the impact on me. It’s dark, really dark, but such a good read. The story is about five teenage friends who decide to check out a haunted house attraction that’s mainly geared towards younger children. Bad idea. Really bad idea. The house isn’t what it seems. In fact, it’s so much more sinister, just dripping with evil. And it brought to mind things that I fear, which, by the way, I would NEVER commit to paper and hand to someone. And let me say, my eyes may grow wide, and I may run for my life the next time I meet someone named Doug. Oh, he’s an evil, sadistic SOB.
I would further describe this book as the offspring of a union between Something Wicked This Way Comes and IT. It was captivating, to the point that I didn’t want it to end. That pretty much sums up how much I liked it. And so, I give Something Truly Dreadful a 5 out of 5.
I would further describe this book as the offspring of a union between Something Wicked This Way Comes and IT. It was captivating, to the point that I didn’t want it to end. That pretty much sums up how much I liked it. And so, I give Something Truly Dreadful a 5 out of 5.
February 9, 2025
Something Truly Dreadful by Matthew Salinas is a gripping, scary novella.
Five teenagers (Wes, Louise, Veronica, Sydney and Charlie) set out to go to a new haunted house. While they believe it is going to be a childish gimmick of a haunted house they decide to check it out for $1. This haunted house is far from a childish gimmick.
As an avid horror fan and thrill seeker for haunted houses I absolutely loved this story. I can tell you if I get to a haunted house and they ask for my fears I’m going to head home.
Listening to the audiobook of this novella was fantastic. ItnhadHe correct amount of horror and humor inside. Just when you think this is just a funny little horror story it goes into actual horror.
Doug’s Den of Insanity…. Go get a copy of this novella or the audiobook and enjoy it!
Be careful next time you go into a haunted house!!!
Thank you Matthew for a copy of this audiobook it was masterful and I can’t wait to read more!
Five teenagers (Wes, Louise, Veronica, Sydney and Charlie) set out to go to a new haunted house. While they believe it is going to be a childish gimmick of a haunted house they decide to check it out for $1. This haunted house is far from a childish gimmick.
As an avid horror fan and thrill seeker for haunted houses I absolutely loved this story. I can tell you if I get to a haunted house and they ask for my fears I’m going to head home.
Listening to the audiobook of this novella was fantastic. ItnhadHe correct amount of horror and humor inside. Just when you think this is just a funny little horror story it goes into actual horror.
Doug’s Den of Insanity…. Go get a copy of this novella or the audiobook and enjoy it!
Be careful next time you go into a haunted house!!!
Thank you Matthew for a copy of this audiobook it was masterful and I can’t wait to read more!
November 9, 2024
Something Truly Dreadful" by Matthew Salinas is a wild, eerie ride that horror fans are sure to enjoy. The novella is a short but intense story that follows a group of teens visiting a haunted house attraction, expecting a lighthearted scare but instead finding themselves plunged into a realm of their own fears and facing unexpected horrors. Salinas expertly balances teenage humor with chilling suspense, especially in the unsettling scenes inside Doug’s Den of Insanity, where the horror takes on a surprising intensity.
The Polaroid images included are a nice touch, capturing eerie snapshots from the teens’ dreadful night. With fast pacing and memorable, creepy imagery, this novella is perfect for horror lovers who enjoy a quick, satisfying read with plenty of scares. Highly recommended for fans of both campy and spine-chilling horror!
The Polaroid images included are a nice touch, capturing eerie snapshots from the teens’ dreadful night. With fast pacing and memorable, creepy imagery, this novella is perfect for horror lovers who enjoy a quick, satisfying read with plenty of scares. Highly recommended for fans of both campy and spine-chilling horror!
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