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Black Days
Black Days tells the story of Daniel Fassett, a Vermont man who crashes his vehicle into the Mad River on Christmas Eve, 1992.
After nearly drowning, Daniel falls into a four-month-long coma shortly before his retirement date, and loses a significant portion of his pension. Depressed and financially strapped, he enlists the aid of a local semi-retired physician, Dr. William Butcher, to help him hibernate through the winter in a homemade casket housed in a backyard maple sugarhouse.
Despite Daniel's attempts to maintain secrecy, word of the procedure eventually gets out -- and that is when trouble begins. From across the country, folks eager to escape their woes reach out to Daniel and Dr. Butcher in hopes of becoming the next to pass a season in oblivion. Large sums of money are offered for the privilege -- but death, deception, and moral and ethical dilemmas that have no clear solutions wreak havoc on Daniel's life.
After nearly drowning, Daniel falls into a four-month-long coma shortly before his retirement date, and loses a significant portion of his pension. Depressed and financially strapped, he enlists the aid of a local semi-retired physician, Dr. William Butcher, to help him hibernate through the winter in a homemade casket housed in a backyard maple sugarhouse.
Despite Daniel's attempts to maintain secrecy, word of the procedure eventually gets out -- and that is when trouble begins. From across the country, folks eager to escape their woes reach out to Daniel and Dr. Butcher in hopes of becoming the next to pass a season in oblivion. Large sums of money are offered for the privilege -- but death, deception, and moral and ethical dilemmas that have no clear solutions wreak havoc on Daniel's life.
163 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 1, 2024
I’m not that familiar with the hoax that this psychological thriller is based on, in fact, I hadn’t even heard of it before this book. All that to say, I don’t really know what is or isn’t pulled from the annals of history, but even a fraction would be a doozy. This book follows Daniel who, in the early 90’s, is experiencing a type of depression that will be very familiar to many people: a quiet type of loneliness and pain where you just want the time to pass and to wake up to something better. For Daniel, a divorced man cheated out of his full pension, that becomes a reality. But when he wakes up from his sojourn of sorts, things only become more complicated. This book, with its medical and psychological thriller elements, felt like it was leading up to a type of moral the entire time, but even now, a day after finishing, I’m not entirely sure I got the message?
The narration by Daniel throughout the book makes it very easy to sympathize with the main character. He seems to experience several emotional tragedies that pivot his life into a direction he hasn’t planned on it going in. Come his twilight years, he’s eagerly looking forward to escaping the cold of New England—and not just the cold of winter if his interpersonal relationships are any indication. But a loophole that feels so evilly corporate takes that dream from him, too. Hoping to power through the worst of his depression that comes about during the winter, Daniel hopes to replicate the effects of the accident that, inadvertently, took his full pension from him. I could empathize with Daniel’s desire to fast forward through the big, heavy emotions and depression that cold, lonely days can bring on. And that’s where I thought a “moral” was starting to emerge. Because while Daniel “succeeds” at his plans, it brings about unforeseen consequences that tap into ethical dilemmas when money, and the medical “greater good” debate collide. I just don’t think those dilemmas were set up enough to foster the kind of discussion I was hoping for.
The idea of doing something reprehensible to an objectively bad person for the good of the many is a fascinating topic that is only lightly brushed on. Perhaps if a bit less attention was given to the lifelong disappointment that is Daniel’s life in favor of extending that thriller aspect of the book that comes with its twist, we’d be having a much different, and deeper discussion. As it is, I can’t say I liked the devastating ending. It fit, to a degree, but because I didn’t think it was completely justified, I didn’t get that gut punch I was hoping for from a book that otherwise moves at a fast, steady pace with a character that I think a lot of readers will root for, and understand on a deep emotional level. However, the book is very atmospheric and you can really feel the small-town atmosphere and the cold this book takes place in. So, if you’re looking for a quick thriller perfect for those long, cold nights, definitely give “Black Days” a try! And thanks to the author for giving me an eARC!
The narration by Daniel throughout the book makes it very easy to sympathize with the main character. He seems to experience several emotional tragedies that pivot his life into a direction he hasn’t planned on it going in. Come his twilight years, he’s eagerly looking forward to escaping the cold of New England—and not just the cold of winter if his interpersonal relationships are any indication. But a loophole that feels so evilly corporate takes that dream from him, too. Hoping to power through the worst of his depression that comes about during the winter, Daniel hopes to replicate the effects of the accident that, inadvertently, took his full pension from him. I could empathize with Daniel’s desire to fast forward through the big, heavy emotions and depression that cold, lonely days can bring on. And that’s where I thought a “moral” was starting to emerge. Because while Daniel “succeeds” at his plans, it brings about unforeseen consequences that tap into ethical dilemmas when money, and the medical “greater good” debate collide. I just don’t think those dilemmas were set up enough to foster the kind of discussion I was hoping for.
The idea of doing something reprehensible to an objectively bad person for the good of the many is a fascinating topic that is only lightly brushed on. Perhaps if a bit less attention was given to the lifelong disappointment that is Daniel’s life in favor of extending that thriller aspect of the book that comes with its twist, we’d be having a much different, and deeper discussion. As it is, I can’t say I liked the devastating ending. It fit, to a degree, but because I didn’t think it was completely justified, I didn’t get that gut punch I was hoping for from a book that otherwise moves at a fast, steady pace with a character that I think a lot of readers will root for, and understand on a deep emotional level. However, the book is very atmospheric and you can really feel the small-town atmosphere and the cold this book takes place in. So, if you’re looking for a quick thriller perfect for those long, cold nights, definitely give “Black Days” a try! And thanks to the author for giving me an eARC!
October 20, 2025
3.5
Good book for spooky season. A reminder to buy local and read VT writers.
Good book for spooky season. A reminder to buy local and read VT writers.
December 8, 2024
Can’t stop reading books set in VT! I loved My Year of Rest and Relaxation and I loved this! Maybe it is concerning how much I enjoy a drug-induced hibernation premise
November 18, 2024
Black Days by Jackson Ellis is an original thriller that I read in a few hours. The title certainly fits the theme. The cover is ominous and the colors are perfect. The MMC Daniel is a divorced factory worker from New England who is a couple of months from retirement. He has purchased a home in the Florida Keys and his dreams of living out his days in the sunshine on his pension are almost fulfilled. On Christmas Eve of 1992, he loses control of his vehicle on an icy road, careens into the Mad River (upside down no less almost drowning), and winds up in a coma for several months. Upon awakening his world has drastically changed, and not for the better. His finances are few and his home in the Keys is no more. Daniel begins to feel depressed, and then desperation sets in. He contacts his old family physician, Dr. William Butcher, and presents him with an offer. He wants the doctor to help him hibernate that winter in his maple sugarhouse behind the house. News of the experiment gets out, and the ensuing events are black indeed.
Daniel’s character is easy to root for. He seems to have done “the right thing” all his life. He has worked hard, loved his family, swallowed his pain, and just wants a reprieve. Now he wants to enjoy “the good life.” It is such a roller coaster ride to read his story. Dr. Butcher has been his physician and now friend for many years. He spent time in the hospital by Daniel’s bedside while he was in the coma. The development of their relationship in the story comes as quite a shock, and the buildup is suspenseful. It becomes clear at a certain point that these two characters are on a trajectory that neither can stop. The writing was detailed, the pace was medium to fast (just right for the story in my opinion), and the atmosphere was set up perfectly for the story. Although the ending may be problematic for some, the book sets the tone for Daniel from the beginning and I think it’s brilliant!
Overall, I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars! I was not familiar with the hoax the story was inspired by, but perhaps that’s best. I felt it was a breath of fresh air. If you enjoy thrillers, horror, or books about morality or medical dilemmas, read this book! Mr. Ellis is a talented writer and I look forward to reading more of his work.
Daniel’s character is easy to root for. He seems to have done “the right thing” all his life. He has worked hard, loved his family, swallowed his pain, and just wants a reprieve. Now he wants to enjoy “the good life.” It is such a roller coaster ride to read his story. Dr. Butcher has been his physician and now friend for many years. He spent time in the hospital by Daniel’s bedside while he was in the coma. The development of their relationship in the story comes as quite a shock, and the buildup is suspenseful. It becomes clear at a certain point that these two characters are on a trajectory that neither can stop. The writing was detailed, the pace was medium to fast (just right for the story in my opinion), and the atmosphere was set up perfectly for the story. Although the ending may be problematic for some, the book sets the tone for Daniel from the beginning and I think it’s brilliant!
Overall, I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars! I was not familiar with the hoax the story was inspired by, but perhaps that’s best. I felt it was a breath of fresh air. If you enjoy thrillers, horror, or books about morality or medical dilemmas, read this book! Mr. Ellis is a talented writer and I look forward to reading more of his work.
February 23, 2025
I found the pace and mystery of this book fascinating. This is short enough to easily devour in a day and the plot was sufficient to keep me guessing and keep me reading. I can see how some might struggle a bit with what could come across a bit close to science-fiction here, but it was certainly intriguing. While there was not a major plot twist that shocked me, the "twist" toward the end was not something I expected and it did fit perfectly with the story. There was an element of sadness and darkness around this as well.
All in all, it was a fun book to read. If you prefer something fast-paced, or find yourself in a reading slump, this should take care of both.
Note: I won this via a StoryGraph giveaway.
All in all, it was a fun book to read. If you prefer something fast-paced, or find yourself in a reading slump, this should take care of both.
Note: I won this via a StoryGraph giveaway.
August 25, 2025
no way... what just happened? what did i just read?
March 8, 2025
Batshit crazy… couldn’t put it down
May 29, 2025
Howdy folks! Lemme tell ya, I just read this here book called BLACK DAYS, and lordy, it's a wild ride! Now, I ain't much for fancy words or book learnin', so y'all bear with me.
This story's 'bout a fella named Daniel Fassett. He's a factory worker up north, tired of them cold winters, and he's got his heart set on movin' down to Florida. Got himself a little bungalow and a big ol' pension comin'. Sounds real nice, don't it? Well, just when he's about to make his escape, wham! He wrecks his truck on Christmas Eve, almost drowns, and ends up in a coma. Poor fella wakes up in the springtime and everything he had is gone. His money's outta whack, his little house in Florida's vanished—just a real mess.
Now, Daniel's desperate, see? He's feelin' trapped, can't stand the thought of another cold winter. So, he hooks up with this doctor, Dr. William Butcher, for the craziest idea you ever heard: tryin' to hibernate like a bear in an old maple sugarhouse out back! Can you believe that? Tryin' to just sleep through the whole winter!
He tries to keep it a secret, naturally, 'cause who'd believe such a thing? But word gets out, and that's when the real trouble starts. People get all riled up, I tell ya. It's like somethin' outta them old tales 'bout the "Frozen Hill People" from way back when.
This ain't just some run-of-the-mill story, no sir. It makes ya think 'bout what a man'll do when he's got nothin' left to lose. It's got a real dark feel to it, kinda like one of them Shirley Jackson books my cousin Mae reads, or somethin' by Hubert Selby, Jr. or James M. Cain if you know them. It's a real thriller, keeps ya on the edge of your seat, wonderin' what's gonna happen next.
If you like a story that's a little strange, a little dark, and keeps ya guessin', you oughta pick up BLACK DAYS. You won't be disappointed.
I give it 5 catfish outta 5
This story's 'bout a fella named Daniel Fassett. He's a factory worker up north, tired of them cold winters, and he's got his heart set on movin' down to Florida. Got himself a little bungalow and a big ol' pension comin'. Sounds real nice, don't it? Well, just when he's about to make his escape, wham! He wrecks his truck on Christmas Eve, almost drowns, and ends up in a coma. Poor fella wakes up in the springtime and everything he had is gone. His money's outta whack, his little house in Florida's vanished—just a real mess.
Now, Daniel's desperate, see? He's feelin' trapped, can't stand the thought of another cold winter. So, he hooks up with this doctor, Dr. William Butcher, for the craziest idea you ever heard: tryin' to hibernate like a bear in an old maple sugarhouse out back! Can you believe that? Tryin' to just sleep through the whole winter!
He tries to keep it a secret, naturally, 'cause who'd believe such a thing? But word gets out, and that's when the real trouble starts. People get all riled up, I tell ya. It's like somethin' outta them old tales 'bout the "Frozen Hill People" from way back when.
This ain't just some run-of-the-mill story, no sir. It makes ya think 'bout what a man'll do when he's got nothin' left to lose. It's got a real dark feel to it, kinda like one of them Shirley Jackson books my cousin Mae reads, or somethin' by Hubert Selby, Jr. or James M. Cain if you know them. It's a real thriller, keeps ya on the edge of your seat, wonderin' what's gonna happen next.
If you like a story that's a little strange, a little dark, and keeps ya guessin', you oughta pick up BLACK DAYS. You won't be disappointed.
I give it 5 catfish outta 5
April 11, 2025
This is a fascinating book - it's deep, beautiful, darkly comedic, haunting, and horrifying.
Our main character, Daniel, an older man whose been through a horrific car accident finds himself longing for the sweet release he felt slipping into "hibernation" during his accident just one more time... thinking it will change everything for the better and fix his life.
Throughout the book we are given snippets of Daniel's inner monologue making him all the more relatable and giving us much needed comedic relief.
The author has a way with metaphors and similes like no other- delivering incredibly hilarious and vivid imagery throughout.
I will say until 82% of the way into the book I wasn't too sure where the real horror aspect was - but the last 18% was a rollercoaster I didn't want to end.
Can't wait to pick up more from this author!
Our main character, Daniel, an older man whose been through a horrific car accident finds himself longing for the sweet release he felt slipping into "hibernation" during his accident just one more time... thinking it will change everything for the better and fix his life.
Throughout the book we are given snippets of Daniel's inner monologue making him all the more relatable and giving us much needed comedic relief.
The author has a way with metaphors and similes like no other- delivering incredibly hilarious and vivid imagery throughout.
I will say until 82% of the way into the book I wasn't too sure where the real horror aspect was - but the last 18% was a rollercoaster I didn't want to end.
Can't wait to pick up more from this author!
January 29, 2025
Found this one on sale via BookBub and was drawn to the cover art and the synopsis. Very enjoyable short read with an interesting concept. Though tagged on BookBub as a horror it's more of a thriller in a sense. Can't really say much else without spoiling it, but definitely worth a read.
December 21, 2024
Jackson is an awesome human and an awesome writer and this book is awesome
January 9, 2025
won this book with a storygraph giveaway, i liked it!
July 8, 2024
On the eve of retirement, Daniel, a Vermont factory worker, gets in an accident that leaves him in a coma. He awakens months later to a depressing combination of a paltry pension, a botched real estate deal, and an estranged family. A bear he encounters on a walk in the woods reminds him that his coma was like hibernating. Perhaps “hibernating” in the cold during the long winter will revive him. With the help of his family doctor, his plan succeeds. But will others’ plans to ride his coattails succeed?
Based on a true hoax story, the book appeals to a condition to which many in today’s milieu can relate. Daniel exemplifies “the quietest type of tragedy: a silent, invisible tragedy of loneliness and unspoken pain” (65). He learns from his labor job to stuff his feelings and trudge through. He’s also ingenious enough to create an escape. Daniel’s beleaguered yet hands-on, can-do voice sets a sensitive as well as action-oriented tone.
Daniel isn’t the only actor, however. Dr. Butcher is omnipresent. He cared for Daniel during his coma and afterwards remained a steady (sometimes overbearing) companion. Dr. Butcher, with his expertise and attention to detail, is as convincing as the plan itself, which makes the gruesome climax a surprise ending.
The book’s straightforward and linear narration about how to freeze people keeps the story moving at a steady clip. The experiment at its heart, carried out by two able men, is intriguing enough. The real hook, though, is a lurking tragedy, pernicious and startling and devastating to everyone in its wake. Are we ready to believe we’re as susceptible to it as the pervasive condition Daniel exemplifies? What begins as a science fiction hoax becomes a psychological thriller, a double hitter that packs a painful punch.
Based on a true hoax story, the book appeals to a condition to which many in today’s milieu can relate. Daniel exemplifies “the quietest type of tragedy: a silent, invisible tragedy of loneliness and unspoken pain” (65). He learns from his labor job to stuff his feelings and trudge through. He’s also ingenious enough to create an escape. Daniel’s beleaguered yet hands-on, can-do voice sets a sensitive as well as action-oriented tone.
Daniel isn’t the only actor, however. Dr. Butcher is omnipresent. He cared for Daniel during his coma and afterwards remained a steady (sometimes overbearing) companion. Dr. Butcher, with his expertise and attention to detail, is as convincing as the plan itself, which makes the gruesome climax a surprise ending.
The book’s straightforward and linear narration about how to freeze people keeps the story moving at a steady clip. The experiment at its heart, carried out by two able men, is intriguing enough. The real hook, though, is a lurking tragedy, pernicious and startling and devastating to everyone in its wake. Are we ready to believe we’re as susceptible to it as the pervasive condition Daniel exemplifies? What begins as a science fiction hoax becomes a psychological thriller, a double hitter that packs a painful punch.
June 17, 2024
What a ride! I enjoyed the characters, even a couple that weren't very likable. The scenery descriptions are wonderful and full of detail. The story is totally bizarre and the twists turned out to be a lot of fun. It's certainly going to keep you turning pages... I read it in one go on a plane and the time just zipped by. Glad I had an opportunity to read the ARC!
February 7, 2025
What an awesome story! Finished in a few hours, I couldn't put it down. The writing was excellent, up there with the best writing I've ever read. It had many twists I didn't see coming, I absolutely LOVED it!! Can't wait to read more by this author.
February 23, 2025
The premise of this story was quite interesting, but the end was so depressing to me, I wasn’t sure why it couldn’t have had a more uplifting ending. A fast-paced novella style read, perfect for a chilly New England winter evening!
November 4, 2024
Takes hibernation to a whole new level.
November 19, 2024
It was a quick read. Interesting story line with a surprise ending
April 23, 2025
What a strange little book. I read it in one day. (only 188 pages) It was fast paced and hard to put down.
June 9, 2025
semi decent story, i felt like this was fast paced and enjoyable
September 3, 2025
mediocre writing , the concept was very far fetched and it seemed like little research was put into the medical parts. not horror at all either
March 12, 2025
it was very interesting for sure (but like in a good way) and very fun to read but also feel kind of mixed about it i can't explain it
i definitely didn't expect the ending it was kind of abrupt but still interesting
i wouldn't call it horror tho more like a sci-fi thriller
i definitely didn't expect the ending it was kind of abrupt but still interesting
i wouldn't call it horror tho more like a sci-fi thriller
December 30, 2024
If, after a near death experience and coma, you wake up yearning for a return to that place … peace, sleep, a break from the world, and you engaged a doctor who was truly excited about and believing in the ability of human “hibernation”. If you could wake up after months of true deep sleep feeling refreshed and having a new outlook on life, would you do it? Would you share your experience with others? What would it cost them? What would it cost you? Good story! I liked it 🙂
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews