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You're Not Supposed To Be Here
Gabe has reached the breaking point—feeling like he's run out of options, he's determined to end it all. But when he awakens in a world that mirrors his deepest desires, everything changes.
Now, faced with the life he's always yearned for, Gabe will do anything to ensure it stays that way. But lurking in the shadows is a malevolent force bent on tearing it all apart.
YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE HERE is a chilling horror that explores the haunting realities of grief, regret, and the perilous consequences of neglecting mental health.
Now, faced with the life he's always yearned for, Gabe will do anything to ensure it stays that way. But lurking in the shadows is a malevolent force bent on tearing it all apart.
YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE HERE is a chilling horror that explores the haunting realities of grief, regret, and the perilous consequences of neglecting mental health.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2025
75 people are currently reading
958 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
February 11, 2025
Pretty good book about learning to jet ski. I'm impressed.
April 24, 2025
3.25-3.50 stars for me.
For starters I didn't like the main character at all. He's a selfish, cowardly, self-centered little prick and deserves everything that happens to him
After reading the description, I had my hopes that this would play out like a Twilight Zone episode, where the main character wakes up in a different world that mirrors his own, but has dark subtle differences. But no, what we get is much more confusing and head scratching.
For starters I didn't like the main character at all. He's a selfish, cowardly, self-centered little prick and deserves everything that happens to him
After reading the description, I had my hopes that this would play out like a Twilight Zone episode, where the main character wakes up in a different world that mirrors his own, but has dark subtle differences. But no, what we get is much more confusing and head scratching.
June 30, 2025
The story begins with a lovely reminder that you ARE supposed to be here. This was really sweet, I loved it. Mike Salt rocks as a person in general. I think he’s fabulous. This book itself fell a little short for me, but that’s okay. I definitely had a good time with it.
I don’t normally critique books for grammatical mistakes, but this edition had enough to at times take me out of the story. The ending is a bit of a head scratcher- unlike other reviewers, I DID feel as though I had a lot of my questions answered. I simply didn’t know how we came to this conclusion. It’s not even that it doesn’t make sense, because I’m pretty sure I understood what was supposed to be happening. Just if I had been in Gabe’s shoes, I wouldn’t have even thought of that, as there appears to be no sign of it.
This is totally bleak, and I kind of enjoyed that. One thing Mike Salt definitely nailed is the creep factor, because the “hallucinations” or warnings that Gabe has during the story feature some pretty eerie imagery. There’s also this underlying sadness that permeates the story right into the very end, setting a morose tone that breathes life into the premise. This was done really well, and was probably one of my favorite aspects of the book.
I got frustrated with a few things about the writing style; there was a good amount of redundancy, but overall, nothing was so cheesy or out of place that it threw me from the story.
The more I think about this book now that I’ve closed it, the more I find myself liking it, but still, I’m gonna need to cap it at three stars. I didn’t have a connection with many of the characters, I felt like I was forgetting about Donna and her father Dennis almost every five seconds, and when everything is tied together, like I said, I fail to understand how we’ve come to that point.
But excellent world building and concept. Gabe seems to be a protagonist that many love to hate, and while I wouldn’t say I HATED him, I think he’s got too much rage in his blood for his own good.
This book discusses some heavy handed mental health topics, and Mike Salt knows that, hence why he reminds you of it at the beginning. Just be aware of this walking in, and you’ll find an entertaining ride that focuses on remorse, feeds off of grief, and lets you know what can happen when you fail to evolve with the circumstances. Overall, I had a good time with this one, even if it didn’t quite make the top of my list.
I don’t normally critique books for grammatical mistakes, but this edition had enough to at times take me out of the story. The ending is a bit of a head scratcher- unlike other reviewers, I DID feel as though I had a lot of my questions answered. I simply didn’t know how we came to this conclusion. It’s not even that it doesn’t make sense, because I’m pretty sure I understood what was supposed to be happening. Just if I had been in Gabe’s shoes, I wouldn’t have even thought of that, as there appears to be no sign of it.
This is totally bleak, and I kind of enjoyed that. One thing Mike Salt definitely nailed is the creep factor, because the “hallucinations” or warnings that Gabe has during the story feature some pretty eerie imagery. There’s also this underlying sadness that permeates the story right into the very end, setting a morose tone that breathes life into the premise. This was done really well, and was probably one of my favorite aspects of the book.
I got frustrated with a few things about the writing style; there was a good amount of redundancy, but overall, nothing was so cheesy or out of place that it threw me from the story.
The more I think about this book now that I’ve closed it, the more I find myself liking it, but still, I’m gonna need to cap it at three stars. I didn’t have a connection with many of the characters, I felt like I was forgetting about Donna and her father Dennis almost every five seconds, and when everything is tied together, like I said, I fail to understand how we’ve come to that point.
But excellent world building and concept. Gabe seems to be a protagonist that many love to hate, and while I wouldn’t say I HATED him, I think he’s got too much rage in his blood for his own good.
This book discusses some heavy handed mental health topics, and Mike Salt knows that, hence why he reminds you of it at the beginning. Just be aware of this walking in, and you’ll find an entertaining ride that focuses on remorse, feeds off of grief, and lets you know what can happen when you fail to evolve with the circumstances. Overall, I had a good time with this one, even if it didn’t quite make the top of my list.
February 12, 2025
This book was far darker than I thought it’d be. It’s essentially an extended and obsessive meditation on second chances and the possibility of change. I didn’t like Gabe, the main character, like, at all. Yet he’s so beautifully written, and treated with such empathy throughout, it’s hard not to feel for him at some point. Though I don’t think he deserves it, I often caught myself wishing he’d wise up and pull through, but I wasn’t hopeful. The story’s full of triggers as well: unaliving, manipulation by a spouse, physical and psychological abuse.
However, as unlikeable Gabe is, so much more is his story relatable: in fact, it’s not much of a leap to recognize oneself in him, since many of his flaws and his bad choices, as well as his resistance to self-change, are totally familiar. We’ve all been there. Change does not come easy. As Clint, his best friend notes, you have to do the work, and it takes years. Gabe though wants to be a stand-up guy now – right now. I couldn’t fault him for this, but I did feel angry for all the mess he made.
The book’s about hard choices right to the very ending. It could have turned into a giant supernatural adventure, or a long magical quest for explanation, but it never did (the hints are all there). Mike Salt wisely chose to focus on the character’s flaws, his messy emotions, and his incredibly tough life choices. There are great insights on relationships, friendships, selfishness, and the difficulty of doing the right thing even when you know it’s what you need to do. That said, this is a fully metaphysical story, with gory and creepy imagery, an attractive central mystery, and a background which can easily be revisited and built upon anytime in the future.
I recommend it for the terrific writing, its tight plot, the occasionally horrific visuals, and the several instructive moments throughout.
However, as unlikeable Gabe is, so much more is his story relatable: in fact, it’s not much of a leap to recognize oneself in him, since many of his flaws and his bad choices, as well as his resistance to self-change, are totally familiar. We’ve all been there. Change does not come easy. As Clint, his best friend notes, you have to do the work, and it takes years. Gabe though wants to be a stand-up guy now – right now. I couldn’t fault him for this, but I did feel angry for all the mess he made.
The book’s about hard choices right to the very ending. It could have turned into a giant supernatural adventure, or a long magical quest for explanation, but it never did (the hints are all there). Mike Salt wisely chose to focus on the character’s flaws, his messy emotions, and his incredibly tough life choices. There are great insights on relationships, friendships, selfishness, and the difficulty of doing the right thing even when you know it’s what you need to do. That said, this is a fully metaphysical story, with gory and creepy imagery, an attractive central mystery, and a background which can easily be revisited and built upon anytime in the future.
I recommend it for the terrific writing, its tight plot, the occasionally horrific visuals, and the several instructive moments throughout.
February 14, 2025
Mike Salt hits again with another devastating thrill-ride that readers are going to LOVE!
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here tackles heavy themes of grief and addiction. However, in the classic Mike Salt voice, readers can expect a story filled with dynamic characters and gut-wrenching gore. This has the classic slow build-up, and I can admit I found myself a tad confused towards the beginning of the novel, however the pieces started coming together in a whirlwind of suspense. The suspense had me desperately needing to know more in the middle of the night.
The imagery in this story had me severely disturbed. I kept getting all sorts of creepy crawly sensations and had to pause reading a couple times. However the end of this story is masterful! Readers buckle up, because Mike Salt has done it again and YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE IT!
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here tackles heavy themes of grief and addiction. However, in the classic Mike Salt voice, readers can expect a story filled with dynamic characters and gut-wrenching gore. This has the classic slow build-up, and I can admit I found myself a tad confused towards the beginning of the novel, however the pieces started coming together in a whirlwind of suspense. The suspense had me desperately needing to know more in the middle of the night.
The imagery in this story had me severely disturbed. I kept getting all sorts of creepy crawly sensations and had to pause reading a couple times. However the end of this story is masterful! Readers buckle up, because Mike Salt has done it again and YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE IT!
February 10, 2025
Firstly i want to thank mike for the ARC! This book comes out in just a few days and i recommend it highly.
You’re not supposed to be here by Mike Salt is a book of insane emotions. I loved it, more than I usually love Mike’s books which says a lot. This book is heartbreaking and brutal and it shows a side of Mike’s brain we don’t usually see. This book is heavy and comes with its fair share of TW’s. The emptiness, the mind bending descriptions, the emotions i felt while reading this made me take a few breaks. This was a 5 star read for me and look forward to reading others reviews about it.
You’re not supposed to be here by Mike Salt is a book of insane emotions. I loved it, more than I usually love Mike’s books which says a lot. This book is heartbreaking and brutal and it shows a side of Mike’s brain we don’t usually see. This book is heavy and comes with its fair share of TW’s. The emptiness, the mind bending descriptions, the emotions i felt while reading this made me take a few breaks. This was a 5 star read for me and look forward to reading others reviews about it.
February 10, 2025
This is such a beautiful novel of grief horror, and the way Mike Salt writes, you would think these characters were real people you actually knew, including yourself. I went into this book blind, and I'm so glad I did. The portrayal of untreated mental illness and the way it can implode a marriage (or any relationship for that matter) really struck a chord in me, and I'll admit it, I cried occasionally while reading. At times I had to take breaks so to the similarities of my own struggles with it. However, everything about this book was perfect! If you're a fan of Mike's you NEED to read this once it comes out on February 14th. If you've never read anything he's written you NEED to read this. You will not be disappointed. 5/5 ⭐
February 10, 2025
I was lucky enough to be able to be on the ARC list for Mike Salt’s new book You’re Not Supposed to be here.
When I joined the Books of Horror group, Mike’s books were some of the first indie horror books I began to venture into. When that happened, This All ends Horribly was just coming out and I was excited to read it. I went into it totally blind and I had an absolute blast with that book. Since then I have been just a massive fan of the way that this guy tells stories.
Because I have gone into the rest of his books blind, I did the same with this one. I cannot say that I was expecting this to be a grief horror story. It tugged at my heart strings pretty hard initially because of some parts that related a little too close to real life, otherwise I do believe I would have finished this night 1 that I received this copy.
Mike’s storytelling continues to be phenomenal. And I do truly think that he could write any sub genre of horror and it would be fantastic. I feel like the characters are real and raw and relatable!
This was such fantastic book. And I’m thankful to have been apart of this ARC group! Do yourself a solid and grab this one when it comes out!! You won’t regret it.
🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺 (shhh 🤫, pretend they’re purple flowers)/5
When I joined the Books of Horror group, Mike’s books were some of the first indie horror books I began to venture into. When that happened, This All ends Horribly was just coming out and I was excited to read it. I went into it totally blind and I had an absolute blast with that book. Since then I have been just a massive fan of the way that this guy tells stories.
Because I have gone into the rest of his books blind, I did the same with this one. I cannot say that I was expecting this to be a grief horror story. It tugged at my heart strings pretty hard initially because of some parts that related a little too close to real life, otherwise I do believe I would have finished this night 1 that I received this copy.
Mike’s storytelling continues to be phenomenal. And I do truly think that he could write any sub genre of horror and it would be fantastic. I feel like the characters are real and raw and relatable!
This was such fantastic book. And I’m thankful to have been apart of this ARC group! Do yourself a solid and grab this one when it comes out!! You won’t regret it.
🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺 (shhh 🤫, pretend they’re purple flowers)/5
February 10, 2025
When Gabe goes through a personal hell and is given a second chance at life, one phrase haunts him: You’re Not Supposed To Be Here.
Full of grief, regret, beautiful prose and some incredible world-building, You’re Not Supposed To Be Here is unique. Love him or hate him, you will deeply identify with Gabe: trying his hardest, and making very human choices.
The desperation in his character really come across, and the plot sweeps you away on a path of purple flowers. This is unlike anything you have read from Mike before, and it is a truly beautiful book. You will ache, you will feel this in your soul. And you will be horrified. Because what is more haunting than the knowledge that you’re not supposed to be here?
Full of grief, regret, beautiful prose and some incredible world-building, You’re Not Supposed To Be Here is unique. Love him or hate him, you will deeply identify with Gabe: trying his hardest, and making very human choices.
The desperation in his character really come across, and the plot sweeps you away on a path of purple flowers. This is unlike anything you have read from Mike before, and it is a truly beautiful book. You will ache, you will feel this in your soul. And you will be horrified. Because what is more haunting than the knowledge that you’re not supposed to be here?
May 4, 2025
I enjoyed the concept and the flow of this book. It was an easy read. Gabe murdering his doppelgänger and taking his place was very interesting. I can’t imagine how difficult it would be essentially torturing and killing another version of yourself. I can’t say I genuinely liked any of the characters so I wasn’t gripped by any of their deaths.
Gabe’s death scene with the purple flowers was tragically beautiful (he definitely deserved such a painful death for being such a narcissistic asshole).
Sadly, the writing was a little unpolished for my liking. I couldn’t stand reading the word “however” constantly. It felt like I was reading a high school essay.
Gabe’s death scene with the purple flowers was tragically beautiful (he definitely deserved such a painful death for being such a narcissistic asshole).
Sadly, the writing was a little unpolished for my liking. I couldn’t stand reading the word “however” constantly. It felt like I was reading a high school essay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
This was INCREDIBLE. A well written story with a great concept that manages to make you emotional. For me this really hit home with the relationship aspect. Gabe talking about his anger and how it leaked into their relationship ruining it, was a huge theme in my last relationship. The emotions conveyed gripped me by the throat. “He would lose track of what he wanted to say and then turn his focus on her instead of the problem. She wasn’t his teammate, she was his opponent”.
10/10 would recommend, thank you Mike Salt 👏🏻
10/10 would recommend, thank you Mike Salt 👏🏻
February 13, 2025
ARC Review
Title: You’re Not Supposed to be Here
Author: Mike Salt @mike_salt
Publication Date: February 14, 2025
Rating: 5/5
I’ve read a couple of Mike Salt’s other books, but I had seen several reviews saying that this one was different so I really had no clue what to expect. Let me just say it…this book packs a HUGE emotional punch!
The book starts out on a heavy note and never really lets up. It’s not an overly long book, but the story is surprisingly complex. Although the characters weren’t always likable, I found myself feeling empathy towards them nonetheless. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do if I found myself in Gabe’s shoes…
I found this book to be a haunting read and I will definitely be thinking about it for a long time!
Title: You’re Not Supposed to be Here
Author: Mike Salt @mike_salt
Publication Date: February 14, 2025
Rating: 5/5
I’ve read a couple of Mike Salt’s other books, but I had seen several reviews saying that this one was different so I really had no clue what to expect. Let me just say it…this book packs a HUGE emotional punch!
The book starts out on a heavy note and never really lets up. It’s not an overly long book, but the story is surprisingly complex. Although the characters weren’t always likable, I found myself feeling empathy towards them nonetheless. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do if I found myself in Gabe’s shoes…
I found this book to be a haunting read and I will definitely be thinking about it for a long time!
February 14, 2025
Mike hit the nail on the head with this one! I love Mikes writing but this is on a whole other level of its own. I don’t think I have connected to a story like this in a long time. I could feel every emotion written. I could not put this down. I’m kinda at a loss for words and I don’t know how to truly review this book. I may have to reread this a few times and review again. It was a brutally brilliant, heart crushing, incredibly horrific story and I highly recommend it! Check your triggers please before reading this! Amazing job Mike!
February 14, 2025
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here by Mike Salt is a dark and extremely emotional book. I read and absolutely loved Hollow, but this book is on another level. Gabe is a very unlikeable character, but is so well-written that you truly feel his turmoil and can understand some of the destructive decisions he makes throughout the book. Grief horror is not usually something I can devour so quickly, but I could not put this down until I reached the unexpected conclusion! 💜
February 14, 2025
You’re Not Supposed To Be Here
Author: Mike Salt
Page Count: 209
Publisher: Cryptic Cottontail Media
Format: E-Pub ARC
Release Date: February 14, 2025
General Genre: Horror
Sub/Genre- Themes: Paranormal, Grief
What You Need To Know: Gabe is at his breaking point. His plan is to end it all. When things don’t go as planned he gets a glimpse of what could have been…. And it anything but what he expected. Deals heavily with suicide, grief, addiction, regret, and mental health struggles.
My Reading Experience: This deeply impactful story broke my heart and simultaneously filled me with a deep sense of dread. A man at the breaking point of desperaton and a chance to have what he thought he always wanted…… but it’s not natural and something or someone doesn’t want him to be there.. I was screaming at the main character the entire story and then when you learn what’s really going on, I said ohhhhhh yeah I totally understand everyone’s actions and behaviors!!!!!!
Final Recommendation: this is overall a beautifully yet horrifying story of regret, sorrow, depression and ultimately unconditional love, no matter what that looks like.
Links:
https://a.co/d/0RJZeue
Author: Mike Salt
Page Count: 209
Publisher: Cryptic Cottontail Media
Format: E-Pub ARC
Release Date: February 14, 2025
General Genre: Horror
Sub/Genre- Themes: Paranormal, Grief
What You Need To Know: Gabe is at his breaking point. His plan is to end it all. When things don’t go as planned he gets a glimpse of what could have been…. And it anything but what he expected. Deals heavily with suicide, grief, addiction, regret, and mental health struggles.
My Reading Experience: This deeply impactful story broke my heart and simultaneously filled me with a deep sense of dread. A man at the breaking point of desperaton and a chance to have what he thought he always wanted…… but it’s not natural and something or someone doesn’t want him to be there.. I was screaming at the main character the entire story and then when you learn what’s really going on, I said ohhhhhh yeah I totally understand everyone’s actions and behaviors!!!!!!
Final Recommendation: this is overall a beautifully yet horrifying story of regret, sorrow, depression and ultimately unconditional love, no matter what that looks like.
Links:
https://a.co/d/0RJZeue
February 10, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing a review copy.
This is a very different book in Mike Salt's catalog, but it is a worthy entry. The entire premise of the book is wrong and unsettling. I hesitate to say too much here, because I feel like you should really let the book surprise you. I didn't find Gabe to be a very sympathetic character, but that didn't make the story less enjoyable for me. Gabe is a trainwreck you can't look away from. 4.25 stars
This is a very different book in Mike Salt's catalog, but it is a worthy entry. The entire premise of the book is wrong and unsettling. I hesitate to say too much here, because I feel like you should really let the book surprise you. I didn't find Gabe to be a very sympathetic character, but that didn't make the story less enjoyable for me. Gabe is a trainwreck you can't look away from. 4.25 stars
April 20, 2025
great story about the question “what would you do?”. The answer: the absolut same.
Gabe wants to end his life. He lost her. And he cannot move on without her. But as he does, he ends up in the same place as before. But different. He takes this chance to start over but it’s never this easy, isn’t it? The price is high and he does everything he can to be with her. To stay with her, but he really isn’t supposed to be there. And it comes with a price.
Gabe wants to end his life. He lost her. And he cannot move on without her. But as he does, he ends up in the same place as before. But different. He takes this chance to start over but it’s never this easy, isn’t it? The price is high and he does everything he can to be with her. To stay with her, but he really isn’t supposed to be there. And it comes with a price.
April 30, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this book. As much as I wanted to hate Gabe and his attitude and selfishness, a lot of what he went through was so relatable. This was such a unique book that showed so many emotions and the desperation for a second chance. I couldn't put it down - Easy 5 stars from me
August 3, 2025
It’s really a 2.5 star book for me. I just didn’t really feel engaged with the main character or the story. Started slow and really never got going IMO. I’d read other books by this author because I feel like this probably isn’t his best.
April 16, 2025
4.5⭐️ Wow!!! I flew through this one and LOVED it! Please check your trigger warnings! Heavy on the mental health awareness! Great story. Great execution!
December 10, 2025
Absolutely devastating. Amazingly written, a story that cuts deep.
December 21, 2025
Fuck that’s sad.
November 29, 2025
I should have DNF’ed this
February 11, 2025
I was incredibly lucky to receive an ARC of YNSTBH. I went into this book completely blind and was pleasantly surprised to find that this book is unlike any other in Mike’s catalog. The story centers around grief and heartache and one character’s ‘second chance’ at living. What would you do given the opportunity to come back and right your wrongs? Mike does a great job capturing the creeping feeling of dread; everything in this story is not what it seems. This is an excellent example of how horror can be beautiful, heartbreaking and terrifying all at the same time.
June 5, 2025
I think I might be in the minority here when I say this book just wasn't it. The premise of this book intrigued me immediately, but unfortunately the story fell flat. We get a whole world that mirrors our own full of doppelgangers where our main character can have a fresh start but what we're left with is unanswered questions and to be honest a pretty boring plot. I think my biggest issue is that not only are we not given a full run down of this new world and how it works we are also practically told that no one knows what is going on in this mirrored world, how they got there, or why they can't survive there. It reads kind of lazy. Our main character isn't likeable enough for me to care what happens to him and the supporting characters weren't around enough for me to care for them either. The biggest issue here though is the pacing. There was never really that build up to something. We never had a climactic part of the book, it was just sort of all happening. I did however love the talks of mental health and the grief that our main character felt. I also enjoyed that the author made our character realize that even with a second chance things don't get better unless you change.
February 10, 2025
A Haunting Tale of Choices, Sacrifices, and Second Chances
When Gabe wakes up in a parallel world where he is still married, it feels like the second chance he’s always wanted—a chance to fix his life. But something about this reality is deeply unsettling. Shadows seem alive, whispers follow his every move, and the truth begins to emerge: this world was never meant for him, and his presence only promises pain and destruction.
As Gabe’s mind begins to fracture, he’s caught in a harrowing spiral of regret and desperation. Trapped between the allure of redemption and the weight of despair, Gabe must confront a horrifying choice. Can he sacrifice everything to remain in the reality he desires, or will he face the consequences of his selfishness?
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is a chilling story of second chances, unbearable choices, and the devastating outcomes of human weakness.
Mike Salt’s You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is beautifully written, striking a balance between heartbreak and terror. The story grips you as you follow Gabe’s emotional struggle—a character you empathize with while simultaneously being frustrated by his repeated mistakes.
This book is more than just a horror story. It’s a reflection on choices and sacrifices, asking readers to consider: if given a second chance, would we truly make better decisions, or are we doomed to repeat the same patterns? The portrayal of depression and its suffocating grip was raw and powerful, capturing the inability to make the right choice even when the answer seems obvious.
Salt’s writing is vivid and evocative, bringing every scene to life. You feel Gabe’s pain, his desperation, and the oppressive darkness of the world he inhabits. The story raises poignant questions about whether we are the heroes or monsters of our own stories and delivers shocking twists that left me unsettled long after I turned the final page.
This is Mike Salt’s best work yet—a masterful exploration of human flaws wrapped in a deeply unsettling tale. You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is a must-read for horror fans and anyone who craves a thought-provoking, emotional journey.
When Gabe wakes up in a parallel world where he is still married, it feels like the second chance he’s always wanted—a chance to fix his life. But something about this reality is deeply unsettling. Shadows seem alive, whispers follow his every move, and the truth begins to emerge: this world was never meant for him, and his presence only promises pain and destruction.
As Gabe’s mind begins to fracture, he’s caught in a harrowing spiral of regret and desperation. Trapped between the allure of redemption and the weight of despair, Gabe must confront a horrifying choice. Can he sacrifice everything to remain in the reality he desires, or will he face the consequences of his selfishness?
You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is a chilling story of second chances, unbearable choices, and the devastating outcomes of human weakness.
Mike Salt’s You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is beautifully written, striking a balance between heartbreak and terror. The story grips you as you follow Gabe’s emotional struggle—a character you empathize with while simultaneously being frustrated by his repeated mistakes.
This book is more than just a horror story. It’s a reflection on choices and sacrifices, asking readers to consider: if given a second chance, would we truly make better decisions, or are we doomed to repeat the same patterns? The portrayal of depression and its suffocating grip was raw and powerful, capturing the inability to make the right choice even when the answer seems obvious.
Salt’s writing is vivid and evocative, bringing every scene to life. You feel Gabe’s pain, his desperation, and the oppressive darkness of the world he inhabits. The story raises poignant questions about whether we are the heroes or monsters of our own stories and delivers shocking twists that left me unsettled long after I turned the final page.
This is Mike Salt’s best work yet—a masterful exploration of human flaws wrapped in a deeply unsettling tale. You’re Not Supposed to Be Here is a must-read for horror fans and anyone who craves a thought-provoking, emotional journey.
March 8, 2025
Strong start, but lost me in the middle.
May 16, 2025
This is my 3rd book, but first intentional book of the 2025 books of horror indie brawl.
This book is about Gabe, a man who's life has pretty much imploded due to his many self inflicted issues and poor coping mechanisms. After he decides to end it all, he wakes up in a world the same as his, but different - and realizes he may have a second chance at the life he wanted. But he's not supposed to be there... dun dun DUUUUNNNN!
I'll start by saying I like the cover. Very nice.
This book has a really fun concept that reminded me a little of Mary by Nat Cassidy and Dark Matter by Blake Crouch although it's a very different book than both of those. My favorite thing about this book is experiencing Gabe's inner struggle. He's very introspective for msot of the book and I felt like there was some good lessons to be learned. Is Gabe a likeable character? Nope! However, we do feel very sorry for him at times and you are definitely rooting for him, at least in the beginning.
Clint and Jenna are the other two main characters and although it's a short book, you do care about these characters.
This book is more emotional than scary. There's some spooks and some gore but the emotional aspect and inner turmoil was more important and more impactful.
This book was almost a 5 star read but I didn't like the end. There are a few complaints I have but they're spoiler-y so I'll block them out:
Anyways, I mostly enjoyed the book. Pretty good start to the horror brawl.
This book is about Gabe, a man who's life has pretty much imploded due to his many self inflicted issues and poor coping mechanisms. After he decides to end it all, he wakes up in a world the same as his, but different - and realizes he may have a second chance at the life he wanted. But he's not supposed to be there... dun dun DUUUUNNNN!
I'll start by saying I like the cover. Very nice.
This book has a really fun concept that reminded me a little of Mary by Nat Cassidy and Dark Matter by Blake Crouch although it's a very different book than both of those. My favorite thing about this book is experiencing Gabe's inner struggle. He's very introspective for msot of the book and I felt like there was some good lessons to be learned. Is Gabe a likeable character? Nope! However, we do feel very sorry for him at times and you are definitely rooting for him, at least in the beginning.
Clint and Jenna are the other two main characters and although it's a short book, you do care about these characters.
This book is more emotional than scary. There's some spooks and some gore but the emotional aspect and inner turmoil was more important and more impactful.
This book was almost a 5 star read but I didn't like the end. There are a few complaints I have but they're spoiler-y so I'll block them out:
Anyways, I mostly enjoyed the book. Pretty good start to the horror brawl.
February 15, 2025
So I was lucky to get to ARC read You're Not Supposed To Be Here by Mike Salt
This is up there in my favorites from him, it was so emotional.
Are second chances truly worth it?
Can you really change things, or is it more misery than it's worth.
Maybe you aren't supposed to get a second chance sometimes or are second chances just all make beleive, and we never really get one..
I knew this was going to be the book for me when Gabe work up in what seems to be a parallel universe, but me, always the skeptic wondered, did he or is this a quick mentyB our MC is taking.
That would be my EXACT thoughts for myself if I woke up suddenly.. ( recently had apartment maintence in to work on my plumbing, and they swapped the way the hot water turns on, did not tell me, legit was worried until I asked my bf if this was a new change or had I lost it)
But on the flipside, what would I truly give to wake up, and the worst things I had done in life, I could just not do them?
Would I ruin my new life, in different ways, or can someone truly change who they are , at their core, that made them make those choices to start with ?
The more I read, the more I thought, this is not what it seems, and then I remembered, Mike is a horror writer, where did I think this was going to be a happy second chance..
I want to leave this review as vague as possible, because I NEED yall to read this like I did, it would be a absolute disservice to this book to know too much, because what a rollercoaster.
I wanted to scream and did so many times, I just wanted to shake Gabe but at the same time, so freaking many times, I caught my self feeling for him. I loved him and hated him, he really was so human and relatable would I make some of those choices?
No but I understand WHY someone would..
Maybe its because its that time of year again, where i spiral into my Dark Tower cave, but when i finished this, book, like the one neon sign that flashed across my brain was, okay Mike is one of the "last word-slingers" .
That was dark, grating, emotionally charged horror, that was palpable , the tension his words created, painted a world I normally cant see.
I'm getting goosebumps just writing this review
Mike Salt
This is up there in my favorites from him, it was so emotional.
Are second chances truly worth it?
Can you really change things, or is it more misery than it's worth.
Maybe you aren't supposed to get a second chance sometimes or are second chances just all make beleive, and we never really get one..
I knew this was going to be the book for me when Gabe work up in what seems to be a parallel universe, but me, always the skeptic wondered, did he or is this a quick mentyB our MC is taking.
That would be my EXACT thoughts for myself if I woke up suddenly.. ( recently had apartment maintence in to work on my plumbing, and they swapped the way the hot water turns on, did not tell me, legit was worried until I asked my bf if this was a new change or had I lost it)
But on the flipside, what would I truly give to wake up, and the worst things I had done in life, I could just not do them?
Would I ruin my new life, in different ways, or can someone truly change who they are , at their core, that made them make those choices to start with ?
The more I read, the more I thought, this is not what it seems, and then I remembered, Mike is a horror writer, where did I think this was going to be a happy second chance..
I want to leave this review as vague as possible, because I NEED yall to read this like I did, it would be a absolute disservice to this book to know too much, because what a rollercoaster.
I wanted to scream and did so many times, I just wanted to shake Gabe but at the same time, so freaking many times, I caught my self feeling for him. I loved him and hated him, he really was so human and relatable would I make some of those choices?
No but I understand WHY someone would..
Maybe its because its that time of year again, where i spiral into my Dark Tower cave, but when i finished this, book, like the one neon sign that flashed across my brain was, okay Mike is one of the "last word-slingers" .
That was dark, grating, emotionally charged horror, that was palpable , the tension his words created, painted a world I normally cant see.
I'm getting goosebumps just writing this review
Mike Salt
February 19, 2025
Have you ever felt so unsettled after reading a book that you don’t even know how you feel about it? That is most definitely me with Mike Salt’s newest release, You’re Not Supposed To Be Here. I hated it. I loved it! I have a myriad of mixed emotions about it!! On a scale of one to five I want to rate this book a four because I intensely dislike the main character, Gabe. For several reasons really, but then when I reflect upon these reasons I come to realize that mainly the reason I so intensely dislike this character is because his author has done such a superb job in crafting him.
Mike Salt has created an individual that to me appeared to be so completely selfish, self serving, self centered, entitled, and dangerously angry…I could not find one thing redeemable about Gabe, including his undying love and commitment to his wife. Instead I found a sick obsession to have what he wanted, when he wanted it, no matter what the cost. And it was in the crafting of this horrible, sick individual that I became to realize exactly what an amazing, no strike that, phenomenal writer, Mike Salt is. His work reflects deep and profound insight and this novel deserves, has earned ALL the stars. 5/5.
But before I close as a reader and a reviewer I feel it would be remiss of me if I did not share an observation I noted when reading his incredible writing.
As quoted from the book.
“She wasn’t the kind of girl that you had a single good night with. She was the kind of girl you have a good life with.”
Upon reading this passage I was immediately touched deeply and just about brought to tears by the depth and yet simplicity of the beauty of these few words. And I just know in my heart that this is Mike’s shared truth.
I read this passage out loud to my husband who said to me: “Truer words were never spoken when a man is in love with the one he is meant to be with. This is how I feel about you.” Thank you, Mike Salt!
Mike Salt has created an individual that to me appeared to be so completely selfish, self serving, self centered, entitled, and dangerously angry…I could not find one thing redeemable about Gabe, including his undying love and commitment to his wife. Instead I found a sick obsession to have what he wanted, when he wanted it, no matter what the cost. And it was in the crafting of this horrible, sick individual that I became to realize exactly what an amazing, no strike that, phenomenal writer, Mike Salt is. His work reflects deep and profound insight and this novel deserves, has earned ALL the stars. 5/5.
But before I close as a reader and a reviewer I feel it would be remiss of me if I did not share an observation I noted when reading his incredible writing.
As quoted from the book.
“She wasn’t the kind of girl that you had a single good night with. She was the kind of girl you have a good life with.”
Upon reading this passage I was immediately touched deeply and just about brought to tears by the depth and yet simplicity of the beauty of these few words. And I just know in my heart that this is Mike’s shared truth.
I read this passage out loud to my husband who said to me: “Truer words were never spoken when a man is in love with the one he is meant to be with. This is how I feel about you.” Thank you, Mike Salt!
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