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Devil's Day
Welcome to Blackhaven, October 31st, 1984..
A small, sleepy town cut off from the hardships and the horrors of the modern world - Blackhaven has enjoyed a fruitful, peaceful history in it's 300 years.
That's all about to change...
Something is coming. Something unspeakable. Something evil.
300 years ago to the day, the founders of Blackhaven made a deal with an outside force in order to secure their comfort and safety. A deal that now, centuries later, requires payment. A deal that will see the quiet streets run red, and the fires rise. The people of Blackhaven are about to learn the true cost of sacrifice, for Hell is coming to claim what's owed.
And the Devil will have his day....
A small, sleepy town cut off from the hardships and the horrors of the modern world - Blackhaven has enjoyed a fruitful, peaceful history in it's 300 years.
That's all about to change...
Something is coming. Something unspeakable. Something evil.
300 years ago to the day, the founders of Blackhaven made a deal with an outside force in order to secure their comfort and safety. A deal that now, centuries later, requires payment. A deal that will see the quiet streets run red, and the fires rise. The people of Blackhaven are about to learn the true cost of sacrifice, for Hell is coming to claim what's owed.
And the Devil will have his day....
- GenresHorrorSplatterpunk
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2014
17 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Kyle M. Scott
32 books85 followersKyle M. Scott is a horror author from Scotland. His works include:
Devil's Day
The Club
Aftertaste
Where the Dead Ones Play
A Better Life
Razorblade Candies
Consumed
&
Dark Island.
He enjoys chatting with his readers, and can regularly be found on social media, despite his somewhat tenuous grasp on technology.
Contact Kyle at:
www.facebook.com/kyle.scott.9026
authorkylemscott@outlook.com
Devil's Day
The Club
Aftertaste
Where the Dead Ones Play
A Better Life
Razorblade Candies
Consumed
&
Dark Island.
He enjoys chatting with his readers, and can regularly be found on social media, despite his somewhat tenuous grasp on technology.
Contact Kyle at:
www.facebook.com/kyle.scott.9026
authorkylemscott@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 19, 2021
The author leads us back to 1984. We see Halloween in Blackhaven, a small rural community anywhere USA. The evening starts as we expect but soon the night turns into terror. Is there a secret behind Blackhaven? Did the founding fathers of the place make a deal with the devil? Does someone survive when the killing begins? What about Toby, Emma, Mike and Susan? How is the family connected to the evil starting on Hallow's Eve. The novel quotes many classic horror movies and books (e.g. Night of the Living Death or Halloween) and soon turns into an demonic orgy of violence and gore (nothing for the faint hearted). At parts the nightmare seems never ending and could have been a bit shorter. The ending was a bit of a surprise and different to what I might have expected. It's an excellent pastiche of 80s horror. You won't regret reading this really entertaining full throttle Halloween killer novel. Highly recommended!
July 30, 2014
All hell breaks loose in the town of Blackhaven when the devil's minions come to collect his debt from a 300-year-old pact. No one is safe and the demons won't stop their brutal onslaught until a sacrifice is made...and not just any sacrifice....
This story will introduce you to many characters whom you will come to love and cheer for and some characters you will downright despise. Unfortunately, the demons won't discern and all are potential prey to their carnage.
There are plenty of gruesome, gory, horrific scenes to make even the most bold horror readers squirm and wince. One scene in particular--involving a mother, father and young son--was especially vile and disturbing and described in such sickening detail that it's sure to haunt the dreams and minds of many readers.
Amidst the horror, author Stuart Keane makes a cameo appearance within a brilliantly-written scene that provided some comic relief to the tension.
Action-packed, suspenseful and horrifying, Devil's Day is exactly what a horror book should be...and I enjoyed every hellish minute of it! Highly recommended to all horror lovers with strong stomachs.
July 26, 2014
There comes a time in every readers life - not often, and only rarely - when you read a book that changes your perspective on the genre. Horror, for me, has been my solace, my go-to genre for many a decade, but it's rare that a book has an impact on you so heavily, so amazingly, that you realise you spent 5 hours on it and realise "holy shit, that was epic." Devils Day; like Flesh by Laymon, Persuader by Lee Child and The Shining by King - the three other books to do this to me - is one of those novels.
I was honoured to read this book as a beta reader. I've got to know Kyle over several months as we've both traversed the world of self publishing. When he offered me a copy, I said yes. The premise is simple. Blackhaven, mid 80's, is a town celebrating Halloween. The town has a secret, one that lingers in folklore and dark tale, told by neighbours to their kids to scare them. Then, one fateful year as told by old Mr Winslow - ignored by many as hokum - the tale happens. The world cracks open and spawns forth the purest of evil, beasts of Satan who want the people of Blackhaven for themselves, to settle an ancient pact. Let the slaughter commence.
This book is pure 80's horror fiction/movie lore. From the first sentence, I was hooked. Several times in the book, Kyle writes and prods you before unleashing some utterly amazing and extremely graphic horror. Several times, as discussed with a fellow beta reader, I was like "Will he really go there?" And he did, many times, so many I commended him for doing so. I said 80's horror movies. Anyone remember the video nasty? This would have been one of them. People are mutilated, shredded, disembowled, torn to pieces and - in one particularly nasty scene - 'aborted' in a way you don't ever want to happen. I don't pause for gore often but at this scene, I put the book down and applauded. Yes, it was graphic, but it was done with style, portraying the enemies in this book as unstoppable, uncaring, killing machines. Fear, it seems, can still exist in the written word. Think The Terminator's MO with claws and you're half-way there.
The characters are vivid and many too. Whole families seamlessly weave into the plot. By the halfway mark, we are following a whole arc of characters, two dozen at times, and we don't get lost or confused. Occasionally you wonder why some of them are introduced but then it becomes obvious: Cannon fodder. People need to die and this is one of those books that relishes in the death scenes, the monsters going to 'town' - pardon the pun - on the locals standing in their way. When the characters decide to fight back, against impossible odds, you rally for them, cheer for them and punch the air in delight. Each character has his place, some cliché (but hey, this is the 80's, it works) and some repugnant. The monsters are kept mysterious, they come in all shapes and sizes and can be anywhere at any time. This only adds to the paranoia, bringing an element that at any time, they will turn up to kill. It's pure film material but to name any movies to compare this to would ruin the book. It's that damn good.
The book also has a dark vein of humour running through it. It's the darkest of dark, one few will find funny. However, mixed with this is originality. Characters break tropes, fight back, defend their town. Some die where they wouldn't in the movies or other books and this is fine, it's a boundary Kyle is willing to cross to portray his antagonists as pure evil. Would they spare a kid standing in their way? No. Does anyone get a free pass? Nope. For the first time in a long while, I felt I was reading a realistic horror. Sure, the world might not open up and spawn evil monsters any time soon, but if it did, this book would be an accurate portrayal of it. So often, characters survive because they're young, innocent or a dog, heaven forbid. In Devil's Day, no one is safe. It's this one thing that keeps you reading, fearing for the characters and by the end of the book, you're like 'wow'.
5* - I would give more stars if possible. Straight in at my favourite book of the year. This book has everything for the extreme horror fan. And the book is released today, so grab a copy and dive in. Kyle M. Scott has created a wonderful horror tale, one that breaks down all the barriers and stands alone as a beast amongst men. Several set pieces will drop your jaw to the floor - a chilling cornfield hide and seek, a free-for-all in the street between the monsters and several survivors, and that bloody crime scene are only the start of what is sure to be one of the horror sleeper hits of the year. Devil's Day is a phenomenal read and essential viewing. Get your copy now!
I was honoured to read this book as a beta reader. I've got to know Kyle over several months as we've both traversed the world of self publishing. When he offered me a copy, I said yes. The premise is simple. Blackhaven, mid 80's, is a town celebrating Halloween. The town has a secret, one that lingers in folklore and dark tale, told by neighbours to their kids to scare them. Then, one fateful year as told by old Mr Winslow - ignored by many as hokum - the tale happens. The world cracks open and spawns forth the purest of evil, beasts of Satan who want the people of Blackhaven for themselves, to settle an ancient pact. Let the slaughter commence.
This book is pure 80's horror fiction/movie lore. From the first sentence, I was hooked. Several times in the book, Kyle writes and prods you before unleashing some utterly amazing and extremely graphic horror. Several times, as discussed with a fellow beta reader, I was like "Will he really go there?" And he did, many times, so many I commended him for doing so. I said 80's horror movies. Anyone remember the video nasty? This would have been one of them. People are mutilated, shredded, disembowled, torn to pieces and - in one particularly nasty scene - 'aborted' in a way you don't ever want to happen. I don't pause for gore often but at this scene, I put the book down and applauded. Yes, it was graphic, but it was done with style, portraying the enemies in this book as unstoppable, uncaring, killing machines. Fear, it seems, can still exist in the written word. Think The Terminator's MO with claws and you're half-way there.
The characters are vivid and many too. Whole families seamlessly weave into the plot. By the halfway mark, we are following a whole arc of characters, two dozen at times, and we don't get lost or confused. Occasionally you wonder why some of them are introduced but then it becomes obvious: Cannon fodder. People need to die and this is one of those books that relishes in the death scenes, the monsters going to 'town' - pardon the pun - on the locals standing in their way. When the characters decide to fight back, against impossible odds, you rally for them, cheer for them and punch the air in delight. Each character has his place, some cliché (but hey, this is the 80's, it works) and some repugnant. The monsters are kept mysterious, they come in all shapes and sizes and can be anywhere at any time. This only adds to the paranoia, bringing an element that at any time, they will turn up to kill. It's pure film material but to name any movies to compare this to would ruin the book. It's that damn good.
The book also has a dark vein of humour running through it. It's the darkest of dark, one few will find funny. However, mixed with this is originality. Characters break tropes, fight back, defend their town. Some die where they wouldn't in the movies or other books and this is fine, it's a boundary Kyle is willing to cross to portray his antagonists as pure evil. Would they spare a kid standing in their way? No. Does anyone get a free pass? Nope. For the first time in a long while, I felt I was reading a realistic horror. Sure, the world might not open up and spawn evil monsters any time soon, but if it did, this book would be an accurate portrayal of it. So often, characters survive because they're young, innocent or a dog, heaven forbid. In Devil's Day, no one is safe. It's this one thing that keeps you reading, fearing for the characters and by the end of the book, you're like 'wow'.
5* - I would give more stars if possible. Straight in at my favourite book of the year. This book has everything for the extreme horror fan. And the book is released today, so grab a copy and dive in. Kyle M. Scott has created a wonderful horror tale, one that breaks down all the barriers and stands alone as a beast amongst men. Several set pieces will drop your jaw to the floor - a chilling cornfield hide and seek, a free-for-all in the street between the monsters and several survivors, and that bloody crime scene are only the start of what is sure to be one of the horror sleeper hits of the year. Devil's Day is a phenomenal read and essential viewing. Get your copy now!
April 29, 2015
I had almost forgotten to write a review for this one. I had trouble expressing my delight for this incredible novel. It was wicked, awesome, and indeed terrifying. Took me about a week to finish because there had been times that I had to pause and take a deep breath. Kyle M. Scott has a magnetic and smooth writing style. The imagery of the novel is 3D and I can almost see it in the big screen. I have never seen a bigger character cast with all of them so well developed and a more astounding plot for a horror novel.
One of my most awesome GR friends died in this book! Oh no, Stuart! Haha!
I am definitely keeping an eye on this author and his future projects. They are not to be missed out, especially if you are a fan of this great genre.
One of my most awesome GR friends died in this book! Oh no, Stuart! Haha!
I am definitely keeping an eye on this author and his future projects. They are not to be missed out, especially if you are a fan of this great genre.
November 9, 2014
The 1980’s was, in my own rather skewed opinion, the last really great decade for horror. Not that there hasn’t been a decent number of brilliant examples in the genre since - far from it - but, the massive horror resurgence that started in the late 1960’s and gathered pace throughout the 1970’s ultimately reached its peak in the 1980’s, both in print and on film. I think it’s rather telling that the majority of recent attempts to resurrect the former popularity of the horror movie industry have been to simply churn out remakes of movies from this particular era, but these have generally (and sadly) failed to capture the essence of what made the originals so special.
Modern technology has become a significant hindrance to ‘classic horror’ sensibilities - it’s considerably harder to sell your audience a story that relies heavily on a sense of isolation and helplessness when everyone has instant access to a worldwide communications network. Which means we either have to endure seemingly endless variations of the likes of ‘lost hikers in deepest, darkest, super-inbred mutant-redneck country’, and ‘weekend trip to uncle Bob’s cabin in the mountains (where nobody gets a phone signal)’.
In order to survive in a rapidly evolving world, horror itself has to evolve.
Or, you can just go for the ‘authentic experience’ and actually set your story in the 80’s. Which, if I were ever to write a horror novel, I’d totally choose to do.
Which brings me to Devil’s Day.
Halloween, 1984. The townsfolk of Blackhaven are preparing for an evening of trick-or-treating and good-natured, spooky fun. The teens, of course, are looking forward to a night of drunken partying/debauchery in the woods. Little do they know that all Hell is about to - quite literally - break loose, as a covenant made to secure the prosperity of the town 300 years ago is due to be paid in blood before the night is out.
It’s evident from the start that Kyle M. Scott’s love for all things horror is very firmly rooted in the ‘video nasty’ era of the early 80’s. Very much like myself, whose childhood was spent watching movies that were far too old for me; the sexy parts going right over my head, as I waited eagerly for the next gory massacre to terrify me. Whilst reading Devil’s Day, I came to the conclusion that Mr. Scott and I are somewhat kindred spirits in this regard, and found myself appreciating all of the little touches and references that the author includes from that era that somehow managed to encapsulate my youth - from board games, to TV shows and films, to Snowbeast (an utterly forgettable made for television movie that I only ever saw once, but still recall the titular man-in-white-gorilla-suit breaking through a window as a group of people run around screaming) - there’s no doubt that Scott’s heart still belongs to this particular slice of the 20th century, with obvious, glorious homages paid to the likes of Carpenter, Laymon, Raimi, King, and many more besides.
Great stuff.
Oh, and some of the violence actually made my eyes water. In case you’re wondering, that’s a good thing.
This book needs a movie deal. And a synth rock soundtrack.
Modern technology has become a significant hindrance to ‘classic horror’ sensibilities - it’s considerably harder to sell your audience a story that relies heavily on a sense of isolation and helplessness when everyone has instant access to a worldwide communications network. Which means we either have to endure seemingly endless variations of the likes of ‘lost hikers in deepest, darkest, super-inbred mutant-redneck country’, and ‘weekend trip to uncle Bob’s cabin in the mountains (where nobody gets a phone signal)’.
In order to survive in a rapidly evolving world, horror itself has to evolve.
Or, you can just go for the ‘authentic experience’ and actually set your story in the 80’s. Which, if I were ever to write a horror novel, I’d totally choose to do.
Which brings me to Devil’s Day.
Halloween, 1984. The townsfolk of Blackhaven are preparing for an evening of trick-or-treating and good-natured, spooky fun. The teens, of course, are looking forward to a night of drunken partying/debauchery in the woods. Little do they know that all Hell is about to - quite literally - break loose, as a covenant made to secure the prosperity of the town 300 years ago is due to be paid in blood before the night is out.
It’s evident from the start that Kyle M. Scott’s love for all things horror is very firmly rooted in the ‘video nasty’ era of the early 80’s. Very much like myself, whose childhood was spent watching movies that were far too old for me; the sexy parts going right over my head, as I waited eagerly for the next gory massacre to terrify me. Whilst reading Devil’s Day, I came to the conclusion that Mr. Scott and I are somewhat kindred spirits in this regard, and found myself appreciating all of the little touches and references that the author includes from that era that somehow managed to encapsulate my youth - from board games, to TV shows and films, to Snowbeast (an utterly forgettable made for television movie that I only ever saw once, but still recall the titular man-in-white-gorilla-suit breaking through a window as a group of people run around screaming) - there’s no doubt that Scott’s heart still belongs to this particular slice of the 20th century, with obvious, glorious homages paid to the likes of Carpenter, Laymon, Raimi, King, and many more besides.
Great stuff.
Oh, and some of the violence actually made my eyes water. In case you’re wondering, that’s a good thing.
This book needs a movie deal. And a synth rock soundtrack.
February 27, 2021
The 80’s nostalgia continues!
Another 80’s set horror story involving kids. This follows on from reading Within the Woods and Inside and does not let the 80’s nostalgia down. I love reading these books and never get bored.
Devil’s Day is set in 1984. It’s Halloween in the small town of Blackhaven and all is about to change as the sleepy peaceful 300-year-old town is invaded. There is a tale about the history of Blackhaven that everyone knows but does not believe. They soon will!
It turns out that Blackhaven made a pact with the Devil 300 years ago who has now come to collect his debt in the form of a sacrifice. The story follows several different characters including teenagers as they battle with the demons, who want to destroy them in the most horrible sick inducing way.
This book is full of gore as people are mutilated, disembowelled and torn to pieces. It is gruesome, vile and disturbing. It very much comes across as an 80’s style Video Nasty (The Video Nasties: Freedom And Censorship In The Media). Not a cheap low budget one but a well written story with unlimited gore. It also has a reference to the ultimate evil and real horror of cancer (as in Inside).
I am going to stay in the 80’s and read Polybius next.
Another 80’s set horror story involving kids. This follows on from reading Within the Woods and Inside and does not let the 80’s nostalgia down. I love reading these books and never get bored.
Devil’s Day is set in 1984. It’s Halloween in the small town of Blackhaven and all is about to change as the sleepy peaceful 300-year-old town is invaded. There is a tale about the history of Blackhaven that everyone knows but does not believe. They soon will!
It turns out that Blackhaven made a pact with the Devil 300 years ago who has now come to collect his debt in the form of a sacrifice. The story follows several different characters including teenagers as they battle with the demons, who want to destroy them in the most horrible sick inducing way.
This book is full of gore as people are mutilated, disembowelled and torn to pieces. It is gruesome, vile and disturbing. It very much comes across as an 80’s style Video Nasty (The Video Nasties: Freedom And Censorship In The Media). Not a cheap low budget one but a well written story with unlimited gore. It also has a reference to the ultimate evil and real horror of cancer (as in Inside).
I am going to stay in the 80’s and read Polybius next.
August 31, 2014
Excellent horror book. Well worth the $5 to buy this Kindle book. Definitely NOT for those with a weak stomach. A few scenes in the book are extremely graphic. Really raises the bar for the horror genre. A few errors in typing, but easy to navigate around. Would buy it again in a heartbeat. I would definitely recommend this read to anybody who is looking for that true horror story that they can't find. Great work Kyle!
July 27, 2014
Wow, I have to put this book at the top of my favorite's list!! I started this book this morning and didn't stop reading until I finished it this afternoon. Incredible!!!
I had been looking forward to reading this novel ever since I read Kyle's book, Consumed: Volume 1, which is also one of my favorites. So as soon as I knew it had been released I bought it and started reading. I am truly amazed at the talent that Kyle has, this book was phenomenal.
Halloween, horror, gore, a cornfield, a party, the 80s...it was true love for me. :)
The people of this poor little town meet the horror of their lives in one short night. All because of something that happened many, many, many years beforehand. This is the kind of horror that makes you go...Holy Crap, what a read! This is the kind of horror that I fell in love with as a child. This is the kind of horror that good movies are made of.
The ending, the epilogue was awesome (I just knew that was what it was!!). Scary!
I felt every emotion I can think of while reading this book. When a book can do that, it is a great success.
5 Incredible Stars!! I would give it more if I could. Kyle M. Scott is an amazing writer!! I highly, highly recommend this book.
I had been looking forward to reading this novel ever since I read Kyle's book, Consumed: Volume 1, which is also one of my favorites. So as soon as I knew it had been released I bought it and started reading. I am truly amazed at the talent that Kyle has, this book was phenomenal.
Halloween, horror, gore, a cornfield, a party, the 80s...it was true love for me. :)
The people of this poor little town meet the horror of their lives in one short night. All because of something that happened many, many, many years beforehand. This is the kind of horror that makes you go...Holy Crap, what a read! This is the kind of horror that I fell in love with as a child. This is the kind of horror that good movies are made of.
The ending, the epilogue was awesome (I just knew that was what it was!!). Scary!
I felt every emotion I can think of while reading this book. When a book can do that, it is a great success.
5 Incredible Stars!! I would give it more if I could. Kyle M. Scott is an amazing writer!! I highly, highly recommend this book.
September 10, 2014
Devil's Day tells the story of an American town suffering terribly at the hands of dark forces who have come to collect on an debt owed by the ancestors of the town's citizens.
Devil's Day is filled with realistic, well-drawn characters. My sympathies lay with the town's Sheriff, Mike Somerville, who has to face up to a threat he can not fully comprehend, attempting to save the townspeople while also desperate to help his own family stay safe.
The story's strength comes from its unpredictability, you don't know who is going to fall victim to the unstoppable evil, or what will be left of those who survive. There are lots of nerve-shattering scenes as the citizens of Blackhaven try to flee or hideout as the terror rolls over their town and these scenes disturb particularly when juxtaposed against the accurate portrayals of family life, lovingly sketched out only paragraphs before.
And then there's the carnage. Kyle Scott revels in the destruction wrought by not only his terrifying creatures of darkness, but by some pretty evil humans, too. You will be horrified, you will be on the edge of your seat and you will definitely keep turning the pages to see what happens next, rubbernecking as hapless victims are dismantled across the page before you.
For fans of slasher books and movies, creature features or those with a hankering for a throwback to the horror of the 80's, Devil's Day will clamp its claws around you and never let you go.
This was one of those stories that every now and then while reading it I had to come up for air, I was so drawn in. That is testament to the strength of Kyle Scott's accessible writing style, his great characters and a gripping story.
Go read it now. I dare you.
Devil's Day is filled with realistic, well-drawn characters. My sympathies lay with the town's Sheriff, Mike Somerville, who has to face up to a threat he can not fully comprehend, attempting to save the townspeople while also desperate to help his own family stay safe.
The story's strength comes from its unpredictability, you don't know who is going to fall victim to the unstoppable evil, or what will be left of those who survive. There are lots of nerve-shattering scenes as the citizens of Blackhaven try to flee or hideout as the terror rolls over their town and these scenes disturb particularly when juxtaposed against the accurate portrayals of family life, lovingly sketched out only paragraphs before.
And then there's the carnage. Kyle Scott revels in the destruction wrought by not only his terrifying creatures of darkness, but by some pretty evil humans, too. You will be horrified, you will be on the edge of your seat and you will definitely keep turning the pages to see what happens next, rubbernecking as hapless victims are dismantled across the page before you.
For fans of slasher books and movies, creature features or those with a hankering for a throwback to the horror of the 80's, Devil's Day will clamp its claws around you and never let you go.
This was one of those stories that every now and then while reading it I had to come up for air, I was so drawn in. That is testament to the strength of Kyle Scott's accessible writing style, his great characters and a gripping story.
Go read it now. I dare you.
September 26, 2015
Right, where do I start with this? Its not often that I'm stuck for something to say, but this book left me speechless!!
Welcome to Halloween 1984, Blackhaven, A sleepy little town where nothing exciting really happens. However the town has a dark secret. A secret that one of the old time residents, Mr Winslow is more than happy to share with anyone that will listen.
Our story follows the Somerville family. Teenager Emma, her younger brother Timmy, and their mom and dad. Timmy loves Halloween, the whole town is getting ready for the festivities when it is hit my a storm, its also hit by a series of unwelcome newcomers.
I don't want to say too much and give anything away with this book as its a fantastic and entirely gripping story. As the plot unfolds, so does the carnage right up to a fantastic climax that will leave you open mouthed.
Two things struck me about this story; How well the scene is set. It really manages to capture and pull you into that feeling of an 80s retro style scary movie, and the non-linear story line. Just as you think you have it sussed, it throws off into a different direction and someone you think may be safe cops it in the most horrible manner.
I have read other pieces by this author but as Devils Day is his first full length novel, I thought that this would be the best place to start. With that in mind, I will be 100% pursuing this writers work. His intense and accurate descriptions stand out, no, leap out and jump down your throat.
In summary, an absolutely fantastic book. Brilliant character build up, compelling story line and in parts, truly horrifying. Any true horror fan should have this in their collection.
Don't take my word for it, go read it.
Welcome to Halloween 1984, Blackhaven, A sleepy little town where nothing exciting really happens. However the town has a dark secret. A secret that one of the old time residents, Mr Winslow is more than happy to share with anyone that will listen.
Our story follows the Somerville family. Teenager Emma, her younger brother Timmy, and their mom and dad. Timmy loves Halloween, the whole town is getting ready for the festivities when it is hit my a storm, its also hit by a series of unwelcome newcomers.
I don't want to say too much and give anything away with this book as its a fantastic and entirely gripping story. As the plot unfolds, so does the carnage right up to a fantastic climax that will leave you open mouthed.
Two things struck me about this story; How well the scene is set. It really manages to capture and pull you into that feeling of an 80s retro style scary movie, and the non-linear story line. Just as you think you have it sussed, it throws off into a different direction and someone you think may be safe cops it in the most horrible manner.
I have read other pieces by this author but as Devils Day is his first full length novel, I thought that this would be the best place to start. With that in mind, I will be 100% pursuing this writers work. His intense and accurate descriptions stand out, no, leap out and jump down your throat.
In summary, an absolutely fantastic book. Brilliant character build up, compelling story line and in parts, truly horrifying. Any true horror fan should have this in their collection.
Don't take my word for it, go read it.
October 21, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this read. It took me straight back to the good old days of horror. If you were brought up in the 80's then this will give you a great nostalgic feeling. The good old days of trying to view all the VHS horror/video nasties and reading Laymon and King for the first time.
It contains some very graphic scenes that had me cringing (takes a lot). The author has an ability to bring you into the story with a great use of metaphors and detailed descriptions that are near perfect. I wont go into detail of the story but I will list some books and movies that the story reminded me of
- (movies) Tales From The Crypt : Demon Knight, Halloween, Demons, The Gate, Rawhead Rex, The Monster Squad, Silver Bullet, Pumpkinhead and Night of the Creeps.
- (books) Graham Masterton's Flesh and Blood, Laymon's Beast House Series, Masterton's Tooth and Claw, Koontz Watchers, Simon Clark's Ghost Monster, Brian Keene's Ghoul and Dark Hollow, Laymon's Darkness, Tell Us, Herbert's The Dark.
Overall a thoroughly great nostalgic, graphic, intense, enjoyable book. Highly recommend.
It contains some very graphic scenes that had me cringing (takes a lot). The author has an ability to bring you into the story with a great use of metaphors and detailed descriptions that are near perfect. I wont go into detail of the story but I will list some books and movies that the story reminded me of
- (movies) Tales From The Crypt : Demon Knight, Halloween, Demons, The Gate, Rawhead Rex, The Monster Squad, Silver Bullet, Pumpkinhead and Night of the Creeps.
- (books) Graham Masterton's Flesh and Blood, Laymon's Beast House Series, Masterton's Tooth and Claw, Koontz Watchers, Simon Clark's Ghost Monster, Brian Keene's Ghoul and Dark Hollow, Laymon's Darkness, Tell Us, Herbert's The Dark.
Overall a thoroughly great nostalgic, graphic, intense, enjoyable book. Highly recommend.
September 30, 2014
What can i say about this book other than any fans of horror who havent read it yet.. what are you waiting on? Absolutely fantastic book i loved every page of it, it took me back to a time when i was a young boy just discovering horror through such greats as laymon, herbert, koontz, hutson and i could not put it down. Not for the faint at heart this book is brutally graphic but delivers a fantastic story that will leave you trembling in your boots!! Brilliant!!
February 14, 2015
Really good!
This is really awesome horror at its best. Mix in a little religion and hopelessness and you actually feel down at the end. I'm not by any means a religious guy so this book will not affect me as much as it will faithful believers in God. The author clearly has his doubts as well based on how some parts of this story expressed no faith in the almighty.
If you like your horror pure and gory buy this book immediately.
This is really awesome horror at its best. Mix in a little religion and hopelessness and you actually feel down at the end. I'm not by any means a religious guy so this book will not affect me as much as it will faithful believers in God. The author clearly has his doubts as well based on how some parts of this story expressed no faith in the almighty.
If you like your horror pure and gory buy this book immediately.
July 20, 2015
Truly terrifying
Decay. Rot. Death. Unspeakable Evil. Violence Galore. And it the middle of it all stands a family...what their ancestors did coming back for them. So terribly addictive and horrific-amazing read, highly recommend to all Fans of Modern Horror!
Decay. Rot. Death. Unspeakable Evil. Violence Galore. And it the middle of it all stands a family...what their ancestors did coming back for them. So terribly addictive and horrific-amazing read, highly recommend to all Fans of Modern Horror!
August 9, 2014
This was a brill creepy read, loved it plenty of action to keep you turning the pages. If you love horror you really really REALLY need to read this!
September 18, 2014
review coming soon
November 14, 2016
Great
Lots of Gore and guts. Great story had me hooked could not put it down. Definatly sad now that it's over.
Lots of Gore and guts. Great story had me hooked could not put it down. Definatly sad now that it's over.
April 14, 2016
Scarey
Wow! What a read so dark and dreary. A truly gooey good time the book uses the myth of god and the devil to spin a tale of horror. Very fun can't wait to read more!!!!!
Wow! What a read so dark and dreary. A truly gooey good time the book uses the myth of god and the devil to spin a tale of horror. Very fun can't wait to read more!!!!!
July 13, 2016
A bit slow in places but once it gets going oh man does it get going. some of the gory bits iv never read in any other books. well recomended
November 23, 2016
I've been reading outside my comfort zone lately, and this book is a very big example of that. This is a horror book, plain and simple-not suspense with some horror elements (which I semi-regularly once a year will read), but horror, scary, nightmarish, horror. I'm not sure what possessed me to read this, but it was excellent. There's some minor typos/grammatical errors, but not anything more than a big-publishing house might also miss. There's a lot of characters, and the novel moves very quickly so most of the characters you don't get to know terribly well, but the author does a fantastic job of letting you get to know each individual very quickly, in a short time, so you feel for each individual.
The pace is very quick moving, the gore is extreme-and the author Scott goes way far with the gore and the blood and the guts. I think he went TOO far, honestly, but again, I don't normally normally read this genre so perhaps the gore is typical.
The book also takes place in 1984, so if you are a child of the 80's, like me, you'll enjoy some of the cultural references.
Overall, the book was just so well done. If you are a fan of graphic horror, you'll love this.
(If you are new to my reviews and are wondering why I'm raving about the book, yet I'm not giving a five star review, I very seldom give 5 star reviews, and I only give them when I really "fall in love" with the characters, and I didn't in this book)
The pace is very quick moving, the gore is extreme-and the author Scott goes way far with the gore and the blood and the guts. I think he went TOO far, honestly, but again, I don't normally normally read this genre so perhaps the gore is typical.
The book also takes place in 1984, so if you are a child of the 80's, like me, you'll enjoy some of the cultural references.
Overall, the book was just so well done. If you are a fan of graphic horror, you'll love this.
(If you are new to my reviews and are wondering why I'm raving about the book, yet I'm not giving a five star review, I very seldom give 5 star reviews, and I only give them when I really "fall in love" with the characters, and I didn't in this book)
August 12, 2019
Grim detail for you sick people out there
Not sure where to start with this one lol
If you have a strong stomach and, maybe not an over active imagination, then this book is a sick twisted viewing of what would happen if Hell really did rise up. I was pleasantly surprised Kyle managed to inter weave a good plot and character building with ample amounts of gore.
If you're looking for a good, gruesome, at some points even grotesque telling of the Underworld rising up on a small town then you will absolute love this one.
Not sure where to start with this one lol
If you have a strong stomach and, maybe not an over active imagination, then this book is a sick twisted viewing of what would happen if Hell really did rise up. I was pleasantly surprised Kyle managed to inter weave a good plot and character building with ample amounts of gore.
If you're looking for a good, gruesome, at some points even grotesque telling of the Underworld rising up on a small town then you will absolute love this one.
May 9, 2015
Devil’s Day: A Novel of Extreme Horror and Suspense
Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Author: Kyle M. Scott
Review: 1.5/5
Blackhaven is a town in the United States that holds a dark secret. 300 years ago, the founders of the town made a deal with the devil and now he has come to collect.
First things first, Devil’s Day is written by a Scottish author but the book takes place in the United States, in the 1980s. These facts bring in the largest problem with this novel, inconsistency. I have read many European novels, so that is not the problem. The problem was Scott’s inability to find an American voice. I can handle the alternate spelling…the problem that I am referring to is the use of slang and terms that are not part of American culture.
Not only did Scott struggle to find his American voice in the novel, he was also unable to find the voice of the decade. Again, the usage of terms and slang that were not of that era were frustrating to see and pulled me right out of the story every time.
The one thing Kyle Scott nailed down in consistency was pacing. For a book of extreme horror, the pace moved at the rate of melting glaciers. Just when things would get interesting, the story was slammed to a standstill with boring dialogue that was never clever nor did it pertain to the plot or reveal enough in order to draw you back.
The violence is tame, especially by “extreme horror” standards. It is also repetitive which makes the third act of this book an absolute chore to get through. The third act is just similar kill after similar kill. Until you get to the rather abrupt ending that is. The ending is such a cliché that you will be surprised that it was even used.
Devil’s Day pays a lot of homage to 1980s horror films and it even has a sprinkling of Wicker Man and Lovecraft. It is just a shame that the usage of these homages ended in a rather bland fashion.
Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Author: Kyle M. Scott
Review: 1.5/5
Blackhaven is a town in the United States that holds a dark secret. 300 years ago, the founders of the town made a deal with the devil and now he has come to collect.
First things first, Devil’s Day is written by a Scottish author but the book takes place in the United States, in the 1980s. These facts bring in the largest problem with this novel, inconsistency. I have read many European novels, so that is not the problem. The problem was Scott’s inability to find an American voice. I can handle the alternate spelling…the problem that I am referring to is the use of slang and terms that are not part of American culture.
Not only did Scott struggle to find his American voice in the novel, he was also unable to find the voice of the decade. Again, the usage of terms and slang that were not of that era were frustrating to see and pulled me right out of the story every time.
The one thing Kyle Scott nailed down in consistency was pacing. For a book of extreme horror, the pace moved at the rate of melting glaciers. Just when things would get interesting, the story was slammed to a standstill with boring dialogue that was never clever nor did it pertain to the plot or reveal enough in order to draw you back.
The violence is tame, especially by “extreme horror” standards. It is also repetitive which makes the third act of this book an absolute chore to get through. The third act is just similar kill after similar kill. Until you get to the rather abrupt ending that is. The ending is such a cliché that you will be surprised that it was even used.
Devil’s Day pays a lot of homage to 1980s horror films and it even has a sprinkling of Wicker Man and Lovecraft. It is just a shame that the usage of these homages ended in a rather bland fashion.
November 14, 2016
Devil’s Day rocks…. Simple as.
In 1684 the town of Blackhaven made a deal with the Devil, a sacrifice was made, 300 years later Hell’s legions return to collect what’s owed and the little town of Blackhaven will never be the same again.
Devil’s Day pays worthy homage to the 80’s horror scene in a fast paced, highly enjoyable tale of terror and dread as the town folk come up against monsters spawned from the deepest earth, denizens of Hell and they’re searching for the offspring of the town’s founding families.
Nobody quite believed the tales old Mr Winslow told every Halloween, dark tales of secrets, stories passed through the generations, of an age old covenant made with the Devil and Halloween in all its horror has come to the town of Blackhaven once more.
The story follows Emma Sommerville, whose introduction sees her punching her boyfriend in the face as he tries to reach places she’s not quite ready for, Alan’s the boyfriend and as a side story to the main event he’s got some dark thoughts running through his twisted little mind.
Emma’s brother is Timmy, all excited for Halloween, for the outfit, for the goodies and the scary tale that his next door neighbour is going to impart, the story then flits between their family and other townsfolk as monsters start rampaging out of the forests.
There’s some graphic terror and violence that is very well described as the monsters, seemingly unstoppable save for a good old fashioned shotgun foray to the head, reach the town proper after tearing through the farmlands. Amid claws and fangs, there’s no shortage of bodies, severed heads and the like but this is a wickedly good read and one I highly recommend for a horror story that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
In 1684 the town of Blackhaven made a deal with the Devil, a sacrifice was made, 300 years later Hell’s legions return to collect what’s owed and the little town of Blackhaven will never be the same again.
Devil’s Day pays worthy homage to the 80’s horror scene in a fast paced, highly enjoyable tale of terror and dread as the town folk come up against monsters spawned from the deepest earth, denizens of Hell and they’re searching for the offspring of the town’s founding families.
Nobody quite believed the tales old Mr Winslow told every Halloween, dark tales of secrets, stories passed through the generations, of an age old covenant made with the Devil and Halloween in all its horror has come to the town of Blackhaven once more.
The story follows Emma Sommerville, whose introduction sees her punching her boyfriend in the face as he tries to reach places she’s not quite ready for, Alan’s the boyfriend and as a side story to the main event he’s got some dark thoughts running through his twisted little mind.
Emma’s brother is Timmy, all excited for Halloween, for the outfit, for the goodies and the scary tale that his next door neighbour is going to impart, the story then flits between their family and other townsfolk as monsters start rampaging out of the forests.
There’s some graphic terror and violence that is very well described as the monsters, seemingly unstoppable save for a good old fashioned shotgun foray to the head, reach the town proper after tearing through the farmlands. Amid claws and fangs, there’s no shortage of bodies, severed heads and the like but this is a wickedly good read and one I highly recommend for a horror story that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
January 24, 2015
I wanted to like this book more than I did. The blurb was enticing and the reviews sounded promising, but it didn't quite deliver on those expectations. The core story starts of interesting, it's a different take on the Faustian legend, with the new aspect being the scale of the bargain, or so it seemed. It loses that hook by the end, which was a shame as following that through might have redeemed it a bit.
My biggest issue with the book was the writing style, although paradoxically this is also its greatest strength. The author uses a very dense style of description and is overly fond of metaphor. It can be a powerful tool in telling a story, and indeed, the author uses it very effectively. On occasion there is some beautifully crafted wordplay, but the technique is used to often. On every other page something is like something else and that stands out and makes reading it laborious - just describe the thing!
In my opinion the book needed a tighter edit pass to let it flow more evenly. The Kindle edition also had some issue with apostrophes, none of them were displayed, which again didn't help with the reading flow.
On the plus side it is a well paced story and keeps going at a cracking speed. The horror is visceral, although almost entirely physical, which felt a bit of a wasted opportunity considering the subject matter. There's some inventive violence here, so much so that if you're squeamish then you'll find some of this upsetting.
Overall it has some decent horror moments, but it's not a smooth journey, but could have been an excellent read with some tighter development.
My biggest issue with the book was the writing style, although paradoxically this is also its greatest strength. The author uses a very dense style of description and is overly fond of metaphor. It can be a powerful tool in telling a story, and indeed, the author uses it very effectively. On occasion there is some beautifully crafted wordplay, but the technique is used to often. On every other page something is like something else and that stands out and makes reading it laborious - just describe the thing!
In my opinion the book needed a tighter edit pass to let it flow more evenly. The Kindle edition also had some issue with apostrophes, none of them were displayed, which again didn't help with the reading flow.
On the plus side it is a well paced story and keeps going at a cracking speed. The horror is visceral, although almost entirely physical, which felt a bit of a wasted opportunity considering the subject matter. There's some inventive violence here, so much so that if you're squeamish then you'll find some of this upsetting.
Overall it has some decent horror moments, but it's not a smooth journey, but could have been an excellent read with some tighter development.
January 21, 2020
I was around the same age as Emma is in 1984, when the book takes place. What her and her brother Timmy felt about Halloween, I did too. I still do. It is my favorite holiday. I remember going to the Drive-In watching double features with my family. I also remember getting to stay up late to watch the late night scary movies. This book brought back a lot of good memories at the beginning, but thats where the good ended.
Then the violent, scary, gruesome, happened from then on out. Boy did it happen fast. Normal Halloween turns into a living nightmare Halloween. This book is not for the faint of heart due to the high degree of massive violence and foul language. It is extremely bloody, vulgar, and demonic. Once the gates of hell have broken open in Blackhaven's forests there is no turning back for anyone. The forest is crawling with the Devil's abominations and they are out for the blood and souls of the town's inhabitants. As these abomination move closer to town the killing scenes are more amazingly gruesome, demented and bloody. Some of the most horrific killing scenes I have ever read. This author really knows his guts and gore. The backstory of the town is ok, I wish it was a little more detailed and not spread out so much in the book. But what really holds your attention is the blood, violence, killings, and demonic creatures. The end will make your skin crawl. Overall a good, very bloody read.
Then the violent, scary, gruesome, happened from then on out. Boy did it happen fast. Normal Halloween turns into a living nightmare Halloween. This book is not for the faint of heart due to the high degree of massive violence and foul language. It is extremely bloody, vulgar, and demonic. Once the gates of hell have broken open in Blackhaven's forests there is no turning back for anyone. The forest is crawling with the Devil's abominations and they are out for the blood and souls of the town's inhabitants. As these abomination move closer to town the killing scenes are more amazingly gruesome, demented and bloody. Some of the most horrific killing scenes I have ever read. This author really knows his guts and gore. The backstory of the town is ok, I wish it was a little more detailed and not spread out so much in the book. But what really holds your attention is the blood, violence, killings, and demonic creatures. The end will make your skin crawl. Overall a good, very bloody read.
December 28, 2014
Okay read
You know it's sad when it goes from present tense to past tense all-in-one sentence. This happened over and over again within this book it was written by a English author maybe they do things differently over there. I don't know.
You know it's sad when it goes from present tense to past tense all-in-one sentence. This happened over and over again within this book it was written by a English author maybe they do things differently over there. I don't know.
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