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8114
8114 is a terrifying horror novel investigating the mysterious death of a high school friend through an embattled podcast and hallucinatory hauntings at the abandoned house of his childhood.
After returning to his hometown, Paul, the beleaguered host of a small-time podcast, discovers a longtime friend committed suicide in the dilapidated ruins of Paul’s childhood home. Desperate to find answers, Paul interviews friends and locals hoping to find closure. He finds himself in a chilling downward spiral of his memories and the land he grew up on. Has his past caught up with him or is there something far more sinister at play?
Joshua Hull, screenwriter of Glorious, brings an edge of horror film expertise to this story of small-town haunting, trauma, and grief that just won’t let go. 8114 roots out the rot of a small town’s past and unravels the memories we must face to survive the present.
After returning to his hometown, Paul, the beleaguered host of a small-time podcast, discovers a longtime friend committed suicide in the dilapidated ruins of Paul’s childhood home. Desperate to find answers, Paul interviews friends and locals hoping to find closure. He finds himself in a chilling downward spiral of his memories and the land he grew up on. Has his past caught up with him or is there something far more sinister at play?
Joshua Hull, screenwriter of Glorious, brings an edge of horror film expertise to this story of small-town haunting, trauma, and grief that just won’t let go. 8114 roots out the rot of a small town’s past and unravels the memories we must face to survive the present.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2025
93 people are currently reading
3552 people want to read
About the author
Joshua Hull
5 books75 followersJoshua Hull is an author, screenwriter (GLORIOUS), and filmmaker living in Central Indiana. His books include:
Underexposed! The 50 Greatest Movies Never Made (2021, Abrams Books)
Bedtime for Bobby (2021)
Mouth (2024, Tenebrous Press)
8114 (2025, CLASH Books)
Underexposed! The 50 Greatest Movies Never Made (2021, Abrams Books)
Bedtime for Bobby (2021)
Mouth (2024, Tenebrous Press)
8114 (2025, CLASH Books)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
November 27, 2024
ARC for review. To be published August 26, 2025.
DNF at 27%.
Paul, the host of a podcast, has returned to his hometown to find that a longtime friend has taken his own life in the ruins of Paul’s childhood home. To try to find closure, Paul interviews friends and other locals. Why did his friend take this step and is something wicked going on?
Well, I don’t know. Paul has a plant and mold growing in his arm within about twenty seconds of returning to town, and that seems pretty bad. However, he just goes blithely on with his little podcast, I guess he figures all that will just work itself out. Oh, and he just….forgets that a dead man called him a little earlier. And left him a voice mail. I mean, NOBODY calls anymore, amirite? That might be the scariest thing. All that, plus it’s poorly written? No, thanks.
DNF at 27%.
Paul, the host of a podcast, has returned to his hometown to find that a longtime friend has taken his own life in the ruins of Paul’s childhood home. To try to find closure, Paul interviews friends and other locals. Why did his friend take this step and is something wicked going on?
Well, I don’t know. Paul has a plant and mold growing in his arm within about twenty seconds of returning to town, and that seems pretty bad. However, he just goes blithely on with his little podcast, I guess he figures all that will just work itself out. Oh, and he just….forgets that a dead man called him a little earlier. And left him a voice mail. I mean, NOBODY calls anymore, amirite? That might be the scariest thing. All that, plus it’s poorly written? No, thanks.
October 5, 2024
This novel is a nightmare inducing supernatural horror that gets more horrific as it goes along. Some of the images and scenes will stay with you for a long time after you've read it.
A man has a podcast about a missing friend from his childhood, attempting to get to the bottom of where he went. But everyone soon turns on him when it's revealed that his friend was never missing. He and his mother have been hiding from an abusive man. Now, because of the popularity of that podcast, he has put their lives in danger.
When our protagonist is summoned home, he's informed that his best friend has committed suicide and horrific details soon come to light. He decides to get to the bottom of it because he, and everyone else, believes his childhood home is cursed and in that long abandoned home is where his friend went to kill himself.
And, man, from that setup this book takes us on a terrifying and unrelenting ride that doesn't stop. Dreadful things begin to happen, horrifying deaths occur, and brutal supernatural events take place. It's a gruesomely disturbing narrative which I love.
There are many pop culture references which give some dark humor along the way. Our protagonist is the narrator and he's not an altogether good man at all. In some ways he's deeply flawed and has many regrets. But as he tries to get to the bottom of what's happening to him and his friends, it gets progressively more unsettling and bloody.
I thought this book was a banger and would highly recommend it for horror fans.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
A man has a podcast about a missing friend from his childhood, attempting to get to the bottom of where he went. But everyone soon turns on him when it's revealed that his friend was never missing. He and his mother have been hiding from an abusive man. Now, because of the popularity of that podcast, he has put their lives in danger.
When our protagonist is summoned home, he's informed that his best friend has committed suicide and horrific details soon come to light. He decides to get to the bottom of it because he, and everyone else, believes his childhood home is cursed and in that long abandoned home is where his friend went to kill himself.
And, man, from that setup this book takes us on a terrifying and unrelenting ride that doesn't stop. Dreadful things begin to happen, horrifying deaths occur, and brutal supernatural events take place. It's a gruesomely disturbing narrative which I love.
There are many pop culture references which give some dark humor along the way. Our protagonist is the narrator and he's not an altogether good man at all. In some ways he's deeply flawed and has many regrets. But as he tries to get to the bottom of what's happening to him and his friends, it gets progressively more unsettling and bloody.
I thought this book was a banger and would highly recommend it for horror fans.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
October 9, 2024
books be getting a bit too fucking scary lately. Review soon. P.s it's real good
Some initial thoughts
A supernatural horror that had me ricocheting from page to page in a constant state of WTF Almost nauseating in its perpetual and unrelenting atmopshere of dread, this ain't nothing like Mouth.
Review:
8114 is a story that would translate well on screen but that's no surprise given the author is the screen writer of Glorius, after reading Hulls debut Mouth I instantly knew this was an author I'd read anything by, you know when you just kind of know? Theres only a few other authors that's happened with but it's like sliding on your favourite comfy pair of slippers you haven't worn in a while, familiar and at the same time new, am I making sense? I'm being complimentary I swear. 8114 is nothing like Mouth, which shows the breadth of Hull's literary prowess, where Mouth was, in my opinion a feel good cosy horror (for those of us so far in the horror trenches a carnivorous monster does little to detract from the cosy vibe) this was quite honestly, terrifying, but still had that dark humorous edge that Hull wields masterfully giving the reader a good chuckle before subjecting them to psychological distress. A supernatural horror that had me ricocheting from page to page in a constant state of WTF, almost nauseating in its perpetual and unrelenting atmosphere of dread. There is such an insidious and claustrophobic atmosphere that clings to the periphery of this book threatening to tighten its grip at any moment I was in a constant state of suspense (and stress). Was that too poetic, this was just a damn good book by a damn good writer, I'm really excited for any future books he has in store.
Some initial thoughts
A supernatural horror that had me ricocheting from page to page in a constant state of WTF Almost nauseating in its perpetual and unrelenting atmopshere of dread, this ain't nothing like Mouth.
Review:
8114 is a story that would translate well on screen but that's no surprise given the author is the screen writer of Glorius, after reading Hulls debut Mouth I instantly knew this was an author I'd read anything by, you know when you just kind of know? Theres only a few other authors that's happened with but it's like sliding on your favourite comfy pair of slippers you haven't worn in a while, familiar and at the same time new, am I making sense? I'm being complimentary I swear. 8114 is nothing like Mouth, which shows the breadth of Hull's literary prowess, where Mouth was, in my opinion a feel good cosy horror (for those of us so far in the horror trenches a carnivorous monster does little to detract from the cosy vibe) this was quite honestly, terrifying, but still had that dark humorous edge that Hull wields masterfully giving the reader a good chuckle before subjecting them to psychological distress. A supernatural horror that had me ricocheting from page to page in a constant state of WTF, almost nauseating in its perpetual and unrelenting atmosphere of dread. There is such an insidious and claustrophobic atmosphere that clings to the periphery of this book threatening to tighten its grip at any moment I was in a constant state of suspense (and stress). Was that too poetic, this was just a damn good book by a damn good writer, I'm really excited for any future books he has in store.
July 11, 2025
Paul is done with podcasting. His first series was a total disaster. The premise focused on finding an old classmate who went missing. Turns out that classmate was on the run from an abusive parent and Paul’s podcast put a target on his back. In certain circles of the internet, Paul is now the most-hated person. Ashamed and embarrassed, he returns to his home town where an old friend has just died. It turns out he killed himself in Paul’s childhood home…and that’s far from the first creepy thing to happen in that house. Paul decides to launch a new podcast investigating his friend’s death and his spooky former home. But supernatural forces are at work. This time, getting cancelled will be the least of his problems.
I really enjoyed this book. The simple, conversational narrative voice made this a quick read. I loved the premise of a true crime podcast gone wrong, and the beginning especially gripped me. I also think it’s interesting that the author’s note claims this was inspired by his actual childhood home, where unexplained things happened. Whether that’s true or a rhetorical flourish, it made the story feel more exciting to me. Content warning that there’s some dark stuff in this book, but I think horror fans will enjoy it as much as I did!
I really enjoyed this book. The simple, conversational narrative voice made this a quick read. I loved the premise of a true crime podcast gone wrong, and the beginning especially gripped me. I also think it’s interesting that the author’s note claims this was inspired by his actual childhood home, where unexplained things happened. Whether that’s true or a rhetorical flourish, it made the story feel more exciting to me. Content warning that there’s some dark stuff in this book, but I think horror fans will enjoy it as much as I did!
September 10, 2025
Unique take on the familiar haunted house story that extends the possession to the entire town. I’m a fan of Joshua Hulls previous work and his debut horror novel did not disappoint from start to finish. It is fast paced, contains some very gruesome scene, and has some jump scares giving it a cinematic quality, something I’ve never experienced in a book. The imagery will stick with you after you finish the book.
It was interesting to read the story is based on his childhood home, town, and some actual experiences of his. I highly recommend 8114! I look forward to his next film, novella, novel, or whatever it may be.
It was interesting to read the story is based on his childhood home, town, and some actual experiences of his. I highly recommend 8114! I look forward to his next film, novella, novel, or whatever it may be.
May 7, 2025
TW/CW: Language, drinking, death by suicide, death of children/babies, gory scenes, violence, blood
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
After returning to his hometown, Paul, the beleaguered host of a small-time podcast, discovers a longtime friend committed suicide in the dilapidated ruins of Paul’s childhood home. Desperate to find answers, Paul interviews friends and locals hoping to find closure. He finds himself in a chilling downward spiral of his memories and the land he grew up on. Has his past caught up with him or is there something far more sinister at play?
Release Date: August 26th, 2025
Genre: Horror
Pages: 214
Rating: ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Ummm that cover
2. Some real creepy stuff happens
What I Didn't Like:
1. 109 uses of 8114
2. Writing comes off dry at times
3. Writing style was clunky and confusing at times
4. Story takes too many odd turns that don't make sense
Overall Thoughts:
{{Disclaimer: I write my review as I read}}
Yesssssssssss Unsolved Mysteries scares me too. Robert Stacks voice is so scary that even today I can't listen to it.
The weird voice that is talking to Paul seems do forced and out of place to me.
Why is 8114 mentioned so many times within a few paragraphs? I know where we are and don't need the location and title beatened over my head
Paul decides after a newly failed podcast to shoot his load and start a new podcast that he has zero idea if it'll be good or come to anything. It's like this guy doesn't learn. Plus after the issues he caused this Adam Benny he's willing to throw his friends story under the bus and try to get his family on the podcast. He's a horrible friend.
Paul could be the worse Podcaster. Why would he leave in him telling Matt that he doesn't have to hold the mic and chair squeaks.
So Paul says that him and Adam would sit at their two person lunch table and listen to music, but later when talking about his friends he says they've known each other their whole lives but started being friends in 7th grade.
I'm supposed to believe that a barn that was built over 200 years ago and has been abandoned for 10 years is still standing.
In the retelling of Mary and her baby sacrifice the husband hides at the top with her and let's her put the noose on the baby before even stopping her. Why would he let her get that far? Also how did he know about her plans and when they'd be there? Didn't she see him before she left? Even more amazing is that the husband burned Mary in the barn of hay and somehow the barn didn't catch on fire. What a magic barn.
WTH was with that weird interview with Matt? It was so odd. I don't understand why he didn't tell all of this to Paul when they had drinks or talked on the phone.
How did Paul grow up in this town and live in that house and never once heard this story of Mary?
God, Paul is just all around a terrible person. All he thinks about is himself and the podcast.
So difficult to get into this book. The things that Paul thinks are just so crazy considering everything that's happening. In the middle of Kyle's funeral in which he sees his dead friend Kyle and all the things that have happened up to this point he runs into Megan his ex girlfriend. What does he think after the agree to meet for drinks he starts thinking and pondering about what she would drink now as an adult. Like Paul why are you thinking about this? You're seeing dead people and weird things are happening to you but you're worrying about what your ex-girlfriend drinks now is an adult. It's so stupid. I can honestly see this being a worry someone would have who's having a normal day let alone a normal life someone's seeing dead people I think you wouldn't be wondering this.
Why wouldn't his ex want to sleep with him.. Duh that has to happen to further the plot for Paul otherwise we wouldn't have a story! It's just so odd because one minute Paul and Megan are talking about something and the next day wake up in bed together what a weird jump.
The next morning Paul wakes up and Megan is gone cuz she has to pick her kids up but somehow his arm it has a bandage wrapped around it so where did she get the bandage? Does she travel with them?
I was just saying how this book reminds me of Stephen King and here is reference to Pet
Somehow he must have given Megan his phone number cuz she sends him a text just another thing that we suddenly missed. Also the fact that they never agreed on a time to meet up for drinks and the only reason they went to the same location was because Paul was punched in the face by Kyle's father.
Also Paul is stupid too. So he gets these text messages from Rachel the producer who is called and left him voicemails and also left him text but he continues to ignore her just so he can text Megan's stupid stuff. I don't know how he's not seeing her text messages when he opens the text to text Megan back. Why is he ignoring his producer it must be important? I hate Paul he does stupid things don't be Paul!
Okay so everything that happened the next morning after him and Megan started having sex was just in Paul's imagination because of the Demons. That part was a little confusing. But he did say that they were tormenting him and so I imagined that's what he meant was happening.
Paul is so self involved. He starts thinking about how he's like ruined everything for people even saying I can't help but think about where all the people in my life would be if it wasn't for me and this fucking house. Would Kyle still be alive if we were never friends? Would Matt just be focused on soccer games and baseball tournaments and gymnastics? Would Megan still be married and happy? Would my mom still be alive? Some of that stuff doesn't make any sense because it doesn't have anything to do with Paul. What does Megan's marriage breaking apart have to do with Paul? He hasn't even seen her in 10 years. What does it even matter that Matt likes sports? How do these things link back to Paul?
Matt is dead and his family has been murdered by him. Paul is obsessed with finding out who was holding the camera recording what was happening because I guess in his mind it can't be possible that he stood the camera up while he was you know committing suicide. How would he even know there needed to be a camera man?
Honestly let's just add up what happened. You have a podcaster who failed at the podcast he was doing because the person was actually still alive and around. He returns home with this crazy story about a house. Also his friend has died in the barn. He just start another podcast based around this friend and now all these murders are happening. The police find him right across from a woman who just died. There is a VHS of his other friend who killed his family but the cop doesn't watch the tape all the way through because he saw enough, even though it might point to who was holding the camera or what really went on throughout the day. I get this is a small town cop but why wouldn't you watch the video through the rest of it in case there's evidence of something else happening? But then he lets Paul go even though Paul who has an alibi for Matt killing himself because it's going to add to his podcast.
Oh it's Megan that was holding the camera.
Final Thoughts:
This book had such a ripoff feeling to It;
• Person dies by suicide
• Person comes home
• Friends block out memories of bad stuff that happened at home
• Seeing dead people
I thought it was interesting that the author mentioned through Nancy about a real train accident that happened to the circus; the Hammond Circus train wreck in Hammond, Indiana.
I don't know if it's because I'm reading an arc but there was random words that were in bold and I didn't understand the significance of why they were. It was very distracting to the writing and honestly I feel like served no purpose.
I made it 85% (page186) before I just couldn't push myself to read anymore. I wasn't having a good time and I just didn't care. It did start to feel like I was in a crossover of a Stephen King book and the Sinister movie only those things are good.
For a book a little over 200 pages I'm surprised how much the author could fit in. Sadly all the characters felt so underdeveloped that I never really felt I knew anyone. It was just a collection of random people I didn't care were killed. I kept thinking how interesting this could have been if the author killed off Paul and Matt and Megan struggled to piece things together, kind of like a switch from who you think is the main character.
Still I love that book cover!
IG | Blog
Thanks to Netgalley and Clash Books for this advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:
After returning to his hometown, Paul, the beleaguered host of a small-time podcast, discovers a longtime friend committed suicide in the dilapidated ruins of Paul’s childhood home. Desperate to find answers, Paul interviews friends and locals hoping to find closure. He finds himself in a chilling downward spiral of his memories and the land he grew up on. Has his past caught up with him or is there something far more sinister at play?
Release Date: August 26th, 2025
Genre: Horror
Pages: 214
Rating: ⭐
What I Liked:
1. Ummm that cover
2. Some real creepy stuff happens
What I Didn't Like:
1. 109 uses of 8114
2. Writing comes off dry at times
3. Writing style was clunky and confusing at times
4. Story takes too many odd turns that don't make sense
Overall Thoughts:
{{Disclaimer: I write my review as I read}}
Yesssssssssss Unsolved Mysteries scares me too. Robert Stacks voice is so scary that even today I can't listen to it.
The weird voice that is talking to Paul seems do forced and out of place to me.
Why is 8114 mentioned so many times within a few paragraphs? I know where we are and don't need the location and title beatened over my head
Paul decides after a newly failed podcast to shoot his load and start a new podcast that he has zero idea if it'll be good or come to anything. It's like this guy doesn't learn. Plus after the issues he caused this Adam Benny he's willing to throw his friends story under the bus and try to get his family on the podcast. He's a horrible friend.
Paul could be the worse Podcaster. Why would he leave in him telling Matt that he doesn't have to hold the mic and chair squeaks.
So Paul says that him and Adam would sit at their two person lunch table and listen to music, but later when talking about his friends he says they've known each other their whole lives but started being friends in 7th grade.
I'm supposed to believe that a barn that was built over 200 years ago and has been abandoned for 10 years is still standing.
In the retelling of Mary and her baby sacrifice the husband hides at the top with her and let's her put the noose on the baby before even stopping her. Why would he let her get that far? Also how did he know about her plans and when they'd be there? Didn't she see him before she left? Even more amazing is that the husband burned Mary in the barn of hay and somehow the barn didn't catch on fire. What a magic barn.
WTH was with that weird interview with Matt? It was so odd. I don't understand why he didn't tell all of this to Paul when they had drinks or talked on the phone.
How did Paul grow up in this town and live in that house and never once heard this story of Mary?
God, Paul is just all around a terrible person. All he thinks about is himself and the podcast.
So difficult to get into this book. The things that Paul thinks are just so crazy considering everything that's happening. In the middle of Kyle's funeral in which he sees his dead friend Kyle and all the things that have happened up to this point he runs into Megan his ex girlfriend. What does he think after the agree to meet for drinks he starts thinking and pondering about what she would drink now as an adult. Like Paul why are you thinking about this? You're seeing dead people and weird things are happening to you but you're worrying about what your ex-girlfriend drinks now is an adult. It's so stupid. I can honestly see this being a worry someone would have who's having a normal day let alone a normal life someone's seeing dead people I think you wouldn't be wondering this.
Why wouldn't his ex want to sleep with him.. Duh that has to happen to further the plot for Paul otherwise we wouldn't have a story! It's just so odd because one minute Paul and Megan are talking about something and the next day wake up in bed together what a weird jump.
The next morning Paul wakes up and Megan is gone cuz she has to pick her kids up but somehow his arm it has a bandage wrapped around it so where did she get the bandage? Does she travel with them?
I was just saying how this book reminds me of Stephen King and here is reference to Pet
Somehow he must have given Megan his phone number cuz she sends him a text just another thing that we suddenly missed. Also the fact that they never agreed on a time to meet up for drinks and the only reason they went to the same location was because Paul was punched in the face by Kyle's father.
Also Paul is stupid too. So he gets these text messages from Rachel the producer who is called and left him voicemails and also left him text but he continues to ignore her just so he can text Megan's stupid stuff. I don't know how he's not seeing her text messages when he opens the text to text Megan back. Why is he ignoring his producer it must be important? I hate Paul he does stupid things don't be Paul!
Okay so everything that happened the next morning after him and Megan started having sex was just in Paul's imagination because of the Demons. That part was a little confusing. But he did say that they were tormenting him and so I imagined that's what he meant was happening.
Paul is so self involved. He starts thinking about how he's like ruined everything for people even saying I can't help but think about where all the people in my life would be if it wasn't for me and this fucking house. Would Kyle still be alive if we were never friends? Would Matt just be focused on soccer games and baseball tournaments and gymnastics? Would Megan still be married and happy? Would my mom still be alive? Some of that stuff doesn't make any sense because it doesn't have anything to do with Paul. What does Megan's marriage breaking apart have to do with Paul? He hasn't even seen her in 10 years. What does it even matter that Matt likes sports? How do these things link back to Paul?
Matt is dead and his family has been murdered by him. Paul is obsessed with finding out who was holding the camera recording what was happening because I guess in his mind it can't be possible that he stood the camera up while he was you know committing suicide. How would he even know there needed to be a camera man?
Honestly let's just add up what happened. You have a podcaster who failed at the podcast he was doing because the person was actually still alive and around. He returns home with this crazy story about a house. Also his friend has died in the barn. He just start another podcast based around this friend and now all these murders are happening. The police find him right across from a woman who just died. There is a VHS of his other friend who killed his family but the cop doesn't watch the tape all the way through because he saw enough, even though it might point to who was holding the camera or what really went on throughout the day. I get this is a small town cop but why wouldn't you watch the video through the rest of it in case there's evidence of something else happening? But then he lets Paul go even though Paul who has an alibi for Matt killing himself because it's going to add to his podcast.
Oh it's Megan that was holding the camera.
Final Thoughts:
This book had such a ripoff feeling to It;
• Person dies by suicide
• Person comes home
• Friends block out memories of bad stuff that happened at home
• Seeing dead people
I thought it was interesting that the author mentioned through Nancy about a real train accident that happened to the circus; the Hammond Circus train wreck in Hammond, Indiana.
I don't know if it's because I'm reading an arc but there was random words that were in bold and I didn't understand the significance of why they were. It was very distracting to the writing and honestly I feel like served no purpose.
I made it 85% (page186) before I just couldn't push myself to read anymore. I wasn't having a good time and I just didn't care. It did start to feel like I was in a crossover of a Stephen King book and the Sinister movie only those things are good.
For a book a little over 200 pages I'm surprised how much the author could fit in. Sadly all the characters felt so underdeveloped that I never really felt I knew anyone. It was just a collection of random people I didn't care were killed. I kept thinking how interesting this could have been if the author killed off Paul and Matt and Megan struggled to piece things together, kind of like a switch from who you think is the main character.
Still I love that book cover!
IG | Blog
Thanks to Netgalley and Clash Books for this advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 7, 2025
Can't believe a book managed to scare me this much!! It'll give you the same anxiety and contemplation as watching a horror movie.
This book made me realise that having a vivid imagination is both a blessing and a curse, I could see myself in that moment with the MC (Paul). The story jumps straight to the horror. The spooky scenes and the reveals! so well written, with some dialogues funny at times. The characters were kept simple but written just enough to feel bad/shocked for their fates.
This book made me realise that having a vivid imagination is both a blessing and a curse, I could see myself in that moment with the MC (Paul). The story jumps straight to the horror. The spooky scenes and the reveals! so well written, with some dialogues funny at times. The characters were kept simple but written just enough to feel bad/shocked for their fates.
July 4, 2025
Paul has recently been through a tough time after his podcast receives some horrible consequences due to his show. He gets a call from a childhood friend asking him to come home.
When Paul arrives, he learns that his old friend, Kyle has committed suicide in his childhood home…. Paul’s home. Soon, Paul begins too see the dead and horrific things he never could imagine.
The house is holding secrets of the past. The history alone will terrify you. Paul decides that his home at 8114 will be his new podcast. As the body count rises, will Paul be next?
I thoroughly enjoyed this creepy tale. Paul could be such a douche but I still loved his character. I will definitely be reading the next @joshuathehull book for sure! I loved this eerie story!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When Paul arrives, he learns that his old friend, Kyle has committed suicide in his childhood home…. Paul’s home. Soon, Paul begins too see the dead and horrific things he never could imagine.
The house is holding secrets of the past. The history alone will terrify you. Paul decides that his home at 8114 will be his new podcast. As the body count rises, will Paul be next?
I thoroughly enjoyed this creepy tale. Paul could be such a douche but I still loved his character. I will definitely be reading the next @joshuathehull book for sure! I loved this eerie story!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 8, 2024
"Again, funerals aren’t my favorite thing. Especially when the person you’re burying is waving at you to follow him—it?–into a dark room."
Spooky houses are a topic I know quite a bit about. I grew up in one and still live in one today. I can't say it's a fun experience, but it certainly makes for an interesting time. Whenever I find a book on this subject, I eagerly dive in, even though it often leads me to relive memories I would rather forget.
I knew what I was getting into with this book. It was terrifying and gave me a nightmare that left me shocked upon waking. I should have taken my own advice and slept with the light on, but I doubt that would have saved me from the burnt woman.
There was no hesitation in this book. The author got straight to the point, and it quickly crawled under my skin, bringing my worst nightmares to life. It's unsettling and doesn't relent until you reach the last page. I found myself loving the story, the layout, and the unhinged characters. It was all a demented treat.
8114 is a fantastic horror novel that I will be recommending until I lose my voice. Not much scares me in life, but this book had me feeling anxious. Even the ghost in my house was taken aback! Please don't overlook this incredible horror novel!
Spooky houses are a topic I know quite a bit about. I grew up in one and still live in one today. I can't say it's a fun experience, but it certainly makes for an interesting time. Whenever I find a book on this subject, I eagerly dive in, even though it often leads me to relive memories I would rather forget.
I knew what I was getting into with this book. It was terrifying and gave me a nightmare that left me shocked upon waking. I should have taken my own advice and slept with the light on, but I doubt that would have saved me from the burnt woman.
There was no hesitation in this book. The author got straight to the point, and it quickly crawled under my skin, bringing my worst nightmares to life. It's unsettling and doesn't relent until you reach the last page. I found myself loving the story, the layout, and the unhinged characters. It was all a demented treat.
8114 is a fantastic horror novel that I will be recommending until I lose my voice. Not much scares me in life, but this book had me feeling anxious. Even the ghost in my house was taken aback! Please don't overlook this incredible horror novel!
July 27, 2025
4.5 stars
This book had me so on edge at one point, that when something fell over in my office where I was reading, I felt my soul leave my body for a moment. I also somehow read this in two days, probably in one if I didn’t make myself put it down by a certain time at night so my brain didn’t make unwanted dreams about it.
This book was dark, creepy, haunting, and just so unsettling. Right from the start you are constantly thrown into the horror that is centered around Paul’s childhood home of 8114. I think the body horror will forever be living in my brain rent free and the atmosphere surrounding 8114 will forever be following me.
I will say, you are for sure supposed to feel a little confused with our main character. I was thrown off by how nonchalant he seemed with literally everything that is happening around him. If it was me I’d already be hightailing it out of there but then again I haven't heard the whispers of 8114. I don’t want to, they can keep those to themselves please and thank you.
If you do find yourself drawn to this story be sure to check trigger warnings as it does have some pretty dark themes and topics in here.
This book for sure is going to be one I recommend out of the fact I want to see everyone's reactions when they finish this book. Just so maybe, they can feel like something is watching them from the corner of their room after they finish it.
I also recommend you read that afterward once you finish.
Although, I am sure the story was meant to leave you wondering about what’s surrounding 8114, I wish I could have been fed just a little bit more about it. Just a little bit of something for all the unknowns around it, but, maybe that’s also the point?
But anyway…. Imma go read something cozy now.
"...The things out there, we want you back."
P.s. Thank you again Clashbooks for my gifted ARC 🥺🩶
This book had me so on edge at one point, that when something fell over in my office where I was reading, I felt my soul leave my body for a moment. I also somehow read this in two days, probably in one if I didn’t make myself put it down by a certain time at night so my brain didn’t make unwanted dreams about it.
This book was dark, creepy, haunting, and just so unsettling. Right from the start you are constantly thrown into the horror that is centered around Paul’s childhood home of 8114. I think the body horror will forever be living in my brain rent free and the atmosphere surrounding 8114 will forever be following me.
I will say, you are for sure supposed to feel a little confused with our main character. I was thrown off by how nonchalant he seemed with literally everything that is happening around him. If it was me I’d already be hightailing it out of there but then again I haven't heard the whispers of 8114. I don’t want to, they can keep those to themselves please and thank you.
If you do find yourself drawn to this story be sure to check trigger warnings as it does have some pretty dark themes and topics in here.
This book for sure is going to be one I recommend out of the fact I want to see everyone's reactions when they finish this book. Just so maybe, they can feel like something is watching them from the corner of their room after they finish it.
I also recommend you read that afterward once you finish.
Although, I am sure the story was meant to leave you wondering about what’s surrounding 8114, I wish I could have been fed just a little bit more about it. Just a little bit of something for all the unknowns around it, but, maybe that’s also the point?
But anyway…. Imma go read something cozy now.
"...The things out there, we want you back."
P.s. Thank you again Clashbooks for my gifted ARC 🥺🩶
October 26, 2024
A very, very film-like book. (About a podcast?) Some of the scenes felt almost written like jump cuts, or jump scares, which is interesting but cheapens the scare factor for me. I’d like for there to be more reactions and build-up on page. In some instances it made sense, but mostly it felt disruptive.
I liked this concept, at least, I like what I think it was. I just don’t really have a clear picture on it all looking back. Many elements were at play here. I would’ve liked for a good fraction of the horror motifs to be cut out, and instead really hone in on one or two aspects haunting the story. I don’t need everything explained to me, but give me something a little more specific to be afraid of.
I do think this author has a knack for horror, and didn’t shy away from writing some really messed up shit, which will always earn my respect. The horror imagery is the highlight of the book.
I liked this concept, at least, I like what I think it was. I just don’t really have a clear picture on it all looking back. Many elements were at play here. I would’ve liked for a good fraction of the horror motifs to be cut out, and instead really hone in on one or two aspects haunting the story. I don’t need everything explained to me, but give me something a little more specific to be afraid of.
I do think this author has a knack for horror, and didn’t shy away from writing some really messed up shit, which will always earn my respect. The horror imagery is the highlight of the book.
July 7, 2025
Review in the July 2025 issue of Booklist and on the blog: https://raforall.blogspot.com/2025/07... (link live 7/8 at 7am central)
Three Words That Describe This Book: verisimilitude, haunted small towns, trauma
Other words: podcast (as a frame and a cursed media trope), unreliable narrator-- from the start, readers know they should not trust Paul, they know he is not a good person, he knows it too. Not evil, but not a hero. At the very least he is VERY flawed. Supernatural-"true" crime, cinematic (author is an award winning filmmaker)
Great hook to open the book.
Paul's narrative voice draws the reader in and adds to the compelling pace of this book. He is a podcaster and parts of the book are podcast transcripts but also the narrative in-between is Paul in a confessional, conversational tone.
While Paul is very developed, other characters are a little less so. Hull gives us the brush strokes but it is hard to understand their serious, violent, and terrifying choices. Now, some of this could be intentional because Paul is SO self obsessed and focused and he is our narrator, therefore, what we get of others is not deep enough.
The haunted, even cursed history of the town and the actually supernatural force deriving all of the evil, violence, and horror was very well built. You believe it and the story is written in a way to keep the fear going. Hull contributes to the creepiness and terror coming off the page with his acknowledgements where he lists all the parts of the book that are 100% real.
For those who loved the terrifying verisimilitude of The Ghost That Ate Us by Kraus, the small town horror meets cursed media of Universal Harvester by Darnielle, and a haunted house story in the style of Due's The Good House.
Other readalikes-- Hex by Thomas Olde Huevelt, Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay, September House by Carissa Orlando, Chasing the Boogeyman by Richard Chizmar
Three Words That Describe This Book: verisimilitude, haunted small towns, trauma
Other words: podcast (as a frame and a cursed media trope), unreliable narrator-- from the start, readers know they should not trust Paul, they know he is not a good person, he knows it too. Not evil, but not a hero. At the very least he is VERY flawed. Supernatural-"true" crime, cinematic (author is an award winning filmmaker)
Great hook to open the book.
Paul's narrative voice draws the reader in and adds to the compelling pace of this book. He is a podcaster and parts of the book are podcast transcripts but also the narrative in-between is Paul in a confessional, conversational tone.
While Paul is very developed, other characters are a little less so. Hull gives us the brush strokes but it is hard to understand their serious, violent, and terrifying choices. Now, some of this could be intentional because Paul is SO self obsessed and focused and he is our narrator, therefore, what we get of others is not deep enough.
The haunted, even cursed history of the town and the actually supernatural force deriving all of the evil, violence, and horror was very well built. You believe it and the story is written in a way to keep the fear going. Hull contributes to the creepiness and terror coming off the page with his acknowledgements where he lists all the parts of the book that are 100% real.
For those who loved the terrifying verisimilitude of The Ghost That Ate Us by Kraus, the small town horror meets cursed media of Universal Harvester by Darnielle, and a haunted house story in the style of Due's The Good House.
Other readalikes-- Hex by Thomas Olde Huevelt, Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay, September House by Carissa Orlando, Chasing the Boogeyman by Richard Chizmar
May 14, 2025
Thank at Clash books and Joshua Hull for the nightmares. This was definitely the scariest podcast book I’ve ever read and probably one of the creepiest books period. Paul has a failing career as his podcast goes belly up when he ruins the life of a kid he remembers from middle school. Dealing with this he receives word that one of his best friends committed suicide and it was on his childhood property. Determined to get to the bottom of what really happened Paul heads to his home town and begins another podcast one of the lore that surrounds his childhood property as he begins to be haunted things continue to become more sinister till the very end. This book will continue to haunt my dreams 5 stars
October 10, 2024
It's likely not a surprise that I find myself a fan of the creative world of Joshua Hull, an Indiana-based author, screenwriter, and filmmaker whose work I've been reviewing since his early days as a filmmaker and whose co-writing of the indie horror film "Glorious" helped land him the Hoosier Award from the Indiana Film Journalists Association of which I'm a member.
So, it's also not likely a surprise that when the I came upon the opportunity to check out Hull's first full-length novel "8114" I jumped at the chance.
While it may seem as if I approached this review with an inherent bias, I've never been shy about writing middling or even negative reviews when necessary. Friends included. Okay, mostly ex-friends.
Hull has always been immersed in the indie horror scene, or so it seems, but it was the 2022 film "Glorious," which he co-authored with David Ian McKendry, that largely vaulted him into a bit of a hazy national spotlight. Hull followed that up with the winning novella "Mouth," in which Hull's creative sensibilities burst to life and it became apparent that he was a burgeoning literary voice and one of the more refreshing horror voices to arise on the scene in quite awhile.
With "8814," Hull cements his growing stature as a horror writer with a novel that is both terrifying and terrifyingly funny at times.
If you're familiar at all with the creative world of Joshua Hull, it won't surprise you that he sets the story in "8114" smack dab in the real-life town of Pendleton, Indiana where he really has spent a good majority of his life.
It may be a little more surprising that "8114" is inspired by his childhood home, a thought that becomes a little more terrifying the deeper one dives into the compelling, difficult to shake novel.
"8114" centers around Paul Early, the beleaguered host of a small-time, somewhat controversial podcast who returns to his hometown of Pendleton following the mysterious death of a high school friend.
One of Hull's many gifts as a writer is character development, a gift that comes vividly to life in "8114." Hull's Paul is a spiritually demented sadsack, the kind of guy you want to like but can't and the kind of guy who seems destined to live out some sort of life on the fringes. Much of "8114" centers around Paul's childhood home, now an abandoned house with a sordid history that keeps getting more and more sorded.
114 is a terrifying horror novel investigating the mysterious death of a high school friend through an embattled podcast and hallucinatory hauntings at the abandoned house of his childhood. While you don't necessarily like Paul, he's nearly impossible to hate thanks to Hull's ability to keep us wondering about the full spectrum of what's going on in "8114." Are we dealing with something supernatural? Are we dealing with the otherworldly perpetuating of the cycle of trauma?
Either. Or. Maybe both. You'll have to decide.
While it's easy to compare Hull to any number of other indie horror writers, I must confess I found myself time and again flashing back to my time with Bret Easton Ellis's "American Psycho," a similarly bold, demented, and thoughtful novel with strong characters and a relentlessly "go for it" narrative. Hull brings this small-town haunting to life in a way that makes you want to catch the first bus to Pendleton to check out the house that inspired this story, which is similarly decrepit and abandoned. Yet, against the supernatural horrors Hull immerses us in the cyclical nature of trauma that can't always be healed or resolved or broken. In the end, "8114" seems to be saying that individually and collectively we have to face our past if we want to survive our present.
I suppose this means I'm ascribing some deeper meaning to "8114," though I'd venture a guess that others will take away different lessons and some will just cringe and look away.
But yeah, I think in the end that Hull is reminding us that looking away isn't really an option if we want to survive this thing called life. The alternative? At least in "8114," it's pretty horrifying.
So, it's also not likely a surprise that when the I came upon the opportunity to check out Hull's first full-length novel "8114" I jumped at the chance.
While it may seem as if I approached this review with an inherent bias, I've never been shy about writing middling or even negative reviews when necessary. Friends included. Okay, mostly ex-friends.
Hull has always been immersed in the indie horror scene, or so it seems, but it was the 2022 film "Glorious," which he co-authored with David Ian McKendry, that largely vaulted him into a bit of a hazy national spotlight. Hull followed that up with the winning novella "Mouth," in which Hull's creative sensibilities burst to life and it became apparent that he was a burgeoning literary voice and one of the more refreshing horror voices to arise on the scene in quite awhile.
With "8814," Hull cements his growing stature as a horror writer with a novel that is both terrifying and terrifyingly funny at times.
If you're familiar at all with the creative world of Joshua Hull, it won't surprise you that he sets the story in "8114" smack dab in the real-life town of Pendleton, Indiana where he really has spent a good majority of his life.
It may be a little more surprising that "8114" is inspired by his childhood home, a thought that becomes a little more terrifying the deeper one dives into the compelling, difficult to shake novel.
"8114" centers around Paul Early, the beleaguered host of a small-time, somewhat controversial podcast who returns to his hometown of Pendleton following the mysterious death of a high school friend.
One of Hull's many gifts as a writer is character development, a gift that comes vividly to life in "8114." Hull's Paul is a spiritually demented sadsack, the kind of guy you want to like but can't and the kind of guy who seems destined to live out some sort of life on the fringes. Much of "8114" centers around Paul's childhood home, now an abandoned house with a sordid history that keeps getting more and more sorded.
114 is a terrifying horror novel investigating the mysterious death of a high school friend through an embattled podcast and hallucinatory hauntings at the abandoned house of his childhood. While you don't necessarily like Paul, he's nearly impossible to hate thanks to Hull's ability to keep us wondering about the full spectrum of what's going on in "8114." Are we dealing with something supernatural? Are we dealing with the otherworldly perpetuating of the cycle of trauma?
Either. Or. Maybe both. You'll have to decide.
While it's easy to compare Hull to any number of other indie horror writers, I must confess I found myself time and again flashing back to my time with Bret Easton Ellis's "American Psycho," a similarly bold, demented, and thoughtful novel with strong characters and a relentlessly "go for it" narrative. Hull brings this small-town haunting to life in a way that makes you want to catch the first bus to Pendleton to check out the house that inspired this story, which is similarly decrepit and abandoned. Yet, against the supernatural horrors Hull immerses us in the cyclical nature of trauma that can't always be healed or resolved or broken. In the end, "8114" seems to be saying that individually and collectively we have to face our past if we want to survive our present.
I suppose this means I'm ascribing some deeper meaning to "8114," though I'd venture a guess that others will take away different lessons and some will just cringe and look away.
But yeah, I think in the end that Hull is reminding us that looking away isn't really an option if we want to survive this thing called life. The alternative? At least in "8114," it's pretty horrifying.
October 16, 2024
8114 had a lot of potential, but as I was reading through the book, I started taking detailed notes in the way an editor would, and I think this story would have benefitted greatly from another round of editing.
First, at 218 pages, 8114 is neither a novella nor a fully fleshed-out novel. I think that if Joshua Hull had chosen to tighten this up into a shorter story or if he had opted to add more character development to build out a full novel, the results would have been much better. As it stands, many of the characters read very flat, and listening to Paul's constant internal monologue becomes incredibly repetitious since it all tends to stay at the surface level (and let's face it, he's not that likable of a character to begin with).
Initially, the moments of horror came across as shocking and really well done, and I shuddered at the references to black mold and other grossness. However, these same "party tricks" soon grew wearisome as they repeated without much variety. There are some better scenes later towards the end of the book, but I wish there had been a bit more happening overall throughout the story.
The motive and motivation behind the horror also could have used more depth and explanation. I was disappointed that every time a character was about to reveal more of the nitty-gritty details of the property's history, something happened to interrupt the scene, and the reader was never actually privy to any of those details. Sure, we get a basic outline of the reasoning, but diving even deeper into that history and having a solidly developed background and motivation would have given me a better connection to the story.
I would really love to see a 350-page version of 8114 where the characters and storyline have more extensive development. It has all the bones of an excellent novel; it just needs a little more work in its current state.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First, at 218 pages, 8114 is neither a novella nor a fully fleshed-out novel. I think that if Joshua Hull had chosen to tighten this up into a shorter story or if he had opted to add more character development to build out a full novel, the results would have been much better. As it stands, many of the characters read very flat, and listening to Paul's constant internal monologue becomes incredibly repetitious since it all tends to stay at the surface level (and let's face it, he's not that likable of a character to begin with).
Initially, the moments of horror came across as shocking and really well done, and I shuddered at the references to black mold and other grossness. However, these same "party tricks" soon grew wearisome as they repeated without much variety. There are some better scenes later towards the end of the book, but I wish there had been a bit more happening overall throughout the story.
The motive and motivation behind the horror also could have used more depth and explanation. I was disappointed that every time a character was about to reveal more of the nitty-gritty details of the property's history, something happened to interrupt the scene, and the reader was never actually privy to any of those details. Sure, we get a basic outline of the reasoning, but diving even deeper into that history and having a solidly developed background and motivation would have given me a better connection to the story.
I would really love to see a 350-page version of 8114 where the characters and storyline have more extensive development. It has all the bones of an excellent novel; it just needs a little more work in its current state.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 17, 2025
THIS BOOK. I don’t get scared easily but this book.. this book creeped me out. I mean I was having heart racing, jittery, eyes squeezing shut not wanting to read more.. but having to know what happens, and just overall shudders from the gross creepiness of this book. I loved how scary this book was, but Paul.. Paul was a tough character to follow. I think it was written that way on purpose but this man.. he was a mess. A disaster. So sometimes it was hard for me, with my scatterbrain, to keep up.
Super loved this one. Great horror. It was like The Shining made a baby with the Haunting of Hill House. Yea. It’s that good.
Super loved this one. Great horror. It was like The Shining made a baby with the Haunting of Hill House. Yea. It’s that good.
December 17, 2024
An ARC read from NetGalley
A true horror. Really shocking and really scary. I felt the writing reminded me of Stephen King a lot. A lot of heavy description and inner dialogue, I did find myself skimming over some of it but all in all I really enjoyed it and enjoyed some of the cultural references.
I didn’t really enjoy the overarching plot in relation to the podcast and felt it ‘dumbed down’ the story.
The description of the house 8114 and the ghosts/demons/murders however were shocking and everything I would want from a horror.
I would recommend this book to any hardcore horror fans.
A true horror. Really shocking and really scary. I felt the writing reminded me of Stephen King a lot. A lot of heavy description and inner dialogue, I did find myself skimming over some of it but all in all I really enjoyed it and enjoyed some of the cultural references.
I didn’t really enjoy the overarching plot in relation to the podcast and felt it ‘dumbed down’ the story.
The description of the house 8114 and the ghosts/demons/murders however were shocking and everything I would want from a horror.
I would recommend this book to any hardcore horror fans.
December 20, 2025
2.5 stars rounding up.
There’s a really good horror story in here …. It’s just cluttered with too many ideas.
There’s a really good horror story in here …. It’s just cluttered with too many ideas.
January 13, 2025
Thank you to Clash Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a SCARY book. So many books are touted as “horror” and but they’re not actually scary. Between the imagery and the subject matter, this book is horrifying. It had a twist near the end that I did not see coming and the ending itself was great. I also loved the podcast/found footage element to it. The reason I couldn’t give this book 5 stars is that the main character is absolutely insufferable. He’s a middle aged 12 year old who makes terrible jokes and has an incredibly annoying inner dialogue. Other than that it’s a great haunting/possession book and I would definitely read Hull’s other works. This book’s song pairing is Black Mold by Silos and Escape the Fate 🖤🦠
PUB DAY: AUGUST 26TH 2025 🥳
This was a SCARY book. So many books are touted as “horror” and but they’re not actually scary. Between the imagery and the subject matter, this book is horrifying. It had a twist near the end that I did not see coming and the ending itself was great. I also loved the podcast/found footage element to it. The reason I couldn’t give this book 5 stars is that the main character is absolutely insufferable. He’s a middle aged 12 year old who makes terrible jokes and has an incredibly annoying inner dialogue. Other than that it’s a great haunting/possession book and I would definitely read Hull’s other works. This book’s song pairing is Black Mold by Silos and Escape the Fate 🖤🦠
PUB DAY: AUGUST 26TH 2025 🥳
December 23, 2024
4.5⭐️ I’m stunned. This book was a wild ride filled with dread, anguish and so much horror. I loved every minute of it, ha ha. It kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning and that ending made me gasp out loud!
And yup, I bit my nails of while reading because this story stressed me out, ha ha. I’m so excited to read more from Joshua Hull in the years to come. 8114 is highly recommended by me!
And yup, I bit my nails of while reading because this story stressed me out, ha ha. I’m so excited to read more from Joshua Hull in the years to come. 8114 is highly recommended by me!
February 20, 2025
4.25/5 stars.
Podcaster Paul returns home after catching wind of his friend having committed suicide in the wreckage of his old home. Paul begins interviewing to find out the truth about his friend's suicide and to hopefully have some podcast worthy content. Paul soon starts a downward descent into uncovering forgotten memories and realizations.
This was a fast-paced atmospheric supernatural horror. Dark, sinister, and mysterious, I was eating this book up. When I read the description, I was immediately locked in. I knew I had to read this and I'm so glad that this didn't disappoint me. I think I would like to reread this once it's published and I'm able to hold the physical copy in my hands. I think this would be amazing as an audiobook too, so maybe I'll need to do a physical copy and audiobook combo once this story is published.
Highly entertaining, incredibly gripping from start to finish, and quick. There really wasn't much to complain about.
I'm not sure why but I've been really into books about horror podcasts recently which is ironic because I don't like to listen to podcasts. I would definitely listen to this podcast though!
TW: child death, murder, suicide, self harm, blood, gore, violence, vomit
Podcaster Paul returns home after catching wind of his friend having committed suicide in the wreckage of his old home. Paul begins interviewing to find out the truth about his friend's suicide and to hopefully have some podcast worthy content. Paul soon starts a downward descent into uncovering forgotten memories and realizations.
This was a fast-paced atmospheric supernatural horror. Dark, sinister, and mysterious, I was eating this book up. When I read the description, I was immediately locked in. I knew I had to read this and I'm so glad that this didn't disappoint me. I think I would like to reread this once it's published and I'm able to hold the physical copy in my hands. I think this would be amazing as an audiobook too, so maybe I'll need to do a physical copy and audiobook combo once this story is published.
Highly entertaining, incredibly gripping from start to finish, and quick. There really wasn't much to complain about.
I'm not sure why but I've been really into books about horror podcasts recently which is ironic because I don't like to listen to podcasts. I would definitely listen to this podcast though!
TW: child death, murder, suicide, self harm, blood, gore, violence, vomit
March 31, 2025
OMG! Joshua Hull!! This book seriously creeped me out sooo much!!! I had to stop reading at night in the dark because it scared me that bad. This book gave me goosebumps and made the hair on my arm stand on end. Then I got to the Acknowledgments and he was talking about Pendalton, Indiana. I live 10 minutes away from there. Then he actually showed a picture of the real house!! OMG!😱😱😱😱 Scared the Hell out of me because I have seen that house before!!!! SCAREY!!!!! 👻👻👻👻👻
Read if you Love -
- Spooky houses
- Ghosts stories
- Haunting/possessions
- Podcasts style
- True crime turned supernatural vibes
This is a supernatural horror inducing nightmare that will stay in your head for a long time. The more you get into this book, the more it will freak you out! This was suck a great book!
and remember………………………
“And as you listen, just remember friends, don't forget to clear your head. To give your life and join the dead. To close your eyes and join the black. The things out there? They’ll all come back—”
I want to thank Clash Books, Joshua Hull, and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
January 6, 2025
8114
By:Joshua Halle
Clash books
Aug.26,2025
Kindle/E-Pub
218pgs.
“Don’t forget to clear your head. To give your life and join the dead. To close your eyes and join the black. The things out there they want you back.”
When Paul creates a podcast to find an old classmate who he believes went missing, what he accidentally uncovered destroyed his life and his podcast. When he has a new idea to reboot his mystery podcast he is led back to his dilapidated childhood home, after a shocking death of a friend. What he finds at his old decrepit home is worse than he could have ever imagined.
This book was very eerie and uncomfortable. It was creepy as hell and most def. Shocked me in a few ways! The use of podcasts made it feel current and real! This book was disturbing as hell and I couldn’t get enough!
Please exercise caution if you are sensitive to death, suicide, or domestic abuse themes.
By:Joshua Halle
Clash books
Aug.26,2025
Kindle/E-Pub
218pgs.
“Don’t forget to clear your head. To give your life and join the dead. To close your eyes and join the black. The things out there they want you back.”
When Paul creates a podcast to find an old classmate who he believes went missing, what he accidentally uncovered destroyed his life and his podcast. When he has a new idea to reboot his mystery podcast he is led back to his dilapidated childhood home, after a shocking death of a friend. What he finds at his old decrepit home is worse than he could have ever imagined.
This book was very eerie and uncomfortable. It was creepy as hell and most def. Shocked me in a few ways! The use of podcasts made it feel current and real! This book was disturbing as hell and I couldn’t get enough!
Please exercise caution if you are sensitive to death, suicide, or domestic abuse themes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2025
8114 gave me the heebie jeebies. It is not often a book truly freaks me out and Joshua delivered the creepy factor with this story. We follow Paul, a not so infamous podcast host. He learns his longtime friend has committed the big sad among the ruins of Paul's childhood home. Paul goes back to his hometown in search of answers and some form of closure. What ensues are events straight from nightmares. The podcast is giving life to something. Its listeners, susceptible. Paul's intentions inadvertently extend an invitation. An invitation to who ... or what? Well you will just need to read the book to find out. Despite its small page count, this novella is steeped in grief, shocking revelations and tells us what truly happened at 8114. Thank you so much to Clash Books and NetGalley for the ARC. You can pick this one up when it publishes August 26, 2025!
August 5, 2025
I tried with this, I really did. But it sucked. I hated the main character, the writing was dull and amateurish, and the story lost me almost right away. Oh, and the use of bold font for emphasis all the time really grated on me.
A shame, but thanks anyway to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.
A shame, but thanks anyway to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.
November 14, 2024
Joshua Hull's "8114" is a nicely done haunted house story, giving very strong found footage vibes, with an unapologetically flawed podcaster as the main character. What stood out for me, weren't the scary, hallucinatory scenes (though there are many, and honestly quite chiiling and hair-raising), or the bleak and sinister atmosphere throughout; it was the fact that several times the story reached a very significant moment, taking me right to the edge, with the promise of a crucial revelation or the giving of some background information (the history of the house, for example) - and then the author pulls back and the picture is never really filled. Strangely, this technique works, and it heightens the tension. People die (often horribly), investigations are never completed (for equally horrible reasons), even the podcast featuring centrally in the plot never finds closure (or has much of a point, really). And yet the battle between the house and the podcaster only deepens, picking up steam and adding layers over layers (witchcraft, demons, possession, occult mysteries). The result is an extremely satisfying, morally suspect but haunting and disturbing horror story, with graceful prose, annoying wit, and natural-sounding dialogue. This is everything one would want from a good horror novel!
February 21, 2025
✨8114: Book Thoughts✨
8114 by Joshua Hull
Special thanks to NetGalley and @clashbooks for the ARC of this one!
If you’re thinking of picking this one up, buckle up for a wild ride! It’s got gore, unreliable narrators, a podcast element, and some CREEPY scenes.
Be sure to check your content warnings as well just because this one goes DARK at times.
The book follows Paul who returns home after a frantic call from his friend Matt. Their childhood friend Kyle went to Paul’s house and killed himself. Paul, having recently botched a podcast, decides to get to the bottom of Kyle’s mysterious death. But the more he digs, the more messed up the book gets. There are twists and death around every corner. He sees the ghost of his deceased friend. Paul also starts seeing shadow people behind his friends.
This book is fast paced and will begin messing with your mind from the first chapter! If you’re looking for something quick and dark, this book is for you. Paul is not a very likable main character. He reminded me a lot of Jack Sparks from the novel The Last Days of Jack Sparks.
Release date: 08/26/25
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pre-order here: https://bookshop.org/a/79577/97819609...
8114 by Joshua Hull
Special thanks to NetGalley and @clashbooks for the ARC of this one!
If you’re thinking of picking this one up, buckle up for a wild ride! It’s got gore, unreliable narrators, a podcast element, and some CREEPY scenes.
Be sure to check your content warnings as well just because this one goes DARK at times.
The book follows Paul who returns home after a frantic call from his friend Matt. Their childhood friend Kyle went to Paul’s house and killed himself. Paul, having recently botched a podcast, decides to get to the bottom of Kyle’s mysterious death. But the more he digs, the more messed up the book gets. There are twists and death around every corner. He sees the ghost of his deceased friend. Paul also starts seeing shadow people behind his friends.
This book is fast paced and will begin messing with your mind from the first chapter! If you’re looking for something quick and dark, this book is for you. Paul is not a very likable main character. He reminded me a lot of Jack Sparks from the novel The Last Days of Jack Sparks.
Release date: 08/26/25
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pre-order here: https://bookshop.org/a/79577/97819609...
August 15, 2025
DNF @ 60%
I really tried but it was way too much infant death, a podcaster with no respect for his craft or subjects, and a random oogie boogie who has no rhyme or reason to her hauntings.
⭐
Available August 26, 2025
Thank you to Clash Books for a free advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I really tried but it was way too much infant death, a podcaster with no respect for his craft or subjects, and a random oogie boogie who has no rhyme or reason to her hauntings.
⭐
Available August 26, 2025
Thank you to Clash Books for a free advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2024
DNF @ 55%
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. While the the premise and the cover were enough to make me start reading, the actual writing wasn't enough to keep me going. I heard a lot of good things about this book but it missed the mark for me. The story was maybe a bit too reminiscent of Stephen King with the whole "irreverent dude is called back to his hometown after something paranormal happens," except this time the irreverent dude in question is not at all likeable. Paul is not a character that I root for. He makes everything about him and he never responds in a way that feels attached to the reality of the story, if that makes sense.
The biggest reason why I didn't like this book was the writing style. The author uses both italics and bold font to add emphasis to certain words and to differentiate when something is just a thought our character is having. The problem is he uses these interchangeably, so sometimes a word is bolded because it's meant to be emphasized, but other times it's bolded because it's not part of the main narration. Same with italics. Also, there are quite a few random paragraph breaks that I felt cheapened the story as a whole.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. While the the premise and the cover were enough to make me start reading, the actual writing wasn't enough to keep me going. I heard a lot of good things about this book but it missed the mark for me. The story was maybe a bit too reminiscent of Stephen King with the whole "irreverent dude is called back to his hometown after something paranormal happens," except this time the irreverent dude in question is not at all likeable. Paul is not a character that I root for. He makes everything about him and he never responds in a way that feels attached to the reality of the story, if that makes sense.
The biggest reason why I didn't like this book was the writing style. The author uses both italics and bold font to add emphasis to certain words and to differentiate when something is just a thought our character is having. The problem is he uses these interchangeably, so sometimes a word is bolded because it's meant to be emphasized, but other times it's bolded because it's not part of the main narration. Same with italics. Also, there are quite a few random paragraph breaks that I felt cheapened the story as a whole.
November 8, 2024
Do you need some creative inspo for your sleep paralysis demon? Sleeping TOO restfully at night? 8114 can help with these problems and so many more.
This book was such a fast-paced freak show and I loved every second of it. Incredibly dark and haunting, I read this one over the course of a day. After reading Mouth by this author earlier in the year, I was on high alert for more of his writing. I enjoy how candid and real his characters are (even when this means that they are maybe not people I would associate with in real life.)
With podcast scripts mixed in throughout the book, this was just enjoyable all around. Also for such a bleak horror - this book actually made me laugh out loud a couple of times. “Paranormal peanut gallery” may be my new favorite phrase.
Preorder this one or request on NetGalley now if you like horror, small towns, and haunted houses!
**Thank you to Clash Books and NetGalley for the eARC of this insane title!**
This book was such a fast-paced freak show and I loved every second of it. Incredibly dark and haunting, I read this one over the course of a day. After reading Mouth by this author earlier in the year, I was on high alert for more of his writing. I enjoy how candid and real his characters are (even when this means that they are maybe not people I would associate with in real life.)
With podcast scripts mixed in throughout the book, this was just enjoyable all around. Also for such a bleak horror - this book actually made me laugh out loud a couple of times. “Paranormal peanut gallery” may be my new favorite phrase.
Preorder this one or request on NetGalley now if you like horror, small towns, and haunted houses!
**Thank you to Clash Books and NetGalley for the eARC of this insane title!**
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