What do you think?
Rate this book
The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon
Wickedly funny dark humor horror novel that blends supernatural horror with a thrilling murder mystery.
“What a page turner! Witty, literate, scary, sexy, and powerfully evocative.”—Gayle Lynds, New York Times bestselling author
It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run from the law, finds himself caught in a supernatural thriller after an apparently innocent act of heroism—saving a woman from a vicious assault by a seemingly unstoppable wino. The woman, Victoria, is just part of a mystery Steve can’t unravel. Even as he’s looting the decomposing dead for the secrets of a self-proclaimed sorcerer. Even as he plummets into a nightmare of fire and blood and murder. Even then, Steve remains certain the sorcerer’s spells, the occult rituals—the supposed demons and supernatural horror—are simply delusion and fantasy. Steve is wrong.
Victoria, who has just bought a dilapidated church with a haunting past, entangles Steve in a deadly game of dark magic and rituals. As, unknown to him, the demon grows desperate, Steve plunges deeper into a world of crypts, grave robbing, and long-forgotten secrets, all while trying to escape his own haunted past. But when the face of the man Steve killed appears on his arm, the line between reality and nightmare begins to blur.
This supernatural novel will leave you on the edge of your seat, with wickedly funny dark humor and, ultimately, pulse-pounding suspense, as Steve and Victoria navigate a twisted adventure full of occult horror, supernatural suspense, and shocking revelations.
"An enormous amount of fun. Wholly fresh and original. Wickedly funny . . . The Great Dick is a hot, sweaty, magic- and murder-infused rollercoaster of a story that takes you in every direction except the one you're expecting . . . I loved it."—David Moody, author of Hater and Autumn
Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Where Stories Come Alive!
“What a page turner! Witty, literate, scary, sexy, and powerfully evocative.”—Gayle Lynds, New York Times bestselling author
It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run from the law, finds himself caught in a supernatural thriller after an apparently innocent act of heroism—saving a woman from a vicious assault by a seemingly unstoppable wino. The woman, Victoria, is just part of a mystery Steve can’t unravel. Even as he’s looting the decomposing dead for the secrets of a self-proclaimed sorcerer. Even as he plummets into a nightmare of fire and blood and murder. Even then, Steve remains certain the sorcerer’s spells, the occult rituals—the supposed demons and supernatural horror—are simply delusion and fantasy. Steve is wrong.
Victoria, who has just bought a dilapidated church with a haunting past, entangles Steve in a deadly game of dark magic and rituals. As, unknown to him, the demon grows desperate, Steve plunges deeper into a world of crypts, grave robbing, and long-forgotten secrets, all while trying to escape his own haunted past. But when the face of the man Steve killed appears on his arm, the line between reality and nightmare begins to blur.
This supernatural novel will leave you on the edge of your seat, with wickedly funny dark humor and, ultimately, pulse-pounding suspense, as Steve and Victoria navigate a twisted adventure full of occult horror, supernatural suspense, and shocking revelations.
"An enormous amount of fun. Wholly fresh and original. Wickedly funny . . . The Great Dick is a hot, sweaty, magic- and murder-infused rollercoaster of a story that takes you in every direction except the one you're expecting . . . I loved it."—David Moody, author of Hater and Autumn
Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Where Stories Come Alive!
- GenresHorror
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2025
6 people are currently reading
3854 people want to read
About the author
Barry Maher
2 books22 followersBarry Maher may be the only horror novelist who's ever appeared in Funeral Service Insider. In his misspent youth, he committed journalism of sorts, freelance. His work appeared in maybe a hundred different publications, and in order to eat he held nearly that many jobs. At one point he lived on the beach. Not in a house on the beach. On the beach. With the sand and the seagulls.
Then he started telling his stories to audiences. Known for for keynotes that mix sharp insight with deadpan humor, that took him all over the country and around the world, his clients a who’s who of multinational companies and top associations, His media appearances include The Today Show, CNN, CBS and CNBC. And he’s been featured in everything from The New York Times, USA Today, and The Wall Street Journal to, yes, his personal favorite, Funeral Service Insider.
Maher writes the “Slightly Off-Kilter” syndicated column and, is of course, the author of The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon, a darkly funny, supernatural thriller set in California in 1982. with acclaim like, “wholly fresh and original,” “witty, literate, scary, sexy,” and “an absolute blast.”
Barry’s education includes four years at the University of Notre Dame, ninety minutes at UC Berkeley’s Graduate Journalism Program, and five befuddled weeks at Burger King’s Whopper College.
On the downside, he's been incarcerated twice. Once for not making a left hand turn out of a left hand turn lane. And once for adding and abetting a loiterer. He's deeply repentant. Especially about the weeks at Whopper College.
Then he started telling his stories to audiences. Known for for keynotes that mix sharp insight with deadpan humor, that took him all over the country and around the world, his clients a who’s who of multinational companies and top associations, His media appearances include The Today Show, CNN, CBS and CNBC. And he’s been featured in everything from The New York Times, USA Today, and The Wall Street Journal to, yes, his personal favorite, Funeral Service Insider.
Maher writes the “Slightly Off-Kilter” syndicated column and, is of course, the author of The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon, a darkly funny, supernatural thriller set in California in 1982. with acclaim like, “wholly fresh and original,” “witty, literate, scary, sexy,” and “an absolute blast.”
Barry’s education includes four years at the University of Notre Dame, ninety minutes at UC Berkeley’s Graduate Journalism Program, and five befuddled weeks at Burger King’s Whopper College.
On the downside, he's been incarcerated twice. Once for not making a left hand turn out of a left hand turn lane. And once for adding and abetting a loiterer. He's deeply repentant. Especially about the weeks at Whopper College.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 26, 2025
The Great Dick and The Dysfunctional Demon by Barry Maher is a supernatural thriller, and dark horror which I have not read that many of these genre before. We get to know the MC who starts the story with being on the run from the police. He talks about killing someone and how he is a completely different person and everything bothers him about the first woman he is with. I found that part interesting as a reader. It makes you wonder how a killer thinks. He meets a new woman who he likes better than the woman who was with him at the start of the book and high jinks ensue. These two stay together for a while and then there are supernatural aspects with a kind of witch doing witchcraft. The story is amazingly engaging and well written by the author for a horror based book. I also love the included police procedures, demons, and witchcraft like elements you will LOVE this book! I would love to see more by this author in the future:)
September 16, 2025
Really wanted to love this, but nothing happens for the first 75% of the book. Very nearly a DNF, but I persevered. Got going a bit towards the end, but still a lacklustre ending for me ☹️
September 15, 2025
Overall, this was a fairly fun comedic-tinged genre effort. The great setup present, involving a rather convoluted but still immensely likable storyline where it takes a series of impressive attributes into a fun whole, starts this off rather well with not only our introduction to the main lead and why he's on the run from the police but also the eventual run-in with the new woman in his life that leads him into the supernatural shenanigans that occur here. We get a tongue-in-cheek style that introduces the main group as they slowly start to succumb to these strange experiences they fall into. The first encounter brings him and his girlfriend into contact with the other woman, who slowly starts turning their life around for the worse, dealing with the escalating danger around them.
The longer they stay together as a unit and get drawn into a series of encounters with a supernatural entity that offers more pronounced witchcraft and other impressive elements, all combined in a fun way, this slowly creates a solid setup that suffers from a slightly complex and convoluted storyline. There's quite a lot going on here, from the witchcraft angle to the black magic sorcery involved in fighting against him, a haunted church with a crazy backstory, a curse afflicting the main guy, and much more going on here, that, regardless of how fun this all comes off, it is whiplash to have all this going on. It's not that it doesn't come together in the end, but this could've easily been streamlined without so much happening that it feels like it's introducing something new every ten pages or so, but there's still a lot to like here.
4/5
The longer they stay together as a unit and get drawn into a series of encounters with a supernatural entity that offers more pronounced witchcraft and other impressive elements, all combined in a fun way, this slowly creates a solid setup that suffers from a slightly complex and convoluted storyline. There's quite a lot going on here, from the witchcraft angle to the black magic sorcery involved in fighting against him, a haunted church with a crazy backstory, a curse afflicting the main guy, and much more going on here, that, regardless of how fun this all comes off, it is whiplash to have all this going on. It's not that it doesn't come together in the end, but this could've easily been streamlined without so much happening that it feels like it's introducing something new every ten pages or so, but there's still a lot to like here.
4/5
October 6, 2025
Fast-paced and filled with Dark humor. Can you handle it?
This is a book with numerous clever references, featuring a dark comedy drama style. Satire and provocative. Plenty of snarkiness and witty banter. A lot happens too. The author sends us on a journey that will stay in our minds for a while, making this satire a unique read. I think this book would make a great audiobook as well.
This is a book with numerous clever references, featuring a dark comedy drama style. Satire and provocative. Plenty of snarkiness and witty banter. A lot happens too. The author sends us on a journey that will stay in our minds for a while, making this satire a unique read. I think this book would make a great audiobook as well.
October 6, 2025
If you’re looking for a creepy book to add to your Oct reading list, grab this one.
Steve saves Victoria from a brutal attack. She in turn offers him a job helping restore an old church she’s bought. Victoria doesn’t really do a whole lot but go on dates. Meanwhile she has Steve looking for some buried treasure that’s supposedly hidden in the church. It’s a slow build til the end which will leave you scratching your head in wonder.
Steve saves Victoria from a brutal attack. She in turn offers him a job helping restore an old church she’s bought. Victoria doesn’t really do a whole lot but go on dates. Meanwhile she has Steve looking for some buried treasure that’s supposedly hidden in the church. It’s a slow build til the end which will leave you scratching your head in wonder.
September 22, 2025
An intriguing story that includes mystery, police investigation, demons, a treasure hunt and several dazzling characters. Barry Maher offers a stunning reading experience that will help you escape the mundane world around you. Stunning read!
November 29, 2025
This is a sharp, clever read that mixes humor with a dose of real-world observation in a way that feels effortless. It’s quirky, bold, and has plenty of personality—definitely the kind of book that sticks with you because it’s not afraid to be a little different. A fun and engaging read that earns its four stars.
Read
October 16, 2025This was an interesting read. While it wasn’t my cup of tea it was still a decent read. The writing was done well and the plot was cohesive.
October 30, 2025
First of all, you're welcome to read my full review in detail via the following link. Thank you in advance for your time and interest.
🔗https://ikfannyalfms.medium.com/recko...
So, here we go!
Barry Maher’s background as a speaker, consultant, and bestselling author of Filling the Glass: The Skeptic’s Guide to Positive Thinking in Business is deeply embedded in the novel’s DNA. Known for keynotes that blend sharp insight with deadpan humor, Barry Maher brings that same clarity and irony to his fiction. His prose is lean, his dialogue sharp, and his scenes purposeful—each one driving the narrative forward while revealing layers of character psychology. Steve’s arc mirrors the transformation journey often found in leadership training, such as crisis, confrontation, and the possibility of redemption. But here, the stakes are existential, and the lessons are laced with grotesque satire. The demon Dick isn’t just a supernatural threat; he’s a metaphor for Steve’s ego, guilt, and denial—a darkly comic embodiment of the illusions we build to avoid vulnerability. Barry Maher’s pivot from his syndicated column Slightly Off-Kilter to fiction is no accident. The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon channels his storytelling instincts into a surreal thriller that’s as psychologically rich as it is absurdly entertaining.
As a literary experiment, The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon is bold and thought-provoking. Its strengths lie in its original mix of genres, clear and purposeful prose, and symbolic depth. Barry Maher successfully balances grotesque horror with satirical insight, making the story both entertaining and meaningful. Grotesque horror here refers to the use of bizarre, distorted, and emotionally unsettling elements—such as decomposing bodies, surreal rituals, and psychological breakdowns—not merely to shock, but also to reflect deeper internal conflicts. Rather than relying on traditional scares, Barry Maher disturbs through discomfort and contradiction, revealing the protagonist's ego, guilt, and denial in exaggerated, often absurd forms. Steve's character arc is compelling, and the use of humor adds emotional texture to the narrative, allowing readers to navigate the chaos with both unease and empathy.
However, the novel's surreal tone may not resonate with all readers—particularly those who favor conventional horror grounded in linear storytelling and familiar tropes. Its provocative title, while thematically justified and satirically sharp, risks misinterpretation and may alienate more conservative audiences who approach the book with literal expectations. The narrative's psychological and symbolic density demands active engagement; readers seeking a straightforward plot may find themselves navigating layers of metaphor, emotional dissonance, and genre-bending ambiguity. Steve's unreliable narration, though artistically effective, demands close attention and may leave some story elements intentionally ambiguous. It is deliberately constructed to blur the boundaries between perception and reality, requiring interpretive patience and inviting multiple readings. This ambiguity is not a flaw, but a narrative choice that reinforces the novel's central themes of ego, illusion, and psychological fragmentation.
In conclusion, The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon is more than just a horror novel. It's a smart, daring, and emotionally layered story that uses personal experience and professional insight to explore big ideas. It invites readers to laugh, cringe, and reflect—often all at once. For those who enjoy genre-bending fiction, psychological thrillers, or darkly comic horror, this book is a must-read. And for anyone interested in how personal philosophy and narrative strategy can shape fiction, Barry Maher's novel is a compelling case study in turning lived experience into literary depth.
🔗https://ikfannyalfms.medium.com/recko...
So, here we go!
Barry Maher’s background as a speaker, consultant, and bestselling author of Filling the Glass: The Skeptic’s Guide to Positive Thinking in Business is deeply embedded in the novel’s DNA. Known for keynotes that blend sharp insight with deadpan humor, Barry Maher brings that same clarity and irony to his fiction. His prose is lean, his dialogue sharp, and his scenes purposeful—each one driving the narrative forward while revealing layers of character psychology. Steve’s arc mirrors the transformation journey often found in leadership training, such as crisis, confrontation, and the possibility of redemption. But here, the stakes are existential, and the lessons are laced with grotesque satire. The demon Dick isn’t just a supernatural threat; he’s a metaphor for Steve’s ego, guilt, and denial—a darkly comic embodiment of the illusions we build to avoid vulnerability. Barry Maher’s pivot from his syndicated column Slightly Off-Kilter to fiction is no accident. The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon channels his storytelling instincts into a surreal thriller that’s as psychologically rich as it is absurdly entertaining.
As a literary experiment, The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon is bold and thought-provoking. Its strengths lie in its original mix of genres, clear and purposeful prose, and symbolic depth. Barry Maher successfully balances grotesque horror with satirical insight, making the story both entertaining and meaningful. Grotesque horror here refers to the use of bizarre, distorted, and emotionally unsettling elements—such as decomposing bodies, surreal rituals, and psychological breakdowns—not merely to shock, but also to reflect deeper internal conflicts. Rather than relying on traditional scares, Barry Maher disturbs through discomfort and contradiction, revealing the protagonist's ego, guilt, and denial in exaggerated, often absurd forms. Steve's character arc is compelling, and the use of humor adds emotional texture to the narrative, allowing readers to navigate the chaos with both unease and empathy.
However, the novel's surreal tone may not resonate with all readers—particularly those who favor conventional horror grounded in linear storytelling and familiar tropes. Its provocative title, while thematically justified and satirically sharp, risks misinterpretation and may alienate more conservative audiences who approach the book with literal expectations. The narrative's psychological and symbolic density demands active engagement; readers seeking a straightforward plot may find themselves navigating layers of metaphor, emotional dissonance, and genre-bending ambiguity. Steve's unreliable narration, though artistically effective, demands close attention and may leave some story elements intentionally ambiguous. It is deliberately constructed to blur the boundaries between perception and reality, requiring interpretive patience and inviting multiple readings. This ambiguity is not a flaw, but a narrative choice that reinforces the novel's central themes of ego, illusion, and psychological fragmentation.
In conclusion, The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon is more than just a horror novel. It's a smart, daring, and emotionally layered story that uses personal experience and professional insight to explore big ideas. It invites readers to laugh, cringe, and reflect—often all at once. For those who enjoy genre-bending fiction, psychological thrillers, or darkly comic horror, this book is a must-read. And for anyone interested in how personal philosophy and narrative strategy can shape fiction, Barry Maher's novel is a compelling case study in turning lived experience into literary depth.
December 16, 2025
In 1982, failed songwriter Steve Witowski is on the run. He tried to save a woman from an assault, but it turned out to be part of a larger supernatural conspiracy. Victoria brings him into the dilapidated church she bought. As much as Steve thinks the sorcerer's spells are delusions, the dark magic rituals are real. He's drawn into a world of grave robbing, crypts, demons, and occultism, where reality and nightmare blur together.
I'll admit it, the title is not one that would have caught my eye. But as a blind book date, mentioning it's "The Exorcist meets True Detective with a haunted-rockstar edge. Think dark, gritty, and deeply unhinged," and that summary definitely piqued my interest.
It takes a long time for any supernatural shift to happen. Steve isn't exactly a shining pillar of humanity, but he says that in the opening, and we eventually get glimpses of his life. He's sneaking out of one woman's room in the middle of the night when he meets Victoria, who is being attacked at knifepoint. She purchased an old church that had been turned into a whorehouse by a man who thought he was a sorcerer, then purchased by a cult group. With nowhere else to go, Steve stays to do renovations in exchange for a future payment. Victoria has a personal lawyer on retainer and a string of men that visit at night, and is looking for the old sorcerer's grimoire and belongings to sell. This takes up the bulk of the story, and what keeps me hanging on through it is the sense that something isn't quite right with Victoria, and that there's something more to the search for the grimoire.
The characters in this book aren't likable and are not trying to be, so reading this is like watching a car wreck. They're terrible and not particularly nice, but I was curious about what was happening next. The creepy part is in the last third, when the sorcerer's book and spells are real to some extent. The ending is rapid and an emotional mess, but explained everything that was going on. I'm not sure if I like the book, mostly because I didn't particularly like Victoria or most of the other characters. Maria was fine, with a fitting ending. The book is written well and kept me turning pages to find out what happened next, so mission accomplished. If you like morally gray characters, this is worth checking out.
I'll admit it, the title is not one that would have caught my eye. But as a blind book date, mentioning it's "The Exorcist meets True Detective with a haunted-rockstar edge. Think dark, gritty, and deeply unhinged," and that summary definitely piqued my interest.
It takes a long time for any supernatural shift to happen. Steve isn't exactly a shining pillar of humanity, but he says that in the opening, and we eventually get glimpses of his life. He's sneaking out of one woman's room in the middle of the night when he meets Victoria, who is being attacked at knifepoint. She purchased an old church that had been turned into a whorehouse by a man who thought he was a sorcerer, then purchased by a cult group. With nowhere else to go, Steve stays to do renovations in exchange for a future payment. Victoria has a personal lawyer on retainer and a string of men that visit at night, and is looking for the old sorcerer's grimoire and belongings to sell. This takes up the bulk of the story, and what keeps me hanging on through it is the sense that something isn't quite right with Victoria, and that there's something more to the search for the grimoire.
The characters in this book aren't likable and are not trying to be, so reading this is like watching a car wreck. They're terrible and not particularly nice, but I was curious about what was happening next. The creepy part is in the last third, when the sorcerer's book and spells are real to some extent. The ending is rapid and an emotional mess, but explained everything that was going on. I'm not sure if I like the book, mostly because I didn't particularly like Victoria or most of the other characters. Maria was fine, with a fitting ending. The book is written well and kept me turning pages to find out what happened next, so mission accomplished. If you like morally gray characters, this is worth checking out.
October 8, 2025
The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon by Barry Maher is one of the strangest, darkest, most unexpectedly entertaining books I’ve read in a while and I mean that as a compliment.
The story drops me right into 1982 with Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter who can’t seem to get anything right including staying out of trouble. One heroic act saving a woman from a brutal attack sends his life into a tailspin of supernatural chaos, grave robbing, and demon drama that feels part noir thriller, part fever dream. And yet, through all the madness, Steve clings to logic, refusing to believe what’s happening is real. Spoiler: it very much is!
Victoria, the mysterious woman with a haunted church and way too many secrets, is the kind of character who keeps you guessing: is she a victim, a manipulator, or something in between? The book walks that razor edge between the psychological and the supernatural so tightly that half the time, I wasn’t sure what was real and that’s exactly what made it so fun.
Maher’s writing is gritty, funny, and just the right amount of unhinged. It feels like The Exorcist took a detour through a rock bar and decided to hang out with American Psycho for a bit. There’s blood, there’s dark humor, there’s existential dread and somehow it all works.
By the time Steve starts questioning his own sanity and, uh, the demonic face growing out of his arm, I was fully hooked. It’s grotesque, weirdly profound, and impossible to look away from.
⚡️Thank you Author Marketing Experts and Barry Maher for sharing this book with me!
The story drops me right into 1982 with Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter who can’t seem to get anything right including staying out of trouble. One heroic act saving a woman from a brutal attack sends his life into a tailspin of supernatural chaos, grave robbing, and demon drama that feels part noir thriller, part fever dream. And yet, through all the madness, Steve clings to logic, refusing to believe what’s happening is real. Spoiler: it very much is!
Victoria, the mysterious woman with a haunted church and way too many secrets, is the kind of character who keeps you guessing: is she a victim, a manipulator, or something in between? The book walks that razor edge between the psychological and the supernatural so tightly that half the time, I wasn’t sure what was real and that’s exactly what made it so fun.
Maher’s writing is gritty, funny, and just the right amount of unhinged. It feels like The Exorcist took a detour through a rock bar and decided to hang out with American Psycho for a bit. There’s blood, there’s dark humor, there’s existential dread and somehow it all works.
By the time Steve starts questioning his own sanity and, uh, the demonic face growing out of his arm, I was fully hooked. It’s grotesque, weirdly profound, and impossible to look away from.
⚡️Thank you Author Marketing Experts and Barry Maher for sharing this book with me!
September 26, 2025
The Review
This was a fantastic horror novel. The author did an incredible job of capturing the campy 80s supernatural and occult vibes that the genre was known for during that era, while also infusing humor and wit into the character arcs and dialogue along the way. The suspense plays well in this narrative, initially seeming more like a thriller before slowly peeling back the layers and delving into the dark heart of characters readers have known throughout their lives.
The dynamic character development and supernatural mythology explored in the book are what make it so engaging. The book delves into occult rituals and witchcraft lore, while also blending psychological horror and other elements into the narrative. The story is very adult-driven, with bloody imagery and heated sexual tension laced throughout the narrative, and the climactic final chapters will keep readers tense as these characters come crashing together in ways no one could have seen coming.
The Verdict
Dynamic, entertaining, and compelling, author Barry Maher’s “The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon” is a must-read campy horror and occult novel. The twists and turns, the chilling atmosphere, and the captivating characters will blend well into the upcoming spooky season and do well with audiences who are rediscovering films such as Witchboard this holiday season.
This was a fantastic horror novel. The author did an incredible job of capturing the campy 80s supernatural and occult vibes that the genre was known for during that era, while also infusing humor and wit into the character arcs and dialogue along the way. The suspense plays well in this narrative, initially seeming more like a thriller before slowly peeling back the layers and delving into the dark heart of characters readers have known throughout their lives.
The dynamic character development and supernatural mythology explored in the book are what make it so engaging. The book delves into occult rituals and witchcraft lore, while also blending psychological horror and other elements into the narrative. The story is very adult-driven, with bloody imagery and heated sexual tension laced throughout the narrative, and the climactic final chapters will keep readers tense as these characters come crashing together in ways no one could have seen coming.
The Verdict
Dynamic, entertaining, and compelling, author Barry Maher’s “The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon” is a must-read campy horror and occult novel. The twists and turns, the chilling atmosphere, and the captivating characters will blend well into the upcoming spooky season and do well with audiences who are rediscovering films such as Witchboard this holiday season.
October 20, 2025
📖 Title: The Great Dick
✍️ Author: Barry Maher
⭐️ Rating: (3.5 out of 5)
📅 Date Finished: September 27th, 2025
—————————————————————————
🧵 Quick Summary:
It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run, saves a woman under attack and winds up entangled in a gruesome supernatural conspiracy. The woman, Victoria, has just bought a dilapidated church with a dark past, and Steve soon realizes that something terrible from the dead is hunting them. As occult rituals, grave-looting, and a demon’s growing hunger collide, Steve must navigate a bizarre, violent underworld while trying to survive long enough to figure out what’s real and what’s hell.
💭 What I Loved:
- The fact that it takes place in the early 80s.
- The spooky vibes.
- The variety of tense conflicts sprinkled through
😬 What Didn’t Work for Me:
- Steve Witowski
- Some parts jumped a bit too fast and didn’t make sense to me.
🗣️ Final Thoughts:
Despite some things that rubbed me the wrong way, I really did enjoy this book more than I thought it would. I didn’t really pick up the paranormal vibes until about halfway or further through the book. That might be a me having a dense moment though. In all honesty, I didn’t like the main character. I kind of wish I could have read the book from another point of view. It might have added to my enjoyment of the story.
✍️ Author: Barry Maher
⭐️ Rating: (3.5 out of 5)
📅 Date Finished: September 27th, 2025
—————————————————————————
🧵 Quick Summary:
It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run, saves a woman under attack and winds up entangled in a gruesome supernatural conspiracy. The woman, Victoria, has just bought a dilapidated church with a dark past, and Steve soon realizes that something terrible from the dead is hunting them. As occult rituals, grave-looting, and a demon’s growing hunger collide, Steve must navigate a bizarre, violent underworld while trying to survive long enough to figure out what’s real and what’s hell.
💭 What I Loved:
- The fact that it takes place in the early 80s.
- The spooky vibes.
- The variety of tense conflicts sprinkled through
😬 What Didn’t Work for Me:
- Steve Witowski
- Some parts jumped a bit too fast and didn’t make sense to me.
🗣️ Final Thoughts:
Despite some things that rubbed me the wrong way, I really did enjoy this book more than I thought it would. I didn’t really pick up the paranormal vibes until about halfway or further through the book. That might be a me having a dense moment though. In all honesty, I didn’t like the main character. I kind of wish I could have read the book from another point of view. It might have added to my enjoyment of the story.
November 6, 2025
Alright- this book what felt like a murder-horror mystery turned out to be a mix of all.
The great dick follows the story for Steve Witowski, a Harvard grad and small time drug dealer running from a botched deal in the Midwest. He somehow gets ends up in the creepy coastal Californja town and crosses paths with Victoria, a gorgeous widow who he saves from an assault. They soon gets entangled into murder, guilt, sex and literal demons.
The first half of the story felt dragged with slow pace and too much inner monologue. I had stopped reading for while because of oversexualization of every other women Main character encountered.
Also, in the start it got difficult to get a hang of what was happening as where scenes shifting swiftly without any recollection or connection to previous one.
Apart from this, I enjoyed reading the last Act of the book. This book is a messy one with a cynical writing. Would recommend to readers who are a fan of dark humor and don't mind to stick around for a while.
The great dick follows the story for Steve Witowski, a Harvard grad and small time drug dealer running from a botched deal in the Midwest. He somehow gets ends up in the creepy coastal Californja town and crosses paths with Victoria, a gorgeous widow who he saves from an assault. They soon gets entangled into murder, guilt, sex and literal demons.
The first half of the story felt dragged with slow pace and too much inner monologue. I had stopped reading for while because of oversexualization of every other women Main character encountered.
Also, in the start it got difficult to get a hang of what was happening as where scenes shifting swiftly without any recollection or connection to previous one.
Apart from this, I enjoyed reading the last Act of the book. This book is a messy one with a cynical writing. Would recommend to readers who are a fan of dark humor and don't mind to stick around for a while.
October 1, 2025
📖 Book Review 📖 Not every book is easy to judge by its cover and not every jerk turns out to be the villain in the story. Steve is a self-proclaimed a**hole on the run from the law with an alias and a myriad of questionable marks on his resume but maybe he’s not all bad…after all he did save a damsel in distress from an attack. Except Victoria is no real damsel in distress, she too is a beautifully complex character that adds layers of intrigue and humor to this multifaceted tale. As the two embark on a renovation of an old church that Victoria has purchased after the death of her husband, a web of sinister occurrences surround them.
Without a doubt, there are various evils that exist in this world and it comes in many forms. Barry Maher explores the depths from human forms to the supernatural in a brilliantly hilarious trip back to 1982 that bends reality the further into the pages you turn.
Without a doubt, there are various evils that exist in this world and it comes in many forms. Barry Maher explores the depths from human forms to the supernatural in a brilliantly hilarious trip back to 1982 that bends reality the further into the pages you turn.
November 9, 2025
Failed songwriter Steve Witowski needs somewhere to hide. On the run from the police, he stumbles upon a woman being attacked and soon finds himself hailed as a hero. The victim, Victoria, invites him to stay with her in a haunted church where Steve becomes embroiled in a nightmare of blood and murder. Are these weird happenings simply delusion and fantasy? Probably not…
Set in 1982 this book starts off as a bit of a comedic romp with a hero who isn’t who he says he is and a strange woman who delves in black magic. There are various supernatural trickeries leading the hero into curses, sorcery and dark horror. Initially, I loved the characters and all the weird goings on, but after a while the plot did seem to become unnecessarily complicated, which tainted my enjoyment a little. Nevertheless, it’s a clever and witty tale with an interesting take on the traditional hero.
A witty tale of demons, cops, witchery and haunted churches.
Set in 1982 this book starts off as a bit of a comedic romp with a hero who isn’t who he says he is and a strange woman who delves in black magic. There are various supernatural trickeries leading the hero into curses, sorcery and dark horror. Initially, I loved the characters and all the weird goings on, but after a while the plot did seem to become unnecessarily complicated, which tainted my enjoyment a little. Nevertheless, it’s a clever and witty tale with an interesting take on the traditional hero.
A witty tale of demons, cops, witchery and haunted churches.
October 6, 2025
Thank you to @therealbookgal & Barry Maher for the gifted copy.
Okay, okay. This book was just not what I was expecting. It’s definitely not the kind of book I would’ve picked up on my own, totally out of my realm, but I’m glad I got the chance to read it. It’s got that horror, comedy, and ‘80s sarcasm all meshed into one. The book’s titled The Great Dick, and honestly, that seemed a bit intimidating if you ask me, lol. I wasn’t sure what to expect! The book is different but unhinged in a good way. The great part about it is that while it dives into this dark, occult storyline, it also doesn’t take itself too seriously. There’s humor buried in there — deep, dark humor. Not the kind that makes you laugh out loud, but more of a dry, sarcastic edge that not everyone will find funny. You kind of have to have a certain sense of humor to really get it.
Okay, okay. This book was just not what I was expecting. It’s definitely not the kind of book I would’ve picked up on my own, totally out of my realm, but I’m glad I got the chance to read it. It’s got that horror, comedy, and ‘80s sarcasm all meshed into one. The book’s titled The Great Dick, and honestly, that seemed a bit intimidating if you ask me, lol. I wasn’t sure what to expect! The book is different but unhinged in a good way. The great part about it is that while it dives into this dark, occult storyline, it also doesn’t take itself too seriously. There’s humor buried in there — deep, dark humor. Not the kind that makes you laugh out loud, but more of a dry, sarcastic edge that not everyone will find funny. You kind of have to have a certain sense of humor to really get it.
November 18, 2025
I would love to see another book with Gavin Kennan AKA Steve Witowski
Absolutely loved this book, and I honestly want more. Barry Maher has a writing style that is distinctly his. It’s fun, witty and humorous. He’s one of those authors that if he wrote under a different pen name, you would quickly realize it was his writing (if you pay attention to a persons writing style that is)
The story is intriguing and unique, and if it wasn’t for a busy schedule, I would have had it finished in a couple of days. It was a hard one to put down.
The characters are well written, the story line is fantastic, the pace is just right and it’s is definitely a page turner.
How this book hasn’t received more recognition is beyond me. It is one I will be referring to fellow readers, and is actually being handed off to a friend.
It’s one that I would consider book shelf worthy.
Absolutely loved this book, and I honestly want more. Barry Maher has a writing style that is distinctly his. It’s fun, witty and humorous. He’s one of those authors that if he wrote under a different pen name, you would quickly realize it was his writing (if you pay attention to a persons writing style that is)
The story is intriguing and unique, and if it wasn’t for a busy schedule, I would have had it finished in a couple of days. It was a hard one to put down.
The characters are well written, the story line is fantastic, the pace is just right and it’s is definitely a page turner.
How this book hasn’t received more recognition is beyond me. It is one I will be referring to fellow readers, and is actually being handed off to a friend.
It’s one that I would consider book shelf worthy.
October 22, 2025
I’ll admit it—I totally judged this book by its cover and title, and I’m so glad I did because it had me laughing right from the start. Not every jerk is the villain, and Steve proves it. He’s on the run from the law, but maybe he’s got a heart under all that snark—especially after rescuing Victoria, who turns out to be way more capable and hilarious than your average damsel.
Set against the quirky backdrop of an old church renovation, things quickly spiral into chaos—sinister events, supernatural shenanigans, and a healthy dose of sexual tension included. This darkly funny, offbeat story bends reality - this one’s a trip worth taking.
Set against the quirky backdrop of an old church renovation, things quickly spiral into chaos—sinister events, supernatural shenanigans, and a healthy dose of sexual tension included. This darkly funny, offbeat story bends reality - this one’s a trip worth taking.
October 29, 2025
The Great Dick is exactly what the name promises — entertaining, thrilling, and totally unputdownable. At times, the scariest part isn’t the demons, blood, or murder — it’s the raw, unflinching honesty of the main character, leaving you questioning whether humans (males, especially) are the true monsters.
I was both fascinated and slightly giving up on humanity by the authentic journey into a man’s mind.
This book keeps you on your toes from start to finish and takes you on a full-on rollercoaster of emotions that lingers long after the last page.
And it does, indeed, answer the eternal question: once an asshole, always an asshole?
I was both fascinated and slightly giving up on humanity by the authentic journey into a man’s mind.
This book keeps you on your toes from start to finish and takes you on a full-on rollercoaster of emotions that lingers long after the last page.
And it does, indeed, answer the eternal question: once an asshole, always an asshole?
September 29, 2025
A fast and funny read. Barry brings us a dark humorous story of Steve, a man on the run, who helps Victoria. The sexual tension between the two is great. Victoria allows Steve to stay with her and help renovate an old church. From this point, chaos ensues. There's a supernatural aspect as well with unknown forces at play, which leaves many twists and turns as the story nears the end. Can't wait to see what else Barry has in store for us in the future.
October 27, 2025
A twisted fast paced supernatural occult horror full or dark humour, suspense & twist.
Steve saves Victoria from a brutal attack after that she offers him a job helping restore an old church she’s bought. It’s not just any church it’s haunted & believed to have buried treasure in it somewhere.
If you enjoy satire, witty banter, demons & haunted places that are a bit unhinged give this a read
Steve saves Victoria from a brutal attack after that she offers him a job helping restore an old church she’s bought. It’s not just any church it’s haunted & believed to have buried treasure in it somewhere.
If you enjoy satire, witty banter, demons & haunted places that are a bit unhinged give this a read
December 7, 2025
A great tongue-in-cheek horror story. I would have liked more creepiness in the build-up, which is long and slow, focusing mainly on mundane matters, but there are some laugh-out-loud moments and pithy insights into the criteria people use to place value on their fellow humans. The horror is eventually delivered in spectacular style, with a satisfactory resolution, though there are hints that the Great Dick may well return in future stories.
December 10, 2025
Despite the length of this book, it was really well written and fast-paced. The story flowed nicely and I absolutely loved the dark humor. That was one of the main points which kept me fully engaged.
I definitely recommend this stunningly clever experience.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I definitely recommend this stunningly clever experience.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2025
The Great Dick was Beyond Expectations
This book keeps getting better the deeper in you go and the ending was perfect. I love books that have endings that just fit the story itself and seem so authentic to the whole adventure.
This was definitely an adventure. Humor and mystery and some surprises, mixed with some supernatural. Loved it.
Highly Recommend.
This book keeps getting better the deeper in you go and the ending was perfect. I love books that have endings that just fit the story itself and seem so authentic to the whole adventure.
This was definitely an adventure. Humor and mystery and some surprises, mixed with some supernatural. Loved it.
Highly Recommend.
November 18, 2025
Get ready to be pulled into a world where nothing makes sense to him. He thinks he has saved her but he will be pulled into a mystery and a tattoo will appear on his arm. A dark creepy mystery
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great read
December 20, 2025
This novel is an extremely fun, often laugh out loud funny, and twisty supernatural mystery that'll have you turning pages well into the night once you start reading.
A man named Steve (not his real name) is the narrator and it's set in the early 80s. One night Steve intervenes on behalf of a woman named Victoria who is being attacked by a man. Being a man on the run, Steve accepts her offer to stay with her and help renovate her home, a former church and a former house of ill repute. The man who ran the whorehouse (that's what it's referred as in the book) was into magic, spells, and all manner of supernatural things.
Steve is obsessed with Victoria, a perfect woman in his opinion, and tries to bed her with no success. In fact, Victoria seems to take pleasure in teasing him and watching him squirm. But when certain people die and strange things start happening, the relationship and everything else is going to get twisted. And as secrets are revealed about the building, the former owner, and Victoria herself, it's going to go full on supernatural horrors.
The characters in here are so imperfect and flawed that you can't help but to relate in one way or another. They might not be all good but they are entertaining and loveable at times. We know Victoria isn't quite right but the full extent of that is horrifying. Several great twists will be revealed right up until the end making this a compulsive read. I highly recommend it.
A man named Steve (not his real name) is the narrator and it's set in the early 80s. One night Steve intervenes on behalf of a woman named Victoria who is being attacked by a man. Being a man on the run, Steve accepts her offer to stay with her and help renovate her home, a former church and a former house of ill repute. The man who ran the whorehouse (that's what it's referred as in the book) was into magic, spells, and all manner of supernatural things.
Steve is obsessed with Victoria, a perfect woman in his opinion, and tries to bed her with no success. In fact, Victoria seems to take pleasure in teasing him and watching him squirm. But when certain people die and strange things start happening, the relationship and everything else is going to get twisted. And as secrets are revealed about the building, the former owner, and Victoria herself, it's going to go full on supernatural horrors.
The characters in here are so imperfect and flawed that you can't help but to relate in one way or another. They might not be all good but they are entertaining and loveable at times. We know Victoria isn't quite right but the full extent of that is horrifying. Several great twists will be revealed right up until the end making this a compulsive read. I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews