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"Cvlt is a devious, twisty-turny plunge into hell that sees Duncan return to his distressing roots." - Jonathan Butcher, author of The Cold Visitor and co-author of Motel Styx
"This isn't a story about forgiveness, Michael. This is about wrath."
Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer, thought he'd seen and heard it all. That is, until he meets Gloria.
A member of the secretive Children of Dinah cult, Gloria is cunning, challenging and a lot more than he bargained for. Enhart plans to break down her defenses and bring her back to her birth mother. Gloria proposes a if she can prove to him three genuine miracles, he'll set her free.
But the Lonely Motel had other plans for them tonight. Because no miracle comes without a price.
And there can be no healing without pain.
CVLT is a standalone novel set at the Lonely Motel. It is not necessary to have read Woom or Gross Out to enjoy it, though your appreciation for certain elements about the motel will be enhanced.
"This isn't a story about forgiveness, Michael. This is about wrath."
Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer, thought he'd seen and heard it all. That is, until he meets Gloria.
A member of the secretive Children of Dinah cult, Gloria is cunning, challenging and a lot more than he bargained for. Enhart plans to break down her defenses and bring her back to her birth mother. Gloria proposes a if she can prove to him three genuine miracles, he'll set her free.
But the Lonely Motel had other plans for them tonight. Because no miracle comes without a price.
And there can be no healing without pain.
CVLT is a standalone novel set at the Lonely Motel. It is not necessary to have read Woom or Gross Out to enjoy it, though your appreciation for certain elements about the motel will be enhanced.
- GenresHorrorSplatterpunk
186 pages, Paperback
Published August 22, 2025
87 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Duncan Ralston
81 books2,061 followers**CVLT: Lonely Motel Book 3 out now!!!**
**Sequel to the hit novel PUZZLE HOUSE coming Winter 2026**
Author of the cult smash-hit Woom and Ghostland and more than 15 other books that aren't the cult smash-hit Woom or Ghostland. His debut collection was blurbed positively by the legendary Jack Ketchum. His vampire novel, Pedo Island Bloodbath, was nominated for a 2024 Splatterpunk Award for Best Novel. His horror-thriller Ghostland will soon be a board game from Crystal Lake Publishing.
For 10 FREE dark fiction short stories/novellas including the prequel to GHOSTLAND, "The Moving House," signed copies of Woom, bookplates and merch, please visit www.duncanralston.com.
Photo © Josh Silver 2015
**Sequel to the hit novel PUZZLE HOUSE coming Winter 2026**
Author of the cult smash-hit Woom and Ghostland and more than 15 other books that aren't the cult smash-hit Woom or Ghostland. His debut collection was blurbed positively by the legendary Jack Ketchum. His vampire novel, Pedo Island Bloodbath, was nominated for a 2024 Splatterpunk Award for Best Novel. His horror-thriller Ghostland will soon be a board game from Crystal Lake Publishing.
For 10 FREE dark fiction short stories/novellas including the prequel to GHOSTLAND, "The Moving House," signed copies of Woom, bookplates and merch, please visit www.duncanralston.com.
Photo © Josh Silver 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 2, 2025
While I don’t do much ARCs these days, sometimes you just have to request something you know you need to read.
Let’s get down to it immediately:
CVLT is spelled that way because it is about cult (yes, with a “L”) and this just happens to be the fifth book in the WOOM trilogy. It…
Wait, what’s that?
No?
Okay…so what can the reason be?
Oh yes, right – subliminal marketing! Duncan wants to tell the world he is svelte, so he misspelled it on purpose. Then he…
What now?
You’re right, you know. And when you’re right, you’re right. His picture is all over the internet, so the svelte ship has sailed.
Hmm…roman numerals?
Maybe it spells something like Stephen King’s 1408 added together is 13. Let’s check:
C = 100
V = 5
L = 50
T = dammit I don’t think that’s it?
Running out of ideas here…
Aha – Its’ actually so simple and obvious!
Duncan is Canadian, right? And they refuse the letter “U”!
Yoo know what I’m talking aboot, right?
That has to be it!
I hope…
I all seriousness though, this is a well-researched and planned story about a cult deprogrammer who takes someone he rescued to the Lonely Motel. And as can be expected messed up stories are shared with a scene or two that is bound to cause some controversy.
The writing style is great, as can be expected, but the story itself will take you on an unexpected journey – on which I will not elaborate too much – that is the elevation to a superb piece of fiction you need to read: But only if you can handle it.
Most important of all, don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the writing as it hides the complexity of a story that could only be crafted by the skills of a masterful wordsmith.
5 Stars
Let’s get down to it immediately:
CVLT is spelled that way because it is about cult (yes, with a “L”) and this just happens to be the fifth book in the WOOM trilogy. It…
Wait, what’s that?
No?
Okay…so what can the reason be?
Oh yes, right – subliminal marketing! Duncan wants to tell the world he is svelte, so he misspelled it on purpose. Then he…
What now?
You’re right, you know. And when you’re right, you’re right. His picture is all over the internet, so the svelte ship has sailed.
Hmm…roman numerals?
Maybe it spells something like Stephen King’s 1408 added together is 13. Let’s check:
C = 100
V = 5
L = 50
T = dammit I don’t think that’s it?
Running out of ideas here…
Aha – Its’ actually so simple and obvious!
Duncan is Canadian, right? And they refuse the letter “U”!
Yoo know what I’m talking aboot, right?
That has to be it!
I hope…
I all seriousness though, this is a well-researched and planned story about a cult deprogrammer who takes someone he rescued to the Lonely Motel. And as can be expected messed up stories are shared with a scene or two that is bound to cause some controversy.
The writing style is great, as can be expected, but the story itself will take you on an unexpected journey – on which I will not elaborate too much – that is the elevation to a superb piece of fiction you need to read: But only if you can handle it.
Most important of all, don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the writing as it hides the complexity of a story that could only be crafted by the skills of a masterful wordsmith.
5 Stars
September 18, 2025
Great addition to the Lonely Motel series. Each book is so distinct and can be read independently. This one is solely dialogue between two characters. Michael, a “cult deprogrammer” and Gloria a member of a cult. The two characters go back and forth telling stories and their views on various aspects of life.
There is no gore in this one which many of Ralstons books are known for. It’s a short immersive read with great characters, plot and some unexpected twists. Highly recommend this one, four stars.
There is no gore in this one which many of Ralstons books are known for. It’s a short immersive read with great characters, plot and some unexpected twists. Highly recommend this one, four stars.
July 27, 2025
The Lonely Motel is where "WOOM" took place: two persons in a room talking, some messed up stories are told, some vile shenanigans follow, and you'll never see Duncan Ralston the same again.
"CVLT" also takes place in the Lonely Motel. Again, two people in a room conversing, some very messed up stories are told, and some weird reveals follow.
But this is NOT "Woom".
If "WOOM" is the New York of extreme horror and the Los Angeles of splatterporn, "CVLT" is closer to Texas in this clumsy metaphor: the book figures a main character with a very strong sense of identity and righteousness, only to be slowly eroded by the sheer mass of facts coming his way from directions he never thought to protect himself from. He essentially sets himself up for disappointment, though what finally reaches through his smug self-confidence is not merely truth; it's an entirely different conception of his world. Which is surely ironic, since he's a professional cult deprogrammer, trained to avoid violence and restore a cult member's connection to reality through extensive discussion. But discussion implies the conflict of interpretation, and he soon finds himself bullied, so to say, by the intrinsic ambiguities of the real. And, of course, responsible for this upheaval is a smart, confident woman, disabled, yet neither helpless nor struggling. She certainly knows how to tell a good story: through stories of demonic possession and revenge tales of female empowerment, she manages to paint a picture of her cult as a place of found family, happiness, acceptance, a place of miracles and hope.
And that's just the first half of the book. The other half is a real Texas showdown, as these two so different personalities go head to head with each other in a war of who has the strongest convictions, the best interpretation of devotion, influence, charisma.
The Lonely Motel is not a debate chamber though; it will have its say. And Ralston will have his Easter Eggs (if you pay attention!). So buckle up, partner, for a tough ride through the most intelligent cult horror you're gonna find this side of paradise! This is gruesome, unhinged fun by a master storyteller!
"CVLT" also takes place in the Lonely Motel. Again, two people in a room conversing, some very messed up stories are told, and some weird reveals follow.
But this is NOT "Woom".
If "WOOM" is the New York of extreme horror and the Los Angeles of splatterporn, "CVLT" is closer to Texas in this clumsy metaphor: the book figures a main character with a very strong sense of identity and righteousness, only to be slowly eroded by the sheer mass of facts coming his way from directions he never thought to protect himself from. He essentially sets himself up for disappointment, though what finally reaches through his smug self-confidence is not merely truth; it's an entirely different conception of his world. Which is surely ironic, since he's a professional cult deprogrammer, trained to avoid violence and restore a cult member's connection to reality through extensive discussion. But discussion implies the conflict of interpretation, and he soon finds himself bullied, so to say, by the intrinsic ambiguities of the real. And, of course, responsible for this upheaval is a smart, confident woman, disabled, yet neither helpless nor struggling. She certainly knows how to tell a good story: through stories of demonic possession and revenge tales of female empowerment, she manages to paint a picture of her cult as a place of found family, happiness, acceptance, a place of miracles and hope.
And that's just the first half of the book. The other half is a real Texas showdown, as these two so different personalities go head to head with each other in a war of who has the strongest convictions, the best interpretation of devotion, influence, charisma.
The Lonely Motel is not a debate chamber though; it will have its say. And Ralston will have his Easter Eggs (if you pay attention!). So buckle up, partner, for a tough ride through the most intelligent cult horror you're gonna find this side of paradise! This is gruesome, unhinged fun by a master storyteller!
September 19, 2025
Of course I read this book.....
After reading Woom and Gross Out how could I not?
They are all transgressive, however it's unusual for a series to shift from horror to psyche thriller... Not to say the first two of the series didn't have psychological components, but I would say horror was the primary genre.. Yes, I'm well aware that books can have overlapping genres.
My interest was piqued that this one CVLT was labeled as a psyche thriller... How would the author shift from the series horror roots to horror taking a backseat? It still had horrific points, but they were more secondary...
And to answer my question as to how Ralston shifted from primary horror to primary thriller? VERY TASTEFULLY. It was a gentle leading of the reader, like a soft hand holding, each smaller story of this book building up to another explosive larger ending giving me whiplash.......
I also want to note how his writing has grown from those years ago into what it is today. Very impressive.
After reading Woom and Gross Out how could I not?
They are all transgressive, however it's unusual for a series to shift from horror to psyche thriller... Not to say the first two of the series didn't have psychological components, but I would say horror was the primary genre.. Yes, I'm well aware that books can have overlapping genres.
My interest was piqued that this one CVLT was labeled as a psyche thriller... How would the author shift from the series horror roots to horror taking a backseat? It still had horrific points, but they were more secondary...
And to answer my question as to how Ralston shifted from primary horror to primary thriller? VERY TASTEFULLY. It was a gentle leading of the reader, like a soft hand holding, each smaller story of this book building up to another explosive larger ending giving me whiplash.......
I also want to note how his writing has grown from those years ago into what it is today. Very impressive.
July 26, 2025
This was a terrific read. Could easily be adapted as a 3 act play. The first two thirds of the book involve the interaction between 2 people. As a reader I was pretty much drawn straight in and the author then kept me there very deftly. So so difficult to put down. The writing is skillful, the dialogue is very engaging and the pace is a perfect ride. The stories within the story kept me at the edge of my seat. I had to know what happened, had to. Thoroughly enjoyed the read.
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.
August 22, 2025
Welcome to room 9 at the lonely motel.
Well... put on your happy face, pour yourself a glass of Kool-Aid, and get ready for "Mother Amelia". This book was freaking nuts. But then again what else would you expect from the lonely motel?
The twist toward the end... how dare you, Duncan. I was mind blown didn't see that coming at all. And the end ...I need more!!
Well... put on your happy face, pour yourself a glass of Kool-Aid, and get ready for "Mother Amelia". This book was freaking nuts. But then again what else would you expect from the lonely motel?
The twist toward the end... how dare you, Duncan. I was mind blown didn't see that coming at all. And the end ...I need more!!
October 3, 2025
I love this author and the Lonely Motel series. This was a bit brief but was gripping from start to end with a jaw dropping twist.
October 28, 2025
Feel like this trilogy got progressively worse with every single book. This one is a huge shift from Ralston's usual style of writing and the story is definitely interesting, to say the least. However, the reveal was extremely obvious and the plot seemed to go nowhere, despite having a spellbinding premise.
September 6, 2025
If you liked Woom, you must read Cvlt! I could not put this book down. I thought I had the twist figured out, but I was wrong! Such a good book!
August 27, 2025
Dear Lord,
Please forgive Duncan for taking us on yet another wild ride within the beloved Lonely Motel. We are not sure why he refuses to stop patronizing this forsaken lodge, but we can only keep him in our thoughts and prayers.
We also ask that you heal his affliction of continually leading us through the taboo, the profane, and the absurd—compelling us to examine our own moral and spiritual compass.
Though the dialogue between Gloria and Enhart is masterful, and their psychological and moral battle of wills challenges our own values, we confess we can no longer endure the temptations of his glorious prose. Our only encouragement is in knowing, O Lord, that you will not give us more than we can bear.
And Lord, though the twists and turns of the story leave us humbled, our jaws dropped in awe at the sheer power of narrative, we pray that Duncan may yet feel the weight of your righteous hand.
Please, finally heal him and cleanse him of his sins… although, if cleansing him rids him of crafting such works, then leave him the dirty little devil he is. 😈
Amen.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Please forgive Duncan for taking us on yet another wild ride within the beloved Lonely Motel. We are not sure why he refuses to stop patronizing this forsaken lodge, but we can only keep him in our thoughts and prayers.
We also ask that you heal his affliction of continually leading us through the taboo, the profane, and the absurd—compelling us to examine our own moral and spiritual compass.
Though the dialogue between Gloria and Enhart is masterful, and their psychological and moral battle of wills challenges our own values, we confess we can no longer endure the temptations of his glorious prose. Our only encouragement is in knowing, O Lord, that you will not give us more than we can bear.
And Lord, though the twists and turns of the story leave us humbled, our jaws dropped in awe at the sheer power of narrative, we pray that Duncan may yet feel the weight of your righteous hand.
Please, finally heal him and cleanse him of his sins… although, if cleansing him rids him of crafting such works, then leave him the dirty little devil he is. 😈
Amen.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
December 29, 2025
another fantastic addition to the lonely hotel series! keep them coming I'm absolutely hooked!
I was not expecting this kind of cult story at all and I carnt say to much because I don't want to spoil it but i was not ready for the ending ! overall a great experience such a good read and a great book to end 2025 on !
I was not expecting this kind of cult story at all and I carnt say to much because I don't want to spoil it but i was not ready for the ending ! overall a great experience such a good read and a great book to end 2025 on !
November 26, 2025
This took me forever to read but I’m glad I pushed through because I really enjoyed it! It’s very slow paced, but super twisted.
August 29, 2025
Lean and mean and unforgiving.
The third entry in The Lonely Motel series may just be its finest moment, with plenty of callbacks and Easter eggs (some more obvious and others a bit more subtle).
Cvlt is a transgressive story with scenes of horror (some entirely jarring in the best way), that pits two utterly opposite characters against each other in a philosophical standoff.
It's also, beneath the veil of cults and religious themes, a clever exploration of the self, identity, human nature, and all that sort of stuff that I really enjoy in my horror and transgressive books.
Ralston is on a real culty kick with his last couple releases, and I'm definitely here for it.
The third entry in The Lonely Motel series may just be its finest moment, with plenty of callbacks and Easter eggs (some more obvious and others a bit more subtle).
Cvlt is a transgressive story with scenes of horror (some entirely jarring in the best way), that pits two utterly opposite characters against each other in a philosophical standoff.
It's also, beneath the veil of cults and religious themes, a clever exploration of the self, identity, human nature, and all that sort of stuff that I really enjoy in my horror and transgressive books.
Ralston is on a real culty kick with his last couple releases, and I'm definitely here for it.
Read
December 31, 2025DNF
August 23, 2025
I had the honor of receiving an ARC copy of CVLT and I was absolutely mesmerized and left with my jaw on the floor. The third book in The Lonely Motel series brings us back to the infamous Room 9 where we meet Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer who "rescues" those seen as victims from various cults.
This particular job, he is hired to bring home Gloria, a member of the Children of Dinah. Gloria attempts to show proof of 3 miracles to Michael in exchange for her freedom. The back and forth of their stories grabs ahold of you quickly while weaving you through a dark and unsettling web of religion, wrath, family, and revenge. The various twists and turns were unexpected and the ending, while SHOCKING, will leave you thirsty for more!
While CVLT is part of The Lonely Motel series it can be read as a standalone. Duncan sprinkled various Easter eggs throughout that will stand out and maybe give you a little chuckle if you have already read Woom and Gross Out.
Highly recommend!
This particular job, he is hired to bring home Gloria, a member of the Children of Dinah. Gloria attempts to show proof of 3 miracles to Michael in exchange for her freedom. The back and forth of their stories grabs ahold of you quickly while weaving you through a dark and unsettling web of religion, wrath, family, and revenge. The various twists and turns were unexpected and the ending, while SHOCKING, will leave you thirsty for more!
While CVLT is part of The Lonely Motel series it can be read as a standalone. Duncan sprinkled various Easter eggs throughout that will stand out and maybe give you a little chuckle if you have already read Woom and Gross Out.
Highly recommend!
August 14, 2025
It’s time to return to the Lonely Motel! Duncan Ralston takes us back to everyone’s favorite place to lay your head at night to tell us another journey of two people just talking in a room. This isn’t your mom’s “Woom” though. Ralston ditches the horror this time around to give us a more psychological thriller. It is more of that same thing you have read before, but told in a different way. Instead of the creepy mission our main character was on in Woom, we know are treated to one man’s job of deprogramming members of cults.
Enhart has been doing this for a long time. Following in his father’s footsteps, he’s become one of the best pros at pulling people’s loved ones out of the religious prisons that their family believe them to be in. Enter the Child of Dinah, and a young lady named Gloria. It’s just another Tuesday for Enhart… right? Once he starts his process, Enhart quickly learns that this time is not like all the other times. In fact, who is really playing who in this miserable motel? It’s a gripping tale that you soon won’t forget. With the twists you expect with Ralston, and dipping more to a different genre of story than you might not normally see from him, you get sucked into this well crafted adventure that reminds you why he is one of the best storytellers today.
Thanks to Duncan for providing this ARC for me to read!
4.5/5 ⭐️ (which is the best I will give a book btw)
Enhart has been doing this for a long time. Following in his father’s footsteps, he’s become one of the best pros at pulling people’s loved ones out of the religious prisons that their family believe them to be in. Enter the Child of Dinah, and a young lady named Gloria. It’s just another Tuesday for Enhart… right? Once he starts his process, Enhart quickly learns that this time is not like all the other times. In fact, who is really playing who in this miserable motel? It’s a gripping tale that you soon won’t forget. With the twists you expect with Ralston, and dipping more to a different genre of story than you might not normally see from him, you get sucked into this well crafted adventure that reminds you why he is one of the best storytellers today.
Thanks to Duncan for providing this ARC for me to read!
4.5/5 ⭐️ (which is the best I will give a book btw)
August 27, 2025
I was looking forward to this next installment of the Lonely Motel series, and it did not disappoint. It has the same vibe as Woom, but introduces a new cast of characters who are psychologically complex with deeper, darker backstories. And perhaps a cameo from a familiar Lonely Motel guest.
We spend the novel in a room at the Lonely Motel with Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer, and Gloria/Savannah, the cult member who Enhart was hired to rescue. Through masterful dialogue and expositional flashbacks, we see Gloria/Savannah’s story as well as the formation of the cult who embraced her, The Children of Dinah.
The draw of this book for me was the banter between Michael and Gloria, which was, at all times, a blurry power play. Who is directing the conversation is ambivalent, which creates an incredible tension as to the outcome of this interaction.
Also masterful? The minutia on every page. The devil is in the details, so they say. If Ralston wrote it, it matters. From the painting on the motel wall that mysteriously changed, to the timeline of the characters introduced by Gloria, everything matters in the end.
Will your jaw drop as it did with Woom? Yes, but for different reasons. Psychological horrifying, morally ambiguous, with characters you empathize with on all sides, this story will make you question everything, and root for all parties involved. This stand-alone is easily my favourite Lonely Motel book.
We spend the novel in a room at the Lonely Motel with Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer, and Gloria/Savannah, the cult member who Enhart was hired to rescue. Through masterful dialogue and expositional flashbacks, we see Gloria/Savannah’s story as well as the formation of the cult who embraced her, The Children of Dinah.
The draw of this book for me was the banter between Michael and Gloria, which was, at all times, a blurry power play. Who is directing the conversation is ambivalent, which creates an incredible tension as to the outcome of this interaction.
Also masterful? The minutia on every page. The devil is in the details, so they say. If Ralston wrote it, it matters. From the painting on the motel wall that mysteriously changed, to the timeline of the characters introduced by Gloria, everything matters in the end.
Will your jaw drop as it did with Woom? Yes, but for different reasons. Psychological horrifying, morally ambiguous, with characters you empathize with on all sides, this story will make you question everything, and root for all parties involved. This stand-alone is easily my favourite Lonely Motel book.
July 27, 2025
5 stars!!
This book is something. What I love about the Lonely Motel Series is that Duncan does something different each time. It's not about recreating Woom, it's about continuing the tale of the strange building and its bizarre secrets. Like, Gross Out, CVlt does its own thing. It's transgressive, psychological, and thought-provoking. Ralston touches on religion, the concept of miracles, the idea of wrath, revenge, and divination. There are many questions and answers hurled at you throughout the mind-bending narrative. Again, this isn't Woom; it's not extreme horror, but it is unsettling and brutally honest at times.
The cult-mindset and even the cults within our day-to-day lives, like relationships, jobs, family, etc, are brought into play. Duncan weaves religion, spirituality, and inner obsession with redemption and light. I couldn't put it down and read with ease. Ralston's prose is elevated and more mature; it seems the author is certainly progressing with time, as any good author should. One thing he touches on is true disability fiction. With a handicapped character, we get a glimpse into the real life of a spiritually disabled human, something I can really relate to. CVlt is full of high energy, dark imagery, terrible truths, and gnarly twists. This is a great addition to the Lonely Motel series and another exceptional book by Duncan. Check it out August 22nd!
This book is something. What I love about the Lonely Motel Series is that Duncan does something different each time. It's not about recreating Woom, it's about continuing the tale of the strange building and its bizarre secrets. Like, Gross Out, CVlt does its own thing. It's transgressive, psychological, and thought-provoking. Ralston touches on religion, the concept of miracles, the idea of wrath, revenge, and divination. There are many questions and answers hurled at you throughout the mind-bending narrative. Again, this isn't Woom; it's not extreme horror, but it is unsettling and brutally honest at times.
The cult-mindset and even the cults within our day-to-day lives, like relationships, jobs, family, etc, are brought into play. Duncan weaves religion, spirituality, and inner obsession with redemption and light. I couldn't put it down and read with ease. Ralston's prose is elevated and more mature; it seems the author is certainly progressing with time, as any good author should. One thing he touches on is true disability fiction. With a handicapped character, we get a glimpse into the real life of a spiritually disabled human, something I can really relate to. CVlt is full of high energy, dark imagery, terrible truths, and gnarly twists. This is a great addition to the Lonely Motel series and another exceptional book by Duncan. Check it out August 22nd!
August 19, 2025
I read WOOM nearly 4 years ago and I STILL think about that story...
Cvlt takes place in The Lonely Motel as well, where we meet Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer. (I had no idea this was a thing!) Anywho, Michael, and his father before him, made it their lives' mission to rescue people from cults. Currently up for deprogramming is Gloria, formerly Savannah, a paraplegic in the Children of Dinah.
"A performance was about to begin, here in this room. A one-man tour de force he'd acted out countless times in cheap motels just like this one, all across the country."
Gloria does not want to be deprogrammed, not that she is special. No one does at first, and there are always stages to go through. But Gloria is adamant - and claims that she can relay 3 miracles to him in exchange for her freedom. So Gloria begins her tale...
This was quite thought-provoking, unlike the in-your-face tale of WOOM. I did see one thing coming, although the rest... Well, no spoilers here. Suffice it to say, that things aren't exactly what they seem. Will I be thinking about this in 4 years as well? I don't know, but for the time-being it will definitely be living rent-free in my head. Well done, Duncan!
Cvlt takes place in The Lonely Motel as well, where we meet Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer. (I had no idea this was a thing!) Anywho, Michael, and his father before him, made it their lives' mission to rescue people from cults. Currently up for deprogramming is Gloria, formerly Savannah, a paraplegic in the Children of Dinah.
"A performance was about to begin, here in this room. A one-man tour de force he'd acted out countless times in cheap motels just like this one, all across the country."
Gloria does not want to be deprogrammed, not that she is special. No one does at first, and there are always stages to go through. But Gloria is adamant - and claims that she can relay 3 miracles to him in exchange for her freedom. So Gloria begins her tale...
This was quite thought-provoking, unlike the in-your-face tale of WOOM. I did see one thing coming, although the rest... Well, no spoilers here. Suffice it to say, that things aren't exactly what they seem. Will I be thinking about this in 4 years as well? I don't know, but for the time-being it will definitely be living rent-free in my head. Well done, Duncan!
August 21, 2025
A Bleak, Brilliant Descent into the Lonely Motel
When cult deprogrammer Michael Enhart takes on Gloria, a defiant member of the Children of Dinah, he thinks he’s in control. But Gloria has a chilling bargain: if she can prove three miracles, he’ll let her go. What follows is a harrowing night inside the Lonely Motel, where every story Gloria tells drags them deeper into despair, and every “miracle” comes with a price.
I was nervous about entering the world of the Lonely Motel, but I’m glad I did. While I read Woom and Gross Out first (wild rides of their own!), CVLT has a completely different, haunting feel. Gloria’s stories are heartbreaking and bleak, each one vividly detailed and hard to shake. Duncan Ralston doesn’t hold back, making every scene disturbingly easy to picture. I found myself rooting for Gloria even as the despair deepened, while Michael left me questioning what right he had to “save” anyone. The foreshadowing of the ending didn’t soften the blow, it was still shocking and unforgettable. This book is raw, unsettling, and powerful. Five stars, and I’ll be both excited and terrified to return to the Lonely Motel again.
August 23, 2025
CVLT by Duncan Ralston takes place in room 9 of The Lonely Motel and boy is there a story to tell. This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone book. The story is about Michael Enhart who is following in his father’s footsteps by hunting down members of cults and “deprogramming” them so that they can get out of the cult and resume their old lives.
His current objective, Gloria, who is in a cult known as the Children of Dinah. She wakes up in room 9 and Michael explains why she is there. This is when Gloria opens up about her life and what she went through which led her to being in the cult. As she discusses her past, she also shares other stories about “miracles.” We learn of a child who may be possessed and a child with a bleeding doll and the way the stories are described are just very vivid.
Throughout the story Michael is learning a lot about not only Gloria but himself. After everything he has learned, will he let her go? The ending of the book was not quite what I was expecting but I loved it!
His current objective, Gloria, who is in a cult known as the Children of Dinah. She wakes up in room 9 and Michael explains why she is there. This is when Gloria opens up about her life and what she went through which led her to being in the cult. As she discusses her past, she also shares other stories about “miracles.” We learn of a child who may be possessed and a child with a bleeding doll and the way the stories are described are just very vivid.
Throughout the story Michael is learning a lot about not only Gloria but himself. After everything he has learned, will he let her go? The ending of the book was not quite what I was expecting but I loved it!
August 5, 2025
Fair play — it’s meticulously researched, and I was looking forward to returning to the lonely motel once again. This is the third instalment I’ve read in the series, and while it’s a solid novella, I couldn’t help but feel it lacked the shock value and splatterpunk madness I’ve come to expect from Ralston.
I usually read his stories for their over-the-top, grotesque, and unpredictable elements — the “yuck” factor — but Cvlt takes a more measured, well-rounded approach. The storytelling is tight, the plot is easy to follow, and whilst it’s well-crafted, the ending felt somewhat predictable given the genre.
If you’re after a more traditional, straightforward horror novella, this hits the mark. But if, like me, you enjoy Ralston at his most chaotic and bonkers, this one might feel a bit too tame. Still an entertaining, light read — just not quite the wild ride I was hoping for.
I usually read his stories for their over-the-top, grotesque, and unpredictable elements — the “yuck” factor — but Cvlt takes a more measured, well-rounded approach. The storytelling is tight, the plot is easy to follow, and whilst it’s well-crafted, the ending felt somewhat predictable given the genre.
If you’re after a more traditional, straightforward horror novella, this hits the mark. But if, like me, you enjoy Ralston at his most chaotic and bonkers, this one might feel a bit too tame. Still an entertaining, light read — just not quite the wild ride I was hoping for.
August 13, 2025
The Lonely Motel has more stories to tell…
In CVLT…we sit in Room 9 of The Lonely Motel with Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer tasked with bringing home Gloria, a young woman who is part of the Children of Dinah.
Michael has done this countless times…however, Gloria is cunning and present Michael with a deal…if she can prove to him three miracles..he must let her go.
Duncan does it again, another harrowing journey to The Lonely Motel…another one of those books that makes you say “What the hell did I just read?” You’re unable to stop because you have to know what’s going to happen. I devoured this book in just a couple sittings…you feel for Gloria and you really hope Michael can bring her back…does she want out though. Plot twists around every corner…a surprising revelation..and yes..just a little bit of gore. Our third trip to The Lonely Motel…might just be our best yet.
In CVLT…we sit in Room 9 of The Lonely Motel with Michael Enhart, a cult deprogrammer tasked with bringing home Gloria, a young woman who is part of the Children of Dinah.
Michael has done this countless times…however, Gloria is cunning and present Michael with a deal…if she can prove to him three miracles..he must let her go.
Duncan does it again, another harrowing journey to The Lonely Motel…another one of those books that makes you say “What the hell did I just read?” You’re unable to stop because you have to know what’s going to happen. I devoured this book in just a couple sittings…you feel for Gloria and you really hope Michael can bring her back…does she want out though. Plot twists around every corner…a surprising revelation..and yes..just a little bit of gore. Our third trip to The Lonely Motel…might just be our best yet.
January 11, 2026
Ralston did it again, and this time, I wasn't just here for it, I was
sat, laying down, folded, retreating onto myself
for it.
What a way to start the year !
This one is so different from 'Woom' or 'Gross out', yet fits perfectly the Woomiverse.
'Cvlt' tackles entirely new subjects, predominantly religious ones, and the one million dollar question : what exactly is good or evil ? Where do you draw the line when it comes to ambiguous morals, such as murder, or indoctrination ?
The story, while a lot less gore-y than 'Gross out', recounts very touchy and hard-to-read topics.
Ralston went back to the same formula as 'Woom', two characters in a room, telling one another stories, leading up to a grand reveal no one expected. (Well, I certainly didn't.)
Hooked from start to finish, I will need another 300 stories from the Lonely Motel, thank you very much.
What a way to start the year !
This one is so different from 'Woom' or 'Gross out', yet fits perfectly the Woomiverse.
'Cvlt' tackles entirely new subjects, predominantly religious ones, and the one million dollar question : what exactly is good or evil ? Where do you draw the line when it comes to ambiguous morals, such as murder, or indoctrination ?
The story, while a lot less gore-y than 'Gross out', recounts very touchy and hard-to-read topics.
Ralston went back to the same formula as 'Woom', two characters in a room, telling one another stories, leading up to a grand reveal no one expected. (Well, I certainly didn't.)
Hooked from start to finish, I will need another 300 stories from the Lonely Motel, thank you very much.
August 28, 2025
Duncan Ralston brings the gospel to all of us with this new book in the Lonely Motel series: CVLT.
Gloria (kidnapped from the Children of Dinah cult) and Michael (a deprogrammer), both share stories and challenge each other on exactly who is in control between the two of them in the Room 9 at the Lonely Motel. The story takes a crazy turn as suddenly nothing is at all how appears to be and I’m screaming “WHAT???!! At the book”. Haha. Add in my favorite part of the book: A surprise appearance by Shyla, wearing red her sexy gold lamé minidress over a pair of tights, and a red shawl draped over her), smoking a cigarette outside and mentioning the “convention of people” to Michael as they casually chat. So strange since no one EVER stays at the Lonely Motel and it’s always mostly empty.
I read this book all in one setting and could barely put it down!!!! Duncan needs to get busy, because I’m ready for another installment of The Lonely Motel series!!!
August 12, 2025
CVLT written by Duncan Ralston caught my eye by the title alone.
Oh heck yeah, I’m obsessed with anything cult related, can’t get enough of that bizarre insanity. Maybe, because I was raised LDS and we all know the fundamentalists and Mormons are fractured fragments of each other. Which makes anything cultish uncomfortably close to home. So when I heard CVLT was a part of the Woom series and reassured it was a standalone. Of course I had to enter room 9 at The Lonely Motel and let the horror begin. It grabs a hold and digs its claws in and doesn’t let go. It’ll have you questioning everything and will have you wanting to read everything in the series.
Oh heck yeah, I’m obsessed with anything cult related, can’t get enough of that bizarre insanity. Maybe, because I was raised LDS and we all know the fundamentalists and Mormons are fractured fragments of each other. Which makes anything cultish uncomfortably close to home. So when I heard CVLT was a part of the Woom series and reassured it was a standalone. Of course I had to enter room 9 at The Lonely Motel and let the horror begin. It grabs a hold and digs its claws in and doesn’t let go. It’ll have you questioning everything and will have you wanting to read everything in the series.
August 29, 2025
*4.5 stars*
CVLT follows Michael, a cult deprogrammer who captures cult members and tries to get them to see the light of their situation. In this case, he kidnaps Gloria and brings her to the Lonely Motel, somewhere that promises soundproof and incognito rooms, perfect for him to do his job. Her birth mother contacted him, desperate to get her daughter back. But Michael will soon find out that this job isn't like the others.
This is book 3 in the Lonely Motel series, but can be read as a standalone. I've read Woom but not Gross Out, and though I may have missed a few small easter eggs, it didn't affect my experience at all. The stories Gloria tells Michael had my jaw drop, stomach clench, and face contort in a disgusted mask. I've seen some reviews say they saw the twist coming, but I sure didn't.
I listened to the audiobook, and as always, Joe Hempel does an amazing job with the narration!
CVLT follows Michael, a cult deprogrammer who captures cult members and tries to get them to see the light of their situation. In this case, he kidnaps Gloria and brings her to the Lonely Motel, somewhere that promises soundproof and incognito rooms, perfect for him to do his job. Her birth mother contacted him, desperate to get her daughter back. But Michael will soon find out that this job isn't like the others.
This is book 3 in the Lonely Motel series, but can be read as a standalone. I've read Woom but not Gross Out, and though I may have missed a few small easter eggs, it didn't affect my experience at all. The stories Gloria tells Michael had my jaw drop, stomach clench, and face contort in a disgusted mask. I've seen some reviews say they saw the twist coming, but I sure didn't.
I listened to the audiobook, and as always, Joe Hempel does an amazing job with the narration!
Read
September 15, 2025Cvlt is another solid outing from Ralston, though I was a bit let down by as I'd expected a bit more engagement/relation relative to 'Woom' other than location and a character popping up. I was hoping for a bit more, but hey that's on me.
The story flowed nicely and the revelation was a blast!
Looking forward to more entries in this world.
Normally, I'd post a longer review, unfortunately I simply don't have the time available at this moment! But definitely snag this for those who've loved 'Woom' and 'Gross Out.'
The story flowed nicely and the revelation was a blast!
Looking forward to more entries in this world.
Normally, I'd post a longer review, unfortunately I simply don't have the time available at this moment! But definitely snag this for those who've loved 'Woom' and 'Gross Out.'
September 21, 2025
Another incredible installment in one of the wildest sagas I’ve ever read. For a book revolving around two people having a conversation in a hotel room, there wasn’t a dull moment. The characters jumped off the page and the pacing was perfect. Ralston knew when to step on the gas and get the heart racing.
Michael, a cult deprogrammer has his beliefs, character, and life all challenged as he tries to save a young woman named Gloria who is a member of the Children of Dinah cult. Cvlt was a nonstop thrill ride into the twisted “Lonely Motel” and I’m glad it won’t be the last.
Michael, a cult deprogrammer has his beliefs, character, and life all challenged as he tries to save a young woman named Gloria who is a member of the Children of Dinah cult. Cvlt was a nonstop thrill ride into the twisted “Lonely Motel” and I’m glad it won’t be the last.
July 30, 2025
I've come to expect the unexpected with Mr Ralstons books. This book is set in the same world as Woom, but it is not the same kind of book. This is a story of revenge. Ralston weaves multiple stories within a story. The reader is taken through several tales that are none too cheery. All becomes clear at the end yet I am left thinking about what it all means. Engaging and shocking, well plotted and written, Duncan Ralston has written another 5 star book!
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