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1042: Reap

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Bonjo. The Judge of Hell.

In hell, even monsters are afraid.

He is the last face you see before going to hell. For centuries he has walked these halls, enforcing the system, carrying out the sentences, answering to no one. Bonjo does not question. Bonjo does not hesitate. Bonjo does not fail.

Hell has a system. Rules that must be followed. Every soul that arrives has a punishment waiting. Every demon knows their place. Every creature that crawls through the darkness knows better than to step out of line.

Then Astra arrives.

She should be like the rest. She isn't. She breaks the rules. She disrupts the order. She tears through hell like she was never meant to be there in the first place.

But she is there. And Bonjo has a job to do.

In a place built on suffering, where every corner holds something worse than the last, where the darkness is alive and hungry—the real question isn't whether Astra can survive hell.

It's whether hell can survive her.

Now the nightmare begins.

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2026

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About the author

David Gulasi

2 books25 followers
About the Author

David Gulasi is the author of the Amazon Kindle bestselling horror-suspense novella 1041. He's originally from Sydney, Australia.



He really loves cats. Like, a lot. Probably more than is reasonable. He tends to write in random cafés around Sydney, usually right up until closing time, when the staff start giving him looks—mostly because he doesn't feel like going home yet.



That's pretty much David: a slightly odd guy who loves cats and writes unsettling horror.



And seriously—read the trigger warnings before you start.

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for karen adams.
75 reviews5 followers
July 3, 2026
Loved this just as much as I loved 1041!
Profile Image for Jasmine Grayson.
60 reviews5 followers
July 7, 2026
I—

I didn’t think going into this book that there’d be points in an extreme horror book that would make me want to cry from empathizing with a damned character. A FMC much much different than the MC in the previous novella! I expected to have a thought that her damnation would be very warranted but unfortunately it’s more complicated and it’s so sad. Although, it took 60% into the book for me to figure out her backstory, it made sense after her unique cycles of torture.

Then the last 20% percent of the book fooled me! Growing up Christian and still being a lover/follower of Jesus I’d heard and read interpretations of Hell and the depiction here is spot on! So much, that it was foolish of me to have hope when Hell’s very existence is bent on being a place where there is zero hope. Sheesh! The ending really saddened me despite a last minute decision from Bonjo.

I enjoyed the expansive hellscape in this sequel, as well as, a backstory with depth, and Bonjo’s job— however I felt like the first half was just extreme scenes back to back, not really going anywhere besides shocking my mind LOL. Perhaps it’d be more effective for me personally if the POVs switched more frequently between the MCs.

Nevertheless, I think this was a rollercoaster ride that wasn’t exactly fun but thrilling and lowkey philosophical.
Profile Image for READERSBEWARE.
275 reviews3 followers
July 12, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐️Horror Review – 1042: Reap by David Gulasi

As someone who reads a lot of horror, 1042: Reap feels like a book that actively wants to challenge its readers rather than simply scare them. From the opening pages, Gulasi makes it clear that there will be no safety net. The violence is graphic, the imagery is relentless, and the emotional darkness runs far deeper than simple gore. What impressed me most is that beneath the blood and brutality is a surprisingly ambitious mythology involving Hell, damnation, judgment, and the consequences of human cruelty. The novel blends extreme horror with dark fantasy, creating something that feels equally inspired by splatterpunk, religious horror, and epic supernatural fiction. The atmosphere is oppressive from beginning to end, and there are scenes that linger long after you’ve finished reading.

Where the book truly succeeds is in its willingness to explore suffering beyond shock value. The story repeatedly returns to themes of abuse, trauma, evil, redemption, and the scars left behind by violence. Bonjo and Astra carry much of the emotional weight, and their chapters help elevate the novel beyond a collection of gruesome set pieces. The world-building surrounding Hell and its inhabitants is imaginative and often unsettling, creating a sense that every soul, demon, and monster is trapped within a larger cosmic tragedy. The horror works because the author understands that dread is not just about what happens to bodies—it’s about what happens to spirits, identities, and hope itself.

My only criticism is that the book occasionally pushes its extremity so far that some readers may become desensitized to the violence. There are moments where the endless brutality risks overshadowing the emotional impact of individual scenes. However, fans of extreme horror will likely see this as part of the novel’s identity rather than a flaw. Overall, 1042: Reap is a fearless, uncompromising horror novel that delivers disturbing imagery, memorable monsters, and a surprisingly emotional core beneath its nightmare exterior. If you enjoy dark, brutal horror that refuses to pull its punches, this is an easy recommendation. Just be prepared—the content warnings exist for a reason.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️ (5/5)

Best For: Fans of extreme horror, splatterpunk, infernal mythology, and dark fantasy horror that combines emotional tragedy with graphic nightmare fuel.
Profile Image for Christopher Varen.
72 reviews6 followers
June 30, 2026
1042 stepped up a ton from 1041. Even though I loved 1041 I loved this one even more.

Gulasi’s ability to world build and write action and characters in this one just blew me away.

Even though you still get some mind twisting and gruesome aspects (David style) don’t worry it’s in there lol

You get way more than that out of this one. I can’t wait to dive into book 3 when it’s read and ride this wild rollercoaster into its conclusion.

👏👏👏👏 phenomenal book!
Profile Image for A.J. Matta.
Author 1 book6 followers
July 17, 2026
David Gulasi has done it again. This sequel doesn't just live up to the first novella—it expands everything that made the original so compelling.

One of my favorite aspects of this installment was finally getting to spend more time with Bonjo. Seeing beyond the terrifying figure of the Judge of Hell and exploring his psyche, motivations, and inner conflicts added so much depth to his character. He's fascinating in a way that makes you question where the line between monster and something more truly lies.

The worldbuilding also takes a significant step forward. Every new piece of lore deepened my investment in this universe, making Hell feel like far more than just a backdrop. It has history, rules, and mysteries that I can't wait to uncover in future books.

Astra was another highlight. She's an incredibly compelling protagonist whose tragedy feels genuine rather than forced. Watching her story unfold alongside Bonjo's created a dynamic that was both emotionally engaging and impossible to look away from.

The novella strikes a great balance between expanding its mythology, developing its characters, and delivering the unsettling atmosphere and horror that drew me into the series in the first place. By the time I reached the final page, I was left wanting only one thing: Book Three.

I can't wait to see where Gulasi takes Bonjo, Astra, and this wonderfully dark universe next.
Profile Image for Armando Ramirez.
261 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 17, 2026
1042: Reap by David Gulasi is an unforgettable and deeply unsettling masterpiece that completely exceeded my expectations. While it technically follows the precursor novella 1041, this book stands firmly on its own, with only subtle nods to the earlier work. Gulasi takes readers on a bold and chilling journey through his uniquely imagined version of Hell; one that is intensely personal, tailored to each individual in ways that are both fascinating and horrifying.
What truly sets this book apart is the strength of its writing. Gulasi’s prose is immersive and deliberate, pulling you deeper into a world that feels disturbingly real. His interpretation of Hell as a customized psychological and emotional experience is both original and haunting, making the story linger long after the final page.
And then there’s the ending. Without giving anything away, the twist is brilliantly executed and completely recontextualizes Astra’s presence in a way that is as shocking as it is satisfying. It is the kind of moment that forces you to pause and rethink everything you’ve just read.
That said, this is not a light read. The novel explores extremely dark themes, so checking content warnings beforehand is strongly recommended. However, for readers willing to take that plunge, the payoff is immense.
If you’re looking for a story that challenges you, unsettles you, and keeps you hooked from beginning to end, 1042: Reap delivers in every possible way. It is, quite simply, one hell of a ride.
Profile Image for ems_booknook.
446 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 17, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of 1042: Reap from the author, after absolutely INHALING book 1 recently, and I’ve never been more excited to read an ARC 🤣

1042 continues building on the world and ideals that have been introduced in book 1, but not in the exact path that was set for us in 1041.

Throughout this book, we see crumbs of 1041, we see recurring themes that clearly hint to the fact that something more is happening here, and I really loved how the pieces slowly start to come together. My biggest joy in reading a series is seeing parts of the bigger picture emerge, and that’s exactly what happened here.

In typical David fashion, everything is not as it seems just like we witnessed in book 1, and I think that this just plays a whole new underlying game where we think something is true, but it is not.

David has created a fascinating concept in this series, with layers and layers of connections and mystery.

Obviously, there are some triggers warnings to come with this given that it is in the extreme/splatter genre, but if you’re after something that is intense, fast paced, and will have you unsure of your own judgement, this series may just be for you.

Thank you so much David for trusting me with your baby, and I look forward to whatever depravity comes next!
Profile Image for Amanda.
20 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 17, 2026
Willy Wonka’s Tunnel of Terror Meets the scary parts of the Old Testament

Thoughts I had while reading 1042:
• WTF?
• Gross!
• What in the Clockwork Orange?
• Why are there so many apex predators?
• This is a BYOD book (bring your own Rx’s)

1042 reads like Willy Wonka’s Tunnel of Terror meets the parts of the Old Testament that scare the good Catholics. It’s a riverboat ride down the brimstone river. There are no paddles, no life jackets, and the reader can’t get off. This mashup shouldn’t work, but it does. It really, really does.

If you have read book 1 and you think you know what to expect in book 2, trust me when I say, you do not. Book 2 picks up in Bonjo’s world. He’s the typical, overworked, under-appreciated government employee just keeping busy reaping souls. Then, one day, something unexpected happens with one particular soul. The book spirals (in a good way) from there.

In his second book, Gulasi brings his signature gore and pairs it with some truly beautiful writing. Parts are genuinely revolting. Parts are genuinely moving. Gulasi definitely jerks your feelings around. You’ll be uncomfortable and emotionally invested at the same time.

I enjoyed the hell out of this book.
Profile Image for Lilly Cotton.
4 reviews
July 6, 2026
I honestly don't know how Gulasi came up with the vision of Hell in this book. I've read countless horror novels with different versions of hellscapes and dark worlds, but I've never encountered anything quite like this. Instead of relying only on physical torture and gore, he creates a deeply psychological Hell that gets under your skin. The horror stays with you long after you've finished reading.

This is an absolute masterpiece of horror writing. The world-building is unlike anything I've experienced, and every page feels imaginative, unsettling, and completely unpredictable.

I enjoyed 1041, but 1042 is on another level. The characters are unforgettable—even the smallest ones. I never imagined I'd become attached to a tiny demon that's basically a doorstop, yet somehow Gulasi made it one of the most memorable characters in the book.

I genuinely hope we see much more from Gulasi. I think this up-and-coming Australian author is making serious waves, and it's easy to see why. His imagination and storytelling ability are extraordinary.

If you're a horror fan, do yourself a favour and read 1042. It's one of the most original horror novels I've read in years.
2 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2026
1042 was one of those books that kept me saying, "Okay, that's enough for tonight," and then reading three more chapters anyway. David Gulasi has a way of creating scenes that are creepy, disturbing, and strangely fascinating all at the same time.

The world-building is absolutely wild. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was going on, the story took another unexpected turn. The imagery is vivid, the atmosphere is dark, and there were plenty of moments that made me stop and think, well that's gross..

I came across my name mentioned in passing in one of the rooms in Hell. Of all the places to unexpectedly find yourself, that wasn't exactly the one I would have picked. I like to believe it was just a coincidence... but I'm keeping an eye on David Gulasi just in case.

If you enjoy horror that's imaginative, unsettling, and a little bit bizarre, I'd definitely recommend 1042. It's creepy, thought-provoking, and memorable in all the best ways. Plus, any book that manages to casually drop my name somewhere in Hell is getting bonus points from me.

We're all ready for the next one, sir.
Profile Image for Dawn “Platinum Vera” Vera.
11 reviews7 followers
July 5, 2026


1042 by David Gulasi... HOW DARE YOU. 😭📚

I thought I was ready after 1041. I was not.

David Gulasi somehow takes everything that made the first book unforgettable and raises the stakes even higher. Astra completely stole my heart, and every chapter had me more emotionally invested than the last. The pacing is relentless, the world continues to expand in all the right ways, and the characters feel so real that you can't help but root for them.

And then...

THAT. ENDING.

The cliffhanger with Bonjo and Astra absolutely shattered me. I just stared at the last page wondering, "That's it?! You're really going to leave us hanging like this?!" 😭

This is one of those books that grabs you, refuses to let go, and then leaves you desperately counting the days until the next installment. If a book can make me laugh, stress, hope, and then scream at the final page... it deserves every single star.

David Gulasi, I need answers. Immediately.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Teazoon.
91 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 23, 2026
I’m incredibly grateful to have been given the arc of this novel and be able to get to read both 1041 and 1042 back to back.

This was a roller coaster I never wanted to end. This novel was unsettling (in a good way - if horror and gore is something you can handle I highly recommend this novel). I really enjoyed the infernal imagery of hell and the angelic connections alongside it. I can’t wait to see what Bonjo does next.

David does a phenomenal job at piecing together a collective narrative that is truly unseen in the horror genre. He is able to hook you into a story he’s able to hook you into a story that sticks with you days after you finish it.

This novel really reminds me of true crime podcasts and Criminal Minds tv show where they don’t leave out the gory details.

Again, check the trigger warnings before reading!

Thank you again for this opportunity to read 1042.
Profile Image for Steph.
61 reviews
July 2, 2026
This isn’t horror that whispers… it’s horror that grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go.

1042 by David Gulasi took everything I loved about the first book and turned the intensity up to eleven. The horror is brutal, the tension never lets up, and every chapter made me question who was making it out alive.

But what really sold me? The characters. They don’t just feel like people on a page—they feel like people you’re desperately rooting for, even when you know this story isn’t going to show anyone mercy.

If you love horror that balances relentless dread with unforgettable characters and moments that make you audibly say, “NO WAY,” put this at the top of your TBR.

This is the kind of sequel that doesn’t just live up to the first book… it makes you want to immediately start talking about it with someone else.
Profile Image for Logan .
217 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 24, 2026
Thanks to David for letting me check this out early!

Contrary to 1041, this one had the standard format for story telling and it felt less like a fever dream. There is still all the brutality you come to expect after reading 1041 but I felt one of the pov characters we got was used to ground the reader in some normalcy amidst all the chaos. And I thought that was very well done! A gluttonous amount of revolting scenes mixed with the chaotic nature of David Gulasi's hell, results in a book with a pace that is non stop. A few of the scenes brought me back to Dante's Divine Comedy which was really cool! I cant wait to see where this story goes from here.
Profile Image for Nick Babbitz.
35 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 27, 2026
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Once again David Gulasi delivers a deeply disturbing, gory and horrifying experience. This follow up to his horror novella 1041 takes things to a whole other level and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
Books don’t get much more unique than this and I question the author’s sanity and emotional well being that he is able to write a book like this 😂
As with 1041 definitely check your trigger warnings because Gulasi doesn’t hold back with gruesome violence and vividly disturbing imagery. If you are looking for your next heart racing and extremely unsettling horror read then 1042 is exactly what you need.
6 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 29, 2026
David, you need a doctor.

At first I thought I was lucky to receive an eARC of 1042. I thought, “1041 was a messed up fever dream, it can’t get any worse right?” I was proven wrong on the first page.

Jokes aside and in all seriousness, 1042 is an incredible continuation from 1041. 1041 made no sense until it did, while 1042 took us on more of a journey; the story let us see some more world building, interesting lore, and of course more of our favourite character, Bonjo. The ending was chefs kiss.

If you like a gory horror, with twists and turns, and mystery sprinkled throughout, this one’s for you.

Well done David! Can’t wait for the third!

Profile Image for Shawn McMichael.
Author 3 books9 followers
July 6, 2026
Haunting Rid through Hell

I loved 1041, so I had high hopes for 1042, and it absolutely didn’t disappoint. This book is a roller coaster straight through hell, and there are scenes in here that are probably going to haunt my dreams for awhile. I also really enjoyed getting more time with Bonjo, Astra, and AK. The deeper character development made me care about them even more, and I burned through the pages because I just couldn’t put it down.
David… seriously get help. 😂 But before you check yourself into an institution, please get 1043 written first. Unless, of course, being institutionalized gives you more time to write. Either way, I’ll be first in line to read it.
27 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 17, 2026
Woah! Ok so I finished 1042 today and I couldn't put it down. Like in any good horror there is gore, there are demons plenty of despair and sorrow. But what i didnt expIect was to get such an engaging story. 1042 delves into many horrible topics and delves into the real monsters that lurks in our everyday life. The last part of the story I felt like I was in a roller-coaster of horror and and twists and turns. I loved this story and the ending is one of the best endings I've read in awhile. I can't wait to read more.
Profile Image for Heather.
144 reviews
July 6, 2026
1042 by David Gulasi had me completely hooked from the very beginning. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, constantly wondering what was going to happen next. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, that ending completely blindsided me. The twist had my jaw on the floor, and I just sat there trying to process what I'd read.
This was an intense, suspense-filled ride that kept me turning pages, and now I'm counting down the days until I can see what comes next. If you love stories that keep you guessing and deliver a shocking payoff, this is one you don't want to miss.
Profile Image for Josh Fugate.
20 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 18, 2026
I received this as ARC read and let me tell you this book takes everything that made 1041 good and made it great! I loved how we got more worldbuilding while still keeping everything a mystery! Bonjo once again was the star of the show and his expanded role really made me love this even more. The ending was arguably the strongest part of the story with all the twists and turns! I cannot wait for the next book!
5 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 27, 2026
I read romance, historical fiction, a touch of fantasy, you know - cute stories with fluffy stuff and happy endings.
This is not it. But it got me hook, line and sinker.
I was still recovering from 1041 when I (cautiously) picked this one up, and - surprisingly - I have no regrets.
1042 has the same level of gore, but the storyline, world building and character development is so good!
I'm hanging out for 1043...
Profile Image for Sarah Hill.
10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 29, 2026
Wow. I liked 1041, but 1042 is so much better imo. Twists and turns, i never was able to call what was happening. I much preferred the pace and writing style of this one compared to the first book. It still conveyed the frantic, chaotic feeling of hell with an easier to follow pace. I cant wait to see what happens in 1043
Profile Image for Connor Everingham.
5 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2026
I sat down and read 1042 in one sitting.
while there is an extreme amount of gory scenes, the story shines through. Bonjo is fleshed out this time around, and astra makes for a great introduction as a new character.
Definitely check your trigger warners before reading, as there is some really heavy scenes in here.
Profile Image for Amanda Moreno.
57 reviews
July 5, 2026
Fun continuation of the series!

This was grossly fun. The story and plot are more complicated and a new character is introduced that adds so much depth and dilemma for the existing ones we were introduced to. I enjoyed this a lot. And loved some of the Easter eggs, like ones where the author referenced himself. Great installment!
136 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2026
What in the fucking LSD trip did I just read?
Imagine happy tree friends and every bad trip you ever had in college add a splash of “friendship????👀👀” and a dash of conflicting feelings mix it together then put a plot twist with a cliff hanger ontop and you get 1042. 😮‍💨
9 reviews
July 6, 2026
All I can say is WOW!
This book was everything I needed it to be!
If your someone that wants a book to keep you on your toes and full of messed up, this is the book to read
Profile Image for Nightshade .
10 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2026
A solid follow up to 1041. This books just as good as the first! Thoroughly enjoyed it! Look out this author is going to be a solid standout in the splatter punk genre!
Profile Image for Liz_Dolphin70_Reads.
338 reviews12 followers
July 24, 2026
Very entertaining and despicable horror book!! Loved 1041 so much, this one was good as well! Great new face in horror!
15 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
June 20, 2026
Just as fucked up as the first one, but there's an actual story this time. Book 1 just kinda happened TO us, but in 1042 we take a peak behind the curtain and get a glimpse of what's really going on. There's some great lore and mythology around Heaven/Hell, and the dual POVs give us a much more cohesive story.

Check your triggers. Watch out for the clown stuff. I can't wait to see how David ends this trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews