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Sunburn
When three friends go on holiday to Bulgaria, protecting themselves from sunburn is their only concern. But when they run into a beast unlike any they've ever imagined, it becomes a savage fight for survival. They will burn in the day... but the night holds even darker terrors in store.
A fast-paced, grisly, tongue-in-cheek retelling of a legend as old as time, by the author of The Evil And The Pure.
A fast-paced, grisly, tongue-in-cheek retelling of a legend as old as time, by the author of The Evil And The Pure.
412 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2015
158 people are currently reading
533 people want to read
About the author
Darren Dash
6 books323 followersDarren Dash was born in England in 1972, but has spent most of his life in Ireland, where he lives with his wife and son. In his day job, under a different name, he has sold over 25 million books worldwide, mainly in the YA market. But he feels much more at home in the nights of his adult worlds...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 30, 2015
I read Darren Dash's alter-ego ever since I was twelve. That's nearly a decade of dedication. When he moved into the adult horror genre and I was privileged to review The Evil And The Pure, I was so excited. When he contacted me to review his next book, Sunburn, I might have fangirled a little bit. Just a little!
I read Sunburn over three days, savoring each word, each scene. Not because I am biased by my longtime fandom, but because it was just that good.
Rarely in a horror novel does the reader get the chance to really get to know the characters like you do in Sunburn. You know every crevice of their souls, what they like and what they hate; what their hopes and dreams are; who they love. Usually, when a horror novel takes almost halfway through to get bloody, I lose interest. But the beginning isn't just fluffy filler, it's important. It's important that you get to know and love (or hate) the three main characters before the "creature" finds them.
Throughout the book, you get short chapters from the "creature's" POV, which is unique and extremely intriguing, making you want to read on and know just what this thing is, what it wants, and what it has to do with Martini, Newt and Curran.
I cannot go on enough about the book, how great it is and how entertaining. This is an author who knows his stuff, knows how to make the readers laugh, cry and scream in terror, whether he's writing for adults or teens.
To call this a must-read is an understatement!
I read Sunburn over three days, savoring each word, each scene. Not because I am biased by my longtime fandom, but because it was just that good.
Rarely in a horror novel does the reader get the chance to really get to know the characters like you do in Sunburn. You know every crevice of their souls, what they like and what they hate; what their hopes and dreams are; who they love. Usually, when a horror novel takes almost halfway through to get bloody, I lose interest. But the beginning isn't just fluffy filler, it's important. It's important that you get to know and love (or hate) the three main characters before the "creature" finds them.
Throughout the book, you get short chapters from the "creature's" POV, which is unique and extremely intriguing, making you want to read on and know just what this thing is, what it wants, and what it has to do with Martini, Newt and Curran.
I cannot go on enough about the book, how great it is and how entertaining. This is an author who knows his stuff, knows how to make the readers laugh, cry and scream in terror, whether he's writing for adults or teens.
To call this a must-read is an understatement!
January 4, 2022
A slow burner (😏) but the 2/3 of this book dedicated to setup and character development (which any Darren fan will know he’s excellent at) is totally required for you to give a shit when said shit hits the fan. And it does. In splendid, gruesome Darren fashion.
June 16, 2019
Beautiful blossoming
I normally don’t write reviews because I’m horrible at it but this book was just beautiful. Been a fan of Darren for 14 years when I first read his Darren Shan saga in the 8th grade. And his writing has changed for the better just like his characters in this book. Great descriptions of each character to the point where you almost know every bit of their soul then the story just blossoms to greatness. “Just on more page” turned into several chapters and me being sleepy in the morning from staying up too late reading. Great book for fans of the genre and author.
I normally don’t write reviews because I’m horrible at it but this book was just beautiful. Been a fan of Darren for 14 years when I first read his Darren Shan saga in the 8th grade. And his writing has changed for the better just like his characters in this book. Great descriptions of each character to the point where you almost know every bit of their soul then the story just blossoms to greatness. “Just on more page” turned into several chapters and me being sleepy in the morning from staying up too late reading. Great book for fans of the genre and author.
July 5, 2015
Sunburn
Wow! I just finished reading this and I must say I don't look forward to being out in the sun anytime soon! In a not to be forgotten vacation of a lifetime, unexpected things take place that will make you rethink that side trip next time you're in a small town in some faraway country! Locals don't always have the best of intentions and nightmares sometimes come true!
Wow! I just finished reading this and I must say I don't look forward to being out in the sun anytime soon! In a not to be forgotten vacation of a lifetime, unexpected things take place that will make you rethink that side trip next time you're in a small town in some faraway country! Locals don't always have the best of intentions and nightmares sometimes come true!
October 7, 2016
I'm a huge fan of Darren Shan, having read pretty much everything he's ever released, and I'm sure I've written it before, but it never ceases to amaze me just how imaginative he is. Unlike his previous Darren Dash book, The Evil and The Pure, Sunburn is a traditional, grisly monster story with a lot of twists and turns and a strong, fantastical horror theme. Yet however formulaic the basis is, the intricacies of the plot and details of the monster are truly unique.
I love Darren's very visual writing style and I always absolutely lap up the thorough descriptions of his monsters, building up pictures in my head and finding myself shivering at the scarier elements and grimacing at the more disgusting. Sunburn contained a particularly odd and well developed monster in my opinion, keeping me hooked and feeling the fear along with our protagonist.
I also thought the human characters were really well written. Whilst I didn't actually find any of them all that likeable, I got the feeling that was intentional and it didn't inhibit my enjoyment of the story or interest in their fate whatsoever. They felt perfectly real in their interactions with one another and suited the situation to a T.
I really liked the occasional glimpses of the monster's point of view that we got, as I felt that it helped to develop the creature beyond just a visually threatening thing, and heightened my intrigue as to how things would play out. I also thought this really helped with pacing, as much of the book is spent setting the scene and building tension, so these little snippets of action are expertly strategically placed to give your heart rate a little nudge where needed and remind you of the danger at hand.
I loved the fact that actual sunburn played such a pivotal role in the book, as it's such a human thing that it kept the story grounded in reality and made the fantasy element simultaneously stick out and somehow appear more believable. Also, sunburn is something we generally brush off as being a rather trivial concern, yet in this case it shaped the fate of the whole story and proved a deadly foe, which I felt added to the subtle tone of irony and black humour which ran through the book.
I was really pleased with the way things played out and found myself thoroughly entertained from start to finish. Another success for the master of horror.
I love Darren's very visual writing style and I always absolutely lap up the thorough descriptions of his monsters, building up pictures in my head and finding myself shivering at the scarier elements and grimacing at the more disgusting. Sunburn contained a particularly odd and well developed monster in my opinion, keeping me hooked and feeling the fear along with our protagonist.
I also thought the human characters were really well written. Whilst I didn't actually find any of them all that likeable, I got the feeling that was intentional and it didn't inhibit my enjoyment of the story or interest in their fate whatsoever. They felt perfectly real in their interactions with one another and suited the situation to a T.
I really liked the occasional glimpses of the monster's point of view that we got, as I felt that it helped to develop the creature beyond just a visually threatening thing, and heightened my intrigue as to how things would play out. I also thought this really helped with pacing, as much of the book is spent setting the scene and building tension, so these little snippets of action are expertly strategically placed to give your heart rate a little nudge where needed and remind you of the danger at hand.
I loved the fact that actual sunburn played such a pivotal role in the book, as it's such a human thing that it kept the story grounded in reality and made the fantasy element simultaneously stick out and somehow appear more believable. Also, sunburn is something we generally brush off as being a rather trivial concern, yet in this case it shaped the fate of the whole story and proved a deadly foe, which I felt added to the subtle tone of irony and black humour which ran through the book.
I was really pleased with the way things played out and found myself thoroughly entertained from start to finish. Another success for the master of horror.
May 12, 2015
The second book for adults from Darren Dash, better known as the master of young adult horror Darren Shan. This is on a more familiar territory than the first as it has a horror premise.
Two couples are heading to Bulgaria together for a holiday, Dominic and Martini (who planned it) and Curran and Liz. Curran's usual antics means Liz doesn't come so Martini finds herself facing a holiday trying to rein in her boyfriend from the bad influence of his best friend.
Gradually the tension builds until Dominic and Curran end up getting drunk in the middle of nowhere with some local teenagers. Soon Dominic finds himself in more danger than he can possibly imagine. I won't give too much away about the horror aspect but basically, it involves a yeti.
The fact I read this really quickly shows its quality. The first half is a great holiday-romp with the feel of something like the Inbetweeners, but with more rounded characters. The central trio are very well portrayed and you end up feeling like you know and like them, despite the fact they fall out all the time.
Then the second half is a fast-paced horror story which is gruesome and full of twists. There were several moments I didn't expect which forced me to keep reading.
My only issue was the sexual content. Frankly this could have been released under the Shan name were it not for this. The sex involving the main characters is ok because it makes sense that they would talk about and do sexual things. In fact it often feels odd in young adult books when characters don't mention sex. What I dislike is the sexual stuff involving the monster. Its a trend that many horror writers have, making horror creatures sexual in order to shock and disgust but very rarely does it feel necessary. I don't think it is particularly necessary here either.
A brilliant book with a Darren Shan feel but with more adult content. Super enjoyable!
Two couples are heading to Bulgaria together for a holiday, Dominic and Martini (who planned it) and Curran and Liz. Curran's usual antics means Liz doesn't come so Martini finds herself facing a holiday trying to rein in her boyfriend from the bad influence of his best friend.
Gradually the tension builds until Dominic and Curran end up getting drunk in the middle of nowhere with some local teenagers. Soon Dominic finds himself in more danger than he can possibly imagine. I won't give too much away about the horror aspect but basically, it involves a yeti.
The fact I read this really quickly shows its quality. The first half is a great holiday-romp with the feel of something like the Inbetweeners, but with more rounded characters. The central trio are very well portrayed and you end up feeling like you know and like them, despite the fact they fall out all the time.
Then the second half is a fast-paced horror story which is gruesome and full of twists. There were several moments I didn't expect which forced me to keep reading.
My only issue was the sexual content. Frankly this could have been released under the Shan name were it not for this. The sex involving the main characters is ok because it makes sense that they would talk about and do sexual things. In fact it often feels odd in young adult books when characters don't mention sex. What I dislike is the sexual stuff involving the monster. Its a trend that many horror writers have, making horror creatures sexual in order to shock and disgust but very rarely does it feel necessary. I don't think it is particularly necessary here either.
A brilliant book with a Darren Shan feel but with more adult content. Super enjoyable!
May 31, 2017
I found this book to be very disappointing.
I had such high hopes for this after reading The Evil And The Pure but this one just fell short for me. I couldn't get myself to care about the characters while simultaneously thinking that there was too much boring character life. Once the gore-y action that he is so well known for started, I still couldn't care for the humans. Dominic, Curran, and Martini had little to no redeeming qualities about them and all seemed a little too larger than life to even be believable. Though the monsters were described well and their thoughts and methods were interesting, I had trouble staying engaged when reading about the terrible things they did to the main characters. I hope that An Other Place will redeem Darren for me.
I had such high hopes for this after reading The Evil And The Pure but this one just fell short for me. I couldn't get myself to care about the characters while simultaneously thinking that there was too much boring character life. Once the gore-y action that he is so well known for started, I still couldn't care for the humans. Dominic, Curran, and Martini had little to no redeeming qualities about them and all seemed a little too larger than life to even be believable. Though the monsters were described well and their thoughts and methods were interesting, I had trouble staying engaged when reading about the terrible things they did to the main characters. I hope that An Other Place will redeem Darren for me.
December 27, 2016
The book was really entertaining. The only that troubled me was that the real action starts much later in the book. The first part of the book was dedicated to the characters entirely while giving small information about the beast from time too time. And the small problems among the characters(arguments, disagreement...), those nearly discouraged me. But once the confrontation with the monster, it became really interesting.
Perhaps the reason I didn't like the first part so much is because I'm hanging onto the world of children fiction like The Demonata or Zom-B series...where these adult problems didn't exist!
Or perhaps I'm shying away from the real world problems. Who knows?
Overall this book is really a good one and I enjoyed it nevertheless!
Perhaps the reason I didn't like the first part so much is because I'm hanging onto the world of children fiction like The Demonata or Zom-B series...where these adult problems didn't exist!
Or perhaps I'm shying away from the real world problems. Who knows?
Overall this book is really a good one and I enjoyed it nevertheless!
March 6, 2018
Unputdownable. I'm a huge fan of the author and this is one of the best books I have read of his. Believable characters,believable plot, and a book that held my attention and called to me when I had to do less important things like eat,sleep and go to work. A joy to read.
May 6, 2020
(Maybe more of a 3.5, but given how much I liked the second half I’ll put it at 4).
I’ve read almost all of Darren Shan, he was one of my favorite authors as a child/teen so I thought it was time to start reading some of his adult books!
Overall I did enjoy it, but I would definitely rate the first half of the book lower than the second half.
The beginning is kind of slow — there’s a lot of background to cover and explanation. We need to get to know the characters after all, but I found it a little tedious and slow. It took quite a while for anything to happen, and while it took a very long time before the monster and action appeared, the other things that happened were still interesting to me so I did like that.
The book is sectioned into six (6) parts; I think around part three (3) was when I started to really enjoy the book. I’m hesitant to say that everything up to that point was unnecessary, because I don’t believe that. I just think it might have been dragged out a little too much, but at the same time it did let us get to know the characters very well.
As for the characters, none of them was very likable, but I kind of liked them despite that too. Personally I think that made them more real to me, because while they weren’t likable, their flaws felt like what most people actually do think and do, we just try to hide it. On the other hand you never really knew when or if you wanted to root for them or not, but again, I personally kind of liked that, so it’s a preference thing.
We also got some insight from the monster too, and while I don’t usually like a change in the perspective, I did enjoy it in this one!
It wasn’t much we got to see, so I think that’s what made me enjoy it — in fact I found myself wanting to see a little more (which never really happens for me) so I think Dash did amazing with giving us just enough to making us wanting more!
For the plot it was indeed interesting, and very unique. Like I said, I liked the parts toward the end a lot more, mostly because more happened and the pacing changed.
I will say that I wished to see more of the ‘after’, but it also makes sense to end where it ended and then the readers can sort of decide what happened afterwards. Another preference thing, I guess.
Dash also delivered with the gore — as I expected. Once the horror and gore began, boy did it begin. It was horrible — but in a good way!
All in all I did enjoy the book! While it did take me quite a time to get through the first parts, once things started to happen it was so hard to put down!
It’s not my favorite, but I liked it, and would recommend it for those who like horror and gore — but I would also warn about the beginning being kind of slow, and that once you’ve gotten through that, it’s really good!
I’ve read almost all of Darren Shan, he was one of my favorite authors as a child/teen so I thought it was time to start reading some of his adult books!
Overall I did enjoy it, but I would definitely rate the first half of the book lower than the second half.
The beginning is kind of slow — there’s a lot of background to cover and explanation. We need to get to know the characters after all, but I found it a little tedious and slow. It took quite a while for anything to happen, and while it took a very long time before the monster and action appeared, the other things that happened were still interesting to me so I did like that.
The book is sectioned into six (6) parts; I think around part three (3) was when I started to really enjoy the book. I’m hesitant to say that everything up to that point was unnecessary, because I don’t believe that. I just think it might have been dragged out a little too much, but at the same time it did let us get to know the characters very well.
As for the characters, none of them was very likable, but I kind of liked them despite that too. Personally I think that made them more real to me, because while they weren’t likable, their flaws felt like what most people actually do think and do, we just try to hide it. On the other hand you never really knew when or if you wanted to root for them or not, but again, I personally kind of liked that, so it’s a preference thing.
We also got some insight from the monster too, and while I don’t usually like a change in the perspective, I did enjoy it in this one!
It wasn’t much we got to see, so I think that’s what made me enjoy it — in fact I found myself wanting to see a little more (which never really happens for me) so I think Dash did amazing with giving us just enough to making us wanting more!
For the plot it was indeed interesting, and very unique. Like I said, I liked the parts toward the end a lot more, mostly because more happened and the pacing changed.
I will say that I wished to see more of the ‘after’, but it also makes sense to end where it ended and then the readers can sort of decide what happened afterwards. Another preference thing, I guess.
Dash also delivered with the gore — as I expected. Once the horror and gore began, boy did it begin. It was horrible — but in a good way!
All in all I did enjoy the book! While it did take me quite a time to get through the first parts, once things started to happen it was so hard to put down!
It’s not my favorite, but I liked it, and would recommend it for those who like horror and gore — but I would also warn about the beginning being kind of slow, and that once you’ve gotten through that, it’s really good!
May 7, 2015
If you go down to the woods today...DON'T! Do something else, in a crowded area with a lot of people and a decent phone signal. Preferably in the shade!
The title is lovely and ambiguous, I didn't know what to expect when I started reading and so I don't want to say too much and give away the little gems that make up this book. Bulgaria seemed like an OK place to visit, there are seemingly some good historical sites...however now I've read this I'm not so sure. If you've seen any of the Hostel films, those were the sort of gritty vibes I got from this book. However unlike Hostel the terror takes on a much less human form.
This book was a grower for me but it grew a grew and I was glad for that. I guess in many ways, like the hostel films, they have a a lot of set up and then shizzle hits the fan...and then hits it again for good meausre!
Martini ( a name which really had to grow on me, even with it's explanation), Dom and Curran are very recognisable characters, and if you aren't personally like one (or in my case a little of all) of them, then you probably know someone like them. And this worked really well as they all had their places and it felt like you were the fourth man sat with them on their trip ( it also made me want to go on holiday) and so you could relate to them in different ways.
And then things started to get interesting.
I loved the monsters perspective, hearing (well reading) his voice as he hunted through the forest and then in contrast seeing him through Dominic's perspective. There was a cunning anaimalistic quality, but also an element of human nature which was nice as can be in a monster. There were just little touches that made him creepy, and he played up to the big bad monster don't mess with me role very well.
This book has Darren written all over it (and quite literally too!) An I think both old fans and new fans will enjoy it, especially if you're looking for something with a bit of horror in it....so grab a copy and let me know what you think!
The title is lovely and ambiguous, I didn't know what to expect when I started reading and so I don't want to say too much and give away the little gems that make up this book. Bulgaria seemed like an OK place to visit, there are seemingly some good historical sites...however now I've read this I'm not so sure. If you've seen any of the Hostel films, those were the sort of gritty vibes I got from this book. However unlike Hostel the terror takes on a much less human form.
This book was a grower for me but it grew a grew and I was glad for that. I guess in many ways, like the hostel films, they have a a lot of set up and then shizzle hits the fan...and then hits it again for good meausre!
Martini ( a name which really had to grow on me, even with it's explanation), Dom and Curran are very recognisable characters, and if you aren't personally like one (or in my case a little of all) of them, then you probably know someone like them. And this worked really well as they all had their places and it felt like you were the fourth man sat with them on their trip ( it also made me want to go on holiday) and so you could relate to them in different ways.
And then things started to get interesting.
I loved the monsters perspective, hearing (well reading) his voice as he hunted through the forest and then in contrast seeing him through Dominic's perspective. There was a cunning anaimalistic quality, but also an element of human nature which was nice as can be in a monster. There were just little touches that made him creepy, and he played up to the big bad monster don't mess with me role very well.
This book has Darren written all over it (and quite literally too!) An I think both old fans and new fans will enjoy it, especially if you're looking for something with a bit of horror in it....so grab a copy and let me know what you think!
May 19, 2015
Can i marry Darren's brain as disturbed as i think it might be.
This man could write anything and i would still read it and love it and im loving his adult stuff there's just no holding back. This man could write a food menu and i love it.
the synopsis.. is When three friends go on holiday to Bulgaria, protecting themselves from sunburn is their only concern. But when they run into a beast unlike any they've ever imagined, it becomes a savage fight for survival. They will burn in the day... but the night holds even darker terrors in store.
The first half of this book seemed like a nice contemporary where a group of friends go on holiday there's some drama between the group and then second half crap goes down i could not put this down i was hooked.
I love the characters he writes because they are all flawed and they seem real and its easier to form a connection so when something bad happens (which it always does) you feel for them and i adore that.
And the setting in another country i love that usually in books it tends to be the uk or america nope this is Bulgaria which gave it a new feel
Everyone says stephan king is the king of horror i disagree that honour has to go to Darren dash/ shan.
This man could write anything and i would still read it and love it and im loving his adult stuff there's just no holding back. This man could write a food menu and i love it.
the synopsis.. is When three friends go on holiday to Bulgaria, protecting themselves from sunburn is their only concern. But when they run into a beast unlike any they've ever imagined, it becomes a savage fight for survival. They will burn in the day... but the night holds even darker terrors in store.
The first half of this book seemed like a nice contemporary where a group of friends go on holiday there's some drama between the group and then second half crap goes down i could not put this down i was hooked.
I love the characters he writes because they are all flawed and they seem real and its easier to form a connection so when something bad happens (which it always does) you feel for them and i adore that.
And the setting in another country i love that usually in books it tends to be the uk or america nope this is Bulgaria which gave it a new feel
Everyone says stephan king is the king of horror i disagree that honour has to go to Darren dash/ shan.
May 18, 2015
I really don't know what to say about Sunburn. After the last Darren Dash book, I guess I had high hopes that this one would have a similarly large impact on me, leaving me shocked and yet grimly satisfied at the end. However, there was just something missing (or indeed, there was too much of something) for this to get anything more than 3 (maybe 3.5) stars from me.
All the things were there that characterise a Darren (whatever the surname may be) book for me: the crazy idea, wacky characters, snappy dialogue; the plot that keeps you flicking pages at breakneck speeds; the gruesome episodes that make you squirm and take a moment before you keep reading... and I think it was that last point that turned me off a teeny bit with this book (apart from that MS Paint cover - do something about it, Mr. D/S!).
I found that some of the gore and sex was a bit gratuitous at times. I call this change in the author's material 'I'm writing for adults now, hear me roar!', and I guess its success comes down to personal preference/tolerances, but it didn't quite sit right with me at times.
Aside from that though, I found Sunburn to be immensely enjoyable and thrilling until the end. Bring on the next Dash adventure!
All the things were there that characterise a Darren (whatever the surname may be) book for me: the crazy idea, wacky characters, snappy dialogue; the plot that keeps you flicking pages at breakneck speeds; the gruesome episodes that make you squirm and take a moment before you keep reading... and I think it was that last point that turned me off a teeny bit with this book (apart from that MS Paint cover - do something about it, Mr. D/S!).
I found that some of the gore and sex was a bit gratuitous at times. I call this change in the author's material 'I'm writing for adults now, hear me roar!', and I guess its success comes down to personal preference/tolerances, but it didn't quite sit right with me at times.
Aside from that though, I found Sunburn to be immensely enjoyable and thrilling until the end. Bring on the next Dash adventure!
August 24, 2018
This is a visceral, bloody adult horror from the master of children's horror, Darren Shan.
Martini plans a cultural trip to Bulgaria for herself, boyfriend Dominic, Dominic's friend Curran and girlfriend Liz. Tensions ate fraught early in the story when the holiday starts with only three members of the party.
Curran has more party than culture in mind for the trip and he influences Dominic ending in nightmarish circumstances.
The pain and horror are palpable in the novel and the location for most of the story is hit and isolated - the perfect setting for something gruesome to happen. I read Sunburn on holidays and I had no problem imagining every scene.
The story has terror and gore galore, but also has elements of hope and romance. I loved it.
Martini plans a cultural trip to Bulgaria for herself, boyfriend Dominic, Dominic's friend Curran and girlfriend Liz. Tensions ate fraught early in the story when the holiday starts with only three members of the party.
Curran has more party than culture in mind for the trip and he influences Dominic ending in nightmarish circumstances.
The pain and horror are palpable in the novel and the location for most of the story is hit and isolated - the perfect setting for something gruesome to happen. I read Sunburn on holidays and I had no problem imagining every scene.
The story has terror and gore galore, but also has elements of hope and romance. I loved it.
January 12, 2016
This book was amazing...
While you really get to know the characters in this story, humans and monster, it grips you!
You feel for them and you curse them and you feel for them again...
This story made me smile, made me mad and made me check under my bed...
It scared me and I wanted to finish it as soon as I could! Not to get it over with... But just to be sure if I had to keep a look out for the monster... Creeping in the woods!
Get ready for some real Darren Dash horror! If you are a fan! You'll love it!
Thanks for this amazing story!
While you really get to know the characters in this story, humans and monster, it grips you!
You feel for them and you curse them and you feel for them again...
This story made me smile, made me mad and made me check under my bed...
It scared me and I wanted to finish it as soon as I could! Not to get it over with... But just to be sure if I had to keep a look out for the monster... Creeping in the woods!
Get ready for some real Darren Dash horror! If you are a fan! You'll love it!
Thanks for this amazing story!
November 22, 2018
I've been reading the works of Darren Dash for many years, although up until now I'd only enjoyed the writings of his alter ego - Darren Dash is the adult pseudonym for Darren Shan, or perhaps Shan was the pseudonym? Hell, I don't know? Either way, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Sunburn contains his usual high standards of excellent character building, combined with toe curling visceral horror.
Maybe not the most original story line, but you can't beat good old fashioned monster horror. I'm a fan!
Warning: this is definitely not a book for young readers.
Maybe not the most original story line, but you can't beat good old fashioned monster horror. I'm a fan!
Warning: this is definitely not a book for young readers.
June 27, 2015
It was an immensely fantastic and enjoyable read, although the sex squicked me--there's just something about reading the words of your childhood hero talking about rape and "cornholes" that left me a little bewildered. That said--it was definitely a worthwhile read! Keep goin, Darren "Dash"!
December 30, 2015
Jawdropping!
I can honestly say that is his best book so far. I fell in love from the first page. I laughed, I cried, felt terrified and it was like I was actually there. A true master piece from the wonderful mind of Darren Dash/Shan .
I look forward to his next...
I can honestly say that is his best book so far. I fell in love from the first page. I laughed, I cried, felt terrified and it was like I was actually there. A true master piece from the wonderful mind of Darren Dash/Shan .
I look forward to his next...
August 8, 2017
I have read all of Darren Shan's books and they have all been fantastic. So this one was no exception. Based in Bulgaria, two young couples were supposed to go on holiday there but one dropped out. Interesting, funny and a bit creepy with some scares along the way. A must read.
October 10, 2016
crazy good, couldn't put it down!
May 7, 2018
I really liked this book even though it took me ages to read. Maybe it was a little slow at the start but it was a good read.
September 2, 2018
Scary
3 friends on a sightseeing holiday in Bulgaria encounter more than just the locals, good horror read in the style of the late great James Herbert.
3 friends on a sightseeing holiday in Bulgaria encounter more than just the locals, good horror read in the style of the late great James Herbert.
November 2, 2023
کتاب در حد داستان های آر ال استاین بود.
فکر میکنم میتونست توی ۲۰۰ صفحه جمع بشه و لازم نبود ۴۰۰ صفحه بهش پرداخته بشه. داستان در مورد سه تا کاراکتر اعصاب خورد کنه که با هم میرن سفر. هر کدوم از شخصیت ها میتونه ادم رو دیوونه کنه چه برسه به سه تاشون! و به کندی یه سری اتفاقات براشون میفته و یکم هپی اندینگ تموم میشه، توصیفات و افکار خسته کننده توش زیاده.
در مجموع به نظرم خیلی ضعیف بود در مقایسه با بقیه کتاب های دارن شان:(
فکر میکنم میتونست توی ۲۰۰ صفحه جمع بشه و لازم نبود ۴۰۰ صفحه بهش پرداخته بشه. داستان در مورد سه تا کاراکتر اعصاب خورد کنه که با هم میرن سفر. هر کدوم از شخصیت ها میتونه ادم رو دیوونه کنه چه برسه به سه تاشون! و به کندی یه سری اتفاقات براشون میفته و یکم هپی اندینگ تموم میشه، توصیفات و افکار خسته کننده توش زیاده.
در مجموع به نظرم خیلی ضعیف بود در مقایسه با بقیه کتاب های دارن شان:(
September 22, 2022
Probably 2.5 stars but closer to 2 than 3.
I have a signed letter from Darren Shan still in a frame somewhere at my dads house. So yeah I was a HUGE Darren Shan fan in my childhood so I thought I would give one of his books geared towards adults a try and was let down pretty hard. Maybe I’ll try another one to see if this was just a fluke but I don’t know lol.
I have a signed letter from Darren Shan still in a frame somewhere at my dads house. So yeah I was a HUGE Darren Shan fan in my childhood so I thought I would give one of his books geared towards adults a try and was let down pretty hard. Maybe I’ll try another one to see if this was just a fluke but I don’t know lol.
November 6, 2018
Few words of wisdom
Good read, but I think you should know that 99% of women do not get pregnant when they are having a period.
Good read, but I think you should know that 99% of women do not get pregnant when they are having a period.
July 29, 2015
Before I begin, I’d like to point out that I love Darren Shan’s (Dash) work. His demonata series helped me from my god awful days at school. They were an escape and made me feel better that there were people (I don’t care if they’re fiction) with bigger problems! Waaay bigger problems! Problems of demonic proportions! If you haven’t read the demonata series then I suggest it be the next series you read.
You know the saying; never judge a book by its cover but how can I not?! The book came to me all bent and is poorly pressed with the glue seeping out. It’s all too flimsy for my liking. Let’s not get started on the actual front cover design. The front is OK, mysterious but then why the goofy title font? To me it looks like snow and having read this book not a single snowflake is mentioned! There’s another thing, look closely at the back – yeah, someone had a fun time on paint. So I am going to have to deduct a star for the presentation. I think I’d feel better if the book didn’t cost me £10 - £12 p&p included.
With my little nit-pick over, does this path the way for a crap story?
Short answer - YES!
I admit it - I couldn't finish this book. It wasn't to my taste. The characters didn't grip me and we seemed to be going into this annoying loop. Girlfriend and Boyfriend fight due to the third wheel doing something stupid or the girlfriend getting into a strop because of the boyfriend following his best mate, this happens at least three times. There is no need for it. I had to give up. They're written poorly. There's no realism there. AND. SO. MANY. GOD. AWFUL. PUNS. The humour is so forced it makes me cringe every time. I stopped reading at 200 pages in the novel and yet, still no monster/character interaction. There are some snippets of the 'beast' but not much is given away.
I have to point out, Shan has never been the one to shy away from grotesque scenery. He’s like that uncle that always tries to gross you out, it works with teen books, but when it comes to adult books it just seems childish. He must think that the only difference between teen and adult fiction is the full on swearing and sex – there’s plenty of it.
In all, I may finish it when I've exhausted my reading list but other than that, to the shelf of despair for you!
If you want to read a monster novel done right, pick up one of James Herbert's works, now they are blooming brilliant!
You know the saying; never judge a book by its cover but how can I not?! The book came to me all bent and is poorly pressed with the glue seeping out. It’s all too flimsy for my liking. Let’s not get started on the actual front cover design. The front is OK, mysterious but then why the goofy title font? To me it looks like snow and having read this book not a single snowflake is mentioned! There’s another thing, look closely at the back – yeah, someone had a fun time on paint. So I am going to have to deduct a star for the presentation. I think I’d feel better if the book didn’t cost me £10 - £12 p&p included.
With my little nit-pick over, does this path the way for a crap story?
Short answer - YES!
I admit it - I couldn't finish this book. It wasn't to my taste. The characters didn't grip me and we seemed to be going into this annoying loop. Girlfriend and Boyfriend fight due to the third wheel doing something stupid or the girlfriend getting into a strop because of the boyfriend following his best mate, this happens at least three times. There is no need for it. I had to give up. They're written poorly. There's no realism there. AND. SO. MANY. GOD. AWFUL. PUNS. The humour is so forced it makes me cringe every time. I stopped reading at 200 pages in the novel and yet, still no monster/character interaction. There are some snippets of the 'beast' but not much is given away.
I have to point out, Shan has never been the one to shy away from grotesque scenery. He’s like that uncle that always tries to gross you out, it works with teen books, but when it comes to adult books it just seems childish. He must think that the only difference between teen and adult fiction is the full on swearing and sex – there’s plenty of it.
In all, I may finish it when I've exhausted my reading list but other than that, to the shelf of despair for you!
If you want to read a monster novel done right, pick up one of James Herbert's works, now they are blooming brilliant!
November 3, 2024
-Upgrading this book from 1 star to 3 stars on the second read should in no way be taken as an actual recommendation for anyone other than those in my book club.
-This book should only be read in the same spirit as watching a B horror movie that is so bad and the characters are so awful that somehow it ends up working its way into some level of affection and maybe one day to the level of a cult classic. Again, not because it is good, but because it is soooo bad.
-It takes 45% of the book for the titular sunburn to happen and then about 58% until you see a character actually meet a monster
-I did a “piss” tally and ended up at 49. And that isn’t even how many times the word “piss” is used, since I grouped together quotes if the entire paragraph was all talking about it. In one case it is the focus of an entire chapter.
-All of that being said, you will be horrified. If that is your sole motivation for reading a horror book, this will check that box. Gore, guts, piss (as mentioned above), pus, crusty monster penises, an 11 foot- tall rapey monster, and, or course, a second degree sunburn (maybe third) on over 90% of your body will bring horror and disgust.
-This book should only be read in the same spirit as watching a B horror movie that is so bad and the characters are so awful that somehow it ends up working its way into some level of affection and maybe one day to the level of a cult classic. Again, not because it is good, but because it is soooo bad.
-It takes 45% of the book for the titular sunburn to happen and then about 58% until you see a character actually meet a monster
-I did a “piss” tally and ended up at 49. And that isn’t even how many times the word “piss” is used, since I grouped together quotes if the entire paragraph was all talking about it. In one case it is the focus of an entire chapter.
-All of that being said, you will be horrified. If that is your sole motivation for reading a horror book, this will check that box. Gore, guts, piss (as mentioned above), pus, crusty monster penises, an 11 foot- tall rapey monster, and, or course, a second degree sunburn (maybe third) on over 90% of your body will bring horror and disgust.
March 13, 2019
Never again..
If you enjoy hearing about nearly every character's penis, knowing each time a character urinates and ridiculously stupid romance then this is an excellent choice. Otherwise it's pretty much a waste of time. I've never read anything by this writer and after this I sincerely doubt I will again. The characters are not likeable at all and the story drags on with so much fluff it's ridiculous. I don't need to know every detail of their day to day life. I don't care. Trying to give the monster human emotion felt a little silly to me as well. By the last couple of chapters I was skimming through because I was bored and sick of Dominic's stupid lamenting over the woman he should have left to die. The entire thing reminded me of one of those b horror movies. It's rare that I say I hate a book but I honestly hate this one.
If you enjoy hearing about nearly every character's penis, knowing each time a character urinates and ridiculously stupid romance then this is an excellent choice. Otherwise it's pretty much a waste of time. I've never read anything by this writer and after this I sincerely doubt I will again. The characters are not likeable at all and the story drags on with so much fluff it's ridiculous. I don't need to know every detail of their day to day life. I don't care. Trying to give the monster human emotion felt a little silly to me as well. By the last couple of chapters I was skimming through because I was bored and sick of Dominic's stupid lamenting over the woman he should have left to die. The entire thing reminded me of one of those b horror movies. It's rare that I say I hate a book but I honestly hate this one.
July 4, 2019
Werewolf Schmerewolf
The worst book that I have read in years. I scanned through the reviews, only to find that I hadn't written one! I was chuckling with giddy delight to read my review of this book, sadly, I only thought the words. Well, here are a few: silly, slow, vapid (yes), not frightening, boring, ridiculous characters you want to kill yourself, who cares?, come on Author!, and, inane.
The worst book that I have read in years. I scanned through the reviews, only to find that I hadn't written one! I was chuckling with giddy delight to read my review of this book, sadly, I only thought the words. Well, here are a few: silly, slow, vapid (yes), not frightening, boring, ridiculous characters you want to kill yourself, who cares?, come on Author!, and, inane.
May 21, 2022
I've been reading Darren shan since I was 14, im 26 now and he never stops to impress me with his writing. Sunburn was amazing! This is my first book of his that I read that was directed for adults and wow! The characters are so well written and the suspense is just phenomenal! I would recommend this book to anyone.
Thank you Darren shan!
Thank you Darren shan!
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