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Sledge vs. The Wendigo
Not yet published
Expected 31 Oct 26SLEDGE. "CONAN IN A TRENCH COAT." —Weird Tales
Modern-day gladiator, Einarr "Sledge" Laukkanen, is on a blood-soaked mission to annihilate a child-trafficking syndicate operating in the frozen wilds bordering rival nations. The Boundary Waters.
But the savage gang controlling these primal deadlands hides a darker truth. The Wendigo isn’t merely a mob boss . . . It’s an ancient malevolence that wears the flesh of men. The terrifying question is . . .
. . . who is IT wearing?
To hunt the monster, Sledge and Niimi—a Wendigo assassin as lethal as she is seductive—must carve their way up the Predator Chain. A deadly hierarchy of killers, each more cunning than the last. But as the slaughter takes its toll, Sledge is forced to confront the ultimate abyss:
If there is no God . . . and the soul is just a myth . . .
what separates a man with a hammer . . . from the monsters he bludgeons?
What begins as a rescue mission becomes a no-holds-barred fight for the survival of the human spirit. Grounded in the brutal laws of force, momentum, and energy, Sledge must discover the scientific reality of the soul before The Wendigo’s endless, entropic Hunger devours him . . . mind, body . . . and spirit.
"THE ULTIMATE ANTI-HERO." —Horror Reads
"THE NOIR ACTION-THRILLER’S ANSWER TO THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV." —Books & Biceps
"THE NEW ACTION ICON." —Punk Noir
Modern-day gladiator, Einarr "Sledge" Laukkanen, is on a blood-soaked mission to annihilate a child-trafficking syndicate operating in the frozen wilds bordering rival nations. The Boundary Waters.
But the savage gang controlling these primal deadlands hides a darker truth. The Wendigo isn’t merely a mob boss . . . It’s an ancient malevolence that wears the flesh of men. The terrifying question is . . .
. . . who is IT wearing?
To hunt the monster, Sledge and Niimi—a Wendigo assassin as lethal as she is seductive—must carve their way up the Predator Chain. A deadly hierarchy of killers, each more cunning than the last. But as the slaughter takes its toll, Sledge is forced to confront the ultimate abyss:
If there is no God . . . and the soul is just a myth . . .
what separates a man with a hammer . . . from the monsters he bludgeons?
What begins as a rescue mission becomes a no-holds-barred fight for the survival of the human spirit. Grounded in the brutal laws of force, momentum, and energy, Sledge must discover the scientific reality of the soul before The Wendigo’s endless, entropic Hunger devours him . . . mind, body . . . and spirit.
"THE ULTIMATE ANTI-HERO." —Horror Reads
"THE NOIR ACTION-THRILLER’S ANSWER TO THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV." —Books & Biceps
"THE NEW ACTION ICON." —Punk Noir
342 pages, Paperback
Expected publication October 31, 2026
About the author
Nick Horvath
2 books67 followersNick Horvath is the creator of SLEDGE: brutal anti-hero of the pulp action-horror SLEDGE-VERSE.
Raised in the frozen wilds of Minnesota, Nick studied Physics and English at Duke before embarking on a 12-year odyssey as a professional athlete. Towering at 6-foot-10, 240 pounds, Nick transformed himself from finesse player to bruising enforcer—a relentless grind that directly inspired his modern-day gladiator.
Currently operating out of New Zealand, he teaches physics and explores the violent collision between raw force and cosmic malevolence while plotting blood-soaked takedowns of shadowy syndicates.
He has not, to date, bludgeoned anyone to death with a hammer.
Raised in the frozen wilds of Minnesota, Nick studied Physics and English at Duke before embarking on a 12-year odyssey as a professional athlete. Towering at 6-foot-10, 240 pounds, Nick transformed himself from finesse player to bruising enforcer—a relentless grind that directly inspired his modern-day gladiator.
Currently operating out of New Zealand, he teaches physics and explores the violent collision between raw force and cosmic malevolence while plotting blood-soaked takedowns of shadowy syndicates.
He has not, to date, bludgeoned anyone to death with a hammer.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an absolute fucking blast.
I went into this expecting a quality follow-up to the already awesome Sledge vs the Labyrinth, but Horvath didn’t just meet my expectations — he completely blew them away. Everything that made the original so great is back, the action, the quips, the violence, the deadly situations, but it’s all been dialled up to eleven. Bigger, darker, nastier, more ambitious, more expansive.
There are some seriously gnarly moments along the way, especially that attempted scalping scene. And Sledge’s birth was every bit as hardcore as Conan the barbarian’s - iykyk.
Like that other iconic character, you know Sledge is going to crush his enemies. What you don’t know is HOW. Sledge’s ingenuity never fails to surprise me. Every time I found myself thinking, How the fuck is he going to get out of this one? The answer was something I hadn’t seen coming, but still made perfect sense, and left me grinning afterwards.
Speaking of the enemies, The Wendigo is a truly creepy and imposing threat that looms over the whole narrative, growing more so the closer Sledge gets, until they finally meet in an epic showdown that goes well beyond the physical realm. The Wendigo brings a dark horror element to the mix and although Horvath’s knack for shocking and disturbing has been demonstrated in The Labyrinth, its more potent here. I think if he ever felt the urge to switch genres, Horvath would write horror that would make Stephen King piss his pants.
During the hunt for the Wendigo there are so many opponents in Sledge’s way and this time they generally present a much greater challenge to our hero. This time we see Sledge battling physically and mentally and we get a much deeper insight into his backstory which pays off hugely later on.
I also really enjoyed the episodic feel of the book. There were sizeable chunks that worked almost as mini-stories, giving the whole thing the pace and momentum of a great TV series, like True Detective, but with the level of action and gore you’d get if it was directed by Paul Verhoven.
By the time I reached the final stretch, I was caught between desperately wanting to know what happened next and not wanting to leave the world behind.
Horvath has achieved in Wendigo what every sequel should aim for. He’s built on the foundation of the original and surpassed it in every measure. Can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
I went into this expecting a quality follow-up to the already awesome Sledge vs the Labyrinth, but Horvath didn’t just meet my expectations — he completely blew them away. Everything that made the original so great is back, the action, the quips, the violence, the deadly situations, but it’s all been dialled up to eleven. Bigger, darker, nastier, more ambitious, more expansive.
There are some seriously gnarly moments along the way, especially that attempted scalping scene. And Sledge’s birth was every bit as hardcore as Conan the barbarian’s - iykyk.
Like that other iconic character, you know Sledge is going to crush his enemies. What you don’t know is HOW. Sledge’s ingenuity never fails to surprise me. Every time I found myself thinking, How the fuck is he going to get out of this one? The answer was something I hadn’t seen coming, but still made perfect sense, and left me grinning afterwards.
Speaking of the enemies, The Wendigo is a truly creepy and imposing threat that looms over the whole narrative, growing more so the closer Sledge gets, until they finally meet in an epic showdown that goes well beyond the physical realm. The Wendigo brings a dark horror element to the mix and although Horvath’s knack for shocking and disturbing has been demonstrated in The Labyrinth, its more potent here. I think if he ever felt the urge to switch genres, Horvath would write horror that would make Stephen King piss his pants.
During the hunt for the Wendigo there are so many opponents in Sledge’s way and this time they generally present a much greater challenge to our hero. This time we see Sledge battling physically and mentally and we get a much deeper insight into his backstory which pays off hugely later on.
I also really enjoyed the episodic feel of the book. There were sizeable chunks that worked almost as mini-stories, giving the whole thing the pace and momentum of a great TV series, like True Detective, but with the level of action and gore you’d get if it was directed by Paul Verhoven.
By the time I reached the final stretch, I was caught between desperately wanting to know what happened next and not wanting to leave the world behind.
Horvath has achieved in Wendigo what every sequel should aim for. He’s built on the foundation of the original and surpassed it in every measure. Can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
August 22, 2026
I’m a brutal murdering bastard, no doubt about it, but I try my best to only kill cunts who deserve it.
Now THIS is how you write a sequel.
After Nick Horvath was kind enough to add me to his ARC team, I immediately broke my TBR to read the follow up to Sledge vs. The Labyrinth. Not only does Sledge vs. The Wendigo dial everything up a notch, but you’re also taken deeper into Sledge’s past and explore more of why he’s the hardcore killer that he is.
While not marketed as Progression Fantasy, the Sledge vs. series definitely has some of the same stylistic choices that make it feel similar to the genre and to video games. There’s no pit in Sledge vs. The Wendigo like in book one, but there are levels to his enemy, making it familiar territory. This allows the pacing to be extremely fast, but never to the point of losing the reader.
I love what Horvath has setup in the ‘Sledge vs.’ universe . Everything, from the brutal prose to the breakneck pacing, embodies what Sledge is at his core - an unrelenting hammer that will beat your face in until the very end. This book is extremely dark, it’s deeper than you would expect, and even beautiful at times. An absolute must read... if you can handle it.
92/100
5/5 stars
-
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Now THIS is how you write a sequel.
After Nick Horvath was kind enough to add me to his ARC team, I immediately broke my TBR to read the follow up to Sledge vs. The Labyrinth. Not only does Sledge vs. The Wendigo dial everything up a notch, but you’re also taken deeper into Sledge’s past and explore more of why he’s the hardcore killer that he is.
While not marketed as Progression Fantasy, the Sledge vs. series definitely has some of the same stylistic choices that make it feel similar to the genre and to video games. There’s no pit in Sledge vs. The Wendigo like in book one, but there are levels to his enemy, making it familiar territory. This allows the pacing to be extremely fast, but never to the point of losing the reader.
I love what Horvath has setup in the ‘Sledge vs.’ universe . Everything, from the brutal prose to the breakneck pacing, embodies what Sledge is at his core - an unrelenting hammer that will beat your face in until the very end. This book is extremely dark, it’s deeper than you would expect, and even beautiful at times. An absolute must read... if you can handle it.
92/100
5/5 stars
-
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This second outing of the phenomenon that is Sledge vs. is just as much fun as the first. It is also significantly darker and deeper, trafficking (pun intended) in some horribly lurid and unsettling fare and continuing the titular character’s penchant for getting to the diseased heart of the matter without minding his Ps and Qs. Prepare for an avalanche of highly creative ultra-violence, some extremely illuminating science, and a horrifying third act that’s sure to please and appall in equal measure. You have been warned.
Read
August 31, 2026You want a thriller book? This is the one....... Sledge is such an intimidating character. WARNING, DO NOT READ IF YOU AREN'T PREPARED FOR THE ULTIMATE READ OF YOUR LIFE!!!!!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sledge has returned and in brutal fashion. This isn’t just a sequel to “Sledge vs. The Labyrinth.” This is an evolution witnessed in real-time of story, world building, character, and talent. It’s methodical. It’s purposeful. It’s deeper than expected.
And it’s a banger!
Those familiar with the ultimate anti-hero created by author, Nick Horvath, have expectations for Sledge and the path of destruction he will inevitably endure. Rest assured, this journey is rife with threats that greatly exceed what Einarr Laukkanen has encountered prior to this thrilling entry, and with that, much more dire stakes. Naturally.
For starters, this is a take no prisoners narrative. Full-on no hold – and at times, no holes! – barred. Raw, and enough c*nts to make Guy Ritchie blush! Not for the sensitive of heart, mind, or faith. These elements will test you, as they test Sledge, who launches himself headfirst into a trafficking investigation with the Sledgiest of intentions… meaning, when that mighty hammer swings – and he swings it a lot along with a new addition to his arsenal – no prisoners are taken. It’s what Sledge does. It’s what we love about him, that a bad ass mofo goes after the baddest of mofos without mercy.
Like Labyrinth, Wendigo calls back to the inspirations that brought Sledge to life, such as a list of enemies with a video game-like ranking system, as each one he encounters varies from the last in their purpose and skillset, and level of threat they pose. You may be high on the Sledge bandwagon thinking, “no one opposes, Sledge.” But again, you’d be high, and he’s opposed at every turn by the most dangerous killers the Wendigo have to offer. There’d be no story if he weren’t. That’s the fun of it. The danger is constant…
As is the pacing, never letting up except for short, needed breathers, only to quickly test your endurance at the turn of a page. In general, Wendigo idles at 80 mph and ramps up to 120 in a flash when sh*t gets real. Be careful of paper cuts or flash burns from turning the pages so quickly. But if your Sledge enough, you won’t care if you catch a slice or burn along the way. You’ll barely notice… because it’s Sledge.
In terms of depth, Horvath takes us into the void to show us how Sledge has become more of what we already know him to be, and what we don’t. There’s background involved here that simply teases the totality of Sledge’s history, but it’s important to the evolution of the narrative. It’s also a display of Horvath’s own writing evolution, upping the ante so greatly that there is no doubt he has written a superior sequel in terms of story, prose, and skill. Both character and author become synonymous with change here. Leveling up. After all, what chance does a glass ceiling stand against a 7-foot monster with a 40 lb hammer? (It doesn't, obviously.)
Horvath takes Sledge to a place that’s maybe unexpected given the tales of the tank and how said tank operates. He exposes vulnerabilities that humanize the Leviathan. That show the tank has armor to protect what fragments of gushy hippy stuff that might still exist within him, if not ONLY for “God’s greatest creation.” It’s what gives him a reason to fight… to hunt… to kill. So often the big barbarian men of fiction and lore get overlooked for having a heart, depicted to being cold and merciless, though Sledge does all he can to ignore the former in this land of one-man armies. As I wrote in my own novel, A Dangerous Man, Sledge fits under the warning banner of, “Be wary of the hearts you trifle with. Some of the gentlest hearts belong to the most beastly of men.”
And those who trespass against this warning get what they deserve… the f*cking hammer.
And it’s a banger!
Those familiar with the ultimate anti-hero created by author, Nick Horvath, have expectations for Sledge and the path of destruction he will inevitably endure. Rest assured, this journey is rife with threats that greatly exceed what Einarr Laukkanen has encountered prior to this thrilling entry, and with that, much more dire stakes. Naturally.
For starters, this is a take no prisoners narrative. Full-on no hold – and at times, no holes! – barred. Raw, and enough c*nts to make Guy Ritchie blush! Not for the sensitive of heart, mind, or faith. These elements will test you, as they test Sledge, who launches himself headfirst into a trafficking investigation with the Sledgiest of intentions… meaning, when that mighty hammer swings – and he swings it a lot along with a new addition to his arsenal – no prisoners are taken. It’s what Sledge does. It’s what we love about him, that a bad ass mofo goes after the baddest of mofos without mercy.
Like Labyrinth, Wendigo calls back to the inspirations that brought Sledge to life, such as a list of enemies with a video game-like ranking system, as each one he encounters varies from the last in their purpose and skillset, and level of threat they pose. You may be high on the Sledge bandwagon thinking, “no one opposes, Sledge.” But again, you’d be high, and he’s opposed at every turn by the most dangerous killers the Wendigo have to offer. There’d be no story if he weren’t. That’s the fun of it. The danger is constant…
As is the pacing, never letting up except for short, needed breathers, only to quickly test your endurance at the turn of a page. In general, Wendigo idles at 80 mph and ramps up to 120 in a flash when sh*t gets real. Be careful of paper cuts or flash burns from turning the pages so quickly. But if your Sledge enough, you won’t care if you catch a slice or burn along the way. You’ll barely notice… because it’s Sledge.
In terms of depth, Horvath takes us into the void to show us how Sledge has become more of what we already know him to be, and what we don’t. There’s background involved here that simply teases the totality of Sledge’s history, but it’s important to the evolution of the narrative. It’s also a display of Horvath’s own writing evolution, upping the ante so greatly that there is no doubt he has written a superior sequel in terms of story, prose, and skill. Both character and author become synonymous with change here. Leveling up. After all, what chance does a glass ceiling stand against a 7-foot monster with a 40 lb hammer? (It doesn't, obviously.)
Horvath takes Sledge to a place that’s maybe unexpected given the tales of the tank and how said tank operates. He exposes vulnerabilities that humanize the Leviathan. That show the tank has armor to protect what fragments of gushy hippy stuff that might still exist within him, if not ONLY for “God’s greatest creation.” It’s what gives him a reason to fight… to hunt… to kill. So often the big barbarian men of fiction and lore get overlooked for having a heart, depicted to being cold and merciless, though Sledge does all he can to ignore the former in this land of one-man armies. As I wrote in my own novel, A Dangerous Man, Sledge fits under the warning banner of, “Be wary of the hearts you trifle with. Some of the gentlest hearts belong to the most beastly of men.”
And those who trespass against this warning get what they deserve… the f*cking hammer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy hell, Sledge is finally back and, I gotta say, this is not for the faint of heart. This is the second book in the Sledge series and if you thought the first one was like a brutal steel-toed boot to your sphincter, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Sledge is almost seven foot tall and 330 pounds of muscle and extremely bad intentions. He's killed over a thousand people and violence is his only religion. Yet he's the PROTAGANIST. because he only kills those who need killing. In this book, he's after a very dangerous, organized, and brutal clan of child sex traffickers. I think we can all agree that reading about these kinds of people being viscerally dispatched is cathartic. But Sledge doesn't need guns. He abhors them. His weapons of choice are microwave sized hardened fists and a forty pound sledgehammer which he wields with the ease as you would wield a baton.
This book is a gore filled, adventure drenched, relentless horror/thriller/action novel that will leave you out of breath. Short, sharp chapters are filled with bloody mayhem and enough twists and turns that would make most mystery authors jealous. Yet underneath all of the violence is a man who has a surprising sense of exactly who he is and hides his more humane side from everyone. This is why he's the ultimate anti-hero. He's not killing for the likes, he's killing because, in his own version of morality, these people need to be dead and nobody does it better than Sledge.
In this one, the themes are heavy and will make you flinch more than a few times. The Wendigo are a tightly knit group of Native American gangsters, more or less, with a reputation that means you don't want to mess with them or their business. But they also believe in the mythological creature called the Wendigo and this is going to make things even more gruesome as the book progresses. When Sledge finds out about some group kidnapping children and using them for vile purposes (you'll read all about that), he's not going to let that abide. The Dude abides but not these evil bastards! But, of course, it's not going to be easy and the body count is going to go through the roof. Things will get even more dire before it even begins to look better. You'll have to read to find out but PREPARE yourself because it's extremely brutal.
Sledge makes Jack Reacher look like Jack REACHAROUND. He makes Jason Bourne look like Jason BORING. He makes Conan the Barbarian look like Conan the BARBIE. I absolutely loved this book, as extremely violent and gory as it is, and I very highly recommend it.
I received and ARC of this boof from the author. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Sledge is almost seven foot tall and 330 pounds of muscle and extremely bad intentions. He's killed over a thousand people and violence is his only religion. Yet he's the PROTAGANIST. because he only kills those who need killing. In this book, he's after a very dangerous, organized, and brutal clan of child sex traffickers. I think we can all agree that reading about these kinds of people being viscerally dispatched is cathartic. But Sledge doesn't need guns. He abhors them. His weapons of choice are microwave sized hardened fists and a forty pound sledgehammer which he wields with the ease as you would wield a baton.
This book is a gore filled, adventure drenched, relentless horror/thriller/action novel that will leave you out of breath. Short, sharp chapters are filled with bloody mayhem and enough twists and turns that would make most mystery authors jealous. Yet underneath all of the violence is a man who has a surprising sense of exactly who he is and hides his more humane side from everyone. This is why he's the ultimate anti-hero. He's not killing for the likes, he's killing because, in his own version of morality, these people need to be dead and nobody does it better than Sledge.
In this one, the themes are heavy and will make you flinch more than a few times. The Wendigo are a tightly knit group of Native American gangsters, more or less, with a reputation that means you don't want to mess with them or their business. But they also believe in the mythological creature called the Wendigo and this is going to make things even more gruesome as the book progresses. When Sledge finds out about some group kidnapping children and using them for vile purposes (you'll read all about that), he's not going to let that abide. The Dude abides but not these evil bastards! But, of course, it's not going to be easy and the body count is going to go through the roof. Things will get even more dire before it even begins to look better. You'll have to read to find out but PREPARE yourself because it's extremely brutal.
Sledge makes Jack Reacher look like Jack REACHAROUND. He makes Jason Bourne look like Jason BORING. He makes Conan the Barbarian look like Conan the BARBIE. I absolutely loved this book, as extremely violent and gory as it is, and I very highly recommend it.
I received and ARC of this boof from the author. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sledge is back bigger and badder than ever! with a cast of vivid characters and spine tingling enemies, if you thought he had to go through some shit in the last book, you have no idea what’s in store for him in this one!
Disgusting, vile, horrific, disturbing and triggering AF, at the same time clever, surprising and even moved me to tears in a few places.
This book takes you on a journey you might not be ready to go on, and one you definitely won’t expect.
The book itself is a journey. The way it’s written mirrors the themes it presents, and from living with the author, I saw how the writing style also mirrors his personal quest writing it.
This book moves in the opposite way to the first one, Sledge starts at the bottom depths in the pit of heaviness and gross matter and battles his way through to the literal top of a monolith where matter disappears and only ideas live.
It moves from the depths of heavy to light in a brilliant way and takes you on a surprising little trek through the soul, just when you thought Sledge didn’t have one!
Ain’t gonna lie if you’re a bit of a wimp like me you have to fight through some of those early chapters, heavy with violence, disturbing themes and brutal (even more disturbing) carnage, alongside the usual Horvath style of added technical information only an expert could know, interesting physics lessons, and of course Sledges wit that always manages to keep things light, but the payoff pays off like a fine wine with a perfect food match.
Reading this book is not like eating a perfectly balanced meal though. Actually more like gorging yourself into a food coma but then somehow you can still eat desert, and the desert at the end of this book is so divine that it somehow takes away your fullness and leaves you feeling perfectly satisfied.
It will trigger and shock you and there should definitely be a warning on it, but it will surprise you in a way you didn’t expect and I loved it. Nick is a brilliant writer and it shines through again. Proud as hell of you babe, you fucking did it! Again!
Disgusting, vile, horrific, disturbing and triggering AF, at the same time clever, surprising and even moved me to tears in a few places.
This book takes you on a journey you might not be ready to go on, and one you definitely won’t expect.
The book itself is a journey. The way it’s written mirrors the themes it presents, and from living with the author, I saw how the writing style also mirrors his personal quest writing it.
This book moves in the opposite way to the first one, Sledge starts at the bottom depths in the pit of heaviness and gross matter and battles his way through to the literal top of a monolith where matter disappears and only ideas live.
It moves from the depths of heavy to light in a brilliant way and takes you on a surprising little trek through the soul, just when you thought Sledge didn’t have one!
Ain’t gonna lie if you’re a bit of a wimp like me you have to fight through some of those early chapters, heavy with violence, disturbing themes and brutal (even more disturbing) carnage, alongside the usual Horvath style of added technical information only an expert could know, interesting physics lessons, and of course Sledges wit that always manages to keep things light, but the payoff pays off like a fine wine with a perfect food match.
Reading this book is not like eating a perfectly balanced meal though. Actually more like gorging yourself into a food coma but then somehow you can still eat desert, and the desert at the end of this book is so divine that it somehow takes away your fullness and leaves you feeling perfectly satisfied.
It will trigger and shock you and there should definitely be a warning on it, but it will surprise you in a way you didn’t expect and I loved it. Nick is a brilliant writer and it shines through again. Proud as hell of you babe, you fucking did it! Again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was privileged to receive an advance copy of Sledge vs. The Wendigo from the author in exchange for an honest review, and that's what this is.
I previously read and enjoyed Sledge vs. The Labyrinth, which is a terrific, fast-paced, and well-written thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat and features all the over-the-top badassery you could ever expect in a book about a sensitive man-monster antihero encountering formidable evil adversaries in intriguing settings. This second foray into the world (and mind) of Sledge says "Not so fast, my friend!" and lifts the reader to a whole new level of immersive, mindblowing Experience (with a capital 'E').
By the time I finished this book and discovered the secret of Wendigo, I feft like I'd been blasted into oblivion and reconfigured into something that appears to be the same, but is fundamentally different at a subatomic level.
In other words, I've been SLEDGED!!!
Yes, Horvath once again takes you to levels of violence and mayhem that you'd never want to be a part of in real life, and Sledge once again shows you why he is the ultimate badass. But the Sledge books are more than mere splatter-porn. I loved the skillful way Horvath used his academic background in physics, along with some seriously awesome writing chops, to set up and twist the final confrontation and bring Sledge to his touchstone moment. It truly worked!
Highly recommended for fans of action thrillers, but my recommendation comes with a caution. This book is EXTREMELY violent, and it WILL upset readers who are sensitive to that sort of thing. If you are triggered by ANYTHING AT ALL, I advise you to read something else. But if you're up to the challenge you'll definitely want to dive into the deep end--and get yourself SLEDGED!
I previously read and enjoyed Sledge vs. The Labyrinth, which is a terrific, fast-paced, and well-written thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat and features all the over-the-top badassery you could ever expect in a book about a sensitive man-monster antihero encountering formidable evil adversaries in intriguing settings. This second foray into the world (and mind) of Sledge says "Not so fast, my friend!" and lifts the reader to a whole new level of immersive, mindblowing Experience (with a capital 'E').
By the time I finished this book and discovered the secret of Wendigo, I feft like I'd been blasted into oblivion and reconfigured into something that appears to be the same, but is fundamentally different at a subatomic level.
In other words, I've been SLEDGED!!!
Yes, Horvath once again takes you to levels of violence and mayhem that you'd never want to be a part of in real life, and Sledge once again shows you why he is the ultimate badass. But the Sledge books are more than mere splatter-porn. I loved the skillful way Horvath used his academic background in physics, along with some seriously awesome writing chops, to set up and twist the final confrontation and bring Sledge to his touchstone moment. It truly worked!
Highly recommended for fans of action thrillers, but my recommendation comes with a caution. This book is EXTREMELY violent, and it WILL upset readers who are sensitive to that sort of thing. If you are triggered by ANYTHING AT ALL, I advise you to read something else. But if you're up to the challenge you'll definitely want to dive into the deep end--and get yourself SLEDGED!
Review of advance copy received from Author
SLEDGE. IS. BACK.
Wow.
Okay, to summarize what I just experienced: This book has three main sequences. The first reads like a ridiculous (and by ridiculous I mean wildly awesome) video game. Brutal foes and twists and challenges that our boy Sledge finds the craziest ways to beat before the next one pounds him into the dirt. And that tank just never stops grinding. It's glorious.
Then comes the slightest pause for breath and a twist that reframes it all and suddenly I couldn't put the book down. Finished the rest in one sitting. Had to know what would happen.
And the final sequence is basically an acid trip in book form. So if you're against hard drugs, don't read this book, because shrooms have nothing on Sledge Laukkanen. Didn't see that coming, and not sure how I feel about it. I'll let you know once the hangover passes... Talk about a sledgehammer to the back of the head!
Update (30 seconds later): It very much works. The ending is sublime and such great payoff for the journey. Really well done.
Final note: Sledge vs. The Wendigo is not for everyone, so go in appropriately braced. SA is a constant and frequently shown/revisited theme. This book goes a lot darker than the first, so brace for more than just book one's brutal violence (which this one gives a run for its money, as a Sledge story must, never fear).
That one point aside, oh my does this book deliver, and hits with some heavy emotional gut punches by the end that I didn't see coming. Seems Sledge has some serious depth beneath those terrifying muscles after all, and I'm here for it.
Easy 5 stars.
Skol, and here's to the grind!
Wow.
Okay, to summarize what I just experienced: This book has three main sequences. The first reads like a ridiculous (and by ridiculous I mean wildly awesome) video game. Brutal foes and twists and challenges that our boy Sledge finds the craziest ways to beat before the next one pounds him into the dirt. And that tank just never stops grinding. It's glorious.
Then comes the slightest pause for breath and a twist that reframes it all and suddenly I couldn't put the book down. Finished the rest in one sitting. Had to know what would happen.
And the final sequence is basically an acid trip in book form. So if you're against hard drugs, don't read this book, because shrooms have nothing on Sledge Laukkanen. Didn't see that coming, and not sure how I feel about it. I'll let you know once the hangover passes... Talk about a sledgehammer to the back of the head!
Update (30 seconds later): It very much works. The ending is sublime and such great payoff for the journey. Really well done.
Final note: Sledge vs. The Wendigo is not for everyone, so go in appropriately braced. SA is a constant and frequently shown/revisited theme. This book goes a lot darker than the first, so brace for more than just book one's brutal violence (which this one gives a run for its money, as a Sledge story must, never fear).
That one point aside, oh my does this book deliver, and hits with some heavy emotional gut punches by the end that I didn't see coming. Seems Sledge has some serious depth beneath those terrifying muscles after all, and I'm here for it.
Easy 5 stars.
Skol, and here's to the grind!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sledge returns with unrelenting brutality and a frosty shot of venom delivered straight to the heart, mind, and soul.
When I first read book one in 2024, it instantly became not only one of my favourite indie reads, but an all time book that will always hold a place on my shelves. I didn't know how Nick would top himself with a sequel, yet surely enough he's done it.
This book has it all. Brutal action, snappy dialogue, grim humour, profanity galore, lightning pacing, a distinctly awesome setting, hallucinations and even dabbles in cosmic horror, not to mention stellar character work. Sledge's journey in the latter half was unexpected, but since finishing has become my favourite part and I can't wait to see where and how he handles his next adventure.
This is undoubtedly darker than the first book and delves into the coldest depths of humanity's depraved nature, so be warned ye of the faint heart, yet there are also some profound moments of fellowship, love and internal awakening that acts as the perfect balance.
With an endless supply of bloated and trite slop, Sledge smashes you square in the face with his sledgehammer, leaving you dizzy, bloody and gasping for more. Move aside Reacher, there's a bigger wolf in town and he's here to feast for a long, long time.
When I first read book one in 2024, it instantly became not only one of my favourite indie reads, but an all time book that will always hold a place on my shelves. I didn't know how Nick would top himself with a sequel, yet surely enough he's done it.
This book has it all. Brutal action, snappy dialogue, grim humour, profanity galore, lightning pacing, a distinctly awesome setting, hallucinations and even dabbles in cosmic horror, not to mention stellar character work. Sledge's journey in the latter half was unexpected, but since finishing has become my favourite part and I can't wait to see where and how he handles his next adventure.
This is undoubtedly darker than the first book and delves into the coldest depths of humanity's depraved nature, so be warned ye of the faint heart, yet there are also some profound moments of fellowship, love and internal awakening that acts as the perfect balance.
With an endless supply of bloated and trite slop, Sledge smashes you square in the face with his sledgehammer, leaving you dizzy, bloody and gasping for more. Move aside Reacher, there's a bigger wolf in town and he's here to feast for a long, long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this novel, kindly provided by the author.
The follow up to Sledge versus The Labyrinth is bigger, bolder, and a lot nastier than its predecessor. The ante has been upped on every level, with non-stop action, crushing fight scenes and a momentum that doesn't let up from start to finish.
It starts off with Sledge doing what he does best - smashing the skulls of scumbags. However, things aren't quite what they appear, and Sledge is thrown into different quest, taking on a vicious criminal gang involved in the most heinous of crimes.
Sledge versus The Wendigo keeps the "levels" feel of the first novel, as Sledge fights his way through the hierarchy of the gang, facing different enemies with different skill-sets and strengths, eventually squaring up against the final boss at the top. And it's in that final battle that the book gets really interesting, moving from action thriller into cosmic horror.
Full-bore action with plenty of twists and turns and a nice insight into the man behind the hammer, this is an excellent entry into what I hope will be a long-running series. Highly recommended.
The follow up to Sledge versus The Labyrinth is bigger, bolder, and a lot nastier than its predecessor. The ante has been upped on every level, with non-stop action, crushing fight scenes and a momentum that doesn't let up from start to finish.
It starts off with Sledge doing what he does best - smashing the skulls of scumbags. However, things aren't quite what they appear, and Sledge is thrown into different quest, taking on a vicious criminal gang involved in the most heinous of crimes.
Sledge versus The Wendigo keeps the "levels" feel of the first novel, as Sledge fights his way through the hierarchy of the gang, facing different enemies with different skill-sets and strengths, eventually squaring up against the final boss at the top. And it's in that final battle that the book gets really interesting, moving from action thriller into cosmic horror.
Full-bore action with plenty of twists and turns and a nice insight into the man behind the hammer, this is an excellent entry into what I hope will be a long-running series. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sledge is back! Sledge vs The Wendigo throws you immediately back into the action as Sledge hunts his way through the frozen boundary waters, fighting his way through a slew of terrifying characters. Sledge finds himself in more hopeless situations than the first book, the fights are more brutal and the story is even darker. Every scene is somehow more epic than the last, every villain more evil and intimidating. The story takes a surprising, almost spiritual twist at the end but it works, even with Sledge's hard boiled world view.
Fast paced, exciting, and punctuated with dry humor, this is great book to binge. There's also a recommended song to listen to along with each chapter which makes the reading experience more immersive.
I've already read it twice and can't recommend it enough!
Fast paced, exciting, and punctuated with dry humor, this is great book to binge. There's also a recommended song to listen to along with each chapter which makes the reading experience more immersive.
I've already read it twice and can't recommend it enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We knew the second book in the Sledge universe was going to be a banger, so I wasn't surprised that I loved it.
There's something freeing about reading a seemingly relentless book that is packed with underlying emotion throughout. A badass is a badass, but a badass also has feelings.
This book tackles some incredibly dark subjects, so be warned. It's not for the weak of heart.
Strap yourself in, grab a weapon and a strong drink and get to reading this book.
There's something freeing about reading a seemingly relentless book that is packed with underlying emotion throughout. A badass is a badass, but a badass also has feelings.
This book tackles some incredibly dark subjects, so be warned. It's not for the weak of heart.
Strap yourself in, grab a weapon and a strong drink and get to reading this book.
August 31, 2026
It just keeps getting better with Mr Horvath, I don't know how he does it
He just has such an attention to detail and such an imagination.
Awesome.
He just has such an attention to detail and such an imagination.
Awesome.
Review of advance copy
Peak
Review of advance copy
Loved this book, good for anyone interested in action packed adventures
September 1, 2026
The way that he brings his characters to life is awe-inspiring. And the detail is beautiful.
Read
September 1, 2026Who wants a thriller? This is ya book, 100% worth it. If you like horror or a awesome character who takes absolutely no crap from anyone......... this is your book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Evil is what’s left when trauma murders empathy
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