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Nightmareland Chronicles #1-6
Nightmareland: Volumes 1-6
"The Nightmareland Chronicles honestly transcends genre, it is just raw human storytelling at its very best." -Grimdark Magazine
ILLUSTRATED OMNIBUS EDITION.
AVAILABLE ON NETGALLEY.
"I need you. My son needs you. Oh ... but I'm tired, Daddy. Come and wake me."
Tomorrow died on the last morning of May, but the dark was only the beginning. For countless millions, thrust into a sunless world plagued by madness and monsters, the end was already near. Some chose the comfort of their screens. Others shut the blinds and squeezed their families, oblivious to the unspeakable fate that soon awaited them.
For a few, though, the night meant something new, something unknown.
For thirty-going-on-forgotten Mariah Nowak, burdened by an unwanted pregnancy and a lifetime of tiny, accumulating regrets, it is a chance to cast off the shackles of her small mountain community and the rustic dive bar where she has toiled for too little and too long.
For deaf thirteen-year-old Marcos Walker, caretaker to a forsakened Nevadan town, it is a horrifying responsibility and a pair of unanswerable questions: what became of his mother when the sun stopped shining, and what will he do next?
And for hard old John Hawthorne, holding secrets deeply buried, it is his daughter's beckoning voice on the answering machine and a debt waiting to be paid.
Together with Mariah, his onetime lover, and the orphaned but resilient Marcos, John will embark on a journey spanning a profoundly transformed America; across the haunted, firelit expanse of Death Valley, through towns full of the sleeping and the dead, down lonely country backroads and dark magic city streets flowing with blood, toward his brother's secluded cabin in the Wyoming Range and far beyond, he will go to his daughter in her blue house by the Atlantic Ocean.
He will knock on her door.
He will answer her call.
More than a thrilling horror-fantasy epic, Daniel Barnett's Nightmareland Chronicles is an odyssey of startling beauty and hope, a great and terrible adventure across the darkened continent of the human heart.
Includes 6 original black-and-white illustrations by Leslé Kieu and Vol. 1-6 Nightmareland cover artwork by British Fantasy Award-winning artist Daniele Serra.
ILLUSTRATED OMNIBUS EDITION.
AVAILABLE ON NETGALLEY.
"I need you. My son needs you. Oh ... but I'm tired, Daddy. Come and wake me."
Tomorrow died on the last morning of May, but the dark was only the beginning. For countless millions, thrust into a sunless world plagued by madness and monsters, the end was already near. Some chose the comfort of their screens. Others shut the blinds and squeezed their families, oblivious to the unspeakable fate that soon awaited them.
For a few, though, the night meant something new, something unknown.
For thirty-going-on-forgotten Mariah Nowak, burdened by an unwanted pregnancy and a lifetime of tiny, accumulating regrets, it is a chance to cast off the shackles of her small mountain community and the rustic dive bar where she has toiled for too little and too long.
For deaf thirteen-year-old Marcos Walker, caretaker to a forsakened Nevadan town, it is a horrifying responsibility and a pair of unanswerable questions: what became of his mother when the sun stopped shining, and what will he do next?
And for hard old John Hawthorne, holding secrets deeply buried, it is his daughter's beckoning voice on the answering machine and a debt waiting to be paid.
Together with Mariah, his onetime lover, and the orphaned but resilient Marcos, John will embark on a journey spanning a profoundly transformed America; across the haunted, firelit expanse of Death Valley, through towns full of the sleeping and the dead, down lonely country backroads and dark magic city streets flowing with blood, toward his brother's secluded cabin in the Wyoming Range and far beyond, he will go to his daughter in her blue house by the Atlantic Ocean.
He will knock on her door.
He will answer her call.
More than a thrilling horror-fantasy epic, Daniel Barnett's Nightmareland Chronicles is an odyssey of startling beauty and hope, a great and terrible adventure across the darkened continent of the human heart.
Includes 6 original black-and-white illustrations by Leslé Kieu and Vol. 1-6 Nightmareland cover artwork by British Fantasy Award-winning artist Daniele Serra.
1105 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Daniel Barnett
16 books301 followersDaniel Barnett lives in Portland, Oregon and is a lover of stories--especially ones where things go bump in the night. His work has appeared in Crowded Magazine, and his short story The Sadie Hawkins placed in the top 6 for the 2015 Aeon Award. When he isn't writing or reading, he's discussing fiction with others. Whether they want to or not.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 9, 2026
6 stars...5 isn't nearly enough.
Full RTC once I get ahold of myself.
Ok now that I've had time to come back to the real world...
I would give this series a 6 star if I could. It's that good.
Daniel is a terrific author and his clear strength is his dedication to incredible characters.
In this 6 book original series omnibus featuring John, Mariah and Marcos, we go on a journey that will change us as readers. I'm still thinking about some of the characters and nightmares.
It's not an original plot...kind of dystopian, end of the world but that's where the similarity to any other book ends. This is a unique take, a deep dive into the psyche of humans when all they know has changed and monsters are real. The sense of dread throughout each chapter builds and builds and never really lets go. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the reading time I spent with these characters. I was rooting for them and terrified for them all at once.
There are no happy endings here so don't wish for them and certainly don't dream it. I cannot wait for book 7 and beyond because this story IS NOT OVER!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Daniel Barrett for the gift of this series. My thoughts are my own.
Full RTC once I get ahold of myself.
Ok now that I've had time to come back to the real world...
I would give this series a 6 star if I could. It's that good.
Daniel is a terrific author and his clear strength is his dedication to incredible characters.
In this 6 book original series omnibus featuring John, Mariah and Marcos, we go on a journey that will change us as readers. I'm still thinking about some of the characters and nightmares.
It's not an original plot...kind of dystopian, end of the world but that's where the similarity to any other book ends. This is a unique take, a deep dive into the psyche of humans when all they know has changed and monsters are real. The sense of dread throughout each chapter builds and builds and never really lets go. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the reading time I spent with these characters. I was rooting for them and terrified for them all at once.
There are no happy endings here so don't wish for them and certainly don't dream it. I cannot wait for book 7 and beyond because this story IS NOT OVER!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Daniel Barrett for the gift of this series. My thoughts are my own.
September 2, 2026
Full video review here (available 9/28/26): https://youtu.be/ZgduMnMAO7E
I received an eARC via NetGalley.
This was a reread for me, but I couldn't wait to get my hands on this new illustrated edition! I loved the Nightmareland Chronicles the first time through, and this series has remained a special series to me, but rereading actually made me love this even more!
I usually describe Nightmareland as an atmospheric horror story, and while that's accurate, I feel the need to really stress that on a much deeper level it's an incredibly human story that focuses deeply on the characters that are trying to survive in the titular Nightmareland. Taking out all of the horror and supernatural elements, there's so much here to tell in the tragic lives both before and after Nightfall for these characters. While seeing the literal horrors come to life, the reader is reminded that the true horrors live inside of people, and that we may have some inside of us as well.
This series is incredibly engaging, deeply moving, and absolutely crushing throughout. This is the kind of series that even if you don't care much for horror, you can still fall in love with it just like I did.
I received an eARC via NetGalley.
This was a reread for me, but I couldn't wait to get my hands on this new illustrated edition! I loved the Nightmareland Chronicles the first time through, and this series has remained a special series to me, but rereading actually made me love this even more!
I usually describe Nightmareland as an atmospheric horror story, and while that's accurate, I feel the need to really stress that on a much deeper level it's an incredibly human story that focuses deeply on the characters that are trying to survive in the titular Nightmareland. Taking out all of the horror and supernatural elements, there's so much here to tell in the tragic lives both before and after Nightfall for these characters. While seeing the literal horrors come to life, the reader is reminded that the true horrors live inside of people, and that we may have some inside of us as well.
This series is incredibly engaging, deeply moving, and absolutely crushing throughout. This is the kind of series that even if you don't care much for horror, you can still fall in love with it just like I did.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This series has to be my favorite horror books I have ever read. the prose is fluent and beautiful. its so well written it hooked me on page one and it didnt let go the entire time. some of the scariest and clever stuff ever. Daniel Barnett has cemented himself as a favorite author for me and I cant wait for the upcoming books in this series. I am waiting with bated breath.
August 29, 2026
NIGHTMARELAND should come with a blanket that you can squeeze when you are tense, cuddle when you are cold, clean your face to remove splatter, and wipe your eyes when things get real.
This is a book of such darkness that it demands to be savored. It is absolutely bleak with tense unsettling imagery and raw emotions, yet contains lines that can’t help but feel hopeful.
The main character, John, reminded me of Roland from The Dark Tower with his stoicism and drive. Just thinking about the characters, John, Mariah, Marcos, Marshall, and Issac makes me want to start the whole thing all over again.
So what is it about apocalyptic scenarios that makes them so intriguing? Is it the challenge presented? Is it wondering how we would handle the situation if we were there? The Road, The Stand, Swan Song, …and now Nightmareland. Epic tales of survival against nature and horror, constantly at battle with you, never knowing whether it will be a demon or a splinter that takes your life. Where boredom and complacency could be your greatest enemy. Could you press on? Are you the hero in your story?
P.S.- I was so excited to learn the Daniele Serra is going to be doing the covers for next books in the series
This is a book of such darkness that it demands to be savored. It is absolutely bleak with tense unsettling imagery and raw emotions, yet contains lines that can’t help but feel hopeful.
The main character, John, reminded me of Roland from The Dark Tower with his stoicism and drive. Just thinking about the characters, John, Mariah, Marcos, Marshall, and Issac makes me want to start the whole thing all over again.
So what is it about apocalyptic scenarios that makes them so intriguing? Is it the challenge presented? Is it wondering how we would handle the situation if we were there? The Road, The Stand, Swan Song, …and now Nightmareland. Epic tales of survival against nature and horror, constantly at battle with you, never knowing whether it will be a demon or a splinter that takes your life. Where boredom and complacency could be your greatest enemy. Could you press on? Are you the hero in your story?
P.S.- I was so excited to learn the Daniele Serra is going to be doing the covers for next books in the series
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nightmareland is a pretty ambitious horror series, and this collection certainly gives you a lot to sink your teeth into. An eternal night, monsters, madness and a strange mystery surrounding a weeping boy appearing on television screens create a wonderfully unsettling foundation for the story.
The first three volumes were easily my favourite part of the collection. They hooked me almost immediately and did a great job establishing the characters, the apocalyptic setting and the sense that something much bigger and darker was unfolding. The atmosphere is one of the strongest aspects of the series. There are some genuinely creepy moments, and Barnett creates that constant feeling that danger is lurking just around the corner.
I also enjoyed following John, Mariah and Marcos. Their journey gives the story an emotional centre, particularly as the characters gradually form something resembling a found family while trying to survive this strange new world. There is plenty of darkness, but those relationships and occasional glimpses of hope stop the story from becoming relentlessly bleak.
The writing is another highlight. Barnett has a vivid, sometimes lyrical style that works particularly well when describing the horrors of this world. There are some moments that reminded me of the unsettling atmosphere of Silent Hill, while the larger post-apocalyptic premise occasionally brought The Stand to mind.
Unfortunately, my enjoyment became much more mixed as the collection progressed. Volumes 4-6 felt noticeably slower than the opening three, and I sometimes found myself wondering when the story was going to move forward. The amount of description and world-building can be immersive, but there were also plenty of moments when it felt excessive. Some scenes linger for much longer than necessary, and the later volumes became increasingly repetitive for me.
I also struggled with some of the character decisions in the second half. Certain choices felt difficult to understand and, at times, seemed more focused on moving the plot forward than following naturally from what we knew about the characters. I particularly missed the version of Mariah I connected with earlier in the series. She initially came across as incredibly capable and resilient, whereas later changes in her behaviour didn't always feel like believable development to me.
The mystery is compelling, but I did become frustrated by how long some answers were kept just out of reach. I enjoy a slow reveal, but there were moments when I felt I needed a little more progress to keep my investment going.
The ending initially left me frustrated too, especially after spending so much time with the story. However, with the knowledge that these six volumes make up only the first half of a larger series, I can understand why some threads have been left unresolved. It does feel like Barnett is building towards something much bigger, even if I would have preferred a little more closure here.
Despite my frustrations with the later volumes, I can see why this series has attracted readers. The atmosphere is strong, the premise is intriguing and the first half of the collection genuinely had me hooked. There is clearly a much bigger story waiting to unfold, and I just wish the second half had maintained the momentum of the first.
For now, though, I'm undecided about continuing. The first three volumes made me very excited about the series, while the final three left me considerably more hesitant.
Verdict: An atmospheric and ambitious post-apocalyptic horror with a fantastic opening half, memorable characters and plenty of genuinely creepy moments. Unfortunately, the later volumes became too slow and repetitive for me, with some character choices that were difficult to connect with. A mixed experience, but one with enough potential to make me curious about where the story could go.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Daniel Barnett for giving me the opportunity to read this collection early. I really appreciate it.
The first three volumes were easily my favourite part of the collection. They hooked me almost immediately and did a great job establishing the characters, the apocalyptic setting and the sense that something much bigger and darker was unfolding. The atmosphere is one of the strongest aspects of the series. There are some genuinely creepy moments, and Barnett creates that constant feeling that danger is lurking just around the corner.
I also enjoyed following John, Mariah and Marcos. Their journey gives the story an emotional centre, particularly as the characters gradually form something resembling a found family while trying to survive this strange new world. There is plenty of darkness, but those relationships and occasional glimpses of hope stop the story from becoming relentlessly bleak.
The writing is another highlight. Barnett has a vivid, sometimes lyrical style that works particularly well when describing the horrors of this world. There are some moments that reminded me of the unsettling atmosphere of Silent Hill, while the larger post-apocalyptic premise occasionally brought The Stand to mind.
Unfortunately, my enjoyment became much more mixed as the collection progressed. Volumes 4-6 felt noticeably slower than the opening three, and I sometimes found myself wondering when the story was going to move forward. The amount of description and world-building can be immersive, but there were also plenty of moments when it felt excessive. Some scenes linger for much longer than necessary, and the later volumes became increasingly repetitive for me.
I also struggled with some of the character decisions in the second half. Certain choices felt difficult to understand and, at times, seemed more focused on moving the plot forward than following naturally from what we knew about the characters. I particularly missed the version of Mariah I connected with earlier in the series. She initially came across as incredibly capable and resilient, whereas later changes in her behaviour didn't always feel like believable development to me.
The mystery is compelling, but I did become frustrated by how long some answers were kept just out of reach. I enjoy a slow reveal, but there were moments when I felt I needed a little more progress to keep my investment going.
The ending initially left me frustrated too, especially after spending so much time with the story. However, with the knowledge that these six volumes make up only the first half of a larger series, I can understand why some threads have been left unresolved. It does feel like Barnett is building towards something much bigger, even if I would have preferred a little more closure here.
Despite my frustrations with the later volumes, I can see why this series has attracted readers. The atmosphere is strong, the premise is intriguing and the first half of the collection genuinely had me hooked. There is clearly a much bigger story waiting to unfold, and I just wish the second half had maintained the momentum of the first.
For now, though, I'm undecided about continuing. The first three volumes made me very excited about the series, while the final three left me considerably more hesitant.
Verdict: An atmospheric and ambitious post-apocalyptic horror with a fantastic opening half, memorable characters and plenty of genuinely creepy moments. Unfortunately, the later volumes became too slow and repetitive for me, with some character choices that were difficult to connect with. A mixed experience, but one with enough potential to make me curious about where the story could go.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Daniel Barnett for giving me the opportunity to read this collection early. I really appreciate it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I somehow missed the very obvious “Volumes 1–6” in the title and went into Nightmareland by Daniel Barnett expecting a single novel instead of a collection of interconnected novellas. Apparently this is only the first half of a planned 12-volume story, which definitely changed how I processed the pacing and ending once I realized what was going on. Also, “novella” is doing a lot of heavy lifting here considering Volume 6 alone is over 500 pages.
Overall, I enjoyed the story quite a bit and was consistently invested in finding out what happened next. The post-apocalyptic horror atmosphere is compelling, the scale feels massive, and Barnett clearly has an ambitious vision for this world and its characters. John, Mariah, and Marcos kept me engaged, and by the end I was genuinely eager to see where their story goes next.
That said, there were stretches where the descriptions and world building felt overly indulgent. It’s impossible not to compare a sprawling apocalypse story like this to something like The Stand, but where King often makes tangents and side details feel immersive and essential, some of the extra detail here started to feel repetitive or distracting. More than once I found myself thinking, “Okay, but what actually happens next?” I wanted the narrative momentum to move a little faster than it did.
The ending also frustrated me initially, mostly because it felt abrupt after spending so much time in this world. But after sitting with it, I do think it made sense for the story Barnett was trying to tell and probably was necessary for the larger arc he’s building toward.
Despite my pacing complaints, I was invested enough that I absolutely plan to continue with Volumes 7–12. I just hope the next installment tightens things up a bit and trusts the plot to carry some of the weight instead of lingering quite so long in the details.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Overall, I enjoyed the story quite a bit and was consistently invested in finding out what happened next. The post-apocalyptic horror atmosphere is compelling, the scale feels massive, and Barnett clearly has an ambitious vision for this world and its characters. John, Mariah, and Marcos kept me engaged, and by the end I was genuinely eager to see where their story goes next.
That said, there were stretches where the descriptions and world building felt overly indulgent. It’s impossible not to compare a sprawling apocalypse story like this to something like The Stand, but where King often makes tangents and side details feel immersive and essential, some of the extra detail here started to feel repetitive or distracting. More than once I found myself thinking, “Okay, but what actually happens next?” I wanted the narrative momentum to move a little faster than it did.
The ending also frustrated me initially, mostly because it felt abrupt after spending so much time in this world. But after sitting with it, I do think it made sense for the story Barnett was trying to tell and probably was necessary for the larger arc he’s building toward.
Despite my pacing complaints, I was invested enough that I absolutely plan to continue with Volumes 7–12. I just hope the next installment tightens things up a bit and trusts the plot to carry some of the weight instead of lingering quite so long in the details.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 8, 2026
Book: Nightmareland
Author: Daniel Barnett
Pub Date: September 1, 2026
Source:
I received an advanced review copy of Nightmareland via Netgalley. These comments are offered voluntarily and are my own opinion.
Nightmareland clocks in at 964 pages. It is actually six novellas compiled into an omnibus. I read two volumes at a time, and took a short break between, which is evidence of how intense Nightmareland is. It has a Walking Dead vibe, simply because it begins with an apocalyptic event, and the consequences of that event prompt a journey with many obstacles along the way.
Although there are no zombies in this world in the typical sense, there are those … afflicted by what’s happening. And those who haven’t succumbed to the affliction come in all shades of gray.
You never know who you can trust.
What stood out for me in Nightmareland were the relationships. The stories center around John and Mariah, who have a tenuous connection via a one night stand and the consequences Mariah suspects are taking root in her, unbeknownst to John. And once their journey is underway, the duo become a trio, with the addition of a boy named Marcos.
The found family aspect of the story as the three of them developed a commitment to each other was worth the journey. For John, a solitary figure with demons plaguing him since childhood, it’s a remarkable change. I definitely don’t want to give things away, but the journey for this character takes us all the way back to that childhood, and it’s tragic and yet, despite what John’s capable of, shows us that, perhaps, there’s hope for everyone.
Notes For The Audience:
This story is ideal for people who love dark, bleak, apocalyptic fiction. This is not an easy version of the world and Nightmareland takes an unflinching look at the darkness within us all. Have you ever wondered what lengths you’d go to to survive? Or what you’d accept from those you care about?
I cried. And I’m still not over this one.
Author: Daniel Barnett
Pub Date: September 1, 2026
Source:
I received an advanced review copy of Nightmareland via Netgalley. These comments are offered voluntarily and are my own opinion.
Nightmareland clocks in at 964 pages. It is actually six novellas compiled into an omnibus. I read two volumes at a time, and took a short break between, which is evidence of how intense Nightmareland is. It has a Walking Dead vibe, simply because it begins with an apocalyptic event, and the consequences of that event prompt a journey with many obstacles along the way.
Although there are no zombies in this world in the typical sense, there are those … afflicted by what’s happening. And those who haven’t succumbed to the affliction come in all shades of gray.
You never know who you can trust.
What stood out for me in Nightmareland were the relationships. The stories center around John and Mariah, who have a tenuous connection via a one night stand and the consequences Mariah suspects are taking root in her, unbeknownst to John. And once their journey is underway, the duo become a trio, with the addition of a boy named Marcos.
The found family aspect of the story as the three of them developed a commitment to each other was worth the journey. For John, a solitary figure with demons plaguing him since childhood, it’s a remarkable change. I definitely don’t want to give things away, but the journey for this character takes us all the way back to that childhood, and it’s tragic and yet, despite what John’s capable of, shows us that, perhaps, there’s hope for everyone.
Notes For The Audience:
This story is ideal for people who love dark, bleak, apocalyptic fiction. This is not an easy version of the world and Nightmareland takes an unflinching look at the darkness within us all. Have you ever wondered what lengths you’d go to to survive? Or what you’d accept from those you care about?
I cried. And I’m still not over this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I watch horror movies like a rabid animal released from the asylum, but I'm not usually enticed into the genre when it relates to my reading appetite. However...I can confidently say that Daniel Barnett has changed that for me. Irrevocably.
The grit to this omnibus was slowly devoured. Savored in its splendor. I even ranted with my husband on several occasions because I needed him to understand the depth of it, its tangible nature, and how many instances relate to the humanity in us all - love, lust, survival, greed, honor.
Every page was turned with anticipation as I teetered on the edge of elation, desperation, fear, and curiosity. I would try to set it down, to leave the world for reality, but it tugged me back time and time again; unrelenting in its need to be honored.
I mean the first lines of the first chapter felt like the b*mb dropping in a post-apocalyptic world of tomorrow. It carried such chill-inducing prose that I begged to know what happened next. The writing style laid everything out bare, but deep. Brutal, but efficient in the blows.
"There are things the brain forgets, but the bl**d remembers. Oh, the bl**d remembers."
I don't think anyone reviewing this could do it justice. It's something that NEEDS to be experienced, felt, dissected, and devoured. Because, like every story, reading is subjective. And as a new subject to the horror class, I think this is going to be at the top for me for a very very long time. It might even be the standard for the genre, and I feel like that says a lot for how impactful it was for me.
Thank you to NetGalley/Daniel Barnett for the ARC! I'm honored to have read it and am so grateful for this eye-opening omnibus!
The grit to this omnibus was slowly devoured. Savored in its splendor. I even ranted with my husband on several occasions because I needed him to understand the depth of it, its tangible nature, and how many instances relate to the humanity in us all - love, lust, survival, greed, honor.
Every page was turned with anticipation as I teetered on the edge of elation, desperation, fear, and curiosity. I would try to set it down, to leave the world for reality, but it tugged me back time and time again; unrelenting in its need to be honored.
I mean the first lines of the first chapter felt like the b*mb dropping in a post-apocalyptic world of tomorrow. It carried such chill-inducing prose that I begged to know what happened next. The writing style laid everything out bare, but deep. Brutal, but efficient in the blows.
"There are things the brain forgets, but the bl**d remembers. Oh, the bl**d remembers."
I don't think anyone reviewing this could do it justice. It's something that NEEDS to be experienced, felt, dissected, and devoured. Because, like every story, reading is subjective. And as a new subject to the horror class, I think this is going to be at the top for me for a very very long time. It might even be the standard for the genre, and I feel like that says a lot for how impactful it was for me.
Thank you to NetGalley/Daniel Barnett for the ARC! I'm honored to have read it and am so grateful for this eye-opening omnibus!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved the first 3 volumes, thought volume 4 was only okay, and found volumes 5 and 6 frustrating.
Summary: The sun disappears, people lose their minds, a weeping boy appears on televisions and begins to sing.
The first 3 volumes were 5/5 stars for me. Well written, well paced, creepy. I was enjoying them so much I would tell people about them at every opportunity.
Then I read volume 4. The writing style felt completely different. The pacing suddenly wasn't as good. The characters had changed, and not in a way that I felt they had grown or been changed by their circumstances, I just felt that they were different. For example, Mariah went from a fantastic, strong character who could handle anything that was thrown at her, to suddenly bring a whining wreck.
Volumes 5 and 6 annoyed me. I can't say exactly why because this is a spoiler free review, but I felt that a lot of the characters were making nonsensical decisions just for the sake of advancing the plot. Especially in volume 6, there seemed to be a lot of "we don't agree with what's going on, but we've come this far so we might as well keep going". The books, especially the last one, ended up being far too long and far too repetitive, and I got to the point where I just wanted to finish it and move onto another book.
In the acknowledgement chapter at the end of the book the author mentions that volumes 1 to 3 have a different editor to volumes 4 to 6. The person who edited the second half of the volumes is now his manager, so I assume they'll also be editing the remaining 6 books in the series.
Unfortunately I don't think I'll continue with this series, which is a shame because the first half of this collection was amazing and I did enjoy how the author wasn't afraid to kill off characters.
Summary: The sun disappears, people lose their minds, a weeping boy appears on televisions and begins to sing.
The first 3 volumes were 5/5 stars for me. Well written, well paced, creepy. I was enjoying them so much I would tell people about them at every opportunity.
Then I read volume 4. The writing style felt completely different. The pacing suddenly wasn't as good. The characters had changed, and not in a way that I felt they had grown or been changed by their circumstances, I just felt that they were different. For example, Mariah went from a fantastic, strong character who could handle anything that was thrown at her, to suddenly bring a whining wreck.
Volumes 5 and 6 annoyed me. I can't say exactly why because this is a spoiler free review, but I felt that a lot of the characters were making nonsensical decisions just for the sake of advancing the plot. Especially in volume 6, there seemed to be a lot of "we don't agree with what's going on, but we've come this far so we might as well keep going". The books, especially the last one, ended up being far too long and far too repetitive, and I got to the point where I just wanted to finish it and move onto another book.
In the acknowledgement chapter at the end of the book the author mentions that volumes 1 to 3 have a different editor to volumes 4 to 6. The person who edited the second half of the volumes is now his manager, so I assume they'll also be editing the remaining 6 books in the series.
Unfortunately I don't think I'll continue with this series, which is a shame because the first half of this collection was amazing and I did enjoy how the author wasn't afraid to kill off characters.
Review of advance copy
"The Stand" meets "Silent Hill"! Incredible well-done post-apocalyptic horror, creepy and unsettling, my only complaint the lack of definite closure (there are six more volumes to come)! Anyone who loves tales of monsters in the dark, metaphysical mysteries of the most cryptic kind, and stories where the big picture keeps getting bigger, darker and more mysterious will love this! I certainly did. However, not all volumes are equally fascinating: tomes 1 to 3 seem to be everybody's favorites, and I strongly concur - so much creepiness and suspense, a bleak atmosphere and the promise of worse things on the horizon turned that part of the book into a page-turner! You know something very bad is just around the corner, and you have to follow the group of characters and see what all the fuss is about. Tomes 4 to 6 go a little overboard on preparing the ground by covering every possible base, the story repeating itself a bit, and the pacing slowing down to the point of exasperation. Still, by that point it's impossible to put the book down, and despite the occasionally excesses of the plot and the loss of focus in the characters' actions and motivations, the story does move forward. Sure, I often felt frustrated as I approached the end - it was clear that answers on the most pressing answers wouldn't be forthcoming - but I knew beforehand that this is the half of the planned series. I look forward to reading the rest of the tale, and I highly recommend it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Nightmareland rides the line between fantastical and realistic horror with remarkable precision, and Daniel Barnett never once loses his footing.
We follow a cast of characters as they traverse a nightmare-filled America that’s been cast in shadow. Surviving horrific scenarios and attempting to work with the remaining humanity, every new scenario is filled with nail-biting turns where we can only hope for a positive outcome.
Every line of dialogue and every decision the characters make feels earned and true. As you read, the story gradually transforms into something deeper: a portrait of familial grief, anger, and love wrapped in surreal scenarios that feel disturbingly plausible. There comes a point where our fear of the nightmares is quietly overshadowed by our fear for the characters’ survival. I found myself locked in. Not because I needed to know what horror came next, but because I genuinely cared what happened to these people.
I haven’t felt this strongly about horror since first reading Stephen King’s “Pet Sematary.” And I enjoyed every minute of the journey.
I have such high anticipation for the next installment, to see where we go next. I’m equally excited to see what Barnett does after he brings Nightmareland to a close. This is a writer worth following.
Special thanks to Daniel Barnett and BookSirens for the advance copy of Nightmareland. This review is voluntarily written.
We follow a cast of characters as they traverse a nightmare-filled America that’s been cast in shadow. Surviving horrific scenarios and attempting to work with the remaining humanity, every new scenario is filled with nail-biting turns where we can only hope for a positive outcome.
Every line of dialogue and every decision the characters make feels earned and true. As you read, the story gradually transforms into something deeper: a portrait of familial grief, anger, and love wrapped in surreal scenarios that feel disturbingly plausible. There comes a point where our fear of the nightmares is quietly overshadowed by our fear for the characters’ survival. I found myself locked in. Not because I needed to know what horror came next, but because I genuinely cared what happened to these people.
I haven’t felt this strongly about horror since first reading Stephen King’s “Pet Sematary.” And I enjoyed every minute of the journey.
I have such high anticipation for the next installment, to see where we go next. I’m equally excited to see what Barnett does after he brings Nightmareland to a close. This is a writer worth following.
Special thanks to Daniel Barnett and BookSirens for the advance copy of Nightmareland. This review is voluntarily written.
September 15, 2026
Daniel Barnett’s Nightmareland: Volumes 1–6, the first half of his sprawling Nightmareland Chronicles, imagines America plunged into eternal darkness where monsters and madness lurk around every corner. At its center is a cross-country journey involving John Hawthorne, Mariah, and Marcos, whose increasingly dangerous trek becomes as much about survival and human connection as it is about understanding the what went wrong. Nightmareland’s endless night is a bleak backdrop, and illustrations complement that atmosphere beautifully, giving the omnibus an visual dimension that serves its dark, fantastical world perfectly. Barnett’s prose is vivid and atmospheric, balancing visceral horror with moments of genuine beauty and tenderness. Thematically, Nightmareland is interested in grief, love, family, survival, and what remains of our humanity when our familiar world disappears.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, expert storytelling and beautiful illustrations.
Thank you NetGalley and Daniel Barnett for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, expert storytelling and beautiful illustrations.
Thank you NetGalley and Daniel Barnett for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Daniel Barnett’s Nightmareland Volumes 1–6 is a dark, atmospheric horror-fantasy about a world plunged into eternal night, where monsters and madness thrive. It follows haunted anti-hero John Hawthorne on a perilous cross-country journey to reach his estranged daughter, joined by a resilient bartender and a deaf teenager.
Barnett’s lyrical, vivid prose and strong sense of dread stand out, balanced by genuine emotional depth, found-family bonds, and flickers of hope. The characters feel lived-in, and the mix of psychological and supernatural horror keeps the tension high.
The episodic structure and deliberate mystery can occasionally slow the pace, and this is only the first half of a longer planned series, so the ending leaves threads open. Still, it’s a compelling, beautifully written ride for fans of literary post-apocalyptic horror. Highly recommended if you like your nightmares with heart.
Daniel Barnett’s Nightmareland Volumes 1–6 is a dark, atmospheric horror-fantasy about a world plunged into eternal night, where monsters and madness thrive. It follows haunted anti-hero John Hawthorne on a perilous cross-country journey to reach his estranged daughter, joined by a resilient bartender and a deaf teenager.
Barnett’s lyrical, vivid prose and strong sense of dread stand out, balanced by genuine emotional depth, found-family bonds, and flickers of hope. The characters feel lived-in, and the mix of psychological and supernatural horror keeps the tension high.
The episodic structure and deliberate mystery can occasionally slow the pace, and this is only the first half of a longer planned series, so the ending leaves threads open. Still, it’s a compelling, beautifully written ride for fans of literary post-apocalyptic horror. Highly recommended if you like your nightmares with heart.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you like bleak, fast-paced horror with cliffhangers, a strong survival-drive, and a series that’s best devoured back-to-back, This Series is for you
I went into Nightmareland expecting a fairly standard “survive the apocalypse” horror ride, and ended up getting something that felt bigger and more addictive than I planned for. Across the six volumes, it reads like one long, escalating nightmare you can’t quite wake up from—each book pushing you forward with that “just one more chapter” momentum.
What hooked me most was the atmosphere: relentless darkness, constant unease, and that gritty sense that the world itself is hostile. But it’s not only monsters and mayhem—the series keeps circling back to something more human: loss, guilt, love, and the terrifying ways people change when there’s no safety left. I also loved how the scope expands over time; it starts personal and then steadily opens up into something far more sprawling without losing the emotional core.
I went into Nightmareland expecting a fairly standard “survive the apocalypse” horror ride, and ended up getting something that felt bigger and more addictive than I planned for. Across the six volumes, it reads like one long, escalating nightmare you can’t quite wake up from—each book pushing you forward with that “just one more chapter” momentum.
What hooked me most was the atmosphere: relentless darkness, constant unease, and that gritty sense that the world itself is hostile. But it’s not only monsters and mayhem—the series keeps circling back to something more human: loss, guilt, love, and the terrifying ways people change when there’s no safety left. I also loved how the scope expands over time; it starts personal and then steadily opens up into something far more sprawling without losing the emotional core.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Absolutely loved some parts of this collection, became frustrated with others.
Volumes 1-3 were interesting and set the tone/pace/scene for the apocalyptic events and main characters. There were some meandering sections and some questionable decisions, but overall I was thrilled. It was giving me “The Stand” by Stephen King vibes.
Volumes 4-6 had some extremely creepy Silent Hill type of moments, but slowed to a crawl in between the horror. I was getting a bit tired of not getting answers to what was going on, and the characters became a bit harder to cheer on between their actions and decisions feeling really off.
It was definitely an interesting introduction to the series. I’m torn though if I’d read it any further. I’ll have to see how I feel when the next volumes come out.
Thank you the author & NetGalley for a copy!
Volumes 1-3 were interesting and set the tone/pace/scene for the apocalyptic events and main characters. There were some meandering sections and some questionable decisions, but overall I was thrilled. It was giving me “The Stand” by Stephen King vibes.
Volumes 4-6 had some extremely creepy Silent Hill type of moments, but slowed to a crawl in between the horror. I was getting a bit tired of not getting answers to what was going on, and the characters became a bit harder to cheer on between their actions and decisions feeling really off.
It was definitely an interesting introduction to the series. I’m torn though if I’d read it any further. I’ll have to see how I feel when the next volumes come out.
Thank you the author & NetGalley for a copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book! Thank you to the publishers for letting me be engulfed into this bleak, dark tale!
Everyone will remember the day the light died. Some lost their minds, many lost their lives, and for the rest, they lost their sunny, bright futures. No one knows how day died, and why it is permanently night, but they don't have time to wonder why, not when they have to survive. For John, Mariah, and Marcos, the whys are irrevelvent. The found-family have to travel to find John's daughter on the other side of the US, and fight all their nightmares (and many not their own) along the way.
This was a beautifull, dark, bleak horror that sucks you in and makes you wonder if you would survive if this happened. And if you did, what nightmares would you have to face.
Everyone will remember the day the light died. Some lost their minds, many lost their lives, and for the rest, they lost their sunny, bright futures. No one knows how day died, and why it is permanently night, but they don't have time to wonder why, not when they have to survive. For John, Mariah, and Marcos, the whys are irrevelvent. The found-family have to travel to find John's daughter on the other side of the US, and fight all their nightmares (and many not their own) along the way.
This was a beautifull, dark, bleak horror that sucks you in and makes you wonder if you would survive if this happened. And if you did, what nightmares would you have to face.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nightmareland is a solid horror read that does a good job of creating atmosphere and keeping the tension up. I can see why so many readers connect with Daniel Barnett’s work, because he clearly knows how to build a creepy, immersive world that horror fans will sink into.
For me, the book worked best when it leaned into that eerie, emotional side instead of trying to be too flashy. It has the kind of unsettling feel that stays with you, and I liked the sense that the story was always moving toward something darker. That said, it didn’t completely blow me away, but I can still appreciate what it was doing.
Overall, this feels like a good pick for readers who like atmospheric horror with bite. It was engaging, creepy, and clearly written by someone who understands the genre.
For me, the book worked best when it leaned into that eerie, emotional side instead of trying to be too flashy. It has the kind of unsettling feel that stays with you, and I liked the sense that the story was always moving toward something darker. That said, it didn’t completely blow me away, but I can still appreciate what it was doing.
Overall, this feels like a good pick for readers who like atmospheric horror with bite. It was engaging, creepy, and clearly written by someone who understands the genre.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book caught me completely off guard, and I am blown away by how much Barnett delivers in this publication. I don't spend as much time as I would like reading horror, though now that I have read 'Nightmareland,' I am anxious to find something that competes.
As someone who edits during the day and ARC-reads in his free time, almost every book I begin comes with a deadline, so the length initially gave me pause. And yet, the fluency throughout the book—smooth and effortless whenever it isn't gripping you by its teeth—had me drinking the pages to chase the characters.
Sheer, cold, complete. A must.
As someone who edits during the day and ARC-reads in his free time, almost every book I begin comes with a deadline, so the length initially gave me pause. And yet, the fluency throughout the book—smooth and effortless whenever it isn't gripping you by its teeth—had me drinking the pages to chase the characters.
Sheer, cold, complete. A must.
Read
July 21, 2026Nightmareland: Volumes 1-6 is a wild, addictive ride. John Hawthorne's journey across a sun-starved, monster-plagued America to reach his daughter kept me hooked with real "just one more chapter" momentum. Barnett balances relentless horror with genuine heart, especially by the emotional gut-punch of Lily.
My only gripe is pacing dips in the middle volumes where the survival-horror beats start to feel repetitive before the story regains its grip. Still, as a full omnibus, it's a satisfying, well-crafted epic that earns its cult following. Recommended for horror fans who like their apocalypses bleak but not without hope.
My only gripe is pacing dips in the middle volumes where the survival-horror beats start to feel repetitive before the story regains its grip. Still, as a full omnibus, it's a satisfying, well-crafted epic that earns its cult following. Recommended for horror fans who like their apocalypses bleak but not without hope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Oh my! The first six volumes are amazing and have left me hungry for so much more!
The main characters are complex, naive, innocent, lovely, scary, absolutely bonkers, but above all, believable.
You are taken on an amazing journey in these first six. A tale that is not yet ended, but, oh so worth the reading!
The great thing is that, despite its heft, it is really readable. Not boring, not rambling on (Led Zep reference being inserted here). This journey leads you on down some very difficult places.
Well worth the time to read, I bloomin enjoyed it!
Stonkingly good
The main characters are complex, naive, innocent, lovely, scary, absolutely bonkers, but above all, believable.
You are taken on an amazing journey in these first six. A tale that is not yet ended, but, oh so worth the reading!
The great thing is that, despite its heft, it is really readable. Not boring, not rambling on (Led Zep reference being inserted here). This journey leads you on down some very difficult places.
Well worth the time to read, I bloomin enjoyed it!
Stonkingly good
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is hands down my favorite horror dystopian nightmare book. I had such a fun (is it okay to say it was fun) time reading this. There are some themes that I think are discussed and examined so well in this series and I am on the edge of my seat ready for what's to come for this group and what's going to happen in the future. Just such superb writing about the human experience in all the different facets of who we are as a people. I love it.
Review of advance copy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nightmareland Volume 1-6 was absolutely fantastic. Perfect for readers of apocalyptic horror. The 6 volumes are packed with tension, drama and emotion
The story is excellent the way its written you feel like you are on the journey with the characters i highly recommend it
Nightmareland Volume 1-6 was absolutely fantastic. Perfect for readers of apocalyptic horror. The 6 volumes are packed with tension, drama and emotion
The story is excellent the way its written you feel like you are on the journey with the characters i highly recommend it
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read the series originally in their separate volumes, but you, lucky reader, can get them all at once in this stunning collection. Barnett is one of my favorite authors. Read this, and he'll be one of yours too.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC of this fantastic book. For now it is just 5 stars, i will be back around the publishing date to give my full review!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Everyone, take the time to read this book! I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway, and the author personally signed and shipped it. I can't wait to dive into this book!!!
Review of advance copy
A great set of books. I enjoyed it for sure
Review of advance copy received from Author
Was rescitent to read this for a few reasons. I don't tend to read horror, and there are 6 books in 1 so it is some commitment! But I was intrigued by the blurb to take a chance.
I much preferred the first few books, as they hooked me and kept me reading. I did find the later books had a somewhat different tone and not as fast paced. But I did really enjoy them nonetheless.
I much preferred the first few books, as they hooked me and kept me reading. I did find the later books had a somewhat different tone and not as fast paced. But I did really enjoy them nonetheless.
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