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Videodrome: Days of O'Blivion
At the height of the Cold War, two men have invented a special kind of television technology. A signal that produces strange and unusual side-effects in those who watch it. But as these men try to bring their invention to market, a mysterious corporation conspires to develop the technology not as an extension of television, but as a weapon that can eliminate nations.
In this fast and ingenious thriller, Lee McGeorge delves into the background of David Cronenberg’s horror classic, examining not only how and why Videodrome came to exist, but exploring the ideology that would make it priceless.
“If you’re a fan of David Cronenberg’s classic Videodrome, you’re going to absolutely love Lee McGeorge’s prequel, Videodrome: Days of O’Blivion… Trust me: YOU WANT THIS NOVEL!” - AddictedToHorrorMovies.com
“Highly recommended for sci-fi and horror lovers alike, Lee McGeorge’s new novel is topical, cerebral and, at times, terrifying.” - HorrorNovelReviews.com
"Days of O'Blivion is a quick and haunting read that captures the intelligence and quality of Cronenberg's original." - Codices
“A fast read but with serious themes, Days of O’Blivion reaches its pinnacle with a satisfying climax that will resonate with anyone who views the rise of new technology as more than a harmless distraction.” - HorrorNovelReviews.com
In this fast and ingenious thriller, Lee McGeorge delves into the background of David Cronenberg’s horror classic, examining not only how and why Videodrome came to exist, but exploring the ideology that would make it priceless.
“If you’re a fan of David Cronenberg’s classic Videodrome, you’re going to absolutely love Lee McGeorge’s prequel, Videodrome: Days of O’Blivion… Trust me: YOU WANT THIS NOVEL!” - AddictedToHorrorMovies.com
“Highly recommended for sci-fi and horror lovers alike, Lee McGeorge’s new novel is topical, cerebral and, at times, terrifying.” - HorrorNovelReviews.com
"Days of O'Blivion is a quick and haunting read that captures the intelligence and quality of Cronenberg's original." - Codices
“A fast read but with serious themes, Days of O’Blivion reaches its pinnacle with a satisfying climax that will resonate with anyone who views the rise of new technology as more than a harmless distraction.” - HorrorNovelReviews.com
164 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2016
157 people want to read
About the author
Lee McGeorge
14 books91 followersBefore stepping into fiction full-time, Lee enjoyed a successful career in hospitality that took him from Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street to the British Embassy in Berlin and some of London's finest hotels.
Originally from Hartlepool, he now considers North London to be his rightful and spiritual home.
Follow on Facebook for free download codes, meetups, giveaways and goodies. www.facebook.com/leemcgeorge73
Originally from Hartlepool, he now considers North London to be his rightful and spiritual home.
Follow on Facebook for free download codes, meetups, giveaways and goodies. www.facebook.com/leemcgeorge73
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 15, 2016
I wrote this book, so obviously it gets 5 stars from me.
To develop the themes of the story, I spent over a year researching the ideas of the late media prophet, Marshall McLuhan. It's McLuhan's ideas that give the story its uncommon intelligence and I was enthralled by McLuhan's intellect and prescience; so I award my five stars in his honor.
To develop the themes of the story, I spent over a year researching the ideas of the late media prophet, Marshall McLuhan. It's McLuhan's ideas that give the story its uncommon intelligence and I was enthralled by McLuhan's intellect and prescience; so I award my five stars in his honor.
July 26, 2016
I really enjoy Lee's style and imagination.
This is a book full of disturbing imagery that serves a real purpose - he makes the reader think about the ultimate conflict of humanity and technology.
For those who are already concerned about the invasion that computers are having on our thought processes and the now seemingly compulsive desire that everyone has to capture images rather than commit to memory then I would highly recommend this book. If like me that square box in the corner of the living room is a constant source of irritation then you may choose not to renew your licence fee and instead enjoy the freedom that an open mind brings after reading Videodrome.
Thanks Lee for an enjoyable and thought provoking read!
This is a book full of disturbing imagery that serves a real purpose - he makes the reader think about the ultimate conflict of humanity and technology.
For those who are already concerned about the invasion that computers are having on our thought processes and the now seemingly compulsive desire that everyone has to capture images rather than commit to memory then I would highly recommend this book. If like me that square box in the corner of the living room is a constant source of irritation then you may choose not to renew your licence fee and instead enjoy the freedom that an open mind brings after reading Videodrome.
Thanks Lee for an enjoyable and thought provoking read!
August 5, 2016
Wow! I've never really read any "fan fiction" before, but as a fan of Cronenberg films I decided to read one page just to get my feet wet...then another page to go wading. The next thing you know I'm neck deep in this book. It's well written and extremely well planned and executed. I would love to hear what Cronenberg himself thinks of it. I think he'd endorse it. It's the perfect prequel to the genesis of "the new flesh." There's a lot of scientific and political explanation behind the "flesh gospel" that really makes sense, and in this day and age the idea of any of us unknowingly being manipulated by television signals is alarming, especially given the random acts of violence around the world going on every day. Lee McGeorge did a fine job of giving more life to a cult classic. This is an absolute must read for every Videodrome fan.
August 9, 2016
I received this excellent book from Lee McGeorge for an open and honest review. I had never seen the film Videodrome so I held back posting the review until I obtained a copy to see how they tied in.
To be honest Lee's novel is well superior to the film. The story just grabs you it is the perfect prequel to the film, it's amazingly well thought out and planned, it is paced just perfectly. The storyline is imaginative but manages to weave in all the relevant characters that will appear later on in the film, the references, places and ideas that when you're watching the film suddenly make sense and fall into place.
This makes an excellent stand alone story in its own right, and even better it's fan fiction and can be easily downloaded, please give this one a go you won't regret it. I have read quite a lot of Lee's work and this raises the bar and is fast becoming my new favourite.
To be honest Lee's novel is well superior to the film. The story just grabs you it is the perfect prequel to the film, it's amazingly well thought out and planned, it is paced just perfectly. The storyline is imaginative but manages to weave in all the relevant characters that will appear later on in the film, the references, places and ideas that when you're watching the film suddenly make sense and fall into place.
This makes an excellent stand alone story in its own right, and even better it's fan fiction and can be easily downloaded, please give this one a go you won't regret it. I have read quite a lot of Lee's work and this raises the bar and is fast becoming my new favourite.
July 31, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I have never watched the Videodrome film (David Cronenberg) - however I do not think this had any impact on my ability to understand the book.
I found the book to be an enjoyable read and addictive read - I ended up reading it all (apart from 5 pages I read a few days ago) on a car journey back from a day out.
I thought the writing had been thought out well and I would never have guessed how the book ended.
I will definitely be reading more books by the author as his style of writing is easy to understand even when tackling quite complex in-depth topics.
I have never watched the Videodrome film (David Cronenberg) - however I do not think this had any impact on my ability to understand the book.
I found the book to be an enjoyable read and addictive read - I ended up reading it all (apart from 5 pages I read a few days ago) on a car journey back from a day out.
I thought the writing had been thought out well and I would never have guessed how the book ended.
I will definitely be reading more books by the author as his style of writing is easy to understand even when tackling quite complex in-depth topics.
April 15, 2019
Awesome (unofficial) prequel to one of my favorite movies of all time. Brian feels like a real person, which honestly adds a lot to the movie. McGeorge's story does a great job of explaining why a lot of things in the movie are the way they are, all without shoehorning in little tidbits everywhere just to prove his movie knowledge. Great book.
May 16, 2019
If you have seen Videodrome you MUST read this. It clears all the confusion made by the film. The book gives a concise background into the start of Videodrome as the program called Vericeo. If you like the film I assure you this is for you!
September 1, 2016
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Written as a prequel to David Cronenberg’s horror film, Lee McGeorge explores the potential scenario that led up to the surrealist events in Videodrome. This short story is more science fiction than horror in nature as it only builds up the background and setting to the point in which the film begins.
Days of O’Blivion, as well as the original film, is set during the cold war between the US and USSR. It is a period of time threatened with atomic weapons of mass destruction, and the competition to create the most superior technology. In this particular scenario, two men: Professor Brian Olivier and his friend Barry have been experimenting with special television technology resulting in interesting outcomes. Their product, which they name Veraceo –a compound of Veracity and Video –, has the ability to make everyone believe what they are seeing on screen to be true. This could be a big boon to advertising establishments, however cause dire consequences if found in the wrong hands, i.e. communists.
Readers, including those unfamiliar with the film, should be able to ascertain several problems this technological advancement could pose, making it all the more foreboding when an unknown but powerful company pays out thousands of dollars to become partners with Brian and Barry. What makes it all the more ominous is Brian’s hesitancy in accepting the offer in contrast with Barry’s excitement. As the technology is adapted further it becomes clear that they are dealing with very dangerous concepts and people – hallucinations being only the smallest of side affects.
Although Lee McGeorge is using an already existing story, he makes this prequel his own by exploring the hows and whys Veraceo came to be developed. His narrative is accurate in terms of the way it builds up to coincide with the film script without damaging or giving new meaning to Cronenberg’s original storyline.
Although not horror as in scary, Days of O’Blivion contains many horrific scenes. Most of these are pornographic in nature and rather disturbing, particularly more so as the story progresses – something that lessened the general enjoyment of the book. The overall nature of the book (and film, probably) may appeal more towards a male market, particularly those with a less delicate temperament.
As with his previous books, which also incorporate pre-existing ideas, Lee McGeorge writes well in a way that engages the reader and even interests those without prior knowledge of the subject. There is also additional digital content alongside this book. Those lucky enough to own a paper back copy will be able to access these using an NFC enabled device.
Written as a prequel to David Cronenberg’s horror film, Lee McGeorge explores the potential scenario that led up to the surrealist events in Videodrome. This short story is more science fiction than horror in nature as it only builds up the background and setting to the point in which the film begins.
Days of O’Blivion, as well as the original film, is set during the cold war between the US and USSR. It is a period of time threatened with atomic weapons of mass destruction, and the competition to create the most superior technology. In this particular scenario, two men: Professor Brian Olivier and his friend Barry have been experimenting with special television technology resulting in interesting outcomes. Their product, which they name Veraceo –a compound of Veracity and Video –, has the ability to make everyone believe what they are seeing on screen to be true. This could be a big boon to advertising establishments, however cause dire consequences if found in the wrong hands, i.e. communists.
Readers, including those unfamiliar with the film, should be able to ascertain several problems this technological advancement could pose, making it all the more foreboding when an unknown but powerful company pays out thousands of dollars to become partners with Brian and Barry. What makes it all the more ominous is Brian’s hesitancy in accepting the offer in contrast with Barry’s excitement. As the technology is adapted further it becomes clear that they are dealing with very dangerous concepts and people – hallucinations being only the smallest of side affects.
Although Lee McGeorge is using an already existing story, he makes this prequel his own by exploring the hows and whys Veraceo came to be developed. His narrative is accurate in terms of the way it builds up to coincide with the film script without damaging or giving new meaning to Cronenberg’s original storyline.
Although not horror as in scary, Days of O’Blivion contains many horrific scenes. Most of these are pornographic in nature and rather disturbing, particularly more so as the story progresses – something that lessened the general enjoyment of the book. The overall nature of the book (and film, probably) may appeal more towards a male market, particularly those with a less delicate temperament.
As with his previous books, which also incorporate pre-existing ideas, Lee McGeorge writes well in a way that engages the reader and even interests those without prior knowledge of the subject. There is also additional digital content alongside this book. Those lucky enough to own a paper back copy will be able to access these using an NFC enabled device.
December 29, 2016
Videodrome is a real page turner, once i got started it was hard to put down and was the perfect companion on my journey home for Chrismtas. It's exciting, fast paced, dark and integrates some really powerful philosophical ideas on freedom and choice. I would highly recommend this book and i look forward to reading the next book by Lee McGeorge. 10/10!
September 21, 2016
Omg wow this book was really a fab read it was gripping and kept me wanting to read more,it was fantastly wrote.cant wait to get hold of some more of Lee`s books as love the writing style,
July 17, 2016
Where should I begin? “Videodrome”… One of David Cronenberg’s most well-known and epic movies. Unlike most of his other stuff, this one has an original script and isn’t based on a novel or short story. It conveys his ideas and thoughts in an excellent way. The story is great, albeit so disgusting as to almost not be watchable. But there lies it’s greatness – it shows us man’s inner and most dark desires. Those that many people will hide even from themselves. But what about everything that led to what happened in the movie? Well, here’s where Lee McGeorge’s new fanfiction novella comes in. It’s called “Videodrome: Days of O’Blivion” and tells the story of the eponymous professor Brian O’Blivion.
Without spoiling anything, two friends – Barry and Brian – are working on something big. So big, it catches the eye of a large shady corporation. From there everything looks good – they will receive funding to complete their research and will become rich beyond their wildest dreams. But all is not how it looks from afar. Stuff gets out of control, people die from unexpected circumstances and Brian finds himself between a rock and a hard place…
“Videodrome: Days of O’Blivion” is one of those quick reads that you do on a Saturday. It’s not too engaging, but still – there are parts of it that will haunt you for a while. The story isn’t beautiful, but everyone that thought it would be is not the one to be into Cronenberg in the first place. It’s bleak and depressing and that’s what makes it good.
Long live the new flesh!
Without spoiling anything, two friends – Barry and Brian – are working on something big. So big, it catches the eye of a large shady corporation. From there everything looks good – they will receive funding to complete their research and will become rich beyond their wildest dreams. But all is not how it looks from afar. Stuff gets out of control, people die from unexpected circumstances and Brian finds himself between a rock and a hard place…
“Videodrome: Days of O’Blivion” is one of those quick reads that you do on a Saturday. It’s not too engaging, but still – there are parts of it that will haunt you for a while. The story isn’t beautiful, but everyone that thought it would be is not the one to be into Cronenberg in the first place. It’s bleak and depressing and that’s what makes it good.
Long live the new flesh!
August 4, 2016
Another excellent book by Lee Mcgeorge.
Now, I have never seen the movie Videophone, but had heard of it. This book is actually a prequel to the original Videodrome story, so it was possible to read this without seeing the movie, or spoiling the movie in any way.
I won't reveal any of the plot to avoid spoilers, but just wanted to say a few reasons why this is a 5-star read.
The book is well-placed throughout, so at no point did I feel the book dragged on; it's a real page turner. It's relatively short, but that's good, as the story does not require padding out with unnecessary scenes.
The subject matter is thought provoking and disturbing, allowing the reader to re-examine themselves and their thoughts on society, as all the best books do.
The characters and dialogue felt real. Nothing occurred that made you think, 'yeah right, that could never happen.'
Who would like this book? Well, I would say that if you like books like I am Legend by Richard Matheson, or perhaps Margaret Atwood, books that feature dystopian realities and leave you thinking about them afterwards, you should enjoy this book - I certainly did!
Now, I have never seen the movie Videophone, but had heard of it. This book is actually a prequel to the original Videodrome story, so it was possible to read this without seeing the movie, or spoiling the movie in any way.
I won't reveal any of the plot to avoid spoilers, but just wanted to say a few reasons why this is a 5-star read.
The book is well-placed throughout, so at no point did I feel the book dragged on; it's a real page turner. It's relatively short, but that's good, as the story does not require padding out with unnecessary scenes.
The subject matter is thought provoking and disturbing, allowing the reader to re-examine themselves and their thoughts on society, as all the best books do.
The characters and dialogue felt real. Nothing occurred that made you think, 'yeah right, that could never happen.'
Who would like this book? Well, I would say that if you like books like I am Legend by Richard Matheson, or perhaps Margaret Atwood, books that feature dystopian realities and leave you thinking about them afterwards, you should enjoy this book - I certainly did!
August 6, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I kindly received it from Lee McGeorge and was not disappointed in it. I will be honest though and say i enjoyed the film Videodrome but wasn't a great fan of it. This book, however, was excellent.
David Cronenbourg should be proud of this and would enjoy it if he read it. Days of O'Blivion contains great characters, storyline and continues a great tradition of (what i call) film books whilst retaining its own identity. Lee McGeorge is definitely a leading voice in the writer community and everyone should have at least one of his books on their shelves.
I like this book, and his others, because it dares to push the envelope of what is right and wrong, decent and garish, dares the readers to question what their own appetites and behaviours are. What is normal, what is not?
Other reviews have said what this book is about so i won't bore you with details other than to say, buy this - read this - own this
Also get a copy of Slenderman, Slenderman, Take This Child by the same author. That is also a great read
David Cronenbourg should be proud of this and would enjoy it if he read it. Days of O'Blivion contains great characters, storyline and continues a great tradition of (what i call) film books whilst retaining its own identity. Lee McGeorge is definitely a leading voice in the writer community and everyone should have at least one of his books on their shelves.
I like this book, and his others, because it dares to push the envelope of what is right and wrong, decent and garish, dares the readers to question what their own appetites and behaviours are. What is normal, what is not?
Other reviews have said what this book is about so i won't bore you with details other than to say, buy this - read this - own this
Also get a copy of Slenderman, Slenderman, Take This Child by the same author. That is also a great read
August 3, 2016
Lee McGeorge provided me with a limited edition paperback of his new book Videodrome: Days of O'Blivion. The book itself is the world's first internet connected paperback, and when an NFC enabled device is touched to the front cover, a video of Lee McGeorge giving the background to book will start to play. This adds a whole new layer to the book, making a foreword not required.
Turning to the book itself, what can I say? Another superb book by Lee McGeorge. I have never seen the film Videodrome but will do asap. But having watch Lee McGeorge's video (as described above) prior to starting the book, this gave me a better understanding of the books intention. Although I believe the book can be read as a stand alone novel without any knowledge of the film.
Lee McGeorge writes with his normal fast paced, dark style, which is a real page turner. Absolutely fabulous. Would highly recommend the book (or any of his books) to anyone and everyone. Download your copy today!
Turning to the book itself, what can I say? Another superb book by Lee McGeorge. I have never seen the film Videodrome but will do asap. But having watch Lee McGeorge's video (as described above) prior to starting the book, this gave me a better understanding of the books intention. Although I believe the book can be read as a stand alone novel without any knowledge of the film.
Lee McGeorge writes with his normal fast paced, dark style, which is a real page turner. Absolutely fabulous. Would highly recommend the book (or any of his books) to anyone and everyone. Download your copy today!
November 19, 2016
This was a really easy to read book in one way but some of the content was quite shocking even in this day and age. It was a philosophically interesting read as it makes the reader question morality as it does the characters. It definitely left me wanting to know what happens next and I will be following up this with either the book or the film. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had heard of videodrome but had not seen it, days of o'blivion is still raising questions even though I have finished the book! Recommended if you like philosophical or morally questionable stories with a sci-if theme. Thank you Lee for writing it.
July 28, 2016
"This experiment is quite simple and it's your opportunity to win one thousand dollars." The opening paragraph will have you hooked and will consume your imagination until you reach the end.
I don't know how an author can write a short novel whilst keeping the reader on the edge of the seat and the story developing. Fast paced and full of disturbing and dark material that will keep you on your toes.
As the story unfolds with an array of sci-fi and horror themes, you will not be dissapointed with its cruel and satisfying climax.
Well done for writing yet another fantastic book.
I don't know how an author can write a short novel whilst keeping the reader on the edge of the seat and the story developing. Fast paced and full of disturbing and dark material that will keep you on your toes.
As the story unfolds with an array of sci-fi and horror themes, you will not be dissapointed with its cruel and satisfying climax.
Well done for writing yet another fantastic book.
May 5, 2017
This book was a very gripping read. Fabulously written and kept me engaged from the beginning... "This experiment is quite simple and it's your opportunity to win one thousand dollars." It does make you wonder what if this happened in the real world.
I found this book to be brooding and half-familiar, and a little dark. This tale steals over you till you’re half-in/half-out of a dream. I had never seen the movie, but am tempted now to try and find a copy. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it highly to others.
I found this book to be brooding and half-familiar, and a little dark. This tale steals over you till you’re half-in/half-out of a dream. I had never seen the movie, but am tempted now to try and find a copy. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it highly to others.
August 2, 2016
The story of two scientists that create a form of television. It is interesting how the videos on the television affects people. I enjoyed that there was both a positive and negative atmosphere surrounding these tv experiments. There are also other issues surrounding the company that our protagonists work for which adds an additional dimension to the storyline. All of which makes the novel a real page turner that is hard to put down.
July 23, 2016
I received this amazing book this morning and I couldn't put it down. Its thrilling dark a real page turner and written beautifully. Just amazing once again Mr McGeorge. I have rated this 5 stars however this should be at least 10 stars. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this very talented author. Mr McGeorge you have out done yourself again!! Many thanks for hours of amazing reading.
August 10, 2016
Sent free from author thank you
Really enjoyed this book fast read and keeps you interested all the way through. If you think about it what happens is quite frightening if it could happen in real life.
Recommend for horror and Sci fi readers you will enjoy.
It's about an invention used through the power of television which could be used for good or bad depends whose hands its in
Really enjoyed this book fast read and keeps you interested all the way through. If you think about it what happens is quite frightening if it could happen in real life.
Recommend for horror and Sci fi readers you will enjoy.
It's about an invention used through the power of television which could be used for good or bad depends whose hands its in
November 2, 2016
A great read, interesting (old) tech and believable characters. The tech made me a little nostalgic for VHS, that was a surprise. I hadn't seen the movie, but will now, so the ending didn't quite sit well with me. Not a bad ending, it just felt a little quick and assumed. Overall though, quite recommended as a unique horror tale.
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
August 31, 2016
Fast paced reading, I love the horror genre and although the Sci Fi would not normally take my fancy I found it to be a learning curve and Days of O'Blivion has certainly intrigued me to read more sci-fi based horror.
August 7, 2016
Best yet! I love the concept, the idea and the notion. The almost ironic imbedded QR code in a novel of this nature works fantastically. The story can be read in short, sharp bursts. Visually it's impressive and highly recommended by me.
September 29, 2016
You can't help feeling that this is a vision of the future, not in exact scientific terms but in social and moral terms.
I have rarely been so gripped by a short read and was left almost afraid to watch TV
I have rarely been so gripped by a short read and was left almost afraid to watch TV
October 21, 2016
Very good book, well written, certainly makes you think about what could happen, haven't seen the movie, so I can't compare it to that, but all in all an enjoyable read.
July 12, 2024
I am very grateful to be able to read such great literature...and for free!!!...I've found so much to enjoy I am like a kid in a candy store!!! I read this book in one sitting. I exclaimed out loud a few times. A great book.. thanks very much 😍...\m/
June 11, 2025
More well done fan fiction, this time a prequel to the storyline of the movie Videodrome. Not quite as gripping as The Thing: Zero Day, but still worth a read.
September 24, 2016
I received this book for free through a Goodreads giveaway.
Alas I have not seen the movie that this book is based upon, yet it didn't detract from my enjoyment of this book. It is well written, fast paced and with characters you can root for. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Alas I have not seen the movie that this book is based upon, yet it didn't detract from my enjoyment of this book. It is well written, fast paced and with characters you can root for. Thoroughly enjoyable.
November 1, 2016
Absolutely love this author.
I'm not usually a fan of horror but McGeorge does it so well.
another masterpiece.
5 stars
I'm not usually a fan of horror but McGeorge does it so well.
another masterpiece.
5 stars
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews