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Boo!
Maldon Williams was nine years old when he saw a clown murder his parents. The clown used a kitchen knife to cut their throats from ear to ear, and blood dripped down the walls in thick, oozing rivers.
Ben Night was once a successful author, whose career now seems washed up. But his horror novel ‘Clownz’ is about to become all too real. Real enough to break into his own home.
Jane Brady is the police detective investigating a string of monstrous killings, connected only by Night’s book. Has its villain, Sparkles The Clown, inspired these real-life atrocities?
From the pages of fiction, Sparkles walks the world, leaving behind only the flayed faces of his victims and a single word written in blood:
“Boo!”
Ben Night was once a successful author, whose career now seems washed up. But his horror novel ‘Clownz’ is about to become all too real. Real enough to break into his own home.
Jane Brady is the police detective investigating a string of monstrous killings, connected only by Night’s book. Has its villain, Sparkles The Clown, inspired these real-life atrocities?
From the pages of fiction, Sparkles walks the world, leaving behind only the flayed faces of his victims and a single word written in blood:
“Boo!”
- GenresHorror
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2016
About the author
David Haynes
27 books214 followersWhen 12 year-old David Haynes picked up a battered copy of Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot, he never looked back.
Writing in the grand tradition of the horror paperback originals of his misspent youth, Haynes populates his spine-chilling novels with ancient evils and small-town terrors, mutant monstrosities and knife-wielding psychopaths, and is dedicated to disproving the depressing observation that “...they don’t write ‘em like they used to.”
David Haynes is the author of sixteen horror novels and three collections of macabre short fiction, and lives in England with his wife and dog - that he wasn’t allowed to call Cujo.
Writing in the grand tradition of the horror paperback originals of his misspent youth, Haynes populates his spine-chilling novels with ancient evils and small-town terrors, mutant monstrosities and knife-wielding psychopaths, and is dedicated to disproving the depressing observation that “...they don’t write ‘em like they used to.”
David Haynes is the author of sixteen horror novels and three collections of macabre short fiction, and lives in England with his wife and dog - that he wasn’t allowed to call Cujo.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 14, 2026
I went through quite a few David Haynes books before settling on this being my first. The writing style took me awhile to get comfortable with, but surely threw me off quite a bit. The descriptions were very detailed in some areas (Jane's attractiveness and contradictory 'vetting' of Ben), but almost nonexistent in others (The actual capture of Maldon and his future.). There were some good attempts at being creepy, but the focus just seemed not to be on the right places throughout. The story also jumped around too much, leaving large gaps with certain characters at times, all resulting in a culmination that just didn't quite come together. On the finale, I really did like the lead up to the conclusion with Sparkles dictating his childhood traumas to Ben. It was unsettling to picture the pseudo-villain of this story melt down, but I just wish there was another chapter or two to tie up all the loose ends. I don't think this was a terrible book, but I think it could greatly benefit from having a good developmental editor help fine-tune everything a bit further.
January 12, 2022
Cue the circus music! Boo! was just plain fun! What horror fan doesn't enjoy a good evil clown story? I know of exactly none.
A young boy has his smile stolen when a clown murders his parents right in front of him. How that affects him and those around him is the basic plot of this book. Toss in the author of a book called Clownz, a spunky police detective, and a super lovable greyhound, and that basically rounds out our main cast of characters.
Everything moves along, maybe not always completely believable, but that's ok-evil clowns can make up for a lot and these are especially evil. There are some nasty scenes in this book, and man oh man, it's just so darn FUN! (I may have mentioned that before.)
If you're in the mood for some creepy-ass clowns, characters you can relate to, and a fast paced story you can take down in a few sittings, Boo! is what you need! Just don't blame me if you wake up in the night, and there's a dark figure in the shadows of your bedroom. You'll just have to hope that Sparkles decides to spare you.
Highly recommended to fans of creepy clowns!
You can scare yourself silly here: Boo!
A young boy has his smile stolen when a clown murders his parents right in front of him. How that affects him and those around him is the basic plot of this book. Toss in the author of a book called Clownz, a spunky police detective, and a super lovable greyhound, and that basically rounds out our main cast of characters.
Everything moves along, maybe not always completely believable, but that's ok-evil clowns can make up for a lot and these are especially evil. There are some nasty scenes in this book, and man oh man, it's just so darn FUN! (I may have mentioned that before.)
If you're in the mood for some creepy-ass clowns, characters you can relate to, and a fast paced story you can take down in a few sittings, Boo! is what you need! Just don't blame me if you wake up in the night, and there's a dark figure in the shadows of your bedroom. You'll just have to hope that Sparkles decides to spare you.
Highly recommended to fans of creepy clowns!
You can scare yourself silly here: Boo!
July 29, 2018
BOO! is the first book I've read by author David Haynes. I loved the writing style, and the imagery used in this deadly and psychological horror novel. Of course, the fact that it revolves around
CLOWNS
(shudder!), has a lot to do with the intensity I felt while reading this. Honestly, is there anyone out there that doesn't find clowns at least a little disquieting???
The story tells the tale of a boy named Maldon Williams, who saw a clown kill his parents when he was only nine years old . . . Years later, author Ben Night wrote a book that he entitled CLOWNZ, which put him on the best-seller's lists. While he's been struggling for over twenty years to reclaim some of that success, Maldon has grown up with . . . other problems.
". . . He colored other people's flesh too . . . Nobody ever minded because the colors were so bright and cheerful. It was light when their whole world was a grey, stinking swamp . . . "
I don't want to give away any more details, for this is a book that you're better off discovering for yourself. Each step leads to the next, and I found myself immediately absorbed into this creepy world that David Haynes created. I will certainly be reading more by this author in the future.
Recommended!
The story tells the tale of a boy named Maldon Williams, who saw a clown kill his parents when he was only nine years old . . . Years later, author Ben Night wrote a book that he entitled CLOWNZ, which put him on the best-seller's lists. While he's been struggling for over twenty years to reclaim some of that success, Maldon has grown up with . . . other problems.
". . . He colored other people's flesh too . . . Nobody ever minded because the colors were so bright and cheerful. It was light when their whole world was a grey, stinking swamp . . . "
I don't want to give away any more details, for this is a book that you're better off discovering for yourself. Each step leads to the next, and I found myself immediately absorbed into this creepy world that David Haynes created. I will certainly be reading more by this author in the future.
Recommended!
November 14, 2020
Who doesn't like reading about creepy clowns? The cover of this book just literally gives you "boo-spooky" chills!
A little backstory for you readers:
Nine year old Maldon Williams will have a horrific deed etched into his brain forever as he witnessed a clown killing his parents.
Years later, an author, Ben Mears wrote a book called "Clownz" which is about a clown named "Sparkles". There are a string of murders happening all over the city. The strange thing about the murders is that the Sparkles has maybe come to life or is someone using the book as a tool for murder?
Thoughts:
This was a very spooky tale and the more I became involved in the story, the more "spookier" it became as I could not put the book down!
Kept me on the edge of my seat and entertained all the way to the last page! Bodies galore! Blood flowing! It will give you pause the next time you look at a clown.
Four "spooky" stars for this one.
A little backstory for you readers:
Nine year old Maldon Williams will have a horrific deed etched into his brain forever as he witnessed a clown killing his parents.
Years later, an author, Ben Mears wrote a book called "Clownz" which is about a clown named "Sparkles". There are a string of murders happening all over the city. The strange thing about the murders is that the Sparkles has maybe come to life or is someone using the book as a tool for murder?
Thoughts:
This was a very spooky tale and the more I became involved in the story, the more "spookier" it became as I could not put the book down!
Kept me on the edge of my seat and entertained all the way to the last page! Bodies galore! Blood flowing! It will give you pause the next time you look at a clown.
Four "spooky" stars for this one.
April 22, 2016
I say this at the start of every review of this author's books, but it's true - I'm a huge David Haynes fan. Even if I wasn't, I think the happy smiling face of the clown would have sold the book to me! This book sees a bit of a departure from his usual themes, most notably the lack of a supernatural presence. For me his best were the earlier Victorian era stories. I have enjoyed his more contemporary stories, but not quite as much, but his latest release has challenged that opinion.
The story centres around a murderous clown, which is quite a common horror theme. Here the author's strength at bringing something new to the story shines. The horror here is in the mind as well as the terrible acts that are committed and there is a twisted logic to the delusion which grounds the whole story.
As well as the killer clown you have the author who wrote the book that inspired the clown's actions and story and how he is dragged ever further into the unfolding events. This is balance by the detective trying to solve and stop the murders. All of the characters are well realised and provide a perfect balance to each other. Its here, that the author shines with excellent writing and providing enough detail for you to fully appreciate what is happening without forcing the reader to wade through unnecessary text.
The pacing is brisk and draws you through with barely a pause and makes it feel like a shorter read than it is. The ending is a little unusual and acts as a counterpoint to the more frantic build up. There is an element of sadness here that underpins the madness and for me really pushed the quality of story.
To sum up - we have another winner from David Haynes, and a superb horror read. I'd recommend this to all fans of the genre.
The story centres around a murderous clown, which is quite a common horror theme. Here the author's strength at bringing something new to the story shines. The horror here is in the mind as well as the terrible acts that are committed and there is a twisted logic to the delusion which grounds the whole story.
As well as the killer clown you have the author who wrote the book that inspired the clown's actions and story and how he is dragged ever further into the unfolding events. This is balance by the detective trying to solve and stop the murders. All of the characters are well realised and provide a perfect balance to each other. Its here, that the author shines with excellent writing and providing enough detail for you to fully appreciate what is happening without forcing the reader to wade through unnecessary text.
The pacing is brisk and draws you through with barely a pause and makes it feel like a shorter read than it is. The ending is a little unusual and acts as a counterpoint to the more frantic build up. There is an element of sadness here that underpins the madness and for me really pushed the quality of story.
To sum up - we have another winner from David Haynes, and a superb horror read. I'd recommend this to all fans of the genre.
May 8, 2016
Never before have clowns been so disturbing. David Haynes returns to the modern setting to showcase his imaginative horror writing and Boo! does not disappoint. From the arresting first line to the surprisingly satisfying conclusion, this reader could not stop turning the pages.
Gruesome it may be, but as in all good work of this genre, the real horrors come from much deeper inside the human mind and the outcome is all the more powerful because it is not simply black or white.
The odd implausibility and occasional lack of polish aside, this is a gripping, entertaining and scary tale.
Gruesome it may be, but as in all good work of this genre, the real horrors come from much deeper inside the human mind and the outcome is all the more powerful because it is not simply black or white.
The odd implausibility and occasional lack of polish aside, this is a gripping, entertaining and scary tale.
February 27, 2023
David Haynes writes a wicked horror story. I've read several of his books and love them. He writes great characters, interesting stories with engaging plots.
Boo! is brutal. A killer Clown, lots of blood, mutilation and a mystery to go with it. I really don't know how to explain it all, so I won't! It's just a damn good read.
Boo! is brutal. A killer Clown, lots of blood, mutilation and a mystery to go with it. I really don't know how to explain it all, so I won't! It's just a damn good read.
May 4, 2016
I suppose my clue was in the cover as I have to say this book gave me the creeps. I have always been a bit ambivalent about clowns but I don't think I will be going to a circus any time soon after reading this. That said it is well written and definitely gripping.
June 3, 2017
This is my first book by this author but will definitely not be my last. Not only is BOO well written, but it's good old fashioned horror fun! Evil clowns, psychological shenanigans, and a detective story all rolled into one page turning thrill ride. Highly recommend for fans of horror.
April 7, 2017
Good read... Unless you are afraid of clownz!!!
Enjoyed this book, I am liking this author more and more.
Very creepy and slightly disturbing. This clown has serious issues!!!!
Enjoyed this book, I am liking this author more and more.
Very creepy and slightly disturbing. This clown has serious issues!!!!
April 11, 2016
Do you find clowns more scary than funny? It's so common that there's a word for it. Coulrophobia (I had to look it up). This is a fantastic page-turner which exploits a common fear. It's also a psychological thriller and a crime and detective story. The first sentence is absolutely arresting. Sparkles the clown is the creation of Ben
Night, a washed-up author vainly trying to recreate his earlier fame. A children's entertainer has copied the Sparkles face as his own but someone is bent on a bizarre form of revenge. Detective Jane Brady is determined to find the killer when a colleague of hers is similarly targeted.
This is a new venture for a man known primarily for his horror stories, with an emphasis on Victorian tales of the macabre. His current novel is bang up to date and is influenced by the author's experience working as a police officer. We are able to watch the pieces falling into place for Jane Brady, and witness Ben Night's fear as his own creation apparently takes on a life of its own and goes on a murderous spree. David Haynes has a great future as a writer of psychological thrillers and crime novels if this book is any indication.
Night, a washed-up author vainly trying to recreate his earlier fame. A children's entertainer has copied the Sparkles face as his own but someone is bent on a bizarre form of revenge. Detective Jane Brady is determined to find the killer when a colleague of hers is similarly targeted.
This is a new venture for a man known primarily for his horror stories, with an emphasis on Victorian tales of the macabre. His current novel is bang up to date and is influenced by the author's experience working as a police officer. We are able to watch the pieces falling into place for Jane Brady, and witness Ben Night's fear as his own creation apparently takes on a life of its own and goes on a murderous spree. David Haynes has a great future as a writer of psychological thrillers and crime novels if this book is any indication.
April 10, 2016
Clowns, or clownz - fun circus characters or evil monsters? There's no doubt which type this book is about, the nasty, evil, serial killing type.
Maldon wants to smile again. His smile was taken away when he was a child when he saw his parents get murdered by a clown. The voices in his head say he needs to take other people's smiles away from them.
This is a creepy story (as usual from this author) with a mystery as to how the various characters' lives cross. There are hideous murders, but told with a hint, rather than the gory detail, which for me makes it more hideous. It's often not what's said, just hinted towards that makes this story all the more tense.
My favourite character is Stan the retired greyhound. He wants to be brave for Ben, his owner, but doesn't know how to.
Yet another fantastic story from this author who has switched his horror from Victorian macabre to modern fears.
Maldon wants to smile again. His smile was taken away when he was a child when he saw his parents get murdered by a clown. The voices in his head say he needs to take other people's smiles away from them.
This is a creepy story (as usual from this author) with a mystery as to how the various characters' lives cross. There are hideous murders, but told with a hint, rather than the gory detail, which for me makes it more hideous. It's often not what's said, just hinted towards that makes this story all the more tense.
My favourite character is Stan the retired greyhound. He wants to be brave for Ben, his owner, but doesn't know how to.
Yet another fantastic story from this author who has switched his horror from Victorian macabre to modern fears.
July 20, 2016
Fantastic and kept me up reading when I've work in the morning!
Initially I admit being drawn by the cover, since Tim Curry in Steven Kings It I have always had a fear of clowns. This is a great page Turner with well written characters and an all too believable plot. I loved the layers of plot and it tied all all the loose ends... which I hope will mean ill sleep now! I'm definitely going to read more from this author.. but maybe ill start earlier in the day next time!
Initially I admit being drawn by the cover, since Tim Curry in Steven Kings It I have always had a fear of clowns. This is a great page Turner with well written characters and an all too believable plot. I loved the layers of plot and it tied all all the loose ends... which I hope will mean ill sleep now! I'm definitely going to read more from this author.. but maybe ill start earlier in the day next time!
June 25, 2016
Extremely creepy but also terribly tragic: I don't often read horror and was afraid it would give me nightmares, but instead I was reduced almost to tears. Very well written indeed.
August 21, 2016
First horror novel I've ever by David Haynes and it won't be the last. If you aren't afraid of clown yet, you will be after this book.
March 31, 2018
I enjoyed this book. Who doesn't enjoy a killer clown story? Well-written with strong characters and a tight plot, I finished this book in one day. I'd recommend this book to all who enjoy a scary read.
July 11, 2019
Another good read
I really enjoyed this book. So many twists and turns kept you captivated. I especially loved that there wasn't just 1 villain but a few all coming to gruesome ends and a story being wrote as you read and then also growing with the detective too. you couldn't ask for more. So much happening but It was balanced so It didn't get confusing or mixed up. It kept you reading not wanting to stop til it was done. Definitely recommend you give it a read.
I really enjoyed this book. So many twists and turns kept you captivated. I especially loved that there wasn't just 1 villain but a few all coming to gruesome ends and a story being wrote as you read and then also growing with the detective too. you couldn't ask for more. So much happening but It was balanced so It didn't get confusing or mixed up. It kept you reading not wanting to stop til it was done. Definitely recommend you give it a read.
April 15, 2016
I've been following Haynes since reading his Victorian-era Macabre series. He was able to capture in that series, the gritty feel of the dark and dirty side of Victorian London. With "Boo!", I feel he has captured that same nastiness in a contemporary setting.
Haynes draws on his personal and professional experience to weave a frightening and bloody tale about a murderous clown. His motivation unclear, the detectives race to connect the dots as the body count rises.
You wonder just how much is cut (piece by greasy piece) from reality and how much from Haynes' own imagination. How much is Haynes (the horror writer? the police detective? Fleur?)? And how much is Haynes' Sparkles? (Sparkles the muse?)
And maybe, just maybe we'll see Fleur again?
4 1/2 STARS
Haynes draws on his personal and professional experience to weave a frightening and bloody tale about a murderous clown. His motivation unclear, the detectives race to connect the dots as the body count rises.
You wonder just how much is cut (piece by greasy piece) from reality and how much from Haynes' own imagination. How much is Haynes (the horror writer? the police detective? Fleur?)? And how much is Haynes' Sparkles? (Sparkles the muse?)
And maybe, just maybe we'll see Fleur again?
4 1/2 STARS
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews