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Monsterland #1
Monsterland
Welcome to Monsterland, the scariest place on earth.
When world markets are decimated by a crippling plague, philanthropist, and billionaire businessman, Vincent Konrad decides to place monsters in a theme park setting to promote education and tolerance. Copper Valley is chosen as the primary site for the park in the United States.
Wyatt Baldwin, a high school senior is dying to go to the opening and when he lands special passes to the park, he and his friends are expecting the experience of a lifetime.
After all, in a theme park where real zombies, werewolves, and vampires are the main attractions, what could possibly go wrong?
When world markets are decimated by a crippling plague, philanthropist, and billionaire businessman, Vincent Konrad decides to place monsters in a theme park setting to promote education and tolerance. Copper Valley is chosen as the primary site for the park in the United States.
Wyatt Baldwin, a high school senior is dying to go to the opening and when he lands special passes to the park, he and his friends are expecting the experience of a lifetime.
After all, in a theme park where real zombies, werewolves, and vampires are the main attractions, what could possibly go wrong?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
35 people are currently reading
963 people want to read
About the author
Michael Okon
7 books614 followersMichael Okon is an award-winning and best-selling author of multiple genres including paranormal, thriller, horror, action/adventure and self-help. He graduated from Long Island University with a degree in English, and then later received his MBA in business and finance. Coming from a family of writers, he has storytelling in his DNA. Michael has been writing from as far back as he can remember, his inspiration being his love for films and their impact on his life. From the time he saw The Goonies, he was hooked on the idea of entertaining people through unforgettable characters.
Michael is a lifelong movie buff, a music playlist aficionado, and a sucker for self-help books. He lives on the North Shore of Long Island with his wife and children.
Michael is a lifelong movie buff, a music playlist aficionado, and a sucker for self-help books. He lives on the North Shore of Long Island with his wife and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
November 11, 2025
The world survived the apocalypse...barely.
"Monsterland is the safest place on Earth."
The plague is contained but the economy and most of society is still crippled.
And while the rest of the world is twiddling their thumbs, Doctor Vincent Konrad has found a way to...repurpose the horrors.
"I have put together an excellent team not only to run my parks but to control the inhabitants. Monsterland will be a gateway to the future...This theme park promises to be be the forefront of monster-related research but not everyone seems to be on the same page.
"I prefer to call them zombies."Meanwhile, brothers Wyatt and Sean are desperate to attend the grand opening of Monsterland and due to an almost unbelievable series of coincidences, are able to score some tickets for them and their friends.
"...The politically correct term is vitally challenged."
The vampires, werewolves and zombies all live up to their legends and it's an amazing experience...at first...
"You keep saying it's safe, Doctor. Nothing could be further from the truth."Soon their exciting night becomes so much more.
Wyatt and his friends must fight for their lives...or die trying.
He yanked the axe from the body, cursed softly, and then headed towards ZombievilleOverall, I really enjoyed this!
The plot felt a little predictable at the beginning (the safest place on earth? Come on!) but Okon quickly added in the twists and turns so that I didn't even know what was up or down.
I loved the dynamic main characters and the alternating perspectives.
Wyatt had such an interesting personality to follow and I was at the edge of my seat the whole time - especially the scenes with the zombies!
His cynical stepfather would so totally be me in this situation - he brought in some much-needed common sense!!
I also liked how Okon included the perspectives of the monsters - zombies, werewolves and vampires.
It was so cool to see how each species had such radically different world-views and how that impacted how they interacted with humans.
The book leaves us on a cliff-hanger BUT I have the second book in my hands - I'm beyond excited!!
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I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2016
Unpopular Opinion Time
"Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville."
How is this even a good idea for a theme park? The logistics, the overhead expenses and hazard pay are probably through the roof. Not only that, the safety regulations must be ridiculous. Haven't we learned anything from Jurassic Park?
Oh yes I'm here to review, and not run my mouth (or fingers) about the impracticality of this business venture because this is fiction. I'm perfectly aware, thank you.
So here's the short of it - I did not like anything in this book. Not the monsters, the theme park, nor the characters, nor the story (I mean, what story?). You'd actually guess what goes down by just reading the blurb, I did and I read it anyway because predictable doesn't necessarily mean bad. In this case though, it was. For book titled after a theme park, it spends very little time in the actual theme park. It read like a cheesy B-movie that just wants to be made never mind the story and the idk-how-many-POVs didn't help either.
Then the reveal at the end about the evil genius plan to rule the world was stupidly convoluted,it makes Dr. Evil look like a genius.
With the faults in the plot, nothing was as horrible as the cardboard characters and their cringe worthy dialogue.. The portrayal of the teens here are heavy handed in cliche. There's the unpopular-but-could-be-hot guy, the perennial jock, the arm-candy no personality girlfriend, the consummate nerd and the relentlessly aggressive honor student.
“Me want meat.”
He came forward, wrapping one arm around Jade’s waist, picking her up. “Me want meat.”
Theo walked over to Keisha, who eyed him sideways. “Don’t even think about it,” she told him pointedly.
“I could crush you like the vermin you are.” She eyed him disdainfully. “Ay caramba, Mamacita,” Manny crooned.
“You too tough on that boy. Maybe you need a real man.”
Keisha made a rude noise, dismissing him.
“Keep that up, Manny, and I’ll have to show you what I learned in tae kwon do this week.”
“Yeah, man, she threw the instructor over her shoulder. You better watch out.”
Even the monsters here were, well, not monstrous enough. I'm sure we've all made fun of the sparkly-in-the daylight vampire, but at least that vampire is wee bit cool at night, the vampires here are ugh just lame ass bitches.
TL;DR -> Read Jurassic Park instead. I know I should have.
***arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
"Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville."
How is this even a good idea for a theme park? The logistics, the overhead expenses and hazard pay are probably through the roof. Not only that, the safety regulations must be ridiculous. Haven't we learned anything from Jurassic Park?
Oh yes I'm here to review, and not run my mouth (or fingers) about the impracticality of this business venture because this is fiction. I'm perfectly aware, thank you.
So here's the short of it - I did not like anything in this book. Not the monsters, the theme park, nor the characters, nor the story (I mean, what story?). You'd actually guess what goes down by just reading the blurb, I did and I read it anyway because predictable doesn't necessarily mean bad. In this case though, it was. For book titled after a theme park, it spends very little time in the actual theme park. It read like a cheesy B-movie that just wants to be made never mind the story and the idk-how-many-POVs didn't help either.
Then the reveal at the end about the evil genius plan to rule the world was stupidly convoluted,it makes Dr. Evil look like a genius.
With the faults in the plot, nothing was as horrible as the cardboard characters and their cringe worthy dialogue.. The portrayal of the teens here are heavy handed in cliche. There's the unpopular-but-could-be-hot guy, the perennial jock, the arm-candy no personality girlfriend, the consummate nerd and the relentlessly aggressive honor student.
“Me want meat.”
He came forward, wrapping one arm around Jade’s waist, picking her up. “Me want meat.”
Theo walked over to Keisha, who eyed him sideways. “Don’t even think about it,” she told him pointedly.
“I could crush you like the vermin you are.” She eyed him disdainfully. “Ay caramba, Mamacita,” Manny crooned.
“You too tough on that boy. Maybe you need a real man.”
Keisha made a rude noise, dismissing him.
“Keep that up, Manny, and I’ll have to show you what I learned in tae kwon do this week.”
“Yeah, man, she threw the instructor over her shoulder. You better watch out.”
Even the monsters here were, well, not monstrous enough. I'm sure we've all made fun of the sparkly-in-the daylight vampire, but at least that vampire is wee bit cool at night, the vampires here are ugh just lame ass bitches.
TL;DR -> Read Jurassic Park instead. I know I should have.
***arc provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
January 13, 2017
I liked Monsterland but I wanted to like it a lot more.
The premise is really cool – a theme park with zombies, vampires and werewolves. Sure it’s a blatant copy of Jurassic Park, but so what? It sounds fun.
But how do you do it? Like a B movie spoof, over the top corny but fun? Make it loveably campy with a sequel and a series in the makes? A YA adventure with some romance thrown in? Or a black comedy, scary as hell but with an evil wink and nod? Or play it straight – a horror book with a dark soul.
Perhaps these are some of the questions that writer Michael Phillip Cash struggled with because he seemed to try to do it all. While he created an entertaining and fun book, it comes across inconsistent and sometimes flat.
A global pandemic has produced a percentage of the world who stumble around like zombies but with the politically correct euphemism “vitality challenged” … hell, they’re zombies. A population of werewolves is discovered. Vampires, far from the god-like devils portrayed in many stories, are refugees from a party that finished as surely as the sun coming up. An opportunistic mad scientist puts it all together and sells tickets. Is he a savior for the monsters as well as the world’s economy? Or is he the real monster? Are all the people lined up to see the zoo-like attraction just as much monsters?
The highlight of the book was that the mad scientist gives a behind the scenes tour to some special guests that had the feel of a twisted Willy Wonka visit, the golden tickets taking a decidedly sharp turn – the Oompa Loompas did not eat the visitors after all.
Cash hits some entertaining notes here, has a good time with a great idea.
The premise is really cool – a theme park with zombies, vampires and werewolves. Sure it’s a blatant copy of Jurassic Park, but so what? It sounds fun.
But how do you do it? Like a B movie spoof, over the top corny but fun? Make it loveably campy with a sequel and a series in the makes? A YA adventure with some romance thrown in? Or a black comedy, scary as hell but with an evil wink and nod? Or play it straight – a horror book with a dark soul.
Perhaps these are some of the questions that writer Michael Phillip Cash struggled with because he seemed to try to do it all. While he created an entertaining and fun book, it comes across inconsistent and sometimes flat.
A global pandemic has produced a percentage of the world who stumble around like zombies but with the politically correct euphemism “vitality challenged” … hell, they’re zombies. A population of werewolves is discovered. Vampires, far from the god-like devils portrayed in many stories, are refugees from a party that finished as surely as the sun coming up. An opportunistic mad scientist puts it all together and sells tickets. Is he a savior for the monsters as well as the world’s economy? Or is he the real monster? Are all the people lined up to see the zoo-like attraction just as much monsters?
The highlight of the book was that the mad scientist gives a behind the scenes tour to some special guests that had the feel of a twisted Willy Wonka visit, the golden tickets taking a decidedly sharp turn – the Oompa Loompas did not eat the visitors after all.
Cash hits some entertaining notes here, has a good time with a great idea.
January 8, 2016
Welcome to Jurassic Park Monsterland!
The comparison is just too hard to resist. Why? Because Monsterland feels like a madman's attempt to show off creatures that better stay forgotten (hidden?!).
The story is pretty interesting, and it revolves around Wyatt Baldwin and his friends. They have the opportunity to visit this famous park on its opening night. And ever since they enter the park, I keep looking out for T-Rex to make an appearance.
The park consists of the Werewolf River Run, Vampire Village and Zombieville. And now we have to talk about each section of Monsterland.
The Werewolf River Run represents a boat slide where werewolves run along the boats. Ok, but they require special conditions in order to transform (full moon and such). No problem! Dr. Vincent Conrad (the mad, evil scientist behind everything) had some special lights installed in their section of the park, so that these creatures are forced to go through the painful transformation with each ride. Who's the monster now?
Apparently, werewolves have always been around, but kept to themselves until Conrad found them in the Everglades.
Moving on to Vampire Village, the vampires are apparently the privileged race among the three in the park. They signed a contract with Conrad, and it is implied at some point that they would eventually be allowed to breed.
What I liked very much with Cash's vampires is that they are nothing special. True, they tend to live forever if not staked through the heart with a wooden stake. Otherwise they don't glow, don't glamour, don't fly etc. To put it simply, they are pretty useless in a fight with the other two races (this subject is much debated throughout the book by Wyatt and his friends).
Vampires seem to be common knowledge in this book; everybody knows they exist. And guess how they turn one another?
Our last stop is Zombieville. Here, in a lovely suburban setting, Conrad locked up all the zombies. The zombies appeared due to a plague and "the good doctor" used finding a cure as an excuse to gather up all the poor creatures.
Needless to say, I dislike Conrad profoundly. And I have something to say to Michael Phillip Cash.
Dr. Vincent Conrad inclined his moody head. He was thin to the point of emaciation; his skin so pale, he appeared a sallow yellow. His voice reflected his Moldavian roots, the tiny country sandwiched in the Carpathian Mountains, where it was reported he descended from royalty.
You see, I'm from that country. And it's not so tiny (well, it's tiny compared to the United States), nor sandwiched in the Carpathian Mountains. The country's name is actually Romania. That area between the Carpathians the author is talking about is called Transylvania, and Moldavia (the region within Romania) is outside the mountains. There's also a country called the Republic of Moldavia, that is Romania's neighbor to the east and has nothing to do with the Carpathians. I'm sorry, but a little documentation work would have made that clear to anybody.
On a positive note, I appreciate the character of color (Keisha) and the Asian one. There are too few of them in the books I've read so far. And I appreciate that Keisha
All in all, I enjoyed Monsterland and read it in one sitting. It felt like watching a movie.
*I thank Michael Philip Cash, Chelshire Inc, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
The comparison is just too hard to resist. Why? Because Monsterland feels like a madman's attempt to show off creatures that better stay forgotten (hidden?!).
The story is pretty interesting, and it revolves around Wyatt Baldwin and his friends. They have the opportunity to visit this famous park on its opening night. And ever since they enter the park, I keep looking out for T-Rex to make an appearance.
The park consists of the Werewolf River Run, Vampire Village and Zombieville. And now we have to talk about each section of Monsterland.
The Werewolf River Run represents a boat slide where werewolves run along the boats. Ok, but they require special conditions in order to transform (full moon and such). No problem! Dr. Vincent Conrad (the mad, evil scientist behind everything) had some special lights installed in their section of the park, so that these creatures are forced to go through the painful transformation with each ride. Who's the monster now?
Apparently, werewolves have always been around, but kept to themselves until Conrad found them in the Everglades.
Moving on to Vampire Village, the vampires are apparently the privileged race among the three in the park. They signed a contract with Conrad, and it is implied at some point that they would eventually be allowed to breed.
What I liked very much with Cash's vampires is that they are nothing special. True, they tend to live forever if not staked through the heart with a wooden stake. Otherwise they don't glow, don't glamour, don't fly etc. To put it simply, they are pretty useless in a fight with the other two races (this subject is much debated throughout the book by Wyatt and his friends).
Vampires seem to be common knowledge in this book; everybody knows they exist. And guess how they turn one another?
Our last stop is Zombieville. Here, in a lovely suburban setting, Conrad locked up all the zombies. The zombies appeared due to a plague and "the good doctor" used finding a cure as an excuse to gather up all the poor creatures.
Needless to say, I dislike Conrad profoundly. And I have something to say to Michael Phillip Cash.
Dr. Vincent Conrad inclined his moody head. He was thin to the point of emaciation; his skin so pale, he appeared a sallow yellow. His voice reflected his Moldavian roots, the tiny country sandwiched in the Carpathian Mountains, where it was reported he descended from royalty.
You see, I'm from that country. And it's not so tiny (well, it's tiny compared to the United States), nor sandwiched in the Carpathian Mountains. The country's name is actually Romania. That area between the Carpathians the author is talking about is called Transylvania, and Moldavia (the region within Romania) is outside the mountains. There's also a country called the Republic of Moldavia, that is Romania's neighbor to the east and has nothing to do with the Carpathians. I'm sorry, but a little documentation work would have made that clear to anybody.
On a positive note, I appreciate the character of color (Keisha) and the Asian one. There are too few of them in the books I've read so far. And I appreciate that Keisha
All in all, I enjoyed Monsterland and read it in one sitting. It felt like watching a movie.
*I thank Michael Philip Cash, Chelshire Inc, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2015
Michael Phillip Cash has a Monstrous Giveaway!
Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth.
Enter to win 1 of 5 eCopies (Intl) or a Signed Print Copy(US)
Click on banner to enter...Ends December 14!
Will we ever get tired of the need for bigger, better, more shocking and more entertainment when seeking our next theme park vacation? Back in the day, a small traveling circus was thrilling. Then larger, permanent entertainment venues sprouted. Disneyland, then Disney World, and on and on. Welcome to the greatest show on Earth, more thrills, more chills and more terrifying monsters than ever before! Welcome to Monsterland. Yessir, want to be chased by a real werewolf. Share a bloody good time with a vampire or maybe take a stroll among the zombies? Michael Phillip Cash has you covered in his latest dark fantasy, Monsterland. For the cost of a ticket, you can enter a world of danger and gawk away. But could there be a hidden price to pay?
Would you turn down a chance to attend the grand opening? A group of teens are invited by the mysterious and eccentric owner, but little do they know this monster has more than a grand gesture in his plans.
Hop aboard the mystery train with Michael Phillip Cash, once again as he may have just created his creepiest, bloodiest and best tale yet. Dark, dangerous and certainly gory, Michael Phillip Cash’s latest tale is, from start to finish a complete word magnet as he builds each scene, colors in his characters in shades of everything from weird to naïve to downright deadly and sets them free tell their tale. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Mr. Cash knows how to create atmosphere and build tension as he reels us in for that last moment, that last word and leaves us looking over our shoulders, jumping at strange sounds and wondering, could this really happen? Think I’ll stick to the Merry-Go-Round and a visit to the princess’ castle.
I received this copy from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 13, 2015
Publisher: Red Feather Publishing
ISBN-13: 9781517180676
Genre: Suspense | Fantasy
Print Length: 208 pages
Available: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth.
Enter to win 1 of 5 eCopies (Intl) or a Signed Print Copy(US)
Click on banner to enter...Ends December 14!
Will we ever get tired of the need for bigger, better, more shocking and more entertainment when seeking our next theme park vacation? Back in the day, a small traveling circus was thrilling. Then larger, permanent entertainment venues sprouted. Disneyland, then Disney World, and on and on. Welcome to the greatest show on Earth, more thrills, more chills and more terrifying monsters than ever before! Welcome to Monsterland. Yessir, want to be chased by a real werewolf. Share a bloody good time with a vampire or maybe take a stroll among the zombies? Michael Phillip Cash has you covered in his latest dark fantasy, Monsterland. For the cost of a ticket, you can enter a world of danger and gawk away. But could there be a hidden price to pay?
Would you turn down a chance to attend the grand opening? A group of teens are invited by the mysterious and eccentric owner, but little do they know this monster has more than a grand gesture in his plans.
Hop aboard the mystery train with Michael Phillip Cash, once again as he may have just created his creepiest, bloodiest and best tale yet. Dark, dangerous and certainly gory, Michael Phillip Cash’s latest tale is, from start to finish a complete word magnet as he builds each scene, colors in his characters in shades of everything from weird to naïve to downright deadly and sets them free tell their tale. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Mr. Cash knows how to create atmosphere and build tension as he reels us in for that last moment, that last word and leaves us looking over our shoulders, jumping at strange sounds and wondering, could this really happen? Think I’ll stick to the Merry-Go-Round and a visit to the princess’ castle.
I received this copy from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 13, 2015
Publisher: Red Feather Publishing
ISBN-13: 9781517180676
Genre: Suspense | Fantasy
Print Length: 208 pages
Available: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 16, 2016
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It was the entrance to the Auschwitz death camp.
The story line of Monsterland is really unique, fresh and, I must admit, quite chilling (esp. the werewolf part.)
It's not scary in the literal sense as such but it does gives the chills at more than one occasion. The descriptions are wildly realistic and the images they paint is worth all the time and money spent on this book. I felt that I was the one visiting the Monsterland with my friends and not the fictional characters. The story is beautifully crafted and the detailing is commendable. Being a paranormal/shapeshifter/horror storyline, the author successfully captured the character backgrounds and successfully added layers to the overall concept.
Wyatt looked back at the main area of the park, feeling uneasy he was being led somewhere he shouldn't be going.
I enjoyed the book right from the first line right till the very last one. The overlapping of the paranormal and horror genres is commendable because, despite my initial reservations, the author managed to woo me with his amazing story and its execution. It is a job well done on the author's part.
I felt a connection with each and every character of this book. What seemed to be pointless discussions of monster-obsessed teenagers in the initial pages of the book, made more and more sense as the story progressed and finally when it reached the last act.
I also enjoyed the character connection that the author at the end of the book. It's a well thought out storyline with 3-dimensional characters and layers and layers of different elements. All the elements blended perfectly well together (except for one little thing- why was Raoul the vamp scared of the zombies!?!? Well, this crossed my mind only for a second before I got caught in the thrill of the moment and my mind moved on to other characters who were literally fighting for their lives (when the story is as good as this, who cares?)
I love myself some badass zombies but this is the first time I actually saw them sympathetically as "victims" and poor sick people who are not someone to be shot or bashed in the head by any/everyone, but a sad bunch of unfortunate people who caught the plague.
You can also read this review at The Reading Bud .
It was the entrance to the Auschwitz death camp.
The story line of Monsterland is really unique, fresh and, I must admit, quite chilling (esp. the werewolf part.)
It's not scary in the literal sense as such but it does gives the chills at more than one occasion. The descriptions are wildly realistic and the images they paint is worth all the time and money spent on this book. I felt that I was the one visiting the Monsterland with my friends and not the fictional characters. The story is beautifully crafted and the detailing is commendable. Being a paranormal/shapeshifter/horror storyline, the author successfully captured the character backgrounds and successfully added layers to the overall concept.
Wyatt looked back at the main area of the park, feeling uneasy he was being led somewhere he shouldn't be going.
I enjoyed the book right from the first line right till the very last one. The overlapping of the paranormal and horror genres is commendable because, despite my initial reservations, the author managed to woo me with his amazing story and its execution. It is a job well done on the author's part.
I felt a connection with each and every character of this book. What seemed to be pointless discussions of monster-obsessed teenagers in the initial pages of the book, made more and more sense as the story progressed and finally when it reached the last act.
I also enjoyed the character connection that the author at the end of the book. It's a well thought out storyline with 3-dimensional characters and layers and layers of different elements. All the elements blended perfectly well together (except for one little thing- why was Raoul the vamp scared of the zombies!?!? Well, this crossed my mind only for a second before I got caught in the thrill of the moment and my mind moved on to other characters who were literally fighting for their lives (when the story is as good as this, who cares?)
I love myself some badass zombies but this is the first time I actually saw them sympathetically as "victims" and poor sick people who are not someone to be shot or bashed in the head by any/everyone, but a sad bunch of unfortunate people who caught the plague.
You can also read this review at The Reading Bud .
September 10, 2017
I received an ARC edition from Michael Okon!
Will we ever get tired of the need for bigger, better, more shocking, or more terrifying entertainment when seeking our next theme park vacation? Back in the day, a small traveling circus was thrilling. Then larger, permanent entertainment venues sprouted. Disneyland, then Disney World, and on and on. Welcome to the greatest show on Earth, more thrills, more chills and more terrifying monsters than ever before! Welcome to Monsterland. Yessir, want to be chased by a real werewolf. Share a bloody good time with a vampire or maybe take a stroll among the zombies? Michael Okon has you covered in his dark fantasy, MONSTERLAND. For the cost of a ticket, you can enter a world of danger and gawk away. But could there be a hidden price to pay?
Would you turn down a chance to attend the grand opening? A group of teens are invited by the mysterious and eccentric owner, but little do they know this monster has more than a grand gesture in his plans. Witness the torment of teen angst as one boy crushes on the girl of his dreams and her boyfriend is the school jock. but, who does she lean on when things get scary? Meanwhile, there is something just not right about this freak show of things that go bump in the night.
Zombies, vampires and werewolves are on display. Yes, they are real, yes they can be deadly, but the true horror is in how they got there and how the public craves a peek...not to mention what they really see...and that waxen vampire mannequin? Go ahead touch him...and don't miss their concert, either!
Dark, dangerous and certainly gory, Michael Okon's tale is, from start to finish a complete word magnet as he builds each scene, colors in his characters in shades of everything from weird to naïve to downright deadly and sets them free tell their tale. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Mr. Okon knows how to create atmosphere and build tension as he reels us in for that last moment, that last word and leaves us looking over our shoulders, jumping at strange sounds and wondering, could this really happen? Think I’ll stick to the Merry-Go-Round and a visit to the princess’ castle.
Series: Monsterland - Book 1
Publisher: WordFire Press (October 15, 2017)
Publication Date: October 15, 2017
Genre: YA fantasy
Print Length: 214 pages
Available from: Amazon
Will we ever get tired of the need for bigger, better, more shocking, or more terrifying entertainment when seeking our next theme park vacation? Back in the day, a small traveling circus was thrilling. Then larger, permanent entertainment venues sprouted. Disneyland, then Disney World, and on and on. Welcome to the greatest show on Earth, more thrills, more chills and more terrifying monsters than ever before! Welcome to Monsterland. Yessir, want to be chased by a real werewolf. Share a bloody good time with a vampire or maybe take a stroll among the zombies? Michael Okon has you covered in his dark fantasy, MONSTERLAND. For the cost of a ticket, you can enter a world of danger and gawk away. But could there be a hidden price to pay?
Would you turn down a chance to attend the grand opening? A group of teens are invited by the mysterious and eccentric owner, but little do they know this monster has more than a grand gesture in his plans. Witness the torment of teen angst as one boy crushes on the girl of his dreams and her boyfriend is the school jock. but, who does she lean on when things get scary? Meanwhile, there is something just not right about this freak show of things that go bump in the night.
Zombies, vampires and werewolves are on display. Yes, they are real, yes they can be deadly, but the true horror is in how they got there and how the public craves a peek...not to mention what they really see...and that waxen vampire mannequin? Go ahead touch him...and don't miss their concert, either!
Dark, dangerous and certainly gory, Michael Okon's tale is, from start to finish a complete word magnet as he builds each scene, colors in his characters in shades of everything from weird to naïve to downright deadly and sets them free tell their tale. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Mr. Okon knows how to create atmosphere and build tension as he reels us in for that last moment, that last word and leaves us looking over our shoulders, jumping at strange sounds and wondering, could this really happen? Think I’ll stick to the Merry-Go-Round and a visit to the princess’ castle.
Series: Monsterland - Book 1
Publisher: WordFire Press (October 15, 2017)
Publication Date: October 15, 2017
Genre: YA fantasy
Print Length: 214 pages
Available from: Amazon
November 2, 2015
The blurb ends with this question, “What could possibly go wrong?” Well, plenty can and does.
The zombie apocalypse has come and gone, for the most part. People now know vampires and werewolves exist.
Zombies are in camps, kept contained for our and their protection.
The vampires live in poverty, struggling just to exist as their numbers dwindle towards extinction.
And the werewolves live deep in the swamps and jungles, trying to avoid man at all costs.
When one man’s vision offers all of these beings a safe place to live and improve their station, they take his offer, one way or the other.
Imagine Jurassic Park, but not dinosaurs. Instead you get zombies, werewolves, and vampires. I don’t know about you, but I’d probably buy a ticket.
When you add important people and a bunch of kids to opening night, your mind should buzz with what could happen. With what could go wrong. That’s where it gets wild.
Take a walk with the zombies in Zombieville. Meet real vampires in Vampire Village. And run with the werewolves in River Run.
But beware, ye who enter. The monsters aren’t happy and you don’t ever want that.
I ate this story up in one sitting. The minute it was available to purchase I grabbed my copy and opened it immediately. I knew it was going to be great, and it was. I loved every bit of it. Michael gave me everything I was hoping for and expecting.
The zombie apocalypse has come and gone, for the most part. People now know vampires and werewolves exist.
Zombies are in camps, kept contained for our and their protection.
The vampires live in poverty, struggling just to exist as their numbers dwindle towards extinction.
And the werewolves live deep in the swamps and jungles, trying to avoid man at all costs.
When one man’s vision offers all of these beings a safe place to live and improve their station, they take his offer, one way or the other.
Imagine Jurassic Park, but not dinosaurs. Instead you get zombies, werewolves, and vampires. I don’t know about you, but I’d probably buy a ticket.
When you add important people and a bunch of kids to opening night, your mind should buzz with what could happen. With what could go wrong. That’s where it gets wild.
Take a walk with the zombies in Zombieville. Meet real vampires in Vampire Village. And run with the werewolves in River Run.
But beware, ye who enter. The monsters aren’t happy and you don’t ever want that.
I ate this story up in one sitting. The minute it was available to purchase I grabbed my copy and opened it immediately. I knew it was going to be great, and it was. I loved every bit of it. Michael gave me everything I was hoping for and expecting.
November 9, 2015
I really wanted to like this book.
The premise is brilliant- vampires, werewolves, and zombies in a Disney-esque theme park. What's not to like about that? The characterisation of these groups is fresh and logical- humans are always going to be the most dangerous creatures. The plot, too, is silly and fun, a B movie teen thriller.
My main issue was the writing style: it was stilted, repetitive, basic, and constantly pulled my mind out of the story. It read more like a script than a novel. For me, more than anything else, this prevented me from enjoying the story.
Thanks to Michael Philip Cash, Chelshire Inc, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
The premise is brilliant- vampires, werewolves, and zombies in a Disney-esque theme park. What's not to like about that? The characterisation of these groups is fresh and logical- humans are always going to be the most dangerous creatures. The plot, too, is silly and fun, a B movie teen thriller.
My main issue was the writing style: it was stilted, repetitive, basic, and constantly pulled my mind out of the story. It read more like a script than a novel. For me, more than anything else, this prevented me from enjoying the story.
Thanks to Michael Philip Cash, Chelshire Inc, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2015
I don't read horror as much as I used to, but there was something irresistible about this one. It just sounded like so much fun from cover to title and it actually was. Oodles of fun. Unapologetically B horror sort of fun, creature feature with teens. Over the top, all the way, with a cheer. Because creating ghettos is a terrible idea and ghettoizing monsters isn't only amoral, it's very, very dangerous, although, of course, the real terrors here are of a distinctly more traditional homo sapien variety. Very entertaining mindless quick read. Recommended for genre fans.
December 21, 2017
Jurassic Park meets The Walking Dead combine into a rollicking fun read!
Welcome to Monsterland… let’s scare you to death.
I’m a big fan of all things that go bump in the night and Monsterland doesn’t disappoint. Filled with classic horror creatures, strong characters and an alternative glimpse into society.
I liked the concept of a theme park where you could see and touch vampires, zombies and werewolves in captivity. A horror zoo, so to speak. I mean, what could go wrong? Everything!
While the plot is, at times predictable, the suspense is well-done. Michael Okon creates a realistic series through dramatic world-building any reader will enjoy while not overdoing it with gore.
Wyatt is a solid yet honest character, especially when you’re dealing with your run-of-the-mill teenage angst. I didn’t care for the bullying that took place but it’s commonplace in literature nowadays.
A ghoulish good tale and I recommend it to any horror/paranormal fan!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 4 stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
Welcome to Monsterland… let’s scare you to death.
I’m a big fan of all things that go bump in the night and Monsterland doesn’t disappoint. Filled with classic horror creatures, strong characters and an alternative glimpse into society.
I liked the concept of a theme park where you could see and touch vampires, zombies and werewolves in captivity. A horror zoo, so to speak. I mean, what could go wrong? Everything!
While the plot is, at times predictable, the suspense is well-done. Michael Okon creates a realistic series through dramatic world-building any reader will enjoy while not overdoing it with gore.
Wyatt is a solid yet honest character, especially when you’re dealing with your run-of-the-mill teenage angst. I didn’t care for the bullying that took place but it’s commonplace in literature nowadays.
A ghoulish good tale and I recommend it to any horror/paranormal fan!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 4 stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
October 13, 2017
Right in time for Halloween, or perfect for anytime of the year. Theme parks and monsters! This book took me hostage from the beginning and kept me hooked until the end. Okon has delivered a riveting tale that includes werewolves, zombies and monsters. And the writing in this horror novel is top notch. Usually it's just about the story, but this book goes one step further. I sincerely felt like I was experiencing all of the heart racing horrors of the characters. Grab this blockbuster and get ready for action! After finishing this book I still feel the chills and the tension from the story. That's a fantastic sign of a great story.
May 22, 2018
I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the author.
Werewolves, vampires and zombies, oh my! But don't be misled, this is no Wizard of Oz. Monsterland is a far cry from the land of dreams that is Disneyland, and is much more comparable to the freak show of Ripley's Believe it or Not filled with horrors like Jurrasic Park. Monsterland is a theme park filled with the creatures that plague your nightmares. The horror movie buff in me would absolutely love to have an all access pass to the theme park, so I was filled with delight when I was given the opportunity to read and review this novel.
With such a great concept my expectations were high as I jumped into this novel. Michael Okon does not disappoint, fulfilling my fantasies with great writing and multiple points of view. I found that aspect in particular to be great with this novel, because there are so many interesting perspectives to be seen within Monsterland.
The characters are each unique and entertaining. They have more dimension than most characters in horror movies, but not too much that the story gets bogged down with backgrounds. They make for the perfect cast to attend the disastrous opening night of Monsterland.
I found myself trying very hard to pace myself with reading this one. Honestly, my only real complaint is that it wasn't long enough! I loved this story and would have appreciated another hundred or two hundred pages. This is exactly the type of ride I like to be taken on, and I didn't want to get off.
Michael Okon crafts a fabulous novel with unique, unforgettable characters. I have a novella by him, A History Major, that I can't wait to dive into. He really has a gift for storytelling.
The world building was done fabulously. There were believable backgrounds that explain how it could be possible for there to be a world that had not only vampires, but also werewolves and zombies, excuse me, the vitality-challenged. It all comes together seamlessly as the plot lines converge to make for an explosive ending. As the first novel I have read by Michael Okon, I am impressed.
You can also find my reviews on my blog:
https://devouringbooks2017.wordpress....
October 11, 2015
I made the mistake of reading this book, albeit in one sitting while it was dark out and only a bit of light from my lamp shining. In fact, throughout reading this book, I often gasped and had to catch my breath.
I would not go far as to say this was a complete blood and guts book, but it did have its share of horror in it but not enough to make me want to stop reading it.
I was able to figure out a couple of twists in the book early on, but that did not give away the meat of the book nor again, me wanting to not finish the book.
In fact, I felt the book was thought provoking. It begged the question of how we humans can enjoy something like a "monster" theme park for the sheer pleasure of the thrill. The book begged the question; do something that is non-human have feelings or wants? Think, a zoo perhaps.
I found myself feeling somewhat sorry for the "monsters" of Monsterland who wanted nothing but to be left alone to live as they had always lived. It was no question to me as who was really the monsters in the so-called theme park.
So, do I recommend this book? You bet! This is one book that I surely will read again and again.
5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ with yours. ~Naila Moon
I would not go far as to say this was a complete blood and guts book, but it did have its share of horror in it but not enough to make me want to stop reading it.
I was able to figure out a couple of twists in the book early on, but that did not give away the meat of the book nor again, me wanting to not finish the book.
In fact, I felt the book was thought provoking. It begged the question of how we humans can enjoy something like a "monster" theme park for the sheer pleasure of the thrill. The book begged the question; do something that is non-human have feelings or wants? Think, a zoo perhaps.
I found myself feeling somewhat sorry for the "monsters" of Monsterland who wanted nothing but to be left alone to live as they had always lived. It was no question to me as who was really the monsters in the so-called theme park.
So, do I recommend this book? You bet! This is one book that I surely will read again and again.
5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ with yours. ~Naila Moon
March 21, 2016
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this in a giveaway. It was a very quick read, nothing really different from what I expected, basically exactly the type of story you'd expect from the title. I feel there were some things that were missed that could have definitely added to the story, but it did feel just like a horror movie would be, the way the things were missing was like what might be missing from a movie compared to the book.
There were parts of the story told from different viewpoints, but in a way, who I felt was the main character was Wyatt Baldwin. He's a high school student, and he lives in the town where one of the new theme parks called Monsterland is getting ready to open. The story takes place in a future when a disease has caused some people to become zombies. It's pretty much contained, the zombies are being kept in detention types of camps. And now are being brought to be part of the different theme parks that are being set up all over the world. But in this future world, they have also found out that vampires are real, and have been just kind of hiding out, on the sidelines of the human world. And when the creator of the parks is out searching for a Sasquatch or Bigfoot, he finds that werewolves are real. They capture the werewolves that they find, which is easier because they have really dwindled in numbers. So this theme park has a section where people can see zombies walk around, from a safe distance/viewing area. There is a jungle ride where they will be able to see the werewolves, again from a safe area, and the park uses artificial moonlight to get the wolves to change. And the vampires, because they have been around humans all the time already, they just have caps put on their fangs, and then they have a little town where people can go mingle with the vampires and even watch them as part of a rock band.
Wyatt and his friends get free VIP passes to the opening night of the park. And, as you would expect from a story like this, something goes wrong, monsters will get loose, and chaos ensues. As I mentioned at the beginning, it was really a lot like a movie would be.
I do feel there could have been some more character development and explanations. There was one of Wyatt's friends that everyone called by his full name, all the time. I'm sorry, that's just weird. It reminded me of the movie 21 and Over where they kept calling the one character by his full name, Jeff Chang, the whole movie. Only, it could be something I missed as I read, but I'm not sure why they did that? I do like what happened with his friend Melvin though. We also had some drama with Wyatt's family, his mom and stepdad - who we also got some of his viewpoint, and then a surprising bit with Wyatt's dad even.
While I get the point trying to be made about the detention camps, and that the big gate reminded them of the Auschwitz Concentration camp gate that said "Work will set you free", I feel like that may have stretched a little for the actual type of book this is. To me the cover looked like the Jurassic Park gate, and yes, they did draw comparisons in the book to that, like they should have. And really that fit the story much better, so they probably could have stuck with that. Comparing zombies, werewolves, and vampires to real people who were in death camps seems a little bit in poor taste. But that's just me. I could be overthinking it.
All in all it was a quick, horror movie style read, interesting even while predictable for the most part.
There were parts of the story told from different viewpoints, but in a way, who I felt was the main character was Wyatt Baldwin. He's a high school student, and he lives in the town where one of the new theme parks called Monsterland is getting ready to open. The story takes place in a future when a disease has caused some people to become zombies. It's pretty much contained, the zombies are being kept in detention types of camps. And now are being brought to be part of the different theme parks that are being set up all over the world. But in this future world, they have also found out that vampires are real, and have been just kind of hiding out, on the sidelines of the human world. And when the creator of the parks is out searching for a Sasquatch or Bigfoot, he finds that werewolves are real. They capture the werewolves that they find, which is easier because they have really dwindled in numbers. So this theme park has a section where people can see zombies walk around, from a safe distance/viewing area. There is a jungle ride where they will be able to see the werewolves, again from a safe area, and the park uses artificial moonlight to get the wolves to change. And the vampires, because they have been around humans all the time already, they just have caps put on their fangs, and then they have a little town where people can go mingle with the vampires and even watch them as part of a rock band.
Wyatt and his friends get free VIP passes to the opening night of the park. And, as you would expect from a story like this, something goes wrong, monsters will get loose, and chaos ensues. As I mentioned at the beginning, it was really a lot like a movie would be.
I do feel there could have been some more character development and explanations. There was one of Wyatt's friends that everyone called by his full name, all the time. I'm sorry, that's just weird. It reminded me of the movie 21 and Over where they kept calling the one character by his full name, Jeff Chang, the whole movie. Only, it could be something I missed as I read, but I'm not sure why they did that? I do like what happened with his friend Melvin though. We also had some drama with Wyatt's family, his mom and stepdad - who we also got some of his viewpoint, and then a surprising bit with Wyatt's dad even.
While I get the point trying to be made about the detention camps, and that the big gate reminded them of the Auschwitz Concentration camp gate that said "Work will set you free", I feel like that may have stretched a little for the actual type of book this is. To me the cover looked like the Jurassic Park gate, and yes, they did draw comparisons in the book to that, like they should have. And really that fit the story much better, so they probably could have stuck with that. Comparing zombies, werewolves, and vampires to real people who were in death camps seems a little bit in poor taste. But that's just me. I could be overthinking it.
All in all it was a quick, horror movie style read, interesting even while predictable for the most part.
October 28, 2015
3.5 stars on my blog. 4 stars here because it is more 4 than 3.
My Thoughts:
It is Monsterland's grand opening. This opening is a big deal because the town where it is located was about to go belly up. It is an opportunity to bring in much needed money and tourists.
It was rather predictable. A group of teenagers are given opening day tickets for the park after one of the "geeks" does a good deed for a homeless vagrant. This vagrant turns out to be the owner of the park who just looked like a vagrant after a hard days work. Of course they all go. In a park full of monsters, how could things go wrong? Well they do, and in a horrible way.
This started out kind of slow. The very beginning was slightly confusing. You learn about the world as the story is told. I had to reread the first chapter twice to completely understand what was going on. After that things went smoothly. The last half of the book is much better than the beginning. With that said, I enjoyed this.
Quote From the Book:
"Impressive firepower. I bet it would take down an elephant, rhino, or hippo as well." McAdams added with a smile. "Seems incongruous to have in a family themed park," the ambassador from China grumbled.
Recommendation:
If you are in the mood for a quick read that will give you a few scares, give this a try. Fans of paranormal horror will probably enjoy this. Parts of this were pretty gory, so if you don't like blood and guts, this probably isn't for you.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts:
It is Monsterland's grand opening. This opening is a big deal because the town where it is located was about to go belly up. It is an opportunity to bring in much needed money and tourists.
It was rather predictable. A group of teenagers are given opening day tickets for the park after one of the "geeks" does a good deed for a homeless vagrant. This vagrant turns out to be the owner of the park who just looked like a vagrant after a hard days work. Of course they all go. In a park full of monsters, how could things go wrong? Well they do, and in a horrible way.
This started out kind of slow. The very beginning was slightly confusing. You learn about the world as the story is told. I had to reread the first chapter twice to completely understand what was going on. After that things went smoothly. The last half of the book is much better than the beginning. With that said, I enjoyed this.
Quote From the Book:
"Impressive firepower. I bet it would take down an elephant, rhino, or hippo as well." McAdams added with a smile. "Seems incongruous to have in a family themed park," the ambassador from China grumbled.
Recommendation:
If you are in the mood for a quick read that will give you a few scares, give this a try. Fans of paranormal horror will probably enjoy this. Parts of this were pretty gory, so if you don't like blood and guts, this probably isn't for you.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2015
Monsterland is a fun book filled with zombies, werewolves, and vampires. It is a good mix of humor and gore, as well as some meaningful human relationships and family issues. The book also touches on some deeper subjects,such as politics and the value of life itself. Very fast moving, tension-filled storyline. Those who like this genre will particularly enjoy this book.
October 17, 2017
This story is so much more than I expected. I began reading the book thinking the story revolved around a theme park with real monsters and I expected something to go wrong and cause panic and mayhem to ensue. Yes, all that happened, but there is more to this story besides monsters. There are many characters in this story, some of whom I thought were monstrous in their ideas and actions.
I'm not a fan of thrill rides, especially those involving surprise appearances of frightening characters, so my breathing was pretty rapid while reading this book right from the start. I felt like I was in the boat with them as they went down the Werewolf River Run. Of all the monsters in the park, I felt compassion toward the werewolves, perhaps partly because they were able to communicate, but mostly I got the impression they wanted to be free and left alone.
My favorite character is Melvin. He's so curious and excitable and enjoys exploring his surroundings far off the expected path. I'm impressed by his ingenuity in assisting in a situation and his tenacity that earned him his place, exactly where he wanted to be. I completely understood his need to feel accepted and have a sense of belonging. I'm so glad he found what made him truly happy.
Some harsh truths were exposed, causing Wyatt to reevaluate his misconception of his family situation and see things in a new light. I'm glad that happened. Hearing it for himself is the only way for Wyatt to learn who he could count on as family.
I consider this a well-written and fast-paced story with unexpected twists and turns that serve as a reminder that those in charge are not necessarily sane!
I'm not a fan of thrill rides, especially those involving surprise appearances of frightening characters, so my breathing was pretty rapid while reading this book right from the start. I felt like I was in the boat with them as they went down the Werewolf River Run. Of all the monsters in the park, I felt compassion toward the werewolves, perhaps partly because they were able to communicate, but mostly I got the impression they wanted to be free and left alone.
My favorite character is Melvin. He's so curious and excitable and enjoys exploring his surroundings far off the expected path. I'm impressed by his ingenuity in assisting in a situation and his tenacity that earned him his place, exactly where he wanted to be. I completely understood his need to feel accepted and have a sense of belonging. I'm so glad he found what made him truly happy.
Some harsh truths were exposed, causing Wyatt to reevaluate his misconception of his family situation and see things in a new light. I'm glad that happened. Hearing it for himself is the only way for Wyatt to learn who he could count on as family.
I consider this a well-written and fast-paced story with unexpected twists and turns that serve as a reminder that those in charge are not necessarily sane!
October 18, 2015
Is it conceivable? Probably not. But every time I read a Michael Phillip Cash novel it gives me pause, the “what if” scenario, food for thought. For starters I thought the small town named in Montana was in Egypt. What do I know? Vampires, weir wolves, and zombies all nonexistent, right. Perhaps the current trend in movies and televised shows will lead some people into acting the part. I do not do movies or watch television other than the news so I am going by hearsay. But consider the existence at one time of Leper colonies. This summer here in my area at least seven (that I know of from the news) case of Leprosy were reported. Allegedly from handling armadillos. Not making that up. So who’s to say? The book is entertaining and the concept is improbable but not impossible. Given the enjoyment I get from any book I’ve read by Mr. Cash, (most all of them), I have to give this one five stars also, but sometimes I wonder, does this writer know something we don’t?
December 4, 2015
http://michellebookends.blogspot.com/...
"The gate loomed before them. The first thing he noticed was the "Monsterland" logo, a large M in the center of the vampire teeth. Wyatt looked up, spying iron letters barely visible in an arc overhead, the letters shaped with black metal. Wyatt stared up at the entrance, his mouth dry. He had wanted so badly to go, all these months, plotting and planning a way to be able to attend, yet the sign pulled at a distant memory. The giant lettering cast an awesome shadow. The iron gate was surrounded by twenty -foot high finely sloped concrete walls that made the place look like Hoover Dam...."
As far as theme parks go here is one you'll want to visit, that is if you want to go to the scariest place you could ever imagine. What if you were able to see real vampires and other supernatural creatures? Well Wyatt Baldwin is about to get that chance.
Vincent Conrad saved the town after a disease outbreak. He rejuvenated the area and used the people who were infected as the attraction for his theme park. He named it "Monsterland." Everyone thinks he's wonderful, except Wyatt's step dad Carter White.
Werewolves, zombies and vampires roam the park. You wear protective gear. You're totally safe as you wander through their home. What is there to be afraid of? Seven parks opening on six continents all on the same day. Conrad is convinced he can find the answers and protect the inhabitants of the park by keeping them in these controlled areas. He also thinks he can restart the world economy through them. Conrad may not be the most honest person.
Wyatt and his friends, coworkers at a fast food place have a chance run in with Conrad that leads to them getting VIP treatment to the grand opening. Conrad's catch is that he wants them to spread it on social media, how wonderful his theme parks are. So Wyatt takes his brother Josh, along with Howard and Melvin to opening night. Wyatt is hoping to run into Jade, even though she is the girlfriend of another friend.
The story goes back and forth with chapters about the zombies, vampires and werewolves from their point of view. The horrors they've been going through since the outbreak. Not the usual horror story that we're used to. Rarely do we see this side of a monster tale. Not everyone in the world agrees that this is the best way to house the plague victims. Some feel it's unethical. Fear becomes reality on opening night. Ulterior motives revealed.
Wyatt's belief in Conrad is about to be shaken to the core. It's going to be a night that no one forgets. If they make it out alive that is. This was a pretty creepy story. There were things that will put you on edge, like when Wyatt figures out what the entrance sign reminds him of. This was a unique horror story that combined the three monsters we're afraid of.
Thank you to Netgalley and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members Titles for the A.R.C.
October 28, 2015
About the Book:
Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville.
Wyatt Baldwin, a high school student and life-long movie buff is staring bleakly at a future of flipping burgers. Due to a fortuitous circumstance, Wyatt and his friends are invited to the star-studded opening of Monsterland. In a theme park full of real vampires, werewolves and zombies, what could possibly go wrong?
My Review:
Imagine a place, where zombies roam, werewolves howl all night, and vampires are heavy metal musicians? Only in Monsterland will you see it all. And in a place full of monsters, what could possibly go wrong?
Wyatt wants nothing more than to be noticed by the most popular girl in school, but it seems she is only into the athletic type. And when he finally gets the chance to actually speak to the girl, his dear brother ruins it with a simple slap on the back.
Melvin is as dorky as one dork can be. His life his so full of everything from aliens to scary movies that he just doesn't have time for anything else.
Howard is totally oblivious when a girl likes him or not, he just can’t keep up with it all. But one thing he does know is there is one girl he wants to be his and he isn’t to scared to make tat known.
So when these three kids along with a few friends and Wyatt’s bratty brother get a once in a life time chance to go to the notorious Monsterland, they are ecstatic. But things aren’t all they seem at that theme park, for there is great evil at work.
Monsterland is a wonderful book full of blood, gore, and monsters. I really enjoyed this book and found it to be a great read. If you are looking for something to frighten you, look no further. This book will give a real good scare.
**NOTE** For Foul Language
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville.
Wyatt Baldwin, a high school student and life-long movie buff is staring bleakly at a future of flipping burgers. Due to a fortuitous circumstance, Wyatt and his friends are invited to the star-studded opening of Monsterland. In a theme park full of real vampires, werewolves and zombies, what could possibly go wrong?
My Review:
Imagine a place, where zombies roam, werewolves howl all night, and vampires are heavy metal musicians? Only in Monsterland will you see it all. And in a place full of monsters, what could possibly go wrong?
Wyatt wants nothing more than to be noticed by the most popular girl in school, but it seems she is only into the athletic type. And when he finally gets the chance to actually speak to the girl, his dear brother ruins it with a simple slap on the back.
Melvin is as dorky as one dork can be. His life his so full of everything from aliens to scary movies that he just doesn't have time for anything else.
Howard is totally oblivious when a girl likes him or not, he just can’t keep up with it all. But one thing he does know is there is one girl he wants to be his and he isn’t to scared to make tat known.
So when these three kids along with a few friends and Wyatt’s bratty brother get a once in a life time chance to go to the notorious Monsterland, they are ecstatic. But things aren’t all they seem at that theme park, for there is great evil at work.
Monsterland is a wonderful book full of blood, gore, and monsters. I really enjoyed this book and found it to be a great read. If you are looking for something to frighten you, look no further. This book will give a real good scare.
**NOTE** For Foul Language
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
October 25, 2017
I absolutely adored this book! When I read the blurb, I knew I was going to enjoy it, but I definitely did not expect to be utterly blown away by the masterful storytelling of Okon.
The storyline was absolutely brilliant. Could it really happen? If we had these monsters in our lives, yes, I really do think we would go as far as to put them in cages and stare. Would things go wrong…OF COURSE!! This is the perfect tale of wanting to be the first in line to see the newest, biggest and best. To be the first ones to have bragging rights for being there on opening night. And to be the first ones to fall into the mix, as things start to go wrong.
The author had a brilliant way of introducing the characters to us. We got to know their backgrounds and a little bit about where they fit in to the mix, but ultimately the joy was getting to truly know them, as things started to hit the proverbial fan. Their true emotions and personalities started to shine and Okon was able to brilliantly bring to life a set of characters and monsters that created a story that I found highly addicting.
The pace was perfect, especially for the style of writing. It moved along smoothly and was made really enjoyable by the amount of detail added, but also the moments where we were thrown into things, as something wild happened. I loved the mix of story and utter chaos, all wrapped into one, as it made for a suspenseful and exciting read.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book. I loved the author’s style, the overall storyline and the real way I felt completely connected to the story. I truly could not put this book down!
* I chose to provide my honest review.
The storyline was absolutely brilliant. Could it really happen? If we had these monsters in our lives, yes, I really do think we would go as far as to put them in cages and stare. Would things go wrong…OF COURSE!! This is the perfect tale of wanting to be the first in line to see the newest, biggest and best. To be the first ones to have bragging rights for being there on opening night. And to be the first ones to fall into the mix, as things start to go wrong.
The author had a brilliant way of introducing the characters to us. We got to know their backgrounds and a little bit about where they fit in to the mix, but ultimately the joy was getting to truly know them, as things started to hit the proverbial fan. Their true emotions and personalities started to shine and Okon was able to brilliantly bring to life a set of characters and monsters that created a story that I found highly addicting.
The pace was perfect, especially for the style of writing. It moved along smoothly and was made really enjoyable by the amount of detail added, but also the moments where we were thrown into things, as something wild happened. I loved the mix of story and utter chaos, all wrapped into one, as it made for a suspenseful and exciting read.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book. I loved the author’s style, the overall storyline and the real way I felt completely connected to the story. I truly could not put this book down!
* I chose to provide my honest review.
November 10, 2015
A new park is opening. It's called Monsterland. This one is unique. There aren't games or many rides, but there is still some fun. The man behind the park simply wants to put vampires, werewolves and zombies in a place where they can study them. You'll be able to interact with them as well. The opening night is a star studded event and Vincent and his friends were lucky enough to get VIP tickets. A couple of his friends couldn't wait to get there. Vincent wasn't so sure about this place. Something didn't seem right. How bad could it be, his friends asked. Vincent didn't want to find out.
I was all set for this one. The cover alone made me a little unsure of what I'd find. It is phenomenal! The ultimate scary place for people to go. Would you be brave enough to visit the park? The writing is amazing and the pacing is good. Characters we all know in our own lives, make this an even better read. Perfect for this time of year too. I think this one is a fascinating read and a completely new turn on the subject of monsters. This one could easily be a blockbuster movie.
I did feel this one wasn't quite as scary as it could have been. If it had gone a little deeper and darker, I know more would buy it.
I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because of the above reason. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
I was all set for this one. The cover alone made me a little unsure of what I'd find. It is phenomenal! The ultimate scary place for people to go. Would you be brave enough to visit the park? The writing is amazing and the pacing is good. Characters we all know in our own lives, make this an even better read. Perfect for this time of year too. I think this one is a fascinating read and a completely new turn on the subject of monsters. This one could easily be a blockbuster movie.
I did feel this one wasn't quite as scary as it could have been. If it had gone a little deeper and darker, I know more would buy it.
I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because of the above reason. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
August 20, 2021
I was so excited to get my hands on Monsterland by Michael Okon. Jurassic Park step aside. You think dinosaurs could do some damage, how about vampires, werewolves and zombies caged up and put on display?
The virus had changed the world and in The badlands of California, Copper Valley, to be precise, Vincent Konrad came to town, threw some money around and opened his park, using the plague ridden to attract tourist.
What cold possible go wrong? LOL
Wyatt has a big heart. In times of trouble, he is one of those who wil share what little they have. When he pays for a meal for what he thinks is a homeless man, he receives a special invite to Monsterland from Vincent Konrad himself.
I think we all know how deceiving charisma can be…so everyone should be very leery of Vincent. Does he have ulterior motives? Is there more going on than meets the eye?
Of course, we know something will go wrong. Just how wrong is the question.
Action and adventure, blood and gore, friends and enemies. So much more going on than I first suspected and it takes a turn that was a wonderful surprise as I always want the worst that can happen.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Monsterland by MIchael Okon.
To see more visit fundinmental
The virus had changed the world and in The badlands of California, Copper Valley, to be precise, Vincent Konrad came to town, threw some money around and opened his park, using the plague ridden to attract tourist.
What cold possible go wrong? LOL
Wyatt has a big heart. In times of trouble, he is one of those who wil share what little they have. When he pays for a meal for what he thinks is a homeless man, he receives a special invite to Monsterland from Vincent Konrad himself.
I think we all know how deceiving charisma can be…so everyone should be very leery of Vincent. Does he have ulterior motives? Is there more going on than meets the eye?
Of course, we know something will go wrong. Just how wrong is the question.
Action and adventure, blood and gore, friends and enemies. So much more going on than I first suspected and it takes a turn that was a wonderful surprise as I always want the worst that can happen.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Monsterland by MIchael Okon.
To see more visit fundinmental
October 14, 2015
Michael Phillip Cash has once again earned himself a 5 star rating with his newest novel, Monsterland. I have been a fan since reading The Flip, Stillwell, The After House, Witches Protection Program, and Pokergeist. Michael Phillip Cash is an excellent storyteller who draws you in to visualize exactly what is going on in his novels. Monsterland is a fast moving novel filled with horror, humor, and gore. It also involves family issues, human relationships, politics and the meaning of life. Wyatt Baldwin and his friends are invited to the opening of Monsterland by a powerful man with political connections who is shady and not as honest as he might like to appear. Wyatt's stepfather noticed something sinister about this man. What happens when Monsterland is opened to the public will keep you reading to the very end. The novel is filled with zombies, werewolves, and vampires. I have never been disappointed with any of Michael Phillip Cash novels and highly recommend that you buy, gift, but most importantly read his newest novel Monsterland.
October 22, 2017
Monsterland....Disneyland....what’s the difference? Monsterland is what happens when Vampires, Werewolves, and Zombies are for real, for real. The monsters are real and living in hiding or in containments camps. It is ruining the economy but the hero comes in just in time to save the day. He has this amazing idea to have these creatures live in Monsterland for “observation” turned theme park. Some people have their reservations but others are crazy psyched to go to Monsterland. Wyatt gets an amazing chance to go to opening night of Monsterland and go behind the scenes as well. He takes his friends and his little brother to opening night. Boy! They are in for the time of their lives! Buckle up and get ready for a crazy, unhinged, wild ride! Things aren’t always what they seem and you will be in the middle of chaos in no time. This is the first book I have read by Michael Phillip Cash and it won’t be the last. One of my new favorite authors!
October 23, 2015
This is normally not my cup of tea, but I like Mr. Cash's way of putting a story across. His type of writing is like I can put myself write into the story as if I were watching a movie. Total fantasy yes... but yet he makes it so real as if you would pick your head up and you would see yourself right in the story. I will add never read one of his books in a doctor's office. While waiting for my appointment I had gasped and the nurse hurried to my side and asked if I was alright, and all I did was pick up the book & show her the cover, and she laughed. This book is not laughing matter. Excellent writing as usual, and the realism is really superb. I commend Mr. Cash for his timing in posting this book. It is definitely not a book for the weak at heart.
October 30, 2017
Zombies, werewolves, and vampires -- oh my! And what an amazing read! The story is fast-paced and fun, the action never-ending, and the characters engaging. I loved this book from beginning to end and can't wait for the sequel. Awesome job, Michael Okon!
December 26, 2015
Tapping into the imagination of Michael Phillip Cash – again!
New York author Michael Phillip Cash has a rich imagination, a gift that comes from being grounded and secure with life as being lived. That he is able from that strong stance to create stories embellishes his evident gifts as a writer. In his debut novel BROOD X and in STILLWELL he was able to create a terrifying tales out of things seen or magnify things seen to become ghastly distortions of credible possibilities. In THE HANGING TREE, he took a step further in the arena of ghosts, and if the reader wants current thought on the subject, the following is an encyclopedic comment: `Ghosts have been a popular subject for millennia, appearing in countless stories, from "Macbeth" to the Bible, and even spawning their own folklore genre: ghost stories. Ghosts are perhaps the most common paranormal belief in the world. Part of the reason is that belief in ghosts is part of a larger web of related paranormal beliefs, including near-death experience, life after death, and spirit communication. The idea that the dead remain with us in spirit is an ancient one, and one that offers many people comfort: who doesn't want to believe that our beloved but deceased family members aren't looking out for us, or with us in our times of need? Most people believe in ghosts because of personal experience; they have seen or sensed some unexplained presence.' Cash left this world of ghosts for another diversion - his Trilogy THE DARRACIA SAGA - in which he created a sci-fi exploration that for this reader, who has read all of his novels, is a less successful series. Gratefully he returned to a territory he owns - supernatural ghost stories like his THE FLIP. THE AFTER HOUSE carried the aroma of Melville, Conrad, and other writers who have made the sea a principal character. Then he moved his tent into another realm - the arena of witches. And out came WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM and yet another leap of faith in to historical fiction - and in selecting this title he plays with words in a way that produces a chuckle. And then came POKERGEIST and he had us again!
And if you are a died in the wool Michael Phillip Cash fan you'll go with him any where - and here he brings us another realm of quasi paranormal stories about ghosts: from the title you know he has maintained his keen sense of humor. This 11th novel – MONSTERLAND he pulls out all the stops and just lets us bask in every form of monster known. His synopsis allows a peak into this adventure: ‘Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville. Wyatt Baldwin, a high school student and life-long movie buff is staring bleakly at a future of flipping burgers. Due to a fortuitous circumstance, Wyatt and his friends are invited to the star-studded opening of Monsterland. In a theme park full of real vampires, werewolves and zombies, what could possibly go wrong?’ Oh what a question to pose! The answer – just about everything, but in Michael’s hands the story becomes such a keen combination of fright and fun that you’ll want to read it again and pass it along.
New York author Michael Phillip Cash has a rich imagination, a gift that comes from being grounded and secure with life as being lived. That he is able from that strong stance to create stories embellishes his evident gifts as a writer. In his debut novel BROOD X and in STILLWELL he was able to create a terrifying tales out of things seen or magnify things seen to become ghastly distortions of credible possibilities. In THE HANGING TREE, he took a step further in the arena of ghosts, and if the reader wants current thought on the subject, the following is an encyclopedic comment: `Ghosts have been a popular subject for millennia, appearing in countless stories, from "Macbeth" to the Bible, and even spawning their own folklore genre: ghost stories. Ghosts are perhaps the most common paranormal belief in the world. Part of the reason is that belief in ghosts is part of a larger web of related paranormal beliefs, including near-death experience, life after death, and spirit communication. The idea that the dead remain with us in spirit is an ancient one, and one that offers many people comfort: who doesn't want to believe that our beloved but deceased family members aren't looking out for us, or with us in our times of need? Most people believe in ghosts because of personal experience; they have seen or sensed some unexplained presence.' Cash left this world of ghosts for another diversion - his Trilogy THE DARRACIA SAGA - in which he created a sci-fi exploration that for this reader, who has read all of his novels, is a less successful series. Gratefully he returned to a territory he owns - supernatural ghost stories like his THE FLIP. THE AFTER HOUSE carried the aroma of Melville, Conrad, and other writers who have made the sea a principal character. Then he moved his tent into another realm - the arena of witches. And out came WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM and yet another leap of faith in to historical fiction - and in selecting this title he plays with words in a way that produces a chuckle. And then came POKERGEIST and he had us again!
And if you are a died in the wool Michael Phillip Cash fan you'll go with him any where - and here he brings us another realm of quasi paranormal stories about ghosts: from the title you know he has maintained his keen sense of humor. This 11th novel – MONSTERLAND he pulls out all the stops and just lets us bask in every form of monster known. His synopsis allows a peak into this adventure: ‘Welcome to Monsterland – the scariest place on Earth. All guests can interact with real vampires in Vampire Village, be chased by an actual werewolf on the River Run, and walk among the dead in Zombieville. Wyatt Baldwin, a high school student and life-long movie buff is staring bleakly at a future of flipping burgers. Due to a fortuitous circumstance, Wyatt and his friends are invited to the star-studded opening of Monsterland. In a theme park full of real vampires, werewolves and zombies, what could possibly go wrong?’ Oh what a question to pose! The answer – just about everything, but in Michael’s hands the story becomes such a keen combination of fright and fun that you’ll want to read it again and pass it along.
February 2, 2016
BLUF: Monsterland is the Jurassic Park of... well... monsters.
*I was provided a copy of this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review*
Plot: Governments have become bankrupt trying to contain zombies. Vampires and werewolves are closing in on extinction. Vincent Conrad? He has a solution to fix it all.
--
Wyatt Carter and his friends received exclusive tickets to the California Monsterland's grand opening. While the park is considered safe, first days have their surprises...
Story: Slow start, whirlwind finish - usually I would complain, but not this time. It took me a few chapters to get used to the run on sentences, but it was well worth it. We are shown a little background to each monster and quite a bit regarding Wyatt and his friends.
Characters: Monsterland doesn't venture into high school, but follows stereotype-breaking high schoolers. (Most popular female is smartest in class and infatuated with a huge dork, the supposed outcasts fit in quite well with the popular crows - or is this just a small town thing?)
The combination of story and characters is wonderful and, even though we can guess what will happen, finding out how and what happens is satisfying.
Ranting, sorry: I know it's wrong to read a book like this and expect most things (other than the whole monster concept) to be realistic, but fireflies in California? I don't think that happens. (Petty, I know ;) )
Did I mention..?: I really enjoyed this book!
*I was provided a copy of this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review*
Plot: Governments have become bankrupt trying to contain zombies. Vampires and werewolves are closing in on extinction. Vincent Conrad? He has a solution to fix it all.
--
Wyatt Carter and his friends received exclusive tickets to the California Monsterland's grand opening. While the park is considered safe, first days have their surprises...
Story: Slow start, whirlwind finish - usually I would complain, but not this time. It took me a few chapters to get used to the run on sentences, but it was well worth it. We are shown a little background to each monster and quite a bit regarding Wyatt and his friends.
Characters: Monsterland doesn't venture into high school, but follows stereotype-breaking high schoolers. (Most popular female is smartest in class and infatuated with a huge dork, the supposed outcasts fit in quite well with the popular crows - or is this just a small town thing?)
The combination of story and characters is wonderful and, even though we can guess what will happen, finding out how and what happens is satisfying.
Ranting, sorry: I know it's wrong to read a book like this and expect most things (other than the whole monster concept) to be realistic, but fireflies in California? I don't think that happens. (Petty, I know ;) )
Did I mention..?: I really enjoyed this book!
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