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Bathwater Blues

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As her life implodes, a dark figure watches. There's nothing divine about this intervention.Addie O'Dell is unraveling. With a bottle of vodka and a handful of her mother's pills, it's only thanks to an uninvited guest that she's pulled from the brink of self-destruction.An intruder with plans far beyond any nightmare she could dream of...In a strange room, Addie awakens to the sounds of screams nearby. The door is locked. No one answers when she calls. All she finds is a single envelope on the desk beside her bed. Inside lies a dangerous letter. An irresistible promise. Because no matter the cost, when hope is on the table… it’s only human to reach for it.

449 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 6, 2019

225 people are currently reading
241 people want to read

About the author

Abe Moss

24 books420 followers
Abe Moss has been writing horror stories for as long as he can remember, and hopes to never stop. He loves creature-features, psychological horror, supernatural horror, cosmic horror, you name it. With each book he writes, he hopes to try something a little different. The possibilities are endless and that's what he really loves about storytelling. He hopes you'll enjoy his stories, too!

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5 stars
155 (41%)
4 stars
124 (33%)
3 stars
63 (16%)
2 stars
24 (6%)
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8 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Bex (Beckie Bookworm).
2,517 reviews1,592 followers
April 9, 2021
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My Review

So this was an unusual read and also a bit of a strange one, It’s listed under horror but I’m not sure that’s quite what I’d describe this as.
For me, it was much more psychological with a supernatural slant than horror.
It’s also well written and definitely has a chilling and intriguing vibe going on.

This story is split into separate parts each concentrating on a specific life stage and we initially get a snapshot straight into Addie's bleak and lonely existence understanding just how hopeless and alone she’s feeling and just what drove her to the decision she finally arrives at.

So What is this strange place that Addie now finds herself inhabiting, along with her fellow housemates Bud Jessica and Lyle.
Who is the doctor and what is his end game and then there’s his mysterious assistant Nuala is she the friend she appears or actually a foe.
As events escalate Addie finds herself along with the others fighting for her very right to exist and she knows that to do that she needs to escape this forced captivity.

So even though the writing with this one was good it was also very slow.
It was also extremely confusing at times and I still feel very much baffled and in the dark by a lot of the things that occurred.
I’m not a great fan of stories that require this much personal interpretation, where your left to analyse and arrive at your own conclusion.
I felt that this very much did this instead of explaining or laying it out simply this pretty much invites you to ponder.

And yep not a clue really I do wish this had more explanations in regard to what was going on as this is where this definitely lost points for me.
I have a vague idea of what I thought was happening here but it all did start to get a bit fantastical and extremely over the top.

Overall I liked parts of this more than others mostly the bits I could understand.
And the first half of this was definitely better than the second for me.
What this was though was highly unique and very original it just would have been more enjoyable for me if it wasn’t so bloody perplexing.
Please be aware that this does contain some deep triggers.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Bathwater Blues.

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Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
Profile Image for Erica.
200 reviews
January 31, 2021
This book was one fucked up read. I could barely put my kindle down the last couple days.
Profile Image for Beth White.
264 reviews15 followers
April 12, 2020
First I would like to say that I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

I found this book a really hard read and restarted it 30% through after a long break from reading it to give it a better chance. The story begins well with a full set up depicting the life of a young woman who is going through numerous challenges and abusive scenarios in her personal life. From a cheating boyfriend to an emotionally abusive mother and a tragic past, it builds to a climax of her attempting to take her own life when she is stopped by a strange creature who then takes her to a facility where the “doctor” is said to be going to help her along with the other patients/inmates in the facility. And that is where the book began to totally lose me. I can deal with far fetched and the supernatural, but this book was on another level. I massively struggled to follow it and it was an incredibly peculiar mix of horror and suspense and yet also super slow moving where I was turning the pages just waiting for something to happen. By the end of the book I still was no clearer on what I had read really or why what had happened had happened. Not a book I am likely to pick up again or recommend.
Profile Image for myreadingescapism.
1,273 reviews15 followers
January 6, 2025
This started out so great and then the train went off the rails, down a cliff and caught on fire...
Profile Image for Cujo.
217 reviews13 followers
March 9, 2022
As an overall story as I give this book 4 stars, maybe 4.25, but as a horror novel ,( and that is what this was advertised as), I put it i the 3 to 3.5 range. Why? Because I really wouldn't call this a horror story. Its more in the thriller, fantasy, or general mind fuck category. But not horror.

The book itself is really good. Its easy to feel sorry for the main character Addie,(It didn't take me long at all). She has a dead end job, a boyfriend who sees her as nothing more then a fuck buddy, no real friends to speak of, and has an extremely verbally and emotionally abusive mother. Addie ends up doing what most any teenager/young adult would do, and is given a shot at second chance by an angel or demon. All she has to do is go thru "Therapy"

It is here that Addie meets the closest thing she ever had to friends and family, and she learns a lot about herself along the way. She encounters ghosts and monsters but they play small roles compared to the main antagonist. Who may or may not actually be a villain
Profile Image for Cathy .
291 reviews12 followers
October 28, 2019
Bathwater Blues by Abe Moss
This is one of those reads that starts a little slow, but then before you know it you are sucked in to this story and you don't want to stop the ride till you are done, spent, burnt and left reeling wondering wth happened?!
This is my 2nd book by Abe Moss, Writhing being my first and I can honestly say I will read anything this author writes. I received an advance review copy for free and leave my opinion voluntarily! Be aware there are certain elements of this book that may be disturbing to some.
53 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2024
Very unusual book!

Four young people attempt to end their own lives, but find themselves mysteriously taken to a remote, primitive location where they find they are to be treated by a doctor and his assistant. But neither of those two appear to be quite human. Ghosts appear here and there, and a strange bathtub that moves by itself turns out to be a crucial part of the treatment. But as time passes, they begin to wonder whether they are really being helped, or whether they are in a new kind of danger.

I have read a number of Abe Moss' books and liked them all very much. This one is my favorite so far, although I hardly know how to describe it. Despite moments of horror and violence, it didn't feel like a horror story to me. It was gripping. It was moving. I found it hard to put down. Parts of it were heartbreaking and parts of it were very satisfying. If you like to read something different from the usual, I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Paul Pope.
301 reviews23 followers
September 7, 2024
Horror doesn’t need monsters…we are absolutely scary enough without them.

TRIGGER WARNING: This novel is rife with suicide, emotional and physical abuse, child trauma, and some twisted sex stuff with lizards. Proceed with caution.

A second-chance novel like no other. Four youngsters are being treated at an isolated facility by a doctor with no voice. Or mouth. Or even a head. Twisted allegorical references abound in this terror filled thriller (featuring a sentient bathtub). Although my review features some levity, make no mistake, this is not a comical read. There is absolute brutality, death, and torture present. This one is not for the feint of heart or those who experienced trauma as children/teens. But for the few who will make it through the book, you will have no regrets. Although everyone dies.
Can recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rhianydd Cooke - Cambourne.
275 reviews11 followers
November 28, 2019
Firstly I’d like to say that I received free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review;

This book, while good, was found under the horror category and, for me, didn’t really fit into that genre. Possibly if it was less of a slow burn and cut out some of the exposition it could have packed a bit of of a punch and really nailed it.

For the storyline itself, I found bits of it really interesting and thought that some of the core concepts were really cool, but the whole thing felt like it dragged on too long and the last 25% of the book felt a bit far fetched (even for this storyline) and forced.

For the most part I enjoyed it and I didn’t but find it a chore to read, I seemed to go through at a decent pace and, until the end, didn’t find myself wishing for the end of the book. If I see more books by this author I’m more than happy to give them a go ☺️!
Profile Image for Tracy.
318 reviews3 followers
April 14, 2025
Not an easy book to sum up. Horror, not so much. Fantasy maybe, sorta. Definitely creatures. All the young people that were picked for 'therapy' each had their own fucked up lives, the author did a good job of conveying how they became so done with life, and you can see how they developed the sense of belonging at this....place. The book itself could use some editing
Profile Image for Robert.
139 reviews10 followers
October 11, 2019
Dark and disturbing. This is not your usual type of horror story, full of gore and cringe-worthy moments. This story takes you on a journey, from the mind of Eddie O'Dell, the main protagonist, as she struggles through her boring life.

Addie thinks she's worthless. Nobody cares for her. Her mother is harsh and hopeless at mothering. Her dad, now dead, was the only person who truly loved her. Her boyfriend only wants her for the occasional hookup, but has nothing else to offer. So, when things really go pear-shaped in her life, why should she stick around? This is when things get really weird. This is when Addie meets Nuala and the Doctor.

Ultimately, I feel this book explores the depths of despair people reach when they feel like they have nothing left to live for. But it also provides a level of hope.

I think the characters in this story are very well developed, and achieve their goals in making the reader feel for them. If you can hold on through the slow build-up, it'll be worth it. Don't expect big jumps or scares here, though. What you will get is a creepy sensation which can be just as satisfying.

I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. Thanks to the publishers and the author for this opportunity.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,783 reviews72 followers
June 8, 2019
A dip in the tub has never been so therapeutic...
Addie O’Dell is self-destructing. The rocky bottom of her downward spiral is in sight, and despite her best efforts she can’t escape the fateful clutches pulling her in.
But as fate would have it, someone else is watching…
In a strange bed, in a strange room, Addie awakens to the sounds of screams nearby. The door is locked, and no one answers when she calls. All she finds is a single envelope on the desk beside her bed. Adelaide, it reads. Inside lies a dangerous letter. A dangerous promise. It’s a danger as old as evil, and far more alluring. Irresistible. Because no matter the cost, when there’s hope on the table… it’s only human to reach for it.

This is definitely a very good little horror story.
One of those you can't say too much about as you will give away the story and you need to read this to find things out.
Loads of suspense with twists and turns that you will not see coming that also keeps you gripped and turning those pages on your reader.
Look forward to reading more from this author.
Recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Linda.
442 reviews39 followers
July 27, 2021
This story had a lot going on and I wouldn't exactly call it a horror story. It's more supernatural, but weird and just gets weirder the more you read, but I guess that was the point. It was slow in spots and confusing in others, but still held my interest.

Addie is a needy young woman, with a mother who berates her constantly and is anything but loving. They fight constantly until a finale that changes everything.

Her father passed away and the memories she has of him and their relationship, is loving and happy. She's still grieving this loss, she can't seem to find a decent boyfriend except a guy named Carter, who only uses her. Addie walks in on Carter unexpectedly and is shocked and devastated by what she sees.

Things spiral out of control and suicide, along with past bad experiences and abuse throw four people together into a surreal place run by a strange doctor and his assistant. This is where things really get crazy, but I found myself still wanting to see what happens due to all the twists and turns. I've read Abe Moss before and liked other books, this one was not my favorite.





Profile Image for Kelly.
6 reviews
October 7, 2025
How in the Hell does this book have good reviews? I understand people are different therefore tastes are subjective, but damn. I had to finish this book, even if a book is terrible if I'm even a quarter of the way in I have to finish it, but I could not wait for it to end. I kept envisioning a 10 year old telling a story, while quite imaginative and original, it was ridiculously repetitive, crazy events just sort of plopped into being with no linear course, and the author droned on and on and on! This book could have easily been half as long and still told this weird story. I've read a couple other books by Abe Moss and while not great they were engaging and entertaining. This book? Ugh. Just...ugh.
Profile Image for Wendy.
154 reviews1 follower
May 1, 2020
A Must Read Masterpiece

This book is a wonderful example of what a master dreamer can put down into writing with crazy good skills. I am glad I found Abe Moss and sad that I am almost through reading all his books, because it is going to be difficult to find other writers who have the diversity in story telling he has. There are very skilled writers out there who are extremely prolific and I love their books, but I must admit their stories start sounding the same after awhile. Abe Moss is different -- each story is very original. His books are thought provoking, emotional, descriptive and satisfying to read. This book is at the top of his game.
Profile Image for Tabitha Emerson.
32 reviews
April 16, 2021
Pretty Interesting

I wanted more answers, more what and who are they, but I understand not everyone likes to give those in movie and film.

Some of the others called this a non stop page turner, but, while it was pretty good, I wouldn't call it that. The first third at least I had to chew through this book, but it did snowball with interesting events after that.

I will also caution that there are triggering subjects in it. Something I don't feel you can glean from the vague description of the book.

All in all, I thought it was ok. If you want a real page turner, his Under the Wicked Moon novel kept me on the edge of my seat and is why I'm checking out his other works.
Profile Image for Sharon.
4,152 reviews31 followers
June 14, 2019
This story has lots of twists and turns that held my attention and fed into the suspense of the story-line. The characters are interesting and well developed. This story builds as it continues, so if you are expecting a quick flash horror story this isn’t it, this is far better than that, but takes a bit longer. If you are looking for a horror story that shall hold your attention throughout then this is for you, it’s a book you can really get into.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
61 reviews
October 15, 2020
Great story, well written

I really enjoyed reading this book! I thought the story was great, a little slow paced at the front end but creative writing keeps you interested. Lots of drama, with some suspenseful moments. The main characters go through a lot so it was a little tough to read at times. This is my second Abe Moss book, Under the Wicked Moon, being the first. Very different stories, would recommend both, Wicked Moon definitely a horror story. Looking forward to my next Abe Moss book.
Profile Image for Jay Williams.
1,718 reviews33 followers
April 24, 2021
The story is great written, with realistic characters and understand how character develop. Most of the action takes in a strange and remote location. The characters are told to well them self with the weird doctor. The interaction between with the characters bouncing between several until until two are remaining. The story could be very realistic, with their action in their minds until the end seems become paranormal. The book is interesting and entertaining, and the narrative stimulates thoughts.
Profile Image for Autumn Raduenz.
10 reviews
January 20, 2022
I'm still trying to process this book. It started slow for me, but pretty soon I couldn't put it down. I was hesitant through the whole thing, but at the same time, I feel there is a deeper meaning in this book. A meaning of the healing process from several angles: self-hatred, rejection, suicide, childhood trauma, abuse, unattainable goals, plus so many more. Not all met a happy end through the treatments the doctor had given them. I can't really say what I thought of this book, I can say though, it definitely made me think of the healing processes so many go through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Litio Broie.
365 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2022
Si el autor hubiera sido consciente de lo molesta que es la muletilla "is all", especialmente cuando todos los personajes de no solo esta sino también en The Writhing la usan continuamente, tal vez se habría ganado las cinco estrellas. Hay algunos momentos de escritura torpe (repite un dato como si fuera la primera vez que lo dice, por poner un ejemplo) pero en general es una novela bastante original e interesante.

Nota: esta novela está plagada de TW. Si necesitáis consultarme, podéis hacerlo siempre por mensaje privado.
Profile Image for Pat Eroh.
2,617 reviews32 followers
June 9, 2019
This is an amazing story that will grab you from the start and if you do not read it to the end, you will miss a most surprising, awesome, and original conclusion. Great characters, though they might take a while to like as they are truly wonderful. The storyline is totally original and surprising. Sad, happy, relieved, stressed - get ready for the whole range.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
129 reviews5 followers
September 24, 2019
The "magic" of this book is still with me.

What can I say about this book without giving too much away? What I will say is that this is a fantastic story. I loved it from beginning to end and I know I will be reading it again for the pure enjoyment of visiting the world created within its pages. This is the second book I have read by Abe Moss and I just downloaded the third. I know I won't be disappointed. I highly recommend this book.
93 reviews1 follower
November 12, 2019
A Definite Mind-Bender

Again, another wonderfully creative and original work from Mr. Moss! I've never read anything quite like this, and probably never will.

If you like stories that probe the depths of human existence, tales of redemption, or stories that are just plain weird, then this novel is most decidedly, for you! It's a bit of a slow burn, but it always keeps you guessing and wanting to know more!

If you aren't reading Abe's work yet, you should be.
Profile Image for Jean.
404 reviews
January 20, 2020
About 4 people who contemplates suicide but is plucked up and finds themselves at a place to “ help” them. Bizarre talking sessions and practices go on and mostly the just do nothing but be scared till one gets killed, another is locked in a room with a snake skinned monster, one gets thrown in the furnace for cremation and the other girl (the girl telling the story) gets away as every thing goes up in flames. Now it sounds boring put that way. It’s actually better than that.
386 reviews13 followers
April 18, 2020
Original and captivating

I loved this book. I know nothing about Abe Moss, except he wrote one hell of a great story. Once I started I couldn't quit reading until the last page. This story stayed with me long after I read the last page. I will definitely be reading more by Abe Moss. I think I may have discovered an amazing new author to follow. Completely and utterly engrossing.
983 reviews12 followers
December 27, 2020
Suicidal Victims

A strange doctor and his assistant are on a mission to provide help to those who are suicidal. Four of the victims are kidnapped and taken to a remote area for treatment. The assistant seems altruistic and gains their trust. The four are plunged into a bizarre situation. Nightmares plague them. What is the agenda of the doctor and his assistant? I enjoyed this one which depicted the horrors encountered by the four patients in graphic detail.
8 reviews
May 2, 2021
Another Great Read

It's been such a pleasure to find this author and watch him hone his craft. One day he'll be right up there with the greats of this genre, if not surpassing them. He has great plots, very in depth characters, and puts them together well. Follow him and watch it emerge. Thank you, Abe. It's been too long since a storyteller of your caliber has come along. As the years go by and the stories get told you will soar.
111 reviews
August 16, 2025
Omg I absolutely loved this book! Listened to it on Audible but will buy a paper copy so I can add it to my "favorites" bookshelf ☺️

Loved the atmosphere, the characters, the developments, the underlying meaning, the writing, the ending, everything. I was hooked from the first chapter and still obsessed after finishing it. I wish it were turned into a movie! Can't wait to read other books from the author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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