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Slaughter Box
Kong has experienced evil in many shapes and forms. From the death of a childhood friend to military buddies blown up in a landmine incident, one thing has always been consistent – the tall man who’s always there. The demon clad in black never says a word, but he oversees every evil deed as it unfolds. Kong has tried outrunning him, but he always seems to catch up.
Kong has made it his life’s mission to hunt down the evil entity known as Diablo Snuff. The name is spray painted on the sides of train cars and whispered about in the shadows, but he’s unable to uncover any real leads. It’s all talk. All hearsay. All lore.
Ready to give up, Kong heads home and tries his hand at a new, normal life. He even gets up the courage to ask his best friend’s sister out on a date. He’s known Sammy all her life, and she’s had a crush on him since they were kids. Tonight is the night. Pulling the flyer he found stuck to his windshield out of his pocket, Kong decides he’s going to take her to the grand re-opening of the 5-Star Movie Plex downtown.
What can go wrong?
If he only knew… you don’t find Diablo Snuff. It finds you.
You've met Kong in Passion & Pain and in The Grindhouse: Diablo Snuff 2. This is his stand-alone story.
BE ADVISED: THIS BOOK IS FOR A MATURE AUDIENCE.
Kong has made it his life’s mission to hunt down the evil entity known as Diablo Snuff. The name is spray painted on the sides of train cars and whispered about in the shadows, but he’s unable to uncover any real leads. It’s all talk. All hearsay. All lore.
Ready to give up, Kong heads home and tries his hand at a new, normal life. He even gets up the courage to ask his best friend’s sister out on a date. He’s known Sammy all her life, and she’s had a crush on him since they were kids. Tonight is the night. Pulling the flyer he found stuck to his windshield out of his pocket, Kong decides he’s going to take her to the grand re-opening of the 5-Star Movie Plex downtown.
What can go wrong?
If he only knew… you don’t find Diablo Snuff. It finds you.
You've met Kong in Passion & Pain and in The Grindhouse: Diablo Snuff 2. This is his stand-alone story.
BE ADVISED: THIS BOOK IS FOR A MATURE AUDIENCE.
- GenresHorrorSplatterpunk
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2020
9 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Carver Pike
30 books332 followersMy name is Carver Pike. Since as far back as I can remember, I've been fascinated by everything horror. I'd sit cross-legged in front of the TV and watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre while devouring a bowl of Kaboom cereal. I always wished the ghost at the end of each episode of Scooby-Doo wouldn't be just another man behind the mask. I wanted real ghastly ghouls, dastardly demons, and malevolent monsters.
At some point, I knew I couldn't sit back and keep watching this horror world from the stands. I wanted to be in the game. So, now I wield this virtual pen and sling ink onto this page with the hopes of someday being a major player. I want to create those worlds you visit, feed that fear that keeps you up late at night, and entertain you in ways only the greatest storytellers can.
Be advised, most of my books are very graphic in nature. Most contain strong violence, and some have very detailed sex scenes. I try to give you a warning in the book blurb.
Hopefully, we'll form a great author-reader relationship and you'll come to trust that Carver Pike will always keep you entertained.
Member of the HWA: Horror Writers Association
Participated in KillerCon2020
At some point, I knew I couldn't sit back and keep watching this horror world from the stands. I wanted to be in the game. So, now I wield this virtual pen and sling ink onto this page with the hopes of someday being a major player. I want to create those worlds you visit, feed that fear that keeps you up late at night, and entertain you in ways only the greatest storytellers can.
Be advised, most of my books are very graphic in nature. Most contain strong violence, and some have very detailed sex scenes. I try to give you a warning in the book blurb.
Hopefully, we'll form a great author-reader relationship and you'll come to trust that Carver Pike will always keep you entertained.
Member of the HWA: Horror Writers Association
Participated in KillerCon2020
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 19, 2021
SLAUGHTER BOX by Carver Pike is a self-published novel, another entry into the DIABLO SNUFF series.
This is my first story by Pike and I am so glad I read it. Even though I haven’t read any of the others in the series, this book works as a stand-alone, but I also want to delve into the rest of them.
First, though, what exactly is Diablo Snuff?
Well, let’s break down the words:
‘Dia’ is a prefix from the Greek dialect and means ‘throughout’ or ‘completely’…e.g.
If you look at the meaning of ‘Rhea’, it comes to ‘flowing’…so add ‘Dia’ as a prefix and, well, you should get the picture.
‘Blo’ is simply short for ‘Blow’, which means ‘creating an air current’, thus ‘Diablo’ means to completely create an air current.
Are you with me so far?
Good.
Now, ‘snuff’ is a powdered tobacco, which is inhaled through the nose.
So, ‘Diablo Snuff’ means to completely blow tobacco up your nose. Does that make sense?
Well, it shouldn’t, because in this case ‘Diablo’ refers to the Spanish word for ‘Devil’, while ‘Snuff’ refers to the taking or extinguishing of life.
Ah-hah! And they told me I would make a terrible teacher!
Back to the story:
The main character is called Kong, and he has been through a lot of trauma in his life. From a difficult childhood, to losing his friends in the military – every time something bad happens, there is a demon in black which only he can see.
After escaping from a group known as Diablo Snuff, where he was kidnapped and tortured with copious amounts of sex with beautiful women, he…um, wait, give me a second to read that back…
Uhhuh…uhhuh…yes, true statement. Guess some guys think of themselves as more than just a piece of meat.
Okay, you really need to read that part to understand it, you know. Almost like the Matrix…but not totally, because I wouldn’t have minded being SHOWN rather than TOLD, but maybe that’s just me.
Where was I?
Right, right – you have to excuse me, I am just a man, with just enough blood in my body to run one head at a time.
Okay, I jest – it really was a horrific experience…unless you are into that whole S&M scene to begin with, then it’s probably just a Wednesday.
Back to the story.
Kong makes it his life mission to find Diablo Snuff, but after hitting nothing but dead-ends, decides to go home and start a normal life.
So, he takes his best friend’s sister to the re-opening of the 5-Star Movie Plex, because what can go wrong:
He’ll soon find out:
You don’t find Diablo Snuff. It finds you.
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed this story a lot and I want to read the others in the series.
Did everything make sense? Well, I’m not totally sure if I buy that a guy with PTSD and all the bad history would ignore the signs, but it was a good enough story for me to ignore my scepticism.
Highly recommended for horror fans.
4.5 STARS
*Originally reviewed at IndieMuse
* https://www.myindiemuse.com/author/mo...
This is my first story by Pike and I am so glad I read it. Even though I haven’t read any of the others in the series, this book works as a stand-alone, but I also want to delve into the rest of them.
First, though, what exactly is Diablo Snuff?
Well, let’s break down the words:
‘Dia’ is a prefix from the Greek dialect and means ‘throughout’ or ‘completely’…e.g.
If you look at the meaning of ‘Rhea’, it comes to ‘flowing’…so add ‘Dia’ as a prefix and, well, you should get the picture.
‘Blo’ is simply short for ‘Blow’, which means ‘creating an air current’, thus ‘Diablo’ means to completely create an air current.
Are you with me so far?
Good.
Now, ‘snuff’ is a powdered tobacco, which is inhaled through the nose.
So, ‘Diablo Snuff’ means to completely blow tobacco up your nose. Does that make sense?
Well, it shouldn’t, because in this case ‘Diablo’ refers to the Spanish word for ‘Devil’, while ‘Snuff’ refers to the taking or extinguishing of life.
Ah-hah! And they told me I would make a terrible teacher!
Back to the story:
The main character is called Kong, and he has been through a lot of trauma in his life. From a difficult childhood, to losing his friends in the military – every time something bad happens, there is a demon in black which only he can see.
After escaping from a group known as Diablo Snuff, where he was kidnapped and tortured with copious amounts of sex with beautiful women, he…um, wait, give me a second to read that back…
Uhhuh…uhhuh…yes, true statement. Guess some guys think of themselves as more than just a piece of meat.
Okay, you really need to read that part to understand it, you know. Almost like the Matrix…but not totally, because I wouldn’t have minded being SHOWN rather than TOLD, but maybe that’s just me.
Where was I?
Right, right – you have to excuse me, I am just a man, with just enough blood in my body to run one head at a time.
Okay, I jest – it really was a horrific experience…unless you are into that whole S&M scene to begin with, then it’s probably just a Wednesday.
Back to the story.
Kong makes it his life mission to find Diablo Snuff, but after hitting nothing but dead-ends, decides to go home and start a normal life.
So, he takes his best friend’s sister to the re-opening of the 5-Star Movie Plex, because what can go wrong:
He’ll soon find out:
You don’t find Diablo Snuff. It finds you.
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed this story a lot and I want to read the others in the series.
Did everything make sense? Well, I’m not totally sure if I buy that a guy with PTSD and all the bad history would ignore the signs, but it was a good enough story for me to ignore my scepticism.
Highly recommended for horror fans.
4.5 STARS
*Originally reviewed at IndieMuse
* https://www.myindiemuse.com/author/mo...
December 12, 2021
You don’t find Diablo Snuff. It finds you. Kong is back and he is taking his childhood crush, Sammy, to the movies. Not just any movie, but an interactive one. The whole cinema was amazing, what an imagination and detail. Everyone invited to the screening is impressed, until things start going horribly wrong. The movie transforms into a horror film and so do the props. I won't go into detail about what happens to our patrons, but expect a bloody good time.
Psst...if anyone ever makes a movie theater like this send me an invite. Well minus all the poisonous fish, knives, and drowning. The handcuffs are negotiable.
🐱🐱🐱🐱
Psst...if anyone ever makes a movie theater like this send me an invite. Well minus all the poisonous fish, knives, and drowning. The handcuffs are negotiable.
🐱🐱🐱🐱
February 2, 2022
I don't know how but every book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Diablo snuff is everywhere.. You don't find Diablo snuff they find you. This series is so damn good the imagination of Carver Pike is fucking insane ...this is the shit nightmares are made of and it all just flows so well and it's so intense and brutal and vivid it just puts you in it whether you want to be in it or not. Also I'm never going to a free movie theater invite like never ever😆😆. Awesome read, awesome series, and just awesome writing all together. I can't recommend this series enough.
March 10, 2022
Just finished this book of Carver Pikes Diablo Snuff series, and they just keep getting better. We briefly met Kong before in the other books, and now we get to know his back story, and what a back story it was. It was part supernatural/paranormal, part gore and horror, part mystery, and a touch of sexy, all rolled into one fun and fantastic story! It kept me on the edge of my seat, so even though I had things I should have done today, I did absolutely nothing but read this book. I loved how he took us through the different stages in his Kongs life that were good in some ways and tragic in others, and how it all came together to this one night where he asks his best friends sister, Sammy, out to grand reopening of the movie plex.
That’s when all hell breaks loose!
Excited to see what characters will be reappearing in The Maddening and what it’s all about.
That’s when all hell breaks loose!
Excited to see what characters will be reappearing in The Maddening and what it’s all about.
October 13, 2021
About a year ago I asked people on Booktwitter for extreme horror recommendations. One name that came up often was Carver Pike and now I know why. This book was absolutely fantastic!
Slaughter Box is an entry in Pike’s Diablo Snuff series but it can easily be read as a standalone. The majority of the book takes place in a movie theater but not an ordinary one. To say more would be a spoiler but it was a very, very intense ride. I could feel everything the characters were going through. My pulse was racing as I neared the end and I I couldn’t put the book down until I knew the fate of the MC’s
The two main characters were Kong and his childhood friend turned love interest Sammy. I really enjoyed the witty banter between these two. They were a lot of fun to read about.
This book had just the right amount of blood sex and violence that I look for in an extreme horror novel. The writing was brilliant, the story was unique and quite honestly I loved everything about it. I need all the other Diablo Snuff books ASAP!! Highly recommended for regular readers of extreme horror.
Slaughter Box is an entry in Pike’s Diablo Snuff series but it can easily be read as a standalone. The majority of the book takes place in a movie theater but not an ordinary one. To say more would be a spoiler but it was a very, very intense ride. I could feel everything the characters were going through. My pulse was racing as I neared the end and I I couldn’t put the book down until I knew the fate of the MC’s
The two main characters were Kong and his childhood friend turned love interest Sammy. I really enjoyed the witty banter between these two. They were a lot of fun to read about.
This book had just the right amount of blood sex and violence that I look for in an extreme horror novel. The writing was brilliant, the story was unique and quite honestly I loved everything about it. I need all the other Diablo Snuff books ASAP!! Highly recommended for regular readers of extreme horror.
October 22, 2021
This book definitely whet my appetite when it comes to the Diablo Snuff series!! Kong’s past, his constant suffering and his damaged psyche as a result of many VERY traumatic experiences are a recipe for disaster, and yet, he is still open to love. When Kong takes his long-time crush on their first official date, it is supposed to be an evening of carefree fun and a new movie experience. He certainly wasn’t planning what happened, and nobody expected the reasoning behind it!! As the movie rolls and the lights dim, nobody in that theatre will ever be the same.
The ending was fantastic and I look forward to reading more in this series VERY soon! I have questions, lol….
The ending was fantastic and I look forward to reading more in this series VERY soon! I have questions, lol….
October 15, 2021
Readers of Carver Pike's Diablo Snuff books will have first met Kong in Passion & Pain, after his first encounter with the sinister organization. His torture at their hands drove him to seek any information he could find, only to discover they were like ghosts. Our next meeting with Kong is near the end of The Grindhouse, where he appears as a member of Psalm 71. A lot had clearly taken place between those points in time, and Slaughter Box provides us with a glimpse of that missing period of Kong's life.
Still traumatized and emotionally damaged from his first experience with Diablo Snuff, Kong returns to his hometown where he finds a flier for the grand reopening of a local movie theater. Violating the trust of his childhood best friend, Kong invites that friend's younger sister, Sammy, on a date. With the flier fresh in his mind, their venue is obvious.
Unfortunately, as the reader suspects, this is a trap.
William Castle, had he been a homicidal monster or a psychopath, would have fallen in love with the painstakingly engineered and hideously cruel alterations to the theater. Bringing the film to life in the most awful ways, Diablo Snuff intends to punish Kong for his persistent search.
I won't spoil anything, but we know Kong makes it through the events of this book, but will anyone else survive the malicious and inhumane machinations of Diablo Snuff? You'll have to read it for yourself if you want to find out.
Carver Pike does an excellent job of balancing high stakes, tense horror with more human elements of the story. We learn a great deal about Kong, his life before we first discovered him in that hellish warehouse, and the miserable life he'd been leading subsequent to his escape from the organization's clutches. We get to know Sammy, and the deep affection between she and Kong is so well-crafted on the page as to feel as palpable and sincere as a relationship between two real people.
As one might expect, Pike manages to fill the pages with a fair amount of sex and smut, in addition to the violence. If you've read The Grindhouse--as you certainly should have--you'll be well aware of what Diablo Snuff is capable of when they've got a movie projector available.
This is the penultimate Diablo Snuff book, leading the way into the (sure to be) intense conclusion, The Maddening. It's been a long ride, getting here...but one cannot claim it hasn't been enjoyable.
Still traumatized and emotionally damaged from his first experience with Diablo Snuff, Kong returns to his hometown where he finds a flier for the grand reopening of a local movie theater. Violating the trust of his childhood best friend, Kong invites that friend's younger sister, Sammy, on a date. With the flier fresh in his mind, their venue is obvious.
Unfortunately, as the reader suspects, this is a trap.
William Castle, had he been a homicidal monster or a psychopath, would have fallen in love with the painstakingly engineered and hideously cruel alterations to the theater. Bringing the film to life in the most awful ways, Diablo Snuff intends to punish Kong for his persistent search.
I won't spoil anything, but we know Kong makes it through the events of this book, but will anyone else survive the malicious and inhumane machinations of Diablo Snuff? You'll have to read it for yourself if you want to find out.
Carver Pike does an excellent job of balancing high stakes, tense horror with more human elements of the story. We learn a great deal about Kong, his life before we first discovered him in that hellish warehouse, and the miserable life he'd been leading subsequent to his escape from the organization's clutches. We get to know Sammy, and the deep affection between she and Kong is so well-crafted on the page as to feel as palpable and sincere as a relationship between two real people.
As one might expect, Pike manages to fill the pages with a fair amount of sex and smut, in addition to the violence. If you've read The Grindhouse--as you certainly should have--you'll be well aware of what Diablo Snuff is capable of when they've got a movie projector available.
This is the penultimate Diablo Snuff book, leading the way into the (sure to be) intense conclusion, The Maddening. It's been a long ride, getting here...but one cannot claim it hasn't been enjoyable.
March 22, 2021
This was my first time reading Carver Pike. I had meant to do so for some time but being that I'm reading my way through the Splatter Punk Award Nominations for 2021 I finally got my chance to do so. This was a very entertaining read that moved along at a fast pace. It was like watching an Action Movie in your head. I'm definitely going to check out the rest of the Diablo Snuff series.
May 26, 2021
Horror Bookworm Reviews
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Kong has not only experienced evil first hand during his period of military service, but consistently sensed the presence of this true wickedness a number of times during his childhood. Causing a long term psychological burden and fearful anxiety, he learns to accept these supernatural brushes with fate as nameless life lessons. Discovering an unusual flyer, Kong’s adventurous curiosity is peaked. A couple’s only invitation to a grand opening of the new 5-Star Movie has been conspicuously presented to Kong. What follows is a descent into unjustified madness. Not only will his sanity be tested, but his survival skills as well.
Centered around a most unusual 5 Star Movie Plex, author Carver Pike’s devilish ploy feeds a taunting demented storyline. His disturbing version of a game-show and sexually messed up play-land all seem to be harvested straight from Hell. Pike offers up a one-way ticket to his splatterpunk creation entitled, Slaughter Box.
Slaughter Box is part of the Diablo Snuff series. These related books can be read as a stand-alone or in any particular order. Worthy of a nod for excellence from the horror community, Slaughter Box has been nominated for a Splatterpunk Award in the category of Best Novel. His writing style has no boundaries and has demonstrated there are no lines that can’t be crossed. Because of this, the reader will have no clue when, where and how to prepare for the onslaught brought by this book.
Welcome to Dr. Delusional’s Project Hell. A gruesome performance brought to you by the one and only Diablo Snuff. Our motto is, “The Show Must Go On...by any means necessary.” A strong recommendation. Enjoy.
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Kong has not only experienced evil first hand during his period of military service, but consistently sensed the presence of this true wickedness a number of times during his childhood. Causing a long term psychological burden and fearful anxiety, he learns to accept these supernatural brushes with fate as nameless life lessons. Discovering an unusual flyer, Kong’s adventurous curiosity is peaked. A couple’s only invitation to a grand opening of the new 5-Star Movie has been conspicuously presented to Kong. What follows is a descent into unjustified madness. Not only will his sanity be tested, but his survival skills as well.
Centered around a most unusual 5 Star Movie Plex, author Carver Pike’s devilish ploy feeds a taunting demented storyline. His disturbing version of a game-show and sexually messed up play-land all seem to be harvested straight from Hell. Pike offers up a one-way ticket to his splatterpunk creation entitled, Slaughter Box.
Slaughter Box is part of the Diablo Snuff series. These related books can be read as a stand-alone or in any particular order. Worthy of a nod for excellence from the horror community, Slaughter Box has been nominated for a Splatterpunk Award in the category of Best Novel. His writing style has no boundaries and has demonstrated there are no lines that can’t be crossed. Because of this, the reader will have no clue when, where and how to prepare for the onslaught brought by this book.
Welcome to Dr. Delusional’s Project Hell. A gruesome performance brought to you by the one and only Diablo Snuff. Our motto is, “The Show Must Go On...by any means necessary.” A strong recommendation. Enjoy.
December 30, 2020
A Remarkable Origin Story!
Well, I’ve reached the end of the line for Diablo Snuff… for now. I am both excited and dismayed that this journey with Carver Pike and his Diablo Snuff series has come to an end. However, the most excitement lies in the fact that there will at least be one more entry with the forthcoming The Maddening: Diablo Snuff book 3! I am also ecstatic to say Slaughter Box: A Diablo Snuff Side Story by Carver Pike once again delivered the goods!
Slaughter Box is a formidable origin story of the character Kong who is encountered in both Passion & Pain, and The Grindhouse: Diablo Snuff book 2. I was really curious as to why Pike would focus a side story on one character, but my curiosity was laid to rest once I dug into the story.
Kong is a very interesting character. As I mentioned he is briefly encountered in two Diablo Snuff entries. Slaughter Box really rounds out Kong’s character, Carver fleshes him out superbly, and makes you care more for the character. Not to mention the fact that at the end of Slaughter Box you hope to see more of Kong, and his story.
I cannot go into great detail about this side story, because I really do not want to give away spoilers. I will say that many questions were answered from both Passion & Pain and The Grindhouse. How Kong got caught up in Diablo Snuff, how he met Michael (from A Foreign Evil: Diablo Snuff book 1), and some answers to unseen events that occurred in The Grindhouse.
Kong’s story, in short, is about him finding a flyer inviting him to a grand reopening of the 5 Plex Theater in his hometown of Dudley, OH. The place was always a dump, and still appeared to be the same even though the new owners claimed renovations had taken place.
Prior to this happening we learn a bit more about Kong’s childhood, his young adulthood in the military, and then merge into the main tissue of the book. Kevin is Kong’s best friend, and his little sister Sammy has always held a special place in Kong’s heart.
Kong goes over to Kevin’s house only to find Kevin is working overtime, and Sammy is alone. Kong doesn’t want to make a move on his friend’s little sister. Especially when he knows that Kevin would not approve. Nonetheless, Sammy wants to hang out, she proposes that Kong take her out, and inevitably the flyer is brought up.
Sammy is stoked, and wants Kong to take her to this reopening that will be a night filled with terrors, or so the flyer implies. Kong finally agrees, and they head out on a seemingly harmless night out that turns out to be quite bizarre. Will the night hold romance for the two? Will they have a fun time at the movies? Will there be torture? Death? Will anyone leave the 5 Plex alive? Or is Kong’s imagination getting the better of him?
I have to say that this side story was very surprising to me. It was the one I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy considering that I really didn’t feel connected to Kong. However, Carver changed that rather quickly! I now love Kong, and I love Slaughter Box! It most definitely exceeded my expectations, and I am at a loss for better words than Carver Pike never ceases to amaze and entertain me!
I absolutely must give Slaughter Box by Carver Pike five bright stars out of five! Pike never lets up, seems to always deliver perfection, and never leaves you bored at any moment. Carver certainly only publishes gold. His extreme efforts, hard work, attention to detail and continuity, and care to feed his fans hunger for his literature is clearly apparent in any work that I have picked up!
Also, a side note, I thought it was interesting that Slaughter Box had some sexual content, but it most certainly didn’t have the same feel as some of the other entries. I really enjoyed that aspect because it was a curveball. I absolutely love the erotic horror, brutality, and gore in the Diablo Snuff series, but Slaughter Box is absolutely a horse of a different color. Nonetheless, Carver Pike is very elegant in his delivery of horror and erotica. Crude and brutal subject matter is tackled perfectly by Carver. He most definitely has a way with words, and his form and flow of his writing holds a poise to it that I feel is superior in several aspects in comparison to many of his peers in the Splatterpunk genre. I think that Carver Pike understands that not all Splatterpunk fans simply want gratuitous violence, sex, and gore. I feel that Carver understands that he has many readers that are of a higher caliber of intelligence. I also feel that anyone can write schlock Splatterpunk that is foul language, sex, violence, and brutality. However, it takes true talent to create an actual story, great characterization, dialogue, and descriptive writing that paints a mindscape. Very few authors can harness this properly, and simply come off crude. Carver Pike rises above that level and delivers all of the nasty bits alongside a fabulous story and characterizations with intelligence and finesse.
I feel that Carver Pike’s writing style would impress, and be greatly praised by many of the founding fathers of the Splatterpunk sub-genre. Two that come to mind would be Jack Ketchum and Richard Laymon. These men wrote with the intelligence and finesse that Pike harnesses. I would even go as far as to say that Carver Pike’s works have similar intelligence and tone as some of Clive Barker’s early works. Mainly Clive’s Books of Blood, and possibly even The Hellbound Heart. Nevertheless, I truly believe Pike has carved out his own brand, he is completely original, and although comparisons are fabulous, he definitely has his own style. Again I have to end on saying this… Carver Pike is going places, and one day hopefully very soon, he will be a household name and his novels will grace bookshelves all over the world!
Well, I’ve reached the end of the line for Diablo Snuff… for now. I am both excited and dismayed that this journey with Carver Pike and his Diablo Snuff series has come to an end. However, the most excitement lies in the fact that there will at least be one more entry with the forthcoming The Maddening: Diablo Snuff book 3! I am also ecstatic to say Slaughter Box: A Diablo Snuff Side Story by Carver Pike once again delivered the goods!
Slaughter Box is a formidable origin story of the character Kong who is encountered in both Passion & Pain, and The Grindhouse: Diablo Snuff book 2. I was really curious as to why Pike would focus a side story on one character, but my curiosity was laid to rest once I dug into the story.
Kong is a very interesting character. As I mentioned he is briefly encountered in two Diablo Snuff entries. Slaughter Box really rounds out Kong’s character, Carver fleshes him out superbly, and makes you care more for the character. Not to mention the fact that at the end of Slaughter Box you hope to see more of Kong, and his story.
I cannot go into great detail about this side story, because I really do not want to give away spoilers. I will say that many questions were answered from both Passion & Pain and The Grindhouse. How Kong got caught up in Diablo Snuff, how he met Michael (from A Foreign Evil: Diablo Snuff book 1), and some answers to unseen events that occurred in The Grindhouse.
Kong’s story, in short, is about him finding a flyer inviting him to a grand reopening of the 5 Plex Theater in his hometown of Dudley, OH. The place was always a dump, and still appeared to be the same even though the new owners claimed renovations had taken place.
Prior to this happening we learn a bit more about Kong’s childhood, his young adulthood in the military, and then merge into the main tissue of the book. Kevin is Kong’s best friend, and his little sister Sammy has always held a special place in Kong’s heart.
Kong goes over to Kevin’s house only to find Kevin is working overtime, and Sammy is alone. Kong doesn’t want to make a move on his friend’s little sister. Especially when he knows that Kevin would not approve. Nonetheless, Sammy wants to hang out, she proposes that Kong take her out, and inevitably the flyer is brought up.
Sammy is stoked, and wants Kong to take her to this reopening that will be a night filled with terrors, or so the flyer implies. Kong finally agrees, and they head out on a seemingly harmless night out that turns out to be quite bizarre. Will the night hold romance for the two? Will they have a fun time at the movies? Will there be torture? Death? Will anyone leave the 5 Plex alive? Or is Kong’s imagination getting the better of him?
I have to say that this side story was very surprising to me. It was the one I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy considering that I really didn’t feel connected to Kong. However, Carver changed that rather quickly! I now love Kong, and I love Slaughter Box! It most definitely exceeded my expectations, and I am at a loss for better words than Carver Pike never ceases to amaze and entertain me!
I absolutely must give Slaughter Box by Carver Pike five bright stars out of five! Pike never lets up, seems to always deliver perfection, and never leaves you bored at any moment. Carver certainly only publishes gold. His extreme efforts, hard work, attention to detail and continuity, and care to feed his fans hunger for his literature is clearly apparent in any work that I have picked up!
Also, a side note, I thought it was interesting that Slaughter Box had some sexual content, but it most certainly didn’t have the same feel as some of the other entries. I really enjoyed that aspect because it was a curveball. I absolutely love the erotic horror, brutality, and gore in the Diablo Snuff series, but Slaughter Box is absolutely a horse of a different color. Nonetheless, Carver Pike is very elegant in his delivery of horror and erotica. Crude and brutal subject matter is tackled perfectly by Carver. He most definitely has a way with words, and his form and flow of his writing holds a poise to it that I feel is superior in several aspects in comparison to many of his peers in the Splatterpunk genre. I think that Carver Pike understands that not all Splatterpunk fans simply want gratuitous violence, sex, and gore. I feel that Carver understands that he has many readers that are of a higher caliber of intelligence. I also feel that anyone can write schlock Splatterpunk that is foul language, sex, violence, and brutality. However, it takes true talent to create an actual story, great characterization, dialogue, and descriptive writing that paints a mindscape. Very few authors can harness this properly, and simply come off crude. Carver Pike rises above that level and delivers all of the nasty bits alongside a fabulous story and characterizations with intelligence and finesse.
I feel that Carver Pike’s writing style would impress, and be greatly praised by many of the founding fathers of the Splatterpunk sub-genre. Two that come to mind would be Jack Ketchum and Richard Laymon. These men wrote with the intelligence and finesse that Pike harnesses. I would even go as far as to say that Carver Pike’s works have similar intelligence and tone as some of Clive Barker’s early works. Mainly Clive’s Books of Blood, and possibly even The Hellbound Heart. Nevertheless, I truly believe Pike has carved out his own brand, he is completely original, and although comparisons are fabulous, he definitely has his own style. Again I have to end on saying this… Carver Pike is going places, and one day hopefully very soon, he will be a household name and his novels will grace bookshelves all over the world!
January 28, 2020
Was I scared? No, but what happened was this book captivated me, intrigued me and pulled me right in with it's storyline and characters. It starts off innocent enough and brings you to the lives of children playing, until it turns dark and menacing. Someone is in the shadows, or are the shadows someone? Children are lost, children grow up. The lost are mourned, the ones who grow up are left with the memory. Kong is one of those children who carried the memories of his childhood with him. That eerie inkling that something is out there, something is trying to get to him. When on deployment, he sees what is coming, he knows. He needs to find this Diablo Snuff and put an end to this once and for all.
Sammy is all grown up but has always loved Kong. Even at such a tender age, she could tell that he was a good person, and now he is a good man. He never took the opportunity to make a move on her so when the opportunity presented itself, she made the first move. He does want her but she is his best friend's little sister and although Kevin had always tried to push him toward his little sister, Kong resisted. Until now. But now, they are in a situation that doesn't sit easy with him. Everyone is really excited for this new theater and the horror movie they are about to see, but Kong has an uneasy feeling. When things begin to become weird and too real, he realizes that they just might not make it out of there alive.
This is a true page turner. It is that situation where you shouldn't look but just can't help yourself. It grabs your attention and pulls you along with an invisible rope, making you turn page after page until you reach the enlightening end. Or is it the end? This is a wonderfully written book with characters that you will be pulling for, cheering for and praying that they make it out of this alive. If you love horror reads, then give this one a try. I highly recommend this book!
Sammy is all grown up but has always loved Kong. Even at such a tender age, she could tell that he was a good person, and now he is a good man. He never took the opportunity to make a move on her so when the opportunity presented itself, she made the first move. He does want her but she is his best friend's little sister and although Kevin had always tried to push him toward his little sister, Kong resisted. Until now. But now, they are in a situation that doesn't sit easy with him. Everyone is really excited for this new theater and the horror movie they are about to see, but Kong has an uneasy feeling. When things begin to become weird and too real, he realizes that they just might not make it out of there alive.
This is a true page turner. It is that situation where you shouldn't look but just can't help yourself. It grabs your attention and pulls you along with an invisible rope, making you turn page after page until you reach the enlightening end. Or is it the end? This is a wonderfully written book with characters that you will be pulling for, cheering for and praying that they make it out of this alive. If you love horror reads, then give this one a try. I highly recommend this book!
July 24, 2021
Another great work of horror by Carver Pike. A morbid journey of life haunted by a dark figure. As a child, a teen, and a man ... nightmares come alive and haunt Kong and those who have to unfortunate luck to know him. Finally life starts to turn bright as long lost love ignites with a kiss and a first date to a new movie house. Free tickets, popcorn, nachos and pop...what could got wrong. Kongs life is displayed on the big screen for all to see and all must suffer along. The dark figure still looms... will Kong survive his first date?
February 5, 2020
This book is a wild ride!
Slaughter Box by Carver Pike is a fast-paced and ominous extreme horror story. It is a stand-alone in the Diablo Snuff books. This tells me one can read it without reading any of the others first, and technically, you can.
And I did.
Regarding that, I will say this: You might want to read at least the first one of the series prior to reading this one. Slaughter Box can stand alone, but the story fills your head with questions and makes you want to read the others anyway.
But, if you want a peek at Diablo Snuff without starting on the series, this is it.
If you are looking for a good, hardcore extreme horror novel, this is it.
If you want to test your intestinal fortitude, here you go!
Slaughter Box is explicit and graphic and very well-written. And it is a good story, a solid story. Told in first person, the ominous and maddening foreshadowing keeps the reader on the edge of their seat (as it were), knowing something is about to go sideways but not what or how. Maddening. And when the story takes that turn, it’s a hard turn that leaves your guts behind. This has all the elements of a great thriller and all the elements of a great extreme horror novel. It is a brilliant work brilliantly done.
That synopsis blurb, well, it is a little generic. It does not do the story justice. But that can be forgiven. Suffice it to say there is so much more to this novel than that synopsis. The intensity and sequences and characters bring so much more to the story. But mind the warning and the cover art. Slaughter Box is for consenting adults who enjoy intense, graphic horror.
This is a shelf-worthy read.
Slaughter Box by Carver Pike is a fast-paced and ominous extreme horror story. It is a stand-alone in the Diablo Snuff books. This tells me one can read it without reading any of the others first, and technically, you can.
And I did.
Regarding that, I will say this: You might want to read at least the first one of the series prior to reading this one. Slaughter Box can stand alone, but the story fills your head with questions and makes you want to read the others anyway.
But, if you want a peek at Diablo Snuff without starting on the series, this is it.
If you are looking for a good, hardcore extreme horror novel, this is it.
If you want to test your intestinal fortitude, here you go!
Slaughter Box is explicit and graphic and very well-written. And it is a good story, a solid story. Told in first person, the ominous and maddening foreshadowing keeps the reader on the edge of their seat (as it were), knowing something is about to go sideways but not what or how. Maddening. And when the story takes that turn, it’s a hard turn that leaves your guts behind. This has all the elements of a great thriller and all the elements of a great extreme horror novel. It is a brilliant work brilliantly done.
That synopsis blurb, well, it is a little generic. It does not do the story justice. But that can be forgiven. Suffice it to say there is so much more to this novel than that synopsis. The intensity and sequences and characters bring so much more to the story. But mind the warning and the cover art. Slaughter Box is for consenting adults who enjoy intense, graphic horror.
This is a shelf-worthy read.
August 31, 2020
Brilliant!!
I have read all the Diablo Snuff books and side stories now, one right after the other. Could..not..put..them..down. I really dont fancy a 4D cinema experience after this though....but....I cannot wait for part 3...The Maddening!! Bring It On (Quickly 😉)
I have read all the Diablo Snuff books and side stories now, one right after the other. Could..not..put..them..down. I really dont fancy a 4D cinema experience after this though....but....I cannot wait for part 3...The Maddening!! Bring It On (Quickly 😉)
August 5, 2021
If you want to know what it's like to live a movie, read this book.
The way the audience experienced what was happening on screen was brilliant. I haven't read anything like this before. I hope that Kong and Sid make an appearance in the next book.
The way the audience experienced what was happening on screen was brilliant. I haven't read anything like this before. I hope that Kong and Sid make an appearance in the next book.
November 12, 2020
I am a fan of the Diablo Snuff stories that Carver Pike writes. But this one was EPIC!
This book elaborates on Kong’s story but when Diablo Snuff finds him, he is at a grand opening of a movie theater and Kong happens to be there with Kevin’s sister, Sammy. And true to Diablo Snuff form, there is pain, torture, and suffering.
I highly recommend this book as well as Carver’s other Diablo Snuff books. You WILL NOT be disappointed!!!
A quote that sums this book up is, “ Real life wasn’t anything like the movies.”
This book elaborates on Kong’s story but when Diablo Snuff finds him, he is at a grand opening of a movie theater and Kong happens to be there with Kevin’s sister, Sammy. And true to Diablo Snuff form, there is pain, torture, and suffering.
I highly recommend this book as well as Carver’s other Diablo Snuff books. You WILL NOT be disappointed!!!
A quote that sums this book up is, “ Real life wasn’t anything like the movies.”
October 28, 2021
An absolute page turner, full of tension, intimate brutality, and an immersive atmosphere.
February 22, 2020
Once again, another terrifying adventure from Carver Pike!
Surprisingly, this one was a lot tamer on the sexual side than the first two, but still definitely for mature audiences only!
Since I started reading this series, I had been hoping for Kong's backstory and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest. This poor guy has been through some crap. Let me tell you. It seems like he just can't catch a break! Then, that ending? Holy crap, I wasn't expecting that at all!
The description and imagination that went into this story was amazing. Like the people in the theater in the story, I could practically feel everything they felt. It was like I was right next to them, living it. Which is terrifying especially if I plan on going to the movies anytime soon. LOL. Mr. Pike has such a way with a words, a way to transport you into the story and make you LIVE it. Which, in my opinion, is the only way to read a good book!
I will say that Diablo Snuff is really getting on my nerves though! Those guys need to be taken down! But they do make for a very good story! LOL. I constantly find myself screaming at my kindle, cursing these guys for what they put the characters through. Then the dark thought of Diablo Snuff listening to me curse them through my kindle shuts me right up!
Yes, I realize it's a story. But Mr. Pike knows how to make it feel real. He makes you wonder if something like that can't actually happen in real life right under our very noses. Again, the sign of an amazing story!
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars! My favorite horror series thus far! <3
Surprisingly, this one was a lot tamer on the sexual side than the first two, but still definitely for mature audiences only!
Since I started reading this series, I had been hoping for Kong's backstory and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest. This poor guy has been through some crap. Let me tell you. It seems like he just can't catch a break! Then, that ending? Holy crap, I wasn't expecting that at all!
The description and imagination that went into this story was amazing. Like the people in the theater in the story, I could practically feel everything they felt. It was like I was right next to them, living it. Which is terrifying especially if I plan on going to the movies anytime soon. LOL. Mr. Pike has such a way with a words, a way to transport you into the story and make you LIVE it. Which, in my opinion, is the only way to read a good book!
I will say that Diablo Snuff is really getting on my nerves though! Those guys need to be taken down! But they do make for a very good story! LOL. I constantly find myself screaming at my kindle, cursing these guys for what they put the characters through. Then the dark thought of Diablo Snuff listening to me curse them through my kindle shuts me right up!
Yes, I realize it's a story. But Mr. Pike knows how to make it feel real. He makes you wonder if something like that can't actually happen in real life right under our very noses. Again, the sign of an amazing story!
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars! My favorite horror series thus far! <3
January 29, 2020
Love horror movies? Yes, you read correctly MOVIES not book. Love going to the movies to see them? Slaughter box will change that once you’re done with it. After having a difficult life, Kong ignores his gut feeling and decides to enter a unexpected and horrific life experience within four walls, numerous seats, and a huge white screen alongside his date Sammy. Kong having escaped from the claws of evil once before has walked right back to them willingly and unknowingly. After several opportunities to exit those forsaken four wall of terror, Kong and Sammy stay for the grand prize which will be award to a lucky few after the function. Kong is not only fighting for his life but also for Sammy’s. Throughout his life, Kong has blamed a man who has haunted him all his life and caused the demise of numerous people in his life. A man who no one else can see but only Kong himself. However, is the man truly the one who should be feared or is he something else? If there is one thing Kong should have learned is that you will never be able to find Diablo Snuff. However, Diablo Snuff will ALWAYS find YOU!
March 13, 2020
Freaking A Carver Pike!! Just when I think he couldn’t really surprise me more than what he has, he writes this book. Every kid has done something stupid to see if there are more than meets the eye. It’s all fun and games but what happens if an innocent game becomes more, more deadlier and you didn’t even know your fate was sealed. This book was outrageously creative. The plot was as original and new as it can get in my opinion. It answers some questions that you had from the other books and it is basically putting a nice big piece of the puzzle that you needed all along. This series has a little bit of everything in it. From the very first book I’ve picked up I’m truly addicted and can’t get enough. So as I’ve been saying if you want something refreshing and bada$$ in the horror genre please for the love of my gremlins pick up a book by Carver!
February 18, 2020
Finally Carver Pike delivers another Diablo Snuff Story! Slaughter Box is brilliantly written, creepy and gory, just what I expect from a Carver Pike book. Just when you think you know where the story is going it completely shifts the other direction. I am not much into Horror but when it comes to any Carver Pike book I get sucked in like I'm in a vortex with pillow in hand and all the lights on. I was at the edge of my seat, captivated and intrigued. I have been waiting for Kong's story and did Carver Pike ever deliver! What a page turner with amazing characters and a phenomenal storyline. Carver Pike is the go-to author if you love a great horror story that is edgy and brilliantly written.
August 25, 2020
A entertaining book with detailed characters and interesting dialog. It is definitely a page turner with plenty of action to keep you interested in the story. It is creative but not so far out there that it becomes distracting. Each of the main participants of the story are well detailed so you have a vested interest as to what happens next in the plot. There is also a good use of humor to break up some of the high tension parts of the book without distracting from the main plot. I thought the writer had a good grasp on describing the relationships of the characters without it becoming dull or stale. Overall you cant go wrong with picking up a copy, more than likely you will find a new author to add to your book shopping list.
February 1, 2020
This book deserves more than 5 stars
Once again Carver Pike gives the reader a story like no other. Completely original and unique. What a freaking ride this one was. I found myself dumbfounded, literally having chills, and completely creeped out. I loved it. Only someone with a brilliant mind could come up with a story like this. The imagery alone, goes through your mind as if watching a movie. I have never read anything like it. I have become a huge fan of Carver's books and I look forward to what he has for us next. A storyteller like no other. Pick up this book if you enjoy a good scare. What a story!!
Once again Carver Pike gives the reader a story like no other. Completely original and unique. What a freaking ride this one was. I found myself dumbfounded, literally having chills, and completely creeped out. I loved it. Only someone with a brilliant mind could come up with a story like this. The imagery alone, goes through your mind as if watching a movie. I have never read anything like it. I have become a huge fan of Carver's books and I look forward to what he has for us next. A storyteller like no other. Pick up this book if you enjoy a good scare. What a story!!
February 15, 2020
I was in a book coma for a good long while after reading this and couldn't even formulate the words to write a review other than 'holy fing mother of a good book!' It's a short read and it is packed chock full of rich character development, metaphor, imagery, and mystique. It's gory. It's creepy. It will turn you around 180 degrees from where you thought it was going. I've come to expect this from Carver Pike and each and every time he blows me away. You don't have to have read the other books in the DS series but you should because they are all just as creepy, action-packed, and brilliantly written.
May 20, 2021
I cannot tell you how much I love the Diablo Snuff books!
This author has such a talent for the gloriously gruesome, and has a diabolical creativity of ways to kill people.
You know how theys say "don't go looking for trouble, trouble will find you"? Well, our main character Kong finds the truth in this first hand when he goes looking for Diablo Snuff.
Like I said, I don't think I'll ever go to the movies again - at least not before checking the walls of the theater. Read it - you'll understand!
This author has such a talent for the gloriously gruesome, and has a diabolical creativity of ways to kill people.
You know how theys say "don't go looking for trouble, trouble will find you"? Well, our main character Kong finds the truth in this first hand when he goes looking for Diablo Snuff.
Like I said, I don't think I'll ever go to the movies again - at least not before checking the walls of the theater. Read it - you'll understand!
March 7, 2020
Carver just upped the game with his latest installment in the DS Grindhouse series. And he’s quickly climbed the ranks to the top of my go to horror author list.
Slaughter box is a non-stop thrill ride that will shake your nerves but keep you hooked until the last mind-blowing page. Ingenuity and creativity at its finest; from plot surprises to unique character demises. The perfect read if you’re looking for intensity and chills! Bravo
Slaughter box is a non-stop thrill ride that will shake your nerves but keep you hooked until the last mind-blowing page. Ingenuity and creativity at its finest; from plot surprises to unique character demises. The perfect read if you’re looking for intensity and chills! Bravo
February 2, 2020
Slaughter Box was a hell of a story! The kind of story that sneaks up slowly and increases the apprehension bit by bit. This book infected me and took me on a precarious joy ride of building dread. It was an amazing thrill ride from start to finish and I loved every single page of it!! The plot is incredible, his creativity is unimaginable, it's a most definite sublime read! Once again I am impressed with Carver Pike’s writing, and why he continues to be one of my favorite authors.
February 2, 2020
Oh Dang You!!! I have never been a horror, scarey book or movie type person. Carver’s are the first books I have ever read and now I am hooked!! Slaughter Box definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. I have never been a huge person that goes to the theater but now you can forget it!! He did it again this book scared me I had my pillow in my hands ready to cover my eyes!!! Couldn’t put this book down page after page it draws you in!! Incredible, creative with just enough creepy and scarey!!
February 2, 2020
No spoilers of any kind included.
I thought Slaughter Box was awesome but then again I tend to think all of Carver Pike’s books are awesome he’s just an amazing story weaver.
So it’s going to be a yes I most definitely do recommend this book to anyone searching for a fantastic story to climb into.
I thought Slaughter Box was awesome but then again I tend to think all of Carver Pike’s books are awesome he’s just an amazing story weaver.
So it’s going to be a yes I most definitely do recommend this book to anyone searching for a fantastic story to climb into.
April 17, 2020
What can I say...AWESOME!!
Dude writes like a madman! Carved is the only horror writer I'll read! He has a sick mind and uses words that are so graphic and precise that you can't help but picture the entire story as it reads! Your loyal public is bound to you by the murder and mayhem that you write so extremely well! Ready for the next one! Love to my fav!!
Dude writes like a madman! Carved is the only horror writer I'll read! He has a sick mind and uses words that are so graphic and precise that you can't help but picture the entire story as it reads! Your loyal public is bound to you by the murder and mayhem that you write so extremely well! Ready for the next one! Love to my fav!!
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