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Grad Night
This is not YA horror, and these aren’t your typical teenagers.
The teachers at DS High know something’s not right. It’s the reason they don’t stay late to grade papers, they leave school in packs so nobody’s alone, and they stay away from the one boy with the cult-like following. Evil walks the high school hallways and everyone knows its name: James Bender.
They’ve made it through the school year unscathed. Well, almost. Now, the graduating class is planning something special for their favorite teachers. It’s by personal invite only.
Teachers are dying for an invitation. Here’s yours.
Join us at this year’s Grad Night party. It’ll be one you’ll never forget.
Carver Pike takes ordinary circumstances, cinches them tight with razor wire, and then saws back and forth. Gasp for air, holler for help, and pray for an end to the madness.
The teachers at DS High know something’s not right. It’s the reason they don’t stay late to grade papers, they leave school in packs so nobody’s alone, and they stay away from the one boy with the cult-like following. Evil walks the high school hallways and everyone knows its name: James Bender.
They’ve made it through the school year unscathed. Well, almost. Now, the graduating class is planning something special for their favorite teachers. It’s by personal invite only.
Teachers are dying for an invitation. Here’s yours.
Join us at this year’s Grad Night party. It’ll be one you’ll never forget.
Carver Pike takes ordinary circumstances, cinches them tight with razor wire, and then saws back and forth. Gasp for air, holler for help, and pray for an end to the madness.
- GenresHorrorParanormal
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2019
46 people are currently reading
371 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
April 5, 2021
Grad Night is a violent carnage-fest of entertainment.
When the teachers of DS High are invited to the student's private grad party, they quickly find themselves as sacrificial lambs being led to slaughter.
"It's about time the teachers realize the consequences of their actions."
Out protagonists, Lauren and Charlie, along with others are forced to compete for their lives before a cheering audience of bloodthirsty teenagers. The 'games' are brutally good fun and hellishly creative. I loved every minute of them.
There is also a clever supernatural aspect interwoven throughout the plot.
Evil walked the hallways and Samuel knew its name. James Bender
The only negative for me was Lauren and Charlie. The pair were dull and unlikeable. I empathized with the kids wanting to murder them in imaginative ways.
Overall, the writing was great, the story was engaging, and I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end.
When the teachers of DS High are invited to the student's private grad party, they quickly find themselves as sacrificial lambs being led to slaughter.
"It's about time the teachers realize the consequences of their actions."
Out protagonists, Lauren and Charlie, along with others are forced to compete for their lives before a cheering audience of bloodthirsty teenagers. The 'games' are brutally good fun and hellishly creative. I loved every minute of them.
There is also a clever supernatural aspect interwoven throughout the plot.
Evil walked the hallways and Samuel knew its name. James Bender
The only negative for me was Lauren and Charlie. The pair were dull and unlikeable. I empathized with the kids wanting to murder them in imaginative ways.
Overall, the writing was great, the story was engaging, and I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end.
September 18, 2021
This book was freaking twisted!
A small backstory:
Grad Night has arrived for the teenagers at DS High and they all decide to throw a party to celebrate. They decide to invite their teachers that have been with them for few years as they think their teachers should be invited to the party. There is one student that stands out from the crowd but the teachers do not seem to know him really and his name is James Bender, but it seems Bender is the leader of the some of the teenagers as they follow him around everywhere.
The teachers think it is strange though that the students decide to have the party in a park, but they all dismiss it and think nothing else of it....until things start to get weird and the sweet innocent teens are no longer acting "innocent". What the teens have planned for the teachers is way beyond their wildest dreams and what they have to endure is their own fight for survival as the teens with the help of their leader Bender turn into something beyond bullies as when the crap hits the fan the teachers are going to feel it!
What do the teens have planned for the teachers? Who is James Bender and how does he fit into the scheme of things? Do the teachers make it out of the park? No spoilers here as you will just need to read the book!
Thoughts:
This was a fast paced story with lots of twist and turns throughout the story as I made my way through the book. I could feel the evil deception of the students when I made it to the part in the story where the party starts in the park and from that moment on, the pace picked up and I found myself wanting to just stay within the book as I hurtled forward on a bullet train to the end of the book. There was a twist at the end of the book which I was not expecting but it ended perfect considering what happens within these pages. Five "Teacher Twisted" stars!
For more thoughts on this review, please see my blog:
https://crusader1515.blogspot.com/202...
A small backstory:
Grad Night has arrived for the teenagers at DS High and they all decide to throw a party to celebrate. They decide to invite their teachers that have been with them for few years as they think their teachers should be invited to the party. There is one student that stands out from the crowd but the teachers do not seem to know him really and his name is James Bender, but it seems Bender is the leader of the some of the teenagers as they follow him around everywhere.
The teachers think it is strange though that the students decide to have the party in a park, but they all dismiss it and think nothing else of it....until things start to get weird and the sweet innocent teens are no longer acting "innocent". What the teens have planned for the teachers is way beyond their wildest dreams and what they have to endure is their own fight for survival as the teens with the help of their leader Bender turn into something beyond bullies as when the crap hits the fan the teachers are going to feel it!
What do the teens have planned for the teachers? Who is James Bender and how does he fit into the scheme of things? Do the teachers make it out of the park? No spoilers here as you will just need to read the book!
Thoughts:
This was a fast paced story with lots of twist and turns throughout the story as I made my way through the book. I could feel the evil deception of the students when I made it to the part in the story where the party starts in the park and from that moment on, the pace picked up and I found myself wanting to just stay within the book as I hurtled forward on a bullet train to the end of the book. There was a twist at the end of the book which I was not expecting but it ended perfect considering what happens within these pages. Five "Teacher Twisted" stars!
For more thoughts on this review, please see my blog:
https://crusader1515.blogspot.com/202...
February 8, 2021
School’s Out Forever!
First off I would like to thank my fantastic spooky sister Becca for encouraging me to pick up this book! She said I wouldn’t be disappointed, and my goodness was she right! I really think it can be dissected from a couple of perspectives. One, an adult perspective that is relatable, but also a teenagers perspective that can also be very relatable. This is my review of Grad Night by Carver Pike! Enjoy!
This novel was simply superb! The writing style, the atmosphere, the visual representation illustrated through words, and the character building were all selling factors! With a friend recommending this read I didn’t even feel the need to read the synopsis. She has yet to steer me wrong on a recommendation as of yet! I certainly hope to see Carver grow and become a household name! This book left me in awe, and wanting more!
I really must say that this review is going to be vague because I really encourage you to pick it up. It is also on Kindle Unlimited so there is always that option. However, I digress let’s get on with the review, and after CHECK IT OUT!!!
Grad Night centers around many characters. Both teens who have just graduated, and teachers as well. Many teachers are getting invitations to a mysterious grad night party stating it is because they are of the select few of the “favorite teachers”. Although it seems juvenile many of the teachers are intrigued, and really want the invitation.
The story is centered mainly around two teachers Charlie and Lauren. Lauren receives an invitation to the party early on, but Charlie is dismayed when he doesn’t get one. Last minute Charlie is invited by one of his favorite students, and internally is ecstatic! Not only will his friend Joel be there, but so will Lauren.
As Charlie reaches the party Joel and Lauren are nowhere to be found. Soon Charlie realizes something isn’t right. As he begins asking questions at the party he sets out to find his friends.
As the night wears on many mysterious acts begin to unfold. You may even say heinous. As Charlie finds his fellow colleagues, and some friends, it is apparent that this grad night will be a fight for his life! The most sadistic graduate Liz is the ringleader of a crazy party involving not your typical games. Will the teachers make it through the night? Will the students be stopped in their lunatic games?
I cannot express enough how hard it was to put this book down! I finished it possibly a week or so ago, and had to stew on this review. I really didn’t want any spoilers! Pike is utterly fantastic and original, and also mentions small inspirations (I felt) in the novel. Nonetheless there are similar stories, but I cannot pin one down quite the same! I guess you may say it could be a mixture of The Most Dangerous Game, aspects of Saw (but maybe not as gruesome), and hints of other great literature as well as films. However, as mentioned very original, and worthy of a read!
I most definitely have to give Grad Night by Carver Pike five glimmering stars out of five stars! I cannot express enough the talent that Carver has in writing! I cannot wait to read other works in his bibliography especially The Diablo Snuff series! Also, it must be mentioned that this was possibly THE best horror novel I have read this year!! I only wish I would have picked it up sooner!
First off I would like to thank my fantastic spooky sister Becca for encouraging me to pick up this book! She said I wouldn’t be disappointed, and my goodness was she right! I really think it can be dissected from a couple of perspectives. One, an adult perspective that is relatable, but also a teenagers perspective that can also be very relatable. This is my review of Grad Night by Carver Pike! Enjoy!
This novel was simply superb! The writing style, the atmosphere, the visual representation illustrated through words, and the character building were all selling factors! With a friend recommending this read I didn’t even feel the need to read the synopsis. She has yet to steer me wrong on a recommendation as of yet! I certainly hope to see Carver grow and become a household name! This book left me in awe, and wanting more!
I really must say that this review is going to be vague because I really encourage you to pick it up. It is also on Kindle Unlimited so there is always that option. However, I digress let’s get on with the review, and after CHECK IT OUT!!!
Grad Night centers around many characters. Both teens who have just graduated, and teachers as well. Many teachers are getting invitations to a mysterious grad night party stating it is because they are of the select few of the “favorite teachers”. Although it seems juvenile many of the teachers are intrigued, and really want the invitation.
The story is centered mainly around two teachers Charlie and Lauren. Lauren receives an invitation to the party early on, but Charlie is dismayed when he doesn’t get one. Last minute Charlie is invited by one of his favorite students, and internally is ecstatic! Not only will his friend Joel be there, but so will Lauren.
As Charlie reaches the party Joel and Lauren are nowhere to be found. Soon Charlie realizes something isn’t right. As he begins asking questions at the party he sets out to find his friends.
As the night wears on many mysterious acts begin to unfold. You may even say heinous. As Charlie finds his fellow colleagues, and some friends, it is apparent that this grad night will be a fight for his life! The most sadistic graduate Liz is the ringleader of a crazy party involving not your typical games. Will the teachers make it through the night? Will the students be stopped in their lunatic games?
I cannot express enough how hard it was to put this book down! I finished it possibly a week or so ago, and had to stew on this review. I really didn’t want any spoilers! Pike is utterly fantastic and original, and also mentions small inspirations (I felt) in the novel. Nonetheless there are similar stories, but I cannot pin one down quite the same! I guess you may say it could be a mixture of The Most Dangerous Game, aspects of Saw (but maybe not as gruesome), and hints of other great literature as well as films. However, as mentioned very original, and worthy of a read!
I most definitely have to give Grad Night by Carver Pike five glimmering stars out of five stars! I cannot express enough the talent that Carver has in writing! I cannot wait to read other works in his bibliography especially The Diablo Snuff series! Also, it must be mentioned that this was possibly THE best horror novel I have read this year!! I only wish I would have picked it up sooner!
October 27, 2020
I enjoyed this read of terror in the school halls, it was odd but good fun. It had vibes of Carrie and Cruel Intentions about it but it is darker than either of those, and this time it isn’t the students that need to worry but the teachers!
This is what would happen when the students go too far. There is some gore here and it is a bit gross in places, but it made sense within the story, however If it’s gore you’re after, apart from the first brief chapter you then have to wait a long time for it to come.
The story line was ridiculous at times too but I was interested to see how this would all pan out and what exactly was going to happen to all those teachers (deserved what they got perhaps!?). It was not all evil either I’m afraid, there were sentimental moments too and it was a little cheesy at times. However I liked our protagonist Mr Charlie so I didn’t let that put me off.
The student/teacher relationships were odd (given the synopsis of course but even so) - the teachers are angry and a little scared of the students but then at the same time incredibly naïve about the students too which doesn't really make sense but necessary for the plot I suppose. I found it a little unrealistic and irritating.
So anyway if you don’t take this too seriously and you want a fun revenge story with a bit of sentimentality and a smattering of grossness then this is for you. It was ok, yes I enjoyed the read but parts were a bit too far fetched for my liking.
4*/5 rounded up from a 3.5/5, not bad.
This is what would happen when the students go too far. There is some gore here and it is a bit gross in places, but it made sense within the story, however If it’s gore you’re after, apart from the first brief chapter you then have to wait a long time for it to come.
The story line was ridiculous at times too but I was interested to see how this would all pan out and what exactly was going to happen to all those teachers (deserved what they got perhaps!?). It was not all evil either I’m afraid, there were sentimental moments too and it was a little cheesy at times. However I liked our protagonist Mr Charlie so I didn’t let that put me off.
The student/teacher relationships were odd (given the synopsis of course but even so) - the teachers are angry and a little scared of the students but then at the same time incredibly naïve about the students too which doesn't really make sense but necessary for the plot I suppose. I found it a little unrealistic and irritating.
So anyway if you don’t take this too seriously and you want a fun revenge story with a bit of sentimentality and a smattering of grossness then this is for you. It was ok, yes I enjoyed the read but parts were a bit too far fetched for my liking.
4*/5 rounded up from a 3.5/5, not bad.
November 21, 2020
'Your Prom invitation - Welcome to the School of Slaughter'
This story focuses upon events at a Prom night organised and coordinated by a set of particularly naughty students who are just hell bent on getting their revenge on teachers they perceive as having done their utmost to ruin their education, future careers and life chances in general.
Then, throw in a sprinkling of surreal, dark arts activity and you have a really entertaining and truly gripping storyline which is just raring to go.
Very impressed with the authors understanding of schools, staff anxieties and relationships that usually operate within these establishments, albeit set in such a ridiculous, but highly enjoyable far-fetched situation. Personal insights and teacher flashbacks, laced within the narrative, were very cleverly constructed and extremely effective in definitely bringing something extra to the party. The horrific, gruesome and downright grisly elements were also good, but at times the story became a little too sickly sweet for me and headed towards an only too obvious and expected outcome.
Finally, I wasn't too sure how the extra 'evil spirit' elements were going to work but overall they made a positive, different and potent contribution which raised what could have been a very average story into something far, far superior.
Well worth a read - but look out for those pesky students with their and evil charms and deadly intentions! Rating: 4.2 high achieving and fully merited bright gold stars.
This story focuses upon events at a Prom night organised and coordinated by a set of particularly naughty students who are just hell bent on getting their revenge on teachers they perceive as having done their utmost to ruin their education, future careers and life chances in general.
Then, throw in a sprinkling of surreal, dark arts activity and you have a really entertaining and truly gripping storyline which is just raring to go.
Very impressed with the authors understanding of schools, staff anxieties and relationships that usually operate within these establishments, albeit set in such a ridiculous, but highly enjoyable far-fetched situation. Personal insights and teacher flashbacks, laced within the narrative, were very cleverly constructed and extremely effective in definitely bringing something extra to the party. The horrific, gruesome and downright grisly elements were also good, but at times the story became a little too sickly sweet for me and headed towards an only too obvious and expected outcome.
Finally, I wasn't too sure how the extra 'evil spirit' elements were going to work but overall they made a positive, different and potent contribution which raised what could have been a very average story into something far, far superior.
Well worth a read - but look out for those pesky students with their and evil charms and deadly intentions! Rating: 4.2 high achieving and fully merited bright gold stars.
December 17, 2021
Revised rating in hindsight … five stars - 12/2021
I finally got my arse into gear, got my kindle working, and read Grad Night! I know, I know I've been a slacker and I'm behind the times. I'm glad I finally did.
So as most of you know it's about a motley group of teenagers (mostly slackers) that invite their teachers to their Year 12 Grad Night. Without giving away too many spoilers, the teachers invited are considered the bad ones by some of the students. Ones who have made them fail at getting into college or ruined their life in some way or another. Now it's the kids turn to pay them back. And do they pay them back BIG TIME - some pay with their lives in very creative ways.
Now, I thought it was a great read from the start, the pop culture is superb, a few surprises sprinkled in, and what I can only guess are Easter eggs for Pike's Diablo series, are intriguing. Let's put it this way I want to read the Diablo series even more now! Especially the Splatterpunk Award-nominated one, Slaughter Box. I'm chomping at the bit for that one!
I'm giving it 4.5 stars. Why? I wanted more detail in the gore. Sorry, I'm that kind of girl. I felt it was a lot tamer than I expected. Still, an awesome book and I highly recommend it. By the way, I also felt as if I was reading a young 'King' in the making. 💀💀💀💀 1/2
I finally got my arse into gear, got my kindle working, and read Grad Night! I know, I know I've been a slacker and I'm behind the times. I'm glad I finally did.
So as most of you know it's about a motley group of teenagers (mostly slackers) that invite their teachers to their Year 12 Grad Night. Without giving away too many spoilers, the teachers invited are considered the bad ones by some of the students. Ones who have made them fail at getting into college or ruined their life in some way or another. Now it's the kids turn to pay them back. And do they pay them back BIG TIME - some pay with their lives in very creative ways.
Now, I thought it was a great read from the start, the pop culture is superb, a few surprises sprinkled in, and what I can only guess are Easter eggs for Pike's Diablo series, are intriguing. Let's put it this way I want to read the Diablo series even more now! Especially the Splatterpunk Award-nominated one, Slaughter Box. I'm chomping at the bit for that one!
I'm giving it 4.5 stars. Why? I wanted more detail in the gore. Sorry, I'm that kind of girl. I felt it was a lot tamer than I expected. Still, an awesome book and I highly recommend it. By the way, I also felt as if I was reading a young 'King' in the making. 💀💀💀💀 1/2
January 9, 2021
What a ride. Highly recommended.
To be honest, my only disappointment with this novel is that I didn’t discover this author sooner. “One only had to follow the flies to find the source of the stench.” Well, I followed the flies and color me impressed. It’s been a long time since I read a story with characters I related with so well. If you’re looking for a novel with a good storyline, believable characters, and quite a few twists, this is the book for you.
The story starts out simple enough. The graduating class want to pay back the teachers who’ve made their life hell for the last four years. The bloodbath that ensues is unforgettable. I particularly liked the games they forced the teachers to play. To quote the book, “These aren’t kids. They’re the Children of the fucking Corn.” I don’t think the Children of the Corn were quite as creative as the teenagers in this book, but I laughed out loud when I read that line. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more of Mr. Pike’s work.
To be honest, my only disappointment with this novel is that I didn’t discover this author sooner. “One only had to follow the flies to find the source of the stench.” Well, I followed the flies and color me impressed. It’s been a long time since I read a story with characters I related with so well. If you’re looking for a novel with a good storyline, believable characters, and quite a few twists, this is the book for you.
The story starts out simple enough. The graduating class want to pay back the teachers who’ve made their life hell for the last four years. The bloodbath that ensues is unforgettable. I particularly liked the games they forced the teachers to play. To quote the book, “These aren’t kids. They’re the Children of the fucking Corn.” I don’t think the Children of the Corn were quite as creative as the teenagers in this book, but I laughed out loud when I read that line. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more of Mr. Pike’s work.
February 21, 2021
This author's descriptive writing will keep anyone up at night.
Finally it's graduation- and the students have the party of the year planned. After a video spliced to implicate teachers of breaking conduct rules, the staff are ready to drink their booze.
Until the teachers are drugged and the real games begin.
A very creative, chilly and graphic tale - who doesn't have horror stories of humiliation at the hands of their teachers?
Finally it's graduation- and the students have the party of the year planned. After a video spliced to implicate teachers of breaking conduct rules, the staff are ready to drink their booze.
Until the teachers are drugged and the real games begin.
A very creative, chilly and graphic tale - who doesn't have horror stories of humiliation at the hands of their teachers?
January 6, 2020
So, the entire time I was reading this, the song “Teenagers” by My Chemical Romance played in my head.
“Teenagers scare
The living shit out of me
They could care less
As long as someone'll bleed”
This is a very fitting theme for this book.
DS High operates like any other high school. There are cliques, overzealous kids, and pure evil. James Bender is one student that gives all the teachers chills though none of them are really sure why. The student body rallies around him, and a few of the teachers do what they can to avoid him at all costs.
That is, until they receive their invitations to the Grad Night Party. It’s a party they won’t want to miss.
So this is my first book from Carver Pike, and oh, how I loved it.
This was such a refreshing take on horror, mob mentality, and the dangers of human nature. I loved the way the author gave each character a story, a driving motivation behind what they did. He also countered this by offering up countering POVs in which the characters didn’t know how far the consequences of their actions would reach.
With each passing scene and the amped up horror, I loved how the author was consistent to each character’s personality. I especially loved the twist at the ending. I had my suspicions about Josie and Bog, but I loved what they did (I don’t want to give away spoilers!)
So, all in all, if you like horror, and aren’t already terrified of teenagers, you’ll love this book! If you’re a teacher, read with caution.
“Teenagers scare
The living shit out of me
They could care less
As long as someone'll bleed”
This is a very fitting theme for this book.
DS High operates like any other high school. There are cliques, overzealous kids, and pure evil. James Bender is one student that gives all the teachers chills though none of them are really sure why. The student body rallies around him, and a few of the teachers do what they can to avoid him at all costs.
That is, until they receive their invitations to the Grad Night Party. It’s a party they won’t want to miss.
So this is my first book from Carver Pike, and oh, how I loved it.
This was such a refreshing take on horror, mob mentality, and the dangers of human nature. I loved the way the author gave each character a story, a driving motivation behind what they did. He also countered this by offering up countering POVs in which the characters didn’t know how far the consequences of their actions would reach.
With each passing scene and the amped up horror, I loved how the author was consistent to each character’s personality. I especially loved the twist at the ending. I had my suspicions about Josie and Bog, but I loved what they did (I don’t want to give away spoilers!)
So, all in all, if you like horror, and aren’t already terrified of teenagers, you’ll love this book! If you’re a teacher, read with caution.
November 22, 2020
Summary
When graduation night comes around at DS High the teachers invited to the students grad party are not pleased about how they receive their invitations, but are honored to be invited to join the party.
What they don't realize is that the students have big plans for the teachers and not everyone will make it out alive.
Personal Opinion
Grad Night was a twisted, gory read that I couldn't get enough of.
It was a realistic story of how far teens are willing to go when pushed too far with a paranormal / monster element mixed in which made a really interesting storyline. Carver Pike did an amazing job building suspense and tension mixed with gory deaths that made this a real page turner. It definitely left me cringing more than once.
The characters were well thought out, even offering flashbacks to their pasts to add to the story.
I will definitely be checking out more of Carver Pike's books and would highly recommend this one for horror fans.
When graduation night comes around at DS High the teachers invited to the students grad party are not pleased about how they receive their invitations, but are honored to be invited to join the party.
What they don't realize is that the students have big plans for the teachers and not everyone will make it out alive.
Personal Opinion
Grad Night was a twisted, gory read that I couldn't get enough of.
It was a realistic story of how far teens are willing to go when pushed too far with a paranormal / monster element mixed in which made a really interesting storyline. Carver Pike did an amazing job building suspense and tension mixed with gory deaths that made this a real page turner. It definitely left me cringing more than once.
The characters were well thought out, even offering flashbacks to their pasts to add to the story.
I will definitely be checking out more of Carver Pike's books and would highly recommend this one for horror fans.
October 25, 2019
Oh boy!!!
Creepy, gruesome and gory is waaayyy out of my comfort zone, but I really, really wanted to read Grad Night!!! So I did!!!
And I'm so glad I did because I absolutely loved it......even the bits I thought were horrible, resulting in forgetting to breathe and squirming while reading!!
Carver Pike's writing style is fantastic, drawing me into the pages and making me feel I was there with the characters......which is probably why I was so unnerved at times. I love the internal conversations/debates Charlie and Lauren have with themselves, adding some light hearted humour.
Once the Grad Night party started I could not put this book down, the story becoming even more intense and engrossing. I highly recommend you read this brilliant story!!
Creepy, gruesome and gory is waaayyy out of my comfort zone, but I really, really wanted to read Grad Night!!! So I did!!!
And I'm so glad I did because I absolutely loved it......even the bits I thought were horrible, resulting in forgetting to breathe and squirming while reading!!
Carver Pike's writing style is fantastic, drawing me into the pages and making me feel I was there with the characters......which is probably why I was so unnerved at times. I love the internal conversations/debates Charlie and Lauren have with themselves, adding some light hearted humour.
Once the Grad Night party started I could not put this book down, the story becoming even more intense and engrossing. I highly recommend you read this brilliant story!!
March 1, 2021
This was an extremely gripping book. While it is relatively easy to create sympathetic characters Carver Pike managed to add some truly loathsome people to the cast of this literary, psychological and supernatural snuff film. He also managed to give me PTSD over something as simple as a Spelling Bee. This is a page turner with no dead spots. I highly suggest this book for any fans of horror and psychological thrillers.
November 5, 2019
Grad Night by Carver Pike is a deep and brutal nail-biter with incredible tension and exquisite characterization. It is Extreme Horror at its finest.
I hit a point in the story that filled me with palpable dread, dread I felt in my throat and stomach. Did I want to do this to myself on a day of rest and relaxation? I realized my thoughts sounded a lot like one of the characters at that point. Yes, that kind of story immersion, that kind of building dread. Of course, I read on.
And the tension and dread only continued to build.
Grad Night is a story with depth as well as terror and gore. Deep inside the suspense and horror and mind-fornicating sequences is a mirroring of important sociological realities. The story is built around it. Pike’s expert wordsmithing combines real world horrors with realistic characters to create a truly terrifying foundation for this tale of demonic influence. Terrifying in its realism and speculation, its analytical bent on youth and social classes, its illustration of horrors we turn a blind eye to everyday, its dark and brutal cause and effect, this story will keep you up at night.
Grad Night was my first book by Carver Pike, but it will not be my last. It is one of those books where, upon reaching the end, I give the author a heartfelt FU followed by an equally heartfelt, “What else you got for me?” (which I did). I could write an analytical thesis on that ending if I recover from the impact of the read.
This shelf-worthy Extreme Horror Novel is highly recommended for hardcore horror fans!
I hit a point in the story that filled me with palpable dread, dread I felt in my throat and stomach. Did I want to do this to myself on a day of rest and relaxation? I realized my thoughts sounded a lot like one of the characters at that point. Yes, that kind of story immersion, that kind of building dread. Of course, I read on.
And the tension and dread only continued to build.
Grad Night is a story with depth as well as terror and gore. Deep inside the suspense and horror and mind-fornicating sequences is a mirroring of important sociological realities. The story is built around it. Pike’s expert wordsmithing combines real world horrors with realistic characters to create a truly terrifying foundation for this tale of demonic influence. Terrifying in its realism and speculation, its analytical bent on youth and social classes, its illustration of horrors we turn a blind eye to everyday, its dark and brutal cause and effect, this story will keep you up at night.
Grad Night was my first book by Carver Pike, but it will not be my last. It is one of those books where, upon reaching the end, I give the author a heartfelt FU followed by an equally heartfelt, “What else you got for me?” (which I did). I could write an analytical thesis on that ending if I recover from the impact of the read.
This shelf-worthy Extreme Horror Novel is highly recommended for hardcore horror fans!
December 26, 2022
I've read a handful of Carver Pike books. This was about teachers that get invited to a Grad Party, and things get pretty intense. Excellent original story about today's generation of youths.
February 14, 2021
What a ride!!
This book is crazy good! The teachers at DS High are in for a real treat...an invitation to the graduating class' party. Little do they know what they are in for! A great horror book with plenty of gore (the french teacher scene still haunts me!) Highly recommend this book!
This book is crazy good! The teachers at DS High are in for a real treat...an invitation to the graduating class' party. Little do they know what they are in for! A great horror book with plenty of gore (the french teacher scene still haunts me!) Highly recommend this book!
December 2, 2020
The Kid’s Aren’t Alright!
Fans of Bentley Little will find a new favourite author in Carver Pike. His recent novel, Grad Night, has it all; spooky school, creepy kids and bizarre supernatural goings-on.
Charlie is a teacher at DS High School, where the students are unruly, unpredictable and growing increasingly violent. The teachers fear for their safety and no longer feel in control. The troubles began when a new student arrives. All the teachers have seen him, but none seem to have him in their class, and they all feel inexplicably uneasy whenever he is nearby.
As the senior’s graduation day fast approaches the teachers start receiving invites to a Grad Night party thrown by the graduating class. What should be a celebration turns out to be an ordeal of violence and murder, with the mysterious new student at its centre. The students want payback, and the teachers may not live to see another school year.
I picked up this book expecting a fun read, and Grad Night absolutely delivered on that count. The characters are vivid and memorable and the action, when it gets going, is unrelenting and suitably horrific. This isn’t extreme horror by any means, but neither is it especially tame. There is an impressive body count and some unforgettable death scenes so not one for the ‘suggest, don’t show’ crowd. There were also some genuinely scary scenes, especially early on (a scene where a teacher is delivered her Grad Night invitation in the middle of the night was particularly stand out).
Where the book delivers on the scares and the spectacle, it’s let down somewhat by erratic pacing. The author seems to want to rush to the titular Grad Night and very little of the book spends time building up to it. Characters have an odd tic of jarring mental side-tracks where we get pages of flashback in the middle of a particularly tense scene, killing the books forward momentum. The supernatural element to the book, while interesting at first, doesn’t really deliver and is ultimately irrelevant to the story and its outcome. Grad Night is at it’s strongest when the focus is squarely on the students and teachers.
I got very strong Bentley Little vibes throughout (the man himself is even namechecked midway through). It has the same themes of helplessness against all-powerful supernatural forces and taking the mundane (in this case a School) and twisting it into something bizarrely sinister. If you need a fix between Little’s books, then Grad Night should satisfy your craving.
Minor quibbles aside, this was an entertaining book and there was a lot of strong ideas and memorable scenes that’ll linger after you’ve put it down. After reading Grad Night I, for one, am glad that my school days are over!
You can read more reviews of new and upcoming horror releases at https://www.myindiemuse.com/category/...
Fans of Bentley Little will find a new favourite author in Carver Pike. His recent novel, Grad Night, has it all; spooky school, creepy kids and bizarre supernatural goings-on.
Charlie is a teacher at DS High School, where the students are unruly, unpredictable and growing increasingly violent. The teachers fear for their safety and no longer feel in control. The troubles began when a new student arrives. All the teachers have seen him, but none seem to have him in their class, and they all feel inexplicably uneasy whenever he is nearby.
As the senior’s graduation day fast approaches the teachers start receiving invites to a Grad Night party thrown by the graduating class. What should be a celebration turns out to be an ordeal of violence and murder, with the mysterious new student at its centre. The students want payback, and the teachers may not live to see another school year.
I picked up this book expecting a fun read, and Grad Night absolutely delivered on that count. The characters are vivid and memorable and the action, when it gets going, is unrelenting and suitably horrific. This isn’t extreme horror by any means, but neither is it especially tame. There is an impressive body count and some unforgettable death scenes so not one for the ‘suggest, don’t show’ crowd. There were also some genuinely scary scenes, especially early on (a scene where a teacher is delivered her Grad Night invitation in the middle of the night was particularly stand out).
Where the book delivers on the scares and the spectacle, it’s let down somewhat by erratic pacing. The author seems to want to rush to the titular Grad Night and very little of the book spends time building up to it. Characters have an odd tic of jarring mental side-tracks where we get pages of flashback in the middle of a particularly tense scene, killing the books forward momentum. The supernatural element to the book, while interesting at first, doesn’t really deliver and is ultimately irrelevant to the story and its outcome. Grad Night is at it’s strongest when the focus is squarely on the students and teachers.
I got very strong Bentley Little vibes throughout (the man himself is even namechecked midway through). It has the same themes of helplessness against all-powerful supernatural forces and taking the mundane (in this case a School) and twisting it into something bizarrely sinister. If you need a fix between Little’s books, then Grad Night should satisfy your craving.
Minor quibbles aside, this was an entertaining book and there was a lot of strong ideas and memorable scenes that’ll linger after you’ve put it down. After reading Grad Night I, for one, am glad that my school days are over!
You can read more reviews of new and upcoming horror releases at https://www.myindiemuse.com/category/...
November 14, 2020
Carver Pike's Grad Night is a novel I would love to see become a part of the curriculum in college programs for educators all over America.
This book takes us into the final days of the graduating class of DS High, as experienced through a couple of the educators. This is a nightmare vision of a high school. DS High is a place where the vile, underachieving children of mobsters can become class president. A school where students are filmed with cell phones while fucking in the back of an empty classroom. Essentially, if you imagine all the worst stories you've heard of juvenile delinquent behavior all across the country and condense it all into one senior class, you've got a good handle on the sort of children Charlie, Lauren, and the other teachers are working with.
It's a difficult thing to remain an idealist under circumstances like these, one who believes in the better angels of human nature, but Charlie manages to do so throughout most of this novel. Having known a lot of high school teachers throughout my life (my mother being one), I have to say that there are plenty of people just like him in the hallways and classrooms across America, actively struggling to avoid becoming cynical and disengaged while being routinely buffeted by criticism and dismissal from students, parents, and administrators. This is not the place for idealists.
DS High is worse than the average high school, putting it mildly, and it's only been getting more so since James Bender showed up. The worst and most cruel students of the graduating class flock to the silent and sinister boy, whose features are always hidden beneath a hood, and the most awful elements of their natures are amplified with his presence there. Things only seem to be going downhill as numerous students appear to be engrossed in a smutty, violent novel that seemingly appeared out of nowhere, a novel titled The Maddening.
When teachers and other staff are invited to join the soon-to-be-former students at a grad night party, their surprised pleasure rapidly becomes terror as the student body seeks to redress grievances in a way no one could have prepared for.
Avoiding spoilers with this one is a challenge, but it's necessary as well. You have to experience it for yourself.
This book takes us into the final days of the graduating class of DS High, as experienced through a couple of the educators. This is a nightmare vision of a high school. DS High is a place where the vile, underachieving children of mobsters can become class president. A school where students are filmed with cell phones while fucking in the back of an empty classroom. Essentially, if you imagine all the worst stories you've heard of juvenile delinquent behavior all across the country and condense it all into one senior class, you've got a good handle on the sort of children Charlie, Lauren, and the other teachers are working with.
It's a difficult thing to remain an idealist under circumstances like these, one who believes in the better angels of human nature, but Charlie manages to do so throughout most of this novel. Having known a lot of high school teachers throughout my life (my mother being one), I have to say that there are plenty of people just like him in the hallways and classrooms across America, actively struggling to avoid becoming cynical and disengaged while being routinely buffeted by criticism and dismissal from students, parents, and administrators. This is not the place for idealists.
DS High is worse than the average high school, putting it mildly, and it's only been getting more so since James Bender showed up. The worst and most cruel students of the graduating class flock to the silent and sinister boy, whose features are always hidden beneath a hood, and the most awful elements of their natures are amplified with his presence there. Things only seem to be going downhill as numerous students appear to be engrossed in a smutty, violent novel that seemingly appeared out of nowhere, a novel titled The Maddening.
When teachers and other staff are invited to join the soon-to-be-former students at a grad night party, their surprised pleasure rapidly becomes terror as the student body seeks to redress grievances in a way no one could have prepared for.
Avoiding spoilers with this one is a challenge, but it's necessary as well. You have to experience it for yourself.
April 14, 2021
"We were created with an animalistic side, a desire to kill rather than be killed. Only when we open ourselves up to our true nature, will we really be free. The world wasn't meant to be tamed. It's a mad world, and we're embracing it tonight."
Well, what can I say about this one? Let's start with creepy. Who is this weird kid that doesn't show his face but seems to have the whole student body flocking to him? Why, when he makes any kind of eye contact with you, do you have the most horrific visions? What's with the unsettling hum that seems to surround him? What is up with the book, The Maddening that all the kids are reading? High school kids don't read on their own, right?
Next? Let's go with gruesome. This book may have high school seniors in the starring role, but this is not for the faint of heart. The author is so skilled in his ability to paint the most terrifying, horribly gruesome scenes in such clarity that you can't ever get the image you, yourself concocted, out of your head. I highly suggest you not eat before reading this one , or at least stay away from anything red and oozy (not sure if that's a word, but I'm going with it). Don't get me wrong, I love a gory scene, and I love that this author has the ability to make the reader pull up such vivid images in their mind!
Lastly, it was ingenious! This had to contain the most creative ways for these kids to exact their revenge. I can just imaging this author developing these "games", as they're called, giggling to himself at his laptop. Frankly, I'm a little afraid of him now. (just kidding).
I have been reading this author on a binge-run lately and let me tell you, I am more and more creeped out with every book I finish. I absolutely love it!! I've read many horror books, and sure, they can be creepy too, but usually when I close the book at the end, that's it. It doesn't stay with me long. With Carver Pike? Yeah, I think I have a renewed fear of the dark.
Thanks for scaring me over and over!
Well, what can I say about this one? Let's start with creepy. Who is this weird kid that doesn't show his face but seems to have the whole student body flocking to him? Why, when he makes any kind of eye contact with you, do you have the most horrific visions? What's with the unsettling hum that seems to surround him? What is up with the book, The Maddening that all the kids are reading? High school kids don't read on their own, right?
Next? Let's go with gruesome. This book may have high school seniors in the starring role, but this is not for the faint of heart. The author is so skilled in his ability to paint the most terrifying, horribly gruesome scenes in such clarity that you can't ever get the image you, yourself concocted, out of your head. I highly suggest you not eat before reading this one , or at least stay away from anything red and oozy (not sure if that's a word, but I'm going with it). Don't get me wrong, I love a gory scene, and I love that this author has the ability to make the reader pull up such vivid images in their mind!
Lastly, it was ingenious! This had to contain the most creative ways for these kids to exact their revenge. I can just imaging this author developing these "games", as they're called, giggling to himself at his laptop. Frankly, I'm a little afraid of him now. (just kidding).
I have been reading this author on a binge-run lately and let me tell you, I am more and more creeped out with every book I finish. I absolutely love it!! I've read many horror books, and sure, they can be creepy too, but usually when I close the book at the end, that's it. It doesn't stay with me long. With Carver Pike? Yeah, I think I have a renewed fear of the dark.
Thanks for scaring me over and over!
February 11, 2021
Phew - this book put me through some things! I spent a lot of the book angry (at the kids AND teachers), worried (for the teachers), and did I say I was angry?
Ok, so TL;DR this story is about teachers who go to a Graduation Party that turns to hell and mayhem.
My first thought: what the hell are these teachers doing going to a Graduation Party? With alcohol and underage teens? For kids we can tell they either do not like at all or are afraid of? I definitely had to suspend some belief here and let that go because if they never went to the part of 17 and 18 year olds... none of this ever would have happened.
Then, these kids? EFF THESE ENTITLED, SPOILED, WHINY, BRATS! OMG... like, sure, there is apparently some entity/manifestation in the form of an evil boy constantly lurking/supervising these events... but these students are pure hellish nightmares. I wanted so many bad things to happen to them... ugh. And the teachers knew the students were like this... so again, how lame their lives MUST be to think going to this party would be fun (let alone appropriate) is beyond me.
The party was when the book picked up steam. The students start making the teachers play games (grammar checks, spelling contest, etc) and the losers... well, they die. And some of these deaths are BRUTAL! WHOA. But it's just another reason I want to see these teens have their cell phones ripped from their hands and cry and cry and cry at their unfair lives... did I mention how angry these little a-holes made me? LOL
There is sort of a love story in the works here... but it's not the main plot of the book. But it does add some levity to this insane night of torture, chaos, and death. 3.5 stars (rounded up for GR) and now I am intrigued to read more from this author!
Ok, so TL;DR this story is about teachers who go to a Graduation Party that turns to hell and mayhem.
My first thought: what the hell are these teachers doing going to a Graduation Party? With alcohol and underage teens? For kids we can tell they either do not like at all or are afraid of? I definitely had to suspend some belief here and let that go because if they never went to the part of 17 and 18 year olds... none of this ever would have happened.
Then, these kids? EFF THESE ENTITLED, SPOILED, WHINY, BRATS! OMG... like, sure, there is apparently some entity/manifestation in the form of an evil boy constantly lurking/supervising these events... but these students are pure hellish nightmares. I wanted so many bad things to happen to them... ugh. And the teachers knew the students were like this... so again, how lame their lives MUST be to think going to this party would be fun (let alone appropriate) is beyond me.
The party was when the book picked up steam. The students start making the teachers play games (grammar checks, spelling contest, etc) and the losers... well, they die. And some of these deaths are BRUTAL! WHOA. But it's just another reason I want to see these teens have their cell phones ripped from their hands and cry and cry and cry at their unfair lives... did I mention how angry these little a-holes made me? LOL
There is sort of a love story in the works here... but it's not the main plot of the book. But it does add some levity to this insane night of torture, chaos, and death. 3.5 stars (rounded up for GR) and now I am intrigued to read more from this author!
February 19, 2021
Grad Night
By: Carver Pike
5 stars!
I can be stingy with my stars, but this book had me in a stranglehold from page 1, and I could not deny its power over me! Told from several perspectives, this novel thrusts you into the action and forces you to look at things too scary to face!!
A mostly diabolical group of seniors, led by the enigmatic and terrifying James Bender, torment their teachers for years and then issue what seems to be a peace offering - a coveted invitation to their exclusive grad night party. A chance to make amends and say farewell with a night of fun.
The teachers are reluctant, but with so much stress and violence in their district lately, why not blow off some steam and raise a glass to the pain in the ass graduates that have made their lives hell? Why not say goodbye in style and kick off their summer on a positive note? What they don’t understand is, why the sudden change of heart? Why are the students suddenly so amiable and eager for their company?
Read for yourself to find out! Carver’s book is this month’s group read at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/73539...
As a teacher, this book stuck with me on several levels. I don’t think I’ll ever get some of the images out of my mind, and it’s a book I definitely plan to revisit in the future!
Keep your eye on Carver Pike. He’s a powerful force and won’t be going away any time soon! I’m looking forward to devouring more by this author!
Carver, you earned every single star!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By: Carver Pike
5 stars!
I can be stingy with my stars, but this book had me in a stranglehold from page 1, and I could not deny its power over me! Told from several perspectives, this novel thrusts you into the action and forces you to look at things too scary to face!!
A mostly diabolical group of seniors, led by the enigmatic and terrifying James Bender, torment their teachers for years and then issue what seems to be a peace offering - a coveted invitation to their exclusive grad night party. A chance to make amends and say farewell with a night of fun.
The teachers are reluctant, but with so much stress and violence in their district lately, why not blow off some steam and raise a glass to the pain in the ass graduates that have made their lives hell? Why not say goodbye in style and kick off their summer on a positive note? What they don’t understand is, why the sudden change of heart? Why are the students suddenly so amiable and eager for their company?
Read for yourself to find out! Carver’s book is this month’s group read at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/73539...
As a teacher, this book stuck with me on several levels. I don’t think I’ll ever get some of the images out of my mind, and it’s a book I definitely plan to revisit in the future!
Keep your eye on Carver Pike. He’s a powerful force and won’t be going away any time soon! I’m looking forward to devouring more by this author!
Carver, you earned every single star!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 12, 2021
So…. I ALMOST gave up on this….
Yup! I found this author and book mixed in with my “because you read this, you should read that…” recommendations on Amazon. I decided to give Carver Pike a go, even though I never heard of him before. I started to read and almost gave up at around Chapter 3. I was thinking that the story was lame and I really didn’t see it going anywhere. However, as a completist, I hate to give up, and kept reading on. So glad I did, because all of a sudden, it took off and the rest was a blast. Okay, maybe the ending was a bit Cliché, but I really enjoyed the rest of the story. I am not quite sure what we are trying to say about the state of the North American education system, but the book took a bit of Devil’s advocate type positioning which made the idea much more intriguing. Do we blame the teachers, the students, or the system (the games) for the downfall of our society and this latest generation? I liked this book enough, that I am going to check out another Carver Pike novel!
Yup! I found this author and book mixed in with my “because you read this, you should read that…” recommendations on Amazon. I decided to give Carver Pike a go, even though I never heard of him before. I started to read and almost gave up at around Chapter 3. I was thinking that the story was lame and I really didn’t see it going anywhere. However, as a completist, I hate to give up, and kept reading on. So glad I did, because all of a sudden, it took off and the rest was a blast. Okay, maybe the ending was a bit Cliché, but I really enjoyed the rest of the story. I am not quite sure what we are trying to say about the state of the North American education system, but the book took a bit of Devil’s advocate type positioning which made the idea much more intriguing. Do we blame the teachers, the students, or the system (the games) for the downfall of our society and this latest generation? I liked this book enough, that I am going to check out another Carver Pike novel!
July 13, 2021
School's out, but Alice Cooper this ain't.
Another entry in Carver Pike's Diabloverse, to coin a phrase, this is an uneasy reading experience.
After the graduating class of DS High throw a party for the teachers they hate most, it isn't long before blood starts to flow.
The teenagers are vile little bar stewards one and all: petulant, conceited, and entitled as all get out. There's not a likeable one among them, the ring leader Liz standing out as especially hateful.
The teachers, though flawed, still hold your empathy as they face psychological torture and murder, often for little more than doing their jobs . The co-protagonists are people you want to cheer on, something the romance subplot between them enhances.
The first half of the novel does drag, as the set up is established, but there's too much waiting before it pays off. When it does though, it's worth it.
Less extreme than some of Carver's other books, this is a good entry point into the Diabloverse.
Another entry in Carver Pike's Diabloverse, to coin a phrase, this is an uneasy reading experience.
After the graduating class of DS High throw a party for the teachers they hate most, it isn't long before blood starts to flow.
The teenagers are vile little bar stewards one and all: petulant, conceited, and entitled as all get out. There's not a likeable one among them, the ring leader Liz standing out as especially hateful.
The teachers, though flawed, still hold your empathy as they face psychological torture and murder, often for little more than doing their jobs . The co-protagonists are people you want to cheer on, something the romance subplot between them enhances.
The first half of the novel does drag, as the set up is established, but there's too much waiting before it pays off. When it does though, it's worth it.
Less extreme than some of Carver's other books, this is a good entry point into the Diabloverse.
April 30, 2022
Make this Book your only plans for the evening.
This book is fantastic. I couldn't stop once I started.
The pacing was phenomenal. Once the party started I couldn't stop. Like being in your favorite rollercoaster once you get over that first hill, hold your breath. So yeah thriller is an understatement.
Characters. Carver did a great job of building them and making you feel like you went out with them on the reg. You felt what they felt. You felt why they felt. The students that were given parts, you could see them in your head. Heck I'm sure I've spoken to some in real life.
The set up for the party. So good! Mr. Pike did a lot of world/situational/event building to truly set the scene. When it started you could feel the mood and see the scenery and be completely unnerved by them. Definitely a must read!!!!
This book is fantastic. I couldn't stop once I started.
The pacing was phenomenal. Once the party started I couldn't stop. Like being in your favorite rollercoaster once you get over that first hill, hold your breath. So yeah thriller is an understatement.
Characters. Carver did a great job of building them and making you feel like you went out with them on the reg. You felt what they felt. You felt why they felt. The students that were given parts, you could see them in your head. Heck I'm sure I've spoken to some in real life.
The set up for the party. So good! Mr. Pike did a lot of world/situational/event building to truly set the scene. When it started you could feel the mood and see the scenery and be completely unnerved by them. Definitely a must read!!!!
September 19, 2020
A solid gore fest
So much to love about this story. The premise, the characters, the umm challenges and definitely the easter eggs.
The only thing that brought it down from a 4 star was the constant repetition/reiteration of how characters felt about certain things.
Overall a really good story. Enjoyable easy reading. Hints of Laymon and a undertones of Saw yet definitively Pike.
So much to love about this story. The premise, the characters, the umm challenges and definitely the easter eggs.
The only thing that brought it down from a 4 star was the constant repetition/reiteration of how characters felt about certain things.
Overall a really good story. Enjoyable easy reading. Hints of Laymon and a undertones of Saw yet definitively Pike.
August 7, 2020
Loved it
Pick up this book right now. Great story, great characters. Once you start it’s hard to put down. My first Carver Pike book, definitely not my last.
Pick up this book right now. Great story, great characters. Once you start it’s hard to put down. My first Carver Pike book, definitely not my last.
April 6, 2023
Wow! Being a teacher nowadays is sometimes amazing and sometimes amazingly hard. Kids are definitely different then they were. I’ve been in the school system for 23 years and Carver has a good grasp about it. I immediately messaged and asked if he is or was a teacher. No one can really know what’s going on, unless they are there. Well, he very nicely answered that indeed he had taught for some time. This book was so creepy, especially due to the fact that you could almost see it happening in this day and age. Great job. Glad I own a few more of his books.
August 3, 2022
This book was an absolute blast. The graduation party from hell, literally. I picked up this book thinking it would be a slasher, but I didn't really know what to expect. I don't need to read a synopsis to buy a Carver Pike book, I just buy the Carver Pike book. You should buy this Carver Pike book.
This book worked on all levels for me, I can see people asking why would teachers go to their students graduation party anyway, but I think Pike does a nice enough job skirting around that and making it just plausible enough to work. Let me tell you what I loved about this book, this book felt to me that it was a Carver Pike book, inspired by Bentley Little. Maybe that was the intent? Pike does mention a Bentley Little book within this book, but whether or not that was the intent, it feels like one in the best way possible.
This book is violent, it's mean, and if you removed the supernatural elements from the book, it does feel like something that could happen, although probably not to the extremes here.
All the stars, buy this book.
This book worked on all levels for me, I can see people asking why would teachers go to their students graduation party anyway, but I think Pike does a nice enough job skirting around that and making it just plausible enough to work. Let me tell you what I loved about this book, this book felt to me that it was a Carver Pike book, inspired by Bentley Little. Maybe that was the intent? Pike does mention a Bentley Little book within this book, but whether or not that was the intent, it feels like one in the best way possible.
This book is violent, it's mean, and if you removed the supernatural elements from the book, it does feel like something that could happen, although probably not to the extremes here.
All the stars, buy this book.
February 26, 2020
Only a brilliant mind can put The Shining and Good Morning America into one novel and still scare the ya know out of someone, well Carver Pike did just that in this book. The goosebumps will remain from the first chapter to the very end. This is an awesome thrill seeking can’t put down type of read. This is one you have to know what’s happening next even though your pretty sure no matter what your going to be sleeping with the light on or wishing like hell you didn’t have any phobias 😬
August 5, 2022
This book was so good. First book I've read by this author. Teachers at this high school are in for a surprise. Well written, smooth flow, couldn't put it down. Shocked at what I was reading actually and had to know what was going to happen. Pretty scary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2019
Incredibly written tale of teenage angst and anger morphed into something that will have the hair on the back of your neck rising and your morbid curiosity propelling you forward. To say I was scared during this read would be a negative. What I was, was intrigued and compelled to move forward and see just where this twisted and quite brutal story would take me and who, if any would make it past Grad Night.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I found it to be an exceptional read that one could certainly see become a horror movie. Carver Pike spins a tale that takes you through the psyche of High School seniors of today, who have become lazy and entitled; taking a book and a hooded stranger and a group of "wronged" teenagers make the night of their graduation one that no one will forget, too soon.
A cast of many make up Grad Night and to say that this one was the lead or that one was the lead would be hard to do, however, two teachers are shown to be the romantic leads in this devious story and you will hope with all your might that you will see them when the sun rises in the morning.
If horror is your thing with a storyline that carries its weight very well in a book, then you will enjoy this book as much as I did. I highly recommend this book.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I found it to be an exceptional read that one could certainly see become a horror movie. Carver Pike spins a tale that takes you through the psyche of High School seniors of today, who have become lazy and entitled; taking a book and a hooded stranger and a group of "wronged" teenagers make the night of their graduation one that no one will forget, too soon.
A cast of many make up Grad Night and to say that this one was the lead or that one was the lead would be hard to do, however, two teachers are shown to be the romantic leads in this devious story and you will hope with all your might that you will see them when the sun rises in the morning.
If horror is your thing with a storyline that carries its weight very well in a book, then you will enjoy this book as much as I did. I highly recommend this book.
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