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Dastardly Bastard
When war photographer Mark Simmons is sent to do a promo on Waverly Chasm, he assumes it’s a puff piece, a waste of his talents.
Widow Marsha Lake brings her son, Lyle, to help him heal after his father’s death.
Donald Adams, aka H.R. Chatmon, joins the tour to get away from a sticky situation.
Justine McCarthy consents to the hike to placate her boyfriend, Trevor.
For Jaleel Warner, the tour guide, walking the chasm is just part of his job.
Each of these people must face their darkest memories in order to discover and defeat the secret buried in Waverly Chasm.
Widow Marsha Lake brings her son, Lyle, to help him heal after his father’s death.
Donald Adams, aka H.R. Chatmon, joins the tour to get away from a sticky situation.
Justine McCarthy consents to the hike to placate her boyfriend, Trevor.
For Jaleel Warner, the tour guide, walking the chasm is just part of his job.
Each of these people must face their darkest memories in order to discover and defeat the secret buried in Waverly Chasm.
236 pages, Hardcover
First published May 2, 2012
6 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
Edward Lorn
63 books2,919 followersEdward Lorn (E. to most) is a reader, writer, and content creator. He's been writing for fun since the age of six, and writing professionally since 2011. He can be found haunting the halls of Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.
E. lives in Alabama with his wife and two children. He is currently working on his next novel.
E. lives in Alabama with his wife and two children. He is currently working on his next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 3, 2016
A guided trail hike touring the outskirts of Waverly Chasm takes a deadly turn for a small band of hikers. They are a motley crew made up of a jaded overweight photographer, a cranky dwarf, a mother trying to reconnect with her young son, a couple in love, and the guide, Jaleel. Not one of them will return unscathed. Some won’t return at all.
A yawning maw that is the chasm beckons. A pink bunny slipper, an empty pair of pants, something just out of sight cavorting in the shadows. When did hiking turn into such a dangerous enterprise? We hear about it often now. Bears, mountain lions, avalanches, extreme exposure, stepping off into an abyss . . . you name it. My advice? Always stay in your house.
Thank you to Net Galley for furnishing a copy of this in return for a review. This is it.
A yawning maw that is the chasm beckons. A pink bunny slipper, an empty pair of pants, something just out of sight cavorting in the shadows. When did hiking turn into such a dangerous enterprise? We hear about it often now. Bears, mountain lions, avalanches, extreme exposure, stepping off into an abyss . . . you name it. My advice? Always stay in your house.
Thank you to Net Galley for furnishing a copy of this in return for a review. This is it.
August 28, 2014
Seven people join a tour or hike to see the tourist attraction Waverly Chasm in Pointvilla County, they’ve all got different reasons for being there and it’s simply fascinating as their history and different personalities come into mind bending focus when faced with extrafuckin’ordinary circumstances.
You see when they reach the chasm, the world turns on its head, normality wave’s goodbye at the station and something else steps up to take its place, something that’s gonna seriously fuck with them all. The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Heights.
There’s a nice little folklore verse or something of that ilk, just to put you in the mood as what occurs from there out is a proper mind shagging of perception, memory, the present, hell the whole lot and here it is.
The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Chasm
Does gleefully scheme of malevolent things
Beware, child fair, of what you find there
His lies, how they hide in the shadows he wears
`Cross wreckage of bridge, is where this man lives
Counting his spoils, his eye how it digs
Tread, if you dare, through his one-eyed stare
This Dastardly Bastard is not what he seems
This Dastardly Bastard is not who he seems
This Dastardly Bastard takes them all on a ride, a ride that goes right back to their worst memories, playing with them, changing them and using them for its ill-gotten gains, exploring how those memories shaped the characters into what they are now and what the Bastard wants from each of them.
Not all will return, no-one will come back the same and no-one will ever forget.
The Dastardly Bastard is a wicked story of supernatural occurrences in a place secluded from help, the emphasis is on the characters and their actions both in the present and the past, giving all the ingredients for an emotionally charged story that I for one absolutely loved.
My favourite characters were Mark & Donald, Mark is a hefty 500 lbs reporter, his boss gives him this shitty job and he just knows he’s providing the latest round of laughs back at the office. The audio of Mark had me in stitches at some points, when inner calming himself, he counts very slowly to ten and the narrator made you feel the impact of this perfectly, you actually felt his conscious effort while trudging the pathways. And the chilling whisper of the Dastardly Bastard was also done exceptionally well.
Donald Adams is a best-selling author who pays a handsome bloke to be his public face, you see he’s really 3ft 9 with dwarfish features and he just felt that a taller more attractive man would sell more books. The relationship between Mark & Donald was one of sardonic derisive humour that’s hilarious in places.
Another fantastic story from Ed Lorn that I highly recommend.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
You see when they reach the chasm, the world turns on its head, normality wave’s goodbye at the station and something else steps up to take its place, something that’s gonna seriously fuck with them all. The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Heights.
There’s a nice little folklore verse or something of that ilk, just to put you in the mood as what occurs from there out is a proper mind shagging of perception, memory, the present, hell the whole lot and here it is.
The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Chasm
Does gleefully scheme of malevolent things
Beware, child fair, of what you find there
His lies, how they hide in the shadows he wears
`Cross wreckage of bridge, is where this man lives
Counting his spoils, his eye how it digs
Tread, if you dare, through his one-eyed stare
This Dastardly Bastard is not what he seems
This Dastardly Bastard is not who he seems
This Dastardly Bastard takes them all on a ride, a ride that goes right back to their worst memories, playing with them, changing them and using them for its ill-gotten gains, exploring how those memories shaped the characters into what they are now and what the Bastard wants from each of them.
Not all will return, no-one will come back the same and no-one will ever forget.
The Dastardly Bastard is a wicked story of supernatural occurrences in a place secluded from help, the emphasis is on the characters and their actions both in the present and the past, giving all the ingredients for an emotionally charged story that I for one absolutely loved.
My favourite characters were Mark & Donald, Mark is a hefty 500 lbs reporter, his boss gives him this shitty job and he just knows he’s providing the latest round of laughs back at the office. The audio of Mark had me in stitches at some points, when inner calming himself, he counts very slowly to ten and the narrator made you feel the impact of this perfectly, you actually felt his conscious effort while trudging the pathways. And the chilling whisper of the Dastardly Bastard was also done exceptionally well.
Donald Adams is a best-selling author who pays a handsome bloke to be his public face, you see he’s really 3ft 9 with dwarfish features and he just felt that a taller more attractive man would sell more books. The relationship between Mark & Donald was one of sardonic derisive humour that’s hilarious in places.
Another fantastic story from Ed Lorn that I highly recommend.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
June 29, 2018
I am a rotten friend.
I've known His Lornship on social media since somewhere around the Triassic. Long enough ago that I remember how his mildly-left-of-center politics got him heaved out of YouTube's "pepper community." I've read several of his books. I'm not really a horror reader, since I'm so rarely more horrified at manglings, decapitations, and spooky do's than I am by American politics, but you know how it is a guy you know writes a book so you read the fuggin thing, it's like in the job description, right?
T'other day I saw a post from the gentleman in question on Twitter lamenting the lack of rage reviews for his various works. "Self," I said, "you know how to rage review a book so hard that sensitive fleurs have the vapours and ladylike readers reprove your troglodytic ass. Time to stump up and rage on one of His Lornship's darlings." I communicated this intent to the gentleman in question and received his pleased acknowledgment of my kind gesture. (Actually, he just said "YAY!!" with two or three of those weird cone-shaped icons that I'm told are intended to convey the impression of confetti being tossed.)
And I just can't do it.
This is not anything like bad enough to rage over. The stories in here are five or more years old and don't represent the current standard of His Lornship's writing. He's not Stephen King by any means, but these are NOT self-published quality. There are next to NO malapropisms, there are damned few grammatical and word-choice infelicities, and the stories themselves are solidly above the "...and what made you think of writing this down again?" norm for horror tyros. Which His Lornship certainly was five years ago.
I apologize, sir. I can't delivered the longed-for screech of angry loathing. You're simply too good a writer to enable me to unleash my inner troll. Mea culpa.
I've known His Lornship on social media since somewhere around the Triassic. Long enough ago that I remember how his mildly-left-of-center politics got him heaved out of YouTube's "pepper community." I've read several of his books. I'm not really a horror reader, since I'm so rarely more horrified at manglings, decapitations, and spooky do's than I am by American politics, but you know how it is a guy you know writes a book so you read the fuggin thing, it's like in the job description, right?
T'other day I saw a post from the gentleman in question on Twitter lamenting the lack of rage reviews for his various works. "Self," I said, "you know how to rage review a book so hard that sensitive fleurs have the vapours and ladylike readers reprove your troglodytic ass. Time to stump up and rage on one of His Lornship's darlings." I communicated this intent to the gentleman in question and received his pleased acknowledgment of my kind gesture. (Actually, he just said "YAY!!" with two or three of those weird cone-shaped icons that I'm told are intended to convey the impression of confetti being tossed.)
And I just can't do it.
This is not anything like bad enough to rage over. The stories in here are five or more years old and don't represent the current standard of His Lornship's writing. He's not Stephen King by any means, but these are NOT self-published quality. There are next to NO malapropisms, there are damned few grammatical and word-choice infelicities, and the stories themselves are solidly above the "...and what made you think of writing this down again?" norm for horror tyros. Which His Lornship certainly was five years ago.
I apologize, sir. I can't delivered the longed-for screech of angry loathing. You're simply too good a writer to enable me to unleash my inner troll. Mea culpa.
November 9, 2015
“The Bastard must be fed.”
There are shadows that attach themselves around the living. If you can see them, you’re special. Oh, and you’re probably going to be dead soon. Well, maybe not. All you need to do is survive the mindfuck that is the Dastardly Bastard and solve the mysteries of Waverly Chasm before you end up six feet under…or worse.
I checked this one out on audio and really dug it. The narrator did a fantastic job with the tone and cadence of the piece and, as always, Edward’s characters were drawn well and deeply broken in all the right places. If Edward Lorn is not on your “must read” author list, then you should change that immediately. Now, go get you some Lorn.
There are shadows that attach themselves around the living. If you can see them, you’re special. Oh, and you’re probably going to be dead soon. Well, maybe not. All you need to do is survive the mindfuck that is the Dastardly Bastard and solve the mysteries of Waverly Chasm before you end up six feet under…or worse.
I checked this one out on audio and really dug it. The narrator did a fantastic job with the tone and cadence of the piece and, as always, Edward’s characters were drawn well and deeply broken in all the right places. If Edward Lorn is not on your “must read” author list, then you should change that immediately. Now, go get you some Lorn.
February 7, 2016
This is one of Edward Lorn's more outre horror pieces, and I love it! This and TRAILER are my favourites from Mr. Lorn. He juggles a fair number of characters in this story, gently amassing their backstory and drawing each into his story net. Then, of course, is the creatively imagined horror element (new) and its assured implacability. Not to mention, even the righteously dead need to tune in.
A fast and very entertaining read. I particularly enjoyed Mr. Lorn's characterizations: very insightful.
October 30, 2023
Shadows can be dastardly bastards. You just gotta know how to deal with them.
This book is very much a mind-boggling and really good prelude to Cruelty.
It also has ties to Bay's End and a fantastic character gallery. Starts as a tour of a tourist attraction; the mighty and imposing Waverly Chasm, but the Bastard has lots more to show the protagonists. We really get to know the characters a lot through memories and flashbacks and the writing here is superb; so much is contained, revealed and described in such a relatively short format, I couldn't put it down, but simply devoured the book.
Oh, and the ending is absolutely brilliant! Got me an odd look or two on the bus (one may think they would be used to me by now).
I certainly recommend this one, it's a bit of horror and a mesmerizing ride - to be followed by Cruelty of course!
This book is very much a mind-boggling and really good prelude to Cruelty.
It also has ties to Bay's End and a fantastic character gallery. Starts as a tour of a tourist attraction; the mighty and imposing Waverly Chasm, but the Bastard has lots more to show the protagonists. We really get to know the characters a lot through memories and flashbacks and the writing here is superb; so much is contained, revealed and described in such a relatively short format, I couldn't put it down, but simply devoured the book.
Oh, and the ending is absolutely brilliant! Got me an odd look or two on the bus (one may think they would be used to me by now).
I certainly recommend this one, it's a bit of horror and a mesmerizing ride - to be followed by Cruelty of course!
February 16, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. The cast of characters were sympathetic and flawed and the story itself was creative and ambitious. Sometimes novels of this length feel undeveloped and rushed, but Lorn does a great job fitting everything in a proper time frame. Overall a very solid read. My only complaint is a small one, but I noticed a few inconsistancies in the details toward the end. A couple of paragraphs crossed up the characters just a bit. I was able to correct them mentally from the context, so they didn't detract from my enjoyment at all. I would recommend this to horror lovers who like some humour in the mix. I was actually put in mind of Joe Hill's Horns at a couple of places, which was awesome.
I will have to check out Edward Lorn's other works now.
I will have to check out Edward Lorn's other works now.
February 29, 2016
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
I like Ed Lorn's books, and this, one of his earlier efforts, shows the beginnings of a promising career as an author.
This book is standard horror fare, with a group of people coming together in an extreme situation. In this case, they are hiking to Waverly Canyon, a "bottomless" pit with a dark history behind it. Over the course of the story, things get really weird (as one would expect), and it got to the point that I was having a hard time following towards the end of the book.
The characters were okay, but as with many horror novels today, it seemed that none of them had any redeeming value, and I didn't really care what happened to any of them.
I do like the author's writing style, though, and will continue to grab up whatever he writes.
3 stars
I like Ed Lorn's books, and this, one of his earlier efforts, shows the beginnings of a promising career as an author.
This book is standard horror fare, with a group of people coming together in an extreme situation. In this case, they are hiking to Waverly Canyon, a "bottomless" pit with a dark history behind it. Over the course of the story, things get really weird (as one would expect), and it got to the point that I was having a hard time following towards the end of the book.
The characters were okay, but as with many horror novels today, it seemed that none of them had any redeeming value, and I didn't really care what happened to any of them.
I do like the author's writing style, though, and will continue to grab up whatever he writes.
February 8, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn't sure what to expect from the description but having read and enjoyed another book by the author (Life After Dane) I decided to give it a chance.
With an eclectic cast of quirky characters it really held my attention right from the start. I love horror with a dose of humor thrown in and that is exactly what this book delivers.
There are some strange and spooky happenings before Justine and Trevor even arrive to tour Waverly Chasm, and Mark had a humorous time getting there. The adventures of this plus sized reporter had just while renting a car had me laughing one minute and gave me goose bumps the next.
I received a complimentary copy for review
With an eclectic cast of quirky characters it really held my attention right from the start. I love horror with a dose of humor thrown in and that is exactly what this book delivers.
There are some strange and spooky happenings before Justine and Trevor even arrive to tour Waverly Chasm, and Mark had a humorous time getting there. The adventures of this plus sized reporter had just while renting a car had me laughing one minute and gave me goose bumps the next.
I received a complimentary copy for review
March 5, 2016
3.5 Stars
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
Some people follow a tour guide on a hike towards the Waverly Chasm, not far from Bay's End. When the trip goes terribly wrong, every one of them is confronted with their past.
As always with Edward Lorn's books I liked the writing. It facilitates easy reading while on the other hand being dark and building to the horror. The story was weird, I haven't decided yet of that weirdness was completely to my liking. I like a certain weirdness in my stories, however, when it's getting very confusing (as it did in Dastardly Bastard some times) I'm not such a fan. This all being said, it was enjoyable and entertaining to read, even though it wasn't very memorable. The same can be said for the characters. They all struggle with something, but in the end I never could really care for any of them. They were forgettable.
While not the best book I've read by this author, it was still a nice read and I would certainly pick up more of his books!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
Some people follow a tour guide on a hike towards the Waverly Chasm, not far from Bay's End. When the trip goes terribly wrong, every one of them is confronted with their past.
As always with Edward Lorn's books I liked the writing. It facilitates easy reading while on the other hand being dark and building to the horror. The story was weird, I haven't decided yet of that weirdness was completely to my liking. I like a certain weirdness in my stories, however, when it's getting very confusing (as it did in Dastardly Bastard some times) I'm not such a fan. This all being said, it was enjoyable and entertaining to read, even though it wasn't very memorable. The same can be said for the characters. They all struggle with something, but in the end I never could really care for any of them. They were forgettable.
While not the best book I've read by this author, it was still a nice read and I would certainly pick up more of his books!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
July 21, 2013
Warning - this hike could be hazardous to your health.
The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Chasm does gleefully scheme of malevolent things.
Beware, child fair, of what you find there. His lies how they hide in the shadows he wears.
‘Cross wreckage of bridge is where this man lives. Counting his spoils, his eye how it digs.
Tread, if you dare, through his one-eyed stare. This Dastardly Bastard is neither here, nor there…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mark Simmons – an overweight journalist on the downside of his career.
Marsha Lake - losing her son, Lyle, because of her grief over the loss of her husband.
Donald Adams – writer, #1 on the New York times Bestseller List, 3’9″ with an attitude.
Justine McCarthy – met Trevor in a Yahoo chat room.
Jaleel Warner – their tour guide.
Waverly Chasm – two miles in length. 70 yards at the widest point. A mile deep? No one knows because no one has ever been to the bottom.
They would start at Fairchild Lookout where they could see all the route of the six hour hike. It was named after Waverly Fairchild in the 1930′s. His son, Scooter, had fallen in and never been found. Waverly left and never came back.
Justine had visions and she had seen death. Whose would it be? Hers or…….
3 – Would Recommend To Others
I love the cover. It is bright and colorful, intriguing, luring me into the pages. Covers are very important to me in choosing books.
The story is well written. A quick and easy read. Perfect for a scare at the beach or around the pool. Go ahead. Close your eyes and visualize HIM, The Dastardly Bastard.
A fork in the road. Which way do you want to turn? How do you handle it? Does the good outweigh the bad? To have good memories, we have to learn to live with the bad.
What would you do to change your memories? Your actions of the past? Those haunting what ifs, if onlies?
As you can tell, this book made me think of decisions. Sometimes I thought more of myself than I did the characters in the book. Is this good or bad? What do you think?
I like when a book takes me somewhere and even more so, when I don’t know where I will end up. As for Justine? You will have to read the book for yourself to find out if the choices she makes will help them to survive.
I won this signed, first edition paperback during the Hope For the Wicked giveaway from redadeptpublishing. Thanks so much to Edward Lorn and redadeptpublishing.
I look forward to reading more from Edward Lorn.
Edward Lorn
The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Chasm does gleefully scheme of malevolent things.
Beware, child fair, of what you find there. His lies how they hide in the shadows he wears.
‘Cross wreckage of bridge is where this man lives. Counting his spoils, his eye how it digs.
Tread, if you dare, through his one-eyed stare. This Dastardly Bastard is neither here, nor there…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mark Simmons – an overweight journalist on the downside of his career.
Marsha Lake - losing her son, Lyle, because of her grief over the loss of her husband.
Donald Adams – writer, #1 on the New York times Bestseller List, 3’9″ with an attitude.
Justine McCarthy – met Trevor in a Yahoo chat room.
Jaleel Warner – their tour guide.
Waverly Chasm – two miles in length. 70 yards at the widest point. A mile deep? No one knows because no one has ever been to the bottom.
They would start at Fairchild Lookout where they could see all the route of the six hour hike. It was named after Waverly Fairchild in the 1930′s. His son, Scooter, had fallen in and never been found. Waverly left and never came back.
Justine had visions and she had seen death. Whose would it be? Hers or…….
3 – Would Recommend To Others
I love the cover. It is bright and colorful, intriguing, luring me into the pages. Covers are very important to me in choosing books.
The story is well written. A quick and easy read. Perfect for a scare at the beach or around the pool. Go ahead. Close your eyes and visualize HIM, The Dastardly Bastard.
A fork in the road. Which way do you want to turn? How do you handle it? Does the good outweigh the bad? To have good memories, we have to learn to live with the bad.
What would you do to change your memories? Your actions of the past? Those haunting what ifs, if onlies?
As you can tell, this book made me think of decisions. Sometimes I thought more of myself than I did the characters in the book. Is this good or bad? What do you think?
I like when a book takes me somewhere and even more so, when I don’t know where I will end up. As for Justine? You will have to read the book for yourself to find out if the choices she makes will help them to survive.
I won this signed, first edition paperback during the Hope For the Wicked giveaway from redadeptpublishing. Thanks so much to Edward Lorn and redadeptpublishing.
I look forward to reading more from Edward Lorn.
Edward Lorn
February 26, 2016
Even if I was the sort of person who can resist a title like that, I can't pass up a Lorn book. The man is just too good of a writer. To be completely honest this wasn't his best work, his best is really something, but it was still very much worth a read and not just as a cautionary tale against hiking, at least hiking around Lorn's Bay's End, a generally spooky location. There was something about the pacing in the middle that didn't quite work for me, the story just didn't quite engage and the moral was ever so slightly heavy handed, but it has all the imagination, character development and strong narrative I've come to expect from the author. This is simply one of his earlier works and it shows at times. It also reads very much like the later Cruelty, Lorn's terrific serial novel. In fact, this one came across like a preview of things to come, which might have slightly detracted from its originality, which, of course, wouldn't be a thing to anyone reading the author's work in chronological order. Pretty good read in its own right, though. Give it a go, read good stories, make good memories. Tis be the book inspired moral of this review.
August 12, 2012
Memory is emotional shrapnel. If you're lucky, it causes only occasional discomfort. If you're unlucky, a fragment breaks loose, tearing and damaging.
The characters in Edward Lorn's novel, Dastardly Bastard, are haunted by memory. Mark is a photojournalist, tormented by the deaths he has photographed. Donald is an author, who lost his beautiful girlfriend to an act of random violence. Lyle has lost his father to illness. Jaleel has lost his job, and his mind. Justine has lost her grandmother, Nana Penance, but gained the love of her life, Trevor.
All of them are going to Waverly Chasm for a guided trail hike. They aren't alone. Something in the chasm feeds off of the emotional energy generated by reliving bad memories. Something in the chasm can create alternate realities, trapping people in their darkest memories. One by one, the thickening malevolence separates the hikers, eventually taking Trevor from Justine.
That was the bastard's first mistake.
The second was letting Justine inside, because Justine isn't going to loose the man she loves. Neither her own personal hell nor twisted visions of her Nana will keep her from Trevor. Justine brings the fight to the darkness, and in the process learns the connection between the evil in the chasm, a boy's soul trapped there, and her own abilities.
Dastardly Bastard does not want for either action or creepiness, and Lorn manages to include plenty of both with unique verve. If that's all Dastardly Bastard did, it would be a good book. Lorn takes things farther, though, by writing characters so very human, so very fallible, that you can't help but connect to the human drama. Dastardly Bastard isn't good: it's very good. In fact, my only complaint is a nitpick that boils down to personal preference. In one pivotal scene, a monstrous amalgam of hikers is used as a weapon against two of the characters. In comparison to the horrifying nature of being confronted with their own bad memories, the amalgam-monster feels less intense, and therefore less compelling. My preference would have been to nix the amalgam-monster, and yet Lorn puts the incident to such good use, I'm inclined to point out, again, my nitpick says more about how I like to be scared than about any true weakness in the book itself. In fact, there's a laugh-out-loud mix up between "mouses" and "houses" that makes the amalgam-monster scene one of my favorite in the book. Go on, get the book - you know you want to know what in the world I'm talking about here!
Memory is a dastardly bastard, but it is also our connection to how we became who we are. Lorn examines the damage memories does, but the point of Dastardly Bastard is that no matter how bad a memory is, there are other, good memories from which we can draw strength. If you enjoy your adventure stories laced with darkness, then I recommend Edward Lorn's Dastardly Bastard.
You'll never see guided hiking trails the same again!
The characters in Edward Lorn's novel, Dastardly Bastard, are haunted by memory. Mark is a photojournalist, tormented by the deaths he has photographed. Donald is an author, who lost his beautiful girlfriend to an act of random violence. Lyle has lost his father to illness. Jaleel has lost his job, and his mind. Justine has lost her grandmother, Nana Penance, but gained the love of her life, Trevor.
All of them are going to Waverly Chasm for a guided trail hike. They aren't alone. Something in the chasm feeds off of the emotional energy generated by reliving bad memories. Something in the chasm can create alternate realities, trapping people in their darkest memories. One by one, the thickening malevolence separates the hikers, eventually taking Trevor from Justine.
That was the bastard's first mistake.
The second was letting Justine inside, because Justine isn't going to loose the man she loves. Neither her own personal hell nor twisted visions of her Nana will keep her from Trevor. Justine brings the fight to the darkness, and in the process learns the connection between the evil in the chasm, a boy's soul trapped there, and her own abilities.
Dastardly Bastard does not want for either action or creepiness, and Lorn manages to include plenty of both with unique verve. If that's all Dastardly Bastard did, it would be a good book. Lorn takes things farther, though, by writing characters so very human, so very fallible, that you can't help but connect to the human drama. Dastardly Bastard isn't good: it's very good. In fact, my only complaint is a nitpick that boils down to personal preference. In one pivotal scene, a monstrous amalgam of hikers is used as a weapon against two of the characters. In comparison to the horrifying nature of being confronted with their own bad memories, the amalgam-monster feels less intense, and therefore less compelling. My preference would have been to nix the amalgam-monster, and yet Lorn puts the incident to such good use, I'm inclined to point out, again, my nitpick says more about how I like to be scared than about any true weakness in the book itself. In fact, there's a laugh-out-loud mix up between "mouses" and "houses" that makes the amalgam-monster scene one of my favorite in the book. Go on, get the book - you know you want to know what in the world I'm talking about here!
Memory is a dastardly bastard, but it is also our connection to how we became who we are. Lorn examines the damage memories does, but the point of Dastardly Bastard is that no matter how bad a memory is, there are other, good memories from which we can draw strength. If you enjoy your adventure stories laced with darkness, then I recommend Edward Lorn's Dastardly Bastard.
You'll never see guided hiking trails the same again!
May 19, 2012
Do you like fast-paced stories? Do you like getting to know characters, almost as if they are your friends? Do you like mysterious villains who are real bastards? Yeah? Well, then you're going to like this book.
A group of strangers come together for a hike around Waverly Chasm, a natural depression in the ground (think combination Mammoth Cave and Grand Canyon but smaller), but they fall into a trap of sorts laid by an evil that has been waiting for such an opportunity. Not all will survive the journey forced upon these characters, but those who do will be stronger and better for it. Wait? Did I say "survive?" Mwahahahahahahaha! Who's going to survive?
With plots and characters reminiscent of Stephen King, and a style of prose reminding one of Richard Laymon, the author Edward Lorn will be worth watching in the future.
A group of strangers come together for a hike around Waverly Chasm, a natural depression in the ground (think combination Mammoth Cave and Grand Canyon but smaller), but they fall into a trap of sorts laid by an evil that has been waiting for such an opportunity. Not all will survive the journey forced upon these characters, but those who do will be stronger and better for it. Wait? Did I say "survive?" Mwahahahahahahaha! Who's going to survive?
With plots and characters reminiscent of Stephen King, and a style of prose reminding one of Richard Laymon, the author Edward Lorn will be worth watching in the future.
July 13, 2012
I was lucky enough to win a copy of Dastardly Bastard in a goodreads giveaway. I had previously read Edward Lorn's debut novel Bay's End and enjoyed it. His sophomore offering did not disappoint.
Dastardly Bastard retains the sarcastic humor that I loved in Bay's End as he goes from a coming of age story to one of adults coming to grip with the most painful and intense memories of their past. The cast is unique and Lorn does a good job of letting you inside their minds.
Another thing that I liked was just the little mention of Bay's End that tied Lorn's world together.
This book has moments where you will laugh out loud and others that will have you holding your breath. It was an enjoyable read and one I would recommend for a range of age groups. My teenage son will be reading it next!
Dastardly Bastard retains the sarcastic humor that I loved in Bay's End as he goes from a coming of age story to one of adults coming to grip with the most painful and intense memories of their past. The cast is unique and Lorn does a good job of letting you inside their minds.
Another thing that I liked was just the little mention of Bay's End that tied Lorn's world together.
This book has moments where you will laugh out loud and others that will have you holding your breath. It was an enjoyable read and one I would recommend for a range of age groups. My teenage son will be reading it next!
August 21, 2014
I recently read Lorn's Cruelty: Episode One, thought it was excellent and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. The writing in Dastardly Bastard was just as good - but for whatever reason I can't begin to hypothesize on - this story didn't blow me away. I enjoyed every page of the writing - 4+ stars on that - but the story wasn't my thing. Probably a personal issue. Whatever.
Regardless, I plan to continue reading Lorn. His prose is excellent. Bay's End was mentioned multiple times in this book so I think I'll line that one up next and any sequel to Cruelty is a no-brainer must add to tbr list.
Regardless, I plan to continue reading Lorn. His prose is excellent. Bay's End was mentioned multiple times in this book so I think I'll line that one up next and any sequel to Cruelty is a no-brainer must add to tbr list.
May 12, 2012
One of the best horror thrillers I've read in a long time. Stephen King, move over!
August 31, 2012
After reading 'Bay's End' I couldn't wait to get my hands on another book by Mr. Lorn. I'm glad to say 'Dastardly Bastard' did not disappoint!
This book was very different from his debut novel, but also held some close parallels. This is not just a novel full of frights, but a very in-depth look at humanity and what shapes us. Namely, our memories.
True to form, the author's prose is fluid and the pacing sweeps you along. The book starts out introducing the characters one by one. There's Mark, the morbidly obese photojournalist, whose sent to Waverly Chasm on assignment much to his displeasure. I loved his personality and unique counting quirk! Donald is a writer with a huge chip on his shoulder and a very small stature. There were times I found his personality most abrasive, but he also made me laugh! Justine is full of spunk and vigor, a good contrast to her laid back beau, Trevor...and then there's Lyle and his mother who could very well be our friends or neighbors! And I dare readers not to fall in love with the sage and spunky Nana Penance.
I held my breath as this cast gathered, knowing something wicked was in store. It doesn't take long for the Dastardly Bastard to make his appearance and start accosting the cast. He attacks them one by one, going after their most vulnerable spots. Not their bodies, but their hearts and minds as well. People turn on each other, perceptions get warped, and things get ugly in a hurry. One can't help wonder who or what this legendary creature really is and where he draws his strength. (When we finally meet this villain face to face, his description was vivid and downright chilling...I almost wished I hand't found out!) I will say this, if I wasn't laughing at Edward Lorn's colorful humor, I was holding my breath. At the heart of this story lies a poignant journey, one that some of them may not return from, but one that will definitely change their lives forever.
One part mystery, one part horror, with a mix of drama, humor and philosophy blended in, this was a very well rounded book. Well worth a read!
This book was very different from his debut novel, but also held some close parallels. This is not just a novel full of frights, but a very in-depth look at humanity and what shapes us. Namely, our memories.
True to form, the author's prose is fluid and the pacing sweeps you along. The book starts out introducing the characters one by one. There's Mark, the morbidly obese photojournalist, whose sent to Waverly Chasm on assignment much to his displeasure. I loved his personality and unique counting quirk! Donald is a writer with a huge chip on his shoulder and a very small stature. There were times I found his personality most abrasive, but he also made me laugh! Justine is full of spunk and vigor, a good contrast to her laid back beau, Trevor...and then there's Lyle and his mother who could very well be our friends or neighbors! And I dare readers not to fall in love with the sage and spunky Nana Penance.
I held my breath as this cast gathered, knowing something wicked was in store. It doesn't take long for the Dastardly Bastard to make his appearance and start accosting the cast. He attacks them one by one, going after their most vulnerable spots. Not their bodies, but their hearts and minds as well. People turn on each other, perceptions get warped, and things get ugly in a hurry. One can't help wonder who or what this legendary creature really is and where he draws his strength. (When we finally meet this villain face to face, his description was vivid and downright chilling...I almost wished I hand't found out!) I will say this, if I wasn't laughing at Edward Lorn's colorful humor, I was holding my breath. At the heart of this story lies a poignant journey, one that some of them may not return from, but one that will definitely change their lives forever.
One part mystery, one part horror, with a mix of drama, humor and philosophy blended in, this was a very well rounded book. Well worth a read!
April 5, 2014
Now you probably want to hear about the book. In short, I loved it. It was fast-paced, full of wit and suspense. Each character came with their own baggage, their own horrors, that they had to face. Justine was my favorite. She was a real hero in this story, pulling folks together, leading the way when the path was not clear. At first I didn’t care for Donald the writer. He was a bit of a dick. But then we get a peek at his deepest horror and shame and I think my heart cracked a little for him. After that, I liked him quite a bit. Mark was also a favorite as he faced a professional quandary as a war correspondent – what to publish and what to delete, how much truth to tell?
I liked that not everyone survived (because I do find it unrealistic when all the good guys survive a paranormal attack of some sort). The pacing was good (never a dull moment). And the mix of people was great – various sizes, various skin tones, single, paired up, widowed, etc. The ending was more upbeat than the other two Lorn books I have read, so that was unexpected for me (but I liked it!). I really enjoyed that the characters had to go through some tough crap, face it, makes friends with it, and then they could attempt to come out the other side. Nothing was just given to the good guys.
I’ve now read three Lord books and quite enjoyed each one. This one did not disappoint and may have been even more enjoyable because it was an audiobook and I could listen as I worked.
Narration: Glen Marcum was an excellent fit for this audiobook. He infused the story with tension, tenderness, pissed-offness, etc. as needed. Edward Lorn writes well, and Glen Marcum did a great job of giving those characters a voice. I especially like his voices for Lyle and for Justine. Oh, and Trevor (who sounded stoned throughout the book).
I liked that not everyone survived (because I do find it unrealistic when all the good guys survive a paranormal attack of some sort). The pacing was good (never a dull moment). And the mix of people was great – various sizes, various skin tones, single, paired up, widowed, etc. The ending was more upbeat than the other two Lorn books I have read, so that was unexpected for me (but I liked it!). I really enjoyed that the characters had to go through some tough crap, face it, makes friends with it, and then they could attempt to come out the other side. Nothing was just given to the good guys.
I’ve now read three Lord books and quite enjoyed each one. This one did not disappoint and may have been even more enjoyable because it was an audiobook and I could listen as I worked.
Narration: Glen Marcum was an excellent fit for this audiobook. He infused the story with tension, tenderness, pissed-offness, etc. as needed. Edward Lorn writes well, and Glen Marcum did a great job of giving those characters a voice. I especially like his voices for Lyle and for Justine. Oh, and Trevor (who sounded stoned throughout the book).
June 6, 2012
What if you were forced to relive your worst memories? The memories of events that you would only ever want to go through once in your life, if that. What if those memories were being used against you and altered so that you couldn’t tell what was real or imagined. What if those memories could be taken from you? Memories, good and bad, are what shape us into the people we are today. Would you WANT to lose them?
‘Dastardly Bastard’ was a fantastically written tale. My eyes were glued to the page right up until the very last sentence. A group of unlikely companions end up on a nightmarish tour of Waverly Chasm. The characterization in this book was nothing short of amazing. Edward Lorn allows his reader to get to know this eclectic mix of characters; to care for them as if they were their own family or friends.
The vivid visuals are sure to send a chill up your spine or even, in some instances, make you laugh out loud (chapter 35) or even tear up a bit (chapter 39). One character gives me the creeps every time she pops up. If you read the book, you’ll know exactly who I am speaking of.
From the first introduction- in the form of an intriguing poem, we wonder just where this journey will lead. Edward Lorn definitely takes us on an emotional roller-coaster ride with this action packed book. Well, I must say, what a ride it has been! I highly recommend giving it a read. You WONT be disappointed!
‘Dastardly Bastard’ was a fantastically written tale. My eyes were glued to the page right up until the very last sentence. A group of unlikely companions end up on a nightmarish tour of Waverly Chasm. The characterization in this book was nothing short of amazing. Edward Lorn allows his reader to get to know this eclectic mix of characters; to care for them as if they were their own family or friends.
The vivid visuals are sure to send a chill up your spine or even, in some instances, make you laugh out loud (chapter 35) or even tear up a bit (chapter 39). One character gives me the creeps every time she pops up. If you read the book, you’ll know exactly who I am speaking of.
From the first introduction- in the form of an intriguing poem, we wonder just where this journey will lead. Edward Lorn definitely takes us on an emotional roller-coaster ride with this action packed book. Well, I must say, what a ride it has been! I highly recommend giving it a read. You WONT be disappointed!
May 29, 2012
Is it real or is it a nightmare? I know, asking if fiction is real seems like a silly question. I’ll explain. While I’m reading a book, what is happening feels real, to some degree. The more engrossed I am in the story, the more real it seems. Whether a book was realistic (it could have happened to me or someone else), or not very (unless you truly believe in vampires, or the paranormal creatures and supernatural happenings found in some fiction), when I’m reading, it is real.
When I’m having a nightmare, it also feels real, but in not quite the same way. It’s more surreal. The things happening in the nightmare seem strange, as if they can’t be happening, yet I’m “seeing” them happen and don’t question it. The terror I’m feeling seems real. In a nightmare, I might move from one scene to another and not be quite sure how I moved from there to here, yet in my mind it makes sense.
The more I read of Dastardly Bastard, the more it felt like a nightmare. Full of terror and surreal happenings. When I “woke up,” I was sweating and my heart pounding. No way I was going back to sleep.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
When I’m having a nightmare, it also feels real, but in not quite the same way. It’s more surreal. The things happening in the nightmare seem strange, as if they can’t be happening, yet I’m “seeing” them happen and don’t question it. The terror I’m feeling seems real. In a nightmare, I might move from one scene to another and not be quite sure how I moved from there to here, yet in my mind it makes sense.
The more I read of Dastardly Bastard, the more it felt like a nightmare. Full of terror and surreal happenings. When I “woke up,” I was sweating and my heart pounding. No way I was going back to sleep.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
August 30, 2013
Another great story from Edward Lorn. It started off alright with the character introductions, but once it got going I really enjoyed reading Dastardly Bastard. The supernatural stuff worked out pretty good and everything leading up to the ending was entertaining. I liked the way he ended it as well.
Overall a good story, this is one where i wish i could do half stars with the ratings because i would have given it 4.5 stars.
Overall a good story, this is one where i wish i could do half stars with the ratings because i would have given it 4.5 stars.
March 9, 2014
a mish-mash group of tourists are going to see the Waverly Cavern. What seems like a normal day of hiking and viewing soon turns into a horror-fest for each person there. Will anyone come back from Waverly Cavern alive and with their mind intact?
This book is pretty good, there are places that suck you into the horror and leave you wondering what will happen next. I recommend the book to anyone with a Kindle to get it and read it!
Dastardly Bastard by Edward Lorn
This book is pretty good, there are places that suck you into the horror and leave you wondering what will happen next. I recommend the book to anyone with a Kindle to get it and read it!
Dastardly Bastard by Edward Lorn
December 15, 2014
Edward Lorn has created a truly fantastic tale with Dastardly Bastard. The title alone draws the reader into the depths of the story with its dark and foreboding whimsy. Lorn produces incredible imagery that lifts the story right off the pages and brings it to life. An entertaining read for anyone who is ready to take a wild ride over the edge and into the darkness that shrouds the human spirit.
September 7, 2013
This was a well developed horror plot reminiscent of Stephen King and Ted Dekker. I did enjoy this book and appreciated how well the story was crafted but probably not as much as I would have if I were a fan of that genre, which I am not. A good book but wasted on me since it wasn't my cup of tea.
April 15, 2016
Thank you Netgalley. I received a free copy in exchange for a honest review.
I have to say the characters just did not work for me with very little depth and poor interaction.
This just ruined the book for me.
I have to say the characters just did not work for me with very little depth and poor interaction.
This just ruined the book for me.
February 29, 2016
Genre: horror, mystery, thriller
Age: 18+
Recommendation: I recommend for horror fans for sure, if you enjoy the occasional rendezvous with things that go bump in the night it also might quench your thirst.
Type: stand-alone
Summary: this book is a part horror and part psychological mind screw. It could use a little bit of direction in a few parts but overall was very interesting and kept my attention.+good character back story, + good villain + continuous series of events with no boring pauses
“The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Charm
Does gleefully scheme of malevolent things
Beware, fair child, of what you find there
His lies, how they hide in the shadows he wears..”
Dastardly Bastard is a horror novel that is based on the underlying theory that memories, especially those that are brutal and traumatic, can latch on to a person and lead you them darkness.
Told from multiple point of views, this story begins as a group of strangers all find themselves on a tour of a local tourist spot the Waverly Chasm. Each person is fighting their own personal battle. A photographer, recently returned from war and demoted by his boss, a mother and son who are both struggling with the recent death of a loved one, a couple in love there just for sightseeing , an author recently involved in a scandal and a slightly mad tour guide dealing with his own personal mental problems.
All seems well until strange things start happening and no one can figure out why things went from fine to well…insane. Full of twists and turns, this story follows all involved through one shock to the next, all just trying to escape with their lives and sanity. Each is forced to confront their own personal demons and the misery they carry with them from the memories that have scarred them the most.
I really, really wanted to LOVE this book. The plot and story line are unlike anything I have ever read so naturally I was really excited to crack it open. Problem is, even though it was really thought inducing and one of those stories that have you on the edge of your seat trying to figure it out, it just wasn’t what it could be. I feel like the author put a lot of effort in making sure he built the characters up and made them real, I just wish the rest of the story was written with as much zeal with as much detail. There were a few things in this story that just didn’t flow. Certain deaths were kind of out of nowhere and you really don’t know why or how they happened. Certain people didn’t die when you thought they did, and some were spared with no real explanation why. The imagery used is done well but with just a little more explanation this book could be a real stunner.
I think this book is worth the read but don’t expect it to be a life changer. The potential this book holds really speaks to the creativity and imagination the author . I am interested to see what else he has in store for us.
Disclaimer: I obtained an advanced reader copy in exchange for a honest review via NetGalley. Thank you so much Edward Lorn and Red Adept Publishing, LLC !
Age: 18+
Recommendation: I recommend for horror fans for sure, if you enjoy the occasional rendezvous with things that go bump in the night it also might quench your thirst.
Type: stand-alone
Summary: this book is a part horror and part psychological mind screw. It could use a little bit of direction in a few parts but overall was very interesting and kept my attention.+good character back story, + good villain + continuous series of events with no boring pauses
“The Dastardly Bastard of Waverly Charm
Does gleefully scheme of malevolent things
Beware, fair child, of what you find there
His lies, how they hide in the shadows he wears..”
Dastardly Bastard is a horror novel that is based on the underlying theory that memories, especially those that are brutal and traumatic, can latch on to a person and lead you them darkness.
Told from multiple point of views, this story begins as a group of strangers all find themselves on a tour of a local tourist spot the Waverly Chasm. Each person is fighting their own personal battle. A photographer, recently returned from war and demoted by his boss, a mother and son who are both struggling with the recent death of a loved one, a couple in love there just for sightseeing , an author recently involved in a scandal and a slightly mad tour guide dealing with his own personal mental problems.
All seems well until strange things start happening and no one can figure out why things went from fine to well…insane. Full of twists and turns, this story follows all involved through one shock to the next, all just trying to escape with their lives and sanity. Each is forced to confront their own personal demons and the misery they carry with them from the memories that have scarred them the most.
I really, really wanted to LOVE this book. The plot and story line are unlike anything I have ever read so naturally I was really excited to crack it open. Problem is, even though it was really thought inducing and one of those stories that have you on the edge of your seat trying to figure it out, it just wasn’t what it could be. I feel like the author put a lot of effort in making sure he built the characters up and made them real, I just wish the rest of the story was written with as much zeal with as much detail. There were a few things in this story that just didn’t flow. Certain deaths were kind of out of nowhere and you really don’t know why or how they happened. Certain people didn’t die when you thought they did, and some were spared with no real explanation why. The imagery used is done well but with just a little more explanation this book could be a real stunner.
I think this book is worth the read but don’t expect it to be a life changer. The potential this book holds really speaks to the creativity and imagination the author . I am interested to see what else he has in store for us.
Disclaimer: I obtained an advanced reader copy in exchange for a honest review via NetGalley. Thank you so much Edward Lorn and Red Adept Publishing, LLC !
July 24, 2013
When war photographer Mark Simmons is sent to do a promo on Waverly Chasm, he assumes it’s a puff piece, a waste of his talents.
Widow Marsha Lake brings her son, Lyle, to help him heal after his father’s death.
Donald Adams, aka H.R. Chatmon, joins the tour to get away from a sticky situation.
Justine McCarthy consents to the hike to placate her boyfriend, Trevor.
For Jaleel Warner, the tour guide, walking the chasm is just part of his job.
Each of these people must face their darkest memories in order to discover and defeat the secret buried in Waverly Chasm.
This was an okay read. It did not have me on the edge of my seat or hit me with that touch of OMG that one gets from King and Koontz, but it was interesting all the same. There was enough back story to get to know the characters, yet something was lacking, so did not get invested in whether they survived or not.
There was very little mention on why this hole existed and in this day and age of tech they should have known if there was a bottom or not, so the science of it all was a bit of a fail.
If you are just looking for a read to pass the time, I would suggest you read this. If you are looking to get scared out of your wits, naw, the story does not deliver. There are a few twist and turns that help make the story interesting.[[ASIN:B007ZXKCXA Dastardly Bastard]]
Widow Marsha Lake brings her son, Lyle, to help him heal after his father’s death.
Donald Adams, aka H.R. Chatmon, joins the tour to get away from a sticky situation.
Justine McCarthy consents to the hike to placate her boyfriend, Trevor.
For Jaleel Warner, the tour guide, walking the chasm is just part of his job.
Each of these people must face their darkest memories in order to discover and defeat the secret buried in Waverly Chasm.
This was an okay read. It did not have me on the edge of my seat or hit me with that touch of OMG that one gets from King and Koontz, but it was interesting all the same. There was enough back story to get to know the characters, yet something was lacking, so did not get invested in whether they survived or not.
There was very little mention on why this hole existed and in this day and age of tech they should have known if there was a bottom or not, so the science of it all was a bit of a fail.
If you are just looking for a read to pass the time, I would suggest you read this. If you are looking to get scared out of your wits, naw, the story does not deliver. There are a few twist and turns that help make the story interesting.[[ASIN:B007ZXKCXA Dastardly Bastard]]
February 2, 2016
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Red Adept Publishing, LLC!
This is not groundbreaking horror, since it follows the classic structure you've read before: introduction to the characters' lives, characters converge in a creepy environment (usually a haunted house, here it's Waverly Chasm, a natural spot where “you can look down and never see the bottom), chaos ensues, red-shirts bite the dust, heroes fight for survival and then it ends – happily or not. Dastardly Bastard follows this formula to the letter, and it is the characters that make a difference. They all have baggage, and they may not be the best version of themselves. Their adventure at the chasm will change them (or kill them). It is well paced, even if I found my interest waning at the end. The dialogs are actually funny (when the characters are not screaming in terror). It is an entertaining novel for horror fans.
This is not groundbreaking horror, since it follows the classic structure you've read before: introduction to the characters' lives, characters converge in a creepy environment (usually a haunted house, here it's Waverly Chasm, a natural spot where “you can look down and never see the bottom), chaos ensues, red-shirts bite the dust, heroes fight for survival and then it ends – happily or not. Dastardly Bastard follows this formula to the letter, and it is the characters that make a difference. They all have baggage, and they may not be the best version of themselves. Their adventure at the chasm will change them (or kill them). It is well paced, even if I found my interest waning at the end. The dialogs are actually funny (when the characters are not screaming in terror). It is an entertaining novel for horror fans.
May 3, 2016
"Your memories remain. Your memories sustain."
A small group of people take a day hike to see Waverly Chasm: a 500 pound photographer; a midget (he doesn't want to be called a "little" person) who is a bestselling horror author; a recent widow trying to deal with her devastated 12 year-old son; a happy young couple taking some time from camping - and their guide. Strange happenings start fairly quickly as they head down the path to the Chasm and the world, as they know it, will never be the same.
This is a spooky, thought provoking little horror story, almost a novella. But author Lorn packs a lot into each page.
Character development is superb and I appreciated that the author tied up loose details at the end of the story.
NOTE: I received this book from Red Adept Publishing through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
A small group of people take a day hike to see Waverly Chasm: a 500 pound photographer; a midget (he doesn't want to be called a "little" person) who is a bestselling horror author; a recent widow trying to deal with her devastated 12 year-old son; a happy young couple taking some time from camping - and their guide. Strange happenings start fairly quickly as they head down the path to the Chasm and the world, as they know it, will never be the same.
This is a spooky, thought provoking little horror story, almost a novella. But author Lorn packs a lot into each page.
Character development is superb and I appreciated that the author tied up loose details at the end of the story.
NOTE: I received this book from Red Adept Publishing through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
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