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Human-Shaped Fiends
LOS ANGELES, 1854. Felipe Alvitre and a band of teenage outlaws set out on a brutal, seemingly random killing spree across the San Gabriel Valley, ignighting the ire of the Los Angeles citizens. Sheriff James Barton wrestles with a rapidly escalating crime rate and a populace that demands more from their corrupt, do-nothing legal system as the bodies continue to pile up. The crimes of the young Alvitre gang become symbolic of a greater frustration, and the sheriff faces mounting pressure to bring the outlaws to justice. His greatest battle, however, comes from within, and his responsibilities soon play second fiddle to his struggles with addiction and his toxic, unrequited love for a mysterious prostitute. LOS ANGELES, 2021. Self-obsessed, pretentious, womanizing novelist Chandler Morrison has been contracted to write a Western. He knows what kind of book his fans want, but he's torn between his commitment to the craft and the "brand" to which he believes he is expected to adhere. As he sinks deeper into deluded self-importance while juggling a number of surface-level relationships, the line separating fiction from reality becomes increasingly blurred.
154 pages, Paperback
First published June 26, 2021
11 people are currently reading
701 people want to read
About the author
Chandler Morrison
18 books793 followersLittle is known about Chandler’s origins. He has claimed, on separate occasions, to be both from Helltown, California, and Cleveland, Ohio. To date, it is still unclear from which locale he actually hails. He currently resides in Los Angeles, but sightings of him are rare.
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July 10, 2021
"Hey Tim," I say to myself as I light a cigarette. "We're going to review 'Human-Shaped Fiends' by Chandler Morrison. We need to go meta."
"Well Self," I reply to myself as it would be rude of me to not answer. "Why do we need to… are you smoking? You don't smoke."
"Well currently, I'm a meta-parody of myself, and I think it would be funnier if I was a chain smoking review who…"
"We're not doing that. That's not meta. This joke is becoming less meta and more of like signs of insanity."
"Trust me, that works for this review too."
"What am I'm I getting into with this book?"
"Trust me, even if I explained, you still would have no idea… but it's going to be fun."
__________________________
Human-Shaped Fiends is the 11th in Death's Head Press's Splatter Western series (all stand alone novels, so fear not if you want to start here or with any of the others) and it proves beyond a doubt how many more directions they can take this series. These books have been consistently entertaining since the first, and while I have not read all eleven, I've read a decent amount and there have only been one misfire for me, so I think that says a lot about the consistency of these books. Now, personally the first one (The Magpie Coffin) was the best of the books and has been a tough act to follow up. While I've enjoyed pretty much everything, nothing has really competed with that first one… until now. This one is easily my favorite of the lineup that I've read. I'd also say it's the most clever.
The plot seems fairly straight forward at first. A young band of teenagers start a killing spree and a sheriff is supposed to track them down. Sound like a fairly straight forward western scenario… then the book cuts to the author Chandler Morrison discussing how he has no clue how to write a western in his own style. Maybe he should go meta? Maybe he should cut to himself trying to write the book and the struggles of being the guy who wrote Dead Inside (often cited as one of the most disgusting books ever written and has become something of a dare in some areas of the horror community) and how he feels like he has to cross off everything that he expects his fans want. This book is not going to be an artistic statement… it's a product!
In doing this he has created one of the most fascinating books. He tells the readers the sections with him are a parody of himself and people he knows. He talks about going full "Charlie Kaufman in Adaptation meta" and proceeds to have a blast with it. One of my favorite moments is when he asks one of his friends what she thinks of the manuscript thus far. Her response:
"I don't like that you made me a smoker in your book," Autumn says, hitting her cigarette. "I've never been a smoker."
But everyone smokes in a Morrison novel, so even on the meta-side it's needed. At one point one of his friends asks him about how he's going to write this horror novel. He tells them it won't be horror, but satire. "I'm contracted to write a Western with lots of blood, a high body count, and some supernatural elements. Nothing says it has to be horror." There lies the genius of this one. He does all of those things he's required to do. The body count is high, the violence is gruesome and yes, there's more than a hint of the supernatural… it's horror… but it's really more of a comedy. A comedy about what we the readers expect from this series, and him as an author, and how one can conform to that without actually doing what is expected.
It's a bold move. It's fun move… it's honestly one of the funniest damn books I've read in years with scenes that had me genuinely laughing out loud. Admittedly this is not a book for everyone. Some will be turned off by his meta self insert comedy… but this one gets my highest recommendation to anyone who can stomach the violence and gore… but even if the author says there's no reason for it, I assure you there is. A rare 5/5 stars.
"Well Self," I reply to myself as it would be rude of me to not answer. "Why do we need to… are you smoking? You don't smoke."
"Well currently, I'm a meta-parody of myself, and I think it would be funnier if I was a chain smoking review who…"
"We're not doing that. That's not meta. This joke is becoming less meta and more of like signs of insanity."
"Trust me, that works for this review too."
"What am I'm I getting into with this book?"
"Trust me, even if I explained, you still would have no idea… but it's going to be fun."
__________________________
Human-Shaped Fiends is the 11th in Death's Head Press's Splatter Western series (all stand alone novels, so fear not if you want to start here or with any of the others) and it proves beyond a doubt how many more directions they can take this series. These books have been consistently entertaining since the first, and while I have not read all eleven, I've read a decent amount and there have only been one misfire for me, so I think that says a lot about the consistency of these books. Now, personally the first one (The Magpie Coffin) was the best of the books and has been a tough act to follow up. While I've enjoyed pretty much everything, nothing has really competed with that first one… until now. This one is easily my favorite of the lineup that I've read. I'd also say it's the most clever.
The plot seems fairly straight forward at first. A young band of teenagers start a killing spree and a sheriff is supposed to track them down. Sound like a fairly straight forward western scenario… then the book cuts to the author Chandler Morrison discussing how he has no clue how to write a western in his own style. Maybe he should go meta? Maybe he should cut to himself trying to write the book and the struggles of being the guy who wrote Dead Inside (often cited as one of the most disgusting books ever written and has become something of a dare in some areas of the horror community) and how he feels like he has to cross off everything that he expects his fans want. This book is not going to be an artistic statement… it's a product!
In doing this he has created one of the most fascinating books. He tells the readers the sections with him are a parody of himself and people he knows. He talks about going full "Charlie Kaufman in Adaptation meta" and proceeds to have a blast with it. One of my favorite moments is when he asks one of his friends what she thinks of the manuscript thus far. Her response:
"I don't like that you made me a smoker in your book," Autumn says, hitting her cigarette. "I've never been a smoker."
But everyone smokes in a Morrison novel, so even on the meta-side it's needed. At one point one of his friends asks him about how he's going to write this horror novel. He tells them it won't be horror, but satire. "I'm contracted to write a Western with lots of blood, a high body count, and some supernatural elements. Nothing says it has to be horror." There lies the genius of this one. He does all of those things he's required to do. The body count is high, the violence is gruesome and yes, there's more than a hint of the supernatural… it's horror… but it's really more of a comedy. A comedy about what we the readers expect from this series, and him as an author, and how one can conform to that without actually doing what is expected.
It's a bold move. It's fun move… it's honestly one of the funniest damn books I've read in years with scenes that had me genuinely laughing out loud. Admittedly this is not a book for everyone. Some will be turned off by his meta self insert comedy… but this one gets my highest recommendation to anyone who can stomach the violence and gore… but even if the author says there's no reason for it, I assure you there is. A rare 5/5 stars.
July 20, 2021
Disclaimers:
*I am the publicist for Death's Head Press
*I organized a Book Party on the Night Worms blog for this book, meaning I had a digital copy and I passed them out to all my extreme horror junkie friends on bookstagram.
*I also consider the author a friend
*TWs for this book (extreme violence/rape)
So you can assume I'm biased as fuck.
You can also take what I'm about to say with as many grains of salt as you like:
The Splatter Western series is 11 books strong now. There are hits and misses.
This one is one of the hits. It is an unapologetic, satirical Western that lands all its intended punches. There are these insanely genius interludes where Chandler goes all meta on the reader and I would dare anyone to pick this book up and TRY not to look forward to the interludes the entire time. As entertaining, gruesome, and fucked up as the Western is...those interludes are where it's at for me.
I loved this book. It's a damn good time. Chandler obviously had fun writing HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS and poking fun at his own brand while at the same time, proving he has the chops to do whatever he wants with his storytelling voice in whatever genre and I hope he does.
I hope he writes what he wants to write.
I'll show up for all of it.
*I am the publicist for Death's Head Press
*I organized a Book Party on the Night Worms blog for this book, meaning I had a digital copy and I passed them out to all my extreme horror junkie friends on bookstagram.
*I also consider the author a friend
*TWs for this book (extreme violence/rape)
So you can assume I'm biased as fuck.
You can also take what I'm about to say with as many grains of salt as you like:
The Splatter Western series is 11 books strong now. There are hits and misses.
This one is one of the hits. It is an unapologetic, satirical Western that lands all its intended punches. There are these insanely genius interludes where Chandler goes all meta on the reader and I would dare anyone to pick this book up and TRY not to look forward to the interludes the entire time. As entertaining, gruesome, and fucked up as the Western is...those interludes are where it's at for me.
I loved this book. It's a damn good time. Chandler obviously had fun writing HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS and poking fun at his own brand while at the same time, proving he has the chops to do whatever he wants with his storytelling voice in whatever genre and I hope he does.
I hope he writes what he wants to write.
I'll show up for all of it.
July 17, 2021
“INCEST: CHECK.
Drug abuse: Check.
Damaged youth: Check.
What I’m doing is checking boxes, trying to fulfill whatever it is I think readers expect when they pick up a Chandler Morrison novel.”
The splatter western series put out by Death’s Head Press has won over my bloody-loving, black heart. Each book is written by a different author, so there is never a dull or “been there, done that” moment. And Chandler Morrison goes to another dimension with his version of a western. He went full on fucking meta! In one of the interlude chapters, he casually mentions to friends at a book launch party that he’s going meta much like Kaufman’s Adaptation. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Morrison’s character in his own story struggles to write this very splatter western, and he’s on a deadline. You read the story, but the author provides interludes of said struggle in between chapters, as well as feedback from the people in his life. BRILLIANT. *chefs kiss* I kept reading sections of the book to my husband, which I NEVER DO.
I went from chuckle mode to laugh-my-ass-off mode as I continued reading. Morrison is most definitely a “satirist”, but I have to disagree with him on one thing. He absolutely writes horror. He’s an intelligent writer, and masterful at crafting scenes with extreme gore and gross sexual conquests. I have no idea how he manages to succeed with such disgusting acts, all the while keeping the reader engaged, but it just works. I mean he literally writes about two of the most vile things a human can do when left alone to their own depravity and made me laugh as I read about it. I especially enjoyed the nods to his “fans” as he stayed on brand.
I read HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS at lightening speed. I couldn’t wait to read what happened in 1854 Los Angeles, but even more so, I couldn’t get enough of Morrison’s narrative. Also, just real quick I want to say…(um, come closer so you can hear me)….”It’s Chandler, Bitch!” Consider this entire review a trigger warning.
Drug abuse: Check.
Damaged youth: Check.
What I’m doing is checking boxes, trying to fulfill whatever it is I think readers expect when they pick up a Chandler Morrison novel.”
The splatter western series put out by Death’s Head Press has won over my bloody-loving, black heart. Each book is written by a different author, so there is never a dull or “been there, done that” moment. And Chandler Morrison goes to another dimension with his version of a western. He went full on fucking meta! In one of the interlude chapters, he casually mentions to friends at a book launch party that he’s going meta much like Kaufman’s Adaptation. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Morrison’s character in his own story struggles to write this very splatter western, and he’s on a deadline. You read the story, but the author provides interludes of said struggle in between chapters, as well as feedback from the people in his life. BRILLIANT. *chefs kiss* I kept reading sections of the book to my husband, which I NEVER DO.
I went from chuckle mode to laugh-my-ass-off mode as I continued reading. Morrison is most definitely a “satirist”, but I have to disagree with him on one thing. He absolutely writes horror. He’s an intelligent writer, and masterful at crafting scenes with extreme gore and gross sexual conquests. I have no idea how he manages to succeed with such disgusting acts, all the while keeping the reader engaged, but it just works. I mean he literally writes about two of the most vile things a human can do when left alone to their own depravity and made me laugh as I read about it. I especially enjoyed the nods to his “fans” as he stayed on brand.
I read HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS at lightening speed. I couldn’t wait to read what happened in 1854 Los Angeles, but even more so, I couldn’t get enough of Morrison’s narrative. Also, just real quick I want to say…(um, come closer so you can hear me)….”It’s Chandler, Bitch!” Consider this entire review a trigger warning.
July 4, 2021
Warning – This review has been written for a rather odd book, and the content of this review reflects that and, as such, should not be read by anyone.
James Barton is Sheriff in crime-ridden Los Angeles. Incidents of violence are escalating and the Sheriff has little, if any control over the population as his various addictions, the result of a troubled past and an unrequited love with a local prostitute, render him both unwilling and unable to take action.
When a local gang embark on a killing spree, murdering indiscriminately and without consequence, the town grows increasingly restless as their crimes go unpunished. A new arrival in town, tasked with bringing the gang to justice, acts as a catalyst for depravity and mayhem that reaches levels only Chandler Morrison can deliver.
The Review: Act One (Wherein the scene is set)
I feel more than a little deceitful for writing this (factually accurate but intentionally misleading) synopsis. While everything I’ve set out above may take place in ‘Human Shaped Fiends’, that is not what the book is really about and I’m omitting a large and important part of the story to avoid spoilers. Needless to say, when you read this book, expect the unexpected.
The Splatter Western series has been nothing if not unpredictable to date, with entries boasting cosmic horror, poetry and werewolves at different times. ‘Human Shaped Fiends’ is possibly the most unusual offering to date. It also happens to be one of the series best.
Reviewers Interlude – Part One
Reading over what I’ve written so far, I do wonder whether it was such a good idea to set out my review with acts and meta interludes. It seemed funny last night in bed when I thought of it, but my brain does have a knack for convincing me I’m funnier than I am when I’m mostly asleep. I’m not even sure a book review can be meta, can it?
Flawed logic notwithstanding, feels like I’m kind’ve committed now though and, silver lining, these interludes are making it really easy to hit my word count.
The Review: Act Two (Wherein we get to the heart of the matter)
The best books leave you wanting more and, at just under 100 pages, ‘Human Shaped Fiends’ was one I read in one sitting and didn’t want to end. That is no slight against the book’s length (I felt the same about Kristopher Triana’s ‘The Thirteenth Koyote’, which is well over 500 pages), more a comment on what a good time this book is. A big part of the appeal to me was the rich vein of absurdity throughout, whether that be the knowingly over the top and gleefully grotesque elements casually dropped into the main story or the larger-than-life self-deprecation of the other sections. The Splatter Western series is such an escapist and hyper-real concept that it’s a lot of fun to read one that leans into the humorous elements.
Reviewers Interlude – Part Two
Looking back at the notes I made while reading the book, I check to see how many I’ve managed to incorporate into my review.
• Pitch-black humour (check)
• Grotesque horror (double-check)
• Engaging but flawed characters (not really…)
• Unpredictable plot (nope)
• Graphic and memorable imagery (another no)
• Tongue in cheek, self-referential, meta (*insert embarrassed face emoji here*)
Too late now I suppose. I’ve pretty much hit my word count already and I have other reviews to write up, plus I really wanted to watch that new Fear Street movie on Netflix tonight (I’ve been hearing good things).
Let’s wrap it up with my trademark closing paragraph, complete with social media friendly quotable line.
The Review: Act Three (Wherein we draw things to a close)
Human Shaped Fiends manages the seemingly impossible eleven books into the Splatter Western series. It is genuinely unique and it manages to shock and appal, even given the typically extreme nature of the series. I can well imagine this being a controversial entry that will divide opinion. The best books the horror genre has to offer often do.
This review was initially written for and published by Horroroasis.com
Check out their site for horror book and movie reviews, articles, giveaways and more.
James Barton is Sheriff in crime-ridden Los Angeles. Incidents of violence are escalating and the Sheriff has little, if any control over the population as his various addictions, the result of a troubled past and an unrequited love with a local prostitute, render him both unwilling and unable to take action.
When a local gang embark on a killing spree, murdering indiscriminately and without consequence, the town grows increasingly restless as their crimes go unpunished. A new arrival in town, tasked with bringing the gang to justice, acts as a catalyst for depravity and mayhem that reaches levels only Chandler Morrison can deliver.
The Review: Act One (Wherein the scene is set)
I feel more than a little deceitful for writing this (factually accurate but intentionally misleading) synopsis. While everything I’ve set out above may take place in ‘Human Shaped Fiends’, that is not what the book is really about and I’m omitting a large and important part of the story to avoid spoilers. Needless to say, when you read this book, expect the unexpected.
The Splatter Western series has been nothing if not unpredictable to date, with entries boasting cosmic horror, poetry and werewolves at different times. ‘Human Shaped Fiends’ is possibly the most unusual offering to date. It also happens to be one of the series best.
Reviewers Interlude – Part One
Reading over what I’ve written so far, I do wonder whether it was such a good idea to set out my review with acts and meta interludes. It seemed funny last night in bed when I thought of it, but my brain does have a knack for convincing me I’m funnier than I am when I’m mostly asleep. I’m not even sure a book review can be meta, can it?
Flawed logic notwithstanding, feels like I’m kind’ve committed now though and, silver lining, these interludes are making it really easy to hit my word count.
The Review: Act Two (Wherein we get to the heart of the matter)
The best books leave you wanting more and, at just under 100 pages, ‘Human Shaped Fiends’ was one I read in one sitting and didn’t want to end. That is no slight against the book’s length (I felt the same about Kristopher Triana’s ‘The Thirteenth Koyote’, which is well over 500 pages), more a comment on what a good time this book is. A big part of the appeal to me was the rich vein of absurdity throughout, whether that be the knowingly over the top and gleefully grotesque elements casually dropped into the main story or the larger-than-life self-deprecation of the other sections. The Splatter Western series is such an escapist and hyper-real concept that it’s a lot of fun to read one that leans into the humorous elements.
Reviewers Interlude – Part Two
Looking back at the notes I made while reading the book, I check to see how many I’ve managed to incorporate into my review.
• Pitch-black humour (check)
• Grotesque horror (double-check)
• Engaging but flawed characters (not really…)
• Unpredictable plot (nope)
• Graphic and memorable imagery (another no)
• Tongue in cheek, self-referential, meta (*insert embarrassed face emoji here*)
Too late now I suppose. I’ve pretty much hit my word count already and I have other reviews to write up, plus I really wanted to watch that new Fear Street movie on Netflix tonight (I’ve been hearing good things).
Let’s wrap it up with my trademark closing paragraph, complete with social media friendly quotable line.
The Review: Act Three (Wherein we draw things to a close)
Human Shaped Fiends manages the seemingly impossible eleven books into the Splatter Western series. It is genuinely unique and it manages to shock and appal, even given the typically extreme nature of the series. I can well imagine this being a controversial entry that will divide opinion. The best books the horror genre has to offer often do.
This review was initially written for and published by Horroroasis.com
Check out their site for horror book and movie reviews, articles, giveaways and more.
July 4, 2021
I roll my eyes, laugh, and maybe even applaud a little at the absurd meta-ness (I'm not even sure if that's a word) as I read the final paragraphs of HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS by Chandler Morrison. Standing up out of the recliner I power off my Kindle and dig my phone out of my pocket so I can update my Goodreads progress to show that I've finished reading the novella. Satisfied, I head downstairs to the accompaniment of fireworks booming outside even though it isn't the 4th quite yet, there is still some time before the midnight hour strikes. I fill a glass with water and sit down at the kitchen table, digging my phone out once again and opening a new Google doc, this Google doc, to start writing this review. I think I'll make it a bit meta just like Morrison did with his Splatter Western. My fingers fire back and forth across the digital keyboard of my phone as I start to write this review. This is my second…
...time reading anything from Chandler Morrison. I've previously read DEAD INSIDE which I didn't much care for. That story wasn't for me but I did see the writing potential hidden behind all that shock and awe. That potential in combination with the cover for HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS had me cautiously optimistic about giving this novella a shot. Can we stop and take a moment to talk about that cover art? Justin T. Coons continues to outdo himself every single time with these Splatter Western covers. Each new one he releases is always my new favorite in the series and this cover is no exception to that rule. I'm not sure what kind of devilish pact down at the crossroads Coons has made for his artistic talents but the man can do no wrong and in my opinion is the best cover artist in the game right now.
Enough of my ramblings though, let's get to actually talking about the story within HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS. This novella is an interesting combination of part weird, wild, grotesque Splatter Western and part meta commentary of Chandler Morrison inserting himself into the story via interludes where he himself is struggling to write said Splatter Western. I want to talk about those interludes for a moment. While they were an interesting look into Morrison’s mindset (whether any of it was true or purley fiction is another matter) they did distract and pull me somewhat out of the depraved and brutally violent world of 1854 Los Angeles. That being said I was intrigued with Morrison’s struggles to pen this novella, sticking to his brand, and checking off boxes for things (drug abuse, damaged youth, etc.) to insert within the story in order to fulfill what he thinks is expected of him now by his fans. I am curious if fans truly expect the obscene from Morrison or if he has come to expect that of himself?
The Western portions of HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS are overflowing with wicked people carrying out cruel acts. They are fiends in human shape. There is an evil to be found within everyone who populates these pages. Some habor dark secrets while others flaunt their perversions for all to see. Morrison’s 1854 Los Angeles is a dismal place devoid of the slightest shreds of humanity, making the reader feel as if they have been taken advantage of in some way. Heinously barbaric acts of violence are perpetuated on a whim without a second thought. Blood, guts, gore, and other bodily fluids galore. When the actions of a murderous gang of outlaws collide with the inaction of the drugalleded lovesick sheriff the population’s need for justice quickly escalates into a frenzied thirst for death and destruction. If you are searching for a heaping helping of savagery in your wild west then look no further.
As a brief aside I wanted to mention my favorite character in the novella was simply known as the piano man. I wanted more from this mysterious figure but alas, maybe we will learn more about him in another time and place. The late great Sig Haig would have been the absolute perfect casting in an adaptation.
HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS by Chandler Morrison makes a daring narrative choice, an author inserting himself into his own story. A ferociously fun yet filthy Splatter Western packed with grotesque absurdity, deplorable characters, ruthless brazen violence, and meta self depreciation that fans have come to, well, seemingly expect from Morrison. I thoroughly enjoyed this depraved ride and am again cautiously optimistic about picking up another book...
...from Morrison. There, I hope that review had enough bite because, you know, that's my brand, I think to myself as I lay my phone down on the table. Standing up I head to the bathroom but stop dead in my tracks as I catch a side eye glimpse of myself in the mirror. My once white tee is stained a dark, almost purplish crimson. Bits of gore and blood, still sticky and wet to the touch, paint my mouth and chin. I hesitantly walk back to the kitchen and that's when I first notice the girl laying on the floor. She's not quite dead yet it seems, her breathing is uneven and shallow. Blood slowly oozes from two ragged holes in the side of her neck. I stare in wonderment at her disheveled form upon the floor. I don't even know who she is or how she came to be dying in my kitchen. Shrugging I step over her body to the sink and wash off my face. I'll have to clean the rest of this mess up later, right now I've got a video review to go film. I smirk thinking, this review definitely has bite now. Gotta give the people what they want.
Video review: Coming soon.
...time reading anything from Chandler Morrison. I've previously read DEAD INSIDE which I didn't much care for. That story wasn't for me but I did see the writing potential hidden behind all that shock and awe. That potential in combination with the cover for HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS had me cautiously optimistic about giving this novella a shot. Can we stop and take a moment to talk about that cover art? Justin T. Coons continues to outdo himself every single time with these Splatter Western covers. Each new one he releases is always my new favorite in the series and this cover is no exception to that rule. I'm not sure what kind of devilish pact down at the crossroads Coons has made for his artistic talents but the man can do no wrong and in my opinion is the best cover artist in the game right now.
Enough of my ramblings though, let's get to actually talking about the story within HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS. This novella is an interesting combination of part weird, wild, grotesque Splatter Western and part meta commentary of Chandler Morrison inserting himself into the story via interludes where he himself is struggling to write said Splatter Western. I want to talk about those interludes for a moment. While they were an interesting look into Morrison’s mindset (whether any of it was true or purley fiction is another matter) they did distract and pull me somewhat out of the depraved and brutally violent world of 1854 Los Angeles. That being said I was intrigued with Morrison’s struggles to pen this novella, sticking to his brand, and checking off boxes for things (drug abuse, damaged youth, etc.) to insert within the story in order to fulfill what he thinks is expected of him now by his fans. I am curious if fans truly expect the obscene from Morrison or if he has come to expect that of himself?
The Western portions of HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS are overflowing with wicked people carrying out cruel acts. They are fiends in human shape. There is an evil to be found within everyone who populates these pages. Some habor dark secrets while others flaunt their perversions for all to see. Morrison’s 1854 Los Angeles is a dismal place devoid of the slightest shreds of humanity, making the reader feel as if they have been taken advantage of in some way. Heinously barbaric acts of violence are perpetuated on a whim without a second thought. Blood, guts, gore, and other bodily fluids galore. When the actions of a murderous gang of outlaws collide with the inaction of the drugalleded lovesick sheriff the population’s need for justice quickly escalates into a frenzied thirst for death and destruction. If you are searching for a heaping helping of savagery in your wild west then look no further.
As a brief aside I wanted to mention my favorite character in the novella was simply known as the piano man. I wanted more from this mysterious figure but alas, maybe we will learn more about him in another time and place. The late great Sig Haig would have been the absolute perfect casting in an adaptation.
HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS by Chandler Morrison makes a daring narrative choice, an author inserting himself into his own story. A ferociously fun yet filthy Splatter Western packed with grotesque absurdity, deplorable characters, ruthless brazen violence, and meta self depreciation that fans have come to, well, seemingly expect from Morrison. I thoroughly enjoyed this depraved ride and am again cautiously optimistic about picking up another book...
...from Morrison. There, I hope that review had enough bite because, you know, that's my brand, I think to myself as I lay my phone down on the table. Standing up I head to the bathroom but stop dead in my tracks as I catch a side eye glimpse of myself in the mirror. My once white tee is stained a dark, almost purplish crimson. Bits of gore and blood, still sticky and wet to the touch, paint my mouth and chin. I hesitantly walk back to the kitchen and that's when I first notice the girl laying on the floor. She's not quite dead yet it seems, her breathing is uneven and shallow. Blood slowly oozes from two ragged holes in the side of her neck. I stare in wonderment at her disheveled form upon the floor. I don't even know who she is or how she came to be dying in my kitchen. Shrugging I step over her body to the sink and wash off my face. I'll have to clean the rest of this mess up later, right now I've got a video review to go film. I smirk thinking, this review definitely has bite now. Gotta give the people what they want.
Video review: Coming soon.
July 8, 2021
OK, I'm not sure how I feel about this book. I loved it, but I also didn't love it! To start with, the inserts about Chandlers progress on writing this book, that were placed after every chapter or so of the story, really bugged me. I didn't feel they needed to be there, I felt they distracted from the story. But by the end, I loved them.....I think this book was true to Chandlers style and very enjoyable. But I've been left confused as to how I feel about it.....its a strange one. Read it for yourself....I'd love to see how others felt about it!! 🤠🤠🤠🤠
July 12, 2021
This mother effer... I am right on the edge of saying this is my favorite from Chandler and it's blowing my mind.
I pride myself on being a reader, but a damn finicky reader I am, I won't read anything set before like 1980, for one, because it's just not interesting, the world before my birth (joking, but seriously). So to give a western even a chance, it had to come from this man.
I didn't read the blurb, I didn't have to, I saw the name and picked it up instantly, I also noticed his portrait on the cover and only laughed because of-fucking-course Chandler Morrison wants to be on his own cover, I've seen enough of his (real or faked) ego to not question such things.
Anyway, brilliant as always, I wouldn't change a thing, and honestly, I'm like a huge fan of whatever he writes. I will read it because the words are perfect.
I pride myself on being a reader, but a damn finicky reader I am, I won't read anything set before like 1980, for one, because it's just not interesting, the world before my birth (joking, but seriously). So to give a western even a chance, it had to come from this man.
I didn't read the blurb, I didn't have to, I saw the name and picked it up instantly, I also noticed his portrait on the cover and only laughed because of-fucking-course Chandler Morrison wants to be on his own cover, I've seen enough of his (real or faked) ego to not question such things.
Anyway, brilliant as always, I wouldn't change a thing, and honestly, I'm like a huge fan of whatever he writes. I will read it because the words are perfect.
July 9, 2021
This is the strangest out of all the Splatter Westerns I’ve read but it really worked for me. It’s also my first time reading any of Chandler Morrison’s work and I’m more than a little bit impressed. I finished this and I immediately purchased more of his books.
Human-Shaped Fiends is the 11th book in the Splatter Western series and has many of their usual elements but is incredibly unique as it’s also a satirical parody of sorts. Reading this felt like an emotional roller coaster. Some chapters I was appalled, disgusted and shocked whilst other chapters had me almost in stitches due to the ridiculous nature of it.
This Splatter Western isn’t going to work for all people because there are interludes throughout which may make some readers feel like they are being pulled out of the Western narrative. I enjoyed it immensely though and one of the main reasons I think I loved this so much was Chandler’s decision to not take himself too seriously. He took a risk with his version of a Splatter Western but in my eyes it paid off.
In terms of the storyline, it’s set in Las Angeles, 1854 where a gang of men go on a horrific killing spree. They are pursued by the town Sheriff who is in love with a local prostitute. Nothing too unique but still thoroughly entertaining!
It was a wild, revolting ride and I enjoyed every minute of it. “Gimme gimme (more)” of that Chandler brand! Those who love black humour, satirical writing and extreme horror will likely love this one.
Thank you to DHP and Night Worms for the opportunity to review this.
Human-Shaped Fiends is the 11th book in the Splatter Western series and has many of their usual elements but is incredibly unique as it’s also a satirical parody of sorts. Reading this felt like an emotional roller coaster. Some chapters I was appalled, disgusted and shocked whilst other chapters had me almost in stitches due to the ridiculous nature of it.
This Splatter Western isn’t going to work for all people because there are interludes throughout which may make some readers feel like they are being pulled out of the Western narrative. I enjoyed it immensely though and one of the main reasons I think I loved this so much was Chandler’s decision to not take himself too seriously. He took a risk with his version of a Splatter Western but in my eyes it paid off.
In terms of the storyline, it’s set in Las Angeles, 1854 where a gang of men go on a horrific killing spree. They are pursued by the town Sheriff who is in love with a local prostitute. Nothing too unique but still thoroughly entertaining!
It was a wild, revolting ride and I enjoyed every minute of it. “Gimme gimme (more)” of that Chandler brand! Those who love black humour, satirical writing and extreme horror will likely love this one.
Thank you to DHP and Night Worms for the opportunity to review this.
July 4, 2021
In some ways this is Chandler's best book yet. Would recommend the reader skip the interludes or read them all at the end as a kind of afterword; that said, the prose is cracking, the imagery is brutal and the Western story is excellent if slightly rushed in the last quarter. Its violence and imagery reminds me of a Simon McHardy novel, which is high praise imo. A superb addition to the DHP Splatter Western line of books!
July 21, 2021
This was absolutely bloody brilliant!
The interludes were the best. Chandler writes himself into the story, struggling to write a western. I thought it was so clever and I found myself cackling dementedly. I never thought I’d ever read a western but here we are.
It’s Chandler, Bitches.
The interludes were the best. Chandler writes himself into the story, struggling to write a western. I thought it was so clever and I found myself cackling dementedly. I never thought I’d ever read a western but here we are.
It’s Chandler, Bitches.
July 10, 2023
Well, well, well… Look what we have here: a Splatterpunk western! I like it.
Full review on my Booktube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U9TU...
Full review on my Booktube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U9TU...
May 24, 2025
HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS [2021] By Chandler Morrison
My Review 2.0 Stars
Tragically, this was the final Morrison novel that my friend, a Superfan of Morrison’s, was Buddy-Reading with me on the horror book club Splatterpunk. The author was contracted to write a Splatter Western for the popular series. Morrison (through the words or content of the novella "Human-Shaped Fiends" was unwilling or unable to carry out the contractual agreement). Conversely, he chose to incorporate his personal observations and thoughts as he ostensibly "pressed on" to complete a Splatterpunk Western.
The story does include a debauched tale of the old west with bullet points to include deviant sex (including incest producing a freak, sexual exploitation of the mentally handicapped, brutal rape with torture and physical assault, multiple mind-altering substances naturally including laudanum, alcohol, and opium, in addition to estranged youth). These themes inserted into the storyline were largely due to giving his fans what they expect of him. The tale is as bleak and black as Bluebeard's heart. It is about evil in deeds and in thoughts and as stark black as a starless night sky. The vignettes were like synapses of evil.
I was also not prepared for the meta-aspect of the storytelling. Personal parodies of his shortcomings are intermingled with his struggle to complete the "Western". Transgressive satire sure, and if Morrison uncaps his pen, he can make you smile if not laugh out loud. So yes, much of his writer's block was Morrison-made. It is believable that he wants to write the kind of novel his readers "expect", and he goes to the extreme of acting out some egregious elements of his " brand" at the end which I will not repeat.
The Western story has no redeeming qualities that I can see. Injecting himself into the book only makes it overall somewhat more readable. It is my opinion that Morrison should never have signed a contract to write a "Western" to join the current titles in the collection.
I am a big fan of his writing, and that does not change. There are "hits" and there are "misses". This was a " miss" in my opinion.
One final thing. The book I awarded 1 Star. The second Star was for the stunning Cover Art.
My Review 2.0 Stars
Tragically, this was the final Morrison novel that my friend, a Superfan of Morrison’s, was Buddy-Reading with me on the horror book club Splatterpunk. The author was contracted to write a Splatter Western for the popular series. Morrison (through the words or content of the novella "Human-Shaped Fiends" was unwilling or unable to carry out the contractual agreement). Conversely, he chose to incorporate his personal observations and thoughts as he ostensibly "pressed on" to complete a Splatterpunk Western.
The story does include a debauched tale of the old west with bullet points to include deviant sex (including incest producing a freak, sexual exploitation of the mentally handicapped, brutal rape with torture and physical assault, multiple mind-altering substances naturally including laudanum, alcohol, and opium, in addition to estranged youth). These themes inserted into the storyline were largely due to giving his fans what they expect of him. The tale is as bleak and black as Bluebeard's heart. It is about evil in deeds and in thoughts and as stark black as a starless night sky. The vignettes were like synapses of evil.
I was also not prepared for the meta-aspect of the storytelling. Personal parodies of his shortcomings are intermingled with his struggle to complete the "Western". Transgressive satire sure, and if Morrison uncaps his pen, he can make you smile if not laugh out loud. So yes, much of his writer's block was Morrison-made. It is believable that he wants to write the kind of novel his readers "expect", and he goes to the extreme of acting out some egregious elements of his " brand" at the end which I will not repeat.
The Western story has no redeeming qualities that I can see. Injecting himself into the book only makes it overall somewhat more readable. It is my opinion that Morrison should never have signed a contract to write a "Western" to join the current titles in the collection.
I am a big fan of his writing, and that does not change. There are "hits" and there are "misses". This was a " miss" in my opinion.
One final thing. The book I awarded 1 Star. The second Star was for the stunning Cover Art.
July 16, 2021
I have read many fucked up books, and never once have I been triggered. But I guess the saying is true “there is always a first time for everything”. This book triggered me so badly, and I can’t really pinpoint what it was about it. What I do know is that I can remember clenching my ass so hard during a scene that it looked like I was about to fall off the bed. With that being said CW for rape, and its a rough scene. I have never hated a man more than I did when reading this specific scene. The most vial human ever!
I want to touch a little bit on why this book didn’t work for me. The interludes. Wow, did they throw me off. I feel like these breaks really didn’t do anything for the story other than disturb my reading experience. I really hate bashing on how an author writes/formats their books, it’s their art after all, and who am I to say anything about it? But I feel like if it weren’t for those breaks I would’ve really enjoyed this. Ass clenching and all. I always say take my review with a grain of salt because I'm in the minority with my rating. For most of the folks that I read this book with, this story really did it for them. But for me it was a big no.
Thanks to Night Worms for my copy!
I want to touch a little bit on why this book didn’t work for me. The interludes. Wow, did they throw me off. I feel like these breaks really didn’t do anything for the story other than disturb my reading experience. I really hate bashing on how an author writes/formats their books, it’s their art after all, and who am I to say anything about it? But I feel like if it weren’t for those breaks I would’ve really enjoyed this. Ass clenching and all. I always say take my review with a grain of salt because I'm in the minority with my rating. For most of the folks that I read this book with, this story really did it for them. But for me it was a big no.
Thanks to Night Worms for my copy!
July 7, 2021
“𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻’ 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗯𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗶𝗿. 𝗠𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗼𝘀.”
Phew, I’m sitting here thinking to myself….how the hell am I going to review this? But that’s kind of what Chandler Morrison does to you. The first time this happened was with 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲.
When I saw that Chandler Morrison wrote Book 11 in the Splatter Western series by Deaths Head Press, I shrieked. I knew it was going to be something wild, because “on brand.” Justin Coons killed it with this cover too.
Los Angeles, 1854. The Alvitre gang goes on a killing spree. Sheriff Barton is consumed by both his love of a prostitute and opium. Crime is rising, and the Mayor decides to bring in the big guns: David Brown.
The best part of this entire novella, in my opinion, was the interludes. So much ridiculousness packed in with an absolutely gore filled story. I also really felt horrible for Innocencia.
I laughed, I cringed, and overall I had a pretty good time with 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀.
Let’s just end this with a quote:
“𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵.”
I still don’t even know what I read 😂
4⭐️
Thank you to Night Worms for the review copy!
Phew, I’m sitting here thinking to myself….how the hell am I going to review this? But that’s kind of what Chandler Morrison does to you. The first time this happened was with 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲.
When I saw that Chandler Morrison wrote Book 11 in the Splatter Western series by Deaths Head Press, I shrieked. I knew it was going to be something wild, because “on brand.” Justin Coons killed it with this cover too.
Los Angeles, 1854. The Alvitre gang goes on a killing spree. Sheriff Barton is consumed by both his love of a prostitute and opium. Crime is rising, and the Mayor decides to bring in the big guns: David Brown.
The best part of this entire novella, in my opinion, was the interludes. So much ridiculousness packed in with an absolutely gore filled story. I also really felt horrible for Innocencia.
I laughed, I cringed, and overall I had a pretty good time with 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀.
Let’s just end this with a quote:
“𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵.”
I still don’t even know what I read 😂
4⭐️
Thank you to Night Worms for the review copy!
July 10, 2021
Ha! Yep … it’s another Chandler book. Did I seriously stay up all day reading this book and get no sleep before work? Yep! Did I finish it in one sitting? Yep! Was it totally worth it? Yep, even better than I expected!
The 11th book in the splatter western series by Death’s Head Press is Human-Shaped Fiends by Chandler Morrison. No this is not like a “series”, each book is its own individual story and you can pick up and start anywhere.
I read this book hella fast and couldn’t put it down!
It was definitely a hats off to all chandler fans out there that have read some of his books. While reading a gore filled western , we also get fun interludes into Chandler's process through the whole ordeal. And while he thinks he is giving the “fans” what they want and checking off boxes (insert trigger warnings here because there are too many to count) , the real fun for me was the funny commentary that is chandler’s life. Is it really how this story came about? We may never know. And that damn Chandler is always leaving me with so many unanswered questions and wags it like a juicy piece of steak right in front of my face, I swear!!!! All I can say is GIMME GIMME MoRE GIMME MoRE of that Chandler, BiTcH!!!! 5/5 ⭐️s
The 11th book in the splatter western series by Death’s Head Press is Human-Shaped Fiends by Chandler Morrison. No this is not like a “series”, each book is its own individual story and you can pick up and start anywhere.
I read this book hella fast and couldn’t put it down!
It was definitely a hats off to all chandler fans out there that have read some of his books. While reading a gore filled western , we also get fun interludes into Chandler's process through the whole ordeal. And while he thinks he is giving the “fans” what they want and checking off boxes (insert trigger warnings here because there are too many to count) , the real fun for me was the funny commentary that is chandler’s life. Is it really how this story came about? We may never know. And that damn Chandler is always leaving me with so many unanswered questions and wags it like a juicy piece of steak right in front of my face, I swear!!!! All I can say is GIMME GIMME MoRE GIMME MoRE of that Chandler, BiTcH!!!! 5/5 ⭐️s
November 28, 2023
Perhaps the Funniest Splatter Western I've read to date with the Meta side of thing, but don't let that fool you, there's still a ton of blood, gore, and tits. It's part of his brand after all.
July 2, 2021
The cursor on my screen is just sitting there. Blinking. Mocking me. How do I start reviewing this book?! I can’t!! Even though I’ve made promises to do so. My IG reading group is counting on me. I was counting on me.
While watching my blank screen sitting there static, my coffee has gone cold and stale. I drink it anyway. I need the fix to keep going. My workstation is a mess - kids toys everywhere! Nobody would think any work got done here. LEGO bricks all over the desk…but I would rather have them at a safe distance from the floor and my feet, so I won’t have to the experience the excruciating pain of stepping on one.
Michael…you are doing it again! Talking to yourself and procrastinating.
Come on brain…what did YOU think of what I’ve just read..?!
It is too easy to say: “I loved it!! Give it all the stars that GoodReads or Instagram can handle. “. But I did love it. And it does deserve all the stars. I loved that it tried to be a different beast than the other splatter westerns. And that Morrison tried to tread on new ground. I looooved the meta-layers (Never go full meta!).
As with his other books, ALONG THE PATH TO TORMENT and DEAD INSIDE, Morrison’s writing style hits home for me - it feels like a warm cozy blanket that massages your body…no matter how depraved the words or subject matter is.
I won’t even go into any plotlines here as I won’t be able to do it any justice - and any reader should have the experience of going into it blind.
THIS BOOK IS FUCKED UP - I was told. And fucked up it was - but compared to the two former books of his, I still found this one less fucked. Maybe my brain only has grown accustomed to all the checked boxes that Morrison needs to hit?! And having Morrison paint himself into a corner and checking of said boxes, only fills my reading heart with joy, and makes me want to yell: KEEP EM COMING, MORRISON! I love what you are doing with your brand.
Hmmm…maybe I should written some of these thoughts down…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
@deaths_head_press @chandler.morrison @justintcoons #humanshapedfiends #splatterwesterns
While watching my blank screen sitting there static, my coffee has gone cold and stale. I drink it anyway. I need the fix to keep going. My workstation is a mess - kids toys everywhere! Nobody would think any work got done here. LEGO bricks all over the desk…but I would rather have them at a safe distance from the floor and my feet, so I won’t have to the experience the excruciating pain of stepping on one.
Michael…you are doing it again! Talking to yourself and procrastinating.
Come on brain…what did YOU think of what I’ve just read..?!
It is too easy to say: “I loved it!! Give it all the stars that GoodReads or Instagram can handle. “. But I did love it. And it does deserve all the stars. I loved that it tried to be a different beast than the other splatter westerns. And that Morrison tried to tread on new ground. I looooved the meta-layers (Never go full meta!).
As with his other books, ALONG THE PATH TO TORMENT and DEAD INSIDE, Morrison’s writing style hits home for me - it feels like a warm cozy blanket that massages your body…no matter how depraved the words or subject matter is.
I won’t even go into any plotlines here as I won’t be able to do it any justice - and any reader should have the experience of going into it blind.
THIS BOOK IS FUCKED UP - I was told. And fucked up it was - but compared to the two former books of his, I still found this one less fucked. Maybe my brain only has grown accustomed to all the checked boxes that Morrison needs to hit?! And having Morrison paint himself into a corner and checking of said boxes, only fills my reading heart with joy, and makes me want to yell: KEEP EM COMING, MORRISON! I love what you are doing with your brand.
Hmmm…maybe I should written some of these thoughts down…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
@deaths_head_press @chandler.morrison @justintcoons #humanshapedfiends #splatterwesterns
July 16, 2021
HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS by Chandler Morrison is Book 11 in the Splatter Western series from Death's Head Press. And it is such a different type of book than any in the series! The book is told in two parts: one part splatter western, one part self-aware and meta fiction from Morrison's own standpoint about creating and writing said western. WHAT?! Exactly. I found myself way more drawn to the meta portions of the story than the western, but then that makes me feel like I fell into a planted trap at the same time. This book is such a mental mind f*ck and if you are into Morrison's books you will love this one! And if you are new to him with this book then... welcome to the party! 3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads.
Thanks to Night Worms, Deaths Head Press, and Chandler Morrison for the #NightWormsBookParty review copy
Thanks to Night Worms, Deaths Head Press, and Chandler Morrison for the #NightWormsBookParty review copy
July 14, 2021
Well what I can I say? This was definitely a Chandler Morrison western. What exactly that means you'll find out when you read the book. At first I wasn't sure how I felt, then I really liked it, then didn't care much for it, but now that it's all over I realize I love this book.. 4/5 skulls 💀
June 22, 2023
This was my first splatterpunk horror and I can confidently say this is not for me.😆 Yes yes, I get that this one in particular is satirical, author is going full meta, it's supposed to have disturbing content and all that, but I enjoyed literally nothing whatsoever when it comes to this book. I get what he was going for, except it came off as trying too hard, and I never laughed or found anything interesting at any point. I just felt disgusted, disgruntled and disappointed for wasting my time reading this. The writing style itself was fine however and that's all I've got to say which isn't completely negative. Unless you really enjoy reading about extreme depravity without much point to it other than shock factor ( or just 'meta' purpose 🤦♂️), stay away from this one.
July 9, 2021
I love meta stuff. Favorite horror movie? Scream. Favorite Marvel superhero? Deadpool. Before you even open the book, there's the man himself on the cover. What is happening? Is Chandler Morrison in the old west? Is this some sort of Army of Darkness sorcery? What gives? Well...there's no portals in this book. What we get is a risky dual-reality narrative that mostly pays off, but your mileage is going to vary.
Let's talk about Chandler Morrison for a second. When it comes to his work, you either love it or you hate it. He talks about all of his novels in this book, though DEAD INSIDE (look it up) probably matters the most because a lot of the references made play with the reactions to that novel. I can't really say why, but I can say you'll get a lot more out of the interludes where Chandler is writing about writing HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS if you've read it. Probably even more if you're read everything by him. Extra points for following him on Twitter. It's hard to know what's real and what's not with Morrison because the fictional version of himself in this book isn't that different from his public persona. Maybe the fictional version is actually authentic. Maybe none of it (including the version we get on social media) is real. Who knows? What I'm trying to get at is that you will enjoy this book more if you have some idea of who Morrison is going in.
Do you have to have read his prior work to enjoy this? Absolutely not. The extremely twisted splatter western part of the novel is a lot. A lot of a lot. Make no mistake, you're getting into some of the most violent and vile stuff I've ever read. There's a gang terrorizing a town and the cure may be worse than the disease. You're not here for likable characters, so really it's just about strapping in and trying to not get bucked off. Expect the grotesque and unexpected. You might just get out alive.
4 out of 5 stars
*Thanks to Sadie Hartmann and Death's Head Press for the ebook ARC for review
Let's talk about Chandler Morrison for a second. When it comes to his work, you either love it or you hate it. He talks about all of his novels in this book, though DEAD INSIDE (look it up) probably matters the most because a lot of the references made play with the reactions to that novel. I can't really say why, but I can say you'll get a lot more out of the interludes where Chandler is writing about writing HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS if you've read it. Probably even more if you're read everything by him. Extra points for following him on Twitter. It's hard to know what's real and what's not with Morrison because the fictional version of himself in this book isn't that different from his public persona. Maybe the fictional version is actually authentic. Maybe none of it (including the version we get on social media) is real. Who knows? What I'm trying to get at is that you will enjoy this book more if you have some idea of who Morrison is going in.
Do you have to have read his prior work to enjoy this? Absolutely not. The extremely twisted splatter western part of the novel is a lot. A lot of a lot. Make no mistake, you're getting into some of the most violent and vile stuff I've ever read. There's a gang terrorizing a town and the cure may be worse than the disease. You're not here for likable characters, so really it's just about strapping in and trying to not get bucked off. Expect the grotesque and unexpected. You might just get out alive.
4 out of 5 stars
*Thanks to Sadie Hartmann and Death's Head Press for the ebook ARC for review
July 16, 2021
Another Splatter Western from Deaths Head Press completed, and I have to say...this one was definitely a strange one...strangest one I've read so far. What makes this addition to the Splatter Western series so unique, you might ask? Author Chandler Morrison has written himself into his own book and the outcome is pretty fantastic (Hurray for Meta-fiction)!
On one end of this novella, we have the author appearing in his story as a womanizing, narcissistic writer under contract to crank out a western while feeling torn between his love of the craft and what his "brand" requires of him. On the other end, we are introduced to the western world he is creating, 1850's Los Angeles, where we meet a plethora of characters. A gang of young outlaws on a killing spree, a love-sick sheriff under pressure in a crime ridden city, a young man with a repulsive secret, and more.
This novella felt very tongue-in-cheek while simultaneously being graphically violent (all the trigger warnings, folks) as is expected of a splatter western. If you're already a Chandler Morrison fan, this book will feel like a loving nod towards you, the reader. If you're like me and you've never read anything by Morrison until now, this is one hell of an introduction wrapped in a tiny package! HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS gives you black comedy, violence, flawed characters, crime, debauchery! You name it! If this sounds right up your alley, what are you waiting for?
(Special thanks to Night Worms, Deaths Head Press, and Chandler Morrison for this #NightWormsBookParty review copy!)
On one end of this novella, we have the author appearing in his story as a womanizing, narcissistic writer under contract to crank out a western while feeling torn between his love of the craft and what his "brand" requires of him. On the other end, we are introduced to the western world he is creating, 1850's Los Angeles, where we meet a plethora of characters. A gang of young outlaws on a killing spree, a love-sick sheriff under pressure in a crime ridden city, a young man with a repulsive secret, and more.
This novella felt very tongue-in-cheek while simultaneously being graphically violent (all the trigger warnings, folks) as is expected of a splatter western. If you're already a Chandler Morrison fan, this book will feel like a loving nod towards you, the reader. If you're like me and you've never read anything by Morrison until now, this is one hell of an introduction wrapped in a tiny package! HUMAN-SHAPED FIENDS gives you black comedy, violence, flawed characters, crime, debauchery! You name it! If this sounds right up your alley, what are you waiting for?
(Special thanks to Night Worms, Deaths Head Press, and Chandler Morrison for this #NightWormsBookParty review copy!)
July 6, 2021
Chandler Morrison does it again. Deaths Head Press does it again. These splatter westerns, for the most part have been a crazy ride. If you had told me I’d have read this many horror westerns in such a short amount of time, and wanted more I’d have told you you’re nuts. Yet here we are.
This book is nothing like my previous Morrison reads, except it is. There are hallmarks of a Morrison book here. If you know, you know. It’s brutal, it’s disgusting, it’s meta. Chandler is hyper self-aware of his brand, and it’s something that he uses in the meta segments of this book, which also happens to make this entry in the series wildly different than the rest.
If you are a fan of the author, pick this up, if you’re not a fan of the others, strap yourself in because there’s really no way to prepare you for your first Morrison. This is one of my favorite entry’s in the series, and as usual, I can’t wait for what’s next from both the author and the publisher.
This book is nothing like my previous Morrison reads, except it is. There are hallmarks of a Morrison book here. If you know, you know. It’s brutal, it’s disgusting, it’s meta. Chandler is hyper self-aware of his brand, and it’s something that he uses in the meta segments of this book, which also happens to make this entry in the series wildly different than the rest.
If you are a fan of the author, pick this up, if you’re not a fan of the others, strap yourself in because there’s really no way to prepare you for your first Morrison. This is one of my favorite entry’s in the series, and as usual, I can’t wait for what’s next from both the author and the publisher.
July 24, 2021
Well Chandler......You gave your fans what they wanted! Once again you knocked it out of the park. Fucking home run. I mean the first paragraph had me drooling.....
"The devil winds sweep along the corpse-strewn streets and swirl the fires into strange, dancing shapes as Los Angeles burns. Columns of smoke rise from flaming buildings, curling up into the black night sky where no stars can be seen. Men and women and children, wounded and bleeding and dying, cry out for their deaf God and absentee saviors and mothers long or newly dead. Horses with splayed-open stomachs and vacant black eyes lie sprawled and tangled in the dirt and the dust as huge green flies circle their spilt blood and cooling entails. A figure charred well beyond recognition hangs swaying from a streetlamp. Tiny fires still crackle along the folds of its soiled clothes."
Just fucking beautiful right there. But of course he delivers on all the witty lines and saying that us fans are getting use to. My favorite is.....
"Certainly don't look or smell clappy."
If I ever get "The Clap" you best believe I am gonna be trying to smell that shit. I hope I never do but weirder thing have happened.
Happy Reading and Splatter On.....
"The devil winds sweep along the corpse-strewn streets and swirl the fires into strange, dancing shapes as Los Angeles burns. Columns of smoke rise from flaming buildings, curling up into the black night sky where no stars can be seen. Men and women and children, wounded and bleeding and dying, cry out for their deaf God and absentee saviors and mothers long or newly dead. Horses with splayed-open stomachs and vacant black eyes lie sprawled and tangled in the dirt and the dust as huge green flies circle their spilt blood and cooling entails. A figure charred well beyond recognition hangs swaying from a streetlamp. Tiny fires still crackle along the folds of its soiled clothes."
Just fucking beautiful right there. But of course he delivers on all the witty lines and saying that us fans are getting use to. My favorite is.....
"Certainly don't look or smell clappy."
If I ever get "The Clap" you best believe I am gonna be trying to smell that shit. I hope I never do but weirder thing have happened.
Happy Reading and Splatter On.....
August 6, 2021
I really dug this book, and not just because I'm a character in it. Yes, you read that right.
Instead of just cranking out another grotesque-yet-beautifully-written tale of pretty twentysomethings being awful to each other, like Bret Easton Ellis after a night of perusing the old Something Awful forums, Morrison's delivered a thought-provoking and provocative look at, well, himself. HSF does a great job of engaging with Morrison's own view of his past work and the expectations he's laboring under going forward. It's unexpected, and sure to infuriate both extreme horror fans and armchair cowpokes alike. It's also excellent, and if you can stomach the usual Morrisonisms (all manner of awfulness are on display here, I'd be more specific but don't want to violate the T&Cs), it's well worth a trip to his dusty, bodily fluid-spattered versus of old Los Angeles.
Instead of just cranking out another grotesque-yet-beautifully-written tale of pretty twentysomethings being awful to each other, like Bret Easton Ellis after a night of perusing the old Something Awful forums, Morrison's delivered a thought-provoking and provocative look at, well, himself. HSF does a great job of engaging with Morrison's own view of his past work and the expectations he's laboring under going forward. It's unexpected, and sure to infuriate both extreme horror fans and armchair cowpokes alike. It's also excellent, and if you can stomach the usual Morrisonisms (all manner of awfulness are on display here, I'd be more specific but don't want to violate the T&Cs), it's well worth a trip to his dusty, bodily fluid-spattered versus of old Los Angeles.
August 4, 2021
This is some wild shit. I'll be honest, I still don't know what the hell I just experienced with this book. It's utterly bonkers, weird, crazy, brutal, absolutely fuckin' gross, and I loved every single moment of it.
I've heard a lot of people say that this level of weirdness is something they expect from this author, this being my first experience with his work, I can't comment on that. But it has made me want to read everything he's ever done. It also has insanely genius interludes where the author gets all meta with the reader, quite honestly, you gotta respect the boldness it takes to do that.
Another banger in the insane Splatter Western series.
I've heard a lot of people say that this level of weirdness is something they expect from this author, this being my first experience with his work, I can't comment on that. But it has made me want to read everything he's ever done. It also has insanely genius interludes where the author gets all meta with the reader, quite honestly, you gotta respect the boldness it takes to do that.
Another banger in the insane Splatter Western series.
July 3, 2021
Review coming soon!
August 28, 2021
4.0
In this Splatter Western, Chandler Morrison tells the story of a group of teen vigilantes causing chaos in 1854 Los Angeles. The chapters are interspersed with chapters from present-day Chandler in the process of writing of the novel. It was fun to get the chapters from the Chandler persona who is obsessed with fitting this latest project into his "brand" and aesthetic, while explaining authorial choices to friends who have read the previous chapter. These chapters were interesting, especially the commentary on what readers have come to expect from his work since writing Dead Inside.
As with most splatterpunk, it's not for the faint of heart. Many an exploding head in these pages, along with very sexually violent scenes.
TW: Rape, Sexual Violence, Torture, Incest
In this Splatter Western, Chandler Morrison tells the story of a group of teen vigilantes causing chaos in 1854 Los Angeles. The chapters are interspersed with chapters from present-day Chandler in the process of writing of the novel. It was fun to get the chapters from the Chandler persona who is obsessed with fitting this latest project into his "brand" and aesthetic, while explaining authorial choices to friends who have read the previous chapter. These chapters were interesting, especially the commentary on what readers have come to expect from his work since writing Dead Inside.
As with most splatterpunk, it's not for the faint of heart. Many an exploding head in these pages, along with very sexually violent scenes.
TW: Rape, Sexual Violence, Torture, Incest
July 12, 2021
Tl;dr This book is as close to perfection as one can get.
This will be a long review so buckle in, kiddos. Chandler Morrison, where did this come from?! It's a western, splatter, modern, meta-self critique novel.
Weird combination right? But I think I can help further. Think of Charles Bukowski high fiving Ishmael Reed while flipping Bret Easton Ellis off all on your favorite holiday. That is this freaking book.
I love horror and gore, but my first and true love is social commentary and satire. And let me tell you, this packs it all in. But more than that, Chandler is fucking with us, ALL of us. Himself, the reader, and other authors. (I'm disclaiming that I have never seen any others full of themselves on here.)
For the reader, he is making fun of us. Well, some readers. The ones that hate for a writer to look or write in any way that is not their common theme. He says over and over that he has to check certain boxes because fans are used them.
For authors, he is forcing them to see how they may take themselves too seriously. I thought this was clever and playful.
As for himself, he knows his great novel so far, has been Dead Inside so anyone who has read it will possibly be disappointed in Human Shaped Fiends. He feels he owes it to his fans but really, he doesn't. He owes us nothing and trying to come to terms with it.
For social commentary, man, he hit it out of the park. It's a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation. If he used other words than BIPOC or People with Disabilities, he could be dragged for it. But using BIPOC and People with Disabilities it could seem like he is taking an easy way out. It was jarring, because he puts you in this world where you have expectations of language and just mindf*cks you with it.
If you couldn't tell, I loved, loved, LOVED this one. It made my old lady literary analyzing heart so happy. He is an enigma but I think he chose to show himself a bit more in this and I am 100% loving it. This is what people write Master's thesis on. It's that freaking good.
5/5 imaginary literary loving lady boners.
This will be a long review so buckle in, kiddos. Chandler Morrison, where did this come from?! It's a western, splatter, modern, meta-self critique novel.
Weird combination right? But I think I can help further. Think of Charles Bukowski high fiving Ishmael Reed while flipping Bret Easton Ellis off all on your favorite holiday. That is this freaking book.
I love horror and gore, but my first and true love is social commentary and satire. And let me tell you, this packs it all in. But more than that, Chandler is fucking with us, ALL of us. Himself, the reader, and other authors. (I'm disclaiming that I have never seen any others full of themselves on here.)
For the reader, he is making fun of us. Well, some readers. The ones that hate for a writer to look or write in any way that is not their common theme. He says over and over that he has to check certain boxes because fans are used them.
For authors, he is forcing them to see how they may take themselves too seriously. I thought this was clever and playful.
As for himself, he knows his great novel so far, has been Dead Inside so anyone who has read it will possibly be disappointed in Human Shaped Fiends. He feels he owes it to his fans but really, he doesn't. He owes us nothing and trying to come to terms with it.
For social commentary, man, he hit it out of the park. It's a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation. If he used other words than BIPOC or People with Disabilities, he could be dragged for it. But using BIPOC and People with Disabilities it could seem like he is taking an easy way out. It was jarring, because he puts you in this world where you have expectations of language and just mindf*cks you with it.
If you couldn't tell, I loved, loved, LOVED this one. It made my old lady literary analyzing heart so happy. He is an enigma but I think he chose to show himself a bit more in this and I am 100% loving it. This is what people write Master's thesis on. It's that freaking good.
5/5 imaginary literary loving lady boners.
July 7, 2021
Human Shaped Fiends
Chandler Morrison does not disappoint! After reading Dead Inside which I enjoyed but somehow could not properly review (because whew!), I found myself staring down the barrel of yet another gory and fired-up novella, this time the 11th installment of the Splatter Western world by Deaths Head Press.
Chandler Morrison plus splatter western equals holy crap and a bunch of expletives!! Hands down a disturbing and terrifying read! The violence and imagery of a gang of bandidos in the San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles 1854, a Sheriff on their tail making sure he lays down the law, and a few questionable characters like prostitutes and a creepy piano player in between made for a fiery and vicious read.
The titillating read also introduces interludes between chapters. These are the author’s personal coping mechanisms and struggles with having to fulfill his contract of writing a Western and giving the readers what they want; a taste of his unique brand of depravity, which most of his fans devour!! It was interesting to read about his self-awareness, self-deprecation, and his struggles as he comes to terms with his writing style and wanting to fulfill what has drawn readers to him in the first place. Mr. Morrison has ingeniously succeeded in giving us both!! No worries, your brand is safe with us!! True grit indeed! Thanks to @nightworms for the review copy and just got a physical copy to add to my collection!!! Also, great cover by the talented @JustinCoons
Chandler Morrison does not disappoint! After reading Dead Inside which I enjoyed but somehow could not properly review (because whew!), I found myself staring down the barrel of yet another gory and fired-up novella, this time the 11th installment of the Splatter Western world by Deaths Head Press.
Chandler Morrison plus splatter western equals holy crap and a bunch of expletives!! Hands down a disturbing and terrifying read! The violence and imagery of a gang of bandidos in the San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles 1854, a Sheriff on their tail making sure he lays down the law, and a few questionable characters like prostitutes and a creepy piano player in between made for a fiery and vicious read.
The titillating read also introduces interludes between chapters. These are the author’s personal coping mechanisms and struggles with having to fulfill his contract of writing a Western and giving the readers what they want; a taste of his unique brand of depravity, which most of his fans devour!! It was interesting to read about his self-awareness, self-deprecation, and his struggles as he comes to terms with his writing style and wanting to fulfill what has drawn readers to him in the first place. Mr. Morrison has ingeniously succeeded in giving us both!! No worries, your brand is safe with us!! True grit indeed! Thanks to @nightworms for the review copy and just got a physical copy to add to my collection!!! Also, great cover by the talented @JustinCoons
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