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The Doom that Came to Astoria
DOOM IS COMING…but Charlie West is too busy striving toward a more hopeful future to notice. Eager to move on from a past scarred by pain, he accepts a teaching position at a school just outside Astoria, Oregon. He’d dreamt of this his whole life. Letting go. Leaving. Building his own life free of the shadows and darkness that plagued his formative youth.
Anxieties reel as Charlie works to settle, build friendships, and find his place in a new community. Allowing himself to dream at last, he is unaware that each step he takes leads him further into an intricate web set to ensnare him.
Never could he have imagined what awaited him, nor the extent of his own connection to the coming horrors.
As mental upheaval threatens to overpower him, Charlie is desperate to find out whether a person can ever really move on from their own past, their own pain. Follow Charlie as he grapples with who truly holds the reins of his life and future.
Anxieties reel as Charlie works to settle, build friendships, and find his place in a new community. Allowing himself to dream at last, he is unaware that each step he takes leads him further into an intricate web set to ensnare him.
Never could he have imagined what awaited him, nor the extent of his own connection to the coming horrors.
As mental upheaval threatens to overpower him, Charlie is desperate to find out whether a person can ever really move on from their own past, their own pain. Follow Charlie as he grapples with who truly holds the reins of his life and future.
- GenresHorror
304 pages, Paperback
Published May 27, 2022
12 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 31, 2022
A story about taking chances and confronting old hurts, Doom establishes a firm foundation for the trilogy to come.
One thing I loved: Randall shines a spotlight onto men's mental health via the main protagonist. Charlie is a nest of anxieties, insecurities, and intrusive thoughts. He often questions himself & his purpose...and I found him relatable.
There's clear passion in the telling of the tale, and at times it feels personal and cathartic. You'll find mystery, intrigue, and lots of emotion within these pages.
This is a beginning for Charlie West, but his story is far from over...
One thing I loved: Randall shines a spotlight onto men's mental health via the main protagonist. Charlie is a nest of anxieties, insecurities, and intrusive thoughts. He often questions himself & his purpose...and I found him relatable.
There's clear passion in the telling of the tale, and at times it feels personal and cathartic. You'll find mystery, intrigue, and lots of emotion within these pages.
This is a beginning for Charlie West, but his story is far from over...
September 24, 2022
A bold and exciting start to The Northwest Trilogy!
Charlie West, a man who has struggled with anxiety throughout his life, accepts a new teaching position outside of Astoria, Oregon in the hopes of leaving his troubled past behind. Settling in and making friends comes easier than expected (almost a little too easy) and he soon realizes darker agendas are in play. Not everyone can be trusted… not even himself.
As a horror fan, this was a true pleasure for me to read. Craig did a remarkable job helping his readers to emotionally connect with his characters. Especially with Charlie, who’s feelings of self-doubt and anxiety are described in such a way that you feel as if they were your own. This book wasn’t afraid to tackle the heavy topic of mental health, especially from a male perspective, and many people will be able to relate to it.
The plot was complex, starting off slowly, but building in intensity until the epic climax at the end, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way. The best parts for me, giving it that horror vibe, were the paranormal touches, the darker forces manipulating Charlie without his awareness, which effectively built up the suspense. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I recommend this book to people who enjoy paranormal thrillers and horror stories.
Charlie West, a man who has struggled with anxiety throughout his life, accepts a new teaching position outside of Astoria, Oregon in the hopes of leaving his troubled past behind. Settling in and making friends comes easier than expected (almost a little too easy) and he soon realizes darker agendas are in play. Not everyone can be trusted… not even himself.
As a horror fan, this was a true pleasure for me to read. Craig did a remarkable job helping his readers to emotionally connect with his characters. Especially with Charlie, who’s feelings of self-doubt and anxiety are described in such a way that you feel as if they were your own. This book wasn’t afraid to tackle the heavy topic of mental health, especially from a male perspective, and many people will be able to relate to it.
The plot was complex, starting off slowly, but building in intensity until the epic climax at the end, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way. The best parts for me, giving it that horror vibe, were the paranormal touches, the darker forces manipulating Charlie without his awareness, which effectively built up the suspense. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I recommend this book to people who enjoy paranormal thrillers and horror stories.
June 2, 2022
I don't normally go for this genre, but Randall has me turning the pages and staying up late for one more chapter!
June 9, 2022
DOOM! Doom is the debut novel from Craig Randall and it does not disappoint. It is filled with emotions and great characters and carries that slight h0rror vibe so well. It follows a man named Charlie West as he relocates for a job and is soon flung down the rabbit hole of something dark... something BIG... something that is sure to bring about DOOM to Astoria. It's a great story and even better, it's part of a series, so we get to continue to see what happens after Doom comes, and I am already planning to preorder my copy of books 2 and 3!
May 26, 2023
4.5/5
Craig Randall is one of my favorite poets and I really enjoyed his debut novel. As someone who loves the PNW and struggles with depression and anxiety, I was immediately drawn into Charlie’s world. I love how this story was told in the middle of a transition in Charlie’s life - both physically and emotionally - as Charlie moves from Portland to Astoria and begins to create a new life for himself away from the trauma of his past life. Or so he thinks. We the reader are kept in limbo for much of the story as we try to piece together the puzzle of Charlie’s life past and present until an intense finale in which it all comes together. I can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who in search of mental health representation and/or lovers of magical realism.
Craig Randall is one of my favorite poets and I really enjoyed his debut novel. As someone who loves the PNW and struggles with depression and anxiety, I was immediately drawn into Charlie’s world. I love how this story was told in the middle of a transition in Charlie’s life - both physically and emotionally - as Charlie moves from Portland to Astoria and begins to create a new life for himself away from the trauma of his past life. Or so he thinks. We the reader are kept in limbo for much of the story as we try to piece together the puzzle of Charlie’s life past and present until an intense finale in which it all comes together. I can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who in search of mental health representation and/or lovers of magical realism.
September 11, 2023
Just look at the book cover and the title (if you're familiar with what story the title is referencing) and you'll know exactly what this is about. Or do you? I thought I did, until I cracked this open and started reading. This is more than just a paranormal horror, it's a deep dive into a very real problem with mental health - just with those not-so-real horrors in the background. I relate to Charlie so much, and the mental turmoil he has suffered through.
I absolutely enjoyed the way this story was written. The emotions the characters go through are so thoroughly detailed, that you could feel the emotions as if you were the character yourself. And the scenes were painted with perfectly poetic wordage, you could practically imagine you're there in the setting.
If you don't read the author's note (you should), I suggest you read this one. The author's personal letter explains why he wrote the book, what his intentions and hopes were for it. This made me better understand the reason for - what I felt at the time - were rather too long winded repetitive scenes on Charlie's mental health. While I still feel it made the first half of the book a bit hard to chew through (the second half picks up significantly), I feel more understanding of the purpose for those scenes.
I'm eager to pick up the second book to continue learning about this world and the people in it! To see how Charlie is fairing. There's some wild things unfolding here, and the epilogue has me so interested in what's next!
I absolutely enjoyed the way this story was written. The emotions the characters go through are so thoroughly detailed, that you could feel the emotions as if you were the character yourself. And the scenes were painted with perfectly poetic wordage, you could practically imagine you're there in the setting.
If you don't read the author's note (you should), I suggest you read this one. The author's personal letter explains why he wrote the book, what his intentions and hopes were for it. This made me better understand the reason for - what I felt at the time - were rather too long winded repetitive scenes on Charlie's mental health. While I still feel it made the first half of the book a bit hard to chew through (the second half picks up significantly), I feel more understanding of the purpose for those scenes.
I'm eager to pick up the second book to continue learning about this world and the people in it! To see how Charlie is fairing. There's some wild things unfolding here, and the epilogue has me so interested in what's next!
June 3, 2022
4/5
*I'm not going to give you the 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. This. Book. Is. Important. I read quite a bit, and I couldn't tell you the last time I read a book that so honestly touches on the male perspective of mental health. And not from a 'this guy is doing bad things' aspect. I'm talking the main character and his honest struggles with anxiety and depression. Written so honestly and from experience. We need more of this in books.
2. **EDIT** this whole situation was addressed with this new version. This is the Author's preferred version, and I 100% appreciate and applaud the extra work Craig did to correct and improve this book! While I know this isn't about the book, per se, it is something Craig Randall has touched on and has been forthcoming about, so I'm going to address it here - but please know it has no bearing on my review. The kindle version I read was terribly formatted, with a lot of editorial mistakes that in my opinion should have been caught prior to being released. Typically I'd have gotten fed up with the formatting and just given up trying to read the darn book, but I really liked Charlie and wanted to see WTF was going to happen to him. I'm talking that every time I turned the page, I'd have to adjust the size in order to see the print - so turn, increase size, decrease size to turn the page, turn the page repeat the fiasco. Again, the author is aware of these issues and is working to fix them. Yay to Craig for taking on all of these exciting projects at the same time!
3. I'm so glad there's a 2nd book coming out. This ended on quite a large WTF just happened kind of cliffhanger, which would be fine if that's where the author intended to end it, but there is so much more I want to know. And it turns out, we'll be getting more of Charlie!
4. The characters were so endearing. I personally need strong characters over strong plot. I'm definitely not saying the plot wasn't strong, but I'm just saying that I really got invested in these characters, which is my favorite.
5. I love books that touch on religion and also paranormal/fantasy creatures. I'm not always a fan of fantasy as I've previously said in other reviews, but a different type of being or paranormal thriller/horror is something I can get down with - especially when there isn't gore, and there wasn't in this book.
6. This *might* be a spoiler, so maybe don't read this, but I need to know more about 'The Order' and the creatures! There are clearly separate sects of this order. What is it? Where/When did it start? How long has Charlie's family been a part of it? I'm kind of getting Lovecraftian vibes and there are just so many ways this could go. Craig, I'm going to need you to write faster!
*I'm not going to give you the 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. This. Book. Is. Important. I read quite a bit, and I couldn't tell you the last time I read a book that so honestly touches on the male perspective of mental health. And not from a 'this guy is doing bad things' aspect. I'm talking the main character and his honest struggles with anxiety and depression. Written so honestly and from experience. We need more of this in books.
2. **EDIT** this whole situation was addressed with this new version. This is the Author's preferred version, and I 100% appreciate and applaud the extra work Craig did to correct and improve this book! While I know this isn't about the book, per se, it is something Craig Randall has touched on and has been forthcoming about, so I'm going to address it here - but please know it has no bearing on my review. The kindle version I read was terribly formatted, with a lot of editorial mistakes that in my opinion should have been caught prior to being released. Typically I'd have gotten fed up with the formatting and just given up trying to read the darn book, but I really liked Charlie and wanted to see WTF was going to happen to him. I'm talking that every time I turned the page, I'd have to adjust the size in order to see the print - so turn, increase size, decrease size to turn the page, turn the page repeat the fiasco. Again, the author is aware of these issues and is working to fix them. Yay to Craig for taking on all of these exciting projects at the same time!
3. I'm so glad there's a 2nd book coming out. This ended on quite a large WTF just happened kind of cliffhanger, which would be fine if that's where the author intended to end it, but there is so much more I want to know. And it turns out, we'll be getting more of Charlie!
4. The characters were so endearing. I personally need strong characters over strong plot. I'm definitely not saying the plot wasn't strong, but I'm just saying that I really got invested in these characters, which is my favorite.
5. I love books that touch on religion and also paranormal/fantasy creatures. I'm not always a fan of fantasy as I've previously said in other reviews, but a different type of being or paranormal thriller/horror is something I can get down with - especially when there isn't gore, and there wasn't in this book.
6. This *might* be a spoiler, so maybe don't read this, but I need to know more about 'The Order' and the creatures! There are clearly separate sects of this order. What is it? Where/When did it start? How long has Charlie's family been a part of it? I'm kind of getting Lovecraftian vibes and there are just so many ways this could go. Craig, I'm going to need you to write faster!
September 20, 2021
Sometimes you see a book cover that immediately makes you go, "yup, gonna need that one." The Doom that Came to Astoria is one of those. Seeing the tendrils of an Elder God coming down over a bridge you've driven over countless times is a pretty easy sell for me.
Craig Randall's debut novel tells the story of Charlie West, a new teacher who accepts an out of the blue job offer at a small rural school outside of Astoria, Oregon. While Charlie thinks that this is an unexpected blessing to start his teaching career, there are darker forces at play guiding his future.
Going in to The Doom that Came to Astoria I really wanted to love it, and unfortunately I came out having mixed feelings.
I struggled through portions of the novel, partially due to the perspective changes occuring frequently, sometimes multiple times in a page. While I don't think that Doom adds anything particularly new to the genre, I enjoyed Randall's description of some of the seedier bars in Astoria and of the feeling of a beautiful day in Astoria.
I didn't love this one, but I'll be interested to see what happens in the rest of the Northwest Series.
3/5 Stars
Craig Randall's debut novel tells the story of Charlie West, a new teacher who accepts an out of the blue job offer at a small rural school outside of Astoria, Oregon. While Charlie thinks that this is an unexpected blessing to start his teaching career, there are darker forces at play guiding his future.
Going in to The Doom that Came to Astoria I really wanted to love it, and unfortunately I came out having mixed feelings.
I struggled through portions of the novel, partially due to the perspective changes occuring frequently, sometimes multiple times in a page. While I don't think that Doom adds anything particularly new to the genre, I enjoyed Randall's description of some of the seedier bars in Astoria and of the feeling of a beautiful day in Astoria.
I didn't love this one, but I'll be interested to see what happens in the rest of the Northwest Series.
3/5 Stars
June 2, 2022
Charlie West sets off to Astoria, Oregon to create a new life as a high school English teacher. We learn at the onset that he is also seeking to escape his difficult past (one marked by violence, abandonment, and a dark secret) and finally conquer his own demons. We root for Charlie as it becomes apparent that his escape will require dealing with dangerous forces.
Craig Randall succeeds in helping his readers understand the emotional chaos, the darkness, and the frustrations and fears that Charlie faces as he deals with his deep seated anxieties and the power of The Order, the organization which is hunting him down.
When he gets to town, he meets Trent and Ellie. Each comes to illustrate the possibility that someone can see and support the light in us or choose to lead us further into darkness. The omniscient narration allowed me to empathize with their situations as well as Charlie’s, and their development allowed me to hold onto hope and to wonder if that hope would be ill-placed. By the way, I really liked Ellie.
The beauty and ferocity of Astoria lends itself well as the setting of Charlie’s initial stop towards his future. Oregonians, or anyone who has visited this city, will enjoy the many references to iconic local landmarks and the mention of movies filmed there.
I’m eager to find out what Charlie will face in the second book of this trilogy and how his experiences in Astoria have made him stronger and better prepared to face whatever comes his way. I’ll order book two as soon as it’s available. I’ll also be looking for Craig’s poetry
Craig Randall succeeds in helping his readers understand the emotional chaos, the darkness, and the frustrations and fears that Charlie faces as he deals with his deep seated anxieties and the power of The Order, the organization which is hunting him down.
When he gets to town, he meets Trent and Ellie. Each comes to illustrate the possibility that someone can see and support the light in us or choose to lead us further into darkness. The omniscient narration allowed me to empathize with their situations as well as Charlie’s, and their development allowed me to hold onto hope and to wonder if that hope would be ill-placed. By the way, I really liked Ellie.
The beauty and ferocity of Astoria lends itself well as the setting of Charlie’s initial stop towards his future. Oregonians, or anyone who has visited this city, will enjoy the many references to iconic local landmarks and the mention of movies filmed there.
I’m eager to find out what Charlie will face in the second book of this trilogy and how his experiences in Astoria have made him stronger and better prepared to face whatever comes his way. I’ll order book two as soon as it’s available. I’ll also be looking for Craig’s poetry
September 26, 2021
A story about taking chances and confronting old hurts, Doom establishes a firm foundation for the trilogy to come.
One thing I loved: Randall shines a spotlight onto men's mental health via the main protagonist. Charlie is a nest of anxieties, insecurities, and intrusive thoughts. He often questions himself & his purpose...and I found him relatable.
There's clear passion in the telling of the tale, and at times it feels personal and cathartic. You'll find mystery, intrigue, and lots of emotion within these pages.
This is a beginning for Charlie West, but his story is far from over...
One thing I loved: Randall shines a spotlight onto men's mental health via the main protagonist. Charlie is a nest of anxieties, insecurities, and intrusive thoughts. He often questions himself & his purpose...and I found him relatable.
There's clear passion in the telling of the tale, and at times it feels personal and cathartic. You'll find mystery, intrigue, and lots of emotion within these pages.
This is a beginning for Charlie West, but his story is far from over...
September 3, 2023
An unsettling twist on doomsday!
Doomsday cults have been around since the beginning of time, but what if the cult itself was able to bring about the end? This is what’s explored in The Doom that Came to Astoria. Charlie West, the unassuming and unsuspecting key to total destruction, is played upon and coerced to do their bidding; however, hubris blinds their leader to what really is at play. Randall tells this story with a bald ruthlessness that kept me on edge.
Doomsday cults have been around since the beginning of time, but what if the cult itself was able to bring about the end? This is what’s explored in The Doom that Came to Astoria. Charlie West, the unassuming and unsuspecting key to total destruction, is played upon and coerced to do their bidding; however, hubris blinds their leader to what really is at play. Randall tells this story with a bald ruthlessness that kept me on edge.
May 24, 2023
Not my thing, plus the cover is kind of a spoiler
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2022
There’s no shortage of relatable emotion expressed in this story. Every ounce of anxiety, fear, doubt, rage, and regret that these characters face makes the energy between the reader and the events endured that much more tangible.
And when it comes to energy, there’s an abundance within. It brews and builds consistently, working up to the arrival of what the title promises: doom.
Once it’s here, once you’ve met the creatively constructed horrors so clearly and impressively inspired by the classics, you’ll relive each stressed emotion once more.
But the anxiety, fear, doubt, rage, and regret won’t keep you from stepping foot into the next installment—because intrigue will have you wanting to follow The Doom along with its devout harbingers.
And when it comes to energy, there’s an abundance within. It brews and builds consistently, working up to the arrival of what the title promises: doom.
Once it’s here, once you’ve met the creatively constructed horrors so clearly and impressively inspired by the classics, you’ll relive each stressed emotion once more.
But the anxiety, fear, doubt, rage, and regret won’t keep you from stepping foot into the next installment—because intrigue will have you wanting to follow The Doom along with its devout harbingers.
June 3, 2022
This book has amazing insight into the mind of a man who's searching for hope while struggling with his past that has forged it's way into his every day life and mental health. It's descriptive and paints a painstakingly clear picture of the turmoil the main character is going through, and the "doom" that is coming. If you're looking for a mystery that opens the door to deeper thought, this is the one for you!!
June 1, 2022
I'm not usually a fan of psychological horror but I couldn't put this book down, especially in the latter half. Anyone who has dealt with anxiety will be able to relate to the main character's state of mind, and much of the books could be seen as him coming to terms with it. The twists and turns keep coming and it ends in a much different place than I expected, can't wait for the next in the series!
June 1, 2022
I read and connected with this book, so now have bought copies for others. It's an important look at a man's perspective of processing anxiety and trauma, and an entertaining story to convey the message.
June 2, 2022
Fantastic read! The author keeps the reader hooked the entire time with real emotion, and suspense. Always keeping me wanting to read more, I can’t wait for part 2 of the trilogy!
May 31, 2022
Hope meets doom as the juxtaposition of a sleepy town and the undercurrent of horror serve to keep the you guessing until the very end. An atmospheric read that steadily builds dread in the reader until the gut punch ending takes your breath away!
October 1, 2021
“The ocean, Charlie thought, could calm you with its serene lulls just as soon as it could kill you with hidden power. Power enough to pull you down to an unmarked grave. Power that spelled doom to those who dared to face it without a certain meekness.”
Charlie West accepts a new teaching position in the small town of Astoria, Oregon. His mother, reluctant to let him leave, battles with the notions of knowledge is power over ignorance is bliss but in the end, falls silent and Charlie moves with no knowledge of his dark past. Upon his arrival in Astoria, Charlie meets Ellie and Trent, two new friends who are a little too up in his business. Something strange is happening here and it seems to be centered around Charlie. Who can he trust? What do they want? And what’s up with these medallions and Charlie’s crazy mood swings?
We don’t see many sensitive male characters in media which is unfortunate because representation for all persons is important—yes, guys can be sensitive too!! (But I know y’all know that.) 😛 Charlie West is a broken individual with an unknown, dark past and we see a lot of his emotional development over the course of this story in parallel with the suspicious Ellie who is hard headed and defensive. I enjoyed this emotional depth but that being said, the story covers a LOT of emotional ground to the point of rehashing thoughts and feelings with tell not show which drags the plot.
Speaking of the plot, this is the first book in a dark adventure Lovecraftian trilogy. We don’t get to the core of the story until the very end so a lot of this book is character set up and build up, but the ending, an ultimate, destructive conflict that we don’t see resolved, definitely sets strong interest for what’s to come. Where are the gods from the sky going to take us? Exactly how much power does Charlie have or can control? What’s his father’s real involvement in all this? I sense much world building and chaos in the near future. 👀 And a great congrats to Randall on his debut! Excited for all that’s to come!
Charlie West accepts a new teaching position in the small town of Astoria, Oregon. His mother, reluctant to let him leave, battles with the notions of knowledge is power over ignorance is bliss but in the end, falls silent and Charlie moves with no knowledge of his dark past. Upon his arrival in Astoria, Charlie meets Ellie and Trent, two new friends who are a little too up in his business. Something strange is happening here and it seems to be centered around Charlie. Who can he trust? What do they want? And what’s up with these medallions and Charlie’s crazy mood swings?
We don’t see many sensitive male characters in media which is unfortunate because representation for all persons is important—yes, guys can be sensitive too!! (But I know y’all know that.) 😛 Charlie West is a broken individual with an unknown, dark past and we see a lot of his emotional development over the course of this story in parallel with the suspicious Ellie who is hard headed and defensive. I enjoyed this emotional depth but that being said, the story covers a LOT of emotional ground to the point of rehashing thoughts and feelings with tell not show which drags the plot.
Speaking of the plot, this is the first book in a dark adventure Lovecraftian trilogy. We don’t get to the core of the story until the very end so a lot of this book is character set up and build up, but the ending, an ultimate, destructive conflict that we don’t see resolved, definitely sets strong interest for what’s to come. Where are the gods from the sky going to take us? Exactly how much power does Charlie have or can control? What’s his father’s real involvement in all this? I sense much world building and chaos in the near future. 👀 And a great congrats to Randall on his debut! Excited for all that’s to come!
June 5, 2022
Firstly love it secondly I was gripped from the start by the mystery of it. I was really eager to find out what The Order was, and am still eager to learn more in future releases, and two of the characters, their motives, and their affiliation had my mind working, imaging what it could be. I also think the eldritch cosmology envisioned by Craig Randall is definitely possessed of a lovecraftian quality yet it is different. Anyway i highly recommend you go read this release
August 8, 2022
The horror of anxiety...
This is a great first book from the author, Craig Randall. It's a cosmic horror with a lot of heart. The first half of the book is really focused on the protagonist's struggle with anxiety. Randall excels here, showing in a realistic way the pain, frustration and occasional absurdity of this mental illness. You can feel the walls closing in on you as you read. It is raw, real and affecting.
While this is going on, the main plot subtly develops. It grows in intensity and presence, like the tendrils that weave their way through the photographs, medallions, characters and landscape of the story. Everything builds to a gigantic Lovecraftian climax leaving the reader longing for more, while (strangely) empathising with the disastrous decision that lead to... well, you'll have to read for yourself.
I look forward to the next instalment in the trilogy, which I know will build and improve on the strong foundations laid by this book.
This is a great first book from the author, Craig Randall. It's a cosmic horror with a lot of heart. The first half of the book is really focused on the protagonist's struggle with anxiety. Randall excels here, showing in a realistic way the pain, frustration and occasional absurdity of this mental illness. You can feel the walls closing in on you as you read. It is raw, real and affecting.
While this is going on, the main plot subtly develops. It grows in intensity and presence, like the tendrils that weave their way through the photographs, medallions, characters and landscape of the story. Everything builds to a gigantic Lovecraftian climax leaving the reader longing for more, while (strangely) empathising with the disastrous decision that lead to... well, you'll have to read for yourself.
I look forward to the next instalment in the trilogy, which I know will build and improve on the strong foundations laid by this book.
June 12, 2022
A unique story, I've never read anything like it. Give it a go!
July 30, 2022
Reminiscent of those 1970’s movies which offered a nightmarish, dreamlike quality that trapped the main character in a mystifying fog of consciousness, the story, The Doom that Came to Astoria by Craig Randall, does the same thing to readers for much of the story. The setting near Astoria, Oregon, is made somewhat uninviting as the reader experiences the town through the internal reflections of the newly arrived main character, Charlie West. Charlie has left his home in Portland in order to take on his first professional job as a high school English teacher just outside of Astoria in a town called Knappa. This is Charlie’s first time venturing outside of the intense, co-dependent relationship he has with his mother. Author Randall provides clues as to the underlying dysfunction between Charlie and his mother, but those are really breadcrumbs that will lead to larger reveals later.
Readers are pulled into Charlie’s world as he navigates relocating and setting up his new life all while dealing with intense anxiety and self-doubt. He finds some easy, and unearned success making new acquaintances in a short amount of time, but readers are privy to information Charlie lacks. Not to say that readers are fully informed. They’re not. Author Randall keeps the mystery, the dreamlike tension, going throughout the first two-thirds of the story. What readers learn is always presented in a hazy fog with critical information just beyond what is visible. Oh, but then the story takes a turn! It’s time to wake up.
The reveals are fast and furious as Charlie and the reader awaken from the dreamlike state that has carried the story along to its conclusion. The fog is lifted, eyes are opened, and the truth is disclosed. Purpose is revealed and purpose is questioned. A reflection of various natures is considered. Cold logic as opposed to emotional logic. Is one better than the other? Can destruction ever be duty? Can destruction be good? I was reminded of elements of various Hindu philosophies with the universe undergoing repeated cycles of creation and destruction. Who are the destroyers? Are they acting with purpose or with vengeance? What is their nature that drives these cycles? A quote from the story, “We all must learn to live within our nature and come to terms with the repercussion that it brings. With the consequences.”
I really enjoyed The Doom that Came to Astoria, particularly the ending. Craig Randall offers readers a thought-provoking look at nature-driven purpose and the importance of knowing who you are. Check it out!
Readers are pulled into Charlie’s world as he navigates relocating and setting up his new life all while dealing with intense anxiety and self-doubt. He finds some easy, and unearned success making new acquaintances in a short amount of time, but readers are privy to information Charlie lacks. Not to say that readers are fully informed. They’re not. Author Randall keeps the mystery, the dreamlike tension, going throughout the first two-thirds of the story. What readers learn is always presented in a hazy fog with critical information just beyond what is visible. Oh, but then the story takes a turn! It’s time to wake up.
The reveals are fast and furious as Charlie and the reader awaken from the dreamlike state that has carried the story along to its conclusion. The fog is lifted, eyes are opened, and the truth is disclosed. Purpose is revealed and purpose is questioned. A reflection of various natures is considered. Cold logic as opposed to emotional logic. Is one better than the other? Can destruction ever be duty? Can destruction be good? I was reminded of elements of various Hindu philosophies with the universe undergoing repeated cycles of creation and destruction. Who are the destroyers? Are they acting with purpose or with vengeance? What is their nature that drives these cycles? A quote from the story, “We all must learn to live within our nature and come to terms with the repercussion that it brings. With the consequences.”
I really enjoyed The Doom that Came to Astoria, particularly the ending. Craig Randall offers readers a thought-provoking look at nature-driven purpose and the importance of knowing who you are. Check it out!
August 8, 2022
This was a hard book for me to review, not gonna lie.
It started off on very dark notes with several triggers of mine (panic attacks, anxiety, depression, etc.) and stayed dark, figuratively and literally, for a long time. I kept reading because I felt I needed to see this through. Hope that Charlie finds what he needs to cope or overcome and hope that it'll be something to help me too. This isn't my normal genre, so we'll see how it goes...
Charlie and Mom both have attachment issues. Charlie wants to go out on his own but is still suckered into Mom like he's a child. Mom encourages it almost by guilt tripping Charlie but also keeping secrets from him - secrets are something that drive me bonkers. If you have a secret that'll help someone, why keep it to yourself?
Excellent quote - "You can never drop your head at something that raises it"
I also struggled switching from character to character several times throughout a scene. For example:
Charlie is at a bar talking with a local then all of a sudden a new character walks in and sits down far away and we're seeing her cope with not wanting to be seen and why she's acting this way then we switch back to Charlie with no breaks in the story and seemingly no reason for acknowledging her entrance at that precise moment. This scene particularly could have been separated from Charlie talking to the local by just having it take place after instead of in the middle of or at the very least show a break in the scene.
A little too depressing for my tastes despite (or more appropriately for me - BECAUSE OF) these being real life issues. I tend to stay away from books that can trigger these for me because they've been things in my past that I've had to move on from and I try really hard to forget. That being said I am glad that there's a book out there that highlights these real life issues and doesn't just brush them over with rainbows and cotton candy. Just because it's a book I, personally, would avoid, doesn't mean that it's not a book that should be read or shared.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
It started off on very dark notes with several triggers of mine (panic attacks, anxiety, depression, etc.) and stayed dark, figuratively and literally, for a long time. I kept reading because I felt I needed to see this through. Hope that Charlie finds what he needs to cope or overcome and hope that it'll be something to help me too. This isn't my normal genre, so we'll see how it goes...
Charlie and Mom both have attachment issues. Charlie wants to go out on his own but is still suckered into Mom like he's a child. Mom encourages it almost by guilt tripping Charlie but also keeping secrets from him - secrets are something that drive me bonkers. If you have a secret that'll help someone, why keep it to yourself?
Excellent quote - "You can never drop your head at something that raises it"
I also struggled switching from character to character several times throughout a scene. For example:
Charlie is at a bar talking with a local then all of a sudden a new character walks in and sits down far away and we're seeing her cope with not wanting to be seen and why she's acting this way then we switch back to Charlie with no breaks in the story and seemingly no reason for acknowledging her entrance at that precise moment. This scene particularly could have been separated from Charlie talking to the local by just having it take place after instead of in the middle of or at the very least show a break in the scene.
A little too depressing for my tastes despite (or more appropriately for me - BECAUSE OF) these being real life issues. I tend to stay away from books that can trigger these for me because they've been things in my past that I've had to move on from and I try really hard to forget. That being said I am glad that there's a book out there that highlights these real life issues and doesn't just brush them over with rainbows and cotton candy. Just because it's a book I, personally, would avoid, doesn't mean that it's not a book that should be read or shared.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
*Book provided for an honest review*
Lovecraft fans rejoice! We have a new Lovecraftian series!
If you are unfamiliar with H.P. Lovecraft and his work, let me explain.
Instead of gore or real-life situations being the frightening part, Lovecraft created the genre of cosmic horror. This is bigger-picture horror. Deep sea monsters who control time and space rise from the depths of the ocean to wreak havoc on the world ��� kind of horror.
Think, lots of tentacles and inner turmoil. The dictionary describes it as “depicting monstrous, misshapen beings from another dimension or universe, often in sinister, antiquated New England settings.”
“The Doom” hits that nail on the head. We have a main character named Charlie who is regrettably not aware of his bloodline and its connection to “The Order” - a group of villainous men who just want to watch the world burn by attempting to call on the mother of all the cosmic, world-ending tentacle monsters.
After Charlie takes a new job and moves to Astoria, it puts him directly in the hands of The Order. Oh, and did I mention Charlie has a major anxiety problem? His mother is literally his only friend. So, when 2 new people come into his life, he is excited yet full of trepidation about new friends and a new life.
This is where the story loses me a bit. I too have major social anxiety, so I get all the thoughts running through his head and how the author was probably trying to make a point about it. However, there was so much back and forth, and should I or shouldn’t I, that it started to bog the story down. I just felt like we waited too long for some action.
This is my only complaint though. I really did enjoy the book and am eager to read the sequel. I just hope Charlie learns to be a little more proactive in the next one. The sequel is called “The Dreams in the Pearl House,” just in case you need it.
Lovecraft fans rejoice! We have a new Lovecraftian series!
If you are unfamiliar with H.P. Lovecraft and his work, let me explain.
Instead of gore or real-life situations being the frightening part, Lovecraft created the genre of cosmic horror. This is bigger-picture horror. Deep sea monsters who control time and space rise from the depths of the ocean to wreak havoc on the world ��� kind of horror.
Think, lots of tentacles and inner turmoil. The dictionary describes it as “depicting monstrous, misshapen beings from another dimension or universe, often in sinister, antiquated New England settings.”
“The Doom” hits that nail on the head. We have a main character named Charlie who is regrettably not aware of his bloodline and its connection to “The Order” - a group of villainous men who just want to watch the world burn by attempting to call on the mother of all the cosmic, world-ending tentacle monsters.
After Charlie takes a new job and moves to Astoria, it puts him directly in the hands of The Order. Oh, and did I mention Charlie has a major anxiety problem? His mother is literally his only friend. So, when 2 new people come into his life, he is excited yet full of trepidation about new friends and a new life.
This is where the story loses me a bit. I too have major social anxiety, so I get all the thoughts running through his head and how the author was probably trying to make a point about it. However, there was so much back and forth, and should I or shouldn’t I, that it started to bog the story down. I just felt like we waited too long for some action.
This is my only complaint though. I really did enjoy the book and am eager to read the sequel. I just hope Charlie learns to be a little more proactive in the next one. The sequel is called “The Dreams in the Pearl House,” just in case you need it.
September 3, 2022
This book centers around Charlie, who has lived a hard life. The product of that hard life? Depression and anxiety galore, all of which are portrayed so well, I had to pause reading and collect myself a few times.
I think the most important thing about this book is that it shows a man struggling with anxiety and depression, having very real triggers and reactions. We see Charlie in a vulnerable state, trying to manage these, practicing his self-regulation, and sort of hoping the darkness he sees in himself is a product of someone else.
This book resonated for me because I’ve done a ton of my own self-healing over the last two years, and though I’m not a man, much of this was very familiar (including the reactions to triggers)—another reason this book is important.
Yes, this has some creepy, deranged, um…gentlemen. Yes, something otherworldly is birthed. But it comes down to the fact that we are all made of both light and dark, joy and anger (and sorrow), excitement and fear. If we don’t accept all of what we are, we won’t ever reach our full potential…we will never do ourselves (nor anyone around us) justice.
Above all, Charlie is so likable—so very human—there’s no choice but to empathize with him and follow him on this wild ride he’s thrust into.
Read it. If you struggle with mental health, if you’re questioning your sanity, if you are fighting to heal yourself, and if you’re just interested in a really cool story, read this.
I think the most important thing about this book is that it shows a man struggling with anxiety and depression, having very real triggers and reactions. We see Charlie in a vulnerable state, trying to manage these, practicing his self-regulation, and sort of hoping the darkness he sees in himself is a product of someone else.
This book resonated for me because I’ve done a ton of my own self-healing over the last two years, and though I’m not a man, much of this was very familiar (including the reactions to triggers)—another reason this book is important.
Yes, this has some creepy, deranged, um…gentlemen. Yes, something otherworldly is birthed. But it comes down to the fact that we are all made of both light and dark, joy and anger (and sorrow), excitement and fear. If we don’t accept all of what we are, we won’t ever reach our full potential…we will never do ourselves (nor anyone around us) justice.
Above all, Charlie is so likable—so very human—there’s no choice but to empathize with him and follow him on this wild ride he’s thrust into.
Read it. If you struggle with mental health, if you’re questioning your sanity, if you are fighting to heal yourself, and if you’re just interested in a really cool story, read this.
February 15, 2023
Have you ever waited to read a book for so long you think it may never happen? Well that was the case for this, I remember when Craig first posted about this and I was waiting to be able to get a copy, then something happened and it got delayed and I couldn't get it. Then I won it in a giveaway. Maybe the nameless god's smile upon me!
The book was amazing, so worth the wait and it hit every expectation I had for it. Craig's writing is great and the narrative is choppy, I mean that in the nicest possible, going between characters in the flip of a dime. The reason that it is a positive is because this book deals a lot with mental illness and panic/anxiety attacks and the writing style lends it self perfectly to that.
Charlie experiences panic attacks from page one and the way Craig writes them is exactly how a panic attack feels for me and as through written from experience. I spoke to Craig about this and he said it was a book born of his pain and a healing experience for him. In the back he states that he hopes that this book helps people who struggle feel less alone and that people who haven't struggled can understand what it is like to have a MI and can empathise with those that do.
It's an easy 5/5 from me and I also found it to be an incredibly powerful and cathartic reading experience
The book was amazing, so worth the wait and it hit every expectation I had for it. Craig's writing is great and the narrative is choppy, I mean that in the nicest possible, going between characters in the flip of a dime. The reason that it is a positive is because this book deals a lot with mental illness and panic/anxiety attacks and the writing style lends it self perfectly to that.
Charlie experiences panic attacks from page one and the way Craig writes them is exactly how a panic attack feels for me and as through written from experience. I spoke to Craig about this and he said it was a book born of his pain and a healing experience for him. In the back he states that he hopes that this book helps people who struggle feel less alone and that people who haven't struggled can understand what it is like to have a MI and can empathise with those that do.
It's an easy 5/5 from me and I also found it to be an incredibly powerful and cathartic reading experience
September 18, 2022
Charlie longs to break free from the pain and trauma of his young life. He moves away from home and anxiety rears its ugly head as he tries to make new connections. But something darker looms, seeking Charlie—but to what end?
I was a little disoriented at times by POV head-jumping and would have liked cleaner shifts, but the frequent changes didn’t stopped my flow of reading.
While I liked that how through Charlie the book shone a light on mental health issues, this story was slow to develop, spending more time on the state of mind and feelings of the characters (sometimes repetitive) than the plot details. I was 30% in without a clear problem for the MC to solve or a clear main conflict. There were a few mysterious people on the fringes and moments that indicated someone was out to get Charlie for unknown reasons, but I wished for a firmer hook early in the story and more engaging unfolding action.
The last third of the book was tense and interesting, but ultimately this was too dark for me so I don’t think I will continue the series. Even in horror stories, I need a hero to root for and a little bit of hope. I could empathize with Charlie’s pain but struggled to get behind his actions and desires.
I was a little disoriented at times by POV head-jumping and would have liked cleaner shifts, but the frequent changes didn’t stopped my flow of reading.
While I liked that how through Charlie the book shone a light on mental health issues, this story was slow to develop, spending more time on the state of mind and feelings of the characters (sometimes repetitive) than the plot details. I was 30% in without a clear problem for the MC to solve or a clear main conflict. There were a few mysterious people on the fringes and moments that indicated someone was out to get Charlie for unknown reasons, but I wished for a firmer hook early in the story and more engaging unfolding action.
The last third of the book was tense and interesting, but ultimately this was too dark for me so I don’t think I will continue the series. Even in horror stories, I need a hero to root for and a little bit of hope. I could empathize with Charlie’s pain but struggled to get behind his actions and desires.
August 12, 2022
As someone who suffers from anxiety, depression, and all around feelings of meh.. I very much related to Charlie and his struggles. All of the characters were easy to relate to which aided in the enjoyment of this book. Craig did such an amazing job at making me FEEL what Charlie was feeling. I was there with him struggling. Not many authors can truly describe what it’s like to have anxiety but Craig did it!
Can a person really move on from their past? Charlie really wants to and who can blame him! We all want to but Charlie is scarred from the pain of his youth. As Craig takes us through the struggles Charlie is facing he also smacks you in the face with a what the hell type moment where I am now seething waiting for book 2 lol
There are many unsettling moments and I love horror and thrillers so for me to say that believe me they were. But I’m the best of ways. Every minute I read this book I was fascinated and I shared my thoughts with my husband repeatedly (he got very annoyed)
So needless to say I loved the book, Craig you kicked ass and I’m sorry it took me so long to review!! Give me book two… NOW lol Awesome job my friend!
Can a person really move on from their past? Charlie really wants to and who can blame him! We all want to but Charlie is scarred from the pain of his youth. As Craig takes us through the struggles Charlie is facing he also smacks you in the face with a what the hell type moment where I am now seething waiting for book 2 lol
There are many unsettling moments and I love horror and thrillers so for me to say that believe me they were. But I’m the best of ways. Every minute I read this book I was fascinated and I shared my thoughts with my husband repeatedly (he got very annoyed)
So needless to say I loved the book, Craig you kicked ass and I’m sorry it took me so long to review!! Give me book two… NOW lol Awesome job my friend!
July 23, 2022
Debut novel
Psychological/cosmic horror, cosmic horror
This story journeys into one man's life and his struggle with anxiety and rage, social fears, and low self esteem. As such, it is often a discomforting read. Even the third person omniscient pov adds to the discomfort as it's a less common perspective in contemporary novels. Randall writes dialogue well, even one-sided conversations and those little things we all think in our heads. And he definitely knows what anxiety sounds like from the inside.
In contrast to their distress and disquietude, the characters are *very* likable. Charlie, the mess that he is, conveys an innocence you want to protect. (The poor guy just needs a hug, but I'm afraid he would just stiffen awkwardly through it). Even Trent and Ellie are sympathetic in their moral greyness. But of course the bad guys are truely, deeply, clearly bad.
Why it's not 5 stars for me: It was hard to live in Charlie's mind for so long. I wanted to know what was coming and stay engaged with the suspense, but I felt myself needing to put the book aside for something brighter from time to time. And I felt it needed one more editing pass (I know, I know! That's probably just me. I'ma tough grader).
Altogether though, I can't wait for the next one. I need to know what happens next to Charlie? Will he ever recover from what happened? Is he even the same person anymore (how could he be?)? What will the dark cult try next to raise Elder Gods? And omg! Cthulu is a better therapist that anyone would ever believe -- (yeah, you're gonna read it now... you can't wonder forever about that, can you?)
Psychological/cosmic horror, cosmic horror
This story journeys into one man's life and his struggle with anxiety and rage, social fears, and low self esteem. As such, it is often a discomforting read. Even the third person omniscient pov adds to the discomfort as it's a less common perspective in contemporary novels. Randall writes dialogue well, even one-sided conversations and those little things we all think in our heads. And he definitely knows what anxiety sounds like from the inside.
In contrast to their distress and disquietude, the characters are *very* likable. Charlie, the mess that he is, conveys an innocence you want to protect. (The poor guy just needs a hug, but I'm afraid he would just stiffen awkwardly through it). Even Trent and Ellie are sympathetic in their moral greyness. But of course the bad guys are truely, deeply, clearly bad.
Why it's not 5 stars for me: It was hard to live in Charlie's mind for so long. I wanted to know what was coming and stay engaged with the suspense, but I felt myself needing to put the book aside for something brighter from time to time. And I felt it needed one more editing pass (I know, I know! That's probably just me. I'ma tough grader).
Altogether though, I can't wait for the next one. I need to know what happens next to Charlie? Will he ever recover from what happened? Is he even the same person anymore (how could he be?)? What will the dark cult try next to raise Elder Gods? And omg! Cthulu is a better therapist that anyone would ever believe -- (yeah, you're gonna read it now... you can't wonder forever about that, can you?)
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