What do you think?
Rate this book
Dead Ends
Four lives are thrown into chaos after a disturbed young man sets fire to an abandoned house with a chilling history, setting off a chain of events rooted in paranoia, powerlessness, desperation and tragedy that will ultimately converge in a day of horror.
Dead Ends is a powerful, character-driven novel of escalating tension and violence driven by isolation, politics and technology and set against the backdrop of a country in the throws of upheaval.
No one is safe. The residents of a small, forgotten neighborhood are being watched, stalked and harassed by someone or something, and it seems they are powerless to stop it, sending them down an all-too-real path of self-destruction and insanity. As the fear, desperation and death toll mounts, these seemingly average, normal people are twisted into doing the unthinkable.
Dead Ends is a powerful, character-driven novel of escalating tension and violence driven by isolation, politics and technology and set against the backdrop of a country in the throws of upheaval.
No one is safe. The residents of a small, forgotten neighborhood are being watched, stalked and harassed by someone or something, and it seems they are powerless to stop it, sending them down an all-too-real path of self-destruction and insanity. As the fear, desperation and death toll mounts, these seemingly average, normal people are twisted into doing the unthinkable.
- GenresHorror
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2023
2 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Marc E. Fitch
26 books41 followersMarc E. Fitch is the author of the novels Dead Ends, Boy in the Box and Paradise Burns, among others, as well as the books Paranormal Nation: Why America Needs Ghosts, UFOs and Bigfoot and Shmexperts: How Power Politics and Ideology are Disguised as Science. His short fiction has appeared in numerous publications and anthologies, including Best Horror of the Year vol 10.
Marc received his Master of Fine Arts degree from Western Connecticut State University and has worked as a bartender, psychiatric technician for in-patient behavioral health hospitals, and most recently as an investigative reporter. He was the recipient of the 2014 Robert Novak Journalism Fellowship and the Leslie Leeds Poetry Prize. He is the father of four children and lives and works in Connecticut.
Marc received his Master of Fine Arts degree from Western Connecticut State University and has worked as a bartender, psychiatric technician for in-patient behavioral health hospitals, and most recently as an investigative reporter. He was the recipient of the 2014 Robert Novak Journalism Fellowship and the Leslie Leeds Poetry Prize. He is the father of four children and lives and works in Connecticut.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 23, 2023
Wow… I’m not sure I even have words for this whirlwind of a story I just read. This was the most miserable, staggering book I’ve ever read. I dreaded every new line, but I was completely sucked in and spent most of the day engrossed with this story.
The writing is addictive and so easy-flowing. The way the author managed to seamlessly integrate each character's story was flawless. A lot of this book had you wondering is there a supernatural side to this story, or is this just the human psyche going wild? Coming out of it, I’m still not sure, but that just made it all the more better. You feel like you’re losing your grip along with the characters.
There was very much an ominous feeling overlying everything, and considering the characters were doomers a lot of the time, this story is very down. You’re observing the all too real downward spirals of a town, so I honestly wouldn’t recommend this to someone who may be sensitive to this kind of thing (I at multiple points felt like I needed a breather myself).
This isn’t a classical horror story, but this is the first one that had me truly scared, either because I saw my thoughts, fears, and feelings reflected or because everything that took place could happen to anyone. There is nothing more scary than reality.
This was the most realistic cast of characters I’ve ever read. I found every single person relatable in their own way, which is quite a feat considering this contains some people with completely opposite political beliefs to mine. The author manages to make them so human that even if their beliefs are very much not my thing, I still found myself sympathising for one reason or another. They are so obviously flawed and at times unlikable, but you can’t help but understand. I really feel like I’ve gone through the wringer and back; I’m emotionally exhausted from it all!
I would also like to point out how much I appreciated being able to read from multiple different POVs. It did not slip my attention how we got certain judgements from one person about the other, but then reading from their POV shows you clearly that’s not how they feel or are. Being wrong with our judgements is something that happens all the time in the real world, so it was a subtle but glaringly obvious commentary on humans. Honestly though, this whole book in general was.
The ending had me in shock. Not because it was unpredictable but because of how mind-shatteringly real it was. The dread I was already feeling got immensely amplified; I can’t put into words what it was like going through it. It left me speechless, even though I wasn’t talking! If I didn’t know better, I would think this was non-fiction, like you’re telling me absolutely none of this happened? Every person and event here could easily have been real. The attention to detail and the weaving of storylines was just phenomenal.
As gripping as this story was, it was very, very slow. It is character-driven, which means you will spend a lot of time with them, and here you definitely do. Because of that, I felt information (especially about Lucas) and thoughts were repeated unnecessarily. It seemed like we got many spiralling thoughts that I could’ve sworn I read at an earlier point, but maybe that’s realistic for people in these states of mind. Either way, with this being as slow as it was, it seemed necessary to really get to know these characters because it makes the ending all the more impactful. But maybe just a little trimming down could’ve taken the story to the next level.
Honestly I want to say I will be checking out the author's other books, but quite frankly I’m scared to; he’s just too good at what he does!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an early copy!
The writing is addictive and so easy-flowing. The way the author managed to seamlessly integrate each character's story was flawless. A lot of this book had you wondering is there a supernatural side to this story, or is this just the human psyche going wild? Coming out of it, I’m still not sure, but that just made it all the more better. You feel like you’re losing your grip along with the characters.
There was very much an ominous feeling overlying everything, and considering the characters were doomers a lot of the time, this story is very down. You’re observing the all too real downward spirals of a town, so I honestly wouldn’t recommend this to someone who may be sensitive to this kind of thing (I at multiple points felt like I needed a breather myself).
This isn’t a classical horror story, but this is the first one that had me truly scared, either because I saw my thoughts, fears, and feelings reflected or because everything that took place could happen to anyone. There is nothing more scary than reality.
This was the most realistic cast of characters I’ve ever read. I found every single person relatable in their own way, which is quite a feat considering this contains some people with completely opposite political beliefs to mine. The author manages to make them so human that even if their beliefs are very much not my thing, I still found myself sympathising for one reason or another. They are so obviously flawed and at times unlikable, but you can’t help but understand. I really feel like I’ve gone through the wringer and back; I’m emotionally exhausted from it all!
I would also like to point out how much I appreciated being able to read from multiple different POVs. It did not slip my attention how we got certain judgements from one person about the other, but then reading from their POV shows you clearly that’s not how they feel or are. Being wrong with our judgements is something that happens all the time in the real world, so it was a subtle but glaringly obvious commentary on humans. Honestly though, this whole book in general was.
The ending had me in shock. Not because it was unpredictable but because of how mind-shatteringly real it was. The dread I was already feeling got immensely amplified; I can’t put into words what it was like going through it. It left me speechless, even though I wasn’t talking! If I didn’t know better, I would think this was non-fiction, like you’re telling me absolutely none of this happened? Every person and event here could easily have been real. The attention to detail and the weaving of storylines was just phenomenal.
As gripping as this story was, it was very, very slow. It is character-driven, which means you will spend a lot of time with them, and here you definitely do. Because of that, I felt information (especially about Lucas) and thoughts were repeated unnecessarily. It seemed like we got many spiralling thoughts that I could’ve sworn I read at an earlier point, but maybe that’s realistic for people in these states of mind. Either way, with this being as slow as it was, it seemed necessary to really get to know these characters because it makes the ending all the more impactful. But maybe just a little trimming down could’ve taken the story to the next level.
Honestly I want to say I will be checking out the author's other books, but quite frankly I’m scared to; he’s just too good at what he does!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an early copy!
August 13, 2023
This was nit what I was expecting, in the best tpossible way! It's very character driven and not a lot actually happens for most of the book but we're shown a glimpse of these people lives and who they are really. It's multiple pov and it's just such a cleverly written horror that's engaging and captures the raw reality of humanity. It hints at something ominous and supernatural giving such a tense atmosphere that builds throughout and then everything finally comes to a head in the final section of the book. I dont want to give any spoilers so I'll leave it at that but its definitely worth a read!
August 16, 2023
This is one of my favorite books I've read this year! It is a slow burn and a haunting story. The characters are well written and Marc E Finch did an amazing job with crafting a great story. I would highly reccommend this book! Special Thank You to the author, Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2023
I found this to be more of a psychological thriller with paranormal aspects.
This is not pure horror, so be forewarned, but it is still quite scary.
The characters and plot felt well developed, but the pacing was slow at times. At times it was frighteningly realistic.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Flame Tree Press for a copy!
This is not pure horror, so be forewarned, but it is still quite scary.
The characters and plot felt well developed, but the pacing was slow at times. At times it was frighteningly realistic.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Flame Tree Press for a copy!
August 11, 2023
Marc E. Fitch's 'Dead Ends' was a very interesting psychological drama, with some well-placed hints of the supernatural. It's written from multiple points of view: a husband's (father of a boy and a girl), a wife's (mother of two boys), a female politician's with no family, and a son's (who’s taking care of his mother, who has dementia). They are all neighbors, know each other (or come to know each other bit by bit), and their fates are intertwined when the so-called "haunted house" in the neighborhood goes up in flames. The book is a slow-burn, character-driven, and for more than three thirds of it pretty much nothing's happening, other than poignant internal monologues about each character's place in life, their choices, their relationships, and their standing in society, all fueled by the impact of the unexpected house fire. This may sound uninteresting; trust me, it isn't: Fitch makes of it a riveting narrative, writing engagingly and soberly, with minimum drama but lots of insight and cruel, raw realism. I was reminded of the movie “Hereditary”: a feeling of dread and oppression pervades the story, while at the same time nothing is clear and the tension slowly builds up. Fitch’s great storytelling skills turn the downward spirals of each character into engrossing takes on life and existence, while an atmosphere of ambiguity makes you wonder whether this might not be really a horror book, but instead the penetrating portrayal of human misery. All characters are relatable, though deeply flawed; their gruesome fates not far from what one finds everyday in the news. And here is where the supernatural element enhances the sinister vibes of the tale, deepens the misery, and ultimately exploits it to feed itself. The ending was simply brilliant, confirming, by the way, that this is an extraordinary horror book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
August 8, 2023
This book was absolutely incredible. This is exactly what I think of when I think of modern horror. It's often reflective in only ways a horror novel can make you feel. As a fan of "slowburns" this was right up my alley as the author took you deep into the thoughts of the characters all the while unfolding this traumatic interconnected story.
While there are hints of the supernatural, the story as a whole was extremely real. Real life, with real people facing real blood-churning tragedies.
Amazing work. Thanks to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for an early copy!
While there are hints of the supernatural, the story as a whole was extremely real. Real life, with real people facing real blood-churning tragedies.
Amazing work. Thanks to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for an early copy!
December 19, 2023
A haunting, horrifying, absolutely reads like nonfiction tale of a neighborhood thrown into a purgatorial upending that causes a domino effect of terrible tragedies. This is an absolute must read of 2023. Fitch delivers a story so well written, real life, with characters you feel could be your neighbor and friends that you forget you are reading and just become emersed in the tale. Scary, timely, and a whirlwind of crazy that begins so suddenly and then just hits the ground running. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
December 28, 2023
We meet many characters who all live in the same neighbourhood. These characters are all connected through a so called "haunted house" in the neighbourhood. Each perspective shows how their mental health declines, following a fire at the beginning of the novel.
This book is super boring. I found myself skimming, willing for the book to be over. The only reason I didn't give this book a lower rating is because the ending was actually really good. The last 15-20% of the book picks up. I also would not classify this novel as a horror novel. I would classify it as a psychological drama.
Sometimes slow burn novels are good and build things up. However, I just found this one TOO slow. I did not care about any of the characters internal monologues at all. Based on the reviews, it seems a lot of people did enjoy this style of novel. It is not for everyone, including myself.
Thank you Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review..
This book is super boring. I found myself skimming, willing for the book to be over. The only reason I didn't give this book a lower rating is because the ending was actually really good. The last 15-20% of the book picks up. I also would not classify this novel as a horror novel. I would classify it as a psychological drama.
Sometimes slow burn novels are good and build things up. However, I just found this one TOO slow. I did not care about any of the characters internal monologues at all. Based on the reviews, it seems a lot of people did enjoy this style of novel. It is not for everyone, including myself.
Thank you Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review..
Want to read
August 14, 2023Ridgewood is a neighborhood where they have young families with small children single people couples and everyone knows each other’s business. John lives there with his wife Jessica and their two kids Jessica is getting fed up with John his drinking and with his recent arrest things are really tense in the home. Then there’s Amber and Joe with their two boys and rowdy dogs Amber feels like there must be more to this life and tries to talk to Joe but he isn’t listening. There’s also Elizabeth she’s a Hillary Clinton type politician and she even dress like the famous Democrat she lives alone and for the most part she likes it that way then there’s Vernon he lives with his mom who has Alzheimer’s and although he has never worked he’s a smart guy and wishes he would’ve done more with his life. Everyone in this neighborhood has issues but the one with the most issues is Lucas he sets fire to a home that has been abandoned for years and goes missing after the fire. Everyone in their town knew Lucas had problems and they found him odd and scary. After the fire strange things start happening in the neighborhood that seem paranormal and when the book is over it is left up to the reader to the side. John is angry because despite the fact everyone knows the fire was started by Luke the newspaper reporter says it was started by fireworks and he becomes obsessed with the news his neighborhood end it all makes for a great distraction from the misery of his wife Jessica. When she tries to talk to him he says the life is fine and he is baffled as to why she would be upset. Amber seems to be having similar issues over at her house her oldest son used to hang with Luke but it seems her husband Joe would rather go hunting despite all the crazy things happening in the neighborhood. Vernon catches his mom talking to Luke end it seems to torture the Alzheimer’s victim because she claims she even talks to her when she is home by herself. Elizabeth is a politician who no one in her neighborhood would vote for she seems to have great long-term plans but is preaching to those who want instant satisfaction. These all the events that set the stage because it someone will be murdered and someone else will lose their mind. This was a pretty good book I am not big on character driven books where you have to read through pages and pages of inner dialogue and I almost gave up but OMG I am so glad I did not. There is a point to all these woe is me paragraphs And I got to a point where I did not want to put the book down. I am not one who reads into messages in a book but thought the author did a great job explaining someone who is ripe for the picking when it comes to extremist groups fake news police taking the easy way out ET see having said that besides all of that this is a great horror book I love a book where are you don’t know if it’s paranormal or people and I think it takes a talented author who can pull that off I also think it’s awesome dead body and you still do not know. I felt so bad for John and Amber but OMG… OMG if this Facebook doesn’t end with a blast I don’t know what does I also want to say I think the last chapter with Elizabeth is great commentary on America in those seeking something other in their life. This was a great book I loved it they were twist on top of twist and although I do not like books with so much inner dialogue I am so glad I finish this one because wow! I want to think Flametree books and Net Galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
November 1, 2023
After reading Boy in the box which is one of my favourite horror book I knew I wanted to read Dead Ends by Marc E. Fitch and I was once again amazed at the writing and overall plot of the book.
Told in multiple perspectives, we are introduced to the several residents who reside in the neighbourhood, a drunk husband who’s marriage is troubled, a son who is taking care of his mother with Alzheimers, a politician and a mother who is trying to lead her children in the right path but they are making bad choices in their lives. Dead Ends is a slow burn which I really enjoy in books but once you’re getting through the book the tension, horror aspects and chill pick up and it adds that shock and chills throughout your body.
The writing is so well done, the portrayal of the characters were written very realistically and each character came with their own problems and flaws which as you read their perspectives it makes them more human and as you read their perspectives you are able to connect with them like you would in the real world.
Dead Ends is a slow burn horror book that has the right amount of twists and the ending was something I was not expecting as I’m sure many readers won’t which makes it all the more fun to read. There is also some violence that happens in the book which will be shocking but overall the whole premise and plot of this book was a treat to read and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. I would recommend to other readers to check this book out as you won’t be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Flame Tree Press for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest opinion.
Told in multiple perspectives, we are introduced to the several residents who reside in the neighbourhood, a drunk husband who’s marriage is troubled, a son who is taking care of his mother with Alzheimers, a politician and a mother who is trying to lead her children in the right path but they are making bad choices in their lives. Dead Ends is a slow burn which I really enjoy in books but once you’re getting through the book the tension, horror aspects and chill pick up and it adds that shock and chills throughout your body.
The writing is so well done, the portrayal of the characters were written very realistically and each character came with their own problems and flaws which as you read their perspectives it makes them more human and as you read their perspectives you are able to connect with them like you would in the real world.
Dead Ends is a slow burn horror book that has the right amount of twists and the ending was something I was not expecting as I’m sure many readers won’t which makes it all the more fun to read. There is also some violence that happens in the book which will be shocking but overall the whole premise and plot of this book was a treat to read and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. I would recommend to other readers to check this book out as you won’t be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Flame Tree Press for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest opinion.
August 14, 2023
Well that was intense.
It all starts with a fire, a fire that turns into paranoia, infidelity, murder and an absolute blood bath.
We follow multiple perspectives in this story following the lives of the residents in a secluded neighbourhood. Parents, couples, carers and politicians.
Initially a slow burn, we read about Lucas the troubled teen everyone blames for the fire and how events spiral from there. Each perspective shows how their mentality breaks as the events following the fire set in. Harassment and things that go bump in the night. Out of nowhere the pacing of this book goes wild, as soon as a drop of blood is spilt a dam bursts open and you just have to deal with it.
I didn’t expect the turn this book took, I just assumed it was going to be a vigilante style read but it turned into something else completely. There were events that happened I just did not see coming and the fall out that followed was intense.
I was sceptical when I first started this and wasn’t sure it was going to be for me, but after the first chapter or so I was hooked. I figured out how each characters arc was going to end but I was way off the mark with how it was going to happen.
A really good story, you just need a strong stomach to get through it because it is brutal.
The writing, the pacing and the characters were all spot on. Highly recommend if you like your thrillers with a hint of paranormal (not a big element but it is referenced)
It all starts with a fire, a fire that turns into paranoia, infidelity, murder and an absolute blood bath.
We follow multiple perspectives in this story following the lives of the residents in a secluded neighbourhood. Parents, couples, carers and politicians.
Initially a slow burn, we read about Lucas the troubled teen everyone blames for the fire and how events spiral from there. Each perspective shows how their mentality breaks as the events following the fire set in. Harassment and things that go bump in the night. Out of nowhere the pacing of this book goes wild, as soon as a drop of blood is spilt a dam bursts open and you just have to deal with it.
I didn’t expect the turn this book took, I just assumed it was going to be a vigilante style read but it turned into something else completely. There were events that happened I just did not see coming and the fall out that followed was intense.
I was sceptical when I first started this and wasn’t sure it was going to be for me, but after the first chapter or so I was hooked. I figured out how each characters arc was going to end but I was way off the mark with how it was going to happen.
A really good story, you just need a strong stomach to get through it because it is brutal.
The writing, the pacing and the characters were all spot on. Highly recommend if you like your thrillers with a hint of paranormal (not a big element but it is referenced)
July 27, 2023
Dead Ends by Marc E Fitch showcases exactly why Flame Tree Press stays at the top with the latest amazing horror novels!
Following a house set on fire in a small neighborhood, Dead Ends starts with a bang. There are seemingly unconnected small slices of life that slowly and intricately start weaving together. What follows is a descent into madness that is second to none. This story specifically follows 4 different humans along their journey of investigating some disturbances in their neighborhood. There is the caregiving son taking care of his mother with Alzheimer's, the drunk husband whose marriage is seemingly on the rocks, the worried mother who is watching her children make some difficult choices, and the politician who just might be trying their best!
I really enjoyed this book. It is more of a slower pace, but when it gets going it is an unstoppable force until the deadly conclusion. I don't think that readers will see the ending coming (I certainly did not!), but that just adds to the charm of this novel. I was left with my mouth open at how brutal some of the actions were throughout this novel.
Go check out this book, because you won't disappointed!
PS - the ending of this story was so deliciously evil that it will be stuck with me for some time to come!
Following a house set on fire in a small neighborhood, Dead Ends starts with a bang. There are seemingly unconnected small slices of life that slowly and intricately start weaving together. What follows is a descent into madness that is second to none. This story specifically follows 4 different humans along their journey of investigating some disturbances in their neighborhood. There is the caregiving son taking care of his mother with Alzheimer's, the drunk husband whose marriage is seemingly on the rocks, the worried mother who is watching her children make some difficult choices, and the politician who just might be trying their best!
I really enjoyed this book. It is more of a slower pace, but when it gets going it is an unstoppable force until the deadly conclusion. I don't think that readers will see the ending coming (I certainly did not!), but that just adds to the charm of this novel. I was left with my mouth open at how brutal some of the actions were throughout this novel.
Go check out this book, because you won't disappointed!
PS - the ending of this story was so deliciously evil that it will be stuck with me for some time to come!
August 16, 2023
The book starts with John Ballard making a patio when he hears the noise of breaking glass and loud bangs, when he goes to look, the Windner House is on fire. Because of the fire we get to meet some of the characters in the books as they come to see what's happening and end up on John's front lawn. John's life isn't a good one, two DUIs and he feels stuck, which you will find out through the story. Jessica his wife has had enough of John, she does everything. John changes for the worse after the newspaper arrives the day after the fire and he's not mentioned in it. John's drinking gets worse, along with his temper. I did feel bad for Amber Locke, who lived 3 doors up for John and Jessica. She has a husband and two son that never does anything. One of her son's hangs around with Lucas Lovett and gets into trouble because of it. Keep your eye out for Lucas, that's all I will say about him. At the beginning of the book, we meet some of the character in the chapters that follow on from the fire. I wasn't expecting the ending, but looking back I can see it come now. There a few twists that I didn't see coming. I will be looking out for more books by Marc.
August 23, 2023
This was such a dark and intense read that had me both on the edge of my seat and also hiding behind the cushions.
When the old, abandoned 'haunted House' is set alight, the neighbours of the village come to realise that their fates are twisted together.
This is written from multiple pov's which I loved. Getting to hear each of their stories first hand means that we can really connect with them as characters and feel their development through the story. This made reading this one even more chilling as each of them succumbs to the downward spiral of their lives and we feel every dropwith them. Obviously, they are all flawed in some ways and sometimes I really felt as though I disliked them - but that made them all the more realistic.
The atmosphere created by the writing really felt so suffocating. The tension building rapidly, whilst it seemed that nothing much was happening, but I never felt like I could confirm whether things were paranormal or not?
I think the thing that hits most with this is just how relatable both the people, their lives and the events are. This could actually be happening right now to anyone and that's what makes this even more scary!
When the old, abandoned 'haunted House' is set alight, the neighbours of the village come to realise that their fates are twisted together.
This is written from multiple pov's which I loved. Getting to hear each of their stories first hand means that we can really connect with them as characters and feel their development through the story. This made reading this one even more chilling as each of them succumbs to the downward spiral of their lives and we feel every dropwith them. Obviously, they are all flawed in some ways and sometimes I really felt as though I disliked them - but that made them all the more realistic.
The atmosphere created by the writing really felt so suffocating. The tension building rapidly, whilst it seemed that nothing much was happening, but I never felt like I could confirm whether things were paranormal or not?
I think the thing that hits most with this is just how relatable both the people, their lives and the events are. This could actually be happening right now to anyone and that's what makes this even more scary!
September 1, 2023
This was advertised as a horror, maybe because of the slight paranormal element, but I think it works better as a psychological thriller - showing how messed up the human mind can become.
Whilst I didn't connect to any character, they were all really interesting to read about and felt so realistic. How small decisions or events can spiral into personal hell's with no obvious escape... It's dark reading which fills you with desperation, but shows what can happen without the right help or support.
I wish this didn't have the slight paranormal element as I felt that took away from the key messages - and I felt let down by the epilogue. I also found the pacing quite slow at times.
Overall, bleak and depressing but a scarily realistic story - it wouldn't take much to tip the average person into these roles.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Whilst I didn't connect to any character, they were all really interesting to read about and felt so realistic. How small decisions or events can spiral into personal hell's with no obvious escape... It's dark reading which fills you with desperation, but shows what can happen without the right help or support.
I wish this didn't have the slight paranormal element as I felt that took away from the key messages - and I felt let down by the epilogue. I also found the pacing quite slow at times.
Overall, bleak and depressing but a scarily realistic story - it wouldn't take much to tip the average person into these roles.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 30, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for an advance reader copy. If you want a synopsis, click on the book.
This is a cleverly-written supernatural-tinged story. The blurb about the book describes it as 'character-driven'. Although this is helpful to the reader given the plot and setting, I found some of the character descriptions and introspections too long, detracting from plot development.
Nevertheless, it's a good read. You're never really sure where the story's going but it leads to a satisfying ending.
This is a cleverly-written supernatural-tinged story. The blurb about the book describes it as 'character-driven'. Although this is helpful to the reader given the plot and setting, I found some of the character descriptions and introspections too long, detracting from plot development.
Nevertheless, it's a good read. You're never really sure where the story's going but it leads to a satisfying ending.
July 28, 2023
Wow. Just…wow.
This book was a slow start for me (a horror version of a slow burn if you will) but oh my god, the twists in this book had me reeling!! I did NOT see that ending coming, this was a wonderful mix of horror with real life situations being mixed in. The changing POVs helped me to really connect and see each character’s perspective and that also made the twists later all the more impactful for me.
I absolutely recommend this! Thank you to Netgalley for an early copy!
This book was a slow start for me (a horror version of a slow burn if you will) but oh my god, the twists in this book had me reeling!! I did NOT see that ending coming, this was a wonderful mix of horror with real life situations being mixed in. The changing POVs helped me to really connect and see each character’s perspective and that also made the twists later all the more impactful for me.
I absolutely recommend this! Thank you to Netgalley for an early copy!
March 28, 2024
WOW! What a slow burn leading up to a completely riveting ending. The character development was superb and so uncomfortable. It had such a good blend of horror with politics, racism, isolation, and the unraveling of an entire neighborhood. I highly recommend this read!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for my ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for my ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 26, 2023
This is a character driven novel whose horrors lie more in the mind than the supernatural. That's not to say it's not frightening because it very much is.
The characters in this book will be delved into, revealing dark secrets and oftentimes horrible thoughts that we are all familiar with. The government conspiracy theories, the complete lack of trust in the news, the lives we've carved for ourselves that still leave us feeling empty and worthless. These are all themes explored through the characters here and it's pretty chilling because it hits so close to reality that it can be a bit uncomfortable to think about.
That's not to say there isn't a decidedly creepy vibe strung throughout this story. It begins with a teen setting fire to an abandoned home in a secluded neighborhood and this act is the catalyst for the bloodshed later.
And, yes, there is bloodshed as fear turns to anger, anger turns to finger pointing, and finger pointing turns to delusions of prosecution and paranoi. And once that happens, there are severe brutal consequences as some of these characters slowly unravel and lose themselves in their delusions.
While this might not be a traditional horror novel, it's an excellent dark character study and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
The characters in this book will be delved into, revealing dark secrets and oftentimes horrible thoughts that we are all familiar with. The government conspiracy theories, the complete lack of trust in the news, the lives we've carved for ourselves that still leave us feeling empty and worthless. These are all themes explored through the characters here and it's pretty chilling because it hits so close to reality that it can be a bit uncomfortable to think about.
That's not to say there isn't a decidedly creepy vibe strung throughout this story. It begins with a teen setting fire to an abandoned home in a secluded neighborhood and this act is the catalyst for the bloodshed later.
And, yes, there is bloodshed as fear turns to anger, anger turns to finger pointing, and finger pointing turns to delusions of prosecution and paranoi. And once that happens, there are severe brutal consequences as some of these characters slowly unravel and lose themselves in their delusions.
While this might not be a traditional horror novel, it's an excellent dark character study and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
August 15, 2023
Upon realising there was a new Marc E. Fitch novel on the horizon, I could not hide my excitement, as
Boy in the Box
(2020) is easily one of the very best horror novels of the last decade. It is a tragedy this truly terrifying book does not pick up more press or reader buzz and is the ultimate hair-raiser of a camping trip gone wrong in the Adirondack Mountains. It oozes menace, threat and has a brilliantly shrouded and bleak supernatural twist which rips your throat out with its memorable ending. If you have never heard of Boy in the Box, do yourself a favour and read that along with Dead Ends. Both are published by Flame Tree Press on their impressive "Fiction Without Frontiers" range.
You can read Tony's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
You can read Tony's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
January 17, 2024
This was a very slow burn, character examination. We spend 80% of the book just in the day to day lives of too many people. The switching POV unfortunately lead to quite a bit of repetitiveness to the point, it almost felt like hand holding.
(I can remember details, I don’t need them repeated almost verbatim)
Also, the scenes of these characters were very drawn out; I would skim a few pages and then think to myself “nope, still talking about the same thing”.
I really don’t want to be so negative. The last 20% was so perfectly written it gave a great sense of “everyone going crazy” and I wanted so much more of that.
Unfortunately the first 80% just felt like it dragged so much, that I almost can’t recommend this one.
You have to really enjoy heavy internal monologue and a somewhat dull day to day existence of some of these characters. Martial fights that (just like real life) are repetitive, arguing about the same things in circles. Not fun to live, and also not fun to read.
(I can remember details, I don’t need them repeated almost verbatim)
Also, the scenes of these characters were very drawn out; I would skim a few pages and then think to myself “nope, still talking about the same thing”.
I really don’t want to be so negative. The last 20% was so perfectly written it gave a great sense of “everyone going crazy” and I wanted so much more of that.
Unfortunately the first 80% just felt like it dragged so much, that I almost can’t recommend this one.
You have to really enjoy heavy internal monologue and a somewhat dull day to day existence of some of these characters. Martial fights that (just like real life) are repetitive, arguing about the same things in circles. Not fun to live, and also not fun to read.
January 12, 2025
Part horror novel and part social commentary on the suburban condition, Dead Ends delivers strikingly on both counts, chilling readers with its disturbing images while exposing the destructive patterns that make up 21st century middle-class life. Through John (the disillusioned blue-collar white male), Amber (the frustrated housewife gone down the wrong path), Vernon (a shut-in caring for his dementia-ridden mother to save money at the expense of living his life), and Elizabeth (the shallow politician who looks down her nose at the world around her) author Marc E. Fitch shows us different snapshots of lives in a suburb plagued by destructive forces, some festering from within, and others from outside. The writing is tight, the characters sharply imagined, and the reflections always thoughtful as the author slow builds toward a tour de force destructive ending.
All told, Dead Ends is a smart, hard-hitting novel that bridges the gap between literary fiction and horror. Based on his talents in both genres, I'm looking forward to checking out more of Fitch's work.
All told, Dead Ends is a smart, hard-hitting novel that bridges the gap between literary fiction and horror. Based on his talents in both genres, I'm looking forward to checking out more of Fitch's work.
September 1, 2023
This is such an interesting book. It starts out with a unique introduction to a character. You are sat wondering just want us happening and why. Then you are shifted slightly and things start happening. You are left guessing what is causing the town to be targeted and just what the person is going to do next.
I found the author’s writing style really made for a unique take on the story. It gave lots of detail about surroundings and some happenings, but then kept the mystery shrouded, leaving you completely in the dark and guessing. I found that really exciting and the process of it really kept me itching for more.
Overall, there is a good pace and flow, an excellent story and a unique take on things. A good read.
I found the author’s writing style really made for a unique take on the story. It gave lots of detail about surroundings and some happenings, but then kept the mystery shrouded, leaving you completely in the dark and guessing. I found that really exciting and the process of it really kept me itching for more.
Overall, there is a good pace and flow, an excellent story and a unique take on things. A good read.
August 16, 2023
A scary but slow developing novel (hence 4 stars instead of 5)
For a full review, please go to https://areviewerdarkly.blogspot.com/... and follow me on X @josenher
For a full review, please go to https://areviewerdarkly.blogspot.com/... and follow me on X @josenher
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews