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Hacked in Two
RED FALLS
When June and Ezra take a spontaneous road trip to rural Pennsylvania, they find themselves in the strange town of Red Falls. What transpires there leaves the couple questioning their overnight stay. But when they strike out with new friends for a hike the following morning, June and Ezra enter a world of blood and terror that changes their lives forever.
DEACON
Two worlds collide—a post-apocalyptic place of harsh survival and awful violence, and a tortured author whose reality is coming apart one line at a time. Does any story ever truly end? There is life in the words and in the spaces between them, somewhere in the invisible ink. Deacon is the fusion of at least two stories—one playing out in the barbaric ruins of a fallen world, and the other in the mind. This psychological twist of perception will leave you wondering where fiction ends and reality begins.
When June and Ezra take a spontaneous road trip to rural Pennsylvania, they find themselves in the strange town of Red Falls. What transpires there leaves the couple questioning their overnight stay. But when they strike out with new friends for a hike the following morning, June and Ezra enter a world of blood and terror that changes their lives forever.
DEACON
Two worlds collide—a post-apocalyptic place of harsh survival and awful violence, and a tortured author whose reality is coming apart one line at a time. Does any story ever truly end? There is life in the words and in the spaces between them, somewhere in the invisible ink. Deacon is the fusion of at least two stories—one playing out in the barbaric ruins of a fallen world, and the other in the mind. This psychological twist of perception will leave you wondering where fiction ends and reality begins.
- GenresHorror
180 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2022
1 person is currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
James G. Carlson
95 books35 followersJames G. Carlson is an award-winning author of horror, science fiction, and dark fantasy. His short stories have appeared in various anthologies. He has released two collections of dark fiction, Seven Exhumations and The Ever-Descending Staircase, as well as three novellas, The Legion Machine, Midnight in the City of the Carrion Kid, and Red Falls (in the book Hacked in Two, with Daemon Manx). Most recently, Carlson has teamed up with fellow author Michael R. Collins for Miracles for Masochists, a collection featuring one collaborative tale and three shorts by each author. From the weird state of Pennsylvania, James drinks too much coffee and writes at a desk surrounded by animals and family in the mad zoo he calls home.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 10, 2023
Wow, those were two great novellas. Each one was unique and brutal, showing the talent of each author. The stories compliment one another in a way that just works. Definitely recommended.
July 4, 2022
Two very different stories but both were equally enjoyable.
Red Falls was a kind of a culty creature feature. You knew something weird was going on but you would never have guessed what it turned out to be.
Deacon was a mind bending apocalyptic gross fest that left me questioning reality.
Red Falls was a kind of a culty creature feature. You knew something weird was going on but you would never have guessed what it turned out to be.
Deacon was a mind bending apocalyptic gross fest that left me questioning reality.
May 7, 2022
This was AWESOME! Both stories are fantastic reads. Red Falls was a great take on a classic horror story. Deacon was a meta type violent story, something new from Manx and I loved it! This is a must read book!
August 14, 2022
Last month I read MIDNIGHT IN THE CITY OF THE CARRION KID by James G. Carlson and knew right away I wanted to delve further into his work, which is how I came to read
HACKED IN TWO.
The bonus here is that it also contained a novella by another author I had not yet read.
Full disclosure here, the author provided me with a review copy of MIDNIGHT IN THE CITY OF THE CARRION KID and then I asked for HACKED IN TWO, which was provided to me at no cost.
Let's start with the first novella, RED FALLS by James G. Carlson. I was very pleased to be cozied up with Carlson's writing style once again and also to see what creative storytelling I would find. I was not disappointed. Even though this particular story contained a fair amount of real life politics, which I don't care for in the slightest, the payoff was oh, so worth it.
Our main characters, June and Ezra have hit the road to a remote town named Red Falls in Pennsylvania in search of an annual wine festival. (If you've ever seen the movie Deliverance - that is the setting I pictured when reading the description, complete with the faint music of a banjo...) The couple is disappointed to find the festival hasn't happened in years, but decide to stay the night and return home the next morning. At dinner, they make the acquaintance of another couple who had arrived in the strange town for the same purpose, except they've decided to hike about the area the next morning before leaving and invite June and Ezra along.
What an adventure awaits! Friends, I thought to myself that this sucker was about to get predictable and super tropey and I was so wrong. So very, very wrong - but in the best way. If you love the settings that give you flashbacks to Camp Crystal Lake or Deliverance - you should give this novella a go. If you love horror stories that have unusual lore that you've never encountered before - give this one a go. If you're like me and your brain shuts off when it comes to politics in books - I will say that it's only mentioned in the first section and very tastefully written, in fact I found it very enlightening - trust me, it's worth the read.
The second novella, DEACON by Daemon Manx has one of my all-time favorite tropes, especially in thriller or horror stories - our main character is a writer. To me, it was THE WALKING DEAD meets THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE...with a slight dash of MISERY. It was such an interesting approach to how an author separates himself from his work, his characters. (Or does he?) There is the world the author is writing - a post apocalyptic world in which survival is low and violence is rampant. Extremely rampant. I will say, I honestly wasn't sure I was going to be able to read this one at first because of the violence and a few actions of the characters being written by our author...until I understood what was happening with the story within a story. That sounds so confusing, but it's such a great psychological study of perception that you might find yourself at the end, shaking your head with your mouth hanging open going "What the frick just happened?!! DID HE REALLY DO THAT?!"
So while both of these novellas had an element that isn't my personal cup of tea, their amazing ability to snare me with their technique and plots so that I HAD to keep going - I had to know what was going to happen and it was worth it. It made me really think to myself about some books I'd previously quit on because I got distracted by an element I didn't like and now I wonder if I'd just trusted the author a little longer, would I have found myself changing my outlook?
You just can't be mad when a book or collection gives you such a great experience that it changes your mindset - that's when you know it's good.
Full disclosure here, the author provided me with a review copy of MIDNIGHT IN THE CITY OF THE CARRION KID and then I asked for HACKED IN TWO, which was provided to me at no cost.
Let's start with the first novella, RED FALLS by James G. Carlson. I was very pleased to be cozied up with Carlson's writing style once again and also to see what creative storytelling I would find. I was not disappointed. Even though this particular story contained a fair amount of real life politics, which I don't care for in the slightest, the payoff was oh, so worth it.
Our main characters, June and Ezra have hit the road to a remote town named Red Falls in Pennsylvania in search of an annual wine festival. (If you've ever seen the movie Deliverance - that is the setting I pictured when reading the description, complete with the faint music of a banjo...) The couple is disappointed to find the festival hasn't happened in years, but decide to stay the night and return home the next morning. At dinner, they make the acquaintance of another couple who had arrived in the strange town for the same purpose, except they've decided to hike about the area the next morning before leaving and invite June and Ezra along.
What an adventure awaits! Friends, I thought to myself that this sucker was about to get predictable and super tropey and I was so wrong. So very, very wrong - but in the best way. If you love the settings that give you flashbacks to Camp Crystal Lake or Deliverance - you should give this novella a go. If you love horror stories that have unusual lore that you've never encountered before - give this one a go. If you're like me and your brain shuts off when it comes to politics in books - I will say that it's only mentioned in the first section and very tastefully written, in fact I found it very enlightening - trust me, it's worth the read.
The second novella, DEACON by Daemon Manx has one of my all-time favorite tropes, especially in thriller or horror stories - our main character is a writer. To me, it was THE WALKING DEAD meets THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE...with a slight dash of MISERY. It was such an interesting approach to how an author separates himself from his work, his characters. (Or does he?) There is the world the author is writing - a post apocalyptic world in which survival is low and violence is rampant. Extremely rampant. I will say, I honestly wasn't sure I was going to be able to read this one at first because of the violence and a few actions of the characters being written by our author...until I understood what was happening with the story within a story. That sounds so confusing, but it's such a great psychological study of perception that you might find yourself at the end, shaking your head with your mouth hanging open going "What the frick just happened?!! DID HE REALLY DO THAT?!"
So while both of these novellas had an element that isn't my personal cup of tea, their amazing ability to snare me with their technique and plots so that I HAD to keep going - I had to know what was going to happen and it was worth it. It made me really think to myself about some books I'd previously quit on because I got distracted by an element I didn't like and now I wonder if I'd just trusted the author a little longer, would I have found myself changing my outlook?
You just can't be mad when a book or collection gives you such a great experience that it changes your mindset - that's when you know it's good.
April 20, 2022
Horror Bookworm Reviews
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
- A wilderness adventure for a young couple quickly develops into a terrifying tourist trap with unspeakable consequences. Never has the rugged outdoors developed into such extreme hazards of horror.
- A plague of lumbering undead has been released among the world’s population. This revelatory tribulation has given rise to true evil and genuine good, specifically a righteousness that was delivered to fight for the oppressed and punish the wicked.
* Authors Daemon Manx & James G. Carlson have combined forces to create a disturbing double feature of novellas known as Hacked In Two.
Red Falls by James G. Carlson captures a road-trip of ominous dark despair. His gritty tale of strange and diseased infestation has a primitive bite which doesn’t let go. Glossed with earthly and spiritual overtones, Carlson’s bloody brochure is laden with horrific hillbillies and parasitic surreal nightmares. Many forms of extreme terror await the reader within this unconventional story of creepy delirium.
Deacon by Daemon Manx arouses slow moving ghouls better known as Grunts or Rotters. Desiring the taste of fresh meat, the collapse of civilization is inevitable. A man of the cloth, known as Deacon, imposes his justice on those in need with actions of brutal deliverance. Speargun, chainsaw and cleaver are just a few of the tools used for baptism of the flesh. An inventive inner struggle artistically bleeds onto this novella’s pages making it literally horror from the author’s heart.
Extreme horror is served on a platter of vile raw meat prepared by two of the finest innovative splatter-chefs writing today. Stories like these bring readers together and praise that century-old conviction of “the night is long, and the gods are good.” Enjoy these five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ morsels of the macabre.
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
- A wilderness adventure for a young couple quickly develops into a terrifying tourist trap with unspeakable consequences. Never has the rugged outdoors developed into such extreme hazards of horror.
- A plague of lumbering undead has been released among the world’s population. This revelatory tribulation has given rise to true evil and genuine good, specifically a righteousness that was delivered to fight for the oppressed and punish the wicked.
* Authors Daemon Manx & James G. Carlson have combined forces to create a disturbing double feature of novellas known as Hacked In Two.
Red Falls by James G. Carlson captures a road-trip of ominous dark despair. His gritty tale of strange and diseased infestation has a primitive bite which doesn’t let go. Glossed with earthly and spiritual overtones, Carlson’s bloody brochure is laden with horrific hillbillies and parasitic surreal nightmares. Many forms of extreme terror await the reader within this unconventional story of creepy delirium.
Deacon by Daemon Manx arouses slow moving ghouls better known as Grunts or Rotters. Desiring the taste of fresh meat, the collapse of civilization is inevitable. A man of the cloth, known as Deacon, imposes his justice on those in need with actions of brutal deliverance. Speargun, chainsaw and cleaver are just a few of the tools used for baptism of the flesh. An inventive inner struggle artistically bleeds onto this novella’s pages making it literally horror from the author’s heart.
Extreme horror is served on a platter of vile raw meat prepared by two of the finest innovative splatter-chefs writing today. Stories like these bring readers together and praise that century-old conviction of “the night is long, and the gods are good.” Enjoy these five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ morsels of the macabre.
April 10, 2022
So, you get two stories for the price of one with this book, and they are both fan-bloody-tastic! 🖤
First off is RED FALLS by James G. Carlson, which kicks off with a creepy, atmospheric and horrifying opening! And it doesnt let up!!
A fast paced tale with lots of action and humour, and some great descriptive prose.
A story of small town secrets, traditions and rituals, and animals in the woods that are foaming at the mouth and covered in weird, moving lumps! Nature can be horrific, and so can the natives!
All in all, an unsettling, brutal and itchy read that I very much enjoyed!
The second story is DEACON by Daemon Manx. This one is a little bit different, and a lot brilliant!
Fiction and reality intertwine in this brutal zombie tale with a unique twist! It starts off pretty gross, and continues to be gross, but in between we get a real insight into the life of Daemon Manx (or is it Deacon? 😉) A heartfelt insight, which was eye opening, surreal and intense.
The story flowed well, despite it being told from two different realities and perspectives, and the descriptions are brilliant, helping you feel youre a part of the journey.
This was my first by Daemon but Ill definitely be checking out more!
Overall, both were high energy, big impact stories that I thoroughly enjoyed!!
5/5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
First off is RED FALLS by James G. Carlson, which kicks off with a creepy, atmospheric and horrifying opening! And it doesnt let up!!
A fast paced tale with lots of action and humour, and some great descriptive prose.
A story of small town secrets, traditions and rituals, and animals in the woods that are foaming at the mouth and covered in weird, moving lumps! Nature can be horrific, and so can the natives!
All in all, an unsettling, brutal and itchy read that I very much enjoyed!
The second story is DEACON by Daemon Manx. This one is a little bit different, and a lot brilliant!
Fiction and reality intertwine in this brutal zombie tale with a unique twist! It starts off pretty gross, and continues to be gross, but in between we get a real insight into the life of Daemon Manx (or is it Deacon? 😉) A heartfelt insight, which was eye opening, surreal and intense.
The story flowed well, despite it being told from two different realities and perspectives, and the descriptions are brilliant, helping you feel youre a part of the journey.
This was my first by Daemon but Ill definitely be checking out more!
Overall, both were high energy, big impact stories that I thoroughly enjoyed!!
5/5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
June 7, 2022
Indie Review
What is better than reading a book by one of your favorite authors? Reading a book featuring TWO of your favorite authors, naturally!
I was lucky enough receive an ARC copy of Hacked in Two in exchange for an honest review, and was pretty stoked for the stories within just based on the excellent cover alone. Yeah, yeah, we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover.
But we all do it. Each. And. Every. One. Of. Us. So cut me some slack. Or, to hew closer to the book in question…hack me some slack! But I digress…
Hacked in Two features a short story apiece from Daemon Manx and James G. Carlson, two authors who came up through the indie-horror trenches together. They both, quite ironically, also forged very similar paths in their literary ascension, creating their own publishing houses; Mr. Carlson starting Gloom House and Daemon establishing Last Waltz. And while both imprints are attracting talent from across the indie scene, gradually filling out their stable of published works, Mr. Carlson and Mr. Manx are still, first and foremost, gifted authors. Neither of whom are content to rest on their laurels.
Thus, Hacked in Two was born. Weighing in at 180 pages, and published on the Gloom House imprint, these are some meaty short stories. As with all of my reviews, I will attempt to keep spoilers to a minimum. I fully believe that books are more enjoyable when going in as blind as possible. I also respect the effort that writers put into their works, and therefore want to minimize preconceived notions altogether if possible.
Mr. Carlson’s tale Red Falls, the first story in the collection, is the longer of the two offerings. As I have learned from previous experience with his tales, Mr. Carlson likes to take tropes and concepts from established horror conventions and combine them into something new. Red Falls is no different, bringing together snippets of the “city slickers vs country folk” and creature feature genres, stitching them together into a cohesive and nasty whole.
What I really appreciated about Red Falls, and really all of James G. Carlson’s works in general, is that regardless of how depraved or disgusting his subject matter might be, there is an elegance to his writing that elevates the material. There is nothing wrong with extreme horror (more on that later), but many of the authors in that genre tend for more explosive writing style, maximizing the shock they deliver. But while many of the events that transpire in Red Falls are shocking, they are professionally and pristinely delivered, resulting in a polished package. I have mentioned before in reviews how a little bit of restraint goes a long way. The fact that Mr. Carlson manages to beautifully narrate the ugliness that transpires, by showing just that little bit of restraint, speaks to what a consummate professional he is.
Mr. Manx’s tale Deacon is both everything and nothing that I expected a Daemon Manx story to be. What begins as a (seemingly) extreme-horror zombie narrative quickly veers WILDLY in a different direction entirely. From the various pieces I have read from Daemon in the past, I can unequivocally state that, more so than any other author I have read, many of his tales have a very personal bent to them. And that is one of the most appealing things for me; getting to know the author through his writing.
With Deacon, however, Mr. Manx has given us the most unfiltered glimpse into his life yet. But instead of adding additional color to the story, with Deacon, the glimpses into Daemon’s life ARE the story. To go much more into why would be venturing heavily into spoiler territory. Needless to say, the lines between author and creation blur in the most exciting and visceral of ways. And, in doing so, Daemon asks the fundamental question for an author; do we rule the stories we create, or do they rule us? From my own experiences with my own creations, I can attest that it’s a constant tug-of-war between the two. And Daemon explores that tug-of-war in a grand fashion with Deacon. I also love that he tackles the nature of extreme horror (from his perspective at least) head on and without pulling punches. Is it a road he wants to go down? Is it a road he SHOULD go down? What does it say about him if he does or doesn’t? Deacon is heady stuff through and through. The kind of stuff that separates an author from a writer.
Plus, I just love Daemon’s use of humor in his tales. Some of it is ironic, some of it is raunchy, but it all serves in enhancing the story.
Nitpicks are few and VERY far between. I only noticed a couple of instances of misspellings or word repetition. Outside of that, I have no complaints. The stories were exactly as long as they needed to be. The writing, as expected, was top-notch. Pacing was perfect. And neither ends with a traditional bow tied neatly around them, which was greatly appreciated by this reviewer.
Providing two great stories for one low price, picking up Hacked in Two is a no-brainer for any lover of horror. I was entertained from start to finish, becoming more of a fan of both Mr. Carslon & Mr. Manx in the process.
Highly recommended!
What is better than reading a book by one of your favorite authors? Reading a book featuring TWO of your favorite authors, naturally!
I was lucky enough receive an ARC copy of Hacked in Two in exchange for an honest review, and was pretty stoked for the stories within just based on the excellent cover alone. Yeah, yeah, we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover.
But we all do it. Each. And. Every. One. Of. Us. So cut me some slack. Or, to hew closer to the book in question…hack me some slack! But I digress…
Hacked in Two features a short story apiece from Daemon Manx and James G. Carlson, two authors who came up through the indie-horror trenches together. They both, quite ironically, also forged very similar paths in their literary ascension, creating their own publishing houses; Mr. Carlson starting Gloom House and Daemon establishing Last Waltz. And while both imprints are attracting talent from across the indie scene, gradually filling out their stable of published works, Mr. Carlson and Mr. Manx are still, first and foremost, gifted authors. Neither of whom are content to rest on their laurels.
Thus, Hacked in Two was born. Weighing in at 180 pages, and published on the Gloom House imprint, these are some meaty short stories. As with all of my reviews, I will attempt to keep spoilers to a minimum. I fully believe that books are more enjoyable when going in as blind as possible. I also respect the effort that writers put into their works, and therefore want to minimize preconceived notions altogether if possible.
Mr. Carlson’s tale Red Falls, the first story in the collection, is the longer of the two offerings. As I have learned from previous experience with his tales, Mr. Carlson likes to take tropes and concepts from established horror conventions and combine them into something new. Red Falls is no different, bringing together snippets of the “city slickers vs country folk” and creature feature genres, stitching them together into a cohesive and nasty whole.
What I really appreciated about Red Falls, and really all of James G. Carlson’s works in general, is that regardless of how depraved or disgusting his subject matter might be, there is an elegance to his writing that elevates the material. There is nothing wrong with extreme horror (more on that later), but many of the authors in that genre tend for more explosive writing style, maximizing the shock they deliver. But while many of the events that transpire in Red Falls are shocking, they are professionally and pristinely delivered, resulting in a polished package. I have mentioned before in reviews how a little bit of restraint goes a long way. The fact that Mr. Carlson manages to beautifully narrate the ugliness that transpires, by showing just that little bit of restraint, speaks to what a consummate professional he is.
Mr. Manx’s tale Deacon is both everything and nothing that I expected a Daemon Manx story to be. What begins as a (seemingly) extreme-horror zombie narrative quickly veers WILDLY in a different direction entirely. From the various pieces I have read from Daemon in the past, I can unequivocally state that, more so than any other author I have read, many of his tales have a very personal bent to them. And that is one of the most appealing things for me; getting to know the author through his writing.
With Deacon, however, Mr. Manx has given us the most unfiltered glimpse into his life yet. But instead of adding additional color to the story, with Deacon, the glimpses into Daemon’s life ARE the story. To go much more into why would be venturing heavily into spoiler territory. Needless to say, the lines between author and creation blur in the most exciting and visceral of ways. And, in doing so, Daemon asks the fundamental question for an author; do we rule the stories we create, or do they rule us? From my own experiences with my own creations, I can attest that it’s a constant tug-of-war between the two. And Daemon explores that tug-of-war in a grand fashion with Deacon. I also love that he tackles the nature of extreme horror (from his perspective at least) head on and without pulling punches. Is it a road he wants to go down? Is it a road he SHOULD go down? What does it say about him if he does or doesn’t? Deacon is heady stuff through and through. The kind of stuff that separates an author from a writer.
Plus, I just love Daemon’s use of humor in his tales. Some of it is ironic, some of it is raunchy, but it all serves in enhancing the story.
Nitpicks are few and VERY far between. I only noticed a couple of instances of misspellings or word repetition. Outside of that, I have no complaints. The stories were exactly as long as they needed to be. The writing, as expected, was top-notch. Pacing was perfect. And neither ends with a traditional bow tied neatly around them, which was greatly appreciated by this reviewer.
Providing two great stories for one low price, picking up Hacked in Two is a no-brainer for any lover of horror. I was entertained from start to finish, becoming more of a fan of both Mr. Carslon & Mr. Manx in the process.
Highly recommended!
April 8, 2022
I just finished reading Hacked In Two and I think this is just what I needed to get me out of a reading slump. Hacked In Two consists of two stories by two different authors.
The book begins with the story Red Falls by James G. Carlson. In this story, a couple ventures into a small town with strange, mysterious locals. Things start to take a horrific turn. As the town locals unravel their sinister motives, will the couple survive? You will have to read it to find out! Carlson's story is a blend of folk horror, cosmic horror, and creature feature. At times you get that Wickerman vibe, that sense of dread you feel as a stranger in a strange land.
In the second story, Deacon by Daemon Manx there are two stories that come together in a mind altering collision course. The story starts off with zombies in a post apocalyptical world setting. There is plenty of gore to satisfy the gore hounds. It then switches to Daemon, the author writing the story the author is telling, to the author's reality. If you liked Pieces and Abigail, you will love this story.
Overall, both of these stories were page turners , full of twists and turns. 5 out 5 solid stars.
The book begins with the story Red Falls by James G. Carlson. In this story, a couple ventures into a small town with strange, mysterious locals. Things start to take a horrific turn. As the town locals unravel their sinister motives, will the couple survive? You will have to read it to find out! Carlson's story is a blend of folk horror, cosmic horror, and creature feature. At times you get that Wickerman vibe, that sense of dread you feel as a stranger in a strange land.
In the second story, Deacon by Daemon Manx there are two stories that come together in a mind altering collision course. The story starts off with zombies in a post apocalyptical world setting. There is plenty of gore to satisfy the gore hounds. It then switches to Daemon, the author writing the story the author is telling, to the author's reality. If you liked Pieces and Abigail, you will love this story.
Overall, both of these stories were page turners , full of twists and turns. 5 out 5 solid stars.
April 6, 2022
Hacked in Two from Gloom House Publishing is a single fabulous volume containing two stories, one by James G. Carlson and the other by Daemon Manx. The stories are not connected and are different from one another, but both are excellent.
In Red Falls by James G. Carlson, the prologue sets an ominous and intriguing tone, but that moment further in the story when it became clear there was way more to this story than I thought sent shivers down my spine. I was so intrigued and subsequently so enthralled that I read the whole thing in one sitting.
Of course, one of the driving characteristics of Red Falls is Carlson’s vivid characters. I love the way he tells us all about June and Ezra through their conversation, thoughts, and actions. I didn’t find them personally likable—though Marcus and Nigel are absolutely fantastic—but did find them and the other characters believable and engaging. As you might expect from that, another driving force of the story is the character interaction. It’s flawless and keeps the story flowing beautifully.
Now, the ultimate twist and reveal was not what I expected, not at all. But I loved it! It’s clever and unique, and it transcends your expectations and all subgenre lines with skillful complexity. This story is absolutely brilliant, and I can’t recommend it enough. However, readers should be aware that it does ultimately contain some very disturbing subject matter … which I personally also loved.
Deacon by Daemon Manx is an unexpected story of the duality of existence and a curious companion to the horrors Red Falls. But, as stated in the synopsis, it “will leave you wondering where fiction ends and reality begins.” I found that to be true, and it made Red Falls retrospectively even more horrifying.
In Deacon, Manx explores the line between the fiction we escape into and the reality it can often reflect, much like a grown-up horror version of The NeverEnding Story, but with the author instead of the reader. The violence and suspense of the post-apocalyptic story contrasts with the tension and dread of the author story in a way that creates a third story: the story of the reader’s experience. And it is an experience. Your mind tries to solve the mystery while also trying to wrap around the complexity of fiction reflecting reality in ways both subtle and blatant.
On a simpler note, the post-apocalyptic story is graphic, gory, and great. The story about the author is suspenseful and deep. The reader experience of the way they come together will possibly vary from reader to reader, but I found it has me wondering if it is intended to be that deep or if it’s an intended unlawful fornication of the mind. Or both. Probably both. You need to read this.
As a whole, these stories individually and collectively step outside the boundaries of subgenres, tropes, and expectations. This is a shelf-worthy volume I intend to acquire in paperback for the Templum Library.
In Red Falls by James G. Carlson, the prologue sets an ominous and intriguing tone, but that moment further in the story when it became clear there was way more to this story than I thought sent shivers down my spine. I was so intrigued and subsequently so enthralled that I read the whole thing in one sitting.
Of course, one of the driving characteristics of Red Falls is Carlson’s vivid characters. I love the way he tells us all about June and Ezra through their conversation, thoughts, and actions. I didn’t find them personally likable—though Marcus and Nigel are absolutely fantastic—but did find them and the other characters believable and engaging. As you might expect from that, another driving force of the story is the character interaction. It’s flawless and keeps the story flowing beautifully.
Now, the ultimate twist and reveal was not what I expected, not at all. But I loved it! It’s clever and unique, and it transcends your expectations and all subgenre lines with skillful complexity. This story is absolutely brilliant, and I can’t recommend it enough. However, readers should be aware that it does ultimately contain some very disturbing subject matter … which I personally also loved.
Deacon by Daemon Manx is an unexpected story of the duality of existence and a curious companion to the horrors Red Falls. But, as stated in the synopsis, it “will leave you wondering where fiction ends and reality begins.” I found that to be true, and it made Red Falls retrospectively even more horrifying.
In Deacon, Manx explores the line between the fiction we escape into and the reality it can often reflect, much like a grown-up horror version of The NeverEnding Story, but with the author instead of the reader. The violence and suspense of the post-apocalyptic story contrasts with the tension and dread of the author story in a way that creates a third story: the story of the reader’s experience. And it is an experience. Your mind tries to solve the mystery while also trying to wrap around the complexity of fiction reflecting reality in ways both subtle and blatant.
On a simpler note, the post-apocalyptic story is graphic, gory, and great. The story about the author is suspenseful and deep. The reader experience of the way they come together will possibly vary from reader to reader, but I found it has me wondering if it is intended to be that deep or if it’s an intended unlawful fornication of the mind. Or both. Probably both. You need to read this.
As a whole, these stories individually and collectively step outside the boundaries of subgenres, tropes, and expectations. This is a shelf-worthy volume I intend to acquire in paperback for the Templum Library.
April 7, 2022
Have read multiple titles by these authors. Substantial growth from the previous works, in my opinion. Mind blown. Stayed up all night reading it. Highly recommend, though hopefully you can sleep in the next day because it is an addictive page turner!
June 1, 2022
Two Authors, Two Stories, One Book!
Hacked in Two by James G. Carlson and Daemon Manx is two tales, one spun by each author. The first entry is James’s contribution titled Red Falls. The second entry is Daemon’s titled Deacon. Both of these twisted stories invoke much dread, fear, and will get under your skin!
In Red Falls a couple travel to the small town for a wine tasting. Unfortunately, the people of Red Falls inform the duo that the wine tasting hasn’t occurred for years. The following events are strange, creepy, and will leave you scratching your skin. Something dark lies in Red Falls. Something a part of the arachnid family but freakishly mutated. Will our couple escape unscathed? Will the couple they met make it out? Or has the entire town set them up for hell on earth?
Deacon is a very intense story that, at least as a reader, Daemon Manx put a lot of himself into. In the story Daemon is attempting to pen his next work. His main character Deacon is much different than himself, and he loves the character for it. Who doesn’t like to picture a character without our human flaws? Well, be careful what you wish for! As Daemon begins to receive strange things, see strange things, and the story seems to be writing itself without Daemon’s recollection his life becomes quite complicated. His once mundane existence quickly becomes a maelstrom. Who is Deacon? Who is Daemon? Will this be the author’s demise?
I have to say that I absolutely loved both stories! I am being a bit vague purposely. This book is one you have to read! I am an arachnophobe and Red Falls had my skin crawling! Deacon was such a unique and fun concept that I just enjoyed the ride immensely! Deacon did have aspects that made me think of Stephen King’s 1989 novel The Dark Half, while retaining a unique and individual feel.
Overall, I cannot choose a favorite of the two. I give Hacked in Two by James G. Carlson and Daemon Manx five sacrificed townsfolk out of five zombie slayers! I would highly suggest that you get in on this story now. There will be a virtual event soon, and attendees have a chance at wining one of two physical copies or one of two ebook copies! This is a Horror Nerds 😈 Facebook group exclusive event. Don’t be late. Join today and be ready for the live. Details are below. Until next time, my friends. https://www.Facebook.com/groups/87427...
Hacked in Two by James G. Carlson and Daemon Manx is two tales, one spun by each author. The first entry is James’s contribution titled Red Falls. The second entry is Daemon’s titled Deacon. Both of these twisted stories invoke much dread, fear, and will get under your skin!
In Red Falls a couple travel to the small town for a wine tasting. Unfortunately, the people of Red Falls inform the duo that the wine tasting hasn’t occurred for years. The following events are strange, creepy, and will leave you scratching your skin. Something dark lies in Red Falls. Something a part of the arachnid family but freakishly mutated. Will our couple escape unscathed? Will the couple they met make it out? Or has the entire town set them up for hell on earth?
Deacon is a very intense story that, at least as a reader, Daemon Manx put a lot of himself into. In the story Daemon is attempting to pen his next work. His main character Deacon is much different than himself, and he loves the character for it. Who doesn’t like to picture a character without our human flaws? Well, be careful what you wish for! As Daemon begins to receive strange things, see strange things, and the story seems to be writing itself without Daemon’s recollection his life becomes quite complicated. His once mundane existence quickly becomes a maelstrom. Who is Deacon? Who is Daemon? Will this be the author’s demise?
I have to say that I absolutely loved both stories! I am being a bit vague purposely. This book is one you have to read! I am an arachnophobe and Red Falls had my skin crawling! Deacon was such a unique and fun concept that I just enjoyed the ride immensely! Deacon did have aspects that made me think of Stephen King’s 1989 novel The Dark Half, while retaining a unique and individual feel.
Overall, I cannot choose a favorite of the two. I give Hacked in Two by James G. Carlson and Daemon Manx five sacrificed townsfolk out of five zombie slayers! I would highly suggest that you get in on this story now. There will be a virtual event soon, and attendees have a chance at wining one of two physical copies or one of two ebook copies! This is a Horror Nerds 😈 Facebook group exclusive event. Don’t be late. Join today and be ready for the live. Details are below. Until next time, my friends. https://www.Facebook.com/groups/87427...
August 15, 2022
Enjoyed both stories in this book, creepy and imaginative. If you are into horror, definitely worth checking out.
April 3, 2022
Hacked in Two contains two stories by two different authors, and the stories themselves are as different as can be.
The first story, Red Falls by James G. Carlson, reminded me of the pulp horror so popular in the 1990's. A couple ends up in a creepy little town nestled in the woods of Pennsylvania, a town full of strange people with even stranger customs. The couple, June and Ezra, are a completely modern partnership, even *gasp!* living together without being married. Honestly, Ezra is a little too "woke" for his own good and comes across as obnoxious; June is more likable. Both of them, along with Nigel and Marcus, another tourist couple they meet along the way, are in way over their heads with the completely un-woke backwoods hillbillies of Red Falls, and even more so with the horrendous creatures that dwell in the woods, the creatures the townspeople have a symbiotic relationship with, the creatures that must have blood to survive... and human hosts to reproduce.
Red Falls is a creature feature, a story that is fun in that way that only horror can be, full of blood and guts and a bizarre sort of folk horror that will make you think twice about stopping off for the night in any town that's barely more than a dot on the map.
Next up is the story Deacon by Daemon Manx, and I was not prepared for the way this story would mess with my head. We start out in a post-apocalyptic world full of zombies, with a couple of backwoods brothers who take advantage of innocent people and then chop them up as food for the undead clamoring at the fence. Into this world comes a vigilante hero known as Deacon... and then the story gets weird.
We go back and forth between the "fictional" world of Deacon and the "real" world in which Daemon Manx himself is sharing the story he's writing, little by little, with his old friend Dillon. Before long, though, Daemon is pouring more of himself into the story than he realizes, and the line between truth and fiction blurs as Daemon explores the darker parts of his past that he's kept hidden for ten years.
The zombie world and the awful brothers within it would be good fun horror, by adding in the "real" parts, Manx has given us a psychological horror that will crawl inside your brain and have you turning pages like crazy, wondering just how many of the people in the story are real and how many are in the (fictional) writer's head, and most importantly: will he succumb to the darkness inside him?
In the end, only one can remain: will it be Daemon, Dillon... or Deacon?
This is carnage mixed with meta fiction, dark and unsettling and so well-written that I wanted to call up Daemon Manx (the actual, real-life one) when I was finished and ask him: Man, are you OK?
In other words, no matter what kind of horror you like, this book will scratch that itch. Red Falls will make you squirm and gag, Deacon will make you question your reality. So, basically: a win-win situation.
The first story, Red Falls by James G. Carlson, reminded me of the pulp horror so popular in the 1990's. A couple ends up in a creepy little town nestled in the woods of Pennsylvania, a town full of strange people with even stranger customs. The couple, June and Ezra, are a completely modern partnership, even *gasp!* living together without being married. Honestly, Ezra is a little too "woke" for his own good and comes across as obnoxious; June is more likable. Both of them, along with Nigel and Marcus, another tourist couple they meet along the way, are in way over their heads with the completely un-woke backwoods hillbillies of Red Falls, and even more so with the horrendous creatures that dwell in the woods, the creatures the townspeople have a symbiotic relationship with, the creatures that must have blood to survive... and human hosts to reproduce.
Red Falls is a creature feature, a story that is fun in that way that only horror can be, full of blood and guts and a bizarre sort of folk horror that will make you think twice about stopping off for the night in any town that's barely more than a dot on the map.
Next up is the story Deacon by Daemon Manx, and I was not prepared for the way this story would mess with my head. We start out in a post-apocalyptic world full of zombies, with a couple of backwoods brothers who take advantage of innocent people and then chop them up as food for the undead clamoring at the fence. Into this world comes a vigilante hero known as Deacon... and then the story gets weird.
We go back and forth between the "fictional" world of Deacon and the "real" world in which Daemon Manx himself is sharing the story he's writing, little by little, with his old friend Dillon. Before long, though, Daemon is pouring more of himself into the story than he realizes, and the line between truth and fiction blurs as Daemon explores the darker parts of his past that he's kept hidden for ten years.
The zombie world and the awful brothers within it would be good fun horror, by adding in the "real" parts, Manx has given us a psychological horror that will crawl inside your brain and have you turning pages like crazy, wondering just how many of the people in the story are real and how many are in the (fictional) writer's head, and most importantly: will he succumb to the darkness inside him?
In the end, only one can remain: will it be Daemon, Dillon... or Deacon?
This is carnage mixed with meta fiction, dark and unsettling and so well-written that I wanted to call up Daemon Manx (the actual, real-life one) when I was finished and ask him: Man, are you OK?
In other words, no matter what kind of horror you like, this book will scratch that itch. Red Falls will make you squirm and gag, Deacon will make you question your reality. So, basically: a win-win situation.
February 26, 2023
Ok so let's dive straight in with James G Carlson taking over the first part of the book with his story Red Falls. First chapter goes straight in with an abduction scene, four hikers in the wrong place at the wrong time. This sets the scenes for what is to come, gearing the reader up for what will be a hell of a ride. I mean, you sit there and realise wow if this is just the first chapter I can't wait to see what happens next.
Introducing us to June and Ezra, out on the road to a wine festival taking place in the very same place our unfortunate hikers were being held, Red Falls.
So yeah imagine two young people, who are open-minded against racists, fascists, and all forms of religion. That is this couple, now stick them in a backwater town. Run down to the ground and look nothing like the images they were shown. So that is the town, add in some deliverance vibes and you have one hell of a setup. They bump into another couple Marcus and Nigel, who are damn near my favourite characters. By this point, I've gone quite fond of the couple, but also pretty fearful for them as I doubt the town's folk appreciate the kind of love they share. I am already more than aware that the four of them have ruffled all the feathers.
But have no idea what fate awaits them, especially with the way the story started. But as the story pace quickens and the violence ensues, I had no idea that the story would take the turn it did. If you hate lice, ticks, and leeches, well I am sorry won't be changing your mind anytime soon. It was a bloody good read! (hehe pun intended). I enjoyed the journey it took me on, the characters and the backstory of the town, and how it became Red Falls.
Then we move on to Deacon by Daemon, now I have read his work before. So I was prepared for a hell of a ride. As always he never disappoints with this story of a zombie-killing priest called Deacon. Which morphs into a Mouth of Madness-style story, where reality and fiction start to meld. As we flip between Daemon's story and his own life as an author. This fascinating read opens the door to how confusing and complex writing can get. I know I have had many times where I have questioned my own sanity, especially when you have characters that walk in and out of your dreams. This also sheds light on the hard uphill journey against addiction, starting a new life, and trying to maintain control against temptation. Both sides of the story will suck you in and keep you fully invested. I like that both authors went with a similar theme of Hill Billy's and those stuck in their ways warped by tradition and the social environment they grew up in.
But Daemon shared his soul with the reader, his story was an emotional ride from start to finish. Whereas James shared his intellect and raised some interesting social topics. Put these two together and you have a book with some deep context behind it and an intense horror experience for the reader.
Introducing us to June and Ezra, out on the road to a wine festival taking place in the very same place our unfortunate hikers were being held, Red Falls.
So yeah imagine two young people, who are open-minded against racists, fascists, and all forms of religion. That is this couple, now stick them in a backwater town. Run down to the ground and look nothing like the images they were shown. So that is the town, add in some deliverance vibes and you have one hell of a setup. They bump into another couple Marcus and Nigel, who are damn near my favourite characters. By this point, I've gone quite fond of the couple, but also pretty fearful for them as I doubt the town's folk appreciate the kind of love they share. I am already more than aware that the four of them have ruffled all the feathers.
But have no idea what fate awaits them, especially with the way the story started. But as the story pace quickens and the violence ensues, I had no idea that the story would take the turn it did. If you hate lice, ticks, and leeches, well I am sorry won't be changing your mind anytime soon. It was a bloody good read! (hehe pun intended). I enjoyed the journey it took me on, the characters and the backstory of the town, and how it became Red Falls.
Then we move on to Deacon by Daemon, now I have read his work before. So I was prepared for a hell of a ride. As always he never disappoints with this story of a zombie-killing priest called Deacon. Which morphs into a Mouth of Madness-style story, where reality and fiction start to meld. As we flip between Daemon's story and his own life as an author. This fascinating read opens the door to how confusing and complex writing can get. I know I have had many times where I have questioned my own sanity, especially when you have characters that walk in and out of your dreams. This also sheds light on the hard uphill journey against addiction, starting a new life, and trying to maintain control against temptation. Both sides of the story will suck you in and keep you fully invested. I like that both authors went with a similar theme of Hill Billy's and those stuck in their ways warped by tradition and the social environment they grew up in.
But Daemon shared his soul with the reader, his story was an emotional ride from start to finish. Whereas James shared his intellect and raised some interesting social topics. Put these two together and you have a book with some deep context behind it and an intense horror experience for the reader.
May 13, 2022
The wonderful people of Gloom House Publishing were kind enough to send me a copy of their terrific new horror release, 'Hacked in Two' for review and once again they kept me awake at night on a reading frenzy.
'Hacked in Two' is essentially two novellas, 'Red Falls' and 'Deacon', by authors James G. Carson and Daemon Manx respectively, both packing quite a punch.
In 'RED FALLS'
June and Ezra take a spontaneous road trip, only to find themselves in the strange town of Red Falls where strange occurances will lead to an adventure from hell, filled with blood and terror.
In 'DEACON'
Two worlds infuse with devastating consequences ;a brutal post-apocalyptic world and the inner world and perceived reality of a tortured author. Where fiction ends and reality begins is blurred to the point that creates a new version of hell.
Both stories are fantastically written, unique and will lead you to loudly express an array of feelings in the form of 'noooooo', 's**t, I did not see that coming' , 'aaarrgh', 'why did you had to go on and do this?', 'don't go there, leave now', 'oh my God, they will die', 'get out', 'oh come on', 'f**K, this is gooood', and many many more.
The way that both authors approach the themes in their stories is indeed plausible.
They manage to really immense the reader in the story and make him/her feel that is an integral part of it.
I feel that by saying more I might sprincle thus with spoilers but in both stories, you will not see the plot wist slap coming. Especially in 'Deacon'.. They story goes in a whole different direction from what you might think and that's the wild and scary beauty of it...
At the same time 'Red Falls' will make you change your mind the next time you feel spontaneous and friendly /chatty. Perhaps 'Wrong Turn on steroids and with a serious upgrade' is still an understatement for this wonderful terrifier...
I have read quite a few stories by them, but the authors still keep me in awe with their wonderful and unique writing styles.
I will definitely keep my eyes open for more of James G. Carlson's, Daemon Manx's and Gloom House Publishing literary offerings.
'Hacked in Two' is essentially two novellas, 'Red Falls' and 'Deacon', by authors James G. Carson and Daemon Manx respectively, both packing quite a punch.
In 'RED FALLS'
June and Ezra take a spontaneous road trip, only to find themselves in the strange town of Red Falls where strange occurances will lead to an adventure from hell, filled with blood and terror.
In 'DEACON'
Two worlds infuse with devastating consequences ;a brutal post-apocalyptic world and the inner world and perceived reality of a tortured author. Where fiction ends and reality begins is blurred to the point that creates a new version of hell.
Both stories are fantastically written, unique and will lead you to loudly express an array of feelings in the form of 'noooooo', 's**t, I did not see that coming' , 'aaarrgh', 'why did you had to go on and do this?', 'don't go there, leave now', 'oh my God, they will die', 'get out', 'oh come on', 'f**K, this is gooood', and many many more.
The way that both authors approach the themes in their stories is indeed plausible.
They manage to really immense the reader in the story and make him/her feel that is an integral part of it.
I feel that by saying more I might sprincle thus with spoilers but in both stories, you will not see the plot wist slap coming. Especially in 'Deacon'.. They story goes in a whole different direction from what you might think and that's the wild and scary beauty of it...
At the same time 'Red Falls' will make you change your mind the next time you feel spontaneous and friendly /chatty. Perhaps 'Wrong Turn on steroids and with a serious upgrade' is still an understatement for this wonderful terrifier...
I have read quite a few stories by them, but the authors still keep me in awe with their wonderful and unique writing styles.
I will definitely keep my eyes open for more of James G. Carlson's, Daemon Manx's and Gloom House Publishing literary offerings.
October 29, 2022
This was another great read! There are two stories in this collection and they are both so different.
Red Falls...I did not see that ending coming. I don't know that the writing style is my favorite...but I don't even care. It's a story that will stick with me. If you don't like stories with "political stuff" in them...push through if you can because it all makes sense and adds to the horror of what comes later.
Deacon...this is the story I came here for because I am a fan of Daemon Manx and have enjoyed everything I've read from him so far. And the way this story starts off...I was surprised...not his usual style...and the irony of my thinking this was not lost on me. I don't want to ruin it so I won't say much...but I've never read anything quite like this story and it was just so interesting. I won't say it's my favorite Manx story...but much like Red Falls...I'm not going to be forgetting this one any time soon.
Definitely recommend thus collection for horror fans.
Red Falls...I did not see that ending coming. I don't know that the writing style is my favorite...but I don't even care. It's a story that will stick with me. If you don't like stories with "political stuff" in them...push through if you can because it all makes sense and adds to the horror of what comes later.
Deacon...this is the story I came here for because I am a fan of Daemon Manx and have enjoyed everything I've read from him so far. And the way this story starts off...I was surprised...not his usual style...and the irony of my thinking this was not lost on me. I don't want to ruin it so I won't say much...but I've never read anything quite like this story and it was just so interesting. I won't say it's my favorite Manx story...but much like Red Falls...I'm not going to be forgetting this one any time soon.
Definitely recommend thus collection for horror fans.
April 14, 2022
I so enjoyed this book. A story each from James G. Carlson and Daemon Manx and each one was fantastic.
Red Falls takes you into little backwoods PA town with two urbanites. From creepy locals to creepy things in the surrounding forests, this story pulls you along to an ending that is not what you are expecting at all.
Deacon is a whole different story that blurs reality and fiction to the point you kind of wonder which is which. One part zombie tale, one part insight into a the heart of the writer; it grabs you and doesn't let go.
This book was dark, creepy, but moments of humor, and sometimes touching. I can't recommend it enough.
Red Falls takes you into little backwoods PA town with two urbanites. From creepy locals to creepy things in the surrounding forests, this story pulls you along to an ending that is not what you are expecting at all.
Deacon is a whole different story that blurs reality and fiction to the point you kind of wonder which is which. One part zombie tale, one part insight into a the heart of the writer; it grabs you and doesn't let go.
This book was dark, creepy, but moments of humor, and sometimes touching. I can't recommend it enough.
December 3, 2024
This book was so great! It was my first time reading both of these authors and I thoroughly enjoyed each one! Although this is a wonderful showcase of the authors' different styles, both of these novellas bring the horror in their own way. I suppose that Deacon is more of an extreme horror story but they both get messy at points. I liked all the characters and especially enjoyed the odd, unexpected directions each story took. This was such a great surprise, seriously. Highly, highly recommended for all indie horror fans!
August 16, 2022
I enjoyed both stories but probably leant more towards the second. The first as always with James G Carlson was written so well and the ending and twists were cool, I just didn't like the main character.
The second story was a lot of fun and the meta aspects were definitely something different from what I'd read so far. Kinda want to read more of the story within the story now. :)
The second story was a lot of fun and the meta aspects were definitely something different from what I'd read so far. Kinda want to read more of the story within the story now. :)
April 18, 2023
Just finished Hacked in Two by Daemon Manx and James G. Carlson. There are two stories both of which were very intriguing but I have to say 'Deacon' was such a cool view from the writer's perspective! Excellent read and highly recommend this book, it will definitely hook you right in!!
November 18, 2023
Two very different but very good stories that work well together in one book.
July 6, 2022
Two amazing authors in one amazing book! I can't recommend this one highly enough, I'd give it 10 stars if I was allowed..
James G Carlson - this author was new to me. I was impressed with his strong storytelling and impeccable writing style. This is atmospheric, creepy horror at its best. It had pretty much everything you could want in a story. Interesting and detailed characters, gore enough to creepy out and turn your stomach, an explosive ending, and much much more. I have since gone on to read other book by this author, and I am pleased to report that it was just as good. I love that this book could introduce me to an awesome writer and I am looking forward to reading more by him.
Daemon Manx - I have pretty much read all of Daemon's works, and bought this one solely because he wrote a story in it. If you don't know this author, go check him out, immediately. This is my second favorite story of his I've read. I don't even know how to describe it other than, raw, heart-wrenching, mind-bending, horror genius. I've never read anything like it. It's a meta-fiction tangle that will mess with your head (in all the most awesome ways). I want to read it again.
James G Carlson - this author was new to me. I was impressed with his strong storytelling and impeccable writing style. This is atmospheric, creepy horror at its best. It had pretty much everything you could want in a story. Interesting and detailed characters, gore enough to creepy out and turn your stomach, an explosive ending, and much much more. I have since gone on to read other book by this author, and I am pleased to report that it was just as good. I love that this book could introduce me to an awesome writer and I am looking forward to reading more by him.
Daemon Manx - I have pretty much read all of Daemon's works, and bought this one solely because he wrote a story in it. If you don't know this author, go check him out, immediately. This is my second favorite story of his I've read. I don't even know how to describe it other than, raw, heart-wrenching, mind-bending, horror genius. I've never read anything like it. It's a meta-fiction tangle that will mess with your head (in all the most awesome ways). I want to read it again.
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