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Dark Tide Horror Novellas #12
Hunted Highways
Embark on a journey into terror, where every mile is marked by suspense and horror. These three horror novellas transform travel into a treacherous adventure where the next stop could be your last.
B.I.R.D.S by Rowland Bercy Jr.: In B.I.R.D.S, a 2023 reimagining of Hitchcock's classic, a group of friends embarks on a cross-country trip, unwittingly stirring a vengeful avian onslaught. Raquel, Robert, Karen, and David face chaos and carnage, learning that appearances deceive and the price of their actions can be deadly. This bone-chilling tale weaves a narrative of suspense and consequence in a world where birds are not what they seem.
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum: After a team of hunters raid their fortress, Dracula and Lucifer hit the road in search of a new place to call home. They stop at a roadside bar in an unincorporated locale to meet with a vampire named Mina. All three creatures of the night have the potential for violence. And none of them can resist the call of bloodshed. The people in this wood-paneled, neon-lit establishment are about to meet Hell itself.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike: For Melanie and her friends, this fun-filled trip to tour their favorite college campus is about to take a violent and macabre turn. If only they’d kept driving, if only they’d stayed far away from that rest stop, if only they’d been more polite when they encountered the creepy old couple. Now, it’s too late for apologies. Road Wrath is coming.
Brace yourself for a ride into the heart of darkness. Grab your copy of Hunted Highways now and discover the chilling thrills that await at every turn!
Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Tales from the Darkest Depths.
B.I.R.D.S by Rowland Bercy Jr.: In B.I.R.D.S, a 2023 reimagining of Hitchcock's classic, a group of friends embarks on a cross-country trip, unwittingly stirring a vengeful avian onslaught. Raquel, Robert, Karen, and David face chaos and carnage, learning that appearances deceive and the price of their actions can be deadly. This bone-chilling tale weaves a narrative of suspense and consequence in a world where birds are not what they seem.
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum: After a team of hunters raid their fortress, Dracula and Lucifer hit the road in search of a new place to call home. They stop at a roadside bar in an unincorporated locale to meet with a vampire named Mina. All three creatures of the night have the potential for violence. And none of them can resist the call of bloodshed. The people in this wood-paneled, neon-lit establishment are about to meet Hell itself.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike: For Melanie and her friends, this fun-filled trip to tour their favorite college campus is about to take a violent and macabre turn. If only they’d kept driving, if only they’d stayed far away from that rest stop, if only they’d been more polite when they encountered the creepy old couple. Now, it’s too late for apologies. Road Wrath is coming.
Brace yourself for a ride into the heart of darkness. Grab your copy of Hunted Highways now and discover the chilling thrills that await at every turn!
Proudly represented by Crystal Lake Publishing—Tales from the Darkest Depths.
- GenresHorror
215 pages, Paperback
Published January 26, 2024
20 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Carver Pike
30 books329 followersMy name is Carver Pike. Since as far back as I can remember, I've been fascinated by everything horror. I'd sit cross-legged in front of the TV and watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre while devouring a bowl of Kaboom cereal. I always wished the ghost at the end of each episode of Scooby-Doo wouldn't be just another man behind the mask. I wanted real ghastly ghouls, dastardly demons, and malevolent monsters.
At some point, I knew I couldn't sit back and keep watching this horror world from the stands. I wanted to be in the game. So, now I wield this virtual pen and sling ink onto this page with the hopes of someday being a major player. I want to create those worlds you visit, feed that fear that keeps you up late at night, and entertain you in ways only the greatest storytellers can.
Be advised, most of my books are very graphic in nature. Most contain strong violence, and some have very detailed sex scenes. I try to give you a warning in the book blurb.
Hopefully, we'll form a great author-reader relationship and you'll come to trust that Carver Pike will always keep you entertained.
Member of the HWA: Horror Writers Association
Participated in KillerCon2020
At some point, I knew I couldn't sit back and keep watching this horror world from the stands. I wanted to be in the game. So, now I wield this virtual pen and sling ink onto this page with the hopes of someday being a major player. I want to create those worlds you visit, feed that fear that keeps you up late at night, and entertain you in ways only the greatest storytellers can.
Be advised, most of my books are very graphic in nature. Most contain strong violence, and some have very detailed sex scenes. I try to give you a warning in the book blurb.
Hopefully, we'll form a great author-reader relationship and you'll come to trust that Carver Pike will always keep you entertained.
Member of the HWA: Horror Writers Association
Participated in KillerCon2020
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 2, 2024
You can always count on Crystal Lake Publishing to provide you with high quality content, and their DARK TIDE books all feature powerhouses of the indie horror industry.
When I saw these three authors are going to feature together, I just had to take the opportunity to snatch it up. And if you know one or all of these guys, as you should because they are awesome as both writers and human beings, you know there will be some dark stuff ahead.
But, I had to ask myself, what could this book possibly be about?
Hmm, so first off we got Mr. Bercy who throws the title B.I.R.D.S. at us. What could that possible mean?
Because I Rote Dis Story – a deeply introspective look at what happens when you drink a little too much and your mind makes unusual connections?
B.I.R.D.S. – a story about a British bloke who goes to the States and tries to flirt with women, but when he calls the wrong one a “bird” all hell breaks loose?
B.I.R.D.S. – a road rage story where somebody flips the wrong person the bird?
Bercy Is Rowland Da Second – an autobiography about the hardships of still being Junior as an adult?
So many options!
And then you have Mr. Mangum who throws a title at you like Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar.
Well, damn, can you be any more vague? This story can be about any-damn-thing with a title like that!
And finally Mr. Pike delivers Road Wrath, because he had to show off what big words he can use, refusing to just lower himself to the peasant level and talking about “rage” instead of “wrath”. He doth done thy ego a vainglorious…
Wait…what? I’m zero for three??
Well, in that case, just read these 3 fine examples of highway horror and enjoy every second of it.
Vastly different and original, I can’t even decide which one I liked the most.
4.5 Stars
When I saw these three authors are going to feature together, I just had to take the opportunity to snatch it up. And if you know one or all of these guys, as you should because they are awesome as both writers and human beings, you know there will be some dark stuff ahead.
But, I had to ask myself, what could this book possibly be about?
Hmm, so first off we got Mr. Bercy who throws the title B.I.R.D.S. at us. What could that possible mean?
Because I Rote Dis Story – a deeply introspective look at what happens when you drink a little too much and your mind makes unusual connections?
B.I.R.D.S. – a story about a British bloke who goes to the States and tries to flirt with women, but when he calls the wrong one a “bird” all hell breaks loose?
B.I.R.D.S. – a road rage story where somebody flips the wrong person the bird?
Bercy Is Rowland Da Second – an autobiography about the hardships of still being Junior as an adult?
So many options!
And then you have Mr. Mangum who throws a title at you like Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar.
Well, damn, can you be any more vague? This story can be about any-damn-thing with a title like that!
And finally Mr. Pike delivers Road Wrath, because he had to show off what big words he can use, refusing to just lower himself to the peasant level and talking about “rage” instead of “wrath”. He doth done thy ego a vainglorious…
Wait…what? I’m zero for three??
Well, in that case, just read these 3 fine examples of highway horror and enjoy every second of it.
Vastly different and original, I can’t even decide which one I liked the most.
4.5 Stars
January 28, 2024
Hunted Highways: Road Trip Horror features three novellas by three talented authors. Each story is sure to pull you in and have you thinking twice about your next road trip.
This was a fantastic read! Bercy, Mangum and Pike nailed it with their road trip horrors. I can’t pick favorites in this one because all three stories were amazing! Bercy puts his own creepy twist on a Hitchcock classic, Mangum delivers plenty of action and bloodshed and Pike brings a thrilling and chilling nightmare to life. This is a must-read for horror fans!
“A vengeful heart beats twice as strong.”
This was a fantastic read! Bercy, Mangum and Pike nailed it with their road trip horrors. I can’t pick favorites in this one because all three stories were amazing! Bercy puts his own creepy twist on a Hitchcock classic, Mangum delivers plenty of action and bloodshed and Pike brings a thrilling and chilling nightmare to life. This is a must-read for horror fans!
“A vengeful heart beats twice as strong.”
January 18, 2024
Birds
What did crows ever do to this author. It must have been bad.
We start off with a nice bit of revenge on shoplifters but then things get wild. The birds the movie always terrified me for some reason so this one really got to me.
It didn’t seem as gory as his other work but then I got to page 40. I changed my mind. Woof that was descriptive. From there on out it didn’t stop. Don’t go into the bayou.
That ending made me squirm and still gives me the shivers thinking about it now.
Nicely gory and strangely realistic.
Dracula and the devil walk into a bar.
This one was spectacular. I finished it in one sitting and enjoyed every blood soaked, violent moment of it. You cannot beat a creepily small town in the middle of nowhere and the devil. After all the blood shed the ending was unexpected and quite sweet. Extremely detailed writing and a great twist on the demon/vampire genre.
Road Wrath
Well this one starts with a bang. I literally shivered at the description of the beast.
This was full throttle all the way through and the writing was so immersive I completely forgot where I was and what I was doing whilst reading it. It had a Wrong Turn/Cabin In The Woods feel and I made the mistake of reading it near the woods and scared the hell out of myself a few times. I could read this one again now.
What did crows ever do to this author. It must have been bad.
We start off with a nice bit of revenge on shoplifters but then things get wild. The birds the movie always terrified me for some reason so this one really got to me.
It didn’t seem as gory as his other work but then I got to page 40. I changed my mind. Woof that was descriptive. From there on out it didn’t stop. Don’t go into the bayou.
That ending made me squirm and still gives me the shivers thinking about it now.
Nicely gory and strangely realistic.
Dracula and the devil walk into a bar.
This one was spectacular. I finished it in one sitting and enjoyed every blood soaked, violent moment of it. You cannot beat a creepily small town in the middle of nowhere and the devil. After all the blood shed the ending was unexpected and quite sweet. Extremely detailed writing and a great twist on the demon/vampire genre.
Road Wrath
Well this one starts with a bang. I literally shivered at the description of the beast.
This was full throttle all the way through and the writing was so immersive I completely forgot where I was and what I was doing whilst reading it. It had a Wrong Turn/Cabin In The Woods feel and I made the mistake of reading it near the woods and scared the hell out of myself a few times. I could read this one again now.
January 25, 2024
Bibliophilia Templum Review
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/01/25/hunted-highways-road-trip-horror/
Hunted Highways: Road Trip Horror is Book 12 in the Dark Tide Series from Crystal Lake Publishing. This book is comprised of three hard-hitting extreme horror novellas by three heavy-hitting authors: Carver Pike, Rowland Bercy Jr., and Lucas Mangum. These authors take road trip horror to another level. Hold on to your hat (and your intestinal fortitude) when you hit the road with these guys.
“B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr. had me nervously eyeballing every bird in my yard for quite some time (read: I still do). The suspenseful and gruesome homage to the Hitchcock classic has a very modern, almost sci-fi twist to it that creates chilling undertones of Orwell’s classic 1984. Rowland’s compelling storytelling is at it’s best in this gripping tale.
“Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar” by Lucas Mangum has made me wary of ever going into a smalltown roadside bar again. Ever. And I live in a small town. The synopsis blurb for this one is deceptively simplistic compared to the complex and entertaining story it represents. Lucas’s skill with nuance, suspense, and impactful subtext is on full display in this clever alternative continuation of the Dracula legend. Dark humor, violence, blood, and vivid, evocative characters flesh out and drive this immersive tale.
“Road Wrath” by Carver Pike gave me a renewed sense of fear and anxiety toward rest stops. And creepy rude strangers. This is an engrossing and twisted tale of terror and backcountry horror with elements of the occult and creature horror and suspense and so much more. It sucks you in and ruins any plans you may have for an upcoming road trip. Just remember to be polite. Be very polite.
Hunted Highways is a relentless anthology of horror and terror, and these authors bring it without mercy. This is a masterful must-have for the extreme horror connoisseur.
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/01/25/hunted-highways-road-trip-horror/
Hunted Highways: Road Trip Horror is Book 12 in the Dark Tide Series from Crystal Lake Publishing. This book is comprised of three hard-hitting extreme horror novellas by three heavy-hitting authors: Carver Pike, Rowland Bercy Jr., and Lucas Mangum. These authors take road trip horror to another level. Hold on to your hat (and your intestinal fortitude) when you hit the road with these guys.
“B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr. had me nervously eyeballing every bird in my yard for quite some time (read: I still do). The suspenseful and gruesome homage to the Hitchcock classic has a very modern, almost sci-fi twist to it that creates chilling undertones of Orwell’s classic 1984. Rowland’s compelling storytelling is at it’s best in this gripping tale.
“Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar” by Lucas Mangum has made me wary of ever going into a smalltown roadside bar again. Ever. And I live in a small town. The synopsis blurb for this one is deceptively simplistic compared to the complex and entertaining story it represents. Lucas’s skill with nuance, suspense, and impactful subtext is on full display in this clever alternative continuation of the Dracula legend. Dark humor, violence, blood, and vivid, evocative characters flesh out and drive this immersive tale.
“Road Wrath” by Carver Pike gave me a renewed sense of fear and anxiety toward rest stops. And creepy rude strangers. This is an engrossing and twisted tale of terror and backcountry horror with elements of the occult and creature horror and suspense and so much more. It sucks you in and ruins any plans you may have for an upcoming road trip. Just remember to be polite. Be very polite.
Hunted Highways is a relentless anthology of horror and terror, and these authors bring it without mercy. This is a masterful must-have for the extreme horror connoisseur.
January 17, 2024
Dark Tide Book 12
Haunted Highways Road Trip Horror
Carved Pike Rowland Bercy Jr. Lucas Magnum
B.I.R.D.S. by Rowland Bercy Jr.
“What the fuck were they a polyamorous throuple?"
This story is certainly a unique nightmare. It is pure gruesome terror that will leave your heart racing. There is so much to unfold here, and more than just one thing to fear. This gave me anxiety. The descriptions are so vivid that you will literally see the events transpiring right in front of you. I thought I knew what was happening, then it took a complete ninety degree turn and left my jaw on the ground. For a short story it packs a mean punch.
This was my first time reading Rowland Bercy Jr, and it left me craving more.
Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar by Lucas Magnum
"God, what a colossally fucked-up day."
This was such a unique addition to Dracula's story. I thoroughly enjoyed this. This story had such an elegant feel to it. While its told in modern day, it had an old timey ambience about it. This is told through multiple perspectives, and I really liked how they all unfolded and came together in the end. It was just such a lovely read. Don't get me wrong, its brutal. I liked the authors storytelling skills, and the way he wrote the characters. They were fun and not to be taken too seriously. I would love to see this in full novel form.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike
"For the beast will greet 'em and will tear 'em all down"
Wow, what a ride. This was the longest story and the conclusion to this book, it certainly went out with a bang. It starts off, hits the ground running, and doesn't stop until you have consumed it. This is spine tingling and horrifying. Electric. The creepy ass old couple were my favorite characters. I also love religious horror in all forms. This was a disturbing, off the rail, hell bent nightmare. The journey from start to finish keeps you intrigued and sucks you in. The writing is incredible, and Carver has a way of sending shivers down to your core.
Huge thanks to Crystal Lake Publishing for posting ARC copies of this and allowing the opportunity for an early read.
Haunted Highways Road Trip Horror
Carved Pike Rowland Bercy Jr. Lucas Magnum
B.I.R.D.S. by Rowland Bercy Jr.
“What the fuck were they a polyamorous throuple?"
This story is certainly a unique nightmare. It is pure gruesome terror that will leave your heart racing. There is so much to unfold here, and more than just one thing to fear. This gave me anxiety. The descriptions are so vivid that you will literally see the events transpiring right in front of you. I thought I knew what was happening, then it took a complete ninety degree turn and left my jaw on the ground. For a short story it packs a mean punch.
This was my first time reading Rowland Bercy Jr, and it left me craving more.
Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar by Lucas Magnum
"God, what a colossally fucked-up day."
This was such a unique addition to Dracula's story. I thoroughly enjoyed this. This story had such an elegant feel to it. While its told in modern day, it had an old timey ambience about it. This is told through multiple perspectives, and I really liked how they all unfolded and came together in the end. It was just such a lovely read. Don't get me wrong, its brutal. I liked the authors storytelling skills, and the way he wrote the characters. They were fun and not to be taken too seriously. I would love to see this in full novel form.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike
"For the beast will greet 'em and will tear 'em all down"
Wow, what a ride. This was the longest story and the conclusion to this book, it certainly went out with a bang. It starts off, hits the ground running, and doesn't stop until you have consumed it. This is spine tingling and horrifying. Electric. The creepy ass old couple were my favorite characters. I also love religious horror in all forms. This was a disturbing, off the rail, hell bent nightmare. The journey from start to finish keeps you intrigued and sucks you in. The writing is incredible, and Carver has a way of sending shivers down to your core.
Huge thanks to Crystal Lake Publishing for posting ARC copies of this and allowing the opportunity for an early read.
January 25, 2024
I absolutely loved all three of these novellas. All three have the common theme of road trips. The B.I.R.D.S. is a technological/animal horror with a cryptiod mixed in to the main story. At the end it left me wanting more.
The second story has your classic horror villains. Dracula and the Devil. It even has Mina and Jonathan Harker but not like you remember them. This one was mildly gory. I would also like to see another short story following Mina and Rosa.
The third story was a demonic creature horror and makes you think twice about that elderly couple in the old beat up truck hauling a camper. You start out with 2 Brothers and their side chick's camping in the west Virginia Appalachian mountains, the setting definitely had the Deliverance banjo music going off in my head as I read it. You then jump to 5 friends on their way to camping after a college tour. They stop at a rest area and it goes down hill from there. This was definitely gory. You just have to read to find out if anyone survives this night of terror on this mountain highway through hell.
I definitely recommend this book and I will be checking out more from these authors. Well done, sirs well done.
The second story has your classic horror villains. Dracula and the Devil. It even has Mina and Jonathan Harker but not like you remember them. This one was mildly gory. I would also like to see another short story following Mina and Rosa.
The third story was a demonic creature horror and makes you think twice about that elderly couple in the old beat up truck hauling a camper. You start out with 2 Brothers and their side chick's camping in the west Virginia Appalachian mountains, the setting definitely had the Deliverance banjo music going off in my head as I read it. You then jump to 5 friends on their way to camping after a college tour. They stop at a rest area and it goes down hill from there. This was definitely gory. You just have to read to find out if anyone survives this night of terror on this mountain highway through hell.
I definitely recommend this book and I will be checking out more from these authors. Well done, sirs well done.
January 12, 2024
Yay! The goodreads page is finally up!!
I had to make a very conscious effort to retain my review-tier memory of this in a secure wing of my mind palace - resulting in my ability to remember essential items on grocery runs…
So. Three great authors grace us with three very diverse tales, and here is my brief takeaway:
1. We need more Rowland!
RBJ serves up a scrumptious techno-horror with a sneaky splash of summin’ summin’, to keep the reader on their toes.
2. Gummy Bear… bouncing here and there and everywhere!
Lucas Mangum delivers a refreshingly crisp spiritual sequel to a classic that has become stale from years of sticking to the recipe, making it his own, effectively turning it into a brand new dish any gourmand would be happy to write home about.
3. Carver Pike. Our wholesome hero.
How do I keep this one spoiler free…?
Hmm… okay. So, it’s no secret that even though he writes some heinous shit, Carver is a man of faith.
What sets him apart from every other author who’s ever even attempted to integrate this into their work is that he does it without being “preachy”.
You know what I mean. Look at the bigger Christian authors, like Dekker or Peretti. Incredibly talented authors in their own rights, incapable of not ostracising themselves from a larger, more secular readership, by turning every story into a sermon - without fail…
Why do I even bother mentioning this?
Is it a red herring?
Is it just an anecdotal observation?
You’ll just have to read it to find out.
What I can tell you is that Carver dishes out a high octane cinematic masterpiece laced with just enough tropes to tease you, paired with enough twists to keep you salivating. (I’m literally drooling just thinking about it)
Okay. I’m hungry now. Gonna go find something yummy for my tummy.
Enjoy
I had to make a very conscious effort to retain my review-tier memory of this in a secure wing of my mind palace - resulting in my ability to remember essential items on grocery runs…
So. Three great authors grace us with three very diverse tales, and here is my brief takeaway:
1. We need more Rowland!
RBJ serves up a scrumptious techno-horror with a sneaky splash of summin’ summin’, to keep the reader on their toes.
2. Gummy Bear… bouncing here and there and everywhere!
Lucas Mangum delivers a refreshingly crisp spiritual sequel to a classic that has become stale from years of sticking to the recipe, making it his own, effectively turning it into a brand new dish any gourmand would be happy to write home about.
3. Carver Pike. Our wholesome hero.
How do I keep this one spoiler free…?
Hmm… okay. So, it’s no secret that even though he writes some heinous shit, Carver is a man of faith.
What sets him apart from every other author who’s ever even attempted to integrate this into their work is that he does it without being “preachy”.
You know what I mean. Look at the bigger Christian authors, like Dekker or Peretti. Incredibly talented authors in their own rights, incapable of not ostracising themselves from a larger, more secular readership, by turning every story into a sermon - without fail…
Why do I even bother mentioning this?
Is it a red herring?
Is it just an anecdotal observation?
You’ll just have to read it to find out.
What I can tell you is that Carver dishes out a high octane cinematic masterpiece laced with just enough tropes to tease you, paired with enough twists to keep you salivating. (I’m literally drooling just thinking about it)
Okay. I’m hungry now. Gonna go find something yummy for my tummy.
Enjoy
January 25, 2024
This was an amazing read, I enjoyed the characters and the plot, I would definitely recommend this to anyone
January 15, 2024
A haunting, gore filled and creepy collection of three tales that will give you second thoughts about taking a road trip. Every story hits the mark, and each one wildly different but fantastic just the same.
The first story B.I.R.D.S tells the tale of a store that has done away with the traditional methods of security for an experimental one that shoplifters will never see coming. The story goes into territories you wouldn't expect and the ending is lots of fun.
The second story. "Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar", tells the tale of just that, a unique spin on the usual tropes that are attributed to both of them but definitely has the right amount of bloodshed and action.
The third story "Road Wrath" is like a mix of "The Hills Have Eyes" and "Jeepers Creepers", both of those being a few of my favourite horror movies so I was stoked that this ended the book on a high.
This one has something for all horror fans and I highly recommend it.
The first story B.I.R.D.S tells the tale of a store that has done away with the traditional methods of security for an experimental one that shoplifters will never see coming. The story goes into territories you wouldn't expect and the ending is lots of fun.
The second story. "Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar", tells the tale of just that, a unique spin on the usual tropes that are attributed to both of them but definitely has the right amount of bloodshed and action.
The third story "Road Wrath" is like a mix of "The Hills Have Eyes" and "Jeepers Creepers", both of those being a few of my favourite horror movies so I was stoked that this ended the book on a high.
This one has something for all horror fans and I highly recommend it.
January 17, 2024
Thank you to Crystal Lake Publishing for providing a review copy.
This collection offers three different road trip stories by some real indie horror heavyweights. My expectations were high, and I was not disappointed. 4.25 stars
B.I.R.D.S. by Rowland Bercy Jr. ⭐⭐⭐.5
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Road Wrath by Carver Pike ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
This collection offers three different road trip stories by some real indie horror heavyweights. My expectations were high, and I was not disappointed. 4.25 stars
B.I.R.D.S. by Rowland Bercy Jr. ⭐⭐⭐.5
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Road Wrath by Carver Pike ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
January 10, 2024
A collection of three awesome stories that will keep you gripped to the edge of your seat and haunt your dreams for days to come! Not to be biased or anything, but Carver's story is fantastic!
Pick this up as soon as you can! It will be totally worth it! 💝
Thank you Carver Pike , Rowland Bercy Jr. and Lucas Magnum for this awesome stories. 🤗
Pick this up as soon as you can! It will be totally worth it! 💝
Thank you Carver Pike , Rowland Bercy Jr. and Lucas Magnum for this awesome stories. 🤗
January 10, 2024
Pub day Jan 26.
This is 3 fantastic stories that I absolutely loved! All I’m going to say is watch out for AI crows, a nasty old couple in an beat-up pickup truck at a rest stop, and lastly nothing ever good happens when the devil and Lucifer are strolling through town. Three gripping stories from beginning to end. Highly recommend! Well done Rowland, Lucas, & Carver!
This is 3 fantastic stories that I absolutely loved! All I’m going to say is watch out for AI crows, a nasty old couple in an beat-up pickup truck at a rest stop, and lastly nothing ever good happens when the devil and Lucifer are strolling through town. Three gripping stories from beginning to end. Highly recommend! Well done Rowland, Lucas, & Carver!
January 25, 2024
B.I.R.D.S by Rowland Bercy Jr.
This isn't Alfred Hitchcock's birds, oh no. Not as extreme as I'm used to from Bercy, but it was a great story. The whole concept was fascinating and quite honestly terrifying. As I was reading it I imagined Skynet from the Terminator, but with black feathers and wings.
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum
From that title doesn't it sound like a Bizarro/horror comedy story? But it's not. I loved what Magnum did with these classic characters. The dynamic between Dracula and Lucifer made me smile even though they were "evil characters". Magnum brought Mina back as a strong female character like she is in Bram Stoker's Dracula. I loved how the story ended. What a refreshing new spin on Dracula, Mina, Lucifer and Harker.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike
I really didn't know where this story was going, but oh man was it a wild ride. The old couple were described so well you could feel their evil seeping off the pages. I liked how the creature was revealed a little at a time, bits of description and when you finally get the whole picture it's extremely disturbing. The group of friends felt so real, most big groups of friends have that same dynamic. Faith is a big part of this story, both sides, good and evil.
This isn't Alfred Hitchcock's birds, oh no. Not as extreme as I'm used to from Bercy, but it was a great story. The whole concept was fascinating and quite honestly terrifying. As I was reading it I imagined Skynet from the Terminator, but with black feathers and wings.
Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar by Lucas Mangum
From that title doesn't it sound like a Bizarro/horror comedy story? But it's not. I loved what Magnum did with these classic characters. The dynamic between Dracula and Lucifer made me smile even though they were "evil characters". Magnum brought Mina back as a strong female character like she is in Bram Stoker's Dracula. I loved how the story ended. What a refreshing new spin on Dracula, Mina, Lucifer and Harker.
Road Wrath by Carver Pike
I really didn't know where this story was going, but oh man was it a wild ride. The old couple were described so well you could feel their evil seeping off the pages. I liked how the creature was revealed a little at a time, bits of description and when you finally get the whole picture it's extremely disturbing. The group of friends felt so real, most big groups of friends have that same dynamic. Faith is a big part of this story, both sides, good and evil.
January 10, 2024
Crystal Lake Publishing’s Dark Tide imprint continues offering thick volumes of novella-length thrilling reads, each one with a different theme, all of them well-written and entertaining. These are brilliant horror tales to absolutely enjoy, from chilling creepers to gore fests.
Volume Number Twelve is about road trips, and the horrors found on the open road.
The first story, “B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr. must have been written a bit tongue-in-cheek, since it touches rather lightly but quite darkly on the impact of A.I. on daily life: here, the issue of ‘hypermarket’ chains facing profit decline due to theft. The solution, a “one-of-a-kind theft deterrent” unlike anything that’s been done before, proves effective, if your idea of effectiveness is ABSOLUTE CARNAGE! The tale unfolds in stages, as the deterrence mechanism undergoes an unexpected transformation and ends up reproducing the bloodiest scenes of Hitchcock’s horror-thriller “The Birds”! If you’re on a road trip and decide to snag some goodies at a five-finger discount, well, after this story perhaps you’ll change your mind!
The middle story, Lucas Mangum’s “Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar” is exactly what it says: Drake, the former Count known as Dracula, and his pal Lucifer leave Hell to go meet a female friend, making a mess and ruining the day for unsuspecting travelers. I really enjoyed this story, it’s utterly different from Bercy’s, quite inventive, sorta funny, and gory in all the right places. I also found the characters well-drawn and the storyline had some nice action scenes thrown in for good measure!
Carver Pike’s novella is the longest by far, taking up almost half the book. “Road Wrath” has strong Jeepers Creepers vibes: it’s about five friends on a roadtrip encountering an old couple of devil-worshippers and everything afterwards turning into a nightmare - what can go wrong, does. There are some really creepy scenes, lots of violence, a Kin of the Fallen easter egg, a horrible monster, a strong female character, and several scenes of love and friendship that feel natural and genuine. I savored every moment of this one!
Overall, as with the other Dark Tide volumes, this one too has the right atmosphere and provides a riveting reading experience. I kept my review spoiler-free, so anyone who picks this up is in for many surprises!
Volume Number Twelve is about road trips, and the horrors found on the open road.
The first story, “B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr. must have been written a bit tongue-in-cheek, since it touches rather lightly but quite darkly on the impact of A.I. on daily life: here, the issue of ‘hypermarket’ chains facing profit decline due to theft. The solution, a “one-of-a-kind theft deterrent” unlike anything that’s been done before, proves effective, if your idea of effectiveness is ABSOLUTE CARNAGE! The tale unfolds in stages, as the deterrence mechanism undergoes an unexpected transformation and ends up reproducing the bloodiest scenes of Hitchcock’s horror-thriller “The Birds”! If you’re on a road trip and decide to snag some goodies at a five-finger discount, well, after this story perhaps you’ll change your mind!
The middle story, Lucas Mangum’s “Dracula and the Devil Walk into a Bar” is exactly what it says: Drake, the former Count known as Dracula, and his pal Lucifer leave Hell to go meet a female friend, making a mess and ruining the day for unsuspecting travelers. I really enjoyed this story, it’s utterly different from Bercy’s, quite inventive, sorta funny, and gory in all the right places. I also found the characters well-drawn and the storyline had some nice action scenes thrown in for good measure!
Carver Pike’s novella is the longest by far, taking up almost half the book. “Road Wrath” has strong Jeepers Creepers vibes: it’s about five friends on a roadtrip encountering an old couple of devil-worshippers and everything afterwards turning into a nightmare - what can go wrong, does. There are some really creepy scenes, lots of violence, a Kin of the Fallen easter egg, a horrible monster, a strong female character, and several scenes of love and friendship that feel natural and genuine. I savored every moment of this one!
Overall, as with the other Dark Tide volumes, this one too has the right atmosphere and provides a riveting reading experience. I kept my review spoiler-free, so anyone who picks this up is in for many surprises!
January 29, 2024
Fantastic stories from some of the most amazing authors of our time!
January 10, 2024
I just finished this book. I was lucky enough to get an ARC from one of the authors Rowland Bercy Jr. who I’m a big fan of. This collection of 3 stories also includes another of my favorite authors Carver Pike and a third author who is new to me - Lucas Mangum. I really liked them all. It’s hard to pick a favorite out of the 3 tales. I am a fan of extreme horror and all 3 definitely did not disappoint in that area. There was plenty of violence and blood in each one….it depends on if you prefer your brand of evil to be animal, vampire, or demon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 26, 2024
Such a fun read!
STORY #1 “B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr.
If you have worked in retail, then this story is definitely up your alley lol
A new retail store is opening up and the owner is dead set on retrieving any stolen goods that may walk out of his store with his new state of the art security system.
Top of the line security cameras? Nope..
Metal Detectors?? Nope..
You have to read it to find out!!
The story starts off quickly when several theives have the bad misfortune of coming "face to face" with the stores new security personnel when they decide they deserve a five finger discount. Unfortunately for them, this store isn't calling the police. It has its own "eyes in the sky" that plan on getting its merchandise back in the bloodiest way possible!
Hold on to your scalps my friends as Rowland takes you on one hell of a run, or should I say "flight," for your life!
STORY #2 "Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar" by Lucas Mangum
Mangums story is just like what the title says, but with lots of funny banter, blood, and carnage thrown in between lol They have both been cast out of hell and back into the world. They decide they need to meet up with Drakes (Draculas old protege) at a bar. Though the woman is hesitant, she knows she has to meet them despite not wanting to deal with their shenanigans. Along the way, and when they get there, the two cast outs cause major ruckus. You will enjoy these two hellions as they leave all types of body parts and charred flesh in their path!
STORY #3 "Road Wrath" by Carver Pike
The final and longest story in the book is about some friends on a roadtrip who have the unfortunate luck of meeting an elderly couple who are a pair of Sasshole Devil Worshippers. After they meet EVERYTHING goes wrong. This story has a good mash up of crazy elderly people, violence, friendship, and Jeeper Creepers flash backs!
STORY #1 “B.I.R.D.S.” by Rowland Bercy Jr.
If you have worked in retail, then this story is definitely up your alley lol
A new retail store is opening up and the owner is dead set on retrieving any stolen goods that may walk out of his store with his new state of the art security system.
Top of the line security cameras? Nope..
Metal Detectors?? Nope..
You have to read it to find out!!
The story starts off quickly when several theives have the bad misfortune of coming "face to face" with the stores new security personnel when they decide they deserve a five finger discount. Unfortunately for them, this store isn't calling the police. It has its own "eyes in the sky" that plan on getting its merchandise back in the bloodiest way possible!
Hold on to your scalps my friends as Rowland takes you on one hell of a run, or should I say "flight," for your life!
STORY #2 "Dracula and the Devil Walk Into a Bar" by Lucas Mangum
Mangums story is just like what the title says, but with lots of funny banter, blood, and carnage thrown in between lol They have both been cast out of hell and back into the world. They decide they need to meet up with Drakes (Draculas old protege) at a bar. Though the woman is hesitant, she knows she has to meet them despite not wanting to deal with their shenanigans. Along the way, and when they get there, the two cast outs cause major ruckus. You will enjoy these two hellions as they leave all types of body parts and charred flesh in their path!
STORY #3 "Road Wrath" by Carver Pike
The final and longest story in the book is about some friends on a roadtrip who have the unfortunate luck of meeting an elderly couple who are a pair of Sasshole Devil Worshippers. After they meet EVERYTHING goes wrong. This story has a good mash up of crazy elderly people, violence, friendship, and Jeeper Creepers flash backs!
February 11, 2024
3 dark tales surrounding a Highway by the talented authors Rowland Bercy Jr, Lucas Mangum, and Carver Pike. 3 stories, all different but yet suspenseful and dark.
Mechanical Crows in "B.I.R.D.S" takes you on a wild ride out in the middle of nowhere where friends just want to relax for a weekend. But not before stopping at Supermarket which will change their lives forever.
Carnage is upon a small town in "Dracula and the Devil walk into a Bar".
What happens when you get into it with a old, weird couple? In "Road Wrath" you'll find out what happens when you upset an older couple that seems to be yielding dark powers.
Mechanical Crows in "B.I.R.D.S" takes you on a wild ride out in the middle of nowhere where friends just want to relax for a weekend. But not before stopping at Supermarket which will change their lives forever.
Carnage is upon a small town in "Dracula and the Devil walk into a Bar".
What happens when you get into it with a old, weird couple? In "Road Wrath" you'll find out what happens when you upset an older couple that seems to be yielding dark powers.
February 22, 2024
Super Stories
Really enjoyed all 3 novellas in this book. The stories were super original and entertaining. Very well written as well. Highly recommend!
Really enjoyed all 3 novellas in this book. The stories were super original and entertaining. Very well written as well. Highly recommend!
January 25, 2024
I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of this and so glad I did! Three fantastic stories by three amazing authors who each wrote very creepy and unsettling stories. Very hard to pick a favourite as all were excellent in their own way, but you won't be disappointed by any of them if you choose to read it. Definitely recommended for all horror fans!
February 24, 2024
You'll never be safe on the Highway, and if didn't knew this already these three stories will show you can't run, and you can't hide, because every terrible creature will come your way from don't-give-a-fuck-cryptics to demons, vampires, and even high tech going rouge.
My advice; stay home! And for goodness sake read this collection of awesomeness! 🫦
My advice; stay home! And for goodness sake read this collection of awesomeness! 🫦
January 23, 2024
I absolutely loved all 3 stories! Each with their own story lines and flair. Highly recommend
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