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Creature
The monsters live inside of Kate Woodson. Chronic pain and a host of autoimmune diseases have robbed her of a normal, happy life. Her husband Andrew’s surprise of their dream Maine lake cottage for the summer is the gift of a lifetime. It’s beautiful, remote, idyllic, a place to heal.
But they are not alone. Something is in the woods, screeching in the darkness, banging on the house, leaving animals for dead.
Just like her body, Kate’s cottage becomes her prison. She and Andrew must fight to survive the creature that lurks in the dead of night.
275 pages, Paperback
First published September 6, 2018
68 people are currently reading
1825 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Shea
65 books1,007 followersHunter Shea is the author of over 25 books, with a specialization in cryptozoological horror that includes The Jersey Devil, The Dover Demon, Loch Ness Revenge and many others. As part of the new horror line at Flame Tree Press, his novel Creature has gained critical acclaim. His novel, The Montauk Monster, was named one of the best reads of the summer by Publishers Weekly. A trip to the International Cryptozoology Museum will find several of his cryptid books among the fascinating displays. Living in a true haunted house inspired his Jessica Backman: Death in the Afterlife series (Forest of Shadows, Sinister Entity and Island of the Forbidden). In 2011, he was selected to be a part of the launch of Samhain Publishing’s new horror line alongside legendary author Ramsey Campbell. When he’s not writing thrillers and horror, he also spins tall tales for middle grade readers on Amazon’s highly regarded Rapids reading app.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
January 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Hunter Shea masterfully creates characters that you are invested in, an unsettling atmosphere, a terrifying beast, but keeps his writing easy to follow. Kate is a truly tragic person, but you admire her strength throughout the story, as well as her adoring husband, Andrew. And who could forget sweet, little But-But! I could understand the idea behind the monster early on, but that didn't affect my interest in the finale. I'm not sure why I didn't love the progression of certain characters here, but portions of the ending didn't thrill me. That's not to say it wasn't very good, but some of it just should have been a bit more clear, to have the desired effect. Beyond all that, this is a very strong showing by an extremely talented author, and I look forward to reading more of his works!
August 17, 2018
CREATURE! It. Knocked. My. Socks. Off.
Kate and Andrew have certainly been tested. Her health, (a horrible litany of problems due to auto-immune diseases and problems arising from the treatment of them), and his care of her, has tested the strength of their marriage at every turn. Now with Kate trying an experimental treatment, they are in for their biggest test ever. In an attempt to alleviate the tension and bring some relaxation to their lives, Andrew rents an isolated cabin in Maine for the summer. Instead of being the serene, quiet time they had both hoped for, their cabin becomes the target of something in the woods. Will they return from their vacation relaxed and refreshed? You'll have to read this to find out!
This is not the book I expected from Hunter Shea. What I expected was a creature-feature, (one of those words is right there in the title after all), and it sort of was. But what it mainly was, was the story of a strong marriage and how chronic disease attacks every component of your life-and this is a tale I recognize from my own life. I had a period of years with an un-diagnosed disease, which in the end WAS diagnosed as an auto-immune condition. I know what it is to be frustrated, to have my patience tested, to be told it's all in my head, and to be poked, prodded, and experimented with like a lab rat. So, when Mr. Shea wrote about Kate's inner thoughts I totally understood and I recognized the pure truth of them.
What Mr. Shea did with Kate's thoughts is another thing entirely. It was brutal, yet beautiful at the same time. The imagination and creativity here was astounding. It was also frightening and spellbinding. I read the last 40% of this book straight through, because that was what the story demanded of me. I loved these characters, each and every one of them, and I rooted so hard for them all-I simply could not leave them at the height of their struggle.
Now, I find myself almost speechless, (and if you know or follow me, you know that's rare!). I want you to understand that this is a powerful tale, about so much more than what it appears to be on the surface. I hope that if you've ever trusted a review based solely on a reviewer's word, that you choose this one to trust. You will not be disappointed.
CREATURE gets my highest recommendation!
Available everywhere on September 6th, but you can pre-order here: https://www.amazon.com/Creature-Ficti...
*Thank you to Flame Tree Press via NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it.*
Kate and Andrew have certainly been tested. Her health, (a horrible litany of problems due to auto-immune diseases and problems arising from the treatment of them), and his care of her, has tested the strength of their marriage at every turn. Now with Kate trying an experimental treatment, they are in for their biggest test ever. In an attempt to alleviate the tension and bring some relaxation to their lives, Andrew rents an isolated cabin in Maine for the summer. Instead of being the serene, quiet time they had both hoped for, their cabin becomes the target of something in the woods. Will they return from their vacation relaxed and refreshed? You'll have to read this to find out!
This is not the book I expected from Hunter Shea. What I expected was a creature-feature, (one of those words is right there in the title after all), and it sort of was. But what it mainly was, was the story of a strong marriage and how chronic disease attacks every component of your life-and this is a tale I recognize from my own life. I had a period of years with an un-diagnosed disease, which in the end WAS diagnosed as an auto-immune condition. I know what it is to be frustrated, to have my patience tested, to be told it's all in my head, and to be poked, prodded, and experimented with like a lab rat. So, when Mr. Shea wrote about Kate's inner thoughts I totally understood and I recognized the pure truth of them.
What Mr. Shea did with Kate's thoughts is another thing entirely. It was brutal, yet beautiful at the same time. The imagination and creativity here was astounding. It was also frightening and spellbinding. I read the last 40% of this book straight through, because that was what the story demanded of me. I loved these characters, each and every one of them, and I rooted so hard for them all-I simply could not leave them at the height of their struggle.
Now, I find myself almost speechless, (and if you know or follow me, you know that's rare!). I want you to understand that this is a powerful tale, about so much more than what it appears to be on the surface. I hope that if you've ever trusted a review based solely on a reviewer's word, that you choose this one to trust. You will not be disappointed.
CREATURE gets my highest recommendation!
Available everywhere on September 6th, but you can pre-order here: https://www.amazon.com/Creature-Ficti...
*Thank you to Flame Tree Press via NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it.*
July 29, 2018
At the conclusion of this version of Hunter Shea’s book “Creature” is an afterword where the author goes on for a couple of pages explaining how personal this book was for him to write and that the book recounts aspects of his personal life, his relationship to Don D’Auria (the legendary book editor and also editor of this book) and the difficulties he encountered writing this book.
Following the ‘Afterword’ there is a question and answer ‘interview’ with the author where he is asked “What is this book about?” His partial answer “It centers around a very sick woman and her husband. They’ve been through hell and back, and the future isn’t so rosy. Needing a break, her husband takes a leave of absence and rents a dream Maine lake cottage. It’s everything she ever dreamed of… except she is too ill to enjoy it.”
Another question asked of the author is, “What are you writing now?” and Shea answers, “I’m actually trying my hand at ghost writing , penning a novel for a very successful author. Naturally, I can’t reveal any more information.”
I did not care for “Creature” in the slightest. Although you might. Absolutely nothing happened for the first two hundred pages that kept me from abandoning this book. I persevered. It’s infinitely inane and repetitive. I have never encountered a worse novel by this author, who has up until now not let me down. I hope that this is not some kind of portent of things to come. You are certainly free to differ in your opinion.
This Is an advanced reading copy uncorrected proof of the book and is signed by Hunter Shea.
Release date: September 2018.
Following the ‘Afterword’ there is a question and answer ‘interview’ with the author where he is asked “What is this book about?” His partial answer “It centers around a very sick woman and her husband. They’ve been through hell and back, and the future isn’t so rosy. Needing a break, her husband takes a leave of absence and rents a dream Maine lake cottage. It’s everything she ever dreamed of… except she is too ill to enjoy it.”
Another question asked of the author is, “What are you writing now?” and Shea answers, “I’m actually trying my hand at ghost writing , penning a novel for a very successful author. Naturally, I can’t reveal any more information.”
I did not care for “Creature” in the slightest. Although you might. Absolutely nothing happened for the first two hundred pages that kept me from abandoning this book. I persevered. It’s infinitely inane and repetitive. I have never encountered a worse novel by this author, who has up until now not let me down. I hope that this is not some kind of portent of things to come. You are certainly free to differ in your opinion.
This Is an advanced reading copy uncorrected proof of the book and is signed by Hunter Shea.
Release date: September 2018.
September 2, 2018
WOW!
CREATURE is not your typical horror story, but an emotional mix of a real life affliction of chronic pain and misery....AND a threatening monster that comes to call.
A good portion of the novel is a deeply emotional ride depicting the struggles of a devoted man who is determined to give his ailing wife her dream vacation at a beautiful lake in Maine....but all does not go as planned.
"The meds made her imagine things that would send Stephen King running for his blankie and his momma's breast."
Heavily character driven from the get-go, the dreaded evil in the woods slowly creeps into the storyline not making its presence known and intentions understood until the last quarter of the book....but show its disgusting face it does with ear piercing screams and unsettling noises that rock the house....then things turn deadly.
Hunter Shea brings to the reader a powerful kind of Fear and Dread you can hardly imagine in this new novel as he takes us on a journey to the dark side.
(Very best wishes to Hunter Shea and his wife as they fight the CREATURE within.)
Many thanks to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for the arc COMING SEPTEMBER 6, 2018 in exchange for review.
September 14, 2018
Thank you to the publisher, Flametree Press for setting me up with a fat stack of Fall ARCs including this novel, Creature by Hunter Shea in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first Hunter Shea book and probably the best introduction to a writer's body of work that I could ever ask for. I'm a very emotional reader-probably to a fault, quite honestly. I get extremely invested in well written characters, almost as if they're real people. Of course that kind of emotional relationship depends on the writer's ability to bring the characters to life--I'm always hoping to fall in love but that doesn't always happen; can't happen if an author doesn't deliver.
Creature is possibly one of the most emotional reads I have ever experienced. Shea spends the first half of this book developing the very true-to-life characters: Kate and Andrew. It's really not my favorite thing to go over the plot and I usually skim over plot details in other people's reviews so I'll just tell you briefly that Kate and Andrew are married. Kate suffers from health complications due to an auto-immune disease and Andrew lovingly and painstakingly does his very best to look after her and keep their marriage afloat during this trial.
It's this first half of the book that was the most important part for me. Some people will call this "a slow burn" which is really just code for, "It took awhile for the action to heat up" but I realized straight away that I wasn't waiting for the action--I was completely enjoying my time in the marriage of Kate & Andrew. It was fascinating. It was intimate. It was HORRIFYING because it touched on my own personal fears of my husband or myself falling ill and not being able to be a 50/50 partnership anymore. Facing the reality that at any time one of us could depend upon the other for physical dependence and all the emotions that come with that marital transition--it's just...it's probably the single most trying circumstance that a couple could ever face. It's life altering.
The last half the book was just the icing on the cake because Hunter Shea brings the couple another trial--a Creature.
This is where psychological/medical horror meets Creature Feature and it was perfection. The ending had me in emotional agony--just beside myself. Overcome, really.
After reading Hunter's afterward, I'm in awe of his bravery. Hunter Shea writes horror. He's been doing it for a really long time and he also lives out a real life, a real marriage with real struggles and one day, he decides to bring the two together in this book, Creature. It's a real privilege and an honor as a reader to be allowed into such a private affair. I just want to thank Hunter for giving us that gift. He blazed new trails of horror and I'd gladly follow him anywhere now.
This is my first Hunter Shea book and probably the best introduction to a writer's body of work that I could ever ask for. I'm a very emotional reader-probably to a fault, quite honestly. I get extremely invested in well written characters, almost as if they're real people. Of course that kind of emotional relationship depends on the writer's ability to bring the characters to life--I'm always hoping to fall in love but that doesn't always happen; can't happen if an author doesn't deliver.
Creature is possibly one of the most emotional reads I have ever experienced. Shea spends the first half of this book developing the very true-to-life characters: Kate and Andrew. It's really not my favorite thing to go over the plot and I usually skim over plot details in other people's reviews so I'll just tell you briefly that Kate and Andrew are married. Kate suffers from health complications due to an auto-immune disease and Andrew lovingly and painstakingly does his very best to look after her and keep their marriage afloat during this trial.
It's this first half of the book that was the most important part for me. Some people will call this "a slow burn" which is really just code for, "It took awhile for the action to heat up" but I realized straight away that I wasn't waiting for the action--I was completely enjoying my time in the marriage of Kate & Andrew. It was fascinating. It was intimate. It was HORRIFYING because it touched on my own personal fears of my husband or myself falling ill and not being able to be a 50/50 partnership anymore. Facing the reality that at any time one of us could depend upon the other for physical dependence and all the emotions that come with that marital transition--it's just...it's probably the single most trying circumstance that a couple could ever face. It's life altering.
The last half the book was just the icing on the cake because Hunter Shea brings the couple another trial--a Creature.
This is where psychological/medical horror meets Creature Feature and it was perfection. The ending had me in emotional agony--just beside myself. Overcome, really.
After reading Hunter's afterward, I'm in awe of his bravery. Hunter Shea writes horror. He's been doing it for a really long time and he also lives out a real life, a real marriage with real struggles and one day, he decides to bring the two together in this book, Creature. It's a real privilege and an honor as a reader to be allowed into such a private affair. I just want to thank Hunter for giving us that gift. He blazed new trails of horror and I'd gladly follow him anywhere now.
October 31, 2022
Great concept for a horror and great writing. The first three/fourths of the book was a little slow and repetitive for me, but the end made up for it. Very enjoyable and memorable.
September 29, 2021
Wow, I wasn’t expecting this type of book when I started reading it!
I was expecting more of the typical creature horror book that Hunter Shea writes but this book is much heavier and emotional.
Creature is about a married couple that decides to go to a remote cabin by a serene lake in the middle of Maine. Things go very wrong at this cabin, and Kate and Andrew Woodson must survive something lurking and stalking them in the woods!
Seriously, what is happening in Maine these days?!
I think I’ve read 10+ books this year in where the location is either Maine or the New England area and some sort of horror shenanigans is going down.
I’m going to Vermont next month to visit a friend.
Do I need to bring my gun, many knives, and some steel body armor for protection?! hahaha
Anyway I digress, back to Maine and this lake cabin.
Kate and Andrew have been married for quite some time. Their marriage was a happy one until Kate became sick with two different autoimmune diseases with no cure.
These medical issues have not only affected their marriage, but Kate has nearly died from it and lives in a state of extreme pain, fatigue, and fuzziness due to all the medication she must take.
I really felt for Kate and reading Creature made me feel a bit better about my own autoimmune disease. It could be much worse after reading all the things Kate goes through!
The build up to all the craziness at the end was fantastic.
The book is a slow build up in the beginning and I would hang in there if you're the type that needs action and excitement at the beginning.
Shea is setting up things with Kate and Andrew, and you really need to get an idea of their issues and personalities to enjoy everything at the end.
It was pure craziness, gore and intense emotions!
Definitely get to this one if you love creature horror and want a bit more from your book besides gore!
I was expecting more of the typical creature horror book that Hunter Shea writes but this book is much heavier and emotional.
Creature is about a married couple that decides to go to a remote cabin by a serene lake in the middle of Maine. Things go very wrong at this cabin, and Kate and Andrew Woodson must survive something lurking and stalking them in the woods!
Seriously, what is happening in Maine these days?!
I think I’ve read 10+ books this year in where the location is either Maine or the New England area and some sort of horror shenanigans is going down.
I’m going to Vermont next month to visit a friend.
Do I need to bring my gun, many knives, and some steel body armor for protection?! hahaha
Anyway I digress, back to Maine and this lake cabin.
Kate and Andrew have been married for quite some time. Their marriage was a happy one until Kate became sick with two different autoimmune diseases with no cure.
These medical issues have not only affected their marriage, but Kate has nearly died from it and lives in a state of extreme pain, fatigue, and fuzziness due to all the medication she must take.
I really felt for Kate and reading Creature made me feel a bit better about my own autoimmune disease. It could be much worse after reading all the things Kate goes through!
The build up to all the craziness at the end was fantastic.
The book is a slow build up in the beginning and I would hang in there if you're the type that needs action and excitement at the beginning.
Shea is setting up things with Kate and Andrew, and you really need to get an idea of their issues and personalities to enjoy everything at the end.
It was pure craziness, gore and intense emotions!
Definitely get to this one if you love creature horror and want a bit more from your book besides gore!
August 22, 2020
This was a roller coaster ride of human emotions so strong that it brings what the true meaning of pain and suffering is to the raw surface. I have never read a horror book that touched upon the human suffering that people go through the way this book did.
Kate Woodson lives day in and day out with massive chronic pain and autoimmune diseases. She doesn't have a normal life like most people as she has to stay in the house and sometimes is bed ridden. Her husband, Andrew, is a devoted husband who looks after her and tries to keep her in up beat spirits even when the spirits are low to the ground.
Andrew decides to take Kate away from the house and go somewhere peaceful hoping to give her a nice holiday for the summer. Andrew finds a cottage near a lake that is out in the backwoods of Maine. Once they arrive and move into the cottage, the stillness and quiet of the peaceful place is shattered by unearthly screams and howls. They soon realize that the wildlife of the woods is not part of the howling chaos and when more things start happening to them at the cottage, the more frightened they become as something roams the woods not of this world.
The "Creature" wrecks havoc on Andrew and Kate's emotions as they not only have to endure what is going on outside the cottage, but they have to endure what Kate is going through inside with her chronic pain. What was suppose to be a nice getaway, turns out to be a ride into the hellish unknown!
This was a suspenseful, tense, frightening, emotional read and the author, Hunter Shea, builds the story up from the beginning and brings everything to a boiling crescendo about the middle of the book where it just takes off like a rocket with twists and turns! I read this book in two days as I couldn't hardly put it down!
Five stars all the way for this one. Highly recommend to all horror fans!
Kate Woodson lives day in and day out with massive chronic pain and autoimmune diseases. She doesn't have a normal life like most people as she has to stay in the house and sometimes is bed ridden. Her husband, Andrew, is a devoted husband who looks after her and tries to keep her in up beat spirits even when the spirits are low to the ground.
Andrew decides to take Kate away from the house and go somewhere peaceful hoping to give her a nice holiday for the summer. Andrew finds a cottage near a lake that is out in the backwoods of Maine. Once they arrive and move into the cottage, the stillness and quiet of the peaceful place is shattered by unearthly screams and howls. They soon realize that the wildlife of the woods is not part of the howling chaos and when more things start happening to them at the cottage, the more frightened they become as something roams the woods not of this world.
The "Creature" wrecks havoc on Andrew and Kate's emotions as they not only have to endure what is going on outside the cottage, but they have to endure what Kate is going through inside with her chronic pain. What was suppose to be a nice getaway, turns out to be a ride into the hellish unknown!
This was a suspenseful, tense, frightening, emotional read and the author, Hunter Shea, builds the story up from the beginning and brings everything to a boiling crescendo about the middle of the book where it just takes off like a rocket with twists and turns! I read this book in two days as I couldn't hardly put it down!
Five stars all the way for this one. Highly recommend to all horror fans!
September 6, 2018
CREATURE, by Hunter Shea, is--in my opinion--his strongest, most focused, "heaviest" (in terms of theme), and character-driven novel to date. This is a novel that incorporates many sub-genres of horror: psychological, human suffering, suspense, visceral, supernatural, and fear-inducing, among many others. If you're like myself and normally have a couple of books going at all times, you'll soon discover that this is simply not a book that can be read "lightly". CREATURE is a tale that demands your undivided attention and focus at all times.
We start with a couple, Kate and Andrew Woodson, who have the misfortune of Kate living with a host of autoimmune diseases, including Lupus and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. While this obviously makes Kate's physical existence a challenge in and of itself, its affect on Andrew is no less potent.
"She'd forgotten what it was like to wake up and not be in agony . . . "
The strength of their union, their love and dependance on one another is the backbone of this story. Through their everyday thoughts and actions, the reader is "shown" just how close Kate and Andrew are, without the need for obvious statements. We can feel them--the pain and frustration that each deals with in their own ways.
". . . what they had survived made them different from most people . . . "
I cannot stress enough how REAL these two characters are to me. I feel like they are people I actually know in life, such is the power of Shea's words.
". . . Her body might be weak, but her will could break a football lineman in half . . . "
Deciding that they need a break form everyday life, Andrew arranges for them to take the summer off, and vacation at a remote lakeside cottage in Maine. Along with Kate's constant companion, an older beagle named Buttons, they set out.
". . . she waved goodbye to their house, a house that doubled as a hospital and prison . . . "
While the main focus overall is on the characterization, once they reach Maine, the atmosphere comes more prominently into play, as well. The beauty of this quaint cottage nestled in the woods, with a gorgeous lake beyond, and only a few "neighbors"--too far away to be seen--is an excellent contrast to the pain raging throughout Kate's weakened body.
"Promise me we can stay here forever?"
Of course, neither could have predicted that something . . . else . . . might be inhabiting those very same woods.
While Kate's battles with her own body are always present, there are so many other intrusions that begin to enter into their world--some subtle, some less so. This is where Shea showcases just how "real" he can make his novels.
". . . the woods were nothing but shadows, and the only things that didn't belong were themselves."
In addition to the spectacular characterization, he begins to build up the apprehension and unease for each in a myriad of ways. Yet all of it rings true for the reader. Some of the most horrific discoveries are things they choose to keep to themselves, for reasons that make complete sense to us, as it concerns each personality.
"How could she be a part of their lives when she couldn't even partake of her own?"
Some are purposely left ambiguous so that even the reader wants to question "Is this real"? Other things are brought to light in such a brutal manor that it is impossible to deny something is amiss.
". . . her dream lake cottage. Yet here she was . . . trapped in more ways than one . . . "
This is what a great horror novel is all about. Shea is able to bring out those feelings of despair and fear that we have all experienced to some extent, making these scenes ring so true in our minds. Once our undivided attention has been captured, even more problems and terror begin to bombard us at every turn.
"He's my husband . . . If anyone's going to stab him repeatedly, it should be me . . . "
No matter how "improbable" the scene, at this stage our minds are open to any and every possibility out there. In addition to the internal battles, the external threat and carnage heat things up to an explosive level.
". . . when there was nothing left to lose, there was no reason to hold back . . . "
Overall, a remarkable, unforgettable novel in so many ways! The raw emotion of the characters, the physical problems both within and without the cottage, and the ultimate questions of "what, why, and how", will leave you hanging on every written word. As I stated in the beginning, this is not a "light" story, but it is one that will reel you in so that you can practically feel every moment of it right up until the final, unpredictable, end. Without question, this is one of my top reads of the year.
Highly recommended!
**AVAILABLE NOW!**
We start with a couple, Kate and Andrew Woodson, who have the misfortune of Kate living with a host of autoimmune diseases, including Lupus and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. While this obviously makes Kate's physical existence a challenge in and of itself, its affect on Andrew is no less potent.
"She'd forgotten what it was like to wake up and not be in agony . . . "
The strength of their union, their love and dependance on one another is the backbone of this story. Through their everyday thoughts and actions, the reader is "shown" just how close Kate and Andrew are, without the need for obvious statements. We can feel them--the pain and frustration that each deals with in their own ways.
". . . what they had survived made them different from most people . . . "
I cannot stress enough how REAL these two characters are to me. I feel like they are people I actually know in life, such is the power of Shea's words.
". . . Her body might be weak, but her will could break a football lineman in half . . . "
Deciding that they need a break form everyday life, Andrew arranges for them to take the summer off, and vacation at a remote lakeside cottage in Maine. Along with Kate's constant companion, an older beagle named Buttons, they set out.
". . . she waved goodbye to their house, a house that doubled as a hospital and prison . . . "
While the main focus overall is on the characterization, once they reach Maine, the atmosphere comes more prominently into play, as well. The beauty of this quaint cottage nestled in the woods, with a gorgeous lake beyond, and only a few "neighbors"--too far away to be seen--is an excellent contrast to the pain raging throughout Kate's weakened body.
"Promise me we can stay here forever?"
Of course, neither could have predicted that something . . . else . . . might be inhabiting those very same woods.
While Kate's battles with her own body are always present, there are so many other intrusions that begin to enter into their world--some subtle, some less so. This is where Shea showcases just how "real" he can make his novels.
". . . the woods were nothing but shadows, and the only things that didn't belong were themselves."
In addition to the spectacular characterization, he begins to build up the apprehension and unease for each in a myriad of ways. Yet all of it rings true for the reader. Some of the most horrific discoveries are things they choose to keep to themselves, for reasons that make complete sense to us, as it concerns each personality.
"How could she be a part of their lives when she couldn't even partake of her own?"
Some are purposely left ambiguous so that even the reader wants to question "Is this real"? Other things are brought to light in such a brutal manor that it is impossible to deny something is amiss.
". . . her dream lake cottage. Yet here she was . . . trapped in more ways than one . . . "
This is what a great horror novel is all about. Shea is able to bring out those feelings of despair and fear that we have all experienced to some extent, making these scenes ring so true in our minds. Once our undivided attention has been captured, even more problems and terror begin to bombard us at every turn.
"He's my husband . . . If anyone's going to stab him repeatedly, it should be me . . . "
No matter how "improbable" the scene, at this stage our minds are open to any and every possibility out there. In addition to the internal battles, the external threat and carnage heat things up to an explosive level.
". . . when there was nothing left to lose, there was no reason to hold back . . . "
Overall, a remarkable, unforgettable novel in so many ways! The raw emotion of the characters, the physical problems both within and without the cottage, and the ultimate questions of "what, why, and how", will leave you hanging on every written word. As I stated in the beginning, this is not a "light" story, but it is one that will reel you in so that you can practically feel every moment of it right up until the final, unpredictable, end. Without question, this is one of my top reads of the year.
Highly recommended!
**AVAILABLE NOW!**
December 12, 2018
CREATURE surprised me. I’ve only read one Hunter Shea book, THE JERSEY DEVIL, and that thing was pure madness from beginning to end with its out of control body count and frenetic pace. I was expecting a crazed people eating monster to pop out of the woods and eat everyone and the pup before moving on to town and slaying more innocents but this is a completely different type of horror story. This one is about the physical and emotional toll an incurable disease has on a woman and those who love her. It’s slower paced and allows the dread to slowly creep in as the characters face an ever present and unconquerable monster.
Kate has Lupus and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, both are incurable diseases that are managed with pain medication and surgery to fix body parts as they break down. The diseases and multiple surgeries have all but stolen her life. She’s housebound with her dog Buttons and a devoted husband who has turned into her caretaker. After a grueling trial of an experimental treatment, Andrew takes a leave of absence from work and surprises Kate with a getaway to a cabin in Maine where she can recuperate and they can spend some quality time together with Buttons. But it’s not long before strange events begin to taint their tranquility.
This book was incredibly hard to for me to read. My sister and two family members suffer from EDS, have all had multiple surgeries and were all disabled in their 30’s. Shea’s portrayal of Kate’s pain was heartbreaking and grueling and viciously accurate based on everything I’ve heard and seen. This is why it was a difficult read for me but I imagine it will be the same for most anybody who picks up this book because it is a punishing depiction of chronic pain, that insidious destroyer of lives.
If you’re looking for a stomp ‘n’ chomp this isn’t it, for the most part, but it isn’t any less of a horror novel than The Jersey Devil. It’s a different kind of horror novel. One that is slower paced and thoughtful and full of all the emotions. There is so much pain and suffering and guilt and love that when the slow creeping dread begins to interfere on the couple’s idyllic sabbatical, you’ll need to hang on tight to your heart. It’s breathtaking how well the author weaves it all together. I wasn’t expecting this type of story at all but I wasn’t disappointed. Very highly recommend if you enjoy a book that’ll tear you to pieces.
Kate has Lupus and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, both are incurable diseases that are managed with pain medication and surgery to fix body parts as they break down. The diseases and multiple surgeries have all but stolen her life. She’s housebound with her dog Buttons and a devoted husband who has turned into her caretaker. After a grueling trial of an experimental treatment, Andrew takes a leave of absence from work and surprises Kate with a getaway to a cabin in Maine where she can recuperate and they can spend some quality time together with Buttons. But it’s not long before strange events begin to taint their tranquility.
This book was incredibly hard to for me to read. My sister and two family members suffer from EDS, have all had multiple surgeries and were all disabled in their 30’s. Shea’s portrayal of Kate’s pain was heartbreaking and grueling and viciously accurate based on everything I’ve heard and seen. This is why it was a difficult read for me but I imagine it will be the same for most anybody who picks up this book because it is a punishing depiction of chronic pain, that insidious destroyer of lives.
If you’re looking for a stomp ‘n’ chomp this isn’t it, for the most part, but it isn’t any less of a horror novel than The Jersey Devil. It’s a different kind of horror novel. One that is slower paced and thoughtful and full of all the emotions. There is so much pain and suffering and guilt and love that when the slow creeping dread begins to interfere on the couple’s idyllic sabbatical, you’ll need to hang on tight to your heart. It’s breathtaking how well the author weaves it all together. I wasn’t expecting this type of story at all but I wasn’t disappointed. Very highly recommend if you enjoy a book that’ll tear you to pieces.
February 16, 2023
I wanted to reread this at first but felt like this wasn't the right time at the moment. Will hopefully go back at some point.
___
After finished the book I'm just like "Wow, damn what a ride that was". It's a horror story bout an haunting creature, yet it's a love story with someone who has a serious disease and chronic pain. It was so captivating and exciting at the same time and I didn't want it to end. I totally recommend it!
___
After finished the book I'm just like "Wow, damn what a ride that was". It's a horror story bout an haunting creature, yet it's a love story with someone who has a serious disease and chronic pain. It was so captivating and exciting at the same time and I didn't want it to end. I totally recommend it!
September 6, 2018
I have three ways to describe this novel:
Body horror, metaphor coming alive, and it's a deliciously painful romp.
AND it hits uncomfortably close to home for not just the author, whose wife is going through a long-term illness in too many similar ways, but for almost all of us. At least, I assume so. Enough of us either know or have been through family members sliding down that horrible slope to make this part of the novel truly harrowing all by itself.
But here's the best part: there's a lot of love between these two. He takes her off to a cabin retreat for 3 months while she's going through her decline, and in a lot of ways, it's just another familiar SK Maine cabin horror setup. Or, to me, I was deliciously reminded of Evil Dead.
But no worries, Hunter Shea pulls off a very tight and emotional body horror that leaps out of the confines of that particular horror category drives the great characters down into a particularly difficult hell.
It's all about the choices, man.
This is the second longer Shea novel I've read after a long stream of novellas that are just plain great. The thing about the longer ones is this: he tends to write sympathetic characters in them. The shorter ones are where we can cheer for every death. But this one? I kinda love everyone. It's just that kind of ride.
A very decent horror, and while it relies on a number of cliches to start off, the author, as always, has full command of his arsenal and knows exactly where to diverge to great effect. :)
Body horror, metaphor coming alive, and it's a deliciously painful romp.
AND it hits uncomfortably close to home for not just the author, whose wife is going through a long-term illness in too many similar ways, but for almost all of us. At least, I assume so. Enough of us either know or have been through family members sliding down that horrible slope to make this part of the novel truly harrowing all by itself.
But here's the best part: there's a lot of love between these two. He takes her off to a cabin retreat for 3 months while she's going through her decline, and in a lot of ways, it's just another familiar SK Maine cabin horror setup. Or, to me, I was deliciously reminded of Evil Dead.
But no worries, Hunter Shea pulls off a very tight and emotional body horror that leaps out of the confines of that particular horror category drives the great characters down into a particularly difficult hell.
It's all about the choices, man.
This is the second longer Shea novel I've read after a long stream of novellas that are just plain great. The thing about the longer ones is this: he tends to write sympathetic characters in them. The shorter ones are where we can cheer for every death. But this one? I kinda love everyone. It's just that kind of ride.
A very decent horror, and while it relies on a number of cliches to start off, the author, as always, has full command of his arsenal and knows exactly where to diverge to great effect. :)
September 6, 2018
This was quite different from the other Shea stories I’ve read so far. For one, it was much longer (novel length); for another, as we get to know in the afterword, this is deeply personal for the author, adding additional heartbreak.
We follow Kate, a woman with an auto-immune disease as well as various other afflictions, and her husband Andrew. They decide they need to get out of New Jersey for a bit after all the illness-related horrors they’ve managed to get through together so Andrew takes a leave of absence for three months and takes his wife to a cottage at the shore of a lake in Maine.
Anyone ever having even only heard of Stephen King must now hear all alarm bells going off. *lol* It’s no different with Shea.
What starts as a three-month vacation in a beautiful and remote part of America quickly turns into a living nightmare.
Another thing making this quite different from other Shea stories is that at least at first the horror here is Kate’s physical and mental situation. The poor woman can sometimes barely get up to use the bathroom, let alone shower. Moreover, she’s constantly catching other illnesses because she no longer has a real immune system to speak of. Thus, she spends her days in a daybed, watching the outside world, unable to participate.
I must say that I agreed with Andrew that . Then again, I can understand her need to not feel like a constant burden, that she wanted to help.
All in all, I loved the almost claustrophobic feel of her days and nights as well as not knowing what was real, what was imagined and what could be supernatural, IF there was something supernatural - after all, she did take incredible amounts of drugs that can result in hallucinations.
I might prefer the b-movie-like shorts by this author (or maybe also longer ones, I have yet to read one of his longer creature features), but this was done very well and I was appropriately creeped out while simultaneously feeling for Kate and Andrew.
We follow Kate, a woman with an auto-immune disease as well as various other afflictions, and her husband Andrew. They decide they need to get out of New Jersey for a bit after all the illness-related horrors they’ve managed to get through together so Andrew takes a leave of absence for three months and takes his wife to a cottage at the shore of a lake in Maine.
Anyone ever having even only heard of Stephen King must now hear all alarm bells going off. *lol* It’s no different with Shea.
What starts as a three-month vacation in a beautiful and remote part of America quickly turns into a living nightmare.
Another thing making this quite different from other Shea stories is that at least at first the horror here is Kate’s physical and mental situation. The poor woman can sometimes barely get up to use the bathroom, let alone shower. Moreover, she’s constantly catching other illnesses because she no longer has a real immune system to speak of. Thus, she spends her days in a daybed, watching the outside world, unable to participate.
I must say that I agreed with Andrew that . Then again, I can understand her need to not feel like a constant burden, that she wanted to help.
All in all, I loved the almost claustrophobic feel of her days and nights as well as not knowing what was real, what was imagined and what could be supernatural, IF there was something supernatural - after all, she did take incredible amounts of drugs that can result in hallucinations.
I might prefer the b-movie-like shorts by this author (or maybe also longer ones, I have yet to read one of his longer creature features), but this was done very well and I was appropriately creeped out while simultaneously feeling for Kate and Andrew.
August 3, 2018
Hunter Shea knows all about horror. An author with a score of books to his name, podcaster for Monster Men and The Final Guy, and writer of Video Vision posts for Cemetery Dance, all point toward a man who has lived and breathed the horror genre since he was a boy. He knows and writes about cryptids, ghosts, crazed killer animals, and plenty more in-between. But he also knows about real horror, true horror, like when your body begins to fail and suffer from a handful of maladies, any of which on their own could be fatal, the person slowly degenerating into a life that is more misery and pain than anything else.
Kate suffers from a host of autoimmune disorders and lives in a state of chronic pain. Her joints slip out of their sockets with painful regularity and a mason jar filled to the brim with her daily regiment of pills sits on the nightstand beside the bed she only rarely leaves. Her husband, Andrew, is her caretaker, reliant on his dayjob to provide them with the medical benefits that help keep her alive, although the specter of chemotherapy is an ever-present threat, as are worries of emergency surgeries and cardiac arrest.
Kate doesn't get to enjoy her life very much. Mostly, her only company consists of her small dog, Buttons, and classic black-and-white movies on television or her computer tablet. Frustrated by his lack of time with her, and a growing dissatisfaction with work, Andrew takes a leave of absence and rents a lakeside cottage in Maine for the two of them to enjoy and while away their summer. He hopes the change of scenery will help, and that, just maybe, Kate can enjoy some sun and sand.
Their arrival, unfortunately, doesn't exactly go as planned. There's something in the woods surrounding their summer retreat. Strange, violently loud animal cries awaken them in the middle of the night, along with the noise of rocks pelting the house as whatever is out there attempts to lure them outside. What began as a hope for escape soon grows into a dire struggle for survival as the creature in the woods, and the monsters within Kate's own body, threaten to kill them.
Right from the very beginning of Creature it's clear that Shea has plenty of first-hand experience dealing with severe, chronic medical disorders. As it happens, his own wife suffers from afflictions similar to Kate's, and Creature oftentimes feels like a highly autobiographical work. It's honest and unflinching in its depictions of struggle from the perspective of both the afflicted and the partner cum caretaker. When they were dating, neither Kate nor Andrew expected their marriage to take the direction it has, and there's an ever-present sense of loss over the things that could, and should, have been. But there's also an overriding sense of love and compassion for one another, a love that has borne them through the worst of things and will carry them along no matter how grim things get. They manage to carve out moments of happiness, but still bicker and fight when emotional currents run high.
Kate and Andrew aren't a perfect couple, but they work well with what they've been given, and Shea does an excellent job portraying the reality of their relationship, warts and all. He bleeds onto each and every page, imbuing this couple and their shared life with a perfect sense of well-lived in realism. When drawing so heavily on personal experience, once might be inclined to glamorize the characters involved or tack on overly saccharine sentimentalities, but I never got that sense here. Kate and Andrew never struck me as being drawn in any way other than completely and utterly honest, and oftentimes to heartbreaking effect. Kate's disorders are awfully severe and it's impossible to not sympathize with her constant ordeals, and Andrew's by extension.
By now, you're probably wondering about the titular creature. I've spent an awful lot of time here discussing the people, but not the monster. Monsters, of course, are Shea's bread and butter! I can only say, have no worry, because Creature's creature is absolutely present, but oftentimes in omnipresent ways. We hear the creature and see the aftermath of its visits for a good long while before we're presented with it in a fully in-your-face appearance on the page. Creature is a slow-burn, one that constantly builds its way toward a grand climax, and Shea meticulously places the various pieces of his frightfest with careful deliberation.
Shea is more widely known for his fun, gloriously violent, B-movie inspired creature feature romps. Creature is a bit of a departure from stories like Megalodon in Paradise or Jurassic, Florida, but readers who came to Shea by way of We Are Always Watching will have a grand idea of what to expect here. This isn't a mile a minute gorefest, but it packs in a number of scares that are absolute powerhouses thanks to their authenticity and realism. Creature is a slower, characters-first work of horror, but make no mistake, Shea certainly delivers on the horror and in a number of particularly gut-churning, all too-human ways.
[Note: I received an advance reading copy of this title from the publisher, Flame Tree Press.]
Kate suffers from a host of autoimmune disorders and lives in a state of chronic pain. Her joints slip out of their sockets with painful regularity and a mason jar filled to the brim with her daily regiment of pills sits on the nightstand beside the bed she only rarely leaves. Her husband, Andrew, is her caretaker, reliant on his dayjob to provide them with the medical benefits that help keep her alive, although the specter of chemotherapy is an ever-present threat, as are worries of emergency surgeries and cardiac arrest.
Kate doesn't get to enjoy her life very much. Mostly, her only company consists of her small dog, Buttons, and classic black-and-white movies on television or her computer tablet. Frustrated by his lack of time with her, and a growing dissatisfaction with work, Andrew takes a leave of absence and rents a lakeside cottage in Maine for the two of them to enjoy and while away their summer. He hopes the change of scenery will help, and that, just maybe, Kate can enjoy some sun and sand.
Their arrival, unfortunately, doesn't exactly go as planned. There's something in the woods surrounding their summer retreat. Strange, violently loud animal cries awaken them in the middle of the night, along with the noise of rocks pelting the house as whatever is out there attempts to lure them outside. What began as a hope for escape soon grows into a dire struggle for survival as the creature in the woods, and the monsters within Kate's own body, threaten to kill them.
Right from the very beginning of Creature it's clear that Shea has plenty of first-hand experience dealing with severe, chronic medical disorders. As it happens, his own wife suffers from afflictions similar to Kate's, and Creature oftentimes feels like a highly autobiographical work. It's honest and unflinching in its depictions of struggle from the perspective of both the afflicted and the partner cum caretaker. When they were dating, neither Kate nor Andrew expected their marriage to take the direction it has, and there's an ever-present sense of loss over the things that could, and should, have been. But there's also an overriding sense of love and compassion for one another, a love that has borne them through the worst of things and will carry them along no matter how grim things get. They manage to carve out moments of happiness, but still bicker and fight when emotional currents run high.
Kate and Andrew aren't a perfect couple, but they work well with what they've been given, and Shea does an excellent job portraying the reality of their relationship, warts and all. He bleeds onto each and every page, imbuing this couple and their shared life with a perfect sense of well-lived in realism. When drawing so heavily on personal experience, once might be inclined to glamorize the characters involved or tack on overly saccharine sentimentalities, but I never got that sense here. Kate and Andrew never struck me as being drawn in any way other than completely and utterly honest, and oftentimes to heartbreaking effect. Kate's disorders are awfully severe and it's impossible to not sympathize with her constant ordeals, and Andrew's by extension.
By now, you're probably wondering about the titular creature. I've spent an awful lot of time here discussing the people, but not the monster. Monsters, of course, are Shea's bread and butter! I can only say, have no worry, because Creature's creature is absolutely present, but oftentimes in omnipresent ways. We hear the creature and see the aftermath of its visits for a good long while before we're presented with it in a fully in-your-face appearance on the page. Creature is a slow-burn, one that constantly builds its way toward a grand climax, and Shea meticulously places the various pieces of his frightfest with careful deliberation.
Shea is more widely known for his fun, gloriously violent, B-movie inspired creature feature romps. Creature is a bit of a departure from stories like Megalodon in Paradise or Jurassic, Florida, but readers who came to Shea by way of We Are Always Watching will have a grand idea of what to expect here. This isn't a mile a minute gorefest, but it packs in a number of scares that are absolute powerhouses thanks to their authenticity and realism. Creature is a slower, characters-first work of horror, but make no mistake, Shea certainly delivers on the horror and in a number of particularly gut-churning, all too-human ways.
[Note: I received an advance reading copy of this title from the publisher, Flame Tree Press.]
December 28, 2019
EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK, ASAP. There. That's my review.
July 23, 2021
Best book I've read this year. A slow burn with the most authentic dialogue this side of Lansdale. I knew going in this book had a ton of Hunter's own life in it, and the heartbreaking and profound Afterword verifies that.
But I still wasn't prepared.
Absolutely recommend this book! Part drama, part romance, and part survival. It's best to read between the lines here because that's where Shea left his blood. This is so much more than a horror story. It's a terrifying reminder we should all have a spirit of gratitude and strength.
But I still wasn't prepared.
Absolutely recommend this book! Part drama, part romance, and part survival. It's best to read between the lines here because that's where Shea left his blood. This is so much more than a horror story. It's a terrifying reminder we should all have a spirit of gratitude and strength.
August 18, 2018
Kate Woodson's life is not what she expected. Once being a very active and lively woman, she now is a victim of her own body. Happiness is a thing of the past, however Andrew believes they can find some form of it in Maine, where a lake-house becomes available for the summer. The married couple thus set off, eager and full of hope, desiring the serenity of nature. Nature has other plans, however, as something resides within the dark, and it seeks their undivided attention.
(WARNING: This review contains minor spoilers.)
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I thank Flame Tree Press for giving me the opportunity.
I couldn’t help but notice the high amount of praise from the horror community regarding this particular Shea novel, so I was quick to jump aboard that train and request it myself. What immediately became apparent was how disturbed I felt right from the get-go, but not in the typical sense that relates to the genre. Rather, it was the very real and disquieting portrayal of Kate that provoked such a response. To have such a chronically ill main character was almost a shock to the system; I can’t say I’ve witnessed something to that extent during my travels into the dark. Her every waking moment was a challenge, and I couldn’t help but feel that this was, potentially, a very personal topic for the author - it was the in-depth, almost intimate account of Kate’s suffering. Upon reaching the end, I discovered I was correct, in that autoimmune diseases are a very familiar antagonist in Shea's life. No wonder the writing held such passion.
First and foremost, let me state that the plot put an incredible amount of emphasis on the relationship between Andrew and Kate, which very much included the hardships and struggles that frequented their day to day life. I was warmed by their tenacious bond - something most of us yearn for, yet their marriage wasn’t without its share of problems. The painfully realistic and unwanted thoughts that often plagued their minds were a relatable aspect that only padded out their already authentic depiction. It was fairly easy early on to discern just how dependable this book was on characterisation and atmosphere; the first fifty percent was rather uneventful in terms of monsters and gore. I’m not saying there’s no horror, because there was a great deal of it, but some of it required a deeper look into what was presented. As for the creature itself when it came into play, well, it certainly got my mind theorising as to what exactly it was and its origins. At first I believed it to be something typical, but I was surprised to discover it wasn't as obvious as I initially assumed. I favour a good, creative approach to any plot, and this was no different.
This being my first experience with Shea's work, I was thrilled by the reckless abandon in which he penned his violence. There's something special about carnage that has no boundaries in terms of who's going to end up as a corpse, and I felt that spark of excitement whilst anticipating the brutality that would come next. It was worth it - to follow these very real individuals into chaos.
I can honestly say that this proved to be great read, and it nearly reached five stars. My hesitation however lies in the ending and my lack of emotion at what ultimately transpired. By the life of me I can’t explain why I didn’t feel much of anything, but I do massively rely on my feelings to dictate the final outcome. It's a shame, considering my attachment up until that point. Perhaps I found it too abrupt; the fate of those that survived probably would have proved more satisfying.
In conclusion: I became quickly engrossed in this undeniably character-driven tale. I felt connected to the characters and their relationship, and it was as if I was a member of their family. The straight-forward prose was able to convey the harshness of their reality, which induced a lot of emotion within me. It was the ending that I became detached, but in the scheme of things it mattered little when I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to get there. Oh, and Buttons was a hero.
Notable Scene:
Andrew grabbed the doorknob and was about to twist it when he stopped, suddenly unsure. He took a deep, steadying breath and tried again, heart thudding, skin crawling, at war with himself but knowing deep down he had to see. More than anything, he had to see what was out there.
© Red Lace 2018
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
(WARNING: This review contains minor spoilers.)
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I thank Flame Tree Press for giving me the opportunity.
I couldn’t help but notice the high amount of praise from the horror community regarding this particular Shea novel, so I was quick to jump aboard that train and request it myself. What immediately became apparent was how disturbed I felt right from the get-go, but not in the typical sense that relates to the genre. Rather, it was the very real and disquieting portrayal of Kate that provoked such a response. To have such a chronically ill main character was almost a shock to the system; I can’t say I’ve witnessed something to that extent during my travels into the dark. Her every waking moment was a challenge, and I couldn’t help but feel that this was, potentially, a very personal topic for the author - it was the in-depth, almost intimate account of Kate’s suffering. Upon reaching the end, I discovered I was correct, in that autoimmune diseases are a very familiar antagonist in Shea's life. No wonder the writing held such passion.
First and foremost, let me state that the plot put an incredible amount of emphasis on the relationship between Andrew and Kate, which very much included the hardships and struggles that frequented their day to day life. I was warmed by their tenacious bond - something most of us yearn for, yet their marriage wasn’t without its share of problems. The painfully realistic and unwanted thoughts that often plagued their minds were a relatable aspect that only padded out their already authentic depiction. It was fairly easy early on to discern just how dependable this book was on characterisation and atmosphere; the first fifty percent was rather uneventful in terms of monsters and gore. I’m not saying there’s no horror, because there was a great deal of it, but some of it required a deeper look into what was presented. As for the creature itself when it came into play, well, it certainly got my mind theorising as to what exactly it was and its origins. At first I believed it to be something typical, but I was surprised to discover it wasn't as obvious as I initially assumed. I favour a good, creative approach to any plot, and this was no different.
This being my first experience with Shea's work, I was thrilled by the reckless abandon in which he penned his violence. There's something special about carnage that has no boundaries in terms of who's going to end up as a corpse, and I felt that spark of excitement whilst anticipating the brutality that would come next. It was worth it - to follow these very real individuals into chaos.
I can honestly say that this proved to be great read, and it nearly reached five stars. My hesitation however lies in the ending and my lack of emotion at what ultimately transpired. By the life of me I can’t explain why I didn’t feel much of anything, but I do massively rely on my feelings to dictate the final outcome. It's a shame, considering my attachment up until that point. Perhaps I found it too abrupt; the fate of those that survived probably would have proved more satisfying.
In conclusion: I became quickly engrossed in this undeniably character-driven tale. I felt connected to the characters and their relationship, and it was as if I was a member of their family. The straight-forward prose was able to convey the harshness of their reality, which induced a lot of emotion within me. It was the ending that I became detached, but in the scheme of things it mattered little when I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to get there. Oh, and Buttons was a hero.
Notable Scene:
Andrew grabbed the doorknob and was about to twist it when he stopped, suddenly unsure. He took a deep, steadying breath and tried again, heart thudding, skin crawling, at war with himself but knowing deep down he had to see. More than anything, he had to see what was out there.
© Red Lace 2018
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
December 8, 2021
It took me a while to decide about the rating for this one. There were things that I really liked about it and a few things that I didn't. I finally decided that the good things out won out. The reading it is not really easy...but it's also nearly impossible to put down. Though the protagonist is loaded with chronic illnesses...none of which are not a pleasant place to be. However, her marriage to Andrew is wonderful and fulfilling... warts and all. The warts are what help to make it so charming, because it's just plain real. It's a working marriage that's genuine, not "Prince Charming" and "Sugar Plum Fairies". It's a love story far more romantic than many of the romances I've read. Andrew makes choices...his wife and staying where he is when he has every opportunity to leave. This is as much a story about a relationship as it is about a monster that terrorizes a couple whose only desire is to spend a peaceful, relaxing summer. When Kate's brother and his wife arrive, the monster comes more out into the open. Kate asks of Andrew, "Promise me we can stay here forever?" Of course, neither could have predicted that something . . . else . . . might be inhabiting those very same woods and overhearing her request. Overall, it's a remarkable and unforgettable novel in so many ways. The raw emotion of the characters...the physical problems both within and without the cottage...the ultimate questions of "what, why, and how" is one that will reel you in so that you can practically feel every moment of it right up until the final, unpredictable end.
August 14, 2018
I can probably say that I've reviewed more Hunter Shea books on my blog than any other author and for good reason. One, the man's writing is prolific. I seriously don't know how he finds the time to write so much. Two, he writes such action-packed creature features which are always fun. However, I had a feeling when I picked up "Creature" that I was in store for something outside of the norm. And I can honestly say that what I read solidified Shea as one of my favorite three horror writers.
"Creature" starts out introducing us to Kate, her husband Andrew and their beagle Buttons. I have to mention Buttons because that little dog was the cause of much anxiety for me throughout the whole book. Anyone who reads a lot of horror knows pets don't stand a fighting chance. Kate is seriously ill and has been for years, suffering from an autoimmune disease and everything else it triggers. Andrew works hard to provide for the family and care for Kate. Wanting to something special, he takes a three month leave of absence and rents a cabin in the Maine woods as a surprise for Kate. Little do they know when they arrive, something else is waiting for them.
I found "Creature" to be a very character-driven book. I loved Andrew and how hard he worked to take care of Kate. I also loved that he certainly wasn't perfect. I also loved the relationship between Kate and Andrew. It clearly was forged from love and adversity. We also get to meet Kate's brother and his wife and they are a fun addition to the horror in the woods. I must also say that Shea did a good job of making the woods/cabin a character in and of itself. Especially since it takes some time for the reader to put all the pieces together.
"Creature" does provide plenty of action in the end and once again, Shea is not afraid of blood and gore. However, this book carries so much more. If you are going into it expecting Shea's creature-feature type books, then you might be disappointed at first. However, give it a chance because you might find a horror that is much more scarier - real life.
I received this book from Netgalley and Flame Tree Press in exchange for an honest review.
"Creature" starts out introducing us to Kate, her husband Andrew and their beagle Buttons. I have to mention Buttons because that little dog was the cause of much anxiety for me throughout the whole book. Anyone who reads a lot of horror knows pets don't stand a fighting chance. Kate is seriously ill and has been for years, suffering from an autoimmune disease and everything else it triggers. Andrew works hard to provide for the family and care for Kate. Wanting to something special, he takes a three month leave of absence and rents a cabin in the Maine woods as a surprise for Kate. Little do they know when they arrive, something else is waiting for them.
I found "Creature" to be a very character-driven book. I loved Andrew and how hard he worked to take care of Kate. I also loved that he certainly wasn't perfect. I also loved the relationship between Kate and Andrew. It clearly was forged from love and adversity. We also get to meet Kate's brother and his wife and they are a fun addition to the horror in the woods. I must also say that Shea did a good job of making the woods/cabin a character in and of itself. Especially since it takes some time for the reader to put all the pieces together.
"Creature" does provide plenty of action in the end and once again, Shea is not afraid of blood and gore. However, this book carries so much more. If you are going into it expecting Shea's creature-feature type books, then you might be disappointed at first. However, give it a chance because you might find a horror that is much more scarier - real life.
I received this book from Netgalley and Flame Tree Press in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2018
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second book by Shea, and from what I can gather, both of the books I've read are a bit of a departure from his usual writing. I know he is well known for his creature feature novels, but this one and the other book I read are not heavy on the creature aspects, even though this one is literally called Creature.
Kate Woodson has a number of autoimmune diseases that keep her from even getting out of bed most days. Kate is in constant pain, and any time she moves around too much she risks dislocating one of her fragile joints. Her husband Andrew works an office job he hates in order to provide good health care for Kate, and he also functions as her main caregiver. Her dog Buttons gives her emotional support while Andrew is away from home. A few weeks after an extremely rough procedure that leaves Kate even more weak and exhausted, Andrew decides to take a leave of absence and take Kate and Buttons for a three month getaway to a remote lake cabin in Maine. Kate is given a reprieve from treatment for a few months, and since she is starting to feel a bit better it seems like a good time for the couple to get away for their everyday miseries.
The early chapters that dealt extensively with Kate's illness and the impact it has on her, Andrew, and their marriage are incredibly hard to read. Kate was a fiery person who lived life to the fullest before her illness. Now she spends her days taking handfuls of pills and watching old movies on television. She lives in constant pain, and has had a few close calls where the doctors didn't think she would recover. Her illness has changed her life and her marriage completely, and it's heartbreaking to read about her struggle. It's equally as hard to read about how Kate's health affects Andrew.
Once her and Andrew arrive at the lake house it seems like a dream come true. However, they very quickly realize that something isn't right in their seemingly idllic retreat, and that perhaps being so far from civilization was not the best idea. Strange noises outside the cabin grow worse as the days pass, and Kate still remains bedridden for most of their stay. Soon the couple discover that there is something in the woods that is threatening them, and they aren't sure what exactly is lurking outside their doors.
This novel is a slow burn that end in an epic showdown. I loved it from the very beginning. Kate and Andrew are not perfect people with a perfect marriage, but they love each other fiercely. I was so invested in their story. And Buttons is one of my favorite dogs in the entirety of horror literature. I want to thank Shea for bucking the norm when it comes to Buttons. This novel had me crying by the end because I cared so much about Kate and Andrew. And then Shea's afterword had me crying even more. That's three books in a row that made me cry! Read this one, friends. It's worth the tears.
This is my second book by Shea, and from what I can gather, both of the books I've read are a bit of a departure from his usual writing. I know he is well known for his creature feature novels, but this one and the other book I read are not heavy on the creature aspects, even though this one is literally called Creature.
Kate Woodson has a number of autoimmune diseases that keep her from even getting out of bed most days. Kate is in constant pain, and any time she moves around too much she risks dislocating one of her fragile joints. Her husband Andrew works an office job he hates in order to provide good health care for Kate, and he also functions as her main caregiver. Her dog Buttons gives her emotional support while Andrew is away from home. A few weeks after an extremely rough procedure that leaves Kate even more weak and exhausted, Andrew decides to take a leave of absence and take Kate and Buttons for a three month getaway to a remote lake cabin in Maine. Kate is given a reprieve from treatment for a few months, and since she is starting to feel a bit better it seems like a good time for the couple to get away for their everyday miseries.
The early chapters that dealt extensively with Kate's illness and the impact it has on her, Andrew, and their marriage are incredibly hard to read. Kate was a fiery person who lived life to the fullest before her illness. Now she spends her days taking handfuls of pills and watching old movies on television. She lives in constant pain, and has had a few close calls where the doctors didn't think she would recover. Her illness has changed her life and her marriage completely, and it's heartbreaking to read about her struggle. It's equally as hard to read about how Kate's health affects Andrew.
Once her and Andrew arrive at the lake house it seems like a dream come true. However, they very quickly realize that something isn't right in their seemingly idllic retreat, and that perhaps being so far from civilization was not the best idea. Strange noises outside the cabin grow worse as the days pass, and Kate still remains bedridden for most of their stay. Soon the couple discover that there is something in the woods that is threatening them, and they aren't sure what exactly is lurking outside their doors.
This novel is a slow burn that end in an epic showdown. I loved it from the very beginning. Kate and Andrew are not perfect people with a perfect marriage, but they love each other fiercely. I was so invested in their story. And Buttons is one of my favorite dogs in the entirety of horror literature. I want to thank Shea for bucking the norm when it comes to Buttons. This novel had me crying by the end because I cared so much about Kate and Andrew. And then Shea's afterword had me crying even more. That's three books in a row that made me cry! Read this one, friends. It's worth the tears.
September 18, 2018
This is actually a love story. Yup, a Hunter Shea love story. So, of course, that means that something will go absolutely wrong. Not in the usual kind of love story way, in a more bloody way. This is also a book that demands patience. Pretty much all the action, all the carnage happens at the end. But, there are, of course, hints along the way that something is wrong that something WILL GO wrong.
The star of the book is for me, is not any human, it's Buttons or But-But that he's so lovey called by his humans. This adorable old beagle is the one that I worried most about while reading the book. It is a horror book, and God knows that no one is safe, especially not pets when it comes to horror books. So, I had some moments of angst for poor But-But...
As a horror book is this not as scary as THE JERSEY DEVIL, my favorite Hunter Shea book. However, the author's note after the book explains why this is such a personal book for Shea. The knowledge that the theme of this book is very personal for the author made me look back at the story with much more understanding. That is why I wrote that this is a love story. The heart of the story is the love between two humans (and a dog) and the knowledge that time is limited for their love.
I will end this review by saying that I have had a couple of days to reflect on the book and I've come to the conclusion that had I read it with little less hope of being really horrified or creeped out had I perhaps liked the story a bit more. Part of what made me a bit disappointed was that I figured out the twist quite early on. And, that just took away part of the enjoyment for me. The horror part did just not rock my boat.
I want to thank Flame Tree Press for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
The star of the book is for me, is not any human, it's Buttons or But-But that he's so lovey called by his humans. This adorable old beagle is the one that I worried most about while reading the book. It is a horror book, and God knows that no one is safe, especially not pets when it comes to horror books. So, I had some moments of angst for poor But-But...
As a horror book is this not as scary as THE JERSEY DEVIL, my favorite Hunter Shea book. However, the author's note after the book explains why this is such a personal book for Shea. The knowledge that the theme of this book is very personal for the author made me look back at the story with much more understanding. That is why I wrote that this is a love story. The heart of the story is the love between two humans (and a dog) and the knowledge that time is limited for their love.
I will end this review by saying that I have had a couple of days to reflect on the book and I've come to the conclusion that had I read it with little less hope of being really horrified or creeped out had I perhaps liked the story a bit more. Part of what made me a bit disappointed was that I figured out the twist quite early on. And, that just took away part of the enjoyment for me. The horror part did just not rock my boat.
I want to thank Flame Tree Press for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
September 18, 2018
I have no words right now. This book made me think. It made me laugh and smile. It scared me in multiple ways. And it brought me to tears. A wonderful book - full thoughts and review soon. FIVE STARS!!!
July 30, 2018
Generally, I read Hunter Shea for light-hearted horror. A little silly and a whole lot of fun.
Creature, while still fun, proves that Hunter Shea has some serious horror writing chops!
This is a scary and heartbreaking story that kept me on edge all the way through. I loved our couple so much – their relationship was what every relationship should be! And, oh, I so worried for both of them.
As I worried over their marriage and Kate’s health, Shea brings on some extremely scary situations – the kind where you peek over your shoulder as you read.
Warning; light gore and heavy heartbreak are very much present here and the anxiety is relentless.
This is quite possibly his best work yet and it lingers. I’m still not over this read.
5 Very well deserved stars.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
Creature, while still fun, proves that Hunter Shea has some serious horror writing chops!
This is a scary and heartbreaking story that kept me on edge all the way through. I loved our couple so much – their relationship was what every relationship should be! And, oh, I so worried for both of them.
As I worried over their marriage and Kate’s health, Shea brings on some extremely scary situations – the kind where you peek over your shoulder as you read.
Warning; light gore and heavy heartbreak are very much present here and the anxiety is relentless.
This is quite possibly his best work yet and it lingers. I’m still not over this read.
5 Very well deserved stars.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
August 22, 2018
I struggled with Creature. I very recently read another medical story with a possible paranormal aspect, so I think I was a little burned out, and it was hard not to compare the two.
I do want to say that I appreciate what the other was trying to do, and I think this book will work well for a lot of people. This was a hard and personal book to write, and I appreciate the boldness in being able to share this story.
Creature is a very slow burn, but it does culminate into action at the end. I think overall I prefer books that have the action and story interspersed throughout the book instead of split into two halfs. I just didn't feel the suspense in this one. There was a cycle of noises outside, and small issues, but it wasn't enough to hold my attention. I may have enjoyed this more as a short story.
I spent most of the book waiting for something to happen, and by the time it did, it was too late. I couldn't get behind the direction the story went in. It was an interesting idea, but the execution didn't work for me. Just know going in that this one is heavier on the character study than the horror.
I do want to say that I appreciate what the other was trying to do, and I think this book will work well for a lot of people. This was a hard and personal book to write, and I appreciate the boldness in being able to share this story.
Creature is a very slow burn, but it does culminate into action at the end. I think overall I prefer books that have the action and story interspersed throughout the book instead of split into two halfs. I just didn't feel the suspense in this one. There was a cycle of noises outside, and small issues, but it wasn't enough to hold my attention. I may have enjoyed this more as a short story.
I spent most of the book waiting for something to happen, and by the time it did, it was too late. I couldn't get behind the direction the story went in. It was an interesting idea, but the execution didn't work for me. Just know going in that this one is heavier on the character study than the horror.
January 25, 2022
I had a great time reading "Creature"! For once I decided to go for a storyline that really got into what I do fear, not monsters or the like, those usually are fun stories for me, but the disease, especially the loved ones' illness 🙈
Boy, I had what I paid for! This story is mainly centered on Kate's pains due to both her genetic ailments (yeah, one wasn't enough...) and how she and his husband Andrew cope with the daily problems Kate has.
To better their summer, Andrew rents a place in the middle of nowhere in Maine, seeming like the ideal place for Kate's to lighten her mood before another round of harsh medical process.
But of course, why stop there with two diseases, a painful life and a scary prospect in the fall? Please add a huge monster lurking around the cottage...
This was a great book. I had a great time reading it and for once I did got that pain in the stomach at some point (not 'cause of the monster)!
The only really deceptive point is that I quickly found what all the story was about and if I did, I, with my superdetective powers (laugh here, please xD), it does say long about the easiness to find the solution.
4 stars
Boy, I had what I paid for! This story is mainly centered on Kate's pains due to both her genetic ailments (yeah, one wasn't enough...) and how she and his husband Andrew cope with the daily problems Kate has.
To better their summer, Andrew rents a place in the middle of nowhere in Maine, seeming like the ideal place for Kate's to lighten her mood before another round of harsh medical process.
But of course, why stop there with two diseases, a painful life and a scary prospect in the fall? Please add a huge monster lurking around the cottage...
This was a great book. I had a great time reading it and for once I did got that pain in the stomach at some point (not 'cause of the monster)!
The only really deceptive point is that I quickly found what all the story was about and if I did, I, with my superdetective powers (laugh here, please xD), it does say long about the easiness to find the solution.
4 stars
September 25, 2018
Every so often a book will come along that leaves a mark. For me, CREATURE by Hunter Shea is one of those books. We meet Andrew and his wife Kate who suffers from autoimmune diseases that keep her from doing basically anything that isn't getting up to get a drink or use the bathroom; anything more, and she finds herself in excruciating pain. Andrew decides to surprise Kate with their dream getaway to a beautiful cabin, deep set in the woods of Maine. Health issues aside, everything seems great... Until they soon realize they're not alone.
This book had me hooked from the very first sentence. To say that is rare when it comes to me is an understatement. I won't lie, the very real subject matter during my read was an incredibly hard pill to swallow. I lost my mother to cancer in 2009, 17 days after giving birth to my first child. Her struggle was short and horrifying. I saw things I'd not wish on anyone, and worst of all I saw her in pain. Because of this, I could empathize with Andrew and him having to watch the person he loves most in the world live through so much pain and suffering and everything that comes along with it.
CREATURE gave me everything I could ever ask for as far as books go. Likable characters, humor, an amazingly written pet (oh how I adored Buttons), moments that sent shivers down my spine, and some that made my heart beat a little faster in my chest. I haven't enjoyed a book so thoroughly in a very long time. I can say that I've read some absolutely amazing stuff this year, but CREATURE takes the cake for me hands down.
I want to take a brief moment to speak about the authors Afterword. I feel I held it together fairly well during the entire book, but once I started on the afterword it was like a bomb went off in the center of the dam that carries all my emotions and everything I'd been holding onto during my read as well as from my own personal life struggles as of late just came flooding out of me. It was incredibly touching, heartbreaking, and most importantly, empowering. I don't really want to say more than that because I feel it's something everyone should really read for themselves. I want to say that in my opinion, not only is Hunter Shea one of the most phenomenal authors whose book I've had the privilege of reading and reviewing, but he's also an incredibly strong, amazing, and inspiring human being and I will take those final words with me and hold them dear for the rest of my life.
This book will never leave me and I absolutely cannot wait to be able to afford an actual physical copy to add to my shelf alongside so many of my other favorite authors. I see it being something that I will reread many times throughout my life, and I doubt I'll ever be able to make it through with dry eyes.
This book had me hooked from the very first sentence. To say that is rare when it comes to me is an understatement. I won't lie, the very real subject matter during my read was an incredibly hard pill to swallow. I lost my mother to cancer in 2009, 17 days after giving birth to my first child. Her struggle was short and horrifying. I saw things I'd not wish on anyone, and worst of all I saw her in pain. Because of this, I could empathize with Andrew and him having to watch the person he loves most in the world live through so much pain and suffering and everything that comes along with it.
CREATURE gave me everything I could ever ask for as far as books go. Likable characters, humor, an amazingly written pet (oh how I adored Buttons), moments that sent shivers down my spine, and some that made my heart beat a little faster in my chest. I haven't enjoyed a book so thoroughly in a very long time. I can say that I've read some absolutely amazing stuff this year, but CREATURE takes the cake for me hands down.
I want to take a brief moment to speak about the authors Afterword. I feel I held it together fairly well during the entire book, but once I started on the afterword it was like a bomb went off in the center of the dam that carries all my emotions and everything I'd been holding onto during my read as well as from my own personal life struggles as of late just came flooding out of me. It was incredibly touching, heartbreaking, and most importantly, empowering. I don't really want to say more than that because I feel it's something everyone should really read for themselves. I want to say that in my opinion, not only is Hunter Shea one of the most phenomenal authors whose book I've had the privilege of reading and reviewing, but he's also an incredibly strong, amazing, and inspiring human being and I will take those final words with me and hold them dear for the rest of my life.
This book will never leave me and I absolutely cannot wait to be able to afford an actual physical copy to add to my shelf alongside so many of my other favorite authors. I see it being something that I will reread many times throughout my life, and I doubt I'll ever be able to make it through with dry eyes.
August 15, 2018
Kate Woodson suffers with autoimmune disease. Her health problems are slowly killing her. As an escape from her mounting physical problems and the subsequent damage to their relationship, her husband Andrew rents a cottage in Maine for the summer and takes a 3 month leave of absence from his job. They both need a break from their day-to-day lives. But, in the woods surrounding the seemingly idyllic cabin lurks something so horrible, something so monstrous it might just destroy them both. The Creature....it lurks, it waits, it knows them.....
I love Hunter Shea's books. I love horror stories with monsters and Hunter Shea always delivers! He has creeped me out with everything from legendary beasties like the Jersey Devil to urban rats. This book hits close to home for me as I deal with physical and health issues on a daily basis. I identified with Kate Woodson and her husband. Physical pain and limitations have a direct and sometimes destructive effect on daily life and relationships. I wanted them to enjoy their summer in the backwoods of Maine.....and the downward spiral their attempt to escape took was horrifying in itself. I let myself get pulled totally into this story, reading it on my front porch in a comfy chair.....at night....in the dark....all alone....dark woods right across the street..... Even the cup of hot, sweet, caramel flavored coffee sitting next to me wasn't enough to keep me from getting very much creeped out as the Woodsons started hearing leaf-crunching, branch breaking, heavy footsteps circling their cabin.....then rocks being thrown on the roof.....and a snuffling, roaring beastie standing just outside the door. The realization that the monster could bust through the glass patio doors at any time terrified not only the Woodsons, but me too. Perfect! I was immersed in this story from start to finish. I love how the plot relates to Hunter Shea's real life. I think that is why the story seems so real and grabbed my interest so thoroughly. Loved it!
Hunter Shea is the author of several other horror novels including The Montauk Monster and Jurassic Florida. Any lover of creature features or monster tales will love his books! This book gets full stars from me because of the personal connect I had with the characters and the totally creepy experience! Can't wait for his next book!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Flame Tree Press via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. No monsters were harmed in the writing of this review, although I did suffer quite a scare when my cat hopped on my lap while I was reading it in the dark. No permanent injuries to either of us. Luckily.**
I love Hunter Shea's books. I love horror stories with monsters and Hunter Shea always delivers! He has creeped me out with everything from legendary beasties like the Jersey Devil to urban rats. This book hits close to home for me as I deal with physical and health issues on a daily basis. I identified with Kate Woodson and her husband. Physical pain and limitations have a direct and sometimes destructive effect on daily life and relationships. I wanted them to enjoy their summer in the backwoods of Maine.....and the downward spiral their attempt to escape took was horrifying in itself. I let myself get pulled totally into this story, reading it on my front porch in a comfy chair.....at night....in the dark....all alone....dark woods right across the street..... Even the cup of hot, sweet, caramel flavored coffee sitting next to me wasn't enough to keep me from getting very much creeped out as the Woodsons started hearing leaf-crunching, branch breaking, heavy footsteps circling their cabin.....then rocks being thrown on the roof.....and a snuffling, roaring beastie standing just outside the door. The realization that the monster could bust through the glass patio doors at any time terrified not only the Woodsons, but me too. Perfect! I was immersed in this story from start to finish. I love how the plot relates to Hunter Shea's real life. I think that is why the story seems so real and grabbed my interest so thoroughly. Loved it!
Hunter Shea is the author of several other horror novels including The Montauk Monster and Jurassic Florida. Any lover of creature features or monster tales will love his books! This book gets full stars from me because of the personal connect I had with the characters and the totally creepy experience! Can't wait for his next book!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Flame Tree Press via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. No monsters were harmed in the writing of this review, although I did suffer quite a scare when my cat hopped on my lap while I was reading it in the dark. No permanent injuries to either of us. Luckily.**
July 16, 2018
This was my first novel by Hunter Shea. It will certainly not be my last.
Things I Loved:
Within the first few pages, I was a part of the characters' lives. To read a horror novel that spends so much time on character development (without it feeling like character development) is refreshing and I soaked it in.
The intensity builds as the book progresses; it never left me with that "come on, already" feeling - the pacing and the action is well timed. And when it's ready, it explodes.
The language and description used are fantastic. It's not wordy and overdone, nor simplistic. This old English teacher was enthralled simply by how the story was told.
What I Didn't Love:
Honestly? I can't think of anything. I could use the old "I was left wanting more..." adage, but when I finished the Afterword (definitely don't skip that) and closed the cover for the last time, the story was over because, well, it just was. I can't really describe it.
Don't pass this one up. It "ticks all the boxes" for me
I'll be ordering the hardback of this book, for sure.
Things I Loved:
Within the first few pages, I was a part of the characters' lives. To read a horror novel that spends so much time on character development (without it feeling like character development) is refreshing and I soaked it in.
The intensity builds as the book progresses; it never left me with that "come on, already" feeling - the pacing and the action is well timed. And when it's ready, it explodes.
The language and description used are fantastic. It's not wordy and overdone, nor simplistic. This old English teacher was enthralled simply by how the story was told.
What I Didn't Love:
Honestly? I can't think of anything. I could use the old "I was left wanting more..." adage, but when I finished the Afterword (definitely don't skip that) and closed the cover for the last time, the story was over because, well, it just was. I can't really describe it.
Don't pass this one up. It "ticks all the boxes" for me
I'll be ordering the hardback of this book, for sure.
September 6, 2018
This is most likely the best damn book Hunter has written. My review is posted here ---> https://wp.me/p5t5Tf-1Gt
March 17, 2019
Review copy
Yes, I consider myself a Hellion. That's how Hunter Shea refers to his most ardent followers. I can't say I've read every one of his books (he's remarkably prolific), but I've yet to read one I didn't care for.
Creature is the second book I've read from new publisher Flame Tree Press, who looks to publish both established authors and new voices in horror and the supernatural, crime and mystery thrillers, as well as science fiction and fantasy. It's also a bit of a diversion for Hunter. It's easily his most personal work to date. Sure, there's a monster, that's evident from the title, but this book is so much more.
From the opening line, the reader realizes there is something different about this story...
"Kate Woodson was dying and her executioner was her own body."
For a while, it seemed the horror in the book would be found in the medical treatments Kate would have to undergo.
In an effort to get away from the doctors and treatments for a while Kate, her husband Andrew, and her beloved dog, Buttons, retreated to an isolated cabin in the woods of Maine. It's not long before they discover they are not alone. I love this kind of story and Hunter Shea delivers a good one. Pure, unadulterated horror.
Despite the serious nature of Creature, the author still knows how hot entertain with his story-telling...
"She knew lobster was big up here. Too bad she refused to eat something that looked like a cockroach from hell."
I'm used to Hunter Shea's monster fare but despite the title, Creature is a more complete book with greater substance throughout. At times the pace was furious and I just couldn't turn the pages fast enough. This is one of his most entertaining books so far. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy, just in case. A heartwrenching story with massive amounts of carnage. Dare I say there is something for everyone.
Available in various formats from Flame Tree Press.
From the author's bio - Hunter Shea is the product of a misspent childhood watching scary movies, reading forbidden books and wishing Bigfoot would walk past his house. He doesn’t just write about the paranormal – he actively seeks out the things that scare the hell out of people and experiences them for himself. Hunter’s novels can even be found on display at the International Cryptozoology Museum. His video podcast, Monster Men, is one of the most watched horror podcasts in the world. He’s a bestselling author of over 13 (lucky number!) books, all of them written with the express desire to quicken heartbeats and make spines tingle. Living with his wonderful family and two cats, he’s happy to be close enough to New York City to gobble down Gray’s Papaya hotdogs when the craving hits.
Yes, I consider myself a Hellion. That's how Hunter Shea refers to his most ardent followers. I can't say I've read every one of his books (he's remarkably prolific), but I've yet to read one I didn't care for.
Creature is the second book I've read from new publisher Flame Tree Press, who looks to publish both established authors and new voices in horror and the supernatural, crime and mystery thrillers, as well as science fiction and fantasy. It's also a bit of a diversion for Hunter. It's easily his most personal work to date. Sure, there's a monster, that's evident from the title, but this book is so much more.
From the opening line, the reader realizes there is something different about this story...
"Kate Woodson was dying and her executioner was her own body."
For a while, it seemed the horror in the book would be found in the medical treatments Kate would have to undergo.
In an effort to get away from the doctors and treatments for a while Kate, her husband Andrew, and her beloved dog, Buttons, retreated to an isolated cabin in the woods of Maine. It's not long before they discover they are not alone. I love this kind of story and Hunter Shea delivers a good one. Pure, unadulterated horror.
Despite the serious nature of Creature, the author still knows how hot entertain with his story-telling...
"She knew lobster was big up here. Too bad she refused to eat something that looked like a cockroach from hell."
I'm used to Hunter Shea's monster fare but despite the title, Creature is a more complete book with greater substance throughout. At times the pace was furious and I just couldn't turn the pages fast enough. This is one of his most entertaining books so far. Be sure to have a box of tissues handy, just in case. A heartwrenching story with massive amounts of carnage. Dare I say there is something for everyone.
Available in various formats from Flame Tree Press.
From the author's bio - Hunter Shea is the product of a misspent childhood watching scary movies, reading forbidden books and wishing Bigfoot would walk past his house. He doesn’t just write about the paranormal – he actively seeks out the things that scare the hell out of people and experiences them for himself. Hunter’s novels can even be found on display at the International Cryptozoology Museum. His video podcast, Monster Men, is one of the most watched horror podcasts in the world. He’s a bestselling author of over 13 (lucky number!) books, all of them written with the express desire to quicken heartbeats and make spines tingle. Living with his wonderful family and two cats, he’s happy to be close enough to New York City to gobble down Gray’s Papaya hotdogs when the craving hits.
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