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Bottle Toss
A beer bottle thrown carelessly at the windshield of a passing car sends the vehicle careening off the road, and the lives of high school seniors Denny Ford, his foster sister Jen McKnatt, and her sometimes boyfriend Brody Erwin, spinning out of control.
Over the next several days as the three experience increasingly bizarre, frightening, and seemingly unrelated events, they are forced to examine the ramifications of their actions and how their lives have been irrevocably altered.
What they've done can never be undone.
After all, it only takes one bottle toss to turn their world cockeyed forever.
Praise for Howard
“A simmering psychological thriller bolstered by a dynamic narrative voice and a few unexpected twists.” —Kirkus Reviews on What We Kill
“This author has a real knack for the weird and the wonderful.” —TheMostSublime.com
About the
Author and playwright Howard Odentz is a lifelong resident of the gray area between Western Massachusetts and North Central Connecticut. His love of the region is evident in his writing as he often incorporates the foothills of the Berkshires and the small towns of the Bay and Nutmeg states into his work.
In addition to The Dead (A Lot) Series, he has written the horror novel Bloody Bloody Apple, the short story collection Little Killers A to Z, and a couple of horror-themed, musical comedies produced for the stage.
Over the next several days as the three experience increasingly bizarre, frightening, and seemingly unrelated events, they are forced to examine the ramifications of their actions and how their lives have been irrevocably altered.
What they've done can never be undone.
After all, it only takes one bottle toss to turn their world cockeyed forever.
Praise for Howard
“A simmering psychological thriller bolstered by a dynamic narrative voice and a few unexpected twists.” —Kirkus Reviews on What We Kill
“This author has a real knack for the weird and the wonderful.” —TheMostSublime.com
About the
Author and playwright Howard Odentz is a lifelong resident of the gray area between Western Massachusetts and North Central Connecticut. His love of the region is evident in his writing as he often incorporates the foothills of the Berkshires and the small towns of the Bay and Nutmeg states into his work.
In addition to The Dead (A Lot) Series, he has written the horror novel Bloody Bloody Apple, the short story collection Little Killers A to Z, and a couple of horror-themed, musical comedies produced for the stage.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2019
2 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Howard Odentz
10 books141 followersAuthor and playwright Howard Odentz is a life-long resident of the gray area between Western Massachusetts and North Central Connecticut. His love of the region is evident in his writing as he often incorporates the small towns of the Bay and Nutmeg States into his work.
The mysterious has always played a major role in Howard's writing. He is endlessly fascinated by the psychological aspects of those who are thrown into thrilling or otherworldly circumstances.
“I like writing about my part of the world,” he says. “After all, this is New England. There’s more than enough paranormal activity here to keep me inspired for years to come.”
The mysterious has always played a major role in Howard's writing. He is endlessly fascinated by the psychological aspects of those who are thrown into thrilling or otherworldly circumstances.
“I like writing about my part of the world,” he says. “After all, this is New England. There’s more than enough paranormal activity here to keep me inspired for years to come.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 6, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley, Howard Odentz, and Bell Bridge Books for a chance to review this book. I was given this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion. I have not felt compelled, in any way, by the author, the publisher, or NetGalley to alter my sincerest thoughts on this book. Every word of this review is solely and completely mine.
Bottle Toss begins with an incidental act of rebellion that initiates a chain of events that are chaotic and horrifying. Very early on, the author foreshadows the sub-genre of horror that this book would ordinarily fall under, but the author never names the sub-genre although it is obvious. I love when an author can do that. I’m being deliberately vague because I don’t want to spoil that for anyone coming into this with fresh eyes. The author is great at providing nuance and the story moves very well. It is creepy and almost a perfect read. Having lived in Connecticut for ten years, I think the author captures the feel very well. The plot is fairly original, and I definitely recommend this book in particular and this author in general. The narrator is a 17-year-old youth who is rather pliable when it pertains to doing things that he knows are wrong. I have known people like this in my life. Excellent read. Highly recommended.
Bottle Toss begins with an incidental act of rebellion that initiates a chain of events that are chaotic and horrifying. Very early on, the author foreshadows the sub-genre of horror that this book would ordinarily fall under, but the author never names the sub-genre although it is obvious. I love when an author can do that. I’m being deliberately vague because I don’t want to spoil that for anyone coming into this with fresh eyes. The author is great at providing nuance and the story moves very well. It is creepy and almost a perfect read. Having lived in Connecticut for ten years, I think the author captures the feel very well. The plot is fairly original, and I definitely recommend this book in particular and this author in general. The narrator is a 17-year-old youth who is rather pliable when it pertains to doing things that he knows are wrong. I have known people like this in my life. Excellent read. Highly recommended.
August 12, 2024
Title: Bottle Toss
Author: Howard Odentz
Genre: Horror
Publication year: 2019
Review: How many times have we ever engaged in a spontaneous act of rebellion that we instantly regretted? I once through a snowball at a car window, the car stopping immediately and an undercover cop whipped out his badge to show me I had screwed the pooch. He must have seen the panic in my eyes because he let me go with just a warning. Bottle Toss begins in a similar way.
There's the throwing of a bottle, but the bottle causes a series of events that changes the course of several young lives. A car accident results in the bottle toss, where deaths may have ensued, and a sleeping evil may have been aroused, provoked, and given focus. The horror here is of a specific monster-type, but Odentz prefers to nuance as opposed to stating outright what type of horror this is. The mystery adds an element that I completely love.
I had never read this author before and reading this work was an unexpected surprise. Those gems are such a rare find that one must celebrate them whenever possible.
Author: Howard Odentz
Genre: Horror
Publication year: 2019
Review: How many times have we ever engaged in a spontaneous act of rebellion that we instantly regretted? I once through a snowball at a car window, the car stopping immediately and an undercover cop whipped out his badge to show me I had screwed the pooch. He must have seen the panic in my eyes because he let me go with just a warning. Bottle Toss begins in a similar way.
There's the throwing of a bottle, but the bottle causes a series of events that changes the course of several young lives. A car accident results in the bottle toss, where deaths may have ensued, and a sleeping evil may have been aroused, provoked, and given focus. The horror here is of a specific monster-type, but Odentz prefers to nuance as opposed to stating outright what type of horror this is. The mystery adds an element that I completely love.
I had never read this author before and reading this work was an unexpected surprise. Those gems are such a rare find that one must celebrate them whenever possible.
June 17, 2020
3.5 stars
RTC
RTC
November 23, 2021
Sumneyville, Connecticut? If it was on an older map, then it may well read "here be monster's." I have a need for more of this town! Mr. Odentz is an author I've read twice before, and I gotta tell ya' that I like his style. I asked to read and review this book from Netgalley. When I did, I couldn't help but notice that it was under teens/children category. I nearly passed. Oh, but I often forget that people nowadays read stuff that would have terrified me at that age! 40 dang years ago! My stepson has a half sister who actually tossed a rock off an overpass in Seattle, and caused damage. Physical, and vehicle collisions. She and her boyfriend went to prison. Good thing too. Makes you wonder if anyone thinks of the consequences. This story went sideways real fast. I love that! Wasn't predictable and gave me the gee golly whisakers! "That means that I was saying, holy crap, and what the actual hell? Alot!😯😕😤😮 I say read this book, and whatever you can find by Mr. Odentz. He's damn good!
January 3, 2023
What a weird, weird story. I don't even know what to say about it, really.
A rather unique and interesting concept and a very strong start that unfortunately fizzled out once the first few creepy scenes were over. The rest of the book seemed like some sort of slow build-up for a climax that never really came and left me wanting for more. I'm guessing the fact that the narration from Denny's POV felt rather detached and unemotional didn't help things, either.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2019
I read this book in one day, something I never do. I just couldn't put it down. The "Bottle Toss" of the title starts the book off and it takes off from there. Our narrator is Denny, a 17 year old foster kid who thinks of himself as the "red-headed stepchild" who tends to be invisible and powerless. Denny is with his blue haired foster sister Jen who tends to drink a bit and her boyfriend, the local loser, Brody. Brody tosses a bottle at a car entering a gated senior community causing a crash and this sets off a series of strange, terrifying, and for some...deadly events. Denny seems to be the only one really worried about these evens and only his other foster brother Arnie...innocent little Arnie who has Downs Syndrome provides Denny any comfort. Arnie fears the cracks in the floor and the Goaty Man outside the window and inside the toilet roll. Denny begins to fear that the Goaty Man may be real after all. Denny also meets the tall, mysterious Mr. Day who lives in the Senior Community. We aren't sure about Mr. Day. Is he friend or foe? All of our questions are answered in the end with a terrific climax and satisfying explanation of all of the events and outcome. The author keeps the all of these secrets until the very end, which is very effective. Wonderful book and storytelling. I immediately looked Howard Odentz up and downloaded another book. Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC for an honest review. Loved it! #netgalley #BottleToss
Merged review:
I read this book in one day, something I never do. I just couldn't put it down. The "Bottle Toss" of the title starts the book off and it takes off from there. Our narrator is Denny, a 17 year old foster kid who thinks of himself as the "red-headed stepchild" who tends to be invisible and powerless. Denny is with his blue haired foster sister Jen who tends to drink a bit and her boyfriend, the local loser, Brody. Brody tosses a bottle at a car entering a gated senior community causing a crash and this sets off a series of strange, terrifying, and for some...deadly events. Denny seems to be the only one really worried about these evens and only his other foster brother Arnie...innocent little Arnie who has Downs Syndrome provides Denny any comfort. Arnie fears the cracks in the floor and the Goaty Man outside the window and inside the toilet roll. Denny begins to fear that the Goaty Man may be real after all. Denny also meets the tall, mysterious Mr. Day who lives in the Senior Community. We aren't sure about Mr. Day. Is he friend or foe? All of our questions are answered in the end with a terrific climax and satisfying explanation of all of the events and outcome. The author keeps the all of these secrets until the very end, which is very effective. Wonderful book and storytelling. I immediately looked Howard Odentz up and downloaded another book. Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC for an honest review. Loved it! #netgalley #BottleToss
Merged review:
I read this book in one day, something I never do. I just couldn't put it down. The "Bottle Toss" of the title starts the book off and it takes off from there. Our narrator is Denny, a 17 year old foster kid who thinks of himself as the "red-headed stepchild" who tends to be invisible and powerless. Denny is with his blue haired foster sister Jen who tends to drink a bit and her boyfriend, the local loser, Brody. Brody tosses a bottle at a car entering a gated senior community causing a crash and this sets off a series of strange, terrifying, and for some...deadly events. Denny seems to be the only one really worried about these evens and only his other foster brother Arnie...innocent little Arnie who has Downs Syndrome provides Denny any comfort. Arnie fears the cracks in the floor and the Goaty Man outside the window and inside the toilet roll. Denny begins to fear that the Goaty Man may be real after all. Denny also meets the tall, mysterious Mr. Day who lives in the Senior Community. We aren't sure about Mr. Day. Is he friend or foe? All of our questions are answered in the end with a terrific climax and satisfying explanation of all of the events and outcome. The author keeps the all of these secrets until the very end, which is very effective. Wonderful book and storytelling. I immediately looked Howard Odentz up and downloaded another book. Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC for an honest review. Loved it! #netgalley #BottleToss
November 22, 2019
I got a free advance readers’ copy in exchange for my honest review.
How many times do we do things without thinking about the consequences? Many times we don’t think about how our deeds affect other people’s lives.
Bottle Toss talks about such a situation. Dennison Ford, known as Denny, and his foster sister, Jennifer McKnatt, Jen to the rest of the world are hanging out with their schoolmate and Jen’s sometimes boyfriend, Brody Erwin. Brody casually tosses a bottle at a random car’s windshield. None of them could begin to imagine the ramifications of that senseless act. Due to what is seen as just one of Brody’s stupid antics, their lives go spiraling out of control.
This book was one of the best horror books I have read for the year. Howard Odentz has a genuine gift for writing books of this genre. The plot was captivating and I found myself unable to put down this book. It was one of the few times I fell asleep reading.
The book was written from Denny’s perspective. He was a genuinely likable person but what made him even better was his love for Arnold, also known as Arnie, his foster brother with Down’s Syndrome. It was genuine and seemed to make his anxiety issues better. I loved how worried he was about what would happen to Arnie when it was time for Denny to leave the foster home.
His foster mother, Mona MaGee was also endearing. Throughout the book, she seemed to care about the foster children genuinely. That was something they needed especially when Denny mentioned some of their experiences before her.
Mr Odentz was able to describe the characters so well that I saw them in my mind’s eye. His description of a quaint town with these strange happenings was skilfully done. I could see Mona’s roadside stall where she sold knickknacks as well as the disgusting mess that was Brody’s house.
Fittingly this book was released on Halloween. This would have been an excellent read on that day.
Thanks to this book, I can definitely add Howard Odentz to my list of favorite horror authors.
Blood & Gore: Very graphic descriptions. Not suitable for young readers
Sexual Content: Mostly euphemisms
Profanity: Moderate
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Alcoholism and cigarette use is spoken about a lot.
How many times do we do things without thinking about the consequences? Many times we don’t think about how our deeds affect other people’s lives.
Bottle Toss talks about such a situation. Dennison Ford, known as Denny, and his foster sister, Jennifer McKnatt, Jen to the rest of the world are hanging out with their schoolmate and Jen’s sometimes boyfriend, Brody Erwin. Brody casually tosses a bottle at a random car’s windshield. None of them could begin to imagine the ramifications of that senseless act. Due to what is seen as just one of Brody’s stupid antics, their lives go spiraling out of control.
This book was one of the best horror books I have read for the year. Howard Odentz has a genuine gift for writing books of this genre. The plot was captivating and I found myself unable to put down this book. It was one of the few times I fell asleep reading.
The book was written from Denny’s perspective. He was a genuinely likable person but what made him even better was his love for Arnold, also known as Arnie, his foster brother with Down’s Syndrome. It was genuine and seemed to make his anxiety issues better. I loved how worried he was about what would happen to Arnie when it was time for Denny to leave the foster home.
His foster mother, Mona MaGee was also endearing. Throughout the book, she seemed to care about the foster children genuinely. That was something they needed especially when Denny mentioned some of their experiences before her.
Mr Odentz was able to describe the characters so well that I saw them in my mind’s eye. His description of a quaint town with these strange happenings was skilfully done. I could see Mona’s roadside stall where she sold knickknacks as well as the disgusting mess that was Brody’s house.
Fittingly this book was released on Halloween. This would have been an excellent read on that day.
Thanks to this book, I can definitely add Howard Odentz to my list of favorite horror authors.
Blood & Gore: Very graphic descriptions. Not suitable for young readers
Sexual Content: Mostly euphemisms
Profanity: Moderate
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Alcoholism and cigarette use is spoken about a lot.
November 21, 2019
I ADORED this novel! Excellently written, fantastically delineated characters, and so much supernatural suspense! The Horror is so subtle yet implacable, lurking just over the reader's shoulder, just beyond our peripheral vision, just past the borders of what our mind can conceive...Slide over, Castle Rock, make way for scary Sumneytown, Connecticut.
June 29, 2020
I thought that Bottle Toss was a fantastic book! I really felt for a lot of the characters. Poor Denny I could relate to. I was picked on a lot by others in school. I can relate to self-medicating/alcohol abuse that Jen dealt with. As for Brody I hated the character. What a jerk! However, I suppose there must be one. I hated that Denny was responsible for his foster brother Arnie as well.
As far as the book is concerned the writing is fantastically done! Howard can write very well from a point of view of one character, this being Denny. I am not normally interested in very many YA horror novels, because I prefer quite a bit more gore and scares so this was a little disappointing here. However, I knew it was YA going in so I kept that in mind. I would say that this is a great novel for anyone wanting to get a preteen or teenager into the horror genre a little more gently. Scary enough, mysterious enough, but a great start for young readers!
Overall, I felt that Howard really fleshed out the characters very well, the town setting was vivid in my imagination, and the story was a fun and quick read! I think there were a couple of points that seemed to be a little drug out, but not too terribly bad. Also, I felt the ending was a little different. I say different to be spoiler free.
All in all, I give Bottle Toss 4.5 stars out of 5 stars. I deducted half a star due to some points feeling drug out, and the ending. Nonetheless, I wasn’t disappointed in the read. I would recommend it to many young adults I know, and would love to get them into the world of suspense/thriller/horror! #bottletoss #netgalley #howardodentz
As far as the book is concerned the writing is fantastically done! Howard can write very well from a point of view of one character, this being Denny. I am not normally interested in very many YA horror novels, because I prefer quite a bit more gore and scares so this was a little disappointing here. However, I knew it was YA going in so I kept that in mind. I would say that this is a great novel for anyone wanting to get a preteen or teenager into the horror genre a little more gently. Scary enough, mysterious enough, but a great start for young readers!
Overall, I felt that Howard really fleshed out the characters very well, the town setting was vivid in my imagination, and the story was a fun and quick read! I think there were a couple of points that seemed to be a little drug out, but not too terribly bad. Also, I felt the ending was a little different. I say different to be spoiler free.
All in all, I give Bottle Toss 4.5 stars out of 5 stars. I deducted half a star due to some points feeling drug out, and the ending. Nonetheless, I wasn’t disappointed in the read. I would recommend it to many young adults I know, and would love to get them into the world of suspense/thriller/horror! #bottletoss #netgalley #howardodentz
November 17, 2021
This was a pretty good coming-of-age horror story, which is my favorite horror genre. I especially liked how tension was slowly built and for a long time, only subtle hints were made at something weird going on. Only at the end did it all come together for a shocking revelation. Of course I felt for Denny who at the age of seventeen already experienced terrible times but who did not become cynic and selfish like his foster sister Jen but still cared for others, especially his little foster brother Arnie. It felt unfair how he got caught in the middle of things he was not responsible for. Though of course he could have acted differently at the beginning, I understand that his shy and anxious nature - combined with the pressure put upon him by Jen and her bully boyfriend - prevented him from doing the right thing. Thus, a gruesome chain reaction was started that could not be stopped. While the ending came not totally unexpected, the details caught me unawares. While on the one hand I was fascinated by the clever net of revenge that was spun here, I was also a bit disappointed to realize what kind of evil was at work here. However, gripping writing and well-drawn characters make this book a worthwhile read.
(thanks to netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
(thanks to netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
February 1, 2020
4*
A couple of foster kids are out in the middle of the night. One of their friends throws a bottle with the bad luck that they hit a car. After the events of that night all will change and things will only get weirder and weirder.
What starts like a regular mystery/thriller story evolves into a more supernatural tale that no one expected.
Really enjoyed the unexpected plot of the book and how you are not sure yourself what is going on at all until the very end. A great mystery with a supernatural twist that will keep you trying to guess what is happening. It is also the beautiful portray of love between foster kids and how they understand what family is.
A couple of foster kids are out in the middle of the night. One of their friends throws a bottle with the bad luck that they hit a car. After the events of that night all will change and things will only get weirder and weirder.
What starts like a regular mystery/thriller story evolves into a more supernatural tale that no one expected.
Really enjoyed the unexpected plot of the book and how you are not sure yourself what is going on at all until the very end. A great mystery with a supernatural twist that will keep you trying to guess what is happening. It is also the beautiful portray of love between foster kids and how they understand what family is.
March 23, 2020
Review for 'Bottle Toss' by Howard Odentz
Read and reviewed via NetGalley
This book is written from Denny's perspective and as a first person narrative it was very well written. The descriptions in the book were very good and I could imagine being in the story alongside the characters. The characters were quite strong but I just didn't like Denny which is unfortunate considering he was the main character, I just wanted to scream at him to grow a spine at (many) times. However, I did like quite a few of the other characters!
The storyline itself captured my attention straight away and kept me turning the pages. It was filled with suspense and mystery and I would NEVER have guessed the ending. The ending is a bit touch and go for me to be honest. I wouldn't have expected it, which always gives books bonus points for me. However, I was hoping for better and was a little disappointed which removes the bonus points previously earned by being unexpected. If the "reason" had been mentioned in the description I probably wouldn't have read it so I'm glad it wasn't. I say "reason" as I don't want to give anything away for future readers and any previous readers should hopefully realise what I mean.
I loved the bonus feature and think it was a fab idea, this was actually my reason for giving the book 4 stars rather than the 3 it was destined to have after I'd finished the story.
I recommend this book to fans of horror, mystery and young adults (13 plus).
Rated 4/5 on Goodreads and Amazon (I enjoyed it)
£3.88 on Kindle
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#BottleToss #NetGalley #HowardOdentz
Read and reviewed via NetGalley
This book is written from Denny's perspective and as a first person narrative it was very well written. The descriptions in the book were very good and I could imagine being in the story alongside the characters. The characters were quite strong but I just didn't like Denny which is unfortunate considering he was the main character, I just wanted to scream at him to grow a spine at (many) times. However, I did like quite a few of the other characters!
The storyline itself captured my attention straight away and kept me turning the pages. It was filled with suspense and mystery and I would NEVER have guessed the ending. The ending is a bit touch and go for me to be honest. I wouldn't have expected it, which always gives books bonus points for me. However, I was hoping for better and was a little disappointed which removes the bonus points previously earned by being unexpected. If the "reason" had been mentioned in the description I probably wouldn't have read it so I'm glad it wasn't. I say "reason" as I don't want to give anything away for future readers and any previous readers should hopefully realise what I mean.
I loved the bonus feature and think it was a fab idea, this was actually my reason for giving the book 4 stars rather than the 3 it was destined to have after I'd finished the story.
I recommend this book to fans of horror, mystery and young adults (13 plus).
Rated 4/5 on Goodreads and Amazon (I enjoyed it)
£3.88 on Kindle
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#BottleToss #NetGalley #HowardOdentz
November 25, 2019
Review Copy
What a twisted tale this was! Author Howard Odentz contacted a story with characters I could easily believe were real people. And like real people, they were some messed up puppies. They were almost unbelievable, however. Could people really have so many foibles and still survive?
Odentz took many recognizable ideas, threw them all in a blender and came up with something brand new. Talk about a surprising twist. Fantastic book and one that I hope everyone will buy and enjoy.
What a twisted tale this was! Author Howard Odentz contacted a story with characters I could easily believe were real people. And like real people, they were some messed up puppies. They were almost unbelievable, however. Could people really have so many foibles and still survive?
Odentz took many recognizable ideas, threw them all in a blender and came up with something brand new. Talk about a surprising twist. Fantastic book and one that I hope everyone will buy and enjoy.
March 20, 2020
Senior high school students Denny, Jen and Arnie, a Down’s syndrome child are foster kids. They all live in the same home. Denny hangs out with Jen and her boyfriend, Brody. Brody is described as a loser and a beer drinker. A new senior citizen community has been built that use to have been a forest where kids hung out. One night in Brody’s pickup withJen and Denny gets angry and throws a beer bottle that hits the windshield of a car. The car goes off the road and almost kills the driver and a little girl. Denny goes over to check on the car and becomes upset seeing the blood on the rocks by the car. He returns to Brody and Jen and asks if they are going to do anything about the accident. Brody says no, I don’t need the trouble. Jen and Denny go home. Denny notices that things are strange.especially after the fire in the high school. The high school is close until repairs are finished. Meanwhile, Denny continues to look after Arnie. They are being recruited by Mona, heir foster mom to help sell at her stand. Denny. gets an offer to work for a lawn service Denny goes to work and ends up in in the senior community, the last place he wants to be at. Then he has some mysterious experiences. He doesn’t know if it’s real or a dream. When Denny goes home, he finds that Jen isn’t home yet. The next night she doesn’t come home. Denny doesn’t know what to think. Will Denny find the answers he needs?
The author has Denny telling the story. It works excellently as the suspense and mystery grows throughout the novel. The supernatural is in the story but it’s different. It’s not a typical supernatural story. The ending surprised me but I was very happy with how it finished. I must admit I wouldn’t mind a sequel to this novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author has Denny telling the story. It works excellently as the suspense and mystery grows throughout the novel. The supernatural is in the story but it’s different. It’s not a typical supernatural story. The ending surprised me but I was very happy with how it finished. I must admit I wouldn’t mind a sequel to this novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
December 24, 2019
Okay, first off, let me preface my review by saying this: If you have an overactive imagination, a fear of the dark, and you're a weirdo like me and find goats absolutely terrifying, do not read this book at night. Seriously. I made that mistake, and I basically spent the rest of the night not sleeping and imagining all sorts of terrifying things were sitting in the tree outside my bedroom window peeking in at me. Also, this book sent my anxiety skyrocketing through the stratosphere, so there's that.
Anyway...
Bottle Toss is the story of three teenagers -- Brody, Jen, and Denny -- who decide to do something stupid (like toss a bottle at the windshield of a passing car), and by doing so, they completely change their lives forever.
This book is definitely strange. I honestly had no idea where this story was going. At first I thought it might have an 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' sort of vibe to it. Then I thought maybe it was ghosts trapped in a loop. Then I was like, "What is happening here?!" It definitely kept me guessing and had me on the edge of my seat.
I definitely didn't care for Brody. Or his dad, for that matter. Jen also annoyed me at times. I just wanted her to be a better person. As for Denny, I could relate to him with his whole anxiety issue. He was also a decent person overall. He cared a lot about Jen, even when she was being stupid. And he absolutely doted on Arnie, the other foster kid in their home (he has Downs). I liked that Denny was just a good human being. And Mona, their foster mom, was just...Mona. I was a bit indifferent to her. She cared about them, but not as much as she should have, I suppose.
If you're a fan of YA horror that will keep you guessing until the very end (and surprise you with the way it does end), you'll want to give Bottle Toss a whirl. It's a refreshing, unique story.
4.5 stars from me!
Anyway...
Bottle Toss is the story of three teenagers -- Brody, Jen, and Denny -- who decide to do something stupid (like toss a bottle at the windshield of a passing car), and by doing so, they completely change their lives forever.
This book is definitely strange. I honestly had no idea where this story was going. At first I thought it might have an 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' sort of vibe to it. Then I thought maybe it was ghosts trapped in a loop. Then I was like, "What is happening here?!" It definitely kept me guessing and had me on the edge of my seat.
I definitely didn't care for Brody. Or his dad, for that matter. Jen also annoyed me at times. I just wanted her to be a better person. As for Denny, I could relate to him with his whole anxiety issue. He was also a decent person overall. He cared a lot about Jen, even when she was being stupid. And he absolutely doted on Arnie, the other foster kid in their home (he has Downs). I liked that Denny was just a good human being. And Mona, their foster mom, was just...Mona. I was a bit indifferent to her. She cared about them, but not as much as she should have, I suppose.
If you're a fan of YA horror that will keep you guessing until the very end (and surprise you with the way it does end), you'll want to give Bottle Toss a whirl. It's a refreshing, unique story.
4.5 stars from me!
December 15, 2019
Another chiller from a favorite author. Having read all of Howard Odentz's previous books and stories, I can't say the plot was surprising or refreshing, because it was exactly what I was expecting - to a point. Like Bloody, Bloody Apple, this tale relies less on the horrors in front of us, and more on the fears we imagine and the dreams that haunt us - until those things become real. There are no zombies this time, and the scariest people can be right in front of us.
His fictional Sumneytown, CT is like so many towns with a mix of people, futures, perspectives and outlooks. A new upscale retirement community is juxtaposed with the rural, grey, almost bleak, futures of Sumneytown "townies." Odentz writes about both with ease. Narrator Denny, on the verge of aging out of the foster care system and harboring crippling anxiety over that and other things, is not only the moral compass of his friends, but is the only loving and compassionate presence to his younger foster brother, Arnie, who has Down's Syndrome. And his descriptions of both the retirement community and its residents (like the "Biddie Brigade") are spot on.
The fear and suspense build at a steady rate until they suddenly careen out of control as questions become answers to all the strange happenings in Sumneytown since the fateful night of the bottle toss.
The pace of the story is great, and I really appreciate that the author writes without lengthy tangents or unnecessary backstories. You get a straightforward, in-your-face horror chiller that
satisfies. Well done!
His fictional Sumneytown, CT is like so many towns with a mix of people, futures, perspectives and outlooks. A new upscale retirement community is juxtaposed with the rural, grey, almost bleak, futures of Sumneytown "townies." Odentz writes about both with ease. Narrator Denny, on the verge of aging out of the foster care system and harboring crippling anxiety over that and other things, is not only the moral compass of his friends, but is the only loving and compassionate presence to his younger foster brother, Arnie, who has Down's Syndrome. And his descriptions of both the retirement community and its residents (like the "Biddie Brigade") are spot on.
The fear and suspense build at a steady rate until they suddenly careen out of control as questions become answers to all the strange happenings in Sumneytown since the fateful night of the bottle toss.
The pace of the story is great, and I really appreciate that the author writes without lengthy tangents or unnecessary backstories. You get a straightforward, in-your-face horror chiller that
satisfies. Well done!
February 9, 2020
Bottle Toss started well but seemed to lose its way in the middle and I could not help feel that many YA readers will lose interest where not much seemed to happen and where the story spends too much time setting things up for the finish. This was frustrating as Bottle Toss had an outstanding opening; after a bored teenager throws a beer bottle at a passing car, there is a horrible crash and what looks like a fatality after it overturns. The kid who throws the bottle is a nasty piece of work, but the book is seen from the point of view of Denny Ford who is bullied by Brody, with Jen being the final member of the trio. Jen and Denny are stepbrother and sister and Jen is the sometime girlfriend of Brody. Much of the novel is about the relationship between the trio which is nicely handled with Jen and Denny sharing the same foster-mother and a younger disabled stepbrother whom Denny watches out for.
After the crash, the car seems to disappear without trace and over the next several days as the three experience increasingly bizarre, frightening, and seemingly unrelated events, such as a big fire at school and hallucinogenic stuff. It was interesting seeing where all this was going, but after a while it lost momentum and my focus in the mystery waned. Denny was an interesting main character and the family dynamics were nicely handled, but some of the others weren’t as developed. AGE 13+
After the crash, the car seems to disappear without trace and over the next several days as the three experience increasingly bizarre, frightening, and seemingly unrelated events, such as a big fire at school and hallucinogenic stuff. It was interesting seeing where all this was going, but after a while it lost momentum and my focus in the mystery waned. Denny was an interesting main character and the family dynamics were nicely handled, but some of the others weren’t as developed. AGE 13+
December 30, 2019
A car disappeared down the embankment. What should a bunch of no-good kids do? Leave? Help the driver?
Then the voice murmurs: “Help me.”
It would seem that they fled, taking this secret with them. The characters come away with more questions than answers. Did anyone even die? Where did the car go? How did it move so fast? What have they done that can’t be undone?
As far as everyone was concerned, the accident never happened. No broken bottle. No broken body.
The writing reads more like dictation. There wasn’t much flow to it, but it was still easy to read. The whole thing reminded me of that movie, I know what you did last summer. It definitely has a creep factor in it. I was intrigued by the concept of pondering the ramifications of one’s actions, living with the guilt and regret, wishing that you can do the whole thing over again. The characters are certainly in disarray, constantly going back and forth with the insane notions of what is and what could’ve been. We really don’t know what happened, if anything at all. It’s just all speculation mostly. But, overall, this was an okay read.
Then the voice murmurs: “Help me.”
It would seem that they fled, taking this secret with them. The characters come away with more questions than answers. Did anyone even die? Where did the car go? How did it move so fast? What have they done that can’t be undone?
As far as everyone was concerned, the accident never happened. No broken bottle. No broken body.
The writing reads more like dictation. There wasn’t much flow to it, but it was still easy to read. The whole thing reminded me of that movie, I know what you did last summer. It definitely has a creep factor in it. I was intrigued by the concept of pondering the ramifications of one’s actions, living with the guilt and regret, wishing that you can do the whole thing over again. The characters are certainly in disarray, constantly going back and forth with the insane notions of what is and what could’ve been. We really don’t know what happened, if anything at all. It’s just all speculation mostly. But, overall, this was an okay read.
May 23, 2020
A superb horror novel — copy was provided to me by #netgalley.
#arcnetgalley
Truly outstanding — a horror novel that goes beyond the horror genre and tackles such topics as mental illness, alcoholism, child abuse, the foster care system, and those with special needs.
Denny, along with his foster sister, Jen, and her love interest, Brody, find their lives suddenly on a downward spiral after Brody throws a bottle at a passing car, hitting the driver. The car careens into a lake, and in the next few days, a series of horrific events take place.
Not only is this book horrifying in many ways, it’s also charming, as it focuses on a small town during the Autumn season. The rich descriptions of the season and those who inhabit this town are a wonderful added bonus. I found myself reading slower to savor this book, it’s that good!
April 8, 2020
****Review****
Every action has a consequence.
I enjoyed this book even though the ending was a bit…..different than the book led to believe. I found myself happy but not overjoyed to finish this book. The story-line is quick paced and easy to read. And some of the characters are so sweet I fell in love with them.
I would read other books from this author and can’t wait to see what he holds for the future.
Thank you to Netgalley/ Howard Odentz/ Bell Bridge Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Every action has a consequence.
I enjoyed this book even though the ending was a bit…..different than the book led to believe. I found myself happy but not overjoyed to finish this book. The story-line is quick paced and easy to read. And some of the characters are so sweet I fell in love with them.
I would read other books from this author and can’t wait to see what he holds for the future.
Thank you to Netgalley/ Howard Odentz/ Bell Bridge Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2020
This book gets your attention from the very beginning and it never stops. Right away, 2 foster siblings are out with a boyfriend , Brody, the towns bad boy. He despises the old folks village eho moved in, so when he sees a car coming, he decides to throw a bottle at it. Little does he know, that car then fell down three river bank and hurt the occupants inside. This started the spiral down for them all. The whole book is filled with twists and turns as the legend "the goaty man" starts making appearances and weird things take place in town. It is a really fast paced read.
June 21, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and Bell Bridge Books for letting me review this book.. I will say it left me wanting something a little more.. There was a part in the book I was like why does that even have to be in there it doesn't make sense to me.. Plus I felt like the book did a time just without even giving you a hint it was going to.. Foster Kids living under the roof of a "Witch" , one mistake , and a whole lot of mystery.. What would you do if this happened to you? Throw everything out there or run?
Recommend? Unsure
*Happy Reading*
Recommend? Unsure
*Happy Reading*
November 18, 2019
Odentz's mastery of the suspenseful thriller shines in Bottle Toss. Set in an economically depressed, small New England town, Odentz takes you on a wild journey of how what you think is an inconsequential action can change the course of your life and those around you. The surprise ending will have you on the edge of your seat through the final page. Whether you're new to the Odentz world or a seasoned traveler, you'll love Bottle Toss from start to finish.
December 13, 2019
Well that escalated quickly! This was an interesting book and then the TWIST! I won't tell you what it is, because it impacts the whole story, but it is surprising. The characters are relatable and you want them to make it to the end. The twist changes everything about the story, and I'm still trying to figure out how I feel about it......
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 8, 2020
First time reading this author. If you like a book where you are kept guessing what is going on, then this book is for you. The characters were developed but the story did lull in some areas. Ok read, I will read this author again. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc of this book in return for my honest review. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on my review.
November 11, 2019
I enjoy the way Mr. Odentz tells a story. He's always got the right amount of creepy and keeps me guessing until the end.
tbr-owned
May 11, 2020Recommended by Kasha in Bookland in this recommendation compilation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BjT2...
Read
August 30, 2021DNF
July 19, 2020
I'm sorry, but what in the hell did I just force myself to finish? And why did I not DNF this?
Absolutely nothing happened. It's basically Denny and his "friends" and their day to day . . . of course it's after they caused and witnessed an accident that disappeared.
Then Denny starts getting paranoid about everything around him. One other major weird thing happens, and the rest of the book is just watching Denny freak out over everything.
There's the ending of the book that ties everything together, but it's so weird and underwhelming that I was so glad it was over. If this is supposed to be a horror story . . . there's more horror in every day real life. It could pass as a MG horror story, maybe, but definitely not YA.
Absolutely nothing happened. It's basically Denny and his "friends" and their day to day . . . of course it's after they caused and witnessed an accident that disappeared.
Then Denny starts getting paranoid about everything around him. One other major weird thing happens, and the rest of the book is just watching Denny freak out over everything.
There's the ending of the book that ties everything together, but it's so weird and underwhelming that I was so glad it was over. If this is supposed to be a horror story . . . there's more horror in every day real life. It could pass as a MG horror story, maybe, but definitely not YA.
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