Hello my little book lovers,
As I write this the sun is shining outside and the air feels different. The process of seasonal change, is hinted very subtly on the air. The smells of freshly cut grass and BBQ as people move outdoors to feel warmth on their skin after so much cold.
My reading bug has well and truly returned and I find myself falling into stories whenever I have a spare moment, so allow me to share my thoughts with you on Haunted by Chuck Palahniuk. I think I bought this novel as it appeared on someone’s list of disturbing reads and I was intrigued.
The story starts when seventeen individuals decide to attend a secret writers retreat similar to the infamous Villa Diodati retreat. However they find themselves locked inside an abandoned theatre by the retreats organizer Mr Whittier, informing them they have three months to write the greatest work of their writing careers. What follows is 23 short stories, told by the various individuals that all tie back into the main story in some way.
The characters believe that to make their stories more interesting they need to up the stakes, so pretty soon they start sabotaging their survival by destroying food and utilities. And the acts become more depraved and desperate. If you’re looking for something that’s well written as an introduction to a “dark” read, this may be for you.
For some reason, one of the stories that stuck out for me and still stays with me, is a story told by Saint Gut-Free (all the characters have nicknames, I don’t think we actually learn their real names) about an incident involving a pool filter. The thought of it makes me feel sick. This book is not for those with weak stomachs, you’ve been warned!
If you’ve read it and know what I’m talking about, I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments below. Did the same story stay with you? Or was it another one?
Stay Spooky!
👻 LWG👻
☽ SpookyGee ☾ 