Reviews

Daubed in Darkness by J. Daniel Stone

ddrosche's review

4.0

Daubed In Darkness is a gritty, queer, urban horror novel and my first read by the author and I am very intrigued by his writing. This novel tells the story of Zephyr and Atticus, two artists living in NYC amid the pandemic. Suddenly the mysterious Dexter weaves his way into their relationship. The attraction is instant and the three begin a trippy and dangerous spiral where it seems nothing and no one can be trusted. This book is dark and sinister, much like the lives and environment of the characters. There were times I was confused as to what was going on, but I couldn’t stop reading. It adds to the unreliable nature of the characters and situations, and I found myself flying through the ending as things came to an energetic head. Themes of trust, addiction, love, sex, and the virality of social media play with the themes of pandemics, isolation, and actual viruses. Definitely an enjoyable and unique read! Thanks to the author for this copy! 4

wherethereadergrows's review

dark mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

Stone touches on themes of addiction, trust, love, obsession, artistry and pandemic quarantine suffocation vibes. Almost made me yearn for my Jägermeister days… almost. 😉 While this book may not have worked entirely for me, it’s a fantastic read.  Those who love that fever dream of urban horror with a bit of fantasy-like immersion will absolutely be drawn to and love this story.

Stone is a very talented author and I love the representation as we need more queer rep in horror.

Full review to come in Scream Magazine.

thathorrorbish's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0