While the the premise and the cover were enough to make me start reading, the actual writing wasn't enough to keep me going. I heard a lot of good things about this book but it missed the mark for me. The story was maybe a bit too reminiscent of Stephen King with the whole "irreverent dude is called back to his hometown after something paranormal happens," except this time the irreverent dude in question is not at all likeable. Paul is not a character that I root for. He makes everything about him and he never responds in a way that feels attached to the reality of the story, if that makes sense.

The biggest reason why I didn't like this book was the writing style. The author uses both italics and bold font to add emphasis to certain words and to differentiate when something is just a thought our character is having. The problem is, he uses these interchangeably, so sometimes a word is bolded because it's meant to be emphasized, but other times it's bolded because it's not part of the main narration. Same with italics. Also, there are quite a few random paragraph breaks that I felt cheapened the story as a whole.

I really enjoyed this book! It moves fast and be ready to suddenly feel confused, but it's all for the best. This story pulled me in within a couple of pages and gripped me until I finished it....in one sitting.

This was a genuinely creepy and terrifying horror novel that will be sure to leave you freaked out!

Paul Early is a host of a small-time podcast, who returns to his hometown to discover that a longtime friend committed suicide in the ruins of Paul’s childhood home. Determined to find answers, Paul interviews friends and locals hoping to find closure. He soon finds himself in a chilling downward spiral of memories. Are these memories the result of his past coming back to haunt him? Or is it something more sinister…

I’m not easy to scare when reading, so sometimes horror novels fall flat for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I’m always a sucker for a “haunted house” plot, and so many of the scenes in this novel were so well written and graphic that I could visualize what was happening and genuinely creeped out. As an added bonus, this novel was actually inspired by the author’s childhood home, and details and pictures are included in the Afterword.

This is the first book I have read from this author and would most definitely read another of his in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley and CLASH books for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to Netgally and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book.

I'm giving this one a 2.5. I really liked the concept. Haunted houses are timeless in my opinion, and it was a really interesting twist to have the haunting (I guess it's a haunting?) extend to the entire property and then to anyone who had ever had even the slightest of connection to it. But the main character, Paul, was so annoying. His internal monologue was not my favorite and just made him out to be a big of a jerk? By the end, I had no sympathy for him at all. I think my lack of connection to him and the other characters made it hard to want to finish this one as well. There was some really good imagery and creepy descriptions, but it relied too much on that when I think the focus should have been more on fleshing the actual plot out. This could have done well as a novella or short story, but just didn't have enough plot to make it a solid novel. I think more focus on the history behind the curse, the paranormal entities, the podcast, and the town itself could have fleshed this out and made it stronger.

It all just felt a little too disjointed...going from segments from Paul's podcast and then back to whatever was happening at random times, etc. Also there were points where things happened with other characters only to be contradicted later on and I couldn't tell if that was part of Paul going crazy or an inconsistency (ex: Producer Rachel. No clue what happened there). From a writing standpoint, there was a lot of 'tell' instead of 'show'. Paul just saying how he feels about something or someone instead of it being shown through his actions or emotions. And I did notice a character's name changed halfway through and back again, but hopefully little things will be ironed out before it's offical release.

Overall, I do think this author has a knack for horror and I would read future books. This one just wasn't it for me, but doesn't mean someone else might not enjoy it.

I'm new to reading horror books and 8114 did it's job by creeping me out! I thought the plot was unique and I love anytime a book includes a podcast element! Although the book had moments of scaring me, some parts felt a little silly. The main character doesn't take anything seriously and his inner thoughts took away from the scare factor. I actually enjoyed that but people going in wanting to be freaked out may be disappointed. Overall, a good read for around Halloween!

Once I read that the author is a screenwriter, it clicked why I was absolutely not vibing with this book. It’s cinematic but missed what makes a good haunted house story. Our narrator felt so detached from the house somehow and his reactions never felt right for the situation.

I’m fascinated that other people found this funny? I spent most of the time rolling my eyes because our narrator only fluctuated between movie references, being a self-centered jerk, and panic that lasted about three seconds before one of the other two settings kicked back in.

The rhyme was spooky, the lore was spooky, and if I could muster even an ounce of sympathy for Paul, maybe I would’ve been concerned for him in this eerie space with this horrible history, but instead I was just waiting for the end.

I read this book pretty fast, and it has some great, scary moments, but I had some trouble feeling connected to the characters. I would recommend it to horror fans, but it wasn't just right for me as I read a lot of different genres.

A very, very film-like book. (About a podcast?) Some of the scenes felt almost written like jump cuts, or jump scares, which is interesting but cheapens the scare factor for me. I’d like for there to be more reactions and build-up on page. In some instances it made sense, but mostly it felt disruptive.
I liked this concept, at least, I like what I think it was. I just don’t really have a clear picture on it all looking back. Many different elements were at play here. I would’ve liked for a good fraction of the horror motifs to be cut out, and instead really hone in on one or two aspects haunting the story and our mc. I don’t need everything explained to me, but give me something a little more specific to be afraid of.
I do think this author has a knack for horror, and didn’t shy away from committing to some really messed up shit, which will always earn my respect. The horror imagery is the highlight of the book.

I didn’t know what to expect going into this book, as the premise was pretty unique. It turned out to be a fast-paced. However, I did have a few issues with the story. At times, certain scenes felt a bit disjointed, which interrupted the overall flow and intensity of the narrative. Despite this, the captivating pace and intriguing concept kept me engaged throughout the book and Believe is a fantastic read for those who enjoy a touch of spooky without diving into anything too intense. It's perfect for readers who appreciate a thrilling atmosphere but prefer a more gentle scare. Overall was an interesting book I enjoyed in perfect season

I love horror and I was sadly not scared while reading this one. I was expecting good things when I saw that Clay McLeod Chapman spoke some praises because Ghost Eaters gave me chills. It’s not very descriptive so I couldn’t really picture anything. The plot was all over the place which made it confusing.

I didn’t know what to expect going into this book as the premise was pretty unique. This was a fast paced short read with some great scares. My only issues for this story were at times some of the scenes felt rushed and repetitive.

8114 is a wild ride full of suspense, mystery, horror, sadness, and more. I genuinely got creeped out by scenes in this book. I really enjoyed the main characters journey and felt bad about him and the situations that follow him and those around. The ending was what stopped this from being a 5 star read because I wish we could have gotten something that is hinted at but overall, if you love horror, highly recommend checking this out!

I don’t think this was for me. There are definitely audiences out there who this will work for. Sadly it did not work for me. Some of the more gruesome bits would have been fine had the rest of the writing been up to par, but it was almost like the author was trying to meet a grossness level by just randomly throwing those parts in. Also, the breakup of chapters and podcast announcements was…odd? Like in the first quarter when he went to 8114 and then after he talked to the racist and homophobic police chief, there’s a break where he announces the 8114 podcast, and then in the next chapter he’s still at the house on the same day. It was disjointed and off in so many parts.

Now THAT was creepy. Especially after reading the afterward and seeing the real house at the end (don’t skip those parts!!!)

I am left reeling with the desire for more answers but in a good way. The feeling of ambiguity really adds to the essence of 8114. I really appreciated that the author wasn’t afraid to take it to the next level in regards to the darker events that happen throughout this story. Usually “haunted house” stories feel somewhat repetitive and predictable but this one was really special.

8114 had a lot of potential, but as I was reading through the book, I started taking detailed notes in the way an editor would, and I think this story would have benefitted greatly from another round of editing.

First, at 218 pages, 8114 is neither a novella nor a fully fleshed-out novel. I think that if Joshua Hull had chosen to tighten this up into a shorter story or if he had opted to add more character development to build out a full novel, the results would have been much better. As it stands, many of the characters read very flat, and listening to Paul's constant internal monologue becomes incredibly repetitious since it all tends to stay at the surface level (and let's face it, he's not that likable of a character to begin with).

Initially, the moments of horror came across as shocking and really well done, and I shuddered at the references to black mold and other grossness. However, these same "party tricks" soon grew wearisome as they repeated without much variety. There are some better scenes later towards the end of the book, but I wish there had been a bit more happening overall throughout the story.

The motive and motivation behind the horror also could have used more depth and explanation. I was disappointed that every time a character was about to reveal more of the nitty-gritty details of the property's history, something happened to interrupt the scene, and the reader was never actually privy to any of those details. Sure, we get a basic outline of the reasoning, but diving even deeper into that history and having a solidly developed background and motivation would have given me a better connection to the story.

I would really love to see a 350-page version of 8114 where the characters and storyline have more extensive development. It has all the bones of an excellent novel; it just needs a little more work in its current state.

Review of 8114 by Joshua Hull ,
My Rating : 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pub date:26/08/25 publisher:CLASH Books
#8114 #NetGalley

Thank you, NetGalley,and publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Description:
8114 is a terrifying horror novel that explores the mysterious death of a high school friend through the lens of an embattled podcast and hallucinatory hauntings. After returning to his hometown, Paul, the host of a small-time podcast, discovers that his old friend died by suicide in the decaying remains of his childhood home. Desperate for answers, Paul begins interviewing locals and old acquaintances, hoping to make sense of the tragedy. However, what starts as an investigation soon unravels into a chilling journey through Paul's past, blurring the line between memory and something far more sinister.Joshua Hull, known for his work as the screenwriter of Glorious, expertly combines horror film sensibilities with themes of trauma, grief, and small-town decay. 8114 peels back the layers of a town’s darkest secrets and forces readers to confront the memories we carry to survive the present.

My Thoughts:
This is my first complete horror read, and it absolutely messed with my head. 8114 was a feverish experience that left me unnerved, checking my surroundings, and staring at my hands to reassure myself I was safe. The book plunges deep into themes of haunted memories and death, and the atmosphere is thick with dread—featuring mold-infested ruins, disturbing deaths, and overwhelming horror.
Reading this book was genuinely unsettling. There were times I had to stop just to regain my composure. It even affected my sleep—I couldn't help but feel uneasy long after I’d put the book down. Hull’s writing draws you into Paul’s downward spiral, making every page more intense than the last. The decaying house at the heart of the story almost feels alive, adding to the creeping sense of danger throughout the narrative.

If you enjoy horror that grips you and doesn't let go, 8114 is a must-read. But be warned: it will crawl under your skin and stay with you long after you finish.

Surprising Fact:
The 8114 house is real! Hull was born, raised, and still lives in Pendleton, the town where the story takes place. Knowing the house exists adds a chilling layer of reality to the story, making it even more haunting.

This is very, very scary. Creepy house/property story. Paul is in deep shit because he started a podcast about a childhood friend he believes has gone missing. Turns out that friend wanted to be under the radar for safety reasons and now this friend is exposed. Paul gets a plea to return home because another childhood friend, a best friend, has committed suicide. At his old house. Things get worse from there. Gruesome deaths and horrifying memories. I understand why the terrible things are happening but not exactly the when. Why are these things happening now? Is it because of the podcast and opening up old wounds? I really don't know. I do know this book will scare you. Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.

Inspired by his childhood home, the author has written a novel that is both modern and terrifying.

I dont usually like horror as I never think the endings are good enough, they usually end up with me thinking 'was that it'.


Paul Early, is a podcaster who returns to his hometown of Pendleton following the death of a high school friend.
Seeing if he can discover the what's and whys paul sets himself a task that can only end badly.

I loved this read, the author is not one I have come across but I will be on the lookout for more.
I loved his writing style and the storytelling is amazing.

I wasn;t disappointed..

It's likely not a surprise that I find myself a fan of the creative world of Joshua Hull, an Indiana-based author, screenwriter, and filmmaker whose work I've been reviewing since his early days as a filmmaker and whose co-writing of the indie horror film "Glorious" helped land him the Hoosier Award from the Indiana Film Journalists Association of which I'm a member.

So, it's also not likely a surprise that when the I came upon the opportunity to check out Hull's first full-length novel "8114" I jumped at the chance.

While it may seem as if I approached this review with an inherent bias, I've never been shy about writing middling or even negative reviews when necessary. Friends included. Okay, mostly ex-friends.

Hull has always been immersed in the indie horror scene, or so it seems, but it was the 2022 film "Glorious," which he co-authored with David Ian McKendry, that largely vaulted him into a bit of a hazy national spotlight. Hull followed that up with the winning novella "Mouth," in which Hull's creative sensibilities burst to life and it became apparent that he was a burgeoning literary voice and one of the more refreshing horror voices to arise on the scene in quite awhile.

With "8814," Hull cements his growing stature as a horror writer with a novel that is both terrifying and terrifyingly funny at times.

If you're familiar at all with the creative world of Joshua Hull, it won't surprise you that he sets the story in "8114" smack dab in the real-life town of Pendleton, Indiana where he really has spent a good majority of his life.

It may be a little more surprising that "8114" is inspired by his childhood home, a thought that becomes a little more terrifying the deeper one dives into the compelling, difficult to shake novel.

"8114" centers around Paul Early, the beleaguered host of a small-time, somewhat controversial podcast who returns to his hometown of Pendleton following the mysterious death of a high school friend.

One of Hull's many gifts as a writer is character development, a gift that comes vividly to life in "8114." Hull's Paul is a spiritually demented sadsack, the kind of guy you want to like but can't and the kind of guy who seems destined to live out some sort of life on the fringes. Much of "8114" centers around Paul's childhood home, now an abandoned house with a sordid history that keeps getting more and more sorded.

114 is a terrifying horror novel investigating the mysterious death of a high school friend through an embattled podcast and hallucinatory hauntings at the abandoned house of his childhood. While you don't necessarily like Paul, he's nearly impossible to hate thanks to Hull's ability to keep us wondering about the full spectrum of what's going on in "8114." Are we dealing with something supernatural? Are we dealing with the otherworldly perpetuating of the cycle of trauma?

Either. Or. Maybe both. You'll have to decide.

While it's easy to compare Hull to any number of other indie horror writers, I must confess I found myself time and again flashing back to my time with Bret Easton Ellis's "American Psycho," a similarly bold, demented, and thoughtful novel with strong characters and a relentlessly "go for it" narrative. Hull brings this small-town haunting to life in a way that makes you want to catch the first bus to Pendleton to check out the house that inspired this story, which is similarly decrepit and abandoned. Yet, against the supernatural horrors Hull immerses us in the cyclical nature of trauma that can't always be healed or resolved or broken. In the end, "8114" seems to be saying that individually and collectively we have to face our past if we want to survive our present.

I suppose this means I'm ascribing some deeper meaning to "8114," though I'd venture a guess that others will take away different lessons and some will just cringe and look away.

But yeah, I think in the end that Hull is reminding us that looking away isn't really an option if we want to survive this thing called life. The alternative? At least in "8114," it's pretty horrifying.

This is a fast and scary book about a disgraced podcaster going back to his hometown because of the death of his best friend, and it gets weird and scary really fast from there. It’s hard to go into too many details without approaching spoilers, but wow, this is a real haunted house of gore, ghosts, and nightmarish imagery.