Oh man, this author writes slashers in a unique way that I absolutely love. I thought Curse Of The Reaper was amazing and Candy Cain Kills was kick ass. But with this one, he raises the bar on what a slasher novel should be.

A woman who's suffered a horrific event while hiking with her boyfriend has separated herself from her friends. She has nightmares about that day and even waking hallucinations as if her dead boyfriend is stalking her.

One day her best friend insists that she, along with a group of other friends, go to a weekend spiritual retreat deep in the desert. This exclusive invite only retreat features meditation, yoga, organic raw meals, crystals...all of that woo woo new age stuff.

She reluctantly agrees to it. This retreat is basic, has no modern conveniences and is run by a white guy who goes by the name Guru Pax. But, oddly, she starts feeling better about herself. She's been addicted to Xanax and thinks, perhaps, this retreat might be life changing for her despite the cheesiness of it all.

Of course, when her friends start being slaughtered one by one, this retreat becomes a race for survival. As the bloody rampage continues it becomes obvious they've been targeted. But by whom?

This novel reminds me, happily, of Scream. There's several possible killers and your mind will run wild as the book points towards certain characters with a suspicious eye. Of course it will be revealed at the end and it's a complete mind fuck! Never saw that coming.

You've got a whole group of great characters, a twisty narrative which always keeps you guessing, and the desert atmosphere is perfectly defined and puts you right in that environment.

It's also a lot of fun! I always love a good slasher book and this one will be at the top of your list. A brutal, bloody, high octane read. I highly recommend it.

This was so much fun! I'm a fan of the Candy Cain series so I was so pumped to read this and it did not disappoint!

This is a fast paced, slasher romp that reminds me of some of my favorite slasher films of the early 2000s. It has the horror, of course, but it also has moments that literally made me laugh out loud.

I don't want to give anything away with this one because it has a little bit of a twisty nature, but I will say that Brian McAuley nailed it and I had such a good time reading this book.

"She coughs blood, splattering her face and dripping down to the yoga mat. The energy drains from every chakra as she settles into shavasana. Her final corpse pose."


I enjoyed my time with this book. I don't have the luxury of time to read as much nowadays.. So busy lately esp starting a new job that I find myself having a hard time keeping up with my reading goal. Lovely cover aside, this is just exactly what I need. Nothing too complicated - a fun, campy, slasher read. It exudes Scooby-Doo vibes and I don't mind. It is not too extreme but still had unique/fun kills. The last 90% gave me a whiplash but I was right about my red herring. It doesn't top Candy Cain kills for me though but still def worth a read. I love the theme of going on a retreat for escapism or self-discovery with lots of yoga practice (Sana all). It makes me miss yoga classes so much. 🥹 I also don't care what anyone says but one thing I know for sure, I will never stop purchasing my peppermint essential oil. Iykyk. 😅
The benefits and pitfalls of spiritual self-discovery, impalement by crystal and immolation by essential oil are set pieces around which the author built his story. Reading the author's notes about his inspirations for writing horror also brought a different wave of warmth and nostalgia.


"She coughs blood, splattering her face and dripping down to the yoga mat. The energy drains from every chakra as she settles into shavasana. Lauren’s final corpse pose."


I enjoyed my time with this book. I don't have much time to read as much nowadays.. So busy lately esp starting a new job that I find myself having a hard time keeping up with my reading goal. Lovely cover aside, this is just exactly what I need. Nothing too complicated - a fun, campy, slasher read. It exudes Scooby-Doo vibes and I don't mind. It is not too extreme but still had unique/fun kills. The last 90% gave me a whiplash but I was right about my red herring. It doesn't top Candy Cain kills for me though but still def worth a read. I love the theme of going on a retreat for escapism or self-discovery with lots of yoga practice (Sana all). It makes me miss yoga classes so much. 🥹 I also don't care what anyone says but one thing I know for sure, I will never stop purchasing my peppermint essential oil. Iykyk. 😅
The benefits and pitfalls of spiritual self-discovery, impalement by crystal and immolation by essential oil are set pieces around which the author built his story. Reading the author's notes about his inspirations for writing horror also brought a different kind of warmth and nostalgia.

Big thanks to the publisher/NetGalley for the arc. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Oh this was SO GOOD! To be fair, I’m a slasher fan. But I wasn’t disappointed at all. It’s a little slow burn but I still loved the journey it took me on. The characters, the writing kept me engaged the whole time. I mean, I did read this in a day. And now I’m sad it’s over! And the kill scenes were gruesome and bloody, perfect for horror fans!! Read this book!

We need more books like this in the world. It was a fun horror novel that subverted expectations and created surprising twists. I love that Brian McAuley dealt with the problematic side of horror without being too preachy with his 'wokeness'.

This was a great read and I will recommend it to my customers.

I was so excited to receive an early copy of Breathe In, Bleed Out by Brian McAuley, out 02/09/25. I was hooked from the first page. The retreat was an excellent setting for the story and every character added something different. A great read which did not disappoint; I also loved the talking coyote reference 😂

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

Im really sorry but whats about the writing? Maybe its myself but the last two Books wasnt something for me because of the writing.
I dont get the Talks and toughts. Maybe ill give it a try later but by now I’m done by Not Finishing it.

Brian McAuley once again proves his talent for crafting outstanding slasher stories, and Breathe In, Bleed Out is no exception. His latest novel delivers a horrifying, Scream-inspired tale filled with Final Destination-style kills, all built around a gripping whodunnit mystery.

Hannah has been running from her demons ever since she emerged from a harrowing wilderness trip without her fiancé. No one knows exactly what happened the day Ben died, and Hannah would like to keep it that way... even if his ghost still haunts her with vivid waking nightmares that are ruining her life. So when her friend group gets an exclusive invitation to a restorative spiritual retreat in Joshua Tree, Hannah reluctantly agrees in search of a fresh start.

Despite her skepticism of the strange Guru Pax and his belief in the supernatural world, Hannah soon finds healing through all the yoga, sound baths, and hot springs offered at the tech-free haven. But this peaceful journey of self-discovery quickly descends into a violent fight for self-preservation when a mysterious killer starts picking off retreat attendees in increasingly gruesome ways. As the body count rises and Hannah's sanity frays, she'll have to confront her dark past and uncover the true nature of a ruthless monster hellbent on killing her vibe for good.

Breathe In, Bleed Out's setting is a fresh and almost unexpected twist that sets the book apart from other book or film slashers. Taking place at a mindfulness retreat designed for attendees to get a fresh start, the tranquil atmosphere is a stark contrast to the chaos of a bloody killing spree. The juxtapose of quiet and serene with blood, gore and murder just adds tension and excitement to the story. Not to mention the suspense around uncovering the killer's identity which makes you turn the pages even faster.

McAuley crafts some outstanding characters in this stories and Hannah is just another to add to this list. While the entire cast of characters seems deeply flawed, Hannah stands out, as her story is shaped by the loss of her fiancé amongst other things. This tragic event gives credence her story providing insight into her motivations and struggles, making her a character you root for. Unlike the others, who really come across as those in desperate need of a spiritual reckoning, Hannah's story feels deeply personal. I found myself cheering for Hannah's redemption–not only just to survive the horrors that await in Joshua Tree.

While the novel was a quick read, it didn't compromise on anything. I was treated to insightful character moments, intense and gory kill scenes, and a thoughtful, satisfying conclusion. Brian McAuley delivers a classic slasher story, typically written for the screen, in a fast-paced novel that you can easily devour in one sitting.

Breathe In, Bleed Out is a fantastic slasher horror novel that fans of the genre, especially those who loved Scream, will enjoy. Brian McAuley delivers a unique final girl with a protagonist with her own emotional baggage, seeking a fresh start, only to find herself fighting for survival. With its intense narrative and wonderfully crafted characters, Breathe In, Bleed Out is a must-read from one of the best in the genre.

I posted my review on Instagram, @the.bookworm.chronicles

Breathe in, bleed out by @ brianmcwriter
Release date : September 2, 2025

I am thrilled that I was approved for an ARC copy of Brian’s new novel, Breathe In, Bleed Out, that truly is something for slasher fans! I have been following Brian’s work since I read his debut novel Curse of the Reaper in October of 2023 and have been devouring his other work since. His writing is cinematic, making you feel like you’ve just stepped into a horror film and his characters are flawed and real which makes it easy to route for them (or in some cases despise the jerks and creeps).

This novel follows our main character Hannah who is riddled with grief after an accident that killed her fiancé. Her best friend, knowing that she has been running from her demons ever since, convinces her to attend a restorative spiritual retreat with her friend group. Hannah reluctantly agrees in the hopes that she can find a fresh start. What starts out as a peaceful journey soon turns violent as a mysterious killer starts picking off the attendees one by one. As the bodies start pilling up Hannah’s sanity unravels. Who can she trust? Can she even trust herself?

Just like any good slasher I was rooting for the survivors, yelling at the characters when they inevitably do something stupid that leads to their demise (don’t these people know the rules for how to survive a horror movie!?), marveling at the creative kills, falling for the red herrings, and trying to guess who dun it (unsuccessfully in my case). I really appreciated all the nods to horror and slasher fans while still feeling fresh and not a copy cat of something that already exists.

I absolutely recommend that you pick this one up in September! I read it in just a few days and am sad it’s over! Can’t wait for the next one!

Thanks you @brianmcwriter and @poisonedpenpress for the eARC! This is my first one so it feels extra special.

I previously read Candy Cane Kills, and while I found it fun, I was ultimately left wanting a little more. With Breathe In, Bleed Out, McAuley definitely steps it up and delivers a solid campy slasher novel!

First off, the setting is great. The remote desert retreat allows for a realistic 'no cell reception' plot that feels nostalgic rather than trite. Also, the characters varying and evolving attitudes towards some of the Guru's antics are highly entertaining. The interactions between the friends are well done and believable.

The kills are probably the best part (*read the Authors note at the end, because it absolutely gives insight on the inspiration). They are creative and borderline silly, but a few are genuinely horrifying. The scenes aren't too drawn out, but deliver enough to leave you unsettled.

While I enjoyed this book a lot, there were a few small reasons I couldn't give it 5 stars. The pacing was a bit off, being slower in the first 3rd, and focusing very heavily on our main characters backstory. But once the action does eventually get going, it moves along quite quickly. Secondly, the mystery aspect gets somewhat convoluted by the end. There are many suspects and a ton of shenanigans going on here. It did make it impossible to 'know' who the killer is, although the reveal isn't completely out of nowhere...although it is bizarre.

This was a really fun and addictive read.
It felt like a combination of final destination and Texas chainsaw massacre - without the chainsaw.- full of fickle fraying friendships , suspense and a lot of guilty parties the ending took me by total surprise.

A great read!

I can always count on Brian McAuley to give me nostalgic horror vibes in his books. Breathe In, Bleed Out was no different. I had such a fun time with this one. It felt like I was reading a 80s horror film. I loved all the characters. They fit their roles so perfectly. Brian knows how to write a bloody kill scene so well. The deaths in this book were insane and filled with gore in the best way possible. The killer let me down a tiny bit in the end but overall I really enjoyed this book. If you love slashers you should definitely check this one out.
4/5 Stars

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me an arc copy in exchange for my honest review.

I love a good slasher, and Breathe In, Bleed Out hits every mark.

The story centers on Hannah, a young woman reeling from a traumatic event, caught in a spiral of self-blame, pills, and pity. Her best friend Tess has finally had enough of the wallowing and drags their friend group (aka a collection of frenemies) to a wellness retreat in the California desert. But is this retreat Hannah’s chance to finally heal… or the start of a blood-soaked unraveling?

The misdirections were sharp and genuinely kept me guessing. I was just as suspicious of everyone as Hannah was. The setting was Immaculate. The characters were very well fleshed out (pun fully intended). There are ones to love, ones to loathe, and some to side-eye. And the gore? Glorious. A few deaths definitely gave Final Destination energy and will be haunting me for a while.

Brian McAuley nails the slasher tone with razor-sharp one-liners and a wicked sense of humor. I was gasping, laughing, and gagging through the whole thing; it’s a full-body experience. It’s not a story to take too seriously; it’s pure vibes, and it delivers.

The pacing was spot on too. From page one I was hooked, and by the end, I had devoured the whole thing without leaving a crumb.

I’ll be recommending this to all my fellow slasher lovers. It’s a masterclass in the genre, and I can’t wait to dive into more of McAuley’s work.

Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the arc! This review is my honest opinion!
wooooow! This is my first read from Brian McAuley and it won't be the last! What a blast! I was hooked since the beginning, Hannah is one hell of a main character. Since the very fisrt chapter I was intrigued in her and her story, she feels so real, loved the humor.
I really liked the set up of the retreat and boy oh boy! did I like the events that unfolded there! I won't spoil anything but if you love slasher films this is perfect! Also can we talk about the author's note at the end? Loooooved it so much!
Over all a really engaging and fun read full of slashering shenanigans!!

Thank you NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press and Brian for the advanced copy of Breath in and Bleed out.

I rate this book a 5/5.

I knew when I read the first chapter that I would love the book. I am a big fan of slasher movies, and this was exactly it. I later found out that the author loves the Scream franchise, and it shows!

I already found spiritual retreats to be creepy and odd, so this was a good way to make me feel uneasy.

I loved the character of Hannah, I honestly thought she was the person who was slashing everyone from the beginning. I also felt bad for Jared when his time came, poor guy haha.

It was an easy read, with quick chapters, which I prefer!

Congratulations Brian on your new book, I can see it being well liked, and maybe a future slasher movie?

Slasher fans have been feasting these last few years with some fantastic literary works by giants like Stephen Graham Jones. I’m adding Brian McAuley to that list.

I read McAuley’s first book, Curse of the Reaper, last year and absolutely loved it, as it examined an aging slasher star grappling with being replaced for the big budget remake. Then I devoured his two Candy Cain novellas from the Killer VHS series, which were fun B-movie slashers in bite size book form.

Now enter Breathe In, Bleed Out, McAuley’s upcoming slasher novel from Poisoned Pen Press. This novel, a slasher set at a mindfulness retreat, is heavily influenced by Scream, in that it is both a blood-pulsing slasher coiled around a whodunit mystery. The character deaths are creative (a couple felt very Final Destination-esque) and the plot is propulsive. He employs red herrings and plot reveals in ways that do not feel cheap or unearned.

I loved the main character, Hannah, as she struggles to cope with her fiancé’s death prior to the events of the novel and her dealing with her unraveling sanity as she is constantly being gaslit by characters with questionable motives. Who can Hannah even trust?

I loved this book so much and so devoured it. If you’re a fan of slashers, this is a must-read. You’ll have a bloody good time.

Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the eARC!

A friend once told me that a writer needs to have their finger on the pulse of society; in which case, Brian McAuley is a heart rate monitor—the voice of a generation.

"Breathe In, Bleed Out," like all of McAuley's work, is layered so seamlessly that as you wander through these blood-soaked pages, you might just need to take a minute to remind yourself that you are not actually there.

Inspired by the greats of '80s and '90s horror/slashers, McAuley has woven a contemporary tale that will surely come to be regarded as iconic for this decade.

Themes that are explored within this masterpiece, include but are not limited to, mental health, toxic relationships, cultural appropriation and substance abuse.

This book is a must-read for every slasher fan!

Brian McAuley delivers a gripping, fast-paced horror mystery that’s impossible to put down once you’ve started.
The story follows Hannah, a young woman struggling to cope with the death of her fiancé, Ben. In an attempt to heal, she joins a spiritual retreat in the desert alongside a group of friends. But what begins as a peaceful escape quickly turns into a deadly nightmare, as the idyllic retreat becomes a hunting ground and the guests are picked off one by one.

Hannah must face both her haunted past and her unresolved grief — before she too becomes the next victim.

Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC

Publication date : Sept 2, 2025

Hannah has been through some trauma and her best friend signs their friend group up for an exclusive wellness retreat out in the middle of nowhere. Things quickly go south and this turns into a fast paced slasher! I could not put this down. Hannah wasn’t my favorite main character, but the story itself made up for the issues I had with her. The remote setting, an old urban legend, and a strange yoga guru all made for an interesting storyline! The twist at the end was wild and pulled everything together. If you love a good slasher check this out!

Thank you to both #NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me an advance copy of Brian McAuley's latest #thriller, Breathe In, Bleed Out, in exchange for an honest review.

#BreatheInBleedOut is an homage to bloody slasher films; predominately, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, My Bloody Valentine, and Scream. Short, witty, and entertaining, I highly recommend this book for fans of horror-comedy and to any reader (or film buff) who wished this fun subgenre was translated into novel format. Set at a wellness center in present-day Joshua Tree, the protagonist won't be the only questioning the authenticity of spiritual gurus and remote spa resorts by the conclusion.

Poor Hannah is reeling from the aftermath of a terrible tragedy: her fiancé is dead. To make matters worse, she was the last person to see him alive. A deadly combo of guilt and grief cause Hannah to spiral, leading to a life of isolation, disassociation, and reliance on medication. When the mounting pressure of dodging loved ones, mixing questionable substances, and experiencing nightly hallucinations culminates in a work incident that threatens to destroy her burgeoning medical career, she agrees to attend a weekend getaway at a spiritual retreat with her five best friends from college.

The pros: the unique desert setting, the inventiveness of the murder scenes, the one-liners, and last, but certainly not least, the "big bad", along with the backstory of the gold-miners. I would genuinely read a spin-off solely about The Barlow Gang.

The cons: abrupt ending, some characters require further development, certain passages could use a bit more description, and the red herrings as well as tension could benefit from some tightening.

Overall, a bloody, fun joyride through the desert and the poses of a meditative yoga retreat. 3.5 stars, rounded-up.