Book Review: Mean Spirited by Nick Roberts|Supernatural Horror|ARC Book Review|Indie Horror

Summary

In this passionate review of Nick Roberts' *Mean-Spirited*, the speaker delves into the terrifying and deeply emotional aspects of the horror novel. The story follows Matt, an alcoholic high school teacher, who encounters a possessed dog, Cony, after the death of a former student. As he confronts his personal demons, the book delivers both chilling moments and intricate character development. The speaker praises Roberts' writing for its ability to maintain fear through repeated imagery and its authentic portrayal of characters, making *Mean-Spirited* one of the best horror reads of the year. A highly recommended book for fans of supernatural horror.

Takeaways

• 😀 The reviewer found the indie horror novel *Mean-Spirited* by Nick Roberts to be extremely frightening, with the book provoking genuine fear responses.
• 😀 The book follows Matt, an English teacher and alcoholic, who becomes involved with a former student's death and the supernatural events surrounding her dog, Cony.
• 😀 Matt's struggle with alcoholism is depicted realistically, with no dramatic backstory, but rather a gradual descent into addiction that mirrors real-life experiences.
• 😀 The dog, Cony, becomes a central character, with distinct personality traits that change when the evil force attached to the dog is present.
• 😀 The horror scenes in the book are highly detailed and effectively build tension, using recurring imagery in a fresh way each time to maintain their impact.
• 😀 *Mean-Spirited* is praised for its lean writing style, where every element of the plot and character development serves a clear purpose.
• 😀 The reviewer highlights how the book's characters feel real and relatable, with flaws and complexities that make them engaging.
• 😀 Matt's relationship with his ex-wife, their son Mikey, and the dynamics with other characters, like her new boyfriend Lewis, are explored with nuance and depth.
• 😀 The book’s plot, while a basic possession story, is elevated by the exceptional detail and the way it captures the reader’s attention.
• 😀 Nick Roberts' writing has significantly improved since his previous works, and *Mean-Spirited* is considered his best book so far, with a perfect ending that wraps up the story well.
• 😀 The book’s use of prologues is praised for being effective, setting the stage for the narrative, and enhancing the story's pacing and structure.

Q & A

What makes *Mean-Spirited* by Nick Roberts stand out as a horror novel?

The novel stands out due to its ability to truly scare the reader, using detailed and vivid imagery that makes the terror feel real. The author masterfully creates fear with scenes that are progressively unsettling, using the same imagery in different ways to keep the terror fresh throughout the story.

How does the protagonist, Matt, struggle with his personal issues in *Mean-Spirited*?

Matt is a functioning alcoholic who struggles with denial about his addiction and its impact on his life. He has a complicated relationship with his ex-wife and son, and he must confront these personal demons while dealing with the supernatural elements tied to the dog he rescues.

How is alcoholism portrayed in *Mean-Spirited*?

Alcoholism in the book is depicted realistically, with Matt starting to drink in college because he liked the way it made him feel. Unlike many depictions of addiction in literature, there is no traumatic backstory—Matt’s alcoholism is a result of gradual indulgence rather than a response to past trauma.

What role does the dog, Conhead (Coney), play in the story?

Conhead, the dog, is central to the plot as it is revealed to be possessed by an evil force. The dog’s presence and actions are integral to the unfolding terror, and the protagonist, Matt, must deal with the consequences of this evil attachment while grappling with his own personal issues.

How does the novel balance supernatural horror and character development?

The novel effectively intertwines the supernatural horror with character development, particularly Matt’s journey. The horror elements push Matt to confront his flaws and past mistakes, making his personal growth a key part of the plot while also maintaining the chilling supernatural tension.

What are the key themes explored in *Mean-Spirited*?

The key themes include addiction, guilt, redemption, and the impact of personal demons on relationships. The story also explores the idea of confronting one’s flaws and mistakes, as Matt must face his alcoholism and its effect on those around him while trying to combat the supernatural threat.

How does the reviewer describe the character of Matt?

The reviewer describes Matt as a flawed but relatable character. Despite his alcoholism and denial, Matt is sympathetic, and the reader is encouraged to root for him to succeed. His internal struggles and moments of self-awareness make him a complex and engaging character.

What is the significance of the prologue in Nick Roberts' novels?

Nick Roberts’ novels often feature a prologue that sets up the story in a way that foreshadows key events, much like a television drama with a pre-credits snapshot. This technique serves to intrigue readers and set the tone, and it is praised for being an effective storytelling tool.

What impact does the setting and pacing have on the horror elements in the book?

The setting and pacing work together to create a growing sense of dread throughout the novel. The quick-paced narrative ensures that every scene is purposeful, and the gradual build-up of tension through well-crafted horror scenes keeps the reader on edge, enhancing the terror.

What is the reviewer’s overall opinion of *Mean-Spirited*?

The reviewer is extremely impressed with *Mean-Spirited*, calling it the best book Nick Roberts has written so far. They highly recommend it to horror fans, praising its terrifying scenes, well-developed characters, and the author’s ability to maintain suspense throughout. The reviewer also notes that the book has a perfect ending that sticks the landing.