An Augmented Fourth
A bassist trapped in a snowy hotel faces monsters after quitting drugs.
Codger Burton finds himself stranded in a snowbound hotel while his bandmates flee. As he deals with the withdrawal from cocaine, supernatural entities begin to patrol the hallways. The narrative explores his isolation and the absurdity of his predicament within the heavy metal scene. McMillen uses this setup to create a unique blend of genre fiction that mocks rock star tropes while delivering genuine scares. The story does not offer easy escapes or heroic rescues, focusing instead on the protagonist's struggle against both physical and metaphysical threats in a confined space.
The novel is published by Word Horde in 2017. It draws on the tradition of rock and roll horror fiction. The setting involves a UK heavy metal band, connecting the narrative to British music culture and its global influence on the genre.
📝 Description: An Augmented Fourth
💎 Our verdict on An Augmented Fourth
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
This book is ideal for readers who enjoy horror fiction mixed with rock music culture and dark humor. It appeals to those interested in stories about musicians facing supernatural challenges, specifically within the context of heavy metal lore. Codger Burton’s struggle against both physical withdrawal and metaphysical threats offers a compelling narrative for fans of confined-space thrillers. The work provides a fresh perspective on isolation and addiction through the lens of absurdity and terror. Readers seeking straightforward fantasy or non-fiction will likely find this unsuitable, but those craving a twisted creative blend of comedic horror elements and genuine scares will find it rewarding. It serves as an engaging exploration of the heavy metal scene's darker underbelly.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Tony McMillen delivers a darkly comic novel that successfully blends musical themes with supernatural terror. The narrative effectively frames Codger Burton’s isolation within a snowbound hotel, creating tension between mundane reality and escalating horror. McMillen’s twisted creativity shines as he mocks rock star tropes while maintaining genuine scares. The story avoids easy escapes, focusing instead on the protagonist's struggle against unseen entities. This approach suits readers who appreciate genre fiction that subverts expectations. The heavy metal context adds a unique layer of absurdity to the classic 'trapped in a hotel' trope. It is a well-crafted piece for those who enjoy horror with a satirical edge.
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🏛 Books from this publisher Word Horde
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