CandyByte
A ghost controls her smart home to find her killer with help from her caretaker.
Charlie’s death does not end her influence over her invention. Instead, she inhabits the CANDY device, an apple-shaped unit that manages her residence. Billie assists Charlie in this spectral state, guiding the technology to uncover clues about the murder. Their joint effort exposes a hidden truth that neither anticipated. The narrative relies on the tension between Charlie’s new digital existence and her lingering desire for closure. This approach creates a unique horror experience where the home itself becomes an active participant in the mystery. The story avoids typical jump scares, focusing instead on the psychological weight of being trapped in technology while seeking justice.
This book was published independently in 2022 by Diana Foronda. It gained recognition as a finalist in the 13Horror.com Film & Screenplay Contest of that same year, situating it within contemporary independent horror publishing and digital-age speculative fiction trends.
📝 Description: CandyByte
💎 Our verdict on CandyByte
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers interested in the intersection of speculative fiction and supernatural mystery will find this title compelling. It appeals to those who enjoy psychological horror that avoids reliance on cheap jump scares, preferring instead to explore the unsettling tension of being trapped within one's own creation. The narrative offers a fresh perspective on the digital afterlife, making it suitable for fans of ghost stories who are weary of traditional gothic settings in ancient estates. Those intrigued by true crime elements or the potential dangers of modern technology will appreciate the investigation-driven plot. It provides a unique horror experience where the domestic environment becomes an active participant in the search for justice and closure.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Foronda delivers a distinct supernatural tale that successfully blends the traditions of ghost stories with the anxieties of technological dependence. By centering the narrative on a spirit inhabiting a smart device, the author creates a compelling dynamic between Charlie and her caretaker Billie. The book excels in maintaining psychological weight rather than relying on visceral shocks, offering a thoughtful exploration of digital existence. This approach suits readers who prefer atmospheric mystery over traditional gothic horror or non-fiction tech accounts. While the focus remains tightly on the domestic setting and the investigation, the interaction between the characters drives the plot forward effectively. It is a strong entry for those seeking modern horror that questions the boundaries between life, death, and technology.
📖 Read on the blog
🏛 Books from this publisher Independently Published
You might also like
See more →Have a question about this item?
Ask about the edition, condition, delivery or anything else — we reply by email or phone, usually within a day.