Night Shoot by David Sodergren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Night Shoot was independently published back in 2019, and I’ve owned a paperback copy ever since. For some reason unknown to man, I’ve yet to pick it up though.
When I saw that Tantor, aka. RB Media, was releasing an audio copy, it’s first time in audiobook format, I was elated. It was finally time to pick up this stunning Horror novel that’s been haunting my shelves for almost a decade.
In this story, we follow a group of student filmmakers trying to complete a project for Uni. The setting of the film will be the remote Crawford Manor estate, which is owned by the Uncle of one of the students.
They’re given rules at the start. Certain places within the home that are off limits and a strict directive to depart by 8 p.m., but after their lead actress quits, throwing off their schedule, they feel like they’ve accomplished nothing by the time they’re supposed to be wrapping up. Nevertheless, they do leave the premises; for now.
After leaving, the group has a deep chat and decides an impromptu night shoot is a must if they’re to have any hope of completing the project. Thus, they proceed to break back into the property to continue filming. Who in the crowd thinks that’s a smart decision?
As one would imagine, things start going to pot pretty quickly. It’s clear they’re not alone within the Manor, but they could never imagine how brutal and twisted their night would become.
Y’all, this was so fun. It’s like the ghastly Horror movies of my youth. I loved how Sodergren channeled all those f*ed up vibes here. This felt like a film brought to life on the page. I could picture everything, it had all the classic stereotypical characters and compelling set-up.
I thought the audiobook was great as well. The narrator successfully brought great energy to the characters as the intensity continued to build. It got fairly disgusting towards the end, NGL. My toes are still curling. I had a blast!
This is not for the weak-stomached, anyone unaccustomed to gore, or anyone wanting to try Horror for the first time. Maybe you want to dip your toes into that Horror pool, but trust me, Sodergren is looking to shove you in the deep end.
For anyone who loves Horror films though, particularly those released in the 70s and 80s, this is a must read. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to your younger days. The days of copious blood, guts and final girls.
Thank you so much to the publisher of the new audiobook, Tantor Media, for providing me with a copy to listen to. This was great and I can’t wait to read more from D. Sodergren!