Playground

Super fucked up

I may be desensitized but I was not shocked or appalled. One part grossed me out but it was not slasher related (no spoilers). I DO have to say, I was impressed with the creativity of the use of cows. I'd say Meh for a book but I'd still watch the movie.

My original review is still below for comparison. However, after much consideration, I have realized that this book, although I am certainly not the target audience, is simply not as good as I originally thought it out to be. I have been digesting the novel’s content since my reading and I think I gave this story way too much credit (sorry Aron). I mean, sure, I found the characters engaging, but maybe that’s my own maternity at play—these are children in danger after all! And then the writing. I was nowhere near specific enough in my previous review on the writing style and how under-edited and down-right uncomfortable it all is. The plot is obviously grim, but the metaphors and backstories are equally concerning. And Geraldine…yeah, her whole character is a bit too much for me. We all know the chapter I’m referring to… Look I said it before and I’ll say it again, splatter-punk is not my forte nor is it a genre I will ever explore again. Yet I can’t help thinking that my naivety is not the only reason I cannot enjoy this book. It’s also because I have no idea what I gained from the experience of reading something this unnecessarily disgusting. We don’t always need lessons or a message from literature, but we do need a takeaway, and if the only takeaway I get is that my original review was too forgiving…that’s not exactly admirable. Well, I guess Beauregard accomplished one thing: I am definitely still thinking about this novel months later. But not in the way he wanted. Rated 3 stars. “I'll be upfront: this book wasn't for me. This was my introduction to splatter-punk, a genre which I'll never again venture. However, this isn't to say I hated the book. In fact, I think Beauregard has accomplished something great with his latest novel. Though the writing could use further editing, and the gorier sections are sometimes too much to stomach, Beauregard has captured a cinematic appreciation that hooked me from the start. And compliments to the characters! Every personality is rich and examined in such refined detail. Attachment is inevitable, making their unfortunate fates all the more harrowing. A great character work that wasn't for me, yet one I enjoyed nonetheless.”

A horror novel that will have you rooting for the kids’ survival while at the same time knowing that not dying will possibly mean a much worse fate. Dare to read this nasty hell of a story about 3 dysfunctional families who get paid by a sick and depraved lady whom experiences sexual arousal from human suffering to test her new playground equipment. Underneath is a set of kid themed games and traps that will force the kids (and parents who get trapped behind a screen leaving then to do nothing but watch in horror) to either work together or be fresh meat for Geraldine’s sick fetishes.

Wow!