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Kitchen Sink
An explosive collection spanning Spencer Hamilton's entire career as a storyteller, Kitchen Sink features stories of literary horror that will unsettle your very core.
Inside you will find a splash of something for everyone: a Kafkaesque creature, a team of time travelers, a mysterious land of giants and talking cats, a man down on his luck at Christmas, a dusty pool table shop that's more than it seems, the nature of memory, Frankenstein's Law, a team of ghost hunters, whispers from a kitchen sink's drain...
Stories of ghosts and of depression, of loss and of fear, of blood and the things we do to one another. Hamilton's gift for writing compelling characters and visceral details will give you glimpses into our nature as human beings and creatures of story. With each turn of the page, Hamilton explores our own perceptions - of ourselves, of our memories, and of each other.
Twenty-eight pieces from one person's story, collected here for the first time.
Inside you will find a splash of something for everyone: a Kafkaesque creature, a team of time travelers, a mysterious land of giants and talking cats, a man down on his luck at Christmas, a dusty pool table shop that's more than it seems, the nature of memory, Frankenstein's Law, a team of ghost hunters, whispers from a kitchen sink's drain...
Stories of ghosts and of depression, of loss and of fear, of blood and the things we do to one another. Hamilton's gift for writing compelling characters and visceral details will give you glimpses into our nature as human beings and creatures of story. With each turn of the page, Hamilton explores our own perceptions - of ourselves, of our memories, and of each other.
Twenty-eight pieces from one person's story, collected here for the first time.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 21, 2021
This review is long overdue. I honestly didn't expect it to take me so long to read, and let me tell you that the reason it did has nothing to do with Spencer's writing. From the oldest pieces to the freshest, his writing style is smooth, fluent, and distinct. He has a way with words that seriously prompts deep thought.
What counts against me as I write this review is the fact that I read about half of this collection, then stopped for a few months, and then dived back in. Many of my thoughts are based on this latter half and what fragmented memories of the first half I can recall.
Not to say the stories aren't memorable. I just have the worst memory of any 24-year-old I've ever met.
There is a great variety of stories within this collection, which probably has something to do with it containing everything Spencer had written up until this point (near enough, anyway).
Much is horror, which is the genre through which Spencer and I struck up a friendship. However, he also has some fantasy tales (another genre we have in common), as well as sci-fi, comedy, and others, some of which defy classification.
Honestly, I think there's something for everyone in here...as long as you like reading, anyway.
Spencer throws social/political commentary into some stories, explores trauma in others, and just has a damn good time with a good number of them.
I loved this collection, and don't think there was a single story that I didn't enjoy. Some weren't as good as others, sure, but none were bad. It was more that many were so good that the others kind of got pushed into the background.
I can't really choose any favourites (especially with the aforementioned break from the first half). I'd definitely like to shout out "Hive", "Promethium 147", "The Movie Massacre", and "The Aria of Avaleon and Aerlin" as incredible stories that have really left an impression on my mind.
What counts against me as I write this review is the fact that I read about half of this collection, then stopped for a few months, and then dived back in. Many of my thoughts are based on this latter half and what fragmented memories of the first half I can recall.
Not to say the stories aren't memorable. I just have the worst memory of any 24-year-old I've ever met.
There is a great variety of stories within this collection, which probably has something to do with it containing everything Spencer had written up until this point (near enough, anyway).
Much is horror, which is the genre through which Spencer and I struck up a friendship. However, he also has some fantasy tales (another genre we have in common), as well as sci-fi, comedy, and others, some of which defy classification.
Honestly, I think there's something for everyone in here...as long as you like reading, anyway.
Spencer throws social/political commentary into some stories, explores trauma in others, and just has a damn good time with a good number of them.
I loved this collection, and don't think there was a single story that I didn't enjoy. Some weren't as good as others, sure, but none were bad. It was more that many were so good that the others kind of got pushed into the background.
I can't really choose any favourites (especially with the aforementioned break from the first half). I'd definitely like to shout out "Hive", "Promethium 147", "The Movie Massacre", and "The Aria of Avaleon and Aerlin" as incredible stories that have really left an impression on my mind.
November 28, 2021
Hamiton's, Kitchen Sink, was my first dive into a short-stories collection. I usually go for novels, but wanted to give it a try. I am so glad I did! These stories were a cacophony of horror splendour that branched off at a multitude of themes and settings. My favourite of all was The Movie Massacre. A brilliantly horrifying write with a killer ending. I'm eternally grateful to Hamilton's collection as it not only provided dark and gruesome entertainment, but it turned me onto a new assortment of books to read and have since, been collecting more anthologies.
I highly recommend giving this collection of short stories a read. There is something for everyone in these stories.
Kitchen Sink
I highly recommend giving this collection of short stories a read. There is something for everyone in these stories.
Kitchen Sink
March 31, 2020
If Stephen King impossibly yet successfully had a love child with H. P. Lovecraft, his name would be Spencer Hamilton.
The whole time I read this collection of horror/sci-fi short stories, I kept thinking, "Why didn't I write this?" Honestly, I was strangely frustrated that I hadn't thought of these stories. Many of Hamilton's stories reminded me so much of the early years of King, which I adored. Think "Night Shift" and "The Shining" and "'Salem's Lot." I was so enamored with the e-book version of this that I bought a signed paperback before I had even finished the book. I knew it needed to be part of my prized collection of indie works.
My top five favorite stories in this masterpiece are:
1. Hive — I find it weird how much I loved this story, because nothing scares me more than insects.
2. Shuffle — An avid lover of time travel, it's no surprise this one made it to my top 2 list. I also loved how this story became an Easter egg in another story. Very clever.
3. Houdini's Last Halloween — I am a sucker for alternative historical fiction, and this one was so intelligently accomplished.
4. Happy Hour — I was so, so, so hoping there would be a vampire story in here. Glory!
5. Autopsy of a Marriage — This story wins the award for most imaginative. I'm not going to explain why. You'll immediately get it when you read it.
Bonus: Love's Embrace is the lovecraftian kind of insanity I just eat up.
Well done, Spencer Hamilton. I'm a fan for life.
The whole time I read this collection of horror/sci-fi short stories, I kept thinking, "Why didn't I write this?" Honestly, I was strangely frustrated that I hadn't thought of these stories. Many of Hamilton's stories reminded me so much of the early years of King, which I adored. Think "Night Shift" and "The Shining" and "'Salem's Lot." I was so enamored with the e-book version of this that I bought a signed paperback before I had even finished the book. I knew it needed to be part of my prized collection of indie works.
My top five favorite stories in this masterpiece are:
1. Hive — I find it weird how much I loved this story, because nothing scares me more than insects.
2. Shuffle — An avid lover of time travel, it's no surprise this one made it to my top 2 list. I also loved how this story became an Easter egg in another story. Very clever.
3. Houdini's Last Halloween — I am a sucker for alternative historical fiction, and this one was so intelligently accomplished.
4. Happy Hour — I was so, so, so hoping there would be a vampire story in here. Glory!
5. Autopsy of a Marriage — This story wins the award for most imaginative. I'm not going to explain why. You'll immediately get it when you read it.
Bonus: Love's Embrace is the lovecraftian kind of insanity I just eat up.
Well done, Spencer Hamilton. I'm a fan for life.
July 29, 2020
This is a collection of short stories in varying lengths and has something for everyone. The focus on horror but there are some psychological thrillers, sci-fi, and ghost stories.
Each story is independent, so you can indulge at any point or what ever mood moves you. I really enjoyed the compelling characters and the vivid details. Highly recommend if your looking for variety and enjoy good tales that you can enjoy when you have quick moments of time.
If I had to pick my favorites, cuz really they are all good with their own rights of course...
Hive
Truth is a Dragon
Ten Thousand Steps
Autopsy of a Marriage
The Dreams of Alexis Wild
Again tough to pick favorites but there you go, I did it :)
Each story is independent, so you can indulge at any point or what ever mood moves you. I really enjoyed the compelling characters and the vivid details. Highly recommend if your looking for variety and enjoy good tales that you can enjoy when you have quick moments of time.
If I had to pick my favorites, cuz really they are all good with their own rights of course...
Hive
Truth is a Dragon
Ten Thousand Steps
Autopsy of a Marriage
The Dreams of Alexis Wild
Again tough to pick favorites but there you go, I did it :)
February 21, 2021
WOW, what a great book! I think (hence the title) there's really something for everyone in this great short story collection. I think my faves were "Happy Hour" (can't go wrong with VAMPIRES), "Hive" (what a great way to start things out), and "The War on Christmas" (sadly I was like THIS SOUNDS LIKE A TRUE STORY). Spencer truly has a gift and I love his writing style. I know I said it in my review of "The Fear" but he really does give me Stephen King (but thankfully waaaaaaay less pervy...at least in his books anyway I don't know him personally HAHAHA) vibes. Can't wait to see where his writing career goes and he's an instant buy for me.
READ MORE INDIE AUTHORS!!!!!!!!!!!
READ MORE INDIE AUTHORS!!!!!!!!!!!
March 22, 2021
This collection of stories is, in a word, impressive.
More than two dozen stories are collected in this book. From creepy-crawlies to vampires, fantasy to chilling paranormal, heartfelt exposition to straight-up gore and violence, the stories within are very creative, original and exceedingly well-written.
Hamilton doesn't mess around, and he's not afraid of taking chances. Some of these stories are odd in their initial premise, but Hamilton makes them work just the same. He grabs your attention and pulls you in, not always bothering to explain why something is. I appreciate this boldness, as I feel that a short story shouldn't require much explanation. It just needs to speak to the reader with confidence that what is happening simply is happening, and to strap in for the ride. SOWISA, as it were.
Not every story spoke to me, but a majority of them did. One in particular makes me excited for the release of Hamilton's future works.
More than two dozen stories are collected in this book. From creepy-crawlies to vampires, fantasy to chilling paranormal, heartfelt exposition to straight-up gore and violence, the stories within are very creative, original and exceedingly well-written.
Hamilton doesn't mess around, and he's not afraid of taking chances. Some of these stories are odd in their initial premise, but Hamilton makes them work just the same. He grabs your attention and pulls you in, not always bothering to explain why something is. I appreciate this boldness, as I feel that a short story shouldn't require much explanation. It just needs to speak to the reader with confidence that what is happening simply is happening, and to strap in for the ride. SOWISA, as it were.
Not every story spoke to me, but a majority of them did. One in particular makes me excited for the release of Hamilton's future works.
May 9, 2021
Short story collections are difficult to rate and review because you have stories that you really enjoyed mixed in with those that didn’t quite vibe with you. Kitchen Sink, however, is one that I feel good about recommending.
Over half of the stories presented in this collection were worthy of 4-5 star ratings in my book. Hamilton’s writing feels fresh and timely while also being fun to read.
My favorites in the collection ended up being the shorter stories that pack the most punch (such as Love’s Embrace, The Seuss, and A Rebellion in Words).
I also have to shout out the brilliant social commentary in Hamilton’s stories (Promethium 147, and A Story About Fear).
Kitchen Sink is definitely a favorite short story collection and I hope to read more from Hamilton soon!
Over half of the stories presented in this collection were worthy of 4-5 star ratings in my book. Hamilton’s writing feels fresh and timely while also being fun to read.
My favorites in the collection ended up being the shorter stories that pack the most punch (such as Love’s Embrace, The Seuss, and A Rebellion in Words).
I also have to shout out the brilliant social commentary in Hamilton’s stories (Promethium 147, and A Story About Fear).
Kitchen Sink is definitely a favorite short story collection and I hope to read more from Hamilton soon!
November 16, 2021
I honestly don't know how to properly review this one. Not every story will hit home with you but everyone will find a story that hits home in this collection. A veritable smorgasbord of stories kept things interesting throughout and kept me on my toes. Spencer Hamilton has a distinct talent to transcend genres and write across several. From longer form to flash fiction that lasted a page, there were no duds (in my opinion) in this collection. Even something as simple as The Suess or The Hole had me hooked. Hive absolutely had me needing more in that world.
February 18, 2021
A collection of short stories, with some amusing flash fiction thrown in, which explores all manner of monsters and reveals the core nature of humanity and its many hidden horrors. Lovecraft meets Tarantino!! The stories within these pages span the length of Hamilton's career as a writer, and like King or Hill, he is proving to be a deep well of imagination...
.
When I started reading this, I couldn't stop. Each and every story raises interesting questions about humans and monsters. Hamilton is skilled in creating vivid imagery with his words, with a cinematic and often animated style, and the stories played out in my head like a good film or graphic novel. Hamilton has the ability to write fiction as equally entertaining and frightening as Poe or Lovecraft, but he is indeed a writer for the modern age. Other influences struck me throughout this book, including cinematic horror, Breaking Bad, and Quentin Tarantino - of which there are a few direct references. There are some compelling characters, with some equally brilliant names.
.
Hamilton is my kind of writer. We seem to share similar interests and influences, literary, film and directing styles. He also inspires me as a writer - not an easy task. Every now and then he slips a word that I'm unfamiliar with into his text (such as 'Alabaster') that I have to look up, and I do love to build my vocabulary, so thanks for that!!
.
Whether you're a reader, writer or film buff, looking for something entertaining and original to read, then you should definitely check out Kitchen Sink... I'm excited to read Hamilton's novel, The Fear.
.
When I started reading this, I couldn't stop. Each and every story raises interesting questions about humans and monsters. Hamilton is skilled in creating vivid imagery with his words, with a cinematic and often animated style, and the stories played out in my head like a good film or graphic novel. Hamilton has the ability to write fiction as equally entertaining and frightening as Poe or Lovecraft, but he is indeed a writer for the modern age. Other influences struck me throughout this book, including cinematic horror, Breaking Bad, and Quentin Tarantino - of which there are a few direct references. There are some compelling characters, with some equally brilliant names.
.
Hamilton is my kind of writer. We seem to share similar interests and influences, literary, film and directing styles. He also inspires me as a writer - not an easy task. Every now and then he slips a word that I'm unfamiliar with into his text (such as 'Alabaster') that I have to look up, and I do love to build my vocabulary, so thanks for that!!
.
Whether you're a reader, writer or film buff, looking for something entertaining and original to read, then you should definitely check out Kitchen Sink... I'm excited to read Hamilton's novel, The Fear.
August 7, 2024
WHAT A FEAT! Hamilton presents us with 28 stories, all fresh and unique. A style reminiscent to me of Stephen King and Ray Bradbury, the stories are addictive from the start. I like to keep my reviews spoiler free so I’ll name some of my favorites:
“Hive”
“The Diary”
“Gravitas Mortem”
“The Seuss”
“Joe Builds a Sunset”
“The Movie Massacre”
“Houdini’s Last Halloween”
“A Story About Fear”
“The Kitchen Sink”
Though these aren’t in a particular order, “Hive”remained my favorite throughout, but I thoroughly enjoyed every story, as each presented a great premise with fantastic writing. Hamilton’s collection explores a wide range of genres but I highly recommend it to everyone!
“Hive”
“The Diary”
“Gravitas Mortem”
“The Seuss”
“Joe Builds a Sunset”
“The Movie Massacre”
“Houdini’s Last Halloween”
“A Story About Fear”
“The Kitchen Sink”
Though these aren’t in a particular order, “Hive”remained my favorite throughout, but I thoroughly enjoyed every story, as each presented a great premise with fantastic writing. Hamilton’s collection explores a wide range of genres but I highly recommend it to everyone!
March 5, 2021
Fun, and horrifying tales. Sad, yet comforting stories. Quirky, but philosophical yarns. This short story collection has it all.
Beautiful prose graces nearly every page.
Can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next. For fans of Stephen King, John Langan, and Joe Hill, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this book!
Beautiful prose graces nearly every page.
Can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next. For fans of Stephen King, John Langan, and Joe Hill, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this book!
October 2, 2020
I don’t read a lot of short stories, but now and then it’s nice to switch to a different writing form in order to cleanse your palette from what you normally enjoy. It stretches the imagination and keeps you curious. So when one of my editors released a collection of short stories called Kitchen Sink, I thought this was the perfect opportunity for me to break with my usual patterns and try something fresh.
Likely titled as a play on the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink,” Hamilton’s short story collection has tremendous range. Horror, fantasy, and Sci-Fi are all touched between its covers, and most of them bring experimental twists that are most welcome. This creates a jelly bean experience that keeps you guess what flavor is coming next.
Now that we’re into the season of fear, this is the perfect collection of shorts for fans of fantasy that want to ease into something that touches on the fantastic while having its roots deeply planted in horror. Also Stephen King fans. This is for you too.
Likely titled as a play on the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink,” Hamilton’s short story collection has tremendous range. Horror, fantasy, and Sci-Fi are all touched between its covers, and most of them bring experimental twists that are most welcome. This creates a jelly bean experience that keeps you guess what flavor is coming next.
Now that we’re into the season of fear, this is the perfect collection of shorts for fans of fantasy that want to ease into something that touches on the fantastic while having its roots deeply planted in horror. Also Stephen King fans. This is for you too.
March 9, 2021
🎃Gloom Review🎃
“What I’m trying to say, sir...I don’t think empty-headed tradition, the belief that that’s the way it has always been and so that is how it shall always be, is an acceptable answer.”
This short story collection, as the title hints at, has a little bit of everything.
If you’re looking for horror, you’ll find it.👻
If you’re looking for tears, you’ll get those too.😢
If you’re looking for some stories that’ll make you think, the author has provided them.🤔
Overall, this fantastic collection offers one fun read after another.👌🏼
@nerdywordsmith is another #authorsofinstagram and, in my humble opinion, he also deserves recognition outside of the #bookstagram sphere.
This particular book contains 28 (one of them is a bonus tucked into the Acknowledgments section) short stories. While the majority of the tales are horror genre, there are a few that fall under the literary, fantasy, & sci-fi umbrellas.☂
My four favorites were:👇🏼
Some authors save the best for last, but this collection’s opener, “Hive” was one of the strongest in the book! It had strong Kafka vibes. If you’re into insect stories, don’t sleep on this one.🐜
“Joe Builds a Sunset,” while not horror, was my absolute favorite story. It’s full of heart & philosophy, which made this emotional nerd extremely happy!🤓☀️
If you’re a fan of slasher films, like I am, then you’re sure to enjoy the thrill ride that is “The Movie Massacre.” Spencer puts a fun little twist on the “what if the movie wasn’t actually a movie?” trope. If you like Scream, you’ll dig this story.🔪
“Pool Tables of the Future” is one for fans of gang/sci-fi/horror mashups. Think Sons of Anarchy meets Stephen King’s “The Drawing of the Three.” This tale is sure to pull you in (you’ll understand this nod, if you’ve read it) and leave you wanting more.🎱
Honorable mentions:
I’m normally not a big sci-fi fan, but I appreciated this one. “The Wormhole in Edwin’s Cubicle” packs an emotional wallop & leaves you with lingering questions.
“Houdini’s Last Halloween” is a fun little yarn that mixes historical fiction with Lovecraftian horror elements.🎩
I give this a well-deserved:
⭐️ 5/5 ⭐️
“What I’m trying to say, sir...I don’t think empty-headed tradition, the belief that that’s the way it has always been and so that is how it shall always be, is an acceptable answer.”
This short story collection, as the title hints at, has a little bit of everything.
If you’re looking for horror, you’ll find it.👻
If you’re looking for tears, you’ll get those too.😢
If you’re looking for some stories that’ll make you think, the author has provided them.🤔
Overall, this fantastic collection offers one fun read after another.👌🏼
@nerdywordsmith is another #authorsofinstagram and, in my humble opinion, he also deserves recognition outside of the #bookstagram sphere.
This particular book contains 28 (one of them is a bonus tucked into the Acknowledgments section) short stories. While the majority of the tales are horror genre, there are a few that fall under the literary, fantasy, & sci-fi umbrellas.☂
My four favorites were:👇🏼
Some authors save the best for last, but this collection’s opener, “Hive” was one of the strongest in the book! It had strong Kafka vibes. If you’re into insect stories, don’t sleep on this one.🐜
“Joe Builds a Sunset,” while not horror, was my absolute favorite story. It’s full of heart & philosophy, which made this emotional nerd extremely happy!🤓☀️
If you’re a fan of slasher films, like I am, then you’re sure to enjoy the thrill ride that is “The Movie Massacre.” Spencer puts a fun little twist on the “what if the movie wasn’t actually a movie?” trope. If you like Scream, you’ll dig this story.🔪
“Pool Tables of the Future” is one for fans of gang/sci-fi/horror mashups. Think Sons of Anarchy meets Stephen King’s “The Drawing of the Three.” This tale is sure to pull you in (you’ll understand this nod, if you’ve read it) and leave you wanting more.🎱
Honorable mentions:
I’m normally not a big sci-fi fan, but I appreciated this one. “The Wormhole in Edwin’s Cubicle” packs an emotional wallop & leaves you with lingering questions.
“Houdini’s Last Halloween” is a fun little yarn that mixes historical fiction with Lovecraftian horror elements.🎩
I give this a well-deserved:
⭐️ 5/5 ⭐️
January 31, 2022
What a collection of short stories. I'd settled myself in for good old horror stories but found so much more. A great mix of gothic horror, psychological twists, supernatural stories, and also surprisingly emotional tales.
As with any collection there were some that I enjoyed more than others, but my favourites (but it was hard to whittle 28 down to a handful) were as follows:
"Hive" was a great creepy start which had my flesh crawling,
"Happy Hour" felt like a classic horror story (I was getting From Dusk Til Dawn vibes from the start),
"Joe Builds a Sunset" hit me out of nowhere with the feels, literally tearing up - so thanks for that Spencer,
"The Movie Massacre" was dark but also reminded me of 90s slasher films,
"The War on Christmas" I thought was cleverly done, and
"The Dreams of Alexis Wild" was shocking - I didn't see that ending coming.
I was less keen on the very short ones, but that's just a personal preference.
Overall, some great stories in here that I'd love to see expanded - and talking to the author I believe my wish will be granted. A great taster of Spencer for those who want to dip their toe before diving into his main novel The Fear (which I would also recommend).
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from Voracious Readers Only and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
As with any collection there were some that I enjoyed more than others, but my favourites (but it was hard to whittle 28 down to a handful) were as follows:
"Hive" was a great creepy start which had my flesh crawling,
"Happy Hour" felt like a classic horror story (I was getting From Dusk Til Dawn vibes from the start),
"Joe Builds a Sunset" hit me out of nowhere with the feels, literally tearing up - so thanks for that Spencer,
"The Movie Massacre" was dark but also reminded me of 90s slasher films,
"The War on Christmas" I thought was cleverly done, and
"The Dreams of Alexis Wild" was shocking - I didn't see that ending coming.
I was less keen on the very short ones, but that's just a personal preference.
Overall, some great stories in here that I'd love to see expanded - and talking to the author I believe my wish will be granted. A great taster of Spencer for those who want to dip their toe before diving into his main novel The Fear (which I would also recommend).
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from Voracious Readers Only and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 22, 2021
Kitchen Sink is a collection of horrors brilliantly told. They are unsettling, clever and at times funny. There's different genres of horror in this novel Hamilton really did think of it all from creatures to time travel, to a terrible Christmas eve and whispers from a kitchen sink.
The story's are of depression and loss, of fear and love. Hamilton is such a gifted writer as his story's come together so cleverly that every ending left me in awe! 28 short stories collected together as one horrifying mash-up.
It's hard to pick favourites but Hamilton really hit the ground running with Hive, it was so unsettling and it left my skin itching, I'll definitely remember that one! Happy Hour was also another favourite. It left me worried as to what would happen if Hamilton and Nick Harper went on a night out together as they've both written a short story that starts off as a simple pint but ends up in a blood massacre.
I could go on for ever describing every story but you have my word if you're a fan of horror you'll absolutely love this!
The story's are of depression and loss, of fear and love. Hamilton is such a gifted writer as his story's come together so cleverly that every ending left me in awe! 28 short stories collected together as one horrifying mash-up.
It's hard to pick favourites but Hamilton really hit the ground running with Hive, it was so unsettling and it left my skin itching, I'll definitely remember that one! Happy Hour was also another favourite. It left me worried as to what would happen if Hamilton and Nick Harper went on a night out together as they've both written a short story that starts off as a simple pint but ends up in a blood massacre.
I could go on for ever describing every story but you have my word if you're a fan of horror you'll absolutely love this!
March 10, 2020
An interesting collection of short stories. Some of which interconnect, all are stand alone. I found them to be a cross between light horror and sci-fi. Each story was original and managed to captivate the reader.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Voracious Readers for an unbiased review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Voracious Readers for an unbiased review.
July 12, 2020
📕Spoiler Free Book Review📕
•
Kitchen Sink by Spencer Hamilton ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5)
•
Short story collections are one of my favorite things to read, and the most difficult for me to review, but I’ll try my best. The stories included here vary in length, subject, and in the emotions they evoke. In other words, there’s a little something for everyone here.
•
I didn’t love every story here, but that’s not what I look for in a collection like this. If I enjoy more than half, then I consider it a good book I’d recommend and I’d definitely recommend this one. Some stories made me chuckle, others made me sad, and a few made my skin crawl in the best possible way. Almost every one made me think and that’s what I enjoy most of all.
•
There were times I felt like the writer was trying to find his way, not surprising since these stories were written over a span of 13 years with the earliest at age 17. While I don’t know the order the material was written in, I could see growth and improvement in some stories that I would guess were written more recently, and I liked some aspects of both.
•
Some of the stories that I enjoyed the most were Hive, The Diary, The Wormhole in Edwin’s Cubicle, Happy Hour, Joe Builds a Sunset, Houdini’s Last Halloween, and The Dreams of Alexis Wild.
•
Spencer’s debut horror novel, The Fear, comes out on 8/11/20 and after reading this, I can’t wait to add it to my shelves!
•
Kitchen Sink by Spencer Hamilton ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5)
•
Short story collections are one of my favorite things to read, and the most difficult for me to review, but I’ll try my best. The stories included here vary in length, subject, and in the emotions they evoke. In other words, there’s a little something for everyone here.
•
I didn’t love every story here, but that’s not what I look for in a collection like this. If I enjoy more than half, then I consider it a good book I’d recommend and I’d definitely recommend this one. Some stories made me chuckle, others made me sad, and a few made my skin crawl in the best possible way. Almost every one made me think and that’s what I enjoy most of all.
•
There were times I felt like the writer was trying to find his way, not surprising since these stories were written over a span of 13 years with the earliest at age 17. While I don’t know the order the material was written in, I could see growth and improvement in some stories that I would guess were written more recently, and I liked some aspects of both.
•
Some of the stories that I enjoyed the most were Hive, The Diary, The Wormhole in Edwin’s Cubicle, Happy Hour, Joe Builds a Sunset, Houdini’s Last Halloween, and The Dreams of Alexis Wild.
•
Spencer’s debut horror novel, The Fear, comes out on 8/11/20 and after reading this, I can’t wait to add it to my shelves!
March 28, 2021
Finally the kitchen sink is thrown in
This is a collection of short stories, some very short indeed. A little thriller, a little fantasy, a few that left me scratching my head. Houdini's Last Halloween The Movie Massacre and Shuffle were my three favorites. I felt sorry for Edwin in The Wormhole in Edwin's Cubicle. Happy Hour reminded me of True Blood. Joe Builds a Sunset just made me sad.
This is a collection of short stories, some very short indeed. A little thriller, a little fantasy, a few that left me scratching my head. Houdini's Last Halloween The Movie Massacre and Shuffle were my three favorites. I felt sorry for Edwin in The Wormhole in Edwin's Cubicle. Happy Hour reminded me of True Blood. Joe Builds a Sunset just made me sad.
March 7, 2020
Just started this awesome book.
January 16, 2025
3.5 stars
Did Not Finish
November 7, 2025DNF. Not sure how every review on this book is 4-5 stars. I read the first four stories and just rolled my eyes. The stories that are only two pages long are so odd. Not my cup of tea.
April 1, 2020
This is a series of short stories, some really good, some not as good. There's the "I don't even know what I just read" and the "Wow, I wish that one had been longer." I certainly wouldn't tell anyone not to read this book. If you like stories that are a bit off the wall, well then, this might just be the book for you.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
May 5, 2020
3 stars
I received a copy of Kitchen Sink from Veracious Readers in exchange for an honest review and I quite enjoyed this book. Kitchen Sink is a collection of horror/monster short stories from author Spencer Hamilton, and there are many different types of stories that should appeal to readers that include murder, dragons, vampires, talking voices, and creepy crawley insects.
There are a total of twenty seven stories in all, and for the most part, I enjoyed the majority of them. As with any book of short stories, there were a few that left much to be desired for me, but overall, they were pretty good. I am going to list a few favourite ones and they include The Hive, The Diary, Happy Hour (My favourite short story of the book by far), The War on Christmas, The Dreams of Alexis Wild, and Pool Tables of the Future. Some of my least favourite stories were Love's Embrace, Promethium 147, The Wormhole in Edwin's Cubicle, and Truth is a Dragon. I just could not really get into these stories, and that is okay because there was enough short stories in the entire book to leave me satisfied.
The stories offered time travel, death, violence and some of them were even pretty creepy, especially The Hive, which is the first story of the book. The Hive focuses on insects and I can definitely say I was feeling the heebie jeebies while reading this story. The book started off strong with this story and my attention was immediately captured and I was hooked. My favourite story of the whole book was Happy Hour and this story focuses on vampires. It was suductive, action-packed, and also gruesome. What's not to like?
Kitchen Sink is a great book that will interest a wide variety of readers as it has so much to offer. I would unquestionably recommend Kitchen Sink to other readers who enjoy this genre.
I received a copy of Kitchen Sink from Veracious Readers in exchange for an honest review and I quite enjoyed this book. Kitchen Sink is a collection of horror/monster short stories from author Spencer Hamilton, and there are many different types of stories that should appeal to readers that include murder, dragons, vampires, talking voices, and creepy crawley insects.
There are a total of twenty seven stories in all, and for the most part, I enjoyed the majority of them. As with any book of short stories, there were a few that left much to be desired for me, but overall, they were pretty good. I am going to list a few favourite ones and they include The Hive, The Diary, Happy Hour (My favourite short story of the book by far), The War on Christmas, The Dreams of Alexis Wild, and Pool Tables of the Future. Some of my least favourite stories were Love's Embrace, Promethium 147, The Wormhole in Edwin's Cubicle, and Truth is a Dragon. I just could not really get into these stories, and that is okay because there was enough short stories in the entire book to leave me satisfied.
The stories offered time travel, death, violence and some of them were even pretty creepy, especially The Hive, which is the first story of the book. The Hive focuses on insects and I can definitely say I was feeling the heebie jeebies while reading this story. The book started off strong with this story and my attention was immediately captured and I was hooked. My favourite story of the whole book was Happy Hour and this story focuses on vampires. It was suductive, action-packed, and also gruesome. What's not to like?
Kitchen Sink is a great book that will interest a wide variety of readers as it has so much to offer. I would unquestionably recommend Kitchen Sink to other readers who enjoy this genre.
April 22, 2023
In Kitchen Sink, Spencer Hamilton seeks to tame that elusive beast we call the short story, and he succeeds deftly in a volume that makes a playground of multiple genres.
Hamilton's command of short fiction is rich, lush, and born of immersive storytelling that would make Bradbury & Oates proud. He pens tales that invoke horror, science fiction, and the darkest fantasy. It's especially impressive to see him leap from genre to genre while keeping each narrative individualized & with the high quality writing wholly intact.
A few favorites...
Hive: A mixture of gruesome body horror & supervillain origin story. The two tropes perfectly spliced.
Happy Hour: A nerve-shredding foray into nightclub vampirism that you won't soon forget.
The Kitchen Sink: This one is pure bubbling dread from the drain. The backdrop is the brittle toxicity of a relationship that has grown poisoned, and each mocking whisper from the kitchen sink just makes it worse and worse...
Hamilton's passion for short fiction burns like a spreading inferno, and this writer has a bright flame-lit future ahead of him.
Hamilton's command of short fiction is rich, lush, and born of immersive storytelling that would make Bradbury & Oates proud. He pens tales that invoke horror, science fiction, and the darkest fantasy. It's especially impressive to see him leap from genre to genre while keeping each narrative individualized & with the high quality writing wholly intact.
A few favorites...
Hive: A mixture of gruesome body horror & supervillain origin story. The two tropes perfectly spliced.
Happy Hour: A nerve-shredding foray into nightclub vampirism that you won't soon forget.
The Kitchen Sink: This one is pure bubbling dread from the drain. The backdrop is the brittle toxicity of a relationship that has grown poisoned, and each mocking whisper from the kitchen sink just makes it worse and worse...
Hamilton's passion for short fiction burns like a spreading inferno, and this writer has a bright flame-lit future ahead of him.
March 14, 2022
I got into Spencer’s work during 2021 through his Smileyland stories, so was very curious to see his earlier stuff, which is what is collected in this thorough tome. Anyone else introduced to Spencer via stabby psychos with a creepy mask expecting more of the same won’t get that, but they won’t be disappointed either. On the whole, this collection is excellent, and showcases how Spencer is more than just a pretty, smiley face. Some of this is literary, some is introspective, and some is just plain weird in the best way possible. There were a couple here that didn’t quite hit the mark for me, but that’s not to take anything away from what is a bold and impressive collection.
January 29, 2022
This 2020 debut short story collection by indie horror author Spencer Hamilton turns two today!
Featuring twenty-eight “weird little” short stories with wild concepts, Kitchen Sink contains everything: a lot of horror, some sci-fi, a supervillain, and interesting experimental literature. These stories cover a wide range, but still cohere. I loved the surprises!
You’ll be certain to find characters and powerful imagery that will stick with you in these pages. I’m definitely keeping a closer eye on my bug boy after reading “The Hive.” 😂
Featuring twenty-eight “weird little” short stories with wild concepts, Kitchen Sink contains everything: a lot of horror, some sci-fi, a supervillain, and interesting experimental literature. These stories cover a wide range, but still cohere. I loved the surprises!
You’ll be certain to find characters and powerful imagery that will stick with you in these pages. I’m definitely keeping a closer eye on my bug boy after reading “The Hive.” 😂
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