What do you think?
Rate this book
Welcome to Smileyland
Welcome, welcome, welcome . . . to Smileyland!
Come on inside, smile wide, and take Mister Smiley's hand!
This '90s queer slasher novella follows Ramirez and friends to the abandoned amusement park nobody's heard of: Smileyland! It's all fun and games until the bodies start piling up.
Welcome to Smileyland is the first Smileyland adventure, but it's not the last! The story continues in the short story "Smile At all the Good Times We Had," first published in the Blood Rites Horror anthology Welcome to the Funhouse, and there's much more where that came from!
Strap in, and remember to keep your sickles sharp.
[NOTE: This ebook is FREE to download on the author's website.]
Come on inside, smile wide, and take Mister Smiley's hand!
This '90s queer slasher novella follows Ramirez and friends to the abandoned amusement park nobody's heard of: Smileyland! It's all fun and games until the bodies start piling up.
Welcome to Smileyland is the first Smileyland adventure, but it's not the last! The story continues in the short story "Smile At all the Good Times We Had," first published in the Blood Rites Horror anthology Welcome to the Funhouse, and there's much more where that came from!
Strap in, and remember to keep your sickles sharp.
[NOTE: This ebook is FREE to download on the author's website.]
138 pages, ebook
Published July 12, 2021
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 29, 2021
A slasher story if there ever was one, WELCOME TO SMILEYLAND is a bloody, violent thrill ride that has it all: a diverse cast, a spooky setting, and tons of blood.
This isn't your typical slasher, though. The characters are well defined and complex, which gives each of them motivation and context as they complete their individual arcs. The villain in the story, Mr. Smiley, is truly terrifying as he lurks in the shadows, waiting for his opportunity to strike.
Rife with suspense, surprise, and morbidly imaginative theme park-related violence, this story kept pace from beginning to end. I'll never look at a popcorn machine quite the same ever again. The ending was brutal and swift, catching me off guard in the best way possible.
This was a fun and fast, gruesome story. Get your copy today, and put a smile on your own face.
This isn't your typical slasher, though. The characters are well defined and complex, which gives each of them motivation and context as they complete their individual arcs. The villain in the story, Mr. Smiley, is truly terrifying as he lurks in the shadows, waiting for his opportunity to strike.
Rife with suspense, surprise, and morbidly imaginative theme park-related violence, this story kept pace from beginning to end. I'll never look at a popcorn machine quite the same ever again. The ending was brutal and swift, catching me off guard in the best way possible.
This was a fun and fast, gruesome story. Get your copy today, and put a smile on your own face.
April 26, 2022
I had a total blast reading WELCOME TO SMILEYLAND by Spencer Hamilton. Give me all the slasher horror forever and ever! I enjoyed the setting of this one a ton; theme parks are under utilized and I just need more of that. Abandoned theme parks are even creepier! Seriously, go research them and you'll see so many haunting photos of these landmarks that used to thrive with energy and noise and are now crumbling, overgrown, and faded. It's eerie.
I loved the sickle weapon in this a whole lot. And loved the use of the popcorn machine - I used to work concessions at a movie theater in college and can TOTALLY envision the entire scene.
If you're looking for a quick slasher story with some fun characters, cool death scenes, and abandoned theme park vibes then this is 100% the one you need to check out!
I loved the sickle weapon in this a whole lot. And loved the use of the popcorn machine - I used to work concessions at a movie theater in college and can TOTALLY envision the entire scene.
If you're looking for a quick slasher story with some fun characters, cool death scenes, and abandoned theme park vibes then this is 100% the one you need to check out!
August 11, 2021
“Welcome to Smileyland” is a curious novella.
And what makes it so curious, you may ask? Well, mainly two things.
“Welcome, welcome, welcome to Smileyland. Come on inside, smile wide, and take Mister Smiley’s hand!”
First of all, it’s a free book. The only thing you have to do is subscribe to the author's newsletter and you’ll get it. Not that big of a deal for a free book, right? But it gets better.
Secondly, this is also the start of a bigger journey. You see, “Welcome to Smileyland” is the first story author Spencer Hamilton set in the interesting amusement park he so aptly named… Smileyland, you’ve guessed it.
The story focuses on a group of teenage friends who decide to go to the park to blow off some steam. None of them's been there before because the park closed some years ago. The reasons for that vary depending on who you ask.
So, the friends arrive at the park, start exploring, and that’s when things start getting strange. Equipment comes to life, lights turn on and off, rides start working on their own, and there’s the eerie feeling that they're being watched. Plus all the smiley faces peering from every corner you look at.
The reality they soon discover is that they're not alone at the park. Not only is a family in the grounds with them but something worse that starts targeting the five of them, one by one.
“It was all the deaths, each one more unexplainable than the last. Rides broke down for no reason. Wildlife grew extra wild. Children got lost in the Fun House of Mirrors and cut themselves to ribbons on the glass. One kid ate so much cotton candy he burst like a water balloon. Some say you can still hear him stuffing his face full of the fluffy pink stuff.”
The way this story is written makes it a surprisingly enjoyable read, even amidst all the blood, gore, and death that permeate the pages. It just makes you want to know more. Not only about what’s happening but about the park itself.
Spencer’s writing is details-oriented, and the way he fleshes out the characters is one of the stronger points of the book. The primary cast is composed of gay, hetero, and non-binary characters, and that's more than just the author's choice - it's important to the story and to the way events unfold.
If I’m being honest, it was a bit strange to read the plural as a reference to the non-binary character at first. My mind would always think that it referred to more than one character and not that specific one. But it didn’t take me long to know whom it was referring to.
In a way, it helped me know how to deal with that not just in this book but in real life too.
“The last thing she heard, to the distant soundtrack of a calliope, was: “Now you’ll NEVER stop smiling!” A chuckle, children’s faint laughter, a flash of the sickle... Then nothing.”
Bottom line, I can’t wait for more journeys into Smileyland and all the secrets it hides.
And never forget… Don’t stop smiling.
And what makes it so curious, you may ask? Well, mainly two things.
“Welcome, welcome, welcome to Smileyland. Come on inside, smile wide, and take Mister Smiley’s hand!”
First of all, it’s a free book. The only thing you have to do is subscribe to the author's newsletter and you’ll get it. Not that big of a deal for a free book, right? But it gets better.
Secondly, this is also the start of a bigger journey. You see, “Welcome to Smileyland” is the first story author Spencer Hamilton set in the interesting amusement park he so aptly named… Smileyland, you’ve guessed it.
The story focuses on a group of teenage friends who decide to go to the park to blow off some steam. None of them's been there before because the park closed some years ago. The reasons for that vary depending on who you ask.
So, the friends arrive at the park, start exploring, and that’s when things start getting strange. Equipment comes to life, lights turn on and off, rides start working on their own, and there’s the eerie feeling that they're being watched. Plus all the smiley faces peering from every corner you look at.
The reality they soon discover is that they're not alone at the park. Not only is a family in the grounds with them but something worse that starts targeting the five of them, one by one.
“It was all the deaths, each one more unexplainable than the last. Rides broke down for no reason. Wildlife grew extra wild. Children got lost in the Fun House of Mirrors and cut themselves to ribbons on the glass. One kid ate so much cotton candy he burst like a water balloon. Some say you can still hear him stuffing his face full of the fluffy pink stuff.”
The way this story is written makes it a surprisingly enjoyable read, even amidst all the blood, gore, and death that permeate the pages. It just makes you want to know more. Not only about what’s happening but about the park itself.
Spencer’s writing is details-oriented, and the way he fleshes out the characters is one of the stronger points of the book. The primary cast is composed of gay, hetero, and non-binary characters, and that's more than just the author's choice - it's important to the story and to the way events unfold.
If I’m being honest, it was a bit strange to read the plural as a reference to the non-binary character at first. My mind would always think that it referred to more than one character and not that specific one. But it didn’t take me long to know whom it was referring to.
In a way, it helped me know how to deal with that not just in this book but in real life too.
“The last thing she heard, to the distant soundtrack of a calliope, was: “Now you’ll NEVER stop smiling!” A chuckle, children’s faint laughter, a flash of the sickle... Then nothing.”
Bottom line, I can’t wait for more journeys into Smileyland and all the secrets it hides.
And never forget… Don’t stop smiling.
August 3, 2025
A creepy, abandoned amusement park. A group of teens armed with beer, gas station snacks, and flashlights. What could possibly go wrong?
Welcome to Smileyland is a delightfully twisted final girl slasher with sharp queer representation and a killer sense of fun. Ramirez, a nonbinary military brat with zero interest in bonding, gets dragged along by a group of semi-friends to break into Smileyland—a rotting amusement park no one remembers. But Mister Smiley does. And his one rule? Absolutely, positively, never ever stop smiling.
This book is a blast. It’s bloody, it’s violent, it’s just creepy enough to keep you checking the shadows—and the characters? They were so relatable. I sort of cared about them, which made the carnage hit harder. It’s the kind of horror that knows exactly what it’s doing and has a wicked grin while doing it.
It’s all fun and games until the blood starts to flow.
Welcome to Smileyland is a delightfully twisted final girl slasher with sharp queer representation and a killer sense of fun. Ramirez, a nonbinary military brat with zero interest in bonding, gets dragged along by a group of semi-friends to break into Smileyland—a rotting amusement park no one remembers. But Mister Smiley does. And his one rule? Absolutely, positively, never ever stop smiling.
This book is a blast. It’s bloody, it’s violent, it’s just creepy enough to keep you checking the shadows—and the characters? They were so relatable. I sort of cared about them, which made the carnage hit harder. It’s the kind of horror that knows exactly what it’s doing and has a wicked grin while doing it.
It’s all fun and games until the blood starts to flow.
November 9, 2022
It appears that I actually enjoy slashers when they have well written, interesting (and queer but that's an other question) characters. Who could have guessed? This book was really fun and creative, with great kills, endearing characters, and an interesting setting
February 2, 2022
Welcome, welcome, welcome to Smileyland where the only rule is to absolutely positively never ever stop smiling!
Carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks always freak me out, which is why I LOVE them! Even the "nicer" parks give me the creeps. There's always something in the shadows, something to discover, an adventure to be had, someone hiding behind a mask. These parks almost don't feel real, and provide the perfect backdrop for atrocity. I was able to experience these ominous feelings right from the comfort of my home with Spencer Hamilton's "Welcome To Smileyland". Local horror stories passed around, a couple of friends setting out to explore for the night, and a ton of carnage. What could be better? Playing escort through this nauseating visit, Spencer manages to infiltrate the darker corners of the mind with scenes and detailed descriptions meant to sneak up and horrify upon taking the reader off guard. Weaving in very real social themes and various forms of trauma, "Smileyland" cuts straight to the bone, creating a better understanding of each character before their eventual fate. Reading "Smileyland" is like excitedly making the slow trek up the new roller coaster, reaching the very top, and looking down to see a lack of track where one should be. It's like convincing your parents to buy you that huge ice cream and realizing after consuming half, that something tastes off, smells off, and your vision starts to blur. "Smileyland" is full of demented surprises around every bend, begging for readers to play. Will you play? Will you spin the wheel and try your luck with "Smileyland"? Choose wisely, your life depends on it.
Ready to hear my favorite part? The main character in "Welcome To Smileyland" is NON-BINARY! This representation is so desperately needed, especially in the horror realm and Spencer is paving the way. Everything about the way this book was written just feels so completely real and refreshing, the thoughts and feelings expressed so eloquently. Ramirez forever.
If you shred through "Smileyland" and find yourself wanting more, Spencer has written a short story called "Smile At All The Good Times We Had". I read this mini tale as soon as I finished the book and it's extremely chilling. This one can be found in "Welcome To The Funhouse", a carnival horror anthology edited by Kelly Brocklehurst and Jamie Stewart! Travel a little further in the Smileyverse and you'll find "Sister Funtime", it's latest horror! I'm obsessed.
Carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks always freak me out, which is why I LOVE them! Even the "nicer" parks give me the creeps. There's always something in the shadows, something to discover, an adventure to be had, someone hiding behind a mask. These parks almost don't feel real, and provide the perfect backdrop for atrocity. I was able to experience these ominous feelings right from the comfort of my home with Spencer Hamilton's "Welcome To Smileyland". Local horror stories passed around, a couple of friends setting out to explore for the night, and a ton of carnage. What could be better? Playing escort through this nauseating visit, Spencer manages to infiltrate the darker corners of the mind with scenes and detailed descriptions meant to sneak up and horrify upon taking the reader off guard. Weaving in very real social themes and various forms of trauma, "Smileyland" cuts straight to the bone, creating a better understanding of each character before their eventual fate. Reading "Smileyland" is like excitedly making the slow trek up the new roller coaster, reaching the very top, and looking down to see a lack of track where one should be. It's like convincing your parents to buy you that huge ice cream and realizing after consuming half, that something tastes off, smells off, and your vision starts to blur. "Smileyland" is full of demented surprises around every bend, begging for readers to play. Will you play? Will you spin the wheel and try your luck with "Smileyland"? Choose wisely, your life depends on it.
Ready to hear my favorite part? The main character in "Welcome To Smileyland" is NON-BINARY! This representation is so desperately needed, especially in the horror realm and Spencer is paving the way. Everything about the way this book was written just feels so completely real and refreshing, the thoughts and feelings expressed so eloquently. Ramirez forever.
If you shred through "Smileyland" and find yourself wanting more, Spencer has written a short story called "Smile At All The Good Times We Had". I read this mini tale as soon as I finished the book and it's extremely chilling. This one can be found in "Welcome To The Funhouse", a carnival horror anthology edited by Kelly Brocklehurst and Jamie Stewart! Travel a little further in the Smileyverse and you'll find "Sister Funtime", it's latest horror! I'm obsessed.
May 29, 2022
Okay, we've got a slasher in a creepy abandoned amusement park. Terrifying villain. Creative kills. Complex characters. What more do you need?
This was a blast to read. It's fast-paced and the perfect length. Smileyland is so vividly described that you can truly visualize it and even hear the sounds. Reading this feels like watching a fun summer slasher movie with just the right amount of gore.
It's also worth nothing that there is a wonderfully diverse and inclusive cast of characters. The main character, Ramirez, is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Spencer Hamilton does an exceptional job writing with clarity so there's never confusion in regards to who he's talking about - Welcome to Smileyland is proof that we can adopt these pronouns to be regularly used as the third person singular.
I'm excited to read more from Spencer Hamilton, and I'm especially looking forward to returning to Smileyland!
This was a blast to read. It's fast-paced and the perfect length. Smileyland is so vividly described that you can truly visualize it and even hear the sounds. Reading this feels like watching a fun summer slasher movie with just the right amount of gore.
It's also worth nothing that there is a wonderfully diverse and inclusive cast of characters. The main character, Ramirez, is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Spencer Hamilton does an exceptional job writing with clarity so there's never confusion in regards to who he's talking about - Welcome to Smileyland is proof that we can adopt these pronouns to be regularly used as the third person singular.
I'm excited to read more from Spencer Hamilton, and I'm especially looking forward to returning to Smileyland!
July 13, 2022
What a fun slasher horror! Love the theme park setting, the bloody killings, the way the characters scramble to survive an unexpected attack. The writing illustrates the situation well and I could easily imagine their terror. There's one particular scene involving a popcorn machine that is seared into my head because it's so disturbing!
My only issue is the characters act like typical horror movie people where they make silly choices sometimes. But I really enjoyed this, which is also the first horror book featuring a non-binary main character I've read. I'm all for more representation in horror! Now, can we get a sequel? I want more time at Smileyland!
book blog | twitter | instagram
My only issue is the characters act like typical horror movie people where they make silly choices sometimes. But I really enjoyed this, which is also the first horror book featuring a non-binary main character I've read. I'm all for more representation in horror! Now, can we get a sequel? I want more time at Smileyland!
book blog | twitter | instagram
October 5, 2022
Welcome to Smileyland is filled with the things we expect of a slasher filled with teens in an abandoned amusement park. However, it is also filled with things we usually don't expect.
First, we have a diverse cast of characters, with a non-binary main character which I was so very happy to see! Second, we had beautiful descriptions, coupled with some gruesome and terrifying deaths, making us stay focused and interested. Third, a plot twist that I didn't see coming! And fourth, Smileyland itself was such a cool, fun and creepy concept that I for sure was grabbed by the throat since the beginning.
Cannot wait for more.
And remember... to keep smiling.
First, we have a diverse cast of characters, with a non-binary main character which I was so very happy to see! Second, we had beautiful descriptions, coupled with some gruesome and terrifying deaths, making us stay focused and interested. Third, a plot twist that I didn't see coming! And fourth, Smileyland itself was such a cool, fun and creepy concept that I for sure was grabbed by the throat since the beginning.
Cannot wait for more.
And remember... to keep smiling.
September 26, 2021
I’ve been meaning to read this for the last few weeks and I’m glad I finally picked it up!
Welcome to Smileyland is a fast paced, twists galore novel which focuses around a group of friends who decide to spend the night exploring an abandoned theme park, which, you guessed it, is called Smileyland. I obviously don’t have to explain why it’s a bad idea to visit a deserted theme park.
I found the book to be entertaining & it was written well.
I think my only opinion would be that I wasn’t entirely fond of some of the dialogue choices in the book, it felt a little off, but the gore & plot twists made up for it!
3.5 😃
Welcome to Smileyland is a fast paced, twists galore novel which focuses around a group of friends who decide to spend the night exploring an abandoned theme park, which, you guessed it, is called Smileyland. I obviously don’t have to explain why it’s a bad idea to visit a deserted theme park.
I found the book to be entertaining & it was written well.
I think my only opinion would be that I wasn’t entirely fond of some of the dialogue choices in the book, it felt a little off, but the gore & plot twists made up for it!
3.5 😃
July 27, 2021
Really enjoyed this, felt like a classic 90s horror slasher. Theme park themed too which is always fun..with an escaped convict. Also guys this is a free book so go snatch a copy!
June 12, 2022
There have been many books (& films) released that loudly proclaim to be a “modern slasher” which then go on to be a regular old slasher filled with the same old characters & tropes we’ve seen countless times since Friday the 13th arguably cemented the blueprint (after being inspired by Halloween).
Welcome to Smileyland is one of the first modern slashers I have read that understands the assignment - create modern, interesting characters & then brutally kill them off. Hamilton obviously has a deep knowledge of the subgenre but knows when to subvert the tropes.
Set in the abandoned titular theme park, a group of pleasingly diverse teens, break in for a night of boozy shenanigans only to start getting picked off by a hulking killer wearing a bright yellow smiley face mask.
What separates this from the rest of the pack is the lead character, the non-binary Ramirez, who is a strong & empathetic protagonist to follow. Their inner voice leads us through the fast paced slasher, giving us a great sense of their identity, and makes a great change to the, by now, overused final girl trope.
Once the (brutal) kills start happening, this novella is a breakneck sprint to the finish, much like the best 85 minute slasher films, with some good twists & surprises along the way. Hamilton is building an expanding mythology around Smileyland, with short stories & the Sister Funtime novella. Now I need an 85 minute movie based on this story!
4 bloody sickles out of 5.
Also this novella is available for FREE download from Spencer’s website so go and get it! 🔪😃🔪
Welcome to Smileyland is one of the first modern slashers I have read that understands the assignment - create modern, interesting characters & then brutally kill them off. Hamilton obviously has a deep knowledge of the subgenre but knows when to subvert the tropes.
Set in the abandoned titular theme park, a group of pleasingly diverse teens, break in for a night of boozy shenanigans only to start getting picked off by a hulking killer wearing a bright yellow smiley face mask.
What separates this from the rest of the pack is the lead character, the non-binary Ramirez, who is a strong & empathetic protagonist to follow. Their inner voice leads us through the fast paced slasher, giving us a great sense of their identity, and makes a great change to the, by now, overused final girl trope.
Once the (brutal) kills start happening, this novella is a breakneck sprint to the finish, much like the best 85 minute slasher films, with some good twists & surprises along the way. Hamilton is building an expanding mythology around Smileyland, with short stories & the Sister Funtime novella. Now I need an 85 minute movie based on this story!
4 bloody sickles out of 5.
Also this novella is available for FREE download from Spencer’s website so go and get it! 🔪😃🔪
August 21, 2021
There is just something so thrilling and dangerous about theme parks. What is it for you? The clowns and their big smiling grins, the rides that could go terribly wrong or from all the scary movies you’ve watched that feature theme parks (US, Hanut, Hell Fest). It feels nostalgic now when you think about it. Spencer crafts that feeling so well in this book while also sharpening the edges.
“WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME TO SMILEYLAND!”
Ramirez , a non-binary character (love love love btw) is convinced to go with their group of friends to an abandoned theme park because why not, sounds like fun. On the way to the theme park, they stop at the one lonely gas station where they are greeted with a warning to not visit that place. Like any great 90s horror, they ignore the warning. I hope they survive this night of fun.
“COME ON INSIDE, SMILE WIDE, AND SHOW—THEM—YOUR—TEETH!”
This book hits the ground running and never stops! The killer was not who I thought it would be even though I should have seen it coming but I was too wrapped up in keeping up with all the characters. Did they die or did they not die? Definitely a lot of twists and turns to make you question everything. Also the LGBTQ+ representation was on point! I need more books like this. Add this one to your slump buster list! 5/5 ⭐️
“SHOW THEM YOUR TEETH, SHOW—THEM—YOUR—FUCKING—TEEEEEEEEEEETH!”
“WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME TO SMILEYLAND!”
Ramirez , a non-binary character (love love love btw) is convinced to go with their group of friends to an abandoned theme park because why not, sounds like fun. On the way to the theme park, they stop at the one lonely gas station where they are greeted with a warning to not visit that place. Like any great 90s horror, they ignore the warning. I hope they survive this night of fun.
“COME ON INSIDE, SMILE WIDE, AND SHOW—THEM—YOUR—TEETH!”
This book hits the ground running and never stops! The killer was not who I thought it would be even though I should have seen it coming but I was too wrapped up in keeping up with all the characters. Did they die or did they not die? Definitely a lot of twists and turns to make you question everything. Also the LGBTQ+ representation was on point! I need more books like this. Add this one to your slump buster list! 5/5 ⭐️
“SHOW THEM YOUR TEETH, SHOW—THEM—YOUR—FUCKING—TEEEEEEEEEEETH!”
December 11, 2021
Welcome to Smileyland introduces us to Ramirez and their companions (friends is not the right word) as they head to the eponymous abandoned theme park of Smileyland.
This is a fantastic slasher novella (with supernatural overtones) that really sets the stage for the Smileyverse. It has gore, it has tension, it has amazing writing, and it has positive representation!
You're never safe when reading this story. Who's going to be next to die (people die, by the way)? Who's killing them? What the hell is going on in Smileyland?
I absolutely loved this story, and it's probably the top of the (admittedly small) list of slasher stories I've read.
All I can say is give me more Smileyland (which, oddly enough, Spencer has done with his latest release: Sister Funtime).
I absolutely recommend this story. I loved Ramirez, the other characters were realistic, and the interactions were great. I really connected to Ramirez, too, with that feeling of being an outsider, and the non-binary perspective really added to their experiences.
Loved this story. After reading this, though, I don't think it'll ever be safe for me to stop smiling.
This is a fantastic slasher novella (with supernatural overtones) that really sets the stage for the Smileyverse. It has gore, it has tension, it has amazing writing, and it has positive representation!
You're never safe when reading this story. Who's going to be next to die (people die, by the way)? Who's killing them? What the hell is going on in Smileyland?
I absolutely loved this story, and it's probably the top of the (admittedly small) list of slasher stories I've read.
All I can say is give me more Smileyland (which, oddly enough, Spencer has done with his latest release: Sister Funtime).
I absolutely recommend this story. I loved Ramirez, the other characters were realistic, and the interactions were great. I really connected to Ramirez, too, with that feeling of being an outsider, and the non-binary perspective really added to their experiences.
Loved this story. After reading this, though, I don't think it'll ever be safe for me to stop smiling.
July 27, 2021
I was absolutely blown away. Not only we have some LGBTQ+ representation in this short horror novel but the main character is non-binary so I got to read something in the they/them pronouns so I can finally get used to it a little bit more 🏳️🌈
I loved this book from the beginning to the end. Loved the combination of slasher and possessed amusement park 🎡 Loved how there wasn't a page something wouldn't be happening. Loved the action and the little bit of the extra skills the main character was having. Absolutely loved the plot and the 'what the fu** is going on' parts. I honestly can't recommend this book enough.
Read it. Really.
I loved this book from the beginning to the end. Loved the combination of slasher and possessed amusement park 🎡 Loved how there wasn't a page something wouldn't be happening. Loved the action and the little bit of the extra skills the main character was having. Absolutely loved the plot and the 'what the fu** is going on' parts. I honestly can't recommend this book enough.
Read it. Really.
November 26, 2021
This was such a fun slasher full of brutal deaths, tension, and representation that is often missing from the horror genre. I am excited to see where Spencer Hamilton goes with this Smileyland universe that he is building!
I actually told the author while I was in the middle of reading this that I could see it playing out like a movie in my head which is rare for me when I read a book. I could totally see this adapted for the screen.
I actually told the author while I was in the middle of reading this that I could see it playing out like a movie in my head which is rare for me when I read a book. I could totally see this adapted for the screen.
August 14, 2021
Welcome To Smileyland, at its very core, is a sleek slasher story set at an old, abandoned, creepy amusement park (Smileyland, of course). But there's a lot more to it, and at the forefront is how to deal with being different, being alone constantly, and not really having friends. Main character Ramirez is a non-binary character (if you're someone that clings to the antiquated notion of "only two genders", you should probably skip this one, lest you become enraged by the use of "they" as a pronoun instead of "he/she") that lives with a military mom that, due to her jpb, constantly has to move around, which makes friendships and relationships awfully difficult for Ramirez. They get invited by some new friends to go drink and in general be rowdy teenagers at an abandoned amusement park. Since this is a horror slasher novella, things go wrong. Obviously I won't spoil much, but there's lots of blood, guts, gore, and grossness. There's also some general creepiness (the movie theater scene jumps to mind) and other scary things. Can Ramirez actually have friends for once? Will anyone be caught NOT smiling? I would suggest this horror novella to anyone that likes slashers and/or amusement park horror, and also definitely to people that are looking for protagonists that aren't just straight white guys (as a straight white guy, I really enjoy seeing different representations of people that I am not. I know how boring and dumb straight white guys are. I'd like to learn more!). I love seeing more LGBTQ+ horror coming out lately. So, in closing, this book is good, and you should get it!
July 27, 2021
An abandoned theme park. A violent convict on the loose. A group of high schoolers with backpacks full of Fireball. If you think this sounds like the recipe for a perfect slasher horror novel, you’d be correct. “Welcome to Smileyland! Where the only rule is to never stop smiling!” Totally not creepy at all.
Hamilton delivered again with an 80’s slasher movie vibe following the main character, Ramirez, who is non-binary. Ramirez is a military kid and constantly finds themselves in a new school meeting new people. They get roped into a night of exploring Smileyland by Chad, the school’s prized football jock. As the night progresses, Ramirez finds themself solidifying their friendship with these other kids, and then it all comes crashing to a bloody halt when Smileyland wakes up around them.
Hamilton delivered again with an 80’s slasher movie vibe following the main character, Ramirez, who is non-binary. Ramirez is a military kid and constantly finds themselves in a new school meeting new people. They get roped into a night of exploring Smileyland by Chad, the school’s prized football jock. As the night progresses, Ramirez finds themself solidifying their friendship with these other kids, and then it all comes crashing to a bloody halt when Smileyland wakes up around them.
July 27, 2021
An incredible read that takes Hamilton's usual fantastic literary horror style and injects and extra layer of nostalgic, trope-fuelled slasher fun. Despite the use of classic images, settings and horror themes this is an entirely original and twisted take on the genre with well fleshed-out characters and a slasher who's as fun as he is awful and bloody.
Wolfed this one down and can't wait to see more Smileyland in the future. The representation here had real strengths and lent a certain weight to parts of the story that made it all the more meaningful. Some excellent writing that left me wanting more.
Wolfed this one down and can't wait to see more Smileyland in the future. The representation here had real strengths and lent a certain weight to parts of the story that made it all the more meaningful. Some excellent writing that left me wanting more.
August 11, 2021
Wow. I read this all in one sitting, a fast paced, bloody spree of psychotic violence in Smileyland, where you better not ever stop smiling....or else.
A group of five teenage friends venture out to explore the abandoned theme park one night, with no idea of the horrors that wait for them. Smileyland is a haunted place, but there's more than ghosts stalking its empty buildings and shadowy cobblestone paths.
Blood and gore, imaginative deaths, absolute nutjobs, and that creepy carnival-after-dark atmosphere we all love and fear make this a quick little read that reminded me of 90s slasher flicks, managing to be both fun and horrific at the same time.
A group of five teenage friends venture out to explore the abandoned theme park one night, with no idea of the horrors that wait for them. Smileyland is a haunted place, but there's more than ghosts stalking its empty buildings and shadowy cobblestone paths.
Blood and gore, imaginative deaths, absolute nutjobs, and that creepy carnival-after-dark atmosphere we all love and fear make this a quick little read that reminded me of 90s slasher flicks, managing to be both fun and horrific at the same time.
September 7, 2021
This vivid little slasher was too much fun. The author planted me right in the middle of an abandoned amusement park and let the blood fly.
I loved the villain, the setting, the characters, and all the emotional highs and lows where I didn't know whether to laugh or put the book down because I was horrified.
I appreciated the queer characters and how real they felt. I audibly gasped at the ending.
This was sick, twisted fun and I will definitely read more in the series. If you need a good read for spooky season, pick this one up for free by going to Spencer's website.
I loved the villain, the setting, the characters, and all the emotional highs and lows where I didn't know whether to laugh or put the book down because I was horrified.
I appreciated the queer characters and how real they felt. I audibly gasped at the ending.
This was sick, twisted fun and I will definitely read more in the series. If you need a good read for spooky season, pick this one up for free by going to Spencer's website.
August 19, 2021
I was at a complete loss as to what to read and decided to give this horror novella a whirl. No regrets, it was just what the doctor prescribed! Welcome to Smileyland packs a whole lot of punch in a fairly limited number of pages. Abandoned amusement parks are always delightfully creepy, add a crazy man in a smiley mask and a sickle, I mean what's not to love!
Oodles of horror fun and a kick-ass non-binary MC, entertaining start to finish, recommended!
Oodles of horror fun and a kick-ass non-binary MC, entertaining start to finish, recommended!
August 31, 2021
Absolutely freaking awesome! Spencer's best work yet, in my opinion. As a huge ass horror movie fan, this definitely gives those awesome 80s slasher vibes, and would be a perfect SPOOKY SEASON read.
September 15, 2021
Fantastic from start to finish. I loved the LGBTQ+ representation.
September 21, 2021
A group of 5 high school friends go to an abandoned amusement park. Things soon go horribly wrong. Is one of the 5 a killer? Is there an escaped maniac on the loose? Or is the park pure evil? A scary, gory thriller that I finished in a few hours.
My only complaint was the “they” “them” pronouns of the nonbinary character. It made for some confusing reading at times.
My only complaint was the “they” “them” pronouns of the nonbinary character. It made for some confusing reading at times.
September 8, 2021
An action-packed novella filled with gore and horror, Welcome to Smileyland is a quick, fun little slasher story. It almost felt like a short story you'd tell around a campfire as it stands, but knowing there will be another book in the series that might expound upon the origin of the cursed amusement park is a nice surprise!
November 19, 2021
So I love slashers and this does not disappoint.
This book follows Ramirez who with their new friends decides to go on a trip to an amusement park called smiley land. All seems well with the resident ass of the group playing a prank or two. But once the group get separated and Ramirez starts to see things, it looks like there's a lot more going on with this park.
Okay so first of all, trying to make all these characters likeable when you have a plot that's a slasher is hard enough and then in a short story, it's harder. I felt like for a couple of the characters it wasn't done well but for the most part, I was happy.
The setting was great. Honestly, slashers are cliche in the best way but I loved the fact that it was set in an amusement park. I do wish there was a map though. I get it's an amusement park but I found it hard to visualise how far and in what direction things were from each other.
I love the fact that these characters also weren't dumb, they were aware of the situation they were in, (coming to an abandoned amusement park) and acted accordingly for the most part. There were no oop you're gonna die next moments for me.
Also, I love the fact that it was an actual slasher like nobody was safe, there was no sense of oh this character is not gonna die for whatever reason. I was pleasantly surprised.
Just wish there was more depth put into some bits of the story so there was a little more background.
Overall this was fun, would recommend it if you want a good short slasher.
This book follows Ramirez who with their new friends decides to go on a trip to an amusement park called smiley land. All seems well with the resident ass of the group playing a prank or two. But once the group get separated and Ramirez starts to see things, it looks like there's a lot more going on with this park.
Okay so first of all, trying to make all these characters likeable when you have a plot that's a slasher is hard enough and then in a short story, it's harder. I felt like for a couple of the characters it wasn't done well but for the most part, I was happy.
The setting was great. Honestly, slashers are cliche in the best way but I loved the fact that it was set in an amusement park. I do wish there was a map though. I get it's an amusement park but I found it hard to visualise how far and in what direction things were from each other.
I love the fact that these characters also weren't dumb, they were aware of the situation they were in, (coming to an abandoned amusement park) and acted accordingly for the most part. There were no oop you're gonna die next moments for me.
Also, I love the fact that it was an actual slasher like nobody was safe, there was no sense of oh this character is not gonna die for whatever reason. I was pleasantly surprised.
Just wish there was more depth put into some bits of the story so there was a little more background.
Overall this was fun, would recommend it if you want a good short slasher.
December 11, 2021
First thing I need to talk about is the way Hamilton wrote this book. How amazing is it that the main character is nonbionary and Hamilton used the "they/them" pronouns throught the entire story 🙌. Well done Spencer! Not going to lie, it took me a hot minute to figure out what was going as I've never read a book that had a character use "they/them". This alone is the top reason you should read this.
Second thing that made this a great read....the bloody violence (insert evil laugh). I'm not a violent person but I adore books that are off the wall, over the top violent. Don't ask why....I'm sure a psychologist would love to sit me down lol. So much violent but not tourture which is good cuz I don't like that lol.
The characters were awesome and well built. Ramirez was a very strong character and I loved how they were portrayed in the book. Zoe was also a favourite character even though her main part in the book was at the end. What a tough little cookie that one. I loved the ending and can't wait to see what is in store for Zoe moving forward!
Second thing that made this a great read....the bloody violence (insert evil laugh). I'm not a violent person but I adore books that are off the wall, over the top violent. Don't ask why....I'm sure a psychologist would love to sit me down lol. So much violent but not tourture which is good cuz I don't like that lol.
The characters were awesome and well built. Ramirez was a very strong character and I loved how they were portrayed in the book. Zoe was also a favourite character even though her main part in the book was at the end. What a tough little cookie that one. I loved the ending and can't wait to see what is in store for Zoe moving forward!
July 20, 2024
Spencer Hamilton’s Welcome to Smileyland came to my attention when I read his story, “Smile at All the Good Times We Had,” also set in Smileyland in the recent anthology, Welcome to the Funhouse. I was intrigued by the setting and decided to check out the longer work. I’m so glad I did! Smileyland is a creepy park, and Welcome to Smileyland is an unputtdownable thrill tide worthy of any great amusement park. This is one of the best things I’ve read recently, and I only hope there are more Smileyland adventures to come.
July 27, 2022
Welcome to Smileyland is a fast-paced slasher with a diverse cast, all set amongst an abandoned theme park. This was a solid horror story! The gore, setting, tension, kills, iconic mask, etc... The only downside is that, since it's not a full novel, it was a bit more difficult to establish characters and have what felt like a "complete story". However, Hamilton did really well with what he had - and I look forward to reading the next story in the Smileyland saga.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews