TOP 9 Most Disturbing Books I Have Read

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

DISTURBING BOOKS, PART 2 (my sequel to this video): kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ2nh42jbsqAhs0

[@SarahDalton]

When I was a lot younger, about 18. My mum wanted to get me into crime and mystery books so we went to a bookshop and picked two to read and swap. One was a Harlan Coben book and the other was The Birdman. We had no idea what Mo Hayder's writing was like back then. Anyway I got The Birdman first and seeing as it was my first crime novel I thought they were all like this! I was disgusted but couldn't stop reading. When we swapped my mum came running into my room and said 'omg, you read the whole thing? Are you ok?'. 🤣 Anyway, to cut a story short, I didn't pick up a crime novel for a long time but now I write thrillers and I think it might be because of how that book stayed with me. I just wanted to say I really enjoy your videos! I used to read more transgressive fiction than I do now. And I'm thinking of getting back into the genre.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for the support and for your story! I can’t even imagine Birdman being one’s first foray into crime fiction! I actually don’t read that much of the genre myself, but Hayder’s writing is always an exception. So happy to hear you’re getting back into more transgressive fiction. It’s a lot of cultural baggage, but I really do think it’s an important genre.

[@roysailor3031]

“The Treatment” also by Mo Hayder is even more disturbing than Birdman.

[@Archonsx]

why on earth would a mother want her child to get into reading crime

[@SarahDalton]

@@Archonsx so that we had something to talk about. She likes lighter crime like Harlan Coben or Lee Child and made a mistake with the Mo Hayder book.

[@prieltheprune1302]

@@Archonsx because it’s good?

[@mechaamem]

The girl next door is actually based on the true story of Sylvia Likens. horrifying and disturbing what this poor girl had to go through.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I was not aware of that. Thank you for sharing this info. Even the most disturbing of fiction will pale in comparison to real-life atrocities. I do wonder if there’s ethical issues in “immortalizing” such a story through fictitious written work. What I can say is that Jack Ketchum pulled no punches, and the grueling violence and abuse simply leaves you welling with disgust and rage. Nothing is glamorized or romanticized, and I feel like fictional violence should always remind you of its real-life weight and consequences. RIP Sylvia Likens.

[@molliee5183]

When he was describing the story I was thinking how similar it sounded to her story! That story is so infuriating and awful, ive heard the case twice and don’t know if I want to subject myself to more... lol

[@marklowther3228]

Ketchum even wrote it from the neighbors perspective as he found the story disturbing as well.

[@williammcclurd7448]

Worst than any fiction

[@wicesphagnum6983]

​@@PlaguedbyVisions I think a story like this immortalises not only the idea of atrocities of a human being but also a victim. Not in the way like "infinite torture", but like a "last song". Because of such stories we try to understand a victim and a killer. Or not, who knows)

[@adamb3326]

The girl next door is still on my mind 6 months after reading it. It begins very sweetly by introducing the innocent relationship building between the eventual victim and the protagonist, narrator. The way it descends into psychological horror is haunting. I read 4 other Ketchum books after this. They were mostly gruesome and lacked depth. But this one book is just so special. It hits all emotional elements for me.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Ketchum is very hit or miss indeed. That’s why I prefer his short stories. If it’s awful, at least they’re short, lol. The Girl Next Door transcends his other works by far. It just homed in on something so perverse and vulnerable that you cannot deny its force.

[@untroubledwaters2137]

@@PlaguedbyVisions best part, it's based on a true story! The book was inspired by the real-life torture and murder of a teenage girl named Sylvia Likens in 1965. No, I'm sorry, that's the worst part, by far.

[@untroubledwaters2137]

oops, someone below already commented this...so I guess it's a sacrifice at the altar of the Almighty Algorithm.

[@AngelaRodriguez-en4oq]

I like psychological horror books if you're into short stories I reccomed "I have no mouth I must not scream" its truly disturbing and left me feeling really sad but I think overall it was a good short story

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I love Harlan Ellison! This short story in particular was incredible. I really enjoyed it! Ellison definitely belongs in this list.

[@mac2173]

I also heard really good things about that!

[@thescrewfly]

There was even a game based on that Harlan Ellison story. If you're interested in games, it's a point-and-click released in 1995 and can be found on GOG.

[@MarmadukeDormedius]

Bro just recommended one of the most popular pieces of sci-fi horror ever

[@pragyasingh5880]

I've added a lot of these books in my list. Amazing review 👏

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Hey, thank you! Let me know which ones you end up reading :)

[@CookiesNMilf]

I’m currently halfway through Blood Meridian and it’s by far one of my top 10’s. I’m obsessed with McCarthy’s ability to paint the vastness and bone dryness of the desert and the sickening brutality of the violence and death. There have been many time already in this book that I’ve had to stop reading after the many particularly brutal parts and just say “what the fuck?” I’ve got No Country For Old Men, The Road and, The Child of God up next on my list. Absolutely phenomenal author. One of the greats for sure! His books are a must read if your not terribly squeamish to very detailed gore and fucked up subjects like the death of children.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I live in the desert McCarthy set Blood Meridian in. I’m sure you can understand why it traumatized me. 😂 Hope you keep enjoying your foray into this brilliant author!

[@jankyzipper564]

I Loooved Meridian!!! I totally recommend Child of God. It's super interesting how Mcarthy is able to juggle our sympathy for the antagonist as well as those who oppose him. Hella gross though; don't read while eating. The film is also pretty good.

[@markalexander3659]

It's actually non-fiction, but "The Elephant Man" by Bernard Promenance probably disturbed me the most. Extremely upsetting throughout and the ending just left me feeling cold. I felt heartbroken for days after. P.S. No need to apologize or be nervous, you did great, dude :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! If David Lynch’s film adaptation of this story is any telling, then yes, I would say this is an extremely disquieting tale. Thank you! Yes, I was very nervous to be in front of the camera this first time, but over time having made more videos, I think I’ve become a but more comfortable (or so I’d like to think).

[@arlenehotep381]

I read The Elephant Man years ago. It left me with a lifelong empathy for people who are ugly on the outside. It made me realize don't judge a person by the cover.

[@Bbycks1]

I felt that way watching the movie but I was really young and never seen anything like his disease!

[@chrisw6164]

Your channel is full of deep-dives in the horror genre. Superb.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Hope you enjoy some other videos kicking around here!

[@artdogdeb]

Just discovered your video because it popped up in my feed. Good job! Please keep it up! I've read ALL of Mo Hader's books, one of my favorite authors. Look forward to hearing more opinions from you!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for your support! Any recommendation in where to go next with Mo Hayder?

[@truthserum4662]

I really enjoyed this video. I hope you make more. Thanks for the recommendations

[@graciesmom62]

Hi Juan....great video ! I’m 58 years old, and a big reader...always have been. Thanks for the list. My list would include “She’s Come Undone”-Wally Lamb, “Geek Love”.-Katherine Dunn, and “The Color Purple”-Alice Walker. Keep up the good job, I look forward to watching more.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for your comment! I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the video. I gave your suggestions a quick glance and now I definitely need to read Geek Love. The Color Purple is one of the most mournful expositions of the human condition. It's definitely a grueling but ultimately rewarding read.

[@graciesmom62]

Yes, the “Color Purple” is an amazing book/movie. I hope that you will enjoy “Geek Love”.. looking forward to your next reviews. Have a great day ! From Pittsburgh, PA

[@riomadre]

"Horror is my favorite genre" *subscribe* I loved this video! Your recommendations are refreshingly unique, and I'm looking forward to more :)

[@dalia5964]

I’ve had this video on my Watch Later list and considered taking it off. But I thought “what the heck, I’m down for a long video” and I do NOT regret watching this!! Amazing video! Keep it up. You earned my like 👍🏻

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Oh wow, thank you so much for giving it a try! I’m happy to hear you enjoyed it and got something out of it! I really appreciate the support.

[@trishbovell9042]

Please post more. Your reviews are very insightful and thoughtful.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! ❤️

[@yelisieimurai]

The video is very good! You did a great work. Unbelievable that was your first video.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Man, almost 3 years ago… Feels like it was another lifetime!

[@blueoblivionx]

Great video! I've been trying to find more dark books to read and some other lists on KZbin just don't go dark enough. Piercing was made into a movie as well and it's actually really good! I'm kind of curious how different the book is.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Since making this video I watched the film adaptation... I would stick to the book, lol.

[@BucketOfMarbles]

The Girl Next Door is stunning because the author has so much empathy that he can make you understand the motivations of horrible characters. What truly makes something “disturbing” is when despicable actions start to make sense from the book’s perspective.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I saw that you commented in my individual review of this book, so I hope you saw that I echoed a lot of your observations you made here. It is such an emotionally heavy and philosophically impactful work!

[@CRohrscheib]

Wow, great list. I've put a couple of the books your mentioned in my to read list. I really hope you keep doing reviews and I look forward to more of your videos in the future.

[@surfkroq1]

I have done this too:)

[@meggiejohnstone]

Fantastic list! For anyone else in the UK, "Birdman" is on a limited time Kindle deal for 99p right now. That's tonight's reading sorted - thanks so much, Juan :) I look forward to more of your videos.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I’ll pin your comment so anyone else watching knows about this deal! Mo Hayder is incredible and I hope you enjoy Birdman. I’ve since made a part 2 to this video if you’re interested!

[@vickycrossley28]

I really enjoyed this video! Disturbing books are definitely one of my guilty pleasures. Hope to see more from you :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

More since and more to come!

[@OldSchoolPrepper]

great list, I really appreciate the fact that you really did a mini-review on each book. Sometimes other YT'ers will say the name of the book and a line or two about it...leaving me wondering if I'd like it or not. thanks for taking the time.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank YOU so much for taking the time to watch my video! That’s honestly something that motivates me a lot: I do this because I love getting into the nitty gritty of books and sparking conversations. Even if my videos run a bit long, I just love to be thorough and informative. I’m glad to hear you appreciated it! Thanks again!

[@SanteriPaju]

Just found your channel! This video is great. You have a great taste and a pleasant way of explaining why you liked the books you've chosen. I would love to hear you talk more about horror books 😊

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Currently working on a sequel to this video!

[@karamarie6781]

I have just subscribed! I appreciate your taste in books and your review was great!

[@stacyrobinson805]

Love this video! It’s hard to find real “readers” to talk books with so I really enjoyed your thoughtful and well-informed video.looking forward to more!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching and for your lovely words! They really mean a lot. Check out the playlist on my channel for the rest of my “disturbing books” series!

[@themattster411]

I was honestly hooked with just your intro, thank you so much for the video!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Well, thank you very much! That’s very kind. I really appreciate that people still come to this video!

[@PietroPalladini]

Very interesting list! And you have a great way of expounding and summarizing the content of the novels. Of the list, I have only read "The Girl Next Door", and it is one of the most powerful novels I have ever come across! "Cows", however, never arrived here in Italy :( I will definitely watch your other videos too...

[@docdeens4030]

Good stuff man, keep it up!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Appreciate it!

[@BookBlather]

Thanks, Juan. Very intriguing list. Have added a few of these to the TBR.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you for watching!

[@MT-er7mm]

Nice job on the book review! Your knowledge and education shines through- please keep sharing books with us- maybe psychiatric thrillers

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thanks! I can’t believe I failed to reply to this comment (I try to reply to everyone). My apologies! I’m not too well-versed on thrillers, believe it or not lol, so recommendations are always welcomed!

[@shaka994]

I highly recommend Charles Bukowski's More Notes of a Dirty Old Man: The Uncollected Columns. Definitely not for the transgression-shy! Also anything by William Burroughs, but especially his novel The Naked Lunch. It's, um, special. Happy reading and thanks for the great video!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching and for the recommendations! I have not been a big fan of Bukowski’s writing (I’ve read Ham on Rye, Women, and Post Office, and they weren’t to my taste), but something a bit more disturbing might do it for me! I’ve reviewed Naked Lunch on my “Top 10 Most Disgusting Books” video if you’re interested!

[@eymerichinquisitore9022]

Bukowsky?? Fucking bullshit!😂😂

[@jamiebroughman5626]

well done list its all over the place lots of stuff to check out been getting into a bit of reading lately cheers all the best

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@TypicalTylia]

I've been looking for a well done list like this for awhile, this review was super helpful & I can't wait to watch part two after. keep it the great work!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I’m glad you found the list helpful. That’s my goal!

[@Bbycks1]

I just watched this and found it funny how I can relate to you when it comes to being disturbed. You mentioned how Tampa was something you couldn’t finish because of the content but you finished Cow! I have done the same with books when it comes to sex scenes that are too graphic but I don’t mind reading some disturbing content. There are a couple of books on your list that interest me. Thank you 😊

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I think s3x in particular just has such a heft of neuroses and traumas, that it really colors some novels entirely, even if marginally present, doesn’t it? Of course, there is also s3x in Cows, but… It doesn’t compare. 😂

[@Alex-rn3br]

We could be best friends if I didn't live on the east coast. Dude...keep on making content...it's great! Also...I highly highly recommend "stranglehold" by Ketchum...there are a handful of things that happen in that book that terrified me and took my breath away.. powerful and disturbing.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

We can be friends here on KZbin! Thank you so much for watching! Always nice to hear from fellow lovers of disturbing works! This video has since become an entire series, and we’re up to Part 5 now if you’re interested! Jack Ketchum is someone whose entire bibliography I’ve been slowly working myself through, and I must admit, it’s been an enjoyable ride! I’m sure I’ll eventually find my way to Stranglehold, and now I look forward to it with your added recommendation! Thank you so much for watching, friend!

[@BlackacreDoe]

Ah, Blood Meridian. That book literally makes me sleep on the floor and cook bacon with a knife because I am mentally tough. Sleeping in beds makes us soft. Brandy in my coffee!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Hehe, nice to see another alpha male in this comment section full of softies. Yeah, if that novel doesn’t give you a half-chub, you’re probably super weak. Hit me up if you ever want to comb each other’s chest hair, brethren.

[@rickjoslin9648]

Im def gonna b lookin for some of these books. Good job on your 1st vid dude

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Appreciate it! Thank you! Curious if you ended up checking out any titles.

[@chodemonsters7140]

Thanks for putting list in the description,, I did sit through the entire video, pretty insightful 👌

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I really appreciate it. I’m glad you found it insightful!

[@misscocochloe1998]

A perfect video to pop up in my recommended, love the video and will definitely be checking these books out! Subscribed !

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Welcome aboard! Thank you so much!

[@7owllover]

'Blood Meridian," although not horror, is disturbing and will linger long after you're done. i've re-read it twice. A classic!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Part of the reason I chose it for this list was precisely because it’s not fantastic or inventive horror. It’s grounded in history, sober, gruesome, and McCarthy is so unflinching. Truly one of the great American novels. Thank you for watching!

[@jmaguire2232]

It’s amazing to me that the same author wrote that one and All The Pretty Horses. McCarthy is the best.

[@shelby8101]

Thank you for the video! I have added most of these to my TBR pile now. I’m a huge fan of twisted disturbing novels but most of them just try to throw violence at you and don’t really disturb you, they just try to shock you. So thanks for the ideas!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I’m glad you found this list interesting! While I don’t mind “splatterpunk” or “shocking” literature, I do think a lot of fans of disturbing and transgressive fiction tend to ignore other corners and genres of written work with content just as if not more unsettling.

[@shelby8101]

@@PlaguedbyVisions thanks for your responses! I’m definitely a fan of splatterpunk. But I also really love novels that challenge me or make me think about things in a new way. I’m so glad I found your channel!

[@NathanShines]

Damn brother awesome job! I like that your first video about books was unsettling and it's about disturbing books haha.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it. I could think of no better way to kickstart this channel, honestly.

[@LuxVi7]

Great video! I’m definitely picking up some of these titles.

[@Chriscorpr]

Well done with the spoilers. A very intriguing list. Thanks for the introduction of Mo Hayder ill be reading soonest. What about Hogg by Samuel R. Delany.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I’m positive you’ll love Mo Hayder’s work. I couldn’t put her novels down! I’m a big fan of Delany’s sci-fi work (Babel-17 is one of my favorites of the genre) but Hogg just seems like too much for me. I may do it just for a video. 😬

[@joshtaylor6086]

You did a great job, especially being your first video. I've watched quite a few "most disturbing" list vids on this same subject and it's refreshing to see that your entries aren't a lot of the same recycled crap that everyone seems to choose. There are a lot of really varying choices in this list and I wanted to say thanks for that. Keep up the good work, brother.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

You’ve honestly described exactly why, one year in, I still refuse to talk about American Psycho on this channel. 😂 We get it. We’ve heard it! I’m happy to bring awareness to less-discussed disturbing works. I’m happy it’s appreciated! Thank you so much! 🤙🏽

[@marcsherard8471]

I just subscribed because you are good at this. Keep it up if you can, please.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you! I hope you have continued to enjoy my content output. :)

[@marcsherard8471]

@@PlaguedbyVisions I have for sure. Thanks for your quality content!

[@bootsandflicks7507]

Hey Very articulate book analysis & review video and great to see Hubert Selby's "The Room" get a review it deserves. For my money it gets the No 1 place in any disturbing book list you do feel a sense of being claustrophobically trapped inside a deteriorating and very violent mind of a young man with no light at the end of the tunnel. Helluva a read but to quote you "Reader Beware!!!"

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I actually only remember bits and pieces of what I read in The Room, and I think relegating it to such broken memories actually makes it more disturbing. It’s part of my thoughts now-I hate that! Lol. Btw love your profile pic! If “Frankie Teardrop” were a book, it would be here for sure.

[@jcbassi]

Best online reviews! Detailed, literate. Thank you!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

😭 Thank you so much! ❤️

[@mattbradbury]

I’m really enjoying your channel - I’ve got some suggestions of disturbing books I think you’d like - apologies if you’ve already read them: *Up Above The World and Let It Come Down by Paul Bowles, plus any number of his short stories *Book 6 of Les Chants De Maldoror by Le Compte de Lautréamont *The short stories of Leonora Carrington *The White People by Arthur Machen *The King In Yellow by Robert W Chambers *The Sailor Who Fell From Grace With The Sea by Yukii Mishima *Flicker by Theodore Roszak *Our Lady Of Darkness by Fritz Lieber

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for the recs! I read Maldoror last March when I got hit with COVID, and I loved the scene where he has sex with a shark. Beautiful. I talk about Sailor in part 7 of this series, if you’re interested!

[@mattbradbury]

@@PlaguedbyVisions you're welcome!

[@mattbradbury]

@@PlaguedbyVisions I've recently been reading Shirley Jackson short stories - her supernatural stories are genuinely terrifying, and her 'psychological' stories really really dark

[@skylark1772]

Thanks for the intro to Matthew Stokoe - based on his writing style, I'm not only going to read Cows (I just read a sample) but also Empty Mile. I recently read The Monstrumologist trilogy by Rick Yancey - disturbing and amazing and most importantly, well written. So many themes.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Happy to have introduced you to Stokoe! He’s quite something. I have never heard of this book series! Thanks for namedropping it! I’ll definitely feature your comment in the next installment. :)

[@Nick-qf7vt]

Maybe not as "good" as Stokoe, but check out Matt Shaw. He writes A LOT of books and all of them are pretty disgusting. But they (usually) have something interesting to say beneath all the blood and viscera.

[@gilltaber2187]

New to your channel. I am delighted by the sheer diversity of your book choices and I think it makes you a lot more unique in the Booktube universe. Looking forward to watching part 2 and seeing what else you come up with in the future :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the content. It means a lot. This has since become a 5-part series, along with a spin-off on disturbing plays/theater performances, so you’re in for a ride! I really appreciate the support.

[@AirborneAshes]

"forgive my pronunciation" dude i'm here after videos upon videos of booktubers who can't even pronounce english words right. great video. something that came out since this video, that i recommend to enjoyers of a disturbing read, is May Leitz's work, i was really drawn in by Fluids, can't wait to read Girl Flesh.

[@19nmiller1]

Great video my man!! Thank you for the recommendations!! Keep up the awesome work on your videos!!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! 🥺 I’m glad you enjoyed this!

[@alfinemuller2399]

Thank you for this great list! You have a really great way to present the books and explain your view! I will watch the sequel that you mention in the infobox right away and look forward to more videos from you! ☺

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Ah, thank you so much for watching and commenting! This series is now up to part 5, so hopefully that’s not too much of a shock for you! 😅

[@alfinemuller2399]

@@PlaguedbyVisions That is indeed one of the most shocking things I've ever read, but I think it's phenomenal 😁 Thank you for letting me know, I'll definitely catch up! 🤓

[@austinpratt1923]

Outside the horror genre, the most disturbing piece of fiction I have ever read is "in the Ravine" by Anton Chekhov. The title varies in translation, but the "I didn't see this coming" shock survived a second reading. Curious if anyone else has experienced this story likewise. Your reviews are excellent.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for this recommendation! I have never heard of this book. I will check it out! Thank you for watching and for your compliments!

[@cristiana8330]

I just found your channel and I love it so much !! Great job keep making amazing videos

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! This means so much to me. I'm always happy to hear that people are enjoying my content. There's a new video coming later this week!

[@lymphaticjeopardy]

I've only ever read The Girl Next Door from the books on this list but it has haunted me since I read it. Yes, the novel is gruesome and often times feels so despicably meticulous that it made me sick. It is well written and executed in it's slow spiral into the depravity that can come when the naïve are used for the gain of rotten people; however, the thing that stuck with me the most was that the two victims were sisters. As an older sibling I know I would do literally anything for my younger sibling, so seeing the dynamic of someone volunteering for abuse in an attempt to protect their sibling was what really hurt. The contrast of depravity and selfless familial love was painful in a way that I don't think will ever leave me.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for your comment! Very well said. I think that's what stands out to me about Ketchum's writing as opposed to other writers he is often associated with. "Extreme fiction" writers tend to linger on bodily torture, dismemberment, atrocious sexual acts, etc., for shock value, and yet Ketchum, even if his fiction doesn't often go that far (although of course, sometimes it does), writes unshakable and visceral stories because he never sheds the humanity of his characters. He truly had a way with depicting loss and hurting that was so personal and cruel. Nothing else he ever wrote, in my opinion, really came close to what he depicted here.

[@kellifirth7234]

Hi Juan. Just want to say that you did an excellent job for your first video! Your voice is actually so soft and calming for the material you're talking about, and you seem to really know you're stuff so "kudos"! This list had so many more obscure titles that I had never heard of and have now added to my own personal list of books to read. On another note, do you have any recommendations for your favorite murder mystery or thriller novels? Books with a great plot twist? I'd love to hear them! Thanks again!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for your comment! My voice sounds so grating to me, so this is very encouraging! lol. These are great ideas! I definitely plan on making a list for thriller/detective novels in the future. Glad to hear you enjoyed the video!

[@schnecke17]

I love your voice so much! Thank you for this beautiful video and keep going

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Well, thank you! I actually can’t stand my voice while editing 😂 so this means a lot!

[@J_Alrighty]

Amazing first video! Amazing video all around. Thanks!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@raystanley9263]

You're doing great, brother! Keep up the great work!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much!

[@brianmoore4240]

Great for first video! Awesome work man .

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the support. I’ve been doing this for over a year now-it really doesn’t get easier lol.

[@karamarie6781]

Great job on the video!👍🏼

[@mac2173]

Great video! Keep up the good work! Loved the list, I'll definitely be checking some of these out! 📚

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you! There’s been more installments to this series. There’s a playlist on my channel if you’re interested!

[@ramseydoon8277]

Thank you for sharing this excellent presentation with us! Subscribed!

[@marklowther3228]

Well done on your first video! Keep up the good work.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much!

[@handogg2225]

Awesome list. The only book I ever had to put down due to its disturbing content, was American Psycho. When the protagonist stabs the homeless man's eyes out and kills his dog, I couldn't cope.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

American Psycho is, indeed, the usual suspect in lists of this kind! I didn’t find it quite as impactful as other books, but of course, I can absolutely see why it’s too much for some people. Thank you so much for watching!

[@CG-xh6nk]

​@@PlaguedbyVisions I agree that it isn't particularly disturbing, at least relative to some of these other books. Something I found interesting, your description of Against Nature could also be used almost identically for American Psycho too and it would still be accurate.

[@uptown3636]

This might be the first time that Cormac McCarthy and Jack Ketchum have been mentioned in the same video. I love how broadly you read: it's as impressive as it is unfashionable at the moment.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Interestingly, I see them as very similar, in the way they handle consciousness in the face of horror, and the unnerving brevity of the way they treat atrocity.

[@molliee5183]

Wow I love this video and list! So many I want to add, and it’s cool how much context you have for some of these authors/books

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching and subscribing! There’s more to come!

[@rikkiheinis387]

Excellent reviews! I hope to see more videos like this from you.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! This “Most Disturbing Books” series is now up to part 5, if you are interested!

[@davidcarlson4289]

I was so psyched that you had The Story of the Eye. Have you read Les Chants de Maldoror by Comte de Lautrement. That's really really really disturbing.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I have not heard of this book! Thank you for the recommendation and your comment. I really appreciate it!

[@majawest4800]

Gonna have to check out all the books except the last one, probably too much for me, great video!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Fair enough!

[@kikibe1960]

Just discovered your channel. I really like the way you present your books. You came across as very knowledgeable. 👍🏼

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I really appreciate the compliments and support! ❤️✌🏽

[@Imsteppenwolf]

Thank you. Very illustrating and descriptive. It's obvious that you processed those books within yourself when you read them. Thank you for the guide...

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for such a beautiful comment. ❤️

[@Nick-qf7vt]

Huge respect for including Cows! Blood Meridian is one of the greatest novels ever written. Definitely McCarthy's most disturbing; although some would argue Outer Dark or Child of God are more disturbing. Personally I don't think either of them are anywhere near as messed up as Blood Meridian. I could never understand Story Of The Eye. I don't like a lot of French authors and especially don't like French philosophy. To me it just seemed like it was disgusting just to be disgusting. Speaking of the French being disgusting for the sake it, have you read 120 Days of Sodom by Marquis de Sade? Now THAT is a messed up book. For some reason de Sade has a lot of apologists these days. American Psycho is probably my favourite disturbing book. Very thought provoking, but also gut wrenching.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Agreed with your assessment of McCarthy! As far as the others, I personally don’t really resent if a work is just “shock for shock’s sake.” I personally do see a mobilizing worth in wrinkling the otherwise spotless texture of taste. I do think great things come of it! I’m not a De Sade apologist per se, lol, but I definitely see there’s a power to how much outrage he historically provoked.

[@horrorandinconvenience5036]

Oh my god!!! This is the first time I've ever seen someone talk about Huysmans on KZbin! I feel seen

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Yes! He definitely needs to be discussed more. He carried an entire literary movement that was so unique, grotesque, and quietly disturbing. I love his writing. I hope to start La Bas soon! Thank you so much for watching!

[@horrorandinconvenience5036]

@@PlaguedbyVisions I'm happy to have found the channel! I was about to ask about La Bas. Can't wait to hear your take on it!

[@johnmalinsnz2090]

Solid choices, dude. I am definitely adding Birdman and a few others to my list. Blood Meridian is definitely not your grandfathers western novel. I saw the movie Audition, so I'm keen to read Piercing as well.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! Birdman is phenomenal. I’m jealous that you get to read it for the first time.

[@angelogabriel6862]

I'm usually skeptical of videos of lists, as there's a lot of them that are very poor in content. With that said, I'm glad I've watched your video! Subscribed and added the books to my list. I'll start catching up with your channel now :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I’m glad you enjoyed it, and that you got some use out of it. I really appreciate the engagement. I hope you can find other things in my channel worth your while!

[@angelogabriel6862]

@@PlaguedbyVisions I'm flying through the channel! The eloquence is one of the reasons is so appealing! It's more enjoyable when the locutor knows how to present his ideas and opinions. I'm finishing the third part of this series and I'll leave my feedback there in a minute :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

@@angelogabriel6862 Thank you so much for all your kind words!

[@codeinesnaps]

this video is so insightful

[@marianemes72]

The Devil of Nanking is a heartbreaking book and yes, a very good one. Sadly, Hayder passed away last year. Her books are amazing. Thank you for the video!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Yes, I was very saddened when I learned about her passing. She was definitely the master of the dark thriller in my eyes!

[@nokiababe726]

Really glad I clicked on your video when it popped up in my recommendations! Thanks for bringing up these interesting works. And for your first video you did a very good job, keep it up :)

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the video!

[@JD.78]

Thanks for making this video. I'm always interested in stories or novels that push at the bounderies of acceptability or what's considered tabboo. I've never not finished a story that's appauled my sensibilities, in fact i like to challenge myself and go to places way outside my comfort zone. The best works of Fiction (or non Fiction for that matter) should challenge the reader without descending into complete madness just for the sake of it. Self reflection is one of the most challenging and harrowing subjects a reader can absorb in a story as it pushes the reader to go places that makes them feel uncomfortable maybe even unwelcome in certain situations. That's what the best stories do i suppose, challenge the reader to self analyze the situations the story puts them in either as an antagonist or a protagonist without feeling disgusted or affronted with the author for doing so. Thanks again. Liked & Subscribed.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Hello there, James! I’ve undertaken the task of finally replying to all comments I’ve neglected before the year is up, so I went to start with an immense apology for my late response! I absolutely loved your exposition here, and it’s what I connected with when I read Nietzsche’s Birth of Tragedy: This figuration that our psyche is always in a constant tug and pull between propriety and unconscious turmoil, and it is the labor of art and writing to mediate the discourse between these two sides.

[@JD.78]

@@PlaguedbyVisions No need to apologise lol, but thanks anyway. I'm currently working my way through The Dark Forest by Cixin Liu, it's not the most challenging novel but it poses some interesting moral questions that add accountability as a Species rather than just a personal choice. I find it quite interesting as the choices being made are for 400 years time rather than at the present...a nice touch. I finished The Three Body Problem the other day and intend to conclude the trilogy with Death's End next week. Thanks for replying, and have a Happy New Year.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

These sound fascinating! I am jotting them down as I always do with viewers’ recs (yes, the list is long lmao). Happy New Year to you as well!

[@zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz9]

Nice video for your first one, keep it up!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thanks! Maybe you can watch my newer installments and let me know if I have improved! Lol. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz9]

@@PlaguedbyVisions yeah I've watched your newer ones and they suck. Joking of course 🤣 very good and i subscribed

[@elcee_213]

You have become one of my favorite book tubers!! I am in the process sof binge watching all of your "disturbing books" videos!! I have morbid curiosity as well. I have read almost all of these and by far...Cows topped it for me! Pretty bad!!!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Comments like this one really overwhelm me with emotion. I truly appreciate your support and engagement, and I hope you find more disturbing reads that work for you! 😁

[@elcee_213]

I plan on it 😁😁 Glad I could be of assistance in creating for you some (hopefully pleasent) overwhelming emotions!!!

[@ishajac3637]

I clicked on this and the first book i thought of from my experiences was The Girl Next Door. I was validated when you included it on your list. But for me, I was so disturbed by the book that i have refused to read any of his other books. Maybe shame on me but I was afraid to have that kind of imaging stuck in my head.

[@actualfvck]

really great video. keep it up!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thanks a ton!

[@josealex6265]

Great recommendations!

[@thomaspetzold3777]

Great Video and List. I had to put down Cows twice and finished on the third attempt. I can recommend the rest of Stokoe's book. They are really great

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I’ll definitely check them out! I haven’t read anything else by him. I feel like I’ll have to brace myself, if Cows is any indicator to the rest of his work.

[@thomaspetzold3777]

@@PlaguedbyVisions well they are not like COWS meaning a lot easier to digest. His second book HIGH LIFE - which is his best imo - is the only one with an R rating. It's not for the squeamish but marvelous. The rest is also great but definitely tamer..

[@nicoleannecollet]

What an interesting list, I liked your takes on these books. There was a time when I was interested in BDSM in fiction, so I bought Story of the Eye, The Story of O, and Masochism: Coldness and Cruelty & Venus in Furs by Giles Deleuze. The first one I ended up throwing in the recycling bin without reading and without wanting anyone to read it, the second one made me want to shake O for subjecting herself to all that crap and ended up in the trash after I had read about 3 chapters, and Deleuze's book is still with me, but I also abandoned it as I found it depressing lol.

[@MrsSmith99st]

Just started reading! Found your Channel last week and have been loving these Reviews! Excellent Descriptions as well! The Horror Genre here in Hawaii is so taboo 😅 Our state is so Conservative we don’t even have Horror Cons 🥲

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much, and greetings all the way to Hawaii! I feel your pain. I live in a very conservative and impoverished part of California. We don’t even have bookstores around here! But this is the horrific safe haven for all of us disturbing lovers. ❤️

[@jetm7698]

Nice one. Do more of these!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Hey! So happy you enjoyed this! There’s a playlist in my channel of this series. We’re up to part 5 now!

[@coffinbirthcutie9126]

Really loved this video. Can't wait to watch the rest in this series! Subbed!

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@chava5074]

Have you read Perfume by Patrick Suskind? I read it on a whim cuz I liked the cover. It’s really eerie. If you start it, stick with it.

[@marysol777]

literally my favorite book of all time!

[@chava5074]

@@marysol777 I read ebooks from my local library so I’ll try almost anything. This one was such a surprise. I had no clue what it was about nor it’s reputation. Nice surprise.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I have read it! It’s been a long time, though. Maybe I need to revisit it! I remember really liking it.

[@Joey-bh7ny]

Great video looking forward to watching more and getting in to Ketchum's work

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Thank you so much for watching! I’m currently undertaking the challenge of reading every book by Jack Ketchum, so we’re on the same boat, you and I! There’s also four more installments to this series now, so lots more disturbing stuff if you’re interested!

[@nancyledford4568]

The shoe maker based on a real person I couldn't finish it

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

I believe I heard about this in The Last Podcast on the Left. A guy who forced his children to help him murder people? Absolutely revolting.

[@jamescastro7798]

I’m late. New to your channel. Gnarly stuff brodie

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Never late, friend! Welcome! And thank you so much for watching!

[@FrankieTeardrop1998]

I recommend reading "Let's Go Play at the Adams's" by Mendal W. Johnson if you can get a hold of it, because it is somewhat rare and has been out of print for a long time. Quite disturbing but a great read. It's loosely based off of the same true crime case of "The Girl Next Door." Edit: It has actually been reissued by Paperbacks From Hell I just found out.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Fantastic novel! I read and reviewed it back in May. You can find my review in my “May Wrap-Up” video if you’re interested! Absolutely, a devastating and thought-provoking, masterful novel.

[@FrankieTeardrop1998]

@@PlaguedbyVisions Ah that's great! I got an old copy of it from 1976. I bought it on ebay before it got reissued in 2020. It was kind of hard to find back then.

[@HorrorReads]

This video popped up in my feed and I'm really happy I clicked on it! I'm always looking for new authors and books I haven't heard about and this gives me some good ones. 👍🙂🍻

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Awesome! I’m glad you got some new disturbing titles to check out! Thank you so much for watching!

[@diegovaldez9914]

Juan , acabo de descubrir tu canal. he visto un par de videos y me agradaron bastante. felicidades por el buen trabajo, de esta lista he leído meridiano sangre, against nature y cows que me parecieron geniales. ¿el de Alissa Nutting en español es las lecciones peligrosas? se me antojo mucho leerle.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

¡Muchas gracias! Gusto en tenerte aquí en mi canal. Sí, ese mero es el de Alissa Nutting. La verdad me incomodó demasiado, como dije aquí en el video, pero sí es un interesante (y perturbador) estudio de la sociopatía y el abuso. Tengo curiosidad en saber qué tan diferente sería leerlo en español. Como dije, sí se me hace un libro importante y relevante a la sociedad, pero fue mucho para mí.

[@diegovaldez9914]

@@PlaguedbyVisions gracias por la recomendación, acabo de leer el de Alissa Nutiing en español y me dejo bien p3nd...o. está bien retorcido pero no pude despegarme, es de esos que se te quedan en la cabeza por mucho tiempo.

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

@@diegovaldez9914 La imaginación de Alissa Nutting es tan enferma pero también tan astuta y fascinante. Tal vez debería armarme de valor y ver si lo puedo terminar.

[@raekwonthachef]

Amazing video! thanks for this, enjoyed every second and added a bunch to my reading list

[@PlaguedbyVisions]

Omg thank you so much for watching! I’m happy you enjoyed the recommendations. I hope you end up liking whatever you picked up from it!