'Parasite' by Darcy Coates is a science fiction horror novel that explores the terrifying concept of parasitic alien life forms spreading through distant outposts and colonies in space. The book follows a series of connected stories set in a shared universe where humanity faces a menacing alien menace, reminiscent of classic horror sci-fi films like 'Aliens' and 'The Thing'. The plot unfolds through different viewpoints in various space stations, each introducing new characters and revealing the escalating horror as the parasites take over.

The writing style in 'Parasite' is described as engaging and easy to read, with a focus on building tension and delivering creepy and chilling moments that evoke goosebumps. The book seamlessly transitions between different segments, each offering a unique perspective on the unfolding horror in space. Despite some criticisms about pacing and character development, readers appreciate the fast-paced plot and the suspenseful narrative that keeps them hooked until the end.

Characters:

The characters tend to be stereotypical and underdeveloped, with a focus on female leads but lacking depth and complexity.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is straightforward and engaging, though occasionally criticized for its simplicity and lack of depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows a connected series of stories about a dangerous parasite infesting various space stations, with different sections exploring the growing crisis.

Setting:

The setting spans various space outposts, creating a backdrop rife with danger, though the worldbuilding is minimal.

Pacing:

The pacing is rapid, allowing for a swift reading experience but sometimes feels repetitive due to its structure.

Jen snapped her helmet into place, enjoying the quiet hiss and click that told her it was locked. A lot of outpost staff complained about having to wear the thick suits during routine patrols, but Jen...

Notes:

Parasite is a sci-fi horror novel by Darcy Coates.

The book features a cotton candy creepy atmosphere.

It includes multiple sections focusing on different space stations.

Station 331 introduces the Parasite, while 332 shows its attack.

Station 333 highlights the growing problem of the Parasite.

Short stories in the book help immerse readers in the characters' experiences.

Stations 334 and 335 are longer novellas, allowing for deeper character development.

Station 334 became a favorite for its more fleshed-out characters.

The story transitions from a planet to a space station in Station 335, enhancing worldbuilding.

Characters are described as stereotypes and caricatures in some reviews.

The writing style is considered simple and readable by many readers.

Some readers appreciated the horror elements, getting genuine goosebumps.

While the author is known for ghost stories, this story is a departure into space horror.

The book has been likened to classic science fiction horror films.

It includes action and features many female protagonists.

Some reviews mentioned a lack of depth in worldbuilding and character motivation.

There’s a mix of excitement and frustration among readers regarding the sequel potential.

The narrative is structured in a way that flowed smoothly between characters and events.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of violence, body horror, and intense psychological situations.

From The Publisher:

Sci-fi thriller from USA Today bestseller and rising queen of atmospheric horror comes a haunting story of isolation, desperation, and terror. There are bodysnatchers about, and they're closer than you think...

For fans of Shirley Jackson and Stephen King

For readers who love science fiction and horror novels

Perfect for fans of Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Passengers

When a guard discovers an unusual lifeform on her remote moon outpost, she disregards protocol to investigate-with catastrophic consequences. It soon becomes clear she's stuck in isolation with an alien capable of incredible depravity. The parasite wears its victims' skins and adopts their personalities. It mimics the way they talk, the way they look, the way they act. It's the perfect disguise.

And by the time humanity realizes it's facing extinction, it's already too late.

As the alien's ruthless progress collapses communication networks, wipes out defenses, and leaves hundreds of stations to fend for themselves, a handful of remarkable individuals must find a way to battle the greatest threat the universe has ever encountered... or die trying.

More Horror Novels By Darcy Coates:

The Carrow Haunt

Craven Manor

The Haunting of Ashburn House

The Haunting of Blackwood House

The Haunting of Rookward House

The House Next Door

The Folcroft Ghosts

Hunted

Dead Lake

The Haunting of Gillespie House

Black Winter series:

Voices in the Snow (Book 1)

Secrets in the Dark (Book 2)

Whispers in the Mist (Book 3)

Silence in the Shadows (Book 4)

House of Shadows series:

House of Secrets (Book 1)

House of Shadows (Book 2)

Ratings (6)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (2)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (24):

Read It (6)
Want To Read (14)
Not Interested (4)

1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

Incredible

2 months

At first the "novella" kind of format bothered me, as one part was about one crew than jumped to the next and kept doing so for most part. But then I slowly got the bigger story and the way everything was connected. Now when I'm finished with it I thought it was a brilliant way to tell this particular story to give as much impact as possible. Don't read much space horror but definitely a genre I want to read more of.

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Parasite

Darcy Coates