Midnight in a Perfect World

Ambrose Ibsen

Save:

'Midnight in a Perfect World' by Ambrose Ibsen is a horror novel that delves into a world filled with twists, shocks, and horror. The story follows a cast of characters who are intertwined by a wonder drug and face terrifying events that leave readers breathless. The narrative jumps back and forth in time, introducing various characters and creating a sense of suspense and fear throughout the book. Ibsen's writing style, while different from his usual horror genre, focuses on psychological elements, adding depth to the storyline and creating a chilling atmosphere for the readers.

The book presents a unique concept of using men's bodies as tools, creating a sense of unease and horror. Despite some divisive opinions on the ending, the book maintains a fast pace and keeps readers engaged with its unpredictable plot twists. Overall, 'Midnight in a Perfect World' is recommended for fans of Ambrose Ibsen and those who enjoy scary, imaginative horror with a psychological edge.

Characters:

The characters are portrayed as relatable yet unlikable, aligning with the book's dark and bleak atmosphere.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style varies, being both immersive and atmospheric while sometimes flat and confusing, especially due to its shifting perspectives and timelines.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is marked by a fragmented narrative with a non-linear timeline and predictable elements, revolving around a private investigator looking into a suicide while odd phenomena occur.

Setting:

The setting provides a contemporary backdrop enriched with horror elements, filled with tension and unsettling occurrences.

Pacing:

The pacing starts off engaging but becomes rushed and disappointing, particularly in the latter sections.

Notes:

The book features a bumbling private investigator who looks into a college student's suicide.

It introduces many different characters, all of whom begin experiencing strange visions.

The timeline shifts frequently, making it confusing for readers to follow.

Some reviewers noted it was similar to Lovecraft's style, especially in tone.

The writing style is described as immersive, but also occasionally flat and incoherent.

Characters often do not interact much with one another, which some found effective for the story.

It combines elements of horror and psychological themes, with a sense of hopelessness for the characters.

Many readers found the ending unsatisfying and contrived, leading to disappointment.

The first half of the book received praise for its engaging storytelling and pacing, while the latter half was criticized for feeling rushed.

The book is considered more accessible compared to other contemporary horror authors.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes high content warnings for themes such as suicide, mental illness, and unsettling psychological horror.

From The Publisher:

A mysterious suicide. Horrific specters walking the streets. A drug that promises to change the world. An apocalyptic cult.

Something is stirring in the city of Duluth, Minnesota. Ever since a celebrated researcher announced the creation of a new experimental drug-a drug with the potential to cure the mind of countless ills-people have been disappearing. When a grad student involved with the drug's development unexpectedly commits suicide, a private detective is tasked with unearthing the details of her tumultuous final days.

This miracle drug may not be what it seems. Others touched by the drug begin to see things-horrible things-and find themselves transported into a nightmarish world where an ancient evil stirs.

Those who taste the drug are left spiraling into horror. Dark figures tail them on the street, and the scenery of their nightmares begins to encroach upon waking life, blurring the lines between dreams and reality. Their terrifying experiences make up the individual fragments of a dire mosaic. As the pieces fall into place, they come to realize the unspeakable horrors that await all of mankind.

Midnight is looming, and the sun may never rise again over the city of Duluth.

Reader Stats (1):

Want To Read (1)

What can you read after
Midnight in a Perfect World?

See the list (53 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.