“Ephraim dreams of planning a different kind of event: an execution” – Cover Reveal for Eric LaRocca’s Upcoming Splatterpunk Horror Novel BRUTE

2026/07/09 14:57:22 +00:00 | Jonathan James

"The Shining meets The Truman Show filtered through a tech lens in this splatterpunk horror novel from the award-winning author of Wretch, following a queer wedding planner whose past comes back to haunt him when he's forced to arrange his first gay marriage."

Brute is the latest novel from author Eric LaRocca, a horror story that goes deep into the head of a queer wedding planner that has an unsettling obsession with... executions. Due out on March 23rd, 2027, from Saga Press, we are excited to reveal the exceptionally-designed cover (by Alicia Tatone) to Daily Dead readers!

Synopsis: "Ephraim Mayerling is a wedding planner unlike any other. It’s not just the all-black outfits or the strange, wide-brimmed hat he loves wearing. In the privacy of his cottage, Ephraim dreams of planning a different kind of event: an execution.

When Nicholas and Sebastian decide to hire Ephraim for their special day, it becomes harder for Ephraim to leave his “at home” thoughts where they belong. With a mysterious man hovering around town, seemingly everywhere Ephraim goes, everything threatens to come apart at the seams."

About the Author: "Eric LaRocca (he/they) is a three-time Bram Stoker Award finalist and Splatterpunk Award winner. He was named by Esquire as one of the “Writers Shaping Horror’s Next Golden Age” and praised by Locus as “one of the strongest and most unique voices in contemporary horror fiction.” LaRocca’s notable works include Things Have Gotten Worse Since We Last Spoke, Everything the Darkness Eats, and At Dark, I Become Loathsome. He currently resides in Boston, Massachusetts, with his partner."

Brute by Eric LaRocca

  • Jonathan James
    About the Author - Jonathan James

    After more than a decade as a consultant in the entertainment industry, Jonathan James launched Daily Dead in 2010 to share his passion for horror. He takes immense pride in Daily Dead's talented team of writers, who passionately explore and celebrate horror as a respected art form capable of telling complex, character-driven stories with deep emotional and cultural impact.

    Over the course of his career, Jonathan has written more than 10,000 articles and hosted panels at major conventions, including New York Comic Con and San Diego Comic-Con. He is also consulted with as an expert on horror and pop culture, offering insights on horror history and the latest trends through media outlets, film festivals, and conventions.

  • Jonathan James
    About the Author : Jonathan James

    After more than a decade as a consultant in the entertainment industry, Jonathan James launched Daily Dead in 2010 to share his passion for horror. He takes immense pride in Daily Dead's talented team of writers, who passionately explore and celebrate horror as a respected art form capable of telling complex, character-driven stories with deep emotional and cultural impact.

    Over the course of his career, Jonathan has written more than 10,000 articles and hosted panels at major conventions, including New York Comic Con and San Diego Comic-Con. He is also consulted with as an expert on horror and pop culture, offering insights on horror history and the latest trends through media outlets, film festivals, and conventions.