Hi
garfbradazz,
Thank you for asking this question in Microsoft Community Forum!
I would suggest you to refer the below links.
Error: Failure configuring Windows updates. Reverting changes. Do not turn off your computer when you try to install Windows Updates
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949358#method3
Windows 8 restarts to a blank screen after a standard shutdown or hibernation
Note:
I would suggest you not try, in place Upgrade feature.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2756559
Hope this information will fix the issue. If you need further assistance, please feel free to reply.