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Recommend this book:
The Lightslayer
Everdusk Book 1
Jack Townson
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Lightslayer by Jack Townson launches the Everdusk series with a bold plunge into the shadowy, blood-soaked world of Draconia. At the heart of this epic fantasy stands Jack Townson, a Vampire Lord burdened with power, haunted by legacy, and forced to confront a supernatural conspiracy that could plunge the realm into war. Together with his renegade crew, the Degenerates, Jack navigates a labyrinth of dark magic, political treachery, and seductive danger in a quest to protect a fragile balance. Featuring brutal battles, intense romance, and cunning alliances, the novel delivers a relentless narrative that explores the cost of power and the depth of loyalty. Readers looking for a gritty, gothic, and richly imaginative world will find themselves thoroughly ensnared.
Author Jack Townson has a smooth writing style that lets the atmosphere and energy of the story speak for itself, reinventing the vampire mythos with bold originality and cinematic intensity on every page. I loved the mysterious style that involves the author directly in the story, connecting readers closely to the chain of events in a darkly immersive world that rivals the scope and depth of the best epic fantasies and classic gothic tales of centuries past. Bridging this past and present feeling is no mean feat, and giving the story a suitably modern feel amidst all the classic vampyric touches relies on the character development. Fortunately, this development is plentiful and enjoyable, as the Degenerates are a refreshingly chaotic ensemble, full of grit, humor, and heart, and with some really snappy and memorable dialogue exchanges. The plot twists around them wonderfully and challenges every member of this extensive and epic tale to their limits for plenty of heart-in-your-throat moments. Overall, I’d certainly recommend The Lightslayer for fans of morally complex heroes and high-stakes supernatural drama.
The Lightslayer by Jack Townson launches the Everdusk series with a bold plunge into the shadowy, blood-soaked world of Draconia. At the heart of this epic fantasy stands Jack Townson, a Vampire Lord burdened with power, haunted by legacy, and forced to confront a supernatural conspiracy that could plunge the realm into war. Together with his renegade crew, the Degenerates, Jack navigates a labyrinth of dark magic, political treachery, and seductive danger in a quest to protect a fragile balance. Featuring brutal battles, intense romance, and cunning alliances, the novel delivers a relentless narrative that explores the cost of power and the depth of loyalty. Readers looking for a gritty, gothic, and richly imaginative world will find themselves thoroughly ensnared.
Author Jack Townson has a smooth writing style that lets the atmosphere and energy of the story speak for itself, reinventing the vampire mythos with bold originality and cinematic intensity on every page. I loved the mysterious style that involves the author directly in the story, connecting readers closely to the chain of events in a darkly immersive world that rivals the scope and depth of the best epic fantasies and classic gothic tales of centuries past. Bridging this past and present feeling is no mean feat, and giving the story a suitably modern feel amidst all the classic vampyric touches relies on the character development. Fortunately, this development is plentiful and enjoyable, as the Degenerates are a refreshingly chaotic ensemble, full of grit, humor, and heart, and with some really snappy and memorable dialogue exchanges. The plot twists around them wonderfully and challenges every member of this extensive and epic tale to their limits for plenty of heart-in-your-throat moments. Overall, I’d certainly recommend The Lightslayer for fans of morally complex heroes and high-stakes supernatural drama.
Recommend this book:
The Monarchs
Mark Sabbas
2025 Honorable Mention
406 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Monarchs by Mark Sabbas is a science fiction novel set in a war-torn world, where a new generation of children possess extraordinary psychic abilities. Samuel, one of these children, struggles to control his powerful telekinesis under the watchful eye of military scientists. His only refuge comes from his philosophical tutor, Walter, and visits with an orphan named Evelyn. As Samuel embarks on a journey that forces him to confront his past and unlock the depths of his psychic powers, he discovers profound spiritual truths and faces formidable enemies. Sabbas skillfully blends science fiction with deep philosophical themes in a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally impactful. The intricate world-building immerses readers in a dystopian future that feels both eerie and plausible, with vivid descriptions that make the setting come alive and dialogue and attitudes in the characters that feel like they'd been realistically affected by the world around them.
I was particularly impressed by Mark Sabbas's ability to create so many dimensions for his characters, especially Samuel, whose internal struggles are as captivating as the external conflicts he faces as he goes through so many changes and challenges. This offers readers a really interesting discussion on human nature that goes beyond typical science fiction tropes. The novel's pacing is also expertly balanced, allowing suspense to build while leaving room for a few key emotional moments. I found myself deeply engrossed in Samuel's journey, not just for the exciting plot developments, but for the thought-provoking questions it raised about our own potential and the responsibilities that come with great power. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend The Monarchs to science fiction fans who appreciate a story that pushes the boundaries of the genre and offers a rich, philosophical exploration of what it means to be human in a world of extraordinary abilities.
The Monarchs by Mark Sabbas is a science fiction novel set in a war-torn world, where a new generation of children possess extraordinary psychic abilities. Samuel, one of these children, struggles to control his powerful telekinesis under the watchful eye of military scientists. His only refuge comes from his philosophical tutor, Walter, and visits with an orphan named Evelyn. As Samuel embarks on a journey that forces him to confront his past and unlock the depths of his psychic powers, he discovers profound spiritual truths and faces formidable enemies. Sabbas skillfully blends science fiction with deep philosophical themes in a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally impactful. The intricate world-building immerses readers in a dystopian future that feels both eerie and plausible, with vivid descriptions that make the setting come alive and dialogue and attitudes in the characters that feel like they'd been realistically affected by the world around them.
I was particularly impressed by Mark Sabbas's ability to create so many dimensions for his characters, especially Samuel, whose internal struggles are as captivating as the external conflicts he faces as he goes through so many changes and challenges. This offers readers a really interesting discussion on human nature that goes beyond typical science fiction tropes. The novel's pacing is also expertly balanced, allowing suspense to build while leaving room for a few key emotional moments. I found myself deeply engrossed in Samuel's journey, not just for the exciting plot developments, but for the thought-provoking questions it raised about our own potential and the responsibilities that come with great power. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend The Monarchs to science fiction fans who appreciate a story that pushes the boundaries of the genre and offers a rich, philosophical exploration of what it means to be human in a world of extraordinary abilities.
Recommend this book:
Bones of Dead Man's Bluff
Robb Grindstaff
2025 Bronze Medal
260 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
Bones of Dead Man’s Bluff by Robb Grindstaff is a gripping suspense novel featuring an interwoven timeline. Reverend Worth Sullivan and Senator Kirk Madison share a dark secret from a tragic camping trip in their youth. Now, Kirk seeks higher office, a decision that Worth strongly opposes. Worth fears the intense scrutiny will unravel the lives of those they love, especially his wife Gentry. Hanging over Kirk and Worth are a series of strange dreams, eerie occurrences, and a mysterious presence demanding attention. Can Worth convince Kirk to abandon his ambitions before the looming danger threatens their lives or is a more dangerous force already in motion, beyond their control?
Bones of Dead Man’s Bluff has all the hallmarks of a fast-paced thriller, with a compelling cast of well-drawn characters that elevate the tension and intrigue. Worth and Kirk, despite being complete opposites, are both characters I could not help but root for as they struggled with their past impacting their present. I loved the dual timeline that added depth to the narrative and provided context and background, while also allowing the reader to understand the motivations of the main characters and their secrets. Robb Grindstaff explores various themes such as power, ambition, and moral obligations. However, the main theme is the power of forgiveness, and how it can heal old wounds and lift burdens of guilt. This book was captivating from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy a suspenseful storyline with a blend of politics, religion, and an ethereal presence.
Bones of Dead Man’s Bluff by Robb Grindstaff is a gripping suspense novel featuring an interwoven timeline. Reverend Worth Sullivan and Senator Kirk Madison share a dark secret from a tragic camping trip in their youth. Now, Kirk seeks higher office, a decision that Worth strongly opposes. Worth fears the intense scrutiny will unravel the lives of those they love, especially his wife Gentry. Hanging over Kirk and Worth are a series of strange dreams, eerie occurrences, and a mysterious presence demanding attention. Can Worth convince Kirk to abandon his ambitions before the looming danger threatens their lives or is a more dangerous force already in motion, beyond their control?
Bones of Dead Man’s Bluff has all the hallmarks of a fast-paced thriller, with a compelling cast of well-drawn characters that elevate the tension and intrigue. Worth and Kirk, despite being complete opposites, are both characters I could not help but root for as they struggled with their past impacting their present. I loved the dual timeline that added depth to the narrative and provided context and background, while also allowing the reader to understand the motivations of the main characters and their secrets. Robb Grindstaff explores various themes such as power, ambition, and moral obligations. However, the main theme is the power of forgiveness, and how it can heal old wounds and lift burdens of guilt. This book was captivating from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy a suspenseful storyline with a blend of politics, religion, and an ethereal presence.
Recommend this book:
Armitage
Children of Arcanum
Atlas Creed
2025 Silver Medal
344 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Armitage: Children of Arcanum by Atlas Creed follows Rebekah Daroh, a young woman battling with the loss of her sister and the strange voice in her head that compels her to do things she can’t understand. Rebekah can’t remember when everything went wrong but in trying to make things right she discovers something she never could have imagined. Niko Ortez is an FBI agent trying to figure out a string of cold cases, one of which is the case of Rebekah’s sister. What is the link between these individuals and can they discover why the mysterious disappearances are happening?
Armitage: Children of Arcanum by Atlas Creed is a novel that blends an array of different genres. While books like this aren’t what I would normally go for, I found myself entirely engrossed in the story from start to finish. The mystery mixed in with paranormal elements made this such an interesting read and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. I also enjoyed the multiple POVs for both Rebekah and Niko as these give you insight into what’s happening at all points of the story. I also enjoyed that there were more personal moments within the novel, especially those relating to mental health as it made the characters seem more real and relatable. Overall, I think the author did a fantastic job with this novel. The world-building was well done, the pacing of the story was just right and the suspense has you hanging off every page. Armitage is a book well worth reading, especially for those who love mystery and paranormal novels.
Armitage: Children of Arcanum by Atlas Creed follows Rebekah Daroh, a young woman battling with the loss of her sister and the strange voice in her head that compels her to do things she can’t understand. Rebekah can’t remember when everything went wrong but in trying to make things right she discovers something she never could have imagined. Niko Ortez is an FBI agent trying to figure out a string of cold cases, one of which is the case of Rebekah’s sister. What is the link between these individuals and can they discover why the mysterious disappearances are happening?
Armitage: Children of Arcanum by Atlas Creed is a novel that blends an array of different genres. While books like this aren’t what I would normally go for, I found myself entirely engrossed in the story from start to finish. The mystery mixed in with paranormal elements made this such an interesting read and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. I also enjoyed the multiple POVs for both Rebekah and Niko as these give you insight into what’s happening at all points of the story. I also enjoyed that there were more personal moments within the novel, especially those relating to mental health as it made the characters seem more real and relatable. Overall, I think the author did a fantastic job with this novel. The world-building was well done, the pacing of the story was just right and the suspense has you hanging off every page. Armitage is a book well worth reading, especially for those who love mystery and paranormal novels.
Recommend this book:
Holiday Spirit Book Two
Destroy All Monsters
John DeGuire
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
Destroy All Monsters, book two in the Holiday Spirit series, combines gothic horror, romance, adventure, and dark humor in a thrilling adventure destined for greatness. Author John DeGuire recreates age-old monsters and has them working together to simultaneously define their place in the modern world. Readers who grew up with Frankenstein, Dracula, werewolves, the Invisible Man, and King Kong will marvel at their evolution. In contrast, new readers will enjoy following these new heroes. Having read book one, Holiday Spirit, I see that author John DeGuire prefers to open his stories with a bang, hitting the ground running, and never slowing down. In the process, DeGuire has established a reincarnation/regeneration of infamous and famous characters so that new readers will flock to his stories as once readers in the fifties, sixties, and seventies latched onto and never let go of the aforementioned monsters.
Adding to the ingenious remake of characters, DeGuire possesses a clean, "cut to the chase" style of writing that is unique. But these attributes are just the beginning! Into a fast-paced thriller, DeGuire fits references and inferences to recent historical, cultural, and current events that add mountains of entertainment and a strong sense of verisimilitude to the storyline and the characters. Characters and monsters alike are presented in such a manner that they become true to life with all the emotional ups and downs, trials, tribulations, and desires of real-life people. I am a longtime fan of authors Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Ken Stark. John DeGuire has joined that shortlist of favorite horror/paranormal/suspense/thriller authors, and I'm looking forward to his next novel.
Destroy All Monsters, book two in the Holiday Spirit series, combines gothic horror, romance, adventure, and dark humor in a thrilling adventure destined for greatness. Author John DeGuire recreates age-old monsters and has them working together to simultaneously define their place in the modern world. Readers who grew up with Frankenstein, Dracula, werewolves, the Invisible Man, and King Kong will marvel at their evolution. In contrast, new readers will enjoy following these new heroes. Having read book one, Holiday Spirit, I see that author John DeGuire prefers to open his stories with a bang, hitting the ground running, and never slowing down. In the process, DeGuire has established a reincarnation/regeneration of infamous and famous characters so that new readers will flock to his stories as once readers in the fifties, sixties, and seventies latched onto and never let go of the aforementioned monsters.
Adding to the ingenious remake of characters, DeGuire possesses a clean, "cut to the chase" style of writing that is unique. But these attributes are just the beginning! Into a fast-paced thriller, DeGuire fits references and inferences to recent historical, cultural, and current events that add mountains of entertainment and a strong sense of verisimilitude to the storyline and the characters. Characters and monsters alike are presented in such a manner that they become true to life with all the emotional ups and downs, trials, tribulations, and desires of real-life people. I am a longtime fan of authors Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Ken Stark. John DeGuire has joined that shortlist of favorite horror/paranormal/suspense/thriller authors, and I'm looking forward to his next novel.
Recommend this book:
Demons Also Dream
Summoned
Ava Lock
2024 Finalist
418 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Demons Also Dream: Summoned by Ava Lock is a supernatural fiction novel that blends elements of horror, suspense, and fantasy. The story follows Joscelyn Wild, a psychic and bestselling supernatural suspense writer, whose dark visions fuel her creative work. When Joss becomes a prisoner in a haunted house on Christmas Eve, she is rescued by Fury, Hell's top bounty hunter tasked with capturing souls that evade death. As dreams blur into reality, Joss finds herself entangled in a chilling adventure where good and evil collide in a gripping supernatural narrative with complex, overlapping realities.
The detailed portrayal of Joscelyn as a lonely but strong psychic writer is compelling, and her connection with Fury creates a fascinating dynamic told through brilliantly nuanced dialogue that moves both their relationship and the plot forward naturally. Ava Lock expertly combines atmospheric touches of horror, suspense, and fantasy to immediately ground readers in a scene or concept, then gets right back on with the action. This isn’t to say that the worldbuilding isn’t also vast and detailed, because the innovative concept of Hell’s bounty system and the unique portrayal of demons and psychic powers provide a refreshing take on the paranormal genre. These are also active elements of the plot that help readers make sense of the story world. Lock's ability to build tension and deliver unexpected twists keeps readers on edge in this exciting world for an unpredictable and immersive tale that they'll never want to end. Overall, Demons Also Dream: Summoned is a highly recommended read for fans of atmospheric and action-packed supernatural adventures.
Demons Also Dream: Summoned by Ava Lock is a supernatural fiction novel that blends elements of horror, suspense, and fantasy. The story follows Joscelyn Wild, a psychic and bestselling supernatural suspense writer, whose dark visions fuel her creative work. When Joss becomes a prisoner in a haunted house on Christmas Eve, she is rescued by Fury, Hell's top bounty hunter tasked with capturing souls that evade death. As dreams blur into reality, Joss finds herself entangled in a chilling adventure where good and evil collide in a gripping supernatural narrative with complex, overlapping realities.
The detailed portrayal of Joscelyn as a lonely but strong psychic writer is compelling, and her connection with Fury creates a fascinating dynamic told through brilliantly nuanced dialogue that moves both their relationship and the plot forward naturally. Ava Lock expertly combines atmospheric touches of horror, suspense, and fantasy to immediately ground readers in a scene or concept, then gets right back on with the action. This isn’t to say that the worldbuilding isn’t also vast and detailed, because the innovative concept of Hell’s bounty system and the unique portrayal of demons and psychic powers provide a refreshing take on the paranormal genre. These are also active elements of the plot that help readers make sense of the story world. Lock's ability to build tension and deliver unexpected twists keeps readers on edge in this exciting world for an unpredictable and immersive tale that they'll never want to end. Overall, Demons Also Dream: Summoned is a highly recommended read for fans of atmospheric and action-packed supernatural adventures.
Recommend this book:
Volk
D. Werkmeister
2024 Honorable Mention
268 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
FBI agent Terri Watson is deeply absorbed by her current career and potentially most important case. Her investigation to track a powerful Russian laundering money is interrupted by a streak of exceptionally horrific murders reminiscent of a wild animal attack. Terri and her partner Marc find themselves knee-deep in the supernatural world of shapeshifters, which reveals a connection between their Russian investigation and the murders. D. Werkmeister has hit the ground running with Volk, a supernatural / werewolf thriller that will surely lead to a highly successful series.
As a fan of horror stories, I am particularly drawn to shapeshifters, and werewolves are my shifters of choice. I am also drawn to horror stories that add to or move ahead of the standard villains, whereby the author presents a well-known creature but with traits that make them different from all others. In Volk, D. Werkmeister has accomplished a 'meisterwerk' with his werewolf, Alex. Volk's unique portrayal of werewolves intrigues readers, presenting a different perspective on these creatures. Listing these unique traits would create spoilers... so I'll leave it there for now. Verisimilitude is, for me, a big plus in fiction. Authors who can translate and use their life experiences, careers, and extensive research to provide that sense of reality are exceptional. Here, too, Werkmeister has scored. His occupations included the FBI and the Marine Corps, and research into the history/mythology of shapeshifters provided the experience necessary to express that vital sense of reality throughout Volk—a winner right from the chute that leaves me looking for the sequels.
FBI agent Terri Watson is deeply absorbed by her current career and potentially most important case. Her investigation to track a powerful Russian laundering money is interrupted by a streak of exceptionally horrific murders reminiscent of a wild animal attack. Terri and her partner Marc find themselves knee-deep in the supernatural world of shapeshifters, which reveals a connection between their Russian investigation and the murders. D. Werkmeister has hit the ground running with Volk, a supernatural / werewolf thriller that will surely lead to a highly successful series.
As a fan of horror stories, I am particularly drawn to shapeshifters, and werewolves are my shifters of choice. I am also drawn to horror stories that add to or move ahead of the standard villains, whereby the author presents a well-known creature but with traits that make them different from all others. In Volk, D. Werkmeister has accomplished a 'meisterwerk' with his werewolf, Alex. Volk's unique portrayal of werewolves intrigues readers, presenting a different perspective on these creatures. Listing these unique traits would create spoilers... so I'll leave it there for now. Verisimilitude is, for me, a big plus in fiction. Authors who can translate and use their life experiences, careers, and extensive research to provide that sense of reality are exceptional. Here, too, Werkmeister has scored. His occupations included the FBI and the Marine Corps, and research into the history/mythology of shapeshifters provided the experience necessary to express that vital sense of reality throughout Volk—a winner right from the chute that leaves me looking for the sequels.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/by-the-dimming-light&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/519ZDf6eGFL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="We all deserve to go home." Yet, sometimes the voyage is difficult or downright impossible. Juliet Rose's novel, By The Dimming Light, explores the dangerous journey of life through Caleb, a young man living in an idyllic small town with a future full of promise. His world shatters in the blink of an eye when his beloved Shannon is murdered, and t...){kind=link}
By the Dimming Light
Juliet Rose
2024 Bronze Medal
295 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
"We all deserve to go home." Yet, sometimes the voyage is difficult or downright impossible. Juliet Rose's novel, By The Dimming Light, explores the dangerous journey of life through Caleb, a young man living in an idyllic small town with a future full of promise. His world shatters in the blink of an eye when his beloved Shannon is murdered, and the crime remains unsolved, slowly fading from memory. However, Caleb can't forget and starts to drown his feelings in the abyss of a bottle. As his life disintegrates and spirals out of control, Caleb realizes something sinister and inexplicable is watching from the woods. To make matters worse, an old high school nemesis moves in next door with his hidden demons. Determined to confront a monster, Caleb sets out on an adventure that offers salvation in the least likely manner, discovering that some monsters can smile politely to your face.
By The Dimming Light defies easy classification and expertly blends science fiction, horror, and mystery into a single thrilling tale. However, the underlying theme is much simpler and relatable: love in all its forms. The story is so heartwarming that it even made me choke up a few times, which doesn't happen often, but the author evokes emotion like a sorceress casting a spell. The characters are well-written and believable; they feel like real people, and I would love to have them as friends or family. The setting is also equally beautifully described and feels like paradise on Earth. The pace and tone of the novel are no-nonsense and gritty at times but also overwhelmingly cathartic, evoking a range of emotions. Juliet Rose crosses multiple genres to deliver an exceptional tale and deftly reminds us that "sometimes, through tragedy, we find what we've been waiting for." Just a great novel.
"We all deserve to go home." Yet, sometimes the voyage is difficult or downright impossible. Juliet Rose's novel, By The Dimming Light, explores the dangerous journey of life through Caleb, a young man living in an idyllic small town with a future full of promise. His world shatters in the blink of an eye when his beloved Shannon is murdered, and the crime remains unsolved, slowly fading from memory. However, Caleb can't forget and starts to drown his feelings in the abyss of a bottle. As his life disintegrates and spirals out of control, Caleb realizes something sinister and inexplicable is watching from the woods. To make matters worse, an old high school nemesis moves in next door with his hidden demons. Determined to confront a monster, Caleb sets out on an adventure that offers salvation in the least likely manner, discovering that some monsters can smile politely to your face.
By The Dimming Light defies easy classification and expertly blends science fiction, horror, and mystery into a single thrilling tale. However, the underlying theme is much simpler and relatable: love in all its forms. The story is so heartwarming that it even made me choke up a few times, which doesn't happen often, but the author evokes emotion like a sorceress casting a spell. The characters are well-written and believable; they feel like real people, and I would love to have them as friends or family. The setting is also equally beautifully described and feels like paradise on Earth. The pace and tone of the novel are no-nonsense and gritty at times but also overwhelmingly cathartic, evoking a range of emotions. Juliet Rose crosses multiple genres to deliver an exceptional tale and deftly reminds us that "sometimes, through tragedy, we find what we've been waiting for." Just a great novel.
Recommend this book:
Within These Walls
Holly Mangin
2024 Silver Medal
416 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Within These Walls by Holly Mangin brings to life ghostly rumors and encounters surrounding the history of the abandoned Hillfield Manor. Many stories have circulated over the years about the manor, preventing people from entering and scarring those who have. When the manor opens again, Emma has an opportunity to explore its interior and look over the family’s writings. How can she say no to that? Now she gets the chance to discover the truth for herself. The last thing she expected was to meet the charming Alex Eason. She’s surprised at the feelings he stirs in her and even more so when she discovers they have one major difference - she’s alive and he’s not. As she’s drawn further into the manor’s secrets, Emma must decide if the obstacles keeping them apart are worth taking a chance at love.
The manor immediately sets the tone by giving it the ominous and eerie quality befitting a ghost story. The vivid details capture your attention by making the manor almost an entity that feels like a character, full of mystery, secrets, and danger. Holly Mangin establishes the mood with a Gothic facade and uses details to create an imposing and regal backdrop. It is a key feature that brings the ghost story to life in a setting where sightings and encounters occur. The emptiness of the manor evokes a spine-chilling atmosphere that draws you into the secrets that are unveiled around every corner. Emma's curiosity adds excitement to every discovery she makes. She’s haunted by the loss of her sister which serves as a guiding light that drives her further and further into discovering what secrets lie within the manor. Family is an important component of the story as Emma is tasked with copying journals which serve as the basis for the mystery. Woven throughout are snippets of the journal entries which create a format that dips into this family’s past and gives the story a timeless feeling. The relationship between Alex and Emma adds romance with a unique twist in a ghost story filled with obstacles threatening to keep them apart. Within These Walls strikes the perfect balance between a mystery, a ghost story, and a romance for an unforgettable and original read.
Within These Walls by Holly Mangin brings to life ghostly rumors and encounters surrounding the history of the abandoned Hillfield Manor. Many stories have circulated over the years about the manor, preventing people from entering and scarring those who have. When the manor opens again, Emma has an opportunity to explore its interior and look over the family’s writings. How can she say no to that? Now she gets the chance to discover the truth for herself. The last thing she expected was to meet the charming Alex Eason. She’s surprised at the feelings he stirs in her and even more so when she discovers they have one major difference - she’s alive and he’s not. As she’s drawn further into the manor’s secrets, Emma must decide if the obstacles keeping them apart are worth taking a chance at love.
The manor immediately sets the tone by giving it the ominous and eerie quality befitting a ghost story. The vivid details capture your attention by making the manor almost an entity that feels like a character, full of mystery, secrets, and danger. Holly Mangin establishes the mood with a Gothic facade and uses details to create an imposing and regal backdrop. It is a key feature that brings the ghost story to life in a setting where sightings and encounters occur. The emptiness of the manor evokes a spine-chilling atmosphere that draws you into the secrets that are unveiled around every corner. Emma's curiosity adds excitement to every discovery she makes. She’s haunted by the loss of her sister which serves as a guiding light that drives her further and further into discovering what secrets lie within the manor. Family is an important component of the story as Emma is tasked with copying journals which serve as the basis for the mystery. Woven throughout are snippets of the journal entries which create a format that dips into this family’s past and gives the story a timeless feeling. The relationship between Alex and Emma adds romance with a unique twist in a ghost story filled with obstacles threatening to keep them apart. Within These Walls strikes the perfect balance between a mystery, a ghost story, and a romance for an unforgettable and original read.
Recommend this book:
Caretaker
The Goodpasture Chronicles
R.J. Halbert
2024 Gold Medal
280 Pages
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Fiction - Supernatural
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In Caretaker: The Goodpasture Chronicles by R.J. Halbert, the loss of her mother and a miscarriage devastated Lyana Keane. Lyana yearned to move on from her pain and continue with life. Desperate for a new beginning, she discovered the ideal house in Littleton, New Hampshire. Lyana, her husband Ian, and their children were eager to see the Farr Hill mansion. Twelve-year-old Zach and fifteen-year-old Ariel could not wait to move in and explore the property, despite the gloomy ambiance and constant fog surrounding the home. The family was required to share a portion of the land with a mysterious caretaker as a condition of the sale. The Keane family discovered they had a deeper connection to their house than they ever imagined when they dug into its mysteries.
Caretaker by R.J. Halbert was intriguing and complex. I was hooked from the start and could not put it down, too afraid I would miss something. The story was fast-paced and filled with mystery, suspense, and the supernatural. The house and small-town community descriptions were true to life, and I felt part of it. The characters were well-developed, and each had a back story. Lyana struggled with everything that had happened in her past, but her husband and children were supportive. Each family member had a unique experience of the house, which added to the suspense. The plot was masterfully crafted, beginning and concluding with an interesting historical detail. I really enjoyed reading this story and cannot wait for the next book.
In Caretaker: The Goodpasture Chronicles by R.J. Halbert, the loss of her mother and a miscarriage devastated Lyana Keane. Lyana yearned to move on from her pain and continue with life. Desperate for a new beginning, she discovered the ideal house in Littleton, New Hampshire. Lyana, her husband Ian, and their children were eager to see the Farr Hill mansion. Twelve-year-old Zach and fifteen-year-old Ariel could not wait to move in and explore the property, despite the gloomy ambiance and constant fog surrounding the home. The family was required to share a portion of the land with a mysterious caretaker as a condition of the sale. The Keane family discovered they had a deeper connection to their house than they ever imagined when they dug into its mysteries.
Caretaker by R.J. Halbert was intriguing and complex. I was hooked from the start and could not put it down, too afraid I would miss something. The story was fast-paced and filled with mystery, suspense, and the supernatural. The house and small-town community descriptions were true to life, and I felt part of it. The characters were well-developed, and each had a back story. Lyana struggled with everything that had happened in her past, but her husband and children were supportive. Each family member had a unique experience of the house, which added to the suspense. The plot was masterfully crafted, beginning and concluding with an interesting historical detail. I really enjoyed reading this story and cannot wait for the next book.
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