Archive for the ‘horror’ Category
It Came From…. By Jim Nemeth And Bob Madison ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway
Posted: March 10, 2024 in Fantasy, giveaways, horror, Science FictionTags: fantasy, film history, Horror, sci-fi
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Peek Inside And Giveaway ~ The Undead Wars by Alan McGill
Posted: March 5, 2024 in giveaways, horror, Romance, urban fantasyTags: giveaway, Horror, romance, urban fantsy
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Love Never Dies
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The Undead Wars
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A Cry in the Moon’s Light Book 2
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by Alan McGill
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Genre: Horror Romance, Dark Fantasy
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A LEADER WILL RISE AND A KINGDOM WILL FALL.
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The former Duchess of Harcourt lives a quiet life. The events of the Dark Forest are a distant memory. But evil does not forget so easily. The sinister Witch King has sent new creatures to find the remaining witches.
Gruesome murders plague the land as eerie Wolf Song echoes from the mountains. Is this the return of Seth? Or something else?
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Alessandra de Moreau must decide if she can work with those who killed her love, for only together will they be able to stop the Undead Army. But first, she will have to find the Dagger of Dark Silver and unravel the Mystery of the Wolf, if they are to survive The Undead Wars.
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**Get it for Only .99cents until March 6th!!**
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Enjoy this peek inside:
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The men and women of the East Side watched in horror. It was devastating to see creatures they thought destroyed come back to life. What hope did they have if something can bring the dead back to life again and again?
But worse than that, they watched the Phoenix bring their dead neighbors back to life. Only they returned as undead. The resurrection bird would swoop in tight to a dead corpse, use its wings to sprint straight up and pull the body back as a member of the Undead Army.
The charred corpses of those who died by fire would rise with amber eyes that shined against blackened skin. They all moved in jerky motion like the Skeletons, stumbling along and picking up weapons. The peasants were horrified and reluctant to fight someone they once knew.
Those who didn’t run or fight were cleaved to death. The Phoenix wasted no time bringing them back to fight. Their wounds were still fresh and oozing blood. As with the burnt corpses, they picked up weapons and attacked in those weird jerky movements.
The Phoenix passed over the areas where the Skeleton Soldiers had concentrated first before it made its way to Alessandra. The bird swooped down over the Skeleton she dropped. Its wings flapped hard, climbing high into the air, but nothing happened.
The puzzled demon looked confused. This was not something the Phoenix had encountered before. Determined to carry out its master’s order, the creature made another pass but still nothing happened. An eerie cry of frustration erupted from its beak.
The Witch King watched but was not surprised. The black glow intensified as he recalled his flaming pet. The Phoenix immediately looked at him and with a blood-curdling caw, swooped down angrily toward Alessandra.
Alessandra rolled out of the way as the flaming bird tried to ram her. It flew past, going straight into her home. The creature then burst through the roof, engulfing the entire structure in flame. This was the most searing heat she’d ever felt. It was so intense she had to step back.
She returned home to help her neighbors, but she also wanted to retrieve the dreamcatcher. It was the one thing the Drabarni gave her to commune with Seth. Everything she owned, including that, was now lost.
As she stood helplessly watching her house burn, a singular blue flame materialized in the middle of the blaze. The light was so bright she used a hand to cover her eyes. The color was very distinctive, unlike the other flames around it.
The heat from the fire subsided. It was still too hot to approach, but not as before. Her eyes adjusted, allowing her to see. The blue flames center now turned white.
A shadow figure appeared in the flame. The figure of a man slowly came into focus. It was Seth! The only man she’d every loved. The man she’d grown up with from Parlimae village. How was he here? He died on that beach nearly fifteen years ago.
He wore a long dark coat, knee-high boots, and grey pants. His long blonde hair was tied in a ponytail. His blue eyes took in the surroundings before turning to her.
Then she heard his voice. It seemed to echo in her mind. “You must find the Drabarni” then a pause. “Do not blame him. You must work together.”
“Seth! Who? Don’t blame who?” She yelled.
Seth voice distorted, “Go to the Red Door.” The last sounds began to fade as the image disappeared. Within seconds, he was gone. The blue flame consumed the white, then diminished leaving only the blaze that consumed the house.
Alessandra wiped the tears from her eyes. As the shock wore off, she picked up a sword next to the pile of bones. Her mind ran through memories of Seth. His face at the Abandoned Church. Her stitching his wounds after the battle with the Black Wolf. And she remembered the kiss just before they had to flee.
The warm remembrance went away as her thoughts turned to anger. Right after that kiss they had to flee. They ended up on that beach surrounded by an angry mob from Mercel. That was when the Hessian shot and killed Seth in front of her.
Thoughts of the Dreamcatcher filled her mind. She looked at her home crumbling under the fire, that very Dreamcatcher somewhere inside. It was gone.
Her eyes moved over the entire area. Buildings were on fire, the whole neighborhood in turmoil, and people desperately tried to escape. Skeletons chased many across the Stone Bridge. Not all were fast enough and died horribly.
She looked again at the road north next to the river. There were two Romani wagons leading a group away. With the hordes of skeletons on the Stone Bridge, she thought it best to join the Romani.
The Phoenix was now perched on the Witch King’s pike. Its flames subdued as it rested. The Witch King had observed the blue flame. He didn’t see Seth, but he knew magic when he saw it. Now he watched as Alessandra went north to catch the caravan of people fleeing.
His eyes glowed black again as he instructed his forces to cut off her escape. The Witch King was ordered his minions to bring her to him, alive. The silver dagger and the blue flame convinced him she was the witch he sought.
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A Cry in the Moon’s Light
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A Cry in the Moon’s Light Book 1
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In a time of castles, muskets, and hideous creatures of the night, a beautiful woman travels across the treacherous Dark Forest to be by the side of her dying grandmother. With only a young carriage driver to protect her, she must use her wits and all of her courage to cross the wild country—and to evade the mysterious beast who stalks her.
What follows is a tale full of horror, mystery, and romance: gruesome murders at a village hidden deep in the forest, a castle that holds dark secrets, and a black wolf leading a deadly pack. Nothing is as it seems, and this journey has only just begun. The beautiful lady in the carriage will learn that only love can defeat evil, but is it love or danger that cries out to her in the deceitful light of the moon?
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A peek inside Chapter 3 – The Horror Begins
Several Minutes passed before the beast turned his gaze from the forest, satisfied the black wolf and his pack were gone. The air calmed, and the clouds moved away. The moon’s light returned, and the forest brightened. It was as if the beast had somehow cleared the sky when he defeated the pack.
He looked up at me with those glowing blue eyes. Large teeth still gleamed from behind a slight snarl. Saliva continued to drip from the edges of his mouth.
It was hard to catch my breath. The beast could easily reach up and yank me off the roof of this carriage. My musket still lay on the ground at his feet.
But just as the sky had changed, so did the beast. His snarl faded and his eyes softened. The look of rage left his face. After a few moments, he looked almost peaceful.
His gaze dropped from me to the carriage, where he no doubt found mi Lady. He didn’t approach her, though. Instead, the beast walked past the horses to the fallen tree. Each step shook under his weight and power. Not one of the horses moved. They still had whale eye, the whites visible beyond the black. But they had settled and started to calm. It was as if they understood him. Somehow, they sensed the danger had passed.
He walked to the giant tree that blocked the road, looked back at me, then pressed his shoulder against it. Battered and bloody, he pushed the massive tree aside. It took a few attempts, but he finally shoved the tree far enough out of the way that the carriage could pass. Then he stood up and looked back at the carriage.
I came down from the roof and picked up my musket. I pulled it to my shoulder, slowly taking aim at him. I was going to kill this thing before he decided to attack us.
Before I could pull the trigger, I heard the carriage door open and mi Lady step out. Soft footsteps slowly approached. As she passed me, she placed a hand over the barrel of my musket, lowering it to the ground. The whole time, she kept her eyes on the beast. He didn’t take his eyes off her either.
She let go of the musket once it was pointing down and started walking toward him. I whispered, “Mademoiselle, no!”
She slowly raised her hand and motioned that it was OK. In an expression of disbelief, I heard her whisper softly to herself, “It can- not be.”
She moved alongside the horses as he took a couple of steps back. She placed a calm hand over Arca’s mane then turned to face the beast as she removed her hood. I watched as they stood there facing each other. Her eyes moving slowly over his battered and bloody body, examining every wound. She winced at some of the tears in his flesh.
She reached out, with slight hesitation, to touch his face. A clawed hand met hers. Tears began to well up in her eyes.
He stepped back, pausing before taking off into the woods. She watched as he faded from sight. A teardrop fell from her eye. It slowly rolled across her cheek, finding its way to the ground. I could see it falling as if in slow motion. It landed in a puddle at her feet with a small splash.
The moment the tear hit the ground, a deep howl sounded in the distance. It was a cry of sorrow. A look of pain crossed her face, as if she felt the anguish in that sound.
The mood was somber. An immense sadness hung in the air.
Everything was quiet. The forest was still.
She turned, slowly walking back to the carriage. “We need to go.” Without another word, she stepped inside, shut the door, and dis-appeared into the shadows.
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**Don’t miss the companion books!**
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Red Door
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A Cry In the Moon’s Light Novella
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Father Daniel’s Compendium of the Undead
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A Companion Novella to A Cry in the Moon’s Light
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Alan McGill is an American author who lives in Northwestern Pennsylvania with a clowder of cats. Alan was close to his grandparents who grew up in the Great Depression. They were married young and remained together until his grandmother’s passing. His grandfather served in the Navy during WWII and was a gifted storyteller who weaved humorous tales about tough events. Alan grew up with these stories of right and wrong along with watching fictional heroes such as The Lone Ranger, Adam West’s Batman and Captain America. Heroes who stood up to bullies and protected those who could not protect themselves. This made an impression on the author to always do what was right in his own life and shaped his love for storytelling. He is a multi-genre author with his debut novel being A Cry in the Moon’s Light which is a horror romance and mystery series. As with all his books, one of the primary themes involves characters who strive to do the right thing regardless of the adversity they face. The second theme present in all his books is love. A pure and deep love that defeats all evil.
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
Novus Monstrum ~ The Midnight Zone #1 ~ Guest Post And Giveaway
Posted: March 4, 2024 in Anthology, giveaways, horrorTags: anthology, giveaway, weird creature horror
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These monsters are never-before-seen.
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These monsters bite, and don’t let go.
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These monsters aren’t your grandparents’ boogeymen, but they are not tame, and they want to climb right
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down into your nightmares and make you their own.
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Novus Monstrum
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The Midnight Zone Book 1
Edited by Douglas Gwilym & Ken MacGregor
Genre: Weird Creature Horror Anthology
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“Mysterious, merciless, mirthful. New favorites await you in this superb anthology.”
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–Johnny Compton (author of Spite House, Esquire best horror book of 2023 and Stoker longlister)
This may look like just a book, but NOVUS MONSTRUM could infect your brain, shake your sense of what’s real, change you forever. This is twenty-two all-original new monster tales from the greats: Jonathan Maberry, Joe R. Lansdale, Gabino Iglesias, Gemma Files, Gaby Triana, Ramsey Campbell, Jeffrey Thomas, Gwendolyn Kiste, and Lucy A. Snyder, plus thirteen stories from new names (see below) destined to become some of your favorite authors.
These monsters are never-before-seen. These monsters bite, and don’t let go. These monsters aren’t your grandparents’ boogeymen, but they are not tame, and they want to climb right down into your nightmares and make you their own.
Welcome to the new anthology series The Midnight Zone.
Ken MacGregor, editor of the Shirley-Jackson-Award-nominated anthology Stitched Lips and the uproarious Burnt Fur, teamed up with Bram-Stoker-Award-nominated short story author Douglas Gwilym, editor of Appetites and Harmony & Dissonance, to take you to strange and dark new places. They’ll ask you to go deeper and weirder than The Twilight Zone, to a place (like the real-world midnight zone, a mile beneath the ocean’s surface) where no sunlight penetrates. Join us as we explore the inhospitable, surprising, uncomfortable, bizarre, and otherworldly.
Go on. Dive in. Lose yourself to The Midnight Zone.
Also Featuring:
Amanda M. Blake
Joshua Bartolome
Matt Brandenburg
R.A. Busby
Marco Cultrera
E.C. Dorgan
Douglas Ford
Sarah Hans
Jamie Lackey
Donna J.W. Munro
Frank Oreto
Tim Pieraccini
Pris Sears
Includes:
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A Grace of Finer Form – Post-apocalyptic survival tale. The monsters are mutants: amalgams of living creatures, one so enormous it rivals the Titans of myth.
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Brother Bone – A giant, living skeleton that feeds on the skeletons of its victims (by ripping away the flesh and meat) and using the bone fragments to expand itself, in return granting its family effective immortality.
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First Day Jitters at Slappy’s – The monsters are living theme-park mascot characters. It’s far more disturbing than it sounds. This one is bonkers.
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God Damn You to Hell, John Glenn – The monster is a massive, mutated, extremely hungry…sea monkey.
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I Clean the Monster that Killed My Husband Every Morning – A vicious anti-pollution tale, the monsters are creatures that come up from below the earth and violently destroy any machine that creates pollutants, and whomever happens to be using them at the time.
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Lizard War – Translucent giant lizards swarming across the alien landscape. The “astronauts” are all women, and the main character, Eliza, who was the cook before everything changed but is now in charge, loses her lover Joan in a climactic scene. She floats out into space, “her blood hanging in drops around her like falling rose petals, her hair fanned out like a peacock’s tail….”
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Mother Ship – Machine/organic spaceship and her godspawn child.
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The Path of Skulls – Sexless, cube-headed simulacra and deep arcane mystery.
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Song of the Devil Trumpet – Quite lovely trees that trick you into eating their fruit so they can take over your body and repurpose you.
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Wonce was a Woman – The monsters are human female/office machine hybrids. A woman goes looking for a mythical monster woman who is foretold as a sort of savior–and ultimately finds it is herself.
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With an introduction by the amazing Jamie Flanagan, screenwriter for Haunting of Bly Manor, Midnight Mass, Creepshow, and Fall of the House of Usher, and original cover art by the astonishing Trevor Henderson, internet cult phenomenon, creator of Siren Head, and weaver of monsters!
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A Grace of Finer Form – Post-apocalyptic survival tale. The monsters are mutants: amalgams of living creatures, one so enormous it rivals the Titans of myth.
“She… remembered a time when the animals weren’t… distorted… with extra limbs, eyes in the wrong places, wings or tails that don’t belong. But, to me, the two-headed chipmunk-lizard hybrid that scrambled up my sleeve… was as natural as any other thing in the forest. These twisted animals were all I had ever known.”
“[T]he massive thing on the horizon was closer, resolving itself into a towering titan’s form, still hazy in the dawn light. It was a person, but with too many limbs, too many faces, pearlescent skin shimmering in the sunlight, horrible and wonderful to behold. It was so tall its faces were wreathed in clouds like a crown. Around the titan’s head, winged creatures wheeled and dipped like a god’s heralds. At its feet, a retinue followed, at this distance appearing like a seething mass.”
“Its faces turned and turned so that each pair of eyes could behold me there…. It stood over me, five-breasted and seven-armed, three phalluses dangling between its many legs. What I had taken for a pearlescent shimmer at a distance was actually the oscillation of the vegetation that sprouted from the titan’s skin, long-stemmed mushrooms and coiling vines and bell-shaped flowers the size of a dog waving and juddering with each of the giant’s steps.”
“The wings of an eagle combined with the body of a lynx, but also the eyes of an insect, the paws of a raccoon, the tail of a snake. Horrifying and miraculous all at once.”
“Amber and Kelly ran, screaming. I followed them, pursuing them doggedly into the trees. I was faster, now, the titan’s tears making me an ideal version of myself…. I enclosed them in my embrace, my arms lengthening and my flesh stretching to encompass them wholly in the love of the goddess…. The titan’s tears melted their skin and melded it with mine. Our bones snapped together into one skeleton, our hair braided itself into one wild tangle. Amber and Kelly and I became one creature with six legs and six arms and three faces, weeping with terrible joy.”
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Are We All The Monsters?
a conversation with Douglas Gwilym & Ken MacGregor, editors of NOVUS MONSTRUM
Douglas:
Hey, Ken. What’s different? There’s… something in the atmosphere.
Ken:
Hey, Douglas. Is it…poisonous gas? No, wait. This is Valentine’s Day, so…it’s love, isn’t it? Love of monsters!
Douglas:
Nailed it in one. I think it’s safe to say we each have what you might call a lifelong love of things monstrous and impossible. What was your first monster true love? How old were you, and did the monster’s family approve?
Ken:
Well, I grew up on shows like The Twilight Zone (which should come as no surprise to anyone, since our current series of anthologies, The Midnight Zone, is clearly a deeply respectful homage to that) and Night Gallery, which scared the bejeezus out of me more than a few times. I read a lot of fantasy books, but was always drawn to the darker, more unsettling characters. In the Roger Zelazny Amber books, there’s a moment where he describes a person (Dworkin) so powerful that his madness flickers across his physical being for a moment, terrifying the protagonist. That image has stuck with me for over 40 years. Man, I loved those books. I’m not sure if I’ve answered your question, but I’ll try to sum it up: I’ve always been drawn to the macabre, for as long as I can remember, and I’ve always loved monsters. And, I’m not one to care if the family approves: I’ll go Romeo and Juliet on that, probably with the same result as those crazy kids. What about you? First monster love?
Douglas:
Ooch. Ouch. I mean, the first truly monstrous beings I loved as a child were in sci-fi and fantasy. The salt-sucking mimic with the circular mouth of terrible teeth who posed as McCoy’s ex in the original Star Trek and knocked off crew member after crew member. The towering indifferent monsters of the kaiju “Creature Feature” on a tv station I could barely pull in after school. IT from A Wrinkle In Time, pulsating and terrorizing and making you (me!) its own. But it was Gollum, from reading The Lord of the Rings (and watching the Rankin-Bass Hobbit film), who made me a real convert to monsterdom. Gollum was just an ordinary hobbit like us, but the Ring and the darkness and the malice in his heart over 500 years turned him into a gruesome, strangling, blood-thirsty monster. Terrible as he is, the sympathy started to creep in with that guy. Prepared me for Alan Moore’s run of Swamp Thing comics to set the hook forever. Alec Holland was trying to do good in the world, was murdered and reborn in a way that estranged him from humanity forever… and made him a kind of a god. I mean, where do I sign?
So, hey. Ken. What does it mean to you if I say, “We are all the monsters”?
Ken:
I would interpret that to mean that humans are capable of monstrous things, which, if you watch, read, or listen to the news, is pretty clearly true. While I absolutely love monsters from fiction, and very much enjoy writing about them, I find the real-world monsters far more disturbing. I think each of us is capable of monstrosity. Even myself. I can clearly remember, after a car accident when I got hit in the head hard enough to give me grand mal seizures later, thinking to myself, “Oh. I should go kill that driver who just hit me.” It wasn’t an angry thought. It was calm, practical. Like, it was this thing I had to do to set things right again. That’s psychotic, and it terrifies me that a thought like that was ever in my head. The fact that I was ready to calmly commit homicide is quite alarming. Luckily, a cop car rolled up as I was heading to my task and my brain decided it would be better not to kill anyone today. I realize this was an injury-induced moment of madness, but it gave me pause. How many of us are just one angry customer, one failed credit card transaction, one hot coffee spilled on our thigh, from losing it and tearing out someone’s throat with our teeth?
Incidentally, I loved hearing about your early influences. I had completely forgotten about the lamprey-like monster on Star Trek!
Douglas:
That negative human potential is huge. I remember Stephen King saying something like “I write these things in a ‘knock on wood’ way, to keep them fiction and out of my real life.”
My take is, I’ll admit, a bit different. We’ve had the supremely good luck of getting to work with some talented folks for NOVUS MONSTRUM. Not just the nine authors we invited who are real forces in the genre, but the 800-ish writers who sent us submissions from around the world. I don’t know if I could get my hands on better data about what it means to be a monster, or what the idea of monsters means to us, as humans. I am left with the strong impression that being monstrous boils down to three things: being different, being outside the grid of usual human society, and–perhaps foremost–being powerful. I think we all have tremendous potential, we humans. And I think we’re all a little monstrous in our own way. But, like the monsters in the stories by Gwendolyn Kiste, Marco Cultrera, Sarah Hans, and others in the book, you can take that power, and that license to give zero you-know-whats, and do something monstrously positive with it. But, you know me, Swamp Thing got me early and got me good. We celebrate the monsters here, because monsters can be anything. Sometimes even the hero.
Love that you brought up The Twilight Zone. It’s subtle, and I think it would be easy for folks to miss, but the real-world “twilight zone” is an oceanographic term, referring to a dark, in-between place in the depths of the ocean, and so is “the midnight zone”. Just one shade deeper.
Ken:
One of the things that initially drew me to the term The Midnight Zone was, first, the homage to The Twilight Zone, naturally, but also that, in the midnight zone of the ocean, no light penetrates: it’s a place of eternal darkness, inhabited by nothing but predators and scavengers. What better setting for an anthology of monsters?! It is inherently creepy, oppressive, scary. So, we started with this vibe, this unsettling title for our series, and hit the ground running. When we settled on the theme for volume one, “original monsters,” it felt like the perfect fit. And the response from our invited authors, and the overwhelming enthusiasm from the open call for submissions, we could tell that we had hit on something pretty special. Whenever I’m describing NOVUS MONSTRUM to people who haven’t yet read it, I always say that these are honestly some of the best short stories I’ve ever read. There’s a reason these 22 made the cut, out of nearly 800 submissions. I couldn’t be more proud of this thing we created, Douglas, and I am absolutely down for doing it again. At some point. Once we’ve recovered from the year of working on this one.
Douglas:
A moment to breathe is always good. A chance to take the inspiration of working with storytellers of this caliber and supercharging our own writing? 🙂 I’ve got my own short story collection, They Take Our Best & Other Weird Tales, circulating with some of my favorite authors and accruing some wonderful blurbs. I’m also itching to get my latest novel in shape for the monstrous masses. What do you have in the works?
Ken:
My first story collection (and first ever book), An Aberrant Mind, was recently released to me from the publisher. So, I’m reworking it, bringing it up to my current standards, with the goal of self-publishing it sometime this year. It’ll be my first foray into that sort of thing, and I’m nervously excited about it. There are some other projects in the works, too, but they’re kind of too early to really talk about now. Don’t want to put the cart before the dead horse, or whatever that expression is.
Douglas:
Nice! May all your dead horses pull the carts you want them to.
And that leaves us with tales enough for another day, doesn’t it?
Ken:
It does. Incidentally, “All Your Dead Horses” is my new band.
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Douglas Gwilym has been known to compose a weird-fiction rock opera or two. His short story “Year Six” is on Ellen Datlow’s recommended reading list for Best Horror 14. He edited Triangulation for four years and now co-edits The Midnight Zone—forthcoming edition, Novus Monstrum, a collection of never-before-seen monsters, featuring original stories by greats, and new voices, in strange, dark fiction. He reads classics of the proto-Weird on YouTube and has been guest staff at Alpha Young Writers workshop. His short fiction appears in LampLight, Lucent Dreaming, Novel Noctule, Shelter of Daylight, Tales from the Moonlit Path, Penumbric Speculative Fiction Magazine, and Tales to Terrify.
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Ken MacGregor has written three story collections, an award winning young adult novella (Devil’s Bane), and has co-authored a novel (Headcase). He is a member of the Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers and an active member of the Horror Writers Association. He’s also written TV and radio commercials, sketch comedy, a music video, a one-act play, a scattering of poems, and a zombie movie. Ken has curated three original anthologies, one of which (Stitched Lips) was a finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award. His third anthology, Novus Monstrum, was co-edited with Douglas Gwilym. It is the first installment in the Midnight Zone series for Dragon’s Roost Press.
Ken is also a part-time literary assassin: he will write you into an original short story and kill you for money. Ken drives the bookmobile and lives with his kids, a fierce-but-cuddly tiger cat, and the ashes of his wife.
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He can be found at www.kenmacgregor.com.
Website * Facebook * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
False Haven by Rebecca Rook ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway
Posted: February 13, 2024 in giveaways, horror, YATags: excerpt, giveaway, Horror, YA
False Haven
by Rebecca Rook
Publication date: February 13th 2024
Genres: Horror, Young Adult
False Haven is a young adult horror novel for fans of Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake, Asylum by Madeleine Roux, and Fiendish by Brenna Yovanoff.
Seventeen-year-old Vivienne Barston’s life has fallen apart.
With her mother recently dead, her father disappears into his grief – leaving Viv to deal with her sadness and anger alone. Viv turns to destructive behaviors like petty vandalism, but after a disturbing stint in a juvenile detention center frightens her, Viv agrees to a court mandated service opportunity designed to expunge her record. The deal: work for six weeks with a trail conservation crew in the rural woods of southern Oregon, and she’ll be free with a clean slate.
She knows it’s her last chance to fix her life.
When Viv arrives at the small town of Hard Luck, Oregon, she meets her motley crewmates, all with troubles of their own. The unusual group travels to Grafton Stake, a remote and derelict former asylum with a haunted history–and now Viv must face the ghosts of the past while fighting for her future.
Don’t miss this inventive horror novel where Holes meets The Haunting of Hill House!
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Enjoy this peek inside:
“Morgan! She’s here, oh my god, she’s here.” Cat tried to push past Viv.
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Viv flung up an arm to bar Cat’s movement. “Stop,” Viv hissed through gritted teeth. “Look.”
Viv flung up an arm to bar Cat’s movement. “Stop,” Viv hissed through gritted teeth. “Look.”
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Cat stopped. She saw. And fell back, almost behind Viv.
Cat stopped. She saw. And fell back, almost behind Viv.
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“Oh my god,” Viv heard the other girl whimper from behind her.
“Oh my god,” Viv heard the other girl whimper from behind her.
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But she couldn’t take her eyes off the scene before her.
But she couldn’t take her eyes off the scene before her.
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Morgan stood several feet away, near the center of the graveyard. Dressed in a white gown that
gleamed like bone in the twilight, Viv saw that the garment was old-fashioned, with flounces at
the hem and on the chest. The hem trailed in the wet grass at Morgan’s feet. Long sleeves
covered her arms, and Morgan’s long hair draped down her gown and around her body like
ropes, the ends of her hair coated in a sticky fluid. Viv’s eyes trailed over the gown. Red stains,
etched in symbols that resembled keys, were traced across the fabric. Morgan’s hands were
coated in red, and Viv realized, in a distant corner of her mind, that the red was blood.
Morgan stood several feet away, near the center of the graveyard. Dressed in a white gown that
gleamed like bone in the twilight, Viv saw that the garment was old-fashioned, with flounces at
the hem and on the chest. The hem trailed in the wet grass at Morgan’s feet. Long sleeves
covered her arms, and Morgan’s long hair draped down her gown and around her body like
ropes, the ends of her hair coated in a sticky fluid. Viv’s eyes trailed over the gown. Red stains,
etched in symbols that resembled keys, were traced across the fabric. Morgan’s hands were
coated in red, and Viv realized, in a distant corner of her mind, that the red was blood.
.
More blood dripped from her scalp, a gory crown that haloed her white face and wide eyes. Her
lips were stained red, and more fluid dribbled from her mouth as Morgan’s face stretched into
the familiar too wide, grotesque grin. Feathers, blue and black and red, rested on the ground at
Morgan’s feet, also stained with blood.
More blood dripped from her scalp, a gory crown that haloed her white face and wide eyes. Her
lips were stained red, and more fluid dribbled from her mouth as Morgan’s face stretched into
the familiar too wide, grotesque grin. Feathers, blue and black and red, rested on the ground at
Morgan’s feet, also stained with blood.
.
Morgan turned from the sky and focused on Viv. The grin grew wider.
Morgan turned from the sky and focused on Viv. The grin grew wider.
.
“Hello.” The high, thin, childish voice was back.
“Hello.” The high, thin, childish voice was back.
.
“Have you come to join us?”
“Have you come to join us?”
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About Author Rebecca Rook:
Rebecca Rook designs tabletop games, manages a little free library dedicated to sequential art and comics, and lives in the Pacific Northwest with two wonderful dogs. She writes young adult fiction in the fantasy, thriller, and horror genres.
A 2021-2022 Hugo House Fellow in
Seattle, WA, she also attended the 2021 Tin House YA Fiction Workshop in
Portland, OR. Rebecca was selected as one of the 100 invited writers to participate in the Write Team Mentorship Program’s curated Pitch-a-Thon event before being chosen as a Mentee for the 2021 Program. Prior to this, she completed the wonderful Yearlong Workshop for Young Adult and Middle Grade Fiction at Hugo House.
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~~~~~
Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
Malevolence: The Curse Of Carter’s Grove by Robert Hazelton ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway
Posted: February 12, 2024 in giveaways, horror, Paranormal or fantasyTags: excerpt, giveaway, paranormal horror
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Discover the enigmatic secrets of Carter’s Grove, a seemingly
ordinary logging town that harbors extraordinary mysteries.
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Malevolence: The Curse of Carter’s Grove
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The Curse of
Carter’s Grove Book 1
by Robert Hazelton
Genre: Paranormal Horror
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Discover the enigmatic secrets of Carter’s Grove, a seemingly
ordinary logging town that harbors extraordinary mysteries.
Gabriel
Carter arrives to attend the funeral of his estranged father. He left
as a child, though the call of home has always piqued his
curiosity.
Special Agent Teagan Walsh arrives to assist
the local police in unraveling a perplexing murder investigation that
has left the town in turmoil. But Carter’s Grove has many dark
secrets, and she’s only scratched the surface.
Meanwhile,
Joe “Spontaneous” Santino seeks to uncover the truth behind
the small town horrors. Armed with a successful ghost hunting YouTube
channel, he fully intends to unearth mysteries better left alone.
As
the Curse of Carter’s Grove takes hold, these visitors will find
their lives changed forever.
Join us on this journey of
suspense, intrigue, and revelation, where the boundaries between the
ordinary and the extraordinary blur, and the destinies of these
individuals intertwine in ways they could never have imagined.
.
**Get it for Only .99cents!!**
.
Amazon
* Apple
Audiobook * Bookbub
* Goodreads
.
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Cassivale took my breath away from afar. The splendor changed when we started up the drive, leading to a dilapidated fountain forming a roundabout. A statue of a cavalryman took up the center of the fixture, a heroic figure holding up a saber over his head with the steed rearing in a classical pose.
I assumed the water normally came from the beast’s mouth though it clearly hadn’t produced anything but mold and moss for several years. The murky water took on a green hue, the stonework cracked and brutalized by Pacific Northwest storms. Despite the fact it stood more than twenty feet tall, it seemed diminished. Diminutive even.
The fact I could not remember it at all bothered me. I wanted to have some vision of it in full glory. Sun beaming down from behind the head of the horseman, water cascading out into the crystal clear pool. As we drove around it, I doubted it had been cleaned since long before I was born.
Maybe my parents kept me away from the thing.
The front of the estate loomed over us nearly four stories. A flight of wide stairs led up to a porch stretching around the house with Greek style pillars holding it up. Those looked sturdy enough, though time definitely had a go at them. Cracks in the wood were apparent long before I got out of the car.
Rodney stopped directly beside the steps. I hopped out, taking the full brunt of a stiff breeze from the left. I drew my coat tight about me, taking a moment to look over the arched windows dotting the surface of Cassivale, some lit while others remained dark. Like the upper stories, none of them appeared to be broken, which surprised me.
Considering the state of the fountain at least.
The house boasted twenty-five bedrooms. It sprawled to the left and right, at least a block in each direction. How had I been allowed to roam freely through those halls as a child? Getting lost in the labyrinthine corridors, the secret passages and dusty spaces no longer occupied.
It seemed like a fantastic dream.
.
Robert
Hazelton has been writing short fiction, novels and music his entire
life. As the founding member of Deadly Nightshade Botanical Society
and a long time member of the band Abney Park, he has traveled
extensively and performed countless shows in exotic locales.
Robert writes in a variety of genres but keeps drifting back to
modern fantasy/horror. He considers Elizabeth Moon, Frank Herbert,
and Steven Pressfield to be his biggest influences.
Website
* Facebook *
Instagram
* Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads
.
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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,
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~~~~~
Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
Trailer Reveal And Giveaway ~ Urbex Predator by Jens Boele
Posted: February 8, 2024 in giveaways, horror, thriller, TrailerTags: giveaway, Horror, thriller
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I am so excited that I get to share the trailer for URBEX PREDATOR by Jens Boele!
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If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book, be sure to check out all the details below.
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This blitz also includes a giveaway for an awesome t-shirt of the book courtesy of Jens & Rockstar Book Tours. So if you’d like a chance to win, check out the giveaway info below.
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URBEX PREDATOR : Take nothin but pictures, leave nothing but
bodies. A Deadly Survival Story.
Author: Jens Boele
Pub. Date: February 4, 2024
Publisher: Jens Boele
Formats: Paperback, eBook
Pages: 394
.
.
Abandoned Horrors. Deranged Souls. A Deadly Survival Story.
.
In the chilling new horror novel, “Urbex Predator,” by Jens Boele, a
group of intrepid urban explorers embarks on what they believe to be a routine
trip to an abandoned barracks in the middle of nowhere.
As a relict from the Cold War era, they are a popular destination for
photographers, influencers, and adventurers. A place that is closely guarded
and harbors a multitude of risks. But it’s not just the derelict buildings that
pose a danger.
Nela and her friend Tess venture to the eerie ruins to complete their
photography thesis, only to find themselves relentlessly pursued through the
darkened corridors by a group of ruthless thugs.
Zander, Yelka, her sister Vivien, and her manager Damon set out on a photo
shoot, only to be unexpectedly cornered by a gang of depraved youths. As night
descends, the boundaries between life and death blur, and the group is forced
to confront the darkest corners of their own souls.
As the night deepens, will they fall victim or rise as hunters in the shadows?
Inspired by early works from literary giants like Jack Ketchum and Richard
Laymon, “Urbex Predator” promises readers a heart-pounding journey
through the realms of fear and survival, where every turn reveals a new
nightmare. Yet, this spine-tingling narrative is not just the product of
imagination; it’s also a reflection of author Jens Boele’s real-life
experiences as an Urban Explorer, who spent many years venturing into the very
places he describes in his book.
.
.
About Author Jens Boele:
.
Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in the entertainment
industry, brings over two decades of cinematic expertise to his writing. Born
in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his writing odyssey in his youth,
culminating in the publication of his debut book, “Sunshine,” in
2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and his latest spine-tingling
creation, “Urbex Predator.”
.
Jens is a genre-bending author, specializing in horror and
crime thrillers. His narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales
that plunge readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s
storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind; his
villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling examination
of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane.
.
Jens sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic
horror with the gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion
imbues his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic
thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading
experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day readers
alike.
.
Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across borders,
as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated into
English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States, Jens’s
passion for exploration and his international perspective, nurtured by family
and friends in the US, shine through in his writing, offering readers a
captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity.
.
Website | Instagram | YouTube | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub
.
.
2 winners will receive an URBEX PREDATOR T-shirt, International.
.
Ends March 8th, midnight EST.
.
~~~~~
Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
Urbex Predator by Jens Boele ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway
Posted: February 4, 2024 in giveaways, horror, thrillerTags: excerpt, giveaway, Horror, thriller
Urbex Predator
by Jens Boele
Publication date: February 4th 2024
Genres: Adult, Horror, Thriller
Abandoned Horrors. Deranged Souls. A Deadly Survival Story.
In the chilling new horror novel, “Urbex Predator,” by Jens Boele, a group of intrepid urban explorers embarks on what they believe to be a routine trip to an abandoned barracks in the middle of nowhere.
As a relict from the Cold War era, they are a popular destination for photographers, influencers, and adventurers. A place that is closely guarded and harbors a multitude of risks. But it’s not just the derelict buildings that pose a danger.
Nela and her friend Tess venture to the eerie ruins to complete their photography thesis, only to find themselves relentlessly pursued through the darkened corridors by a group of ruthless thugs.
Zander, Yelka, her sister Vivien, and her manager Damon set out on a photo shoot, only to be unexpectedly cornered by a gang of depraved youths. As night descends, the boundaries between life and death blur, and the group is forced to confront the darkest corners of their own souls.
In the face of danger, will they fall victim or rise as hunters in the shadows?
Inspired by early works from literary giants like Jack Ketchum and Richard Laymon, “Urbex Predator” promises readers a heart-pounding journey through the realms of fear and survival, where every turn reveals a new nightmare. Yet, this spine-tingling narrative is not just the product of imagination; it’s also a reflection of author Jens Boele’s real-life experiences as an Urban Explorer, who spent many years venturing into the very places he describes in his book.
~~~~~
Enjoy this peek inside:
“However, that’s the shortest way!” Out of the corner of his eye, Zander Regan watched the rest of the group with his arms crossed.
“Are you telling me that I have to crawl through a bush and then climb over a wall for a photo shoot? Really?” Yelka handed Vivian her sneakers. She was carrying her flip-flops in her right hand, like she was carrying a purse. Vivian’s outfit for the trip to the abandoned barracks was far from practical, especially her choice of hot pants and a spaghetti-strap top.
“I must admit, Yelka,” added her manager Damon, “I’m quite irritated about this location too. Isn’t there an official entrance to the site?” He lifted his sunglasses and glanced at Yelka and Zander, eyebrows raised.
Zander ignored Damon’s gaze, pretending to check his watch. Vivian and Damon were already starting to get on his nerves. This could have been a fun trip, but he was used to their behavior. It was likely that one of them would become dramatic at the slightest opportunity. The other sure bet was that Yelka would try to appease her sister, his pretty Yelka.
Oh, if only she knew how much he desired her …
“Zander really tried everything, Viv. This is the fastest way to the barracks—and your photos.” She smiled. “You’re going to look more than gorgeous, darling sis. The barracks make an impressive backdrop, right, Zander?”
There she was again, Yelka with her velvety voice and twinkling eyes that made his legs feel weak. Zander didn’t understand why Vivian, not Yelka, was the Instagram model. It was like a joke.
I am a model on Instagram.
Yes, and I’m a mercenary in Call of Duty.
“Isn’t that right, Zander?” repeated Yelka.
“Huh? Oh yes,” Zander stuttered as if he had been caught in a lie. “The barracks were abandoned after German reunification and have lain fallow ever since,” he explained. “The area is in the middle of a 6,000-acre woodland and consists of barracks, a civilian settlement, and a military hospital. All areas are separated from each other, but are supposed to be connected by underground bunkers …”
“For fuck’s sake, can you please wake me up when he’s done with his monologue?” Annoyed, Vivian glanced at Damon.
“Viv, please.”
“6,000 acres is pretty darn big,” Damon hooked in. “I hope we don’t have to trek for miles through the woods. Tonight we have to post our stories, and by tomorrow morning the pictures. And our designers still must retouch them before.”
“This is the fastest way. We’ll be there in half an hour,” Zander meekly assured.
“I’m supposed to spend another half hour …”
“Get down! Down!” shouted Zander and Yelka at the same time.
As they walked along a dirt path next to a weathered stone wall, a car approached.
About Author Jens Boele:
Jens Boele, a veteran media designer in the entertainment industry, brings over two decades of cinematic expertise to his writing. Born in Germany in 1975, Jens embarked on his writing odyssey in his youth, culminating in the publication of his debut book, “Sunshine,” in 2015. This was followed by “Hurensohn,” and his latest spine-tingling creation, “Urbex Predator.”
Jens is a genre-bending author, specializing in horror and crime thrillers. His narratives often blur genre lines, weaving intricate tales that plunge readers into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Jens’s storytelling brilliance lies in his fascination with the criminal mind; his villains are always profoundly human, offering readers a chilling examination of the psychological aspects of the criminally insane.
Jens sets himself apart by seamlessly integrating classic horror with the gritty authenticity of the present day. This innovative fusion imbues his narratives with a dynamic quality, seamlessly blending archaic thrills with contemporary intrigue, resulting in an immersive reading experience that resonates with both vintage enthusiasts and present-day readers alike.
Jens Boele’s latest endeavor takes his work across borders, as “Urbex Predator” becomes his first book to be translated into English. A globetrotter with deep connections to the United States, Jens’s passion for exploration and his international perspective, nurtured by family and friends in the US, shine through in his writing, offering readers a captivating blend of horror and cultural diversity.
.
~~~~~
Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!
For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.
Changing Tide by Robert Joncas ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway
Posted: February 1, 2024 in giveaways, horror, Paranormal or fantasy, Romance, YATags: fantasy, giveaway, Horror, romance, scifi
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Dive into this fast-paced, suspenseful Sci-Fi fantasy novel that melds sizzling romance, action, heart-stopping horror, and a high-stakes battle to save humanity.
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Changing Tide
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by Robert Joncas
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Genre: YA SciFi Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Horror
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“Changing Tide,” 2023 Book Awards:
*Maincrest Media Award, Winner, YA Fiction (2024)
*Outstanding Creator Awards, Best Fiction Book of 2023, 2nd Place
*Outstanding Creator Awards, Fantasy (1st Place), Sci-Fi (1st Place), Romance (2nd Pl.)
*The Global Book Awards, Bronze Medal, Science Fiction – Romance
*The BookFest Awards, Silver Medal, Science Fiction – Romance
*The BookFest Awards, Bronze Medal, Fantasy – Contemporary & YA – Science Fiction
*Royal Dragonfly Awards, Honorable Mention, Best Cover, Sci-Fi, Fantasy & YA Fiction
*American Fiction Awards, Finalist, Romance – Paranormal: Supernatural
*American Writing Awards, Finalist – Science Fiction
*Halloween Book Festival, YA Horror – Honorable Mention
*Literary Titan Book Award – August 2023
A wild adventure that takes you on a journey from the California coast to the depths of the Grand Canyon. Dive into this fast-paced, suspenseful Sci-Fi fantasy novel that melds sizzling romance, action, heart-stopping horror, and a high-stakes battle to save humanity.
After her father’s tragic death, eighteen-year-old Skye Conner and her mom visit her Nana on the California coast. There, Skye stumbles across a mystical conch shell in the surf. Suddenly her dull, empty life takes on a thrilling and terrifying turn.
Skye has had to endure a despondent mother drowning in grief, living in a private world of darkness. Nana is a feisty, intelligent, take-no-bull grandmother with a flaming sense of pride and heart of gold. Then comes a handsome, mesmerizing alien on a mission to save the Earth. But are his intentions sincere, or does he have another agenda?
Skye has finally found someone to love, but can he be trusted? Changing Tide is a witty, original page-turning thriller that will make you look at First Contact in a whole new way.
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Amazon * B&N * Bookbub * Goodreads
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Chapter I
First Contact
I never thought anyone close to me would die. I know it seems unrealistic because, sooner or later, we all die. But dying is supposed to happen in the future, like getting old. When you’re eighteen, you shouldn’t have to think about death. The idea of death takes you to a dark place where no one young ever wants to be.
It was the second week of June, and the first faint evidence of dawn trickled into the room. I pulled the curtain back, and fog blanketed the beach, darkening my mood. But then, a peculiar light shone from the shoreline in the distance, casting an eerie glow, like a beacon, in the mist.
I pulled a pink tee shirt from the closet and grabbed a pair of shorts from the pine dresser. Finally, I jerked a purple hoodie over my head, slipped on my flip-flops, and ran outside.
The strange light in the distance glowed like a full moon on a cloudy night. I crossed the beach and drifted in that direction. The long lines of white waves that swept across the shore glowed with a warm, radiant light. I kicked off my sandals at the shoreline, treading barefoot in the cold surf. Shivering, I clutched the sweatshirt tight around my neck. The ocean swirled around my ankles. I felt tiny shells and bits of seaweed in the ribbed sand under my feet.
Last week, after my high school graduation, Mom and I had flown from Phoenix to Nana’s house in Crescent Cove, a small tourist town on the California coast. It was a two-hour flight from Phoenix to Sacramento, then another forty-five minutes in a small plane to the nearest airport. It would have been almost ten hours in the car had we driven. Unfortunately, Mom was in no condition to help me drive, so Nana said she would pick us up at the airport.
By the time we picked up our luggage, Nana was waiting outside the terminal in her old VW van. The trip was hard on Mom. Dark circles of exhaustion were under her eyes, and her hair hung in matted strings against her pale cheeks. She collapsed into the front seat while Nana helped me load the baggage into the back of the van.
When we drove up to the house, I knew it right away, even though it had been five years since I’d last been there. The red shutters and gray wood shingle siding looked the same as I remembered. I knew the inside would smell of lemon polish, and everything would be spotless and scrubbed.
Without seeing it, I knew the old back deck would be the same: weathered but sturdy and always covered in sand. I could picture Dad grilling and sipping beer while Mom and I watched the waves crash on the shore. I had hoped coming here would be a distraction, but memories of Dad continued to flood my mind.
My stomach ached as I remembered the heavy black dress I wore to Dad’s funeral on that scorching day in Phoenix. The air was sizzling, too hot. I’d had to take deep breaths to keep from passing out. Although a canopy shaded the gravesite, the temperature was over 100 degrees. I ached with grief that I couldn’t at least see Dad one last time — to make sure it was really him who’d died in that horrible accident. The burning car wreck left his body unidentifiable. The funeral home cremated what was left of his remains.
As I followed the light through the surf, the sea surged with a rolling wave that knocked me over. It was as if something had stirred below the ocean and was rising from the deep. I threw my hands out to break my fall but landed in the shallows on my butt. I sat motionless in the surf, shivering in my wet clothes…
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What readers are saying:
“…simply elegant…from the plotline to the characters to the action to the humor… (and) a story for anyone, young adult or adult, who enjoys a good science fiction novel with some romance thrown in. I would recommend the book to everyone.”
-FEATHERED QUILL BOOK REVIEWS
“…truly a breath of fresh air! …A sci-fi romance like this was exactly what we needed. …despite dealing with things like loss, coping, and mourning this book is surprisingly fun and lighthearted…reading like a Disney script.”
-OUTSTANDING CREATOR REVIEW
“Anyone who enjoys sci-fi horror thrillers will find plenty to love about this book.”
-READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK REVIEW
“I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent reading this book and was genuinely sad when it came to an end.”
-ONLINEBOOKCLUB.ORG REVIEW
“…an enthralling fantasy novel that immerses readers in Skye Conner’s captivating journey…”
-LITERARY TITAN
“…traverses science fiction, fantasy, horror, and mystery seamlessly, entertaining you with thrills galore.”
-READERS’ CHOICE BOOK REVIEW
“Nothing is as it seems… a speculative sci-fi page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. …brings in sci-fi and fantasy elements of magic seashells and aliens to create a call to adventure.”
-INDEPENDENT BOOK REVIEW
–snippet of a review from OnlineBookClub.org–
“Robert Joncas has crafted a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is well-balanced, and the author’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions is commendable. Skye’s character development is particularly noteworthy, as readers witness her transformation from a grieving and vulnerable girl into a brave and determined young woman.
….Changing Tide is a remarkable book that grabs the reader’s attention from the very first page. With its compelling characters, intriguing plot twists, and seamless blending of genres, it is a true page-turner. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent reading this book and was genuinely sad when it came to an end. Without a doubt, I highly recommend picking up Changing Tide by Robert Joncas and awarding it a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars.
–snippet of a Review from Literary Titan–
In “Changing Tide,” Robert Joncas masterfully entwines an evocative narrative of a young girl, Skye, wrestling with her personal turmoil while being swept into a journey far beyond her understanding. Haunted by cryptic dreams and grappling with the tragic loss of her father and her mother’s spiraling depression, Skye’s world is painted with a brush of melancholy. However, a glimmer of hope emerges as she rekindles a connection with Paul, an alluring figure from her past, previously known for his childhood mischief.
Robert Joncas showcases an exceptional ability to portray raw emotions and delicate sentiments. His narrative is an intricate tapestry of romance, familial bonds, suspense, and an unmistakably human touch enveloped in a mantle of science fiction. The characters are vividly constructed, each contributing a unique hue to the narrative palette. Nana, Skye’s vivacious and fearless grandmother, was a particular standout, embodying a captivating blend of loyalty and audacious spirit.
The narrative is particularly successful in illustrating Skye’s internal struggle – her battle against emotional turmoil and her hesitant forays into new friendships. The character development of the alien entity is equally commendable, with its adaptation and backstory revealed in a layered, compelling manner.
“Changing Tide” is a warmly recommended read, particularly for young adults who yearn for a slice of relatable, yet enchantingly fantastic, reality. This novel embodies the essence of heartfelt storytelling interlaced with an adventurous spirit, ensuring a riveting reading experience.
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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
I have always read books since I was a kid. I knew that eventually I would write a novel.
What is something unique/quirky about you?
I have always believed in reincarnation. Even as a kid, I could not relate to other children my age. I have always felt like an old soul.
What are some of your pet peeves?
People that need a lot of attention. I am never bored; I always have something to do or somewhere to go.
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in Colchester, England and grew up in Southern California. It was nice to be able to go from the mountains to the beach in one weekend. I also liked the mild weather.
Who is your hero and why?
I don’t really have one person as a hero. I admire people that struggle to succeed. It’s easy to give up.
What kind of world ruler would you be?
Compassionate.
What are you passionate about these days?
My work and writing. I am a Real Estate Broker and sell mostly second home mountain resort properties. Lots of people in Phoenix want to get out of the heat in the summer. I sell to a lot of teachers and retired folk. I enjoy what I do.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I did a lot of skiing and backpacking. Now I’m getting older I enjoy traveling and writing. I spent the last few years during COVID finishing my novel.
Describe yourself in 5 words or less!
Stress free, laid back.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I had a short story published a few years ago in an anthology of International Writers. It was about a girl that bought an old muffin pan at a thrift store and the muffins she baked in it killed people.
Do you have a favorite movie?
I would have to say “Silence of the Lambs” is one of my top 10.
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
Haha! I only have one out. Changing Tide would make a great movie. Also, it wouldn’t break the bank to cast it.
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
I guess it would have to be an alien. One of the greys, like in my book.
Stuff about the Book:
What inspired you to write this book?
It started out as a short story I wrote for my granddaughter when she was twelve. Skye was also twelve and it was about 6,000 words long.
What can we expect from you in the future?
A sequel to Changing Tide. I never thought it would take off like it did and get great reviews. I left it open for a sequel just in case.
Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?
I felt sorry for Karly. She didn’t deserve to get hurt the way she did in the book.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Changing Tide?
In the beginning Skye has just graduated from high school but has had a tough time dealing with her father’s death and her mother’s depression. Her world has come crashing down on her. When she goes to visit Nana at the beach for the summer everything changes. Skye finds a conch shell that has an alien entity inside it. This sets in motion a series of events that change her life.
Skye’s grandmother (Nana) is a knowledgeable, aging hippy that doesn’t take any bull but has a heart of gold. She’s a loveable character. I don’t want to say too much about Paul. It would give away some of the story.
How did you come up with the concept and characters for the book?
I originally fashioned Skye after my granddaughter, Kaylee. Because I wrote the short story for her. Nana is every gutsy older woman that doesn’t care what they say or do. I rounded her out with a witty gentle side and lots of empathy. You can’t help but love Nana.
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
I liked the name Sky, but added an e. My mom was always called Nana by my son and granddaughter since she was from England. I used Paul because it was a common name but not old fashioned.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Not knowing where I was going with the story. I didn’t have an outline. I’m a pantser (writing by the seat of my pants). I wrote two alternate endings and through them out to my writing class and they chose the ending.
How did you come up with the title of your first novel?
The original short story was called “The Seashell.” It sounded too bland for a novel. “Changing Tide” addresses the sea and the change that Skye goes through in the book.
Who designed your book cover?
I hired a company in Phoenix, 1106 Design to do the book layout. They sent me cover samples, but I had a different idea for the cover. I wanted something that grabbed the reader when they were searching for a book. I had my Real Estate photographer Barbara Sherman helped me design the cover. Barbara also does photography for the schools in Flagstaff. The background on the cover are some rocks in Buckskin Gultch, up by the Grand Canyon. The crow with the one blue eye is symbolic with the story and the conch shell sits on my desk in my office.
Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?
Since this is my first novel, I learned writing isn’t as easy as I thought. I also learned that I edited too much while I wrote. The next novel I will concentrate more on getting the story down and worry about the editing when it’s completed.
If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?
I hadn’t though about Skye, but I would like to see Kathy Bates play Nana.
Anything specific you want to tell your readers?
Hello everyone!
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
I like the fast pace and adventure of the Grand Canyon. It’s a wild ride and it was fun to write.
If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?
I’d like to have lunch with Nana. I would also like to sit down with the alien and talk about life and the universe.
Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?
None of my characters are based on one specific person. They are a combination of personalities of people I have known.
Convince us why you feel your book is a must read.
Because of the good reviews and I am an avid reader and each time I had to read through it while it was being edited, I fell in love with it. Another reason, my friends Kathy and Kevin. Kathy read my manuscript and told Kevin about it. Kevin hasn’t read a book in almost 20 years. He couldn’t put it down.
What did you edit out of this book?
I edited out some of the cuss words. Originally Nana was throwing F bombs throughout the book. I realized that I wanted to clean it up so that it would be acceptable for younger people. I left a few cuss words though. When I edited Nana’s mouth, I realized I liked her a whole lot more.
Stuff about Writing/ Reading:
What book do you think everyone should read?
There are so many but “The Stand” by Stephen King and “Swan Song” by Robert McCammon left a big impression on me. It’s funny because the story lines are similar in both novels.
How long have you been writing?
About ten years.
Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
I had the characters in my mind before I wrote the book. They were in my short story.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
In “Changing Tide” I had to research the Hopi’s legend of the Ant People. Also, a lot of research on archeology and astronomy. Even though I have a science degree, it’s been a while since I’ve been in school. I also wrote a lot of the end of the book at the Grand Canyon. It’s not far from where I live.
Do you see writing as a career?
I would like to.
Do you read yourself and if so what is your favorite genre?
I am a member of the Horror Writer’s Association. I like horror and fantasy. I also like crime and mystery novels. I read a lot. I have also read a lot of YA novels in the last few years as research for this book.
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?
I like to write with music in the background. My favorite is soft rock, like Linda Ronstadt or Stevie Nicks, and to be fair to the guys, I like to listen to Cat Stevens and Paul Simon when I write. I like all kinds of music, but I need mellow to concentrate while writing.
What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?
As an avid reader I though, I could do that. Write a novel. So, I did. I just wish I had done it sooner. But I also realize that it’s hard when you have a full time job, family, etc.
Advice they would give new authors?
Start when you are young and be patient. If it takes ten years just plug away at it. If you stick with it you will end up with a novel.
Describe your writing style.
I looked at many novels through the eyes of a writer instead of a reader. What makes them good? What sells them besides the story? I found that James Patterson is so popular because his novels have short chapters. It’s an easy read. You can read him on break at work or while on the bus or airport. So, I made my chapters short. I also made the font larger. I listened to what other readers said. People don’t like to squint when they read a book with tiny font.
Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?
I feel my story is original. I tried to find something similar but there are not a lot of alien romance books that are similar to mine. I’d have to say it’s sort of like Twilight with aliens instead of vampires.
What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters from the opposite sex?
It was hard to write Skye in the beginning. I had lots of help from the women in my class and coworkers. When I finally got the hang of an eighteen-year-old girl, Skye took off. I also had help from my mentor, the Author Lynn Hightower. She would critic my chapters.
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Robert grew up in Southern California and has worked as a Real Estate Broker in Flagstaff, AZ, for many years. He has a BS in Health Science and graduated with Distinction from the prestigious UCLA Writers’ Program, where he studied under Author Lynn Hightower in her Master Novel Classes. He is a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors and the Horror Writers Association.
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Website * X * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
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My Review ~ The Star And The Strange Moon by Constance Sayers
Posted: January 12, 2024 in Fantasy, Historical, horror, reviewsTags: fantasy, historical, Horror, review
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We are thrilled to share The Star and the Strange Moon this week. Read on for more details and my review!
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The Star and the Strange Moon
Publication Date: November 2023
Genre: Historical Fantasy
From the author of A Witch in Time comes a haunting tale of ambition, obsession, and the eternal mystery and magic of film.
A vanished star. A haunted film. A mystery only love can unravel…
1968: Gemma Turner once dreamed of stardom. Now the actress is on the cusp of obscurity. When she’s offered the lead in a radical new horror film, Gemma believes her luck has changed—but her dream is about to turn into a nightmare. One night, between the shadows of an alleyway, Gemma disappears on set and is never seen again. Yet, Gemma is alive. She’s been pulled into the film. And the script—and the monsters within it—are coming to life. Gemma must play her role perfectly if she hopes to survive.
2007: Gemma Turner’s disappearance is one of Hollywood’s greatest mysteries—one that’s captivated film student Christopher Kent ever since he saw L’Étrange Lune for the first time. The screenings only happen once a decade and each time there is new, impossible footage of Gemma that shouldn’t exist. Curiosity drives Christopher to unravel the truth. But answers to the film’s mystery may leave him trapped by it forever.
Get it Here!
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MY REVIEW
There’s been many a time when I sat down to read a book and didn’t look up until I finished it. Even ones as long as this one at almost 500 pages. I did have to stop reading it at one point to run an errand and quickly picked it back up when I returned. I was hooked. So hooked.
The synopsis was so intriguing. An actress, Gemma Turner, vanished during the filming of a movie in 1968. Flash forward to 2007 and film student, Christopher Kent, obsessed with finding out what happened to her after the simple act of seeing her picture on a wall drove his mother over the edge to insanity. And a secret screening of Gemma’s last acting role in L’Etrange Lune that takes place once every 10 years. Yes, it intrigued me.
As you can guess, the story jumps back and forth in time. First I’d be immersed in Gemma’s life and then I’d be immersed in what happened when she vanished and then I’d be immersed in Christopher’s present life and then his past. That’s how this story was told and each time the story jumped to another character and time I’d be anxious to return. And that happened EVERY time with each era and character I was reading. And that’s why I couldn’t put it down. That and the fact the many character’s were so interesting, so genuine, flaws and all. Especially Gemma and Christopher. The author wrote her words and breathed life into them. I cared what happened. Felt their sorrow, their angst. How could I not.
In the hours I spent reading The Star And The Strange Moon I felt like I was transported into a fantasy world, a tragedy, a horror story…… a love story. What a fabulous feeling it was.
5 STARS
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About the Author
Constance Sayers is the author of two best-selling novels: A Witch in Time (Hachette, 2020) and The Ladies of the Secret Circus (Hachette, 2021), the latter receiving both a Publishers Weekly and Library Journal starred reviews. Her work has been translated into six languages and her third novel, The Star and the Strange Moon will be published by Hachette on 11.14.23. She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, and her short fiction has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net.
She received an MA in English from George Mason University and a B.A. in Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She lives outside of Washington D.C.
Book Tour Organized By:
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For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
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The Legend Of Rachel Petersen by J.T. Baroni ~ Review And Giveaway
Posted: January 2, 2024 in giveaways, horror, InterviewTags: giveaway, Horror, interview, paranormal
The Legend Of Rachel Petersen
by J.T. Baroni
Genre: Horror / Paranormal
MY REVIEW
I love it when a story, especially a horror story, makes me wonder what if? What if something like what happened to the main character, Christian, had happened to me. Not the part where he’s passed over for a promotion or quits his job to write a book. It’s the part where he stumbles upon an old, forgotten grave in the woods. I used to go on hikes all the time. And there was a cabin we spent our summer vacations at that nestled right up against a huge woods. I’d walk for hours, pick berries and follow many faint trails made by the wildlife that lived there. During one of my walks I came upon a clearing with this huge mound of dirt in the center. Being young, I climbed to the top and sat there. I had so many questions about what it was. To this day I never found out. I’ve watched so many horror movies. The New Daughter with Kevin Costner comes to mind when I think about that mysterious mound. That movie made the hairs stand up all over my body. And that’s saying something as not much can do that anymore. That said, the sometimes funny, sometimes sad and very scary tale of Rachel Peterson made those hairs stand up. It probably didn’t help that I read this book at night. And that’s why I did. I wanted the quiet and the dark to help me immerse myself. Not that I really needed it, turns out. The author did a fine job of pulling me.
This was told in more than one time line and was still easy to follow. It added depth to the characters and the story. I could have easily enjoyed each story all by itself. And just look at that cover. If that doesn’t creep you out……..
5 STARS
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Synopsis
Did his book raise the dead? Outraged when The Post Gazette overlooks him for a promotion, thirty-nine year old sports writer, Christian Kane quits and moves to the country to write fiction. Inspiration flows from a grave he stumbles upon in the woods. He compiles The Legend of Rachel Petersen, a fascinating story revolving around the dead twelve year old girl lying beneath the weathered tombstone. His book becomes a Best Seller; then Hollywood makes it in to a blockbuster movie. Kane becomes rich and famous, but only to have Rachel rise from the grave to seek revenge on him for slandering her name!
One line review excerpts
This two-in-one treasure has now become one of my favorites. Jessica Barbosa -Readers’Favorite
The Legend of Rachel Petersen is a terrifying, unsettling story you will not be able to put down.
Lisa Leone-Campbell – Lisascubby
The account is beautifully written, and the twist at the end was a big surprise.
Alma Boucher – Readers’Favorite
There is a story within the story that is fascinating. Pikasho Deka – Readers’Favorite
This book deserves the rating of Five out of Five Stars. JT Baroni is unrivaled when it comes to crafting a compelling plot! Juliet Blessing Official Reviewer – Onlinebookclub.com
Winner of Five Gold Stars! Wow! What an epic ride! Anyone searching for a gripping read in the paranormal, mystery, and fast-paced action will find this one a new favorite!
Alex Ndirangu – Readers’Favorite.com
I totally recommend this book if you are fond of the horror and paranormal genres, and you want a reading that will keep you thrilled and glued to its pages! Raven – ravennonest.com
This two-in-one treasure has now become one of my favorites!
Jessica Barbosa – Readers’Favorite
While there is definitely the scare factor in this story, the author actually weaves in humor, mystery and a thrilling story that will keep you mesmerized until the final page!
Brenda Casto – Reader’sFavorite
The best part of this novel is how Baroni transforms a simple drama into the kind of thriller that will give the reader chills as they connect the dots. The Legend of Rachel Petersen is in a class of its own.
Essien Asian – Readers’Favorite
So fasten your seatbelts and welcome to Christian Kane’s twilight zone. Highly recommended for die-hard fans of the paranormal genre. Carmen Tenorio – Reader’sFavorite
Baroni’s narrative mastery is on full display, leaving readers with a lingering sense of wonder long after they’ve turned the last page. Demetria Head-GPBookreview
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Interview With Author J.T. Baroni
What is the book about?
Here’s the blurb:
Outraged when The Post Gazette overlooks him for a promotion, 43-year-old Sportswriter Christian Kane quits the Paper and moves to the country to write fiction. Inspiration flows from a grave he stumbles upon in the woods. He compiles The Legend of Rachel Petersen, a fascinating story revolving around the dead twelve-year-old girl laid to rest beneath the weathered tombstone. His book quickly tops the Best Seller Lists; then Hollywood adapts it into a blockbuster movie. Kane becomes rich and famous. But then! Does an enraged Rachel become more than a figment of the writer’s imagination? Did she rise from her grave? Is she seeking revenge on him for slandering her name?
When did you start writing the book?
I originally wrote this book in 2012. In the first half of 2023, I revised it by adding 165 pages and a new ending chapter. My story is now more descriptive, has more detail, and the final chapter comes out of left field and smacks you upside the head!
How long did it take you to write it?
Between holding down a job as a transformer repairman, and life in general, I wrote the original book in two years.
Where did you get the idea from?
Living in Western Pennsylvania all my life, I’ve been an avid Whitetail hunter since old enough to tote a rifle, which is also about as long as I’ve had a fondness for word games and literature. While hunting one year, I actually did stumble upon a weathered tombstone in the middle of the woods.
Waiting patiently for any deer to cross my path gave me plenty of time to think about that lone grave’s inhabitant and ponder her story, which I was then driven to write.
Eerily enough, this is the premise of The Legend of Rachel Petersen, my first novel published in 2012, which I recently revised.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Chapter One had originally started with the Yoder boys hunkered down under a pine tree on the opening day of buck season in Western Pennsylvania, then I focused on them to the end. This made for a very short read of only 80 pages. After much, much, thought, I finally conjured up Christian Kane the disgruntled sportswriter, and had him write the “Legend of Rachel Petersen”, which doubled the page count and made for one very interesting read. This story is actually a story within a story, spanning 3 time periods. That original Chapter One in the rough draft became Chapter Five in the finished story.
What came easily?
The characters, their individual voices, and dialogue.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
I loosely based the Kanes, a happily married couple, on mine and my wife’s relationship; mainly how they supported each other’s dreams and ambitions. My wife gave me the inspiration and determination to write, and finish this book. Also, since the Yoder boys were hunters, and grew up on a farm, they resemble me as a young boy.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Harold Robbins, Mark Twain, and Jack London. I’m telling my age with that answer, but I enjoyed their books because they wrote captivating stories that held my interest to the last page.
Do you have a target reader?
For this book, I’m targeting any readers who enjoy paranormal, spooky ghost tales. Readers who relish Stephen King’s novels will be captivated by my Revised Edition of The Legend Of Rachel Petersen.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so, can you please describe it?
I simply write when it’s raining, or the urge hits, or when I think of a good scene. Sometimes the rough draft got shelved for a month or longer, then I was able to pull it back out and look at it from a fresh perspective.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Only after ten or more chapters when I get lost, do I start an outline.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I edit as I write. After writing the first chapter, I’ll edit it; then, after writing the second chapter, I’ll start with Chapter one and edit both chapters and so forth… Now that I think about that, my editing process is similar to a Ponzi scheme.
Did you hire a professional editor? (May skip if being published by a small press rather than self-publishing)
The first edition was published by Damnation Books. Their editor, April Duncan, was wonderful and gave me great ideas on improving my writing. The Revised Edition was edited by myself and my son, Skyler, who is a grammar fanatic.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Sometimes I tell Alexa to play Santa Esmeralda, Supertramp, The Stones, INXS, or the Golden Oldies. Other times, the news is on the tube.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I did with the original, but none would take on an unknown writer. Then I contacted publishers until Damnation signed me.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I decided to self-publish mainly because that process cuts out the ‘middleman’. Again, my son, who is very computer savvy, helped me achieve that.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
The cover was professionally designed by Dawn Dominique, a very talented artist with Damnation Books. I listed her and April Duncan on the credits and copyright page of my revised edition. My wife added the “Revised Edition” to the cover.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I have no social platforms, not even Facebook. I have been targeting bloggers, I’ve advertised locally; and again, Skyler is getting the word out there on TikTok and other social platforms. I’m trying to get this revision to go virile. I’ve been scrutinizing national advertising agencies that pinpoint consumers on their likes, then promote those annoying pop up ads.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
If you, a friend, or family member excel with today’s technology, definitely consider self-publishing. We used Draft2Digital Publishing and we are extremely pleased with their whole process, and their POD paperbacks. If you are going to take the traditional route, watch out for those so-called Vanity Publishers.
Where did you grow up?
Johnstown, PA
Where do you live now?
I wish I could say Key West, but I’m ten miles from where I grew up; I still have a Johnstown address.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I like to fish; if you have a boat, call me!
What are you working on now?
I’m 32 chapters into a psychological thriller where a psychologist and an attorney are planning to rule the world. They both share a secret, but one of them has an ulterior motive. Three more chapters should finish it. Then edit, edit, edit…
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About Author J.T. Baroni:
Living in Western Pennsylvania all my life, I’ve been an avid Whitetail hunter since old enough to tote a rifle, which is also about as long as I’ve had a fondness for word games and literature.
While hunting one year, I actually did stumble upon a weathered tombstone in the middle of the woods.
While waiting patiently for that big buck to cross my path, I had plenty of time to ponder the dead girl’s fate, which I was then driven to write.
Eerily enough, this is the premise of The Legend of Rachel Petersen, my first novel published in 2012, which I recently revised.
A newly retired transformer repairman, I refer to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, a small town outside of Pittsburgh, as home.
My wife Becky and I share our abode with two retrievers – Piper, and Remmy.
Links: Books2Read / Goodreads
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The author is giving away one eBook and one Print copy.
US Only.
Easy to enter!
Just leave a comment.
Giveaway ends January 9th.
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For a list of my reviews go HERE.
For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE
To see all of my giveaways go HERE.