Posts Tagged ‘Supernatural’

Demons For Tea by Kate Morgan ~ A Supernatural Thriller Tour and Giveaway

Posted: September 12, 2018 in giveaways, Supernatural, thriller
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Demons for Tea
by Kate Morgan
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Genre: Supernatural Thriller
Publisher: Omnium Gatherum Books
Date of Publication: Sept. 10, 2018
ISBN: 9781949054019; ISBN: 1949054012
Number of pages: 285 / Word Count: 80,000
Cover Artist: Kate Jonez
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Tagline: Kicking ass and eating ramen: An exorcist’s life ain’t like the movies.
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Synopsis
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Ex-priest Denis Kaine’s surviving on ramen and kicking otherworldly creatures off this planet. It’s all noise to fill his chasm of hate and guilt inside from letting his twin brother blow his brains out because he’d been possessed. Denis should’ve known. He should’ve seen. He should’ve… everything.
His survival techniques are no match for Emma Koroleva, the 1200-year-old entity he freed from imprisonment in Rome. She’s powerful, she’s got major attitude, and she hates ramen.
She changes into various poltergeists and forces Denis to “exorcise” her. Denis gets paid, they eat real food, and she toys with seducing him. Denis starts to think he’s living in the sitcom from hell until he learns his dead brother’s become the plaything of something big, strong, and evil. Screw sitcoms. Denis is about to prove why his rep is legendary in the spirit world.
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Enjoy this peek inside:
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Someone knocked at the door.
On a Sunday afternoon? If it was a Girl Scout, she’d be disappointed. My entire liquid
income consisted of the twelve dollars and three quarters in my wallet. I
pulled off the Roman collar, so she wouldn’t get a bad impression of priests in
general and unbolted the door.
It crashed open with a blue-green-flowery gust of wind. I spun around and slammed it shut. My
messenger bag stood ready within arm’s reach on the kitchen table. All I had to
do—
“It is ridiculously cold outside. Where is your fireplace?”
A black-haired woman as tall as—no, taller than me by an inch or two—strode into my living
room and back again.
“Bah. Are you a herder of reindeer that you can stomach this cold without a fire? I am not. I
require heat and coffee and food.”
Her flowered dress looked more suited to August than late March. Her windblown hair reached
below her waist, the fluorescent light striking midnight-blue highlights from
it. The colors of her energy reminded me of something, but I couldn’t place it.
“Look, whoever you are, I didn’t invite you here.” I opened the door, which put me even nearer
to my messenger bag. “Out.”
She laughed.
One beat: I flipped open the front of the messenger bag. Two beats: I snatched the squeeze
bottle I kept holy water in. On the third beat I popped the nozzle and squirted
the perpendicular strokes of a cross at her.
“Merda.” She shivered and vanished.
Whatever she was, she moved faster than most entities. As I repacked the holy water, it hit
me that she’d said “shit” in Italian not like she was angry. More like she was
annoyed because I’d gotten her dress wet.
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About Author Kate Morgan:
 
Baker of brownies and tormenter of characters, Kate Morgan celebrates the the day she jumped the wall with as much enthusiasm as her birthday. She grew up watching Hammer horror films and Scooby-Doo mysteries, which explains a whole lot.
When she takes a break from inspiring nightmares, she writes ex-nun PI mysteries under her real name, Alice Loweecey. In her spare time she can be found growing vegetables in her garden and water lilies in her koi pond.
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(It’s confusing, I know. Facebook wouldn’t let me create an author page under my own name, so I had to use my MC’s name. Branding. It’s so much fun.)
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Wild Spirits Of The Hollow by Lea Ryan ~ Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted: September 4, 2018 in Fantasy, giveaways, Supernatural
Tags: , ,
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Wild Spirits of the Hollow
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by Lea Ryan
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Wild Spirits of the Hollow by [Ryan, Lea]
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Genre: Contemporary fantasy/Supernatural fiction

Publisher: NightLark Publishing

Date of Publication: 08/28/2018

ISBN: 1721041397 / ASIN: B07DN3CH9H

Number of pages: 163 / Word Count: 43000

Cover Artist: RL Bender

An ancient evil is murdering residents in the isolated village of Mistwalk. Can Shannon survive long enough to save them all?

Synopsis

Shannon lies to almost everyone she meets. When she gets lost and winds up trapped in an Appalachian valley village, her lies don’t get her far.

Mistwalk Vale may look like a fairy tale, but nightmares lurk in the shadows.

Villagers are dying grisly deaths, their bodies reduced to bones and left in the streets for their friends and family to find. Worse, some people suspect that Shannon is involved. They accuse her of coming from the tribe of vicious earth witches down in the hollow.

A man named Owen believes Shannon is innocent. He tries to protect her as best he can, but there’s only so much he can do. She feels herself falling for him, despite her plan to leave as soon as she gets an opportunity.

Caught between angry mobs and an ancient darkness, she will be forced to fight for her survival. Can she save herself and the village before evil consumes them all?

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AMAZON
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Excerpt from Chapter 1
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I stood at the edge of the trees, staring at the light deep within the forest. Between it and
me, a sea of shadow concealed the underbrush and all that lurked there. This
forest, like many other forests, would have its insects, snakes, tangles of
who-knew-what, maybe wildcats or some other thing ready to pounce on and maim
me.
After hours of walking along a secluded, mountain highway, my brain was thoroughly scrambled.
I knew enough to know that, and I knew enough to not fully trust what I was
seeing.
It might be a lie, the light, a mirage conjured by some desperate part of my mind. I’d told
enough lies to others, why not myself?
A fantasy of stumbling upon a cabin with friendly occupants swam through my mind. They’d
have food left over from dinner, a plate they’d be happy to hand over to
someone who really needed it, and I did really need it. Lunch was a distant
memory, as well as the Skittles from my backpack, my bottle of water. If I made
it anywhere alive, I would really have to reevaluate my packing priorities.
I sighed. Unless I wanted to sleep next to the highway, that light was my only hope. I adjusted
my backpack straps and stepped into the trees.
I plodded through the darkness in high tops that weren’t made for terrain any more
intense than a mall floor. I also regretted wearing shorts and a t-shirt
because there was no trail, only weeds and trees and rustling sounds made by
small animals nearby.
All the while, the light in the distance remained bright, burning my eyes, but I kept my
sights on it because that was hope, even if it never seemed to get any closer.
I kept my mind off my creepy surroundings by considering who I would be for the people who
awaited me. Had someone picked me up as I attempted to hitchhike, that lucky
individual would’ve had the opportunity to hang out with a model, who was on
her way to Miami.
Everybody likes to hang out with famous people and people who are about to be famous. I’ve
noticed this before. When I tell them whatever version of the story I’d
concocted for the evening, their eyes would light up as if I had offered to
take them along to fame and fortune.
The model story was my go-to. I was lanky and odd looking in a way that some people found
attractive or interesting, at the very least, plausible model material. This
was not the person I would be in the cabin. I didn’t have the energy to keep up
the behaviors that went along with that lie.
Models didn’t eat substantial food. Models ate iceberg lettuce and drank lemon, cucumber
water. My model did, anyway.
There in the woods with possible food ahead of me, there was no way I could keep that up. I
didn’t care what food someone shoved under my nose. The idea of grilled opossum
made my mouth water. Boiled weeds? Fine. I’d eat anything.

 

I tried to come up with another story, but the most compelling at that moment was my own.
Broken car. Girl wandering the woods in hope of finding food and shelter. I was
filthy and growing filthier by the minute. If I had scissors in my backpack, I
would’ve chopped off at least half of my long, brown hair just to get rid of
the tangles. That evening, I wouldn’t have to fake a look of utter desperation.
So I let the story be what it was.
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About the Author:
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Lea Ryan is the author of several books and stories. She writes about the strange and the dark, as well as the light and love and strives to immerse readers in vivid fictional worlds. She currently lives in Indiana with assorted family members and various pets. Her website and blog can be found at www.LeaRyan.com.
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Website and blog / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads
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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

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Shadow House ~ The Missing ~ Blast and Giveaway

Posted: August 28, 2018 in giveaways, Mystery, Supernatural
Tags: , ,
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Shadow House Banner

The Missing

Shadow House

by Dan Poblocki

Shadow House cover

Synopsis

Shadow House never sleeps . . . Five children have been lured into Shadow House, all for different reasons. None of them knows the others. And none of them knows what do to when they can’t find a way back out.

But something is different inside the house. Someone – or something – there knows a little bit more than they should. Only how are the kids supposed to decide if that someone is trying to help them . . . or trap them there forever?

Enter Shadow House . . . if you dare. Don’t just read about Shadow House—step inside with the free SHADOW HOUSE app. Each image in the book reveals a haunting in the app, where the choices you make determine your fate. For tablet or phone: scholastic.com/shadowhouse.

 

Praise for THE GATHERING (SHADOW HOUSE, BOOK 1)

“Shadow House has everything I love — strange characters, magic and the supernatural, endless danger and adventure — and a mystery I dare any reader to try to solve.” ―R.L. Stine, author of Goosebumps

“Poblocki’s meticulously crafted narrative is chilling . . . A thrill for any reader who knows the only thing more frightening than an unopened door is being locked behind one.” ―Kirkus Reviews

 
Author Dan Poblocki
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Shadow House author
 

Dan Poblocki is an American author of mystery and horror novels for young people. He was born in Providence, Rhode Island. During his pre-teen years, his family moved to Basking Ridge, New Jersey. His books have been translated into French, Greek, and Polish. Dan currently lives in Kingston, NY with two scaredy cats.

Dan graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in theater. Subsequently, he toured the United States playing ultra-challenging roles such as Ichabod Crane in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and the Shoemaker in The Shoemaker and the Elves to packed houses filled with literally thousands of screaming children. (He hopes they weren’t screaming in fear.)

Dan ended his promising acting career to focus on other endeavors. While exploring various artistic options, he held a number of jobs in New York City including: a floral groomer, an audience-wrangler for a popular game show, a computer analyst, a chemotherapy-unit assistant, and a traveling bathing suit sales-dude.

That’s right. A traveling bathing suit sales-dude.

Dan now writes full time. He’s probably working on something new this very minute! .

 
PHOTO CREDIT: NIC DESTEFANO   

Website / Twitter / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram

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Shadow House give

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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My Monday Minis #48 ~ Into The Mist and Manifest Recall

Posted: August 13, 2018 in reviews, Supernatural, thriller
Tags: , ,
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Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

Today I’ve got a couple of bloody fun ones!


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Into The Mist

by Lee Murray

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Genre:  Horror

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My Review

A hot, steamy jungle. people with their own agenda’s, and something big and ravenous stalking them. Sure does sound fun. And it was.

 The author’s descriptions immediately put me in the jungle with the character’s.  All of them have to deal with the harsh environment. But, that’s not the only problem. Something huge, primordial stalks all of them, and it’s right at home in the jungle. Perfect camouflage until it strikes, leaving not much more than blood splatters to show someone was ever there.

I’m always looking for stories where the character’s have to struggle against the environment as much as the creature stalking them. And I liked the mythical aspect when the local legend comes into play. Made for a deeper, more thrilling reading experience for me.

This would be great to see on the big screen. I’d have to buy the DVD. It’s a keeper.

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Synopsis

“Cinematic and evocative, Into the Mist is a tension-packed expedition into primordial terror.
Murray’s writing had me feeling the damp of the forest, seeing the mist curling through the fern fronds, and sensing the danger lurking there.
Ancient myths, military men and scientists placed in remote, primordial locations – it had all the right ingredients for me, and it didn’t disappoint for a moment.
Lee Murray is an author to watch.”
– Greig Beck, best-selling author of the Arcadian series

When NZDF Sergeant Taine McKenna and his squad are tasked with escorting a bunch of civilian contractors into Te Urewera National Park, it seems a strange job for the army.
Militant Tūhoe separatists are active in the area, and with its cloying mist and steep ravines, the forest is a treacherous place in winter.
Yet nothing has prepared Taine for the true danger that awaits them. Death incarnate.
They backtrack toward civilization, stalked by a prehistoric creature intent on picking them off one by one. With their weapons ineffective, the babysitting job has become a race for survival.
Desperate to bring his charges out alive, Taine draws on ancient tribal wisdom. Will it be enough to stop the nightmare? And when the mist clears, will anyone be left?

“Creepy and addictive, Into the Mist is an irresistible tapestry of military action, dark myths, and an ancient and terrifying horror. A must read for speculative fiction fans.”
– Matthew Summers (Smashdragons)

Amazon / B&N

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Manifest Recall

by Alan Baxter

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Genre:  Supernatural / Crime Thriller

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My Review

I’m going to compare my reading experience to a horse race, as that’s how it felt to me. The horses are loaded  into the starting gate. The excitement and uncertainty build. Then the gates open and the story thunders down the track, galloping to an explosive, bloody ending.

Loading the gate: Eli comes back to awareness behind the wheel of a car, a girl in the seat beside him. At least she’s not in the trunk anymore.

In the gate: As Eli untangles his memories of horrific events he also has to deal with some dead men. Ghosts seem to be haunting him and they could be a hindrance or his downfall.

I like when the author presents a bad guy and I end up pulling for him. Eli is a hitman and has killed plenty of men. But I couldn’t help but hope he would win the day.

The gate opens: It’s a mad dash with some bloody, pulse pounding scenes that reminded me of the final showdown from the movie The Roadhouse with Patrick Swayze.

The finish line: A blue ribbon ending.

Did I enjoy this book. Oh, yeah! Would I recommend it? Very much!

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Synopsis

A SUPERNATURAL CRIME THRILLER FROM THE AWARD-WINNING MASTER OF DARK FANTASY

Following a psychotic break, Eli Carver finds himself on the run, behind the wheel of a car that’s not his own, and in the company of a terrified woman he doesn’t know. As layers of ugly truth are peeled back and dark secrets are revealed, the duo find themselves in a struggle for survival when they unravel a mystery that pits them against the most dangerous forces in their lives.

A contemporary southern gothic thriller with frightening supernatural overtones, Alan Baxter’s Manifest Recall explores the tragic life of a hitman who finds himself on the wrong side of his criminal syndicate. Baxter’s adrenaline-fueled approach to storytelling draws readers into Eli Carver’s downward spiral of psychosis and through the darkest realms of lost memories, human guilt and the insurmountable quest for personal redemption.

Amazon / B&N

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You can find a list of my reviews HERE.

For a list of free eBooks go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Author Q&A and Giveaway ~ A Taker Of Morrows by Stephen Paul Sayers

Posted: June 16, 2018 in Adult Fiction, giveaways, horror, Supernatural, thriller
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A Taker of Morrows
Stephen Paul Sayers
(Caretakers, #1)
Publication date: June 15th 2018
Genres: Adult, Horror, Supernatural, Thriller

RG Granville has his whole life in front of him…but only twenty-four hours to live it.

Beyond life’s boundaries, an enduring battle between good and evil determines the fate of earthly souls. Here, ‘caretakers’ guard and protect against the evil and vengeful ‘jumpers’ who slip back and forth between worlds to prey upon the living.

For one man, news of his impending demise sets off a deadly chain of events fueled by a jumper’s burning vengeance. Now he’s in a race against time to stop an unrelenting evil unleashed upon the earth. And if he’s to protect his family, and the world, he must breach the tenuous boundary between life and death to confront a killer—and a shocking secret from his long-buried past.

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Hello, Robert.” The stranger advanced toward him. “You’re late.”

RG steadied himself against the entryway table as his heart lurched in his chest, the air thickening like a smothering rag over his face. With gradual boldness, he slid his arm against the wall and triggered the light switch. “What the hell—?”

“I feared we’d missed each other,” the man interrupted. “That would have been a shame. You see, we have a problem to discuss.” His face hardened as he stepped forward, shoes clicking on the hardwood floor.

RG’s pulse quickened. “Who are you?”

“I wish I didn’t have to be here, Robert.” The stranger unfolded his hands from behind his back and stepped forward, “but I have a job to do.”

As the man advanced, RG backpedaled, snatching the old-school, wooden baseball bat stashed behind the coat rack. He never imagined grabbing the lumber for anything other than Tuesday night softball, but now found himself flapping it back and forth in a hardwood batter’s box.

The man took another step. “Death has come for you,” he said, shaking his head, “and no Louisville Slugger will stop it.”

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Q&A with Stephen Paul Sayers, author of A Taker of Morrows

 

Q: What’s your new novel, A Taker of Morrows, about?

A: It’s about a man who’s visited by a stranger, who tells him he’s got twenty-four hours to live. You see, deaths are scheduled and schedules must be kept. In his desperate attempt to stay alive, he discovers the world isn’t what he thought it was, that it’s actually a battleground between the forces of good and evil from the afterlife, a place where ‘caretakers’ protect earthly souls and ‘jumpers’ prey on them…and now he’s become the prey. And if he’s to keep himself and his family alive, he must straddle the boundary between worlds and face the secrets of his past.

In a broader sense, it’s really a story about the nature of life and death, and the eternal price paid for what we carry in our souls.

 

Q: What inspired you to be a writer?

A: I never set out to be a writer, but after a challenge from my daughter, Kaylee, I decided to write her a novel. I figured I’d write something for her, give it to her some holiday or birthday, and it would collect dust on her bookshelf. But when I started writing, a switch turned on inside me, something I’d never felt before, igniting a passion I didn’t know I had. It helped me finally figure out what I wanted to be when I grow up.

But more importantly, it has solidified a real bond between my daughter and me. She’s an amazing writer who has a full length novel under her belt at age seventeen. We now have this shared thing we do together. We talk about story ideas, read each other’s work. She gave me this great idea in A Taker of Morrows that became a key to the series in my opinion. So, she’s my inspiration.

 

Q: Why do you write in the genre that you do?

A: My brother and I watched horror movies all the time when we were kids. I think the 70s and 80s were a golden age of horror movies – and we got really into it. That’s also when I discovered Stephen King, and I read just about everything he wrote. That was my base, and no matter what different literary roads I may travel, I always veer back into the genre. Even the horror books I read today transport me back to childhood and reignite those feelings again.

 

Q: What do you enjoy reading and who are your favorite authors?

A: I have so many authors I love reading in so many genres. I grew up on a steady diet of Stephen King and Peter Straub, so I got a good horror base. I’m also a big fan of a new generation of horror writers, Joe Hill, Paul Cornell, J. Lincoln Fenn, and Paul Tremblay, so I definitely get my fill. I also love writers of suspense and thrillers, especially Jo Nesbo, Dennis LeHane and Randy Wayne White. I’ve recently discovered Melissa Lenhardt’s “Jack McBride” mystery series, which sort of borders on chick lit, and yet I really like it. So, bottom line, I read just about anything.

 

Q: What do you hope your readers will take away from your work?

A: Horror and thriller fiction should be entertaining, number one. I want readers of my work to feel as if the time spent between the pages was a good investment. If they can escape from their world for a few hours, connect to my characters, and feel like they’ve made some friends they’re going to miss when they turn the final page, then I’ve done my job.

 

Q: On a lighter note, what are the top five things on your bucket list?

A: Hopefully, I’m not in ‘bucket list’ territory yet, but here goes:

  1. Cage dive with the Cape Cod great white sharks
  2. Stroll across the Abbey Road crosswalk
  3. Drive to Graceland in an RV
  4. Own a 1967 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible
  5. Gain the advantage over my Gibson SG

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Author Stephen Paul Sayers

Stephen Paul Sayers grew up on the sands of Cape Cod and spent his first thirty-five years in New England before joining the University of Missouri as a research professor. When he’s not in his laboratory, he spends his time writing and devouring his favorite forms of genre fiction—horror, suspense, and thrillers. His short fiction has appeared in Unfading Daydream. A Taker of Morrows is his debut novel and the first in the planned Caretakers series.

Throughout his journey, he has accumulated five guitars, four herniated discs, three academic degrees, two dogs, and one wife, son, and daughter. He divides his time between Columbia, Missouri and Cape Cod writing and teaching.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Amazon

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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What I Am Reading, Again ~ Horror / Thriller/ Supernatural Edition

Posted: June 13, 2018 in horror, Supernatural
Tags: , ,
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Every now and then I like to go back and reread a book. Especially ones I loved. I find that I discover something new no matter how many times I’ve read the book. Just like when I watch a good movie again.  I also discovered that I don’t always enjoy some books as much the second time around. Usually this occurs with ones I read some time ago.

When I feel a reading slump coming on or I just can’t decide what to read next ( me being lazy) I stand in front of my book shelf that holds all of my most favorite books and choose one to read again. It allows me to just relax and enjoy the story instead of always thinking about the review that needs to be written after finishing a new one.

Here are some I have stacked and ready to read again over the summer. I’m sure I’ll be adding more to this. My son spied me standing, staring at my books, and thought something was wrong with me. I had this seriously screwed up look, he said. I told him that’s my I’m thinking face. He said I looked like I was in pain. I know I mentioned rereading a favorite is relaxing, but not choosing which one. LOL

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Most of these are a series and I’ll read every one. I do love to binge a series!

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What about you. Do you read a book more than once?  Do you have a go to book that you read many times? And why do you reread a book?

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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The Kid’s Korner #31 ~ Spooky Twisties I & II

Posted: May 2, 2018 in Children's books, reviews, Short stories and collections, Supernatural
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Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing a couple of spooky fun children’s books and an interview with Author Terri Bertha!

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Interview with Author Terri Bertha

Where did the idea for Spooky Twisties come from?

I started Spooky Twisties with one story about a group of kids that go out to play their annual game of ghosts in the graveyard. After reading it to critique groups and others, I was encouraged to write more. The ideas for the other stories come from everywhere, as I observe people and kids, listen to conversations and think of weird “what if” scenarios to what I notice around me.

Did you create any of your characters based on someone you know?

No, not really, but my characters are a mishmash (composite) of people’s personalities I’ve met or observed.

Do you have a writing routine and where do you do most of your writing?

I normally like to write early morning at home, when my mind is fresh. Very rarely would you find me up late at night writing. It just doesn’t flow then.

What kind of books did you enjoy as a young reader?

During grade school summers, I enjoyed making trips to the local library for Agatha Christie books, loving her mystery plot twists, and the book “To Kill A Mockingbird”. Along with Christie’s books, I was also attracted to scary psychological thriller TV shows such as The Twilight Zone, Outer Limits, and The Alfred Hitchcock Hour. Older, I enjoyed Edgar Allen Poe, James Patterson and Stephen King.

And five fun shorts:

Favorite movie? It’s a Wonderful Life

Dog or cat person? Dog (especially the Labrador retriever), but have owned both dogs and cats. We have a 5 year old fox red lab named Dexter.

Favorite beverage? A nice glass of dry red wine or a good strong cup of coffee

Cake or pie? Definitely pie. Always requested a lemon meringue pie for my birthday instead of cake.  Also enjoy coconut cream and apple.

Any Phobias? I don’t do well with heights, and I like to have my “space” around me standing in lines at the grocery store or movies.

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Spooky Twisties I

13 Tales Of Terror

by Terri Bertha

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Genre: Middle Grade / YA / Supernatural

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My Review

I flew through this collection. I’m a fan of short stories and children’s scary books. Some of these were quite short. Some were longer. They go from creepy to kind of dark. Nothing so dark I wouldn’t recommend to young readers.

 The author had a great idea when she had the characters enter into each others stories. The cast seems normal enough. A group of neighborhood kids hang out together. Do what kids do. Then there’s those ones that make you pause. Something isn’t quite right about them.

I grew up on a dead end street. All of us kids hung out together. Got into trouble together. But never did we have anything happen like what happens to these kids. Good thing too, or I’d need some professional help. LOL Seriously though, you might think there’s no way these kids could handle what goes down, but kids can surprise you. I believe they accept the strange and scary much better than us adults.

On a lighter note, the author dribbles in some fun dialogue and humorous scenes. The character’s feel genuine as kids say and do the funniest things.

Spooky Twisties is the perfect title for this book full of unexpected and surprising endings. Several of them had me sitting back thinking I never saw that coming.

I’d recommend this to young readers and adults. Fans who  enjoy tales similar to R. L. Stine’s Goosebump books will get a kick out of these.

Star Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-Mas

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Synopsis

Lindsay, Nick, Chris, Amy, and Paul are just a few of the kids in the neighborhood that enjoy each other’s company, hanging out together. From the usual antics that preteens enjoy, like playing in the graveyard, trick or treating, and celebrating birthdays, the kids find themselves in some unique situations that lead to unexpected ending twists.

Spooky Twisties I offers 13 tales of terror that will grab you from the start, and leave you with chilling surprise endings.

Adventures are speckled with humorous dialogue to frightening calls for help in working through their series of unusual encounters. Even though the chapters have individual story lines, many are intertwined with characters that are not so likable. For instance, Creepy Guy and Dan the Security Guard seem to have a ‘fixation’ for Lindsay and Amy who are best friends. Then there is old Mrs. Miller who appears to have lived on the street forever, but has found a secret to anti-aging. ‘Easter eggs’ or ‘hidden references’ mesh, and just when you think you’re headed towards a ‘fairy-tale’ ending, a strange unforeseen chilling conclusion occurs leaving the reader saying, “I didn’t see that happening!”

No happily ever after endings here.

Amazon / B&N

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Spooky Twisties II

13 Tales Of Terror

by Terri Bertha

38349097

Genre: Middle Grade / YA / Supernatural

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My Review

I really enjoyed the first Spooky Twisties collection and had even more fun with this next batch. It’s one weird thing after another with a humorous twist thrown in. Think Sand Lot with a spooky twist. Things that go bump in the night instead of a huge dog chasing you.

The author is up to her usual antics. The character’s are interwoven into each other’s stories. They have to deal with some strange goings on. And the endings are never what you expect.

And the book cover. How could young horror fans resist. As a young girl I spent hours in the library looking for covers like this. Then I’d race home and lose myself in the creepiness. Couldn’t resist them then and still can’t now.

I had such a blast with these stories. And I’d be hard pressed to pick a favorite. They were suspenseful with just the right amount of spooky for the younger reader. Made me wish my son was still little so we could read them together. I did the next best thing. I had him read them after I was finished and we compared our favorites. It made me want to read them all again.

Creative. Spooky. Humorous. Unpredictable. Perfect ingredients for fun.

Star Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-Mas

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Synopsis

What happens when your average suburban town becomes a nexus of the paranormal and occult and no one told you about it?

Spooky Twisties II is the second book in the Spooky Twisties Series offering 13 standalone yet interconnected ‘scary’ short stories continuing the supernatural adventures of Amy, Nick, Chris, Lindsay and their friends.

Follow the horror and humor as the kids encounter and work through more unexplainable weird events in what was once an ideal normal community. From deciphering an old map and learning about an old town rumor, finding a briefcase of money, babysitting a small boy who has some strange habits, and being revisited by ‘old friend’, lead the tweens into some bizarre, creepy dilemmas. The kids also learn that magic sets and items bought from the town psychic have greater powers than what they originally imagined.

‘Easter eggs’ or ‘hidden references’ tie these tales together along with ‘twisted’ endings, leaving the reader saying, “I didn’t think that was going to happen!”

Don’t be afraid, as I’ll hold your hand and together we’ll re-enter their Spooky world, with a Twist!

Amazon / B&N

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Author Terra Bertha

Terri Bertha

Terri Bertha is author of the Spooky Twisties Series for Middle Grade/YA. Each book consists of thirteen interconnected stories which follow a group of friends as they navigate their way through supernatural events in an idyllic community during the course of a ‘normal’ day. A mix of horror, humor and ‘twisted endings’ make for fun and entertaining reading.

Terri has lived her entire life in the rolling hills and three rivers of western Pennsylvania and the majority of her working years as a Systems Engineer for a large corporation. When her sons were born, she took a hiatus from work, and tutored math and reading while being a substitute teacher in local schools. She returned to the workforce and retired a few years ago.

Besides writing, Terri enjoys watercolor painting, sketching, puzzles, exercising, and golf.

Website / Twitter / Facebook

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

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.

My Monday Minis #38 ~ Gaelan’s War

Posted: March 12, 2018 in horror, reviews, Supernatural, thriller
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Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

Today’s book has so much going on. Can’t wait to share!

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Gaelan’s War

Gaelan Kelly #1

by

37661955

Genre:  Horror / Thriller / Supernatural

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My Review

Gaelan returns from the war only to have to fight another one at home. Dumped by his girlfriend and disillusioned, his parent’s take him on a trip to boost him up. What happens next is straight out of a horror movie and Gaelan will stop at nothing to avenge the horrific death of his parents.

I’d suggest you set aside some time when you start this book. It hooks you quickly and you’ll find it hard to stop once you start. From horror to vengeance, it doesn’t let up.

Gaelan is a damaged man. Up against a foe that defies belief, he sets a course to get his revenge. I’m big on character driven stories and I think Gaelan’s journey to accept what he’s up against and use it to further his vengeance was my favorite part of the story. It kept me focused and eager to see how he put his experience to work and used things to his advantage.

I see this is the author’s debut novel. Sure doesn’t read like it. The writing is strong and the plot and character development are excellent.

A character study as much as a horror thriller, I was delighted by this first book and excited to know there will be more. If you enjoy a good thriller with some horror thrown in, along with some beasts that will give you the shivers, you ought to try this one.

5 Stars

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Synopsis

WHEN GAELAN KELLY RETURNS FROM WAR, physically and emotionally scarred, he tries to piece a normal life back together. But the horrors of war couldn’t prepare him for the terror he discovers, thrust into a world he never knew existed. Dealing with the trauma of combat and plagued by nightmares of a monster that shouldn’t exist, Gaelan finds himself embroiled in a battle to protect humanity even as he struggles to preserve his own.

He fought a war of men. Now he fights a war for mankind. But Gaelan’s greatest war will be within.

Amazon / B&N

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About Author Thaddeus McGrath

Thaddeus McGrath is a former U.S. Marine Corps fighter/attack pilot, a veteran of the War on Terror and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He has loved writing since he was a boy. His debut novel, Gaelan’s War, was inspired by a desire to continue the discussion about PTSD, and a love of all things supernatural. In his world, werewolves aren’t big dogs and vampires definitely don’t sparkle! He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, kids, and oversized dogs.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

You can find a list of my reviews HERE.

For a list of free eBooks go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Saturday Screams #44 ~ Maze Of Souls & Nibble Nibble Crunch

Posted: January 6, 2018 in horror, Paranormal or fantasy
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Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share books that, well, make you scream!

I’ve got some good ones from Willow Rose and J. L. Bryan.

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Nibble Nibble Crunch

by Willow Rose

17969402

Genre: Horror

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My Review

This was a fast fun story. A little girl making snow angels comes across a cute little snowman. But soon, he’s not so cute anymore.

Leave it to Willow to put a fun, nasty little spin on such an innocent thing as a cute snowman. As the warning says: you’ll never look at a snowman the same way again.

And even though I quickly figured out where this story was going, it was still fun getting there.

4 Stars

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Synopsis

Warning: After reading this story you’ll never be able to look at a snowman the same way again.

In the beginning she thought it was sweet, this snowman who emerged as if from nowhere, but soon the six-year old Emma realizes that this snowman is different … very different.

NIBBLE, NIBBLE, CRUNCH is a horror novella from Willow Rose, author of the International Bestselling horror-series starring the Danish reporter Rebekka Franck. It is not for the faint at heart.

NIBBLE, NIBBLE, CRUNCH is also included in Willow Rose’s short-story collection called Horror-stories from Denmark.

This ebook also includes an excerpt from her novel One, Two … He is coming for you the first book in her Rebekka Franck-series.

Amazon

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Maze Of Souls

Ellie Jordan: Ghost Trapper #6

by J. L. Bryan

29380654

Genre: Horror / Paranormal

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My Review

I’ve been reading this series from the beginning and the author always keeps his character’s genuine, the scares, well…scary, the suspense at the max and the fun stuff in all the right places.

It’s almost Halloween and Ellie Jordan has a new case. It seems ghosts are threatening the owners and visitors at Pine Hollow Farm. It’s an important time at the farm. They expect record numbers to come for the haunted hayrides, the corn maze, and many other fun events. But restless spirits are putting a damper on things, causing the owners to cancel the big holiday bash.

Ellie is called in when the ghosts start to threaten the family and enter their home. She’s going to need all her skills to trap multiple ghosts. And they aren’t going quietly into the night.

The author really writes Ellie as genuine. She’s scared stiff a lot of the time but still makes a stand against the ghosts. Often getting knocked on her butt. And her assistant, Stacey. You can always count on her snark to lighten the bleakest of moments.

I knew this was going to be scary good. I drew on memories of when I was young and our family used to visit a farm like this. I thought it was fun but also got scared pretty good when we went on the hayride. It’s dark in those woods. There were some super creepy ghosts for Ellie and her snarky sidekick, Stacey , to deal with. As I got deeper into the book, Halloween drew closer and the suspense grew. The holiday is the time of year for ghosts. They’re free to roam and there are so many at the farm. As bad as the ghosts already were, I hated to think what was in store for everyone once Halloween night arrived.

Every time I read a new Ellie Jordan book I cross my fingers, hoping it will be as good as the last one. The author made me a happy camper as I loved this book. If you haven’t had a chance to start this series, you really should. There’s plenty of hauntings and scares to keep any horror fan happy.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

It’s October, and down at newly opened Pine Hollow Farm, the ghosts are running wild!. This “genuine” old-time family farm offers a big heap of fun fall activities. You can drink cider fresh from the orchard, enter a pumpkin-carving contest, and explore the five-acre corn maze. At night, if you aren’t too scared, join the haunted hayride through the woods, featuring a genuine eighteenth-century cemetery. According to local legend, the ghost of a horseman has ridden the old dirt road through the woods for nearly two centuries, menacing travelers. Hayriders beware! Then the real ghosts start to come out, threatening visitors to the farm and the family who live there. Paranormal detective Ellie Jordan travels out to the remote farm to root out the dangerous spirits. Ellie and her assistant Stacey must move fast, because the night is coming when all ghosts will be at full strength and free to roam-the night of Halloween.

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

You can find a list of my reviews HERE.

For a list of free eBooks go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

The Calling by Kathryn Meyer Griffith

Posted: September 6, 2017 in Historical, horror, Mystery, reviews, Supernatural
Tags: , , , ,
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I’ve read a bunch of Kathryn’s books and enjoyed them all. From man eating dinosaurs, to witches and other strange beings, it’s always a wild ride. I’ve got another good one to share today.

The Calling

by Kathryn Meyer Griffith

1957917

 

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Genre: Mystery / Horror / Paranormal

 My Review

Kathryn is quite skillful at pulling me out of my mundane world and dropping me into one of hers. This time it’s Egypt. The land of queens and pharaohs, pyramids and ancient mysteries.

Faye and her husband, Nick, are ideal partners. They share a strong work ethic and a love of music.  Their happy existence is soon shattered and sends them across the world to Egypt where they must solve an ancient mystery and face unspeakable perils.

Faye’s visions become stronger. The pleas of the long dead Egyptian princess will no longer be ignored. Sounds intriguing doesn’t it? I’m a sucker for this type of scenario. A modern woman haunted by a ghost from long ago.  Faye is a strong character. She’s well grounded despite the haunting visions, loves her husband, and is surrounded by friends that share her passion for music. Take out the visions and she sounds a lot like me in my younger days. Made her very likable and easy to relate to.

Nick adores Faye. Shares her passions. And when he gets a peek into one of her visions, he doesn’t hesitate to drop everything and follow her to Egypt. Nick is my kind of guy. Loyal, loving, and all alpha when it’s required. I loved him and Faye as a couple.

Ankhesenaton has been haunting Faye ever since Faye died and came back. She needs her help to find justice for the murder of her and her family. When I read the part about what happened to her, it brought sadness and anger. I wanted Ankhesenaton to get her justice. And maybe a good dose of vengeance too.

I enjoy traveling through reading and the author is masterful in her visual descriptions. You see the immense pyramids. Feel the heat of the desert and the abrasive sand blown against your exposed skin. I was awed and thirsty at the same time.

This story reads fast. Starts out ordinary as you meet the main characters. Moves into a ghostly mystery. And then drops you into the heat and dust of Egypt, where things you can’t imagine come to light. As with many of her books, Katherine doesn’t hesitate to put her characters in peril and she often lets them perish. This added to the suspense as I really wanted Faye and Nick to survive. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best but prepared for the worst.

A haunting mystery, some time travel, and plenty of action and suspense with a dash or two of horror. If you enjoy any of that, you should read The Calling.

 4  Stars

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Synopsis

Faye Summer has been haunted by a three-thousand-year-old-murdered Egyptian princess, one of the five daughters of Nefertiti and the doomed pharaoh Akhenaton, since she was a young girl…glimpsed her ghostly and desperate face in darkened mirrors and heard her whispers in her dreams. Whispers begging for Faye’s help in uncovering the true story of her and her family’s long ago disappearances and deaths, their terrible fate, so she would no longer be damned to eternal wandering. On that grave quest, Faye and her husband, Nick, reluctantly travel to Egypt and among the ancient pyramids, sparkling hot sands and the ghosts of the past they discover a truth far worse than they could have imagined…and then end up fighting for their own survival.

Amazon

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

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

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