Halloween Reads – Book Squirrel

Book Review: ‘Shypoke’ by Dona Fox

This is a very good story that grows increasingly eerie and discomfiting as the narrative develops. The writing is evocative and rich in imagery, luring the reader into the quite sentimental and old-timey feel of the story before delivering the twists that dramatically change the tone and intent of the narrative.

The characters are nicely developed, using the familiarity between them to engage the reader in their conversation and interactions and develop some affection for them. This, in turn, enhances the effect of the darkness that creeps into the story and takes control of it.

‘Shypoke’ delivers a satisfyingly chilling ending to a well-crafted creepy tale.

Book Review: ‘The Apple Tree Throne’ by Premee Mohamed

When an image on the first page is so beautifully written that it forces the reader to stop and ponder it, one knows they are in for a literary treat.

‘The Apple Tree Throne’ is one such story: wonderfully evocative and beautifully written, making use of rich images that linger in the mind and invite one’s thoughts back in quiet moments.

The Gothic elements of the story – storms, dreams and apparitions – add another layer of complexity and imagery that provides darker contrast to the often whimsical and sentimental tone of the writing.

This is an often wistful story that immerses the reader into the experiences of Lieutenant Benjamin Braddock, a returned soldier who has a new life thrust upon him while still trying to deal with the remnants of the old one. Therein lies his challenge: he must reconcile himself with the ghosts of the past in order to move ahead.

The fruit of war wounds and indelible memories, Braddock’s emotional and mental state is portrayed with gentleness and empathy, so that the reader gains as much understanding of his complex character and his desire for integrity as they do of his struggle to accept things as they are.

The setting is very English, in an era that, while it feels like the end of the 19th century because electricity is relatively new and wars are still being fought with muskets and swords, is entirely fictional: the monarchy has long been done away with and England has become a republic, although social classes and wealthy people with large estates still exist.

This is a most enjoyable book. Light and dark are very well balanced, and the overall tone is positive. It would suit readers of Clasic literature and poetry, and any who enjoy a thought-provoking story that is both well-crafted and entertaining.

‘The Apple Tree Throne’ has been awarded a Gold Acorn.

Find your copy here.

Spooktober Reads

Halloween Book Recommendations.

Promo Spooktober 2_edited-1

Book squirrel has a great collection of books for Halloween reading at
Book Squirrel’s Spooktober Reads.

Ranging from creepy suspense to full-blown horror, these are some of the best Halloween reads around.

Stake Out by Lily Luchesi.

YA Paranormal.

In a city overrun with the undead, an ex-cop is given a chance to get revenge.

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Stake Out by Lily Luchesi.

Lac Du Mort and Other Stories by Joanne Van Leerdam

Tunnels by P.J. Blakey-Novis.

Beyond by Alanah Andrews

Truly Unfortunate by C.A. King

The Dowling House by A Drew

Of Nightmare Realities by Toneye Eyenot

Road To Terror by S.K Gregory

The Celtic Curse: Banshee by D.J Doyle

Reaper’s Folly by Nikki Landis

Fear Of The Dark by Mark Woods

The Nightmare by Fiona Hogan

The Coven Princess by Lily Luchesi

Curious Times by Joanne Van Leerdam.

Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King

Flash of Darkness by Toneye Eyenot

A Flash of Light by S.K Gregory

The Celtic Curse: Newgrange by D.J Doyle

Pieces of Heaven by Nikki Landis

Arachnattack by Mark Woods

Death Comes Calling by Fiona Hogan

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: