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Reunion
Synopsis:
David Ray killed eight students and then turned the gun on himself. He thought the shooting and suicide would fix his world. It didn't. The massacre threw Tanner Khan and the other survivors into chaos.
Twenty years later, Tanner and his fellow classmates reluctantly agree to hold a reunion to lay the past to rest. Although they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, they come back to their hometown and reunite in the defunct school building. Old flames are rekindled, fears are ignited, and their lives are about to explode in a whirlwind of memories, haunted by the spirit of David Ray.
Once inside the old school, they discover that a dark entity has joined them. It has come to collect a debt, long overdue, and someone has to pay. Will Tanner and his classmates overcome their fears and put the pieces of their lives back together, or will they be consumed by their worst nightmare?
*REUNION is a supernatural thriller that digs deep into the world of school shootings, bullying, and the long term effects post-traumatic stress disorder. This multi-genre thriller has, at times, elements of the supernatural, horror, romance, and certainly suspense, without disregard for the trauma that many survivors deal with the rest of their lives.
David Ray killed eight students and then turned the gun on himself. He thought the shooting and suicide would fix his world. It didn't. The massacre threw Tanner Khan and the other survivors into chaos.
Twenty years later, Tanner and his fellow classmates reluctantly agree to hold a reunion to lay the past to rest. Although they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, they come back to their hometown and reunite in the defunct school building. Old flames are rekindled, fears are ignited, and their lives are about to explode in a whirlwind of memories, haunted by the spirit of David Ray.
Once inside the old school, they discover that a dark entity has joined them. It has come to collect a debt, long overdue, and someone has to pay. Will Tanner and his classmates overcome their fears and put the pieces of their lives back together, or will they be consumed by their worst nightmare?
*REUNION is a supernatural thriller that digs deep into the world of school shootings, bullying, and the long term effects post-traumatic stress disorder. This multi-genre thriller has, at times, elements of the supernatural, horror, romance, and certainly suspense, without disregard for the trauma that many survivors deal with the rest of their lives.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2011
187 people are currently reading
2125 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Bennington
28 books457 followersI'm the bestselling author of REUNION, Twisted Vengeance, Creepy and The Indie Author's Guide to the Universe.
I live in Central Indiana with my wife, four children and two stray cats. I obsess over details, dream strange dreams and teach a creative writing course for a homeschool co-op. Look for my upcoming paranormal thriller, Act of Vengeance, coming in late 2011.
I grew up in Saginaw Michigan, moved to Aurora, Ohio in 78' and finally settled in Central Indiana where I met my wife and graduated from Indiana University. I'm an occasional runner, life long drummer, and household handyman. Over the years, I've done everything from working on an assembly line, installing HVAC units, teaching Sunday school, to running my own business. But through it all, I've always loved to write.
In 2006, something finally clicked when I heard the calling to begin writing novels - and write I did. Like many writers, I have a book or two that the world may never read, so don't ask about those. It is my hope, however, that the ones you do read will be good, inspiring you to think about life
I live in Central Indiana with my wife, four children and two stray cats. I obsess over details, dream strange dreams and teach a creative writing course for a homeschool co-op. Look for my upcoming paranormal thriller, Act of Vengeance, coming in late 2011.
I grew up in Saginaw Michigan, moved to Aurora, Ohio in 78' and finally settled in Central Indiana where I met my wife and graduated from Indiana University. I'm an occasional runner, life long drummer, and household handyman. Over the years, I've done everything from working on an assembly line, installing HVAC units, teaching Sunday school, to running my own business. But through it all, I've always loved to write.
In 2006, something finally clicked when I heard the calling to begin writing novels - and write I did. Like many writers, I have a book or two that the world may never read, so don't ask about those. It is my hope, however, that the ones you do read will be good, inspiring you to think about life
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
November 26, 2011
When people are traumatized, we often internalize the source of that trauma for fear of having to relive it. Without help, those fears will manifest and eventually cripple us, ultimately preventing true happiness. Reunion by Jeff Bennington was a novel that delves headfirst into this issue—and the results were great. Bennington was able to create a book that was all at once: touching, thoughtful, metaphysical, suspenseful, and smart.
The book starts with David Ray, an extremely damaged teenager. He was bullied in school, neglected by his mom, beaten by his stepdad, and completely friendless. He had no self-esteem, no one to comfort him, and no one to turn to—and so, fueled by his deep-seated rage and lifetime of pain, he turned to violence as a means of retribution. After killing his stepfather, David Ray marched into his high school in Crescent Falls, Idaho around 9:30 a.m. and killed eight more people, wounded several others, and then finally, took his own life.
Twenty years later, a few of the surviving students, decides to return to the scene of the crime, and back to their old high school. This “reunion” was an attempt to face their demons and bring closure to their lives. But, little did they know, attempting to face their demons also meant opening doors—both emotionally and metaphysically—into a world that they weren’t quite ready for.
I really enjoyed Reunion. It was a fast-paced, thrilling, well thought-out book and reminded me of a cross between Stephen King’s It and John Hughes’ The Breakfast Club (both I love).
The main characters in the novel were well fleshed out. Bennington was able to formulate a clever backstory for each character, explaining how the massacre from their youth had now affected them all the way into their thirties. People like Maria Vasquez, the previous valedictorian who now helped run a Crisis Center in New York; and Bryan Jacobs, the nice guy from school who aspired to be a doctor was now a deputy in Crescent Falls; and Lana Jones, the head cheerleader who was crippled in the shooting was now a motivational speaker and author; and every other main character in the book. Bennington was able to truly capture the relevance of the psychological effects of trauma on fictional characters—and make it believable. That was a great and admirable feat. Two thumbs up!
In addition, trying to articulate each person’s independent voice can be a very difficult process. But for Bennington, that wasn’t the case. The dialogue flowed well and captured the personality of the diverse characters. So again, two thumbs up!
With so many different characters, I also wanted a conclusive ending to the novel—and Bennington delivered here, too. Every single character got addressed, and though I didn’t like everyone’s ending (Lana and Noah), I still appreciated the fact that it was addressed.
With all that said, there was one thing in the novel that I was mildly irked by, and that was the subtle religious overtone near the end of the novel. Perhaps, though, this interpretation could have also fallen into the “spiritual” category, which is how I’m ultimately perceiving it—as this interpretation helps me to enjoy the novel even more.
Lastly, the one thing I was most impressed with was the humanizing of David Ray. We often condemn the “villain” without exploring any objective angles. Everyone loves to instantly point the finger or start throwing stones. But in this novel, Bennington forces the reader to be objective. It would have been very easy for him to simply graze David Ray’s history, which would stifle our empathy of his character—but Bennington didn’t. Through several thoughtful and revealing flashbacks, we were able to witness the pain and anguish he experienced, and to finally see why he chose to do what he did. That was much appreciated.
I highly recommend Reunion to anyone who’s into psychological/supernatural thrillers. But even beyond that, this book offers a little bit of everything for everyone. It even offers a light case study on the potential psychological effects of an extreme violent situation. Kudos to Bennington for writing a great book.
The book starts with David Ray, an extremely damaged teenager. He was bullied in school, neglected by his mom, beaten by his stepdad, and completely friendless. He had no self-esteem, no one to comfort him, and no one to turn to—and so, fueled by his deep-seated rage and lifetime of pain, he turned to violence as a means of retribution. After killing his stepfather, David Ray marched into his high school in Crescent Falls, Idaho around 9:30 a.m. and killed eight more people, wounded several others, and then finally, took his own life.
Twenty years later, a few of the surviving students, decides to return to the scene of the crime, and back to their old high school. This “reunion” was an attempt to face their demons and bring closure to their lives. But, little did they know, attempting to face their demons also meant opening doors—both emotionally and metaphysically—into a world that they weren’t quite ready for.
I really enjoyed Reunion. It was a fast-paced, thrilling, well thought-out book and reminded me of a cross between Stephen King’s It and John Hughes’ The Breakfast Club (both I love).
The main characters in the novel were well fleshed out. Bennington was able to formulate a clever backstory for each character, explaining how the massacre from their youth had now affected them all the way into their thirties. People like Maria Vasquez, the previous valedictorian who now helped run a Crisis Center in New York; and Bryan Jacobs, the nice guy from school who aspired to be a doctor was now a deputy in Crescent Falls; and Lana Jones, the head cheerleader who was crippled in the shooting was now a motivational speaker and author; and every other main character in the book. Bennington was able to truly capture the relevance of the psychological effects of trauma on fictional characters—and make it believable. That was a great and admirable feat. Two thumbs up!
In addition, trying to articulate each person’s independent voice can be a very difficult process. But for Bennington, that wasn’t the case. The dialogue flowed well and captured the personality of the diverse characters. So again, two thumbs up!
With so many different characters, I also wanted a conclusive ending to the novel—and Bennington delivered here, too. Every single character got addressed, and though I didn’t like everyone’s ending (Lana and Noah), I still appreciated the fact that it was addressed.
With all that said, there was one thing in the novel that I was mildly irked by, and that was the subtle religious overtone near the end of the novel. Perhaps, though, this interpretation could have also fallen into the “spiritual” category, which is how I’m ultimately perceiving it—as this interpretation helps me to enjoy the novel even more.
Lastly, the one thing I was most impressed with was the humanizing of David Ray. We often condemn the “villain” without exploring any objective angles. Everyone loves to instantly point the finger or start throwing stones. But in this novel, Bennington forces the reader to be objective. It would have been very easy for him to simply graze David Ray’s history, which would stifle our empathy of his character—but Bennington didn’t. Through several thoughtful and revealing flashbacks, we were able to witness the pain and anguish he experienced, and to finally see why he chose to do what he did. That was much appreciated.
I highly recommend Reunion to anyone who’s into psychological/supernatural thrillers. But even beyond that, this book offers a little bit of everything for everyone. It even offers a light case study on the potential psychological effects of an extreme violent situation. Kudos to Bennington for writing a great book.
August 24, 2011
Very real the incident of mass killing of students, something you see on the Headlines often. The author gives you the backstage pass to a school shooting, the run up to the day and lives of the survivors after. As the community tries to pick up life again as if it never happened an idea of a school reunion comes up but are they really prepared for what is to follow this one quite strange reunion of sorts.
Written in a good haunting pace with few surprises round the corner.
http://more2read.com/?review=reunion-by-jeff-bennington
Written in a good haunting pace with few surprises round the corner.
http://more2read.com/?review=reunion-by-jeff-bennington
October 7, 2011
I was loaned a copy of this book by the author and I have such mixed feeling about this book. Honestly I didn't like it. I ususally love paranormal fiction, and enjoy getting emotional attached to storylines. That didn't happen with Reunion. I couldn't relate to any of the characters, and at first I simply thought that it was because I couldn't relate to what they had gone through. As the book went on though, it became more of an issue with underdevelopment. They all felt very stiff and common. I felt like I was reading about shadows of people that never got the chance to breathe. This book had so much potential, but it just didn't live up to it. I am able to forgive authors that take liberties with police protocal, but Jeff Bennington went so far beyond that it snapped any believablity, and therefore any chance I had to become immersed died. When something is so far from reality I can't lose myself in it. I don't want to spoil any part of this book because it is clear that many people liked this book, sadly I just am not one of them. I will say that I ended this book feeling duped. I think this book would have been better classified as a religious book. The ending left me with a bad taste and as one who is 'of the faith' I felt that this book ended with a 'plug for Jesus'. My faith doesn't need sponsorship.
I understand that I am one of a few that didn't care for this book. I am fine with that. I truly wanted to enjoy the story, but through the whole thing I kept asking myself 'what kind of research was done on this?' 'Did Jeff Bennington interview any real survivors of school shootings?' I feel having read the book now that the answer is no. The cast didn't feel authentic, and when I am pulled out of the story so much it is very hard to connect to it. I wish the dialog had been better, and the major plot 'twists' not so unreal. Like I wrote, I really enjoy supernatural thrillers, I just feel that there needs to be some chance of possibility, and here in Reunion I didn't feel that there was a snowballs chance that this could really happen. What a disapointing book, as I really believe there was a chance here to take a familiar story and shake it up.
I understand that I am one of a few that didn't care for this book. I am fine with that. I truly wanted to enjoy the story, but through the whole thing I kept asking myself 'what kind of research was done on this?' 'Did Jeff Bennington interview any real survivors of school shootings?' I feel having read the book now that the answer is no. The cast didn't feel authentic, and when I am pulled out of the story so much it is very hard to connect to it. I wish the dialog had been better, and the major plot 'twists' not so unreal. Like I wrote, I really enjoy supernatural thrillers, I just feel that there needs to be some chance of possibility, and here in Reunion I didn't feel that there was a snowballs chance that this could really happen. What a disapointing book, as I really believe there was a chance here to take a familiar story and shake it up.
July 3, 2011
Summary: Twenty years after surviving a school shooting Tanner Khan and his fellow classmates reluctantly agree to hold a reunion. Although they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, they come back to their hometown and reunite in the defunct school building. Old flames are rekindled, fears are ignited, and their lives are about to explode in a whirlwind of memories, haunted by the spirit of David Ray, the troubled teen who killed many of the students.
Once they're inside the school, they discover that a dark entity has joined them. It has come to collect a debt long overdue and someone has to pay. Will Tanner and his classmates overcome their fears, putting the pieces of their lives back together, or will they be consumed by their worst nightmare? Find out in this suspenseful thrill ride that will keep you guessing and engaged with a lovable cast of characters.
This story pulled me in and didn't let go. It started off on the day of the school shooting. An ordinary day for these kids and the expectancy I felt as the author took me through this day was stomach clenching. I was introduced to the main characters, one by one, as they arrived at school, greeted their friends and went to class. I was also introduced to David Ray, the troubled kid who will be the cause of so much death and trauma as the day progresses.
Jeff Bennington writes of this horrid event with amazing insight. He makes sure we are aware of the underlying psychology of a teenager who has been abused and scorned. He also hints at something deeper, something paranormal in the events to come. I felt as if I was reading about any one of the real life school massacres that have happened over the years. You can't help but think of those horrendous events as you read this.
This story eventually brings us forward, twenty years to the present and how our main characters have dealt with the trauma of that day. The authors depiction of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is spot on. Some of the victims have done positive things with their lives and some have remained stuck in that day but all are still affected and all need closure.
Deciding to arrange a Twenty Year Reunion in order to face the past and heal, one student brings them all back to the school were their lives were shattered.
Now, up until this point, this story seems written as a drama about surviving the worst that can happen but Jeff Bennington doesn't let you off the hook with a heartfelt and healing reunion. Hell no! Instead you are plunged into horror. The menacing ghost of David Ray has his own kind of closure in mind and it ain't healing. It scared the crap outta me and I loved it.
The plot of this story is fresh and I was compelled to finish it as fast as I could. A truly great read!
Once they're inside the school, they discover that a dark entity has joined them. It has come to collect a debt long overdue and someone has to pay. Will Tanner and his classmates overcome their fears, putting the pieces of their lives back together, or will they be consumed by their worst nightmare? Find out in this suspenseful thrill ride that will keep you guessing and engaged with a lovable cast of characters.
This story pulled me in and didn't let go. It started off on the day of the school shooting. An ordinary day for these kids and the expectancy I felt as the author took me through this day was stomach clenching. I was introduced to the main characters, one by one, as they arrived at school, greeted their friends and went to class. I was also introduced to David Ray, the troubled kid who will be the cause of so much death and trauma as the day progresses.
Jeff Bennington writes of this horrid event with amazing insight. He makes sure we are aware of the underlying psychology of a teenager who has been abused and scorned. He also hints at something deeper, something paranormal in the events to come. I felt as if I was reading about any one of the real life school massacres that have happened over the years. You can't help but think of those horrendous events as you read this.
This story eventually brings us forward, twenty years to the present and how our main characters have dealt with the trauma of that day. The authors depiction of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is spot on. Some of the victims have done positive things with their lives and some have remained stuck in that day but all are still affected and all need closure.
Deciding to arrange a Twenty Year Reunion in order to face the past and heal, one student brings them all back to the school were their lives were shattered.
Now, up until this point, this story seems written as a drama about surviving the worst that can happen but Jeff Bennington doesn't let you off the hook with a heartfelt and healing reunion. Hell no! Instead you are plunged into horror. The menacing ghost of David Ray has his own kind of closure in mind and it ain't healing. It scared the crap outta me and I loved it.
The plot of this story is fresh and I was compelled to finish it as fast as I could. A truly great read!
April 29, 2011
While making my way through this ARC that I received from Jeff Bennington, I found myself entranced. It was the first book that I read on my Kindle (an entirely new experience for me) and I couldn't put it down. I have to say that this was an excellent book and worth the read.
Bennington really grabs the reader with this supernatural tale, dragging them kicking and screaming the whole way. Now keep in mind, this is not a horror novel but it does have many horrific aspects to it. He brings you into the lives of survivors of great tragedy and throws in a paranormal twist.
There are a lot of different characters to follow, each learning to deal in their own way. This is a very complex story, yet it is so well written, making it easy to follow. Bennington has a brilliant imagination that will mesmerize even the most picky reader...
Bennington really grabs the reader with this supernatural tale, dragging them kicking and screaming the whole way. Now keep in mind, this is not a horror novel but it does have many horrific aspects to it. He brings you into the lives of survivors of great tragedy and throws in a paranormal twist.
There are a lot of different characters to follow, each learning to deal in their own way. This is a very complex story, yet it is so well written, making it easy to follow. Bennington has a brilliant imagination that will mesmerize even the most picky reader...
April 19, 2011
*read by my friend Anna*
"Reunion” (by Jeff Bennington) is fictional, and not based on anything that has happened in real life. It is the author’s third story, with more on the way.
Reunion” can be described as a paranormal thriller, but as the author writes in the foreword, it is also a mixture of “supernormal, horror, romance, suspense, and dark fiction”.
The story starts with a school shooting in Crescent Falls, a small fictional town in Idaho. A young man, David Ray, opens fire in his high school cafeteria, killing several students and seriously injuring others. The shooting occurs only days before the summer holidays.
The story then jumps 20 years into the future, and follows a number of survivors that were graduating in the year of the shooting. The survivors all have one thing in common; they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They all, however, deal with the PTSD in different ways, whether it is writing books, drinking or treating other people with PTSD.
Maria Vasquez, the Valedictorian in the graduating year who is now treating other people with PTSD, feels that the only way to put the shooting behind them, is to go back to Crescent Falls and have a reunion. And what would be better than to have the reunion 20 years after the tragedy? She contacts old school mates and some of them reluctantly agree to return to the town, which they have avoided for two decades, although some of the survivors remained in Crescent Falls the years after the shooting.
The survivors return to Crescent Falls well in time for the reunion, as there need to be a lot of preparations done. The high school has been closed ever since the shootings, and it is decided that the old school building shall be renovated before the big day. As the reunion day draws closer, the tension grows and the survivors continues to have flashbacks from the event 20 years earlier.
But there is something terrible going on in the school and the sheriff’s department is unwilling to tell the real truth to the survivors. Will they be able to have the reunion in the school after all? The sheriff Larry Richards is determined to find out what is really happening in the old high school and to solve the mystery before it is too late.
“Reunion” is hard to put down, once you have started to read it. You just have to find out what happens next. The different characters are all very well described in the book.
But “Reunion” also makes you think. Is David Ray such an evil monster, knowing what happened to him in the childhood? Could the society do something to prevent school shooters from comitting such horrible crimes? Do they deserve to die, the school shooters, or should they be put in jail for the rest of their lives? In the foreword, Jeff Bennington lists ten of the worst school shootings in the US history. When one hears and reads about school shooting one will of course feel sorry for the victims’ families and friends, but one should also remember the survivors.
I highly recommend “Reunion” to everyone. I think it is a very important book to read. It is very thrilling, with a little bit of romance and mystique. I give the book top marks, 5/5.
"Reunion” (by Jeff Bennington) is fictional, and not based on anything that has happened in real life. It is the author’s third story, with more on the way.
Reunion” can be described as a paranormal thriller, but as the author writes in the foreword, it is also a mixture of “supernormal, horror, romance, suspense, and dark fiction”.
The story starts with a school shooting in Crescent Falls, a small fictional town in Idaho. A young man, David Ray, opens fire in his high school cafeteria, killing several students and seriously injuring others. The shooting occurs only days before the summer holidays.
The story then jumps 20 years into the future, and follows a number of survivors that were graduating in the year of the shooting. The survivors all have one thing in common; they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They all, however, deal with the PTSD in different ways, whether it is writing books, drinking or treating other people with PTSD.
Maria Vasquez, the Valedictorian in the graduating year who is now treating other people with PTSD, feels that the only way to put the shooting behind them, is to go back to Crescent Falls and have a reunion. And what would be better than to have the reunion 20 years after the tragedy? She contacts old school mates and some of them reluctantly agree to return to the town, which they have avoided for two decades, although some of the survivors remained in Crescent Falls the years after the shooting.
The survivors return to Crescent Falls well in time for the reunion, as there need to be a lot of preparations done. The high school has been closed ever since the shootings, and it is decided that the old school building shall be renovated before the big day. As the reunion day draws closer, the tension grows and the survivors continues to have flashbacks from the event 20 years earlier.
But there is something terrible going on in the school and the sheriff’s department is unwilling to tell the real truth to the survivors. Will they be able to have the reunion in the school after all? The sheriff Larry Richards is determined to find out what is really happening in the old high school and to solve the mystery before it is too late.
“Reunion” is hard to put down, once you have started to read it. You just have to find out what happens next. The different characters are all very well described in the book.
But “Reunion” also makes you think. Is David Ray such an evil monster, knowing what happened to him in the childhood? Could the society do something to prevent school shooters from comitting such horrible crimes? Do they deserve to die, the school shooters, or should they be put in jail for the rest of their lives? In the foreword, Jeff Bennington lists ten of the worst school shootings in the US history. When one hears and reads about school shooting one will of course feel sorry for the victims’ families and friends, but one should also remember the survivors.
I highly recommend “Reunion” to everyone. I think it is a very important book to read. It is very thrilling, with a little bit of romance and mystique. I give the book top marks, 5/5.
April 8, 2012
Wow. Um. Where do I begin. I'm hesitant to write a review, under the "if you can't say somethin' nice" clause. I thought the concept of a horror/supernatural novel based on the whole school shooting phenomenon was promising. Unfortunately, the characters didn't ring true and their dialogue was extremely wooden. It was almost as if the story was being written by someone who had never met an actual human, but had seen a lot of prime time television. The people didn't *act* like people. Spoiler alert....please don't read further if you don't want the plot given away....
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For example, if your high school was having a reunion, and I said to you and your group of friends, "No! Don't go there! It's haunted!" I can pretty much assume that at least 99 out of 100 of your friends are going to laugh at me and go anyway. Not in this book.
Let's say a ghost *is* haunting a building, and it tosses you and your friends around like toys while his comatose, ventilator-assisted body is across town, all because he wants to be killed and put out of his misery. Does it seem strange that this ghost can lift someone off their feet miles away and skewer them on a flagpole and yet can't pull the plug of the ventilator six inches to his right?
And worst of all, when you're reading a book about the damage and horror that has been inflicted unjustly on a group of people by an individual who held them hostage at gunpoint, and then the HERO does the same thing to a bunch of people in a hospital (though only one of the hospital hostiges dies by the gunman's hand as far as I could tell...there's a neck snapping at one point so I figure he didn't make it) does it seem inconsistant when those same traumatized people (the first group. We never hear about the hospital crew.) laud him as a hero? If this was a point being made about the futility of human ethics and the inevitability of violence, that could work, but it's really not. I hate to be so negative in a review, but this just didn't work for me.
I love a fun, not-too-heavy novel as much as the next person, but I really think this book just wasn't edited very thoroughly.
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For example, if your high school was having a reunion, and I said to you and your group of friends, "No! Don't go there! It's haunted!" I can pretty much assume that at least 99 out of 100 of your friends are going to laugh at me and go anyway. Not in this book.
Let's say a ghost *is* haunting a building, and it tosses you and your friends around like toys while his comatose, ventilator-assisted body is across town, all because he wants to be killed and put out of his misery. Does it seem strange that this ghost can lift someone off their feet miles away and skewer them on a flagpole and yet can't pull the plug of the ventilator six inches to his right?
And worst of all, when you're reading a book about the damage and horror that has been inflicted unjustly on a group of people by an individual who held them hostage at gunpoint, and then the HERO does the same thing to a bunch of people in a hospital (though only one of the hospital hostiges dies by the gunman's hand as far as I could tell...there's a neck snapping at one point so I figure he didn't make it) does it seem inconsistant when those same traumatized people (the first group. We never hear about the hospital crew.) laud him as a hero? If this was a point being made about the futility of human ethics and the inevitability of violence, that could work, but it's really not. I hate to be so negative in a review, but this just didn't work for me.
I love a fun, not-too-heavy novel as much as the next person, but I really think this book just wasn't edited very thoroughly.
May 21, 2011
David Ray walked into school, pulled out a gun and killed eight students; that’s how this paranormal thriller, written by Jeff Bennington begins. From the first sentence you know this won’t be your ordinary tale of the paranormal. Bennington melds great prose with a social voice that explores the trauma that survivors of school shootings deal with every day.
It’s evident that Bennington did his research for this story. The pain and the range of emotions the characters exhibit is raw, and as real as it gets in a fictional story. The characters are so believable they could have been ripped from the pages of the Virginia Tech shooting, or a news story from Columbine. These characters make you feel their pain, their suffering, and the fear they still live with day after day.
Bennington is able to mix this tragic story with a paranormal twist, while not disrespecting the sensitive subject matter of the story. For that, I applaud him. He didn’t just write a horror story that happened to revolve around a school shooting. He wrote about a school shooting, and all the pain that goes with such an unthinkable act while adding a paranormal twist. The result is a story that will leave you shaken, and hopeful all in the same moment. This is a story of tragedy, hopelessness, pain, and in the end, victory. I urge you to read REUNION. You’ll be glad you did.
It’s evident that Bennington did his research for this story. The pain and the range of emotions the characters exhibit is raw, and as real as it gets in a fictional story. The characters are so believable they could have been ripped from the pages of the Virginia Tech shooting, or a news story from Columbine. These characters make you feel their pain, their suffering, and the fear they still live with day after day.
Bennington is able to mix this tragic story with a paranormal twist, while not disrespecting the sensitive subject matter of the story. For that, I applaud him. He didn’t just write a horror story that happened to revolve around a school shooting. He wrote about a school shooting, and all the pain that goes with such an unthinkable act while adding a paranormal twist. The result is a story that will leave you shaken, and hopeful all in the same moment. This is a story of tragedy, hopelessness, pain, and in the end, victory. I urge you to read REUNION. You’ll be glad you did.
June 27, 2011
This book is about a group of students who survive a school shooting and what their lives are like 20 years later. I knew the subject matter could be sensitive to some people but I found that the author did a great job of giving it respect but also changing it enough so it was a good fiction story.
I enjoyed how the author developed each of the characters and adequately described how different people would be affected by PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Each character faces challenges with coping after experiencing the trauma of the school shooting and they have to decide if going to the school reunion will be beneficial to them. It seems to me that this would be a very realistic challenge for those who have survived a school shooting.
Without including spoilers, I have to add that I loved the twists that were presented in this story. I also found the spiritual undertone was not the central focus of this story but a great secondary story line. The author did a wonderful job of including the spiritual ideas without turning off the reader.
I was recommended this book and I will definitely recommend it to other readers. I hope Bennington continues to write.
I enjoyed how the author developed each of the characters and adequately described how different people would be affected by PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Each character faces challenges with coping after experiencing the trauma of the school shooting and they have to decide if going to the school reunion will be beneficial to them. It seems to me that this would be a very realistic challenge for those who have survived a school shooting.
Without including spoilers, I have to add that I loved the twists that were presented in this story. I also found the spiritual undertone was not the central focus of this story but a great secondary story line. The author did a wonderful job of including the spiritual ideas without turning off the reader.
I was recommended this book and I will definitely recommend it to other readers. I hope Bennington continues to write.
March 17, 2011
Reviewed by Mona at RexRobotReviews.com (Post 5/9/11)
Reunion by Jeff Bennington is an incredibly hard hitting novel that embraces the lives of not only the victims but of the person committing the crime. Reunion is not what I would consider an “easy” read. Not to say it was bad, it is an extraordinarily exceptional story, just that it emotionally involves the reader. This story is about a horrific event, an event that touches not only those involved but an entire town, and possibly even far more than it did to begin with.
He asks some very interesting questions- What happens to the students who have been traumatized by school shootings, how have they survived – or have they – really?
Bennington leaves us with a powerful and insightful look into the lives of five students that survive the painful tragedy. I found this book a poignant one that pulled me into their lives and their experiences. It opened my eyes to the possibility of what others lives may be like after such heartbreak.
With the combination of intrigue, romance, suspense and even supernatural, Bennington allows the feel of these characters to come forth and lead us through their lives. Reunion has enough mystery and surprise to satisfy anyone looking for an exceptional read.
Reunion by Jeff Bennington is an incredibly hard hitting novel that embraces the lives of not only the victims but of the person committing the crime. Reunion is not what I would consider an “easy” read. Not to say it was bad, it is an extraordinarily exceptional story, just that it emotionally involves the reader. This story is about a horrific event, an event that touches not only those involved but an entire town, and possibly even far more than it did to begin with.
He asks some very interesting questions- What happens to the students who have been traumatized by school shootings, how have they survived – or have they – really?
Bennington leaves us with a powerful and insightful look into the lives of five students that survive the painful tragedy. I found this book a poignant one that pulled me into their lives and their experiences. It opened my eyes to the possibility of what others lives may be like after such heartbreak.
With the combination of intrigue, romance, suspense and even supernatural, Bennington allows the feel of these characters to come forth and lead us through their lives. Reunion has enough mystery and surprise to satisfy anyone looking for an exceptional read.
June 27, 2011
Jeff kindly sent me this book for reviewing and I am still in awe with it, it was so good.
The characters are amazing because they seem so real, as none of them are perfect (far from it actually)
David Ray was a haunted young man, who while I hated him for what he did, I also found myself feeling very sorry for what he had suffered.
As for Tanner, Maria, Lana, Noah, Nick, Bryan and Kate, well we get to see how they are coping with seeing their friends dying infront of them, 20 years later and the thing is that they all cope in different ways.
Allthough this book is purely fiction, I think it partly does show people what happens when someone goes through a traumatizing experience and how everyone deals with it in different ways.
And it also has paranormal parts in it which are perfectly integrated into the book, and in the end someone leaves us with an well known dilema.
And lastly allthough not a horror story it was quite scary in some points and has you gripping onto the pages of the book or in my case gripping the sides of the computer, dying (not literally of course) to read what's going to happen next.
I give this book 5 outt of 5 and I can't wait to read what Jeff writes next.
The characters are amazing because they seem so real, as none of them are perfect (far from it actually)
David Ray was a haunted young man, who while I hated him for what he did, I also found myself feeling very sorry for what he had suffered.
As for Tanner, Maria, Lana, Noah, Nick, Bryan and Kate, well we get to see how they are coping with seeing their friends dying infront of them, 20 years later and the thing is that they all cope in different ways.
Allthough this book is purely fiction, I think it partly does show people what happens when someone goes through a traumatizing experience and how everyone deals with it in different ways.
And it also has paranormal parts in it which are perfectly integrated into the book, and in the end someone leaves us with an well known dilema.
And lastly allthough not a horror story it was quite scary in some points and has you gripping onto the pages of the book or in my case gripping the sides of the computer, dying (not literally of course) to read what's going to happen next.
I give this book 5 outt of 5 and I can't wait to read what Jeff writes next.
March 17, 2011
Book Review: Reunion by Jeff Bennington
Jeff Bennington, author of The Rumblin’, has been praised by many for his works. His ability to accurately depict the “dark” side of human emotions especially shines in his new book, Reunion.
David Ray, murderer of classmates and destroyer of dreams, shot himself and died on graduation day. Twenty years later, several survivors are determined to go back to the place where their fears originated: Crescent Falls High School. Most of them had left Crescent Falls without a backwards glance after the massacre, but suddenly they felt a need to overcome the past. Unfortunately, mysterious things have been happening at the place where their reunion is to be held. The survivors unknowingly walk straight into the death trap… to possibly never come back out.
A supernatural horror that would grab your interest (and also your heart) and never let go, the Reunion will cause you to cry, smile, hope, and cower under your blanket, though not necessarily in that order. To conclude, all I can say is this: this book is a masterpiece.
Jeff Bennington, author of The Rumblin’, has been praised by many for his works. His ability to accurately depict the “dark” side of human emotions especially shines in his new book, Reunion.
David Ray, murderer of classmates and destroyer of dreams, shot himself and died on graduation day. Twenty years later, several survivors are determined to go back to the place where their fears originated: Crescent Falls High School. Most of them had left Crescent Falls without a backwards glance after the massacre, but suddenly they felt a need to overcome the past. Unfortunately, mysterious things have been happening at the place where their reunion is to be held. The survivors unknowingly walk straight into the death trap… to possibly never come back out.
A supernatural horror that would grab your interest (and also your heart) and never let go, the Reunion will cause you to cry, smile, hope, and cower under your blanket, though not necessarily in that order. To conclude, all I can say is this: this book is a masterpiece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2011
This book of fiction takes us into a world that is all too realistic in the horrifying trend of school violence that has been taking place too often in our society. Bullying and violence have no place in our schools and the practice should be stamped out before it causes violence.
The author starts out with a terrible shooting at a high school where several students were killed and injured. Thankfully, at the end of the horrific rampage, the deranged shooter turns the gun on himself. However, later on, the killer becomes a menacing ghost that haunts the school, even though it was closed after the shooting.
I liked the way the author tells you something that pops up later in the book. Twenty years after the shooting, some of the survivors are still trying to deal with the aftermath. The scars are still open sores for the survivors and the trauma is not over, but beginning again after they decide to have a reunion to get final closure. I don't want to give away the ending, but this book will certainly grab and keep your attention.
The author starts out with a terrible shooting at a high school where several students were killed and injured. Thankfully, at the end of the horrific rampage, the deranged shooter turns the gun on himself. However, later on, the killer becomes a menacing ghost that haunts the school, even though it was closed after the shooting.
I liked the way the author tells you something that pops up later in the book. Twenty years after the shooting, some of the survivors are still trying to deal with the aftermath. The scars are still open sores for the survivors and the trauma is not over, but beginning again after they decide to have a reunion to get final closure. I don't want to give away the ending, but this book will certainly grab and keep your attention.
September 10, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. If I didn't have a newborn I would have been able to read it much quicker too! It's a quick read and is very captivating! It has all the good qualities that make up a good book. Jeff is a wonderful writer and I am definitely going to look into his other books. Reunion had a powerful message, and was also very exciting and nail biting. Sometimes I felt sad, then happy, then scared. The beginning, I felt, was very powerful with the school shooting. It made me thing a lot about the real life school shootings that have happened. It really makes you think about why kids do end up resorting to that behavior and actions. It had a very interesting twist that I never saw coming, and added a lot to the story. I really loved the ending. This book certainly did not disappoint. It kept my full attention throughout the whole thing, and I hated when I had to put it down. Thanks Jeff!
September 5, 2011
I mean..come on...I loved it!
Jeff Bennington
Jeff Bennington
April 18, 2011
One of the best things about being a book blogger is learning about new authors. I love it when an author like Jeff comes along and asks me to review a book like REUNION. I enjoyed this book so much and if I hadn't been invited to participate in this blog tour, I might not have known about this wonderful book and talented author. It encompasses all of my favorite genres: thriller, supernatural and romance. REUNION is a must read for all book lovers!
October 21, 2012
Although a story about a high school massacre is not my preferred reading material, I found myself drawn into this novel almost in spite of myself. The characters were compelling and three-dimensional. The supernatural elements were creepy, and I ended up on the edge of my seat, anxious to find out how the plot elements were going to shake out. I was not disappointed. If you're looking for a scary, haunting story to read this Halloween, I recommend this one.
April 22, 2011
This was an interesting read and very unique. Quite unlike any book I have ever read. It was a supernatural thriller that also had several romantic subplots.
This book is about a school shooting and the survivors who are still trying to piece their lives together. Years later they meet at a class reunion and realize the horror has just begun.
This book is about a school shooting and the survivors who are still trying to piece their lives together. Years later they meet at a class reunion and realize the horror has just begun.
April 15, 2011
Has anyone ever noticed that schools are kind of creepy?
You don’t necessarily see it during the day, but late at night when the lights have been turned off and all the halls are empty…a school can become a downright eerie place. Weird settling noises, slamming doors, and hissing boilers can do funny things to your imagination.
Anyone who has ever been caught in one after hours knows what I’m talking about.
So, when Jeff Bennington approached me about reading an early copy of his latest book, Reunion, I readily accepted since I could see the appeal of a supernatural thriller set in an abandoned school. After reading the first few chapters, I realized that Reunion had a bit more going for it than just being a paranormal page turner.
Bennington tackles the story of Reunion from the perspective of a small group of people who are survivors of a horrific school shooting perpetrated by one of their classmates. Constantly abused at home and bullied by his peers, David Ray reaches his breaking point and lashes out by killing eight of his classmates before committing suicide. We fast forward twenty years later and find that Tanner Khan, one of the male lead characters, along with six other members of the core cast are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
While characters like Tanner Khan and Lana Jones seem to have gotten a handle on their PTSD, other members of the cast like Nick Tooley and Maria Vasquez are struggling. Maria, now a counselor ministering to others who are waging their own battle with PTSD, still finds herself pining over her high school sweetheart who died during the shooting. Maria simply cannot bring herself to move on despite the fact that she frequently advises her clients to do the same.
Nick, whose twin brother was killed by David Ray, seems to have been hit the most severely by PTSD. He’s spent the last twenty years spiraling into a depression that is worsened by frequent flashbacks. Nick’s choice to medicate himself with alcohol along with his subsequent erratic behavior only serves to put his relationship with his wife Kate, another survivor, on thin ice.
Now, all seven survivors are facing the prospect of a class reunion and the effect is almost like throwing a rock into a still pond. The thought of the reunion causes ripples of disturbance in each of the characters and the best thing about Bennington’s novel, in my humble opinion, is watching how each of them react to the sequence of events that plays out once things are set in motion. Every character is very distinct in how they’ve attempted to deal with their past trauma and seeing each of these personalities rub up against one another once they are all brought together makes for an entertaining read.
The frequent shifts in POV allow the reader to slip into the mind of each member of the cast, allowing us to become attached to them all in their turn. Once the supernatural elements of the story come into play, Bennington keeps us tense, fearing the loss of even one of the group. If you’re familiar with any of my reviews, you’ve seen that I’m huge on character development, so you’ll be pleased to know that Bennington delivers.
Pacing is a little bit slow due to the fact that Bennington is dealing with an extended cast of characters, so after the tumultuous opener, be prepared to take things nice and easy for a while. The author throws in several spooky incidents that take place in and around the now defunct high school where Tanner and his friends became the final graduating class. The suspense builds steadily with Bennington throwing in a massive curveball that resolves itself into a poignant ending.
Reunion is a book that is not only enjoyable, but also imparts a message on a deeper level about how difficult it is to live a normal life after experiencing a severe trauma like a school shooting. PTSD is a very real, very frightening, and at times, extremely debilitating disorder. Not only for those people who are fighting hard every day to learn to live with this condition, but for each of their loved ones as well.
It isn’t often that you find a supernatural thriller that functions far beyond its entertainment value, but Reunion offers plenty for the reader to reflect on long after the last page is turned.
The Verdict: Read This.
You don’t necessarily see it during the day, but late at night when the lights have been turned off and all the halls are empty…a school can become a downright eerie place. Weird settling noises, slamming doors, and hissing boilers can do funny things to your imagination.
Anyone who has ever been caught in one after hours knows what I’m talking about.
So, when Jeff Bennington approached me about reading an early copy of his latest book, Reunion, I readily accepted since I could see the appeal of a supernatural thriller set in an abandoned school. After reading the first few chapters, I realized that Reunion had a bit more going for it than just being a paranormal page turner.
Bennington tackles the story of Reunion from the perspective of a small group of people who are survivors of a horrific school shooting perpetrated by one of their classmates. Constantly abused at home and bullied by his peers, David Ray reaches his breaking point and lashes out by killing eight of his classmates before committing suicide. We fast forward twenty years later and find that Tanner Khan, one of the male lead characters, along with six other members of the core cast are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
While characters like Tanner Khan and Lana Jones seem to have gotten a handle on their PTSD, other members of the cast like Nick Tooley and Maria Vasquez are struggling. Maria, now a counselor ministering to others who are waging their own battle with PTSD, still finds herself pining over her high school sweetheart who died during the shooting. Maria simply cannot bring herself to move on despite the fact that she frequently advises her clients to do the same.
Nick, whose twin brother was killed by David Ray, seems to have been hit the most severely by PTSD. He’s spent the last twenty years spiraling into a depression that is worsened by frequent flashbacks. Nick’s choice to medicate himself with alcohol along with his subsequent erratic behavior only serves to put his relationship with his wife Kate, another survivor, on thin ice.
Now, all seven survivors are facing the prospect of a class reunion and the effect is almost like throwing a rock into a still pond. The thought of the reunion causes ripples of disturbance in each of the characters and the best thing about Bennington’s novel, in my humble opinion, is watching how each of them react to the sequence of events that plays out once things are set in motion. Every character is very distinct in how they’ve attempted to deal with their past trauma and seeing each of these personalities rub up against one another once they are all brought together makes for an entertaining read.
The frequent shifts in POV allow the reader to slip into the mind of each member of the cast, allowing us to become attached to them all in their turn. Once the supernatural elements of the story come into play, Bennington keeps us tense, fearing the loss of even one of the group. If you’re familiar with any of my reviews, you’ve seen that I’m huge on character development, so you’ll be pleased to know that Bennington delivers.
Pacing is a little bit slow due to the fact that Bennington is dealing with an extended cast of characters, so after the tumultuous opener, be prepared to take things nice and easy for a while. The author throws in several spooky incidents that take place in and around the now defunct high school where Tanner and his friends became the final graduating class. The suspense builds steadily with Bennington throwing in a massive curveball that resolves itself into a poignant ending.
Reunion is a book that is not only enjoyable, but also imparts a message on a deeper level about how difficult it is to live a normal life after experiencing a severe trauma like a school shooting. PTSD is a very real, very frightening, and at times, extremely debilitating disorder. Not only for those people who are fighting hard every day to learn to live with this condition, but for each of their loved ones as well.
It isn’t often that you find a supernatural thriller that functions far beyond its entertainment value, but Reunion offers plenty for the reader to reflect on long after the last page is turned.
The Verdict: Read This.
April 26, 2013
There is a five-star novel within these pages, and it's a must-read, because it contains one of the most powerful beginnings ever. The reason it received only three stars from me is more of a positive than a negative, to my way of thinkin. This book tried "to be all things to all people", and in so doing, it lost some of its luster.
In my mind, there are two novels inside this book. The "five star" tells a reality-based story of teenagers who face the tragedy of a school shooting and live to tell about it. The "supernatural" tale brings in ghosts, poltergeists, and the like. Both stories are worth reading, but for me, they just didn't mesh. "Reunion" would have been a good supernatural horror story, but it would have been a tremendous human drama. This may be the first novel for which I can envision two separate versions of the book. That would be an interesting concept, and as far as I know, one never attempted, to publish one novel with certain events and characters, and then to publish a separate one, telling the same story, but from a completely different genre and vantage point.
"The Real Story"
"Reunion" contains what may be the best opening I've ever read in a book. It was riveting, chilling, terrifying, emotional, and mind-altering! Sadly, in 2013, we're all too familiar with news reports of school shootings, and my heart hurts for the victims in each case. If I gave any consideration at all to the gunmen, I dismissed them as "monsters." This book opens by revealing the human being behind the monster. With heartrending clarity, the author portrays a tortured young soul who, having cried for help and received none, lets his rage consume him so that he is propelled to do the unthinkable. The fact that I could feel compassion for such a villain is a testament of this author's ability to bring characters to life.
It goes without saying that I felt for the victims in the aftermath of the tragedy. This was another area where the book shined, for it seemed the author must have researched carefully, and treated such a sensitive subject with great dignity. Each character's journey from terror to tranquility was beautiful to behold! If the book had stayed on this course, I think it would have been a masterpiece.
The "Trouble"
I love paranormal, horror, and supernatural novels. But it just felt as if this book was trying to tell too many stories, and because of that, each one lost some of its impact.
In summary, "Reunion" is definitely worth reading, its beginning carries the mark of a mastercraftsman at work, and I look forward to reading more from this author. As for the three-star rating, it's always better to try to do too much than to "coast" with too little, and I applaud the effort that went into this novel.
In my mind, there are two novels inside this book. The "five star" tells a reality-based story of teenagers who face the tragedy of a school shooting and live to tell about it. The "supernatural" tale brings in ghosts, poltergeists, and the like. Both stories are worth reading, but for me, they just didn't mesh. "Reunion" would have been a good supernatural horror story, but it would have been a tremendous human drama. This may be the first novel for which I can envision two separate versions of the book. That would be an interesting concept, and as far as I know, one never attempted, to publish one novel with certain events and characters, and then to publish a separate one, telling the same story, but from a completely different genre and vantage point.
"The Real Story"
"Reunion" contains what may be the best opening I've ever read in a book. It was riveting, chilling, terrifying, emotional, and mind-altering! Sadly, in 2013, we're all too familiar with news reports of school shootings, and my heart hurts for the victims in each case. If I gave any consideration at all to the gunmen, I dismissed them as "monsters." This book opens by revealing the human being behind the monster. With heartrending clarity, the author portrays a tortured young soul who, having cried for help and received none, lets his rage consume him so that he is propelled to do the unthinkable. The fact that I could feel compassion for such a villain is a testament of this author's ability to bring characters to life.
It goes without saying that I felt for the victims in the aftermath of the tragedy. This was another area where the book shined, for it seemed the author must have researched carefully, and treated such a sensitive subject with great dignity. Each character's journey from terror to tranquility was beautiful to behold! If the book had stayed on this course, I think it would have been a masterpiece.
The "Trouble"
I love paranormal, horror, and supernatural novels. But it just felt as if this book was trying to tell too many stories, and because of that, each one lost some of its impact.
In summary, "Reunion" is definitely worth reading, its beginning carries the mark of a mastercraftsman at work, and I look forward to reading more from this author. As for the three-star rating, it's always better to try to do too much than to "coast" with too little, and I applaud the effort that went into this novel.
March 11, 2011
This novel feels so real, so suspenseful, so enigmatic and mind-twisting, something just won’t let you put it down.
Reunion is author Jeff Bennington’s second novel. It is published by Indie publisher nexGate Press with the digital edition available April 1, 2011 and the paperback edition due May 1.
David Ray was thought of as one of the ‘lost ones’. English teacher Steve Gardner wanted to make a difference but he’d only been able to watch David waste away as the system pushed him toward adulthood. Then came the day David finally decided to get even for all the abuse, the teasing and the neglect he’d suffered in his short life and shot Mr. Gardner and eight fellow students killing them and then, in the end, turned the gun on himself.
The surviving and injured students, teachers and townspeople of Crescent Falls, Idaho are still suffering from the trauma of that day twenty years later. The High School was closed and boarded up after the tragedy…it has just been sitting there decaying and attracting local vandals, a reminder of that gruesome day for the entire town. Now five of the surviving students, although suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, decide to return to Crescent Falls to hold a twentieth class reunion hoping that facing their fears and memories will help in their recovery. On the day of the reunion the Sheriff’s deputy, homemaker, author, therapist and entrepreneur find themselves joined by the former British exchange student who has become a theologist and a parapsychologist and together they enter the school building to face their demons…accompanied also by a dark force.
Jeff Bennington refers to this novel as multi-genre fiction and indeed it has elements of mystery, suspense, the supernatural, horror and even romance. He claims to have been “writing constantly since 2007, without food, water or sleep and I'm on the brink of winning an award for the literary mentally insane…” which would explain his persistent talent. Besides being a writer he is also a husband, dad, runner and drummer.
Besides authoring Reunion he is also the author of Killing the Giants, a political thriller and The Rumblin’, a short story available on Kindle for $.99. For more info about Jeff , Reunion or details on the blog tour he is starting on April 1st, visit his website, http://jeffbennington.com or read his blog, http://thewritingbomb.blogspot.com.
Review by Lynnette Phillips, Avid Book Reviews
Reunion is author Jeff Bennington’s second novel. It is published by Indie publisher nexGate Press with the digital edition available April 1, 2011 and the paperback edition due May 1.
David Ray was thought of as one of the ‘lost ones’. English teacher Steve Gardner wanted to make a difference but he’d only been able to watch David waste away as the system pushed him toward adulthood. Then came the day David finally decided to get even for all the abuse, the teasing and the neglect he’d suffered in his short life and shot Mr. Gardner and eight fellow students killing them and then, in the end, turned the gun on himself.
The surviving and injured students, teachers and townspeople of Crescent Falls, Idaho are still suffering from the trauma of that day twenty years later. The High School was closed and boarded up after the tragedy…it has just been sitting there decaying and attracting local vandals, a reminder of that gruesome day for the entire town. Now five of the surviving students, although suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, decide to return to Crescent Falls to hold a twentieth class reunion hoping that facing their fears and memories will help in their recovery. On the day of the reunion the Sheriff’s deputy, homemaker, author, therapist and entrepreneur find themselves joined by the former British exchange student who has become a theologist and a parapsychologist and together they enter the school building to face their demons…accompanied also by a dark force.
Jeff Bennington refers to this novel as multi-genre fiction and indeed it has elements of mystery, suspense, the supernatural, horror and even romance. He claims to have been “writing constantly since 2007, without food, water or sleep and I'm on the brink of winning an award for the literary mentally insane…” which would explain his persistent talent. Besides being a writer he is also a husband, dad, runner and drummer.
Besides authoring Reunion he is also the author of Killing the Giants, a political thriller and The Rumblin’, a short story available on Kindle for $.99. For more info about Jeff , Reunion or details on the blog tour he is starting on April 1st, visit his website, http://jeffbennington.com or read his blog, http://thewritingbomb.blogspot.com.
Review by Lynnette Phillips, Avid Book Reviews
July 1, 2011
Review originally posted at: http://supernaturalsnark.blogspot.com...
Actual Rating: 2.5/5
MY THOUGHTS
Reunion catapults us into a world that is both disturbingly realistic in its focus on the horrifying trend of school violence and also frighteningly fictional as the terror of the paranormal is added to human cruelty. We are exposed to the permanent emotional, mental, and physical scars of a school shooting, our senses kicked into overdrive as we realize the trauma for the survivors is not over, but rather just beginning. The premise of Reunion is solid, the combination of real and concrete events with supernatural intangibility one that is certainly intriguing enough to have us speed-reading to see what nightmares await those who deserve nothing but peace.
While the foundation of Reunion is strong and its characters varied and likeable, there are a few drawbacks in the execution. The dialogue is often forced and lacking in emotional resonance, the words delivered with little intonation and missing the quality that brings flat black letters to life as they flow from the pages into our hearts and take root. The conversations are a bit soap-opera like in nature, sometimes crossing the line of believability to remind us we are dealing with a piece of fiction as opposed to being able to lose ourselves in interactions that feel as though they're taking place in front of and around us. Mr. Bennington provides us with the skeletons of some characters with true potential, they could just use a few additional layers to shift them from shades of gray to vibrant color.
Though the characters suffer from a small substance deficiency, Mr. Bennington does surprise us with an unexpected chain of events toward the end, ratcheting up the paranormal aspect and twisting and molding it in his own unique way. The final pages, as events and characters are wrapped up neatly and tidily (something we are grateful for after all they've survived), do dissolve into a mild case of religious preaching, however it's nothing so extensive as to be overwhelming. Despite my issues with this particular story, Mr. Bennington is an author I would read again, his imagination and ability to push a story in an unforeseen direction enough to earn my continued curiosity.
Actual Rating: 2.5/5
MY THOUGHTS
Reunion catapults us into a world that is both disturbingly realistic in its focus on the horrifying trend of school violence and also frighteningly fictional as the terror of the paranormal is added to human cruelty. We are exposed to the permanent emotional, mental, and physical scars of a school shooting, our senses kicked into overdrive as we realize the trauma for the survivors is not over, but rather just beginning. The premise of Reunion is solid, the combination of real and concrete events with supernatural intangibility one that is certainly intriguing enough to have us speed-reading to see what nightmares await those who deserve nothing but peace.
While the foundation of Reunion is strong and its characters varied and likeable, there are a few drawbacks in the execution. The dialogue is often forced and lacking in emotional resonance, the words delivered with little intonation and missing the quality that brings flat black letters to life as they flow from the pages into our hearts and take root. The conversations are a bit soap-opera like in nature, sometimes crossing the line of believability to remind us we are dealing with a piece of fiction as opposed to being able to lose ourselves in interactions that feel as though they're taking place in front of and around us. Mr. Bennington provides us with the skeletons of some characters with true potential, they could just use a few additional layers to shift them from shades of gray to vibrant color.
Though the characters suffer from a small substance deficiency, Mr. Bennington does surprise us with an unexpected chain of events toward the end, ratcheting up the paranormal aspect and twisting and molding it in his own unique way. The final pages, as events and characters are wrapped up neatly and tidily (something we are grateful for after all they've survived), do dissolve into a mild case of religious preaching, however it's nothing so extensive as to be overwhelming. Despite my issues with this particular story, Mr. Bennington is an author I would read again, his imagination and ability to push a story in an unforeseen direction enough to earn my continued curiosity.
April 3, 2011
I love supernatural thrillers as a general rule. I'm not easily shocked or scared, and Reunion did not disappoint. A small portion of the beginning is devoted to the school shooting itself. Jeff Bennington does an excellent job of putting the reader inside the mindset of a troubled and abused teenage boy who turns to murder and suicide to end his pain. You're also introduced to the main players in this tale, their hopes and dreams just as they are about to graduate. The writing is smooth and the character interactions are very believable. The author describes the setting very vividly and you can easily picture the story as you read.
After you are giving a small taste of what everyone was like in high school and where they would have headed had the tragedy not occurred, the book fast forwards to twenty years later. The main characters are introduced one by one and you can see how life changed for them. Jeff Bennington gave a wide variety of reactions to the tragedy for these survivors. The valedictorian has become a therapist who deals with Post Traumatic Stress patients. The popular jock has become an alcoholic who can barely hold a job and has married his ex-goth high school sweetheart. One woman was shot in the leg and arm and has went on to become a motivational speaker and author. The future doctor changed directions and became a cop, even though he has flashbacks whenever he hears gunfire. The last man became an adventurer, always searching for the thrill that will put the past behind him.
But when they come together for a twentieth reunion and decide that it should be held at the vacant school where the shooting occurred, strange paranormal events and a malevolent entity are whipped into a violent frenzy. The survivors are forced to face their worst nightmares head on, and with disastrous consequences for some of them.
There was a twist about three fourths of the way through and I didn't see it coming at all. Jeff Bennington has written a fast paced, entertaining, and creepy supernatural thriller that has twists and turns in all of the right places. I give this a five and it is a must have for your reading lists.
After you are giving a small taste of what everyone was like in high school and where they would have headed had the tragedy not occurred, the book fast forwards to twenty years later. The main characters are introduced one by one and you can see how life changed for them. Jeff Bennington gave a wide variety of reactions to the tragedy for these survivors. The valedictorian has become a therapist who deals with Post Traumatic Stress patients. The popular jock has become an alcoholic who can barely hold a job and has married his ex-goth high school sweetheart. One woman was shot in the leg and arm and has went on to become a motivational speaker and author. The future doctor changed directions and became a cop, even though he has flashbacks whenever he hears gunfire. The last man became an adventurer, always searching for the thrill that will put the past behind him.
But when they come together for a twentieth reunion and decide that it should be held at the vacant school where the shooting occurred, strange paranormal events and a malevolent entity are whipped into a violent frenzy. The survivors are forced to face their worst nightmares head on, and with disastrous consequences for some of them.
There was a twist about three fourths of the way through and I didn't see it coming at all. Jeff Bennington has written a fast paced, entertaining, and creepy supernatural thriller that has twists and turns in all of the right places. I give this a five and it is a must have for your reading lists.
March 17, 2011
Book Title: Reunion
Author: Jeff Bennington
Publisher: nexGate Press
ISBN: 9780615443683
Reviewed by Michele Tater for The Couch Tater Review
“Your karma is that you lived and you must honor and to remember and to live a life worthy of your having survived.” Ducan Williams
Although it is a work of fiction, this book examines the fatality of the human psyche and how people handle experiences differently, even if it was the same event. Crescent Falls, Idaho seems to be like any small town in the Unites States, except, like in some towns, it experiences the unthinkable. A teenage boy, who has a deeply disturbed past and an even worst present life, allows his anger get the best of him and he goes on a killing spree on his own classmates and teachers. He afterwards shoots himself in the head and is declared dead. So begins the process of healing by the victims who survived and the families and friends of the victims who did not. This book gives the reader possible outcomes to some of the students who try to get on with their lives and make sense of what has had to them. It also looks into the mental of state of the shooter that may help to explain his reasoning behind his actions. But the author doesn't stop there, he adds a supernatural spin into the mix when the survivors decide to plan a class reunion after 20 years.
Since this the first book I have read by Jeff Bennington, I was unsure what kind of writing style he possesses. I was afraid that this book would be another book about school shootings and would be a bit boring. The author has made sure that this was not the case. Even though he does address the awful truth of shootings in schools, he give it a new life by added a spiritual aspect of the outcome of one. From beginning to end this book keeps the reader riveted. It has dark, eerie and scarey themes, along with humorous overtones and glimpses of the human spirit. Also check out the list of the ten worst school shootings in the Unites States located in the beginning of book, its quite an eye opener.
Author: Jeff Bennington
Publisher: nexGate Press
ISBN: 9780615443683
Reviewed by Michele Tater for The Couch Tater Review
“Your karma is that you lived and you must honor and to remember and to live a life worthy of your having survived.” Ducan Williams
Although it is a work of fiction, this book examines the fatality of the human psyche and how people handle experiences differently, even if it was the same event. Crescent Falls, Idaho seems to be like any small town in the Unites States, except, like in some towns, it experiences the unthinkable. A teenage boy, who has a deeply disturbed past and an even worst present life, allows his anger get the best of him and he goes on a killing spree on his own classmates and teachers. He afterwards shoots himself in the head and is declared dead. So begins the process of healing by the victims who survived and the families and friends of the victims who did not. This book gives the reader possible outcomes to some of the students who try to get on with their lives and make sense of what has had to them. It also looks into the mental of state of the shooter that may help to explain his reasoning behind his actions. But the author doesn't stop there, he adds a supernatural spin into the mix when the survivors decide to plan a class reunion after 20 years.
Since this the first book I have read by Jeff Bennington, I was unsure what kind of writing style he possesses. I was afraid that this book would be another book about school shootings and would be a bit boring. The author has made sure that this was not the case. Even though he does address the awful truth of shootings in schools, he give it a new life by added a spiritual aspect of the outcome of one. From beginning to end this book keeps the reader riveted. It has dark, eerie and scarey themes, along with humorous overtones and glimpses of the human spirit. Also check out the list of the ten worst school shootings in the Unites States located in the beginning of book, its quite an eye opener.
April 19, 2011
Tragic. Insightful. Terrifying. Empowering. Discouraging. Heart-warming. Powerful words which aren’t normally grouped together when describing my usual reading experience. However, these are the words that come to mind when I think of Reunion by Jeff Bennington.
In this powerful tale, readers are treated to a supernatural thriller centering around the story of a school shooting and the effects such a horrific life event can have; not only for those directly in the line of fire but, also for those unfortunate enough to have witnessed the event first hand.
Reunion is a horrifically tragic and emotionally engaging story in which readers become privy to not only the sociopathic mind of a killer, but the fragile souls of those who survived mass shooting only to spend the next twenty years struggling to come to terms with this nightmarish event.
Bennington has told this tale from several different view points in a manner that is quite effective. Some stories told form multiple perspectives can often become rather confusing and hard to follow. Not so with Reunion. In fact, I truly don’t think this particular story would have had the impact that is does had Mr. Bennington chosen to tell this story any other way.
I have great admiration for Mr. Bennington and his willingness to take on such a huge social issue. Centering a fictitious tale on such tragic events is a dangerous course, yet with Reunion Mr Bennington has shared a great tale without detracting from the seriousness of such issues as Bullying, Mass Shootings, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders.
In celebration of his latest release,
Jeff is currently running a blog tour!
Up for grabs is a Kindle!
So what are ya waiting for, c'mon and join the fun!
Jeff will be stopping by YzhaBella's BookShelf on
May 8th for a Guest Post!
"Thoughts on Bringing Life into Paper"
For full Tour Schedule and further information, please stop by
Jeff's Blog Tour Page here!
In this powerful tale, readers are treated to a supernatural thriller centering around the story of a school shooting and the effects such a horrific life event can have; not only for those directly in the line of fire but, also for those unfortunate enough to have witnessed the event first hand.
Reunion is a horrifically tragic and emotionally engaging story in which readers become privy to not only the sociopathic mind of a killer, but the fragile souls of those who survived mass shooting only to spend the next twenty years struggling to come to terms with this nightmarish event.
Bennington has told this tale from several different view points in a manner that is quite effective. Some stories told form multiple perspectives can often become rather confusing and hard to follow. Not so with Reunion. In fact, I truly don’t think this particular story would have had the impact that is does had Mr. Bennington chosen to tell this story any other way.
I have great admiration for Mr. Bennington and his willingness to take on such a huge social issue. Centering a fictitious tale on such tragic events is a dangerous course, yet with Reunion Mr Bennington has shared a great tale without detracting from the seriousness of such issues as Bullying, Mass Shootings, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders.
In celebration of his latest release,
Jeff is currently running a blog tour!
Up for grabs is a Kindle!
So what are ya waiting for, c'mon and join the fun!
Jeff will be stopping by YzhaBella's BookShelf on
May 8th for a Guest Post!
"Thoughts on Bringing Life into Paper"
For full Tour Schedule and further information, please stop by
Jeff's Blog Tour Page here!
March 23, 2011
I just finished reading Reunion by Jeff Bennington and, in two words, very impressive.
As one reviewer stated, Jeff asks some hard hitting questions in regards to what happens to the lives of those that are forced to live through a massacre such as a school shooting which takes place in the novel. Not only the students but how does it affect the town as a whole and everyone that lives in it?
Not to divulge too much I will say that Reunion is a wonderful page turner and never feels cliche or formulaic. I hate to use the words "slow burn" because that sometimes throws people off and makes them think that the story is boring right up until the end, but that is not the case here. From the opening chapters you can tell that this story is well thought out and is leading to somewhere. There is a twist in it (that I would love to reveal but won't dare to) that truly hit me out of left field that really changed everything (in a good way, of course, hence the 5 star rating) about what I had read previously and what my expectations were going forward.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of thrillers that are mixed in with a little bit of horror (not the gruesome kind). I am eagerly looking forward to Jeff Bennington's next book and feel that he is an author that is definitely on the rise.
2011
334 Pages
Nexgate Press
ISBN# 9780615450865
Visit the author's site at http://www.jeffbennington.com/
Thank you,
Benjamin Jones.
Author of the Humanity's Ultimate Battle (H.U.B.) series.
www.whatishub.net
As one reviewer stated, Jeff asks some hard hitting questions in regards to what happens to the lives of those that are forced to live through a massacre such as a school shooting which takes place in the novel. Not only the students but how does it affect the town as a whole and everyone that lives in it?
Not to divulge too much I will say that Reunion is a wonderful page turner and never feels cliche or formulaic. I hate to use the words "slow burn" because that sometimes throws people off and makes them think that the story is boring right up until the end, but that is not the case here. From the opening chapters you can tell that this story is well thought out and is leading to somewhere. There is a twist in it (that I would love to reveal but won't dare to) that truly hit me out of left field that really changed everything (in a good way, of course, hence the 5 star rating) about what I had read previously and what my expectations were going forward.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of thrillers that are mixed in with a little bit of horror (not the gruesome kind). I am eagerly looking forward to Jeff Bennington's next book and feel that he is an author that is definitely on the rise.
2011
334 Pages
Nexgate Press
ISBN# 9780615450865
Visit the author's site at http://www.jeffbennington.com/
Thank you,
Benjamin Jones.
Author of the Humanity's Ultimate Battle (H.U.B.) series.
www.whatishub.net
May 30, 2012
Twenty years after surviving a school shooting, Tanner Khan and his fellow classmates reluctantly agree to hold a reunion. Although they suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, they come back to their hometown and reunite in the defunct school building.
I enjoyed the first half of the book, was intrigued by the premise and looked forward to Mr Bennington's self proclaimed efforts to commemorate those involved in high school shootings. The cast of characters was interesting and the book moved along at a pace. But then, unfortunately, in my opinion, things started to unravel. The descriptions of the horror of the shootings and the effect on those involved became clichéd. I wondered how many more times one or other of them would `quiver' or `shudder' and by the time I read the sentence, `Her eyes gave way to the brownout that preceded her loss of consciousness.', I was in two minds whether to continue reading the book.
However, I persevered, trying hard to ignore all the exclamation marks, repeated use of the word `suddenly' and constant switching of point of view. In the end, I was glad I finished the book. The explanation of the phenomenon was credible, although the thoughts and feelings of the victims were described rather cloyingly. I feel Mr Bennington perhaps tried to do too much in this book by linking a high school shooting with a ghostly horror story and ended up not doing justice to either. Other readers, of course, may disagree with me.
I enjoyed the first half of the book, was intrigued by the premise and looked forward to Mr Bennington's self proclaimed efforts to commemorate those involved in high school shootings. The cast of characters was interesting and the book moved along at a pace. But then, unfortunately, in my opinion, things started to unravel. The descriptions of the horror of the shootings and the effect on those involved became clichéd. I wondered how many more times one or other of them would `quiver' or `shudder' and by the time I read the sentence, `Her eyes gave way to the brownout that preceded her loss of consciousness.', I was in two minds whether to continue reading the book.
However, I persevered, trying hard to ignore all the exclamation marks, repeated use of the word `suddenly' and constant switching of point of view. In the end, I was glad I finished the book. The explanation of the phenomenon was credible, although the thoughts and feelings of the victims were described rather cloyingly. I feel Mr Bennington perhaps tried to do too much in this book by linking a high school shooting with a ghostly horror story and ended up not doing justice to either. Other readers, of course, may disagree with me.
September 1, 2011
My Blurb:
20 years after a devastating school shooting 5 senior class survivors find themselves returning to their home town for a Reunion and long awaited closure. What was supposed to be a healing experience turns deadly as the dead gunman reeks havoc on the lives of those who dared to return.
A touching story of the strength of love, the devastation of abuse, and the power of faith.
Lets Talk About It:
From the very first page you could feel the strength of the written word, the eeriness described takes life and remains through the following pages. Author Jeff Bennington has an amazing way of projecting emotions through his writing that grabs a hold of you and doesn't let go.
The book explores the thoughts of the troubled teen, David Ray, as he plans the death of his family, High school classmates and his own suicide. The story of David Ray and his abusive past explored through a paranormal experience of one the surviving classmates is amazingly vivid and disturbing.
The surviving classmates each deal with the death of family and friends in the mass murder at the High school in very different ways yet each walked away from the event forever scarred.
Truly a gripping book that will have you turning page after page until you reach the end.
Melissa @ 1000 + Books to Read
20 years after a devastating school shooting 5 senior class survivors find themselves returning to their home town for a Reunion and long awaited closure. What was supposed to be a healing experience turns deadly as the dead gunman reeks havoc on the lives of those who dared to return.
A touching story of the strength of love, the devastation of abuse, and the power of faith.
Lets Talk About It:
From the very first page you could feel the strength of the written word, the eeriness described takes life and remains through the following pages. Author Jeff Bennington has an amazing way of projecting emotions through his writing that grabs a hold of you and doesn't let go.
The book explores the thoughts of the troubled teen, David Ray, as he plans the death of his family, High school classmates and his own suicide. The story of David Ray and his abusive past explored through a paranormal experience of one the surviving classmates is amazingly vivid and disturbing.
The surviving classmates each deal with the death of family and friends in the mass murder at the High school in very different ways yet each walked away from the event forever scarred.
Truly a gripping book that will have you turning page after page until you reach the end.
Melissa @ 1000 + Books to Read
May 2, 2011
This book was not what I had expected, I will tell you that from the start. This book is fiction and is not based on any real massacre. It starts out with a student planning to get revenge for the bullying he has had to deal with throughout his life. You follow him through his preparations, through the massacre and then you jump ahead 20 years and find out about some of the survivors of the massacre. Where they are what they are doing and how they are still dealing with PTSD to that very day.
One of the students Maria decides she needs closer and maybe it's time to have a Reunion, go back to where it started and lay things to rest for good. After contacting her classmates she meets up with the few who agree to the reunion. Through out the planning, the getting to know each other again, you go on a ride with each of them as they face their fears and relive that horrible day in their own way. All the while there is an evil presence that seems to be haunting the old school, why is it there, what does it want, is it the ghost of the killer?
This book takes you on a ride and throws you for a loop you never see coming. I would suggest this read to you,
One of the students Maria decides she needs closer and maybe it's time to have a Reunion, go back to where it started and lay things to rest for good. After contacting her classmates she meets up with the few who agree to the reunion. Through out the planning, the getting to know each other again, you go on a ride with each of them as they face their fears and relive that horrible day in their own way. All the while there is an evil presence that seems to be haunting the old school, why is it there, what does it want, is it the ghost of the killer?
This book takes you on a ride and throws you for a loop you never see coming. I would suggest this read to you,
May 3, 2011
Author Jeff Bennington has just released his latest novel. The reviews look good for this book on a controversial yet all too common issue we see happen again and again in the U.S. Jeff has taken this matter of mass school killings and gone a step further, the aftermath for survivors. Looks good, Miranda from My Eclectic Bookshelf posted a good review as have numerous others, so, I will be reading the book soon. I really like the hard or soft cover version so I'll hold out for my copy before I read it, but I will! Jeff is on Twitter and Facebook and is an up and coming author you may want to support and follow. After all, it isn't the tech saviness of publishers or their wonderfull-ness that makes an author a success as much as it's the readers, the fans of these authors that make authors who they become. Jeff is very accessible and freely gives advice and information to other authors, including myself, and is a fan favorite because he actually communicates and responds. I will let you know about the book, I'm looking forward to reading it.
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