What do you think?
Rate this book
Jason Dark - Ghost Hunter #1
Demon's Night
Bizarre deaths in the fog-shrouded streets of Victorian London!
A string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies sets the ghost hunter, Jason Dark, on the trail in search of a demon hellbent on spreading chaos and catastrophe throughout the city!
Can the ghost hunter stop the devilish fiend who is determined to wreak more death and destruction than his even more ominous Father?
Filled with enough mystery, drama and suspenseful action to transport you to the sinister streets of gaslit Whitechapel, the digs of Jack the Ripper, your encounter with the extraordinary awaits.
“Demon’s Night” is a 24,500 word dime novel, the equivalent of about 95 book pages.
REVIEWS
"A briskly paced pulp fiction throwback full of gothic dread and shivery intrigue." "A cult of sophisticated fiends who like their terror full of elegant dread and Victorian charm." — Chris Alexander, FANGORIA
"What amazed me, as I dug deeper into the series is the sheer, joyous brilliance of the project" — Mirek Lipinski, FANTATERROR
“I'll admit it; I'm a sucker for gothic horror adventures and believe they're a sub-genre woefully neglected these days. Thankfully Guido Henkel knows how to skillfully and smoothly lure his readers from the gore-drenched pages of today's fiction back in time to Victorian England where the demons and monsters and vampires stalk the fog-shrouded cobblestone streets of a simpler yet deadly period in history. With Jason Dark, ghost hunter and paranormal investigator, Guido has created a hero for the ages; a fearless avenger of evil keeping England safe from the things that slither and creep within the shadows of the night. So put on your overcoat and top hat and hail yourself a Hansom Cab; you're about to set forth on a journey unlike anything you've experienced since the days of Watson and Holmes. Hang on tight. If you're anything like me, you're going to love the ride. Highly recommended!” — Gord Rollo, Author of VALLEY OF THE SCARECROW and THE JIGSAW MAN
A string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies sets the ghost hunter, Jason Dark, on the trail in search of a demon hellbent on spreading chaos and catastrophe throughout the city!
Can the ghost hunter stop the devilish fiend who is determined to wreak more death and destruction than his even more ominous Father?
Filled with enough mystery, drama and suspenseful action to transport you to the sinister streets of gaslit Whitechapel, the digs of Jack the Ripper, your encounter with the extraordinary awaits.
“Demon’s Night” is a 24,500 word dime novel, the equivalent of about 95 book pages.
REVIEWS
"A briskly paced pulp fiction throwback full of gothic dread and shivery intrigue." "A cult of sophisticated fiends who like their terror full of elegant dread and Victorian charm." — Chris Alexander, FANGORIA
"What amazed me, as I dug deeper into the series is the sheer, joyous brilliance of the project" — Mirek Lipinski, FANTATERROR
“I'll admit it; I'm a sucker for gothic horror adventures and believe they're a sub-genre woefully neglected these days. Thankfully Guido Henkel knows how to skillfully and smoothly lure his readers from the gore-drenched pages of today's fiction back in time to Victorian England where the demons and monsters and vampires stalk the fog-shrouded cobblestone streets of a simpler yet deadly period in history. With Jason Dark, ghost hunter and paranormal investigator, Guido has created a hero for the ages; a fearless avenger of evil keeping England safe from the things that slither and creep within the shadows of the night. So put on your overcoat and top hat and hail yourself a Hansom Cab; you're about to set forth on a journey unlike anything you've experienced since the days of Watson and Holmes. Hang on tight. If you're anything like me, you're going to love the ride. Highly recommended!” — Gord Rollo, Author of VALLEY OF THE SCARECROW and THE JIGSAW MAN
134 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
73 people are currently reading
540 people want to read
About the author
Guido Henkel
20 books714 followersBased in Southern California, Guido Henkel has been a computer game designer and interactive fiction writer for over 25 years before he decided to try his hand at traditional novelized fiction.
Among the many award-winning games he's worked on as the "Realms of Arkania" series which was the official adaptation of the highly successful German pen&paper role-playing game series "Das Schwarze Auge." However, he has also worked on titles such as "Fallout 2" and "Planescape: Torment," a game based in one of the more extreme and mature AD&D universes.
Guido Henkel is the creator of the gothic horror dime novel series "Jason Dark: Ghost Hunter," which he not only writes but also publishes.
Among the many award-winning games he's worked on as the "Realms of Arkania" series which was the official adaptation of the highly successful German pen&paper role-playing game series "Das Schwarze Auge." However, he has also worked on titles such as "Fallout 2" and "Planescape: Torment," a game based in one of the more extreme and mature AD&D universes.
Guido Henkel is the creator of the gothic horror dime novel series "Jason Dark: Ghost Hunter," which he not only writes but also publishes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 18, 2017
This short e-story is the opener for a whole series of them, featuring the exploits of Jason Dark, a "ghost hunter" (although Henkel uses the German equivalent, "geister jaeger," in the text --which is a bit of an anomaly since, though the author's last name suggests that he might be of German stock, there's no indication that his protagonist is) in late Victorian London. (We shouldn't interpret the designation too narrowly; for instance, his antagonist here is a demon, not a ghost.) All of the stories are apparently about the length of this one --60+ pages, so at the longer end of the "short" fiction range-- and seem to only be available in the electronic format. According to the author, each story is self-contained and they can be read out of order, but there is a certain chronology inherent in the published order.
This is action-oriented supernatural fiction in the classic "occult detective" tradition; Jason Dark stands in a long line of literary forebears going back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His sword cane with its rune-inscribed blade is reminiscent of a similar weapon carried by Manly Wade Wellman's John Thunstone, which may be one of Henkel's literary influences. (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle might be another; there are echoes here of Shelock Holmes' Baker Street Irregulars.) The author's long experience with designing computer games is probably also an influence, we have a plot here that's very fast moving, with a lot of physical action. I've never been to London and have only a general idea of its geography, but he handles locality and place names, and their spatial relationships, with an assurance and detail that suggests that he knows what he's talking about. He's also done some historical homework (and expects the reader to do the same). Though the tale is set in 1879, we're not told this directly; instead we have a reference to the appearance of real-life thespians Henry Irving and Ellen Terry as Shylock and Portia (misspelled here as "Fortia") in a production of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice at the Lyceum Theater, which really took place in that year. Also, Niccolo Paganini (1782-1840) really was widely reputed to have had dealings with the devil (in fact, this was a factor in the initial refusal of the church authorities to grant him a Catholic burial --his remains actually weren't interred until 1876, 36 years after he died).
This isn't deep fiction; it's written with a basic good vs. evil orientation, but it doesn't present profound explorations of spiritual realities, and Henkel's "demons" aren't necessarily depicted in Biblical terms. (For one thing, they can possess people, like the "demons" on the TV show Supernatural, pretty much at will. regardless of the victim's moral and spiritual state.) The plotting is rather simplistic; considering that we're talking about trying to track a demon in a city the size of London, things fall into place relatively quickly and effortlessly. For a story introducing Jason Dark, there's much about him we're not told. He's obviously well-to-do, but how he makes his money isn't clear; if it's inherited, it should have gone to his late brother Horatio (who was apparently the older son, since his widow is significantly older than Jason) and from him to his widow, Lady Wellesley. (So it's not clear why Lady W. needs to depend on Jason for a roof over her head.) Other quibbles could be mentioned: I'm not sure there's any such thing as "crystallized light," for instance, and there are places where the writing could be more polished (and better proofread) and points that could be less belabored. In one case, Jason implausibly fails to deal with a problem he almost certainly would have handled if the story were real.
What the story has on the positive side is narrative drive, dark period atmosphere, dangerous and suspenseful jeopardies and tense moments, exciting action, and engaging if not deeply developed characters. Hsing Siu Lin, a young Chinese-born woman with a knowledge of both the occult and the martial arts [in accordance with Chinese usage, Hsing is her family name and Siu Lin her personal name], who becomes Jason's co-warrior in this fight, is an original and unexpected addition to the story, and an important ingredient in its success. (I don't know whether or not she's a continuing character in the stories, but if I were in Henkel's shoes, she definitely would be!) To the author's credit, he tells his story without bad language or sexual content. (Romance-phobic readers will be relieved to know that though we have a hero and heroine working and fighting shoulder to shoulder here, there's no romantic element as such.)
This is action-oriented supernatural fiction in the classic "occult detective" tradition; Jason Dark stands in a long line of literary forebears going back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His sword cane with its rune-inscribed blade is reminiscent of a similar weapon carried by Manly Wade Wellman's John Thunstone, which may be one of Henkel's literary influences. (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle might be another; there are echoes here of Shelock Holmes' Baker Street Irregulars.) The author's long experience with designing computer games is probably also an influence, we have a plot here that's very fast moving, with a lot of physical action. I've never been to London and have only a general idea of its geography, but he handles locality and place names, and their spatial relationships, with an assurance and detail that suggests that he knows what he's talking about. He's also done some historical homework (and expects the reader to do the same). Though the tale is set in 1879, we're not told this directly; instead we have a reference to the appearance of real-life thespians Henry Irving and Ellen Terry as Shylock and Portia (misspelled here as "Fortia") in a production of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice at the Lyceum Theater, which really took place in that year. Also, Niccolo Paganini (1782-1840) really was widely reputed to have had dealings with the devil (in fact, this was a factor in the initial refusal of the church authorities to grant him a Catholic burial --his remains actually weren't interred until 1876, 36 years after he died).
This isn't deep fiction; it's written with a basic good vs. evil orientation, but it doesn't present profound explorations of spiritual realities, and Henkel's "demons" aren't necessarily depicted in Biblical terms. (For one thing, they can possess people, like the "demons" on the TV show Supernatural, pretty much at will. regardless of the victim's moral and spiritual state.) The plotting is rather simplistic; considering that we're talking about trying to track a demon in a city the size of London, things fall into place relatively quickly and effortlessly. For a story introducing Jason Dark, there's much about him we're not told. He's obviously well-to-do, but how he makes his money isn't clear; if it's inherited, it should have gone to his late brother Horatio (who was apparently the older son, since his widow is significantly older than Jason) and from him to his widow, Lady Wellesley. (So it's not clear why Lady W. needs to depend on Jason for a roof over her head.) Other quibbles could be mentioned: I'm not sure there's any such thing as "crystallized light," for instance, and there are places where the writing could be more polished (and better proofread) and points that could be less belabored. In one case, Jason implausibly fails to deal with a problem he almost certainly would have handled if the story were real.
What the story has on the positive side is narrative drive, dark period atmosphere, dangerous and suspenseful jeopardies and tense moments, exciting action, and engaging if not deeply developed characters. Hsing Siu Lin, a young Chinese-born woman with a knowledge of both the occult and the martial arts [in accordance with Chinese usage, Hsing is her family name and Siu Lin her personal name], who becomes Jason's co-warrior in this fight, is an original and unexpected addition to the story, and an important ingredient in its success. (I don't know whether or not she's a continuing character in the stories, but if I were in Henkel's shoes, she definitely would be!) To the author's credit, he tells his story without bad language or sexual content. (Romance-phobic readers will be relieved to know that though we have a hero and heroine working and fighting shoulder to shoulder here, there's no romantic element as such.)
April 5, 2010
What a delightful story. As a fan of the Victorian setting in horror, I had a lot of fun reading this story. Jason Dark is a great new hero for me. This urbane, kind gentleman is brave enough to take on a demon with the power to tear him to shreds. He's a ghosthunter with an arsenal to make a lover of arcane artifacts and gadgets very happy. And he's got the coolest sword. I'm jealous of that sword. I really am. This short story is full of action, barely slowing down once it gets started. Although not really scary, it did have some tense moments, and wonderful, cinematic atmosphere. And Mr. Henkel gets points for having a heroine who is a formidable warrior in her own right, Sui Lin, who is of Chinese heritage.
I can say one thing. I'd love to read more by this author. Are you running short of classic horror short stories or novels to read? Check this one out. It has the elements that make such fare so appealing. Fans of Sherlock Holmes, occult detectives, and classic action-adventure/pulp fiction with supernatural elements, be sure to check out Jason Dark-Ghost Hunter: Demon's Night.
Overall rating 4.5 out of 5.0 stars .
I can say one thing. I'd love to read more by this author. Are you running short of classic horror short stories or novels to read? Check this one out. It has the elements that make such fare so appealing. Fans of Sherlock Holmes, occult detectives, and classic action-adventure/pulp fiction with supernatural elements, be sure to check out Jason Dark-Ghost Hunter: Demon's Night.
Overall rating 4.5 out of 5.0 stars .
January 15, 2012
A real promising start to a supernatural series in a era of the Hansom Cab and gaslights featuring the ghost hunter Jason Dark and Siu Lin.
The story starts off with a real interesting location in London, back when St Katherine's Dock was used as a commercial dock. You feel the atmosphere the Erie London fog and darkness coupled along with the arrival of a Demon. Demons alas my one guilty pleasure.
Jason Dark knows the supernatural and along with this knowledge he is armed with a sword. The blade has been passed down from generations it offers powerful protection against evil spirits and supernatural beings.
I love the mention of The Old London Taxi the Hansom Cab a horse drawn carriage. He really gets all the themes right good setting, characters and story line. Looking forward to reading more from this series. Really was impressed of the quality of story. For the very low price this was sold via kindle you can't go wrong.
The story starts off with a real interesting location in London, back when St Katherine's Dock was used as a commercial dock. You feel the atmosphere the Erie London fog and darkness coupled along with the arrival of a Demon. Demons alas my one guilty pleasure.
Jason Dark knows the supernatural and along with this knowledge he is armed with a sword. The blade has been passed down from generations it offers powerful protection against evil spirits and supernatural beings.
I love the mention of The Old London Taxi the Hansom Cab a horse drawn carriage. He really gets all the themes right good setting, characters and story line. Looking forward to reading more from this series. Really was impressed of the quality of story. For the very low price this was sold via kindle you can't go wrong.
April 13, 2010
I really enjoyed Guido Henkel's gothic, Demon's Night. After a tough day at work I looked forward to coming home and being whisked away to another place and time: 19th century London.
Demon's Night starts out in a dockyard, as workers unload ships. One unfortunate dockworker smells a sulfuric odor and looks down to notice a green mist swirling around his ankles. Soon the snake-eyed mist wraps tightly around his body, sucking out the moisture and leaving a leathery husk.
This green mist is on a hunt for Father, the head demon who is imprisoned across town awaiting release by his Son. The Son is weak,, but he gets stronger with every life force he extracts from a victim. He also has the ability to enter a victim's body, and he does so without hesitation, be it a carriage driver, an opium junkie, or young woman.
Jason Dark is a ghost hunter who comes from a long line of ghost hunters. One morning while glancing through the Illustrated London Times, his eye catches the story of the dockworker's gruesome death. He suspects that the death might have something to do with the supernatural, and so begins his journey through the foggy streets of London in pursuit of an ancient demon.
Luckily I own the second book in the series--Theater of Vampires--so I can dive right into Dark's next adventure.
Demon's Night starts out in a dockyard, as workers unload ships. One unfortunate dockworker smells a sulfuric odor and looks down to notice a green mist swirling around his ankles. Soon the snake-eyed mist wraps tightly around his body, sucking out the moisture and leaving a leathery husk.
This green mist is on a hunt for Father, the head demon who is imprisoned across town awaiting release by his Son. The Son is weak,, but he gets stronger with every life force he extracts from a victim. He also has the ability to enter a victim's body, and he does so without hesitation, be it a carriage driver, an opium junkie, or young woman.
Jason Dark is a ghost hunter who comes from a long line of ghost hunters. One morning while glancing through the Illustrated London Times, his eye catches the story of the dockworker's gruesome death. He suspects that the death might have something to do with the supernatural, and so begins his journey through the foggy streets of London in pursuit of an ancient demon.
Luckily I own the second book in the series--Theater of Vampires--so I can dive right into Dark's next adventure.
March 22, 2010
Horror is a genre usually way outside my comfort zone, but the author assured me that his Gothic horror stories are more about the atmosphere and mood rather than violence or gore.
And he’s right. The writing is evocative and draws you in. I was right there alongside Jason Dark on those fog-shrouded cobbled streets, wondering when and where the green mist would appear next.
A fast-paced and entertaining read. Recommended for those who enjoy their horror without the nightmares.
And he’s right. The writing is evocative and draws you in. I was right there alongside Jason Dark on those fog-shrouded cobbled streets, wondering when and where the green mist would appear next.
A fast-paced and entertaining read. Recommended for those who enjoy their horror without the nightmares.
March 3, 2010
This is a very short (61 page) ghost story that entertained me from the start. Guido Henkel writes his 1st book of the Jason Dark - Ghost Hunter series with such meticulous attention that his words paint a vivid picture of downtown London haunted by a lesser demon out to set his master free.
The plot line isn't complicated or intricate and the characters aren't overly simple, which lends to paint a short, entertaining ghost narrative that I'd request to any reader interested in the occult or ghost hunting.
The plot line isn't complicated or intricate and the characters aren't overly simple, which lends to paint a short, entertaining ghost narrative that I'd request to any reader interested in the occult or ghost hunting.
April 25, 2025
Introduction
A well done introduction to Jason Dark and his world. A short story that gives you the basics and a feel for the universe the author is building.
The setting and time period work in it's favor and the characters introduced are all fun in their own right.
A well done introduction to Jason Dark and his world. A short story that gives you the basics and a feel for the universe the author is building.
The setting and time period work in it's favor and the characters introduced are all fun in their own right.
November 10, 2011
What an exciting idea for a series. Jason Dark is a paranormal investigator in Victorian London, hot on the trail of a demon responsible for a string of bizarre murders. Author Guido Henkel writes very evocative descriptions, and the reader can easily "see" the gaslights and fog-drenched streets. But some of the storytelling is a tad clunky; i.e., there's a lot of telling rather than showing, and way too much passive voice for my tastes, which took me out of the story repeatedly. Also, the ebook had a number of typos. But even so, this is a fine, and short, read. I look forward to future installments.
June 29, 2012
This somehow ended up in the horror section on Amazon but it was more of a young adult action/adventure kind of story with a supernatural thing going on. It was well written and probably would have made a cool episode of Scooby-Doo but it just wasn't my thing.
April 20, 2010
A easy, quick read that conjures a sense of time and place well.
February 20, 2011
Jason Dark: Ghost Hunter is a series of novellas with an intriguing premise. The main character, Jason Dark, is a paranormal detective who fights demons, ghosts, vampires and other supernatural beings. But the twist that sets it apart from other popular paranormal detective stories (such as Supernatural or The X-Files) is that it takes place in Victorian era London.
Demon's Night is the first volume in the series. In this novella Jason Dark investigates mysterious deaths where the victims' bodies are found shriveled like raisins. His detective work leads him to a dangerous demon who sucks the life out of its victims. With the help of Siu Lin (a woman he saves from the demon) and his special demon-slaying sword, he sets out to stop the demon before it kills again.
The plot leans more toward action/adventure than horror and it's very different compared to the usual gory stories I favour, but it still held my interest. There is a ton of action, suspense and mystery to make this an interesting - and quick - read. Normally I'm not a fan of historical fiction (it reminds me of boring history class), but I thought I would give this a shot since it involves the paranormal and I was pleasantly surprised. The time period actually makes it more interesting and unique than if it had a contemporary setting.
But the characters left a little to be desired. Jason Dark could have been fleshed out a bit more and given more of a back-story. I'm hoping that since this is the first in a series we will get to know him better in the other books. Although I guess that in a plot-driven story such as this one, it's not a big deal if the characters aren't deep as long as the story is entertaining - and it is.
So far there are nine volumes in the series. Find out more about the series at www.jasondarkseries.com.
Demon's Night is the first volume in the series. In this novella Jason Dark investigates mysterious deaths where the victims' bodies are found shriveled like raisins. His detective work leads him to a dangerous demon who sucks the life out of its victims. With the help of Siu Lin (a woman he saves from the demon) and his special demon-slaying sword, he sets out to stop the demon before it kills again.
The plot leans more toward action/adventure than horror and it's very different compared to the usual gory stories I favour, but it still held my interest. There is a ton of action, suspense and mystery to make this an interesting - and quick - read. Normally I'm not a fan of historical fiction (it reminds me of boring history class), but I thought I would give this a shot since it involves the paranormal and I was pleasantly surprised. The time period actually makes it more interesting and unique than if it had a contemporary setting.
But the characters left a little to be desired. Jason Dark could have been fleshed out a bit more and given more of a back-story. I'm hoping that since this is the first in a series we will get to know him better in the other books. Although I guess that in a plot-driven story such as this one, it's not a big deal if the characters aren't deep as long as the story is entertaining - and it is.
So far there are nine volumes in the series. Find out more about the series at www.jasondarkseries.com.
December 17, 2011
I was really impressed with this novella and am excited to read all of Guido’s work after having read this first installment in the Jason Dark series. Guido is a fabulous writer, and this novella is like a Sherlock Holmes story intertwined with paranormal elements and demon activity.
Guido doesn’t waste any time with preliminary information, but rather jumps right into the action of the story, making it the reader’s job to keep up. While the reader isn’t given any background information concerning who exactly Jason Dark is, or where he hails from, it becomes quickly apparent that Dark is a kick butt character intent on saving others and ridding the world of evil demons, one at a time. I liked the idea that Dark isn’t completely known to us either as Guido presented him in a rather shrouded light, creating even more elements of gothic mystery as the story unfolds.
I especially enjoyed the multiple perspectives of this story as Guido shifts between Jason and the demon he is in pursuit of, giving the reader more glimpses into the story to aid the plot along. I haven’t yet pinpointed the time period of this series, as I’ve only read this first piece, but I’m thinking it’s sometime in the early 1900s based on the carriages and other context clues Guido adds to his story, and that is a time period I vastly enjoy...
To read my full review (1/4/11)
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-1Bm
Guido doesn’t waste any time with preliminary information, but rather jumps right into the action of the story, making it the reader’s job to keep up. While the reader isn’t given any background information concerning who exactly Jason Dark is, or where he hails from, it becomes quickly apparent that Dark is a kick butt character intent on saving others and ridding the world of evil demons, one at a time. I liked the idea that Dark isn’t completely known to us either as Guido presented him in a rather shrouded light, creating even more elements of gothic mystery as the story unfolds.
I especially enjoyed the multiple perspectives of this story as Guido shifts between Jason and the demon he is in pursuit of, giving the reader more glimpses into the story to aid the plot along. I haven’t yet pinpointed the time period of this series, as I’ve only read this first piece, but I’m thinking it’s sometime in the early 1900s based on the carriages and other context clues Guido adds to his story, and that is a time period I vastly enjoy...
To read my full review (1/4/11)
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-1Bm
February 26, 2012
Jason Dark is a ghost hunter in Victorian London, who becomes involved when a string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies are found. He finds out that a Demon is hellbent on spreading chaos and destruction throughout the city. Can the ghost hunter stop the fiend in time?
This is a short story, but boy it doesn't lack action, mystery and suspense! I absolutely loved it! I hadn't read any of Guido's books before, and I am truly sorry that I haven't! The pace is fast and furious and kept me wondering what would happen next. I am definitely going to read more of his Jason Dark stories! I think that this author is seriously underrated and I hope that everyone reading this review will take heed and have a look at his work. I highly recommend this book if you like mystery, action, adventure and the supernatural.
This is a short story, but boy it doesn't lack action, mystery and suspense! I absolutely loved it! I hadn't read any of Guido's books before, and I am truly sorry that I haven't! The pace is fast and furious and kept me wondering what would happen next. I am definitely going to read more of his Jason Dark stories! I think that this author is seriously underrated and I hope that everyone reading this review will take heed and have a look at his work. I highly recommend this book if you like mystery, action, adventure and the supernatural.
September 1, 2010
When Jason Dark, a ghost hunter, learns of a series of mysterious deaths in London, his interest is immediately peaked. He sets about investigating the deaths, discovering that his instincts were correct and that a paranormal force, a demon, has caused the deaths. He takes it upon himself to hunt out and destroy this evil force.
Guido Henkel did a great job of introducing this reader to a new genre of reading. I enjoyed Guido’s descriptive and imaginative writing, his story drew me right in, without any resulting nightmares. This novella is a nice, short introduction into a promising series.
Guido Henkel did a great job of introducing this reader to a new genre of reading. I enjoyed Guido’s descriptive and imaginative writing, his story drew me right in, without any resulting nightmares. This novella is a nice, short introduction into a promising series.
April 27, 2014
I wanted to like this book, because I love man against monster stories. The writing was desperately in need of more attention, from people moving from fear to anguish but not having time to panic or "tormentous" screams ringing through the foggy night. A good writers' group could have smoothed the text out, shortened the unnecessary description, and actually gotten the story started much sooner. Instead, strangers take forever to die, the mist speaks, and the main character when we finally meet him is too busy for a haircut but not for a leisurely breakfast. Wish I'd read the same book the other reviewers did. They seemed to enjoy it much more than I did.
July 9, 2011
Very fun read! I'm a Jason Dark fan now, and looking forward to exploring more of the series.
Demon's Night features Jason Dark saving a young Chinese woman form a demon-possessed man, and then making that woman an ally in his battle to destroy the demon before it can release an even more powerful demon from the prison that holds him.
Action-packed and a delight to read, Demon's knight delivers a great story set in Victorian London.
Donnie Light, author of Dark Justice, Ripper's Row and The Hotel California.
Demon's Night features Jason Dark saving a young Chinese woman form a demon-possessed man, and then making that woman an ally in his battle to destroy the demon before it can release an even more powerful demon from the prison that holds him.
Action-packed and a delight to read, Demon's knight delivers a great story set in Victorian London.
Donnie Light, author of Dark Justice, Ripper's Row and The Hotel California.
July 6, 2012
I'm not exactly sure what to think about this short story/ prequal....It took me forever to read this...and it was really slow to get into, but I pushed through and in the end, it was a pretty good story. I love the fact that it's in Victorian London.
May 9, 2018
Quite a good dark mystery
I have enjoyed the book. And easily warmed up with the character Jason Dark. So far the story is well written, but missed somehow deeper conversations between the characters. The monologue of the characters were good. I would have liked to have more conversations with Barbara when Siu Lin arrived at Jason's house, I mean Barbara knows what Jason do or not? you got no insight in that.
I liked that the story takes place in the Victorian period and l liked the setting, with good details.
The monologue from the demon were pretty scary definitely gave you a eerie feeling, as well very detailed, with lot's of good action and grizzly details, very good.
So I hope I have the pleasure to read another one in this series.
I have enjoyed the book. And easily warmed up with the character Jason Dark. So far the story is well written, but missed somehow deeper conversations between the characters. The monologue of the characters were good. I would have liked to have more conversations with Barbara when Siu Lin arrived at Jason's house, I mean Barbara knows what Jason do or not? you got no insight in that.
I liked that the story takes place in the Victorian period and l liked the setting, with good details.
The monologue from the demon were pretty scary definitely gave you a eerie feeling, as well very detailed, with lot's of good action and grizzly details, very good.
So I hope I have the pleasure to read another one in this series.
May 13, 2018
I got this book free off of Amazon and wow I'm I glad I did. I have since then bought the first nine books in the series and am reading book two right now. This is a fast paced pretty easy read that keeps you going to where you do not want to put it down. At least I couldn't lol. I love his style of writing and I love the period that it takes place in. It also has a Sherlock Holmes feel to it also just with demons! Loved everything about it and if you want a quick read that has some good horror definitely check this author out. Amazingly good!!!!
July 3, 2024
This is the type of book that you read to either spend time reading something or you are really into the supernatural with the angels and the demons. It reminds me of the show Supernatural and, like I said, you just read this to get a feeling of that scare or wanna do something until you can watch another episode. Still I found it interesting, even though there was no love interest, the male leads does find his female partner interesting in a way. Overall a good book for one of those days on Halloween to feel kinda scared.
January 15, 2018
On the docks of the Thames, a sinister foggy entity takes the life forces of dock workers. Reading of the mysterious deaths in the Evening Standard, Jason Dark, ghost hunter extraordinaire, is intrigued. He knows that this is no ordinary occurrence and gets on the trail of deaths. The demon in question has grown strong enough now with life forces to possess bodies. Things are about to become very interesting.
I enjoyed the pace and most of all, the fighting scenes.
I enjoyed the pace and most of all, the fighting scenes.
December 19, 2019
You know what was keeping Sherlock Holmes from being really cool? Fighting the supernatural. Fortunately, Guido Henkel has got that covered with Jason Dark - Ghost Hunter. Henkel has created a detective that would take over for Holmes when things got a little weird.
You can read James' full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
You can read James' full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
May 22, 2018
I don't quite know how to put this without spoiling anything, but I really didn't understand the main characters' actions, or lack of them, at the very end of the book. You just... go home? But that thing that's right there, which you know about, which is... Yeah. That made me facepalm so hard I nearly wanted to drop the rating to 2...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2018
Very interesting
Enjoyable book, trip into the demon world. I would suggest to drop the American term for biscuits. Cookies did not exist in that time period of is still an odd reference to as sweet great although many understanding American term for biscuits is cookies. It just hits an odd note during reading given the location and time period.
Enjoyable book, trip into the demon world. I would suggest to drop the American term for biscuits. Cookies did not exist in that time period of is still an odd reference to as sweet great although many understanding American term for biscuits is cookies. It just hits an odd note during reading given the location and time period.
May 22, 2019
That was fun!
Read
August 10, 2023Good Read!
Read
January 14, 2011Demon’s Night is the first volume in Guido Henkel’s dime novel series based on a paranormal investigator in Victorian London. Guido contacted me to review a few installments of the series, and I was immediately interested due to the gothic setting and paranormal / horror plot.
Jason Dark (great name, right?) is a Sherlock Holmes-like character. He’s a ghost hunter that comes from a very long line of ghost hunters, aka Geisterjägers. He’s a kind gentleman with manners and eloquent speech, but don’t let his looks deceive you. Dark can hold his own in a dark alley, and he has a kick ass cane sword!
The opening to the story was creepy! The demon in question begins the story in a gaseous state and needs to steal life essence in order to become corporeal. He manages to suck the life right out of three characters, and leaves behind withered, dried-up, husks, with bulging eyes. Gruesome!
I really enjoyed reading the descriptions of Victorian London, the gothic setting, the mannerisms, language and clothing of the time. Guido has great descriptive writing. One scene I particularly loved was when the demon possessed a carriage driver. We got a great picture of what this hellish creature looked like via a human shell, and it was frightening! Guido also did great with the fight scenes, which I enjoyed immensely.
Under unfortunate circumstances, Dark meets Siu Lin, a young Chinese woman, early in the story. She was my favorite character, as I thoroughly enjoy Asian cultures and was happy to see that Guido incorporated some Chinese paranormal lore into the story. Siu Lin was also a serious Martial Artist, and her fight scenes were some of the best moments.
This first installment in the series packed a punch. I look forward to reading more!
Jason Dark (great name, right?) is a Sherlock Holmes-like character. He’s a ghost hunter that comes from a very long line of ghost hunters, aka Geisterjägers. He’s a kind gentleman with manners and eloquent speech, but don’t let his looks deceive you. Dark can hold his own in a dark alley, and he has a kick ass cane sword!
The opening to the story was creepy! The demon in question begins the story in a gaseous state and needs to steal life essence in order to become corporeal. He manages to suck the life right out of three characters, and leaves behind withered, dried-up, husks, with bulging eyes. Gruesome!
I really enjoyed reading the descriptions of Victorian London, the gothic setting, the mannerisms, language and clothing of the time. Guido has great descriptive writing. One scene I particularly loved was when the demon possessed a carriage driver. We got a great picture of what this hellish creature looked like via a human shell, and it was frightening! Guido also did great with the fight scenes, which I enjoyed immensely.
Under unfortunate circumstances, Dark meets Siu Lin, a young Chinese woman, early in the story. She was my favorite character, as I thoroughly enjoy Asian cultures and was happy to see that Guido incorporated some Chinese paranormal lore into the story. Siu Lin was also a serious Martial Artist, and her fight scenes were some of the best moments.
This first installment in the series packed a punch. I look forward to reading more!
November 27, 2010
This was a fun little quick read. It reminded me of books from my childhood, like "The Three Investigators" and "Encyclopedia Brown" that follow the formula: situation happens, hero finds out about it, hero investigates, big showdown at the end. The focus of the story is strictly on the mystery, and there really aren't any subtexts or plot complications not directly related to the main plot.
The hero Jason Dark is a wealthy gentleman descended from a long line of ghosthunters who amuses himself in Victorian London by getting involved in paranormal mysteries. In this first book, he doesn't really have a lot of different contacts; this is not a story driven by dialogue but rather a punctuated chase through London.
It's also very short, only 100 ereader screens long. I'm not sure how many pages that is, but it only took about an hour read it. It reads like a comic book without pictures. The detail in the setting is very nicely done, enough detail is provided to excite the senses without bogging down in over explanations. Thanks to the short format, character development isn't a big part of the book, but Jason and his new sideckin Siu Lin are both interesting and have enough humanity to be relatable.
I'm not usually a fan of the Victorian setting, but Guido made this work for me by drawing attention away from the social inequities of the day and creating a lead character who is clearly lightyears more progressive than his contemporaries.
I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of pulp horror and the short story format. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
The hero Jason Dark is a wealthy gentleman descended from a long line of ghosthunters who amuses himself in Victorian London by getting involved in paranormal mysteries. In this first book, he doesn't really have a lot of different contacts; this is not a story driven by dialogue but rather a punctuated chase through London.
It's also very short, only 100 ereader screens long. I'm not sure how many pages that is, but it only took about an hour read it. It reads like a comic book without pictures. The detail in the setting is very nicely done, enough detail is provided to excite the senses without bogging down in over explanations. Thanks to the short format, character development isn't a big part of the book, but Jason and his new sideckin Siu Lin are both interesting and have enough humanity to be relatable.
I'm not usually a fan of the Victorian setting, but Guido made this work for me by drawing attention away from the social inequities of the day and creating a lead character who is clearly lightyears more progressive than his contemporaries.
I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of pulp horror and the short story format. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
March 24, 2011
Note: This review is for the revised edition of the book. (posted on Amazon.com)
I'll start by saying that I have never been a fan of modern horror in any form of media, be it book, film or other. I do enjoy a few of the horror movies of old, those that were more psychological thrillers with a monster as the antagonist instead of a human. One could easily swap the monster out with a very evil human and you'd have just as good a movie. In fact, some of those old movies had just that, as in The Wax Museum starring Vincent Price.
With that out of the way, I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book in the Jason dark series, Demon's Night, by Guido Henkel. The book is described as "gothic horror", which originally turned me off. But after reading some of the reviews, I started getting the feeling that there was more to these stories. I purchased Demon's Night and read it in one sitting.
I would categorize this as a paranormal thriller. It's like Sherlock Holmes with demons. And that is a genre I do enjoy.
What hooked me most was the richness of the setting. Guido does a fine job of dropping the reader into late 19th century London. Considering the length of the story, the characters are nicely developed as are their relationships, all of which add to the richness of the "period" of the story.
There are no chapters, and sometimes the breaks seem to interrupt the flow of the story, though the events always tie back in.
The story is short and entertaining, and I was left wanting to know more about the characters and their world. I will definitely be picking up book two, "Theater of Vampires", to see how the tale of Jason Dark continues.
I'll start by saying that I have never been a fan of modern horror in any form of media, be it book, film or other. I do enjoy a few of the horror movies of old, those that were more psychological thrillers with a monster as the antagonist instead of a human. One could easily swap the monster out with a very evil human and you'd have just as good a movie. In fact, some of those old movies had just that, as in The Wax Museum starring Vincent Price.
With that out of the way, I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book in the Jason dark series, Demon's Night, by Guido Henkel. The book is described as "gothic horror", which originally turned me off. But after reading some of the reviews, I started getting the feeling that there was more to these stories. I purchased Demon's Night and read it in one sitting.
I would categorize this as a paranormal thriller. It's like Sherlock Holmes with demons. And that is a genre I do enjoy.
What hooked me most was the richness of the setting. Guido does a fine job of dropping the reader into late 19th century London. Considering the length of the story, the characters are nicely developed as are their relationships, all of which add to the richness of the "period" of the story.
There are no chapters, and sometimes the breaks seem to interrupt the flow of the story, though the events always tie back in.
The story is short and entertaining, and I was left wanting to know more about the characters and their world. I will definitely be picking up book two, "Theater of Vampires", to see how the tale of Jason Dark continues.
February 27, 2012
Book Review of Demon's Night, A Jason Dark Supernatural Mystery by Guido Henkel
Bizarre deaths in the fog-shrouded streets of Victorian London!
A string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies sets the ghost hunter, Jason Dark, on the trail in search of a demon hellbent on spreading chaos and catastrophe throughout the city!
...
Can the ghost hunter stop the devilish fiend who is determined to wreak more death and destruction than his even more ominous Father?
Filled with enough mystery, drama and suspenseful action to transport you to the sinister streets of gaslit Whitechapel, the digs of Jack the Ripper, your encounter with the extraordinary awaits.
“Demon’s Night” is a 24,500 word dime novel, the equivalent of about 95 book pages.
Review 5 out of 5
Jason Dark is a ghost hunter in Victorian London, who becomes involved when a string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies are found. He finds out that a Demon is hellbent on spreading chaos and destruction throughout the city. Can the ghost hunter stop the fiend in time?
This is a short story, but boy it doesn't lack action, mystery and suspense! I absolutely loved it! I hadn't read any of Guido's books before, and I am truly sorry that I haven't! The pace is fast and furious and kept me wondering what would happen next. I am definitely going to read more of his Jason Dark stories! I think that this author is seriously underrated and I hope that everyone reading this review will take heed and have a look at his work. I highly recommend this book if you like mystery, action, adventure and the supernatural. - Lynn Worton
Bizarre deaths in the fog-shrouded streets of Victorian London!
A string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies sets the ghost hunter, Jason Dark, on the trail in search of a demon hellbent on spreading chaos and catastrophe throughout the city!
...
Can the ghost hunter stop the devilish fiend who is determined to wreak more death and destruction than his even more ominous Father?
Filled with enough mystery, drama and suspenseful action to transport you to the sinister streets of gaslit Whitechapel, the digs of Jack the Ripper, your encounter with the extraordinary awaits.
“Demon’s Night” is a 24,500 word dime novel, the equivalent of about 95 book pages.
Review 5 out of 5
Jason Dark is a ghost hunter in Victorian London, who becomes involved when a string of unnaturally desiccated and decaying bodies are found. He finds out that a Demon is hellbent on spreading chaos and destruction throughout the city. Can the ghost hunter stop the fiend in time?
This is a short story, but boy it doesn't lack action, mystery and suspense! I absolutely loved it! I hadn't read any of Guido's books before, and I am truly sorry that I haven't! The pace is fast and furious and kept me wondering what would happen next. I am definitely going to read more of his Jason Dark stories! I think that this author is seriously underrated and I hope that everyone reading this review will take heed and have a look at his work. I highly recommend this book if you like mystery, action, adventure and the supernatural. - Lynn Worton
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews