What do you think?
Rate this book
Haunted Ground: The Ghosts of Laskin's Farm
She escaped—but she picked the wrong place to hide out.
On the run from cartel enforcers, shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist finds the perfect refuge, an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. But when an earthquake stirs up ominous forces below and evidence of a haunting mounts, Kat realizes she’s stumbled upon something more terrifying than the killers on her trail.
As strange, senseless crimes rattle a nearby town, the assassins discover her hideout and close in for the kill. Desperate to escape, Kat joins forces with a new ally, a geologist whose pursuits led to their chance meeting in this remote and disturbed place. But outwitting the gunmen fast becomes the least of their worries when the dark forces of nature and the paranormal converge on Laskin’s farm.
A gripping horror novel pulsing with suspense, in Haunted Ground, a safe haven turns into a killing field where sinister never sleeps and unspeakable terror refuses to stay buried.
On the run from cartel enforcers, shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist finds the perfect refuge, an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. But when an earthquake stirs up ominous forces below and evidence of a haunting mounts, Kat realizes she’s stumbled upon something more terrifying than the killers on her trail.
As strange, senseless crimes rattle a nearby town, the assassins discover her hideout and close in for the kill. Desperate to escape, Kat joins forces with a new ally, a geologist whose pursuits led to their chance meeting in this remote and disturbed place. But outwitting the gunmen fast becomes the least of their worries when the dark forces of nature and the paranormal converge on Laskin’s farm.
A gripping horror novel pulsing with suspense, in Haunted Ground, a safe haven turns into a killing field where sinister never sleeps and unspeakable terror refuses to stay buried.
- GenresHorror
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2023
34 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Cailyn Lloyd
5 books84 followersAuthor of the bestselling trilogy, the Elders, Cailyn Lloyd, spent three years living in a truly haunted house and experienced firsthand the nuances of strange and eerie places. Haunted Ground is her highly anticipated fifth novel in the ghost and horror genre.
In addition to writing, Cailyn is an accomplished weather photographer and her work has appeared in newspapers, textbooks and publications including Life Magazine. She is also a composer and musician with three album releases to her credit. Cailyn lives near the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and when she’s not writing spooky stories, loves hiking with her dogs and spending time with her children.
In addition to writing, Cailyn is an accomplished weather photographer and her work has appeared in newspapers, textbooks and publications including Life Magazine. She is also a composer and musician with three album releases to her credit. Cailyn lives near the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and when she’s not writing spooky stories, loves hiking with her dogs and spending time with her children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 17, 2025
Stars: 2.5 out of 5
I had such great hopes for this book! It started strong, and I thought that finally, this would be a decent ghost story. One where supernatural elements would help the protagonist against the very real threat that the cartel poses. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.
The setup is perfect - an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere seemingly frozen in time. Fully furnished and provisioned, like the family just stepped out for a minute and never came back home. All their possessions still there. A desperate protagonist who is willing to put up with the creepiness of the situation in exchange for a safe haven from the evil that is hunting her. I loved the beginning of this book with Kat finding the house and setting up, but unfortunately, the story went downhill from there.
The biggest problem is Kat herself. I hate protagonists who are too stupid to live, but survive against all odds (and common sense) because of plot armor, and Kat is a perfect example of such a protagonist. So she is on the run from the cartel. She thinks her best bet is to go to ground and disappear off the radar for a while. That makes perfect sense. If I were her, I would leave the state first, and go as far as I could before I found a hole to hide in instead of staying in the vicinity, but okay, to each its own. She finds this abandoned farmhouse by looking through satellite images and Google Maps. Okay, that works too. But then she starts remodeling the place and improving it once she gets there - clears out the backyard, dumps the trash from the house outside, etc, and it never crosses her mind that all those changes will be visible to satellites? Google updates its maps regularly. So a cleared-out backyard in an abandoned farm would stick out like a sore thumb. Does she think that the people looking for her are too stupid to use Google Maps?
Also, if you are trying to hide and keep a low profile, settling near a small town where almost everyone knows each other and the presence of a stranger will be noted is not a very good idea. Biking to said town several times a week for supplies is also rather stupid. People remember a stranger on a bike buying provisions twice a week. At least spread your shopping between several small towns. Go to different ones each week, etc.
My other issue is that I didn't particularly like how women were portrayed in this book. Other than Kat, who is portrayed as this good person who slipped and make some mistakes, but is turning her life around now, everyone else is bitchy and condescending. Natalie is judgemental and self-serving, oh, and seems to hate rich men for no particular reason. And Gina... don't even start me on Gina. Power-hungry but insecure she-bitch. I mean, I thought we were done with these cliched representations by now. All the women in Kat's life are horrible, apart from her cell-mate who is conveniently absent from the story. All the men around her are also horrible, apart from her love interest who is too nice to be true.
Finally, why did we even mention ghosts in this story? They play no part in it. Everything that happened is a geological phenomenon. Take the ghosts out of the book, and nothing changes. I came for a haunted house book, not for whatever this turned out to be.
Also, the plume affects literally everyone apart from Kat herself? She is the only one who can keep her wits about her and not succumb to paranoia, violence, and stupidity? Yeah, I don't believe that.
I had such great hopes for this book! It started strong, and I thought that finally, this would be a decent ghost story. One where supernatural elements would help the protagonist against the very real threat that the cartel poses. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.
The setup is perfect - an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere seemingly frozen in time. Fully furnished and provisioned, like the family just stepped out for a minute and never came back home. All their possessions still there. A desperate protagonist who is willing to put up with the creepiness of the situation in exchange for a safe haven from the evil that is hunting her. I loved the beginning of this book with Kat finding the house and setting up, but unfortunately, the story went downhill from there.
The biggest problem is Kat herself. I hate protagonists who are too stupid to live, but survive against all odds (and common sense) because of plot armor, and Kat is a perfect example of such a protagonist. So she is on the run from the cartel. She thinks her best bet is to go to ground and disappear off the radar for a while. That makes perfect sense. If I were her, I would leave the state first, and go as far as I could before I found a hole to hide in instead of staying in the vicinity, but okay, to each its own. She finds this abandoned farmhouse by looking through satellite images and Google Maps. Okay, that works too. But then she starts remodeling the place and improving it once she gets there - clears out the backyard, dumps the trash from the house outside, etc, and it never crosses her mind that all those changes will be visible to satellites? Google updates its maps regularly. So a cleared-out backyard in an abandoned farm would stick out like a sore thumb. Does she think that the people looking for her are too stupid to use Google Maps?
Also, if you are trying to hide and keep a low profile, settling near a small town where almost everyone knows each other and the presence of a stranger will be noted is not a very good idea. Biking to said town several times a week for supplies is also rather stupid. People remember a stranger on a bike buying provisions twice a week. At least spread your shopping between several small towns. Go to different ones each week, etc.
My other issue is that I didn't particularly like how women were portrayed in this book. Other than Kat, who is portrayed as this good person who slipped and make some mistakes, but is turning her life around now, everyone else is bitchy and condescending. Natalie is judgemental and self-serving, oh, and seems to hate rich men for no particular reason. And Gina... don't even start me on Gina. Power-hungry but insecure she-bitch. I mean, I thought we were done with these cliched representations by now. All the women in Kat's life are horrible, apart from her cell-mate who is conveniently absent from the story. All the men around her are also horrible, apart from her love interest who is too nice to be true.
Finally, why did we even mention ghosts in this story? They play no part in it. Everything that happened is a geological phenomenon. Take the ghosts out of the book, and nothing changes. I came for a haunted house book, not for whatever this turned out to be.
Also, the plume affects literally everyone apart from Kat herself? She is the only one who can keep her wits about her and not succumb to paranoia, violence, and stupidity? Yeah, I don't believe that.
March 13, 2023
This is an action thriller with a unique supernatural element that will leave you wanting more.
The central characters are a woman running from a drug cartel, a geologist who has a theory about the nature of evil, and a psychic who prefers the presence of spirits to that of the living.
These unlikely allies come together when very bizarre things begin to happen in a small Wisconsin town. While Kat, our central protagonist, is condemned to a life on the run because of her poor choices and past associations, she reluctantly allows the other two characters into the abandoned farmhouse she has chosen to hide in.
But with a ruthless and deadly cartel on her heels, unexplainable violent events rocking the town, and only a hypothesis from a geologist, Kat finds herself in unfamiliar territory, never knowing who to trust. And with several bodies in the basement, she's ill equipped for the supernatural forces being unleashed.
This novel is fast paced, exhilarating, and feels like the best parts of both a thriller and an other worldly horror. It's really a great book and I recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The central characters are a woman running from a drug cartel, a geologist who has a theory about the nature of evil, and a psychic who prefers the presence of spirits to that of the living.
These unlikely allies come together when very bizarre things begin to happen in a small Wisconsin town. While Kat, our central protagonist, is condemned to a life on the run because of her poor choices and past associations, she reluctantly allows the other two characters into the abandoned farmhouse she has chosen to hide in.
But with a ruthless and deadly cartel on her heels, unexplainable violent events rocking the town, and only a hypothesis from a geologist, Kat finds herself in unfamiliar territory, never knowing who to trust. And with several bodies in the basement, she's ill equipped for the supernatural forces being unleashed.
This novel is fast paced, exhilarating, and feels like the best parts of both a thriller and an other worldly horror. It's really a great book and I recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2023
I snatched this one up based on the title alone. I went in blind and I am so happy I did. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The chapters were short and kept my attention span. The premise was fascinating, and the plot was original. Weaving paranormal, spiritual and scientific views all together into one plot came out with a good story.
Kat is out of jail, and on the run. She flipped on big drug king pins, and she knows the organization is after her. She goes to ground in an abandoned farmhouse. It’s in amazingly good shape, and looks like the previous occupants just walked away. Strange things start happening, and Kat might just find out why no one was living there.
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy to review!
Kat is out of jail, and on the run. She flipped on big drug king pins, and she knows the organization is after her. She goes to ground in an abandoned farmhouse. It’s in amazingly good shape, and looks like the previous occupants just walked away. Strange things start happening, and Kat might just find out why no one was living there.
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy to review!
April 26, 2023
Haunted ground by Cailyn Lloyd.
On the run from cartel enforcers, shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist finds the perfect refuge, an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. But when an earthquake stirs up ominous forces below and evidence of a haunting mounts. As strange, senseless crimes rattle a nearby town, the assassins discover her hideout and close in for the kill. Desperate to escape, Kat joins forces with a new ally, a geologist whose pursuits led to their chance meeting in this remote and disturbed place. But outwitting the gunmen fast becomes the least of their worries when the dark forces of nature and the paranormal converge on Laskin’s farm.
This was slow to start but once I got into the story and the characters I did enjoy it. Kat grew on me and in the end I was rooting for her. I liked Justin from the start. Creepy eerie and spooky. I did like the ending. 4*.
On the run from cartel enforcers, shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist finds the perfect refuge, an old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. But when an earthquake stirs up ominous forces below and evidence of a haunting mounts. As strange, senseless crimes rattle a nearby town, the assassins discover her hideout and close in for the kill. Desperate to escape, Kat joins forces with a new ally, a geologist whose pursuits led to their chance meeting in this remote and disturbed place. But outwitting the gunmen fast becomes the least of their worries when the dark forces of nature and the paranormal converge on Laskin’s farm.
This was slow to start but once I got into the story and the characters I did enjoy it. Kat grew on me and in the end I was rooting for her. I liked Justin from the start. Creepy eerie and spooky. I did like the ending. 4*.
May 12, 2023
Based on the cover and title alone I snatched this up with my spooky little claws. This was a fast paced supernatural thriller with some horror elements, I also thought it nudges its toes into the dystopian genre too, it kinda gave me The Da Vinci Code vibes, I thought the concept was orginal and executed well, I thought this would just be a regular haunting/ghost type of story but was pleasantly surprised at the turn it takes, the character of Kat was well developed I really liked her, the only thing that I didn't enjoy was the indepth information on geology, I felt it didn't need to be that heavy, after I read it I feel like I had a degree in it *ok maybe i'm exaggerating 😅*, if I had to describe this book in one sentence I'd say, *ahem* A book that meshes real life threats with the paranormal to create a unqiue, tense and engaging story
May 10, 2023
Well, I read that in one sitting. Good thing I had nothing to do the next day, haha.
I found this to be more of a thriller/suspense with some paranormal elements to the story, to be honest. I love ghost books and while this did have ghosties, it didn't give off the same thrill as the bad guys finding Kat did. But that basement and the hole in the basement gave off some serious Amityville vibes and poor Natalie.
The writing was excellent. I enjoyed Kat's refuge as much as she did. I'm also a sucker for dogs finding broken people and becoming the best thing that has happened to them. Max was the goodest boy, for sure!
The biggest thing that bothered me about this story, despite how much I enjoyed it, was how predictable it was. The MC even said that she had a vague idea that she had told one of her former colleagues exactly where she would end up going if everything fell apart for her. Then she gets out and does exactly that, thus leading them right to her doorstep. Common sense says if you know you have people that bad on your tail, you need to change your stripes and disappear where they won't expect you. Kat led them right to her.
I definitely enjoyed the nerdy guy getting the girl in the end, though. It was a good read, the writing itself was excellent but the concept just needed a little more work.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found this to be more of a thriller/suspense with some paranormal elements to the story, to be honest. I love ghost books and while this did have ghosties, it didn't give off the same thrill as the bad guys finding Kat did. But that basement and the hole in the basement gave off some serious Amityville vibes and poor Natalie.
The writing was excellent. I enjoyed Kat's refuge as much as she did. I'm also a sucker for dogs finding broken people and becoming the best thing that has happened to them. Max was the goodest boy, for sure!
The biggest thing that bothered me about this story, despite how much I enjoyed it, was how predictable it was. The MC even said that she had a vague idea that she had told one of her former colleagues exactly where she would end up going if everything fell apart for her. Then she gets out and does exactly that, thus leading them right to her doorstep. Common sense says if you know you have people that bad on your tail, you need to change your stripes and disappear where they won't expect you. Kat led them right to her.
I definitely enjoyed the nerdy guy getting the girl in the end, though. It was a good read, the writing itself was excellent but the concept just needed a little more work.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2023
Haunted Ground grabbed my attention immediately with the hauntingly creepy coverart and title. When I read the synopsis I knew without a doubt this book was going to be right up my alley. I loved the action thriller genre intermixed with supernatural paranormal details. I thought the plot was excellent and enjoyed that there was a bit of romance thrown into the mix as well. This was a quick read with action-packed short chapters that kept my interest and spurred me on to complete the book in one sitting. I loved it!
When Kat is released from jail she immediately finds herself on the run to keep from being killed by the drug king pins she turned in for a lesser prison sentence. She finds an abandoned Farmhouse in great shape, but with a few odd details. For instance, a 3 piece place-setting of dinner plates with rotted food still on the table like the occupants just got up and walked away in the middle of their meal. When strange things start happening Kat begins looking into the previous occupants alongside a claravoyant and a handsome researcher who all find themselves drawn to the mysterious Farmhouse.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Kat is released from jail she immediately finds herself on the run to keep from being killed by the drug king pins she turned in for a lesser prison sentence. She finds an abandoned Farmhouse in great shape, but with a few odd details. For instance, a 3 piece place-setting of dinner plates with rotted food still on the table like the occupants just got up and walked away in the middle of their meal. When strange things start happening Kat begins looking into the previous occupants alongside a claravoyant and a handsome researcher who all find themselves drawn to the mysterious Farmhouse.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 29, 2023
Kat sure has her troubles, and soon find running does not solve them. Squatting in a farmhouse away from her past, she becomes so at home she even greets the ghost that appears every morning. A friendly stray dog roams onto the property who she finds she needs as much as he needs her. Things seem great.
Freak earthquakes occur, the epicenter is Kats farm. The area attracts a lot of attention, and a medium is attracted to the farm and wanders on the property; as does a geologist; who has a theory to prove.
All these attention-drawing events and her past is still coming up on her, quickly. We are shown how all these things come together in a thrilling ending. The author brought to life a character with nothing and everything to lose. She seeks anonymity and quiet, but finds chaos and evil. The only thing I missed was more time spent on how the spirits fared. Overall fun and engaging read.
Freak earthquakes occur, the epicenter is Kats farm. The area attracts a lot of attention, and a medium is attracted to the farm and wanders on the property; as does a geologist; who has a theory to prove.
All these attention-drawing events and her past is still coming up on her, quickly. We are shown how all these things come together in a thrilling ending. The author brought to life a character with nothing and everything to lose. She seeks anonymity and quiet, but finds chaos and evil. The only thing I missed was more time spent on how the spirits fared. Overall fun and engaging read.
April 25, 2023
What an interesting point of view on how earth itself, could be part of evil taking over people. A scientist, having tried to prove his theory, decides he is going to follow up on previous research. Kat is squatting at an old farmhouse since being released from prison. When the two meet, there is some kind of connection between them. Throw in a medium and drug lords and this was one heck of a novel.
The author is so good at describing how ghosts try to communicate so that the living can help the spirits whenever they can. This book flowed so well that I read it quickly. I just had to know if the ghosts could be helped and who the family was that Kay discovered.
The author is so good at describing how ghosts try to communicate so that the living can help the spirits whenever they can. This book flowed so well that I read it quickly. I just had to know if the ghosts could be helped and who the family was that Kay discovered.
March 4, 2023
I received this book from NetGalley and Land Of Oz LLC in exchange for an honest review. This statement is always true. I’m not given compensation to discuss a book and I’m not told how to rate a book. I am given a book in exchange for my opinions on it, and I am truthful in all my reviews whether I loved them or not.
First, I want to say excellent character development. I felt like the characters were well formed and either likeable - or not, depending on their role. Kat is running from a drug cartel that she flipped on and lives off grid. The earth is shifting and she is in fear of not just the drug cartel, but the evil that lurks below.
The writing style is enjoyable. The characters different points of views and narratives are easy to follow. The events could almost seem realistic as Ms. Lloyd captures the attention of the readers.
The one thing I personally could have done without as the in depth look at geology. I did feel like I was sitting in a college class as a student, however, I will also say that ax the book continues on, it is important to the overall story and the chain of events that follow.
Overall, no complaints, great story, my heart pounded throughout certain parts where I felt uncertain of the outcome and had a feeling of satisfaction when it came to a close.
Thank you NetGalley and Land of Oz, LLC for the opportunity to ARC this book.
First, I want to say excellent character development. I felt like the characters were well formed and either likeable - or not, depending on their role. Kat is running from a drug cartel that she flipped on and lives off grid. The earth is shifting and she is in fear of not just the drug cartel, but the evil that lurks below.
The writing style is enjoyable. The characters different points of views and narratives are easy to follow. The events could almost seem realistic as Ms. Lloyd captures the attention of the readers.
The one thing I personally could have done without as the in depth look at geology. I did feel like I was sitting in a college class as a student, however, I will also say that ax the book continues on, it is important to the overall story and the chain of events that follow.
Overall, no complaints, great story, my heart pounded throughout certain parts where I felt uncertain of the outcome and had a feeling of satisfaction when it came to a close.
Thank you NetGalley and Land of Oz, LLC for the opportunity to ARC this book.
April 16, 2023
I struggled with rating Haunted Ground The Ghosts of Laskin's Farm because I actually enjoyed the book, but the title is awfully misleading. I ultimately settled on 3.5 stars.
Two things should be noted before I review further. 1. Check the content warnings before reading. There are A LOT of potential triggers. 2. If you're looking for a paranormal story where ghosts/spirits are a significant element, this story isn't it.
The story is mostly told through Kat's POV as she hides away from the cartel that she turned on, and all the spooky things that have been happening (on Laskin's farm) since.
Some chapters jump to other characters and offer their POV of the events occurring in the town. This does cause some repetitiveness in overlapping information, but only minimally.
Sadly the ghostly element that I expected from the title and the mentioning of "haunting" & "paranormal" in the blurb wasn't much of a factor outside of "unexplained things occurring."
But like I mentioned, I enjoyed this book. I would categorize it as more horror or psychological thriller than anything paranormal even with those elements there. It drags a bit in the beginning, especially with all the geology information, but some of that information is needed later on. Once the action really starts, I was immersed and finished the book in one sitting after that.
I received this ARC for free in exchange for an honest review.
Two things should be noted before I review further. 1. Check the content warnings before reading. There are A LOT of potential triggers. 2. If you're looking for a paranormal story where ghosts/spirits are a significant element, this story isn't it.
The story is mostly told through Kat's POV as she hides away from the cartel that she turned on, and all the spooky things that have been happening (on Laskin's farm) since.
Some chapters jump to other characters and offer their POV of the events occurring in the town. This does cause some repetitiveness in overlapping information, but only minimally.
Sadly the ghostly element that I expected from the title and the mentioning of "haunting" & "paranormal" in the blurb wasn't much of a factor outside of "unexplained things occurring."
But like I mentioned, I enjoyed this book. I would categorize it as more horror or psychological thriller than anything paranormal even with those elements there. It drags a bit in the beginning, especially with all the geology information, but some of that information is needed later on. Once the action really starts, I was immersed and finished the book in one sitting after that.
I received this ARC for free in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Land of Oz LLC for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book. I am giving this honest review freely.
Shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist has made mistakes – big ones – but she’s done her time and takes full responsibility for her poor choices and the followout from them. But she doesn’t feel she should die for them,.So she skips parole and goes on the run from the bloodthirsty cartel she testified against and that wants her dead.
Strange things begin to happen at the abandoned farm where she’s holed up, and she’s no longer sure what is the biggest threat: her old mentor and his new boss? Or the restless spirits and haunted past of the old house itself?
There is a lot to love about this book! Cailyn Lloyd has done an exceptional job of creating believable characters that you want to root for. From the beginning I wanted Kat to win, to survive, and to thrive in a new life. I really liked the way each new character was introduced independent of Kat and how they were slowly woven into the fabric of her story. Ms Lloyd skillfully built suspense and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. It was exciting and well-executed.
I do feel there were a few aspects or plot points that had terriffic potential but that were left hanging without any resolution. Repetition from chapter to chapter made it feel more like a serial that had been cobbled into novel form, like the author was reminding the reader what had happened in the last installment, and the way characters kind of shared knowledge was a bit convenient.
All in all, I really enjoyed the story and hope to read more from Cailyn Lloyd.
Haunted Ground: The Ghosts of Laskin’s Farm will be released on April 25, 2023.
Shrewd ex-con Kat Lundquist has made mistakes – big ones – but she’s done her time and takes full responsibility for her poor choices and the followout from them. But she doesn’t feel she should die for them,.So she skips parole and goes on the run from the bloodthirsty cartel she testified against and that wants her dead.
Strange things begin to happen at the abandoned farm where she’s holed up, and she’s no longer sure what is the biggest threat: her old mentor and his new boss? Or the restless spirits and haunted past of the old house itself?
There is a lot to love about this book! Cailyn Lloyd has done an exceptional job of creating believable characters that you want to root for. From the beginning I wanted Kat to win, to survive, and to thrive in a new life. I really liked the way each new character was introduced independent of Kat and how they were slowly woven into the fabric of her story. Ms Lloyd skillfully built suspense and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. It was exciting and well-executed.
I do feel there were a few aspects or plot points that had terriffic potential but that were left hanging without any resolution. Repetition from chapter to chapter made it feel more like a serial that had been cobbled into novel form, like the author was reminding the reader what had happened in the last installment, and the way characters kind of shared knowledge was a bit convenient.
All in all, I really enjoyed the story and hope to read more from Cailyn Lloyd.
Haunted Ground: The Ghosts of Laskin’s Farm will be released on April 25, 2023.
June 9, 2023
I read this book in one day! Cailyn Lloyd draws you in from the get go and proceeds to never let up. The novel starts with a drug deal gone wrong, followed almost immediately by a time jump resulting in Kat's release from prison and subsequent run from the cartel she turned in.
Equal parts thriller, supernatural horror, and science fiction, Haunted Ground holds no punches. I could gush for hours about everything I loved about this novel. Kat is a very complex character. I enjoyed her various facets and her character growth. Justin and Natalie were also intriguing characters with their own nuances and corresponding arcs. The various story elements wove together seamlessly. I was so drawn in I even found myself researching some of the events mentioned by Justin. At no point did the story elements seem forced or unrealistic. I loved the dueling science and paranormal aspects, especially when they started to meld together. I also must commend the author on how well handled the various point of view changes were. At no point did they feel confusing or unnecessary. While we spent the majority of the story in Kat's head, it was nice to see what our other characters, both major and minor, were thinking about.
I swore I was going to bed early but I stayed up to just shy of midnight to finish this book. I needed answers! I have no complaints or criticisms. I look forward to reading more from Cailyn Lloyd in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Equal parts thriller, supernatural horror, and science fiction, Haunted Ground holds no punches. I could gush for hours about everything I loved about this novel. Kat is a very complex character. I enjoyed her various facets and her character growth. Justin and Natalie were also intriguing characters with their own nuances and corresponding arcs. The various story elements wove together seamlessly. I was so drawn in I even found myself researching some of the events mentioned by Justin. At no point did the story elements seem forced or unrealistic. I loved the dueling science and paranormal aspects, especially when they started to meld together. I also must commend the author on how well handled the various point of view changes were. At no point did they feel confusing or unnecessary. While we spent the majority of the story in Kat's head, it was nice to see what our other characters, both major and minor, were thinking about.
I swore I was going to bed early but I stayed up to just shy of midnight to finish this book. I needed answers! I have no complaints or criticisms. I look forward to reading more from Cailyn Lloyd in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC of this title.
This book was very hard to define in respect to genre. There were elements of science fiction, paranormal, thriller and horror all presented. The main character was excellent.; a strong ,determined and tragically flawed woman attempting to live with the consequences of some horribly bad life choices. I found myself empathizing with her and was invested in her journey. The writing style was easy to read and flowed well. There were a number of POV changes that were not necessarily announced, but I found there to be no confusion.
I did struggle a bit with the multiple genres however. The science bits of the science fiction were very heavy in the technical jargon and this did pull me out of the story ( no fault of the author , just a me thing). I quite liked the direction that the paranormal story line was taking, but sadly this seemed to just end. The thriller aspects were well written and fast paced. I wish the author had settled on one main genre as I felt the story ended up being the book version of a Jack of all trades ( but master of none).
Overall a fun and quick read.
This book was very hard to define in respect to genre. There were elements of science fiction, paranormal, thriller and horror all presented. The main character was excellent.; a strong ,determined and tragically flawed woman attempting to live with the consequences of some horribly bad life choices. I found myself empathizing with her and was invested in her journey. The writing style was easy to read and flowed well. There were a number of POV changes that were not necessarily announced, but I found there to be no confusion.
I did struggle a bit with the multiple genres however. The science bits of the science fiction were very heavy in the technical jargon and this did pull me out of the story ( no fault of the author , just a me thing). I quite liked the direction that the paranormal story line was taking, but sadly this seemed to just end. The thriller aspects were well written and fast paced. I wish the author had settled on one main genre as I felt the story ended up being the book version of a Jack of all trades ( but master of none).
Overall a fun and quick read.
May 15, 2023
Marketed as a horror novel, but I didn’t find that to be so accurate. I found Haunted Ground to be a mix of thriller and science fiction.
The science fiction portion was full of jargon, almost too much. And if you’re looking for a bone-chilling paranormal story (as the synopsis and title would imply) where spirits are the main source of the plot, this book may not be for you. If anything, I think this book leans more towards thriller and science fiction over horror or paranormal.
Also, I felt like the book could have been shortened by at least 50 pages. A lot of repetition from chapter to chapter. The paranormal aspect didn’t add much to the storyline, and if removed the book would have worked just fine.
Thanks to NetGalley & Land of Oz LLC for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I should also mention that this book should come with a content warning as topics covered in this book could be triggering to some.
The science fiction portion was full of jargon, almost too much. And if you’re looking for a bone-chilling paranormal story (as the synopsis and title would imply) where spirits are the main source of the plot, this book may not be for you. If anything, I think this book leans more towards thriller and science fiction over horror or paranormal.
Also, I felt like the book could have been shortened by at least 50 pages. A lot of repetition from chapter to chapter. The paranormal aspect didn’t add much to the storyline, and if removed the book would have worked just fine.
Thanks to NetGalley & Land of Oz LLC for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I should also mention that this book should come with a content warning as topics covered in this book could be triggering to some.
April 14, 2023
Writing: 5/5
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Scary: 2/5
Warnings: Violence, Language
Themes: Thriller, Mystery, Horror
Haunted Grounds is about a woman on the run from her past. She goes into hiding in an abandoned farmhouse but strange things start to happen as she sees things that can’t be real and the towns people start to go crazy. This was a great book full of action, mystery and a spooky element. I really liked Kat and Justin. They were both strong characters and had a great relationship. But of course my absolute favorite was Max. The writing was good and I plan to read more books by this author in the future.
This book is great for anyone who likes a thrilling mystery surounding an abandoned farmhouse and a woman running from her past.
I received an arc of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Scary: 2/5
Warnings: Violence, Language
Themes: Thriller, Mystery, Horror
Haunted Grounds is about a woman on the run from her past. She goes into hiding in an abandoned farmhouse but strange things start to happen as she sees things that can’t be real and the towns people start to go crazy. This was a great book full of action, mystery and a spooky element. I really liked Kat and Justin. They were both strong characters and had a great relationship. But of course my absolute favorite was Max. The writing was good and I plan to read more books by this author in the future.
This book is great for anyone who likes a thrilling mystery surounding an abandoned farmhouse and a woman running from her past.
I received an arc of this book and am leaving an honest review.
April 30, 2023
An edge of your seat, fast paced and suspenseful story proving some secrets can't be buried. The concept of second chances is also prevalent in regards to the main character in the story.
It centers around Kat Lundquist who is on the run from a drug boss and his goons after failing to repay her drug debt after her life spiralled out of control. She comes across an abandoned seemingly derelict farm house and decides to hole up there blissfully unaware of the horrors within and the dreaded "plume".
Kat has to decide how to escape from the drug boss and his goons whilst battling the horrors in the farmhouse- a battle for survival.
This story was extremely enjoyable and I would gladly read other works by the author in the future.
It centers around Kat Lundquist who is on the run from a drug boss and his goons after failing to repay her drug debt after her life spiralled out of control. She comes across an abandoned seemingly derelict farm house and decides to hole up there blissfully unaware of the horrors within and the dreaded "plume".
Kat has to decide how to escape from the drug boss and his goons whilst battling the horrors in the farmhouse- a battle for survival.
This story was extremely enjoyable and I would gladly read other works by the author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2023
I always believe there is place have evil energy who can lurking into human emotion and manipulated it. This book give me that story. I glad Kat strong and not give up on her dark side, Justin fall for a secend but Kat able to handle it. I hope the plump will stop and not affect spirit world and human world again. I feel sorry for Nathalie, she help spirits and dont deserve end like that,
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#HauntedGround #TheGhostsofLaskinFarm #CailynLloyd #LandofOzLLC #NetGalley #ARC
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#HauntedGround #TheGhostsofLaskinFarm #CailynLloyd #LandofOzLLC #NetGalley #ARC
March 8, 2023
On the run from a drug cartel Kat Lundquist is hiding out literally in the middle of nowhere. Strange this start happening in the area of the abandoned farmhouse she is squatting in.
I want to say excellent character development. I felt like the characters were well formed and either likeable on their role. My favourite is Max ahh we all need a life companion like him.
The writing style is enjoyable. The character’s different points of views and narratives are easy to follow. The events could almost seem realistic .
The one thing I personally against is so much details about geology. I did feel like I was sitting in however, as the book continues on, it is important to know important details to understand the overall story.
I want to say excellent character development. I felt like the characters were well formed and either likeable on their role. My favourite is Max ahh we all need a life companion like him.
The writing style is enjoyable. The character’s different points of views and narratives are easy to follow. The events could almost seem realistic .
The one thing I personally against is so much details about geology. I did feel like I was sitting in however, as the book continues on, it is important to know important details to understand the overall story.
December 4, 2023
Good mystery
Kat is out of prison and on the run from the cartel that she testified against and hoping she can find a way to lay low. When she finds a place to stay, things get complicated with a dog, a man, a ghost, and a psychic. I enjoyed this book, the characters and storyline are great, and the ending was very satisfying. This is the second book by Cailyn Lloyd that I have read and I look forward to reading more.
Kat is out of prison and on the run from the cartel that she testified against and hoping she can find a way to lay low. When she finds a place to stay, things get complicated with a dog, a man, a ghost, and a psychic. I enjoyed this book, the characters and storyline are great, and the ending was very satisfying. This is the second book by Cailyn Lloyd that I have read and I look forward to reading more.
March 16, 2023
LOVED this story, had the best of both worlds-real life issues crossed with the paranormal! Threats on all sides for Kat and the people she lets in her life while on the run from the cartel. Slowly builds then takes off until the end, loved the characters and pace! Very well written! Will definitely add this author to my follow list!
April 25, 2023
Kat is looking for a fresh start after being released from prison. She is hiding from some bad people. After she discovers what she thinks is the perfect place to hide things get strange. She sees shadows earthquake's occur. Something strange is happening on Laskin's farm. Who are the ghosts? Creepy suspense filled read.
August 6, 2023
Haunted Ground is a cozy thriller about a woman who was released from prison and goes directly on the run! Trying to outrun her past and enemies she flees to an abandon farmstead. Supernatural, sweet and thrilling. I do wish that the romantic portrayal was a little stronger, I didn’t feel the chemistry.
May 24, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book. The characters are interesting and likeable. The plot moves at a good pace which keeps you interested. I would recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 23, 2023
Just want to live
What do you get if you take a drug cartel, a geologist, a medium and a former drug dealer who worked for said cartel? Oh, and add a hefty dose evil? One heck of a goid read!
What do you get if you take a drug cartel, a geologist, a medium and a former drug dealer who worked for said cartel? Oh, and add a hefty dose evil? One heck of a goid read!
April 29, 2023
Brilliant !
Wow what a brilliant book to read ! Great story ,
I Didn't like putting it down till I got to the end .
Wow what a brilliant book to read ! Great story ,
I Didn't like putting it down till I got to the end .
June 18, 2023
Ok read
I got bored with it over half way through. Started out great but not enough excitement. Not scary enough for my likes.
I got bored with it over half way through. Started out great but not enough excitement. Not scary enough for my likes.
August 20, 2023
Great read
A fantastic book. I couldn't put it down. I recommend it, highly. I will be reading more of her books very soon.
A fantastic book. I couldn't put it down. I recommend it, highly. I will be reading more of her books very soon.
January 24, 2024
Another great one!
I loved this story! Lloyd did it again! Captured my attention and imagination in this story. Almost wish there’d be a second one.
I loved this story! Lloyd did it again! Captured my attention and imagination in this story. Almost wish there’d be a second one.
April 24, 2023
Laskin's Farm: A Good Secret Hideout. At first.
Cailyn Lloyd is a talented and seasoned storyteller. She's given Haunted Ground all the qualities I like, and then some, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
The plot is interesting and believable. Between threatening gangsters and growing earth tremors, the suspense grows urgently until a heart-pounding climax. But, there's simple pleasures and a little romance mixed in to add some sweet contrast.
The characters are believable and appealing, and I always enjoy a book with a badass heroine. Despite having a shady past, Kat Lundquist is easy to like and sympathize with, though sympathy isn't anything she'd ask for. I admire how she's accepted her own responsibility for past mistakes.
It's plausible that impending earthquakes can impact behavior and moods. Folk wisdom holds that animals can sense their precursors. Though I'm not sure if it extends to humans, it's a great idea, especially because it seems that the supernatural is amplifying, perhaps even causing them.
I've also heard how underground anomalies like caves and water sources are sometimes tied to hauntings and poltergeists, making Justin's work seem convincing. The difficulty that Justin has faced in getting other geologists to believe in his plume theory is equally believable, however.
The teetering balance between the everyday and the unknown is one of the things I enjoyed about the book. Max, the strange dog that showed up out of nowhere, was an eerie and fascinating character, too.
Thank you to the author, Land of Oz LLC, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a free advance reader's copy of Haunted Ground. I'm under no obligation to write a positive review, but it's my pleasure to recommend it anyway. I had a wonderful reading experience!
Cailyn Lloyd is a talented and seasoned storyteller. She's given Haunted Ground all the qualities I like, and then some, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
The plot is interesting and believable. Between threatening gangsters and growing earth tremors, the suspense grows urgently until a heart-pounding climax. But, there's simple pleasures and a little romance mixed in to add some sweet contrast.
The characters are believable and appealing, and I always enjoy a book with a badass heroine. Despite having a shady past, Kat Lundquist is easy to like and sympathize with, though sympathy isn't anything she'd ask for. I admire how she's accepted her own responsibility for past mistakes.
It's plausible that impending earthquakes can impact behavior and moods. Folk wisdom holds that animals can sense their precursors. Though I'm not sure if it extends to humans, it's a great idea, especially because it seems that the supernatural is amplifying, perhaps even causing them.
I've also heard how underground anomalies like caves and water sources are sometimes tied to hauntings and poltergeists, making Justin's work seem convincing. The difficulty that Justin has faced in getting other geologists to believe in his plume theory is equally believable, however.
The teetering balance between the everyday and the unknown is one of the things I enjoyed about the book. Max, the strange dog that showed up out of nowhere, was an eerie and fascinating character, too.
Thank you to the author, Land of Oz LLC, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a free advance reader's copy of Haunted Ground. I'm under no obligation to write a positive review, but it's my pleasure to recommend it anyway. I had a wonderful reading experience!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews