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The Black Cabin
There are people out there trying to do the right thing.
It might not be the right thing, but they are trying.
Trying to rebuild. Trying to rekindle what was lost. Refusing to let go, hopefully rediscover themselves along the way.
“Tell me a story,” she’d say, “A new one” and he’d reply “We’re already in it."
Wayne Fenlon's debut horror/thriller novel THE BLACK CABIN is a twisting tale of love, loss, and hope.
It might not be the right thing, but they are trying.
Trying to rebuild. Trying to rekindle what was lost. Refusing to let go, hopefully rediscover themselves along the way.
“Tell me a story,” she’d say, “A new one” and he’d reply “We’re already in it."
Wayne Fenlon's debut horror/thriller novel THE BLACK CABIN is a twisting tale of love, loss, and hope.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2023
6 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 29, 2023
Look at this! Wayne Fenlon’s debut novel! Wayne has long been one of my most vocal supporters, so when he previously announced his drabble collection, I was all over that. With this one, I was really excited and intrigued. Sadly, I was unable to get to it ASAP when it was released due to my ridiculously overflowing TBR at the moment, but there was no way I wasn’t going to squeeze this in for release month! So, apologies to you, Wayne, but here we are and what a great ride this was!
What I liked: The story opens with a delicate scene of a man finishing up repairs to a cabin. It then transforms into a raging inferno of a narrative as we follow a few different POV’s as multiple characters all converge into a dramatic finale.
Throughout, Fenlon crafts a story that is powerful and moving. We connect with the characters – even the despicable ones – and root for the ones we want to see succeed. Intertwined within this is the duality of vengeance and revenge. It comes from both aspects, the good side and the bad side and this worked really well to have us on the edge of our seats. It’ll have you screaming at the book to “not trust him!” or “don’t go there!” over and over.
Wayne weaved the story masterfully, with all trails lining up and a really fantastic, thrilling climatic scene. The reality of what was happening and how it all came together was great.
What I didn’t like: I do struggle when chapters jump back and forth between characters. Just something I’ve always found when reading books. And while the end scene was chilling and great, I do wish there had been a little bit more there, as things seemed to go from 100 mph to 1,000,000 mph which made for a jarring pace change.
Why you should buy this: This was a really well-done debut novel, one that had multiple layers of emotions and gave us truly wonderful characters that will stay with the reader long after you’re done reading.
It’s great to know this is only the beginning for Wayne. Can’t wait to see what he gives us next!
What I liked: The story opens with a delicate scene of a man finishing up repairs to a cabin. It then transforms into a raging inferno of a narrative as we follow a few different POV’s as multiple characters all converge into a dramatic finale.
Throughout, Fenlon crafts a story that is powerful and moving. We connect with the characters – even the despicable ones – and root for the ones we want to see succeed. Intertwined within this is the duality of vengeance and revenge. It comes from both aspects, the good side and the bad side and this worked really well to have us on the edge of our seats. It’ll have you screaming at the book to “not trust him!” or “don’t go there!” over and over.
Wayne weaved the story masterfully, with all trails lining up and a really fantastic, thrilling climatic scene. The reality of what was happening and how it all came together was great.
What I didn’t like: I do struggle when chapters jump back and forth between characters. Just something I’ve always found when reading books. And while the end scene was chilling and great, I do wish there had been a little bit more there, as things seemed to go from 100 mph to 1,000,000 mph which made for a jarring pace change.
Why you should buy this: This was a really well-done debut novel, one that had multiple layers of emotions and gave us truly wonderful characters that will stay with the reader long after you’re done reading.
It’s great to know this is only the beginning for Wayne. Can’t wait to see what he gives us next!
March 17, 2023
The Black Cabin is riveting, well-paced, and reads like a seasoned novel rather than a debut. Fenlon's writing style is comfortable and smooth, his characters the perfect swirl of relatable and vile, settings rich and described with just enough colorful language. His use of a multi-POV narrative style also worked perfectly for the plot's timely reveals concerning the characters' motives and pasts, and kept me reading deeper into the night than I'd planned. ("Just one more chapter, just one more chapter."). Highly recommend!
March 9, 2023
A Spectacular Debut!
Having read Fenlon's collection of drabbles last year, I was eager to see what he could do with a novel. THE BLACK CABIN does not disappoint. I flew through this amazing book in two days and enjoyed it immensely. I'm looking forward to reading more from Fenlon. Highly recommended!
Having read Fenlon's collection of drabbles last year, I was eager to see what he could do with a novel. THE BLACK CABIN does not disappoint. I flew through this amazing book in two days and enjoyed it immensely. I'm looking forward to reading more from Fenlon. Highly recommended!
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June 7, 2023Please note, I do not rate on Goodreads.
Having thoroughly enjoyed Wayne Fenlon's collection of drabbles, Scattered Little Pieces, I decided it was time to see what his debut novel was like. Believe me, it did not disappoint.
Told from multiple POVs, with the addition of the cabin itself almost serving as another character, The Black Cabin manages to combine heart with fear and sustains the reader's interest from start to finish. What an achievement for a debut!
Having thoroughly enjoyed Wayne Fenlon's collection of drabbles, Scattered Little Pieces, I decided it was time to see what his debut novel was like. Believe me, it did not disappoint.
Told from multiple POVs, with the addition of the cabin itself almost serving as another character, The Black Cabin manages to combine heart with fear and sustains the reader's interest from start to finish. What an achievement for a debut!
March 11, 2023
What a fantastic debut novel from Wayne Fenlon! A thrill ride that kept me guessing all the way to the end. Believable characters and perfect pacing. One of the best I’ve read all year!
March 27, 2023
Well, I started reading this amazing book this afternoon and finished it this evening. Why? Because I couldn't stop reading. This is the kind of story that hooks the reader in right away. The more you read, the more you have to keep going. I only put the book down a few times, and I couldn't wait to get back to it.
This thriller/horror hybrid is told in the alternating POVs of Eric, a delusional man haunted by his tragic past. Evelyn, an overprotective mother obsessed with righting wrongs, at the expense of her daughter. Maddy, the daughter who is a loner and much smarter than anyone gives her credit for. Aiden, a kind and helpful man whose selfless nature gets him involved in harsh situations. And Jonny, a selfish and violent man who helps put everything in motion.
Every single one of these characters is strong and real in their own way. While most of these adults aren't entirely bad people, this story does a fantastic job at highlighting how the line between good and bad blurs as easily as the line between good intentions and downright destructive behaviour.
I also enjoyed how unpredictable it was. And how the pace keeps everything moving so well I was frantically turning the pages, excited to see what would happen next. Also, Wayne's writing style is unique, smooth and addictive.
I LOVE this book and have no doubt that many of the events that take place, as well as the characters, will flow back into my mind for a long time to come.
This thriller/horror hybrid is told in the alternating POVs of Eric, a delusional man haunted by his tragic past. Evelyn, an overprotective mother obsessed with righting wrongs, at the expense of her daughter. Maddy, the daughter who is a loner and much smarter than anyone gives her credit for. Aiden, a kind and helpful man whose selfless nature gets him involved in harsh situations. And Jonny, a selfish and violent man who helps put everything in motion.
Every single one of these characters is strong and real in their own way. While most of these adults aren't entirely bad people, this story does a fantastic job at highlighting how the line between good and bad blurs as easily as the line between good intentions and downright destructive behaviour.
I also enjoyed how unpredictable it was. And how the pace keeps everything moving so well I was frantically turning the pages, excited to see what would happen next. Also, Wayne's writing style is unique, smooth and addictive.
I LOVE this book and have no doubt that many of the events that take place, as well as the characters, will flow back into my mind for a long time to come.
July 14, 2024
I enjoyed this debut. The action gradually increased throughout the story, and by the end, it was impossible to put the book down because I just HAD to know the conclusion. I look forward to reading more from Fenlon.
April 5, 2024
Written with the poetry of terror, The Black Cabin is a bewitching novel. Multiple points of view and an ensemble cast create a tapestry, and Fenlon's skill ensures that the reader never loses sight of his overall vision. The tale builds quickly, deftly intertwines, and punches hard with the finale. Absorbing book. Enjoyed it tremendously.
April 17, 2023
Having previously read Wayne Fenlon’s shorter work in his excellent collection of flash fiction in Scattered Little Pieces, I was excited to see what he could come up with in the longer form. He did not disappoint!
Weaving the story from different perspectives builds an undeniable tension which keeps the pages turning. The clever plot twists and turns as the characters, doing what they believe is right – are manipulated by a killer in his attempt to carry out his own version of ‘justice’. The cabin in question also has its own personality and is a brooding ever-present player on the stage. Intelligent and well-written, The Black Cabin is a great debut from Fenlon.
Weaving the story from different perspectives builds an undeniable tension which keeps the pages turning. The clever plot twists and turns as the characters, doing what they believe is right – are manipulated by a killer in his attempt to carry out his own version of ‘justice’. The cabin in question also has its own personality and is a brooding ever-present player on the stage. Intelligent and well-written, The Black Cabin is a great debut from Fenlon.
June 7, 2023
This is a great debut novel with plenty of quotable passages and confident prose throughout.
I was intrigued by the story from the first page and the mystery kept me gripped even though, admittedly, i didn't fully understand what was going on at times.
Wayne uses pov chapters told from multiple characters and I found his dialogue very well written and believable.
The only qualms I have is that I feel like the first few chapters were wonderfully written and rather beautiful, but as the novel went on it became a little dialogue heavy so a little of the beauty was lost by the end. That technique also made the final third feel slightly rushed. I also feel like a little more explanation was needed with how a couple of characters linked together, but that might just be my lack of understanding.
Overall its an impressive debut and I look forward to what Wayne comes up with next.
I was intrigued by the story from the first page and the mystery kept me gripped even though, admittedly, i didn't fully understand what was going on at times.
Wayne uses pov chapters told from multiple characters and I found his dialogue very well written and believable.
The only qualms I have is that I feel like the first few chapters were wonderfully written and rather beautiful, but as the novel went on it became a little dialogue heavy so a little of the beauty was lost by the end. That technique also made the final third feel slightly rushed. I also feel like a little more explanation was needed with how a couple of characters linked together, but that might just be my lack of understanding.
Overall its an impressive debut and I look forward to what Wayne comes up with next.
March 12, 2023
This is Wayne Fenlon's debut novel and what a punch it packs. Normal people are put in horrible situations and we get to see just how far they'd go to right their wrongs. It's tense, heartfelt, and touching all at the same time. The Black Cabin proves we are all full of darkness even when we're trying to do good.
Grab this novel if you know what's good for you.
Grab this novel if you know what's good for you.
March 20, 2023
The Black Cabin is packed full of tension and intrigue. I was hooked from the first chapter, eagerly flipping pages to see what had caused these characters to act in the ways that they had. Wayne Fenlon does a great job weaving back stories and motivations throughout the book. It's smart and well written, and I'm left in awe of Fenlon's writing skills to put something like this together. I finished it and immediately went back to reread the first chapter now that I had some answers to see if there were clues and hints as to what had happened.
This one will definitely stick in your head long after finishing.
Easy 5 stars.
This one will definitely stick in your head long after finishing.
Easy 5 stars.
March 19, 2023
Wow what a debut novel from Mr Fenlon. From the first page to the last had me guessing.
The flow of the writing was amazing and really carried the story in a perfect pace bringing out the characters, letting you know their personalities which I loved.
I look forward to seeing where Mr Fenlons writing takes him next !
The flow of the writing was amazing and really carried the story in a perfect pace bringing out the characters, letting you know their personalities which I loved.
I look forward to seeing where Mr Fenlons writing takes him next !
April 12, 2023
Wayne does it all. Great artist. Great writer. Great debut. Truly a fabulous kickoff.
December 1, 2023
I admit it took me a while to understand what was going on, but once I did this was quite an enjoyable read.
The use of multi-POVs from all the characters involved was intriguing and pushed the narrative along very nicely with no gaps and no extraneous detours. Really a fascinating take that showed significant skill from Wayne Fenlon.
I would have liked the characters to have had more background before the action began so it would have been easier to identify who's who, but as I mentioned, after I got them sorted out, everything fell into place.
The use of multi-POVs from all the characters involved was intriguing and pushed the narrative along very nicely with no gaps and no extraneous detours. Really a fascinating take that showed significant skill from Wayne Fenlon.
I would have liked the characters to have had more background before the action began so it would have been easier to identify who's who, but as I mentioned, after I got them sorted out, everything fell into place.
August 15, 2023
This is a short book, I read it in a few days, most might read it in a couple. It is a dramatic psychological thriller tale which reminded me of a good many later Stephen King stories. Also this is a debut novel but I don't think you would believe that from reading it. The characters are well written, it reads well with short chapters and contains some great poetic style.
I suggest you try it if you want a short but gripping thriller from a new author.
I suggest you try it if you want a short but gripping thriller from a new author.
April 13, 2023
I've had my eye on this for a while, hearing good things all around. It was recently released and I picked it up on Kindle. I am so glad I did! It's a phenomenal first novel. It starts right in the middle of things, naturally a bit confusing, but turns very strong in just a couple of chapters. Things clear up quickly after that, and what emerges is truly well done. Plotwise, it can't get any better: the story goes very dark in places, often suggesting past deeds and insinuating a lot of the action; the dialogue carries most of the exposition, showing how incredibly talented Wayne Fenlon is. There are multiple viewpoints, very little background though; it takes a great writer to pull this off with so few resources. The central idea is vigilante justice and its psychological cost. There's mention of abuse, but the story rests on what comes after. And you never know where it's going. Gritty realism and deep psychological insight abound. The ending reminded me of ancient Greek tragedies. Let's see how Fenlon tops this in the future. Highly recommended!
April 23, 2023
It's a great debut novel! The pacing of this suspenseful, thriller, with elements of horror will have you finishing it quickly.
My thoughts overall was that it lacked some depth, and as a result, we are left with major questions of why and how one main character is tied into the other characters' lives. I needed more of a grounded plot twist.
The story kept me intrigued all the way through. I definitely will read more by Wayne Fenlon.
My thoughts overall was that it lacked some depth, and as a result, we are left with major questions of why and how one main character is tied into the other characters' lives. I needed more of a grounded plot twist.
The story kept me intrigued all the way through. I definitely will read more by Wayne Fenlon.
April 13, 2023
Wow, this story shows how people can go to very dark places whether they are evil or just seeking revenge. It took me a bit to get into the changing POV writing style, but it was hard to put down.
March 7, 2024
Told from several POVs, this is an excellent story of people in dark places. Truly bleak atmosphere, realistic characters, and solid pacing. Recommended.
November 15, 2023
The multiple points of view is executed flawlessly. If the house as a character trope is one of your favorites (as it is mine), this is the next book you want to read. The pacing and storyline will keep you reading well past your bedtime.
December 31, 2023
Fabulous book! A great slow burn of a story you'll love!
March 14, 2023
As inescapable as death is, it’s not always the end, especially when focusing upon those who are left behind. Madness can come of it. Of death, I mean. Taking root in ways that are expected and those that are not. In Wayne Fenlon’s Black Cabin we get a mass helping of both. Go forth, seek out, purchase and enjoy. Fun was had!
February 6, 2025
My Review and Thoughts:
I was super excited about this release. Super excited to be able to read it. I love Wayne's imagination. I loved his first outing in publishing Scattered Little Pieces.
I have to say with all honesty this is a must own, must experience debut book. A perfection. A glorious imaginative tale of stark storytelling. A powerhouse piece both passionate and sublime. Equally parts dramatic and equally parts a perfection of written word.
This is a wonderful book with a true visionary talent behind it. I felt like I was honored and embraced by this book. It was an honor just reading it. Wayne creates a whole new outlet of imagination. Wayne crafted an excellence that writers should look to, to write in a perfected way.
A wonderful example of a heavy storytelling that lingers in your soul. It’s like a modern day classic that should be read by any booklover.
This book is alive in ways that few books ever dared to be.
Black Cabin is a top notch experience that I highly praise and highly recommend. Black Cabin was a journey. It was a deep, dark, dramatic journey that one will not forget and it is something that not only lingers with you long after the last page, it's something that makes you think and most of all, pause and realize just how amazing this book is.
Would I Return to It Again: With out a doubt. The storytelling alone is something that makes you pause and reread what has been written. A lovely intense experience.
Would I Recommend: Absolutely. Everyone should read this in my viewpoint. Really, really loved this imaginative dramatic story, so perfect in so many ways.
My Rating: 5 out of 5
Four Final Words: Intense written beauty. Flooring.
I was super excited about this release. Super excited to be able to read it. I love Wayne's imagination. I loved his first outing in publishing Scattered Little Pieces.
I have to say with all honesty this is a must own, must experience debut book. A perfection. A glorious imaginative tale of stark storytelling. A powerhouse piece both passionate and sublime. Equally parts dramatic and equally parts a perfection of written word.
This is a wonderful book with a true visionary talent behind it. I felt like I was honored and embraced by this book. It was an honor just reading it. Wayne creates a whole new outlet of imagination. Wayne crafted an excellence that writers should look to, to write in a perfected way.
A wonderful example of a heavy storytelling that lingers in your soul. It’s like a modern day classic that should be read by any booklover.
This book is alive in ways that few books ever dared to be.
Black Cabin is a top notch experience that I highly praise and highly recommend. Black Cabin was a journey. It was a deep, dark, dramatic journey that one will not forget and it is something that not only lingers with you long after the last page, it's something that makes you think and most of all, pause and realize just how amazing this book is.
Would I Return to It Again: With out a doubt. The storytelling alone is something that makes you pause and reread what has been written. A lovely intense experience.
Would I Recommend: Absolutely. Everyone should read this in my viewpoint. Really, really loved this imaginative dramatic story, so perfect in so many ways.
My Rating: 5 out of 5
Four Final Words: Intense written beauty. Flooring.
March 22, 2023
A bleak and gritty descent into psychosis. Fenlon is unflinching in his approach to show you the grimey underbelly of society in this highly emotive read. His characters are either barely hanging on or have completely fallen through the cracks. I was extremely impressed with Fenlon's distinctive voice, which was consistent in every single sentence. This was more like the work of a seasoned veteran rather than a debut novel. Its clear life experiences have honed Fenlon into someone capable of writing something significant. I was reminded of Iain Banks at times in the off-kilter approach to character building, and it really worked for me. The Black Cabin deals with heavy issues but in a way that makes the story feel important and you drink it in. The final third certainly rattles along. I'm excited to see where Wayne Fenlon goes next.
March 25, 2023
Wayne Fenlon's debut novel is a story of madness, kidnap, and revenge encircling a cluster of damaged adults, one child, Madelyn,11, wise beyond her years. The character portrayal of all the protagonists is comprehensive. The confidence in the writing is incredible for a debut novel - quality sharp, snappy prose. I marvelled at the metaphors. There's almost Tarantino-esque violence here but also humour as well, particularly in the human interactions and sprinkled throughout. (Either that or I've got a sick sense of humour). Overall the plot builds perfectly. It's engrossing from the start. I recommend this book to all who enjoy great Thrillers and score it 5/5 *****
July 18, 2023
An excellent debut novel from Mr. Fenlon. It took me a couple of chapters to get into the story but after that I couldn’t put it down. The characters in The Black Cabin are flawed and in most cases dealing with some kind of mental breakdown. I found myself wondering if anyone could really be trusted. The chapters are told POV style and they definitely have different individual voices for the main characters. I do feel like I was left wanting more information about some of the events within the story but that’s a personal preference. I will be reading more by Fenlon.
September 4, 2023
What a wonderful debut novel from Wayne Fenlon! I do have to admit I struggled with the story at first with so many POVs that I didn’t quite understand what was happening. The ending pulled it all together in a heart racing way, I couldn’t stop reading then I went back to start of the book again and all fell into place. This book isn’t just going to hand you the story, you’ve got to earn it, think about it and put in an effort. You will be rewarded! I liked that very much! I look forward to Mr. Fenlon’s next novel! Twisty and creepy perfect for the season! I highly recommended!
March 21, 2023
Just finished reading this amazing novel by Wayne Fenlon. Characters were all so relatable and kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. Such an emotive book which keeps you intrigued right up to the final page. Thoroughly enjoyed this novel and can’t wait for the next book from Wayne. Loved this quote from the book “more chaos in the known than in the unknown. “.
March 18, 2023
You wouldn't think this is a debut novel because it's so well written. It's the kind of story that pulls you along and makes you anxious over what comes next. A really enjoyable read with great characters too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews