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The Black Witch
It was the adventure of a life time. In an obscure marina off the shores of Maryland a schooner unlike any other ever built was discovered. Dorian and Diana Coe purchased the schooner and sailed from the shores of tranquility into the bowels of hell itself.
Prurient tales of suicide, murder, and the disappearance of an entire crew were hand written within the ship's logs.
On her decks sailed a well seasoned Captain and crew that never knew the schooner's shadowed past. The new owners ignored the words of men with integrity and sailed the Black Witch in the Spring of 1935.
Into the realms of illusion and pure evil the ship and its compliment sailed never knowing the fate awaiting them!
Prurient tales of suicide, murder, and the disappearance of an entire crew were hand written within the ship's logs.
On her decks sailed a well seasoned Captain and crew that never knew the schooner's shadowed past. The new owners ignored the words of men with integrity and sailed the Black Witch in the Spring of 1935.
Into the realms of illusion and pure evil the ship and its compliment sailed never knowing the fate awaiting them!
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2011
34 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Micheal Rivers
7 books228 followersBESTSELLING SUPERNATURAL THRILLER AUTHOR
I write under my real name Micheal Baugham and use the pen name of Micheal Rivers for my fiction and non-fictional tales of the paranormal. My Cherokee heritage brings me to the spiritual nature of the world around us. Thirty years of experience investigating the paranormal has brought me to the conclusion that there is another world we do not fully understand. I weave many of the experiences into each of my supernatural stories.
Travel Channel asked me to appear as a guest on Mysteries of the Outdoors, Season 2 that originally aired in July 2017.
I'm currently working on a series detailing the lives of people involved with the side of government few have the privilege to witness. First Strike, the first in the series was released in 2018 and written under my real name, Micheal Baugham.
https://www.amazon.com/First-Strike-D...
Authors that have influenced my writing are Edgar Allen Poe, Alexandre Dumas, Henry David Thoreau, W. K. Mashburn, Jr. and Don Pendleton.
My life has been well spent growing up on the inner banks of North Carolina with extensive travel. I am the lead investigator for the Smokey Mountain Ghost Trackers. The passions in my life are my wife, family, Boxer Delilah affectionately known as DeeDee, and the great outdoors. I am a USMC veteran and served during Vietnam.
Contact me to be a guest for your book club, blog, or radio/TV show at mdbaugham@yahoo.com
Visit Micheal's website http://michealrivers.com
Follow him on Twitter https://twitter.com/micheal_rivers
Chat with him on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MichealRiver...
Smokey Mountain Ghost Trackers https://www.facebook.com/SmokeyMtnGho...
What others are saying about Micheal's books:
"...Like Gilman, Hodgson, and Lovecraft, the richness of dialog is not lacking in Rivers's prose...Rivers does not so much stand upon the shoulders of these giants as he rubs elbows with them."
- Amy K. Marshall, Staff Reviewer, Dark River Press
"...well written, completely engrossing..." - Michael Juvinall, Horror Society
"...I couldn't put the story aside..." - Mallory Heart Reviews
"...I loved this tale of undying love and dedicated friendship ... " - Tracy Riva
“Be the host to your ghost” – quote by Micheal Rivers
I write under my real name Micheal Baugham and use the pen name of Micheal Rivers for my fiction and non-fictional tales of the paranormal. My Cherokee heritage brings me to the spiritual nature of the world around us. Thirty years of experience investigating the paranormal has brought me to the conclusion that there is another world we do not fully understand. I weave many of the experiences into each of my supernatural stories.
Travel Channel asked me to appear as a guest on Mysteries of the Outdoors, Season 2 that originally aired in July 2017.
I'm currently working on a series detailing the lives of people involved with the side of government few have the privilege to witness. First Strike, the first in the series was released in 2018 and written under my real name, Micheal Baugham.
https://www.amazon.com/First-Strike-D...
Authors that have influenced my writing are Edgar Allen Poe, Alexandre Dumas, Henry David Thoreau, W. K. Mashburn, Jr. and Don Pendleton.
My life has been well spent growing up on the inner banks of North Carolina with extensive travel. I am the lead investigator for the Smokey Mountain Ghost Trackers. The passions in my life are my wife, family, Boxer Delilah affectionately known as DeeDee, and the great outdoors. I am a USMC veteran and served during Vietnam.
Contact me to be a guest for your book club, blog, or radio/TV show at mdbaugham@yahoo.com
Visit Micheal's website http://michealrivers.com
Follow him on Twitter https://twitter.com/micheal_rivers
Chat with him on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MichealRiver...
Smokey Mountain Ghost Trackers https://www.facebook.com/SmokeyMtnGho...
What others are saying about Micheal's books:
"...Like Gilman, Hodgson, and Lovecraft, the richness of dialog is not lacking in Rivers's prose...Rivers does not so much stand upon the shoulders of these giants as he rubs elbows with them."
- Amy K. Marshall, Staff Reviewer, Dark River Press
"...well written, completely engrossing..." - Michael Juvinall, Horror Society
"...I couldn't put the story aside..." - Mallory Heart Reviews
"...I loved this tale of undying love and dedicated friendship ... " - Tracy Riva
“Be the host to your ghost” – quote by Micheal Rivers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 1, 2011
This novel is about the adventure of a lifetime that became a nightmare for two adventurers who had always dreamed of owning a beautiful schooner. Dorian and Diana Coe were delighted when they purchased The Black Witch, a lovely sailing ship. They soon hand picked a select crew and set sail for the tranquility of the deep blue sea. None of those onboard had any idea that the appealing and sea worthy vessel was cursed.
There were signs that the owners did not pick up about the schooner. Perhaps their love for the ship blinded them to the account that was written inside the ship's log. The couple ignored or tuned a blind eye to the tales of fate and doom about the ship. They ultimately set sail with their well seasoned Captain and crew aboard the Black Witch in the springtime of 1935. Little did anyone on board know they were sailing into the bowels of evil and death.
The author does a fine job of describing the schooner and the inner workings of a sailing vessel and its crewmembers. It felt at times as though I was onboard enjoying the cruise until things suddenly begin to turn distressing and deadly. Without giving away spoilers, I believe readers will love this sea adventure and will enjoy the very surprising ending.
There were signs that the owners did not pick up about the schooner. Perhaps their love for the ship blinded them to the account that was written inside the ship's log. The couple ignored or tuned a blind eye to the tales of fate and doom about the ship. They ultimately set sail with their well seasoned Captain and crew aboard the Black Witch in the springtime of 1935. Little did anyone on board know they were sailing into the bowels of evil and death.
The author does a fine job of describing the schooner and the inner workings of a sailing vessel and its crewmembers. It felt at times as though I was onboard enjoying the cruise until things suddenly begin to turn distressing and deadly. Without giving away spoilers, I believe readers will love this sea adventure and will enjoy the very surprising ending.
September 19, 2011
This is one of the best novels I have read all summer. While I’m reading a book, I always keep a notebook handy so I can write down lines I particularly like. I would like to list four I loved from “The Black Witch”:
1. The wonders and mystery of the Black Witch wound through their imaginations conjuring dreams of fortune, fame, and the glory of sailing the high seas once more.
2. She holds you like a whore in the night, but she’ll take your soul and not think twice.
3. They were playing a dangerous game with an entity that was unfamiliar to anyone in the room.
4. So exquisitely perfect was the darkness of the heavens above that one would have difficulty believing it was a prison to the passengers and crew of the Black Witch.
This was a non-stop action novel. I absolutely loved the end. Like another said in her review, would be great if Micheal Rivers were to write a sequel to this novel. Even a series of books could be written, continuing on with the horror and unpredictability of Dorian Coe.
I look forward to reading all of Micheal Rivers’ novels. He has a great imagination and a style of writing I love.
Rebecca Scarberry
1. The wonders and mystery of the Black Witch wound through their imaginations conjuring dreams of fortune, fame, and the glory of sailing the high seas once more.
2. She holds you like a whore in the night, but she’ll take your soul and not think twice.
3. They were playing a dangerous game with an entity that was unfamiliar to anyone in the room.
4. So exquisitely perfect was the darkness of the heavens above that one would have difficulty believing it was a prison to the passengers and crew of the Black Witch.
This was a non-stop action novel. I absolutely loved the end. Like another said in her review, would be great if Micheal Rivers were to write a sequel to this novel. Even a series of books could be written, continuing on with the horror and unpredictability of Dorian Coe.
I look forward to reading all of Micheal Rivers’ novels. He has a great imagination and a style of writing I love.
Rebecca Scarberry
October 24, 2020
The Black Witch was an entertaining novel and a nice break from the norm. At times I found it to be rough around the edges and the ending seemed to come suddenly, yet overall, I found it to be a fun read.
The Black Witch by Micheal Rivers takes place in 1935, with the purchase of a schooner long thought to have been destroyed. Mysterious occurrences surround this ship even before it sets sail, and as the schooner becomes seaworthy, its dark past begins asserting itself.
With a small crew and selected friends making up the passenger list, the Black Witch sets sail. Gradually the ship asserts its evil persona on the passengers, and they begin turning on one another. Sailing through the depths of hell to a Nazi-controlled island, the passengers and crew can only watch in fear as events unfold.
One passenger holds the key to overcoming the curse of the Black Witch and saving the lives of those who remain, but even then, it may not be enough.
The Black Witch by Micheal Rivers takes place in 1935, with the purchase of a schooner long thought to have been destroyed. Mysterious occurrences surround this ship even before it sets sail, and as the schooner becomes seaworthy, its dark past begins asserting itself.
With a small crew and selected friends making up the passenger list, the Black Witch sets sail. Gradually the ship asserts its evil persona on the passengers, and they begin turning on one another. Sailing through the depths of hell to a Nazi-controlled island, the passengers and crew can only watch in fear as events unfold.
One passenger holds the key to overcoming the curse of the Black Witch and saving the lives of those who remain, but even then, it may not be enough.
October 18, 2011
As a sailor, The Black Witch drew me in immediately, and the story kept me riveted. The author's use of detail, whether describing The Witch, the weather, or his characters, is so well done, it makes this chilling tale feel all too real at times. This is a story about passion, greed, betrayal, evil and, as much one of courage, honor, and hope. It is a story of choices and struggles, good vs evil, clothed in Dorian and William, tormented and tempted by Balasco. The characters are richly drawn and well developed, forced to face their own flaws and mortality and the consequence of their choices.
At times, I found myself caught up in the adventure, mesmerized by the ship and the sea, the thrill of the sail; only to come face to face with the horror roaming her decks and rotting her hull. The author skillfully engages the reader, setting sail on a journey they won't soon forget, from the moment The Black Witch casts her spell over the Coe's until the chilling surprise ending. If you are looking for a gripping read that won't disappoint, The Black Witch is it.
At times, I found myself caught up in the adventure, mesmerized by the ship and the sea, the thrill of the sail; only to come face to face with the horror roaming her decks and rotting her hull. The author skillfully engages the reader, setting sail on a journey they won't soon forget, from the moment The Black Witch casts her spell over the Coe's until the chilling surprise ending. If you are looking for a gripping read that won't disappoint, The Black Witch is it.
April 26, 2012
This was a great read! It's a nautical horror tale with many twists and turns that will leave you guessing
throughout the entire book. The author drew me in and introduced me to the main characters and
then quickly picked up the pace in this novel. I felt like I was on the boat and with the crew. This was
not a fast read book. I savored and enjoyed this book to the very end. It was a wild ride from the very
first page until the last. I would definately recommend it and plan to read it again in the future.
throughout the entire book. The author drew me in and introduced me to the main characters and
then quickly picked up the pace in this novel. I felt like I was on the boat and with the crew. This was
not a fast read book. I savored and enjoyed this book to the very end. It was a wild ride from the very
first page until the last. I would definately recommend it and plan to read it again in the future.
March 21, 2012
I was intrigued with the plot in this novel and many of the characters were interesting. I liked the high-seas adventure aspect and the supernatural goings-on. I found it so poorly written, however, that I had to force myself to finish it. That's a compliment to the outstanding plot, because I had to find out what happened to these people and the ship. However, at times it was not easy.
The author knows a lot about the old sailing schooners, though. I'll give him that!
The author knows a lot about the old sailing schooners, though. I'll give him that!
February 20, 2018
The author certainly has a love of exclamation points. I not sure there was a page that didn't have one! Other than that, flat characters & predictable plot. A few spelling mistakes and lots of editing errors.
September 22, 2011
The world of independent books is full of sea wreaks, but Michael Rivers' book The Black Witch (Curse of the Black Witch) is definitely not one of them. A fan of old fashion high seas adventures, I gladly stepped abroad and wasn't disappointed.
As a child, I grew up on the shores where the Black Witch first casts spell upon Dorian Coe and Gale Ritchie, her new and soon doomed owners. Stories of ships were abundant growing up, but none were as captivating as this tale. It takes you back to the days when the Eastern Shore of the U.S. was filled with seafaring men prior WWII. Days when sailing ships were still prominent on water. The descriptions of the schooner and her workings allow the reader to join the crew. They aren't trite or superficial, instead they help transport one to the ship and even teach you.
Rivers brings you gently into the supernatural aspects of his novel. You first fall in love with the characters and their love for the Black Witch. Slowly as things abroad the schooner turn tragically wrong and it becomes clear that it isn't the result the two ego infused owners. That is where the true tale begins.
There are times when I did feel like I had been set adrift, lost in the dreams of the tormented, Rivers, however, eventually came to my rescue and I continued to the end. If only the crew of the Black Witch had been as lucky. To quote from one of my favorite lines from the book: "she holds you like a whore in the night, but she'll take your soul and not think twice."
You can purchase this book on Amazon and follow the author on Twitter .
As a child, I grew up on the shores where the Black Witch first casts spell upon Dorian Coe and Gale Ritchie, her new and soon doomed owners. Stories of ships were abundant growing up, but none were as captivating as this tale. It takes you back to the days when the Eastern Shore of the U.S. was filled with seafaring men prior WWII. Days when sailing ships were still prominent on water. The descriptions of the schooner and her workings allow the reader to join the crew. They aren't trite or superficial, instead they help transport one to the ship and even teach you.
Rivers brings you gently into the supernatural aspects of his novel. You first fall in love with the characters and their love for the Black Witch. Slowly as things abroad the schooner turn tragically wrong and it becomes clear that it isn't the result the two ego infused owners. That is where the true tale begins.
There are times when I did feel like I had been set adrift, lost in the dreams of the tormented, Rivers, however, eventually came to my rescue and I continued to the end. If only the crew of the Black Witch had been as lucky. To quote from one of my favorite lines from the book: "she holds you like a whore in the night, but she'll take your soul and not think twice."
You can purchase this book on Amazon and follow the author on Twitter .
January 2, 2012
"She holds you like a whore in the night, but she’ll take your soul and not think twice."
Yeah, The Black Witch is that and much more. Not my usual...well 'thing' I guess you could say (I love paranormal, horror type reads but know nothing of sailing) I was greatly pleased with what was within the pages of this novel. When Dorian Coe first set his eyes on The Black Witch, he knew in his heart that he must have her. Right then and there, Dorian is willing to give up his house, business, and everything he has to set sail along with his wife and friends. Nothing is as it seems and this ship holds a very dark and disturbing past. Not to mention that Evil itself is aboard and soon, in some way or another, takes over everyone on board. Set in the 1930's what was thought to be a grand sailing trip turns deadly as the unexpected happens time and time again. One lesson to remember...when an old sailor gives you a warning, you ought to listen!
A dark tale of good vs. evil, The Black Witch will suck you right in and spit you out at the end. Greed, murder, selfishness but also a tale of hope and faith. Author Micheal Rivers has done an outstanding job and will have you feeling like you are right there on the ship, in the story. Highly recommended!
Yeah, The Black Witch is that and much more. Not my usual...well 'thing' I guess you could say (I love paranormal, horror type reads but know nothing of sailing) I was greatly pleased with what was within the pages of this novel. When Dorian Coe first set his eyes on The Black Witch, he knew in his heart that he must have her. Right then and there, Dorian is willing to give up his house, business, and everything he has to set sail along with his wife and friends. Nothing is as it seems and this ship holds a very dark and disturbing past. Not to mention that Evil itself is aboard and soon, in some way or another, takes over everyone on board. Set in the 1930's what was thought to be a grand sailing trip turns deadly as the unexpected happens time and time again. One lesson to remember...when an old sailor gives you a warning, you ought to listen!
A dark tale of good vs. evil, The Black Witch will suck you right in and spit you out at the end. Greed, murder, selfishness but also a tale of hope and faith. Author Micheal Rivers has done an outstanding job and will have you feeling like you are right there on the ship, in the story. Highly recommended!
September 14, 2012
As I read this story, I was pleased to see it was written in a classical style only sailors and sea lovers might appreciate. As a sailor, I recognize the talent of the author's dialog as authentic as a seasoned seafarer. The story is about Dorian Coe and his wife Diana who seek to buy an old schooner built in the early 1900's. It is now 1935 and though the repairs needed on the vessel are vast, they find a way to finance the purchase with a co-owner, Gale Ritchie. They are able to trace the history of the vessel via the ship's logs and they realize they have purchased a treasure! With repairs and updates made to the vessel, they invite several friends to partake in the first voyage on the "Black Witch." From the start of the voyage, Dorian becomes a changed man and takes encouragement and guidance from a deckhand, Balasco, who only a few can see...because he is a ghost from the past. This paranormal story is spellbinding, haunting, and full of terror and deceit. If you liked classics such as "The Sea Wolf,"by Jack London, and "Moby Dick" and others of Herman Melville, you'll enjoy this ghostly story.
February 25, 2012
The Black Witch is a really interesting read. She is a beautiful, enchanting ship, weaving her spell among all that encounter her; they never realize how condemned they are until it is far too late!
The detail in the descriptions of the physical and emotional interactions are so rich and specific, you sense yourself in the story, on the ship sailing along with the main characters in the story. You can feel the salt spray on your skin, the rolling of the ship. Oh, nicely done! At the same time, you never really quite know what is real and what isn’t.
You just never know what that squirrely Balasco is going to pull on them next!
The detail in the descriptions of the physical and emotional interactions are so rich and specific, you sense yourself in the story, on the ship sailing along with the main characters in the story. You can feel the salt spray on your skin, the rolling of the ship. Oh, nicely done! At the same time, you never really quite know what is real and what isn’t.
You just never know what that squirrely Balasco is going to pull on them next!
November 1, 2011
The Black Witch is a nautical horror tale with many twists that will leave you guessing. The author does a magical job of detailing all the aspects of life at sea, and also that on a schooner.
This story reminds me of what would happen if Pirates of the Caribbean met up with Ghost Ship. Take a ride on this journey as the history of the ship catches up with the crew, and the madness of Dorian Coe sets in and consumes all.
My favorite line from the book: "The only thought on their mind now was the uncertainty of their very survival."
This story reminds me of what would happen if Pirates of the Caribbean met up with Ghost Ship. Take a ride on this journey as the history of the ship catches up with the crew, and the madness of Dorian Coe sets in and consumes all.
My favorite line from the book: "The only thought on their mind now was the uncertainty of their very survival."
February 11, 2012
Spine Chilling, Michael Rivers' book The Black Witch (Curse of the Black Witch) had chills running down my spine through the whole story. This is a great thriller, paranormal adventure. I could read it again! He wrote great character descriptions and gave everyone excellent personalities making me feel that I was actually on board the ship. I would love to read a Dorian Cole novel to continue the series. Highly recommended!
February 7, 2012
This was an incredible read! I could simply not put the book down (the Kindle). The plot gripped me from the beginning and kept me curious. The characters were well developed and made me feel like I was standing right there in the midst of the action. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.
February 9, 2012
Excellent book! Scary and very Twilight Zone.
Want to read
March 20, 2012Free today on Kindle 3.20.12.
April 21, 2012
Pretty good story. I had a great ending in mind and was kind of disappointed it didn't end like I thought it should, but still a pretty good read. Made me want to go sailing!
April 26, 2012
This is a phenomenal book by Micheal Rivers- Wow I could not put it down. The way he writes takes you right in and also he makes you feel all the characters! Loved it!
June 7, 2017
I liked this book. It moved at a fairly decent pace, and it was well developed.
July 22, 2017
Great ghost story! It was a bit long and drawn out in some parts and then felt rushed in other areas such as the ending. Enjoyable read if you are intrigued by haunted old ships.
April 13, 2018
I really struggled with this book. Many inconsistencies. Scenes changed with no notice. The characters were hard to connect with.
November 16, 2018
Found myself skimming almost continuously other than details about the boat.
December 4, 2016
DNF. Sorry but I could not get into this story.
Not to say you, dear reader. Will feel the same.
Not to say you, dear reader. Will feel the same.
April 30, 2012
The Black Witch is a ship with the history like no other. It bewitches those who come into contact with it to aspire to greed to possess it, or at the very least, long to sail her. Once aboard, and set to sail, it is a journey few will survive.
The plot grabs your attention from the beginning full of intrigue, mystery, and suspense. The reader is bewitched just as successfully as the sailors and passengers as The Black Witch holds one in its charms on a quest to find where the journey will lead, and end.
***************************************************************************
WARNING! POSSIBLE PLOT SPOILERS, SCROLL PAST THIS SECTION OR READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ***************************************************************************
Although a great story, there is something that bugs me about it. Facts are revealed to the reader, and characters, that are never fully developed. William's youngest brother had a heartache which was said to have allowed the evil spirit to take hold, yet the boat's history shows that the ship itself has been cursed. Maybe it is the fact that some poor soul is present on every journey meeting the spirits' requirements. I'm not sure as it is never revealed as to what this heart break was. If I was William, I would have had a conversation with my brother to find out exactly what this was, and find it hard to believe that he did not.
It was also told that William's father was the only one to have successfully battled this demon previously. Again, I was incredulous that the brothers didn't wrack their memories of stories their father had told of his travels at sea to attempt to find a solution to their predicament.
There is also a benign spirit on board the boat, which is briefly mentioned and just as quickly forgotten, never to be heard from again. ***************************************************************************
I can't help but think that everything an author mentions in a story is there for a reason. When the purpose never comes to light, it makes me think it was an avenue that the writer decided, for whatever reason, to not pursue. If this is the case, I personally think the existence of this foreshadowing should be removed, unless it is meant to be a red herring.
The ending was oddly anticlimactic in my opinion. Irregardless of these things I have noted, it is a very well written story which I highly recommend.
The plot grabs your attention from the beginning full of intrigue, mystery, and suspense. The reader is bewitched just as successfully as the sailors and passengers as The Black Witch holds one in its charms on a quest to find where the journey will lead, and end.
***************************************************************************
WARNING! POSSIBLE PLOT SPOILERS, SCROLL PAST THIS SECTION OR READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ***************************************************************************
Although a great story, there is something that bugs me about it. Facts are revealed to the reader, and characters, that are never fully developed. William's youngest brother had a heartache which was said to have allowed the evil spirit to take hold, yet the boat's history shows that the ship itself has been cursed. Maybe it is the fact that some poor soul is present on every journey meeting the spirits' requirements. I'm not sure as it is never revealed as to what this heart break was. If I was William, I would have had a conversation with my brother to find out exactly what this was, and find it hard to believe that he did not.
It was also told that William's father was the only one to have successfully battled this demon previously. Again, I was incredulous that the brothers didn't wrack their memories of stories their father had told of his travels at sea to attempt to find a solution to their predicament.
There is also a benign spirit on board the boat, which is briefly mentioned and just as quickly forgotten, never to be heard from again. ***************************************************************************
I can't help but think that everything an author mentions in a story is there for a reason. When the purpose never comes to light, it makes me think it was an avenue that the writer decided, for whatever reason, to not pursue. If this is the case, I personally think the existence of this foreshadowing should be removed, unless it is meant to be a red herring.
The ending was oddly anticlimactic in my opinion. Irregardless of these things I have noted, it is a very well written story which I highly recommend.
February 21, 2012
The gripping tale of a ship of doom…
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appreciate it when viewed from shore. But I do enjoy a good nautical tale, especially one with a paranormal theme, and respect the addiction and love many hold for sailing the seas.
The descriptive depiction of the ship drew me into this story then the lure of the sea as felt by its seafaring crews came next. I was drawn into the seemingly hypnotic grip which the Black Witch laid upon all that neared her. Unique in build, a magnificent vessel with a truly mysterious background of fatal voyages, I soon discovered I wanted to learn more about the coming journey of the doomed, assorted passengers. With a ghostly foundation being well set by the author, I wondered how each would fare, curious what trials were to be set upon them.
The spectrum of characters is well balanced. Their diversity at first leaves you interested in how they will interface, yet by the novel’s end each retained an appropriate part in what became horrific experiences. Whether you believe in the devil or not, the demon that walks the ship plays havoc with your thoughts, leaving you disturbed at how he plies upon the weaknesses of mankind, taking pleasures as he desires against anyone’s will.
In truth, I became so absorbed in my reading at one point that I startled when my dog stood and nosed me for attention. I found myself wanting to know what lay next for the passengers and how much worse their plight could be—and when I believed I knew what might come, something different occurred to my surprise.
So for those readers who love an adventurous seafaring tale with a depth of paranormal blended tightly within, The Black Witch is worth the read. And if I were to ever buy a boat, which I doubt, it surely will not have the name “The Black Witch” painted along its sides.
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appreciate it when viewed from shore. But I do enjoy a good nautical tale, especially one with a paranormal theme, and respect the addiction and love many hold for sailing the seas.
The descriptive depiction of the ship drew me into this story then the lure of the sea as felt by its seafaring crews came next. I was drawn into the seemingly hypnotic grip which the Black Witch laid upon all that neared her. Unique in build, a magnificent vessel with a truly mysterious background of fatal voyages, I soon discovered I wanted to learn more about the coming journey of the doomed, assorted passengers. With a ghostly foundation being well set by the author, I wondered how each would fare, curious what trials were to be set upon them.
The spectrum of characters is well balanced. Their diversity at first leaves you interested in how they will interface, yet by the novel’s end each retained an appropriate part in what became horrific experiences. Whether you believe in the devil or not, the demon that walks the ship plays havoc with your thoughts, leaving you disturbed at how he plies upon the weaknesses of mankind, taking pleasures as he desires against anyone’s will.
In truth, I became so absorbed in my reading at one point that I startled when my dog stood and nosed me for attention. I found myself wanting to know what lay next for the passengers and how much worse their plight could be—and when I believed I knew what might come, something different occurred to my surprise.
So for those readers who love an adventurous seafaring tale with a depth of paranormal blended tightly within, The Black Witch is worth the read. And if I were to ever buy a boat, which I doubt, it surely will not have the name “The Black Witch” painted along its sides.
March 27, 2012
“The Black Witch” by Author Micheal Rivers
The gripping tale of a ship of doom…
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appreciate it when viewed from shore. But I do enjoy a good nautical tale, especially one with a paranormal theme, and respect the addiction and love many hold for sailing the seas.
The descriptive depiction of the ship drew me into this story then the lure of the sea as felt by its seafaring crews came next. I was drawn into the seemingly hypnotic grip which the Black Witch laid upon all that neared her. Unique in build, a magnificent vessel with a truly mysterious background of fatal voyages, I soon discovered I wanted to learn more about the coming journey of the doomed, assorted passengers. With a ghostly foundation being well set by the author, I wondered how each would fare, curious what trials were to be set upon them.
The spectrum of characters is well balanced. Their diversity at first leaves you interested in how they will interface, yet by the novel’s end each retained an appropriate part in what became horrific experiences. Whether you believe in the devil or not, the demon that walks the ship plays havoc with your thoughts, leaving you disturbed at how he plies upon the weaknesses of mankind, taking pleasures as he desires against anyone’s will.
In truth, I became so absorbed in my reading at one point that I startled when my dog stood and nosed me for attention. I found myself wanting to know what lay next for the passengers and how much worse their plight could be—and when I believed I knew what might come, something different occurred to my surprise.
So for those readers who love an adventurous seafaring tale with a depth of paranormal blended tightly within, The Black Witch is worth the read. And if I were to ever buy a boat, which I doubt, it surely will not have the name “The Black Witch” painted along its sides.
December 29, 2012
It started out with promise but quickly turned into dross.
I'm so mindboggled by the ravingly good reviews this book has received that I'm almost tempted to ask someone else to read this, but I can't justify asking someone to pay the money for it (and I deleted it off my Kindle). Bottom line, this book just isn't to my tastes.
The characters start out with distinct personalities, but in subsequent scenes they end up all being copies of the same assinine character personality--raging ass or raging harridan--with nothing to explain the shift in personality.
The rest of this review concerns details which may be considered spoilers.
One scene has a woman who can project her soul astrally appear naked before the demon-disguised-as-a-human to spy on him ('cause that's the best way to spy on a demon). So what does the demon do? Decide random naked woman is trying to seduce him, takes off all his clothes, and throws himself at her. All in full view of a crewperson, who apparently must be standing around oblivious to the world (but I can't say for certain because he falls through a plot hole and vanishes).
The scene is horrifying only because it is so far from making any kind of sense that it enters that realm of comedy inhabited by stories of stupid college hijinks. The kind that start out with someone getting wasted.
Finally, I do have to admit that when surprise Nazi island showed up, I had to put the book down. I skipped to the end. The writing there was as insensible as the rest of the book. It's not so much that the ending is bad, it's that the writing is utterly ineffective at conveying the action in a manner that doesn't come across as ridiculous.
I'm so mindboggled by the ravingly good reviews this book has received that I'm almost tempted to ask someone else to read this, but I can't justify asking someone to pay the money for it (and I deleted it off my Kindle). Bottom line, this book just isn't to my tastes.
The characters start out with distinct personalities, but in subsequent scenes they end up all being copies of the same assinine character personality--raging ass or raging harridan--with nothing to explain the shift in personality.
The rest of this review concerns details which may be considered spoilers.
One scene has a woman who can project her soul astrally appear naked before the demon-disguised-as-a-human to spy on him ('cause that's the best way to spy on a demon). So what does the demon do? Decide random naked woman is trying to seduce him, takes off all his clothes, and throws himself at her. All in full view of a crewperson, who apparently must be standing around oblivious to the world (but I can't say for certain because he falls through a plot hole and vanishes).
The scene is horrifying only because it is so far from making any kind of sense that it enters that realm of comedy inhabited by stories of stupid college hijinks. The kind that start out with someone getting wasted.
Finally, I do have to admit that when surprise Nazi island showed up, I had to put the book down. I skipped to the end. The writing there was as insensible as the rest of the book. It's not so much that the ending is bad, it's that the writing is utterly ineffective at conveying the action in a manner that doesn't come across as ridiculous.
October 26, 2012
Your first and last voyage, or is it?
What an interesting ride. Mr. Rivers put us in the depths of a schooner with a very tainted history unknown to her new potential owners. Mr. Coe and Mr. Ritchie. She is the last of her class in a world turning to modern propulsion systems. She is made of the finest wood available in these parts of the Northeast. With the exception of the ship's hull being painted black, she is the queen of the schooner world.
Ah, but a very dark secret hides beneath her beauty. The original owner refused to pay any of the workers for their labors. One of the builders places a curse for all who have any business with her no matter what the time period.
Do you believe in tales of the depths? Is there an unseen force hiding in the Bermuda Triangle? Can a ship travel the portals of time giving the looks of pristine condition despite the fact she's been written off the ship registry’s as salvaged? Arh, those are the questions one will have to venture out and answer for themselves.
If you like a book that will have you seeing ghosts and hauntings, or perhaps you enjoy the vernacular from old salts of the past-the men who charted and tamed the seven seas? If you answered yes to any of those questions, than wait no longer and grab a copy. Be forewarned of the Ships Owners offering a trip of a lifetime. It may be your last!
What an interesting ride. Mr. Rivers put us in the depths of a schooner with a very tainted history unknown to her new potential owners. Mr. Coe and Mr. Ritchie. She is the last of her class in a world turning to modern propulsion systems. She is made of the finest wood available in these parts of the Northeast. With the exception of the ship's hull being painted black, she is the queen of the schooner world.
Ah, but a very dark secret hides beneath her beauty. The original owner refused to pay any of the workers for their labors. One of the builders places a curse for all who have any business with her no matter what the time period.
Do you believe in tales of the depths? Is there an unseen force hiding in the Bermuda Triangle? Can a ship travel the portals of time giving the looks of pristine condition despite the fact she's been written off the ship registry’s as salvaged? Arh, those are the questions one will have to venture out and answer for themselves.
If you like a book that will have you seeing ghosts and hauntings, or perhaps you enjoy the vernacular from old salts of the past-the men who charted and tamed the seven seas? If you answered yes to any of those questions, than wait no longer and grab a copy. Be forewarned of the Ships Owners offering a trip of a lifetime. It may be your last!
February 9, 2012
As I started reading 'The Black Witch', I was transported to another time and place. As I met the characters and followed them on their journey, I was drawn in by their idiosyncrasies and flaws. And then the subsequent nightmare than ensued...
Dorian Coe and his wife, Diana are the first to discover 'The Black Witch', while shopping around for a sailing vessel. They are immediately put under her spell and are willing to sacrifice their life savings to have her. It's an evil spell that no one can resist. The scenes are so vividly depicted; I almost fell under the spell myself.
When Dorian tells his friend Gale about his 'find', and brings him to see the vessel, he is inexplicably drawn to her, as well. Obsession sets in. They must have her. Even with the dire warnings given in the logbooks- nothing matters but 'The Black Witch'.
They invite a group of friends to join them as passengers to celebrate The Black Witch's first launch. They head out into the mysterious open sea. It isn't long before pure evil rears its ugly head. Slowly each horrified passenger comes to the realization that they are doomed and there is nothing they can do about it. Even the woman with strange powers is no match for the powerful force driving 'The Black Witch'.
Dorian Coe and his wife, Diana are the first to discover 'The Black Witch', while shopping around for a sailing vessel. They are immediately put under her spell and are willing to sacrifice their life savings to have her. It's an evil spell that no one can resist. The scenes are so vividly depicted; I almost fell under the spell myself.
When Dorian tells his friend Gale about his 'find', and brings him to see the vessel, he is inexplicably drawn to her, as well. Obsession sets in. They must have her. Even with the dire warnings given in the logbooks- nothing matters but 'The Black Witch'.
They invite a group of friends to join them as passengers to celebrate The Black Witch's first launch. They head out into the mysterious open sea. It isn't long before pure evil rears its ugly head. Slowly each horrified passenger comes to the realization that they are doomed and there is nothing they can do about it. Even the woman with strange powers is no match for the powerful force driving 'The Black Witch'.
April 18, 2016
This is a book best read during the light of day.
This is a Paranormal Suspense mixed with Historical Fiction.
Long before Dorian Coe read the former Captain's logs, he had fell hard for the schooner that debuted as The Black Witch. The spell this lovely lady of the sea weaved had him willing to use all of his money to buy it. Calling on his long time friend to help was maybe not the best decision, for he too fell hard and wanted to possess her. Even so, they combined their assets and became co-owners. Sailing her would have to wait until repairs were made. Within a short time they had a crew and sailed her. An entity had a different idea of where the schooner would travel and thus began the voyage through Hell and beyond.
I learned many nautical terms as Mr. Rivers shared the details of the schooner and the voyage. I really liked the story yet there was something that kept me from loving it. I'm not sure exactly why but despite this I highly recommend it to those who love 'ghost stories' and sailing.
Warning: This is for Mature Audiences due to Violence, Sexual Situations, and mild Adult Language.
This is a Paranormal Suspense mixed with Historical Fiction.
Long before Dorian Coe read the former Captain's logs, he had fell hard for the schooner that debuted as The Black Witch. The spell this lovely lady of the sea weaved had him willing to use all of his money to buy it. Calling on his long time friend to help was maybe not the best decision, for he too fell hard and wanted to possess her. Even so, they combined their assets and became co-owners. Sailing her would have to wait until repairs were made. Within a short time they had a crew and sailed her. An entity had a different idea of where the schooner would travel and thus began the voyage through Hell and beyond.
I learned many nautical terms as Mr. Rivers shared the details of the schooner and the voyage. I really liked the story yet there was something that kept me from loving it. I'm not sure exactly why but despite this I highly recommend it to those who love 'ghost stories' and sailing.
Warning: This is for Mature Audiences due to Violence, Sexual Situations, and mild Adult Language.
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