Darkness Rising

East Salem Trilogy #2

by Lis Wiehl, Pete Nelson (Contributor)

The evil that's in East Salem is no longer content to hide in the shadows. The stakes-and the darkness-are rising.

Dani Harris thought there wasn't much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn't overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status.

But as they race to uncover what's really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian's Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don't interfere.

When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not only murder and betrayal-but angels and demons.

Genres: Mystery, Christian Fiction, Paranormal, Fantasy, Christian, Horror, Fiction

343 pages, Hardcover

First published October 2, 2012

About the author

Lis Wiehl is a New York Times bestselling author of both fiction and nonfiction books, a journalist, an attorney, and a legal expert. She is the former legal analyst for Fox News, former co-host of WOR radio's “WOR Tonight with Joe Concha and Lis Wiehl,” and was an anchor for the Law & Crime network (a multi-media live trial network). Lis Wiehl hosted the podcast Pursuit of Justice with Lis Wiehl and until recently was an adjunct professor of Law at New York Law School. Lis is the author of eighteen books, including the first in The Hunting Series, Hunting Charles Manson: The Quest for Justice in the Days of Helter Skelter, out in paperback from Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins on June 25, 2019.

Lis Wiehl is one of the nation’s most highly regarded commentators and legal experts. After graduating from Harvard Law School, Wiehl practiced law in a private law firm in Seattle where she also wrote by-lined articles on legal issues for The New York Times. From there she went on to become a third generation federal prosecutor (her grandfather and her father — an FBI agent — were also federal prosecutors) in the US Attorney's Office in Seattle. She served as the Deputy Chief Investigative Counsel for Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee during President Clinton’s impeachment. From 1995 to 2001, she was a tenured law professor at the University of Washington School of Law in Seattle, where she ran the Trial Advocacy Program, which won several national awards during her tenure.

During her time at the University of Washington, Wiehl also stepped deeper into journalism by working as a reporter and legal analyst for NPR's All Things Considered, MSNBC/NBC News, and locally at KIRO, the CBS network affiliate in Seattle. After MSNBC and National Public Radio, Wiehl moved to the Fox News Channel where she served as a legal analyst and reporter for over fifteen years. During her time at the Fox News Channel, she appeared on numerous shows including The O'Reilly Factor, Your World with Neil Cavuto, The Kelly File with Megyn Kelly, Lou Dobbs Tonight, and the Imus morning show. Wiehl also hosted the Legal Lis radio show and the Wiehl of Justice podcast.

In 2005, Wiehl released her first book, Winning Every Time: How to Use the Skills of a Lawyer in the Trials of Your Life. Two years later she released The 51% Minority: How Women Still Are Not Equal and What You Can Do About It which was awarded the 2008 award for Books for a Better Life in the motivational category. Since then, Wiehl has continued to write bestselling books of fiction and non-fiction.

Lis Wiehl continues to appear in the media as a legal expert and commentator for organizations including CNN, CBS, NBC, and NPR among others. She regularly lectures at colleges and universities, appears as a keynote speaker, and speaks at bookstores, conferences, and literary festivals.
Wiehl earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, her Master of Arts in Literature from the University of Queensland, and a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College, Columbia University.

Lis Wiehl currently lives near New York City.

For more information please visit www.liswiehlbooks.com.

Reviews

[Mike (the Paladin) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me say first, if you're not Christian please don't let that put you off trying the novel. The book is told from what would be a Christian point of view...but then so is Dracula. The book isn't preachy and I think you can probably read it without your viewpoint being shifted against your will. Oddly some Christians are annoyed with this book because it doesn't present down the line theology. It's pretty good story telling and I think if you give it a try you might enjoy it.

Okay....good book. Let me go on with a note on the book's point of view and so on. I read a few reviews from reviewers who were upset at the writer's theology. I'd say don't be put off. The book is fiction, it's a story. I will say here as I've said about other novels, "Don't come here for your theology". I disagree with a lot of this as religious teaching, but it's a good story and not something I think will mislead unless a person already leans toward some of the story's devices.

The book picks up the story where the last East Salem book (Waking Hours) left off and builds on the story that began in that book. This book is more overtly a "battle between good and evil" book as the first leaned more heavily on the mystery angle. The characters are grown here and we get a bit of foreshadowing.

The reason I give the book a 4 rather than a 5 is the romance trouble and why it happened (he said struggling not to give a spoiler). It's quite possible that my frustration however comes from the fact that I'm 60, I've been down that road and have already learned the lesson that our protagonists have yet to learn, LOL.

I will say that this is a fairly high 4 and I plan to get the next installment as soon as it's published. I also plan to to read some of Ms. Wiehl's other books. I'd side stepped them...but sometimes assumptions aren't good...as Harry Dresden said they can make an "ass out of u and mption."

I recommend this and the book that precedes it. Enjoy.

[ᴥ Irena ᴥ · Rating 1 out of 5]

I struggled through this, to be honest. I thought I could forgive Dani (the heroine) for allowing those teenagers to go without any punishment for what they did. The part where they were drugged and such works up to a part after the murder of that young girl. They were not drugged then. But, hey, they are from the East Salem rich families, so that's fine.

I was hoping that this book would be a bit better. The best description would be: remember the horror films where Roman Catholic/Anglican church and the use of Latin could successfully fight evil (there are no priests here, but it's similar), then add lots of cheesy scenes and you'll get the right idea. I don't mind the biblical good versus evil stories at all as long as they are not like this one.

Most of those who are evil are not Americans (so far). Note the most (so I won't have to justify what I write here). Even the murderer from the first book is adopted from another country (guess which one).
Then you 'find' out that Native Americans didn't have any means to fight demons until a white man came to teach them. Lucky them, right? Oh, and the demon gave them small pox too.
I really don't see any point in making Dani and Tommy a couple. No point at all. They are both warned that someone is going to betray them, but they miss even the most obvious signs.

I enjoy good versus evil stories. There is a good story somewhere beneath all the crap, but it's too much work to find it. I will probably read the third book in the trilogy to see the resolution, but I really hope it isn't like this one.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always liked books and movies that depict the battle between good and evil. Especially books that feature demons, angels and secret societies. Darkness Rising is the second book in the East Salem trilogy and it had me on edge the entire time. Evil is coming and its starting in East Salem Massachusetts. This tale left me breathless and afraid. I cannot wait for the final installment.

This tale picks up right after book one ended. Forensic psychiatrist Dana Harris and football legend, turned private eye Tommy Gunderson are investigating the mysterious death of a young girl and the boy who killed her. An angel named Charlie appears as a biker dude to guide them. Officially the case is closed. When a one hundred year old woman is killed in a closed room it quickly becomes clear that something supernatural is in Salem. Dana and Tommy are convinced that the St. Adrian’s Academy might be behind it. The closer they get the more danger they find themselves in. It will take bringing in others to uncover the evil plot and save themselves from demons.

I really like the characters Wiehl has created in Tommy and Dana. Tommy is strong in his faith, confident and knows he has been blessed. He has an uncanny ability to see patterns in things, and a determination to see things through. He is solid, honest and someone I'd like to call a friend. Dana is a scientist at heart, and her faith sometimes takes a backseat to her need for answers. While she is confident in her abilities, she often feels like a teen when it comes to relationships and trust. Carl is suffering as the anniversary of daughter died approaches. Ruth, Tommy’s Aunt is delightful and a Librarian so of course I adored her. Other key players are introduced rounding out the members who will unite to fight evil. Of course the evil villains in this tale were mysterious, creepy and gave me goose bumps. Be on the lookout for a windgo.

Darkness Rising oozes creepiness and kept me reading late into the evening. It is a tale of good versus evil and Wiehl gives us an awesome back history of this battle with secret societies that had me drooling. While the tale is laced in faith, and the message clear you cannot help but be caught up in the plot. I have always loved tales of possession, the television show Supernatural, the Omen and the Exorcist. Give me an evil society working for Satan, an unknowing oblivious world and a group destine to save them and I am completely enthralled. This had so many dangerous action scenes, dark twists and legends; I couldn't stop turning the pages. The authors weaved a tale that was suspenseful. They wove history, Indian and religious history into the tale blurring the lines of reality. I won’t tell you what, but at the end of the tale I was afraid of something and every time I do it..I think of this story and shiver..eeep! I cannot wait for the final book.

I recommend Darkness Rising and the East Salem trilogy to fans of paranormal suspense and mystery. Fans of secret societies and myths will gobble this one up. I look forward to the final installment.

I want to thank Thomas Nelson for providing this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
You can see this review and more on my blog: Caffeinated Book Reviewer

[Ronie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read the first book, WAKING HOURS, I have to admit I sort of held my breath as I approached DARKNESS RISING because the first book barely touched the supernatural elements, which was a smidge disappointing. But fears be quieted! This book had an awesome supernatural thread–and I’m still a bit embarrassed at how giddy I got at the appearance of Swiss Army knives. . .with attachments. I’ll never look at a pocketknife the same way (you’ll have to read it to get that).

Also, I thoroughly enjoyed the deeper spiritual elements found in DARKNESS RISING that perfectly complemented the supernatural ones. The absolutely compelling plot drove the story and characters through to a very satisfying ending with a promise of an exciting conclusion to the series with the third installment.

Characters, with such unique professions as pro football and forensic psychiatrists can often come across as cliché or trite, but Wiehl and Nelson do a phenomenal job in keeping these characters unique and entertaining. I loved the intricate histories woven into the story that drive the mysteries and ultimately the darkness that rises is very a la Da Vinci Code but were also incredibly fascinating and had me Googling the various artists and pieces mentioned like the triptych. I adore books that make me learn something! Truly–one of the best yet by Wiehl! I cannot wait for FINAL TIDE

[Ginger Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will evil win this battle?

I felt I was reading a Frank Perretti novel ! Wiehl has done it again ! Renaissance painting "Garden of Earthly Delights" is on display at St Adrian's School. Dani and Tommy have been invited to the exhibition but have an ulterior motive : to locate and download files from Dr. Ghieri's computer, the school psychologist , in an effort to pursue what caused Amos Kasden to kill Julie Leonard. But the painting does draw intrigue as it was commissioned by a pagan cult. Dani and Tommy search for answers to Julie's death and then the death of Abbie Gardener , who appeared to be warning Tommy of danger using a dead frog and the mountain streams picking on Tommy's land.
Dani contacts an ex-boyfriend, Quinn, who is a chemist, to assist them with medication that has been mailed to Dani by a whistleblower student at St Adrian's Tommy's ex-girlfriend also shows up at the manipulation of Carl, a religious leader who has allowed himself to become manipulated by Satanic forces. Through the help of a couple of angels, Satan's forces do battle , but the bigger picture is that the streams have become tainted and it appears doomsday is around the corner no matter what the battle between good and evil produces .
A great read and I'm looking forward to Part 3 conclusion.

[Lisa B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts

This was excellent! I do love a tale about good versus evil. I did not realized when I pick this up that it is book two of a trilogy. I don’t feel that not reading book one had any impact on my enjoying the story. I definitely want to go back and read the first book now.

I liked both Dani and Tommy. The seemed real, had flaws and sometimes struggled with their faith. The story was suspenseful and it was hard to put down - oh that I was one of those people who can read all night and still work the next day!

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGallet for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

Publish date: October 3, 2012.

[Tasula · Rating 2 out of 5]

I almost stopped reading this after a third, but kept at it and felt overall it was a pretty good story, but the writing style is far from scintillating. It reads like a newspaper, tells you what happens and doesn't create tension or stimulate curiosity. So it was just OK for me and I already forgot most of what it was about.

[Amanda Forsting · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, creepy, thrilling, touching, and every bit as great as the first book, which is something I rarely say for a second book in a Series! I love Lis and the way she writes and I seriously can’t wait to delve into #3 soon!!!!

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

The East Salem series begun with "Waking Hours" continues in the second installment, "Darkness Rising". Forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris and private investigator Tommy Gunderson continue in their race to uncover the truth of what's happening behind the walls of St. Adrian's Academy. As they delve ever deeper into the mysteries surrounding the school, they discover that the truth is far more encompassing than they thought, revealing supernatural forces at work that have been spreading their influence for generations. Soon Dani and Tommy find themselves questioning who they can trust and battling with angels and demons in a true showdown of good versus evil.

I found Darkness Rising to be a riveting, skillfully written read, quickly absorbing me into the chilling world of East Salem. I loved the blend of hidden mysteries, supernatural suspense, and the ties to historical events. The writing is taut and fast-paced, and truly made it hard for me to be able to close the book for any length of time and tend to the world around me. I'm really enjoying the relationship continuing to unfold between Dani and Tommy, with just the right hint of romance that will appeal to a broad base of readers without being over the top. The dialogue is solid, moving the story forward while containing moments of humour that actually made me laugh out loud.

I have enjoyed every moment of the series so far, and am greatly impressed with the writing talents of Lis Wiehl and Pete Nelson. Readers who have enjoyed previous books from Lis Wiehl, and those who enjoy thrillers and mysteries with a supernatural undertone, are going to absolutely love this book. I did! 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and the Booksneeze program, for the purposes of this unbiased review.

CHECK OUT MY GIVEAWAY OF THIS BOOK HERE:

http://christianfictionaddiction.blog...

[Nicki Markus · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I requested this book from NetGalley, the blurb did not make it clear this was the second book in a series. If I had seen that, I may not have selected it, as I hate coming into a story part-way through.



There certainly were some aspects of the plot that needed prior knowledge; although, luckily many were explained enough you could get by with just the bare minimum. I do feel I might have acquired a better sense of the characters if I had read their earlier story though.

That said, I still found the story fairly enjoyable and interesting if a tad predictable at times. The pacing was well maintained and the book just about held my interest. Given that some of my feelings may well stem from coming in when the story had already started, I have given this book three stars and would not be adverse to going back to book one and then looking out for book three in due course.

[Brandie Lea Slicer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok - the second in the series; imho- got even better. Rich with Native American, Norwegian, Druid, and Christian History, this one pulls you in quickly and doesn't let go! I really wish there were a screenplay for this series!

Ok, it's going down for real!

Spoilers ! So don't read ahead if you don't like them!

Even though one of the Angels warn us that one of the group is going to betray Dani or Tommy, sob! It does happen. And to one of my favorite people.
:( But in the end we find out via another Angel that he'll be reunited with someone he loves and his soul will be at piece - so stick it! You awful demons!

There. Now I got that out. I'm mature, just need to vent. So if you're nerdy like me and want to check the religious back story on some of what you read in this (part 2 ) of the trilogy- go ahead and research it. It's really interesting! In fact the "creation story" in many world religions are A LOT ALIKE ! And many interweave. Anyway, I digress.

We make new friends, meet some new demons, a extra demon. Of course the ex man and ex woman that we would just love to hate but can't because they're actually kick ass people. Tommy's Aunt ends up reminding me of my "God fearing Grandma's & Aunt's that believe faith is a great thing to have and even better to have with a Smith & Wesson, a couple of shotguns, 22...) 😉

And we're going to get a mind blowing lesson into what the ole elite Young Man's Academy up on the hill has been doing up there since the Revolutionary War. Be ready for some jaw dropping. Because this is something I can see happening. Evil incarnate. Spreading and tangling it's roots throughout the entire world - until it finds the perfect delivery system. However, do not undermine Faith, Love, God, Angels, and some pretty funny & witty characters thrown in that aren't afraid to go down swinging !

[Daniel Rudge · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second installment of the East Salem trilogy, "Darkness Rising" moved squarely into the supernatural arena after teasing a move in that direction in Book One. While the supernatural angle is welcomed, ultimately your enjoyment or disillusionment with the book will depend on your ability to overcome uninspiring prose and lack of character development. Also, the love interest and relationship failures are mind numbing, simply because jealousy and an inability to communicate lead to everyone jumping to the wrong conclusions. The plot is enjoyable and the pacing good, but "Darkness Rising" will leave many readers disappointed. Because I enjoyed the plot, and the dark ending that intros Book Three, I'll continue. But some will find the writing so sophomoric they might enjoy a similar YA book without the quality writing expectations.

Dani Harris thought there wasn't much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn't overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status. But as they race to uncover what's really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian's Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don't interfere. When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not only murder and betrayal-but angels and demons.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dani Harris thought there wasn’t much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn’t overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status. But as they race to uncover what’s really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian’s Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don’t interfere. When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not just murder and betrayal—but angels and demons.

I love stories of the paranormal...horror...demons but somehow this story just didn't present that eerie feeling that a good paranormal book delivers. I've read a lot of forensic science books and my degree involved a lot of biology...but even I found myself skimming over some of the medical/forensic terms. It could have been presented in terms that most readers would understand. I did like the story...I just wished the plot had come together better.

[Tamara · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid 3.5 stars for the middle book of the East Salem trilogy as the supernatural takes more of a center stage than Book #1. It's best described as a book where the "Left Behind" series might meet Dan Brown with its secret societies/conspiracy theory vibe. Lead characters Tommy Gunderson (ex-football player) and Dani Harris (forensic psychiatrist) start building an unlikely team of mostly likeable characters, especially supporting character Ruth (main character Tommy's aunt) the librarian deserves 5 stars for getting a more involved role in this one, but then as a librarian myself, I am biased. This may be the best line I've read in a while: minor "I'm a research librarian. And a gun collector. I will do research. And shoot people when asked."
The budding romance between Tommy and Dani can be a little distracting at times. Also, the theology of angels and demons can be a little over-the-top and unbelievable at times. Also as a Catholic, I find it odd that there only seems to be one church in all of East Salem and if I found myself suddenly in Tommy and Dani's shoes, I'd be contacting Church authorities for reinforcements (an exorcist, anyone). Also that one group of Druids who came to America started the school that has alumni responsible for being behind much of the world's evil including pandemics stretches even the most outlandish of conspiracy theories.
These things aside, it is a page-turning story and I'm in the middle of Book 3 to see how it's wrapped up.
Content warnings: animal death(s) including implied sacrifice

[Kristy · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book left an awful impression in my brain. Everything about it is just wrong. If this story were to be believed (and yes, it's fiction, but it should still BE believable) then angels are far stupider than demons and you better just hope they happen to be in the right place at the right time if they're going to protect you. Also, a Christian can be possessed by a demon. Also, once the demon leaves, the person can just go on to heaven as they die without even bothering to ask forgiveness for allowing the demon into them in the first place. Also, God will give you a task to do that will save the world, but He'll make it so cryptically weird to figure out that there's no way you could (although the hero in the story apparently does). Just, no. I won't be finishing the series. I don't even really care anymore how it ends. I'm done.

[Georgann · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Book 1, Waking Hours , had a satisfying ending, I knew I wanted to read the rest of the series. Book 2 left me wishing I had book 3 in my hands. Very exciting! Kudos to all you who read this series and had to wait at least a year between books! I'll only have to wait a week to get the final book from my library. Sometimes Christian books can be so preachy, but Wiehl does a great job of including Scripture without ever cramming it down my throat. Although a non-believer would not care for this book, I imagine. Book 3 to save the world, Alex.

[Carolyn Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about good versus evil from a Christian viewpoint. It is the second book in a trilogy that I was unaware of when I picked it up. But because I started in the middle of the tale I don’t feel disadvantaged. There were explanations given in this narrative that filled in what I missed from book one. This story is filled with thrilling moments. Diabolical believable attacks that will have you pause a moment and take a second thought before drinking one’s tap water among other things. Flowing with supernatural suspense and a band of individuals that are in over their heads but are determined to combat the evil no matter the cost. This exhilarating adventure with a cliff hanging ending was worth this reader’s time.

[Suzanne]

I don't normally read Christian fiction even though I am one, but I got started on this series for some crazy reason (now forgotten 🤨). The lead characters are a little far-fetched, but I like them for the most part. I have been impressed with the writing, especially the technical aspects of brain chemistry and pharmaceuticals. I've also learned a lot about Westchester County, NY, a place I’ve never been.

The book is not sugary sweet, as a horror book should not be. I can see the series as a movie. There hasn’t been any sex, and I really can’t really remember if there has been cursing, which I also wouldn’t expect. Anyway, I’ve enjoyed the series so far and plan to read the third book.

[Stella Potts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mostly enjoyed this book although I struggled some with the theology because it’s really not Biblical. However I got past that knowing it’s fiction and is strictly a good versus evil story. The salvation message is good and the evil in the town of East Salem is scary to say the least. I will read the next book in the series because I can’t really stand to start a series and not finish it to see how it all ends.

[Stef · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lis Wiehl is a new author for me 2019. First series I read - East Salem

I was hooked right from the beginning of book one that led to a cliff hanger to book 2. Wow this was an awesome read.
Suspense, murder, mystery, paranormal, small town murder with big history.

Really enjoyed this book.

[Conni Harness · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW, What A Read!!! The book cover said: "Secrets & Murder. Angels & Demons. Welcome To East Salem." A psychological thriller testing our Faith & the Goodness of God. Love Love this series. WOW INDEED!!!

[Sara Mann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't really read fantasy and sci-fi so this was different for me. I also didn't know it was a trilogy because it was given to me. I like it enough to read the next one to see what happens, but also felt like there was way to much unnecessary details in it!

[Lauri Gentry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Didn't like this as much as the first. Got lost in the story a few times (maybe it was just me). Had its moments which kept me going when I almost gave up. More faith and God in this one which was a plus for me. not going on to book three at this time.

[Library Queen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this was even creepier than the first one. It added a whopping dose of 'conspiracy to take over the world by evil forces', which was great, I love a good conspiracy book. The romance parts felt a little off this time, unfortunately. I'm excited to see where this goes!

[Heather Ratliff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense!! Spiritual battle going on and the team is racing to stay ahead of it. This is the second book in the series, but I highly recommend reading all together as one book ends and the next picks up right where it leaves off.

Trust the Lord fully!

[Jamie]

I'm still enjoying the series, but this book seemed to be leaning a little too much into Christianity. It also lost some of the creepy mysterious feel by bring the supernatural entities into full view.

[Janet Riegel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting premise. Demons and Angels, Evil vs good. Must save the world!

[Jodi Monroe · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-1/2 ⭐️

[Kathy Maher · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like the book but I just had a hard time with it. Parts of it just weren't flowing for me and I got lost a few times.

[A B Rhoads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Book! Recommend to all my family and friends!! If you like suspense, and demons, or characters trying to maintain the balance of good and evil, than this is the series for you!