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Crossroads
Sheila Bright talks to the dead including the ghost of her mother who wants to move to California. Kira Graves produces money out of thin air and can transform people into monsters. The two of them, along with Shape Shifters, Pookas, Lost Boys and more all inhabit the Crossroads, where good and evil collide.
When Kira’s family and everyone else in their carnival are murdered by unearthly creatures called Grigs, Kira and her constant companion, Jen, flee toward a half-mythical place of safety called Graves Island, but they fail to reach it when Kira is drawn through the looking glass into another world.
The planet of the Creators is deteriorating from a land of dreamscapes into one of nightmares, and the only way to stop the Empty-Eyed Man from turning the entire universe into chaos is for Kira to destroy the tool he most desires. But what she must sacrifice to do so may be worth more to her than the prize.
When Kira’s family and everyone else in their carnival are murdered by unearthly creatures called Grigs, Kira and her constant companion, Jen, flee toward a half-mythical place of safety called Graves Island, but they fail to reach it when Kira is drawn through the looking glass into another world.
The planet of the Creators is deteriorating from a land of dreamscapes into one of nightmares, and the only way to stop the Empty-Eyed Man from turning the entire universe into chaos is for Kira to destroy the tool he most desires. But what she must sacrifice to do so may be worth more to her than the prize.
310 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
19 people are currently reading
538 people want to read
About the author
Chandler McGrew
26 books21 followersChandler McGrew,who began writing after he had turned forty lives in quiet seclusion in the mountains of Maine. He writes ten to twelve hours a day.
Born in Texas he lived for almost a decade in Alaska where his first novel, Cold Heart, is set. He followed with Night Terror and then The Darkening and In Shadows.
Born in Texas he lived for almost a decade in Alaska where his first novel, Cold Heart, is set. He followed with Night Terror and then The Darkening and In Shadows.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 17, 2013
I have to admit I don't normally read this kind of books with all kinds of supernatural elements. After reading this book, I discovered again why I don't. It's just not my genre. I like stories that could really happen. Nonetheless I liked this book and this story. It's very well written and author Chandler McGrew doesn't waste time on unnecessary scenes. That's a thing I highly appreciate. Something that did bother me from time to time were all the comparisons the author made. The words "it was a lot like..." appeared one too many times.
In "Crossroads" McGrew tells us the story of Kira Graves, a young girl that grows up with her parents in a carnival. Kira has a pretty normal life (at least that's what she thinks) untill one night everything changes for her. When her parents and all the other carneys are killed by a horrible "thing" one night, Kira doesn't know what to do and is left all alone in the world. The only "person" she has by her side isn't real and can't be seen by everybody... The last thing her mother told her was that Kira would be punished for something she didn't do and that she had to go without looking back. Not understanding Kira begins a life changing journey with her "pooka" or protecter Jen (the one that can't be seen by everybody). On this journey Kira discovers a lot about herself. She seems to be able to create things out of nothing and doesn't really know why she's got this "gift" or how she must use it. She meets Sheila Bright on her journey who also seems to be a little "odd". Indeed Sheila also has a strange gift, though she rather thinks of it as a curse. She's able to talk to the dead and just like Kira she doesn't know what to do with this ability.
Together Kira and Sheila discover a lot of things they didn't want to discover at all. They visit worlds they'd rather avoid and meet creatures that shouldn't have been created.
I have to admit I came more into the story when it reached its climax. I wanted to know what would happen next and that's a good thing when you read a book... Duh... A thing that bothered me (aaargh) was that my version of this book didn't have a page numbering. It almost drove me crazy (only exaggerating a little :p )! The lay-out still needs some work, but we all know the story is the most important part of a book so I won't say something more about this.
All in all it's a good story but I think you have to be a fan of this genre. You can see the author has put a lot of effort in this book, so we can only be positive on that part... What I liked were the philosophical ideas that appeared from time to time in "Crossroads". I don't know wether the author did this on purpose or it's just a coincidence, but it gave a little more to this book. Though I "only" gave 3 stars to this work, I can recommand it to (some) readers. I'm sure lots of people will really like this book a lot!
In "Crossroads" McGrew tells us the story of Kira Graves, a young girl that grows up with her parents in a carnival. Kira has a pretty normal life (at least that's what she thinks) untill one night everything changes for her. When her parents and all the other carneys are killed by a horrible "thing" one night, Kira doesn't know what to do and is left all alone in the world. The only "person" she has by her side isn't real and can't be seen by everybody... The last thing her mother told her was that Kira would be punished for something she didn't do and that she had to go without looking back. Not understanding Kira begins a life changing journey with her "pooka" or protecter Jen (the one that can't be seen by everybody). On this journey Kira discovers a lot about herself. She seems to be able to create things out of nothing and doesn't really know why she's got this "gift" or how she must use it. She meets Sheila Bright on her journey who also seems to be a little "odd". Indeed Sheila also has a strange gift, though she rather thinks of it as a curse. She's able to talk to the dead and just like Kira she doesn't know what to do with this ability.
Together Kira and Sheila discover a lot of things they didn't want to discover at all. They visit worlds they'd rather avoid and meet creatures that shouldn't have been created.
I have to admit I came more into the story when it reached its climax. I wanted to know what would happen next and that's a good thing when you read a book... Duh... A thing that bothered me (aaargh) was that my version of this book didn't have a page numbering. It almost drove me crazy (only exaggerating a little :p )! The lay-out still needs some work, but we all know the story is the most important part of a book so I won't say something more about this.
All in all it's a good story but I think you have to be a fan of this genre. You can see the author has put a lot of effort in this book, so we can only be positive on that part... What I liked were the philosophical ideas that appeared from time to time in "Crossroads". I don't know wether the author did this on purpose or it's just a coincidence, but it gave a little more to this book. Though I "only" gave 3 stars to this work, I can recommand it to (some) readers. I'm sure lots of people will really like this book a lot!
October 22, 2012
Crossroads wastes no time in telling its story, opening with intrigue, foreboding, and a tragic turn of events, instantly endearing the reader to the main character, Kira. After mere pages, I really felt for Kira and Jen, and journeying with them through the book, was wishing for their happy ending. In fact, all the characters are likeable, each having depth and distinct personality.
McGrew begins by building the tension one tingle at a time, until before you know it your entire spine reverberates with the momentum of suspense, and you have bitten all your fingernails to the quick. Supernatural and mysterious elements are interwoven into the fabric of the story at first subtly, and almost casually, as to make them entirely believable. Just over halfway, I was captivated by the once-paradisiacal Otherworld, where, alongside untold horrors, the Whinegrass sings when danced upon, and the Lost take millennia to age.
Initially, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry at the razor-toothed Grigs, with their likening to 'black beach balls' - but I certainly wouldn't want to meet one in a dark alley, their malevolence gaining momentum with the story. Whilst Crossroads does contain some moments of horror, in the Grigs, and Kira's monster creations, they are never gratuitous. At its heart it's an epic fantasy thriller.
The novel is consistently fast-paced, and scattered with frankly beautiful writing. The plot is unpredictable and full of surprises - in the opening chapters, a revelation concerning Jen floored me, as did Kira's sudden transportation into Otherworld. The only disappointment in the entire book, for me, was that Kira didn't spend more time with her grandfather at the end - but that's the sentimentalist in me. Besides telling an awesome tale, Crossroads also sheds an insightful light upon our materialistic culture, via Kira in her consideration of the 'towners.'
I enjoyed every moment of Crossroads, and couldn't turn the pages fast enough, sacrificing sleep just to read more. I downright loved this novel, so much so that McGrew easily earns, in my opinion, exaltation to Master of the Genre - right up there with King and Koontz. What more can I say? Crossroads is truly a brilliant book.
McGrew begins by building the tension one tingle at a time, until before you know it your entire spine reverberates with the momentum of suspense, and you have bitten all your fingernails to the quick. Supernatural and mysterious elements are interwoven into the fabric of the story at first subtly, and almost casually, as to make them entirely believable. Just over halfway, I was captivated by the once-paradisiacal Otherworld, where, alongside untold horrors, the Whinegrass sings when danced upon, and the Lost take millennia to age.
Initially, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry at the razor-toothed Grigs, with their likening to 'black beach balls' - but I certainly wouldn't want to meet one in a dark alley, their malevolence gaining momentum with the story. Whilst Crossroads does contain some moments of horror, in the Grigs, and Kira's monster creations, they are never gratuitous. At its heart it's an epic fantasy thriller.
The novel is consistently fast-paced, and scattered with frankly beautiful writing. The plot is unpredictable and full of surprises - in the opening chapters, a revelation concerning Jen floored me, as did Kira's sudden transportation into Otherworld. The only disappointment in the entire book, for me, was that Kira didn't spend more time with her grandfather at the end - but that's the sentimentalist in me. Besides telling an awesome tale, Crossroads also sheds an insightful light upon our materialistic culture, via Kira in her consideration of the 'towners.'
I enjoyed every moment of Crossroads, and couldn't turn the pages fast enough, sacrificing sleep just to read more. I downright loved this novel, so much so that McGrew easily earns, in my opinion, exaltation to Master of the Genre - right up there with King and Koontz. What more can I say? Crossroads is truly a brilliant book.
October 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The story hooks you right away with an ominous opening. I liked the supernatural aspect of the story and the different characters you meet along the way. I also liked how each character starts off so mysterious, and then slowly, you start to learn more, and it all comes together in the end. Overall, it's a good book and one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good supernatural type story.
April 6, 2014
Paranormal YA without the Romance is Excellent
I have gotten tired of the overwhelming paranormal romance YA shtick with all the teen drama inherent in the genre. In Crossroads we have YA paranormal without any of the teen drama normally associated with the genre. It may be because there was no romance, or no school setting.
Kira, our protagonist, is a carney. She is intelligent, spiritual and streetwise. Where she is ignorant is in modern life such as cell phones, television and the Internet, consumerism and schools. She spent her entire life on the road with the Carnival, traveling the country from one small town to the next bringing joy and entertainment to town people.
On one dark night, Kira's entire world collapses except for Jen. This is when her quest begins. It turns out Kira is not like a normal teen. She has special gifts and someone evil is hunting her and Jen as they travel on their quest. Other people are involved with the quest but from different perspectives, and they all work toward a common goal.
As Kira and Jen travel, they pick up people who help. Kira and Jen find themselves developing their powers and themselves. For Kira especially it is a trip of transformation.
The enemy is the Man with the Empty Eyes and his thugs who are called the Grigs. McGrew does a fanciful job of creating these horrible creatures. The way they move, how they find their prey, their physical attributes, how they attack, all these things are very well crafted in this story and integrated seamlessly into the narrative.
Outside of Kira, the other characters including Shandon, Sheila, Madeleine, Jen, Clem, No Legs and Silky are very well characterized with significant backstory as well as details of their ongoing existence. Reading this story, I felt very sympathetic toward all the characters, even to some extent the evil one. Much of the time the characters worked off intuition and they statistically they were right about as much of the time as they made mistakes. Mistakes in this story result in people getting killed. There is a high body count in this book.
The ending is a surprise - actually two surprises. I never guessed either one of them. I should have guessed the second one. In any event, the ending wraps things up nicely, with no cliffhangers or unfinished endings.
The Bottom Line: If you want to read a highly imaginative story that is well written, with characters that you'll love, and a plot that will keep you guessing to the last page - Then Read This!
I have gotten tired of the overwhelming paranormal romance YA shtick with all the teen drama inherent in the genre. In Crossroads we have YA paranormal without any of the teen drama normally associated with the genre. It may be because there was no romance, or no school setting.
Kira, our protagonist, is a carney. She is intelligent, spiritual and streetwise. Where she is ignorant is in modern life such as cell phones, television and the Internet, consumerism and schools. She spent her entire life on the road with the Carnival, traveling the country from one small town to the next bringing joy and entertainment to town people.
On one dark night, Kira's entire world collapses except for Jen. This is when her quest begins. It turns out Kira is not like a normal teen. She has special gifts and someone evil is hunting her and Jen as they travel on their quest. Other people are involved with the quest but from different perspectives, and they all work toward a common goal.
As Kira and Jen travel, they pick up people who help. Kira and Jen find themselves developing their powers and themselves. For Kira especially it is a trip of transformation.
The enemy is the Man with the Empty Eyes and his thugs who are called the Grigs. McGrew does a fanciful job of creating these horrible creatures. The way they move, how they find their prey, their physical attributes, how they attack, all these things are very well crafted in this story and integrated seamlessly into the narrative.
Outside of Kira, the other characters including Shandon, Sheila, Madeleine, Jen, Clem, No Legs and Silky are very well characterized with significant backstory as well as details of their ongoing existence. Reading this story, I felt very sympathetic toward all the characters, even to some extent the evil one. Much of the time the characters worked off intuition and they statistically they were right about as much of the time as they made mistakes. Mistakes in this story result in people getting killed. There is a high body count in this book.
The ending is a surprise - actually two surprises. I never guessed either one of them. I should have guessed the second one. In any event, the ending wraps things up nicely, with no cliffhangers or unfinished endings.
The Bottom Line: If you want to read a highly imaginative story that is well written, with characters that you'll love, and a plot that will keep you guessing to the last page - Then Read This!
August 20, 2012
Crossroads by Chandler McGrew is a story about a teen girl named Kira who loses everything she has ever known and must battle the Empty-Eyed Man and his minions with the help of friends, family and a few strangers. Can she save her family's legacy?
Kira is the only child raised in the life of the carnival. Her parents, and everyone she knows, is tragically murdered one night. Filled with cryptic messages from her parents, a strange eye amulet, and a traveling companion named Jen, Kira is on the run. Where is anyone's guess.
Jen is Kira's friend that can see into the Otherworld and this world at the same time. Jen's sole mission is to protect Kira from the Empty-Eyed Man and the Grigs (and possibly consume as much food as possible). The pair travel across the country looking for answers and safety. Kira must also come to terms with her ability as a Creator. Can she defeat the Empty-Eyed Man? Will she harness her abilities in time?
"We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life, is rounded with a sleep." -The Tempest
I enjoyed Crossroads. It's a story that would appeal to paranormal, fantasy YA fans. It's in the realm of James Dashner or E.J. Patten. It has a nice horror element to it.
I definitely like stories with adventure and fantasy worlds. I especially like when the main character is of the YA age range. The whole plot is quite unique as Kira is a carnie. It makes me think of Cone Island. You can still catch a glimpse of the carnival life on the show Oddities on the Science channel.
My only constructive criticism is the cover of the novel. I think it'd market well toward the YA niche. The cover appears more of the horror genre which isn't false. It has horror elements. But I'd like to see Kira or Jen something fantasy-girly like you see on so many YA covers as I think it'd be well received by those readers. That said, the pace, the characters, and the plot I found to be good. A bewitching novel that transports you into a world of dreams and nightmares.
Kira is the only child raised in the life of the carnival. Her parents, and everyone she knows, is tragically murdered one night. Filled with cryptic messages from her parents, a strange eye amulet, and a traveling companion named Jen, Kira is on the run. Where is anyone's guess.
Jen is Kira's friend that can see into the Otherworld and this world at the same time. Jen's sole mission is to protect Kira from the Empty-Eyed Man and the Grigs (and possibly consume as much food as possible). The pair travel across the country looking for answers and safety. Kira must also come to terms with her ability as a Creator. Can she defeat the Empty-Eyed Man? Will she harness her abilities in time?
"We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life, is rounded with a sleep." -The Tempest
I enjoyed Crossroads. It's a story that would appeal to paranormal, fantasy YA fans. It's in the realm of James Dashner or E.J. Patten. It has a nice horror element to it.
I definitely like stories with adventure and fantasy worlds. I especially like when the main character is of the YA age range. The whole plot is quite unique as Kira is a carnie. It makes me think of Cone Island. You can still catch a glimpse of the carnival life on the show Oddities on the Science channel.
My only constructive criticism is the cover of the novel. I think it'd market well toward the YA niche. The cover appears more of the horror genre which isn't false. It has horror elements. But I'd like to see Kira or Jen something fantasy-girly like you see on so many YA covers as I think it'd be well received by those readers. That said, the pace, the characters, and the plot I found to be good. A bewitching novel that transports you into a world of dreams and nightmares.
September 6, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This is an intriguing and thrilling story. I loved it!
Kira Graves is a wonderful character. She is a young girl living with her family in a carnival. She has a special ability - she can make money by just thinking about it (I wish I had that ability!). I really liked her spirit and courage when faced with imminent danger. She is one plucky kid! She has a best friend called Jen, and they are as close as sisters. However, Jen is a Pooka, a magical being that can only be seen by a few people. When danger threatens the carnival, Kira and Jen embark on a journey that will take them to a magical realm where evil lurks and danger is ever present.
Sheila Bright is another fantastic character. She is a psychic, who doesn't want to be. I liked her very much.
This is an extremely dark, but exciting read. I struggled to get into the story at first, but as I continued to read, and the action hotted up, I was hooked! The story had a feeling of foreboding and suspense that flowed throughout, and the Grigs scared me to death; I shudder even now thinking about them! The Empty-Eyed man is a chilling and scary character, and he made my skin crawl!
This story has several points of view by different characters; I found this extremely exciting, because it gave depth to the characters and made them come alive. The story has several twists and turns, which kept me on the edge of my seat! I loved the ending, and now look forward to reading more books by this author.
Chandler McGrew has written a fast paced tale that thrilled and chilled me! I loved the mix of horror, suspense and fantasy that the author used to create this story. He has found a fan in me!
I recommend this book if you love horror, thrillers, suspense, paranormal or fantasy genres. - Lynn Worton
This is an intriguing and thrilling story. I loved it!
Kira Graves is a wonderful character. She is a young girl living with her family in a carnival. She has a special ability - she can make money by just thinking about it (I wish I had that ability!). I really liked her spirit and courage when faced with imminent danger. She is one plucky kid! She has a best friend called Jen, and they are as close as sisters. However, Jen is a Pooka, a magical being that can only be seen by a few people. When danger threatens the carnival, Kira and Jen embark on a journey that will take them to a magical realm where evil lurks and danger is ever present.
Sheila Bright is another fantastic character. She is a psychic, who doesn't want to be. I liked her very much.
This is an extremely dark, but exciting read. I struggled to get into the story at first, but as I continued to read, and the action hotted up, I was hooked! The story had a feeling of foreboding and suspense that flowed throughout, and the Grigs scared me to death; I shudder even now thinking about them! The Empty-Eyed man is a chilling and scary character, and he made my skin crawl!
This story has several points of view by different characters; I found this extremely exciting, because it gave depth to the characters and made them come alive. The story has several twists and turns, which kept me on the edge of my seat! I loved the ending, and now look forward to reading more books by this author.
Chandler McGrew has written a fast paced tale that thrilled and chilled me! I loved the mix of horror, suspense and fantasy that the author used to create this story. He has found a fan in me!
I recommend this book if you love horror, thrillers, suspense, paranormal or fantasy genres. - Lynn Worton
February 15, 2013
Wow. This book is a fantastic read. Crossroads is a paranormal suspense with an edge of mystery. You’re drawn into the strange world of a carnival, but quickly realize there is something much darker at work.
Chandler McGrew reveals clues as to what is going slowly throughout the plot, never revealing what exactly is going on until the climax of the story. I had guesses as to what was going on, but nothing concrete.
The paranormal side of things was something fresh and new. I won’t reveal what exactly is all involved because that would give away part of the mystery, but it is definitely an interesting concept that I enjoyed immensely. Besides paranormal I would say there is even an essence of fantasy to the story.
The suspense and mystery was fantastic. Crossroads had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe wondering what would happen next. Undertones and small things gave scenes an ominous air that had creepy music playing in my mind as I prepared myself for what would happen next.
The characters were interesting, they were easily distinguished from each other. The heroine Kira, transforms slowly into what she needs to become over the story in a very believable way. All in all I found the characters well developed and interesting.
Crossroads had one shortcoming. Some of the formatting was a little off and distracting. Occasionally scene breaks were missing, which made for a little confusion when suddenly I was reading a new scene and I had no warning. Another thing that took some getting used to was that there was n-dashes used instead of m-dashes. So, because of that I’m taking off one star.
Crossroads by Chandler McGrew gets 4 out of 5 stars.
Chandler McGrew reveals clues as to what is going slowly throughout the plot, never revealing what exactly is going on until the climax of the story. I had guesses as to what was going on, but nothing concrete.
The paranormal side of things was something fresh and new. I won’t reveal what exactly is all involved because that would give away part of the mystery, but it is definitely an interesting concept that I enjoyed immensely. Besides paranormal I would say there is even an essence of fantasy to the story.
The suspense and mystery was fantastic. Crossroads had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe wondering what would happen next. Undertones and small things gave scenes an ominous air that had creepy music playing in my mind as I prepared myself for what would happen next.
The characters were interesting, they were easily distinguished from each other. The heroine Kira, transforms slowly into what she needs to become over the story in a very believable way. All in all I found the characters well developed and interesting.
Crossroads had one shortcoming. Some of the formatting was a little off and distracting. Occasionally scene breaks were missing, which made for a little confusion when suddenly I was reading a new scene and I had no warning. Another thing that took some getting used to was that there was n-dashes used instead of m-dashes. So, because of that I’m taking off one star.
Crossroads by Chandler McGrew gets 4 out of 5 stars.
February 15, 2013
Wow. This book is a fantastic read. Crossroads is a paranormal suspense with an edge of mystery. You’re drawn into the strange world of a carnival, but quickly realize there is something much darker at work.
Chandler McGrew reveals clues as to what is going slowly throughout the plot, never revealing what exactly is going on until the climax of the story. I had guesses as to what was going on, but nothing concrete.
The paranormal side of things was something fresh and new. I won’t reveal what exactly is all involved because that would give away part of the mystery, but it is definitely an interesting concept that I enjoyed immensely. Besides paranormal I would say there is even an essence of fantasy to the story.
The suspense and mystery was fantastic. Crossroads had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe wondering what would happen next. Undertones and small things gave scenes an ominous air that had creepy music playing in my mind as I prepared myself for what would happen next.
The characters were interesting, they were easily distinguished from each other. The heroine Kira, transforms slowly into what she needs to become over the story in a very believable way. All in all I found the characters well developed and interesting.
Crossroads had one shortcoming. Some of the formatting was a little off and distracting. Occasionally scene breaks were missing, which made for a little confusion when suddenly I was reading a new scene and I had no warning. Another thing that took some getting used to was that there was n-dashes used instead of m-dashes. So, because of that I’m taking off one star.
Crossroads by Chandler McGrew gets 4 out of 5 stars.
Chandler McGrew reveals clues as to what is going slowly throughout the plot, never revealing what exactly is going on until the climax of the story. I had guesses as to what was going on, but nothing concrete.
The paranormal side of things was something fresh and new. I won’t reveal what exactly is all involved because that would give away part of the mystery, but it is definitely an interesting concept that I enjoyed immensely. Besides paranormal I would say there is even an essence of fantasy to the story.
The suspense and mystery was fantastic. Crossroads had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe wondering what would happen next. Undertones and small things gave scenes an ominous air that had creepy music playing in my mind as I prepared myself for what would happen next.
The characters were interesting, they were easily distinguished from each other. The heroine Kira, transforms slowly into what she needs to become over the story in a very believable way. All in all I found the characters well developed and interesting.
Crossroads had one shortcoming. Some of the formatting was a little off and distracting. Occasionally scene breaks were missing, which made for a little confusion when suddenly I was reading a new scene and I had no warning. Another thing that took some getting used to was that there was n-dashes used instead of m-dashes. So, because of that I’m taking off one star.
Crossroads by Chandler McGrew gets 4 out of 5 stars.
November 7, 2012
already knew that Chandler McGrew was a talented writer after I read his other work, The Remnant. So I didn't expect to be disappointed with reading Crossroads, and I wasn't.
I may have to take a break from paranormal books after reading this one. It really left me on the edge of my seat and literally shaking with anxiety. Chandler sucks you into the world of Sheila and Kira as if you are standing right there with them. Seriously, the Empty-Eyed Man was completely frightening!!
Chandler McGrew is a master of the arts. He is right up there alongside Stephen King and Dean Koontz as my top scary writers. Crossroads was hard to finish. But in a good way. I didn't want this amazing tale to be over because of how scary/awesome/really cool it was. PLEASE go read this, you will not be let down.
I may have to take a break from paranormal books after reading this one. It really left me on the edge of my seat and literally shaking with anxiety. Chandler sucks you into the world of Sheila and Kira as if you are standing right there with them. Seriously, the Empty-Eyed Man was completely frightening!!
Chandler McGrew is a master of the arts. He is right up there alongside Stephen King and Dean Koontz as my top scary writers. Crossroads was hard to finish. But in a good way. I didn't want this amazing tale to be over because of how scary/awesome/really cool it was. PLEASE go read this, you will not be let down.
March 8, 2014
So look, this just isn't my genre - that horror stuff I expected. I liked NOS4A2 but didn't run right out and buy another Joe Hill... And I don't read Mr King.
And, in full disclosure, I count Chandler as friend, although he's 2000 miles away in his wonderful secluded hideaway.
This book was just exciting, interesting, well told, with numerous characters you cared about immediately, and has a story you can't wait to see how it ends.
If you want to dig into it I'm sure you can pull out some thoughts about dreams, how we treat each other, loyalty and family, but it's such a wild ride to the end you barely have time.
Chad writes books that suck in you in the first few pages, try "Cold Heart" for mind blowing intensity in about 10 pages, and then leads you on a merry, scary journey
I do recommend this to all looking for something 'new and different'.
And, in full disclosure, I count Chandler as friend, although he's 2000 miles away in his wonderful secluded hideaway.
This book was just exciting, interesting, well told, with numerous characters you cared about immediately, and has a story you can't wait to see how it ends.
If you want to dig into it I'm sure you can pull out some thoughts about dreams, how we treat each other, loyalty and family, but it's such a wild ride to the end you barely have time.
Chad writes books that suck in you in the first few pages, try "Cold Heart" for mind blowing intensity in about 10 pages, and then leads you on a merry, scary journey
I do recommend this to all looking for something 'new and different'.
May 13, 2013
I have found another great author. I didn't like this one as much as I did Remnant, but Remnant should have been a ten star, I like it that much. But where Remnant was deep and heavy and gave me tons to think about, this one was light but scary. I guess this one was one of those YA books that I don't usually care for but this one was more involved like Stephen King's novels. I loved Kira, the 14 year old heroine. I loved the magical carnival people and the empty-eyed man was very scary. The big round creatures that did the bidding for the empty-eyed man was almost comical but they got my pulse racing. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes Stephen King and/or fantasy.
September 18, 2012
This was I slow burner for me. I enjoyed it but it took me a while to get into it. As it drew nearer to the climax though I was hooked. There was a lot of mystery surrounding the story and I often felt the answers were right there on the page I was just missing them.
The story was told from different perspectives and were quite a few mini cliff hangers that had me reading on to see what would happen next.
It was filled with suspense and horror although not so scary I couldn't sleep.overall A good read
The story was told from different perspectives and were quite a few mini cliff hangers that had me reading on to see what would happen next.
It was filled with suspense and horror although not so scary I couldn't sleep.overall A good read
February 28, 2013
I don't really know what to say about this book. Maybe I'm still trying to process all that this book had to offer. However, I will say that Chandler McGrew wrote this book exceptionally well combining a well timed pace with a hint of suspense that kept me wanting to find out more but only revealing just enough to never fully figure out what was just around the corner.
This book is fun enough to read with short chapters but I don't feel it would leave me with any real lasting impression. It's worth the time but maybe look for it in your local library.
This book is fun enough to read with short chapters but I don't feel it would leave me with any real lasting impression. It's worth the time but maybe look for it in your local library.
April 16, 2014
I'm not usually into the types of books with multiple worlds and their own dialect, but I have to admit that this was a great book. The author did a great job diving right into the story and getting through to the reader. I read this in just a few days. It wasn't a long book and I was caught up in the story within the first chapter. The author has a great imagination and I really look forward to reading another book by him. I recommend that you check this one out. This would be a great weekend getaway book filled with suspense and magic.
December 7, 2013
Chandler McGrew can pen a scary tale. This book took me to the edge of my seat so many times, I lost count. The pace is fast--and frightening. I won't get into the plot. I'll just say it was well-conceived, and although complex, well-executed.
McGrew knows how to flesh out a character and to get the reader pulling for them. Excellent character development.
The writing is good, editing is good. I'd set this on my bookshelf next to the master, Stephen King.
McGrew knows how to flesh out a character and to get the reader pulling for them. Excellent character development.
The writing is good, editing is good. I'd set this on my bookshelf next to the master, Stephen King.
February 21, 2013
A amazing story,very well written.
Any bookworm should dive into this fine book!
Any bookworm should dive into this fine book!
May 5, 2014
very good
August 5, 2014
I'm sorry, but I just couldn't read farther than the first fifty pages... The story didn't capture me at all. I was actually bored and rolled my eyes a few times before I finally gave up...
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