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Gated
British couple Michael and Emily Torrence lived perfect lives. He was a writer of horror fiction getting paid for his hobby, and Emily was immersed in her life as a teacher. Their world was complete when Emily became pregnant, because their child would make them a family. Their dreams, however, were shattered one wet winter night by a car mounting a pavement out of the darkness.
To overcome their loss, they pick up and move to Eden Gardens, a U.S. gated community that offers "Heaven on Earth and Twice as Nice." The people are warm and friendly and welcome them with open arms. The town is a beautiful throwback to a bygone age, where the sun always shines and the sky's always blue.
As they settle into their new, perfect lives, the circle is complete when Emily falls pregnant again. The town is perfect, the weather is perfect, and their lives are perfect. But are the stares from their neighbours a little too intense, is the town a little too interested in their happy news, and is Eden all that it seems?
They are about to find out that paradise comes at a cost, and when you sign a lease, you should always check the fine print.
To overcome their loss, they pick up and move to Eden Gardens, a U.S. gated community that offers "Heaven on Earth and Twice as Nice." The people are warm and friendly and welcome them with open arms. The town is a beautiful throwback to a bygone age, where the sun always shines and the sky's always blue.
As they settle into their new, perfect lives, the circle is complete when Emily falls pregnant again. The town is perfect, the weather is perfect, and their lives are perfect. But are the stares from their neighbours a little too intense, is the town a little too interested in their happy news, and is Eden all that it seems?
They are about to find out that paradise comes at a cost, and when you sign a lease, you should always check the fine print.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2012
71 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
Matt Drabble
63 books244 followersBorn in Bath, England in 1974, a self-professed "funny onion", equal parts sport loving jock and comic book geek.
Awards & Achievements:
"ABRA-CADAVER" is the 2017 Readers Favorite Silver Medal Winner for Horror Fiction. It is also a 2015 Kindle Book Review Finalist, an Indie Book of the Day winner and the 2016 Book Excellence Award Winner for Horror Fiction.
"GATED" is the 2015 Readers Favorite Gold Medal Winner. It is also a UK & US Horror Chart Top Ten Best Seller & winner of the Full Moon Awards 2014 Horror Book of the Year.
"ASYLUM - 13 TALES OF TERROR" was a US Horror Chart #5. It was also voted #5 on The Horror Novel Review's Top 10 Books of 2013 & was the Readers Favorite 2014 Gold Medal Winner for Anthology Fiction.
"THE LAST RESORT" is the 2019 Readers Favorite Silver Medal Winner for Horror Fiction & The 2019 Kindle Book Review's Winner for Horror/Suspense
Visit me at www.mattdrabble.co.uk to download free short stories.
Twitter: MattDrabble01
Facebook: matt.drabble.3
Instagram: mattdrabble01
or to sign up for a newsletter: http://mad.ly/signups/95503/join
Awards & Achievements:
"ABRA-CADAVER" is the 2017 Readers Favorite Silver Medal Winner for Horror Fiction. It is also a 2015 Kindle Book Review Finalist, an Indie Book of the Day winner and the 2016 Book Excellence Award Winner for Horror Fiction.
"GATED" is the 2015 Readers Favorite Gold Medal Winner. It is also a UK & US Horror Chart Top Ten Best Seller & winner of the Full Moon Awards 2014 Horror Book of the Year.
"ASYLUM - 13 TALES OF TERROR" was a US Horror Chart #5. It was also voted #5 on The Horror Novel Review's Top 10 Books of 2013 & was the Readers Favorite 2014 Gold Medal Winner for Anthology Fiction.
"THE LAST RESORT" is the 2019 Readers Favorite Silver Medal Winner for Horror Fiction & The 2019 Kindle Book Review's Winner for Horror/Suspense
Visit me at www.mattdrabble.co.uk to download free short stories.
Twitter: MattDrabble01
Facebook: matt.drabble.3
Instagram: mattdrabble01
or to sign up for a newsletter: http://mad.ly/signups/95503/join
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
January 16, 2013
Matt Drabble does it again with another great book. Gated is a creepy journey into the perfect world of an isolated community that has an old world history and an even darker future. Nothing is as it seems in Eden and for one couple they are about to find out the hard way that sometimes the perfect neighborhood can go to hell in a hurry...unless they can find a way to stop it.
December 26, 2012
Loved this book. I agree with the earlier review in that I was drawn in by the careful and skilful construction of the characters, and I grew to care about them before they were placed in peril.
I loved the creeping sense of tension and terror. Too many books these days seem to have problems in pacing, either rushing in too quickly to the action, or drawing out the melodrama and never getting going. I found "Gated" to be of a perfect pace, always keeping your interest and excitement but never feeling rushed.
The world of Eden Gardens did seem like a perfect place to live, that is if you don't mind a few dead bodies here and there! I also enjoyed the exploration of out own thoughts and fears of a perfect society. Just how far would we go to protect our way of life, and just where exactly do you draw the line between crimes and punishments.
I can't believe that this book is only the author's third novel and that he hasn't been signed up yet. In a world of indie writers it is often very difficult to find the quality needle in the haystack. I hope that other readers along with myself, will try and help to bring Mr Drabble's work to as wide an audience as possible.
I would recommend this book to fans of dark thrillers with a touch of horror and a splash of intelligence.
I loved the creeping sense of tension and terror. Too many books these days seem to have problems in pacing, either rushing in too quickly to the action, or drawing out the melodrama and never getting going. I found "Gated" to be of a perfect pace, always keeping your interest and excitement but never feeling rushed.
The world of Eden Gardens did seem like a perfect place to live, that is if you don't mind a few dead bodies here and there! I also enjoyed the exploration of out own thoughts and fears of a perfect society. Just how far would we go to protect our way of life, and just where exactly do you draw the line between crimes and punishments.
I can't believe that this book is only the author's third novel and that he hasn't been signed up yet. In a world of indie writers it is often very difficult to find the quality needle in the haystack. I hope that other readers along with myself, will try and help to bring Mr Drabble's work to as wide an audience as possible.
I would recommend this book to fans of dark thrillers with a touch of horror and a splash of intelligence.
August 16, 2014
Deleted only 4% in. It has some peculiar phraseology and I don't like the fact he omits commas and doesn't realise the different meaning this gives his sentences. This is a prime example-..."since she had returned from the hospital he had found." This too-"Michael managed amused, his arm already aching". That was my proverbial straw moment. I kept re-reading it till I realised what he had meant.
Right at the beginning he put an apostrophe into Torrance's where one wasn't needed then it went downhill from that and he can't make his mind up whether to stick with English spellings (minimised) or American (tire) which is distracting, too.
He mentioned a book then said about it "despite her pricking around the corners of his mind"....I've never heard of a book with a gender before. This line I thought odd as well...."As all of the buildings that he had seen so far...". Just a very strange way of writing which I found way too tiring to be bothered with.
I had another downloaded by him too but I've decided I'll pass on that, too.
Right at the beginning he put an apostrophe into Torrance's where one wasn't needed then it went downhill from that and he can't make his mind up whether to stick with English spellings (minimised) or American (tire) which is distracting, too.
He mentioned a book then said about it "despite her pricking around the corners of his mind"....I've never heard of a book with a gender before. This line I thought odd as well...."As all of the buildings that he had seen so far...". Just a very strange way of writing which I found way too tiring to be bothered with.
I had another downloaded by him too but I've decided I'll pass on that, too.
February 27, 2013
Loved this book. I am very easily scared and I like to be on edge a little. By getting to know the characters Michael and Emily really helped when their tragedy stuck. If you are not drawn in and begin to care about the characters, then the tragedy is not as awful. This was really storytelling at its best. So I am not going to reveal any spoilers, but it was pretty dramatic and you will appreciate the story so much more now that you care about this couple.
As the story progressed and Michael and Emily are moving into Eden Gardens, where they have a very warm reception. People around them greet them and they feel welcomed. This is where I was fearful and on edge! When they begin a routine in their perfect little cookie cutter village, the story seems to gain momentum. The rest of the book is set up on a very steady climb to some real drama. I mean a dead body thrown in here and there, well what is that? Nothing! At least not in Eden Gardens, it is after all a perfect community. Yeesh nail biter!
My thoughts are, if you like a thriller then this is for you! If you like a thriller that is edgy and maybe considered mild horror then, BINGO this is for you. I really thought it was entertaining and out of my comfort zone so if I rave about it then you know it was a great read. I think both men and woman will love this book.
As the story progressed and Michael and Emily are moving into Eden Gardens, where they have a very warm reception. People around them greet them and they feel welcomed. This is where I was fearful and on edge! When they begin a routine in their perfect little cookie cutter village, the story seems to gain momentum. The rest of the book is set up on a very steady climb to some real drama. I mean a dead body thrown in here and there, well what is that? Nothing! At least not in Eden Gardens, it is after all a perfect community. Yeesh nail biter!
My thoughts are, if you like a thriller then this is for you! If you like a thriller that is edgy and maybe considered mild horror then, BINGO this is for you. I really thought it was entertaining and out of my comfort zone so if I rave about it then you know it was a great read. I think both men and woman will love this book.
January 3, 2019
There's nothing exactly wrong with GATED ... but there's nothing all that spectacular either. Matt Drabble seemed to have cobbled together some themes from other well-known stories (but referencing them along the way - just so we know that HE KNOWS we know) and then just sort of came up with a new story incorporating all those ingredients. Much like a TASTY video will show you how to take the same five flavors you just had for Thanksgiving yesterday, but make it into a casserole and add cheese and now you've got the same stuff but different? Sorta? But you liked it before? So you should like this new stuff here? Yeah. That's GATED.
And that's valid! Leftovers cobbled together and turned into a casserole can taste REALLY GOOD!
But it doesn't taste unique. And that's how I feel about this book. It was good! In parts! But not at all unique. It's a page turner, but not in that "up all night this is so good I can't put it down I'm gonna pay for this tomorrow!" sort of way. More in a "Hey, lemme kick back and knock this out while I lay here with a drink in my hand and some February Sun on my face!" sort of way.
One thing that drove me up a wall was that Matt Drabble WROTE HIMSELF INTO THE STORY and I'm sorry, but that's not cool. It's not wink-wink-ha-ha to do that. Don't do that.
And that's valid! Leftovers cobbled together and turned into a casserole can taste REALLY GOOD!
But it doesn't taste unique. And that's how I feel about this book. It was good! In parts! But not at all unique. It's a page turner, but not in that "up all night this is so good I can't put it down I'm gonna pay for this tomorrow!" sort of way. More in a "Hey, lemme kick back and knock this out while I lay here with a drink in my hand and some February Sun on my face!" sort of way.
One thing that drove me up a wall was that Matt Drabble WROTE HIMSELF INTO THE STORY and I'm sorry, but that's not cool. It's not wink-wink-ha-ha to do that. Don't do that.
July 13, 2019
I nabbed this book while it was free on Amazon. I was sold by the synopsis which reminded me of The Association by Bentley Little- one of my favourite writers. However instead of being a rip-off of the book I have previously read, this novel gave another terrifying dimension to the dangers of gated communities. I was drawn into the story very quickly. This writer knows how to tell a story and eases the reader into the scenario, instead of barrelling straight into the action, giving us a chance to get to know the background of each major character and thus, understand their actions and motivation.
I was enthralled with this story and loved this style of writing. I loved the mix of different characters and I actually adored the sound of Eden Falls before the sinister events began. My only criticism of this book is the amount of errors I found. I felt that this sometimes spoilt my enjoyment and made me have to reread certain passages to ascertain what was happening. However in the grand scheme of things, this was a minor irritation and didn't prevent me from reading and thoroughly enjoying this book.
I will look out for more in the same vein from this writer in the future.
I was enthralled with this story and loved this style of writing. I loved the mix of different characters and I actually adored the sound of Eden Falls before the sinister events began. My only criticism of this book is the amount of errors I found. I felt that this sometimes spoilt my enjoyment and made me have to reread certain passages to ascertain what was happening. However in the grand scheme of things, this was a minor irritation and didn't prevent me from reading and thoroughly enjoying this book.
I will look out for more in the same vein from this writer in the future.
September 12, 2017
Loved it!!!
Could not put this book down! Have downloaded the sequel and off to start that! Who knew gated communities could be so ominous!
Could not put this book down! Have downloaded the sequel and off to start that! Who knew gated communities could be so ominous!
October 6, 2015
The first thing I noticed about this book was the constant references to Stephen King-The Shining. Character names are taken from the story plus the book and film are mentioned several times in the opening part of this book. I took that to be a bad sign as it is not a book that I enjoyed. However, references to a book/film I didn't like would not affect me continuing to read, and of course, does not change my overall rating of this book as that would be seriously petty!
So why didn't I like this one? One reason, pure and simple-far too slow for me. It seemed to take ages to get into the main point of the story. We had the tragic family history, the long car journey, the arrival, the settling in at their new home and meeting the new people. I just didn't feel that we were getting to the 'gated' part of things anytime soon. After a quarter of the book, nothing of any note had happened and I just started to lose interest.
The interlude I read reminded me of another Stephen King book-IT. That is my favourite ever book on the planet and I love it. In that book, the interludes are the grubby history of Derry and it works so well in showing the evil in the town in the past, while you are with the characters battling it in two different periods of time. It helped to blend the whole book together. In this book, I didn't feel that it worked. I don't know if there was more than one interlude but the one I read was plonked right in the middle of the scene setting introduction to this new home and it didn't really add anything to the story. I feel it was something else that just slowed things down.
The book just didn't work for me. There was nothing wrong with the writing or any aspect of the author's work-it was just too slow for my personal tastes. I feel that this reminded me in a way of Stephen King fan fiction and I don't mean that in a nasty way. I don't find anything wrong with fan fiction or writing books that are a sort of salute to a favourite author or book. It just wasn't what I was expecting or looking for after reading previous work by the author and it wasn't really my kind of thing.
Plenty of people with more patience than me will probably enjoy this book and be amused by the Stephen King references, so don't let me put you off if you planned to read this. I have enjoyed other work by this author and he is a good storyteller.
So why didn't I like this one? One reason, pure and simple-far too slow for me. It seemed to take ages to get into the main point of the story. We had the tragic family history, the long car journey, the arrival, the settling in at their new home and meeting the new people. I just didn't feel that we were getting to the 'gated' part of things anytime soon. After a quarter of the book, nothing of any note had happened and I just started to lose interest.
The interlude I read reminded me of another Stephen King book-IT. That is my favourite ever book on the planet and I love it. In that book, the interludes are the grubby history of Derry and it works so well in showing the evil in the town in the past, while you are with the characters battling it in two different periods of time. It helped to blend the whole book together. In this book, I didn't feel that it worked. I don't know if there was more than one interlude but the one I read was plonked right in the middle of the scene setting introduction to this new home and it didn't really add anything to the story. I feel it was something else that just slowed things down.
The book just didn't work for me. There was nothing wrong with the writing or any aspect of the author's work-it was just too slow for my personal tastes. I feel that this reminded me in a way of Stephen King fan fiction and I don't mean that in a nasty way. I don't find anything wrong with fan fiction or writing books that are a sort of salute to a favourite author or book. It just wasn't what I was expecting or looking for after reading previous work by the author and it wasn't really my kind of thing.
Plenty of people with more patience than me will probably enjoy this book and be amused by the Stephen King references, so don't let me put you off if you planned to read this. I have enjoyed other work by this author and he is a good storyteller.
April 13, 2013
This is a new up and coming author, on first impressions I would say he’s a Stephen King and X Files fan. Of course I don’t know that as fact, it’s in the way he writes.
Now personally, this was a bit of work to read but there is a reason for that. The description in this book is amazing, it’s like he has pulled it out of his head and right into the book. The only reason I found that hard work is I like to keep a bit of artistic license as a reader. I like books where you can imagine what you think places and people look like.
The book opens with a British couple who’s relationship is on the rocks, moving to America to try to create a new life. It’s not until a couple of chapters in that you find out the reason why the relationship is strained. Their new home is to be Eden Gardens, a gated community where crime is non-existent. The community is described as “Heaven on earth and twice as nice”.
Now this is where the X-files vibe got to me. I remember an episode of x-files where Sully and Mulder move in to a perfect neighborhood to find out what’s wrong with it.
So when they arrive at the community they meet the town manager Casper Christian and he takes them to meet some people then home to their enormous new house. The book takes us through their daily lives and how their relationship blooms. Then things get weird. People go missing, the Sheriff isn’t quite right and the couple get curious.
I don’t really want to tell you any more than that because I don’t want to spoil the book. There is a hell of a lot of description in this book, to the point where you literally know what every character is wearing. Now that’s not personally for me but it does reflect an essence of Stephen King.
I’d definitely recommend reading it, I probably wouldn’t read it again. There are unfortunately noticeable spelling/grammar errors and for me it could have been shorter than it was. It was also unbelievably familiar but I can’t place where I know the story from.
Personally not for me but 5/10 for a new writer finding his feet. I read it to the end and it is worth pushing on to find out what happens.
Now personally, this was a bit of work to read but there is a reason for that. The description in this book is amazing, it’s like he has pulled it out of his head and right into the book. The only reason I found that hard work is I like to keep a bit of artistic license as a reader. I like books where you can imagine what you think places and people look like.
The book opens with a British couple who’s relationship is on the rocks, moving to America to try to create a new life. It’s not until a couple of chapters in that you find out the reason why the relationship is strained. Their new home is to be Eden Gardens, a gated community where crime is non-existent. The community is described as “Heaven on earth and twice as nice”.
Now this is where the X-files vibe got to me. I remember an episode of x-files where Sully and Mulder move in to a perfect neighborhood to find out what’s wrong with it.
So when they arrive at the community they meet the town manager Casper Christian and he takes them to meet some people then home to their enormous new house. The book takes us through their daily lives and how their relationship blooms. Then things get weird. People go missing, the Sheriff isn’t quite right and the couple get curious.
I don’t really want to tell you any more than that because I don’t want to spoil the book. There is a hell of a lot of description in this book, to the point where you literally know what every character is wearing. Now that’s not personally for me but it does reflect an essence of Stephen King.
I’d definitely recommend reading it, I probably wouldn’t read it again. There are unfortunately noticeable spelling/grammar errors and for me it could have been shorter than it was. It was also unbelievably familiar but I can’t place where I know the story from.
Personally not for me but 5/10 for a new writer finding his feet. I read it to the end and it is worth pushing on to find out what happens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2013
Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite.
“Gated” by Matt Drabble is a Horror novel as good as any you will find on the market today.
The town of Eden was the epitome of good old-fashioned friendly small town America. It sounded too good to be true. It was. However, Michael and Emily Torrance didn’t know that… yet.
Having lost their first child when then-pregnant Emily was hit in a freak accident, the Torrance’s thought a change would be good for them. Living in the wet, cold United Kingdom, the email they received about Eden sounded like just the change they needed: move to an entirely new country, in an idyllic town, with zero crime, excellent jobs with lucrative wages, and warm, sunny days the year ‘round.
What could possibly go wrong in a place like Eden? Even the name sounded heavenly. In fact, the town’s motto was, “Heaven on Earth, and Twice as Nice”. But Eden held a deep, dark secret; one that was anything but “Heaven on Earth, and Twice as Nice”.
Matt Drabble has written a number of Horror novels, short stories, and short story collections. He is a gifted master of the Horror genre, and will continue to make his mark in that genre for many years to come.
“Gated” is as professionally written as anything written by the “big name” authors. In fact, “Gated” is such a well-written book I can’t help but wonder if “Matt Drabble” is a pen name being used by one of the “big name” authors. Whether it is or not, “Gated” is a book all fans of Horror must read. It is pure horror, all the way through, with a sprinkling of the supernatural thrown in for good measure.
I expect to see “Matt Drabble” on the cover of some seriously frightening horror stories for a good, long time.
“Gated” by Matt Drabble is a Horror novel as good as any you will find on the market today.
The town of Eden was the epitome of good old-fashioned friendly small town America. It sounded too good to be true. It was. However, Michael and Emily Torrance didn’t know that… yet.
Having lost their first child when then-pregnant Emily was hit in a freak accident, the Torrance’s thought a change would be good for them. Living in the wet, cold United Kingdom, the email they received about Eden sounded like just the change they needed: move to an entirely new country, in an idyllic town, with zero crime, excellent jobs with lucrative wages, and warm, sunny days the year ‘round.
What could possibly go wrong in a place like Eden? Even the name sounded heavenly. In fact, the town’s motto was, “Heaven on Earth, and Twice as Nice”. But Eden held a deep, dark secret; one that was anything but “Heaven on Earth, and Twice as Nice”.
Matt Drabble has written a number of Horror novels, short stories, and short story collections. He is a gifted master of the Horror genre, and will continue to make his mark in that genre for many years to come.
“Gated” is as professionally written as anything written by the “big name” authors. In fact, “Gated” is such a well-written book I can’t help but wonder if “Matt Drabble” is a pen name being used by one of the “big name” authors. Whether it is or not, “Gated” is a book all fans of Horror must read. It is pure horror, all the way through, with a sprinkling of the supernatural thrown in for good measure.
I expect to see “Matt Drabble” on the cover of some seriously frightening horror stories for a good, long time.
November 6, 2013
First let me state that I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
This is my first read by Matt Drabble. I have to say I am impressed. Some nights I would fall asleep reading and my dreams were weird LOL!
I will think twice before I move into a gated community, look very careful at the fine print on any contract.
We meet a married couple Michael and Emily who are from the UK. They experienced a terrific loss and decided to it was time for a change. They packed up and moved to Eden. Well they were selected I should say.
Eden was made from pure evil but looks like heaven. The grass is always green, the weather is always sunny. There is no crime. If you were to work in Eden from an outside town you followed very strict rules. It seems like you can't do nothing bad in this town without someone knowing. I wasn't sure if the Sheriff or Casper was following them or what.
Every time we met a new character you got a brief background of where they came from and why they moved to Eden. Most people like Michael and Emily moved to make a new start. Eden was picture perfect for that start. The story line was smooth, there was a lot of action going on. There are a few cases where it felt gory. I am not sure if I would classify this book as horror or thriller or mystery. I guess in a way you can call it all 3. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end to see what happened. Who was going to live, or died. Who was actually running the town. This isn't my normal read but it pulled me in and kept me glued. I like it. I look forward to reading other books by Matt.
This is my first read by Matt Drabble. I have to say I am impressed. Some nights I would fall asleep reading and my dreams were weird LOL!
I will think twice before I move into a gated community, look very careful at the fine print on any contract.
We meet a married couple Michael and Emily who are from the UK. They experienced a terrific loss and decided to it was time for a change. They packed up and moved to Eden. Well they were selected I should say.
Eden was made from pure evil but looks like heaven. The grass is always green, the weather is always sunny. There is no crime. If you were to work in Eden from an outside town you followed very strict rules. It seems like you can't do nothing bad in this town without someone knowing. I wasn't sure if the Sheriff or Casper was following them or what.
Every time we met a new character you got a brief background of where they came from and why they moved to Eden. Most people like Michael and Emily moved to make a new start. Eden was picture perfect for that start. The story line was smooth, there was a lot of action going on. There are a few cases where it felt gory. I am not sure if I would classify this book as horror or thriller or mystery. I guess in a way you can call it all 3. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end to see what happened. Who was going to live, or died. Who was actually running the town. This isn't my normal read but it pulled me in and kept me glued. I like it. I look forward to reading other books by Matt.
January 24, 2014
As soon as I read this first few pages, I had to know what happened!
The author introduces you to a young couple living in the UK, Emily and Michael. They were struggling in their tiny apartment and had settled into a depressive state due to the loss of their unborn child.
This prompted Michael to find something different, to make things better for his wife.
He stumbled across the town of Eden, where it is 'Heaven on Earth, and twice as Nice.'This town promised the good ole American small town, where everyone knows everyone and there is no crime. The weather remains beautiful all year long and the house are the most luxurious you can imagine.
The author takes you through a well written nightmare as the development and secrets of the town come to life. The characters were beautifully sculpted and detailed to fit in this story. They had a real-life feel and the storyline was professionally written. I found it to be a refreshing read with the incorporation of the slang/language that is used in the UK.
This was a truly horrific novel and I couldn't put it down. The way the author brought you into the story and painted the picture of this town and what goes on was terribly real. I loved the different turns that the plot took throughout the story!Great job Drabble.
I am truly looking forward to reading more of your work!
The author introduces you to a young couple living in the UK, Emily and Michael. They were struggling in their tiny apartment and had settled into a depressive state due to the loss of their unborn child.
This prompted Michael to find something different, to make things better for his wife.
He stumbled across the town of Eden, where it is 'Heaven on Earth, and twice as Nice.'This town promised the good ole American small town, where everyone knows everyone and there is no crime. The weather remains beautiful all year long and the house are the most luxurious you can imagine.
The author takes you through a well written nightmare as the development and secrets of the town come to life. The characters were beautifully sculpted and detailed to fit in this story. They had a real-life feel and the storyline was professionally written. I found it to be a refreshing read with the incorporation of the slang/language that is used in the UK.
This was a truly horrific novel and I couldn't put it down. The way the author brought you into the story and painted the picture of this town and what goes on was terribly real. I loved the different turns that the plot took throughout the story!Great job Drabble.
I am truly looking forward to reading more of your work!
April 19, 2014
Enjoyable
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, even though the basic idea has been done before. I like Matt's writing style and character development. I look forward to reading his other books.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, even though the basic idea has been done before. I like Matt's writing style and character development. I look forward to reading his other books.
January 22, 2013
really enjoyed this story .It was creepy and I couldnt wait till I got to the end to see what happened
June 29, 2014
Tense, eerie story. A real page turner.
March 18, 2013
Read in a day, very good story
May 23, 2018
So, just in case you missed it:
England sucks. America wins.
Stephen King rules and I'm gonna let you know a hundred times that I love him.
Are you familiar with the Stepford Wives? Cos I am. They're totes dardy*.
Stephen King rules and I really love him.
Everyone should be scared of the Stepford Wives. If you're reading my book, you probably know why.
Here's another way in which America is waaaay better that England.
Stephen King rules and I'd lick his face if he let me.
I hope people don't think I'm rewriting the Stepford Wives.
Stephen King rules and I'm gonna make his words live on within my work.
Maybe if I mention how much I hate England and love America, people will miss this allusion to the Stepford Wives.
Oops, time to mention Stephen King again.
Oh, I just mentioned my author writing about the central characters and how likeable they are. I hope I did that with my central characters. I'll check later. Or not. It'll be okay, I'm sure I did**.
Have I mentioned Stephen King today?
I really hate this book, not just because it was badly written and edited (too many passive sentences, redundancies and instances of head-hopping) but because it shows absolutely no originality whatsoever.
*Okay, Drabble didn't say 'totes dardy'. This is Australian slang and proves that I can actually put more originality into Drabble's work than Drabble himself.
** Not likeable at all. They were straight out of Central Casting. Also, with the exception of the Big Bad (who's actually really short), all males are described as 'a bear of a man'. With. Out. Exception.
England sucks. America wins.
Stephen King rules and I'm gonna let you know a hundred times that I love him.
Are you familiar with the Stepford Wives? Cos I am. They're totes dardy*.
Stephen King rules and I really love him.
Everyone should be scared of the Stepford Wives. If you're reading my book, you probably know why.
Here's another way in which America is waaaay better that England.
Stephen King rules and I'd lick his face if he let me.
I hope people don't think I'm rewriting the Stepford Wives.
Stephen King rules and I'm gonna make his words live on within my work.
Maybe if I mention how much I hate England and love America, people will miss this allusion to the Stepford Wives.
Oops, time to mention Stephen King again.
Oh, I just mentioned my author writing about the central characters and how likeable they are. I hope I did that with my central characters. I'll check later. Or not. It'll be okay, I'm sure I did**.
Have I mentioned Stephen King today?
I really hate this book, not just because it was badly written and edited (too many passive sentences, redundancies and instances of head-hopping) but because it shows absolutely no originality whatsoever.
*Okay, Drabble didn't say 'totes dardy'. This is Australian slang and proves that I can actually put more originality into Drabble's work than Drabble himself.
** Not likeable at all. They were straight out of Central Casting. Also, with the exception of the Big Bad (who's actually really short), all males are described as 'a bear of a man'. With. Out. Exception.
December 18, 2024
Wasn't sure at first
I wasn't totally sure whether I would like this book or not, but I can safely say that after a few pages, I never looked back. It was one of those reads you just kept reading and didn't realise how much time had passed, as you are so engrossed into the story. A young couple, one a writer and the other a teacher. But their lives are at a standstill and Michael the husband and writer of the pair just seemed to be getting more and more fed up. In the end they move from England to America to a little town that boasts that it is the happiest and safest of towns. Is it all too much for them? Is it too good to be true? Will they get on there? So many questions, but all will come to light little by little. A fascinating storyline with so e exciting characters. Thom being a favourite of mine due to him being a brave and confident character. Definitely worth checking out. Recommended
I wasn't totally sure whether I would like this book or not, but I can safely say that after a few pages, I never looked back. It was one of those reads you just kept reading and didn't realise how much time had passed, as you are so engrossed into the story. A young couple, one a writer and the other a teacher. But their lives are at a standstill and Michael the husband and writer of the pair just seemed to be getting more and more fed up. In the end they move from England to America to a little town that boasts that it is the happiest and safest of towns. Is it all too much for them? Is it too good to be true? Will they get on there? So many questions, but all will come to light little by little. A fascinating storyline with so e exciting characters. Thom being a favourite of mine due to him being a brave and confident character. Definitely worth checking out. Recommended
June 4, 2019
Michael and Emily move to the gated community of Eden Gardens in the US after a tragedy. All appears to be heavenly, the people as so welcoming, the town is spotlessly clean and even the weather is sunny all the time.
The town is governed by Tolan Christian and his small police force. As long as you follow the rules and don't question them all is fine and dandy.
Michael and Emily begin working and settling in, mixing with their neighbours and enjoying life. When Emily falls pregnant she can't shake the feeling that she is being watched.
The town is governed by Tolan Christian and his small police force. As long as you follow the rules and don't question them all is fine and dandy.
Michael and Emily begin working and settling in, mixing with their neighbours and enjoying life. When Emily falls pregnant she can't shake the feeling that she is being watched.
February 20, 2024
Quite literally unsettling!
Wow! I loved this book! Exciting, unsettling, scary and rocked my nerves! Had to stop reading a couple of times as it spiked my anxiety!
Imagine a perfect town. A place where you had no worries of any kind, a big house, great job, loads of money, everyone got on with everyone and there was zero crime. Too good to be true???? It might well be!
Just brilliant!!!
Wow! I loved this book! Exciting, unsettling, scary and rocked my nerves! Had to stop reading a couple of times as it spiked my anxiety!
Imagine a perfect town. A place where you had no worries of any kind, a big house, great job, loads of money, everyone got on with everyone and there was zero crime. Too good to be true???? It might well be!
Just brilliant!!!
June 14, 2020
Really great read
This was a page turner ! Great storyline ! I am looking
Forward to the sequel .nice to have found a new author for summer reads. I have to say it has been one of the better novels I have read so far.i highly recommend this read.
This was a page turner ! Great storyline ! I am looking
Forward to the sequel .nice to have found a new author for summer reads. I have to say it has been one of the better novels I have read so far.i highly recommend this read.
August 29, 2017
Just interesting enough to finish but way too lousy to bother with the rest of the series.
August 1, 2019
Okay.
November 21, 2019
Loved it
I loved it. Will recommend this to my friends and family. Enjoyed the plot, engagingly characters and found myself eager to keep reading
I loved it. Will recommend this to my friends and family. Enjoyed the plot, engagingly characters and found myself eager to keep reading
March 17, 2024
Great Read
I loved this book and all the characters. There were good twists and the plot was great,would have liked to have known more about the woods.
I loved this book and all the characters. There were good twists and the plot was great,would have liked to have known more about the woods.
January 28, 2016
The reason for my four stars is that I simply do not like Horror in any form. I had to say this early on to get it out of the way and review the book objectively. But I do love a good on the edge thriller and this book did not had the usual blood and gore in it as normal horror has. So I could enjoy it and can recommend it to all horror/thriller readers.
An eerie and sinister plot that draws you in from the start. The three part book giving you a historic over view of the origins of the town. Building up to a climax that had me up till late to read the final outcome. At first I thought it was the epilogue that the author cleverly put in front to give you a taste of what's to come but as the story unfolds I realized my mistake and at the end was surprised, ending in a unsettling end. Leaving room for a follow up. I hope.
Even with a few missing words I was well entertained from beginning to end. The focus on the story and the unfolding story line, well laid out to captivate the imagination.
I must agree with Micheal the main character in the book this was definitely a Stepford community. Everything was just to picture perfect. I mean summer all year round, abundance with just one big smile on your face. It sounded far fetched and plastic from the beginning. But yet the author has done a wonderful work in pointing it out and the people's reluctance to see the truth. With the late night prowler aka spray painter that marked every building in green paint "WAKE UP" But the sleepy town was dozing off never realizing the danger all around them.
The young couple Micheal and Emily immigrated to the US from the UK after an brutal accident where in their unborn child was killed. They were ready for a clean break and to start over but they got more than they bargained for in this gated community of Eden.
Every character that was introduced held a sinister story, and an uneasy air around them. From the start you realize that something really terrible is going on in this "perfect" town.
The one character that stood out the most was the mountain of a man, Sheriff Quinn. He was cruel, dangerous, sadistically ominous and menacing. He had no regard for gender or age, insane, blood thirsty, showing no emotion. I mean really I would have flee at the sight of this man. And yet the bodies accumulated around him as if he was building a wall with flesh and blood. Creepy at best.
I counted twelve as the story progressed and that was only the ones I know off. No remorse as he went through town's occupants with a icy and deathly grip.
Surprises were installed all over this book. Quit a number of people was not who they appear to be. Everything pointing to the Woodlands Festival. A festival held annually and the towns people was looking forward too the event. Micheal was warned to stay away but at the end was dragged too it, in order too safe his wife and unborn child.
Mrs. Thirlby, Sarah-Jane, Eddie and Morgan each played their part very well and keep you guessing at their part.
The biggest fraud was Casper Christian. He controlled and manipulated the town with a iron fist. Stern and menacing taking no nonsense from the occupants. Revealing a far greater sinister role in the whole plot. Believing he was God's answer in building a Kingdom. Demented in every way, and the out come will definitely surprise you.
Blood sacrifices, mind control, murder, disappearances, unexplained suicides and accidents and a blood thirsty massacre was all concealed within the walls of this dark place. Keeping you glued to the book. With its dark secrets and even darker but yet colorful characters.
But between all the horror you also learn about the restoration that take place between Micheal and Emily. Their marriage bond strengthened by their past experiences and the new start. You see the growing relationship between Micheal and Thom, a young teenager at a loss after his father's disappearance. Finding Micheal as a mentor and father figure helping the two too safe the town from its horrific hold. You see how the scared boy turns into a man when faced with choices and safe those he cared for.
A book I can recommend to all readers for the love of Horror and thrillers.
An eerie and sinister plot that draws you in from the start. The three part book giving you a historic over view of the origins of the town. Building up to a climax that had me up till late to read the final outcome. At first I thought it was the epilogue that the author cleverly put in front to give you a taste of what's to come but as the story unfolds I realized my mistake and at the end was surprised, ending in a unsettling end. Leaving room for a follow up. I hope.
Even with a few missing words I was well entertained from beginning to end. The focus on the story and the unfolding story line, well laid out to captivate the imagination.
I must agree with Micheal the main character in the book this was definitely a Stepford community. Everything was just to picture perfect. I mean summer all year round, abundance with just one big smile on your face. It sounded far fetched and plastic from the beginning. But yet the author has done a wonderful work in pointing it out and the people's reluctance to see the truth. With the late night prowler aka spray painter that marked every building in green paint "WAKE UP" But the sleepy town was dozing off never realizing the danger all around them.
The young couple Micheal and Emily immigrated to the US from the UK after an brutal accident where in their unborn child was killed. They were ready for a clean break and to start over but they got more than they bargained for in this gated community of Eden.
Every character that was introduced held a sinister story, and an uneasy air around them. From the start you realize that something really terrible is going on in this "perfect" town.
The one character that stood out the most was the mountain of a man, Sheriff Quinn. He was cruel, dangerous, sadistically ominous and menacing. He had no regard for gender or age, insane, blood thirsty, showing no emotion. I mean really I would have flee at the sight of this man. And yet the bodies accumulated around him as if he was building a wall with flesh and blood. Creepy at best.
I counted twelve as the story progressed and that was only the ones I know off. No remorse as he went through town's occupants with a icy and deathly grip.
Surprises were installed all over this book. Quit a number of people was not who they appear to be. Everything pointing to the Woodlands Festival. A festival held annually and the towns people was looking forward too the event. Micheal was warned to stay away but at the end was dragged too it, in order too safe his wife and unborn child.
Mrs. Thirlby, Sarah-Jane, Eddie and Morgan each played their part very well and keep you guessing at their part.
The biggest fraud was Casper Christian. He controlled and manipulated the town with a iron fist. Stern and menacing taking no nonsense from the occupants. Revealing a far greater sinister role in the whole plot. Believing he was God's answer in building a Kingdom. Demented in every way, and the out come will definitely surprise you.
Blood sacrifices, mind control, murder, disappearances, unexplained suicides and accidents and a blood thirsty massacre was all concealed within the walls of this dark place. Keeping you glued to the book. With its dark secrets and even darker but yet colorful characters.
But between all the horror you also learn about the restoration that take place between Micheal and Emily. Their marriage bond strengthened by their past experiences and the new start. You see the growing relationship between Micheal and Thom, a young teenager at a loss after his father's disappearance. Finding Micheal as a mentor and father figure helping the two too safe the town from its horrific hold. You see how the scared boy turns into a man when faced with choices and safe those he cared for.
A book I can recommend to all readers for the love of Horror and thrillers.
January 7, 2014
To be honest, this nearly was a four or five star rating. However, there were a few things that dragged it down and I just felt it brought down the quality of the book. The plot was wonderful. I loved the creepy town. I was even surprised by a few twists, which is rare.
The book is about Michael and Emily Torrence, who are dissatisfied by the non-neighborly life they lead in the UK. After the saddened miscarriage of their first baby, they decide to start a new life in Eden, America. This was the first mistake. I could tell Mr Drabble was English because the American characters would use a lot of British-isms. Such as "torches" for flashlights, "bonnet" for car hood, and "jumper" for sweater. Personally, he should have done the opposite and had an American couple move to England. That way, it wouldn't have been so jarring to have characters using the wrong terms.
Michael and Emily love their new life at first. Eden is a great place, everyone is (way too) friendly, they finally know their neighbors, and life is good. So what if it's being over-seen by the very creepy Casper Christian and his obviously diabolical Sheriff Quinn? It's paradise. Then the cracks start to form. Things like the neighbors vanishing suddenly after a little marital problem (the wife, they were told, committed suicide and the husband just vanished), the townsfolk being a little too friendly, people mysteriously dieing after they've done something wrong, and being watched. It makes a very creepy town, but also a bit obvious.
One thing that Mr Drabble did that kept pulling me from the story was adding too much. Something happens, and we had to learn all about the other characters involved. Such as, there is a scene where our small group of heroes are plotting in the library. We are taken from that action to be told the background on the librarian, because her child-less state is so important to the plot (it's not) and so important to know why she makes a phone call. This happens all the time. Not only that, but he stops the action to bring us the backstory on Casper's ancestors and how the town was founded. It stops the action!
That was the biggest problem I had with this book. I loved the plot. I loved the set up. I wasn't thrilled with the payoff (it felt forced and far too violent when compared to the rest of the book), but it was okay. But pulling me from the action for useless information and a backstory that should have been in its own book is, frankly, very hard to take. It took me longer to read this story then it should have because I often put the book down during the more boring bits and had to try and get back into the story or find a place where the action picked up again.
Mr Drabble is a talented author, but his work can still use a bit of polishing.
One thing I did like, and got a kick out of, was the name of the main couple. Now, I'm probably giving Mr Drabble far more credit for this than he probably deserves, but I thought it was cute. There is a mention early on about how Michael Torrence admires Stephen King and his style. Torrence is also the name of the family from THE SHINING. I'm sure it's just a coincidence, but I thought it was a cute little homage to another author that was admired.
The book is about Michael and Emily Torrence, who are dissatisfied by the non-neighborly life they lead in the UK. After the saddened miscarriage of their first baby, they decide to start a new life in Eden, America. This was the first mistake. I could tell Mr Drabble was English because the American characters would use a lot of British-isms. Such as "torches" for flashlights, "bonnet" for car hood, and "jumper" for sweater. Personally, he should have done the opposite and had an American couple move to England. That way, it wouldn't have been so jarring to have characters using the wrong terms.
Michael and Emily love their new life at first. Eden is a great place, everyone is (way too) friendly, they finally know their neighbors, and life is good. So what if it's being over-seen by the very creepy Casper Christian and his obviously diabolical Sheriff Quinn? It's paradise. Then the cracks start to form. Things like the neighbors vanishing suddenly after a little marital problem (the wife, they were told, committed suicide and the husband just vanished), the townsfolk being a little too friendly, people mysteriously dieing after they've done something wrong, and being watched. It makes a very creepy town, but also a bit obvious.
One thing that Mr Drabble did that kept pulling me from the story was adding too much. Something happens, and we had to learn all about the other characters involved. Such as, there is a scene where our small group of heroes are plotting in the library. We are taken from that action to be told the background on the librarian, because her child-less state is so important to the plot (it's not) and so important to know why she makes a phone call. This happens all the time. Not only that, but he stops the action to bring us the backstory on Casper's ancestors and how the town was founded. It stops the action!
That was the biggest problem I had with this book. I loved the plot. I loved the set up. I wasn't thrilled with the payoff (it felt forced and far too violent when compared to the rest of the book), but it was okay. But pulling me from the action for useless information and a backstory that should have been in its own book is, frankly, very hard to take. It took me longer to read this story then it should have because I often put the book down during the more boring bits and had to try and get back into the story or find a place where the action picked up again.
Mr Drabble is a talented author, but his work can still use a bit of polishing.
One thing I did like, and got a kick out of, was the name of the main couple. Now, I'm probably giving Mr Drabble far more credit for this than he probably deserves, but I thought it was cute. There is a mention early on about how Michael Torrence admires Stephen King and his style. Torrence is also the name of the family from THE SHINING. I'm sure it's just a coincidence, but I thought it was a cute little homage to another author that was admired.
March 21, 2013
This book definitely deserves between 4.5 & 5 stars. I've rated it 5 stars as 4 would seem a bit unfair.
This is the first book I've read by Matt Drabble & certainly won't be the last.
The main characters Emily & Michael are your average couple. They upsticks from the UK after going through a tragedy, & move to a gated community called Eden. Sounds all good, but Eden is too good to be true. In fact, there is not a whole lot of good going on there. Our couple have to piece together who they can/can't trust and get out if they can.
Emily & Michael were easy to like as characters. Nothing overtly special about them. They had moments of anger/pettiness but clearly a deep love for each other. There is nothing worse than when you don't care about a character and happily that was not the case here. I wanted them to get out. With horror you never know if you will get the happy ending or not & I'm certainly not going to spoil it here.
The story is told in 3rd person and works really well. It switches scenes fairly regularly and dives off with side stories which are integral as they build into the plot nicely.
Normally, I get annoyed with sections of 'then' and 'now', however the author clearly identifies these chapters (called A brief interlude...) and they are well written.
Part of why I liked this book is the style of writing. The book flowed so easily, it didn't try to be something it is not. The plot was clear from the start & whilst I may have figured some things out before they are revealed, I wasn't disappointed. It was more 'AHA I KNEW IT!' and feeling vindicated.
I wouldn't say this book solely sits in the horror section, I think people with differing tastes would enjoy it. I really can't recommend it more!
This is the first book I've read by Matt Drabble & certainly won't be the last.
The main characters Emily & Michael are your average couple. They upsticks from the UK after going through a tragedy, & move to a gated community called Eden. Sounds all good, but Eden is too good to be true. In fact, there is not a whole lot of good going on there. Our couple have to piece together who they can/can't trust and get out if they can.
Emily & Michael were easy to like as characters. Nothing overtly special about them. They had moments of anger/pettiness but clearly a deep love for each other. There is nothing worse than when you don't care about a character and happily that was not the case here. I wanted them to get out. With horror you never know if you will get the happy ending or not & I'm certainly not going to spoil it here.
The story is told in 3rd person and works really well. It switches scenes fairly regularly and dives off with side stories which are integral as they build into the plot nicely.
Normally, I get annoyed with sections of 'then' and 'now', however the author clearly identifies these chapters (called A brief interlude...) and they are well written.
Part of why I liked this book is the style of writing. The book flowed so easily, it didn't try to be something it is not. The plot was clear from the start & whilst I may have figured some things out before they are revealed, I wasn't disappointed. It was more 'AHA I KNEW IT!' and feeling vindicated.
I wouldn't say this book solely sits in the horror section, I think people with differing tastes would enjoy it. I really can't recommend it more!
December 7, 2013
First let me state that I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
This is my first read by Matt Drabble. I have to say I am impressed. Some nights I would fall asleep reading and my dreams were weird LOL!
I will think twice before I move into a gated community, look very careful at the fine print on any contract. We meet a married couple Michael and Emily who are from the UK. They experienced a terrific loss and decided to it was time for a change. They packed up and moved to Eden. Well they were selected I should say. Eden was made from pure evil but looks like heaven. The grass is always green, the weather is always sunny. There is no crime. If you were to work in Eden from an outside town you followed very strict rules. It seems like you can't do nothing bad in this town without someone knowing. I wasn't sure if the Sheriff or Casper was following them or what. Every time we met a new character you got a brief background of where they came from and why they moved to Eden. Most people like Michael and Emily moved to make a new start. Eden was picture perfect for that start. The story line was smooth, there was a lot of action going on. There are a few cases where it felt gory. I am not sure if I would classify this book as horror or thriller or mystery. I guess in a way you can call it all 3. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end to see what happened. Who was going to live, or died. Who was actually running the town. This isn't my normal read but it pulled me in and kept me glued. I like it. I look forward to reading other books by Matt.
4-stars
Reviewed by Irene
This is my first read by Matt Drabble. I have to say I am impressed. Some nights I would fall asleep reading and my dreams were weird LOL!
I will think twice before I move into a gated community, look very careful at the fine print on any contract. We meet a married couple Michael and Emily who are from the UK. They experienced a terrific loss and decided to it was time for a change. They packed up and moved to Eden. Well they were selected I should say. Eden was made from pure evil but looks like heaven. The grass is always green, the weather is always sunny. There is no crime. If you were to work in Eden from an outside town you followed very strict rules. It seems like you can't do nothing bad in this town without someone knowing. I wasn't sure if the Sheriff or Casper was following them or what. Every time we met a new character you got a brief background of where they came from and why they moved to Eden. Most people like Michael and Emily moved to make a new start. Eden was picture perfect for that start. The story line was smooth, there was a lot of action going on. There are a few cases where it felt gory. I am not sure if I would classify this book as horror or thriller or mystery. I guess in a way you can call it all 3. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end to see what happened. Who was going to live, or died. Who was actually running the town. This isn't my normal read but it pulled me in and kept me glued. I like it. I look forward to reading other books by Matt.
4-stars
Reviewed by Irene
February 5, 2014
2.5 stars really - I quite enjoyed about two-thirds of the book, but towards the end coherence and consistency of plot were lost more and more.
Also, I guess it's self-published - I got this as a Kindle freebie on Amazon, so I suppose you could call it the proverbial gift horse - but it's really one long advertisement for the profession of copy editor, whose services would have been sorely needed.
So, the good things: it's very well paced, the author has a knack for writing sudden action and changing pace, balancing calm and action, and the idea of a gated community is scary enough in itself that it doesn't really matter that the topic has been done numerous times before, it works every time (at least for me) - I felt pleasantly spooked quite a lot of the time and even stayed up a couple of times to read a little more. Some images of newspaper articles as the heroes are investigating the town are a nice touch. The ending is satisfactory enough, though suffering from lack of plot coherence.
The bad things: the author didn't really seem able to come up with an explanation one way or another for the background of his story - not in the sense that he just didn't choose to give it, but that I had the impression he wasn't quite clear about it in his own mind. At some point, it becomes more a vehicle for the author to be icky and so gory it loses all likeliness (though that might be an acceptable part of the horror-genre, I wouldn't know that). And the style and grammar errors sometimes distract and sometimes make for some unintentional hilarity (my absolute favourite was: "to all intensive purposes").
Also, I guess it's self-published - I got this as a Kindle freebie on Amazon, so I suppose you could call it the proverbial gift horse - but it's really one long advertisement for the profession of copy editor, whose services would have been sorely needed.
So, the good things: it's very well paced, the author has a knack for writing sudden action and changing pace, balancing calm and action, and the idea of a gated community is scary enough in itself that it doesn't really matter that the topic has been done numerous times before, it works every time (at least for me) - I felt pleasantly spooked quite a lot of the time and even stayed up a couple of times to read a little more. Some images of newspaper articles as the heroes are investigating the town are a nice touch. The ending is satisfactory enough, though suffering from lack of plot coherence.
The bad things: the author didn't really seem able to come up with an explanation one way or another for the background of his story - not in the sense that he just didn't choose to give it, but that I had the impression he wasn't quite clear about it in his own mind. At some point, it becomes more a vehicle for the author to be icky and so gory it loses all likeliness (though that might be an acceptable part of the horror-genre, I wouldn't know that). And the style and grammar errors sometimes distract and sometimes make for some unintentional hilarity (my absolute favourite was: "to all intensive purposes").
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