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Small Things
It’s a hot June morning in a small Midwestern town when fifteen-year-old Shawn Spencer arrives at the church for his best friend Tanner’s funeral. Though his drowning was officially ruled an accident, Tanner’s sister Jenny swears she saw something rise up from the Carthage Lake to pull the struggling teenager beneath the surface.
Shawn doesn’t believe in monsters… but he will…
The real threat, however, lies in the man behind the monster, a mysterious old man who has vowed to settle an old grudge and regain something that was stolen from him decades earlier. To survive the dark days and nights ahead, Shawn must not only decipher what the man is after, he must move past his own grief, fears, and insecurities, and learn to trust in Jenny, the disgraced town sheriff, and, most importantly, in himself. The Small Things trilogy spans forty years and three generations in a tale of murder, betrayal, corruption, sacrifice, love, redemption, faith and magic that culminates in a showdown that will pit the very forces of heaven and hell against Shawn and his family in a battle for the future of mankind and the world itself.
Shawn doesn’t believe in monsters… but he will…
The real threat, however, lies in the man behind the monster, a mysterious old man who has vowed to settle an old grudge and regain something that was stolen from him decades earlier. To survive the dark days and nights ahead, Shawn must not only decipher what the man is after, he must move past his own grief, fears, and insecurities, and learn to trust in Jenny, the disgraced town sheriff, and, most importantly, in himself. The Small Things trilogy spans forty years and three generations in a tale of murder, betrayal, corruption, sacrifice, love, redemption, faith and magic that culminates in a showdown that will pit the very forces of heaven and hell against Shawn and his family in a battle for the future of mankind and the world itself.
324 pages, Paperback
First published December 4, 2012
23 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Joe DeRouen
19 books93 followersJoe was born in Carthage, Illinois, and currently lives in Rogers, Arkansas with his wife Andee, their son Fletcher, and their cats Archer, Biscuit, Frosty, Weiss, Cheese, and Eclipse. In addition to being a best-selling author, Joe is a web designer and substitute teacher. When he’s not writing, you can usually find Joe playing City of Heroes: Homecoming on his PC, or Pokemon Go and Stardew Valley on his phone. He also collects Mego action figures and Bicycle playing cards. You can write to Joe at Joe@JoeDeRouen.com or visit his website at JoeDeRouen.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 20, 2021
3½ stars raised to 4 stars due to me thinking about a few parts more than I was expecting and wanting to read the second book in the series eventually.
There were some things to like in this debut of small town, coming-of-age, creature feature horror.
After a teenage boy dies, his best friend and his sister come together putting them straight in the path of an evil creature that believes one of them has something that was taken from him.
This one was a hard one to rate. There were a few small parts I rushed through to get to parts I liked better and to the meat of the story, some writing could have been tightened or edited out.
What kept me interested was an old school charm to the ideas and the plot and at its best moments was like early Stephen King back when he was working the Night Shift. It also had a little bit of the Stranger Things vibe only on a smaller scale and an almost Eerie Comics/Weird Tales vibe that worked when the writing was as its sharpest.
Falling somewhere between YA and adult horror it luckily didn't stray too far in either territory keeping it sure of itself throughout its entirety.
I'm rating it a 3½ raised to 4, my way of saying it was entertaining, the author has some promise, and though I probably would not read it again I'd like to continue this series since I liked the characters, the setting and the villain.
There were some things to like in this debut of small town, coming-of-age, creature feature horror.
After a teenage boy dies, his best friend and his sister come together putting them straight in the path of an evil creature that believes one of them has something that was taken from him.
This one was a hard one to rate. There were a few small parts I rushed through to get to parts I liked better and to the meat of the story, some writing could have been tightened or edited out.
What kept me interested was an old school charm to the ideas and the plot and at its best moments was like early Stephen King back when he was working the Night Shift. It also had a little bit of the Stranger Things vibe only on a smaller scale and an almost Eerie Comics/Weird Tales vibe that worked when the writing was as its sharpest.
Falling somewhere between YA and adult horror it luckily didn't stray too far in either territory keeping it sure of itself throughout its entirety.
I'm rating it a 3½ raised to 4, my way of saying it was entertaining, the author has some promise, and though I probably would not read it again I'd like to continue this series since I liked the characters, the setting and the villain.
November 4, 2013
Small Things by Joe DeRouen starts with the tragic death of a teenaged boy named Tanner. The first chapter, which begins with the sorrow of the funeral, ends with the poignant words “…back into the world of the living.” From that line on, I was completely captivated and mesmerized by DeRouen’s heartfelt novel. It’s hard to place Small Things into one category. There are definitely horror and thriller elements. However, by the end, it was also equal parts a dark fantasy adventure.
The story is fast-paced with lots of shocking twists. There is both grisly gore, but also really tender and sweet moments. The title itself was very interesting. From small things bigger, world-changing things can come. The novel starts off as the intimate story of a small town dealing with a sudden tragedy and then develops into much bigger world events, which cross times and realms.
Small Things is a deeply personal and psychological tale. I loved how it was written through the eyes of different characters. I really felt like I was inside their heads, including even the disturbing urges of the monster as it stalked its victims.
My favorite characters, of course, were the two teenagers Shawn and Jenny. Their budding romance was equally gripping and adorable. It was a cute, old-fashioned romance, which reminded me of the film Super 8. The lead characters were so likeable, but not shallow. I feel in love with them throughout the book. I felt very tense during certain intense sections worrying about their fates. I equally liked the character Fred Ruskin. His tormented backstory was really gripping. Without spoiling anything, there were moments near the end that actually brought tears to my eyes.
I guess my only complaints about this novel was that it began to delve a little too much into the magical world for my personal liking. I don’t mind sorcery and supernatural elements, but I found some of the stuff (Ouija Board) a little cheesy. It just took me out of the suspense of the moments. In some ways, DeRouen’s novel reminded me of a cross between some of the great horror novels by John Saul and the Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
Lastly, I have to mention how much I loved all the pop culture references. The author pays respects to classic books like A Wrinkle in Time and then also films like Jaws. How can you “say no” to a Spider-Man reference? All of these small touches made me smile!
I am very excited about where DeRouen’s paranormal horror series is going to go next. I find myself very invested the characters, who I can tell matter a lot to the author. I highly recommend that you, if you haven’t already, check this novel out. It was a real gem.
The story is fast-paced with lots of shocking twists. There is both grisly gore, but also really tender and sweet moments. The title itself was very interesting. From small things bigger, world-changing things can come. The novel starts off as the intimate story of a small town dealing with a sudden tragedy and then develops into much bigger world events, which cross times and realms.
Small Things is a deeply personal and psychological tale. I loved how it was written through the eyes of different characters. I really felt like I was inside their heads, including even the disturbing urges of the monster as it stalked its victims.
My favorite characters, of course, were the two teenagers Shawn and Jenny. Their budding romance was equally gripping and adorable. It was a cute, old-fashioned romance, which reminded me of the film Super 8. The lead characters were so likeable, but not shallow. I feel in love with them throughout the book. I felt very tense during certain intense sections worrying about their fates. I equally liked the character Fred Ruskin. His tormented backstory was really gripping. Without spoiling anything, there were moments near the end that actually brought tears to my eyes.
I guess my only complaints about this novel was that it began to delve a little too much into the magical world for my personal liking. I don’t mind sorcery and supernatural elements, but I found some of the stuff (Ouija Board) a little cheesy. It just took me out of the suspense of the moments. In some ways, DeRouen’s novel reminded me of a cross between some of the great horror novels by John Saul and the Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
Lastly, I have to mention how much I loved all the pop culture references. The author pays respects to classic books like A Wrinkle in Time and then also films like Jaws. How can you “say no” to a Spider-Man reference? All of these small touches made me smile!
I am very excited about where DeRouen’s paranormal horror series is going to go next. I find myself very invested the characters, who I can tell matter a lot to the author. I highly recommend that you, if you haven’t already, check this novel out. It was a real gem.
June 21, 2013
Joe DeRouen is a fun new author adding to the ranks of horror/thriller writers like Dean Koontz, Ted Dekker, and Douglas Preston. "Small Things", however, reminded me most of Dan Simmons' "Summer of Night", with this one exception: where "Summer of Night" took the small town story of boys terrorized by an evil menace to a wide, epic, free-for-all, "Small Things" took that same story and brought it down to a small, intimate story of a boy and a girl facing down evil all alone. This brought the terror to a more personal level.
Right off the bat, the story launches the reader into a crazy race against a terror that is vicious, and quick to draw blood. This happens so fast you are convinced that either the kids will not survive the opening chapters or some silly device will save them and you'll feel cheated for the rest of the book. Derouen, however, pulls no punches as he draws the reader into a well thought-through story that keeps up a solid pace for the duration.
There are a few unexpected turns in what might have been a typical horror novel, teasingly pulling the story into the realm of fantasy, along with a touch of the magical. But at no time did the story lose its focus. And like Koontz often does, DeRouen uses the common items in our lives to drive an uncommon story.
Along with the young main characters, "Small Things" includes a strong secondary character in that of Sheriff Ruskin. One of those types that would assure wide-acclaim for any veteran actor who took the role in a movie version of the book.
DeRouen's tight, clean prose keeps the story and characters moving toward his storm-blown climax with just the right pace and atmosphere, leaving this reader well satisfied, which is not always the case with horror/thrillers.
I received a review copy of this book for a non-reciprocal review.
Right off the bat, the story launches the reader into a crazy race against a terror that is vicious, and quick to draw blood. This happens so fast you are convinced that either the kids will not survive the opening chapters or some silly device will save them and you'll feel cheated for the rest of the book. Derouen, however, pulls no punches as he draws the reader into a well thought-through story that keeps up a solid pace for the duration.
There are a few unexpected turns in what might have been a typical horror novel, teasingly pulling the story into the realm of fantasy, along with a touch of the magical. But at no time did the story lose its focus. And like Koontz often does, DeRouen uses the common items in our lives to drive an uncommon story.
Along with the young main characters, "Small Things" includes a strong secondary character in that of Sheriff Ruskin. One of those types that would assure wide-acclaim for any veteran actor who took the role in a movie version of the book.
DeRouen's tight, clean prose keeps the story and characters moving toward his storm-blown climax with just the right pace and atmosphere, leaving this reader well satisfied, which is not always the case with horror/thrillers.
I received a review copy of this book for a non-reciprocal review.
December 28, 2012
I've read this book three times in order to proof it for the author, my husband. Each time I find something new that I love and remember the things I already loved about it. It's somewhere between Stephen King and Charles de Lint. A nostalgic look back at a time that falls in my childhood combined with scary things that go bump in the night and have fur and peer from the closets of imagination. It is a compelling race downhill as you reach the conclusion. Now I'm bugging him to get the second in the trilogy ready to publish because I know I want to read it again and everyone else deserves to.
July 12, 2013
Small Things is an action packed dark thriller. Think Dean Koontz, Stephen King and a bit of Rowling thrown in. I loved the writing and the detailed setting of the novel. The MCs were believable and extremely relatable. The novel begins with the death of the MC’s best friend and what a perfect beginning it was for setting the dark mood, for describing the community the characters live in and for introducing us to the mystery shrouding the death. See? It draws you right in!
Then come the fantasy aspects and I loved the twists the author came up with. The voices in the head, the Sheriff’s role, the dynamics between the adults and the MCs….all this while keeping the story fast paced and riveting. And finally, the climax will keep you right on the edge of your seat, convincingly pulling in on every little element detailed through the length of the book. You will not regret reading this book!
I received a copy in exchange of an honest non-reciprocal review.
Then come the fantasy aspects and I loved the twists the author came up with. The voices in the head, the Sheriff’s role, the dynamics between the adults and the MCs….all this while keeping the story fast paced and riveting. And finally, the climax will keep you right on the edge of your seat, convincingly pulling in on every little element detailed through the length of the book. You will not regret reading this book!
I received a copy in exchange of an honest non-reciprocal review.
July 15, 2014
Another excellent tale from Joe DeRouen, with his usual blend of horror and humour. These are not two ingredients you would expect to see side by side in a novel, but they work well in DeRouen's capable hands. As always, he builds interesting characters that you cannot help but care for, and pits them into situations we would all rather avoid, and only experience in this format. I never give spoilers in my reviews, but the plot is a good one and will keep you occupied until you reach the last page.
Want to read
December 29, 2012This was a great read! I could not put this book down and finished it in 2 days! I was drawn in to the the story and really cared what happened to the characters. With the author great discriptions, I felt like I was along for the ride. If you like authors like Stephen King, You have to read Small Things!
January 12, 2013
Don't know the guy but guess the good reviews are his friends. He needs an editor and he would be a great writer. Lacks what I thought it would be. Went on the reviews was very disappointed. Great idea just get someone to edit for you and you might have something.
September 26, 2013
Small Things is a cross between thriller and a horror story, with a touch of fantasy and magic, set in small-town America. The story is a quality read and well paced. The suspense is skilfully manipulated by the author, rising like tentacles of velvet steel to capture the reader and draw them in. As the title implies, small or ordinary things are used drive the plot forward, and the plot is well constructed and realised. Joe DeRouen is adept at raising and sustaining tension. This book will not disappoint.
The story opens strongly as Shawn, a 15 year-old whose best friend Tanner has just drowned in a local lake, is attending his funeral. Tanner's sister Jenny believes a monster attacked him. Shawn is not so sure - but he has a sense that something has been following him. Soon we are seeing flashes from the monster's point of view (the viewpoint is often varied but at well-chosen intervals), stalking Shawn and Jenny in search of a talisman of great power, which is wanted by an ancient evil... there are some memorable scenes. One action sequence particularly stood out for me, which is when Shawn is chasing through town on a stolen motorbike trying to catch up with the monster who is stalking Jenny. If this one doesn't get your pulse pounding, then I'm not sure you really had a pulse in the first place.
I think if the things I've noted below don't bother you, you are in for a very solid, enjoyable read - just don't read it on a dark night! Or you'll be checking outside your window. And under your bed. And in every shadow...
For me - and this is largely a matter of taste - there were a few false notes down in the detail that moved this book away from being a grip-you-by-the-throat thriller and catapulted me out of the action; a few moments where I rolled my eyes: 'of course', where the believability factor went down the proverbial drainpipe. For example, the scene of digging up a grave on a dark stormy night. It was well written and presaged a fine plot twist, but I felt I had been there before too many times. Raining? Stormy? Main character in the hole while the bad guy forces him to dig? Move on, please. Monster has just threatened/attacked you and you go wandering around town late at night, or take your girlfriend to a deserted park for a little romantic time? That would be a little stupid, don't you think? There's a random sex scene between minor characters and the epilogue seems oddly chosen.
The characterisation of Shawn and Jenny felt a little lacking. With more depth I might have connected more with them as people. Shawn especially moves quite suddenly from an 'average' teenager to a more mature-sounding character with knowledge of the occult and a bloodline (no more detail for fear of spoiling), which is an integral part of later events.
However, don't let these foibles put you off what is a mighty fine debut novel. If scary is your thing, this one is for you. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review and I look forward to the next volume in this series.
The story opens strongly as Shawn, a 15 year-old whose best friend Tanner has just drowned in a local lake, is attending his funeral. Tanner's sister Jenny believes a monster attacked him. Shawn is not so sure - but he has a sense that something has been following him. Soon we are seeing flashes from the monster's point of view (the viewpoint is often varied but at well-chosen intervals), stalking Shawn and Jenny in search of a talisman of great power, which is wanted by an ancient evil... there are some memorable scenes. One action sequence particularly stood out for me, which is when Shawn is chasing through town on a stolen motorbike trying to catch up with the monster who is stalking Jenny. If this one doesn't get your pulse pounding, then I'm not sure you really had a pulse in the first place.
I think if the things I've noted below don't bother you, you are in for a very solid, enjoyable read - just don't read it on a dark night! Or you'll be checking outside your window. And under your bed. And in every shadow...
For me - and this is largely a matter of taste - there were a few false notes down in the detail that moved this book away from being a grip-you-by-the-throat thriller and catapulted me out of the action; a few moments where I rolled my eyes: 'of course', where the believability factor went down the proverbial drainpipe. For example, the scene of digging up a grave on a dark stormy night. It was well written and presaged a fine plot twist, but I felt I had been there before too many times. Raining? Stormy? Main character in the hole while the bad guy forces him to dig? Move on, please. Monster has just threatened/attacked you and you go wandering around town late at night, or take your girlfriend to a deserted park for a little romantic time? That would be a little stupid, don't you think? There's a random sex scene between minor characters and the epilogue seems oddly chosen.
The characterisation of Shawn and Jenny felt a little lacking. With more depth I might have connected more with them as people. Shawn especially moves quite suddenly from an 'average' teenager to a more mature-sounding character with knowledge of the occult and a bloodline (no more detail for fear of spoiling), which is an integral part of later events.
However, don't let these foibles put you off what is a mighty fine debut novel. If scary is your thing, this one is for you. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review and I look forward to the next volume in this series.
July 24, 2013
Shawn Spencer is attending the funeral of his best friend, whose sister Jenny swears he was killed by a monster. Feeling guilty for the loss of his friend, Shawn tries to help Jenny with her grief, but comes to see that maybe she is not imagining the monster in the lake. Strange voices in his head lead him to realise that there is something very strange happening in Carthage, and he believes he may have triggered the whole messy business after breaking into an old derelict house with Tanner shortly before his death. Shawn and Jenny grow closer as more weird incidents occur, people go missing, his cat is found dead and the voices in his head become more threatening and personal. As the police are called to investigate, the local sheriff, while still suffering his own loss, is mystified to explain the events and later becomes embroiled in the plot to catch and kill the monster.
Set in a time when kids rode their bikes, went swimming in the lake and generally had the freedom to play by themselves, this story is beautifully reminiscent of the innocence of youth, first love and strong childhood friendships. It is a tale of high adventure, touching sentimentality and fast-paced horror, which defines the very personal quest of a young boy and girl, fighting off evil on their own, but with so much at stake.
This is a very quick-paced novel, the reader is thrown in at the deep end, desperate to learn more about this monster. At times the story is bloody and graphic, the monster’s actions are easily visualised, the danger is palpable and the tension is high. If this were a movie, I’d be hiding behind the sofa on several occasions! There are, however, elements of real-life sadness, grief and pain all mixed in with the emergence of new relationships, recovery and hope for the future. The characters are so well drawn, you can picture them clearly as you fly through the pages, seeking answers and instead finding more unexpected twists.
Although this is not my usual read, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It was a real page-turner, leaving me totally engrossed and not able to put the book down. I will definitely be looking out for the next book in the series. Thank you Joe for bringing me back over to the dark side!
Set in a time when kids rode their bikes, went swimming in the lake and generally had the freedom to play by themselves, this story is beautifully reminiscent of the innocence of youth, first love and strong childhood friendships. It is a tale of high adventure, touching sentimentality and fast-paced horror, which defines the very personal quest of a young boy and girl, fighting off evil on their own, but with so much at stake.
This is a very quick-paced novel, the reader is thrown in at the deep end, desperate to learn more about this monster. At times the story is bloody and graphic, the monster’s actions are easily visualised, the danger is palpable and the tension is high. If this were a movie, I’d be hiding behind the sofa on several occasions! There are, however, elements of real-life sadness, grief and pain all mixed in with the emergence of new relationships, recovery and hope for the future. The characters are so well drawn, you can picture them clearly as you fly through the pages, seeking answers and instead finding more unexpected twists.
Although this is not my usual read, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It was a real page-turner, leaving me totally engrossed and not able to put the book down. I will definitely be looking out for the next book in the series. Thank you Joe for bringing me back over to the dark side!
July 23, 2015
Due to my overly active imagination, my mother wouldn't let me watch scary things when I was little... or a teen for that matter. From the moment I picked up Small Things my dreams started taking on darker imagery - so if you like spine tingling, on the edge of your seat books, this is the one for you.
We meet the cast of characters at the funeral for a teenaged boy, Tanner. As we experience the grieving process for this young man by friends and family, we learn from his sister that his death was at the hands of something not of this world. Tanner's best friend, Shawn Spencer, already suspicious, begins searching for clues into the death of his friend.
Small Things is set in a small town in Illinois, far enough back in time that TV shows like Love Boat and music from the late 70's take us to another era in our history. A time when we were not bombarded with paranormal creatures, high speed technology, and life moved at a slower pace. This is the perfect foil for the frenetic moments in the book, where your heart will pound and you will lose track of time.
Joe DeRouen has done a remarkable job in weaving words and imagery that take us on a time-travelling, lip gnawing journey, where we find both fear and tenderness on a hot summers eve. Other reviewers have likened his writing to Dean Koontz and Stephen King - I would whole-heartedly agree. Mr. DeRouen is definitely an author to watch... and read!
We meet the cast of characters at the funeral for a teenaged boy, Tanner. As we experience the grieving process for this young man by friends and family, we learn from his sister that his death was at the hands of something not of this world. Tanner's best friend, Shawn Spencer, already suspicious, begins searching for clues into the death of his friend.
Small Things is set in a small town in Illinois, far enough back in time that TV shows like Love Boat and music from the late 70's take us to another era in our history. A time when we were not bombarded with paranormal creatures, high speed technology, and life moved at a slower pace. This is the perfect foil for the frenetic moments in the book, where your heart will pound and you will lose track of time.
Joe DeRouen has done a remarkable job in weaving words and imagery that take us on a time-travelling, lip gnawing journey, where we find both fear and tenderness on a hot summers eve. Other reviewers have likened his writing to Dean Koontz and Stephen King - I would whole-heartedly agree. Mr. DeRouen is definitely an author to watch... and read!
July 31, 2013
Very well written, though there's a few bumpy or slow spots in the pacing, particularly towards the beginning. Some of the exposition felt out of order, and there were a few areas I had to reread multiple times, to put them in logical context.
I have to question the author's decision to set it in 1975. I found it a bit jarring, as comparatively few aspects of the worldbuilding actually utilized the setting. Every so often, I'd forget about it, and stumble over some detail that makes better sense in that setting than it does to someone who grew up in the late 80s/90s. The descriptions and worldbuilding just didn't feel immersive enough to make that setting add anything to the story.
The story has some very vivid twists and imagery. I enjoyed myself a lot. I wish there's been a little more depth to the two main characters, as nearly every memory that was presented had to do with the main thrust of the story, and while they were well written, it didn't leave me feeling I knew them as people.They worked well in the story, and I empathized with them. But I wish they'd been a bit more thoroughly fleshed out as people.
It's very well written, pretty well edited (though I flagged a few errors), and there's some original and absurd twists to the story that make it one of the more solid urban fantasies I've read.
I have to question the author's decision to set it in 1975. I found it a bit jarring, as comparatively few aspects of the worldbuilding actually utilized the setting. Every so often, I'd forget about it, and stumble over some detail that makes better sense in that setting than it does to someone who grew up in the late 80s/90s. The descriptions and worldbuilding just didn't feel immersive enough to make that setting add anything to the story.
The story has some very vivid twists and imagery. I enjoyed myself a lot. I wish there's been a little more depth to the two main characters, as nearly every memory that was presented had to do with the main thrust of the story, and while they were well written, it didn't leave me feeling I knew them as people.They worked well in the story, and I empathized with them. But I wish they'd been a bit more thoroughly fleshed out as people.
It's very well written, pretty well edited (though I flagged a few errors), and there's some original and absurd twists to the story that make it one of the more solid urban fantasies I've read.
January 4, 2016
UPDATED REVIEW:
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/s...
I had read this book a couple years ago, but I was excited when I was given a chance to review the audio version for both this and the sequel.
Although it had been a while since I read it, once the story began I realized how much of it that I actually remembered. Much like the first time, I was quickly drawn in - even though I already knew what to expect. I would have to credit that to Jessica Duncan's narration. I think she did a pretty good job, especially in keeping my interested at the bits I already knew what to expect. She gave me a different view of the characters, and I found myself feeling a bit differently about them.
One thing I'd like to point out - even with knowing what was going on, I still found myself in suspense or feeling uncomfortably nervous all over again.
The second time around and I still like it. If you're a fan of paranormal horror, then I recommend this one.
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/s...
I had read this book a couple years ago, but I was excited when I was given a chance to review the audio version for both this and the sequel.
Although it had been a while since I read it, once the story began I realized how much of it that I actually remembered. Much like the first time, I was quickly drawn in - even though I already knew what to expect. I would have to credit that to Jessica Duncan's narration. I think she did a pretty good job, especially in keeping my interested at the bits I already knew what to expect. She gave me a different view of the characters, and I found myself feeling a bit differently about them.
One thing I'd like to point out - even with knowing what was going on, I still found myself in suspense or feeling uncomfortably nervous all over again.
The second time around and I still like it. If you're a fan of paranormal horror, then I recommend this one.
December 3, 2014
This book is quite a novel read. It can and would do well with some more editing. Working on content and flow in specific but the characters are very likeable and the reader soon gets engrossed in their plight rooting for them. I can hear somebody say...well now who would not root for children in mortal danger? Well, ME. I find a lot of characters less than nice and soon wish them ill, not so here. These two really does grab your imagination.
The plot line although quite unique has a few points where it slows almost to a standstill making this book not suitable to read in a single sitting, if these can be edited so they do not mess with the flow then this would already be a really strong 4 star read.
I liked the story and I liked the two main characters so I stuck with the book. If you love the genre and love a novel plot line then I am sure you will enjoy this book as well.
WaAr
The plot line although quite unique has a few points where it slows almost to a standstill making this book not suitable to read in a single sitting, if these can be edited so they do not mess with the flow then this would already be a really strong 4 star read.
I liked the story and I liked the two main characters so I stuck with the book. If you love the genre and love a novel plot line then I am sure you will enjoy this book as well.
WaAr
May 12, 2015
Though I do not like books with pentagrams used as a device, I found the author's take on them unusual. I felt the book was well-written. I didn't see any misspellings or grammatical errors.
What is really going for this book is the excellent story. The story told from the boy's point of view was so well-done. His anguish and his heartbreak is realistic and well written. The girl's point of view was done well also, though I'm glad it wasn't over drawn. The horror aspects of the story were spot-on.
This unbelievable monster is so scary that I was turning pages like crazy. The cold and calculating old man was probably more frightful than the monster, as he is definitely believable. I like the way the story incorporated world history the way that it did.
What is really going for this book is the excellent story. The story told from the boy's point of view was so well-done. His anguish and his heartbreak is realistic and well written. The girl's point of view was done well also, though I'm glad it wasn't over drawn. The horror aspects of the story were spot-on.
This unbelievable monster is so scary that I was turning pages like crazy. The cold and calculating old man was probably more frightful than the monster, as he is definitely believable. I like the way the story incorporated world history the way that it did.
July 10, 2014
Small Things is a fast-paced adventure into the world of Shawn Spencer and Jenny McGee. When Jenny's brother Tanner was killed by a monster, no one believed her. Not even Shawn, Tanner's best friend. When the monster, called the Fetch, attacks Shawn, he finally believes that something more is going on. Plunge into their terrifying world of magic and monsters as Shawn and Jenny try to fight the Fetch and his master, and save the world.
I really enjoyed this book, but I had one minor complaint. For me, it seemed a little too detailed. I felt lost sometimes because I was wading through the descriptions instead of keeping up with the action. Other than that, a great book and one that I would recommend!
I really enjoyed this book, but I had one minor complaint. For me, it seemed a little too detailed. I felt lost sometimes because I was wading through the descriptions instead of keeping up with the action. Other than that, a great book and one that I would recommend!
September 11, 2016
Suitable for YA and adult audiences, Small Things is a paranormal tale set in the 1970s. Shawn is every bit the naïve fifteen-year-old, wondering if the recently released movie Jaws will be too scary for a first date, but, just like the teenage Harry Potter, his appeal as the hero of this story is unquestionable.
Winding history, religion and the heartbreaking grief from losing those we love into this story, DeRouen has created a monster tale that sucks you in with no intention of spitting you out soon.
I'm delighted to hear there's a sequel, because I'll definitely be reading that next.
Winding history, religion and the heartbreaking grief from losing those we love into this story, DeRouen has created a monster tale that sucks you in with no intention of spitting you out soon.
I'm delighted to hear there's a sequel, because I'll definitely be reading that next.
August 6, 2013
This. Man. Is. A. Genius!!
Set in Smalltown, USA 1970's, Small Things takes the horror genre to new heights. Two young teenagers brought together by a terrible and painful loss must face an evil beyond comprehension. Every horrible thing man has faced in the last 3000 years can be traced back to this evil. my one probkem with the book? That I finished it! Book 2 can NOT come fast enough!!
Disclaimer: this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. (the hook came free.)
Set in Smalltown, USA 1970's, Small Things takes the horror genre to new heights. Two young teenagers brought together by a terrible and painful loss must face an evil beyond comprehension. Every horrible thing man has faced in the last 3000 years can be traced back to this evil. my one probkem with the book? That I finished it! Book 2 can NOT come fast enough!!
Disclaimer: this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. (the hook came free.)
June 18, 2015
Shawn returns home for his best friends funeral. He thinks he is being followed but is not quite sure. Then his best friend's little sister tells him that she saw a monster kill her brother! Do you believe her? Can you? What follows is a tale of horror, humor and romance. What do the evil guys want? Could this whole adventure really have started when Shawn and Tanner went into the haunted house? The characters are well-developed and you find yourself routing for the good guys! The author has a way of blending the past and the present. The end was not what I expected at all!
January 3, 2013
I just finished Small Things and loved it! It was really hard to put down at night. The attention to detail really made the characters come to life. I also liked the way specific places were mentioned in the book. This really helped me to visualize where the characters were and what they were doing. If you want an attention-grabbing, can't put it down kind of book, Small Things is definitely the book for you!
May 11, 2013
Good writing, but awfully dark. The main characters are very well-written and likable, but the Stephen King-ish plot doesn't work as well as I'd hoped. It turns into a very twisted version of The Indian and the Cupboard by the end, and it was just hard to accept. Props to the author, though, for his well-thought out structure and for keeping me interested, though disillusioned, through till the end. I hope his future additions to this series go well.
July 8, 2013
Reminiscent of Stephen King's "It". Set in the 70's, 2 teenagers are hunted by a monster. This is great if you like suspense/horror! The story is told from 2 points of view, a young boy whose best friend was killed by the monster and the local sheriff whose own troubled past plays a part in this story. I liked the small connections between things (ha! Small things, that just happened) that move the plot and connect the characters.
November 28, 2013
This is a well written story you won't want to put down!! Once you start reading you can't wait to see what happens next & how things will turn out for all characters. The story makes you feel many emotions. Love Jenny & Shawn. Crazy start and it's easy to see why no one believed Jenny when she talks about the monster she seen at the lake. I don't want to give to much away. Can't wait to read the next book!!
July 14, 2014
Small Things by Joe DeRouen is a cleverly and well written book that I enjoyed very much!
Interwoven in this tale of a thrilling book is a very heartwarming story that may bring a tear, shock and keep you on the edge of your seat.
From the first page I was captivated and amazed at the twists and turns for an absolutely engaging read!
Receiving this copy for an honest review, I would totally recommend "Small Things" by Joe DeRouen 5 stars!
Interwoven in this tale of a thrilling book is a very heartwarming story that may bring a tear, shock and keep you on the edge of your seat.
From the first page I was captivated and amazed at the twists and turns for an absolutely engaging read!
Receiving this copy for an honest review, I would totally recommend "Small Things" by Joe DeRouen 5 stars!
July 30, 2014
3 1/2 really, but I can't figure out half stars. The story itself was good. I liked the protagonists and felt they were well developed. The problem I had was with some of the interactions between the main characters. Jokingly punching one another in the shoulder is fine, but I found that kind of behavior a little overplayed. Pacing was good as I found myself in the "just one more page" on a multitude of occasions. Overall, a pleasant and creepy read.
September 3, 2014
Impossible to put down, Small Things gripped me from the very first chapter with its intriguing plot, the ominous atmosphere and the most unexpected twists and turns. Action, mystery and magic, and a touching teenagers' romance, it's all there, to make this book attractive to everyone and not only lovers of horror or thrillers. The combination of humor and horror made it into a delightful read for me. Will most certainly read the book 2.
January 8, 2016
Absolutely outstanding! I was blown away. Joe's way with words will immerse a reader into the world he has created and take them on a thrill ride they will never forget. Every time you think you have the plot figured out, buckle your seat belt and hang on, as the next twist is just ahead. Excellent as a stand alone, or you can go on to read "Threads" book 2. Move over Stephen King, there is a new Master of Horror in town!
July 12, 2016
Small Things begins with the funeral of a 15 year old boy who drowned. Naturally everyone is grieving, especially Tanner’s best friend, Shawn. But things are not as they seem. An evil presence is ready to take Shawn on the journey of his young life. There are plenty of twists and turns in this dark tale that’s reminiscent of Stephen King. This one kept me on the edge of my seat.
August 30, 2014
Creepy and fun in a "oooh I have some time to read and can't wait!" kind of way. This story grabbed me from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down. I loved the way the author developed the story and the twists and turns kept me glued. I finished it this evening and promptly bought book two and...oooh I have some time to read and can't wait!!
September 6, 2014
You will be captivated from page 1 until the end, and this book will leave you wanting more. Fortunately, Small Things is the first book in this trilogy of stories. Joe DeRouen does an excellent job of twisting and turning the plot while keeping us on the edges of our seats. If you like scary stories, you’ll love Small Things!
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