What do you think?
Rate this book
Lorne Turner Supernatural Thrillers #2
Money for Old Bones: A British Ghost Story
A witch is burnt alive. A priest cuts his throat. A soldier is hung from a tree. A terrible debt must be paid.
Lorne’s personal demons need to be tamed if he’s ever going to have a normal life. When he is offered the job of security guard at an old rectory in the Lyn Valley, he takes it. The house he’s guarding has other ideas. It’s already occupied.
As the rain falls, the waters rise and old graves move. It’s time for the witch to demand her reparations from the villagers who inherited her curse. Lorne, Ella, Willow, and Heather must find a way to balance the scales before more lives are lost.
Can they survive the haunting misery of the old bones? Can they save each other from the beckoning darkness? Can Lorne find a way to pay his debt to the dead?
And then there is the rain. Always the rain.
The second instalment of this Best Selling Supernatural Thriller series.
Lorne’s personal demons need to be tamed if he’s ever going to have a normal life. When he is offered the job of security guard at an old rectory in the Lyn Valley, he takes it. The house he’s guarding has other ideas. It’s already occupied.
As the rain falls, the waters rise and old graves move. It’s time for the witch to demand her reparations from the villagers who inherited her curse. Lorne, Ella, Willow, and Heather must find a way to balance the scales before more lives are lost.
Can they survive the haunting misery of the old bones? Can they save each other from the beckoning darkness? Can Lorne find a way to pay his debt to the dead?
And then there is the rain. Always the rain.
The second instalment of this Best Selling Supernatural Thriller series.
- GenresMystery
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
128 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 3, 2024
This is a 4.5 🌟 read rounded ⬆️ to 5 🌟.
January 21, 2022
Have you ever read a book by an author you haven't previously read and was completely amazed that this is the first book of theirs that you have ever read and then you're wondering why you missed reading any of them before; this is THAT book. Money for Old Bones is my first Joe Talon book and I have to admit, I am quite upset about that, but it will not by any stretch of the imagination be the last one. I freely admit, I was very impressed with this story, the characters are extremely well thought out and perfectly written; the background and world building is one of the single most immersive feats of writing I have had the pleasure of reading. I did have difficulty removing myself from the story when I finished the book. Lorne the main character is a retired SAS officer and Heather is a younger woman that he helped out in the previous book in this series. Heather might be untrained in many things, but she is a spitfire with street savvy and phenomenal instincts. Ella the vicar is Lornes closest friends and one of the few people he trusts. While Lorne and Heather are trying to help out Father Thomas and Ella at the house that been designated for their use as a Refuge center by women and children that have been hurt in a domestic violence or similar setting, the trio stumble on to a hornets nest and if they aren't very careful the situation will become dire very quickly. Between the spirits, ghost, Djinns and inner beasts is it any wonder that the action is non stop, the drama is on high alert and the Danger level is off the charts. This is a book worthy of adding to your collection.
January 24, 2022
In “Money for Old Bones”, Lorne and Heather are called on to help a friend out by providing security/caretaker work at an old house. It is undergoing renovation to become a women’s refuge in a nearby village. There is a hidden history that keeps them on their toes with natural, supernatural and human forces working against them. They are joined by old friends Ella, Willow and new friends in some of the villagers. The threat of floods, of ghostly vengeance and a power-mad developer push them all to their limits.
The Prologue is masterful and suspenseful, with a nice historical setting to the novel that lifts it out of just a spooky story.
Joe Talon strikes a great balance between the action and supernatural elements of the story. Neither are over the top. It is refreshing to read a book that doesn’t have gratuitous “violence for violence’s sake” or just to sell a book. While there are punches given and taken, he avoids what seems to be the currently-ever-popular over the top torture scenes that turn me off from a lot of books and movies being produced these days. This isn’t a blood and guts fest with demons running amok. It is a nuanced story that left me wondering how much of the happenings were spiritual wickedness and how much were from human wickedness.
I enjoyed reading more about Lorne, Heather, Ella, Willow and meeting some new friends. Joe continues to show off his writing skills in building a great story with solid plot lines and diverse characters. This is definitely an author to follow. This book was a great read and I am loving his writing style. I am keen to see what else he throws our way & hope for more in the series.
The Prologue is masterful and suspenseful, with a nice historical setting to the novel that lifts it out of just a spooky story.
Joe Talon strikes a great balance between the action and supernatural elements of the story. Neither are over the top. It is refreshing to read a book that doesn’t have gratuitous “violence for violence’s sake” or just to sell a book. While there are punches given and taken, he avoids what seems to be the currently-ever-popular over the top torture scenes that turn me off from a lot of books and movies being produced these days. This isn’t a blood and guts fest with demons running amok. It is a nuanced story that left me wondering how much of the happenings were spiritual wickedness and how much were from human wickedness.
I enjoyed reading more about Lorne, Heather, Ella, Willow and meeting some new friends. Joe continues to show off his writing skills in building a great story with solid plot lines and diverse characters. This is definitely an author to follow. This book was a great read and I am loving his writing style. I am keen to see what else he throws our way & hope for more in the series.
December 24, 2021
Another great read by Joe Talon! Interesting story, weaving past deeds with present day adventures for our hero. Again, the atmosphere is a part of the story with passages like, " I watched the dusk leak down the steep hillsides. It didn't dominate the dying end of the day. It oozed through the thick trees, out from below the soggy bushes and between the scattered houses. The rain dragged it from the heavens and settled it on the wet fields, woodlands, and the narrow lane squeezing the old Nissan Warrior as we chuntered along." You feel like you are very immersed in the story.
This book has plenty of action and adventure to keep you turning the pages as well to find out what the author has in store for the lead and his friends. The dialog propels the story along and while there are some nods to other of stories, you could read this as a standalone and completely understand the relationships and what is happening to Mr. Turner et al.
Now we wait for the next installment!
I was given a copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
This book has plenty of action and adventure to keep you turning the pages as well to find out what the author has in store for the lead and his friends. The dialog propels the story along and while there are some nods to other of stories, you could read this as a standalone and completely understand the relationships and what is happening to Mr. Turner et al.
Now we wait for the next installment!
I was given a copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
January 21, 2022
Though the second book in the series, Money for Old Bones is my first read in the Lorne Turner Mystery Thrillers, and by author Joe Talon….but it won’t be my last. Lorne may need a break, but the rectory security guard/handyman job will wreak chaos on his plans. This paranormal gem is filled with old graves, old bones, curses, darkness, love and loss, and more, all needed to bring this story to an incredible conclusion. But an ending is a must, and debts incurred many centuries ago are due and someone will have to pay the price. I loved the characters, both goodies and baddies, as well as the vivid descriptions in this well-written, fast-paced, unusual supernatural story. An incredible read and I look forward to the next in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 6, 2025
The second Lorne Turner story. We return to find a few things changed, his relationships and existence in civilian day to day life jostling for comfortable positions to settle into, not quite getting there. Lorne is fascinating, solid, vulnerable, deep and skilled in almost every way, but not one. The supernatural world and his part in it has crept up on him and his reliance on his friends and companions a must as he becomes a vessel, with a purpose in a world of unknown. Lorne must rely on the strength and support of his friends to solve a mystery and give restless spirits their peace. Ella is strength, her faith and belief whilst also at odds with many old beliefs, never fails to rise to the occasion when called for. Heather is a damaged, recovering, hot headed power house of emotions, who is loyal and determined. I wasn't certain the attraction between her and Lorne would go anywhere, or should, but it grows and develops beautifully, drawing strength from both their flaws and strengths. Other strong and enjoyable characters, Paul, Willow, Lorne's tech pal, and his ex, Eddie and his wife, ex detective who retired to the area. This is Lorne's family, his people and together they set out to right wrongs. In Money for Old Bones, it is a wrong from the mists of the past, the hurt and tragedy stepping forward to throw its weight into the present. The icy cold of heartbreak, torture and murder crushing hopes and dreams of the future. A triple whammy of intrigue and slaughter of three that have to be laid to rest. Lorne is tasked with the job of security guard in an old rectory with a hidden past of witches and murder. The intention is to turn the building into a women's refuge, but the restless spirits have other ideas. The witches curse wreaks unended havoc and Lorne and his Scooby Doos must race to a solution and conclusion that will bring peace to those tragically slain. The second book works well with the first and follows the characters as they grow and develop. With a fantastic, gripping and thrilling story it is the perfect follow up and I look forward to getting to know them all more.
January 28, 2024
Book 146 - Joe Talon - Money for old bones
Lorne Turner, the former SAS, PTSD survival expert is back. The second novel which flirts round the edges of the supernatural is another great read. Much slower this time to build up the threat and once again what I love about these books is that Talon does not excuse or dismiss Turner’s past. He faces it…he challenges it…and he brings us along every difficult step with him…sharing every heartbeat…every bruise and torn muscle.
This time Turner and his close ‘family’ are brought together to protect a rectory that is being reshaped as a refuge for women and their families. The local bigwig with money to spend and ghosts he wants laid to rest is in everyone’s way.
As the slow, creeping, inevitable conflict rises…Turner has to do battle with rains that are almost Biblical…his own inner demons…and greed and the pursuit of wealth that may very well test a man’s heart and indeed his very soul.
A book that is never preachy…but always honest…can never be said to be pure of heart…but definitely has heart, sees relationships tested…grow and once again…emphasises that family goes beyond blood. As for the supernatural element I feared at one point this would take over and take away from Talon’s wonderful storytelling. Thankfully he resists…it is there…it isn’t ignored but the true thread and spine of the story is Turner…surviving…living…and perhaps finally…he is half way out of the dark.
Thankfully there is more to come…can’t wait.
Lorne Turner, the former SAS, PTSD survival expert is back. The second novel which flirts round the edges of the supernatural is another great read. Much slower this time to build up the threat and once again what I love about these books is that Talon does not excuse or dismiss Turner’s past. He faces it…he challenges it…and he brings us along every difficult step with him…sharing every heartbeat…every bruise and torn muscle.
This time Turner and his close ‘family’ are brought together to protect a rectory that is being reshaped as a refuge for women and their families. The local bigwig with money to spend and ghosts he wants laid to rest is in everyone’s way.
As the slow, creeping, inevitable conflict rises…Turner has to do battle with rains that are almost Biblical…his own inner demons…and greed and the pursuit of wealth that may very well test a man’s heart and indeed his very soul.
A book that is never preachy…but always honest…can never be said to be pure of heart…but definitely has heart, sees relationships tested…grow and once again…emphasises that family goes beyond blood. As for the supernatural element I feared at one point this would take over and take away from Talon’s wonderful storytelling. Thankfully he resists…it is there…it isn’t ignored but the true thread and spine of the story is Turner…surviving…living…and perhaps finally…he is half way out of the dark.
Thankfully there is more to come…can’t wait.
January 21, 2022
Joe Talon is one on favorite authors, his novels are always well written, fast-paced, and have you hanging on each and every page. This is a British read and an occult thriller in every work of the British style. This is a well-written, fast-paced occult thriller. There is humour, darkness, some great character interactions and it is fun to read. 'There is the expected occult and mystical aspect to the story when a multi hundred-year-old murder has to be laid to rest, as well as modern crime investigation and gun fire. You cannot miss this one. I encourage to read the first novel in the series followed by the second. This novel could be read alone but you will miss much of Talon’s writing style. I received this novel from BookFunnel and this is my true and honest review.
September 18, 2022
I recently got an offer for a review copy of the audiobook version for Money for Old Bones from StoryOrigin. This is the second in Joe Talon’s Lorne turner supernatural thriller series. This second offering takes the series to a new level, while Counting Crows was very good, Money for Old Bones was an excellent supernatural thriller with a couple of unexpected twists. Joe Talon does an excellent job developing the characters, including the new ones introduced in this book. I’m looking forward to listening to the next episode in this series. Edmund Bloxam does an excellent job bringing the characters and story to life.
January 27, 2022
Sooo freaking good!! The story will hook you and not let go. It’s suspenseful and will leave you thinking about it for days on end. The author makes these characters feel so realistic! The atmosphere was realistic, I felt like I was there with the characters! There’s action and adventure that kept me engaged, kept me turning the pages. Overall, a phenomenal read! The story was really well written, the pacing flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received. My review is solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
July 8, 2022
Really good
A really good supernatural thriller, Lorne is ex SAS and still has soldiers instinct when things go wrong. He also thinks he has a supernatural being inside him one which he calls the beast. He's a survival expert and lives in a farm in the back of beyond he has an oddball sort of family, friends not blood related one a broken young woman and another a vicar. He helps a lot of people and their is some supernatural element in most of his jobs. I really enjoyed reading this book.
A really good supernatural thriller, Lorne is ex SAS and still has soldiers instinct when things go wrong. He also thinks he has a supernatural being inside him one which he calls the beast. He's a survival expert and lives in a farm in the back of beyond he has an oddball sort of family, friends not blood related one a broken young woman and another a vicar. He helps a lot of people and their is some supernatural element in most of his jobs. I really enjoyed reading this book.
December 17, 2021
An excellent Paranormal book. The author has away of presenting historical information with current events and you feel like you are on the scene. Lorne Turner an ex Sgt Major in the SAS is asked to to act as security at an old rectory , His backup team of females help him to keep his demons at bay but in this situation, nothing prepares him for what will transpire. Well worth reading but prepare yourself for an unusual read.
January 21, 2022
This thriller has so many twists with supernatural entities that I was glued to the pages. The rain, well all the rain had me looking for my boots. As I was absorbing the story, I think I was also absorbing the rain. Lorne, Heather, Willow and Ella try to intervene when a rectory meant for a safe house for women and children is haunted by a spirit who wants revenge. I would recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
January 22, 2022
Joe Talon is one of the few authors who can draw me right into the story with the main characters. I can hear and feel the dampness and chill from the rain as he weaves his tale in this supernatural thriller. In this second book we get to learn more about Lorne, Ella, Willow and Heather through solving the mystery. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next. I highly recommend reading Book # 1 Counting Crows first.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
January 22, 2022
I have to say I was not sure if I would like this book but once I started reading it and was able to read it from the very beginning to the very end and I have to say that it was a good book and I enjoyed it very much the story line and character built up was quite good and the interplay was fantastic and these are my opinons. I received this book for free thru an Advanced Review Copy, ARC, with an honest review freely given.
March 17, 2022
Money for old bones
Another great read from Joe Talon great book and story great story which keeps you hooked wanting to know what happens to the end also the book makes you care what happens to the characters and all set against the backdrop of beautiful and mysterious Somerset which has a history which fits these great books and matches these stories keep up the good work Joe Talon can't wait for next books
Another great read from Joe Talon great book and story great story which keeps you hooked wanting to know what happens to the end also the book makes you care what happens to the characters and all set against the backdrop of beautiful and mysterious Somerset which has a history which fits these great books and matches these stories keep up the good work Joe Talon can't wait for next books
January 27, 2024
I did not read book one, but this is still great as a stand-alone. The past creeps in quite often in this story in more ways than one. Lorne is asked to watch over an estate that is set to become a safe haven for battered women. Evil forces contrive to make sure this doesn't happen. Between the superstitious townspeople, the rich developer, and the historic rain and flooding going on, him and his friend Heather have their work cut out for them.
November 7, 2024
Even Better than the First!
The first book in the series started a little slow, but was necessary to define the main characters. But, boy oh boy, did it end in a delicious finale! Book 2 is an amazing rush—non stop action, both supernatural and Lorne working all his SAS skills. I read both books within 24 hours! i hope i can take a little break for sleep and food before I start the remaining 6 volumes!
The first book in the series started a little slow, but was necessary to define the main characters. But, boy oh boy, did it end in a delicious finale! Book 2 is an amazing rush—non stop action, both supernatural and Lorne working all his SAS skills. I read both books within 24 hours! i hope i can take a little break for sleep and food before I start the remaining 6 volumes!
January 23, 2022
A great read, full of mystery, and suspense. A village with secrets, a haunted house and a curse. Lorne and his friends face many dangers, putting their lives at risk. Action packed from start to finish. Very well written. Recommended. I received a free advance copy of this book and this review is objective and honest.
June 8, 2022
I really don’t think there was anything left that could have gone wrong. I truly can’t believe that Lorne and his group of friends got out of Scob alive. I am so tired of parasites like Prescott think that just because they have money they can run roughshod over everyone. I was so very happy he got exactly what he deserved. I really enjoy this series!
September 5, 2022
I enjoyed this book a lot. Joe Talon's creative supernatural thriller captivated me. I liked the characters and their complexities. The atmosphere was creepy and had me looking over my shoulder a couple of times. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Edmund Bloxam's narration was great. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily posted this review.
November 8, 2022
Great book!
This book was great.
When a friend asks Lorne to be a caretaker for an old house, Lorne finds himself in the middle of a very strange town, a possibly haunted house and some very mean people. A cursed town that is now in the midst of a flood, has Lorne trying to find out just what is going on. Definitely reading the next book in the series!
This book was great.
When a friend asks Lorne to be a caretaker for an old house, Lorne finds himself in the middle of a very strange town, a possibly haunted house and some very mean people. A cursed town that is now in the midst of a flood, has Lorne trying to find out just what is going on. Definitely reading the next book in the series!
June 21, 2024
This is the second book in the series and I really should have read the first one before listening to this because I feel like I am missing something. Overall, I enjoyed the story and the supernatural elements, but the narrator's voice got on my nerves after a while. I will continue the series, but have to brace myself for the narrator.
August 5, 2024
Great books, great series so far!
I'm really happy I stumbled upon this 8 book series by toe talon! I enjoy the main character Lorne turner very much. The plots are very creative and interesting. I like the way the author incorporates the supernatural connections within the events.
I'm really happy I stumbled upon this 8 book series by toe talon! I enjoy the main character Lorne turner very much. The plots are very creative and interesting. I like the way the author incorporates the supernatural connections within the events.
February 2, 2022
Definitely a winner
The continuing story of ex SAS soldier Lorne Turner as he comes to grips with rural life and things that just aren't what they seem. The supernatural parts blend with the "real life" parts and are believably written. I like that those parts aren't crazy out there but chilling all the same. The "flawed" (or rather real) characters make this a great read. Can't wait for more. Don't miss out on the free novellas!
The continuing story of ex SAS soldier Lorne Turner as he comes to grips with rural life and things that just aren't what they seem. The supernatural parts blend with the "real life" parts and are believably written. I like that those parts aren't crazy out there but chilling all the same. The "flawed" (or rather real) characters make this a great read. Can't wait for more. Don't miss out on the free novellas!
March 29, 2022
Brilliant
I really enjoyed this book its well written with a very imursive story.
The characters each have their own individual place in the story and they all interact brilliantly making it a really really good read.
Well done Joe Talon.
I really enjoyed this book its well written with a very imursive story.
The characters each have their own individual place in the story and they all interact brilliantly making it a really really good read.
Well done Joe Talon.
July 4, 2022
Not only were there loads of surprises, the twists and turns kept you reading all the way to the end.
And it was not what you would have expected when you started reading this book.
The author has a knack for this. Cannot wait to see what he writes next.
And it was not what you would have expected when you started reading this book.
The author has a knack for this. Cannot wait to see what he writes next.
July 14, 2022
Money for Old Bones is another great story of Joe Talon's expertise at making the characters and places so clear with his choice of words. I liked this book as much as the others in the series. I will keep up with Lorne Turner and friends.
May 13, 2023
Perfectly possible?
Good paced dialogue. Shows both the best and the worst personality traits that make up parts of the human race. The bad ones get their comeuppance in realistic ways. Good ending, not a sudden paced stop leaving you dropped like some books.
Good paced dialogue. Shows both the best and the worst personality traits that make up parts of the human race. The bad ones get their comeuppance in realistic ways. Good ending, not a sudden paced stop leaving you dropped like some books.
August 31, 2025
I’m wanted to give this two and a half stars. This tale was a bit fractured with what seemed a lot of needless moving about from pillar to post. It just did not gel too well with me and I found Ella and willow a bit clunky and flat
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews