What do you think?
Rate this book
Sinister Entity
"How can you escape the ghost of yourself? "
The Leigh family is terrified. They ve been haunted by the ghostly image of their young daughter, Selena. But how can that be, when Selena is alive and well, and as frightened as her parents? With nowhere else to turn, the Leighs place their hopes in Jessica Backman, who has dedicated her life to investigating paranormal activity. Accompanied by a new partner who claims to be able to speak to the dead, Jessica will soon encounter an entity that scares even her. And a terror far worse than she imagined.
The Leigh family is terrified. They ve been haunted by the ghostly image of their young daughter, Selena. But how can that be, when Selena is alive and well, and as frightened as her parents? With nowhere else to turn, the Leighs place their hopes in Jessica Backman, who has dedicated her life to investigating paranormal activity. Accompanied by a new partner who claims to be able to speak to the dead, Jessica will soon encounter an entity that scares even her. And a terror far worse than she imagined.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2013
2 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Shea
66 books1,009 followersHunter Shea is the author of over 25 books, with a specialization in cryptozoological horror that includes The Jersey Devil, The Dover Demon, Loch Ness Revenge and many others. As part of the new horror line at Flame Tree Press, his novel Creature has gained critical acclaim. His novel, The Montauk Monster, was named one of the best reads of the summer by Publishers Weekly. A trip to the International Cryptozoology Museum will find several of his cryptid books among the fascinating displays. Living in a true haunted house inspired his Jessica Backman: Death in the Afterlife series (Forest of Shadows, Sinister Entity and Island of the Forbidden). In 2011, he was selected to be a part of the launch of Samhain Publishing’s new horror line alongside legendary author Ramsey Campbell. When he’s not writing thrillers and horror, he also spins tall tales for middle grade readers on Amazon’s highly regarded Rapids reading app.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 11, 2017
SINISTER ENTITY, by Hunter Shea, is a paranormal horror novel that had it all: doppelgängers, malevolent entities, great characters that worked well together, mystery, carnage, and my personal favorite--the unexpected around every corner! This was my first novel that featured the character of Jessica Backman, and it stands completely on its own. After finishing this book, I found that Hunter Shea's FOREST OF SHADOWS is based on Jessica's early childhood, for those curious to learn more details of her family's past.
". . . No matter how great or strange your accomplishments, life carried on . . . "
To start us off, we are given an example of Jessica's "E.B. (Energy Beings) investigation", as she is on a case that turns out to be much more than the poltergeist she first expected. Joining her after repeated entreaties by a "dead man", is Eddie Home, the great-grandson of a powerful medium with psychic abilities.
". . . When the stuff of nightmares follows us into the daylight, we do anything we can to banish it back to the realm of impossibility . . . "
Shea has a great talent for characterization, I've noticed from other novels I've read by him, and he doesn't disappoint in this one! In addition to our main characters of Jessica and Eddie, he gives a virtual "life" to each member of the families we encounter. When Rita and Greg Leigh contact the paranormal investigators after repeatedly witnessing the Doppelgänger of their oldest daughter, Selena, I already felt empathy towards them. Selena's terror at seeing a virtual replica of herself was practically palpable--enough to drive a teenaged girl to camp out in her younger brother's bedroom in order to avoid being alone.
"We're being haunted by our own daughter."
For this being the first time Jessica Backman has teamed up with a "partner", the two have talents that immediately meshed with--and complimented--each other's. Eddie Home's ability to "read" a spirit's mental intent came in very handy at times.
"Don't call . . . him a . . . thing. He . . . he really doesn't like that."
Overall, an all-consuming novel that I didn't want to put aside even once, with scenes that actually made me shudder at times! Hunter Shea has created a great duo with Jessica and Eddie, that I hope to read more of in the near future.
Highly recommended!
". . . No matter how great or strange your accomplishments, life carried on . . . "
To start us off, we are given an example of Jessica's "E.B. (Energy Beings) investigation", as she is on a case that turns out to be much more than the poltergeist she first expected. Joining her after repeated entreaties by a "dead man", is Eddie Home, the great-grandson of a powerful medium with psychic abilities.
". . . When the stuff of nightmares follows us into the daylight, we do anything we can to banish it back to the realm of impossibility . . . "
Shea has a great talent for characterization, I've noticed from other novels I've read by him, and he doesn't disappoint in this one! In addition to our main characters of Jessica and Eddie, he gives a virtual "life" to each member of the families we encounter. When Rita and Greg Leigh contact the paranormal investigators after repeatedly witnessing the Doppelgänger of their oldest daughter, Selena, I already felt empathy towards them. Selena's terror at seeing a virtual replica of herself was practically palpable--enough to drive a teenaged girl to camp out in her younger brother's bedroom in order to avoid being alone.
"We're being haunted by our own daughter."
For this being the first time Jessica Backman has teamed up with a "partner", the two have talents that immediately meshed with--and complimented--each other's. Eddie Home's ability to "read" a spirit's mental intent came in very handy at times.
"Don't call . . . him a . . . thing. He . . . he really doesn't like that."
Overall, an all-consuming novel that I didn't want to put aside even once, with scenes that actually made me shudder at times! Hunter Shea has created a great duo with Jessica and Eddie, that I hope to read more of in the near future.
Highly recommended!
September 24, 2013
If you aren't reading Hunter Shea already, you need to start reading him today. Like his novels Forest of Shadows and Evil Eternal, Sinister Entity kicks major butt. I'll let you check out the synopsis on your own, but for now I'll just say that this novel contains everything a great horror story should--an intriguing premise, bone-deep characterization, gripping suspense, and serious frights. Within the first few pages you'll know that you're in the hands of a powerful writer with an impeccable feel for storytelling and language. By the end, you'll be white-knuckling this sucker and holding your breath as the story catapults you toward a memorable climax.
Sinister Entity is an outstanding horror novel, one you need to check out immediately. You won't be sorry you did.
Sinister Entity is an outstanding horror novel, one you need to check out immediately. You won't be sorry you did.
June 5, 2015
Hunter Shea Knows a Good Ghost Story
I'm not much of a fan of haunted house or ghost stories, but I make an exception for Hunter Shea. He knows his stuff and uses his vast knowledge of the paranormal to infuse his books with a unique style. Looking forward to reading the third novel in this series.
I'm not much of a fan of haunted house or ghost stories, but I make an exception for Hunter Shea. He knows his stuff and uses his vast knowledge of the paranormal to infuse his books with a unique style. Looking forward to reading the third novel in this series.
March 15, 2015
This is the second book featuring Jessica Backman. If you read the first one where she is 6 years old and just finding out about her ability to see dead people, you are going to love this one.
Jessica is now 19 and still ghost hunting. She receives requests - through her webpage - to help people that are in need of freeing their homes and lives of ghosts..Some just not so nice!
Eddie Home is a physic that is contacted by Jessicas father to meet with her and help her on a case. Of course Jess does not trust Eddie but when she is contacted by a family whose daughter is seeing a Doppelganger (an exact image of her daughter) She gets Eddie to help.
When Jess and Eddie go to help the family, the father just wants to throw them out, which he does..But as the doppelganger and another ghost entity take over, Jess and Eddie go back to the house to do what they do best..Take care of the paranormal entity and this one is just not so nice at all!!
I am just getting started on the 3rd novel featuring Jess and hoping that it does bring back Eddie..I can only hope and keep my fingers crossed that Hunter Shea will continue writing about this character.
This is a very engrossing novel and I truly loved it.
Off to read Island of the Forbidded.
Jessica is now 19 and still ghost hunting. She receives requests - through her webpage - to help people that are in need of freeing their homes and lives of ghosts..Some just not so nice!
Eddie Home is a physic that is contacted by Jessicas father to meet with her and help her on a case. Of course Jess does not trust Eddie but when she is contacted by a family whose daughter is seeing a Doppelganger (an exact image of her daughter) She gets Eddie to help.
When Jess and Eddie go to help the family, the father just wants to throw them out, which he does..But as the doppelganger and another ghost entity take over, Jess and Eddie go back to the house to do what they do best..Take care of the paranormal entity and this one is just not so nice at all!!
I am just getting started on the 3rd novel featuring Jess and hoping that it does bring back Eddie..I can only hope and keep my fingers crossed that Hunter Shea will continue writing about this character.
This is a very engrossing novel and I truly loved it.
Off to read Island of the Forbidded.
October 27, 2014
I read this book while on vacation and loved it. I was hooked from the start and it only took a few days to finish. I have finally found another great horror author to read. If you are looking for well written horror with great character development and pacing, give this guy a try.
August 6, 2018
This is the second book in the Jessica Backman series. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first and third but it was still really good. I actually thought this was the first book when I read it- so I read it a little out of order.
I think I was just expecting it to be scarier then it was but it was actually pretty mild. It kind of focuses more on the investigative process of finding and banishing EB's (energy beings as Jessica calls them) which actually ended up being pretty cool and extremely interesting! It was a nice change from the paranormal haunting books I've read lately.
I think I was just expecting it to be scarier then it was but it was actually pretty mild. It kind of focuses more on the investigative process of finding and banishing EB's (energy beings as Jessica calls them) which actually ended up being pretty cool and extremely interesting! It was a nice change from the paranormal haunting books I've read lately.
April 19, 2013
This is a great book. A creepy paranormal story set in the real world with characters that you care about. Lots of chills and excitement. I also suggest Forest of Shadows and The Graveyard Speaks from Hunter Shea.
April 5, 2013
If you love original horror concepts, then you are in for a real treat. Author Hunter Shea brings originality and excellent storytelling to the table with SINISTER ENTITY, his newest release from Samhain Publishing.
This is not a traditional ghost story or haunted house tale. Oh, no...this book is about something far more evil. SINISTER ENTITY will take you to levels of horror you have never before imagined. And if you can survive the ride, you will never be the same.
The book is written very well, with flowing prose that immerses the reader in the story and never once lets go. I particularly enjoy how Shea creates such a vivid and horrific picture within the real world. The events that unfold could very well happen right next door!
The characters in SINISTER ENTITY are realistic and believable, traits which are definitely needed in a story like this one. The family dynamic between the Leighs is exactly how I would picture a typical New England family, and their reactions to the horrors they encounter are what one would expect. This realism heightens the sense of impending terror within the book and makes you cringe even more so when things go wrong.
The plot is the true winner for this book, however. Shea weaves together a skillful blend of supernatural terror and blood-chilling suspense; the result is an intriguing and unique tale that will leave your heart pounding in your chest long after the final page has been closed. Make no mistake: this is not a book you want to read in the dark.
SINISTER ENTITY is the first book of Shea’s that I have read, but I am definitely a life-long fan now. His work is smart and inventive, in both scope and merit. His themes are universal and his horror is, well, horrifying. You can’t ask for anything else. This book hit store shelves yesterday, so give it a look for sure.
This is not a traditional ghost story or haunted house tale. Oh, no...this book is about something far more evil. SINISTER ENTITY will take you to levels of horror you have never before imagined. And if you can survive the ride, you will never be the same.
The book is written very well, with flowing prose that immerses the reader in the story and never once lets go. I particularly enjoy how Shea creates such a vivid and horrific picture within the real world. The events that unfold could very well happen right next door!
The characters in SINISTER ENTITY are realistic and believable, traits which are definitely needed in a story like this one. The family dynamic between the Leighs is exactly how I would picture a typical New England family, and their reactions to the horrors they encounter are what one would expect. This realism heightens the sense of impending terror within the book and makes you cringe even more so when things go wrong.
The plot is the true winner for this book, however. Shea weaves together a skillful blend of supernatural terror and blood-chilling suspense; the result is an intriguing and unique tale that will leave your heart pounding in your chest long after the final page has been closed. Make no mistake: this is not a book you want to read in the dark.
SINISTER ENTITY is the first book of Shea’s that I have read, but I am definitely a life-long fan now. His work is smart and inventive, in both scope and merit. His themes are universal and his horror is, well, horrifying. You can’t ask for anything else. This book hit store shelves yesterday, so give it a look for sure.
April 13, 2013
Hunter Shea’s Sinister Entity hits the ground running and never lets up. You don’t need to read the free short story prequel The Graveyard Speaks before reading this novel, but you might as well since it is just as entertaining. The story follows the exploits of ghost hunter Jessica and psychic Eddie as they try to free a family from a horrible haunting. I won’t spoil a single plot twist by saying more. Hunter leverages his ghost hunting experiences to fill the book with true life paranormal details. Terrifying imagery, compassionate characters and horrifying situations make this book impossible to put down.
April 9, 2013
Doppelgangers have always scared the beejeebies out of me. Hunter Shea explores that legend in vivid detail here and gives it his own unique twist. Well written story that had me sitting on the edge of my seat with sweating palms more than once! He threw in some unexpected turns along the way, and as much as I wanted to at times, I was helpless to look away because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Great horror read!
February 7, 2017
Jessica Backman, is a nineteen year old ghost hunter. She even has her own website. Jessica, receives request from people seeking her help. Eddie Holmes is a physic, who is contacted by Jessica dead father. He wants Eddie to get in contact with her, and help her solve her latest case. Jessica does not trust anyone, and does not believe that Eddie can talk to the dead. Jessica is contacted by the Leigh family. It seems that the family is seeing a doppelganger that looks just like their daughter Selena. Selena, has even seen it,and it terrified that it wants to hurt her. Jessica wants Eddie to go along to help solve this strange case. Selena's father, does not believe in all this weird stuff. He wants to throw Jessica, and Eddie out of their home. Later on Selena tells her father, that she was no where near the garage when he thought he saw her. Jessica brings all this fancy equipment to help catch a glimpse of what is terrify the Leigh house. Jessica and Eddie, have no idea, that they are about to enter the gates of hell, and there is no turning back. This is Hunter Shea at his best. I was hooked from the very first page. Shea's development of the main characters is excellent. Hunter Shea is a good writer and an excellent storyteller. If you like Jessica and Eddie, they are again teamed up in Island of the Forbidden. The author told me that we can look forward to a new adventures Jessica and Eddie in the future.
October 27, 2013
Actual rating - 4.5/5
When I reached the 60% mark in this book, I started stalking the author across social media because my socks were officially ROCKED. I even emailed him to tell him how much I was enjoying the book and that I was so appreciative of Jessica, the ghost hunter MC, who's such a badass. After a string of books where the female main characters were blah and weak, Jessica was a figurative breath of fresh air. Plus, *fan girl moment*, Mr. Shea emailed me back!
When I first read the blurb for this book, I knew it was a must-read. A girl who's not dead but is being haunted by the ghost of herself? Yes, please! It sounded so totally unique, and it really, really was.
I've been a horror fan since my mom sat me down and made me watch The Exorcist at the tender age of ten, so I don't get scared easily. But there were moments, actually lots of them, where I'd be reading in bed and would get all shivery. So for a book to do that to me, I think that's really something.
The only thing that kind of irked me about this book, and it's a small thing really, is that during a crucial time crunch, Jessica decided it was time to explain her past rather than go do what she desperately needed to do. It didn't take that long, but still.
That doesn't change the fact that I'll read anything by Mr. Shea from now until forever.
When I reached the 60% mark in this book, I started stalking the author across social media because my socks were officially ROCKED. I even emailed him to tell him how much I was enjoying the book and that I was so appreciative of Jessica, the ghost hunter MC, who's such a badass. After a string of books where the female main characters were blah and weak, Jessica was a figurative breath of fresh air. Plus, *fan girl moment*, Mr. Shea emailed me back!
When I first read the blurb for this book, I knew it was a must-read. A girl who's not dead but is being haunted by the ghost of herself? Yes, please! It sounded so totally unique, and it really, really was.
I've been a horror fan since my mom sat me down and made me watch The Exorcist at the tender age of ten, so I don't get scared easily. But there were moments, actually lots of them, where I'd be reading in bed and would get all shivery. So for a book to do that to me, I think that's really something.
The only thing that kind of irked me about this book, and it's a small thing really, is that during a crucial time crunch, Jessica decided it was time to explain her past rather than go do what she desperately needed to do. It didn't take that long, but still.
That doesn't change the fact that I'll read anything by Mr. Shea from now until forever.
May 27, 2013
I have had and will not have much sleep until I get this book read. Just saying it right now. From page one, it grabs you by the throat and keeps you reading into the night. I love Jessica and her ghost hunting habits and combined with the other elements in the book (not saying-not going to spoil it for you!) it has been a roller coaster ride that I have no intent of stopping. If I was off tomorrow and didn't have a million writing deadlines of my own this week, you can bet I would be holed up with a bucket of movie theater popcorn and a 2 liter Mountain Dew reading my way through this baby. I was to page 54 last night without hardly noticing the time. When I actually looked up, it was 2am and I remembered I had to work in the morning. So, yes. This one is a paranormal drama with multiple elements and a great scare factor that will have you looking a little harder at the dark corners in your house.
5/5 For a great suspenseful read, paranormal elements that wouldn't let go and characters that feel so alive, they have become people I might actually want to know in real life. Dialog and action are perfect! I will be looking for more from Hunter Shea you can bet on that.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
5/5 For a great suspenseful read, paranormal elements that wouldn't let go and characters that feel so alive, they have become people I might actually want to know in real life. Dialog and action are perfect! I will be looking for more from Hunter Shea you can bet on that.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 29, 2015
Hunter Shea truly has an innate ability to build palpable tension and make the pulse pound. Highly recommended!!!
July 23, 2018
Jessica Backman is a paranormal investigator and along with her sidekick Eddie who is a physic they investigate a house that is supposedly haunted. The house is harboring a doppelganger that looks the daughter of the Leighs. Jessica brings all her ghost equipment to help her with finding out what is really going on in the house and she brings Eddie along hoping that he can sense what is happening in the house.
I didn't find no chills and thrills here unfortunately. For some reason, to me it wasn't as good as some of the other ones I have read by Hunter Shea and I thought it would be more "leave the light on" spooky, but it I didn't find no spooks within these pages.
This was still a good book, but I just wasn't scared when I was reading it and I never really connected to the characters. Nothing to deter other readers from reading it, but I just wasn't as spooked as I was hoping to be. Three stars for this one.
I didn't find no chills and thrills here unfortunately. For some reason, to me it wasn't as good as some of the other ones I have read by Hunter Shea and I thought it would be more "leave the light on" spooky, but it I didn't find no spooks within these pages.
This was still a good book, but I just wasn't scared when I was reading it and I never really connected to the characters. Nothing to deter other readers from reading it, but I just wasn't as spooked as I was hoping to be. Three stars for this one.
February 21, 2015
Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review
Sinister Entity picks up the action immediately with Jessica Backman on an investigation at the McCammon home in Bronxville, New York where poltergeist activity has frightened the family. While we get a brief glimpse of Jessica in action in The Graveyard Speaks, this investigation shows what she is all about. She remains fearless and scientific in her approach of investigating the phenomena, taking notes even as the entity begins creating havoc in the home and attempting to frighten her.
We are also introduced to Eddie Home, a college student with a unique background. Eddie is a psychic with many unique gifts and spent a majority of his college years as a subject for the Rhine Research Center, a renowned research lab that studies parapsychology. He has the ability to see and interact with spirits, maneuver objects with his mind and many other gifts. However, he decides to leave the Rhine Research Center after connecting with a spirit tied to Jessica’s past. After six months of working on strengthening his connection to this spirit, Eddie realizes he needs to find Jessica because she needs his help.
Eddie finally reaches Jessica, who is initially reluctant to accept his help until he gives her evidence of his credibility that she can not explain away. Jessica still doesn’t know whether or not to believe Eddie, so she devises her own litmus test of his abilities and invites him along on her investigation of the entity haunting the McCammons. Despite her reservations, Eddie proves himself and his abilities when he comes to Jessica’s aid and helps her to banish the spirit once and for all.
Coming off their first successful investigation as a team, they receive a call from the Leigh family. They claim to experience unexplained noises and appearances that seem to hint at ghost activity, only the apparition they are seeing is that of their own daughter. Eddie and Jessica head up to the Leigh household and what they uncover is that there is more than one presence in the Leigh household and it is an evil far beyond their wildest imagination.
I really loved the introduction of Eddie’s character to the story. Jessica is headstrong and often throws herself into investigations with reckless abandon and Eddie is one of the few people who can help keep her grounded. Although Jessica doubts Eddie’s abilities initially and their partnership gets off to a rocky start, I think she begins to respect him for how he handles his abilities and dealing with the emotions of being able to interact with EB’s. Hunter also does a great job of giving Jessica and Eddie’s partnership a realistic portrayal. They don’t just become an instantly great team because they both have experienced some pretty intense personal experiences with EB’s, they clash. Even after their first encounter where they were testing each others limits, Jessica and Eddie each have their own approach to things and it occasionally brings up friction between them. However, they are a great team because of how they handle these differences and use them to bring out the best in each other.
While Forest of Shadows had occasional lulls, Sinister Entity is where Hunter Shea takes the gloves off and offers up nonstop action. This isn’t just a straight forward ghost story, Hunter adds a twist by having the Leigh family see an apparition of their daughter who is still alive and well. I don’t want to spoil the mystery behind the occurrences, but I thought it was original, creepy and highly entertaining!
Hunter Shea really hit a home run with Sinister Entity. It takes a lot to truly creep me out, but after reading Sinister Entity, I am not ashamed to say it scared the hell out of me. I live in a fairly old house and after marathon late-night reading sessions, the slightest creak of the floorboards had my adrenaline pumping. Sinister Entity is a pedal to the floor horror novel that is sure to be a favorite among any horror fiction fan, especially those seeking an original take on the ghost story genre. Sinister Entity was not only one of my favorite books that I have read recently, it also claimed a spot in my top horror novels of all-time. An absolute must read.
Sinister Entity picks up the action immediately with Jessica Backman on an investigation at the McCammon home in Bronxville, New York where poltergeist activity has frightened the family. While we get a brief glimpse of Jessica in action in The Graveyard Speaks, this investigation shows what she is all about. She remains fearless and scientific in her approach of investigating the phenomena, taking notes even as the entity begins creating havoc in the home and attempting to frighten her.
We are also introduced to Eddie Home, a college student with a unique background. Eddie is a psychic with many unique gifts and spent a majority of his college years as a subject for the Rhine Research Center, a renowned research lab that studies parapsychology. He has the ability to see and interact with spirits, maneuver objects with his mind and many other gifts. However, he decides to leave the Rhine Research Center after connecting with a spirit tied to Jessica’s past. After six months of working on strengthening his connection to this spirit, Eddie realizes he needs to find Jessica because she needs his help.
Eddie finally reaches Jessica, who is initially reluctant to accept his help until he gives her evidence of his credibility that she can not explain away. Jessica still doesn’t know whether or not to believe Eddie, so she devises her own litmus test of his abilities and invites him along on her investigation of the entity haunting the McCammons. Despite her reservations, Eddie proves himself and his abilities when he comes to Jessica’s aid and helps her to banish the spirit once and for all.
Coming off their first successful investigation as a team, they receive a call from the Leigh family. They claim to experience unexplained noises and appearances that seem to hint at ghost activity, only the apparition they are seeing is that of their own daughter. Eddie and Jessica head up to the Leigh household and what they uncover is that there is more than one presence in the Leigh household and it is an evil far beyond their wildest imagination.
I really loved the introduction of Eddie’s character to the story. Jessica is headstrong and often throws herself into investigations with reckless abandon and Eddie is one of the few people who can help keep her grounded. Although Jessica doubts Eddie’s abilities initially and their partnership gets off to a rocky start, I think she begins to respect him for how he handles his abilities and dealing with the emotions of being able to interact with EB’s. Hunter also does a great job of giving Jessica and Eddie’s partnership a realistic portrayal. They don’t just become an instantly great team because they both have experienced some pretty intense personal experiences with EB’s, they clash. Even after their first encounter where they were testing each others limits, Jessica and Eddie each have their own approach to things and it occasionally brings up friction between them. However, they are a great team because of how they handle these differences and use them to bring out the best in each other.
While Forest of Shadows had occasional lulls, Sinister Entity is where Hunter Shea takes the gloves off and offers up nonstop action. This isn’t just a straight forward ghost story, Hunter adds a twist by having the Leigh family see an apparition of their daughter who is still alive and well. I don’t want to spoil the mystery behind the occurrences, but I thought it was original, creepy and highly entertaining!
Hunter Shea really hit a home run with Sinister Entity. It takes a lot to truly creep me out, but after reading Sinister Entity, I am not ashamed to say it scared the hell out of me. I live in a fairly old house and after marathon late-night reading sessions, the slightest creak of the floorboards had my adrenaline pumping. Sinister Entity is a pedal to the floor horror novel that is sure to be a favorite among any horror fiction fan, especially those seeking an original take on the ghost story genre. Sinister Entity was not only one of my favorite books that I have read recently, it also claimed a spot in my top horror novels of all-time. An absolute must read.
March 1, 2024
I just finished Sinister Entity Book 2 by Hunter Shea and it was excellent. It really creeped me out nicely and that's exactly what it's supposed to do! His books are all so well written, regardless of what sub-genre they are. Highly recommend!
May 26, 2013
(This review can also be found on my blog The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl).
I had been craving a good ghost story, so when Sarah from Fae Books recommended Sinister Entity by Hunter Shea, I bought it on Amazon right afterwards. I'm glad I did because it was a fantastic read!
(Now I've read that most readers of review blogs don't like when a blog basically says again what a book is about, so I'm just going to give you a little bit more about what the book is about since it's not just about a doppelganger.) Jessica and Eddie are ghost hunters both with unique abilities. When they get a call from the Leigh family saying that they are seeing their daughter's double, Eddie and Jessica jump at the chance to help. However, the doppelganger is the least of the Leigh's problem. A more sinister force has set its sight on their 16 year old daughter. She is in more danger than anyone could have imagined.
Anything that has the word "entity" in it, I'm loving. I'm a sucker for ghost stories so the title definitely got my attention.
The cover conveys that it's going to be a scary story, but I think the cover could've been a little bit better. I would've liked to see a picture of Selena (the Leigh's daughter) and her doppelganger in a scary setting or something similar.
The world building was done rather well. I've been a part of a ghost hunting team, so I was more critical one it came to that aspect. However, Shea didn't disappoint. Not once did it feel as if the whole scary entity thing was over the top. I can't fault the world building at all. The whole normal family in suburbia thing feels natural and not pushed upon the reader.
The pacing at the beginning was a little slow. I felt that, at the beginning, it was too much info dumping. The book starts off with Jessica investigating another house. I felt like we didn't really need to read about that. The fact that she was a ghost hunter which we are told in the beginning was good enough. Also, we are also introduced to Eddie's special abilities in a university research type setting. I felt like this was a bit overkill. Just let Eddie explain his special abilities throughout the story instead of dumping them on us in the beginning. Saying that, the pacing picked up after the info dump at the beginning. I couldn't put the book down after that. The story continues to flow smoothly throughout the rest of the book.
Even though the plot in this type of story has been done before, I still enjoyed it. I love the doppelganger spin on this type of classic ghost story. I also must mention the plot reminded me of the stories of the late great Richard Laymon. (If you don't know who he is, look him up, and then read some of his novels). I also enjoyed the fact that the plot didn't really have any romance in it which was refreshing.
I enjoyed each of the characters even the sinister entity and Selena's doppelganger. I felt that each character was written exceptionally well. I especially enjoyed how strong of a character Jessica was. I never felt like she was inferior to Eddie just because she is a female. Both characters were just as strong as each other. As for Selena, I could actually feel her fear. I love how the author actually made her come across as a teenage girl. The way Selena acted and spoke were exactly what I imagined someone of her age doing/saying. I felt sorry for Selena throughout most of the book due to what was happening to her. I enjoyed the scenes with her doppelganger immensely, and I never expected the twist to happen. I even enjoyed how evilly the sinister entity was written.
The dialogue was really fun to read as it left me feeling a little bit afraid for everyone in the book. Not once did the dialogue between the characters feel forced. Like the pacing, the dialogue was smooth. As for the language, there are a few bad words when it comes to female and male anatomy, so just be warned if you're not big on that.
Overall, Sinister Entity by Hunter Shea is a very good and spooky ghost story. It has a classic ghost story feel which I enjoyed thoroughly.
I'd recommend this book to all fans of horror aged 17+ due to language used and themes throughout.
I had been craving a good ghost story, so when Sarah from Fae Books recommended Sinister Entity by Hunter Shea, I bought it on Amazon right afterwards. I'm glad I did because it was a fantastic read!
(Now I've read that most readers of review blogs don't like when a blog basically says again what a book is about, so I'm just going to give you a little bit more about what the book is about since it's not just about a doppelganger.) Jessica and Eddie are ghost hunters both with unique abilities. When they get a call from the Leigh family saying that they are seeing their daughter's double, Eddie and Jessica jump at the chance to help. However, the doppelganger is the least of the Leigh's problem. A more sinister force has set its sight on their 16 year old daughter. She is in more danger than anyone could have imagined.
Anything that has the word "entity" in it, I'm loving. I'm a sucker for ghost stories so the title definitely got my attention.
The cover conveys that it's going to be a scary story, but I think the cover could've been a little bit better. I would've liked to see a picture of Selena (the Leigh's daughter) and her doppelganger in a scary setting or something similar.
The world building was done rather well. I've been a part of a ghost hunting team, so I was more critical one it came to that aspect. However, Shea didn't disappoint. Not once did it feel as if the whole scary entity thing was over the top. I can't fault the world building at all. The whole normal family in suburbia thing feels natural and not pushed upon the reader.
The pacing at the beginning was a little slow. I felt that, at the beginning, it was too much info dumping. The book starts off with Jessica investigating another house. I felt like we didn't really need to read about that. The fact that she was a ghost hunter which we are told in the beginning was good enough. Also, we are also introduced to Eddie's special abilities in a university research type setting. I felt like this was a bit overkill. Just let Eddie explain his special abilities throughout the story instead of dumping them on us in the beginning. Saying that, the pacing picked up after the info dump at the beginning. I couldn't put the book down after that. The story continues to flow smoothly throughout the rest of the book.
Even though the plot in this type of story has been done before, I still enjoyed it. I love the doppelganger spin on this type of classic ghost story. I also must mention the plot reminded me of the stories of the late great Richard Laymon. (If you don't know who he is, look him up, and then read some of his novels). I also enjoyed the fact that the plot didn't really have any romance in it which was refreshing.
I enjoyed each of the characters even the sinister entity and Selena's doppelganger. I felt that each character was written exceptionally well. I especially enjoyed how strong of a character Jessica was. I never felt like she was inferior to Eddie just because she is a female. Both characters were just as strong as each other. As for Selena, I could actually feel her fear. I love how the author actually made her come across as a teenage girl. The way Selena acted and spoke were exactly what I imagined someone of her age doing/saying. I felt sorry for Selena throughout most of the book due to what was happening to her. I enjoyed the scenes with her doppelganger immensely, and I never expected the twist to happen. I even enjoyed how evilly the sinister entity was written.
The dialogue was really fun to read as it left me feeling a little bit afraid for everyone in the book. Not once did the dialogue between the characters feel forced. Like the pacing, the dialogue was smooth. As for the language, there are a few bad words when it comes to female and male anatomy, so just be warned if you're not big on that.
Overall, Sinister Entity by Hunter Shea is a very good and spooky ghost story. It has a classic ghost story feel which I enjoyed thoroughly.
I'd recommend this book to all fans of horror aged 17+ due to language used and themes throughout.
August 26, 2016
Excellent book! I am working my way through any Shea books I can find!
January 2, 2017
I have a fairly high tolerance for horror and this story was rough for me, which is perfect. The scares were so amazing. The ghost was just awful. I plan on reading more by this author.
January 9, 2021
The Jersey Devil himself delivers a paranormal horror phantom of a story! Jessica and Eddie embarks on a wicked journey leading to haunting ghosts and evil EB:s. Wellwritten & intense, highly recommended!
December 17, 2024
An awesome tale of paranormal horror. A literal ghost hunter, Jessica Bachman, takes on a "sinister entity" in this gripping tale full of twists, turns, paranormal ghost hunting and parapsychology. A fun read from cover to cover, and a great follow up to "Forest of Evil". Highly recommended.
May 30, 2017
This was the first book I have read by this author and Inreally enjoyed it.I look forward to reading more of his books.
August 23, 2017
This was an ok read. Not great and not horrible. All though good idea for a story.
April 10, 2014
I was extremely interested in seeing where this book would go. It’s a different approach to horror, and provides some seriously creepy moments, as well as some possibly laugh-out-loud scenes as well.
When I say different approach, I mean that this, to me, almost seemed like a Ghostbusters (not in the silly slapstick way, but as a profession way) meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer type of work. Jessica Backman, the main protagonist, has setup a website in which she is able to reach out, or as in most cases, have people come to her to investigate the things that go bump in the night. She has this talent to send these ghosts, or Energy Beings as she calls them, back to where they came from by saying their name.
She meets up with Eddie, who is sort of a psychic medium, with telekinetic abilities to take on some issues that the Leigh family is having. They keep seeing their daughter, only she’s different. What they discover is more horrific than even they could have imagined.
There are several layers to each of these characters. Jessica is hiding her past, Eddie is trying to get used to playing second fiddle, and the Leigh family, well, they just want to figure out what’s going on. The family unity is very much afraid of what’s going on, and just want it to stop at all costs.
While all of this should prove to be an intense read, the layered characters, the eerie plot, and the unknown, the book is very technical in nature when dealing with ghosts and doppelgangers. For me, this took me out of the experience. What was unknown became known. People fear the unknown, and using all the technical terms to describe the beings, and the in your face attitude that Jessica has as a paranormal investigator really pulled me away from the creep factor. She knows what these things are, and if she didn’t, Eddie did.
The creep factor is there for a while, don’t get me wrong. For me it was the doppelganger up until the point that it was explained away.
Not to take anything away from Hunter Shea, the secondary characters are just as developed along the way. Selena was a great character, and some of the situations that Hunter Shea put her in were just plain….well…evil. He was really able to convey her vulnerability during these scenes. It was those instances that really worked, when she was alone with the entity, or seeing the doppelganger.
The other character that I was in to was Selena’s father. I was able to really relate to him, not believing in the paranormal experience, or Jessica and Eddie; having his outbursts when he’s had enough, and finally coming to the realization that what thought we knew was wrong, it’s all stuff that I would have done. So while I didn’t connect with the main characters, I did relate in a very big way to the secondary characters.
The Bottom Line: Even though this is billed as more of an adult horror book, I feel that this is in line more with the young adult audience. I didn’t connect with the main characters, and I wasn’t a big fan on all the dialogue between Jessica and Eddie. Some of it just seemed really silly to me, or I’m just getting old, that’s a possibility too. All this being said, if ghost stories are right up your ally, this could be a great book for you to read. Hunter Shea is an extremely prolific horror writer, and has created some very chilling yarns that can make the most hardened horror fan squirm.
When I say different approach, I mean that this, to me, almost seemed like a Ghostbusters (not in the silly slapstick way, but as a profession way) meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer type of work. Jessica Backman, the main protagonist, has setup a website in which she is able to reach out, or as in most cases, have people come to her to investigate the things that go bump in the night. She has this talent to send these ghosts, or Energy Beings as she calls them, back to where they came from by saying their name.
She meets up with Eddie, who is sort of a psychic medium, with telekinetic abilities to take on some issues that the Leigh family is having. They keep seeing their daughter, only she’s different. What they discover is more horrific than even they could have imagined.
There are several layers to each of these characters. Jessica is hiding her past, Eddie is trying to get used to playing second fiddle, and the Leigh family, well, they just want to figure out what’s going on. The family unity is very much afraid of what’s going on, and just want it to stop at all costs.
While all of this should prove to be an intense read, the layered characters, the eerie plot, and the unknown, the book is very technical in nature when dealing with ghosts and doppelgangers. For me, this took me out of the experience. What was unknown became known. People fear the unknown, and using all the technical terms to describe the beings, and the in your face attitude that Jessica has as a paranormal investigator really pulled me away from the creep factor. She knows what these things are, and if she didn’t, Eddie did.
The creep factor is there for a while, don’t get me wrong. For me it was the doppelganger up until the point that it was explained away.
Not to take anything away from Hunter Shea, the secondary characters are just as developed along the way. Selena was a great character, and some of the situations that Hunter Shea put her in were just plain….well…evil. He was really able to convey her vulnerability during these scenes. It was those instances that really worked, when she was alone with the entity, or seeing the doppelganger.
The other character that I was in to was Selena’s father. I was able to really relate to him, not believing in the paranormal experience, or Jessica and Eddie; having his outbursts when he’s had enough, and finally coming to the realization that what thought we knew was wrong, it’s all stuff that I would have done. So while I didn’t connect with the main characters, I did relate in a very big way to the secondary characters.
The Bottom Line: Even though this is billed as more of an adult horror book, I feel that this is in line more with the young adult audience. I didn’t connect with the main characters, and I wasn’t a big fan on all the dialogue between Jessica and Eddie. Some of it just seemed really silly to me, or I’m just getting old, that’s a possibility too. All this being said, if ghost stories are right up your ally, this could be a great book for you to read. Hunter Shea is an extremely prolific horror writer, and has created some very chilling yarns that can make the most hardened horror fan squirm.
February 16, 2013
Originally published at http://horrornovelreviews.com/
Ghost stories are making a comeback with the popularity of real-life paranormal shows and Hollywood movies. The difficulty here is in creating something different. What can we do with spirits, ghosts, phantoms, and their ilk that hasn’t been done far better by the likes of Henry James, G.W.M Reynolds, Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and their contemporaries? Other than jumping out from behind a door and shouting “BOO,” what do ghosts do? Hunter Shea has tackled the problem with a new angle on the traditional haunting narrative. In his latest novel, Sinister Entity, The Leigh family is being stalked by the ghostly image of their young daughter, Selena. The catch? Selena is very much alive. Frightening out of their wits, they look to Jessica Backman, and expert in paranormal activity, to solve this terrifying mystery.
Shea builds the suspense very well. There are no bloody bodies; no gore-soaked apparitions in the first three pages. The family begins to see and hear little things. Strange noises, voices, and footsteps fill the house when the child’s not supposed to be home. We are also introduced to Jessica. Sinister Entity is not Shea’s first book about Backman, but I liked that you can read this one as a stand-alone novel. The plot is well-developed and the elements of “ghost-hunting” come across authentic without getting to scientific to lose the reader. There’s a very interesting chapter contrasting the amateur Ouija board and the professional paranormal investigative techniques that I thought was a nice touch. The story culminates in a climactic showdown between human and spirit that keeps you glued to the pages.
The narrative is exciting and the paranormal angle is a new take on the ghost story. The characters were just not overly compelling however. They began to blend into one another as the story progressed. Selena and her friends all felt as if they were different facets of the same person. Even Jessica failed to leave a distinct impression on me.
This novel really works as a paranormal thriller. It’s got suspense, action, ghost hunting, sinister spirits, and the delightful Ouija board of which I am so fond from my youth. It’s weak on character depth however, and for me that meant it didn’t resonate as a long-term novel. This is not something I would pick up again and again, but it was great entertainment while it lasted. The ending is setup for a sequel, so be prepared.
Ghost stories are making a comeback with the popularity of real-life paranormal shows and Hollywood movies. The difficulty here is in creating something different. What can we do with spirits, ghosts, phantoms, and their ilk that hasn’t been done far better by the likes of Henry James, G.W.M Reynolds, Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and their contemporaries? Other than jumping out from behind a door and shouting “BOO,” what do ghosts do? Hunter Shea has tackled the problem with a new angle on the traditional haunting narrative. In his latest novel, Sinister Entity, The Leigh family is being stalked by the ghostly image of their young daughter, Selena. The catch? Selena is very much alive. Frightening out of their wits, they look to Jessica Backman, and expert in paranormal activity, to solve this terrifying mystery.
Shea builds the suspense very well. There are no bloody bodies; no gore-soaked apparitions in the first three pages. The family begins to see and hear little things. Strange noises, voices, and footsteps fill the house when the child’s not supposed to be home. We are also introduced to Jessica. Sinister Entity is not Shea’s first book about Backman, but I liked that you can read this one as a stand-alone novel. The plot is well-developed and the elements of “ghost-hunting” come across authentic without getting to scientific to lose the reader. There’s a very interesting chapter contrasting the amateur Ouija board and the professional paranormal investigative techniques that I thought was a nice touch. The story culminates in a climactic showdown between human and spirit that keeps you glued to the pages.
The narrative is exciting and the paranormal angle is a new take on the ghost story. The characters were just not overly compelling however. They began to blend into one another as the story progressed. Selena and her friends all felt as if they were different facets of the same person. Even Jessica failed to leave a distinct impression on me.
This novel really works as a paranormal thriller. It’s got suspense, action, ghost hunting, sinister spirits, and the delightful Ouija board of which I am so fond from my youth. It’s weak on character depth however, and for me that meant it didn’t resonate as a long-term novel. This is not something I would pick up again and again, but it was great entertainment while it lasted. The ending is setup for a sequel, so be prepared.
October 12, 2014
Reading Sinister Entity reminded me a lot of reading some of Stephen King's books released in the 21st century.
Namely Cell and Mr Mercedes.
Like those books, Sinister Entity has really fun and enjoyable characters that you genuinely end up caring for. It also provides a lot of atmosphere, suspense and build up too.
Sadly, where this book falls short is that, like the aforementioned King titles, it all feels a bit rushed at the end and you find that you've spent a whole book waiting for the big main event to find...oh, it's actually not that big.
That being said, Sinister Entity is a fun little read. Perhaps a bit more young adult feeling than I would prefer, but as mentioned, it's a book with fun and enjoyable characters and some genuinely entertaining moments. It's just a shame the ending didn't meet my expectations.
Namely Cell and Mr Mercedes.
Like those books, Sinister Entity has really fun and enjoyable characters that you genuinely end up caring for. It also provides a lot of atmosphere, suspense and build up too.
Sadly, where this book falls short is that, like the aforementioned King titles, it all feels a bit rushed at the end and you find that you've spent a whole book waiting for the big main event to find...oh, it's actually not that big.
That being said, Sinister Entity is a fun little read. Perhaps a bit more young adult feeling than I would prefer, but as mentioned, it's a book with fun and enjoyable characters and some genuinely entertaining moments. It's just a shame the ending didn't meet my expectations.
November 13, 2014
I'm always surprised Shea gets such good reviews. I bought a bunch of his books because of this and was sorely disappointed. This book is a sequel to " forest of shadows". It gives spoilers to forest of shadows throughout, which would suck if you hadn't read them in order. Problem with Shea's books Are they really are pretty normal fare and not scary. Always feels like watching s TV show that's not very interesting or frightening. My advice from a horror reAder fan? Skip Hunter Shea. It's just not scary enough and the plots are predictable. Not recommended.
June 28, 2014
Outstanding story, and great sequel to Forest of Shadows. The reader is brought close to the characters, and the imagery as always, leaves you impressed. A good read for home or on the road, but maybe not late night in the dark....!
February 23, 2024
A really good, creepy read. The main characters are a young woman and man, both with some unique abilities and they have a lot of chemistry together, I'd read more stories with them for sure. A couple of scary hauntings and a bit of mystery. Super read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews