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Beneath the Trap Door #1
The Reunion
C. Moore Catholic High School's 10-year reunion was organized as many reunions are - to reminisce, to see who had made a success of their lives, and in truth, to gossip on who had not. But this party in the secluded, 1890's mansion once owned by a long dead, paranoid WWII Veteran, was to become anything but typical. After a horrible accident within the mansion, the alumni realize they are locked in and fighting for their lives. Instantly, tempers rise and fingers are pointed as the number of living alumni begins to rapidly decrease. Theories range from there being a murderer in the midst to the mansion possibly being haunted by the previous owner's ghost. Who or what is responsible and will anyone make it out alive? Find out for yourself in this combination of a mystery and psychological thriller, with a twisted ending!
334 pages, Paperback
First published October 29, 2013
9 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Pencil
6 books3 followersA.A. Pencil is a twenty-six year old school nurse residing in Brooklyn, New York. She uses writing as a form of therapy to cope with Lupus, an autoimmune disease highlighted by pain, fatigue and rashes. A portion of sales from her books will be donated to the Lupus Foundation of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 5, 2014
On reflection this book reminds me of an Agatha Christie where a group of people come together for a social occasion and then one by one they start dropping dead! This group were a ten year school reunion and qute a collection of characters they turn out to be. I liked how the author introduced the different characters and I related to the comparison between how they had changed, or not, after ten years.
There are a number of gory deaths and the book cleverly keeps you guessing who will be next and who is responsible for the murders. There are some good twists in the end of the story and you won't guess the ending.
I think this would make a good film!
There are a number of gory deaths and the book cleverly keeps you guessing who will be next and who is responsible for the murders. There are some good twists in the end of the story and you won't guess the ending.
I think this would make a good film!
March 1, 2014
This has been a good week for The Bookie Monster...we've had the pleasure of awarding a handful of excellent books with a five star rating. And the streak doesn't end here! A.A. Pencil's book, The Reunion, still has my head spinning.
Reminiscent of a modern day Clue, The Reunion will have readers dying - no pun intended - to know who dunnit.
A group of frenemies gather at a spooky mansion for their ten year high school reunion. The atmosphere is tense as guests begin to arrive and memories of old flames and rivalries bubble to the surface. A trip down memory lane reveals disturbing secrets about each attendee. Someone is out for blood and the group is intent on discovering the culprit. As guests retire to their rooms, a scream pierces the silence, the killing has begun.
Is the murderer one of them? Perhaps the jealous actress, guilty of being an attention whore, or the girl who lost her high school sweetheart to another, plagued by a lifetime of disaster, or maybe it's the police officer, or the pedophile? Or could it be the mansion's caretaker, Debbie, the daughter of a deceased war veteran? As the death toll rises, the list of suspects gets smaller. The ending is completely unexpected, and hit me like a Mack truck. I challenge anyone to guess how this one ends.
The twists and turns in The Reunion will make you feel like you're on a never ending roller coaster. The group dynamic A.A. Pencil has penned (sorry, couldn't resist) is diverse and the story is fraught with tension. Suspense lurks behind every corner as the story builds to a fever pitch. And just when you think you've got it all figured out, the rug will be ripped out from under you, revealing the story line you didn't even know was there.
Reminiscent of a modern day Clue, The Reunion will have readers dying - no pun intended - to know who dunnit.
A group of frenemies gather at a spooky mansion for their ten year high school reunion. The atmosphere is tense as guests begin to arrive and memories of old flames and rivalries bubble to the surface. A trip down memory lane reveals disturbing secrets about each attendee. Someone is out for blood and the group is intent on discovering the culprit. As guests retire to their rooms, a scream pierces the silence, the killing has begun.
Is the murderer one of them? Perhaps the jealous actress, guilty of being an attention whore, or the girl who lost her high school sweetheart to another, plagued by a lifetime of disaster, or maybe it's the police officer, or the pedophile? Or could it be the mansion's caretaker, Debbie, the daughter of a deceased war veteran? As the death toll rises, the list of suspects gets smaller. The ending is completely unexpected, and hit me like a Mack truck. I challenge anyone to guess how this one ends.
The twists and turns in The Reunion will make you feel like you're on a never ending roller coaster. The group dynamic A.A. Pencil has penned (sorry, couldn't resist) is diverse and the story is fraught with tension. Suspense lurks behind every corner as the story builds to a fever pitch. And just when you think you've got it all figured out, the rug will be ripped out from under you, revealing the story line you didn't even know was there.
May 30, 2014
Not your typical who-done-it story.
I enjoyed reading ‘The Reunion’. The story hooked me from the start, well, I do like a good who-done-it tale. The characters were well drawn and I followed them with interest.
In the beginning, I kept guessing who did do it, but then what I thought was a typical Agatha Christi yarn took a twist, but I still tried to guess who was behind it all. I definitely didn’t guess the ending. Well done to the author for keeping me turning pages.
A.A. Pencil has a wonderful imagination and I would encourage her to keep writing. I can usually ignore small editing problems, but I think the editing let the book down. It’s a great story and the author has obvious talent. If A.A. Pencil were to have ‘The Reunion’ professionally edited, I believe it would be a best seller in its genre. As it stands, I give ‘The Reunion’ 3 stars, but I would like to read a reworked book so I can give it 5 stars.
I enjoyed reading ‘The Reunion’. The story hooked me from the start, well, I do like a good who-done-it tale. The characters were well drawn and I followed them with interest.
In the beginning, I kept guessing who did do it, but then what I thought was a typical Agatha Christi yarn took a twist, but I still tried to guess who was behind it all. I definitely didn’t guess the ending. Well done to the author for keeping me turning pages.
A.A. Pencil has a wonderful imagination and I would encourage her to keep writing. I can usually ignore small editing problems, but I think the editing let the book down. It’s a great story and the author has obvious talent. If A.A. Pencil were to have ‘The Reunion’ professionally edited, I believe it would be a best seller in its genre. As it stands, I give ‘The Reunion’ 3 stars, but I would like to read a reworked book so I can give it 5 stars.
May 16, 2014
10-year class reunion…empty, spooky mansion…characters with crazy stories…what more can a reader want in a thriller-turned-horror novel? How about a book that reads much like a Clue game, where you're constantly guessing "who done it?" Or, rather, "who's doing it?" This is a edge of the seat mystery that will keep you guessing until the end!
The only complaint I had was maybe "too much story": The characters and their backstories got a bit confusing at times, but in the end, it comes together rather nicely. Speaking of "the end"—I won't spoil it by telling you what happens, but let's just say you won't see it coming!
The only complaint I had was maybe "too much story": The characters and their backstories got a bit confusing at times, but in the end, it comes together rather nicely. Speaking of "the end"—I won't spoil it by telling you what happens, but let's just say you won't see it coming!
November 21, 2015
I can't remember the last time I had so much fun reading a murder mystery. This is definitely NOT a young adult novel because there is a LOT of killing. I know this is going to sound twisted (I've been told I have a warped mind at times), but I found myself enjoying how some of these characters died because of their own misgivings. And the ending...brilliant! I was totally sold on the story line. (No, I am NOT giving away the ending!) And then I find out at the end that it's actually a series! Why do I not have have more time to read??? If you love twisted minds and horror, you will LOVE this book! :-D
September 13, 2021
Received in exchange for a honest review.
This book starts off slow to the punch. You get the creepy vibe and do not like the host of the high school reunion from the beginning but man that was a harsh way to go. As the book goes on you are drawn in and really trying to figure out what the heck did these people do to tick someone off that much and who is it that is ticked off.
Here a group of adults are placed in a mansion for their reunion only it doesn’t turn out as expected. We really see the truly ugly in everyone there. Not only that they begin dropping like flies. And not in a nice way. They are killed in gruesome fashion. Only who is killing them and why. You have the Agatha Christie type mystery with a Stephen King killing.
Everyone begins to not trust each other and question themselves as well. What is unexpected is how this ends. That was a complete mind trip. It reminds me of White Space from Ilsa J Bick. Nothing is as it seems and even that you question because you don’t know what can be real or perceived as real after the ride the book has you go on.
A interesting start to a series that I believe will take you on a mind trip that has you questioning everything and wondering what is next.
This book starts off slow to the punch. You get the creepy vibe and do not like the host of the high school reunion from the beginning but man that was a harsh way to go. As the book goes on you are drawn in and really trying to figure out what the heck did these people do to tick someone off that much and who is it that is ticked off.
Here a group of adults are placed in a mansion for their reunion only it doesn’t turn out as expected. We really see the truly ugly in everyone there. Not only that they begin dropping like flies. And not in a nice way. They are killed in gruesome fashion. Only who is killing them and why. You have the Agatha Christie type mystery with a Stephen King killing.
Everyone begins to not trust each other and question themselves as well. What is unexpected is how this ends. That was a complete mind trip. It reminds me of White Space from Ilsa J Bick. Nothing is as it seems and even that you question because you don’t know what can be real or perceived as real after the ride the book has you go on.
A interesting start to a series that I believe will take you on a mind trip that has you questioning everything and wondering what is next.
September 30, 2016
(I deleted my profile for awhile so updating wth my reviews and reviews from my blog)
*Disclaimer - We were given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I cannot explain how excited I was when I came across this book and had the opportunity to review it. As soon as I read the blurb I just kept getting the feeling of a cluedo-esque story. I loved Cluedo growing up it was my favourite board game could not get enough of it. I knew I had to read it. The excitement did not go, I found myself checking my to be reviewed list waiting for it to come up next, finally it has.
I was hooked from the start and I could not put the book down. I was having to fight myself and say no go to bed, eat and take a break. All whilst texting Kimmy urging her to hurry up and read more so we could discuss. The hook did not let me go at all, the pace was perfect and I was never bored. So much was happening I found myself highlighting and taking notes keeping track of my suspicions and theories. Which were all wrong this book full of its mystery, suspense and fast paced action kicked me from behind in surprise with a huge twist I did not see coming at all. Wow that is all I can say to that Wow, Wow and Wow. The ending will leave you tripped up on your backside with a head full of shock, questions and wanting book two in this series.
The only real negatives I have are that even with the long detailed slow introduction to the characters, I still found myself getting confused from time to time for the first five or six chapters who was who and having to go back and refresh my memory. Although this eased as I got further in and started to connect more with some of the characters and others met their fate. The ending was a huge twist and at first I was a little confused. The more I thought things over, it became less confusing, much more clearer. I do have a few questions left over but that is a good thing for me with a starting book in a series.
There is a huge mix of characters all different but all intertwined and harbouring secrets. The relationships between them were believable and relatable for the most part thinking back to high school. (god has it really been 10 years since I was there arghhhh I cannot be that old :( lol). I connected with a great deal of the characters although surprising my favourite character was not a big part of the book which made me sad. I also had a few moments where my husband looked at my giggling self with a look that said oh no she's lost the plot lol.
I really enjoyed this book, it's plot was interesting the twist huge, characters although confusing at times were engaging and connectible. Full of mystery, fast paced action and suspense you will not be disappointed, except wanting to read on in the series. I cannot wait to read book two.
*Disclaimer - We were given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I cannot explain how excited I was when I came across this book and had the opportunity to review it. As soon as I read the blurb I just kept getting the feeling of a cluedo-esque story. I loved Cluedo growing up it was my favourite board game could not get enough of it. I knew I had to read it. The excitement did not go, I found myself checking my to be reviewed list waiting for it to come up next, finally it has.
I was hooked from the start and I could not put the book down. I was having to fight myself and say no go to bed, eat and take a break. All whilst texting Kimmy urging her to hurry up and read more so we could discuss. The hook did not let me go at all, the pace was perfect and I was never bored. So much was happening I found myself highlighting and taking notes keeping track of my suspicions and theories. Which were all wrong this book full of its mystery, suspense and fast paced action kicked me from behind in surprise with a huge twist I did not see coming at all. Wow that is all I can say to that Wow, Wow and Wow. The ending will leave you tripped up on your backside with a head full of shock, questions and wanting book two in this series.
The only real negatives I have are that even with the long detailed slow introduction to the characters, I still found myself getting confused from time to time for the first five or six chapters who was who and having to go back and refresh my memory. Although this eased as I got further in and started to connect more with some of the characters and others met their fate. The ending was a huge twist and at first I was a little confused. The more I thought things over, it became less confusing, much more clearer. I do have a few questions left over but that is a good thing for me with a starting book in a series.
There is a huge mix of characters all different but all intertwined and harbouring secrets. The relationships between them were believable and relatable for the most part thinking back to high school. (god has it really been 10 years since I was there arghhhh I cannot be that old :( lol). I connected with a great deal of the characters although surprising my favourite character was not a big part of the book which made me sad. I also had a few moments where my husband looked at my giggling self with a look that said oh no she's lost the plot lol.
I really enjoyed this book, it's plot was interesting the twist huge, characters although confusing at times were engaging and connectible. Full of mystery, fast paced action and suspense you will not be disappointed, except wanting to read on in the series. I cannot wait to read book two.
May 17, 2014
The Reunion (Beneath the Trap Door)
By A. A. Pencil
Friends gather together at actress Lauryn Parker’s large home for a 10 year high school reunion. The reasons for her holding the reunion in her expensive mansion is not to renew old friendships but rather to show off her success and perhaps find a new boy toy.
Annabelle, the first arrival, is pregnant with her second child and is a genuinely nice young woman, as is Samantha, a nurse who was adored by Teddy, who arrives with flowers. Taylor and Tyler soon follow, bringing their Chihuahua. They were high school sweethearts and Taylor keeps him on a tighter leash than the dog. Soon Paige Jennings joins the group, which is surprising since she's led a rough life after losing her disabled 14-year-old son to abduction. Her emaciated body and fragile demeanor signify that she is not coping well. Lauryn, typically, remarks upon her looks to Paige, and soon the small reunion of so-called friends are bickering and sniping at each other — much like the high school classmates they were 10 years ago.
Remington arrives, rosary beads adorning her neck, and most of the group scatter heading for their rooms. Julian is not far behind, no happier than the rest to see her — in fact, perhaps less. The final eight alumni arrive and reunion begins. Isabelle, a yoga instructor, is a natural black haired beauty whose entrance does not please the petty, insecure Lauryn. Joshua comes, dressed as a bum and with a bottle of liquor—immediately putting everyone else down, especially the most vulnerable.
The party becomes out of control as a trivia game is played on a screen with the backgrounds of the group showing their darkest secrets. It's not a pretty scene. Oddly, many of them already know the private, often shameful details of their peers. This is no ordinary reunion, and Lauryn begins to lose all control over her guests. Some prefer to leave before their own secrets are revealed, or as the housekeeper, Deborah notes, “. . . Things are only going downhill from here." Lauryn, when asked why she would do such a thing, tells her former classmates that her assistant, Myra, organized the event which included “gathering information" on everyone — and Myra takes the fall. It's the first day of the planned three-day reunion. And the nightmare has only just begun.
Author Pencil writes an enticing, fast-paced novel about a group of 15 adults who all remember each other well at their reunion. Old resentments and jealousies turn deadly making some of them work together to solve one puzzling crisis after another. The unusual and bizarre climax to this book took this reviewer totally by surprise. Readers enjoying this mystery will want to check out A. A. Pencil’s other novel, “Advent of Perpetual Sorrows” (Beneath the Trap Door), available now.
Micki Peluso, author of . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang
By A. A. Pencil
Friends gather together at actress Lauryn Parker’s large home for a 10 year high school reunion. The reasons for her holding the reunion in her expensive mansion is not to renew old friendships but rather to show off her success and perhaps find a new boy toy.
Annabelle, the first arrival, is pregnant with her second child and is a genuinely nice young woman, as is Samantha, a nurse who was adored by Teddy, who arrives with flowers. Taylor and Tyler soon follow, bringing their Chihuahua. They were high school sweethearts and Taylor keeps him on a tighter leash than the dog. Soon Paige Jennings joins the group, which is surprising since she's led a rough life after losing her disabled 14-year-old son to abduction. Her emaciated body and fragile demeanor signify that she is not coping well. Lauryn, typically, remarks upon her looks to Paige, and soon the small reunion of so-called friends are bickering and sniping at each other — much like the high school classmates they were 10 years ago.
Remington arrives, rosary beads adorning her neck, and most of the group scatter heading for their rooms. Julian is not far behind, no happier than the rest to see her — in fact, perhaps less. The final eight alumni arrive and reunion begins. Isabelle, a yoga instructor, is a natural black haired beauty whose entrance does not please the petty, insecure Lauryn. Joshua comes, dressed as a bum and with a bottle of liquor—immediately putting everyone else down, especially the most vulnerable.
The party becomes out of control as a trivia game is played on a screen with the backgrounds of the group showing their darkest secrets. It's not a pretty scene. Oddly, many of them already know the private, often shameful details of their peers. This is no ordinary reunion, and Lauryn begins to lose all control over her guests. Some prefer to leave before their own secrets are revealed, or as the housekeeper, Deborah notes, “. . . Things are only going downhill from here." Lauryn, when asked why she would do such a thing, tells her former classmates that her assistant, Myra, organized the event which included “gathering information" on everyone — and Myra takes the fall. It's the first day of the planned three-day reunion. And the nightmare has only just begun.
Author Pencil writes an enticing, fast-paced novel about a group of 15 adults who all remember each other well at their reunion. Old resentments and jealousies turn deadly making some of them work together to solve one puzzling crisis after another. The unusual and bizarre climax to this book took this reviewer totally by surprise. Readers enjoying this mystery will want to check out A. A. Pencil’s other novel, “Advent of Perpetual Sorrows” (Beneath the Trap Door), available now.
Micki Peluso, author of . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang
January 27, 2015
I have to say I’m not a big fan of mystery books but I was intrigued by the raving reviews this one got and by the book’s blurb.
The start of the story seemed a little slow for me and I agree with other reviewers who said there were too many characters. I did get a little lost and was tempted to skip some descriptions but I didn’t do it because I guessed they would be important later on in the story. Otherwise, why would they be there, right?
I also agree with fellow readers who said the book needs editing. As a writer myself, I know how hard it is to read the same text over and over without becoming blind to its possible flaws. I’ve done so many times. That’s why I encourage readers to ignore whatever typos they find and keep reading it because the plot and the story are worth their time and effort.
Like I said before, not being a huge fan of mysteries gave me the necessary distance to approach the story from a different perspective. I got scared and got surprised countless times. If I were a fan of the genre I might saw some of the twists in the plot coming but, as it was, I was completely clueless (pun intended). That’s why I advise other readers to navigate carefully through the published reviews as some did spoil the end.
Some scenes were a bit too gory. But, again, this is my fault, not the book’s since I don’t particularly appreciate this kind of scene. Actually, I would say the fact that I kept reading The Reunion until its very end, in spite of my own hesitations towards the genre and parts of the narrative, is proof enough that the story is powerful. It drew me in regardless of my qualms and kept me going.
As for the astounding end, don’t let anyone spoil it for you. You won’t see it coming and it will blow up your mind.
Fans of Agatha Christie everywhere – keep tabs on Ms. Atoyia A. Pencil because this new author is going places!
Liz Gavin
The Reunion: Book 1 of the Beneath the Trap Door SeriesA.A. Pencil
The start of the story seemed a little slow for me and I agree with other reviewers who said there were too many characters. I did get a little lost and was tempted to skip some descriptions but I didn’t do it because I guessed they would be important later on in the story. Otherwise, why would they be there, right?
I also agree with fellow readers who said the book needs editing. As a writer myself, I know how hard it is to read the same text over and over without becoming blind to its possible flaws. I’ve done so many times. That’s why I encourage readers to ignore whatever typos they find and keep reading it because the plot and the story are worth their time and effort.
Like I said before, not being a huge fan of mysteries gave me the necessary distance to approach the story from a different perspective. I got scared and got surprised countless times. If I were a fan of the genre I might saw some of the twists in the plot coming but, as it was, I was completely clueless (pun intended). That’s why I advise other readers to navigate carefully through the published reviews as some did spoil the end.
Some scenes were a bit too gory. But, again, this is my fault, not the book’s since I don’t particularly appreciate this kind of scene. Actually, I would say the fact that I kept reading The Reunion until its very end, in spite of my own hesitations towards the genre and parts of the narrative, is proof enough that the story is powerful. It drew me in regardless of my qualms and kept me going.
As for the astounding end, don’t let anyone spoil it for you. You won’t see it coming and it will blow up your mind.
Fans of Agatha Christie everywhere – keep tabs on Ms. Atoyia A. Pencil because this new author is going places!
Liz Gavin
The Reunion: Book 1 of the Beneath the Trap Door SeriesA.A. Pencil
May 21, 2014
Lauryn Parker throws a 10 year high school reunion to flaunt her stardom in the face of her ex-classmates. But things go horribly wrong. Or do they?
This is a wonderful, scary story with a plot within a plot. Reading the story I kept thinking of the movie CLUE, but with a maniacal twist. There is a wide range of characters, and they each have their own distinctive personalities. We probably all know someone they will remind you of. There’s the triangle with Tyler, Taylor and Paige, the unrequited love of Remington and Julian, and then Samantha with her flock of hovering males. And of course the pregnant Annabelle. The POV moves around from person to person, but there’s never any confusion who is talking or who the POV should be. Very well done. My only confusion was with the names. So many of them could be male or female and was usually opposite of what I thought.
My one qualm with the plot is it’s pretty fast-paced until the Reader finally understands what’s really happening, then it slows down as more background has to be told. I thought the last chapter was frivolous, just the author trying to fill in too much detail, but once I got to the epilogue, I understood why that chapter was there. The final ending made both plots seem even creepier.
This book was released through a small publishing house, but they obviously didn’t spend money on a proofreader/editor. This book has so many missing words, wrong words and inconsistent usage of words, they ruined my reading enjoyment. Fire place vs fireplace. Shot gun vs shotgun. All these errors just take away from what should have been a very good story.
Also, the author must not know anything about guns. Shotguns do not shoot large bullets; they shoot pellets or buckshot, in a spray pattern. The terminology for the end of the gun is the butt, recoil for back force and most shotguns need to be pumped before they are fired and most only hold two rounds. Google is a great tool for writers to use to research things they do not know or understand.
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend if you want a good fright. But due to the above stated factors, I have to give only 3 feathers. Indie Authors need to be accountable for poorly published books.
This is a wonderful, scary story with a plot within a plot. Reading the story I kept thinking of the movie CLUE, but with a maniacal twist. There is a wide range of characters, and they each have their own distinctive personalities. We probably all know someone they will remind you of. There’s the triangle with Tyler, Taylor and Paige, the unrequited love of Remington and Julian, and then Samantha with her flock of hovering males. And of course the pregnant Annabelle. The POV moves around from person to person, but there’s never any confusion who is talking or who the POV should be. Very well done. My only confusion was with the names. So many of them could be male or female and was usually opposite of what I thought.
My one qualm with the plot is it’s pretty fast-paced until the Reader finally understands what’s really happening, then it slows down as more background has to be told. I thought the last chapter was frivolous, just the author trying to fill in too much detail, but once I got to the epilogue, I understood why that chapter was there. The final ending made both plots seem even creepier.
This book was released through a small publishing house, but they obviously didn’t spend money on a proofreader/editor. This book has so many missing words, wrong words and inconsistent usage of words, they ruined my reading enjoyment. Fire place vs fireplace. Shot gun vs shotgun. All these errors just take away from what should have been a very good story.
Also, the author must not know anything about guns. Shotguns do not shoot large bullets; they shoot pellets or buckshot, in a spray pattern. The terminology for the end of the gun is the butt, recoil for back force and most shotguns need to be pumped before they are fired and most only hold two rounds. Google is a great tool for writers to use to research things they do not know or understand.
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend if you want a good fright. But due to the above stated factors, I have to give only 3 feathers. Indie Authors need to be accountable for poorly published books.
November 3, 2016
When I came across this book in a Facebook Review Group I instantly wanted to read it. It just sounded so fun. Luckily for me, Rinny had beat me to the punch and got her hands on a review copy. The countdown began until we could begin our first joint review!
Throughout reading this book, both Rinny and I were texting each other for progression updates, discussing our theories and opinions on the book. It made for a much more enjoyable read knowing that someone else was reading the book at the same time as you and being able to discuss your crazy thoughts, predictions etc.
I found the majority of the storyline well written. The history of how the characters know each other, I'm sure for many readers will find relatable. My only fault would be that there were too many characters, some of which I found myself having trouble remembering and having to go back to refresh myself as to who they were and what part of the story did they appear. Perhaps if these characters were taken out of the storyline and then the time spent on these was used to develop some of the character relationships or more history into their lives. I did however connect well with the others, probably due to the time spent detailing the characters and their lives/relationships.
You will find yourself throughout the book trying to piece it all together, looking for all the clues, being on edge hoping something will or won't happen. For me this was most definitely a page turner. The major twist at the end felt like I had just hit a brick wall at 80mph. It was definitely not expected, but explained alot of what had happened. Also reading the teaser for book two left me wanting more. Yet again another series that I want to continue reading, but of course have to wait.
From Rinny poking me to hurry up and read the book, to me sitting up late unable to put it down until I had finished it. Its a great read folks, go and grab yourself a copy now!
Come see Rinny's review of this book on our blog:
Opinionated Cupcakes
Kimmy
Opinionated Cupcakes
Throughout reading this book, both Rinny and I were texting each other for progression updates, discussing our theories and opinions on the book. It made for a much more enjoyable read knowing that someone else was reading the book at the same time as you and being able to discuss your crazy thoughts, predictions etc.
I found the majority of the storyline well written. The history of how the characters know each other, I'm sure for many readers will find relatable. My only fault would be that there were too many characters, some of which I found myself having trouble remembering and having to go back to refresh myself as to who they were and what part of the story did they appear. Perhaps if these characters were taken out of the storyline and then the time spent on these was used to develop some of the character relationships or more history into their lives. I did however connect well with the others, probably due to the time spent detailing the characters and their lives/relationships.
You will find yourself throughout the book trying to piece it all together, looking for all the clues, being on edge hoping something will or won't happen. For me this was most definitely a page turner. The major twist at the end felt like I had just hit a brick wall at 80mph. It was definitely not expected, but explained alot of what had happened. Also reading the teaser for book two left me wanting more. Yet again another series that I want to continue reading, but of course have to wait.
From Rinny poking me to hurry up and read the book, to me sitting up late unable to put it down until I had finished it. Its a great read folks, go and grab yourself a copy now!
Come see Rinny's review of this book on our blog:
Opinionated Cupcakes
Kimmy
Opinionated Cupcakes
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2014
Imagine that all of the people who tortured you in high school come to a destination wedding you are attending, and you are shut up with them for several days. Not only have they not changed, they seem to have become grand-sized versions of the horrors they were back when you were at their mercy. Welcome to the world A.A. Pencil creates in The Reunion: Beneath the Trap Door Book 1. I attended a small Catholic school for girls, so I know of the coed high school experience only from movies and books. At my school there were the usual cliques among the girls, but with no boys, there was none of the inter-sex tension that exists in the coed setting. The more I read about the coed experience, the more I cherish my experience with single-sex education. No playing dumb to impress a boy, no clothing competition or other status markers to brand anyone’s high school years, no high school romances played out for everyone to see and judge. I thank my lucky stars I didn’t attend C. Moore Catholic High School, where the characters in this book originally meet, or any other coed high school for that matter. Give me uniforms, silent change of class, no boys for distraction, and nuns standing over me with a ruler any day!
The author developed rich back stories for her characters, and the dialogue is crisp and appropriate for who they were in high school as well as who they are in the context of the story. She creates the tension one expects in a story of this type, but at times the tension goes on for much too long. As the characters were bumped off, one after another, I found it hard to continue to care about what was happening. I wish that she had asked an experienced proofreader to review her manuscript. There were several typos and grammatical errors that could have been caught before publication. Overall, I applaud the author’s imagination and execution, and I look forward to more of her stories.
The author developed rich back stories for her characters, and the dialogue is crisp and appropriate for who they were in high school as well as who they are in the context of the story. She creates the tension one expects in a story of this type, but at times the tension goes on for much too long. As the characters were bumped off, one after another, I found it hard to continue to care about what was happening. I wish that she had asked an experienced proofreader to review her manuscript. There were several typos and grammatical errors that could have been caught before publication. Overall, I applaud the author’s imagination and execution, and I look forward to more of her stories.
May 21, 2014
I've read a lot of horror, but this was somehow the most creepy/tense book I've read in a while. It becomes clearer and clearer as you read that no one is safe, which amps up the tension. I can almost always figure out where a story is going, but there were so many things to figure out from the "whodunit" standpoint that the big reveal completely surprised me...then made me go, "Wait a minute. How?"...THEN the gigantic twist completely surprised me and added a whole new crazy layer. (I would've hated to have the ending ruined for me, so I won't give anything away. I will say that the ending SEEMS like a cop-out, but then it opens up a whole new horrifying angle and works really, really well.)
My first impression as I was reading was that this would make an interesting play. It's set up very much like "Clue" where we're introduced to many characters, the stage is set, and then people start getting bumped off one by one. At first, the character descriptions were a bit much all at once. And there are a LOT of characters to immediately try to keep straight. But as the story moves along and you figure out who's who, it adds to the complicated mystery element as you try to sort out these people and who would be capable of what.
I DID question why these people would show up in the first place, considering almost no one wants to be at this reunion. They all seem to at least mildly despise each other. But there are interesting psychological elements to this story - how different people react to dangerous situations, how far can people be pushed, what would it take for a person to snap, etc. Again, the ending twist explains and writes off a lot of the little things that don't quite seem to work in the story, which in and of itself is kind of a brilliant move on the author's part.
I definitely recommend this to anyone who likes murder mysteries.
My first impression as I was reading was that this would make an interesting play. It's set up very much like "Clue" where we're introduced to many characters, the stage is set, and then people start getting bumped off one by one. At first, the character descriptions were a bit much all at once. And there are a LOT of characters to immediately try to keep straight. But as the story moves along and you figure out who's who, it adds to the complicated mystery element as you try to sort out these people and who would be capable of what.
I DID question why these people would show up in the first place, considering almost no one wants to be at this reunion. They all seem to at least mildly despise each other. But there are interesting psychological elements to this story - how different people react to dangerous situations, how far can people be pushed, what would it take for a person to snap, etc. Again, the ending twist explains and writes off a lot of the little things that don't quite seem to work in the story, which in and of itself is kind of a brilliant move on the author's part.
I definitely recommend this to anyone who likes murder mysteries.
March 5, 2016
At the start, the story had potential. It begins as a small high school reunion put on by Lauryn, the most successful of the friends. The reunion is a weekend retreat at a large mansion where the friends can reconnect and reminisce. However, a trivia game exposing all of the guests' secrets kicks off a blood bath in a mansion with a panic mode that no one can escape from as the guests die one by one. From there it's downhill.
What ruined this story for me were three things. One, the story is in need of an editor. There are a fair amount of typos and grammatical errors that hinder understanding and flow, and it could be polished up. 2. The plot twists are many and each one is more far-fetched and ridiculous than the one before it. Some of them don't make sense. I just felt confused or I didn't buy it. 3. There were so many characters that I just couldn't keep up with them - well until most of them were dead anyway. Parts of the story are interesting and suspenseful, but these problems kept me from enjoying it.
The ultimate plot twist might be satisfying to some, but to me it felt cheap, an easy out from an outrageous plot. Although that even makes sense if you do read it to the end.
What ruined this story for me were three things. One, the story is in need of an editor. There are a fair amount of typos and grammatical errors that hinder understanding and flow, and it could be polished up. 2. The plot twists are many and each one is more far-fetched and ridiculous than the one before it. Some of them don't make sense. I just felt confused or I didn't buy it. 3. There were so many characters that I just couldn't keep up with them - well until most of them were dead anyway. Parts of the story are interesting and suspenseful, but these problems kept me from enjoying it.
The ultimate plot twist might be satisfying to some, but to me it felt cheap, an easy out from an outrageous plot. Although that even makes sense if you do read it to the end.
August 16, 2014
The first chapter of the book introduces the characters – a whole lot of them. Although author A.A. Pencil created quite an ensemble, it’s a struggle to remember them all (but this is more of a reader’s shortcoming rather than a story flaw).
It’s a bit of a slow start, but the personality clashes and banters are enough to keep my interest. It’s not established who the core characters are so you’d be in the dark about 90% of the time, which means you’re speculating most of the time (a good thing!).
What started as shallow bickerings and embarrassing trips down memory lane, quickly turned into a gruesome murder spree from an unknown assailant. And this is where it gets maddeningly twisted. It’s reminiscent of slasher films of decades past, but more violent and bizarre.
What’s really good about this book is that you will never get close to figuring “it” out – which really messes you up a little bit.
The events that lead up to the final scene cleverly tie up loose ends, but it was rather lengthy that it almost loses the momentum it had going.The ending is quite unexpected and destroys all my theories.
You might need therapy after reading.
It’s a bit of a slow start, but the personality clashes and banters are enough to keep my interest. It’s not established who the core characters are so you’d be in the dark about 90% of the time, which means you’re speculating most of the time (a good thing!).
What started as shallow bickerings and embarrassing trips down memory lane, quickly turned into a gruesome murder spree from an unknown assailant. And this is where it gets maddeningly twisted. It’s reminiscent of slasher films of decades past, but more violent and bizarre.
What’s really good about this book is that you will never get close to figuring “it” out – which really messes you up a little bit.
The events that lead up to the final scene cleverly tie up loose ends, but it was rather lengthy that it almost loses the momentum it had going.The ending is quite unexpected and destroys all my theories.
You might need therapy after reading.
May 26, 2014
A thrilling read that was both disturbing and yet enough to keep me constantly intrigued.
A ten year high school reunion sees both friends and enemies reunited for what appears to be a fun filled weekend in a luxurious manor until... They wake up the following morning to find one of the friends on deaths door under mysterious circumstances and a complete lock down with seemingly no possible escape. What then follows keeps the guests on the outs as distrust, accusations and fear explode throughout the manor, taking what was supposed to be a friendly and relaxing weekend into something you might see on elm street.
This book is not for the faint hearted and for a good part of the book it would seem that the story is designed to shock and keep you on your toes but there is a mystery entwined in the gore that had me guessing until the final shocking reveal. However even after the reveal there is a twist that you won't see coming.
The plot was cleverly constructed and surprised me at every turn. A definite page turner that I had a hard time putting down.
A ten year high school reunion sees both friends and enemies reunited for what appears to be a fun filled weekend in a luxurious manor until... They wake up the following morning to find one of the friends on deaths door under mysterious circumstances and a complete lock down with seemingly no possible escape. What then follows keeps the guests on the outs as distrust, accusations and fear explode throughout the manor, taking what was supposed to be a friendly and relaxing weekend into something you might see on elm street.
This book is not for the faint hearted and for a good part of the book it would seem that the story is designed to shock and keep you on your toes but there is a mystery entwined in the gore that had me guessing until the final shocking reveal. However even after the reveal there is a twist that you won't see coming.
The plot was cleverly constructed and surprised me at every turn. A definite page turner that I had a hard time putting down.
May 26, 2014
A thrilling read that was both disturbing and yet enough to keep me constantly intrigued.
A ten year high school reunion sees both friends and enemies reunited for what appears to be a fun filled weekend in a luxurious manor until... They wake up the following morning to find one of the friends on deaths door under mysterious circumstances and a complete lock down with seemingly no possible escape. What then follows keeps the guests on the outs as distrust, accusations and fear explode throughout the manor, taking what was supposed to be a friendly and relaxing weekend into something you might see on elm street.
This book is not for the faint hearted and for a good part of the book it would seem that the story is designed to shock and keep you on your toes but there is a mystery entwined in the gore that had me guessing until the final shocking reveal. However even after the reveal there is a twist that you won't see coming.
The plot was cleverly constructed and surprised me at every turn. A definite page turner that I had a hard time putting down.
A ten year high school reunion sees both friends and enemies reunited for what appears to be a fun filled weekend in a luxurious manor until... They wake up the following morning to find one of the friends on deaths door under mysterious circumstances and a complete lock down with seemingly no possible escape. What then follows keeps the guests on the outs as distrust, accusations and fear explode throughout the manor, taking what was supposed to be a friendly and relaxing weekend into something you might see on elm street.
This book is not for the faint hearted and for a good part of the book it would seem that the story is designed to shock and keep you on your toes but there is a mystery entwined in the gore that had me guessing until the final shocking reveal. However even after the reveal there is a twist that you won't see coming.
The plot was cleverly constructed and surprised me at every turn. A definite page turner that I had a hard time putting down.
July 23, 2014
A high school reunion of misfits soon turns into a weekend in a hell-house.
Soon after the guests arrive, strange happenings begin to occur leading to the death of two of the ‘friends.’ The survivors find themselves locked in a rented mansion which has its own secrets. With each devilish event, a new suspect emerges. With each new death, the remaining guests’ distrust of one another grows exponentially. Friends become enemies and enemies become co-conspirators.
With each turn of the page, you will find yourself clenching your fists, curling your toes, and screaming at the characters, “Don’t go in that room,” and “stay together!”
A macabre stew of distrust, lies, and deceit, will soon lead to further fear and death. By the end of “The Reunion,” you will not know what is real and what is a hellish nightmare. The final twist will give you a mental and emotional whiplash and leave you wanting A.A. Pencil’s next installment of “Beneath the Trap Door.”
Reviewed by J.M. LeDuc, author of “Cornerstone,” published by Suspense Publishing, an imprint of Suspense Magazine
Soon after the guests arrive, strange happenings begin to occur leading to the death of two of the ‘friends.’ The survivors find themselves locked in a rented mansion which has its own secrets. With each devilish event, a new suspect emerges. With each new death, the remaining guests’ distrust of one another grows exponentially. Friends become enemies and enemies become co-conspirators.
With each turn of the page, you will find yourself clenching your fists, curling your toes, and screaming at the characters, “Don’t go in that room,” and “stay together!”
A macabre stew of distrust, lies, and deceit, will soon lead to further fear and death. By the end of “The Reunion,” you will not know what is real and what is a hellish nightmare. The final twist will give you a mental and emotional whiplash and leave you wanting A.A. Pencil’s next installment of “Beneath the Trap Door.”
Reviewed by J.M. LeDuc, author of “Cornerstone,” published by Suspense Publishing, an imprint of Suspense Magazine
March 20, 2014
I was given a pdf copy in exchange for an honest review. The reunion had me on the edge of my chair. A high school reunion turns deadly. Strange things start happening soon after the guests arrive at the house out in the country. Two people die right at the beginning. The survivors find that they are locked in the mansion which holds its own secrets. With each new event, they suspect someone else, they don't know who to trust. With each new death there distrust of each other grows. Friends become enemies ,and enemies become co-conspirators. With each turn of the page i just wanted to scream, stay together, don't go into that room. A pulse pounding great horror story. A truly macabre mix of lies. distrust and deciet. The final twist will give you emotional and mental whiplash. If your looking for a great horror read i highly recommend you read the reunion . I look forward to reading more books by Atoyia Pencil
June 8, 2015
wow ! what a book! Do not get discourage from the first chapter , it really gets a little bit boring and confusing because it contains a lot of characters names , and their stories , but once you start with the second chapter the bumpy ride will start and you will get hooked to the book.
The writing in this story is terrific,because you get to like some characters while hating others . And to me to get someone to have such strong feelings for fictional characters is a sign of a great writer. This book reminds me of an Agatha Christie book where a group of people come together for a social occasion on an isolated island and then one by one they start dropping dead .This book contains some gory deaths, and violence, but I really do not recall reading any profanity . As for the ending , you won’t see it coming and it will blow up your mind. I totally recommend this book to anyone that likes a good mystery,or horror books.
The writing in this story is terrific,because you get to like some characters while hating others . And to me to get someone to have such strong feelings for fictional characters is a sign of a great writer. This book reminds me of an Agatha Christie book where a group of people come together for a social occasion on an isolated island and then one by one they start dropping dead .This book contains some gory deaths, and violence, but I really do not recall reading any profanity . As for the ending , you won’t see it coming and it will blow up your mind. I totally recommend this book to anyone that likes a good mystery,or horror books.
May 25, 2014
I don’t usually choose this type of book to read but was particularly drawn to it by the excellent cover. This was a great story based on a 10 year reunion where things go very badly wrong right from the start. I did find it difficult to keep up with the numerous characters arriving at the start but a story such as this needs a decent sized cast list and I’m not sure how else you would deal with it. Fortunately Pencil skilfully gives us detailed descriptions of each character, their backstory and personality traits so it’s soon easy to keep up with who is who. The twist at the end is great and I really did not see it coming. I do have to say though that this book does need a proofread, I know this doesn’t bother some people but it bothers me and it can be easily corrected. Otherwise I enjoyed the way Pencil kept the story moving along and there was certainly plenty of mystery.
December 12, 2013
The Reunion was a heart pounding read. It's a read that will have you looking over your shoulder if you read it at night and hoping someone was home if you read it alone.
The introduction of all the characters in the beginning slowed down the time it took for me to get into the story. But once that was over it quickly became clear things were not what they seemed with this group. This was no ordinary reunion. The former classmates start dropping like flies and the reason why will shock you. Absolutely nothing and no one is what they seem and the ending is not something you will see coming. This is the ULTIMATE whodunnit and it still leaves a question left at the end. This is an absolute must read.
I was given a free copy from the author for a honest review.
The introduction of all the characters in the beginning slowed down the time it took for me to get into the story. But once that was over it quickly became clear things were not what they seemed with this group. This was no ordinary reunion. The former classmates start dropping like flies and the reason why will shock you. Absolutely nothing and no one is what they seem and the ending is not something you will see coming. This is the ULTIMATE whodunnit and it still leaves a question left at the end. This is an absolute must read.
I was given a free copy from the author for a honest review.
May 26, 2014
This has to be the best indie book I've read this year.
It is well written and edited. I t has a fast pace and you definitely keep reading.
At first I felt there were going to be too many characters. It all starts with a high school reunion and the door bell just keeps ringing. How was I going to keep up with all these characters? But I did. And the body count increases quickly helping you to stop worrying about the number of characters.
The school reunion turning into a blood bath has been done many times before but the characters are well written and the ending is one that I never saw coming.
This is an author to look out for and after reading the preview chapter for the next in this series she will be on my wish list.
It is well written and edited. I t has a fast pace and you definitely keep reading.
At first I felt there were going to be too many characters. It all starts with a high school reunion and the door bell just keeps ringing. How was I going to keep up with all these characters? But I did. And the body count increases quickly helping you to stop worrying about the number of characters.
The school reunion turning into a blood bath has been done many times before but the characters are well written and the ending is one that I never saw coming.
This is an author to look out for and after reading the preview chapter for the next in this series she will be on my wish list.
August 13, 2016
Classic 'who done it' mystery with a twist
'The Reunion (Beneath the Trap Door)' begins by introducing each character as they arrive at their ten-year high school reunion held in a large rented mansion. Then it starts to get strange. A couple people mysteriously die, and then the doors and windows suddenly lock, trapping everyone inside the house. The participants begin killing each other in a strange series of events, and then comes the final twist in the plot. Ms. Pencil does a very good job developing the characters and she obviously has a talent in building a somewhat bizarre plot.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, classic mystery with lots of blood and guts, and a great unexpected ending.
'The Reunion (Beneath the Trap Door)' begins by introducing each character as they arrive at their ten-year high school reunion held in a large rented mansion. Then it starts to get strange. A couple people mysteriously die, and then the doors and windows suddenly lock, trapping everyone inside the house. The participants begin killing each other in a strange series of events, and then comes the final twist in the plot. Ms. Pencil does a very good job developing the characters and she obviously has a talent in building a somewhat bizarre plot.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, classic mystery with lots of blood and guts, and a great unexpected ending.
May 14, 2014
The Reunion, is a chilling tale, which makes you really wonder what might happen if you decided to RSVP to that school reunion invite.
As the story sets out, there are a cast of recognisable characters, whom we all knew at school. The joker, the geek, the vain cruel girl and the judgemental guy, but to mention a few.
The story kept me guessing, and had enough blood and gore to make me wonder why this hadn't been written as a screen play for a movie.
If you want a suspenseful, quick read, I would recommend The Reunion. Just be careful you don't become paranoid; it might make you look at those around you in a whole new light!
As the story sets out, there are a cast of recognisable characters, whom we all knew at school. The joker, the geek, the vain cruel girl and the judgemental guy, but to mention a few.
The story kept me guessing, and had enough blood and gore to make me wonder why this hadn't been written as a screen play for a movie.
If you want a suspenseful, quick read, I would recommend The Reunion. Just be careful you don't become paranoid; it might make you look at those around you in a whole new light!
May 16, 2014
In the beginning of the book, you meet the cast of characters. This part is a bit slow. But it isn't long before things start going wrong, and you get caught up in the suspense as the situation deteriorates into a living nightmare. Just when you think you know who's behind it all, something happens to prove you wrong. The double-twist ending will catch you by surprise.
This book could benefit from a professional edit, but the story is so strong and compelling, I just couldn't put it down. I hope you, too, will look beyond the typos and such to see the emerging talent of one very promising new writer.
This book could benefit from a professional edit, but the story is so strong and compelling, I just couldn't put it down. I hope you, too, will look beyond the typos and such to see the emerging talent of one very promising new writer.
March 12, 2015
If I were to rate this book from the last half, I would be giving it five stars. There were so many twists in the storyline and so much action. It captivated me.
Unfortunately however, I really had a hard time getting into it in the beginning, as it felt to me that too much information was being thrown at me. I realise the author had to introduce everyone but I really had to force myself to continue reading. Once I got past this I was sucked in. I have read the first chapter of the next book, ‘The Asylum’ and to me it was already better writing.
I think this author has a lot of talent & I would love to see it grow.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars from me.
Unfortunately however, I really had a hard time getting into it in the beginning, as it felt to me that too much information was being thrown at me. I realise the author had to introduce everyone but I really had to force myself to continue reading. Once I got past this I was sucked in. I have read the first chapter of the next book, ‘The Asylum’ and to me it was already better writing.
I think this author has a lot of talent & I would love to see it grow.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars from me.
October 2, 2015
Not for the grammar sticklers!
This rating is for the story alone. However, there were so many grammatical errors that it made for difficult reading. There were many times that the flow of the story was severely hindered due to the numerous errors riddled throughout the story. She should definitely consider having someone proofread and republish. The story itself was very good. I enjoyed the twist at the end and feel as though the ratings would be much, much better had there not been so many grammatical errors. If you can overlook that sort of thing, I would definitely give this book a try.
This rating is for the story alone. However, there were so many grammatical errors that it made for difficult reading. There were many times that the flow of the story was severely hindered due to the numerous errors riddled throughout the story. She should definitely consider having someone proofread and republish. The story itself was very good. I enjoyed the twist at the end and feel as though the ratings would be much, much better had there not been so many grammatical errors. If you can overlook that sort of thing, I would definitely give this book a try.
July 12, 2017
"The Reunion" is a suspense reminiscent of "And Then There Were None," but seems to be written for the YA audience. At times the madness and mayhem appear almost like a satire on that famous Christie novel. It is well executed, with plenty of red herrings leading you astray from the true murderer. But, it has a twist, that I didn't see coming. And then the ending makes you wonder which "reality" is in fact the true one. Well done. A applaud A.A. Pencil for her vivid and at times hilarious imagination.
March 31, 2014
A mansion. Fifteen or so former classmates. And murder. I read this in a weekend and loved every twist and turn the author took me on. Towards the end and just when I thought I had it all figured out, a crazy plot twist proved me more than a little bit wrong! Beautifully written with plenty to keep your interest piqued! I'm excited and anxiously awaiting the next installment Ms. Pencil has in store
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