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The Compound
A missing father. A lifetime of secrets. An ancient evil.
Daniel Wester graduated from college two months ago. He has a degree in history, a pile of student loan debt, and no job prospects in sight.
When his dad mysteriously vanishes inside their locked home, Daniel finds an old box covered in strange symbols, a creepy collection of books about demonology, instructions to find an aunt he's never met, and driving directions that lead him across the United States to a threatening iron security fence in the middle of nowhere.
Daniel makes the journey there with his best friend, Lena, a recent nursing school graduate. On the other side of the fence, they discover a secret colony of demon hunters- a community his father abandoned decades ago, they tell him, though Dad never mentioned this place.
Daniel's reality is flipped upside down as he, Lena, and the members of this strange off-the-grid community team up to find his father- and battle the demon they believe took him.
Can Daniel save his father from a threat he never imagined existed? Or will these evil supernatural forces destroy him and everyone he loves?
Fast-paced and full of suspense, The Compound is a fun, captivating mystery that combines pagan folklore, demon hunters, family secrets, and a hint of romance into a thrilling adventure that will keep you turning pages way past your bedtime. Perfect for fans of Supernatural and The Walking Dead.
The Compound is book one in a duology with book two set for release in 2025.
Daniel Wester graduated from college two months ago. He has a degree in history, a pile of student loan debt, and no job prospects in sight.
When his dad mysteriously vanishes inside their locked home, Daniel finds an old box covered in strange symbols, a creepy collection of books about demonology, instructions to find an aunt he's never met, and driving directions that lead him across the United States to a threatening iron security fence in the middle of nowhere.
Daniel makes the journey there with his best friend, Lena, a recent nursing school graduate. On the other side of the fence, they discover a secret colony of demon hunters- a community his father abandoned decades ago, they tell him, though Dad never mentioned this place.
Daniel's reality is flipped upside down as he, Lena, and the members of this strange off-the-grid community team up to find his father- and battle the demon they believe took him.
Can Daniel save his father from a threat he never imagined existed? Or will these evil supernatural forces destroy him and everyone he loves?
Fast-paced and full of suspense, The Compound is a fun, captivating mystery that combines pagan folklore, demon hunters, family secrets, and a hint of romance into a thrilling adventure that will keep you turning pages way past your bedtime. Perfect for fans of Supernatural and The Walking Dead.
The Compound is book one in a duology with book two set for release in 2025.
366 pages, Paperback
Published September 26, 2023
25 people are currently reading
11306 people want to read
About the author
Gwenna McAllis
4 books56 followersGwenna McAllis is the author of The Compound Duology, a supernatural suspense series steeped in folklore, demons, and family secrets. She writes atmospheric fiction set in the American South, blending mystery, horror, and emotional depth.
A lifelong lover of scary stories, Gwenna grew up reading the Jeffrey series by Kathryn Tucker Windham and checking out anything spooky she could find at her small-town Alabama library (often against her mother’s wishes). She studied creative writing at the University of South Alabama and now lives in the Tennessee Valley with her husband, two young children, and an elderly rescue dog who’s seen too much.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely drinking coffee, dodging laundry, or daydreaming about a cabin in the woods where no one needs snacks.
You can follow Gwenna on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook: @gwennamcallis.
A lifelong lover of scary stories, Gwenna grew up reading the Jeffrey series by Kathryn Tucker Windham and checking out anything spooky she could find at her small-town Alabama library (often against her mother’s wishes). She studied creative writing at the University of South Alabama and now lives in the Tennessee Valley with her husband, two young children, and an elderly rescue dog who’s seen too much.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely drinking coffee, dodging laundry, or daydreaming about a cabin in the woods where no one needs snacks.
You can follow Gwenna on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook: @gwennamcallis.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 2, 2024
I enjoyed this book but I would have enjoyed it more without the romance aspect.
July 31, 2023
I received a free advanced copy from Bookfunnel. I am so happy to get this opportunity to read this ARC.
The Compound is a supernatural suspense novel. Daniel wakes up in his home to discover his dad has disappeared from the INSIDE of his home. All doors were locked and all vehicles were in the driveway. Just up and disappeared. Daniel is left with instructions to find long lost family and clues that uncover an entire life he never knew his dad had.
The journey is suspenseful with a few graphic scenes. This book kept me on my toes with demons, demon hunting, and a hint of romance. Suspense isn’t my normal go-to genre of novels but it was very well written and kept me coming back for more. I can’t wait for the next one…..there better be a next one.
The Compound is a supernatural suspense novel. Daniel wakes up in his home to discover his dad has disappeared from the INSIDE of his home. All doors were locked and all vehicles were in the driveway. Just up and disappeared. Daniel is left with instructions to find long lost family and clues that uncover an entire life he never knew his dad had.
The journey is suspenseful with a few graphic scenes. This book kept me on my toes with demons, demon hunting, and a hint of romance. Suspense isn’t my normal go-to genre of novels but it was very well written and kept me coming back for more. I can’t wait for the next one…..there better be a next one.
February 5, 2025
I am so glad I found this book. Gwenna absolutely knocked it out of the park with The Compound, and I loved every minute of it. If you are a fan of Supernatural the TV show, you will love this book. I would recommend this action-packed novel to anyone.
This supernatural suspense novel follows Daniel, who wakes up after a wild thunderstorm to find his father has vanished without a trace. The only clues left behind, a shattered coffee mug, an open Bible, and a key resting on its pages. That’s it. No explanation, no answers—just an eerie silence that immediately sets the tone for something much bigger at play.
As a child, Daniel found a locked box in his father’s closet—covered in strange symbols and strictly forbidden. Now, with a mysterious key in hand, he finally opens it. Inside are books on demonology, unholy relics… proof of something dark. His father is missing. The answers are here. But some truths should never be uncovered.
This. Book. Delivered! The supernatural elements were so well done, blending demon lore, religious undertones, and suspense in a way that felt fresh and gripping. I’m totally down for a great horror-thriller mashup, and this one delivered on every level. The pacing was perfect—I couldn’t wait to pick it back up every chance I got.
The characters and world building were fantastically written. They felt real, their struggles and emotions pulling me deeper into the story. I was right there with Daniel, piecing together the mystery, feeling every moment of tension, dread, and hope. If you love supernatural thrillers, The Compound is must-read.
P.S.
Huge thanks to Gwenna & Book Funnel for the sequel ARC — The Sacrifice. I’m pumped that I get the chance to read this early!
This supernatural suspense novel follows Daniel, who wakes up after a wild thunderstorm to find his father has vanished without a trace. The only clues left behind, a shattered coffee mug, an open Bible, and a key resting on its pages. That’s it. No explanation, no answers—just an eerie silence that immediately sets the tone for something much bigger at play.
As a child, Daniel found a locked box in his father’s closet—covered in strange symbols and strictly forbidden. Now, with a mysterious key in hand, he finally opens it. Inside are books on demonology, unholy relics… proof of something dark. His father is missing. The answers are here. But some truths should never be uncovered.
This. Book. Delivered! The supernatural elements were so well done, blending demon lore, religious undertones, and suspense in a way that felt fresh and gripping. I’m totally down for a great horror-thriller mashup, and this one delivered on every level. The pacing was perfect—I couldn’t wait to pick it back up every chance I got.
The characters and world building were fantastically written. They felt real, their struggles and emotions pulling me deeper into the story. I was right there with Daniel, piecing together the mystery, feeling every moment of tension, dread, and hope. If you love supernatural thrillers, The Compound is must-read.
P.S.
Huge thanks to Gwenna & Book Funnel for the sequel ARC — The Sacrifice. I’m pumped that I get the chance to read this early!
July 23, 2023
Ok! This was a great debut novel from Gwenna! I received a free advance copy of this book from Book Funnel and I’m so happy I had the chance to read this ARC! Thanks so much again for the opportunity. Now let’s get to the review!
The Compound is a supernatural suspense novel about a boy named Daniel who wakes up one morning after a crazy thunderstorm to find that his dad has vanished into thin air. Coffee mug broken on the ground, Bible open on the counter and a key laying on the pages. That’s it. That’s all he finds.
When Daniel was younger he came across a locked box in his dad’s closet with weird looking symbols on it, but that box was forbidden and never to be opened. But after finding this key in the present day, Daniel wonders if it opens up the forbidden box and what could possibly be inside. Of course the key fits! Not only does he find things he’s never seen before, but also books about demonology. What was his very religious father doing with these things? Could they help Daniel figure out what happened to his father? His journey begins from there.
This book was captivating! The plot was solid and followed well throughout the book. I love me a suspense novel with a supernatural twist to it. We are talking religion, demons, demon hunting/slaying, father/son relationships and a bit of romance that had me rooting for them. The chapters felt very fluid and I always found myself wanting to pick the book up when I had the chance to read which is always a good sign!
I really enjoyed these characters! They were consistent and I really felt like we were all going through this journey together.
Well done Gwenna and congrats on your first novel.
The Compound is a supernatural suspense novel about a boy named Daniel who wakes up one morning after a crazy thunderstorm to find that his dad has vanished into thin air. Coffee mug broken on the ground, Bible open on the counter and a key laying on the pages. That’s it. That’s all he finds.
When Daniel was younger he came across a locked box in his dad’s closet with weird looking symbols on it, but that box was forbidden and never to be opened. But after finding this key in the present day, Daniel wonders if it opens up the forbidden box and what could possibly be inside. Of course the key fits! Not only does he find things he’s never seen before, but also books about demonology. What was his very religious father doing with these things? Could they help Daniel figure out what happened to his father? His journey begins from there.
This book was captivating! The plot was solid and followed well throughout the book. I love me a suspense novel with a supernatural twist to it. We are talking religion, demons, demon hunting/slaying, father/son relationships and a bit of romance that had me rooting for them. The chapters felt very fluid and I always found myself wanting to pick the book up when I had the chance to read which is always a good sign!
I really enjoyed these characters! They were consistent and I really felt like we were all going through this journey together.
Well done Gwenna and congrats on your first novel.
July 26, 2023
I was given the opportunity to read this book and sent an ARC copy. This was a really enjoyable book. The characters were likeable and there wasn’t too many characters introduced at one time making it super easy to follow.
The suspense within this book was just the right amount and often left me wondering what was going to happen. I would highly recommend a read of this book! The first of this type of genre that I have read before and I really liked it.
The suspense within this book was just the right amount and often left me wondering what was going to happen. I would highly recommend a read of this book! The first of this type of genre that I have read before and I really liked it.
September 14, 2023
I received a free advanced copy of this book via Book Funnel.
What a solid, engaging debut! McAllis writes a broad cast of characters, each with their own strong, unique personalities, and all anchored in Daniel Wester. Managing a cast this size, even within the tight constraints of the compound itself, is no small feat, and McAllis does so deftly, even managing to flesh out characters who only exist in the wings and off-stage.
Firmly rooted in the YA space, The Compound is for the generation growing up on Supernatural and X-Files re-watches with their Millennial parents. Being one of those, there was so much to love about this novel. The demons, the mystery, the lore. Well done, all around.
What a solid, engaging debut! McAllis writes a broad cast of characters, each with their own strong, unique personalities, and all anchored in Daniel Wester. Managing a cast this size, even within the tight constraints of the compound itself, is no small feat, and McAllis does so deftly, even managing to flesh out characters who only exist in the wings and off-stage.
Firmly rooted in the YA space, The Compound is for the generation growing up on Supernatural and X-Files re-watches with their Millennial parents. Being one of those, there was so much to love about this novel. The demons, the mystery, the lore. Well done, all around.
October 4, 2025
It’s always cool to run across familiar places in a story. I loved the nods to Chattanooga, Winder Binder, and McKays.
May 17, 2025
Loved this book! Gave me vibes of Grimm and Supernatural two of my favorite shows. Looking forward to book 2. And love supporting local North Alabama authors.
September 25, 2023
Never having read a book that fell into the category of the horror genre, I was very excited to receive and read my ARC copy of ''The Compound''.
I would definitely and confidently recommend this book to others, as I personally think the author has been very successful in concocting a great story, combining mystery, suspense, danger, the supernatural, excitement and even a splash of romance in all the right proportions at all the right times , making for a great read.
The book in some ways reminded me of the television series ''The Walking Dead'' & ''Supernatural'', however while still maintaining its own identity.
As a reader it was key that I was able see the whole picture through the eyes of the author and I think that was well captured with the very detailed descriptions provided. The story layout was solid, with each stage merging seamlessly into the other, thereby taking me the reader on a rollercoaster ride and leaving me on a cliff hanger definitely wanting more.
I wish the author Gwenna McAllis much success with her book and I look forward to the next sequel.
I would definitely and confidently recommend this book to others, as I personally think the author has been very successful in concocting a great story, combining mystery, suspense, danger, the supernatural, excitement and even a splash of romance in all the right proportions at all the right times , making for a great read.
The book in some ways reminded me of the television series ''The Walking Dead'' & ''Supernatural'', however while still maintaining its own identity.
As a reader it was key that I was able see the whole picture through the eyes of the author and I think that was well captured with the very detailed descriptions provided. The story layout was solid, with each stage merging seamlessly into the other, thereby taking me the reader on a rollercoaster ride and leaving me on a cliff hanger definitely wanting more.
I wish the author Gwenna McAllis much success with her book and I look forward to the next sequel.
September 27, 2023
This is a excellent easy read about a young man's discovery that demons are very real when his father disappears. The story is about his journey to rescue his dad, the discovery of his family, and his strength and courage in the face of his fear. Excellent description of the Deep South and its people (top of pg 230 first paragraph of the Kindle version). I am looking forward to the second installment as there will surely be one! What happens to Daniel and Lena next? How does Heath fit in? Does Lena bring Mr. Darcy to the compound? What about Pete? What happens to Lena's mom? What was in the last pages of Helen`s journal??? If you are intrigued by my questions, then read The Compound! I highly recommend it! Great job, Gwenna!
February 3, 2025
When Daniel’s dad suddenly vanishes from their home, Daniel discovers his dad left him instructions to go find his aunt that he’s never met who lives across the country. He arrives to find The Compound - a secret colony of demon hunters hoarding secrets about Daniel, his family, and their past. Daniel and his aunt work with the Compound community to find his dad and defeat the demons they encounter along the way.
This was awesome!!!! A paranormal mystery/thriller that had me hooked from the start. I liked how things were revealed, the pace and length were great, and the writing was great. -1 star only because I wish it had left off on a cliffhanger, I personally just am not a fan of books that wrap up all nice and pretty LOL
SUPER excited to read the sequel, The Sacrifice!
This was awesome!!!! A paranormal mystery/thriller that had me hooked from the start. I liked how things were revealed, the pace and length were great, and the writing was great. -1 star only because I wish it had left off on a cliffhanger, I personally just am not a fan of books that wrap up all nice and pretty LOL
SUPER excited to read the sequel, The Sacrifice!
September 11, 2024
This book was SO good! It truly felt like a unique combination of Supernatural and The Walked Dead! I enjoyed the characters and felt their development was very organic.
One thing I really appreciated is how the "voices" of the main characters all felt age appropriate. So many times you read 20 year olds who speak like old wise people. But Daniel and Lena are very much their age.
The Compound itself made me think of a weird combination of the town in Big Fish and Woodbury in The Walking Dead, which I honestly love. It felt like the kind of place we all imagine when we think of post apocalyptic refuges.
I am excited to see where things go in the next book!
One thing I really appreciated is how the "voices" of the main characters all felt age appropriate. So many times you read 20 year olds who speak like old wise people. But Daniel and Lena are very much their age.
The Compound itself made me think of a weird combination of the town in Big Fish and Woodbury in The Walking Dead, which I honestly love. It felt like the kind of place we all imagine when we think of post apocalyptic refuges.
I am excited to see where things go in the next book!
November 8, 2023
This was a wonderful debut novel for Gwenna McAllis. I got so invested in the characters, especially Daniel and Aunt Geri. I'm from the south and the southern elements of the story were spot on. There were many times I couldn't put the book down! It only took 6 days because I have a 4 month old that demands a lot of my attention.
This book is like a mix of Supernatural and The Walking Dead but certainly with it's own original concept, with twists and turns.
Highly recommend and look forward to this author's future works!
This book is like a mix of Supernatural and The Walking Dead but certainly with it's own original concept, with twists and turns.
Highly recommend and look forward to this author's future works!
September 24, 2023
I received a free advanced copy of this book via Book Funnel.
I really enjoyed this book! It was easy to become invested in the characters and story, making it fun to pick up at every free moment I had. I found the demons especially interesting. I wouldn't hesitate to read the next installment of this story.
Also, as someone living in the south, I appreciated the authors accurate description of the people, weather, feel, etc without it feeling romanticized.
I really enjoyed this book! It was easy to become invested in the characters and story, making it fun to pick up at every free moment I had. I found the demons especially interesting. I wouldn't hesitate to read the next installment of this story.
Also, as someone living in the south, I appreciated the authors accurate description of the people, weather, feel, etc without it feeling romanticized.
November 12, 2023
Really enjoyed this, a solid demon story that I thoroughly enjoyed the whole way through. My only reason for not leaving 5 stars is that the ending wasn't quite tied up for me.
*Spoilers*: We don't find out why Lena was made to pull out the diary pages or what was in them. Also, what's to stop the demon from continuing to plague her with nightmares? Her mum's basically a goner too!
*Spoilers*: We don't find out why Lena was made to pull out the diary pages or what was in them. Also, what's to stop the demon from continuing to plague her with nightmares? Her mum's basically a goner too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2024
A huge thank you to goodreads giveaways and Gwenna McAllis for the signed ARC of this book!
It reminded me of the show Supernatural. It had a bit of a slow start but then I couldn't put it down. I hope there's a sequel to this book. There were a few "loose threads" at the end of the book that are driving me crazy. Haha.
It reminded me of the show Supernatural. It had a bit of a slow start but then I couldn't put it down. I hope there's a sequel to this book. There were a few "loose threads" at the end of the book that are driving me crazy. Haha.
April 29, 2025
It was okay. I really tried to absolutely love it but there’s just something juvenile about the book that not made me like it more.
I managed to finish it but it’ll be awhile before I can read its sequel.
I managed to finish it but it’ll be awhile before I can read its sequel.
March 16, 2024
This is one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. I hope to see many more books from this author in the future.
June 1, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! Such a wild ride from the very beginning!
August 30, 2024
Meh.
No real explanation for anything that was going on & ended abruptly after Daniel & Lena got together… so I’m still left having no clue why anything was happening.
No real explanation for anything that was going on & ended abruptly after Daniel & Lena got together… so I’m still left having no clue why anything was happening.
December 14, 2024
This was such a fun read! It totally gave me Supernatural vibes and was a fresh take on some of the mythology you learn in that show. I will be anxiously awaiting the second book!
April 4, 2025
When you approach a book about demons, you expect something creepy and fast paced. This was not any of that.
September 25, 2023
I received a free copy on book funnel.
I really enjoyed the book. it's very hard for a book to keep my attention long enough to finish. This was amazing, author did a great job with details that felt like you were right there with the characters through every twist and turn!
I really enjoyed the book. it's very hard for a book to keep my attention long enough to finish. This was amazing, author did a great job with details that felt like you were right there with the characters through every twist and turn!
November 10, 2023
I got hooked since page 1. What a ride. I really loved the book through and through. Once I started, I only put it down for when I needed to sleep. Absolutely loved it. I cannot wait for her next book.
December 30, 2025
Okay. so there are lot of filler thoughts and moments but it's still an easy read.
Anyway, 3 stars isn't bad. The story was interesting enough....
Anyway, 3 stars isn't bad. The story was interesting enough....
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews