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Prisoners of a Dark Night

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Ancient creatures disguised as people hunt vacationing friends on a remote Swedish island.

Liam Stone is a quiet man whose personal life has taken a turn for the worse. Going through a devastating divorce, he flies to Sweden for a short vacation with old college friends. A time of relaxation and enjoyment is just what he needs to brighten his flagging spirits and recover from a traumatic breakup.

But when Liam and his friends make a daytrip to an isolated and beautiful island, they quickly find something is horribly wrong with the locals. What began as a carefree historical excursion soon becomes a battle for survival, forcing the companions to flee for their lives from ancient creatures intent on hunting them for food.

Facing a cunning and merciless enemy, their only path to freedom means cooperating with a local ally. But as their numbers decrease and chances for escape fade, the frantic party finds that only a painful and unspeakable choice offers any real hope for making it home alive.

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2023

27 people are currently reading
59 people want to read

About the author

Timothy Bryan

8 books32 followers

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5 stars
18 (33%)
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23 (42%)
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9 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Sara Jesus.
1,684 reviews123 followers
October 30, 2023
Cannibal monsters. A group of friends that lives the truly hell in the island that was supposed to be a getaway trip. A villan that actually give me so much creepy vibes. And one of the best atmosphere that I read in horror books, did remind me a little the dystopic world of "The last of us".
Profile Image for Janalyn, the blind reviewer.
4,634 reviews140 followers
September 25, 2023
The book starts in mid-evil Sweden where a lord was tasked with housing German prisoners for the king and word got out that he was torturing and starving these prisoners one knight named Jacob took offense and after killing the Lord freed all the prisoners. No one stopped him because his reputation preceded him and everyone knew to battle him was equal to signing their death certificate. It is now modern day and Liam is going back to his favorite country to get his mind off of losing his wife to a kickboxer and just wants to go back to where he was happiest Sweden. He couldn’t wait to see his best friend Matisse, Carl and the rest of their core group they were all going on an island excursion for the day. It would be when attempting to leave The island after a day of sun and fun that their nightmare would begin. When going to the emergency clinic on the island to get more insulin Bijorn, Liam, Carl Marie and her husband we’re all waiting for Bejorn to see the doctor when will it look like in orderly rolled in A Gurnee and swiftly picked up a humongous hammer and embedded it in Beijorn’s head this is when the friends notice that it wasn’t an orderly but some type of monster that had attacked their friend when Liam and Maria tried to attack the creature they both get injured but it would be Carl who would take him out with his gun. With the last ferry already having left the island the friends want to go to the hotel to find the rest of their group to let them know what is happening but when they arrive at the end or met with more carnage more of their friends would die at the end but so would more of the monsters and on another part of the island the leader Jacob is amazed that someone has defeated members of his family. No one visiting the island had ever defeated any of the monsters in Jacobs family and he quickly wanted to put an end to the tourist but will he? Like they said in the book these friends going up against these monsters or like a novice playing the world champion and hoping to win. The ending of this book is an OMG moment in a mic drop that I thought was brilliant I wish I could’ve done a better summary just know this is an awesome awesome book I love reading books by author who you can tell our intelligent and that definitely includes Timothy Bryant his books or among my absolute favorites and I more than once have dropped Everything when learning he has a new book out he never disappoints and he certainly didn’t with Prisoners Of a Dark Knight I loved it and highly recommend it please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
Profile Image for Shrike.
Author 1 book8 followers
October 23, 2023
Unfortunately, I was not a fan of this book.

What I liked:
The shift from the mundane to the supernatural happens very abruptly. I enjoyed being caught off guard.
I also enjoyed the nature of the threat. The monsters were unique and fun...like Scooby-Doo creatures except genuinely dangerous.

What I did not like:
A few features of the writing style made this a difficult read for me. The most bothersome was the use of repetitive and redundant language (see what I did there?). A couple examples: "this was that occasion and moment," "not carefree or easy-to-make." There are also several paragraphs where the same idea is repeated with different wording. This book could be pared down considerably with more precise language.
Style aside, I also did not find any characters particularly likeable. This made it difficult to become invested in their plight.

In sum, this book has some fun elements including a promising monster concept; however, the execution could be improved. My greatest issues were with editing and character development.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
352 reviews1 follower
October 25, 2023
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
and I really enjoyed it!
Admittedly at first, I started reading when I was very tired and couldn't really concentrate and it didn't capture me immediately but I tried again a few days later and was hooked. This story took me on a journey that I certainly hadn't expected. It was a bit freaky, scary, creepy but full of action that I love in a good read. I can't say there were any characters that I loved any more than others but overall it was a great read with plenty of twists and turns and suitably horrific! Thank you Timothy for the opportunity to read your book. I still remember how I enjoyed reading Chindi.
Profile Image for Tina Lincoln.
466 reviews6 followers
October 3, 2023
What a Wonderful Idea, lets take a trip to the isolated island...
That is how this story begins after a breakup which makes the heart heavy.
So, what could Possibly go wrong??... hmmm... being hunted for food?! Really??
This is a very good story, well written, and will keep you on the edge of your seat, as well as up late reading (because you're too scared to not finish the book!)
Thank you, Timothy Bryan for another masterful horror story to keep me awake!
I received a complimentary copy of this story, and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for G.
101 reviews
September 28, 2023
I just finished reading this book. It's an awesome book, action packed with great characters. The story is heart wrenching at times. There is great emphasis on friendship and loyalty and bravery. This story keeps you on the edge of your seat. It is very well written, reads out very quickly and I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Christina Frøkjær.
245 reviews7 followers
October 11, 2023
A quick and perfect read for this Halloween month!

Set in Sweden, filled with monsters, and an eerie feeling all in the Scandinavian darkness.

The action-packed story genuinely entertained me.

I only have one smaller critique, because I would have liked rounder characters, but it only retracted a little.
Thank you to the author for letting me know about this great story!
126 reviews3 followers
October 11, 2023
I found this an interesting and entertaining book. I liked the way normal people become so called monsters. I also liked the way the book explores what we will do to survive. I would recommend this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Annemarie .
958 reviews22 followers
October 6, 2023
Monsters who can look, and act, like any one of us, providing they get their regular feed of specially prepared human meat.

Will any of the friends survive this nightmare trip?

You will love the twist at the end.

I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Prisoners of a Dark Night through BookSirens and have chosen to leave a review.
Profile Image for Kristin Mock.
58 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2023
Quick, creepy read. I would have liked more character development, less exposition, and more suspense, but if you're looking for a spooky season book with a little gore, give this one a read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Aparna J.
430 reviews5 followers
October 1, 2023
Timothy Bryan's latest masterpiece, Prisoners Of A Dark Night deserves a standing ovation for delivering a spine-chilling supernatural thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With a narrative that blends the raw emotions of personal turmoil with the relentless pursuit of survival, Author Timothy Bryan's storytelling prowess shines through brilliantly.

We are introduced to Liam Stone, a character who embodies the depth of human struggles. Bryan's portrayal of Liam's post-divorce emotional turmoil is both poignant and relatable, making him a protagonist we can't help but root for. As Liam embarks on a journey to Sweden with his college friends, we anticipate a rejuvenating vacation that soon takes an ominous turn.

Bryan's ability to create an eerie atmosphere on the isolated Swedish island is nothing short of remarkable. He masterfully builds suspense as the group of friends realizes that something is dreadfully amiss with the island's inhabitants. The slow and unsettling reveal of the ancient creatures lurking beneath the surface is a testament to Bryan's skill in crafting tension.

The strength of Prisoners Of A Dark Night lies in its ability to evoke fear and desperation in its readers. The relentless pursuit of the group by these cunning and merciless creatures keeps you on the edge of your seat, page after page. Bryan's vivid descriptions and relentless pacing make you feel the urgency of their struggle for survival.

Furthermore, the addition of a local ally adds a layer of complexity to the plot, creating a sense of hope amidst the chaos. As the group's numbers dwindle and their chances of escape diminish, Bryan's narrative takes a dark and daring turn that will leave you questioning the limits of human desperation.

In conclusion, Timothy Bryan's Prisoners Of A Dark Night is a gripping supernatural thriller that showcases his storytelling finesse. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, from the depths of despair to the glimmer of hope, all set against a backdrop of ancient malevolence. This book is a testament to Timothy Bryan's talent as a writer, and it's a must-read for anyone seeking a heart-pounding, spine-tingling adventure into the realm of the supernatural. Be prepared to lose sleep over this one!
Profile Image for Shana Congrove.
48 reviews2 followers
October 29, 2023
Once again, Timothy Bryan, doesn’t disappoint in the slightest. I’m a big fan of the author’s work, and this suspenseful, horror-driven, action-packed, and well-developed story kept me invested from beginning to end. I listened to the audiobook, but plan to purchase the book as I always do after enjoying the narrator, Jonathan Waters, tells Bryan’s intense stories, bringing each character to life with his intriguing voice. I found myself engulfed in the setting of this story, based in the 18th century era, where everything seemed real. The author’s character descriptions, either human or monster, sparked my imagination as though I could visualize each one. The fight scenes were my favorite! Very believable!
If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, thriller, horror, action, or just damn good writing, don’t pass this one up. It’s guaranteed to entertain all the way to the end. I look forward to another riveting story by Timothy Bryan! BRAVO!

—Author of A Novel of the Breedline series
Profile Image for Kilgallen.
897 reviews12 followers
October 10, 2023
The first quarter of this was really a bit of a challenge to get through and I feel that this is a 3.5 star read that I have happily rounded up to a 4. The dialogue seemed awkward and the characters were not very well developed. As a character driven reader I wanted to experience more through the characters rather than being told what was happening. There was an abrupt shift in the narrative as the action started and the author really seemed to settle into his stride. This author can write some excellent action! I really enjoyed following the characters as they attempt to escape the island and the horrors they find there.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for giving me access to an advanced readers copy of this title free of charge. I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Milt Theo.
1,838 reviews151 followers
October 18, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4. Timothy Bryan's new novel is set in Sweden, and when the action picks up, it's hugely entertaining and a genuine page-turner! Bryan can really write great action scenes, and that's the true strength of his novel. The premise is neither original nor very well developed, and the story wants to be a character-driven tale but it never manages to be: it's got intriguing monsters, eerie atmosphere, and what one supposes is a feeling for the Scandinavian setting, but sometimes there's too much description rather than showing. Still, the action on the island plays out brilliantly and kept me on the edge of my seat!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Book hoarder.
176 reviews2 followers
October 29, 2023
What a rollercoaster this read was.

Starting off slowly to introduce the friends, who are going to have a great weekend together. Unfortunately nothing is what it seems.

It soon turns into a nightmare.

Let the hunt begin… From this part, I couldn't stop reading. I had no idea where this was going. Every time I thought to had figured it out, the story went another route. The friends had to reschedule more than once, where they had to go.

Of all the friends, I liked Karl the most. What he did, made me gasp. I could never imagine that I could do that. I had to close my eyes, after I read it.

A happy end? I wouldn't want to live in the world Liam and Matthias are facing now.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Icy_Space_Cobwebs .
5,649 reviews329 followers
September 29, 2023
Timothy Bryan is notable for his imaginative approach to creating evil, whether human or otherworldly. PRISONERS OF A LONG NIGHT is here to once again prove that premise. Commencing in 18th century Sweden, it quickly segues from a mysterious beginning to a quiet holiday reunion of former college mates cheering up their listless American friend over his infidelitous spouse. Just a friendly excursion to a lake island, quiet and peaceful. Not so! What really exists there, and rules this island, is not like anything you could expect! Not vampires, not werewolves, not Extraterrestrials, but oh my! Welcome to implacable, imaginative, Horror. Keep the lights on...and don't go traveling!
Profile Image for Cat B..
790 reviews7 followers
Read
December 3, 2023
What a great creepy this was. The story lulls you into a false sense of complacency almost. There is something in the woods watching ... ok, read stuff like that before, but what happens here , just as we are quietly going along waiting for something to begin ... it does. In a viscious brutal attack that is absolutely not expected at that time ... it starts. Knocked my socks off, tbh. I was as stunned as the victims. What follows is more of the same and I was in it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Bethany.
545 reviews7 followers
December 20, 2023
Thank you to the author and @booksirens for letting me read this :)

A really good quick spooky horror!

This one is perfect for everyone who loves all things creepy....
- Well developed characters
- A really eerie setting
- Strange untrustworthy locals
- "Something isn't right here" vibes
- Fast paced
- Lots of blood spilling action
- Interesting back story to the horror
- Strange monster like creature
- Shock factor (at least on the first death!)

I very much recommend if you enjoy your horror books, this one is very creepy and will deffo give you nightmares.
Profile Image for Robert Foland.
474 reviews8 followers
October 2, 2023
Prisoners of a Dark Night is an action-packed horror story. Timothy Bryan crafts an incredible, horrifying tale populated with well-developed characters. Dark, fascinating, and intense. I book you won't want to put down until after the last page is read.

I received a copy for free and leave my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Phthon.
2,318 reviews7 followers
October 28, 2023
Dark. Horrific. Depraved. I LOVED it! Just the thought of these creatures is disturbing on so many levels. I don’t even know how to explain how much this story terrified me, yet I also found it strangely compelling and difficult to put down.
Profile Image for Tamara.
1,719 reviews3 followers
November 16, 2023
Prisoners

This was a dark and scary tale I love it. The mystery behind the island they way they have survived this group of friends that just want a way out
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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