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The Darkness Series #3
The Darkness That Came Before
What if it’s always been there? Watching … Waiting …
Cherry Hollow has been plagued by The Darkness for more than two decades. Death, murder, infidelity, trauma, and severe mental health disorders … It all started in 1998 with the disappearance of a young boy. Or did it?
Now, another body has been discovered, hidden in the depths of Beaker Ravine, a place where The Darkness has been luring its victims for years. But this body is different. It’s older. It means The Darkness was around long before anyone even knew it existed …
Stephen Mallow, a London journalist, is back in town to discover the truth, despite vowing he’d never return. His own darkness has followed him, but even that won’t stop his unique and questioning mind from asking the difficult questions no one in town wants to answer.
Olivia and Graham are old friends, reunited after the discovery of the body. They’re now determined to lay their demons to rest. But why was no one reported missing all those years ago? And why has it taken more than forty years for the truth to be revealed?
Can The Darkness finally be destroyed and who will be the one to finally end it all?
The Darkness That Came Before is the third and final book in “The Darkness Series”, a gripping and emotionally charged psychological thriller series that isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of mental health. If you’ve enjoyed the sinister series so far, then you won’t want to miss this explosive conclusion that will make you think twice before turning off the light. Perfect for thriller fans who prefer their books "creepy" rather than "bloody".
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Death of a spouse, cancer, talk of suicide, talk of child abuse, murder, death.
**Out on 1st February 2024**
Cherry Hollow has been plagued by The Darkness for more than two decades. Death, murder, infidelity, trauma, and severe mental health disorders … It all started in 1998 with the disappearance of a young boy. Or did it?
Now, another body has been discovered, hidden in the depths of Beaker Ravine, a place where The Darkness has been luring its victims for years. But this body is different. It’s older. It means The Darkness was around long before anyone even knew it existed …
Stephen Mallow, a London journalist, is back in town to discover the truth, despite vowing he’d never return. His own darkness has followed him, but even that won’t stop his unique and questioning mind from asking the difficult questions no one in town wants to answer.
Olivia and Graham are old friends, reunited after the discovery of the body. They’re now determined to lay their demons to rest. But why was no one reported missing all those years ago? And why has it taken more than forty years for the truth to be revealed?
Can The Darkness finally be destroyed and who will be the one to finally end it all?
The Darkness That Came Before is the third and final book in “The Darkness Series”, a gripping and emotionally charged psychological thriller series that isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of mental health. If you’ve enjoyed the sinister series so far, then you won’t want to miss this explosive conclusion that will make you think twice before turning off the light. Perfect for thriller fans who prefer their books "creepy" rather than "bloody".
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Death of a spouse, cancer, talk of suicide, talk of child abuse, murder, death.
**Out on 1st February 2024**
363 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
29 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Huntley
22 books459 followersJessica Huntley is an award-winning and best-selling psychological thriller author. She's an ex-British soldier and Personal Trainer and has been writing almost non-stop for the past four years.
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 13, 2024
This has been such a great series, and this book is a superb finale. The way mental health, its effects on us, and our effect on it, both intentional and not, is portrayed is phenomenal, and you can really tell the author has done her research in order to present everything in a truthful and profound way that really impacts the reader and brings everything home in the end.
I did think this one read a bit slower than the previous two, though that could be because we're having to go even further back in the town's history while also keeping up with the current events, so there's a lot of information that's necessary to include. However, it's still done in a very narrative way rather than just being an info dump, which is greatly appreciated. I love the variety of POVs and how they're different throughout the series depending on who we need to be following in order to get the best viewpoint of the story at hand.
I'm a bit sad to see this series end, but it does so in a wonderful way, and I would highly recommend it (though do check out the various CWs included with each one, because this is most definitely a series that lives up to its "darkness" theme, and it really gets down into it across various topics).
4 stars
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am voluntarily leaving this review. All thoughts and comments contained within are my own.**
I did think this one read a bit slower than the previous two, though that could be because we're having to go even further back in the town's history while also keeping up with the current events, so there's a lot of information that's necessary to include. However, it's still done in a very narrative way rather than just being an info dump, which is greatly appreciated. I love the variety of POVs and how they're different throughout the series depending on who we need to be following in order to get the best viewpoint of the story at hand.
I'm a bit sad to see this series end, but it does so in a wonderful way, and I would highly recommend it (though do check out the various CWs included with each one, because this is most definitely a series that lives up to its "darkness" theme, and it really gets down into it across various topics).
4 stars
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am voluntarily leaving this review. All thoughts and comments contained within are my own.**
July 2, 2024
The third and final installment of this series provides us with a satisfying conclusion told through various familiar characters.
I enjoyed reading this as part of the indie visible tour, thanks to both Hayley and Jessica for letting me take part.
I enjoyed reading this as part of the indie visible tour, thanks to both Hayley and Jessica for letting me take part.
November 19, 2024
The Darkness That Came Before is book 3 in the Darkness series, I definitely recommend reading these in order to grasp the entirety and the power of this book. This was a great way to conclude the series, it answered all the questions and brought on shocking new revelations. The Darkness which is “mental health” is so well described by Jessica, it is so intricately, masterfully and delicately done. The multiple POV’s truly give another dimension to the book and help us see in the minds of all the characters. It is definitely dark, but the amount of research, the realness, and the profoundness of this whole series is unlike anything I've read.
Although a little slower than the previous 2 novels, I loved going back further in time to see the town's history. See where the darkness started and what brought on the whole chain of events. Huntley’s writing is descriptive enough that you can easily imagine every single thing, it's gripping and addictive. Many twists and turns to keep you on your toes, never a dull moment!
A great book/series that highlights the importance of taking care of your mental health, of seeking help when needed. Through this series you see the destruction it can have on the person as well as their surrounding entourage. Amazingly done!
🎧 The narration by @candacefitzgerald, once more is of no surprise how fantastic she is !! I can't get over how amazingly she gives a different voice to every character, how easy it is to know which character is speaking. She brought every single one to life perfectly. Her narration is an absolute gem to listen to. She truly did this series justice and brought it to life, with all the creepiness and the emotions. Highly recommend!
✨️Thank you to @jessicahuntley for my gifted audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Although a little slower than the previous 2 novels, I loved going back further in time to see the town's history. See where the darkness started and what brought on the whole chain of events. Huntley’s writing is descriptive enough that you can easily imagine every single thing, it's gripping and addictive. Many twists and turns to keep you on your toes, never a dull moment!
A great book/series that highlights the importance of taking care of your mental health, of seeking help when needed. Through this series you see the destruction it can have on the person as well as their surrounding entourage. Amazingly done!
🎧 The narration by @candacefitzgerald, once more is of no surprise how fantastic she is !! I can't get over how amazingly she gives a different voice to every character, how easy it is to know which character is speaking. She brought every single one to life perfectly. Her narration is an absolute gem to listen to. She truly did this series justice and brought it to life, with all the creepiness and the emotions. Highly recommend!
✨️Thank you to @jessicahuntley for my gifted audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2023
First of all, thank you Jessica Huntley and @booksirens for the ARC copy of this book. It is out 1st February 2024.
I absolutely loved this! It's deffo my favourite book of all three in the series. We already know the creepy little town by now so it means getting super involved with all the action! There was so much going on, but none of it was confusing. Jessica has a way of telling an exciting gripping story but making sure you can understand it and be reminded of the events from the previous books.
I found Stephen to be really relatable in his personality traits, he is a really memorable and great character. I was happy to get to know him more! Jessica always does a fantastic job of highlighting mental health issues and how they can affect us long term. I like that the characters went through similar things, either together or in their personal family lives, but all handled it differently. Some who were abused, grew to be abusers too but some grew to never allow that to happen to themselves or anyone else. A great representation of how mental health and trauma affects us all differently and no one experience represents them all.
I like how there was room for thought among the local legends. Is there an actual creature or does it represent something deeper? (As I mentioned above) I also really love folklore, especially in creepy little towns. This town is particularly creepy!!
This book will keep you guessing. It'll have you laugh, gasp and maybe cry (If you've read it, you'll know the scene - it includes a book) the characters were so well developed and there wasn't a boring moment. I liked the jumps between times / flashbacks etc.
Jessica really owns the statement of "just one more chapter!"
I highly recommend checking out this series! It's brilliant for those who love thrillers, weird and wonderful and all things unusual and creepy. To be expected with this genre, it does include tough themes, but if you're okay with that, it's 100% worth your time!
I absolutely loved this! It's deffo my favourite book of all three in the series. We already know the creepy little town by now so it means getting super involved with all the action! There was so much going on, but none of it was confusing. Jessica has a way of telling an exciting gripping story but making sure you can understand it and be reminded of the events from the previous books.
I found Stephen to be really relatable in his personality traits, he is a really memorable and great character. I was happy to get to know him more! Jessica always does a fantastic job of highlighting mental health issues and how they can affect us long term. I like that the characters went through similar things, either together or in their personal family lives, but all handled it differently. Some who were abused, grew to be abusers too but some grew to never allow that to happen to themselves or anyone else. A great representation of how mental health and trauma affects us all differently and no one experience represents them all.
I like how there was room for thought among the local legends. Is there an actual creature or does it represent something deeper? (As I mentioned above) I also really love folklore, especially in creepy little towns. This town is particularly creepy!!
This book will keep you guessing. It'll have you laugh, gasp and maybe cry (If you've read it, you'll know the scene - it includes a book) the characters were so well developed and there wasn't a boring moment. I liked the jumps between times / flashbacks etc.
Jessica really owns the statement of "just one more chapter!"
I highly recommend checking out this series! It's brilliant for those who love thrillers, weird and wonderful and all things unusual and creepy. To be expected with this genre, it does include tough themes, but if you're okay with that, it's 100% worth your time!
February 9, 2024
The Darkness That Came Before is an outstanding book that perfectly concludes The Darkness Series. Huntley has done an excellent job of creating a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Is it the creature, or is something else haunting the townsfolk of Cherry Hollow?
I will say that this author isn't one to shy away from exploring the topic of mental health and does an excellent job of examining the dark side of this subject and the consequences it can have on individuals and communities.
I thought all the characters were well-developed, and their struggles felt real. I enjoyed hearing Stephen, Graham, and Olivia's storyline in this final book, along with more of Alex's story.
Huntley does an excellent job of building tension throughout the novel. I really tried to stretch this book out and make it last since it's the last one in the series, but that was next to impossible as she is the queen of ONE MORE CHAPTER!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a touch of horror and an exploration of mental health issues through fiction.
Is it the creature, or is something else haunting the townsfolk of Cherry Hollow?
I will say that this author isn't one to shy away from exploring the topic of mental health and does an excellent job of examining the dark side of this subject and the consequences it can have on individuals and communities.
I thought all the characters were well-developed, and their struggles felt real. I enjoyed hearing Stephen, Graham, and Olivia's storyline in this final book, along with more of Alex's story.
Huntley does an excellent job of building tension throughout the novel. I really tried to stretch this book out and make it last since it's the last one in the series, but that was next to impossible as she is the queen of ONE MORE CHAPTER!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a touch of horror and an exploration of mental health issues through fiction.
February 9, 2024
I jumped straight into this one without reading the first two in this series. This can definitely be read as a standalone, but you bet your sweet butt that I’m going to go back and read those first two to grab more details.
This book was mind blowing and an absolute page turner! It was a who-dun-it and which one did they do type book. Definitely kept me on my toes. The eerie darkness surrounding this book and the eerie things that happen is crazy. I love mysteries and thrillers and this is one that I would put on top of the list for those genres. Spooky to add on to that. I definitely recommend this for your next read!
This book was mind blowing and an absolute page turner! It was a who-dun-it and which one did they do type book. Definitely kept me on my toes. The eerie darkness surrounding this book and the eerie things that happen is crazy. I love mysteries and thrillers and this is one that I would put on top of the list for those genres. Spooky to add on to that. I definitely recommend this for your next read!
February 10, 2024
I consider this book the best of the trilogy, and consider the trilogy the best I have read in a year. (and I read A LOT!) Jessica has a writing talent that keeps me wanting more on subjects that at times can scare the heck of you with the reality of it. Unbiased ARC review.
February 14, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!!!! I wasn’t sure that anything else could follow the other two books but this is exactly what the series needed, what a fantastic ending! 5 stars all round!
February 1, 2024
Love this series and this book put a neat tidy bow on all of it. Even when I had an idea of what was coming it was still surprising to read all that actually happened. So many great characters and so easy to figure out who was who. Amazing storyline. I definitely recommend this book/series!
December 9, 2023
The darkness has plagued Cherry Hollow for more than two decades. But what happens if it goes back further than the disappearance of a boy in 1998? Can the darkness be destroyed and who will be the one to end it?
I really loved this third and final instalment to The Darkness series and found it to be a fitting conclusion. I really loved the characters especially Stephen and Graham, as well as how well we got to know them and see their backstories. I really like how all of the characters have such different personalities and it was so interesting to learn more about them. I really like how the character’s mental health illnesses and ADHD are portrayed in this book. The character development in this book was phenomenal - it really had me being empathetic to characters that I wouldn’t normally be empathetic to, which is something that not often happens to me.
I love how the multiple POVs are done in this book and how they all come together to uncover the truth of what has happened in Cherry Hollow. I really loved the writing and I found myself not being able to put the book down as I had to know how everything ended. I also love the mixed media aspects to this book and how they’re incorporated to further progress the story.
⚠️ CWs: mental health illnesses (anxiety, OCD, PTSD), cursing, death, murder, attempted murder, grief, cancer, drug and alcohol use, ableism, suicidal ideation; mentions sleep paralysis, hallucinations, insomnia, attempted suicide, domestic violence, child abuse, child sexual abuse, cheating, suicide and derogatory language ⚠️
* Thank you to Jessica for letting me beta read this wonderful book! *
I really loved this third and final instalment to The Darkness series and found it to be a fitting conclusion. I really loved the characters especially Stephen and Graham, as well as how well we got to know them and see their backstories. I really like how all of the characters have such different personalities and it was so interesting to learn more about them. I really like how the character’s mental health illnesses and ADHD are portrayed in this book. The character development in this book was phenomenal - it really had me being empathetic to characters that I wouldn’t normally be empathetic to, which is something that not often happens to me.
I love how the multiple POVs are done in this book and how they all come together to uncover the truth of what has happened in Cherry Hollow. I really loved the writing and I found myself not being able to put the book down as I had to know how everything ended. I also love the mixed media aspects to this book and how they’re incorporated to further progress the story.
⚠️ CWs: mental health illnesses (anxiety, OCD, PTSD), cursing, death, murder, attempted murder, grief, cancer, drug and alcohol use, ableism, suicidal ideation; mentions sleep paralysis, hallucinations, insomnia, attempted suicide, domestic violence, child abuse, child sexual abuse, cheating, suicide and derogatory language ⚠️
* Thank you to Jessica for letting me beta read this wonderful book! *
January 15, 2024
Dive into the heart-pounding world of Cherry Hollow once again in Jessica Huntley third installment, where secrets fester beneath the surface, waiting to be exposed. The story unfolds two years after the gripping events of The Darkness That Binds Us, peeling back the layers of the town's ominous past. While this psychological thriller is a swift read, its brevity doesn't compromise the depth of the storyline.
Huntley deftly tackles sensitive topics like death, cancer, suicide, child abuse, and murder, weaving them into the fabric of Cherry Hollow's sinister origins. It's a testament to the author's skill that she navigates these themes with sensitivity, allowing readers to explore the darker facets of mental health.
This book prompts readers to think on how the concealed secrets in their own lives may be impacting their mental well-being; it invites us to confront any hidden truths that may lurk within ourselves or others. It's a chilling reminder that secrets always have a way of resurfacing, whether within the pages of this book or in our own lives. As you embark on this journey, be prepared for a narrative that invites you to summon your courage and confront the darkness within. Don't miss the opportunity to read this gem.
Huntley deftly tackles sensitive topics like death, cancer, suicide, child abuse, and murder, weaving them into the fabric of Cherry Hollow's sinister origins. It's a testament to the author's skill that she navigates these themes with sensitivity, allowing readers to explore the darker facets of mental health.
This book prompts readers to think on how the concealed secrets in their own lives may be impacting their mental well-being; it invites us to confront any hidden truths that may lurk within ourselves or others. It's a chilling reminder that secrets always have a way of resurfacing, whether within the pages of this book or in our own lives. As you embark on this journey, be prepared for a narrative that invites you to summon your courage and confront the darkness within. Don't miss the opportunity to read this gem.
February 2, 2024
Crimes solved
After all is said and done, Cherry Hollow isn't so unique after all. The Creature is not a being, but a personification. The evil that stalked the town is both older than the famous murder/cold case that gave rise to the Creature, and newer than anyone suspects. There is more involved than was first suspected: more murders, more horrors, more disappearances, and more cover-ups. The reluctantly joint efforts of the town's beleaguered police chief and the "odd" investigative journalist who first made the town infamous combine to bring the jigsaw puzzle pieces to coherence. And therein lies the heart of the matter: author Jessica Huntley contends that the darkness at the heart of it all is as permanent as human nature. Whatever its genesis, its antidote is our willingness to shine the light of truth, and let the chips fall where they may. Superb characterization drives this slightly rushed story to its rather inevitable conclusion. My voluntary, independent opinion as an ARC reader is that this end to a dark trilogy is a weaker horror story, but a far better morality play. As such, it is well worth reading.
After all is said and done, Cherry Hollow isn't so unique after all. The Creature is not a being, but a personification. The evil that stalked the town is both older than the famous murder/cold case that gave rise to the Creature, and newer than anyone suspects. There is more involved than was first suspected: more murders, more horrors, more disappearances, and more cover-ups. The reluctantly joint efforts of the town's beleaguered police chief and the "odd" investigative journalist who first made the town infamous combine to bring the jigsaw puzzle pieces to coherence. And therein lies the heart of the matter: author Jessica Huntley contends that the darkness at the heart of it all is as permanent as human nature. Whatever its genesis, its antidote is our willingness to shine the light of truth, and let the chips fall where they may. Superb characterization drives this slightly rushed story to its rather inevitable conclusion. My voluntary, independent opinion as an ARC reader is that this end to a dark trilogy is a weaker horror story, but a far better morality play. As such, it is well worth reading.
December 15, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 3 of The Darkness Series! Jessica hands down killed it with this series! Any book that Jessica writes she nails it!!
"The Darkness that Came Before" is the prequel in the series and a compelling thriller that explores the consequences of buried secrets and the lengths people will go, to protect them.
Jessica skillfully weaves a tale filled with death, murder, trauma, and mental health disorders, capturing the unsettling atmosphere of Cherry Hollow. The discovery of another body, (from 40 years prior), hidden in Beaker Ravine suggests that The Darkness has been present in the town long before anyone realized its existence, raising questions about its origins and motivations.
Jessica's writing is spine-chilling, and evocative, creating a sense of unease that permeates the story. Jessica's ability to blend suspense, psychological depth, and a haunting atmosphere makes this book a must-read!
Will we finally be privy to the circumstances around the haunting events that have plagued Cherry Hollow for over two decades?
Grab a copy to find out!
"The Darkness that Came Before" is the prequel in the series and a compelling thriller that explores the consequences of buried secrets and the lengths people will go, to protect them.
Jessica skillfully weaves a tale filled with death, murder, trauma, and mental health disorders, capturing the unsettling atmosphere of Cherry Hollow. The discovery of another body, (from 40 years prior), hidden in Beaker Ravine suggests that The Darkness has been present in the town long before anyone realized its existence, raising questions about its origins and motivations.
Jessica's writing is spine-chilling, and evocative, creating a sense of unease that permeates the story. Jessica's ability to blend suspense, psychological depth, and a haunting atmosphere makes this book a must-read!
Will we finally be privy to the circumstances around the haunting events that have plagued Cherry Hollow for over two decades?
Grab a copy to find out!
February 3, 2024
This is the third and final book of this amazing series. Each book casually draws the reader into the mystery of The Creature. The words written between the cover of this book make you question what the reader learned in each previous book. Each person has a part to play in the tragedies that have happened in Cherry Tree Hollow. The idea of a monster, whether supernatural or human, was easy for the townspeople to create when there was no logical explanation for so many disappearances and deaths. The reader discovers that all the things that happened in each book was all connected, it took one secret to create mental health issues that followed all involved. Only through courage was the sheriff and a persistent journalist able to finally uncover all the secrets.
I think the biggest message i received from reading this book was that secrets no matter how large or small; for whatever reason, enable atrocities to occur under peoples’ noses. When people choose to ignore signs, this only enables generations of hidden secrets left without closure.
I think the biggest message i received from reading this book was that secrets no matter how large or small; for whatever reason, enable atrocities to occur under peoples’ noses. When people choose to ignore signs, this only enables generations of hidden secrets left without closure.
April 15, 2024
Listen, I never write reviews, but this entire trilogy had me in a chokehold from beginning to end.
Jessica Huntley brilliantly explores the depths of human darkness and mental health. This story dives into the intricate web of secrets harbored by its characters, weaving a compelling narrative filled with dark twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
At its core, this story highlights the universal theme of the darkness within and how it presents itself differently in all of us. Readers are thrown into the lives of these characters as they navigate the consequences of their past actions and the secrets they have kept hidden for years.
This story highlights the exploration of the ripple effects of their past and the profound impact it has had on not only them, but those around them.
Let this story be a reminder that harboring secrets for decades can leave a heavy toll on one’s mental health and well being.
Overall, this trilogy is a masterfully crafted. It captivates from beginning to end.
Jessica Huntley brilliantly explores the depths of human darkness and mental health. This story dives into the intricate web of secrets harbored by its characters, weaving a compelling narrative filled with dark twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
At its core, this story highlights the universal theme of the darkness within and how it presents itself differently in all of us. Readers are thrown into the lives of these characters as they navigate the consequences of their past actions and the secrets they have kept hidden for years.
This story highlights the exploration of the ripple effects of their past and the profound impact it has had on not only them, but those around them.
Let this story be a reminder that harboring secrets for decades can leave a heavy toll on one’s mental health and well being.
Overall, this trilogy is a masterfully crafted. It captivates from beginning to end.
February 16, 2024
The Darkness That Came Before: The heart-racing and thrilling conclusion to "The Darkness Series my third read from author Jessica Huntley. A dark 300 page read that was hard to put down, reminiscient of the writing of Stephen King. The problem with reading any series like this is that you can go from reading the first book in a series in April of 2021 to reading the concluding book in the series published in February of 2024 covering over 1000 pages and lose track of some of the fine details the author writes into the series. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author and in particular My Dark Self (My ... Self Series Book 1). (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
December 30, 2023
This is the second book I read by this author. I enjoyed the first one, that was the second in the series, but this one was a much better story.
The characters had more meat, and their development grew, which I love. The story had wonderful connections, interlocking events from the past and present that were surprising but believable.
I did think the tying up at the end went on a little too long, but the last scene with Olivia and Mary was brilliant.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters had more meat, and their development grew, which I love. The story had wonderful connections, interlocking events from the past and present that were surprising but believable.
I did think the tying up at the end went on a little too long, but the last scene with Olivia and Mary was brilliant.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2024
What an incredibly thrilling final chapter and final visit to Cherry Hollow. I was so engrossed in this gripping The Darkness psychological thriller series by Jessica Huntley. I was so drawn in and hooked on this story, the characters, the mystery surrounding Cherry Hollow, and the townspeople. An absolutely brilliant reading experience that captures emotion and real-life mental health and anxiety issues.
Exceptionally well written books by Jessica, I honestly loved reading and thoroughly recommend. Wish I could give more than 5 stars.
Exceptionally well written books by Jessica, I honestly loved reading and thoroughly recommend. Wish I could give more than 5 stars.
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February 1, 2024OUT TODAY!
Happy Publication Day to The Darkness That Came Before, the book that was never supposed to happen, but I'm so glad it did because it has surpassed all my expectations.
I love the characters in this book. Some are new and some have been with the series from the start and we finally get to find out why.
Yes, there's some darkness in the book, but I hope by the end you'll see why. I hope I've been able to build suspense while keeping all my readers entertained from the start.
Thank you for coming with me to Cherry Hollow. I hope you enjoy your visit (or maybe not!)
Happy Publication Day to The Darkness That Came Before, the book that was never supposed to happen, but I'm so glad it did because it has surpassed all my expectations.
I love the characters in this book. Some are new and some have been with the series from the start and we finally get to find out why.
Yes, there's some darkness in the book, but I hope by the end you'll see why. I hope I've been able to build suspense while keeping all my readers entertained from the start.
Thank you for coming with me to Cherry Hollow. I hope you enjoy your visit (or maybe not!)
January 16, 2024
Definitely an excellent psychological thriller! I found the story hard to put down. There are several main characters most hiding secrets. The author does a great job in describing their emotional anguish. Plus there are a few twists to keep you guessing. I throughly enjoyed the book. Although it's part of a series it can be read as a standalone.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 1, 2024
Just like the previous two in the series, this was well written and full of twists and surprises as well as some very real, raw [and serious] topics and situations that arise. I said it about the first two, but this one is hands down my favorite in the trilogy, and I encourage everyone to read it. The characters were well developed and pretty relatable [for someone with depression myself]. Please be mindful of TW's, but this is definitely a series worth reading - if you haven't already!
March 27, 2024
I read this book a lot slower trying to make it last, but alas, I've finished it. What a superb final book!
This series has been fantastic and well worth the read! Anyone who loves thrillers won't be disappointed. It is not your average run of the mill thriller.
The whole series really does make you think about how your actions affect others mentally. How actions can and do have consequences.
It's definitely a series I'm keeping, I will read it again.
This series has been fantastic and well worth the read! Anyone who loves thrillers won't be disappointed. It is not your average run of the mill thriller.
The whole series really does make you think about how your actions affect others mentally. How actions can and do have consequences.
It's definitely a series I'm keeping, I will read it again.
April 7, 2024
A great conclusion to the thrilling trilogy about a series of horrific events and how the guilt of those left behind haunts them in very different ways. It really highlights just how terrible humanity can be, how lies and deceit have a way of tainting everything in its wake (even across generations!), and how delicate mental health really is. I'm glad I picked up this series based on a discount-led whim 😂
April 14, 2024
After reading all three books of this series, I knew I had to come back and write a review. I love psychological thrillers, but after staring the first book in this series, I realized it wasn’t the same sort of thriller that I usually read and wasn’t sure I was really going to like it. I came back to review to say that I really didn’t like them…I LOVED them! Well written, formed characters, and kept you wondering through all of the “darkness”. Great reads!!
January 8, 2024
WOW! This was an excellent book! This was book #3, and sadly, the last book in the series. I'm not going to say much more for fear of spoilers, but this book neatly wrapped up the storyline of the series. If you love psychological thrillers, read this!
*Do pay attention to the trigger warnings
*Thank you to Booksirens and Ms. Huntley for my advanced ebook for my honest review*
*Do pay attention to the trigger warnings
*Thank you to Booksirens and Ms. Huntley for my advanced ebook for my honest review*
December 15, 2023
The wait is finally over and wow what a finale. I've been obsessed with this series for so long and this ending was just perfect.
Thet ending!! Wow. This book tied everything together more than I hoped it would and the writing in true Jessica style is phenomenal.
If you've never read any of Jessica's books, you really are missing out.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thet ending!! Wow. This book tied everything together more than I hoped it would and the writing in true Jessica style is phenomenal.
If you've never read any of Jessica's books, you really are missing out.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 28, 2024
The Tie In for All Three...
Although each of the "Darkness" stories can stand alone, they are more complete together. The nuances of the human mind and subconscious are delved into, while carefully crafting a deep understanding of the human spirit. Sensitive topics are approached, and sinister deeds are uncovered. As the truth unfolds, one thing is clear, Cherry Hallow is not the only town to harbor a creature; and it can come for any of us at any time.
Although each of the "Darkness" stories can stand alone, they are more complete together. The nuances of the human mind and subconscious are delved into, while carefully crafting a deep understanding of the human spirit. Sensitive topics are approached, and sinister deeds are uncovered. As the truth unfolds, one thing is clear, Cherry Hallow is not the only town to harbor a creature; and it can come for any of us at any time.
October 10, 2023
Review to come!
December 12, 2023
Loved it. The whole series has been gripping from the beginning and I still want more. So cleverly written so the stories intertwine between different generations of Cherry Hollow. Jessica has portrayed the struggles of mental health so well within the series that so many can connect and understand their own issues. I highly recommend this series for any thriller enthusiast. Can to read whatever Jessica publishes next.
January 5, 2024
Love this series and this book put a neat tidy bow on all of it. Even when I had an idea of what was coming it was still surprising to read all that actually happened. So many great characters and so easy to figure out who was who. Amazing storyline. I definitely recommend this book/series!
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