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Shadow Watch #2
Dream Stalkers
A new drug – Shut-Eye – has been developed in the dreamland, and smuggled into our world. It’s addictive, and dangerous, and Shadow Watch agents Audra and Mr Jinx are on the case, preparing new recruits to deal with the problem.
Meanwhile, a wave of ancient, bodiless Incubi are entering the dreams of humans in an attempt to possess them and live new lives. Only the criminally insane would ever risk a confrontation with them.
Thank goodness, then, for Mr Jinx: clown, Shadow Watch agent, psychopath.
Meanwhile, a wave of ancient, bodiless Incubi are entering the dreams of humans in an attempt to possess them and live new lives. Only the criminally insane would ever risk a confrontation with them.
Thank goodness, then, for Mr Jinx: clown, Shadow Watch agent, psychopath.
367 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
9 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Tim Waggoner
282 books757 followersTim Waggoner's first novel came out in 2001, and since then, he's published over sixty novels and eight collections of short stories. He writes original dark fantasy and horror, as well as media tie-ins. He's written tie-in fiction based on Supernatural, The X-Files, Alien, Doctor Who, Conan the Barbarian, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Grimm, and Transformers, among others, and he's written novelizations for films such as Ti West’s X-Trilogy, Halloween Kills, Terrifier 2 and 3, and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. He’s also the author of the award-winning guide to horror Writing in the Dark. He’s a four-time winner of the Bram Stoker Award, a one-time winner of the Scribe Award, and he’s been a two-time finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award and a one-time finalist for the Splatterpunk Award. He’s also a full-time tenured professor who teaches creative writing and composition at Sinclair College in Dayton, Ohio.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 13, 2015
Audra and Jinx return!
Audra is an Ideator, (someone who can bring nightmares to life) who happened to dream up her worst nightmare. A psychotic clown with a deadly sledgehammer (Cuthbert Junior) named Jinx. This is their second book and I had missed these two characters.
There is a drug called Shut-eye that's made a comeback that's not wanted. Once you take it you go insane. So Shadow Watch needs it off the streets.
Tim Waggoner is the master of world building. He does Nod and the world of Shadow Watch so well that you feel like you can just step through the pages and enter into the craziness. (Yes, I would)
New nightmares come to life as Incubi include
Trauma Doll:
and GingerDread Man:
and a trip on a nightmare of a train:
The ending left a question of a sequel but still wrapped it up enough that it could be the end. NOOOOOOOO!!! I want more Jinx.
Audra is an Ideator, (someone who can bring nightmares to life) who happened to dream up her worst nightmare. A psychotic clown with a deadly sledgehammer (Cuthbert Junior) named Jinx. This is their second book and I had missed these two characters.
There is a drug called Shut-eye that's made a comeback that's not wanted. Once you take it you go insane. So Shadow Watch needs it off the streets.
Tim Waggoner is the master of world building. He does Nod and the world of Shadow Watch so well that you feel like you can just step through the pages and enter into the craziness. (Yes, I would)
New nightmares come to life as Incubi include
Trauma Doll:
and GingerDread Man:
and a trip on a nightmare of a train:
The ending left a question of a sequel but still wrapped it up enough that it could be the end. NOOOOOOOO!!! I want more Jinx.
February 25, 2015
A new drug called Shuteye is on the streets of both earth and Nod and Audra and Jinx are the Shadow Watch officers assigned to the case. But what, if anything, does that have to do with the First Dreamer and the Wakenists bent on waking him? And why have Audra and Jinx begun spontaneously swapping bodies?
I got this from NetGalley.
The Shadow Watch and the crazy worlds they inhabit are back in a second outing, one that expands upon events from Night Terrors.
The world setup, one of my favorite parts of the first book, is further developed. I'm still pretty intrigued with the idea of a police force preventing things from Nod, the dream world, from intruding on reality. Audra and Jinx's relationship has developed a bit from the first book as well and not in the usual urban fantasy way.
Speaking of urban fantasy, the series this book most reminds me of is Simon Green's Nightside, only better written and not so repetitive. Waggoner's humor with Jinx is very well done, not nearly as ridiculous and over the top as it could have been.
The Shuteye case is fairly interesting as well and I really enjoyed the ideas presented about the First Dreamer and the associated cult. I did wind up guessing who was being everything but not until a few pages before his or her identity was revealed.
The ending wrapped things up nicely but it wasn't all beer and pretzels, nicely leaving some loose ends for a sequel. For what it was, Dream Stalkers was quite an engaging read. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I got this from NetGalley.
The Shadow Watch and the crazy worlds they inhabit are back in a second outing, one that expands upon events from Night Terrors.
The world setup, one of my favorite parts of the first book, is further developed. I'm still pretty intrigued with the idea of a police force preventing things from Nod, the dream world, from intruding on reality. Audra and Jinx's relationship has developed a bit from the first book as well and not in the usual urban fantasy way.
Speaking of urban fantasy, the series this book most reminds me of is Simon Green's Nightside, only better written and not so repetitive. Waggoner's humor with Jinx is very well done, not nearly as ridiculous and over the top as it could have been.
The Shuteye case is fairly interesting as well and I really enjoyed the ideas presented about the First Dreamer and the associated cult. I did wind up guessing who was being everything but not until a few pages before his or her identity was revealed.
The ending wrapped things up nicely but it wasn't all beer and pretzels, nicely leaving some loose ends for a sequel. For what it was, Dream Stalkers was quite an engaging read. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
March 31, 2015
Review copy
If you are looking for horror that is irreverent and totally off the wall, look no further than Dream Stalkers - A Shadow Watch Novel by Tim Waggoner.
It's been nearly a year since we first met Audra Hawthorne and her counterpart Jinx, so a quick review may be a good idea. Audra is an Ideator who dreamed up Jinx, an incubus who manifests as a clown. Together, they work for Shadow Watch, an organization tasked with keeping Earth, and it's counterpart Nod, safe.
Audra and Jinx have a contentious relationship which plays out with a lot of jabs and barbs, making for a fun read. Of course when it hits the fan these two always have each others back.
The storyline for Dream Stalkers finds a new drug on the market called Shuteye. Designed to allow a chemical simulation of sleep for Ideators and Incubi who don't sleep. The problem is the side effects, including psychotic behavior, going crazy after a single dose, and even death. What our heroes discover while trying to find the drugs suppliers could mean the end of the world as they know it. If you think that sounds overly dramatic, it's not. Actually it's more of an understatement.
There are moments of Earth-shattering violence, a bit of social commentary, as well as non-stop action. In the end, all of this insanity makes perfect sense, which actually scares the hell out of me. Here's my recommendation for reading Dream Stalkers , just check your disbelief at the door and enjoy the ride.
From Angry Robot Books, Dream Stalkers - A Shadow Watch Novel will be available on April 7, 2015 in a variety of formats. For the full Shadow Watch experience, don't for get to read book 1, Night Terrors.
If you are looking for horror that is irreverent and totally off the wall, look no further than Dream Stalkers - A Shadow Watch Novel by Tim Waggoner.
It's been nearly a year since we first met Audra Hawthorne and her counterpart Jinx, so a quick review may be a good idea. Audra is an Ideator who dreamed up Jinx, an incubus who manifests as a clown. Together, they work for Shadow Watch, an organization tasked with keeping Earth, and it's counterpart Nod, safe.
Audra and Jinx have a contentious relationship which plays out with a lot of jabs and barbs, making for a fun read. Of course when it hits the fan these two always have each others back.
The storyline for Dream Stalkers finds a new drug on the market called Shuteye. Designed to allow a chemical simulation of sleep for Ideators and Incubi who don't sleep. The problem is the side effects, including psychotic behavior, going crazy after a single dose, and even death. What our heroes discover while trying to find the drugs suppliers could mean the end of the world as they know it. If you think that sounds overly dramatic, it's not. Actually it's more of an understatement.
There are moments of Earth-shattering violence, a bit of social commentary, as well as non-stop action. In the end, all of this insanity makes perfect sense, which actually scares the hell out of me. Here's my recommendation for reading Dream Stalkers , just check your disbelief at the door and enjoy the ride.
From Angry Robot Books, Dream Stalkers - A Shadow Watch Novel will be available on April 7, 2015 in a variety of formats. For the full Shadow Watch experience, don't for get to read book 1, Night Terrors.
May 3, 2015
3.5
Jinx and Audra (his Ideator) are back and they seem to be in more trouble than ever.
Someone is selling a dangerous drug shuteye which allows the user to experience a chemical simulation of sleep and these two have to find the supplier. Plus they just got two trainees to deal with. As if that isn't enough, something weird is happening to their connection.
You get a glimpse into Audra and Jinx's past, the time when they themselves were trainees. What happened then plays an indirect role in the present.
I guessed who is behind everything as soon as that person started talking, but then so many things were thrown my way I got distracted. So many might even be an understatement. It even got a bit tiresome, to be honest.
Jinx is a bit different but still as insane as ever. He seems a bit restrained, especially in the first part of the book, but then the last part happens and you get a pretty rewarding punishment for the villains.
I'd suggest to suspend any kind of disbelief you might have and enjoy it. It's bloody and gory (you can't have a nightmarish clown with you without a high level of insanity after all), at times tiresome, over the top but still a fun story.
Jinx and Audra (his Ideator) are back and they seem to be in more trouble than ever.
Someone is selling a dangerous drug shuteye which allows the user to experience a chemical simulation of sleep and these two have to find the supplier. Plus they just got two trainees to deal with. As if that isn't enough, something weird is happening to their connection.
You get a glimpse into Audra and Jinx's past, the time when they themselves were trainees. What happened then plays an indirect role in the present.
I guessed who is behind everything as soon as that person started talking, but then so many things were thrown my way I got distracted. So many might even be an understatement. It even got a bit tiresome, to be honest.
Jinx is a bit different but still as insane as ever. He seems a bit restrained, especially in the first part of the book, but then the last part happens and you get a pretty rewarding punishment for the villains.
“You know that empathy of mine he talked about?”I think Dream Stalkers is even more action packed than Night Terrors.
“Yeah.”
“I’m not really feeling it so much right now."
I'd suggest to suspend any kind of disbelief you might have and enjoy it. It's bloody and gory (you can't have a nightmarish clown with you without a high level of insanity after all), at times tiresome, over the top but still a fun story.
September 21, 2019
I enjoyed this one more than the first volume. For one things, the main protagonists have settled down a bit and are working much better together (perhaps too much, which causes them some problems). The world building is a lot more advanced too, and we get to see a lot more of how it works.
The plot is probably as contrived as the first volume but it works well enough, and the racketing up of the tension towards the end where the entire world is literally dissolving around the characters, was very well done.
I could certainly go for reading more stories, but am not sure where they would go from here - perhaps into those 20 other dimensions that was oh so casually dropped into the story...
The plot is probably as contrived as the first volume but it works well enough, and the racketing up of the tension towards the end where the entire world is literally dissolving around the characters, was very well done.
I could certainly go for reading more stories, but am not sure where they would go from here - perhaps into those 20 other dimensions that was oh so casually dropped into the story...
March 9, 2020
I admit, I like the concept of Waggoner's city of nightmares. It reminds me a lot about his The Nekropolis Archives which is both good and bad. On one hand, it's a formula that works well, and where the other book was about monsters and such, the concept of a dreamworld continues to be interesting. On the other hand, it's already been done, and by the same author, so a lot of it feels reused.
With this being the second book in the series, there was a fair amount of world building that went on in this novel, which was really neat to read. There were some great elements added to the world, though I was disappointed that a lot of them didn't see much play after being introduced. Take for example the clown coffee house and the whole concept of evil dream clowns. This could have been an interesting side plot to the novel, especially since it was mentioned a couple times, but once Jinx explained what was going on, that was it. Nothing more came of it, despite it coming across as a huge possible problem. If Waggoner was planning on using it in the next novel, perhaps it could have been toned down a bit more, rather than seeming like a more important element. Teased rather than explained.
The main conflict of this novel also fell into the urban fantasy trope of being over the top and difficult to top in the next novel. I seriously have no idea how Waggoner is going to top the final conflict of this book, if he decides to write more in the series, because honestly I don't know what else he could do. (though I admit I am a bit curious) Sure, there are some mysteries still that could be done, but all in all this book gave us a conflict that was a game changes as things go.
In the end, this was just an okay book for me, which was a shame because I normally love Waggoner's work. The first book in the series was an okay read, and this one was about the same. I admit I would probably pick up the next in line if it comes out, just to see what Waggoner does with it, but all in all this series just isn't as interesting as some of this other series. Would I recommend this series now that I have read the second book of it? Honestly, probably not. There are other series out there that he's done a far better job with, and I think a reader's time would be better spent reading them. The Shadow Watch series has potential, and now that I think about it, would actually make a pretty good (if expensive) television show, but as a book, it's just average.
With this being the second book in the series, there was a fair amount of world building that went on in this novel, which was really neat to read. There were some great elements added to the world, though I was disappointed that a lot of them didn't see much play after being introduced. Take for example the clown coffee house and the whole concept of evil dream clowns. This could have been an interesting side plot to the novel, especially since it was mentioned a couple times, but once Jinx explained what was going on, that was it. Nothing more came of it, despite it coming across as a huge possible problem. If Waggoner was planning on using it in the next novel, perhaps it could have been toned down a bit more, rather than seeming like a more important element. Teased rather than explained.
The main conflict of this novel also fell into the urban fantasy trope of being over the top and difficult to top in the next novel. I seriously have no idea how Waggoner is going to top the final conflict of this book, if he decides to write more in the series, because honestly I don't know what else he could do. (though I admit I am a bit curious) Sure, there are some mysteries still that could be done, but all in all this book gave us a conflict that was a game changes as things go.
In the end, this was just an okay book for me, which was a shame because I normally love Waggoner's work. The first book in the series was an okay read, and this one was about the same. I admit I would probably pick up the next in line if it comes out, just to see what Waggoner does with it, but all in all this series just isn't as interesting as some of this other series. Would I recommend this series now that I have read the second book of it? Honestly, probably not. There are other series out there that he's done a far better job with, and I think a reader's time would be better spent reading them. The Shadow Watch series has potential, and now that I think about it, would actually make a pretty good (if expensive) television show, but as a book, it's just average.
October 22, 2019
So on to the second book in the series (there are only two that I know of so please let me know if there are more out there).
In general the books was great fun - picking up shortly after the end of the first. The only niggle I had was that there were many play on word moments - usually in reference to the various characters, creatures and places. Sometimes it felt that they were played a little too heavily as if Tim Waggoner was struggling for names or was just trying to be a little too humours. Do not get me wrong I have read many books which use this technique to allow the reader (me) to associate with something otherwise a little too weird to comprehend and with great effect - just from time to time it got a little strained.
Anyway on to the book - you cannot say the action is not break neck speed or that it does not take time to build up - rather like the subtlety of Mr Jinx its there in your face and challenging you to just get on with it.
The ideas may not be the most original however the way they are portrayed and even more so the way the characters seem to blunder their way through them is great fun.
The question is if there are more stories out there- where on earth can they go next.
In general the books was great fun - picking up shortly after the end of the first. The only niggle I had was that there were many play on word moments - usually in reference to the various characters, creatures and places. Sometimes it felt that they were played a little too heavily as if Tim Waggoner was struggling for names or was just trying to be a little too humours. Do not get me wrong I have read many books which use this technique to allow the reader (me) to associate with something otherwise a little too weird to comprehend and with great effect - just from time to time it got a little strained.
Anyway on to the book - you cannot say the action is not break neck speed or that it does not take time to build up - rather like the subtlety of Mr Jinx its there in your face and challenging you to just get on with it.
The ideas may not be the most original however the way they are portrayed and even more so the way the characters seem to blunder their way through them is great fun.
The question is if there are more stories out there- where on earth can they go next.
July 4, 2015
In the sequel of Night Terrors, what started as investigation of a new drug -- Shut-Eye -- that said could forced both Incubi and their Ideators to sleep, brought Audra and Jinx to a more complicated plan as The Wakenist is planning to wake up First Dreamer in order to take control of reality on both Earth and Nod...
I loved this book -- I still thought Waggoner's world built was unique and engaging. I loved all of the characters that he created, including the villains. The journey to the climax had a foreboding sense to it, there was a scene or two that gave clues about what had been going on if you pay attention, especially involving the Wakenist's plan. But I thought the idea was still surprising, and probably change the course of what I knew about everything.
Unlike the first book, there were notable casualties here, for new characters that I already started to love (*sad face*). Some character's fate also hang in a balance and I guess I wouldn't know about it until Mr. Waggoner informs everyone if there would be book #3. But if there isn't, I guess the ending of this book is okay enough for me.
In the end, all I could say is this. Man, how I will miss Jinx the psychotic clown (and I couldn't believe I would say that!).
I loved this book -- I still thought Waggoner's world built was unique and engaging. I loved all of the characters that he created, including the villains. The journey to the climax had a foreboding sense to it, there was a scene or two that gave clues about what had been going on if you pay attention, especially involving the Wakenist's plan. But I thought the idea was still surprising, and probably change the course of what I knew about everything.
Unlike the first book, there were notable casualties here, for new characters that I already started to love (*sad face*). Some character's fate also hang in a balance and I guess I wouldn't know about it until Mr. Waggoner informs everyone if there would be book #3. But if there isn't, I guess the ending of this book is okay enough for me.
In the end, all I could say is this. Man, how I will miss Jinx the psychotic clown (and I couldn't believe I would say that!).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2018
would make a better movie than a book
June 23, 2019
Book Two in the Shadow Watch series finds Audra and Jinx in among the chaos again. I recommend reading Book One, Night Terrors, first.
Audra and Jinx are training two new Shadow Watch agents, Melody (an Ideator) and Trauma Doll (her Incubus). All does not go well. Then while digging for information on the new drug Shuteye they need to visit Deadlock, the prison on Nod. To do that they’ll need to ride the Loco-Motive. See what fun we’re having with words?
It’s a fast-paced book. On the bright side, this is the sort of book where you must suspend your disbelief and just enjoy the story. There’s lots of confrontations between all kinds of beings. There are races against time, and no-way-out situations. By the way, I don’t think Jinx is as psychotic as he keeps being described as. Well, mostly.
Waggoner lightly touches on the topics of reality, an all-powerful God, and power itself. In thinking about if there is an underlying point in this story, maybe it’s that it’s better to leave power alone, as it might skew one’s sense of reality and cause very poor decisions which would affect many other people. Now THAT’S relevant!
I love this series as an escape between more serious books and I recommend it to anyone aged 15+.
Audra and Jinx are training two new Shadow Watch agents, Melody (an Ideator) and Trauma Doll (her Incubus). All does not go well. Then while digging for information on the new drug Shuteye they need to visit Deadlock, the prison on Nod. To do that they’ll need to ride the Loco-Motive. See what fun we’re having with words?
It’s a fast-paced book. On the bright side, this is the sort of book where you must suspend your disbelief and just enjoy the story. There’s lots of confrontations between all kinds of beings. There are races against time, and no-way-out situations. By the way, I don’t think Jinx is as psychotic as he keeps being described as. Well, mostly.
Waggoner lightly touches on the topics of reality, an all-powerful God, and power itself. In thinking about if there is an underlying point in this story, maybe it’s that it’s better to leave power alone, as it might skew one’s sense of reality and cause very poor decisions which would affect many other people. Now THAT’S relevant!
I love this series as an escape between more serious books and I recommend it to anyone aged 15+.
October 6, 2021
Great Demented Tale
Borrowed this from my library with Libby.
Audra and Jinx are officers of the Night Watch and they are investigating a drug on the streets called Shut Eye. Audra is called an Ideator which is a human being that is able to create by using a mysterious energy called the Maelstrom. Jinx is an insane clown that used to haunt Audra when she was a little kid. But he became her creation as an Ideator.
The world we live in is called Earth but there is another dimension that is known to Ideators and that is called Nod.
When Audra starts to realize that this new drug is doing more then its supposed to, she begins to go down a road towards a secret that could destroy everything in this world and the dimension of Nod.
Will Audra and Jinx figure it out first or will they become mere victims of the case they are investigating?
This is a 2nd book concerning the Night Watch and I highly advise reading the 1st book because this author's imagination is amazing and thorough.
All of this author's books seem to fit within the crazy and amazing mythology that he has created. Highly recommend!!
Borrowed this from my library with Libby.
Audra and Jinx are officers of the Night Watch and they are investigating a drug on the streets called Shut Eye. Audra is called an Ideator which is a human being that is able to create by using a mysterious energy called the Maelstrom. Jinx is an insane clown that used to haunt Audra when she was a little kid. But he became her creation as an Ideator.
The world we live in is called Earth but there is another dimension that is known to Ideators and that is called Nod.
When Audra starts to realize that this new drug is doing more then its supposed to, she begins to go down a road towards a secret that could destroy everything in this world and the dimension of Nod.
Will Audra and Jinx figure it out first or will they become mere victims of the case they are investigating?
This is a 2nd book concerning the Night Watch and I highly advise reading the 1st book because this author's imagination is amazing and thorough.
All of this author's books seem to fit within the crazy and amazing mythology that he has created. Highly recommend!!
February 18, 2020
Witty and entertaining. I like that it doesn't really focus on some love story, like so many other novels like this one tend to do, but instead deal with the bond between ideator and incubi. Though I have to say that I was a tad disappointed that "the bad guy" became so obvious so very early. I felt that introduction went far more smooth in Night Terrors. Still, I look forward to reading an eventual third book in this series.
May 16, 2017
Continuation of the first book. Again, very different. Some of the secondary characters were a bit weak in places, but overall an enjoyable read. Not sure if this was meant as a duology, or if there might be more books to come at some point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2021
Another adventure of the Shadow Watch
Audra and Jinx deepen their bond and become stronger in the process while Reality is threatened. Another great read from the pen of Tim Waggoner.
Audra and Jinx deepen their bond and become stronger in the process while Reality is threatened. Another great read from the pen of Tim Waggoner.
April 28, 2024
Not quite as good as the first one somehow, but still a very good book. Had me laughing in places. Interesting concept as well.
May 30, 2024
Don't miss this crazy twisty fun series because of the epically awful cover. The story/writing/characters are great.
I hope he writes more for this series.
I hope he writes more for this series.
April 18, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/dr...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Omar
It all started with a dream… well, a nightmare.
Have you ever had a nightmare that is so scary that it wakes you up, and then you are grateful that it was all a dream? Well in Dream Stalkers, you might just not be so lucky. In the world of the Shadow Watch series created by author Tim Waggoner, there is an energy flowing through the universe called the Maelstrom. When a person is more in sync with this energy than others are and have a deep fear of something; the nightmare that they often dreamed can come to exist in this world.
This is the case for Audra Hawthorne. When she was in her teens she dreamed of Jinx, a psychotic clown that haunted her dreams. People that dream their nightmares into existence are called Ideators and their nightmares, now real are called Incubi. After Audra got back on track leaving her life of doing drugs to try to fall asleep because Ideators once they have created a nightmare can never fall asleep, she now has been a Night Watcher officer for some years with their Incubus partner Jinx.
In this new story, Audra and Jinx have to take down a new drug operation called Shut-Eye that is said to make both Ideator and Incubus fall asleep but everybody that has taking it has either died or gone crazy. But things are not going well for the two of them. Their trainees are badly hurt on duty and they are now suffering from what is called “Blending”, a sickness that is as the word says, blending their minds. And the worse thing is that Audra is noticing that somethings are disappearing and people are forgetting them.
I liked the concept of the story, of someone’s nightmare coming to life and that there is someone dreaming it into reality. Author Tim Waggoner combined this religious idea of a cult and how nightmares come to existence very well in Dream Stalkers. At first, when reading the book it might look like the story is going in different direction, but as the story progresses you will see how everything is connected.
Dream Stalkers is the second book of the Shadow Watch series, and I recommend you read the first one, Night Terrors. The book cites some events from the previous book and if you haven’t read it, it might be a bit confusing. The story of this book is easily to follow.
The characters and the story are very sarcastic. If you find these kind of story not of your liking, I recommend you to skip this one. But if you do like sarcastic characters and lines, this might be the book for you, just like Audra and Jinx. Jinx lines, to which if you pay attention, they make reference to several things of different pop cultures.
…Jinx reached into his inner pocket and removed a lily. He knelt down and gently placed it on the floor. He stood and then bowed his head. “Domo arigato, Senor Lagarto….”
…Russell’s eyes narrowed when he heard Mendez speak, but otherwise he kept his expression neutral. Smart boy. Jealousy is so unattractive…
Some parts of the story I felt that didn’t fit, but I have the feeling that maybe Waggoner is giving the reader some clues for what the next book is going to be about.
If you like clowns, nightmares, to read about dreams, and the meaning of life; then I recommend you to read Dream Stalker by Tim Waggoner, where you will meet Audra and Jinx, see Nod where all nightmares live, learn how the Maelstrom works, and even a little of romance in the story.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Omar
It all started with a dream… well, a nightmare.
Have you ever had a nightmare that is so scary that it wakes you up, and then you are grateful that it was all a dream? Well in Dream Stalkers, you might just not be so lucky. In the world of the Shadow Watch series created by author Tim Waggoner, there is an energy flowing through the universe called the Maelstrom. When a person is more in sync with this energy than others are and have a deep fear of something; the nightmare that they often dreamed can come to exist in this world.
This is the case for Audra Hawthorne. When she was in her teens she dreamed of Jinx, a psychotic clown that haunted her dreams. People that dream their nightmares into existence are called Ideators and their nightmares, now real are called Incubi. After Audra got back on track leaving her life of doing drugs to try to fall asleep because Ideators once they have created a nightmare can never fall asleep, she now has been a Night Watcher officer for some years with their Incubus partner Jinx.
In this new story, Audra and Jinx have to take down a new drug operation called Shut-Eye that is said to make both Ideator and Incubus fall asleep but everybody that has taking it has either died or gone crazy. But things are not going well for the two of them. Their trainees are badly hurt on duty and they are now suffering from what is called “Blending”, a sickness that is as the word says, blending their minds. And the worse thing is that Audra is noticing that somethings are disappearing and people are forgetting them.
I liked the concept of the story, of someone’s nightmare coming to life and that there is someone dreaming it into reality. Author Tim Waggoner combined this religious idea of a cult and how nightmares come to existence very well in Dream Stalkers. At first, when reading the book it might look like the story is going in different direction, but as the story progresses you will see how everything is connected.
Dream Stalkers is the second book of the Shadow Watch series, and I recommend you read the first one, Night Terrors. The book cites some events from the previous book and if you haven’t read it, it might be a bit confusing. The story of this book is easily to follow.
The characters and the story are very sarcastic. If you find these kind of story not of your liking, I recommend you to skip this one. But if you do like sarcastic characters and lines, this might be the book for you, just like Audra and Jinx. Jinx lines, to which if you pay attention, they make reference to several things of different pop cultures.
…Jinx reached into his inner pocket and removed a lily. He knelt down and gently placed it on the floor. He stood and then bowed his head. “Domo arigato, Senor Lagarto….”
…Russell’s eyes narrowed when he heard Mendez speak, but otherwise he kept his expression neutral. Smart boy. Jealousy is so unattractive…
Some parts of the story I felt that didn’t fit, but I have the feeling that maybe Waggoner is giving the reader some clues for what the next book is going to be about.
If you like clowns, nightmares, to read about dreams, and the meaning of life; then I recommend you to read Dream Stalker by Tim Waggoner, where you will meet Audra and Jinx, see Nod where all nightmares live, learn how the Maelstrom works, and even a little of romance in the story.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
April 15, 2015
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.5 of 5
I love this world!
Author Tim Waggoner continues the antics of his Shadow Watch series with this second installment, Dream Stalkers. I really enjoyed the first book, Night Terrors, and wondered if Waggoner could follow it up with something equally crazy/intriguing/scary/funny. The answer is - he did.
In this book, Shadow Watch agents Audra and her incubus, Jinx (a blood-thirsty clown) fight against a drug called Shut-Eye that has been making its way between Nod and Earth. Their investigation will take them deep into Nod, to a secluded place where the worst of the worst nightmares are imprisoned. They also partner with some new characters that rival Jinx for frightening creepiness.
To complicate matters (as if there needed to be anything more than fighting off nightmares come to life), Jinx and Audra are experiencing a side-effect from their partnering -- they switch bodies, without warning. In the middle of a fight, or while interrogating someone, they might find themselves in the others' body. This provides plenty of opportunity for some of Jinx's hijinx.
Waggoner has created a tremendously fascinating world where living nightmares are common-place. Yet I hesitate to call this a horror novel. It is a mystery with a dark-urban-fantasy setting. And I think that this book is actually stronger than the first book.
The first book helped set up the world and the characters but in this second book, we get a much better look at the characters and their growth. We come to understand the partnership between Audra and Jinx better, and it is their character(s) that carry this story. No matter how fantastic the setting, if we don't like Audra or Jinx, we could never buy in to the story. And here Waggoner really shines. It would be very easy to go over-board with Jinx, making him foppish or silly. But as terrifying as he is and as unpredictable as he might seem, he's actually a well controlled character who knows when it's appropriate to be funny or dangerous (and unpredictable), and when he needs to contain his insanity.
Audra fought quite a personal battle in the first book and fate doesn't let up on her as she tries to understand her relationship with her own personal nightmare, now sometimes sharing his physical form. This part of the story is developed nicely and still leaves plenty of room for more detail.
I was very happy that we got to spend a little time in the incubus bar Wet Dreams. I'm sure this is a favorite watering hole for many readers.
There's plenty of violence and plenty of laughs in this wholly original series. I really enjoy coming to visit this world (but I wouldn't want to live there).
Looking for a good book? Dream Stalkers, by Tim Waggoner, is the second in the Shadow Watch series and will take your breath away with its fast-paced, terrifying, outrageous, humorous action. It's a must-read for dark fantasy/urban fantasy fans.
I received a digital copy from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I love this world!
Author Tim Waggoner continues the antics of his Shadow Watch series with this second installment, Dream Stalkers. I really enjoyed the first book, Night Terrors, and wondered if Waggoner could follow it up with something equally crazy/intriguing/scary/funny. The answer is - he did.
In this book, Shadow Watch agents Audra and her incubus, Jinx (a blood-thirsty clown) fight against a drug called Shut-Eye that has been making its way between Nod and Earth. Their investigation will take them deep into Nod, to a secluded place where the worst of the worst nightmares are imprisoned. They also partner with some new characters that rival Jinx for frightening creepiness.
To complicate matters (as if there needed to be anything more than fighting off nightmares come to life), Jinx and Audra are experiencing a side-effect from their partnering -- they switch bodies, without warning. In the middle of a fight, or while interrogating someone, they might find themselves in the others' body. This provides plenty of opportunity for some of Jinx's hijinx.
Waggoner has created a tremendously fascinating world where living nightmares are common-place. Yet I hesitate to call this a horror novel. It is a mystery with a dark-urban-fantasy setting. And I think that this book is actually stronger than the first book.
The first book helped set up the world and the characters but in this second book, we get a much better look at the characters and their growth. We come to understand the partnership between Audra and Jinx better, and it is their character(s) that carry this story. No matter how fantastic the setting, if we don't like Audra or Jinx, we could never buy in to the story. And here Waggoner really shines. It would be very easy to go over-board with Jinx, making him foppish or silly. But as terrifying as he is and as unpredictable as he might seem, he's actually a well controlled character who knows when it's appropriate to be funny or dangerous (and unpredictable), and when he needs to contain his insanity.
Audra fought quite a personal battle in the first book and fate doesn't let up on her as she tries to understand her relationship with her own personal nightmare, now sometimes sharing his physical form. This part of the story is developed nicely and still leaves plenty of room for more detail.
I was very happy that we got to spend a little time in the incubus bar Wet Dreams. I'm sure this is a favorite watering hole for many readers.
There's plenty of violence and plenty of laughs in this wholly original series. I really enjoy coming to visit this world (but I wouldn't want to live there).
Looking for a good book? Dream Stalkers, by Tim Waggoner, is the second in the Shadow Watch series and will take your breath away with its fast-paced, terrifying, outrageous, humorous action. It's a must-read for dark fantasy/urban fantasy fans.
I received a digital copy from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2015
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.5 of 5
I love this world!
Author Tim Waggoner continues the antics of his Shadow Watch series with this second installment, Dream Stalkers. I really enjoyed the first book, Night Terrors, and wondered if Waggoner could follow it up with something equally crazy/intriguing/scary/funny. The answer is - he did.
In this book, Shadow Watch agents Audra and her incubus, Jinx (a blood-thirsty clown) fight against a drug called Shut-Eye that has been making its way between Nod and Earth. Their investigation will take them deep into Nod, to a secluded place where the worst of the worst nightmares are imprisoned. They also partner with some new characters that rival Jinx for frightening creepiness.
To complicate matters (as if there needed to be anything more than fighting off nightmares come to life), Jinx and Audra are experiencing a side-effect from their partnering -- they switch bodies, without warning. In the middle of a fight, or while interrogating someone, they might find themselves in the others' body. This provides plenty of opportunity for some of Jinx's hijinx.
Waggoner has created a tremendously fascinating world where living nightmares are common-place. Yet I hesitate to call this a horror novel. It is a mystery with a dark-urban-fantasy setting. And I think that this book is actually stronger than the first book.
The first book helped set up the world and the characters but in this second book, we get a much better look at the characters and their growth. We come to understand the partnership between Audra and Jinx better, and it is their character(s) that carry this story. No matter how fantastic the setting, if we don't like Audra or Jinx, we could never buy in to the story. And here Waggoner really shines. It would be very easy to go over-board with Jinx, making him foppish or silly. But as terrifying as he is and as unpredictable as he might seem, he's actually a well controlled character who knows when it's appropriate to be funny or dangerous (and unpredictable), and when he needs to contain his insanity.
Audra fought quite a personal battle in the first book and fate doesn't let up on her as she tries to understand her relationship with her own personal nightmare, now sometimes sharing his physical form. This part of the story is developed nicely and still leaves plenty of room for more detail.
I was very happy that we got to spend a little time in the incubus bar Wet Dreams. I'm sure this is a favorite watering hole for many readers.
There's plenty of violence and plenty of laughs in this wholly original series. I really enjoy coming to visit this world (but I wouldn't want to live there).
Looking for a good book? Dream Stalkers, by Tim Waggoner, is the second in the Shadow Watch series and will take your breath away with its fast-paced, terrifying, outrageous, humorous action. It's a must-read for dark fantasy/urban fantasy fans.
I received a digital copy from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I love this world!
Author Tim Waggoner continues the antics of his Shadow Watch series with this second installment, Dream Stalkers. I really enjoyed the first book, Night Terrors, and wondered if Waggoner could follow it up with something equally crazy/intriguing/scary/funny. The answer is - he did.
In this book, Shadow Watch agents Audra and her incubus, Jinx (a blood-thirsty clown) fight against a drug called Shut-Eye that has been making its way between Nod and Earth. Their investigation will take them deep into Nod, to a secluded place where the worst of the worst nightmares are imprisoned. They also partner with some new characters that rival Jinx for frightening creepiness.
To complicate matters (as if there needed to be anything more than fighting off nightmares come to life), Jinx and Audra are experiencing a side-effect from their partnering -- they switch bodies, without warning. In the middle of a fight, or while interrogating someone, they might find themselves in the others' body. This provides plenty of opportunity for some of Jinx's hijinx.
Waggoner has created a tremendously fascinating world where living nightmares are common-place. Yet I hesitate to call this a horror novel. It is a mystery with a dark-urban-fantasy setting. And I think that this book is actually stronger than the first book.
The first book helped set up the world and the characters but in this second book, we get a much better look at the characters and their growth. We come to understand the partnership between Audra and Jinx better, and it is their character(s) that carry this story. No matter how fantastic the setting, if we don't like Audra or Jinx, we could never buy in to the story. And here Waggoner really shines. It would be very easy to go over-board with Jinx, making him foppish or silly. But as terrifying as he is and as unpredictable as he might seem, he's actually a well controlled character who knows when it's appropriate to be funny or dangerous (and unpredictable), and when he needs to contain his insanity.
Audra fought quite a personal battle in the first book and fate doesn't let up on her as she tries to understand her relationship with her own personal nightmare, now sometimes sharing his physical form. This part of the story is developed nicely and still leaves plenty of room for more detail.
I was very happy that we got to spend a little time in the incubus bar Wet Dreams. I'm sure this is a favorite watering hole for many readers.
There's plenty of violence and plenty of laughs in this wholly original series. I really enjoy coming to visit this world (but I wouldn't want to live there).
Looking for a good book? Dream Stalkers, by Tim Waggoner, is the second in the Shadow Watch series and will take your breath away with its fast-paced, terrifying, outrageous, humorous action. It's a must-read for dark fantasy/urban fantasy fans.
I received a digital copy from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2016
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
A new drug – Shut-Eye – has been developed in the dreamland, and smuggled into our world. It’s addictive, and dangerous, and Shadow Watch agents Audra and Mr Jinx are on the case, preparing new recruits to deal with the problem.
Meanwhile, a wave of ancient, body-less Incubi are entering the dreams of humans in an attempt to possess them and live new lives. Only the criminally insane would ever risk a confrontation with them.
Thank goodness, then, for Mr Jinx: clown, Shadow Watch agent, psychopath.
Okay, that was unusual. I am not really sure where to start...
I guess not reading the first book in this series was a bit of a setback. There was a history between both Jinx and Audra that I was certainly not privy to (but will try and find the first book and catch up...) I found it hard to find a connection with either of them as they were already created characters that I didn't get to "grow" with.
Having said that, the characters were fantastic. There is a brilliant creation in Mr. Jinx - a character that I don't think I have ever read the likes of before in my life (which is saying something!!) and Audra Hawthorne who compliments Jinx's character perfectly. They are a great team!
However, I just found it really hard to suspend belief enough to really buy into the whole story. And, if it wasn't for the combination of the MC's, I honestly doubt if I would have even finished it.
I thought this was something that I would really like - but I guess I was a bit wrong in that estimation!
Paul
ARH
A new drug – Shut-Eye – has been developed in the dreamland, and smuggled into our world. It’s addictive, and dangerous, and Shadow Watch agents Audra and Mr Jinx are on the case, preparing new recruits to deal with the problem.
Meanwhile, a wave of ancient, body-less Incubi are entering the dreams of humans in an attempt to possess them and live new lives. Only the criminally insane would ever risk a confrontation with them.
Thank goodness, then, for Mr Jinx: clown, Shadow Watch agent, psychopath.
Okay, that was unusual. I am not really sure where to start...
I guess not reading the first book in this series was a bit of a setback. There was a history between both Jinx and Audra that I was certainly not privy to (but will try and find the first book and catch up...) I found it hard to find a connection with either of them as they were already created characters that I didn't get to "grow" with.
Having said that, the characters were fantastic. There is a brilliant creation in Mr. Jinx - a character that I don't think I have ever read the likes of before in my life (which is saying something!!) and Audra Hawthorne who compliments Jinx's character perfectly. They are a great team!
However, I just found it really hard to suspend belief enough to really buy into the whole story. And, if it wasn't for the combination of the MC's, I honestly doubt if I would have even finished it.
I thought this was something that I would really like - but I guess I was a bit wrong in that estimation!
Paul
ARH
July 6, 2015
Shadow Watch agents Audra and Jinx have returned in book 2 of the Shadow Watch series. Shut-eye, a new addictive and dangerous drug, has been smuggled into our world from Nod, the dreamland. Audra and Jinx are more than a match for the smugglers even though they have problems of their own, including training new recruits, dealing with Blending, and facing someone from their past.
I was eager to read this book because I had read and enjoyed the first in the series, Night Terrors. While the first book had a few minor issues, this book basically took care of most of them. Jax and Audra's relationship (work, not romantic) is smoother, the writing was more comfortable with itself, and the world-building continues to expand into a well-rounded universe. Waggoner's wit and humor are terrific, and the action is abundant. However, I still felt a little distant from Audra, and would have liked to be more sympathetic towards her, and I would have liked a little more non-work interaction between Audra and Jax
I would recommend this book to people who like a bit darker urban fantasy, bordering on horror, but still with humor.
Excellent book. 4 stars.
I was eager to read this book because I had read and enjoyed the first in the series, Night Terrors. While the first book had a few minor issues, this book basically took care of most of them. Jax and Audra's relationship (work, not romantic) is smoother, the writing was more comfortable with itself, and the world-building continues to expand into a well-rounded universe. Waggoner's wit and humor are terrific, and the action is abundant. However, I still felt a little distant from Audra, and would have liked to be more sympathetic towards her, and I would have liked a little more non-work interaction between Audra and Jax
I would recommend this book to people who like a bit darker urban fantasy, bordering on horror, but still with humor.
Excellent book. 4 stars.
July 19, 2016
This was a fantastic return to the world(s) inhabited by Audra, an agent with the Shadow Watch, and her partner, Jinx, the nightmare clown she brought to life. The mystery in Dream Stalkers has quite high stakes, and the tension is held steady throughout. It was great seeing Audra and Jinx relate more and more to each other, and to see forward movement with Audra's budding romance with Russell. Dream Stalkers has quite a bit of action, quite a bit of humor, and heart. I hope to see more from these characters in the future. Excellent read!
March 11, 2016
I thought this second book set in the Shadow Watch world was better than the first. Audra and Jinx are very, very different heroes tasked with trying to stop the distribution of a dangerous drug. Waggoner stands several of the tropes of the detective procedural as well as the contemporary horror genre on end and serves them both shaken and stirred. Along the way we get some surprisingly deep ruminations on the nature of dreams and reality, as well as a fast-paced adventure. Seriously spooky stuff, seasoned with some good humor.
April 2, 2015
Audra and Jinx are chasing their tails again trying to get a handle on the "shuteye" drug problem. But that scheme is part of a plot by the Wakenists/Discarnets to arouse the First Dreamer and remake the world. Plenty of action, a bit less clowning then in the first book in the series, but our heroine, mad clown and companions manage to muddle through to a victory once again. The plot is decent, but the fun is in the details! Read Dream Stalkers and find them!
May 4, 2015
I rounded up. More of a 3.5 star read, but still entertaining. I still think Jinx is the best thing going in this series. The plot was kinda confusing in some places. The world building in Nod is also confusing to me. There were numerous times that Jinx was "let loose", but it wasn't described. Those are the best parts...
June 17, 2022
I have really enjoyed the book and the whole Shadow Watch series, and the way that the characters have developed through the story and the relationships between the agents and their nightmare partners, who have their daytime and night time persona.
I hope that Mr Waggoner will add to the series, as I would love to read more.
I hope that Mr Waggoner will add to the series, as I would love to read more.
January 2, 2016
Another great book with two of my favorites MCs. It wasn't perfect and I have to say that I liked the first one better, but it's full of action and gore (for Jinx delight). I thought the ending a little bit anticlimactic but I can live with it. Keep writing Mr. Waggoner and I'll keep reading.
June 4, 2015
Magic, brilliant, awesome please sir are there any more?
May 4, 2015
Fantastic stuff !!!!. Love Audra and the creepy, crazy "are you clown enough" Jinx. An awesome sequel for the Ideators and Incubi !!!!!
April 25, 2015
Second book in the series, and as good as the first, if not better. Unique landscape, complex world, great characters in Audra and Jinx. Looking forward to more,
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