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The Watchers #2
Stay in the Light
After her terrifying experience at the hands of the Watchers, Mina has escaped to a cottage on the west coast of Ireland. She obsessively researches her former captors, desperate to find any way to prolong the safety of humankind.
When Mina encounters a stranger near her home, she fears the worst - for she knows the figure is not what it seems. Soon, people she has encountered start to disappear.
Mina knows the Watchers' power is growing. She flees for her life, but when she reports her fears she finds her sanity questioned. Can she convince people that the Watchers are real, and ready to strike - or will she suffer the fate she has dreaded since she first encountered those malevolent beings?
A chilling modern twist on the Gothic horror novel, perfect for fans of Kealan Patrick Burke, T. Kingfisher and classic horror.
When Mina encounters a stranger near her home, she fears the worst - for she knows the figure is not what it seems. Soon, people she has encountered start to disappear.
Mina knows the Watchers' power is growing. She flees for her life, but when she reports her fears she finds her sanity questioned. Can she convince people that the Watchers are real, and ready to strike - or will she suffer the fate she has dreaded since she first encountered those malevolent beings?
A chilling modern twist on the Gothic horror novel, perfect for fans of Kealan Patrick Burke, T. Kingfisher and classic horror.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2024
554 people are currently reading
6380 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Shine
7 books1,472 followersA. M. Shine is an author of Literary Horror from the west of Ireland. It was there that at a young age he discovered a passion for classic horror stories, and where he received his Masters in history, before ultimately sharpening his quill to pursue a life devoted to all things literary and macabre. His writing is inspired by the trinity of horror, history, and superstition, and he has tormented, toyed with, and tortured more characters than he will ever confess to.
Owing to a fascination with the works of Edgar Allan Poe and his ilk, A. M. Shine’s earlier writings were Gothic in their style and imagination. When his focus turned to novels he refined his craft as an author of Irish horror – stories influenced by his country’s culture, landscape, and language, but which draw their dark atmosphere and eloquence from the Gothic canon of his past.
He is represented by John Baker of Bell Lomax Moreton Literary Agency.
Owing to a fascination with the works of Edgar Allan Poe and his ilk, A. M. Shine’s earlier writings were Gothic in their style and imagination. When his focus turned to novels he refined his craft as an author of Irish horror – stories influenced by his country’s culture, landscape, and language, but which draw their dark atmosphere and eloquence from the Gothic canon of his past.
He is represented by John Baker of Bell Lomax Moreton Literary Agency.
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October 31, 2024
My thanks to Bloomsbury Press, A.M. Shine and Netgalley.
Well, color me bummed! Much as I absolutely loved the first book, this was mostly tiresome.
I hated and was bored silly for the first 50 to 60% of the book, but I'll admit that the last half of the book was pretty fantastic!
I honestly don't know if I'm excited for the next book "part 3" or if I'm just ready for the end.
O.K., that's a lie. I'm really ready for the final book! I'm hoping that it will be as good as the first in this series.
Well, color me bummed! Much as I absolutely loved the first book, this was mostly tiresome.
I hated and was bored silly for the first 50 to 60% of the book, but I'll admit that the last half of the book was pretty fantastic!
I honestly don't know if I'm excited for the next book "part 3" or if I'm just ready for the end.
O.K., that's a lie. I'm really ready for the final book! I'm hoping that it will be as good as the first in this series.
June 15, 2025
OUTSTANDING. My book of the year and one of the best I've read. Possibly one of my best reviews and I know I won't do it justice (not that my reviews are anything anyway). Note that in this review anything in quotes is directly from the book and I have numbered the pages where they are from. This was a buddy read that failed. No hard feelings but when I do a BR I take pretty good notes and for this review it was well worth it. Note that many did not like the slow pacing at the front but I so disagree and felt it was kind of needed. Shine is a historian by trade and man can he write. So much anticipation is just built up and when it erupts does it ever. Note that book one is called Watchers but watchers can be interchanged with fairies, changelings and gods. They were once gods living with humans, side by side, big mistake. This next paragraph deals with book one and has some major spoilers so skip it if you don't want to see them.
At the end of book one Ciara, Madeline and our main character Mina escape from David Kilmartin's safehouse out in the woods. He was a historian fascinated by the watchers and built a safehouse in the woods to observe them. He knew of their folklore and that they only come out at night now. That they were banished to the inner earth and only come out at night. From the safety of his home he interacts with them while they yell and scream ear piercing screams. Madeline was such a being but as a changeling changed herself into Kilmartin's wife the real Madeline and a bond formed between the two and Madeline embraced her human side. Some time after David's death Ciara her husband John, David and then finally Mina get trapped in the safehouse and Madeline tells them how they can survive and that there is no escaping the woodlands during the day (she is right as they naturally try). Yet in the masterful book one Watchers they eventually all do escape for the most part and Madeline becomes a safeguard for Ciara and Mina. We also learn that there are many watchers like Madeline who can survive in the light and they know Mina and Ciara have escaped. They are among us and we cannot tell.
So Watchers was the apetizer for the second book which is the main course. It is in the Stay in the Light that we learn that the scent of the woodland is now a part of Ciara and Mina and the watchers are watching them and wanting them back as they escaped from the safehouse of book one with the aid of a watcher sympathetic to humans, Madeline. We learn that there are other watchers among us and they are aware of Mina and Ciara. Madeline insists they get to a safer place and move to the other side of Ireland and Mina does move a fair way off. Of course she in in company of her pet parrot who was in from the start of the first book. The author now refers to him as the yellow one and he has the ability to detect watcher vs human. There is a lot of interaction between Mina and the yellow one and it so cool.
From Mina the author takes us to Sean Kilmartin who is David's son from book one. He grew up as a child enamoured with the stories of his father as they related to the fairies and gods. He has naturally fallen in his fathers footsteps. Sean has found something in the burren. Unnatural stonework that is covering up tunnels and rooms deep in the ground. He intends to lead a team into those caves and tunnels. There are strange writings that his assistant Ash can translate and she tells him those writings pertain to the Tuatha Di Danaan which is the tribe of the gods and led by Morrigan whom Sean knows well from his fathers stories. She is very powerful and their leader. Sean is spellbound by her folklore.
The book is written in Chapters relating to specific characters. Kind of pov but not really but it all works. So mainly the story is a back and forth between Sean and Mina. So back to Mina and when she cannot get a hold of Ciara she worries. Mina can't shake the events of book one but her and Ciara handle things differently. Shine does a great job describing how a person would react to surviving book one and deals with it at length. Mina is scared and ought to be and when Ciara is not picking up Mina's calls she goes over. Mina is stunned when Ciara's husband John (he is deceased but a watcher being a changeling can spot a photo and take that persons image as their own) answers Ciara's door. She has to go in as it is dark out and this changeling can instantly transform into the four legged killing machine they have now really become due to humanity somehow subduing them. This alone (humans subduing gods) I should note is hard to fathom but Shine does a damn good job of eventually selling it and selling it but good. So Ciara comes out to greet Mina and Mina knows these are two watchers. They employ small talk with Mina wanting to know about her family. Remember these changelings need to change quite frequently before they are found out by family and friends. Their small talk is information gathering for themselves. Mina tells them she needs a smoke and needs to step out. When she steps out for her smoke she runs to her Jeep where the yellow one awaits. She knows she needs to get to the main road asap as the changelings will not show their true forms in front of a large group of people as they will be found out. Yet during her daring escape Mina sees the two transform and have unsurpassed power but she makes it to the main road and gets in accident but all the people around her tend to her and call the Gardai and on their arrival Mina is like a canary telling them just about everything. They hall her to the garrison to sort things out.
When the Gardai check on her story she becomes the main suspect in Ciara's death. CSI experts are working Ciara's home. Mina is confronted by a psychologist who deems her sane and lets on that she is not the only one saying people are not who they seem and this type of reporting is growing. Hmmm........ Mina having seen of Sean Kilmartin's proposed exploration/excavation asks that he go to Sean and warn him of what he may unleash. Mina wanted to do this herself but she is in custody. The psychologist says he will.
Madeline had been absent from the story but upon her introduction she double checks that Mina has left her apt and heeded her warnings. She is upset when she sees her still there and that's when we are also introduced to Mina's identical twin sister Jennifer who thinks Mina has lost it with all her talk of this nonsense. While in the company of each other Jennifer gets a call from the Gardai with news of what's happened to Mina.
Back at the garrison the power goes out and there is only one guard in the whole building and it is night. Mina knows this is no coincidence. This chapter was so well written and eerie. Mina knows there are watchers outside and they are there for her. There is a tenseness you can cut with a knife as a watcher approaches but low and behold it is Madeline there to break out Mina. Jennifer is there too. So they are in a well protected garrison and they can stay safe and locked up away from the watchers outside until morning comes. Yet soon enough Jennifer hearing all this nonsense between Madeline and Mina has had enough. The M&M connection are nuts. When a cruiser with two constables arrive Jennifer breaks from the safe room to run to the two cops. What happens outside in the sight of Mina to those 3 was just brutal and you just know that the watchers think they have now dealt with Mina unaware they really dealt with the identical twin. Mina and Madeline are safe for the moment. The following morning M&M head out to prevent Sean from his dig.
Back at the dig Sean goes down into the tunnels with Ash and a group of student volunteers. About 20 are now in the tunnels each painstakingly been lowered one at a time by a winch contraption. One student, Catriona, can also read the writings on the wall. What she reads is way way different than what Ash claims. Catriona says the words are warnings to stay away and stay out. Hmmmm..... but the excavation goes on until Sean sees a true monster in the form of the monsters that the watchers have become. He also hears it killing his group deep in the tunnels that a select 6 of them have gone too. Sean runs like hell to get out and to the winch. When confronted by the other students who have not heard anything yet due to the distance Sean makes up an excuse that he is not feeling well and goes back up the winch to terra ferma. Once on safe ground Sean soons hear the screaming of terror from those below, his very team that he abandoned.
Mina and Madeline are en route to the sight when they hear "a soul splitting scream tore through the night like a siren so animalistic, so savage and so impossibly loud that no watcher could have been responsible." (page 277). Seconds after hearing that scream Madeline starts to turn to her original killing form. She yells at Mina to run, to get to safety. Mina won't abandon Madeline telling Madeline to fight off what's happening to her. Madeline can't and takes a chunk of Mina's leg but Mina stays on Madeline insisting she fight it off and Madeline is able to. Man what a chapter, just so cool.
When things settle between Madeline and Mina the police radio they took starts to really chatter. The outside world is in despair. It's a world falling apart. Note the following quotes are all from different voices on that radio and likely officers. (page 294) "They won't stop shreiking. (2)They're outside, someone whispered, terrified. (3) We can't hold them off (4) What the fuck are they? (5)" "They've killed everyone. I can't get -" (6) "It's all over the country. Every city. Every town." (7) "Some of them look like us. We're not prepared for -" and this one is so well put "I know these people, someone wept. Why are they doing this?" Man reading this chapter was just so awesome. And the best part when Madeline tells Mina referring to that insanely loud scream through the night heard throughout the land. (page 295) "What you heard was a war cry Mina. The watchers are being summoned to take back what was once theirs." Morrigan is back with a vengeance.
Like Holy F*** get book 3 out. The war is on. Yet I think we all know where book 3 would have to go and I am not sure this author wants to write that type of book. I see him above that style of book and would be fine if it ended right here. Leave it for us to dream of. Ps the epilogue is so fitting and cool as well and same with the prologue. Fantastic, fantastic read and clearly highly recommended. Ten stars out of five 😊
At the end of book one Ciara, Madeline and our main character Mina escape from David Kilmartin's safehouse out in the woods. He was a historian fascinated by the watchers and built a safehouse in the woods to observe them. He knew of their folklore and that they only come out at night now. That they were banished to the inner earth and only come out at night. From the safety of his home he interacts with them while they yell and scream ear piercing screams. Madeline was such a being but as a changeling changed herself into Kilmartin's wife the real Madeline and a bond formed between the two and Madeline embraced her human side. Some time after David's death Ciara her husband John, David and then finally Mina get trapped in the safehouse and Madeline tells them how they can survive and that there is no escaping the woodlands during the day (she is right as they naturally try). Yet in the masterful book one Watchers they eventually all do escape for the most part and Madeline becomes a safeguard for Ciara and Mina. We also learn that there are many watchers like Madeline who can survive in the light and they know Mina and Ciara have escaped. They are among us and we cannot tell.
So Watchers was the apetizer for the second book which is the main course. It is in the Stay in the Light that we learn that the scent of the woodland is now a part of Ciara and Mina and the watchers are watching them and wanting them back as they escaped from the safehouse of book one with the aid of a watcher sympathetic to humans, Madeline. We learn that there are other watchers among us and they are aware of Mina and Ciara. Madeline insists they get to a safer place and move to the other side of Ireland and Mina does move a fair way off. Of course she in in company of her pet parrot who was in from the start of the first book. The author now refers to him as the yellow one and he has the ability to detect watcher vs human. There is a lot of interaction between Mina and the yellow one and it so cool.
From Mina the author takes us to Sean Kilmartin who is David's son from book one. He grew up as a child enamoured with the stories of his father as they related to the fairies and gods. He has naturally fallen in his fathers footsteps. Sean has found something in the burren. Unnatural stonework that is covering up tunnels and rooms deep in the ground. He intends to lead a team into those caves and tunnels. There are strange writings that his assistant Ash can translate and she tells him those writings pertain to the Tuatha Di Danaan which is the tribe of the gods and led by Morrigan whom Sean knows well from his fathers stories. She is very powerful and their leader. Sean is spellbound by her folklore.
The book is written in Chapters relating to specific characters. Kind of pov but not really but it all works. So mainly the story is a back and forth between Sean and Mina. So back to Mina and when she cannot get a hold of Ciara she worries. Mina can't shake the events of book one but her and Ciara handle things differently. Shine does a great job describing how a person would react to surviving book one and deals with it at length. Mina is scared and ought to be and when Ciara is not picking up Mina's calls she goes over. Mina is stunned when Ciara's husband John (he is deceased but a watcher being a changeling can spot a photo and take that persons image as their own) answers Ciara's door. She has to go in as it is dark out and this changeling can instantly transform into the four legged killing machine they have now really become due to humanity somehow subduing them. This alone (humans subduing gods) I should note is hard to fathom but Shine does a damn good job of eventually selling it and selling it but good. So Ciara comes out to greet Mina and Mina knows these are two watchers. They employ small talk with Mina wanting to know about her family. Remember these changelings need to change quite frequently before they are found out by family and friends. Their small talk is information gathering for themselves. Mina tells them she needs a smoke and needs to step out. When she steps out for her smoke she runs to her Jeep where the yellow one awaits. She knows she needs to get to the main road asap as the changelings will not show their true forms in front of a large group of people as they will be found out. Yet during her daring escape Mina sees the two transform and have unsurpassed power but she makes it to the main road and gets in accident but all the people around her tend to her and call the Gardai and on their arrival Mina is like a canary telling them just about everything. They hall her to the garrison to sort things out.
When the Gardai check on her story she becomes the main suspect in Ciara's death. CSI experts are working Ciara's home. Mina is confronted by a psychologist who deems her sane and lets on that she is not the only one saying people are not who they seem and this type of reporting is growing. Hmmm........ Mina having seen of Sean Kilmartin's proposed exploration/excavation asks that he go to Sean and warn him of what he may unleash. Mina wanted to do this herself but she is in custody. The psychologist says he will.
Madeline had been absent from the story but upon her introduction she double checks that Mina has left her apt and heeded her warnings. She is upset when she sees her still there and that's when we are also introduced to Mina's identical twin sister Jennifer who thinks Mina has lost it with all her talk of this nonsense. While in the company of each other Jennifer gets a call from the Gardai with news of what's happened to Mina.
Back at the garrison the power goes out and there is only one guard in the whole building and it is night. Mina knows this is no coincidence. This chapter was so well written and eerie. Mina knows there are watchers outside and they are there for her. There is a tenseness you can cut with a knife as a watcher approaches but low and behold it is Madeline there to break out Mina. Jennifer is there too. So they are in a well protected garrison and they can stay safe and locked up away from the watchers outside until morning comes. Yet soon enough Jennifer hearing all this nonsense between Madeline and Mina has had enough. The M&M connection are nuts. When a cruiser with two constables arrive Jennifer breaks from the safe room to run to the two cops. What happens outside in the sight of Mina to those 3 was just brutal and you just know that the watchers think they have now dealt with Mina unaware they really dealt with the identical twin. Mina and Madeline are safe for the moment. The following morning M&M head out to prevent Sean from his dig.
Back at the dig Sean goes down into the tunnels with Ash and a group of student volunteers. About 20 are now in the tunnels each painstakingly been lowered one at a time by a winch contraption. One student, Catriona, can also read the writings on the wall. What she reads is way way different than what Ash claims. Catriona says the words are warnings to stay away and stay out. Hmmmm..... but the excavation goes on until Sean sees a true monster in the form of the monsters that the watchers have become. He also hears it killing his group deep in the tunnels that a select 6 of them have gone too. Sean runs like hell to get out and to the winch. When confronted by the other students who have not heard anything yet due to the distance Sean makes up an excuse that he is not feeling well and goes back up the winch to terra ferma. Once on safe ground Sean soons hear the screaming of terror from those below, his very team that he abandoned.
Mina and Madeline are en route to the sight when they hear "a soul splitting scream tore through the night like a siren so animalistic, so savage and so impossibly loud that no watcher could have been responsible." (page 277). Seconds after hearing that scream Madeline starts to turn to her original killing form. She yells at Mina to run, to get to safety. Mina won't abandon Madeline telling Madeline to fight off what's happening to her. Madeline can't and takes a chunk of Mina's leg but Mina stays on Madeline insisting she fight it off and Madeline is able to. Man what a chapter, just so cool.
When things settle between Madeline and Mina the police radio they took starts to really chatter. The outside world is in despair. It's a world falling apart. Note the following quotes are all from different voices on that radio and likely officers. (page 294) "They won't stop shreiking. (2)They're outside, someone whispered, terrified. (3) We can't hold them off (4) What the fuck are they? (5)" "They've killed everyone. I can't get -" (6) "It's all over the country. Every city. Every town." (7) "Some of them look like us. We're not prepared for -" and this one is so well put "I know these people, someone wept. Why are they doing this?" Man reading this chapter was just so awesome. And the best part when Madeline tells Mina referring to that insanely loud scream through the night heard throughout the land. (page 295) "What you heard was a war cry Mina. The watchers are being summoned to take back what was once theirs." Morrigan is back with a vengeance.
Like Holy F*** get book 3 out. The war is on. Yet I think we all know where book 3 would have to go and I am not sure this author wants to write that type of book. I see him above that style of book and would be fine if it ended right here. Leave it for us to dream of. Ps the epilogue is so fitting and cool as well and same with the prologue. Fantastic, fantastic read and clearly highly recommended. Ten stars out of five 😊
November 30, 2024
After the explosive and thrilling first book, The Watchers, I couldn't wait for this sequel to be released. Unfortunately, the first 50%
dragged
and the book didn't hold up to my initial excitement.
Am I still desperate to read the final instalment in this series? Absolutely!
Madeline is my favourite character, and I can't wait to see more of her and Mina in the next book.
Am I still desperate to read the final instalment in this series? Absolutely!
Madeline is my favourite character, and I can't wait to see more of her and Mina in the next book.
June 10, 2025
Stay in the Light is every bit as thrilling, original, and well written as The Watchers. In fact, I enjoyed the sequel even more, probably because the settings are not as limited and the plot line is therefore a bit more complex. Mina and the yellow one (I'm so glad she still has the bird--he's the perfect familiar) are on the run constantly as the scent of the forest is on them, so the changelings won't be far behind. The author uses two alternating storylines in this installment. Naturally, Mina's is primary. But the secondary storyline which entails a discovery made by Sean Kilmartin, son of the late Professor who is discussed in The Watchers, is really just as engaging as Mina's. Both come together at the end as well so neither one feels forced. AM Shine's particular use of alternate storylines is a bit different than alternating POVs since the entire novel is all merely in third person omniscient. He merely leaves off with one branch of the tale to tell readers about another branch. I don't always enjoy the use of this device in other novels, but AM Shine uses it to perfection to heighten the suspense and to generate dramatic irony. It's an incredible read start to finish, especially if like me, you enjoy both fairy lore and horror.
I should warn readers that the novel does end in the middle of a highly suspenseful action sequence with no true resolution. It is frustrating to me but only because I am so invested in these characters and this story. I assume that we will eventually get another installment, but I can't find any discussion about this definitively. Please comment if anyone has heard anything about a third installment.
-------------Lots of Spoilers Below---------------
Plot Summary:
Mina and the yellow one have been hiding out at a friend of a friend's beach cottage trying to quell the scent of the forest. Unfortunately, she makes the mistake of going into town just once, sees some rather tall, elongated folks and knows they're on to her. Leaving everything behind except for her conure parrot, she barely escapes from them. She goes to check on Ciera who has stopped answering her phone and finds changelings in her and her late husband's place. Once again Mina barely escapes, totals a car which isn't hers, and gets arrested by the police. They allow her to keep her conure in the cell with her because he freaks out squawking without Mina near. Finally Madeleine shows up with Mina's sister Jennifer to rescue her from prison just as night is falling. More mayhem ensues, and Mina once again barely escapes. While all of this is going on, Sean Kilmartin, following a bit of his father's research which Mina didn't burn in the last book, received permission to pursue an archeological dig on a fae mound. He is basically the classic fool archetype, arrogant and insecure. Spurned on by a beautiful female colleague whom he doesn't know is actually a changeling, he uncovers a deep, intentionally built structure with granite seals. Of course he breaks said seals and releases the presence within. At this point, the two storylines come together in mayhem as everywhere people are being shredded by the fae.
I should warn readers that the novel does end in the middle of a highly suspenseful action sequence with no true resolution. It is frustrating to me but only because I am so invested in these characters and this story. I assume that we will eventually get another installment, but I can't find any discussion about this definitively. Please comment if anyone has heard anything about a third installment.
-------------Lots of Spoilers Below---------------
Plot Summary:
Mina and the yellow one have been hiding out at a friend of a friend's beach cottage trying to quell the scent of the forest. Unfortunately, she makes the mistake of going into town just once, sees some rather tall, elongated folks and knows they're on to her. Leaving everything behind except for her conure parrot, she barely escapes from them. She goes to check on Ciera who has stopped answering her phone and finds changelings in her and her late husband's place. Once again Mina barely escapes, totals a car which isn't hers, and gets arrested by the police. They allow her to keep her conure in the cell with her because he freaks out squawking without Mina near. Finally Madeleine shows up with Mina's sister Jennifer to rescue her from prison just as night is falling. More mayhem ensues, and Mina once again barely escapes. While all of this is going on, Sean Kilmartin, following a bit of his father's research which Mina didn't burn in the last book, received permission to pursue an archeological dig on a fae mound. He is basically the classic fool archetype, arrogant and insecure. Spurned on by a beautiful female colleague whom he doesn't know is actually a changeling, he uncovers a deep, intentionally built structure with granite seals. Of course he breaks said seals and releases the presence within. At this point, the two storylines come together in mayhem as everywhere people are being shredded by the fae.
October 10, 2024
The gangs back, and things are getting weird AF (and deeply unsettling) much likes its predecessor this unsettling folk horror had a palpable air of unease and paranoia, despite not being stuck in a bunker in the middle of some scary ass woods there is still an incredibly creepy feeling throughout. The same sense of isolation found in The Watchers is present but in a different manner, as Mina tries to grapple with returning to society after everything shes been through, damaged and on edge, and maybe having a breakdown? (Who can blame her). This time round were given a larger cast of characters and not only does the storyline answer questions raised from the first novel it builds an intriguing layer of mythology rooted in authentic Irish folklore. For me this felt more like a slow burn thriller, the horror intensifies in tandem with the escalating tension, that comes to a compelling crescendo towards the last quarter which hints at a third book? (hooray). I also think Shine is funny AF, there are some incredibly witty moments in this which I love in horror, Shines writing really does..shine (😏) likeable characters you can't help but get invested in, even if they do do some dumb stuff P.S the parrot is ok, or is he? No sorry I'm kidding haha
August 12, 2024
*Huge thanks to A.M. Shine and Head of Zeus for the digital ARC of this one!*
Three years after Shine’s debut, ‘The Watchers,’ (my review of which you can read HERE) rampaged across an unsuspecting horror world, we get a sequel, ‘Stay in the Light,’ which was both unexpected and wholly expected.
I say unexpected, as Shine had written and released a very bleak and unnerving novel, ‘The Creeper,’ (my review of which you can read HERE) and how things were left in ‘The Watchers’ signaled that it very well could’ve been one and done. BUT. But, with how things were left, there was more to unravel and reveal AND of course, there is the fact that ‘The Watchers’ was made into a movie with the Shyamalan name all over it. So, there was the expectation that more would come and, frankly, I was super excited to see that a sequel was releasing later this year!
Now, if you’ve not read the first one, you’ll want to stay far away from this review as unfortunately, there will be some spoilers. In this rare case, they’re unavoidable, because of the events that take place in book one. If you’ve read book one, this review will be spoiler-free for you!
What I liked: In book one, we ended with Mina having escaped with her parrot from the concrete bunker in the woods and making it back to the city. There, she notices the watchers that are watching her, them with their odd faces mimicking humans and long, lean bodies.
‘Stay in the Light’ picks up not long after those events. Mina has fled to the coast, heeding Madeline’s warnings that she needs to get away, and while there, she’s befriended an older couple, who let her live in their daughter’s place, while she’s away. Mina follows the rules, keeps a vigilant eye out, and calls Ciara frequently.
Shine does a great job of completely adjusting the tone in storytelling here. Whereas ‘The Watchers’ was completely claustrophobic and unnerving, this one spends the first fifty percent focused on whether Mina is in the midst of a complete mental breakdown. Did the events of book one happen? Or was it something Mina made up? Her twin sister would suggest Mina’s gone off the deep end, now an alcoholic who believes monsters exist. But Mina, against all odds, trusts that these things happen, even as she waits for Madeline to find her.
The second storyline that we get is Sean, the son of a key figure from book one, who believes he’s made a wondrous discovery at a well-known historical landmark. He assembles a team who’ll get inside and prove that his father was right. But he doesn’t know what awaits below, and Shine is ready to reveal all.
It’s these archaeological moments where we learn the truth about who the watchers are and what is about to happen, and I have to say, I was so happy that it wasn’t a standard trope, or a well-trodden ‘good versus evil’ battle. This was uniquely based on Ireland and Ireland’s history, and it was such a revelation and refreshing.
The ending was spot on and not only answered some lingering questions from book one but also sets up the potential for a third book. I’d be fine if it ended here, but I’d also be completely on board seeing how all of this wraps up and what Shine has planned.
What I didn’t like: This was a rare case where I wish the book was another hundred pages longer, simply because I wanted more of Sean’s scenes and more revelations as the team went further below ground. Shine has such a way with his prose and the descriptions he gives us are immaculate, which made me want that much more of the subterranean scares.
Additionally, I would’ve loved a quick recap at the start about where things had left off and who was who, as I forgot Ciara completely until her backstory was shared again.
Why you should buy this: If you loved ‘The Watchers’ as much as I did, then you’ll be all over this one. I haven’t managed to watch the movie yet, but I’d also imagine that if you didn’t read book one but watched the movie, then you’ll want to learn more. Shine’s writing is stellar and once again, this world is brought alive through that wonderful writing, and the amazing characters and is highlighted by Mina and Madeline’s odd connection, a connection that should not be, but is, and used perfectly to pull the readers along.
A stellar sequel and one that will make many readers very happy!
Three years after Shine’s debut, ‘The Watchers,’ (my review of which you can read HERE) rampaged across an unsuspecting horror world, we get a sequel, ‘Stay in the Light,’ which was both unexpected and wholly expected.
I say unexpected, as Shine had written and released a very bleak and unnerving novel, ‘The Creeper,’ (my review of which you can read HERE) and how things were left in ‘The Watchers’ signaled that it very well could’ve been one and done. BUT. But, with how things were left, there was more to unravel and reveal AND of course, there is the fact that ‘The Watchers’ was made into a movie with the Shyamalan name all over it. So, there was the expectation that more would come and, frankly, I was super excited to see that a sequel was releasing later this year!
Now, if you’ve not read the first one, you’ll want to stay far away from this review as unfortunately, there will be some spoilers. In this rare case, they’re unavoidable, because of the events that take place in book one. If you’ve read book one, this review will be spoiler-free for you!
What I liked: In book one, we ended with Mina having escaped with her parrot from the concrete bunker in the woods and making it back to the city. There, she notices the watchers that are watching her, them with their odd faces mimicking humans and long, lean bodies.
‘Stay in the Light’ picks up not long after those events. Mina has fled to the coast, heeding Madeline’s warnings that she needs to get away, and while there, she’s befriended an older couple, who let her live in their daughter’s place, while she’s away. Mina follows the rules, keeps a vigilant eye out, and calls Ciara frequently.
Shine does a great job of completely adjusting the tone in storytelling here. Whereas ‘The Watchers’ was completely claustrophobic and unnerving, this one spends the first fifty percent focused on whether Mina is in the midst of a complete mental breakdown. Did the events of book one happen? Or was it something Mina made up? Her twin sister would suggest Mina’s gone off the deep end, now an alcoholic who believes monsters exist. But Mina, against all odds, trusts that these things happen, even as she waits for Madeline to find her.
The second storyline that we get is Sean, the son of a key figure from book one, who believes he’s made a wondrous discovery at a well-known historical landmark. He assembles a team who’ll get inside and prove that his father was right. But he doesn’t know what awaits below, and Shine is ready to reveal all.
It’s these archaeological moments where we learn the truth about who the watchers are and what is about to happen, and I have to say, I was so happy that it wasn’t a standard trope, or a well-trodden ‘good versus evil’ battle. This was uniquely based on Ireland and Ireland’s history, and it was such a revelation and refreshing.
The ending was spot on and not only answered some lingering questions from book one but also sets up the potential for a third book. I’d be fine if it ended here, but I’d also be completely on board seeing how all of this wraps up and what Shine has planned.
What I didn’t like: This was a rare case where I wish the book was another hundred pages longer, simply because I wanted more of Sean’s scenes and more revelations as the team went further below ground. Shine has such a way with his prose and the descriptions he gives us are immaculate, which made me want that much more of the subterranean scares.
Additionally, I would’ve loved a quick recap at the start about where things had left off and who was who, as I forgot Ciara completely until her backstory was shared again.
Why you should buy this: If you loved ‘The Watchers’ as much as I did, then you’ll be all over this one. I haven’t managed to watch the movie yet, but I’d also imagine that if you didn’t read book one but watched the movie, then you’ll want to learn more. Shine’s writing is stellar and once again, this world is brought alive through that wonderful writing, and the amazing characters and is highlighted by Mina and Madeline’s odd connection, a connection that should not be, but is, and used perfectly to pull the readers along.
A stellar sequel and one that will make many readers very happy!
October 7, 2024
This is pretty different from the first book, which I enjoyed. It’s not contained to one mysterious location this time. Mina is pretty smart for the most part, but does make a couple of frustrating mistakes. (If you knew the truth about The Watchers, would you really expect people in authority to believe your story? Mina apparently does.) The overall premise of this sequel was not as interesting to me. Since we now essentially know what we're dealing with, the suspense isn't as strong. However, the parts of the story involving the creatures were good. Creepy, suspenseful and frightening. Those were by far the best scenes. The problem was, there weren't enough of them.
The writing itself was dense and a bit tough to follow. It felt like it was written specifically to sound good when read aloud, like the focus was mainly on how nicely the audiobook would flow. There were quite a few times that I had to go back and read a few sentences more than once because I didn’t quite understand what I just read. Shine also did something repeatedly that annoyed me just like it did in the first installment, formatting sentences like this: “Flanagan was seen to grin.” Why write like this? Just say that he grinned.
But, aside from the effective parts with the creatures themselves, I was also somewhat invested in Sean's storyline even if it was a bit weighed down by exposition in places. I also appreciated getting more insight into Madeline, and there were good details there. (Her appreciation for free water, the story behind her appearance, etc.) She's an interesting and complex character, and her interactions with everyone else were great, too.
I like pretty much anything that involves doppelgangers or a being that can shapeshift/mimic someone's appearance, so the concept of The Watchers is very cool to me. I think this story went a little TOO deep into their backstory, though, if you can believe it. Sometimes I like a monster more when I know less about it. The third act suffered a little bit from Villain monologuing, as well, which always bothers me and lessens the impact of a good reveal.
I guessed part of the ending but there were some nice surprises that I wasn't expecting. I'll probably read part 3 just to see what happens. (Yes, there was set-up for another one!)
One request, though. I am BEGGING you, Mina: Just give your damn parrot an actual name. I can't read "The Yellow One" again. If you're going to lug a giant cage with you everywhere you owe it to him to give him a moniker.
3.5 Stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
The writing itself was dense and a bit tough to follow. It felt like it was written specifically to sound good when read aloud, like the focus was mainly on how nicely the audiobook would flow. There were quite a few times that I had to go back and read a few sentences more than once because I didn’t quite understand what I just read. Shine also did something repeatedly that annoyed me just like it did in the first installment, formatting sentences like this: “Flanagan was seen to grin.” Why write like this? Just say that he grinned.
But, aside from the effective parts with the creatures themselves, I was also somewhat invested in Sean's storyline even if it was a bit weighed down by exposition in places. I also appreciated getting more insight into Madeline, and there were good details there. (Her appreciation for free water, the story behind her appearance, etc.) She's an interesting and complex character, and her interactions with everyone else were great, too.
I like pretty much anything that involves doppelgangers or a being that can shapeshift/mimic someone's appearance, so the concept of The Watchers is very cool to me. I think this story went a little TOO deep into their backstory, though, if you can believe it. Sometimes I like a monster more when I know less about it. The third act suffered a little bit from Villain monologuing, as well, which always bothers me and lessens the impact of a good reveal.
I guessed part of the ending but there were some nice surprises that I wasn't expecting. I'll probably read part 3 just to see what happens. (Yes, there was set-up for another one!)
One request, though. I am BEGGING you, Mina: Just give your damn parrot an actual name. I can't read "The Yellow One" again. If you're going to lug a giant cage with you everywhere you owe it to him to give him a moniker.
3.5 Stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2024
4.5 stars Great sequel to one of my favorite books ever! Thank you netgalley for an ebook ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
Thoughts: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTNF1PGsG/
Thoughts: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTNF1PGsG/
Want to read
June 14, 2024ARC received! Thank you, Bloomsbury USA!!!
January 11, 2025
I’m not sure if I’m actually in the minority in this, or rather, far less people have read the sequel than the original, and hence the 4.07 rating (not considerably higher though, with the original at 3.91).
Personally, I preferred the original. Whereas with the original I was rather bored throughout the beginning of the book and it wasn’t until about halfway in that things really started to pick up and get interesting, it felt almost like the precise opposite with this second installment.
I was pretty hyped going into it, not gonna lie, given how the last one left off. But I also knew it was likely that my expectations being so high were bound to leave me disappointed and… yep. Do I believe they were too high and I’m being unfair? Not really. Maybe a little, but not really.
Whereas The Watchers was a slow burn that got increasingly hot and had my heart pumping (nearly) as the end approached, Stay in the Light sort of starts off at this speed that’s just impossible to maintain throughout. All the while, it seems to be hurtling toward some massive revelation, some great finale… and when the inevitable becomes… well, inevitable? You can’t help but feel a bit let down.
I was initially going to give it three stars but considering the answer to my question: “would I have read it the first time if I knew how I’d feel at the end?” was “no”, I really can’t recommend it. I’m not necessarily sorry I read it. But there are better books to occupy my time.
Personally, I preferred the original. Whereas with the original I was rather bored throughout the beginning of the book and it wasn’t until about halfway in that things really started to pick up and get interesting, it felt almost like the precise opposite with this second installment.
I was pretty hyped going into it, not gonna lie, given how the last one left off. But I also knew it was likely that my expectations being so high were bound to leave me disappointed and… yep. Do I believe they were too high and I’m being unfair? Not really. Maybe a little, but not really.
Whereas The Watchers was a slow burn that got increasingly hot and had my heart pumping (nearly) as the end approached, Stay in the Light sort of starts off at this speed that’s just impossible to maintain throughout. All the while, it seems to be hurtling toward some massive revelation, some great finale… and when the inevitable becomes… well, inevitable? You can’t help but feel a bit let down.
I was initially going to give it three stars but considering the answer to my question: “would I have read it the first time if I knew how I’d feel at the end?” was “no”, I really can’t recommend it. I’m not necessarily sorry I read it. But there are better books to occupy my time.
December 17, 2024
Oof! The sequel to “The Watchers” is fraught with tension and peril, leading to an explosive ending with huge repercussions for humanity!!!! My goodness, this is absolutely not one to miss!! Plus now there’s going to be a part 3 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🍾
So Meens and the yellow one are in hiding, an archeological team starts up a dig at an ancient hidden site (what could go wrong 😑), the Sidhe are possibly here, there, and everywhere (?!) putting everyone’s lives in danger. The survivors of the woodlands MUST remember to “Stay in the Light” if they want to stay alive.
I cannot wait to see what happens next in this horrifyingly fantastic series.
So Meens and the yellow one are in hiding, an archeological team starts up a dig at an ancient hidden site (what could go wrong 😑), the Sidhe are possibly here, there, and everywhere (?!) putting everyone’s lives in danger. The survivors of the woodlands MUST remember to “Stay in the Light” if they want to stay alive.
I cannot wait to see what happens next in this horrifyingly fantastic series.
October 16, 2025
As the Hallowe'en season is upon us, I chose to pull some books that appear to have a spookier side to them. I have never read any of the books I found, but will openly read and review them, in hopes of screaming less than flipping pages well into the night. Let's see which are ghoulish amongst the more horrifying of them all. I am eager to see if I find any authors who will need more of my time sooner than later.
A.M. Shine creates a haunting series that takes the reader into the shadows and refuses to let them see the light of day. Mina has been able to escape the Watchers and is now busily researching them in a secluded cottage. A stranger appears near her cottage and Mina fears the worst. She is soon seeing the next level of Watchers, who have taken over the bodies of those who have passed. They are seemingly slowly overtaking humankind. Seeking outside assistance only leaves people wondering if she has lost her sanity. How will Mina convince others that the Watchers are real before there is no chance to save everyone? Mina can only hope things will get better, but is not hopeful. A.M. Shine delivers an equally chilling story with this follow-up novel.
I had not heard of A.M. Shine before recently, but was intrigued by the series he presented. Shine paints another a dark tale that has momentum that keeps readers hooked. The story builds well and connects to the series debut, as it keeps the reader questioning everything they think they understand. It was once more not an unputdownable book, which is usually what I seek from my horror reads. That said, it did prove intriguing in ways that kept me flipping pages. This was not a gory or psychologically challenging read, but Shine still made an impact with this duology.
Characters add depth to the story that branches off in new directions, with Mina at the centre of it all. Individual characters play a role in the story, injecting their perspectives to flavour things effectively. Shadows and shades of darkness emerge with those who grace the pages of the story. The characters did not leave me begging to know more, but they served a purpose. Shine seems eager to build connections between the reader and his characters, especially the darker aspects.
Surprises are surely the foundation of any good piece of horror, though I would not call myself an expert. A.M. Shine delivers a balance of great twists and unexpected moments to keep the reader wondering what’s waiting for them. Shine delivers with some off-putting aspects regarding the Watchers that build at each page turn. This leaves the reader eager to forge onwards, if only for answers. An interesting launch to some Hallowe’en reading this year.
Kudos, Mr. Shine, for a decent series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A.M. Shine creates a haunting series that takes the reader into the shadows and refuses to let them see the light of day. Mina has been able to escape the Watchers and is now busily researching them in a secluded cottage. A stranger appears near her cottage and Mina fears the worst. She is soon seeing the next level of Watchers, who have taken over the bodies of those who have passed. They are seemingly slowly overtaking humankind. Seeking outside assistance only leaves people wondering if she has lost her sanity. How will Mina convince others that the Watchers are real before there is no chance to save everyone? Mina can only hope things will get better, but is not hopeful. A.M. Shine delivers an equally chilling story with this follow-up novel.
I had not heard of A.M. Shine before recently, but was intrigued by the series he presented. Shine paints another a dark tale that has momentum that keeps readers hooked. The story builds well and connects to the series debut, as it keeps the reader questioning everything they think they understand. It was once more not an unputdownable book, which is usually what I seek from my horror reads. That said, it did prove intriguing in ways that kept me flipping pages. This was not a gory or psychologically challenging read, but Shine still made an impact with this duology.
Characters add depth to the story that branches off in new directions, with Mina at the centre of it all. Individual characters play a role in the story, injecting their perspectives to flavour things effectively. Shadows and shades of darkness emerge with those who grace the pages of the story. The characters did not leave me begging to know more, but they served a purpose. Shine seems eager to build connections between the reader and his characters, especially the darker aspects.
Surprises are surely the foundation of any good piece of horror, though I would not call myself an expert. A.M. Shine delivers a balance of great twists and unexpected moments to keep the reader wondering what’s waiting for them. Shine delivers with some off-putting aspects regarding the Watchers that build at each page turn. This leaves the reader eager to forge onwards, if only for answers. An interesting launch to some Hallowe’en reading this year.
Kudos, Mr. Shine, for a decent series.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
July 11, 2025
YOU MAY HAVE ESCAPED... BUT YOU'LL NEVER BE FREE. After her terrifying experience at the hands of the Watchers, Mina has escaped to a cottage on the west coast of Ireland. She obsessively researches her former captors, desperate to find any way to prolong the safety of humankind. "The Watchers" is a disturbing and claustrophobic horror novel that uses Irish myth and folklore as the basis for the narrative.
This one, "Stay in the Light", is a sequel to "The Watchers". Mina has just recently escaped from a mysterious cabin in the woods and her terrifying ordeal with the mysterious "Watchers", but now she finds her life is in ruins.
A bit of explanation of what Mina is dealing with here since this is the second book in the trilogy. "The Watchers", (also the title of the first book), are changelings who take on the appearance of human beings and hide out in the secluded woods of Ireland. After escaping a "Watcher" entrapment, (first book), Mina is left reeling; she struggles with guilt from her past. Her allies are Ciara, who grieves for her husband, John; Madeline, who only tells Mina to stay away or be caught; and “the yellow one,” the yellow bird that Mina loves.
A new, and important character appears in the story...Sean, a lonely researcher, who is mourning the loss of his father, David, a brilliant academic who disappeared three years ago. While attempting an awkward romance with his research partner, he funds the drilling of an archaeological site called the "Burren" on the west coast of Ireland. Continuing his father's obsession and legacy, Sean hopes to discover tangible proof of the existence of changelings. However, he is on the precipice of a far more dangerous discovery that links the "Watchers" to the legendary "Tuatha Dé Danann"... meaning "the folk of the goddess Danu", a group that predates Christianity.
The story bounces between the fascinating mythologies and Mina’s fear. This part is truly capable of producing feelings of melancholy, isolation, and dread of the ancient and seemingly unstoppable "Watchers", and landing it right into the very room you are reading in. Mina scours the internet for evidence of the "Watchers". The horror that they inflict is made palpable as Mina makes note of their ruthlessness toward all humans. With her experience, she is left fearing the possibility that they are near. I thought "of course they are. There's one more book":)
We learn by the end of this second in the trilogy that even if there are some humans that do manage to escape the "Watchers", they still are not totally free as they will have to live with the consequences of their survival. What that actually means will hopefully be explained in book #3....which I'm not sure that I really want to tackle. The two books have been interesting but there are ALOT of characters and ALOT of wording, that unless you speak ancient Gaelic have to be either searched out or hope the author translates. I'm giving this one the same 3-star rating that I gave the first one. I've always had a strong connection to my Irish roots, but I believe I may be getting too old to put this much effort into any book or books.
This one, "Stay in the Light", is a sequel to "The Watchers". Mina has just recently escaped from a mysterious cabin in the woods and her terrifying ordeal with the mysterious "Watchers", but now she finds her life is in ruins.
A bit of explanation of what Mina is dealing with here since this is the second book in the trilogy. "The Watchers", (also the title of the first book), are changelings who take on the appearance of human beings and hide out in the secluded woods of Ireland. After escaping a "Watcher" entrapment, (first book), Mina is left reeling; she struggles with guilt from her past. Her allies are Ciara, who grieves for her husband, John; Madeline, who only tells Mina to stay away or be caught; and “the yellow one,” the yellow bird that Mina loves.
A new, and important character appears in the story...Sean, a lonely researcher, who is mourning the loss of his father, David, a brilliant academic who disappeared three years ago. While attempting an awkward romance with his research partner, he funds the drilling of an archaeological site called the "Burren" on the west coast of Ireland. Continuing his father's obsession and legacy, Sean hopes to discover tangible proof of the existence of changelings. However, he is on the precipice of a far more dangerous discovery that links the "Watchers" to the legendary "Tuatha Dé Danann"... meaning "the folk of the goddess Danu", a group that predates Christianity.
The story bounces between the fascinating mythologies and Mina’s fear. This part is truly capable of producing feelings of melancholy, isolation, and dread of the ancient and seemingly unstoppable "Watchers", and landing it right into the very room you are reading in. Mina scours the internet for evidence of the "Watchers". The horror that they inflict is made palpable as Mina makes note of their ruthlessness toward all humans. With her experience, she is left fearing the possibility that they are near. I thought "of course they are. There's one more book":)
We learn by the end of this second in the trilogy that even if there are some humans that do manage to escape the "Watchers", they still are not totally free as they will have to live with the consequences of their survival. What that actually means will hopefully be explained in book #3....which I'm not sure that I really want to tackle. The two books have been interesting but there are ALOT of characters and ALOT of wording, that unless you speak ancient Gaelic have to be either searched out or hope the author translates. I'm giving this one the same 3-star rating that I gave the first one. I've always had a strong connection to my Irish roots, but I believe I may be getting too old to put this much effort into any book or books.
October 14, 2024
Stay in the Light is the long awaited sequel to The Watchers. If you haven’t read The Watchers then you really need to before embarking on this book (and because The Watchers is so terrifyingly brilliant you’re missing a trick if you don’t).
Mina has escaped the forest and lives quietly in a cottage on the Irish coast. With the yellow one of course. But as strangers enter Mina’s orbit she starts to fear the worst. Meanwhile there’s an excavation going on at The Burren in County Clare. For Sean Kilmarnock, it will be the discovery of a lifetime. But perhaps not quite the result he hoped for..
A.M. Shine is a brilliant writer. He excels at literary horror and this is no exception. Stay in the Light travels at a pace slightly different to the Watchers. I felt the beginning was more of a slow burn in comparison to the first book; as the first few chapters unfold Mina’s sense of paranoia and distrust increases and the underlying sense of unease slowly creeps over you. And due to my rubbish memory I did struggle to remember the entirety of The Watchers plot so when a few characters were introduced I did have to pause & try to remember who they were. As I said, it’s much better if you read The Watchers first!
I particularly enjoyed the second storyline with Sean. His professor father played a part in the first book and now Sean continues the story. The archeological aspect gives the book a folk horror feel, which I absolutely loved. I don’t want say too much more about it for spoilers but oh god when they were underground! Yikes!!
Stay in the Light is another heart pounding, chilling and intelligent work of fiction. Don’t read it at night though, they might be watching…
Mina has escaped the forest and lives quietly in a cottage on the Irish coast. With the yellow one of course. But as strangers enter Mina’s orbit she starts to fear the worst. Meanwhile there’s an excavation going on at The Burren in County Clare. For Sean Kilmarnock, it will be the discovery of a lifetime. But perhaps not quite the result he hoped for..
A.M. Shine is a brilliant writer. He excels at literary horror and this is no exception. Stay in the Light travels at a pace slightly different to the Watchers. I felt the beginning was more of a slow burn in comparison to the first book; as the first few chapters unfold Mina’s sense of paranoia and distrust increases and the underlying sense of unease slowly creeps over you. And due to my rubbish memory I did struggle to remember the entirety of The Watchers plot so when a few characters were introduced I did have to pause & try to remember who they were. As I said, it’s much better if you read The Watchers first!
I particularly enjoyed the second storyline with Sean. His professor father played a part in the first book and now Sean continues the story. The archeological aspect gives the book a folk horror feel, which I absolutely loved. I don’t want say too much more about it for spoilers but oh god when they were underground! Yikes!!
Stay in the Light is another heart pounding, chilling and intelligent work of fiction. Don’t read it at night though, they might be watching…
June 1, 2025
Horror at its best. terrifying. Way more horror that The Watchers which I suggest reading first. the movie doesn't do it justice. I highly recommend horror fans put this on your to read list.
October 6, 2024
Whilist this is a high quality audio I found myself bored. This may have been the second in the series but it lacked excitement. I was waiting for something major to happen and then when it finally did it was over so quickly. It was all matter of fact with a couple of dark scary scenes thrown in. I liked tge way the two stories eventually came together but the ending screamed possible next book or if not they had run out of steam and couldn't make the ending fit. I liked the idea but all it did was make me want to go to the original . This had 2 scary moments for me the rest of the time the violence seemed matter of fact. I think it was the story as a whole . Tge natrator did a good job . Just not dark and engaging enough. Anyone who read the first one might enjoy this . It was a short listen that felt long. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thanks netgallery and publisher and author and narrator
Thanks netgallery and publisher and author and narrator
April 28, 2025
miotaseolaíochta spoilers ahead
this is one of those books where the more that is explained, the less interesting the story becomes. I also thought it was strangely diminishing of the legendary Tuatha Dé Danann, but maybe that's just me being a mythology nerd who doesn't want an entire pantheon full of complex characters and fascinating legends reduced to Monsters of the Week.
the author does have a sure hand when it comes to creating suspenseful set pieces. I enjoyed two different visits to homes that had been taken over by Watchers, a nighttime attack on a near-empty jail, and a sequence underground explorings tunnels that should probably not be explored...
𖦏
guess who the villain of the novel is, among the following Tuatha Dé Danann:
The Dagda
Bríd
Aengus
The Morrígan
lol tough one, I know
this is one of those books where the more that is explained, the less interesting the story becomes. I also thought it was strangely diminishing of the legendary Tuatha Dé Danann, but maybe that's just me being a mythology nerd who doesn't want an entire pantheon full of complex characters and fascinating legends reduced to Monsters of the Week.
the author does have a sure hand when it comes to creating suspenseful set pieces. I enjoyed two different visits to homes that had been taken over by Watchers, a nighttime attack on a near-empty jail, and a sequence underground explorings tunnels that should probably not be explored...
𖦏
guess who the villain of the novel is, among the following Tuatha Dé Danann:
The Dagda
Bríd
Aengus
The Morrígan
lol tough one, I know
November 5, 2024
This pains me to say, but I didn't love this book like I expected to. (book 1 -The Watchers was a 5 star read for me.) Stay In The Light almost feels like an entirely different book with an entirely different vibe. It was such a slow burn, some parts felt unnecessarily long especially Seans POV, most of which felt like filler, I think a lot of Seans POV could have been cut back and made this book a little more fast paced.
What I loved so much about The Watchers was the edge of your seat mystery, the creepy atmosphere, tension, and just over all scary vibes and I think these were all missing from Stay in the light.
I thought the "big twist reveal" happened in a childish kind of way, it felt very scripted end of a Scooby Doo episode "let me spell it out for you step by step" way and this just made me roll my eyes.
The very end of the book took me by surprise, I really liked this part. I was originally going to give this 2.5 stars but the very end of this book bumped it up for me to a 3 star.
Am I still looking forward to and will I read book 3? yes. LOL. but also crossing my fingers that in book 3 Mina finally names the bird!!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for sharing a digital copy, as always, opinions are my own.
What I loved so much about The Watchers was the edge of your seat mystery, the creepy atmosphere, tension, and just over all scary vibes and I think these were all missing from Stay in the light.
I thought the "big twist reveal" happened in a childish kind of way, it felt very scripted end of a Scooby Doo episode "let me spell it out for you step by step" way and this just made me roll my eyes.
The very end of the book took me by surprise, I really liked this part. I was originally going to give this 2.5 stars but the very end of this book bumped it up for me to a 3 star.
Am I still looking forward to and will I read book 3? yes. LOL. but also crossing my fingers that in book 3 Mina finally names the bird!!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for sharing a digital copy, as always, opinions are my own.
March 15, 2025
The Watchers was my introduction to A.M. Shine and that book managed to creep me the F out in a way that I had never been creeped out before. I can’t bring myself to watch the movie since I know it will scare the pants off me, but I was really excited to read the sequel, Stay in the Light. Unfortunately, this ended up being a bit of a dud for me and let me tell you why. While I loved having Mina back, the first 60-70% of the book really dragged for me. Since we already know what the Watchers are, I wanted more of that creepy goodness from the very start, but they didn’t really come into play as much until further into the story. I was not nearly as unnerved which could also be due to this not being set in an isolated location anymore with monsters unknown (which to me is the scariest thing of all).
I liked the audiobook a lot, especially since Jacqueline Milne was back to narrate Mina, but I really wish there had been a male narrator for Sean. The chapters are titled with whose POV we were in, but I still found myself getting a little discombobulated and didn’t always remember what was going on. Milne is a fantastic narrator though and she knows how to bring the tension! I thought this took an interesting turn near the end and we are definitely left with a sense of a third book coming. Based on what I saw, it looks like we will have one more coming to close us out and I will definitely be reading it. There is a little bit of gore, some not-so-smart decisions made, and plenty of paranoia on top of that. You definitely need to read this series in order, so if you haven’t read book 1 yet you need to do that first.
Read this if you read The Watchers and wanted more, love gothic/literary horror, and are interested in the origin of the Watchers.
I received a complimentary listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I liked the audiobook a lot, especially since Jacqueline Milne was back to narrate Mina, but I really wish there had been a male narrator for Sean. The chapters are titled with whose POV we were in, but I still found myself getting a little discombobulated and didn’t always remember what was going on. Milne is a fantastic narrator though and she knows how to bring the tension! I thought this took an interesting turn near the end and we are definitely left with a sense of a third book coming. Based on what I saw, it looks like we will have one more coming to close us out and I will definitely be reading it. There is a little bit of gore, some not-so-smart decisions made, and plenty of paranoia on top of that. You definitely need to read this series in order, so if you haven’t read book 1 yet you need to do that first.
Read this if you read The Watchers and wanted more, love gothic/literary horror, and are interested in the origin of the Watchers.
I received a complimentary listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 4, 2025
This was kinda draggy, but im invested.. Need book 3!
October 26, 2024
STAY IN THE LIGHT, by A.M. Shine, is the sequel to THE WATCHERS, and should be read AFTER that one in order to fully understand the premise.
While this novel takes place directly after the events of book one, I did find myself confused at times regarding certain characters in the beginning (simply having forgotten some of the previous events), and wish there had been a bit of a "recap" of some details--particularly concerning the Professor--in the beginning. However, those who have re-read, or read WATCHERS more recently likely won't have that issue.
In addition to Mina (and the "yellow one"), Madeline, and Ciara, the book focuses on Sean, son of the Professor who built the bunker in WATCHERS. Apparently, he knew nothing of his father's final days, but shared his passion for Changelings, and is about to dig up an entrance to what he believes may have been an underground "living place" for the species. This section was quite riveting in my opinion, as it really focused on the lore of the creatures, and fleshed out "what" they were--in theory, at least. I can't say that I "liked" any of the characters there, as they all were present for selfish reasons and seemingly cared little for anyone else's safety. However, that felt like the perfect way to characterize them.
In contrast, Mina and Ciara--living separately, but in contact daily--were unable to go back to "reality" truly after what they had been through. Knowing she was still being watched, Mina goes away in the hopes of finding peace, but things are really amping up with the Watchers.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this novel. The fast pacing kept me wanting to read more, and my initial confusion was swept away by the ongoing events. I will say that this felt like a "middle" book, and by the ending, I would be very surprised if the author doesn't have a book 3 planned out. (Which I would absolutely buy!)
Recommended.
While this novel takes place directly after the events of book one, I did find myself confused at times regarding certain characters in the beginning (simply having forgotten some of the previous events), and wish there had been a bit of a "recap" of some details--particularly concerning the Professor--in the beginning. However, those who have re-read, or read WATCHERS more recently likely won't have that issue.
In addition to Mina (and the "yellow one"), Madeline, and Ciara, the book focuses on Sean, son of the Professor who built the bunker in WATCHERS. Apparently, he knew nothing of his father's final days, but shared his passion for Changelings, and is about to dig up an entrance to what he believes may have been an underground "living place" for the species. This section was quite riveting in my opinion, as it really focused on the lore of the creatures, and fleshed out "what" they were--in theory, at least. I can't say that I "liked" any of the characters there, as they all were present for selfish reasons and seemingly cared little for anyone else's safety. However, that felt like the perfect way to characterize them.
In contrast, Mina and Ciara--living separately, but in contact daily--were unable to go back to "reality" truly after what they had been through. Knowing she was still being watched, Mina goes away in the hopes of finding peace, but things are really amping up with the Watchers.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this novel. The fast pacing kept me wanting to read more, and my initial confusion was swept away by the ongoing events. I will say that this felt like a "middle" book, and by the ending, I would be very surprised if the author doesn't have a book 3 planned out. (Which I would absolutely buy!)
Recommended.
October 21, 2024
This is not like the first book. I can't really explain what happened in the first 59% of this book. Everytime I put the book down and picked it back up I kept forgetting who everyone was and what had happened. At about 60% I became a bit more engaged. I started to understand that Sean and his team found some Chambers and were trying to find out what was down there and what the Chambers had been used for. Then Mina knew about the Fairy's but no-one believed her and thought she was insane.
I think with the first book I found it very atmospheric and I read it whilst being in a forest and I found it really creepy. This book was flat and boring and there was no atmospherics and just boring. Even the "scary" scenes did nothing for me. It felt like the writing regressed for me. Not a fan.
Thanks to Netgally and Titan for sending me a copy
I think with the first book I found it very atmospheric and I read it whilst being in a forest and I found it really creepy. This book was flat and boring and there was no atmospherics and just boring. Even the "scary" scenes did nothing for me. It felt like the writing regressed for me. Not a fan.
Thanks to Netgally and Titan for sending me a copy
September 8, 2024
A very solid sequel which overall I absolutely loved, however I personally found even though I really enjoyed getting to see Mina again that her POV's really made the book drag in certain parts, especially the first half. And I would have really liked to have seen a bit more of Sean and his teams discoveries as it felt like there was a lot of build up just for it to be over quite quickly.
As always I absolutely loved A.M. Shine's writing style, with certain scenes having me on the edge of my seat and that ending has me literally DESPERATE for another book!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, the publisher and author for an ARC copy of Stay In The Light in exchange for an honest review.
As always I absolutely loved A.M. Shine's writing style, with certain scenes having me on the edge of my seat and that ending has me literally DESPERATE for another book!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, the publisher and author for an ARC copy of Stay In The Light in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA for an ARC of Stay in the Light.
The Watchers was a good (but not great) read for me with some really spooky, tense moments. I had high hopes Stay in the Light would take those spooky moments up a notch. Unfortunately, I spent half this story being annoyed by how whiny and pathetic Mina's character became, and the other half being bored to tears by what felt like a dull history lesson. In the end, I dont think this sequel added much to the story. The ending seemed like a set up for a third title in the series, which I definitely plan to pass on.
2.5 stars
The Watchers was a good (but not great) read for me with some really spooky, tense moments. I had high hopes Stay in the Light would take those spooky moments up a notch. Unfortunately, I spent half this story being annoyed by how whiny and pathetic Mina's character became, and the other half being bored to tears by what felt like a dull history lesson. In the end, I dont think this sequel added much to the story. The ending seemed like a set up for a third title in the series, which I definitely plan to pass on.
2.5 stars
June 30, 2024
Still cant believe I got accepted to read this early!!!
So thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for allowing me to!
Overall I gave the book 4.5 stars.
What a sequel to the first book 👏🏻 absolutely loving the fact that there’s more to mina, ciara & Madeline’s story, the love I have for Madeline is insane and this book only made my love for her grow more!
Following on from the first book you continue with mina who now has to run for her life in order to survive the changlings. You get introduced to a new character named Sean (I won’t say anything more on him) but he’s a very interesting character!
I’m so excited to see where else this story goes!
So thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for allowing me to!
Overall I gave the book 4.5 stars.
What a sequel to the first book 👏🏻 absolutely loving the fact that there’s more to mina, ciara & Madeline’s story, the love I have for Madeline is insane and this book only made my love for her grow more!
Following on from the first book you continue with mina who now has to run for her life in order to survive the changlings. You get introduced to a new character named Sean (I won’t say anything more on him) but he’s a very interesting character!
I’m so excited to see where else this story goes!
June 19, 2024
4.5 stars
A sequel that's even better than the first! I really liked the watchers, but I absolutely loved this. I loved the atmospheric and immersive writing style. It was dark, suspenseful, and full of tension. I was thoroughly engrossed the whole time. I really liked how it ended; it definitely sets the story up for another book. While I loved the ending, I did want more of a punch from the climax
A sequel that's even better than the first! I really liked the watchers, but I absolutely loved this. I loved the atmospheric and immersive writing style. It was dark, suspenseful, and full of tension. I was thoroughly engrossed the whole time. I really liked how it ended; it definitely sets the story up for another book. While I loved the ending, I did want more of a punch from the climax
September 26, 2025
3.5 stars
What better way to start fall than with a spooky read. This is the sequel to The Watchers and did not disappoint. This book series should be read in order. If you jump into this book before reading the first one, you will miss out on getting to know the characters and why they are on the run. It will also spoil book one for you. I would also suggest not reading anymore of this review or other reviews until you have read The Watchers.
Do faeries exist? Dr. Kilmartin's son believes they do. He has hired a team to excavate an area in a remote forest based on ancient folklore and Ash's insistence that her university research has located where the faeries were once lured underground and buried. Mina is a survivor. After escaping her harrowing imprisonment by terrifying creatures known as the Watchers, her, Ciara and Madeline have been trying to stay alive. They know something that no one else knows. There are changelings living among humans. They know because Madeline is one of them. She is one of the few who are kind to humans and want to help them. Mina is on the run to try to stop the excavation in time.
This book is told alternating between these two stories. I thought both plotlines had an element of creep factor that gave me goosebumps. The story oozed atmosphere and pulse pounding adrenaline. The descriptions were vividly portrayed. I could envision the scenes.
My only feedback would be that the writing was too wordy and uninviting at the start, so it took quite a long time to get into the story. I also wish the characters had been carved out a little more to get to know them more intimately as they felt a bit generic.
Thank you #NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What better way to start fall than with a spooky read. This is the sequel to The Watchers and did not disappoint. This book series should be read in order. If you jump into this book before reading the first one, you will miss out on getting to know the characters and why they are on the run. It will also spoil book one for you. I would also suggest not reading anymore of this review or other reviews until you have read The Watchers.
Do faeries exist? Dr. Kilmartin's son believes they do. He has hired a team to excavate an area in a remote forest based on ancient folklore and Ash's insistence that her university research has located where the faeries were once lured underground and buried. Mina is a survivor. After escaping her harrowing imprisonment by terrifying creatures known as the Watchers, her, Ciara and Madeline have been trying to stay alive. They know something that no one else knows. There are changelings living among humans. They know because Madeline is one of them. She is one of the few who are kind to humans and want to help them. Mina is on the run to try to stop the excavation in time.
This book is told alternating between these two stories. I thought both plotlines had an element of creep factor that gave me goosebumps. The story oozed atmosphere and pulse pounding adrenaline. The descriptions were vividly portrayed. I could envision the scenes.
My only feedback would be that the writing was too wordy and uninviting at the start, so it took quite a long time to get into the story. I also wish the characters had been carved out a little more to get to know them more intimately as they felt a bit generic.
Thank you #NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2025
I am thoroughly spooked.
June 4, 2025
Another great book in this series! I liked this more than the first one because I think it had more anxiety driven moments however the first did a better job about giving an ominous world.
The Watchers have followed the main character from the forest and are preparing to take back the world and enslave or kill mankind. I can’t wait for book 3
The Watchers have followed the main character from the forest and are preparing to take back the world and enslave or kill mankind. I can’t wait for book 3
June 21, 2024
I liked this ten times more than the first one. NOW WE ARE COOKING WITH GAS! I loved this okay? If you liked the first one, you’ll need to read this immediately. The whole gang is back, and things have started to roll!!!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC of this book! This will be out in October, although a movie adaptation of the first one is out now!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC of this book! This will be out in October, although a movie adaptation of the first one is out now!
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