What do you think?
Rate this book
House Down Dirt Lane
". . . truly an unforgettable novel." -Annika Carlson, Author of the upcoming Age of the Pleiades Books
"House Down Dirt Lane twines together the curiosity and shenanigans of local kids with the unknown, unseen world of nuclear fission. . . . An excellent debut novel as well as a good read." -Vicki Read, Academic Librarian and English Teacher
". . . a suspenseful and thoughtful treatment of the unintended consequences of the search for ever more powerful nuclear weapons." -Brian J Morra, Author of The Able Archers series
"Unseen and hidden away in the dark, damp cellar within the house down dirt lane, a creature stirred. It showed no preference for young or old, male or female, race, color, or national origin, mercilessly devouring all. It was a silent killer, often going unnoticed until it was too late."
Samantha, a young, bright analyst at the CIA, finds herself in a dire situation when her lifelong research reveals alarming information linked to atomic bomb testing. A monster created from the fallout poses risks to both the environment and the general population.
True events weave with political conspiracy as covert government forces close in, determined to silence Samantha forever. With her life hanging by a thread, can she outsmart her ruthless pursuers and expose the truth before it's too late?
"House Down Dirt Lane twines together the curiosity and shenanigans of local kids with the unknown, unseen world of nuclear fission. . . . An excellent debut novel as well as a good read." -Vicki Read, Academic Librarian and English Teacher
". . . a suspenseful and thoughtful treatment of the unintended consequences of the search for ever more powerful nuclear weapons." -Brian J Morra, Author of The Able Archers series
"Unseen and hidden away in the dark, damp cellar within the house down dirt lane, a creature stirred. It showed no preference for young or old, male or female, race, color, or national origin, mercilessly devouring all. It was a silent killer, often going unnoticed until it was too late."
Samantha, a young, bright analyst at the CIA, finds herself in a dire situation when her lifelong research reveals alarming information linked to atomic bomb testing. A monster created from the fallout poses risks to both the environment and the general population.
True events weave with political conspiracy as covert government forces close in, determined to silence Samantha forever. With her life hanging by a thread, can she outsmart her ruthless pursuers and expose the truth before it's too late?
- GenresFiction
302 pages, Paperback
Published June 12, 2024
1 person is currently reading
11 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
January 14, 2025
"House Down Dirt Lane" by Todd Hugie transported me back to my childhood, reminiscent of daring adventures and eerie old houses that peppered my neighborhood. The story evokes the thrill of youthful dares to knock on haunted doors, a step I never dared take myself.
Hugie's writing style, akin to Mary Higgins Clark, masterfully builds tension by shifting between characters at the peak of suspense. This keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to uncover each twist and turn.
The book is a captivating read for middle schoolers through adults. It follows kids on bike rides, exploring and getting into mischief. Simultaneously, it weaves in adult elements with intriguing characters like the older couple, the junkyard man, Elmer Fudd, and the thrilling CIA scenario involving Samantha and Peter. The tension is palpable, especially as Samantha is pursued and the swamp monster looms.
Smith’s audio narration brings depth to these diverse characters, particularly the old couple, Elmer, and the various operatives with deeper voices. This narration adds another layer of enjoyment, enriching the experience of the story.
Overall, "House Down Dirt Lane" is a thrilling blend of youthful adventure and adult intrigue, making it a gripping read for a wide audience.
Hugie's writing style, akin to Mary Higgins Clark, masterfully builds tension by shifting between characters at the peak of suspense. This keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to uncover each twist and turn.
The book is a captivating read for middle schoolers through adults. It follows kids on bike rides, exploring and getting into mischief. Simultaneously, it weaves in adult elements with intriguing characters like the older couple, the junkyard man, Elmer Fudd, and the thrilling CIA scenario involving Samantha and Peter. The tension is palpable, especially as Samantha is pursued and the swamp monster looms.
Smith’s audio narration brings depth to these diverse characters, particularly the old couple, Elmer, and the various operatives with deeper voices. This narration adds another layer of enjoyment, enriching the experience of the story.
Overall, "House Down Dirt Lane" is a thrilling blend of youthful adventure and adult intrigue, making it a gripping read for a wide audience.
October 12, 2024
Great read! Definitely a page turner from start to finish!
December 6, 2024
House Down Dirt Lane
By Todd Hugie
Narrated by Aaron Smith
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving my review.
House Down Dirt Lane by Todd Hugie is a masterfully crafted story that blends intrigue, suspense, and just the right touch of terror. From the first chapter, I was captivated by Samantha, a brilliant CIA analyst whose discovery of a monstrous fallout from atomic bomb testing sets the stage for a pulse-pounding journey. The story’s premise is fresh and inventive, with its environmental undertones adding depth to the high-stakes action.
Hugie excels in creating a vivid cast of characters, each bringing their own unique charm to the narrative. Samantha’s intelligence and courage shine, but the brave group of children, the eccentric elderly couple, and the eerie, derelict house rumoured to be haunted all play pivotal roles that keep you hooked. The interplay between these characters and their fight against an unimaginable threat is both gripping and heartwarming.
Aaron Smith’s narration takes this already exceptional story to new heights. His ability to bring the characters to life with distinct voices and expertly paced delivery added to the tension and excitement. The subtle tonal shifts were the icing on the cake, heightening the eerie atmosphere and making it nearly impossible to hit pause.
House Down Dirt Lane is the perfect mix of thrills, scares, and heartfelt moments. Hugie’s storytelling is richly layered, keeping you guessing and glued to the edge of your seat until the very end. If you love stories that blend mystery, action, and horror, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an unforgettable ride!
By Todd Hugie
Narrated by Aaron Smith
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving my review.
House Down Dirt Lane by Todd Hugie is a masterfully crafted story that blends intrigue, suspense, and just the right touch of terror. From the first chapter, I was captivated by Samantha, a brilliant CIA analyst whose discovery of a monstrous fallout from atomic bomb testing sets the stage for a pulse-pounding journey. The story’s premise is fresh and inventive, with its environmental undertones adding depth to the high-stakes action.
Hugie excels in creating a vivid cast of characters, each bringing their own unique charm to the narrative. Samantha’s intelligence and courage shine, but the brave group of children, the eccentric elderly couple, and the eerie, derelict house rumoured to be haunted all play pivotal roles that keep you hooked. The interplay between these characters and their fight against an unimaginable threat is both gripping and heartwarming.
Aaron Smith’s narration takes this already exceptional story to new heights. His ability to bring the characters to life with distinct voices and expertly paced delivery added to the tension and excitement. The subtle tonal shifts were the icing on the cake, heightening the eerie atmosphere and making it nearly impossible to hit pause.
House Down Dirt Lane is the perfect mix of thrills, scares, and heartfelt moments. Hugie’s storytelling is richly layered, keeping you guessing and glued to the edge of your seat until the very end. If you love stories that blend mystery, action, and horror, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an unforgettable ride!
November 13, 2024
Having grown up in BE county I have been to every place mentioned in this book. Even the Duck Club. Revisiting those places was the best part of the book. Maybe young adults would like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews