The Night Singers

by London Clarke

Don’t go near the attic door.
Don’t go outside after midnight.
Don’t ever listen to them.

Ghostwriter Callie Rowe has landed on what seems like a dream penning the memoir of her 90s rockstar crush, Riff Fall. But as she sets foot on remote Invisible Island, where Riff resides in his enigmatic beachfront mansion, she quickly realizes that beneath the allure of fame lies something more sinister.

Rumors swirl around Riff and his secluded existence, particularly concerning the inexplicable disappearance of his wife years ago. And entering Riff's world comes with a set of never venture outside after midnight and steer clear of the blue door upstairs.

Despite her best intentions to keep personal and professional boundaries intact, Callie is drawn to Riff, whose troubled past intertwines with his present reality. Bound by a contract from decades ago, Riff is haunted not only by his lost reputation but also by something lurking just beyond the edges of his property.

But as Callie becomes entangled in Riff's self-imprisonment, she realizes that she, too, is being hunted by something malevolent. Forced to confront the darkness of her past and the terrifying truth about the price of fame, Callie wonders if she will discover Riff’s secrets or become the next victim of the night singers’ deadly symphony.

A music-laden tale of terror, The Night Singers explores the echoes of the past and the demented and dangerous journey that can lead to success or ruin.

Genres: Horror, Thriller, Ebooks, Fiction, Fantasy, Supernatural

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2024

Reviews

[John Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid 4+!

This tale was more than your average, run of the mill, ghost story. It was spooky, frightening, thought provoking and an absolute pleasure to read. We were introduced to a young, troubled woman named Callie. She is a former rock chick, turned professional ghost writer, who specialises in musicians. She teams up with Riff Fall, a aging rock superstar, and is employed to ghost write his biography. Riff is now a recluse, living on an island and totally paranoid that mythological creatures are plaguing his life. Callie visits him at his island home and soon discovers that there may be some actual substance to Riff's paranoid delusions. The moral of this story is; always read the small print before you sign a contract and don't mess with creatures from Greek mythology.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Callie makes a living as a ghostwriter. Mostly of rock and roll musicians. Imagine her surprise when she lands a gig working for Riff Fall, a singer songwriter, that led one of her favorite bands back in the day.

Since his wife went missing years ago he's become a recluse and lives on Invisible Island and never ever leaves the property. Some people think Riff may have been involved with his wife's disappearance. He claims something more supernatural occurred and now he wants to finally set the record straight.

Callie has strict rules to follow if she is to live with and write for him.

Don’t go near the attic door.
Don’t go outside after midnight.
Don’t ever listen to them.

Callie doesn't really understand his paranoia but agrees to go along anyway. Will she live to regret this? You'll have to read this to find out.

Truth be told this book didn't really do it for me. I don't know if it's because I just finished a 5 star book before this one making this pale in comparison or, admittedly, where this storyline went is totally not my thing. I was expecting a haunted house type story but this is NOT that.

Going beyond the storyline the characters didn't really impress me either. I was left feeling pretty indifferent to both Callie and Riff. By the 50% mark I was reading this just to be finished because I didn't really care about any of it.

I've read another book by London Clarke and really enjoyed it so I will try another book by her again. This one just wasn't for me. 2 stars!

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for my complimentary copy.

[Rachael Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely worth the read! Twists and turns throughout keep you on the edge of your seat.

[Stefanie Mai-Schlien · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Night Singers was a 4 Star read for me. I really enjoyed it.

The plot really intrigued me and the story ended up being far different than I anticipated.

When I first started reading, I was very quickly invested in what was happening. Initially, it seemed like the horror aspects of this story were going to be similar to the creatures in the tv show 'From' (if you haven't watched it, definitely check it out!) but it ended up going in a very different direction. I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it quite as much once I found out what the creatures were, but I actually really enjoyed it.

London's writing was very enjoyable to read and I'm definitely keen to read more of her work.

While I loved the book, I do agree with other readers that the characters seemed to lack a bit of personality. I found myself connecting more with side characters, such as Zeke, than with Riff and Callie. That's not to say that I didn't like them, I just didn't really feel overly connected to them.

Regardless, I'd definitely recommend reading The Night Singers!

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC.

[Ariane Baet · Rating 2 out of 5]

I guess I didn’t expect supernatural aspects but I guess it makes sense since it won a paranormal award, I was expecting more horror? I’m just left a bit disappointed, I personally would not recommend this to anyone but the story was somewhat interesting, just was not invested at any point and dreaded to have to keep going

[Josette Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this author quite by accident and I am so glad I did. Her books always have some kind of mystery with supernatural elements. This book was no different. I had some idea of what a ghostwriter was, this book just educated me more on the subject. Sirens have always fascinated me since I love Greek mythology. The descriptions of these creatures fit perfectly as to how I thought they looked. I cannot imagine having to cut oneself off from everyone and everything in order to survive these creatures. Knowing that any day could be your last day on earth would be most depressing. I was hoping for a better outcome for Riff and Callie but it was not meant to be. This was a horror book without gore and was frightening. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I struggled between giving this book four or five stars - it’s really right in the middle! This book is more horror and it was right up my alley. I was impressed with the author’s creative concept - finally, something that hasn’t been done before! I flew through it and was anxious to find out how the story would conclude - the only reason I did not ultimately give it 5 stars was that the conclusion wasn’t exactly what I was looking for. Overall it is 100% worth a read for any horror enthusiast, and will make a great movie if it were ever to get that far! Give it a read! Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.

[Elaine Stock · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a scary summer read, this is it! What I always appreciate about London Clarke's spooky reads is the troubled-woman story of overcoming past sadness and stepping forward, stronger.

[Gildergreen · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for granting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading bad books for fun. You'll have a rip-roaring good time. As for me, I simply do not have the stamina.

Below are my observations and thoughts written in real time during the reading process; there will be spoilers:
👻The set up was getting interesting, until a waterlogged ghost girl appeared in the flesh just after the first few pages, being creepy and chuckling ominously. This is the part of the horror movie where I'd abandon it entirely and find something else to watch, because there's no way something that starts out so heavy-handed will magically become good over time. Still, I'll give it the old college try here.
👻What do you mean, a woman with the name Callisto whose career is built on ghostwriting for rock stars goes by "Callie" on PURPOSE? Vile. Repulsive, even.
👻As someone who has done some ghostwriting, what the fuck do you mean she has a portfolio that you can just find with a little Googling? That's not a ghostwriter, that's just a biographer. I can't help but wonder how many times the author has walked into a Taco Bell mad as hell they can't get a Big Mac.
👻Also, this rock star she's talking to is asking how she was able to get a job ghostwriting for another musician who is ostensibly a tough nut to crack, but my brother in christ, she connected with YOU through her agent, why on god's green earth would that have been a different story? Also, why would someone who WANTS their biography written NOT talk to their biographer? What are they, held at gunpoint? You think that a person who has elected to have their life written about will sit down with the writer and suddenly turn coy about it?
👻Why would a fully grown adult person who makes a living writing musicians' biographies, and has been a fan of a particular musician since childhood, and who lives in the 21st century Earth of today where Google exists, not know their childhood musician crush's real name? Is she stupid?
👻I've been wondering if this book was written by an ambitious child, but we hear about information she printed out about a rock star while talking to him on a video call, so I'm switching my guess to boomer, late Gen X at the absolute youngest.
👻Oh, and she brings a tablet into the mix as well! A zoom call where she also needs printed out paper info AND a tablet, hm? London Clarke is not beating the boomer allegations any time soon.
👻Musician wants his biography ghostwriter, weirdly thought he could avoid talking about his childhood AND how his life has been going the past several years. Are any of these people from planet earth? It feels like the author decided on a premise and then forced their characters to fight it tooth and nail at every possible opportunity.
👻"My tablet had gone to sleep. I tapped a key until it blinked awake again." London Clarke is at least 65 years old, and if they do indeed have a tablet, it must be around the same age. What is this.
👻Even though the musician absolutely does not want to write or talk about the cursed place where he lives/is trapped, he's planning on sending photos and videos of it to his ghostwriter?? Why??? He's made it clear it's not even a point of conversation. I feel like I'm being punked right now.
👻I know I'm just nitpicking at this point, but in a panic this guy stands up to end a video call. Why does he stand up to do that. It's so weird. It's all so weird.
👻The naming conventions in this book make me want to swallow lead. Invisible Island. "Callie" instead of Callisto. Riff Fall. Lila Silverleaf. Cry of Crows. A dog named Tyler.
👻I can't go on. I wanted to keep trying, but this is just ridiculous. I feel like it's the proper etiquette to read more than a couple chapters of a book you get for free, but my review is an honest reflection of my experience thus far. I wouldn't even read this for free, much less pay for it. But I know that loads of people read bad books and have a great time, so let this be the encouragement for them.

[Windsor Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from NetGalley for a review. It’s my first one from them and I was very excited. I was a little worried I wouldn’t like the book but I didn’t need to worry. I loved it. It was even pretty scary in some places, hitting my absolute goal of finding a book so scary, I’m afraid to go to the bathroom without my dog (I read in bed at night in the dark).

Callie is a ghost writer for musicians. Her newest client, Riff Fall, was a famous musician from the 90’s and 2000’s and is known as a reclusive hermit. He never leaves his property and doesn’t talk to the media. Callie and her agent are overjoyed for the opportunity. Once Callie gets into the interview, Riff is cagey with his answers. Usually, she likes to meet with her clients in person, but Riff refuses. She asks him why he refuses to leave his property, assuming he has agoraphobia, and he refuses to answer. After a few more questions, Riff declares this was a mistake and logs off.

The next day, Callie’s agent calls her and tells her Riff agreed to let her come to his house. She sets off for Invisible Island, where Riff lives.

Once Callie arrives, Riff shows her around the property. He has strange rules. Such as Callie can’t leave the house or open any windows after 11:59pm. She isn’t allowed to open or even go near a door upstairs. He tells her he’d prefer she doesn’t leave the house after dark. Callie agrees, but thinks it’s very strange.

Weird things begin happening. At night, she thinks she hears footsteps, tapping, and singing. As she explores the island, talks to the locals, and gets Riff to open up, what she learns about the island and Riff truly surprises her and opens her eyes to the possibility of the supernatural.

I loved this book. I couldn’t put it down. If you like horror and are interested in something different than a run of the mill ghost story, you’ll like this book. I can’t wait to check out what else the author has written.

[Ashleigh Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Night Singers" is a mesmerizing tale that effortlessly transports readers to a vividly depicted world, where mystery and intrigue lurk around every corner. From the bustling streets of a historic city to the secretive gatherings of the titular Night Singers, the setting is meticulously crafted, immersing readers in its rich atmosphere.

The characters are the heart of this story, each one intricately woven with layers of depth and complexity. From the enigmatic leader of the Night Singers to the determined protagonist grappling with their own inner demons, every character feels real and relatable. Their relationships and interactions drive the narrative forward, keeping readers engaged and invested until the very end.

But it's the plot that truly shines in "The Night Singers." Filled with unexpected twists and turns, it keeps readers guessing at every step, expertly balancing suspense and emotion. As secrets are uncovered and alliances are tested, the tension steadily mounts, culminating in a gripping climax that will leave readers breathless.

Overall, "The Night Singers" is a captivating read that seamlessly blends mystery, suspense, and drama. It's a story that stays with you long after you've finished.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you @netgalley for the ARC of The Night Singers by London Clarke. This was a creepy atmospheric novel with a build and then a suspenseful ending. I really liked the incorporation of Greek Mythology of the sirens from Homer’s Odyssey. The description of their singing made me feel like I was there and it hurt my ears.

Callie is a ghost writer and was called to write the biography of one of her favorite childhood music idols. He has become a recluse on an island and rumors have circulated that he may have killed his wife. When Callie goes to the island, there are many rules, don’t go out after midnight, don’t go in the attic…. As she uncovers the truth behind Riff’s isolation, she is in danger from the sirens that inhabit the island.

[Penny Hay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent read from London Clarke. Different from some of her other books, this story delves into the world of Sirens, reeking havoc on an island getaway for a rockstar.
A gripping story; I read it in just over 24 hours, with very relatable characters. A plot line which keeps you wondering, will they, won’t they, with the island a distinct character in the tale.
Really enjoyed finding out about Gullah life and beliefs…I did more research on this after I’d finished the book.
A definite must read for London’s readers and anyone who likes scary, gothic stories.

[Jessica Gleason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like Clarke, I am a lover of music and spent a fair share of my youth attending concerts, snapping photos, and using my press pass to spend the day hanging out with rock stars. I loved that juxtaposition of music and monster here, that the story was rooted in mythology, and that odd island culture was explored here. The story and its characters enchanted me, much like sirens singing out their irresistible songs. Give this one a try. Spend some time with Callie and Riff (what a phenomenal name).

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Night Singers is a gripping tale that blends mystery with just the right touch of supernatural intrigue. The author weaves a haunting narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Some parts of the book genuinely spooked me, adding an exhilarating thrill to the reading experience. Clarke's vivid descriptions and atmospheric settings bring the story to life in a way that's both eerie and mesmerizing. The characters are well-developed, each with their own secrets and complexities, which kept me guessing until the very end. This book is definitely worth diving into!!

[Valerie Russett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Horror movies But I don't usually choose horror books. I was intrigued with the description of a ghostwriter Interviewing a musician for a potential memoir when weird stuff starts happening. It definitely has weird, strange encounters, twists and turns and “jump” moments needed to keep your interest. I was hooked from the beginning and read it in a day.

I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.”

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

I really enjoyed this story. It sort of reads as a balance between a mythology love letter, a horror novel, and a sprinkling of romance (but not so much so that you lose the rest of the story due to it!). I really enjoyed Callie as a main character - she was headstrong, determined, curious, and a really enjoyable protagonist. Riff maybe felt a little 'Mary-Sue' in places (or whatever the male equivalent of that may be!), but he was still an enjoyable character, and the relationship between the two of them felt quite genuine.

The world building is also great, with the island feeling truly isolated and realistic in terms of the rich tourist visitors and the year-round population. The horror segments, particularly at the resort, are sculpted really beautifully, and while not entirely frightening, they certainly bring an air of menace that helps in the suspense enormously.

The mystery of the book is fantastic as well, and it does an exceptional job of blending old myth with new ideas, in a really successful way. This novel was just all around a good time, and the only critique that I have (besides the character one above!) is that I wish it were a little longer.

[Luvsbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Water Witches, Sirens, or whatever you want to call them, these creatures are evil, timeless, and relentless. Callie and Riff find themselves in a heart-pounding battle, one that kept me on the edge of my seat and my palms sweaty. When you make a deal and it costs you your soul, escape is impossible. This is by far my favorite London Clarke novel. I read it in 2 days and as I neared the end, the final chapters flew by in anticipation of the battle for souls and Callie and Riff’s lives. I felt these characters were incredibly relatable, the story line exceptional, and just enough evil to be felt throughout my bones. Do yourself a favor and grab the book now, while it’s .99, because if you are a fan of tales of terror, or even if you’re not, London Clarke is a wonderful author and has this way of drawing you in. Her characters feel like someone you know and her settings for her stories are all reminiscent of places we’ve visited in our lives. Add in a former Rock Star, a Ghost Writer, and a Zeke, and this book is pure magic!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book with every promise to rate it honestly. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.

[Olivia Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

An incredibly fun, haunting read with ties to Greek mythology and nautical legends. Callisto, who goes by Callie, is a tough, chainsmoking ghostwriter who has her defensive walls up at all times. Her client, Riff Fall is a sexy, mysterious, slightly "washed up" former 90s rock frontman with a dark history that even he can't fully recall. Callie is quickly sucked into a dangerous and murky world of disembodied songs, a locked door that she isn't allowed to touch, and one firm rule- don't leave the house after midnight. She's writing a memoir for Riff, but hoping they'll both live long enough for her to finish the story.

This book is filled with dread, gorgeous ocean scenery, and a bit of romantic tension that kept me invested in both Callie and Riff. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in thrillers and light romance, and I'm so glad I was able to check out an ARC before buying my own copy.

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Night Singers" by London Clarke is a captivating blend of supernatural mystery that will keep you hooked from the very first page. The author masterfully creates an eerie and atmospheric setting that draws you into the story. The characters are intricately developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end. Clarke's storytelling prowess shines throughout this novel, making it a thrilling and engaging read for anyone who enjoys a good supernatural mystery. I highly recommend picking this book up!

[Lily Burdett Coleman · Rating 2 out of 5]

My best friend recommended this to me and she adores it. This just wasn’t for me. It was well written. The characters just annoyed me. Riff just isn’t redeemable to me. His behavior is selfish and Callie deserved better. I enjoyed Nona’s character the most, I felt like she added much needed context about the water witches. Killing Abbot off was unnecessary, he’s still alive somewhere in my brain.

[Hailee Vandale · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

Honestly not my favourite by London Clarke. However, I've always enjoyed her writing style and i love her supernatural flare. It's worth the read I just couldn't connect with any of the characters.

Thank you so much London for the ARC!! Can't wait for your next book!

[Gail Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun Supernatural Ride

Great characters, interesting story, good character development. Tightly paced. Hard to find this type of story not geared toward young adults, I really enjoyed it.

[Cara Norris · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a nerve-shattering read! This book was SO dynamic and twisty, I was OBSESSED! The well-written plot constantly kept me on edge and the character development was out of this world!

[Loren Christensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

It's cliche to say in a review, but this book really is a page turner. London is a marvelous writer and I've just bought another book by her.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clarke keeps the story moving at such a good clip. Finished this one off while sitting on a lowcountry Carolina beach this afternoon, which seemed appropriate!

[Nichol Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was pretty good. To be honest my only real complaint is that I often found the main character to be a bit annoying and unlikable…but only sometimes. At other times I like her quite a bit and thought she was great.

I found this book very entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed the “rockstar” aspect of it all. I definitely recommend.

Big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this!

[TheLisaD · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was interesting and very unique, it wasn’t a story I would normally read though it still had some really good parts. I just felt it was lacking something and some of the things in the story kind of came out of no where.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect horror story, but without the gore and adding in some supernatural elements. 

I was completely hooked from page one really. I couldn't put it down! I didn't love Callie in the beginning, but as the story progressed, she grew on me. It was truly a unique story, and I would highly recommend it for those who are looking for a spooky southern gothic vive and for those who are interested in the lore behind sirens.

The way London Clarke navigates the lore, the relationship building between characters, the twists, the turns... it's all truly done very well. 

It's easily became a top 5 read so far for this year!

[Rachel | fullybookedtbr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Callie Rowe is a ghost writer for rock stars, writing memoirs of their lives. Callie is assigned a new client Riff Fall lead singer of a 90s metal group. He is known as a recluse and was once accused of killing his wife. Callie joins him at his home on a secluded island where things aren’t as they seem.

Firstly, I will say I like the idea of this book. I liked the idea of mythical creatures in the modern world and how they influenced society in different ways. It was a different take on sirens and how they essentially controlled the music industry. There were a lot of topics that’s tied to both the real world and this mythical one. How some musicians sign their lives away and they can never get out of contracts etc. it was refreshing story that I wouldn’t necessarily say it was horror but a thriller for sure.

However, there were many formatting issues in the beginning of the ebook and also editing problems with consistency (I.e. the housekeeper was named Esmeralda but two pages later she was called Esperanza and then switched back to Esmeralda within the next few pages). Callie and Riff were both interesting people bough characters with some integrity to them but overall there was nothing that made them stand out. I even forgot about some of the characters until I started putting together my thoughts (forgot about Elijah who seemed way more important in the beginning that he is not even mentioned again)

I would have liked a little more background on the sirens. There was some mention of the Odyssey and Circe but I wanted a little more.

Overall, it was good, quick story. Would I recommend it? Maybe. Would I reread it? No.