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Shadow Manor
A stranded young woman seeking shelter from a violent storm discovers a journal written by the former lady of the manor. As the storm rages around her, something more than shadows shakes the girl to her core.
Will she be able to solve the mystery of the manor before time runs out?
“Nola’s ability to tell a story is unmatched. Each book proves she is well on her way to becoming a legend.” — Kristopher Rufty, author of OLD SCRATCH.
Will she be able to solve the mystery of the manor before time runs out?
“Nola’s ability to tell a story is unmatched. Each book proves she is well on her way to becoming a legend.” — Kristopher Rufty, author of OLD SCRATCH.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2024
11 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Candace Nola
112 books294 followersI am Candace Nola, and I am a multiple award-winning author, editor, and publisher. I write poetry, horror, dark fantasy, and extreme horror content. My books include Breach, Beyond the Breach, Hank Flynn, Bishop, Earth vs The Lava Spiders, The Unicorn Killer, Unmasked, The Vet, and Desperate Wishes.
I have short stories in The Baker’s Dozen anthology, Secondhand Creeps, American Cannibal, Just A Girl, The Horror Collection: Lost Edition & The Turquoise Edition, just to name a few.
Beyond the Breach, won the “Novel of the Year” and my Debut Novel, Breach, was nominated for “Debut Novel of the Year”, for the 2021 Horror Authors Guild awards. I am also the publisher and editor of the 2022 Splatterpunk Award Winning Anthology “Uncomfortably Dark Presents: The Baker’s Dozen.”
I am the creator of Uncomfortably Dark, which focuses primarily on promoting indie horror authors and small presses with weekly book reviews, interviews, and special features. Uncomfortably Dark Horror stands behind its mission to “bring you the best in horror, one uncomfortably dark page at a time.”
Find me on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and the website, UncomfortablyDark.com. Sign up for the Patreon for exclusive content, free stories, and more.
I have short stories in The Baker’s Dozen anthology, Secondhand Creeps, American Cannibal, Just A Girl, The Horror Collection: Lost Edition & The Turquoise Edition, just to name a few.
Beyond the Breach, won the “Novel of the Year” and my Debut Novel, Breach, was nominated for “Debut Novel of the Year”, for the 2021 Horror Authors Guild awards. I am also the publisher and editor of the 2022 Splatterpunk Award Winning Anthology “Uncomfortably Dark Presents: The Baker’s Dozen.”
I am the creator of Uncomfortably Dark, which focuses primarily on promoting indie horror authors and small presses with weekly book reviews, interviews, and special features. Uncomfortably Dark Horror stands behind its mission to “bring you the best in horror, one uncomfortably dark page at a time.”
Find me on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook and the website, UncomfortablyDark.com. Sign up for the Patreon for exclusive content, free stories, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 15, 2025
What Lies Within the Abandoned Manor?
Small backstory:
Sinclair gets dropped off in the middle of nowhere by a date gone wrong during a thunderstorm. Sinclair finds an old abandoned manor to stay in while she waits out the storm, but once she gets inside the house closes in around her and the atmosphere shrinks to a spooky feeling as she wanders around the manor.
On her wandering adventure through the manor Sinclair comes across an old diary that belonged to a woman that used to live there, but little does she know that the ghost of the woman still lingers and the ghost has a message to share!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
Wow! This story just grabbed me and took me on an emotional spin as this story goes far beyond a haunted house with ghosts as author, Candace Nola weaved a tale of what a ghost still feels in the afterlife - the anguish and despair continue on with things that happened in their life.
This was a different kind of ghost story and it packs an emotional punch! There was a little bit of world building in the beginning of the book with the character Sinclair making her rounds within the manor but after the 30% mark the pace of the book picked up speed and when the ghost makes an appearance is when the story escalates!
I felt that the story was spooky but not leave the lights on spooky - it is not that kind of story that is meant to scare the pants off of you - it is a story about pain, grief, anger and love.
So if you want a different kind of ghost and haunting tale then check out this book. Giving this book five "Mysterious Haunting" stars!
Small backstory:
Sinclair gets dropped off in the middle of nowhere by a date gone wrong during a thunderstorm. Sinclair finds an old abandoned manor to stay in while she waits out the storm, but once she gets inside the house closes in around her and the atmosphere shrinks to a spooky feeling as she wanders around the manor.
On her wandering adventure through the manor Sinclair comes across an old diary that belonged to a woman that used to live there, but little does she know that the ghost of the woman still lingers and the ghost has a message to share!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
Wow! This story just grabbed me and took me on an emotional spin as this story goes far beyond a haunted house with ghosts as author, Candace Nola weaved a tale of what a ghost still feels in the afterlife - the anguish and despair continue on with things that happened in their life.
This was a different kind of ghost story and it packs an emotional punch! There was a little bit of world building in the beginning of the book with the character Sinclair making her rounds within the manor but after the 30% mark the pace of the book picked up speed and when the ghost makes an appearance is when the story escalates!
I felt that the story was spooky but not leave the lights on spooky - it is not that kind of story that is meant to scare the pants off of you - it is a story about pain, grief, anger and love.
So if you want a different kind of ghost and haunting tale then check out this book. Giving this book five "Mysterious Haunting" stars!
August 6, 2024
A Horror Bookworm Recommendation
Shadow Manor by Candace Nola
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Having to walk home from a date gone bad and seeking refuge from a raging storm for the night, a young teen becomes stranded within the walls of what seems to be an abandoned house. Unfortunately, this old manor holds many disturbing and creepy secrets. It’s gonna be a long dark night for this individual.
Candace Nola lights her candle and holds the reader’s hand as she enters the ultimate haunted mansion called Shadow Manor. Marble statues, staircase banisters, stained-glass windows, bookcases and enormous chandeliers are all present. Using dark shadows, musty smells, lightning strikes and thunder claps, Nola sets the mood like no other. Bouncing between the 1920’s and the present, grief and death take precedence within the pages of this pain filled supernatural novella. Candace Nola nails every poetic page with horrific misery, mourning and madness.
Every once in a blue moon a book crosses your path that unexpectedly blows you away. That unsettling Lovecraftian type narrative that emphasis the supernatural is slowly revealed, brought to you under the penmanship of Candace Nola. Literally, from the cradle to the grave, I was totally lost in this lingering presence of purgatory, pain and despair. Be wary, there are more shadows than meets the eye.
What lengths would you take to find peace and solace within a sea of emotional torment? If you have room in the pit of your stomach, give Shadow Manor a read. You can thank me later. A Five Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Recommendation.
Shadow Manor by Candace Nola
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Having to walk home from a date gone bad and seeking refuge from a raging storm for the night, a young teen becomes stranded within the walls of what seems to be an abandoned house. Unfortunately, this old manor holds many disturbing and creepy secrets. It’s gonna be a long dark night for this individual.
Candace Nola lights her candle and holds the reader’s hand as she enters the ultimate haunted mansion called Shadow Manor. Marble statues, staircase banisters, stained-glass windows, bookcases and enormous chandeliers are all present. Using dark shadows, musty smells, lightning strikes and thunder claps, Nola sets the mood like no other. Bouncing between the 1920’s and the present, grief and death take precedence within the pages of this pain filled supernatural novella. Candace Nola nails every poetic page with horrific misery, mourning and madness.
Every once in a blue moon a book crosses your path that unexpectedly blows you away. That unsettling Lovecraftian type narrative that emphasis the supernatural is slowly revealed, brought to you under the penmanship of Candace Nola. Literally, from the cradle to the grave, I was totally lost in this lingering presence of purgatory, pain and despair. Be wary, there are more shadows than meets the eye.
What lengths would you take to find peace and solace within a sea of emotional torment? If you have room in the pit of your stomach, give Shadow Manor a read. You can thank me later. A Five Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Recommendation.
January 20, 2025
Wow. Candace Nola really hit me with this one.
This novella blends tragedy, loss, and raw emotion with a hauntingly described house that feels like its own character. At its core, Shadow Manor isn’t just a ghost story—it’s a deep dive into the complexities of grief, the ripple effects of tragedy, and the bonds between a mother and daughter.
The protagonist? She’s smart and resourceful (LOVED that), stranded in a creepy manor where she discovers a diary that unravels the dark, heartbreaking story of the people who lived there. As she reads, the themes of sacrifice, love, and the unique dynamic between mothers and daughters take center stage.
The book doesn’t shy away from exploring how we can become consumed by our own pain—how mourning can create a tunnel vision that blinds us to what others are going through. It asks tough questions: What does it mean to be a good daughter? What lengths would a mother go to for her child? And how do we see past our struggles to truly understand the sacrifices others have made for us?
This one hit close for me. My relationship with my mom is… complicated, to say the least, and this book pulled on those strings in ways I wasn’t ready for. It’s not just about being haunted by a house—it’s about being haunted by the love, loss, and sacrifices tied to the relationships that shape us.
This novella blends tragedy, loss, and raw emotion with a hauntingly described house that feels like its own character. At its core, Shadow Manor isn’t just a ghost story—it’s a deep dive into the complexities of grief, the ripple effects of tragedy, and the bonds between a mother and daughter.
The protagonist? She’s smart and resourceful (LOVED that), stranded in a creepy manor where she discovers a diary that unravels the dark, heartbreaking story of the people who lived there. As she reads, the themes of sacrifice, love, and the unique dynamic between mothers and daughters take center stage.
The book doesn’t shy away from exploring how we can become consumed by our own pain—how mourning can create a tunnel vision that blinds us to what others are going through. It asks tough questions: What does it mean to be a good daughter? What lengths would a mother go to for her child? And how do we see past our struggles to truly understand the sacrifices others have made for us?
This one hit close for me. My relationship with my mom is… complicated, to say the least, and this book pulled on those strings in ways I wasn’t ready for. It’s not just about being haunted by a house—it’s about being haunted by the love, loss, and sacrifices tied to the relationships that shape us.
June 15, 2024
Atmospheric, creepy, and dripping with tension and dread, Shadow Manor quickly became a favorite for me. Sinclair finds herself stranded in the middle of nowhere after a crappy first date abandons her to find her way home. When a terrible storm hits, she is forced to seek shelter in an abandoned house.
There are some truly harrowing scenes within these pages. Haunting and emotional, this tale will stay with you long after you've finished. It begins as a ghost story, and becomes a gripping, sad, heart string tugger as the tale progresses. This house holds onto some dark secrets, secrets that Sinclair may need to discover to make it through the night.
Highly recommend for readers who like their supernatural stories to take them on an emotional roller coaster.
There are some truly harrowing scenes within these pages. Haunting and emotional, this tale will stay with you long after you've finished. It begins as a ghost story, and becomes a gripping, sad, heart string tugger as the tale progresses. This house holds onto some dark secrets, secrets that Sinclair may need to discover to make it through the night.
Highly recommend for readers who like their supernatural stories to take them on an emotional roller coaster.
June 15, 2024
Haunting!
A one-sitting read for me, because I simply couldn't stop. This is a gripping, atmospheric, and beautifully written story. If you enjoy gothic terror and tales of the supernatural, you're going to flat-out love SHADOW MANOR. Highly recommended!
A one-sitting read for me, because I simply couldn't stop. This is a gripping, atmospheric, and beautifully written story. If you enjoy gothic terror and tales of the supernatural, you're going to flat-out love SHADOW MANOR. Highly recommended!
February 2, 2025
Candace Nola’s Shadow Manor is a poignant blend of gothic intrigue and emotional depth that transcends the typical ghost story. The storey opens with a young woman who finds herself humiliated and abandoned after a night out goes awry. Stranded and alone, she stumbles upon the imposing Manor just as a storm brews, setting the stage for a haunting journey that is as much about healing as it is about horror.
Nola skillfully explores sensitive themes such as grief, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist’s experience of feeling like merely a "hook-up" resonates deeply, reflecting the often painful realities of modern dating. This emotional turmoil is the catalyst for her journey into the manor, where she confronts not only the physical manifestations of the past but also her own inner demons.
Once inside the manor, the atmosphere shifts from merely eerie to deeply affecting. The discovery of a diary belonging to the manor's long-deceased lady serves as the novel's emotional core, revealing the tragic events that unfolded within its walls. Nola’s writing shines in these moments, as she seamlessly intertwines the protagonist’s own struggles with the historical narrative of the ghost, creating a rich tapestry of loss and redemption.
As the young woman embarks on the tasks set forth by the ghost, readers are drawn into a compelling exploration of how the past can influence the present. The spectral presence of the lady of the house serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, empathy, and the often-overlooked pain that others may carry. Nola handles these themes with sensitivity, making Shadow Manor not just a chilling tale but one that encourages introspection and compassion.
The pacing of the story keeps readers engaged, with an ebb and flow that balances moments of tension with heartfelt reflection. Nola’s descriptive prose brings Shadow Manor to life, evoking vivid imagery that enhances the haunting yet strangely comforting atmosphere of the narrative.
In conclusion, Shadow Manor is a beautifully crafted novel that transcends genre boundaries. It is a story of personal growth, healing, and the importance of understanding others, all wrapped in a ghostly narrative that lingers long after the last page is turned. Candace Nola has created a hauntingly memorable tale that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or alone, making it a must-read for fans of both gothic fiction and contemporary literature.
Nola skillfully explores sensitive themes such as grief, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist’s experience of feeling like merely a "hook-up" resonates deeply, reflecting the often painful realities of modern dating. This emotional turmoil is the catalyst for her journey into the manor, where she confronts not only the physical manifestations of the past but also her own inner demons.
Once inside the manor, the atmosphere shifts from merely eerie to deeply affecting. The discovery of a diary belonging to the manor's long-deceased lady serves as the novel's emotional core, revealing the tragic events that unfolded within its walls. Nola’s writing shines in these moments, as she seamlessly intertwines the protagonist’s own struggles with the historical narrative of the ghost, creating a rich tapestry of loss and redemption.
As the young woman embarks on the tasks set forth by the ghost, readers are drawn into a compelling exploration of how the past can influence the present. The spectral presence of the lady of the house serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, empathy, and the often-overlooked pain that others may carry. Nola handles these themes with sensitivity, making Shadow Manor not just a chilling tale but one that encourages introspection and compassion.
The pacing of the story keeps readers engaged, with an ebb and flow that balances moments of tension with heartfelt reflection. Nola’s descriptive prose brings Shadow Manor to life, evoking vivid imagery that enhances the haunting yet strangely comforting atmosphere of the narrative.
In conclusion, Shadow Manor is a beautifully crafted novel that transcends genre boundaries. It is a story of personal growth, healing, and the importance of understanding others, all wrapped in a ghostly narrative that lingers long after the last page is turned. Candace Nola has created a hauntingly memorable tale that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or alone, making it a must-read for fans of both gothic fiction and contemporary literature.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2024
Shadow Manor is my first Candace Nola and I’m glad it was. Candace takes the old, abandoned haunted mansion idea and turns it around to reflect a much more compassionate approach regarding good versus evil with an acknowledgement towards the strong emotional torture that drives most people who are considered bad or evil to do bad things. This is not only detailed in how the resolution to the novella’s problem is solved, but also in the intelligence and strength in our young woman protagonist. It’s an interesting approach and makes me excited to read more by Candace Nola.
June 17, 2024
So good
This is haunting and scary but very good and will make you cry. You really feel the pain and the horror. I loved it.
This is haunting and scary but very good and will make you cry. You really feel the pain and the horror. I loved it.
February 6, 2025
Sinclair is seeking shelter from a dreadful storm outside after being stranded on the side of the road by her love interest. She is just trying to make it through the night and decides to take shelter in an abandoned mansion. During the night she comes across a diary from years ago that speaks of tragedies that plagued a single family and Sinclair suddenly realizes that she has a job to do.
~MY THOUGHTS~
A haunted house story. Gothic horror.
There is very little dialogue in this book. It is mostly all descriptions, atmosphere and diary entries. It does a great job at creating the setting and I particularly enjoyed the diary entries and the story they told.
This night makes Sinclair self-reflect and she’s had an epiphany of sorts. She realizes how selfish she has been and now has the drive to be a better person and daughter going forward. I think it’s a feeling that a lot of people can relate to either as teen or when they get older….The feeling that they could have (and perhaps should have) spent more time with their parents.
The right amount of supernatural, creepiness, great storytelling, and overall ambiance. I really enjoyed this book! It tackles animosity, hatred, compassion, empathy, grief and regret. If you’re looking for a 100ish page novella then definitely give this one a try!
~MY THOUGHTS~
A haunted house story. Gothic horror.
There is very little dialogue in this book. It is mostly all descriptions, atmosphere and diary entries. It does a great job at creating the setting and I particularly enjoyed the diary entries and the story they told.
This night makes Sinclair self-reflect and she’s had an epiphany of sorts. She realizes how selfish she has been and now has the drive to be a better person and daughter going forward. I think it’s a feeling that a lot of people can relate to either as teen or when they get older….The feeling that they could have (and perhaps should have) spent more time with their parents.
The right amount of supernatural, creepiness, great storytelling, and overall ambiance. I really enjoyed this book! It tackles animosity, hatred, compassion, empathy, grief and regret. If you’re looking for a 100ish page novella then definitely give this one a try!
November 16, 2024
“I refused to give in to my fear. I was stressed out from my day. It was a creepy house and bad weather, nothing more. I opened my eyes and screamed.”
Okay, it’s been like, six days since I’ve done a Nola review… so let’s change that and keep the Nola-November going. 🫡
I love a good haunted house story, especially with a gothic horror feel… and I love the way Nola writes, so naturally the two meshed together made for a phenomenal read. 🙌🏼
This story was actually spooky as hell. The atmosphere is supernatural and ghostly while providing a sense of dread and intense emotions the whole time. It was detailed and almost poetic in nature, with a nice first person POV, all while sprinkling in some hard hitting journal entries found from an old diary throughout. It actually put me in my feels and I may or may not had teary eyes a couple times. 🫣
I don’t even know how to explain it without spoilers, lol. But like all of Nola’s books, it’s just a total vibe from cover to cover. 🤌🏼
At around 100 pages it was another binge read in one sitting for me. The build ups and not knowing what would happen next had me swiping my kindle like a maniac. 😅
Okay, it’s been like, six days since I’ve done a Nola review… so let’s change that and keep the Nola-November going. 🫡
I love a good haunted house story, especially with a gothic horror feel… and I love the way Nola writes, so naturally the two meshed together made for a phenomenal read. 🙌🏼
This story was actually spooky as hell. The atmosphere is supernatural and ghostly while providing a sense of dread and intense emotions the whole time. It was detailed and almost poetic in nature, with a nice first person POV, all while sprinkling in some hard hitting journal entries found from an old diary throughout. It actually put me in my feels and I may or may not had teary eyes a couple times. 🫣
I don’t even know how to explain it without spoilers, lol. But like all of Nola’s books, it’s just a total vibe from cover to cover. 🤌🏼
At around 100 pages it was another binge read in one sitting for me. The build ups and not knowing what would happen next had me swiping my kindle like a maniac. 😅
June 15, 2024
Wow, Candace Nola really knows how to tell a gothic ghost story that hits one hard! 'Shadow Manor' is literally brimming with emotion; poignant, sad, yet hopeful, a young woman's coming-of-age type of story, with several moments of luminous self-discovery. Still, the book did overwhelm me at times. Not the ghost story as such, though it's a visceral tale, of a mother's loss and spiral into insanity; it's Sinclair's own reactions, the slow changes happening in the young woman who finds shelter in the haunted manor, that strike deep, reflecting back to the reader, probing their own self-understanding of family and maternal love. The abandoned house serves as the perfect place for Sinclair to go through some heavy rethinking, as the spectral Lady of the House unveils her tragic story. At the same time, 'Shadow Manor' offers a spiritual journey across time, the story of one soul reaching to another to find peace, and readers get the chance to experience some eye-opening moments of their own. Recommended!
November 1, 2025
Shadow Manor
By Candace Nola
⚰️⚰️⚰️⚰️/5
If you’re a fan of straight haunted house stories, this is a book for you. Nola pulls no punches, delivering a night of spooks and shadows in a home forgotten by time. The prose is wonderful, the story is solid, and the characters are well developed.
So why is this only a four?
As the book came to a close, I found myself waiting for a final twist that never came. The ending was too perfect, too safe for our protagonist, and it left me disappointed.
Now, I understand not dropping a final twist on your readers is a twist in itself, but in this case, it didn’t work for me. I didn’t need something malicious, but I also didn’t want the ending to be so neat.
Overall, Shadow Manor is an excellent addition to the field of haunted house horror, and a book I will likely recommend in the future.
That ending, though… It bugs me.
By Candace Nola
⚰️⚰️⚰️⚰️/5
If you’re a fan of straight haunted house stories, this is a book for you. Nola pulls no punches, delivering a night of spooks and shadows in a home forgotten by time. The prose is wonderful, the story is solid, and the characters are well developed.
So why is this only a four?
As the book came to a close, I found myself waiting for a final twist that never came. The ending was too perfect, too safe for our protagonist, and it left me disappointed.
Now, I understand not dropping a final twist on your readers is a twist in itself, but in this case, it didn’t work for me. I didn’t need something malicious, but I also didn’t want the ending to be so neat.
Overall, Shadow Manor is an excellent addition to the field of haunted house horror, and a book I will likely recommend in the future.
That ending, though… It bugs me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2024
A teenager named Sinclair gets stranded during a storm and takes refuge in an abandoned manor where she finds a journal. She uncovers some dark, sad and emotional secrets about the previous inhabitants of the manor throughout her overnight stay.
I LOVE a good haunted house story and this really delivered for me with a twist. Candace Nola is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! She is an expert story teller. Her writing really sets the scene making it creepy and atmospheric while also being extremely emotional. Highly recommend this quick read if you’re looking for a paranormal story that makes you feel all the emotions!
I LOVE a good haunted house story and this really delivered for me with a twist. Candace Nola is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! She is an expert story teller. Her writing really sets the scene making it creepy and atmospheric while also being extremely emotional. Highly recommend this quick read if you’re looking for a paranormal story that makes you feel all the emotions!
June 15, 2024
Bibliophilia Templum Review
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/06/15/shadow-manor/
Shadow Manor by Candace Nola is a vivid and haunting modern-Gothic ghost story. Nola uses classic elements in clear homage to the vintage greats to create and atmospheric and flowing tale of quiet but impactful horror.
I was quite taken also with the moving subtext. I won’t spoil it by saying more, but it really spoke to me.
I read Shadow Manor in one sitting. The suspense and mystery kept me turning page after page until the most satisfying ending. This is an excellent story and a great read for a dark and rainy night, but definitely from the safety of your own home or you may well be jumping at shadows.
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2024/06/15/shadow-manor/
Shadow Manor by Candace Nola is a vivid and haunting modern-Gothic ghost story. Nola uses classic elements in clear homage to the vintage greats to create and atmospheric and flowing tale of quiet but impactful horror.
I was quite taken also with the moving subtext. I won’t spoil it by saying more, but it really spoke to me.
I read Shadow Manor in one sitting. The suspense and mystery kept me turning page after page until the most satisfying ending. This is an excellent story and a great read for a dark and rainy night, but definitely from the safety of your own home or you may well be jumping at shadows.
June 3, 2024
A young woman finds herself stranded in a storm following a disastrous date. While seeking shelter from the storm, she comes across an old manor. An unsolved mystery lurks within this manor. When she discovers a diary written by the former inhabitants, the mystery of the manor begins to unfold.
I'm normally not a fan of ghost stories, but this had me hooked from page one. Candace is a master storyteller. She takes you on an emotionally charged roller-coaster that will leave you wanting more. It is an absolute must-read. Check it out!
5 severed fingers out of 5
I'm normally not a fan of ghost stories, but this had me hooked from page one. Candace is a master storyteller. She takes you on an emotionally charged roller-coaster that will leave you wanting more. It is an absolute must-read. Check it out!
5 severed fingers out of 5
July 22, 2024
Excellent novella
I’m always amazed whenever I read something by Candace Nola, because her stories are also different from one another. And yet she’s able to master all these different genres. Here with Shadow Manor, she re-creates a Gothic ghost story. I really loved the switching back-and-forth between the perspectives of the modern day protagonist, and the ghost who haunts the manner, through her diaries written in the 1920s. I read it all in one sitting - and appropriately, during a hot July nighttime thunderstorm!
I’m always amazed whenever I read something by Candace Nola, because her stories are also different from one another. And yet she’s able to master all these different genres. Here with Shadow Manor, she re-creates a Gothic ghost story. I really loved the switching back-and-forth between the perspectives of the modern day protagonist, and the ghost who haunts the manner, through her diaries written in the 1920s. I read it all in one sitting - and appropriately, during a hot July nighttime thunderstorm!
June 23, 2024
A great short suspenseful tale. Enjoyable and now look forward to more from the author.
December 26, 2024
This was beautifully written and tragic. Grief horror hits differently.
July 5, 2024
Suspense, Twists and turns, and beautiful imagery.
What could be worse than being abandoned on the side of the road by your date? Being abandoned miles from home, right at the beginning of the storm of a century, in front of a creepy old house.
However, Sinclair was ready and willing to tackle the challenge this house brought. The twists and turns of this novel had me at the edge of tears.
I loved the beautifully written journal that Sinclair comes across, the clues it leads her towards and the answers it provides are perfectly done. Not too much foreshadowing or too much is given away. Candace Nola manages to build an atmosphere of dread and foreboding all while sucking you in and not letting you go until you get answers. This heartbreaking tale of a haunted house will have you on the edge of your seat and turning each page to get more answers.
I cannot wait to read another of Candace's books.
What could be worse than being abandoned on the side of the road by your date? Being abandoned miles from home, right at the beginning of the storm of a century, in front of a creepy old house.
However, Sinclair was ready and willing to tackle the challenge this house brought. The twists and turns of this novel had me at the edge of tears.
I loved the beautifully written journal that Sinclair comes across, the clues it leads her towards and the answers it provides are perfectly done. Not too much foreshadowing or too much is given away. Candace Nola manages to build an atmosphere of dread and foreboding all while sucking you in and not letting you go until you get answers. This heartbreaking tale of a haunted house will have you on the edge of your seat and turning each page to get more answers.
I cannot wait to read another of Candace's books.
June 17, 2024
Wow
There’s so much depth and feeling within these pages. Candace knows how to grip your emotions with the characters as if they are your own. Beautiful
There’s so much depth and feeling within these pages. Candace knows how to grip your emotions with the characters as if they are your own. Beautiful
September 18, 2024
I am quickly becoming such a fan of this author, this story in particular was so atmospheric and perfect for fans of cozy horror. A haunting with a heart-breaking backstory, an MC that goes out of her way to help and achieves some great character development in a span of a single stormy night, this is a story that I will sure to recommend.
December 3, 2024
I didn't love it but nor did I hate it either, hense the 3 🌟
It felt almost too descriptive at times like the book was more descriptive writing and adjectives as it was plot. There were times where the descriptions of the house wouldn't have felt out of place on Rightmove.
I was hoping for a bit of a twist but it was predominantly just grief and woe
It felt almost too descriptive at times like the book was more descriptive writing and adjectives as it was plot. There were times where the descriptions of the house wouldn't have felt out of place on Rightmove.
I was hoping for a bit of a twist but it was predominantly just grief and woe
October 26, 2024
Man, this book, what can i say, but bravo! This book opened up so many emotions in me that by the end, i think i used up nearly half my tissue box and left my coffee undrinkable that it had to be thrown away. This book had me crying - tears of both sadness and happiness, as well as shock and amazement.
I enjoyed every minute of what was quite a haunting tale, filled with atmospheric eerieness that pulled me in from the very first page.
I found the book had an even pace to begin with, bringing with it the gothic atmospheric feeling of dread, being in a manor, stranded in the middle of nowhere, to brave a violent storm.
With each page and chapter, there was suspense, secrets, and definitely some spine-chilling moments that left me breathless (the journal being exhibit A, And the well being exhibit B - YIKES) and moments that filled me with both wonder and awe.
At 100 or so pages, this compact little novella slowly uncovered the mystery of the manor and all its surrounds, and as the mystery deepens, I wait with bated breath to see what else is uncovered.
For my gothic girlies, this is a book you need to read or put on your TBR. With such a powerful message about relationships between mothers and daughters, with gothic horror, a beautiful but bitterweet ghost story, this is a story you won't forget in a long time.
I enjoyed every minute of what was quite a haunting tale, filled with atmospheric eerieness that pulled me in from the very first page.
I found the book had an even pace to begin with, bringing with it the gothic atmospheric feeling of dread, being in a manor, stranded in the middle of nowhere, to brave a violent storm.
With each page and chapter, there was suspense, secrets, and definitely some spine-chilling moments that left me breathless (the journal being exhibit A, And the well being exhibit B - YIKES) and moments that filled me with both wonder and awe.
At 100 or so pages, this compact little novella slowly uncovered the mystery of the manor and all its surrounds, and as the mystery deepens, I wait with bated breath to see what else is uncovered.
For my gothic girlies, this is a book you need to read or put on your TBR. With such a powerful message about relationships between mothers and daughters, with gothic horror, a beautiful but bitterweet ghost story, this is a story you won't forget in a long time.
February 2, 2025
After a horrible night, a young girl is trying to find shelter from a bad storm. She finds a creepy Manor and doesn't think twice to go in. Once in, she realizes how empty, abandoned, and scary it really is. Things go up a notch when she finds a journal of the lady of the house from the 1800s. She starts to read it and soon gets a visit from a shadow who wants to show her a couple of things.
This was atmospheric, gothic, spooky, sad, and will pull on your heartstrings. The pain and loss the lady of the Manor went through was heartbreaking. Candace really made us feel that in the pages. Once we learn more about the lady's life and loss, the story becomes more bleak, almost like a claustrophobic feeling. Very well written! The Manor is described beautifully, and the pain is almost poetic.
The self reflection the teen had about her own relationship with her mom really tugged on my heartstrings. We've all felt that we can do more, spend more time with our parents before it's too late. This book will make you feel things! Shadow Manor is one you need to add to your tbr!
This was atmospheric, gothic, spooky, sad, and will pull on your heartstrings. The pain and loss the lady of the Manor went through was heartbreaking. Candace really made us feel that in the pages. Once we learn more about the lady's life and loss, the story becomes more bleak, almost like a claustrophobic feeling. Very well written! The Manor is described beautifully, and the pain is almost poetic.
The self reflection the teen had about her own relationship with her mom really tugged on my heartstrings. We've all felt that we can do more, spend more time with our parents before it's too late. This book will make you feel things! Shadow Manor is one you need to add to your tbr!
December 8, 2024
Beautiful heartbreaking horror
A girl is left in the middle of nowhere after a date goes wrong, she seeks shelter and solace in an old gothic mansion. However warmth and comfort are not the only things she discovers, an old journal reveals twisted heartbreaking tales and a ghost at unrest appears in need of help.
This is such a heartbreaking emotional novella, that i cant seem to shake, the subjects are so real and the emotional pain is impossible to avoid. Nola certainly had me tearing up throughout.
The “Lady of the manors” loss, turmoil and internal unravelling was horrific, yet so well written. How Nola managed to pack so much emotion and empathy into 97 pages i will never know.
A girl is left in the middle of nowhere after a date goes wrong, she seeks shelter and solace in an old gothic mansion. However warmth and comfort are not the only things she discovers, an old journal reveals twisted heartbreaking tales and a ghost at unrest appears in need of help.
This is such a heartbreaking emotional novella, that i cant seem to shake, the subjects are so real and the emotional pain is impossible to avoid. Nola certainly had me tearing up throughout.
The “Lady of the manors” loss, turmoil and internal unravelling was horrific, yet so well written. How Nola managed to pack so much emotion and empathy into 97 pages i will never know.
November 20, 2024
Shadow Manor is very different from Nola's other works that I've read but I did enjoy this one. This story is a gothic horror set in an abandoned mansion. When a girl gets dumped off by her love interest she finds herself alone and isolated from civilization. She is dreading the call to her mother because she knows she's going to hear the "I told you so" spiel. Instead, she finds herself inside this abandoned mansion off a desolate road that holds terrible secrets and history waiting to be discovered.
This story was beautifully written and I liked it. Anyone who enjoys gothic horror and ghost stories needs to add this one to their list.
This story was beautifully written and I liked it. Anyone who enjoys gothic horror and ghost stories needs to add this one to their list.
December 25, 2025
A quick pleasant read about a girl named Sinclair, who was walking along a road after an incident with a young man I find yourself caught in a storm. She was so caught up in her thoughts that she didn’t realize the storm was approaching and was gonna be a bad one she looks up and sees this beautiful old Victorian Manor Manor, long forgotten, but still standing. This book is a short read it in its few pages is more than just a haunted house. Story story has it scary parts to it. It is Gothic in nature and it’s also oddly redeeming a really good combination while I’ve never ran across before, but I thoroughly enjoyed..
September 5, 2025
This story begins with an eerie tone as Sinclair finds refuge from a storm inside an abandoned manor. With only her phone's flashlight, she goes exploring and decides to camp out in the library until morning.
As the thunder and lightning continue to rumble and light up the night, Sinclair sees shadows, one of which belongs to the deceased lady of the manor.
Finding the lady's diary, Sinclair learns about the painful life the lady lived and in turn helps her find peace so she can move on.
This story was so descriptive, heartbreaking and beautiful.
As the thunder and lightning continue to rumble and light up the night, Sinclair sees shadows, one of which belongs to the deceased lady of the manor.
Finding the lady's diary, Sinclair learns about the painful life the lady lived and in turn helps her find peace so she can move on.
This story was so descriptive, heartbreaking and beautiful.
June 17, 2024
This somehow managed to be creepy as hell, whilst also being a very emotive read. There was one part in particular that almost made me jump which is rare! You can (and will!) read this in one sitting as you just HAVE to find out how it ends. I absolutely loved this, thank you to Candace for the ARC.
June 17, 2024
Shadow Manor is a novella, so it is a fairly quick read. This is my first foray in reading stories by #candacenola so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was surprised at the emotions that I felt while reading this descriptive homage to the traditional gothic ghost story.
Thank you to Candace Nola for sending me an ARC e-copy to review
Thank you to Candace Nola for sending me an ARC e-copy to review
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