Unsettling Thoughts

by Erik Dean

DID SOMETHING FOLLOW THEM BACK?

A relaxing antique shopping trip with friends turns sinister for Tina. What begins as a yearly tradition - scouring small towns for vintage treasures - takes a chilling turn. This year, a ghost tour adds an unsettling layer to their adventure.

Among her eclectic finds, Tina buys a coveted reading chair, but bringing it home unlocks a Pandora's box. Her cheerful disposition darkens, replaced by irritability and unfounded jealousy. Forgetfulness and sleepwalking become nightly occurrences. Vivid nightmares and disturbing premonitions plague her waking hours.

Is she being haunted by an unwelcome spirit, or are her loved ones gaslighting her?

As an arsonist and murderer terrorize the town, Tina's friend Wanda becomes suspicious. Could a malevolent entity from their ghost tour be attached to the chair, manipulating Tina?

Determined to unravel the horrifying history of the chair and save Tina from her descent, Wanda journeys back to the quaint town they visited.

Will she uncover the truth in time, or will Tina and her friends become victims of a chilling legacy?

Experience this new terror twice with multi-award-winning author Erik Dean's dual endings.

Get your copy!

Other Books by ERIK

DEVILISH DUST
WRAITH
GARBAGEMAN
CRYPTIC
CRUEL and UNUSUAL
CRUELER and MORE UNUSUAL

252 pages, Paperback

Published May 9, 2024

About the author

Biography
Erik Dean is an Arizona native and a multi-award-winning author. He is also an affiliate member of the Horror Writers Association and a member of the Independent Author Network.
In his spare time, Erik enjoys trying to solve escape rooms, playing the guitar, and spending time with his family and pets. Erik strives to write unpredictable novels with memorable characters.
Awards and Recognitions:
Finalist, Horror - 2018 Book of the Year Award, Independent Authors Network (Cryptic)
Finalist, Action/Adventure - 2018 Book of the Year Award, Independent Authors Network (Garbageman)
First Place - 11th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards (Cryptic)
Official Selection, Horror - 2017 New Apple Book Awards for Excellence in Independent Publishing (Cryptic)
Official Selection, Horror-2018 New Apple Book Awards for Excellence in Independent Publishing(CruelerandMoreUnusual) Gold medal winner, Horror-2022 Global Book Awards (Wraith) Gold winner, Horror-2022 Global Book Awards (Devilish Dust) Finalist, Fiction-Anthology-2018 Readers Favorite ( Crueler and More Unusual) Bronze medal winner, Young Adult Horror-2022 (Devilsh Dust)

Reviews

[Melissa Elsie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read: June 18th - 23rd, 2024
Review: June 24th, 2024

Rating: 3/5 Stars

This was a decent read.

I did not love the writing style. It read almost too formal and almost point-blank form. Kind of reminded me of stories you would read in school that were to teach you to read and write. It just did not flow well. The flow got a little better as the story went on and even good in some areas.

The novel started strong in the first chapter. I enjoyed the story. The plot was a good idea. It was a creepy and mysterious haunting that kept me interested. The characters were likable, but we didn’t get to dig deep with any of them, so I didn’t particularly care about them. They could be hard to keep apart at times too.

The ending came a little quick. Not sure it was my favourite ending, but it was unexpected. I did like that the author included two alternate endings. The addition at the end where you get to know the author a little and read how they came to the idea of the story was nice too.

Thank you to Erik Dean for providing a free copy to read from Netgalley.

[Josette Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am the person who loves going to thrift store and yard sales. I like looking for things I can use that do not cost so much. Well, after reading this story, I shall rethink this activity. I especially liked how the author described the chair coming alive and siphoning energy off of Tina. The changes that occurred within Tina came about rather quickly. The author described the changes happening in a way that the transition was very seamless in front of her friends. Only one person realized something was different about their friend. As soon as she looked into the situation, she found more than she bargained for. Now, once I got through the crazy ending, I found it really interesting for there to be alternate endings. That is something I had never read before. I think that I like one of the other endings better than the original. This book is worthy of reading if you like books about haunted objects.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tina and her friends have gone on their yearly trip for going to small towns to find vintage treasures. For fun, they decide to go on a ghost tour. On the following day, Tina finds her “reading chair.” She is happy to have found it even though her friends say it is ugly and lumpy. Tina uses her chair for reading but seems to fall asleep after reading a chapter or two. Slowly, Tina starts to change personality when with her husband and friends. Wanda decides to talk to her grandmother about the possibility that the chair is haunted and trying to possess Tina. What answer does her grandmother give? Will Wanda decide to act on the information or ignore it?

The author has written a novel that moves you into a state of terror. It is a horror, mystery, and suspenseful novel. It is a plot full of twists and turns. The author has given the reader two alternative endings to the story. I liked the original and second alternative endings. I was surprised that he wrote these endings as I never had read a novel with alternal endings. It was an interest experience.

Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Janier Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

This work by Dean is a novel that I found very intriguing and immersed me in a whirlwind of emotions and reflections that I personally found disturbing. The plot follows a protagonist with internal struggles and dark thoughts, which reveal a deep and complex psychological narrative. Dean explores themes of alienation, identity and the fragility of the human mind, using evocative prose that keeps the reader on edge.
I think the characters are very well developed, each contributing to the unsettling atmosphere and mystery that surrounds the story. The novel stands out for its ability to capture tension and uncertainty. With this book, I managed to question myself about reality and perceptions of everyday life. In conclusion, I believe that this book is a work that not only entertains, but also invites deep introspection and consideration of the darker facets of the human psyche. I recommend it.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know why I do this to myself and read horror novels, thrillers are the worst, and they keep you up at night, just like this one. The author wrote a realistic story and compelling characters you could easily relate to. The paranormal aspect of the story is on point. Do I wish it was more scary? Well, if I don't scare easily, yes? The alternate endings give closure to the readers. The psychological aspects of the thriller make the plot more appealing. The characters are well developed: Wanda is strong-willed and determined to seek the truth, Jack is a protector, and Tina is the crazy one, or is she? While reading this book, I felt Agnes' presence in my home, so I immediately opened the lights and started cleansing the space.

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much; it is a great supernatural thriller that perfectly combines psychological horror and suspense, and I'm so into this kind of book. The story follows Tina, whose annual antique shopping trip with friends takes a dark turn when she buys a vintage reading chair. Soon, she has a radical change, combined with sleepwalking and vivid nightmares. I love the plot which is full of mystery and intrigue, keeping me on edge with its eerie atmosphere and well-developed characters. The author's creative use of dual endings provides two satisfying conclusions, making the story so much better. This is a must read for fans of supernatural thrillers, blending a chilling plot with a heartwarming tale of friendship and determination.

[Katina The Witch’s Bookmark · Rating 3 out of 5]

While majority of the story was predictable, I really enjoyed the story and I have to admit I didn't see the ending coming. I also found the first two thirds of the book was also very repetitive.

I found the writing style quite blunt and lacking emotion. The sentences didn't flow into each other. It was almost like reading a bullet list recounting events, rather than a flowing story. To antagonist was a genuinely scary character and her character showed in the writing, however the other characters didn't really seem to have any emotion, even though they were involved in these horrifying events.

I prefer the original ending.

Overall, this book was a fun little read, even though I didn't enjoy the writing style.

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I wasn't expecting this book to be as good as it is! Tina's character is adventurous yet cautious and has a great development during the story, her whole spirit changing is a marvellous process and it is written with great detail. It all starts when she purchases a book, and from that, the reader will be able to experience different perspectives that I believe were what hooked me right in! The story overall is compelling and it draws the reader to a suspenseful atmosphere constantly wondering what will happen next. For that reason, this might be a fast read; it is impossible to stop reading it! I highly recommended.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strange occurrences start to happen with more frequency in the life of the protagonist of this book after she returns home with an old chair she found in a market. Whatever was on that chair seemed to have possessed Tina. As her friend Wanda tries to help her and discover the truth things will get more and more complicated and strange. I liked this book; it held my attention from beginning to end. The plot is compelling and full of twists and turns that kept me entertained throughout the story. The ending was surprising and it is what I enjoyed the most about this book. I highly recommend it, especially to those who like horror and paranormal stories.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely liked this story of terror that is full of intrigue and action. Tina is the protagonist, a woman with an ordinary life who buys a coveted reading chair. Everything is absolutely fine with this antique find, but one day things change abruptly and it seems that something macabre is taking control of her life.
As regards the author’s writing style, it’s amazing in every single aspect. On one hand, the vivid details applied throughout the pages made me feel inside the story. On the other hand, the narrative is accessible and engaging making the book an excellent choice.
l loved this book and can't wait for more to come!

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great creepy story.

This book caught my attention from the beginning. The cover is a great premise for what the story will be. Then I read the summary and discovered that it has two alternative endings. This last point finally convinced me to read it, and it met all my expectations.
Unsettling Thoughts by Erik Dean is a story about ghosts and curses that develops around Tina and her friends, and a possessed chair. I liked it because it kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. The author did a great job because he was able to integrate fictional and supernatural elements in a convincing way.
I honestly liked it and I recommend it!

[Emily Fleming · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Unsettling Thoughts" by Erik Dean is a chilling tale centered around a haunted and possessed antique chair. The main character finds herself consumed by an evil entity lurking within the furniture, leading to a downward spiral of possession and paranoia. As her friends and husband dismiss her claims, she battles both internal and external forces. What sets this book apart are its alternate endings, offering readers a choice in the fate of the protagonist. While the premise is intriguing, the execution falls short, resulting in an overall average read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read a copy in return for an honest review.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

From a very young age, I was interested in horror books and movies, that is why I decided to buy this book, since it hooks the reader from the minute they open the cover. Although the plot may be a bit common, author Erik Dean knew how to give it a twist to make this book extremely engaging.
The story revolves around the life of Tina who, after a trip with her friends to buy antiques, begins to experience some paranormal events. Her friend Wanda is willing to help her, even if it means going back to the place and trying to find out what is happening.

[J Kromrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

“Unsettling Thoughts” explores a thrilling narrative that blends psychological and supernatural elements into one suspenseful horror story. The plot revolves around Tina, who, after a seemingly harmless antique shopping spree with friends, begins to experience drastic changes in her behavior and perception.

A relaxing tradition of scouring small towns for vintage treasures takes a chilling turn when Tina purchases a coveted reading chair. Bringing it home unlocks a Pandora’s box: her cheerful disposition darkens, replaced by irritability, unfounded jealousy, forgetfulness, and vivid nightmares. Is she haunted by an unwelcome spirit, or are her loved ones gaslighting her?

As an arsonist and murderer terrorizes the town, Tina’s friend Wanda becomes suspicious. Could a malevolent entity from their ghost tour be attached to the chair, manipulating Tina? Determined to unravel the horrifying history of the chair and save Tina from her descent, Wanda journeys back to the quaint town they visited.

Erik Dean’s dual endings allow readers to experience this new terror twice. Gripping and unpredictable, “Unsettling Thoughts” keeps you on the edge of your seat. 🕯️🪑

Alternate ending #1 for me - what was your choice?

[Melissa Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is crazy. The first half, however, felt a bit clunky at times. I don't know if it's because a lot of the conversations were text messages, but it felt clunky. The second half was really good. I loved reading how it all played out. Mind blowing. Even though the ending definitely made sense, I kind of preferred the first alternate ending. But that was cool to see alternate endings at the end of the book. It's definitely a thriller, and I enjoyed it!

[Courtney Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can say with certainty, I have never read anything like this before, I didn’t know how it was going to end, and even in the last chapter there were multiple twists that I did not expect.

A truly unique read and experience, and one I throughly enjoyed through out.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book with an involving premise.

The text presents an intriguing and involving premise that combines elements of mystery, terror and suspense. The narrative begins with an innocent and everyday activity, such as the search for antiques, and gradually transforms it into a sinister and tension-filled story.
The author proposes the use of the reading chair as a triggering object of paranormal events is a resource, in my opinion, very well used especially to keep you attentive to everything that happens with it. I called a lot the development that is given to the emotional state of the protagonist and the detailed way in which the author takes it so well to paper.
It is a good book that I recommend reading in one sitting. It is captivating and mysterious, perfect for an afternoon of reading!