What do you think?
Rate this book
Things Half in Shadow
Postbellum America makes for a haunting backdrop in this historical and supernatural tale of moonlit cemeteries, masked balls, cunning mediums, and terrifying secrets waiting to be unearthed by an intrepid crime reporter.
The year is 1869, and the Civil War haunts the city of Philadelphia like a stubborn ghost. Mothers in black continue to mourn their lost sons. Photographs of the dead adorn dim sitting rooms. Maimed and broken men roam the streets. One of those men is Edward Clark, who is still tormented by what he saw during the war. Also constantly in his thoughts is another, more distant tragedy--the murder of his mother at the hands of his father, the famed magician Magellan Holmes...a crime that Edward witnessed when he was only ten.
Now a crime reporter for one of the city's largest newspapers, Edward is asked to use his knowledge of illusions and visual trickery to expose the influx of mediums that descended on Philadelphia in the wake of the war. His first target is Mrs. Lucy Collins, a young widow who uses old-fashioned sleight of hand to prey on grieving families. Soon, Edward and Lucy become entwined in the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor, the city's most highly regarded--and by all accounts, legitimate--medium, who dies mid-seance. With their reputations and livelihoods at risk, Edward and Lucy set out to find the real killer, and in the process unearth a terrifying hive of secrets that reaches well beyond Mrs. Pastor.
Blending historical detail with flights of fancy, Things Half in Shadow is a riveting thriller where Medium and The Sixth Sense meet The Alienist--and where nothing is quite as it seems...
The year is 1869, and the Civil War haunts the city of Philadelphia like a stubborn ghost. Mothers in black continue to mourn their lost sons. Photographs of the dead adorn dim sitting rooms. Maimed and broken men roam the streets. One of those men is Edward Clark, who is still tormented by what he saw during the war. Also constantly in his thoughts is another, more distant tragedy--the murder of his mother at the hands of his father, the famed magician Magellan Holmes...a crime that Edward witnessed when he was only ten.
Now a crime reporter for one of the city's largest newspapers, Edward is asked to use his knowledge of illusions and visual trickery to expose the influx of mediums that descended on Philadelphia in the wake of the war. His first target is Mrs. Lucy Collins, a young widow who uses old-fashioned sleight of hand to prey on grieving families. Soon, Edward and Lucy become entwined in the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor, the city's most highly regarded--and by all accounts, legitimate--medium, who dies mid-seance. With their reputations and livelihoods at risk, Edward and Lucy set out to find the real killer, and in the process unearth a terrifying hive of secrets that reaches well beyond Mrs. Pastor.
Blending historical detail with flights of fancy, Things Half in Shadow is a riveting thriller where Medium and The Sixth Sense meet The Alienist--and where nothing is quite as it seems...
448 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2014
28 people are currently reading
4036 people want to read
About the author
Alan Finn
3 books194 followersAlan Finn is the pen name of Todd Ritter, an acclaimed author of mysteries. He has worked as a writer, editor, journalist and ghost writer. He lives in Princeton, New Jersey, where he is hard at work on his next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
October 7, 2020
3.5
Sorry sorry sorry NetGally...I lost track of this book- not the books fault- just one of those times when life gets in the way of reading- and much to my surprise after 90+ days- THINGS HALF IN SHADOW was still there....YAY!!! I think ghosts were working behind the scenes- to make my reading it (waaaaaay after the deadline) possible. True story...(what other explanation could there be?). :D
1869 Philadelphia
Columbus Holmes was ten years old when he witnessed the death of his mother at the hands of his father- Magician Magellan Holmes. After that day- Columbus decided he must move on. Now, living under a name obtained by fate- Edward Clarke works as a crime reporter for one of Philadelphia’s largest newspapers- The Evening Bulletin.
The Civil War has ended and so many have lost their loved ones. Mediums are preying upon the grief stricken. Edward's new assignment????....Investigate and expose these scoundrels and put a stop to them making money off people's sorrow.
His first stop- Lucy Collins, a beautiful young widow and supposed medium....but Lucy soon figures out Edwards past- and Edward is forced to work along side her- instead of against her...to solve the murder of Lucy's prime competitor- Lenora Grimes Pastor.
The first in a series involving Edward's adventures into: seances, ghosts and conspiracies...OH MY!!! Not as spooky as I would have liked...but still veeeeeeeeeeery entertaining- as long as you hang your hat of dis-believing at the door.
Thank you NetGalley!!
Sorry sorry sorry NetGally...I lost track of this book- not the books fault- just one of those times when life gets in the way of reading- and much to my surprise after 90+ days- THINGS HALF IN SHADOW was still there....YAY!!! I think ghosts were working behind the scenes- to make my reading it (waaaaaay after the deadline) possible. True story...(what other explanation could there be?). :D
1869 Philadelphia
Columbus Holmes was ten years old when he witnessed the death of his mother at the hands of his father- Magician Magellan Holmes. After that day- Columbus decided he must move on. Now, living under a name obtained by fate- Edward Clarke works as a crime reporter for one of Philadelphia’s largest newspapers- The Evening Bulletin.
The Civil War has ended and so many have lost their loved ones. Mediums are preying upon the grief stricken. Edward's new assignment????....Investigate and expose these scoundrels and put a stop to them making money off people's sorrow.
His first stop- Lucy Collins, a beautiful young widow and supposed medium....but Lucy soon figures out Edwards past- and Edward is forced to work along side her- instead of against her...to solve the murder of Lucy's prime competitor- Lenora Grimes Pastor.
The first in a series involving Edward's adventures into: seances, ghosts and conspiracies...OH MY!!! Not as spooky as I would have liked...but still veeeeeeeeeeery entertaining- as long as you hang your hat of dis-believing at the door.
Thank you NetGalley!!
October 29, 2021
The reason why I first picked up this book by Alan Finn is because I learned the author is another pen name of Riley Sager. The feel of this book though is different from those written under the Riley Sager pseudonym where it seems each of the author’s pen names tackles a different book genre. Things Half in Shadows is historical fiction mixed with supernatural elements that has a big mystery to top it off.
There are some similarities in the writing style to his later books, but otherwise this book felt different without Riley Sager’s usual bag of tricks. Unlike the Author’s other books, this book sets up a universe with sequels though it has been almost a decade since this one came out. I could feel a Caleb Carr influence that reminded me a bit of The Alienist because it inserts prominent figures from the era written into this book such as PT Barnum, a mention of Abraham Lincoln, and more.
The author vividly explained certain scenes especially seances that were easy to picture and felt eerie at the same time. You could tell the author did his research on mediums and sleight of hand tricks that magicians used quite extensively. The use of PT Barnum as a supporting character was a great addition to this book since a large portion of this book was dedicated to our main character trying to disprove mediums as frauds who preyed on the emotionally weak.
Historically, PT Barnum also worked to disprove mediums and offered a reward for mediums who could actually talk to the dead. Therefore, the addition of the character is a pleasant surprise for people who knew about his vendetta against mediums.
I enjoyed this book not just for the historical figure supporting cast, but I also liked the mysteries presented that were eventually tied together. Unlike the author’s other books, I could see the twists and red herrings coming for the most part, but they felt more naturally introduced in this book unlike in later books. His main cast of characters in this book also felt more fleshed out compared to the author’s other works especially supporting characters. The two main characters were full of flaws with realistic motivations that made them a joy to read about.
The mystery was also quite satisfying where the removal of the supernatural elements would still make this an engaging read. My favorite characters were Lucy, her rapscallion of a little brother, and Stokely. The character of Lucy steals the show though, and I love her craftiness and ingenuity as well as never give up attitude.
There were a couple of things about this book that irked me but still were not enough to disengage my enjoyment from the story. Firstly, I just could not stand how often our main character lied. I understood his reasons for doing so, but the fact that it was essentially justified towards the end just soured me to Edward, our protagonist. Other than that glaring character flaw, I was satisfied with our protagonist who was quick-witted for the most part by tying together unrelated events to solve things quite quickly, but for some reason he failed to put together certain dots for the big reveal at the end.
The author set up a bigger universe to be explored by introducing a villain group with an agenda. The villain group, their “powers,” and overall goal just seemed cheesy and were written like a cartoonish evil organization from a YA gothic novel. At first the book seemed to have just the right amount of supernatural and realism mixed until the supernatural aspect just overtook everything towards the ending a bit too much.
Overall, I liked this book and could not put it down. I loved the mystery mixed with the paranormal as well as the introduction of historical figures. This was a nice little whodunit mystery followed by a big clue like reveal. If the author ever decides to revisit this series again then I am all for reading future books.
There are some similarities in the writing style to his later books, but otherwise this book felt different without Riley Sager’s usual bag of tricks. Unlike the Author’s other books, this book sets up a universe with sequels though it has been almost a decade since this one came out. I could feel a Caleb Carr influence that reminded me a bit of The Alienist because it inserts prominent figures from the era written into this book such as PT Barnum, a mention of Abraham Lincoln, and more.
The author vividly explained certain scenes especially seances that were easy to picture and felt eerie at the same time. You could tell the author did his research on mediums and sleight of hand tricks that magicians used quite extensively. The use of PT Barnum as a supporting character was a great addition to this book since a large portion of this book was dedicated to our main character trying to disprove mediums as frauds who preyed on the emotionally weak.
Historically, PT Barnum also worked to disprove mediums and offered a reward for mediums who could actually talk to the dead. Therefore, the addition of the character is a pleasant surprise for people who knew about his vendetta against mediums.
I enjoyed this book not just for the historical figure supporting cast, but I also liked the mysteries presented that were eventually tied together. Unlike the author’s other books, I could see the twists and red herrings coming for the most part, but they felt more naturally introduced in this book unlike in later books. His main cast of characters in this book also felt more fleshed out compared to the author’s other works especially supporting characters. The two main characters were full of flaws with realistic motivations that made them a joy to read about.
The mystery was also quite satisfying where the removal of the supernatural elements would still make this an engaging read. My favorite characters were Lucy, her rapscallion of a little brother, and Stokely. The character of Lucy steals the show though, and I love her craftiness and ingenuity as well as never give up attitude.
There were a couple of things about this book that irked me but still were not enough to disengage my enjoyment from the story. Firstly, I just could not stand how often our main character lied. I understood his reasons for doing so, but the fact that it was essentially justified towards the end just soured me to Edward, our protagonist. Other than that glaring character flaw, I was satisfied with our protagonist who was quick-witted for the most part by tying together unrelated events to solve things quite quickly, but for some reason he failed to put together certain dots for the big reveal at the end.
The author set up a bigger universe to be explored by introducing a villain group with an agenda. The villain group, their “powers,” and overall goal just seemed cheesy and were written like a cartoonish evil organization from a YA gothic novel. At first the book seemed to have just the right amount of supernatural and realism mixed until the supernatural aspect just overtook everything towards the ending a bit too much.
Overall, I liked this book and could not put it down. I loved the mystery mixed with the paranormal as well as the introduction of historical figures. This was a nice little whodunit mystery followed by a big clue like reveal. If the author ever decides to revisit this series again then I am all for reading future books.
December 9, 2015
Edward Clark has a secret; he was once Columbus Holmes, son of The Amazing Magellan Holmes a famous magician. But then, his father committed a crime, when Columbus was ten, so horrible that Columbus swore he never see him again. He became Edward Clark, crime reporter, and he tried his very best to leave his past behind him. But everything is about to change when he is asked to investigate mediums and cross path with the lovely, but strong-willed Mrs. Lucy Collins.
This book was fabulous, from the beginning to the end. Magicians, mediums, secret society, murders, ghosts, a hero and heroine that start out hating each other and all mixed into a riveting story. I loved every chapter of the book. The only drawback to the book? I want more, I want more Edward Clark alias Columbus Holmes, I want more Lucy Collins, and I want more stories! I didn't want this book to end. I loved the atmosphere in the book (How I love stories set in the 1900-century), I loved that P.T Barnum made a cameo appearance.
I recommend this book strongly to anyone who wants to read a great book!
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
This book was fabulous, from the beginning to the end. Magicians, mediums, secret society, murders, ghosts, a hero and heroine that start out hating each other and all mixed into a riveting story. I loved every chapter of the book. The only drawback to the book? I want more, I want more Edward Clark alias Columbus Holmes, I want more Lucy Collins, and I want more stories! I didn't want this book to end. I loved the atmosphere in the book (How I love stories set in the 1900-century), I loved that P.T Barnum made a cameo appearance.
I recommend this book strongly to anyone who wants to read a great book!
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
December 23, 2014
*NetGalley book review*
What an excellent fabulous read! This books starts out right away with grabbing your attention and not letting go until the last page. Packed with mediums, spirits and plenty of other stuff, this book is a winner. I very much enjoyed this story of a reporter trying to figure out if all the mediums are real or fake and then meeting a certain one and that's when the story gets great.
What an excellent fabulous read! This books starts out right away with grabbing your attention and not letting go until the last page. Packed with mediums, spirits and plenty of other stuff, this book is a winner. I very much enjoyed this story of a reporter trying to figure out if all the mediums are real or fake and then meeting a certain one and that's when the story gets great.
March 2, 2015
4.5 STARS
What an engaging read!
It is 1869 in Philadelphia. Families are mourning the many dead from the Civil War and Spiritualism is on the rise. There are many "mediums" who are exploiting those trying to contact their loved ones who have died.
The main character Edward Clark is a crime journalist. He has his own hidden family history that he's been trying to keep secretly locked away behind his new life.
When he's pulled into an assignment to debunk the mediums in the city, he ends up meeting feisty and stubborn Lucy Collins. Edward ends up having to join forces with her for his assignment for the paper.
What ensues is a mystery I couldn't put down. The intrigue, murder mystery, characters, and writing come together perfectly. I was kept guessing until the mystery was revealed!
This debut is amazing. I can't wait to see what the author writes next!
Thank you Netgalley and Gallery Books for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
What an engaging read!
It is 1869 in Philadelphia. Families are mourning the many dead from the Civil War and Spiritualism is on the rise. There are many "mediums" who are exploiting those trying to contact their loved ones who have died.
The main character Edward Clark is a crime journalist. He has his own hidden family history that he's been trying to keep secretly locked away behind his new life.
When he's pulled into an assignment to debunk the mediums in the city, he ends up meeting feisty and stubborn Lucy Collins. Edward ends up having to join forces with her for his assignment for the paper.
What ensues is a mystery I couldn't put down. The intrigue, murder mystery, characters, and writing come together perfectly. I was kept guessing until the mystery was revealed!
This debut is amazing. I can't wait to see what the author writes next!
Thank you Netgalley and Gallery Books for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2023
solid 3 stars.
Read for ideas for a story
Writing 3 stars
Idea of plot 4 stars
Historical interest 3.5 stars
Written by Riley Sager? (can't comment as I have never read Sager)
Historical fiction on the age of Spiritualism that was almost a cult religion in the United States just after the Civil War. A romping tale of a newspaper man who is hiding his identity due to family secrets (his father is in jail for the death of his mother during a magic act). Edward (the son of this jailed magician) was falsely identified as another after being wounded during the Battle of Antietam. He chose to keep that identity so his relation to his father would not be revealed. When he is persuaded by his newspaper to begin exposing local mediums it gets interesting.
The plot: a medium dies during a seance he is attending and he is a suspect. Who of the eight people present is responsible and can he solve the mystery before he loses all and his true identity is exposed? Historical fiction mystery with an interesting angle of Spiritualism and mediums. I have a particular interest in this part of U.S. history, ghosts and talking to those "on the other side". Is it all a hoax or do a few mediums have this special talent?
So many factors came together just after the U.S. Civil war that allowed the belief in mediums to flourish. First and primarily there was the need for families to have some closure with the fathers and sons who perished fighting. Also the invention of the telegraph and rapid photograph techniques made many believe there was the supernatural all around and we were just learning how to reach out to this phenomena. A mystery that circles around these questions and gives interesting ideas and answers. More fun than factual and gives little real background of this time in American history. Yet I did enjoy it but it did get a little long.
Read for ideas for a story
Writing 3 stars
Idea of plot 4 stars
Historical interest 3.5 stars
Written by Riley Sager? (can't comment as I have never read Sager)
Historical fiction on the age of Spiritualism that was almost a cult religion in the United States just after the Civil War. A romping tale of a newspaper man who is hiding his identity due to family secrets (his father is in jail for the death of his mother during a magic act). Edward (the son of this jailed magician) was falsely identified as another after being wounded during the Battle of Antietam. He chose to keep that identity so his relation to his father would not be revealed. When he is persuaded by his newspaper to begin exposing local mediums it gets interesting.
The plot: a medium dies during a seance he is attending and he is a suspect. Who of the eight people present is responsible and can he solve the mystery before he loses all and his true identity is exposed? Historical fiction mystery with an interesting angle of Spiritualism and mediums. I have a particular interest in this part of U.S. history, ghosts and talking to those "on the other side". Is it all a hoax or do a few mediums have this special talent?
So many factors came together just after the U.S. Civil war that allowed the belief in mediums to flourish. First and primarily there was the need for families to have some closure with the fathers and sons who perished fighting. Also the invention of the telegraph and rapid photograph techniques made many believe there was the supernatural all around and we were just learning how to reach out to this phenomena. A mystery that circles around these questions and gives interesting ideas and answers. More fun than factual and gives little real background of this time in American history. Yet I did enjoy it but it did get a little long.
January 28, 2017
Hauntings, crystal ball gazing and mysteries abound in postbellum America. Sounds intriguing right? And the first few chapters are. Edward Clark is a young crime reporter whose editor has assigned him to investigate fraudulent mediums throughout the city.
What follows is a series of plot one-upmanships that the author can't possibly deliver on. The more engaging story lines fall by the wayside as we are made to slog through action sequences that are both implausible and unnecessary. Throw in a ridiculously cliched romance and you've lost this reader for the rest of the book.
This was a book club pick though, so I finished the book. Is it telling that several members "accidentally" forgot their books at the host's house? Now there's a mystery I can solve.
***It should be noted that this was one of the books that I suggested to the host, so I am partly to blame for this book selection. ;)
What follows is a series of plot one-upmanships that the author can't possibly deliver on. The more engaging story lines fall by the wayside as we are made to slog through action sequences that are both implausible and unnecessary. Throw in a ridiculously cliched romance and you've lost this reader for the rest of the book.
This was a book club pick though, so I finished the book. Is it telling that several members "accidentally" forgot their books at the host's house? Now there's a mystery I can solve.
***It should be noted that this was one of the books that I suggested to the host, so I am partly to blame for this book selection. ;)
January 2, 2015
When I decided to read Things Half In Shadow by Alan Finn, I wasn’t sure what I should expect. Was this book a Historical Fiction? Murder/Mystery? Paranormal Thriller? Something in between? Or would it encompass all of the above? Needless to say, this title’s ‘about’ blurb had intrigued me – and my only real concern was whether this 436 page book was going to be an interesting read or a ‘snoozer.’
I needn't have worried because Things Half In Shadow was completely captivating. For starters, I was happy that Finn wrote this tale in the first person (a style I thoroughly enjoy). I was also impressed with the manner in which he shared this adventure – using history, verbiage and mannerisms that made me feel as if I was actually experiencing the 19th century. Yes, Things Half In Shadow is a fictional yarn and yet Edward Clark, the book’s main character, believably explains (via the Foreword) that his coming words will be truth. Clark’s granddaughter Isabel has a fascination with the ghostly and the macabre – when she learned that he had first-hand experience with a supernatural murder, she demanded that he pen the accounting to paper for posterity’s sake.
So, readers will finish the Foreword (dated 1919), and then they will turn the page – meeting the Edward Clark from 1869. He’s a well-respected crime reporter for the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin and has quite the readership following. On this particular April morning, Clark was unceremoniously awoken at five o’clock only to be escorted by a policeman to the city’s waterfront. Even earlier that morning, a young woman’s body had been fished from the Delaware River and police need Clark’s Evening Bulletin readers’ help in identifying her.
Police Investigator William Barclay believes that this is a case of accidental drowning, but Clark doesn't agree with that assessment. Where is the purpling skin due to lack of oxygen – or the bloating that goes hand-in-hand with drowning? This woman’s expression is so serene – she looks as if she had passed in her sleep. Clark and Barclay’s conversation is abruptly interrupted when an older woman and her daughter arrive on the scene. The two women positively identify the deceased as none other than their daughter/sister. With the victim’s identity now established, Clark is no longer needed so he trudges off to the office.
Unfortunately, Clark’s editor corners him with a very unfavorable assignment: visit the homes of local mediums; participate in their séances and then write a weekly article debunking the myth – proving that each medium he visits is a fraud. This is definitely not Clark's cup of tea. He’s a crime writer and is completely uninterested in pursuing stories about what are obviously fictitious happenings. While his editor does agree that séances are nothing but hokum, he refuses to let him off the hook so easily. Clark must at least give the proposed assignment some sincere thought first. And at this point, if readers desire to know where the story goes from here, then they’ll need to get their own copy.
In summary, Things Half In Shadow was a grippingly-good read. Finn has a wonderful writing style and he unquestioningly managed to accurately portray the feel of 1869. The plot, scenes and characters were exceptionally believable. In fact, there were times I felt as though I was reading one of Arthur Conan Doyle’s, Sherlock Holmes stories. Things Half in Shadow has it all: murder, mystery, intrigue, and a smattering of some ghostly paranormal thrown in for good measure! A fantastic tale and an author I’m looking forward to reading more from in the future.
Five stars – and certainly deserving of each one.
I needn't have worried because Things Half In Shadow was completely captivating. For starters, I was happy that Finn wrote this tale in the first person (a style I thoroughly enjoy). I was also impressed with the manner in which he shared this adventure – using history, verbiage and mannerisms that made me feel as if I was actually experiencing the 19th century. Yes, Things Half In Shadow is a fictional yarn and yet Edward Clark, the book’s main character, believably explains (via the Foreword) that his coming words will be truth. Clark’s granddaughter Isabel has a fascination with the ghostly and the macabre – when she learned that he had first-hand experience with a supernatural murder, she demanded that he pen the accounting to paper for posterity’s sake.
So, readers will finish the Foreword (dated 1919), and then they will turn the page – meeting the Edward Clark from 1869. He’s a well-respected crime reporter for the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin and has quite the readership following. On this particular April morning, Clark was unceremoniously awoken at five o’clock only to be escorted by a policeman to the city’s waterfront. Even earlier that morning, a young woman’s body had been fished from the Delaware River and police need Clark’s Evening Bulletin readers’ help in identifying her.
Police Investigator William Barclay believes that this is a case of accidental drowning, but Clark doesn't agree with that assessment. Where is the purpling skin due to lack of oxygen – or the bloating that goes hand-in-hand with drowning? This woman’s expression is so serene – she looks as if she had passed in her sleep. Clark and Barclay’s conversation is abruptly interrupted when an older woman and her daughter arrive on the scene. The two women positively identify the deceased as none other than their daughter/sister. With the victim’s identity now established, Clark is no longer needed so he trudges off to the office.
Unfortunately, Clark’s editor corners him with a very unfavorable assignment: visit the homes of local mediums; participate in their séances and then write a weekly article debunking the myth – proving that each medium he visits is a fraud. This is definitely not Clark's cup of tea. He’s a crime writer and is completely uninterested in pursuing stories about what are obviously fictitious happenings. While his editor does agree that séances are nothing but hokum, he refuses to let him off the hook so easily. Clark must at least give the proposed assignment some sincere thought first. And at this point, if readers desire to know where the story goes from here, then they’ll need to get their own copy.
In summary, Things Half In Shadow was a grippingly-good read. Finn has a wonderful writing style and he unquestioningly managed to accurately portray the feel of 1869. The plot, scenes and characters were exceptionally believable. In fact, there were times I felt as though I was reading one of Arthur Conan Doyle’s, Sherlock Holmes stories. Things Half in Shadow has it all: murder, mystery, intrigue, and a smattering of some ghostly paranormal thrown in for good measure! A fantastic tale and an author I’m looking forward to reading more from in the future.
Five stars – and certainly deserving of each one.
June 29, 2015
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of this (it comes out January 15, 2015) and I feel sorry for those of you who have to wait. Set in the 1800s in Philadelphia, it's the gripping story of a Mr. Edward Clark, a rather ordinary chap who gets pulled into the world of ghosts and seances - and a murder investigation. You'll come to care about the characters (well, most of them) and you'll appreciate the well-researched details. You won't want to put it down!
Read
January 12, 2015Things in Half Shadow is an entertaining mystery thriller with a paranormal twist, set in postbellum Philadelphia, in which author Alan Finn (the pen name of Todd Ritter) introduces an unusual crime solving duo - independently wealthy crime reporter, Edward Clark and brazen confidence trickster, Lucy Collins, who become unlikely allies when they are present at the death of Lenora Grimes Pastor, the city's most highly regarded medium.
Edward tells the tale of Things Half in Shadow as an old man sharing the story with his granddaughter. The two lead characters are wonderfully drawn, interesting and believable with intriguing secrets.
Edward is a gentleman, a veteran of the civil war, independently wealthy and engaged to a young lady of society. Tasked by his editor to expose Philadelphia's psychic fraudsters preying on the grieving families of those lost in the war, he is reluctant to do so, though he has a secret that makes him uniquely qualified for the feature.
Mrs. Lucy Collins claims to be a 'spiritually gifted' young widow, offering her services as a medium to the bereaved of Philadelphia and is Edward's first target for his newspaper expose. In truth she is a 'fallen' woman, successfully scamming Philadelphia society with simple sleight of hand.
The plot sees Edward and Lucy forced to cooperate in the wake of Pastor's murder to clear their names, despite their mutual antipathy. There are several suspects including the other man and women who were in attendance at the seance, Leonora's husband and a mysterious man in black who seems to be shadowing Edward. The suspense is well crafted, and the mystery behind Leonora's unusual death is much more complex than it seems, eventually exposing a startling conspiracy that stretches back into Edward's past.
Historically atmospheric, with a surprise cameo from PT Barnum, Things Half in Shadow is a great mystery tale, and one of my favourite books for 2014. Finn hints that Edward and Lucy may return soon, I can't wait.
December 31, 2014
An entertaining historical tale with a fascinating focus: Spiritualism in post-Civil War Philadelphia, as narrated in first-person by a skeptical newspaper reporter, a Union Army veteran, as he lives these events. Readers of historical fiction will delight in the period detail, and those who like a Supernatural flavor will be quite riveted too.
January 18, 2015
More like 4.5 stars. Excellent, spooky, fun! Grabbed my attention at the beginning and didn't let go till the very end. I'm hoping there will be a sequel, it was that good!
December 29, 2014
**I received this book for free from Gallery Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Historical Fiction, Mystery
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
Things Half in Shadow is a mystery blended with the supernatural. Set in Postbellum America (1869 Philadelphia), Shadow is told in the first person narrative by Edward Clark. Shadow enters the world of Spiritualism, Mediums, and a secret society bent on ruling the world with their machinations.
Columbus Holmes, son of The Amazing Magellan Holmes, now lives under the name of Edward Clark. Clark is a crime reporter for the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin. He is also a veteran of the Civil War, and has been having his own struggles coming to terms with surviving the war between the states, while his friends did not. Edward has hidden his real identity for 15 years for fear of being forced to deal with one of the worst nights of his life. The night his own father killed his mother.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
*Recvd via NetGalley 09/18/2014 - Expected publication: December 30th 2014 by Gallery Books
*Genre* Historical Fiction, Mystery
*Rating* 4.0
*My Thoughts*
Things Half in Shadow is a mystery blended with the supernatural. Set in Postbellum America (1869 Philadelphia), Shadow is told in the first person narrative by Edward Clark. Shadow enters the world of Spiritualism, Mediums, and a secret society bent on ruling the world with their machinations.
Columbus Holmes, son of The Amazing Magellan Holmes, now lives under the name of Edward Clark. Clark is a crime reporter for the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin. He is also a veteran of the Civil War, and has been having his own struggles coming to terms with surviving the war between the states, while his friends did not. Edward has hidden his real identity for 15 years for fear of being forced to deal with one of the worst nights of his life. The night his own father killed his mother.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
*Recvd via NetGalley 09/18/2014 - Expected publication: December 30th 2014 by Gallery Books
August 25, 2018
I don't know if I would normally have given this four instead of three stars, but I read it at just the right time. Normally such a slow-paced mystery would've bored me, but I was looking for a little peace and this book about murder and ghosts was actually surprisingly not that violent or bleak.
The author overdid it just a little on trying to bring the city to life, I thought it felt forced at points. Other than that I think he had a good grip on the time period compared to some other historical fiction mystery authors.
Also, the mystery wasn't all that mysterious, the twists are pretty predictable.
Overall, it was a nice relaxing read but nothing thrilling.
The author overdid it just a little on trying to bring the city to life, I thought it felt forced at points. Other than that I think he had a good grip on the time period compared to some other historical fiction mystery authors.
Also, the mystery wasn't all that mysterious, the twists are pretty predictable.
Overall, it was a nice relaxing read but nothing thrilling.
March 15, 2015
Loved it!
January 19, 2015
Things Half in Shadow by Alan Finn is an impeccably written historical novel that is highly entertaining and quite riveting. Written in first person in the form of a memoir, this compelling story is the perfect blend of humor, supernatural elements and mystery. Plenty of twists and turns, misdirects and closely guarded secrets make it impossible to guess the killer's identity until the novel's dramatic and pulse pounding conclusion.
Edward Clark is less than thrilled with his latest assignment from his editor at the paper where he is a successful crime reporter. Ordered to investigate the proliferation of fraudulent mediums operating in the city, Edward reluctantly finds himself teaming up with Mrs. Lucy Collins to solve the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor. Edward neither likes nor trusts Lucy but when she threatens to expose his past, he has no choice but to work with her to prove they had nothing to do with Lenora's death.
Edward has left his notorious past behind him and he is quite content with the life he has carved out for himself. He loves his job as a crime beat reporter, he is happily engaged to a lovely young woman and he remains close friends with his old war buddy and current police detective William Barclay. No one has any idea of the secrets he is keeping, so when Lucy easily uncovers his real identity, Edward is terrified of the truth getting out. Edward is surprised to discover that lurking beneath his dislike for the charlatan is a grudging respect and a surprising attraction that he works hard to ignore.
Despite the fact she is a fraud, it is impossible not to like Lucy. She is a strong and vivacious woman and she is also well connected and fiendishly clever. With few options available to women in the time period, she is doing what she has to do to keep a roof over her and her brother's head. Edward quickly exposes her as a fraud but in order to support herself, she has no compunction about coercing him into working with her. Lucy, too, has a past she wants to remain hidden, but secrets have a way of coming out when least expected and Lucy has to trust that Edward will protect her.
The mystery aspect of the storyline is topnotch and while the investigation uncovers numerous motives for Lenora's murder, Edward and Lucy quickly rule out many of their suspects. The investigation takes a surprising turn when Edward links Lenora's death to another young woman's but trying to figure out the connection between them is not easy. Equally perplexing is the unexpected appearance of Edward's fiancée's younger brother, Jasper. But the most stunning turn of events brings Edward face to face with his infamous past and what he uncovers takes the case in a most shocking direction.
A positively outstanding mystery, Things Half in Shadow by Alan Finn is an excellent novel that has a unique storyline and an incredible cast of well drawn characters. The supernatural element of the plot is so well done that even the most hardened skeptic will rethink their stance on ghosts and mediums. The séance scenes are quite eerie and the startling twist at the novel's end is very spooky. Exciting plot twists keep readers guessing whodunit until the spectacular finale. While all of the story's loose ends are neatly wrapped up, there are some unexpected revelations that appear to leave the door open for future novels starring the very likable Edward Clark.
Edward Clark is less than thrilled with his latest assignment from his editor at the paper where he is a successful crime reporter. Ordered to investigate the proliferation of fraudulent mediums operating in the city, Edward reluctantly finds himself teaming up with Mrs. Lucy Collins to solve the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor. Edward neither likes nor trusts Lucy but when she threatens to expose his past, he has no choice but to work with her to prove they had nothing to do with Lenora's death.
Edward has left his notorious past behind him and he is quite content with the life he has carved out for himself. He loves his job as a crime beat reporter, he is happily engaged to a lovely young woman and he remains close friends with his old war buddy and current police detective William Barclay. No one has any idea of the secrets he is keeping, so when Lucy easily uncovers his real identity, Edward is terrified of the truth getting out. Edward is surprised to discover that lurking beneath his dislike for the charlatan is a grudging respect and a surprising attraction that he works hard to ignore.
Despite the fact she is a fraud, it is impossible not to like Lucy. She is a strong and vivacious woman and she is also well connected and fiendishly clever. With few options available to women in the time period, she is doing what she has to do to keep a roof over her and her brother's head. Edward quickly exposes her as a fraud but in order to support herself, she has no compunction about coercing him into working with her. Lucy, too, has a past she wants to remain hidden, but secrets have a way of coming out when least expected and Lucy has to trust that Edward will protect her.
The mystery aspect of the storyline is topnotch and while the investigation uncovers numerous motives for Lenora's murder, Edward and Lucy quickly rule out many of their suspects. The investigation takes a surprising turn when Edward links Lenora's death to another young woman's but trying to figure out the connection between them is not easy. Equally perplexing is the unexpected appearance of Edward's fiancée's younger brother, Jasper. But the most stunning turn of events brings Edward face to face with his infamous past and what he uncovers takes the case in a most shocking direction.
A positively outstanding mystery, Things Half in Shadow by Alan Finn is an excellent novel that has a unique storyline and an incredible cast of well drawn characters. The supernatural element of the plot is so well done that even the most hardened skeptic will rethink their stance on ghosts and mediums. The séance scenes are quite eerie and the startling twist at the novel's end is very spooky. Exciting plot twists keep readers guessing whodunit until the spectacular finale. While all of the story's loose ends are neatly wrapped up, there are some unexpected revelations that appear to leave the door open for future novels starring the very likable Edward Clark.
December 22, 2014
A brilliantly crafted adventure.
I was really pulled into this story. This time period in America makes supernatural occurrences seem completely rational and acceptable.
Mysticism, magic, mystery and chicanery combine to create a story full of action and excitement. I didn't want to put this one down.
What I loved most of all where the main plot points that coalesced into the final conclusion. So many arcs, in fact, that there could be any number of spin off storylines. The main ending itself is so wide open for a sequel that just begs to be written.
Capturing perfectly an America recovering from Civil War and the peoples looking to connect with those that are lost to the afterlife, the story centers itself on Mediums and their craft. Incorporating secret societies and some true supernatural elements lends an eeriness to this suspenseful tale. Carriage chases and deadly fights offer enough action to make the pages fly by too quickly.
From the flowing dialog and well researched background to the inclusion of historical figures everything goes right with this story.
This is a definite great read and shouldn't be missed.
I was really pulled into this story. This time period in America makes supernatural occurrences seem completely rational and acceptable.
Mysticism, magic, mystery and chicanery combine to create a story full of action and excitement. I didn't want to put this one down.
What I loved most of all where the main plot points that coalesced into the final conclusion. So many arcs, in fact, that there could be any number of spin off storylines. The main ending itself is so wide open for a sequel that just begs to be written.
Capturing perfectly an America recovering from Civil War and the peoples looking to connect with those that are lost to the afterlife, the story centers itself on Mediums and their craft. Incorporating secret societies and some true supernatural elements lends an eeriness to this suspenseful tale. Carriage chases and deadly fights offer enough action to make the pages fly by too quickly.
From the flowing dialog and well researched background to the inclusion of historical figures everything goes right with this story.
This is a definite great read and shouldn't be missed.
March 28, 2015
Séances. Murder mystery. Mediums, real and otherwise. Magic. 19th century Philadelphia. This was certainly an easy choice. And it lived up to my expectations quite nicely. This wasn't the first book I've read on the topic, but definitely the lightest one (in tone, not heft). Almost bestsellery in its language, it did offer up some nice surprises and the rapid fire pacing kept the pages turning, even though a perceptive reader was able to easily ascertain where things were going quite often. Still this was pretty great. Finn infused his novel and his characters with quaintness of the old cinema and charm of bygone days, threw in some plot twists, a credible mystery and enough dark elements to balance out the lightheartedness and produced a thoroughly entertaining read. Normally I strongly prefer standalones, but I surprised myself by being glad to find out there is a sequel in the works. Whoever the man behind the pseudonym is, let's hope Alan Finn doesn't disappoint with further adventures of Edward and Lucy. This book leaves a lot to live up to, since it was such a fun enjoyable read. Recommended.
July 8, 2015
This is a terrible book, and yet still somehow readable. The characters are barely sketched. The main character has no personality, other than being haunted by a tragic past. He is torn between two loves, both of whom are also personality free cliches. Much, much time is dedicated to the colorless hero telling us how much he hates the pretty woman he won't stop hanging out with to the point that in your head you're screaming at him DO HER OR JUST SHUT UP ABOUT IT. PT Barnum is in the book, to add some period flair and is also somehow made boring. PT Barnum is boring! At the beginning of the book the character is advised to go do something important by someone you'd think he'd listen to, but he doesn't for hundreds of pages, and so when he finally does it is near the end of the book and there is little time to address the issue. All of which makes it seem like the book is a set up for a sequel or series about this bland man and his bland life and bland loves and near the end he seems to be given a black side kick. Badness.
March 3, 2015
This book is a whole lot of fun to read!
For those looking for a good account of history as well as some things that go bump in the night, this book would be a perfect choice. I loved the way the author combined reality with fantasy and gave us a main character that we want to see succeed even in the most impossible of situations.
I was surprised by how quickly this book captivated my attention and I refused to put it down until the very end. I'm hoping to see more from this author very soon.
This story moved in directions I was not expecting and kept surprising me until the last page was read. The author has a fine imagination and a talent for making connections where none seem to exist. Excellent book!
If you haven't read this yet, do so! It is worth the time.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
For those looking for a good account of history as well as some things that go bump in the night, this book would be a perfect choice. I loved the way the author combined reality with fantasy and gave us a main character that we want to see succeed even in the most impossible of situations.
I was surprised by how quickly this book captivated my attention and I refused to put it down until the very end. I'm hoping to see more from this author very soon.
This story moved in directions I was not expecting and kept surprising me until the last page was read. The author has a fine imagination and a talent for making connections where none seem to exist. Excellent book!
If you haven't read this yet, do so! It is worth the time.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
June 28, 2015
Excellent book! I normally don't read books that deal with the paranormal but this was so tastefully done that I quite enjoyed it. 1869 Philadelphia and Edward Clark, who is a reporter for The Bulletin, has been given a job of debunking the city's mediums. Mediums have flourished since the end of the Civil War due to the many losses people have experienced and wanting to reconnect with their dead. Edward is also dealing with his own losses but he's never been one to accept the mediums, however, in the line of his work he comes across Lucy Collins and it's obvious to him that she is a fraud but she "volunteers" to help Edward is his cause.
We have murder mysteries, a little romance and some paranormal issues going on. I zipped through this book because it was so interesting to find out what would happen next. I'm giving it 4 stars.
We have murder mysteries, a little romance and some paranormal issues going on. I zipped through this book because it was so interesting to find out what would happen next. I'm giving it 4 stars.
February 4, 2015
ARC: Netgalley
New talent alert! In a plethora of mediocre books it's so rewarding to come across an author who can spin such a web of intrigue and mystery. I look forward to more from Mr. Finn!
New talent alert! In a plethora of mediocre books it's so rewarding to come across an author who can spin such a web of intrigue and mystery. I look forward to more from Mr. Finn!
September 25, 2024
Rating: 2.75/5 it was ok😊
Format: Ebook
This is another pen name of Riley Sager, and I have vowed not to read anything else by him, but this was written early on in his career, it sounded interesting and I figured that he still got fresh ideas back when he wrote this.
The idea of the novel is interesting but it is all over the place, he wanted to tackle too many things: a murder mystery investigation, romance, seances, secret societies, supernatural things… that was just too much. This novel needed focus and to be shorter.
It was an ok read but it dragged and got a bit boring towards the end, plus it has lose ends that didn’t need to be there.
Format: Ebook
This is another pen name of Riley Sager, and I have vowed not to read anything else by him, but this was written early on in his career, it sounded interesting and I figured that he still got fresh ideas back when he wrote this.
The idea of the novel is interesting but it is all over the place, he wanted to tackle too many things: a murder mystery investigation, romance, seances, secret societies, supernatural things… that was just too much. This novel needed focus and to be shorter.
It was an ok read but it dragged and got a bit boring towards the end, plus it has lose ends that didn’t need to be there.
February 22, 2015
Review originally posted at www.bookertease.blogspot.ca
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Anyone who knows my reading tastes knows that I am a sucker for anything to do with mediums and séances or ghosts and mysticism from around the turn of the century. I have always loved a good ghost story, although they terrify me, which is weird, since I don’t believe in ghosts in the slightest, so I am not completely sure where the terror or the obsession comes from. Honestly, I would love for ghosts and spirits to be real, just like I would love for magic and the supernatural to be real. How cool would that be! But I just don’t. That doesn’t stop me, however, from loving stories about it, and there is something about the darkness of the mid-1800s to early 1900s, revolutionary scientific and technological advances were being made and society was starting to modernise, while at the same time there was a trend towards dark and sensational tales. Mediums and spiritualists were all the rage – from high society to the dirt poor, everyone wanted to hear their future or talk to the dead. The mediums themselves were celebrities and the techniques they employed to trick the masses; or help those suffering from their losses (How charitable to mediums were as they stole all of your money) were incredibly ingenious. So when I saw the description for Things Half in Shadow on Net Galley, I knew that I wanted to read it.
So far, I am thoroughly enjoying this novel. Edward Clark works as a reporter in Philadelphia in 1869 and has just been assigned with defrauding all of the mediums in the city. It’s not a job that he is the least bit interested in, he doesn’t believe in spirits or ghosts, and has no interest in becoming involved. However, his soon-to-be father in law, Thornton Willoughby of Willoughby Hats, thinks that it is a brilliant idea and since Edward very much wants to please his prospective family he agrees to take on the case. His first defrauding is a resounding success, except that he has underestimated his mark. See, Edward Clark is a man with secrets, secrets that he has done a very good job of hiding from everyone, until he gets on the wrong side of Lucy Collins. Threatening him with the demise of his carefully constructed new life, Edward unwillingly agrees to take Lucy on as his partner in defrauding the other mediums in the city. On their first night out Lucy and Edward see some things they can’t explain and they talk to spirits from their past, spirits that their medium could know nothing about. The action doesn’t end there though and the next day they both find themselves murder suspects.
Like I said, I am thoroughly enjoying the story. Alan Finn, the pen name for mystery writer Todd Ritter, has done a great job of re-creating postbellum Philadelphia – with emotionally and physically wounded soldiers back from war, unsure how to live in peace and unsure of their roles in the world anymore; women who are starting to demand more for themselves; and class distinctions and barriers that were slowly starting to be broken down, although everyone is still painfully aware of the divisions. My only complaint so far would be with Edwards’s character. I really enjoyed him at the beginning, but I am finding that his character is just a little too weak; he gets a little too surprised whenever he encounters a woman with a backbone. Although that’s not completely right – he is happy when his finance, Violet, shows strength in supporting him, but annoyed when Lucy shows strength in disagreeing with him, or acts too forward and independent. I am pretty sure that Finn is attempting to show us Edward growing as a man and learning the value of women – but I’d rather like it if he had had a little more respect to start with. It’s not just with women though; in general he backs down pretty quickly and gets walked over a fair bit. He is afraid of anyone thinking anything negative about him and will avoid confrontations at any cost (except with his valet – which slightly annoys me, since I see this happening only because Edward belongs to a high class of citizen. Although, to be fair, his valet deserves it). His aversion to taking a stand creates some rather messy situations that could have been easily avoided, but also don’t really further the plot, so I am not sure why it’s necessary for him to be such a simpering man. My assumption (and I could be totally wrong) is that Finn is trying to show us a man caught up in an adventure that he wants no part of, but is being forced by circumstances beyond his control – however this could have been accomplished without turning Edward into a bit of a man-child. I am definitely biased though; I have a natural aversion to weak willed heroes.
Luckily my problems with Edward are not really affecting my enjoyment of the story itself. There is enough spookiness and unanswered questions to keep me going. I am curious about the role that the bees seem to be taking (they keep appearing in visions of those who have passed) and I truly have no idea who the actual murder is. I am not sure at all what direction the story is going to take – will the ghosts and spirits be real? Or a conjuror’s trick? And what really happened to Edward’s mother when he was a child? These are questions that I really want answers too – so back to the kobo for me!
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Anyone who knows my reading tastes knows that I am a sucker for anything to do with mediums and séances or ghosts and mysticism from around the turn of the century. I have always loved a good ghost story, although they terrify me, which is weird, since I don’t believe in ghosts in the slightest, so I am not completely sure where the terror or the obsession comes from. Honestly, I would love for ghosts and spirits to be real, just like I would love for magic and the supernatural to be real. How cool would that be! But I just don’t. That doesn’t stop me, however, from loving stories about it, and there is something about the darkness of the mid-1800s to early 1900s, revolutionary scientific and technological advances were being made and society was starting to modernise, while at the same time there was a trend towards dark and sensational tales. Mediums and spiritualists were all the rage – from high society to the dirt poor, everyone wanted to hear their future or talk to the dead. The mediums themselves were celebrities and the techniques they employed to trick the masses; or help those suffering from their losses (How charitable to mediums were as they stole all of your money) were incredibly ingenious. So when I saw the description for Things Half in Shadow on Net Galley, I knew that I wanted to read it.
So far, I am thoroughly enjoying this novel. Edward Clark works as a reporter in Philadelphia in 1869 and has just been assigned with defrauding all of the mediums in the city. It’s not a job that he is the least bit interested in, he doesn’t believe in spirits or ghosts, and has no interest in becoming involved. However, his soon-to-be father in law, Thornton Willoughby of Willoughby Hats, thinks that it is a brilliant idea and since Edward very much wants to please his prospective family he agrees to take on the case. His first defrauding is a resounding success, except that he has underestimated his mark. See, Edward Clark is a man with secrets, secrets that he has done a very good job of hiding from everyone, until he gets on the wrong side of Lucy Collins. Threatening him with the demise of his carefully constructed new life, Edward unwillingly agrees to take Lucy on as his partner in defrauding the other mediums in the city. On their first night out Lucy and Edward see some things they can’t explain and they talk to spirits from their past, spirits that their medium could know nothing about. The action doesn’t end there though and the next day they both find themselves murder suspects.
Like I said, I am thoroughly enjoying the story. Alan Finn, the pen name for mystery writer Todd Ritter, has done a great job of re-creating postbellum Philadelphia – with emotionally and physically wounded soldiers back from war, unsure how to live in peace and unsure of their roles in the world anymore; women who are starting to demand more for themselves; and class distinctions and barriers that were slowly starting to be broken down, although everyone is still painfully aware of the divisions. My only complaint so far would be with Edwards’s character. I really enjoyed him at the beginning, but I am finding that his character is just a little too weak; he gets a little too surprised whenever he encounters a woman with a backbone. Although that’s not completely right – he is happy when his finance, Violet, shows strength in supporting him, but annoyed when Lucy shows strength in disagreeing with him, or acts too forward and independent. I am pretty sure that Finn is attempting to show us Edward growing as a man and learning the value of women – but I’d rather like it if he had had a little more respect to start with. It’s not just with women though; in general he backs down pretty quickly and gets walked over a fair bit. He is afraid of anyone thinking anything negative about him and will avoid confrontations at any cost (except with his valet – which slightly annoys me, since I see this happening only because Edward belongs to a high class of citizen. Although, to be fair, his valet deserves it). His aversion to taking a stand creates some rather messy situations that could have been easily avoided, but also don’t really further the plot, so I am not sure why it’s necessary for him to be such a simpering man. My assumption (and I could be totally wrong) is that Finn is trying to show us a man caught up in an adventure that he wants no part of, but is being forced by circumstances beyond his control – however this could have been accomplished without turning Edward into a bit of a man-child. I am definitely biased though; I have a natural aversion to weak willed heroes.
Luckily my problems with Edward are not really affecting my enjoyment of the story itself. There is enough spookiness and unanswered questions to keep me going. I am curious about the role that the bees seem to be taking (they keep appearing in visions of those who have passed) and I truly have no idea who the actual murder is. I am not sure at all what direction the story is going to take – will the ghosts and spirits be real? Or a conjuror’s trick? And what really happened to Edward’s mother when he was a child? These are questions that I really want answers too – so back to the kobo for me!
May 19, 2015
My Review: A sign of a good book is when you're engaged right from the beginning. This happened for me with the debut novel, Things Half in Shadow. I loved how the book opens with the foreword written by Edward 'at the behest' of his granddaughter who has quite the macabre disposition and love of ghost stories. In order to please his granddaughter Edward writes down the ghost stories that he knows. It's one of these ghost stories that makes up Things Half In Shadow which was a very atmospheric historical fiction, suspense, paranormal and mystery all blended into a really enjoyable read.
Finn writes about an era that I admittedly didn't know much about. But he deftly brings the reader into life in post-Civil War Philadelphia and delves into the emotional waters of the PTSD that the soldiers faced. He also focuses on the increase in spiritualism and people's desire for psychic intervention to 'reach' their lost loved ones after the war which I found fascinating. It was a time of great loss and people reached out in many different ways to ease their pain and likewise there were many charlatans who were eager to take their money and give the answers they yearned for (sometimes using quite intricate means).
Edward was an interesting character that I could get behind. He's an independently wealthy crime reporter for one of the local Philadelphia newspapers which gives him ample reasons for further exploits. He's a rather quiet leading man but it's his hidden identity and his family background made him quite compelling as a main character. He has a lot on his plate with trying to maintain his relationship with a society debutante while being thrust into an uncomfortable assignment and being forced to deal with a woman he finds quite detestable. But it's this bantering with Mrs Lucy Collins, the detestable woman aforementioned, which was refreshing and brought a levity and an energy to the book. She was a great balance to Edward's more subdued character making her my favourite character in the book. Her energy and humour reminds me of Lady Julia Grey (Deanna Raybourne's heroine) which made her easy to adore. She was feisty, stubborn, forthright, funny and doesn't apologize for what she does to make a living.
There is a romance angle in the book but it was thankfully not overdone. But it was also easily foreseeable too. It's not that I'm knocking the way it was done because I did, for the most part, enjoy that aspect but it was a little to predictable for my liking.
This was a very impressive debut novel. Finn has an enjoyable writing style and a gift for putting his readers into the mindset and atmosphere of the post Civil War era with great ease. This is a great stand-alone read but it also opens the door for further exploits for Edward and Lucy which I am most eager to read.
My Rating: 4/5 stars
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
**This book review can also be found on my blog, The Baking Bookworm (www.thebakingbookworm.blogspot.ca) where I share hundreds of book reviews and my favourite recipes. **
Finn writes about an era that I admittedly didn't know much about. But he deftly brings the reader into life in post-Civil War Philadelphia and delves into the emotional waters of the PTSD that the soldiers faced. He also focuses on the increase in spiritualism and people's desire for psychic intervention to 'reach' their lost loved ones after the war which I found fascinating. It was a time of great loss and people reached out in many different ways to ease their pain and likewise there were many charlatans who were eager to take their money and give the answers they yearned for (sometimes using quite intricate means).
Edward was an interesting character that I could get behind. He's an independently wealthy crime reporter for one of the local Philadelphia newspapers which gives him ample reasons for further exploits. He's a rather quiet leading man but it's his hidden identity and his family background made him quite compelling as a main character. He has a lot on his plate with trying to maintain his relationship with a society debutante while being thrust into an uncomfortable assignment and being forced to deal with a woman he finds quite detestable. But it's this bantering with Mrs Lucy Collins, the detestable woman aforementioned, which was refreshing and brought a levity and an energy to the book. She was a great balance to Edward's more subdued character making her my favourite character in the book. Her energy and humour reminds me of Lady Julia Grey (Deanna Raybourne's heroine) which made her easy to adore. She was feisty, stubborn, forthright, funny and doesn't apologize for what she does to make a living.
There is a romance angle in the book but it was thankfully not overdone. But it was also easily foreseeable too. It's not that I'm knocking the way it was done because I did, for the most part, enjoy that aspect but it was a little to predictable for my liking.
This was a very impressive debut novel. Finn has an enjoyable writing style and a gift for putting his readers into the mindset and atmosphere of the post Civil War era with great ease. This is a great stand-alone read but it also opens the door for further exploits for Edward and Lucy which I am most eager to read.
My Rating: 4/5 stars
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
**This book review can also be found on my blog, The Baking Bookworm (www.thebakingbookworm.blogspot.ca) where I share hundreds of book reviews and my favourite recipes. **
October 3, 2015
It's 1869 and Edward Clark lives a comfortable life as a reporter for the Evening Bulletin in Philadelphia. He's happily engaged to a pretty, delicate girl named Violet Willoughby and has pretty much moved on from the tragedy that struck his young life at only 10 years of age. But when Edward's editor assigns him the task of writing a series of articles exposing the many fraudulent mediums overrunning the city, Edward is set on a downward spiral that has him not only witness to a murder, but also one of it's primary suspects.
As one of the city's few legitimate mediums, the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor, which occurred in a locked séance room, has all of its participants under suspicion. With the help of Ms. Lucy Collins, a medium who uses sleight-of-hand to prey on the unwary, and his friend Inspector William Barclay, Edward is determined to clear his name. But the secrets they unearth go much deeper than any of them expected, and the possible ties Edward's past—a tragedy he's kept secret from both his fiancée and closest friend—may tear his comfortable world apart.
I really liked this book a lot! The story was exciting, captivating, and fun. I'm a sucker for all things ghostly and supernatural so it was not only the subject matter that appealed to me but also the mystery behind it—who killed the medium Lenora Grimes Pastor inside that locked room?
The author, Alan Finn, writes extremely well and has a masterful command of language and how to use it, keeping the reader fully engaged without getting too wordy or revealing too much. The timing and suspense is perfect. The author knows the exact right words to use at the right time to elicit the desired effect, and he knows exactly how to set the right mood with his words. This book's prose truly flows like like classic literature in my opinion. Just check out his gorgeous website which just oozes with atmosphere.
Edward's character did grate on my nerves at times however because he continually left his fiancée in the dark, not only about his past, but also about everything he was doing with Lucy to try to clear his name and solve the murder of Mrs. Pastor. A relationship built on so many lies is doomed to failure, which leads you to wonder, Though the story was written as a memoir with Edward looking back on an event that took place in his life 50 years in the past, that tidbit of information was never definitively stated, and I was left to wonder if the author did this intentionally, or if I just missed some subtle hint in the Foreword or Postscript.
I did see reference on his Goodreads Author page that the author working on a sequel to Things Half in Shadow. Woot woot!! I'm very much looking forward to that. (Do check out the video trailer on that page too if you didn't already do so at his website.)
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As one of the city's few legitimate mediums, the murder of Lenora Grimes Pastor, which occurred in a locked séance room, has all of its participants under suspicion. With the help of Ms. Lucy Collins, a medium who uses sleight-of-hand to prey on the unwary, and his friend Inspector William Barclay, Edward is determined to clear his name. But the secrets they unearth go much deeper than any of them expected, and the possible ties Edward's past—a tragedy he's kept secret from both his fiancée and closest friend—may tear his comfortable world apart.
I really liked this book a lot! The story was exciting, captivating, and fun. I'm a sucker for all things ghostly and supernatural so it was not only the subject matter that appealed to me but also the mystery behind it—who killed the medium Lenora Grimes Pastor inside that locked room?
The author, Alan Finn, writes extremely well and has a masterful command of language and how to use it, keeping the reader fully engaged without getting too wordy or revealing too much. The timing and suspense is perfect. The author knows the exact right words to use at the right time to elicit the desired effect, and he knows exactly how to set the right mood with his words. This book's prose truly flows like like classic literature in my opinion. Just check out his gorgeous website which just oozes with atmosphere.
Edward's character did grate on my nerves at times however because he continually left his fiancée in the dark, not only about his past, but also about everything he was doing with Lucy to try to clear his name and solve the murder of Mrs. Pastor. A relationship built on so many lies is doomed to failure, which leads you to wonder, Though the story was written as a memoir with Edward looking back on an event that took place in his life 50 years in the past, that tidbit of information was never definitively stated, and I was left to wonder if the author did this intentionally, or if I just missed some subtle hint in the Foreword or Postscript.
I did see reference on his Goodreads Author page that the author working on a sequel to Things Half in Shadow. Woot woot!! I'm very much looking forward to that. (Do check out the video trailer on that page too if you didn't already do so at his website.)
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2015
I give this 3.5 stars really. I found it a most enjoyable read. There were times I really did not want to put it down. I enjoyed the time period it was put in, a few years after the American Civil War and it had a good grasp on the "fad" of Spiritualism that was all the rage. (I suspect it still might be) I will confess to visiting a psychic counselor (as they are called now) from time to time in the past...so I understand the appeal. The writing perhaps might have been a bit basic, but that is okay. We don't want to read The Name of the Rose all the time. All in all a great little story, enjoyable characters and a nice twist.
December 12, 2014
I LOVED this book...it has all the things I enjoy...ghosts, spookiness, a spunky heroine and a very good mystery...or two. Edward is a fabulous character - funny, smart, sensitive - and I say "yes please" to more adventures for him and Lucy. "My mother once told me that bees are nothing to be afraid of. In fact, she said they're a sign of good luck, because they create sweetness wherever they go." Everyone in this book has a secret, and it's fun to find out what! Oh, and don't even get me started on the nose-less man and...the Praediti.
January 11, 2015
Really excellent historical mystery with unique, complex characters and a great storyline. And this story involves mediums, so you get to know a little of the methods used by some mediums to fake ghostly occurrences. I really enjoyed reading this and hope there will be further stories with these characters. Recommended to anyone who likes historical mysteries.
January 31, 2015
I enjoyed this book more than expected. I liked the unique subject matter, wrapped in mystery, and set in historical Philadelphia. It reminded me somewhat of the Pendergrast novels by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, of which I am a big fan. I would recommend this book to those fans of suspense and historical mystery. I was provided a digital copy of this book by Netgalley.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews