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Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin
When fourteen-year-old drummer Relic Meyers discovers a lost demo tape from his father's band, Unknown Oath, he unwittingly unleashes the Widow—a cursed muse tied to his family's dark past. As deadly occurrences plague his hometown of Laramie, Indiana, Relic—alongside his best friend Bree and the dark and mysterious new girl Delilah—uncovers cult secrets of supernatural forces that feed on human creativity.
Haunted by eldritch visions and his father’s rhythmic echoes, Relic must navigate first love, high school rivalries, and monstrous forces to save his town.
Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin is a thrilling blend of supernatural scares and coming-of-age drama set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1997. Perfect for fans of horror and heavy metal, this tale of macabre music and unrelenting tension will keep you hooked until the last beat.
Haunted by eldritch visions and his father’s rhythmic echoes, Relic must navigate first love, high school rivalries, and monstrous forces to save his town.
Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin is a thrilling blend of supernatural scares and coming-of-age drama set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1997. Perfect for fans of horror and heavy metal, this tale of macabre music and unrelenting tension will keep you hooked until the last beat.
325 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2024
7 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
Brady J. Sadler
9 books20 followersBrady J. Sadler is a drummer, board game designer, and occasional author. He lives in Indiana with his wife, two children, and usually one too many cats. You can keep up with him at www.bradyjsadler.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 10, 2024
This book was so much fun! Dripping with nostalgia for my GenX self, action, creatures, demons, it was everything I want from a horror novel. It was a little more geared towards YA than my typical horror reads, but it was set in the 90's, so teenage me fit right in! Buffy, Madonna, Event Horizon, and Resident Evil all made appearances in the pop culture of the time, and it made me extremely happy.
MC Relic Meyers is a 14-year-old getting ready to star his freshman year of high school along with his BFF Bree. Relic is the son of a famous drummer from the metal band Unknown Oath. His father, Steven left his wife and 4-year-old son to tour exclusively in Europe and never returned. Rumors abound about Relic's dad possibly being responsible for some occult murders that took place when Relic was a child. When strange things begin to happen in this Indiana town again, some question whether or not the Unknown Oath drummer has returned.
Part Stranger Things, part Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this one was mysterious and action-packed. Lots of tension and intrigue, with tons of different creatures making appearances. Werewolves, vampires, ghosts, ghouls, even a wendigo show up in town wrecking much havoc.
I highly recommend this one if you're looking for a nostalgic, coming of age tale with occult elements and a heavy metal attitude. While not 100% a YA book, I would feel very comfortable with my 13-year-old checking this one out, too!
MC Relic Meyers is a 14-year-old getting ready to star his freshman year of high school along with his BFF Bree. Relic is the son of a famous drummer from the metal band Unknown Oath. His father, Steven left his wife and 4-year-old son to tour exclusively in Europe and never returned. Rumors abound about Relic's dad possibly being responsible for some occult murders that took place when Relic was a child. When strange things begin to happen in this Indiana town again, some question whether or not the Unknown Oath drummer has returned.
Part Stranger Things, part Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this one was mysterious and action-packed. Lots of tension and intrigue, with tons of different creatures making appearances. Werewolves, vampires, ghosts, ghouls, even a wendigo show up in town wrecking much havoc.
I highly recommend this one if you're looking for a nostalgic, coming of age tale with occult elements and a heavy metal attitude. While not 100% a YA book, I would feel very comfortable with my 13-year-old checking this one out, too!
September 3, 2024
The fact that Bree & Relic love Mr. Bean is amazing. As a 90s kid, I grew up on it and loved watching it after school. To this day I still love Rowan Atkinson. The nostalgia in this book is so real. These characters are just so relatable and fun. It made for a fast paced, enjoyable read.
As someone who is married to a drummer that actively tours and plays shows, I must say, I understand how it feels to miss someone so much when they’re on the road.
There was also plenty of monster madness and metal music to go around, you can’t really go wrong with either of those things.
Relic doesn’t really care for The Cure or Depeche Mode and I’ll forgive him for his lack of taste, he’s just a teenager after all.
This was a great YA horror book.
I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes open for a second book.
As someone who is married to a drummer that actively tours and plays shows, I must say, I understand how it feels to miss someone so much when they’re on the road.
There was also plenty of monster madness and metal music to go around, you can’t really go wrong with either of those things.
Relic doesn’t really care for The Cure or Depeche Mode and I’ll forgive him for his lack of taste, he’s just a teenager after all.
This was a great YA horror book.
I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes open for a second book.
April 15, 2025
Book Review: Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin by Brady Sadler
Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin is a thrilling, nostalgia-soaked adventure that hits all the right notes for readers who grew up on Goosebumps and are now looking for something with a bit more bite. Brady Sadler crafts a story that’s both spooky and heartfelt, delivering a cast of characters you can’t help but root for.
What really made my heart smile were the nostalgic nods sprinkled throughout—mentions of Green Day, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Madonna felt like a warm hug from the past. These cultural callbacks added depth and charm without ever feeling forced.
It’s a fun, fast-paced read with just the right amount of creepy. If you’re a fan of supernatural mysteries, witty banter, and stories that blend coming-of-age vibes with eerie twists, this one’s for you.
Relic Meyers & The Rhythms of Ruin is a thrilling, nostalgia-soaked adventure that hits all the right notes for readers who grew up on Goosebumps and are now looking for something with a bit more bite. Brady Sadler crafts a story that’s both spooky and heartfelt, delivering a cast of characters you can’t help but root for.
What really made my heart smile were the nostalgic nods sprinkled throughout—mentions of Green Day, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Madonna felt like a warm hug from the past. These cultural callbacks added depth and charm without ever feeling forced.
It’s a fun, fast-paced read with just the right amount of creepy. If you’re a fan of supernatural mysteries, witty banter, and stories that blend coming-of-age vibes with eerie twists, this one’s for you.
August 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It had just enough monsters and magic to keep me interested. Not only that but it being in the 90s had me reminiscing on things I've watched, listened to, everything. I would read this book again. And I hope there is another one soon.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2025
Heavy metal, teen angst,and monsters — oh my! Brady Sadler kicks off quite a universe with Relic Meyers and his bandmates. Some of the character driven scenes and dialogue dragged for me as an adult but I think it’s right on the money for younger readers. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read this and look forward to checking out the next book in the series.
August 23, 2024
The first chapter had me hooked, asking questions and interested in finding out more. Not only did the story provide a great feeling of nostalgia, it actually felt like it could have been written during that time. It's like an edgier Fear Street. Unfortunately, I did find the second half to be rushed and a little convoluted. The ending clearly sets up a sequel, but I felt like there were still questions that could have been answered in this book. However, it was an overall enjoyable read. Being from the same hometown as the author, I especially liked recognizing streets and locations.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2024
It's such a nostalgic supernatural horror story. Monsters, rock band, and lots of crazy twists. Get your 90s vibe on as Relic navigates high school, girls, and the supernatural. Super easy read and great characters.
If you're looking for a good book for YA Halloween, this is it.
If you're looking for a good book for YA Halloween, this is it.
July 18, 2024
A must read for metal heads who love monsters, violence, teen romance, and tragic family curses. Can't wait for the sequel.
May 12, 2025
The book is based in a town in Indiana during 1997. It follows Relic, a drummer who is starting a metal band & is also getting ready to start high school. His dad, who was hardly around, was also a drummer of a famous metal band & seemed to have disappeared several years ago while touring in Europe w/ his band.
A horror production cast comes to his town to film a documentary on his towns past & rumors about his dad, the occult & murder start buzzing. While trying to figure everything out, he finds a cassette tape of some of his dad’s old music & after he listens… things start to happen… he is having some dreams that become completely terrifying.
I immediately felt connected to the characters & was so ready to dive into the mystery about the accusations & rumors around Relic’s dad. This book has monsters, music, complicated friendships, teen angst / romance and just the right amount of horror / gore for a YA novel. Also — mentions of Madonna, Mr. Bean & Buffy all made my ‘90s heart so happy!
A horror production cast comes to his town to film a documentary on his towns past & rumors about his dad, the occult & murder start buzzing. While trying to figure everything out, he finds a cassette tape of some of his dad’s old music & after he listens… things start to happen… he is having some dreams that become completely terrifying.
I immediately felt connected to the characters & was so ready to dive into the mystery about the accusations & rumors around Relic’s dad. This book has monsters, music, complicated friendships, teen angst / romance and just the right amount of horror / gore for a YA novel. Also — mentions of Madonna, Mr. Bean & Buffy all made my ‘90s heart so happy!
June 3, 2025
Since 1987, Relic’s father, Steven “Stick” Meyers, has been missing, leading up to a particularly gruesome “dire decade” in Laramie, Indiana.
When documentary filmmakers come to town to film a feature about the town’s sordid history, a dark secret is unearthed. Relic, haunted by nightmarish visions, has a lingering suspicion that his father can be found somewhere amongst the chaos.
Bravely battling spectral wraiths, werewolves, and high school bullies, Relic battles supernatural forces, painful memories, and teenage hormones in a maelstrom.
This book has everything from heavy metal, monster mayhem, lots of pizza, and a big, beating heart, so be warned, it will get you in all of the feels. For fans of heavy metal and nostalgic YA horror, this book is an absolute headbanger.
When documentary filmmakers come to town to film a feature about the town’s sordid history, a dark secret is unearthed. Relic, haunted by nightmarish visions, has a lingering suspicion that his father can be found somewhere amongst the chaos.
Bravely battling spectral wraiths, werewolves, and high school bullies, Relic battles supernatural forces, painful memories, and teenage hormones in a maelstrom.
This book has everything from heavy metal, monster mayhem, lots of pizza, and a big, beating heart, so be warned, it will get you in all of the feels. For fans of heavy metal and nostalgic YA horror, this book is an absolute headbanger.
August 3, 2025
Such a fun read! It's giving Hysteria vibes, but unlike the TV show, this series is still going! It's honestly refreshing to read a YA novel from a boy's perspective. Having once been a teen girl myself, I am intimately familiar with girl cringe, but reading about boy cringe had me feeling so deeply for Relic! Poor kid! I loved how his dynamic with Bree was handled and I loved the whole friendship vibe going on here. I don't read much metal horror, but this one was so much fun! Lots of dabbling in the Satanic Panic, a smattering of possession, and shredding to reach another realm, you can't miss! YA is missing more stories like this!
July 19, 2024
Relic Meyers is a fun ride that follows a group of relatable, suburban teenagers as they navigate adolescence, all while being thrust into a fast-paced, metal-infused, fantasy adventure! I’ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel!
August 12, 2024
From the very beginning, it had me hooked. It brought back nostalgia for 80s and 90s movies, and Sadler put his own spin on the genre. I loved it. Can't wait to have a physical copy in my hands.
May 2, 2025
This book was like taking a time machine to the early mornings and afterschool specials of the 90s! **full review coming soon**
September 17, 2024
Greta book. I can’t wait for the audio version to read it again.
August 8, 2024
In the spirit of full disclosure, I was provided with a digital copy of this book for free in exchange for this review - the author or publisher has no say in the content of this review. In addition I believe that I am not the target audience for this book, so whilst I can't say I enjoyed the book, this has little to do with the quality of the work.
Sadler's writing style is very easy to read, and it's quite easy to infer character motives and actions. The environments are very easy to parse and evocative of a time that will resonate strongly with a lot of adult readers - especially those who spent their childhood in pre-internet USA.
Given that I think the environment is descriptive of a time about 40 years ago (deep apologies to anyone wounded by this number...!) I found some of the "coming of age" stuff to be perhaps a little challenging to read, the characters are 14 or thereabouts, and whilst I absolutely accept that physical maturity brings with it embarrassing new challenges, the metaphors used to describe these things sometimes drift a little too close to language you might find in a romance featuring adults; perhaps this is intentional to evoke a feeling of that embarrassment or shame in the reader - I definitely did feel uncomfortable at points but I would say that this hindered my experience more than anything. This leaves me in a bit of a strange state wondering who this book is for - because the themes of 80s analogue media will be alien to younger readers that will relate to the challenges of puberty, and older readers that will relate to the nostalgic setting will probably find the coming of age elements to be off-putting.
I found the book to be quite predictable and easy-going, so probably a good, simple read if you're into the overt themes or the blurb takes your interest, and you're not looking for anything too deep and meaningful.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sadler's writing style is very easy to read, and it's quite easy to infer character motives and actions. The environments are very easy to parse and evocative of a time that will resonate strongly with a lot of adult readers - especially those who spent their childhood in pre-internet USA.
Given that I think the environment is descriptive of a time about 40 years ago (deep apologies to anyone wounded by this number...!) I found some of the "coming of age" stuff to be perhaps a little challenging to read, the characters are 14 or thereabouts, and whilst I absolutely accept that physical maturity brings with it embarrassing new challenges, the metaphors used to describe these things sometimes drift a little too close to language you might find in a romance featuring adults; perhaps this is intentional to evoke a feeling of that embarrassment or shame in the reader - I definitely did feel uncomfortable at points but I would say that this hindered my experience more than anything. This leaves me in a bit of a strange state wondering who this book is for - because the themes of 80s analogue media will be alien to younger readers that will relate to the challenges of puberty, and older readers that will relate to the nostalgic setting will probably find the coming of age elements to be off-putting.
I found the book to be quite predictable and easy-going, so probably a good, simple read if you're into the overt themes or the blurb takes your interest, and you're not looking for anything too deep and meaningful.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2025
Relic is getting ready to enter high school. The son of a metal drummer, he naturally has the instinct to become a drummer himself, much to his mother's dismay. His dad was barely there, going on tour instead of sticking around with his family. About a year prior, he stopped sending monthly checks that have supported them and seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth. Thankfully his best friend Bree has come home from a summer at music camp, but a mysterious new girl has also moved to town, bringing even more confusion to his already confused feelings towards Bree.
Not only facing normal teenage issues (bullying, teenage love, hormones), a horror production team from Hollywood has come to their town to do a documentary on the twisted legends of their town. What should be an exciting time turns to terror as Relic begins having violent dreams that seem to happen in real life. He tries to dig into his father's past while also trying to avoid the new, terrifying dangers that have seemingly popped up out of nowhere.
This book was a nostalgia trip! I loved all the nods to things that I loved growing up, from watching Buffy to searching through CDs at the local shop, it was a blast from the past. It was also a surprising book, and I honestly didn't know where it was heading until it seemed to shift gears about halfway through. Some books really make the characters grow on me, this is definitely one of them as I genuinely grew to adore them. The audiobook was also an experience in itself, and I'm glad that I got to listen to it.
Now if you excuse me, I'm off to watch Mr. Bean 😂
Not only facing normal teenage issues (bullying, teenage love, hormones), a horror production team from Hollywood has come to their town to do a documentary on the twisted legends of their town. What should be an exciting time turns to terror as Relic begins having violent dreams that seem to happen in real life. He tries to dig into his father's past while also trying to avoid the new, terrifying dangers that have seemingly popped up out of nowhere.
This book was a nostalgia trip! I loved all the nods to things that I loved growing up, from watching Buffy to searching through CDs at the local shop, it was a blast from the past. It was also a surprising book, and I honestly didn't know where it was heading until it seemed to shift gears about halfway through. Some books really make the characters grow on me, this is definitely one of them as I genuinely grew to adore them. The audiobook was also an experience in itself, and I'm glad that I got to listen to it.
Now if you excuse me, I'm off to watch Mr. Bean 😂
January 9, 2025
I listened to this as an audiobook, and honestly enjoyed the narrator, not one I'm used too, but will be adding to my list, as i enjoyed it.
Now onto the book, I don't believe i have read anything by Sadler, and this was very fun.
We had a kid whose dad used to be in a band, and he finds one of his old tapes, and plays it.
Stop finding unknown items and just doing shit with them people !
But anyways, this unlocks a family curse situation that curses the town, and after it starts it does not stop.
This has some rhythm and well...soul to it that made it absolutely wonderful.
Relic ( what a cool name) has to try to get through HS and some how navigate the supernatural .
Maybe I'm a sucker for nostalgia but this really hit well with me, and while it was horror, it was heartwarming horror in a way, horror with soul.
I am really hoping that this as a sequel, the way this ended, i could see it. Fingers crossed.
Now onto the book, I don't believe i have read anything by Sadler, and this was very fun.
We had a kid whose dad used to be in a band, and he finds one of his old tapes, and plays it.
Stop finding unknown items and just doing shit with them people !
But anyways, this unlocks a family curse situation that curses the town, and after it starts it does not stop.
This has some rhythm and well...soul to it that made it absolutely wonderful.
Relic ( what a cool name) has to try to get through HS and some how navigate the supernatural .
Maybe I'm a sucker for nostalgia but this really hit well with me, and while it was horror, it was heartwarming horror in a way, horror with soul.
I am really hoping that this as a sequel, the way this ended, i could see it. Fingers crossed.
September 24, 2024
I loved this book so much! It’s a great book that could please a variety of readers. There’s a bit of horror, fantasy, and sci fi mixed with a story of teenage friends and a super cool metal band.
If you love music themed books - you’re gonna love this one! If you love nostalgic stories - you’re gonna love this one! If you love coming of age tales - yep, you’re gonna love this one!
I didn’t want the story to end, and the author definitely set up the ending for a sequel, so I’ll cross my fingers for that one day!
I listened to the audio version, and the narrator, Brian Callanan, was fantastic!
If you love music themed books - you’re gonna love this one! If you love nostalgic stories - you’re gonna love this one! If you love coming of age tales - yep, you’re gonna love this one!
I didn’t want the story to end, and the author definitely set up the ending for a sequel, so I’ll cross my fingers for that one day!
I listened to the audio version, and the narrator, Brian Callanan, was fantastic!
October 4, 2024
Really enjoy this book. Between the nostalgic setting, heavy metal and even more I was just drawn in immediately. Adolescence coming of age type read. Between a band, besties, crush, heavy metal and fantasy it kept me really engaged. With that being said, here's how the book played out for me personally. The first part I truly loved, the second half was fast and the ending sets it up for a sequel. Which I will read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2024
I really enjoyed the coming-of-age aspect of this novel. I was able to connect with the main character as I was a huge metalhead growing up. I still am who am I kidding? I thought the horror elements of the story were well done as well. relic was easy to root for and I’m ready for more of his adventures.
September 25, 2024
Amazing Read!!!
So much fun. Loved every part of it. From it taking place here in Indiana, to the 90’s vibe, all the references to Buffy and D&D…. Can’t wait for the next one, and it just came out today!!!!
So much fun. Loved every part of it. From it taking place here in Indiana, to the 90’s vibe, all the references to Buffy and D&D…. Can’t wait for the next one, and it just came out today!!!!
January 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this tale of Relic and his friends. They may be freshmen in high school but this story does not come across like it was written to be a YA novel. There are brutal murders and evil cults plus music to soothe the savage beast
June 17, 2025
This book rocked!! just the right amount of monsters and magic. with some amazing music. I had a really fun time with this book. Gave me buffy the vampire and stranger things vibes but on a whole different level. highly recommend.
August 13, 2024
OK, so I’m just going to lay it out straight for this review. Do you like Buffy the Vampire Slayer? Do you like metal music? Do you want a nostalgia trip back to 1997? Then you need to get on this book.
Relic Meyers is a YA friendly supernatural horror novel set mostly around a small town high school. It follows a teenager named Relic, the son of a legendary metal drummer who has been missing for five years. That's just one of at least a dozen weird legends of his town; ghosts, werewolves, zombies, secret experiments, there's rumors everywhere. Meanwhile, Relic’s busy trying to balance high school with starting a metal band with his best friend, and stumbling his way into his first crush with the new girl in school. If any of this sounds like a teen supernatural drama from the late 90’s, it’s because this book is a massive homage to teen supernatural thriller shows like Buffy, Smallville, and Roswell.
I’ll admit it took me a minute to figure out what kind of book I was reading. It seemed like different monsters were being teased here and there, new threats were introduced and defeated. And then it hit me; these are monsters of the week, and this book is written as a whole season of a late 90’s teen horror drama. From that moment on, I was all in.
Like any good series, this book thrives on its characters, and how they all play their parts in the unfolding larger mystery of the story. Dialogue is sharp and often funny. The story moves at a pace that gives every character and storyline their time to shine without feeling rushed or shoehorned. Sadler weaves seamlessly between scenes of supernatural action, to coming of age story, to tense character beats as they all march toward the climactic battle of the bands.
As an unabashed fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this book hit all the right notes for me. If you like Buffy, or just want to take a supernatural trip back to 1997, I would definitely recommend this book.
Relic Meyers is a YA friendly supernatural horror novel set mostly around a small town high school. It follows a teenager named Relic, the son of a legendary metal drummer who has been missing for five years. That's just one of at least a dozen weird legends of his town; ghosts, werewolves, zombies, secret experiments, there's rumors everywhere. Meanwhile, Relic’s busy trying to balance high school with starting a metal band with his best friend, and stumbling his way into his first crush with the new girl in school. If any of this sounds like a teen supernatural drama from the late 90’s, it’s because this book is a massive homage to teen supernatural thriller shows like Buffy, Smallville, and Roswell.
I’ll admit it took me a minute to figure out what kind of book I was reading. It seemed like different monsters were being teased here and there, new threats were introduced and defeated. And then it hit me; these are monsters of the week, and this book is written as a whole season of a late 90’s teen horror drama. From that moment on, I was all in.
Like any good series, this book thrives on its characters, and how they all play their parts in the unfolding larger mystery of the story. Dialogue is sharp and often funny. The story moves at a pace that gives every character and storyline their time to shine without feeling rushed or shoehorned. Sadler weaves seamlessly between scenes of supernatural action, to coming of age story, to tense character beats as they all march toward the climactic battle of the bands.
As an unabashed fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this book hit all the right notes for me. If you like Buffy, or just want to take a supernatural trip back to 1997, I would definitely recommend this book.
November 22, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟 to Relic Meyers & The Rhythms by Brady Sadler.
This was an absolute blast to read, so much so, I want to review it in two parts. The first being the horror story that threads through this book. Relic Meyers discovers his absentee father - legendary drummer for Unknown Oath, a heavy meta band - has become embroiled with a supernatural entity that haunts their home town of Lamarie. It preys on people's fears, turning them into a reality. There's werewolves, vampires, ghouls even a Wendigo and a Gargoyle. It's pretty packed. Perhaps, too much so. My only criticism of this element is that Relic and the villain never really square off. Or have much in the way of a back and forward. Most of what the reader discovers is based on characters assumptions of the villain.
The second part of this story (my favourite) is the characters. While Relic discovers this supernatural element about his dad he's trying to negotiate his relationship to his best friend Bree, who he may or may not have feelings for. As well as there's a new girl in town that captures his imagination, that's while trying to create his own heavy metal band and avoid a confrontation with former friend turned douche Taylor, who seems to want to make his life misery. I loved all of this, as the author has a great grasp of these characters that I was empathic to them all, to the point where I'd happy read an entire book about them with the supernatural plot.
The last thing I'd like to add, which stopped me giving this book a full five stars was that I had to reread several passages at times. Characters would come to certain discovers or revelations that I had to go over what just happened in order to understand how they'd come to such understandings. For me this wasn't a big thing, I still loved the experience of the book and its characters.
This was an absolute blast to read, so much so, I want to review it in two parts. The first being the horror story that threads through this book. Relic Meyers discovers his absentee father - legendary drummer for Unknown Oath, a heavy meta band - has become embroiled with a supernatural entity that haunts their home town of Lamarie. It preys on people's fears, turning them into a reality. There's werewolves, vampires, ghouls even a Wendigo and a Gargoyle. It's pretty packed. Perhaps, too much so. My only criticism of this element is that Relic and the villain never really square off. Or have much in the way of a back and forward. Most of what the reader discovers is based on characters assumptions of the villain.
The second part of this story (my favourite) is the characters. While Relic discovers this supernatural element about his dad he's trying to negotiate his relationship to his best friend Bree, who he may or may not have feelings for. As well as there's a new girl in town that captures his imagination, that's while trying to create his own heavy metal band and avoid a confrontation with former friend turned douche Taylor, who seems to want to make his life misery. I loved all of this, as the author has a great grasp of these characters that I was empathic to them all, to the point where I'd happy read an entire book about them with the supernatural plot.
The last thing I'd like to add, which stopped me giving this book a full five stars was that I had to reread several passages at times. Characters would come to certain discovers or revelations that I had to go over what just happened in order to understand how they'd come to such understandings. For me this wasn't a big thing, I still loved the experience of the book and its characters.
September 24, 2024
💬 Grab your backpack, we're going back to the 90's and freshman year of high school. We follow Relic Meyers and his friends as they enter high school and begin the teenage journey filled with hormones and self discovery. But life would be so much easier if girls and school were the only things that Relic had to worry about. Relic's hometown has a dark history, one filled with murder, tales of ghosts, and gossip that Relic's dad, Stephen Meyers from the band Unknown Oath, was behind all of it. When cleaning out an old storage unit Relic hits the jackpot and finds an old cassette tape from his dads band, one that is no longer available for purchase. Eager to listen to the tape, Relic has no way of knowing that it contains more than just music and unleashes something sinister.
Relic and his group of friends capture that early high school feeling of coming into your own. The 90's nostalgia is great - imagine having to call your friends on a landline or walking to their house to keep up with the happenings 😱 Friendship, horror, and heavy metal collide in this story taking the reader on an epic adventure.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Brian Callanan, who did an amazing job pulling me into Relic's mind and world. The narration was engaging and kept me completely in the story.
Relic and his group of friends capture that early high school feeling of coming into your own. The 90's nostalgia is great - imagine having to call your friends on a landline or walking to their house to keep up with the happenings 😱 Friendship, horror, and heavy metal collide in this story taking the reader on an epic adventure.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Brian Callanan, who did an amazing job pulling me into Relic's mind and world. The narration was engaging and kept me completely in the story.
April 7, 2025
Relic Meyers loves metal music. Of course, he is the son of the drummer for metal band Unknown Oath! Relic is also a drummer and hopes to be as good as his Dad someday. However, his Dad disappeared years ago and nobody seems to know what happened to him.
When he discovers a lost demo tape, he doesn't realize that he might be unleashing supposedly forgotten horrors on his hometown when he plays the tape. Having disturbing dreams, showing his father trapped somewhere, constantly drumming, and hearing voices saying "Release Me" adds to his discomfort. Add in a couple of gruesome murders and a vengeful Widow and he soon finds himself in over his head.
This was a fun book, full of werewolves, vampires, ghouls and supernatural cults. Add in typical teenage angst, budding romance, and heavy metal and you have a great read. I would recommend this book to YA readers as well as those looking for nostalgic vibe from the 1990's.
The narrator did a great job and his performance brought this book to the next level. I look forward to further adventures with Relic and friends!
When he discovers a lost demo tape, he doesn't realize that he might be unleashing supposedly forgotten horrors on his hometown when he plays the tape. Having disturbing dreams, showing his father trapped somewhere, constantly drumming, and hearing voices saying "Release Me" adds to his discomfort. Add in a couple of gruesome murders and a vengeful Widow and he soon finds himself in over his head.
This was a fun book, full of werewolves, vampires, ghouls and supernatural cults. Add in typical teenage angst, budding romance, and heavy metal and you have a great read. I would recommend this book to YA readers as well as those looking for nostalgic vibe from the 1990's.
The narrator did a great job and his performance brought this book to the next level. I look forward to further adventures with Relic and friends!
April 23, 2025
🥁 Book review 🥁
Relic Meyers & The Rhythm Of Ruin book 1
By @bradyjsadler
Genre-horror/thriller
Thank you @twinsandtalent for sending me this awesome book! I can't wait to continue this series, the story easily sucked me in and a few times made me smile with an awww.
Relic lives in his dad's shadow wanting to never forget his father and the only few things he remembers about him, the town he lives in holds a lot of secrets that are dangerous if messed with.
When Relic stumbles upon a box of his dad's things from his band Unknown Oath, Relic's way of life is turned for the worst.
Having to deal with past monsters that are strong enough to kill him and his friends, he also is caught between his best friend and the strange beauty that started going to their school.
No one knows much about her but she captivates him and he'll do anything for her.
Relic wants to move forward in life and seal up the past but in order to do that he has to kill the monsters that are in the present.
I highly recommend this read!
Relic Meyers & The Rhythm Of Ruin book 1
By @bradyjsadler
Genre-horror/thriller
Thank you @twinsandtalent for sending me this awesome book! I can't wait to continue this series, the story easily sucked me in and a few times made me smile with an awww.
Relic lives in his dad's shadow wanting to never forget his father and the only few things he remembers about him, the town he lives in holds a lot of secrets that are dangerous if messed with.
When Relic stumbles upon a box of his dad's things from his band Unknown Oath, Relic's way of life is turned for the worst.
Having to deal with past monsters that are strong enough to kill him and his friends, he also is caught between his best friend and the strange beauty that started going to their school.
No one knows much about her but she captivates him and he'll do anything for her.
Relic wants to move forward in life and seal up the past but in order to do that he has to kill the monsters that are in the present.
I highly recommend this read!
April 26, 2025
Thanks to the author and the girls of Twins & Talent for the free audiobook copy in exchange for a review!
This novel was packed full of heavy metal music, 90s nostalgia, and all the horror elements you love in classic horror movies. The audiobook was well done thanks to the narrator who brought life to the many differing characters. It was an interesting adventure following Relic navigating his absent father, his growing love of metal music, high school, and the horrors slowly invading his life. Definitely for those who love coming of age horror filled with nostalgia of your childhood.
My only complaint about the book was the immaturity of the MC at times. I know it’s a coming of age story and the characters are around 14, but some of the dialogue and actions seemed really childish at times and then others it felt like what adults would do/say. At times I do struggle with YA books and I think that’s why I didn’t fully enjoy this one.
This novel was packed full of heavy metal music, 90s nostalgia, and all the horror elements you love in classic horror movies. The audiobook was well done thanks to the narrator who brought life to the many differing characters. It was an interesting adventure following Relic navigating his absent father, his growing love of metal music, high school, and the horrors slowly invading his life. Definitely for those who love coming of age horror filled with nostalgia of your childhood.
My only complaint about the book was the immaturity of the MC at times. I know it’s a coming of age story and the characters are around 14, but some of the dialogue and actions seemed really childish at times and then others it felt like what adults would do/say. At times I do struggle with YA books and I think that’s why I didn’t fully enjoy this one.
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