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Jason Crane #5
Salem: Autumn Fool
Jason Crane's Salem adventure continues! Caught in the middle of a war, separated from his friends, forced to take sides between the resurrected witch judges of the Appointed and the terrible witch Legion, Jason is fugitive from the noose and from his destiny, but he can escape neither one.
The Jason Crane series is an epic Halloween chase through centuries of real history, myth, and original lore, full of ghosts, curses, witches, monsters, and all sorts of trouble for a rational teenaged hero perpetually in the middle of magical trouble.
Autumn Fool is the fifth of the series, after the Sleepy Hollow trilogy (Rise Headless and Ride, Bridge of Bones, and General of the Dead) and Jason's first Salem adventure ( Blood to Drink ).
The Jason Crane series is an epic Halloween chase through centuries of real history, myth, and original lore, full of ghosts, curses, witches, monsters, and all sorts of trouble for a rational teenaged hero perpetually in the middle of magical trouble.
Autumn Fool is the fifth of the series, after the Sleepy Hollow trilogy (Rise Headless and Ride, Bridge of Bones, and General of the Dead) and Jason's first Salem adventure ( Blood to Drink ).
760 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2025
16 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 11, 2025
I waited for this book for what seemed like ages. Pre-ordered the ebook and then waited some more because the first time I read it, I wanted it to be via audio book. It was worth the wait.
Firstly, Eric Michael Summerer is the perfect narrator for these books. He really gets the characters and has enough range and emotional tone to really bring them to life. He is also able to go from wry and occasionally goofy humour, to creepy to sheer horror. When I do a reread of the series, it's going to be a hard choice whether I listen or read (though I have bought all the books).
Jason has grown up a bit in this book. Hardly surprising considering everything that has happened to him. Accused of heinous crimes by both the supposed good guys and the bad guys, Jason escapes one execution only to have to go on the run to escape another. The result is a cast of new characters being introduced while long term favourites - Kate, Joey and Zef - take a slightly less prominent role as they face their own demons.
I really don't want to give away any spoilers but suffice to say that the new characters are as well drawn and interesting as the originals. The plot is tightly woven and twisting. The book is full of action but it's the best kind of action - it's tethered to events and character development rather than being a cheap way to move the plot along. The villains have motives and personality, while never at any point being less than villainous. The fact that they choose their actions makes them both more believable and more terrifying.
There is a certain amount of violence in this book and it is mainly directed towards women - hardly surprising since part of the plot is a recreation of the Salem Witch Trials - however, it is never gratuitous. One of the things I appreciate most about Gleaves writing is that he is willing to allow his characters t entertain very non PC opinions and either grow past them....or not. He allows his characters to have real flaws. I have to add here that the terrible violation that happened to Zef in the last book is actually fully addressed, nor is everything just ok afterwards. This was a refreshing read after far too many books with friendships that do not have pushes and pulls and conflicts.
I got through this in two sittings, audio book or not, and can't wait for the next one. I will though, because it will be worth it.
Firstly, Eric Michael Summerer is the perfect narrator for these books. He really gets the characters and has enough range and emotional tone to really bring them to life. He is also able to go from wry and occasionally goofy humour, to creepy to sheer horror. When I do a reread of the series, it's going to be a hard choice whether I listen or read (though I have bought all the books).
Jason has grown up a bit in this book. Hardly surprising considering everything that has happened to him. Accused of heinous crimes by both the supposed good guys and the bad guys, Jason escapes one execution only to have to go on the run to escape another. The result is a cast of new characters being introduced while long term favourites - Kate, Joey and Zef - take a slightly less prominent role as they face their own demons.
I really don't want to give away any spoilers but suffice to say that the new characters are as well drawn and interesting as the originals. The plot is tightly woven and twisting. The book is full of action but it's the best kind of action - it's tethered to events and character development rather than being a cheap way to move the plot along. The villains have motives and personality, while never at any point being less than villainous. The fact that they choose their actions makes them both more believable and more terrifying.
There is a certain amount of violence in this book and it is mainly directed towards women - hardly surprising since part of the plot is a recreation of the Salem Witch Trials - however, it is never gratuitous. One of the things I appreciate most about Gleaves writing is that he is willing to allow his characters t entertain very non PC opinions and either grow past them....or not. He allows his characters to have real flaws. I have to add here that the terrible violation that happened to Zef in the last book is actually fully addressed, nor is everything just ok afterwards. This was a refreshing read after far too many books with friendships that do not have pushes and pulls and conflicts.
I got through this in two sittings, audio book or not, and can't wait for the next one. I will though, because it will be worth it.
March 25, 2025
I love this series so much, yet this book exceeds all expectations. The book follows all the rogues, who are separated during parts of the book, but are very much part of the story.
The book is so action-packed yet filled with extraordinary, poignant moments.
Jason Crane finds himself in yet another supernatural escapade filled with witches, demons, magic, and comedic relief.
The new characters introduced add extra depth to the plot. Jason meets up with a new group of friends who help him out of some very tricky situations. However, he is also plagued by new, even more evil villains than in the previous books.
This book will leave you breathless and excited for more.
The book is so action-packed yet filled with extraordinary, poignant moments.
Jason Crane finds himself in yet another supernatural escapade filled with witches, demons, magic, and comedic relief.
The new characters introduced add extra depth to the plot. Jason meets up with a new group of friends who help him out of some very tricky situations. However, he is also plagued by new, even more evil villains than in the previous books.
This book will leave you breathless and excited for more.
March 10, 2025
witches, witchcraft, magic, mysteries, Salem, witch trials, history, Halloween, demons, horror, Haunted Happenings, pumpkins, graveyards, zombies, friendships, found families, love, romance, betrayal, occult, secret societies, supernatural gifts, curses, hauntings,adventures, tarot, prophesies, the end of the world, and the fool's journey
These are just a few of the things you’ll find in the Jason Crane books series by Richard Gleaves. This is the series you need if you’re a Halloween/Autumn person like I am. Not quite horror, but plenty of horror elements - I’d definitely classify this as the perfect spooky adventure series.
I am hesitant to describe what is going on, plotwise, because I feel like it would be so hard to talk about what’s happening in this book without spoiling everything. I would also like to caution that jumping into book five in this series might be hard without understanding what’s come before it.
My only concern for new readers is that book five, Autumn Fool, is the half-way point for Richard’s nine book series - the first three were Jason's Sleepy Hollow adventure, the second two (soon to be three) are Jason's Salem adventure, yet all are part of a grander adventure that will encompass all of the books in the series. Jumping into the series at this point puts you right in the middle of the adventure.
Book four - where the Salem adventure begins - might be a better place to start, if not just starting right at the beginning with book one. Doing so will allow you to get to know the characters, and the lore so much better while providing greater understanding for what’s happening throughout book five.
The story Richard tells is immaculate, lush, and dizzying in scope. In addition to his attention to detail of the place and events of modern day Salem, Massachusetts, Richard has woven into our world an intricate and mesmerizing layer of magic and intrigue unseen by "Normals". In Autumn Fool, he delves deeper into the lore he’s created, and Jason continues fighting against the path he’s been set upon until he begins to see the larger picture.
We’re talking fate of the world stuff, while trying to keep ahold of his found family. We’re talking about struggling with supernatural gifts, and struggling with relationships. Teenagers taking on both the extraordinary and the mundane.
What I have loved most about this series is not just the character and lore development, but the descriptive asides that really put us in that place. I could really feel what it might be like to visit Salem during the peak season of October and the wonderful events the city holds. Not just the poetic ways he describes the scenes, though, but also the adventure and action - which this series is just chock-full of.
Regardless of where you start, pick up a book in this series and get reading.
These are just a few of the things you’ll find in the Jason Crane books series by Richard Gleaves. This is the series you need if you’re a Halloween/Autumn person like I am. Not quite horror, but plenty of horror elements - I’d definitely classify this as the perfect spooky adventure series.
I am hesitant to describe what is going on, plotwise, because I feel like it would be so hard to talk about what’s happening in this book without spoiling everything. I would also like to caution that jumping into book five in this series might be hard without understanding what’s come before it.
My only concern for new readers is that book five, Autumn Fool, is the half-way point for Richard’s nine book series - the first three were Jason's Sleepy Hollow adventure, the second two (soon to be three) are Jason's Salem adventure, yet all are part of a grander adventure that will encompass all of the books in the series. Jumping into the series at this point puts you right in the middle of the adventure.
Book four - where the Salem adventure begins - might be a better place to start, if not just starting right at the beginning with book one. Doing so will allow you to get to know the characters, and the lore so much better while providing greater understanding for what’s happening throughout book five.
The story Richard tells is immaculate, lush, and dizzying in scope. In addition to his attention to detail of the place and events of modern day Salem, Massachusetts, Richard has woven into our world an intricate and mesmerizing layer of magic and intrigue unseen by "Normals". In Autumn Fool, he delves deeper into the lore he’s created, and Jason continues fighting against the path he’s been set upon until he begins to see the larger picture.
We’re talking fate of the world stuff, while trying to keep ahold of his found family. We’re talking about struggling with supernatural gifts, and struggling with relationships. Teenagers taking on both the extraordinary and the mundane.
What I have loved most about this series is not just the character and lore development, but the descriptive asides that really put us in that place. I could really feel what it might be like to visit Salem during the peak season of October and the wonderful events the city holds. Not just the poetic ways he describes the scenes, though, but also the adventure and action - which this series is just chock-full of.
Regardless of where you start, pick up a book in this series and get reading.
February 9, 2025
Such a great book! Loved every second of it. I’ll definitely listen when the audiobook comes out too.
April 5, 2025
The Autumn Fool , book 5 in the Jason Crane series was absolutely worth the wait! This book shows Richard's growth as an author and storyteller.
Seeing the relationship between Jason and Kate develop over the 5 books has been an awesome and wild adventure that has made me smile, laugh, cry, etc.
One of the things that I love about this series is how Richard uses real locations and masterfully incorporates them into his story. I was hooked from start to finish. The autumn fool not only met my expectations but exceeded them, leaving me eager for the next book in the series.
Seeing the relationship between Jason and Kate develop over the 5 books has been an awesome and wild adventure that has made me smile, laugh, cry, etc.
One of the things that I love about this series is how Richard uses real locations and masterfully incorporates them into his story. I was hooked from start to finish. The autumn fool not only met my expectations but exceeded them, leaving me eager for the next book in the series.
July 31, 2025
RICHARD! Im angry at you, I need more Jason Crane. how could you end it like that 😭😭😭😭 I'll be waiting for your next masterpiece .
October 16, 2025
Autumn Fool by Richard Gleaves is a thrilling continuation of Jason Crane’s haunting adventures. This book masterfully blends history, myth, and suspense, pulling readers into a world where Salem’s dark past collides with the supernatural. Jason’s struggle between destiny and survival keeps you hooked from the first page to the last. Gleaves’ storytelling is vivid, atmospheric, and full of heart, making every twist feel both chilling and meaningful. Fans of intelligent, fast-paced fantasy will find this installment unforgettable. Highly recommended for readers who love Halloween tales, historical mysteries, and courageous heroes facing impossible odds.
August 4, 2025
The Jason Crane series continues to bring together detailed history, lore and fiction in amazing fashion. Autumn Fool adds even more depth by intertwining historical figures with an entertaining and sometimes brutal story.
Admittedly, this installment started off slowly, but once the action starts, it is unrelenting and emotional. These series is a must-read for fans of horror, history and Halloween as it ties them all together so well. Can’t wait to see where we go from here.
Admittedly, this installment started off slowly, but once the action starts, it is unrelenting and emotional. These series is a must-read for fans of horror, history and Halloween as it ties them all together so well. Can’t wait to see where we go from here.
December 17, 2025
There is too much to say about this book.
I don't know that I will find the time to write the review that is deserved.
When I heard the call for the Big Gun, it was not a Dirtman that answered--it was Richard Gleaves, picking up his pen... A masterful narrative which our spirits begged the wind to bring.
I don't know that I will find the time to write the review that is deserved.
When I heard the call for the Big Gun, it was not a Dirtman that answered--it was Richard Gleaves, picking up his pen... A masterful narrative which our spirits begged the wind to bring.
June 23, 2025
Jason Crane Saga Continues
In this 5th book of the Jason Crane saga, the action never stops. With an ever revolving cast of characters, you can't help but be surprised with the twist and turns. A fun yet terrified. A great story continued.
In this 5th book of the Jason Crane saga, the action never stops. With an ever revolving cast of characters, you can't help but be surprised with the twist and turns. A fun yet terrified. A great story continued.
September 5, 2025
Having a Jason Crane book to read during spooky season is always a treat. This one s very much the best yet.
November 4, 2025
Fantastic follow-up to Blood to Drink. Can't wait for book 6!
November 5, 2025
I've loved this series throughout all the books and I'm excited to see where the next one takes us...even if I do hate being left on such a cliffhanger!
March 19, 2025
warning, book is very violent towards women.
I did not like the book. The basic storyline is good vs evil. The witches are good and the elders who supposedly represent god are the evil ones. The elders are brutal women beaters.
There is A LOT of violence. I do not understand why the author felt it necessary to be so descriptive. It was disgusting. There are really no winners here. There was a lot of interaction between Jason & the tarot cards to figure out his fate which he wanted to deny. I enjoyed the sleepy hallow series, but i will not be continuing this series.
I did not like the book. The basic storyline is good vs evil. The witches are good and the elders who supposedly represent god are the evil ones. The elders are brutal women beaters.
There is A LOT of violence. I do not understand why the author felt it necessary to be so descriptive. It was disgusting. There are really no winners here. There was a lot of interaction between Jason & the tarot cards to figure out his fate which he wanted to deny. I enjoyed the sleepy hallow series, but i will not be continuing this series.
March 25, 2025
"An Unstoppable Roller Coaster of Action and Emotion – A Must-Read!"
Book 5 in this series is absolutely epic! The saga of Jason and the Rogues takes off like a rocket, and it doesn’t stop for a second! The world-building, the rich history, the witch lore, the unforgettable characters – it all comes together in a way that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The stakes are higher than ever, and the action is relentless!
Autumn Fool is a whirlwind of emotions! One minute you’re on the edge of your seat, biting your nails, desperately waiting to find out what happens next. The next, you're heartbroken over a loss, then cheering for a huge victory. Just when you think you’ve caught your breath, the roller coaster of twists and turns throws you right back into the chaos – Jason and his crew face new horrors, bigger challenges, and Halloween magic like never before!
I can’t give away any spoilers (you have to experience it all yourself!), but trust me – this book is a must-read! It’s an unforgettable story that will stick with you for ages. Highly recommended doesn’t even begin to cover it! Fair warning though – with all the incredible details packed into this book (and the others in the series), you’ll find yourself going back again and again to catch all the little things you missed. You won’t want to miss a single moment!
Book 5 in this series is absolutely epic! The saga of Jason and the Rogues takes off like a rocket, and it doesn’t stop for a second! The world-building, the rich history, the witch lore, the unforgettable characters – it all comes together in a way that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The stakes are higher than ever, and the action is relentless!
Autumn Fool is a whirlwind of emotions! One minute you’re on the edge of your seat, biting your nails, desperately waiting to find out what happens next. The next, you're heartbroken over a loss, then cheering for a huge victory. Just when you think you’ve caught your breath, the roller coaster of twists and turns throws you right back into the chaos – Jason and his crew face new horrors, bigger challenges, and Halloween magic like never before!
I can’t give away any spoilers (you have to experience it all yourself!), but trust me – this book is a must-read! It’s an unforgettable story that will stick with you for ages. Highly recommended doesn’t even begin to cover it! Fair warning though – with all the incredible details packed into this book (and the others in the series), you’ll find yourself going back again and again to catch all the little things you missed. You won’t want to miss a single moment!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews