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Lost Soul #2
Wretched: An Echoes of Home Story
In the wake of abandoning his land during the Highland Famine, Peter Daily struggles to accept the hauntings that have plagued his past. Attempting to flee his torments, he travels far to his childhood refuge on the Scottish Isle of Lismore, a small island cut off by high cliffs and churning waters. But escaping one's past is never as simple as it first seems. When the darkness descends, Daily is tormented by the memories he longs to suppress, forcing him to relive the horrors suffered by those he has cruelly wronged.
In current times, Leslie Wills seeks to uncover the truth. Driven by his connection, he delves into the past, determined to expose the shadows that cling to him.
One thing is certain. No matter where you try to hide, fear will always find you.
In current times, Leslie Wills seeks to uncover the truth. Driven by his connection, he delves into the past, determined to expose the shadows that cling to him.
One thing is certain. No matter where you try to hide, fear will always find you.
- GenresHorror
412 pages, Paperback
Published January 13, 2025
36 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Rayner
8 books231 followersBorn and bred in the county of Staffordshire. Matt is a keen reader of classical, horror and fantasy literature and enjoys writing in the style of traditional ghost stories. During his working life, Matt joined the ambulance service in 2009, transporting critically ill patients all over the UK. After writing his first novel, Matt now dedicates his time on future releases. His hobbies include genealogy and hiking, and he enjoys spending time with his wife, Emma, his children, and his family.
https://www.facebook.com/MLRayner
https://www.facebook.com/MLRayner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 16, 2025
An outstanding gothic classic!
This was a beautifully written gothic tale, atmospheric and spine chilling with echoes of Charles Dickens' "Christmas Carol".
In the year 1847 landowner Peter Daily, desperate to escape the ghosts of his past life, travels to the remote Scottish island of Lismore in order to visit his estranged sister, Meredith. Once there he is forced to face his demons, ones that he brought upon himself.
This is a twin timeline story that moves seamlessly between the 19th and 21st centuries. It centres upon the journal's of a cruel man, Peter Daily who, unlike his tenants, lived a pampered life while the local populace starved to death. This was a period during the Highland famine and Irish potato blight.
A classic tale in its own right and an outstanding piece of writing. Highly recommended!
This was a beautifully written gothic tale, atmospheric and spine chilling with echoes of Charles Dickens' "Christmas Carol".
In the year 1847 landowner Peter Daily, desperate to escape the ghosts of his past life, travels to the remote Scottish island of Lismore in order to visit his estranged sister, Meredith. Once there he is forced to face his demons, ones that he brought upon himself.
This is a twin timeline story that moves seamlessly between the 19th and 21st centuries. It centres upon the journal's of a cruel man, Peter Daily who, unlike his tenants, lived a pampered life while the local populace starved to death. This was a period during the Highland famine and Irish potato blight.
A classic tale in its own right and an outstanding piece of writing. Highly recommended!
January 26, 2025
I'm in love with this novel! I love how descriptive it is and how it transports me to another era and location. The book has a classic feeling that makes it the best comfort read. I hope everyone gives this one a chance!
December 28, 2024
"My form doth waste, my spirit wanes, As time’s cruel hand leaves its stains. In corners dark, where demons play, I linger on in disarray."
Holy Hell!
Fans of M L Rayner rejoice! He returns by lamplight to terrify us all with a ghostly tale that will linger in your mind like an endless fog upon a sea of black. If you enjoyed Echoes of Home, you are going to LOVE Wretched. If you haven't read Echoes of Home yet, fret not! Wretched can easily be read as a standalone. To have read Echoes first definitely adds to the story but Rayner has managed to achieve what few can; both books can be read as standalones or in either order without it affecting reader pleasure. Amazing!
Wretched is colder than its predecessor. It's a meaner tale, and a more spine chilling one at that. There are twists and layers, characters old and new.
And an ending you won't see coming.
Peter Daily is haunted.
Peter Daily is afraid.
Peter Daily is... Wretched.
Holy Hell!
Fans of M L Rayner rejoice! He returns by lamplight to terrify us all with a ghostly tale that will linger in your mind like an endless fog upon a sea of black. If you enjoyed Echoes of Home, you are going to LOVE Wretched. If you haven't read Echoes of Home yet, fret not! Wretched can easily be read as a standalone. To have read Echoes first definitely adds to the story but Rayner has managed to achieve what few can; both books can be read as standalones or in either order without it affecting reader pleasure. Amazing!
Wretched is colder than its predecessor. It's a meaner tale, and a more spine chilling one at that. There are twists and layers, characters old and new.
And an ending you won't see coming.
Peter Daily is haunted.
Peter Daily is afraid.
Peter Daily is... Wretched.
March 27, 2025
Poetic, atmospheric, and heart-pounding. This is the last confession of Peter Daily as you would never imagine it.
Following on from Echoes of Home, this worthy successor follows the diaries of Peter Daily as he tries to find forgiveness for the guilt that haunts him over the deaths of Martha Ferrel and her children. The landscapes are harsh, the prose is lyrical and the characters are miserable: this is gothic literature at its peak.
I found myself drawn to new characters: Daily’s sister is particular, who sees more grief and misery than any human has a right to, but still maintains kindness and a moral compass. Daily himself is made a much more complicated character than I would have given him credit for in Echoes. This sequel is a brilliant continuation of the heart-wrenching story we all know and loved.
Following on from Echoes of Home, this worthy successor follows the diaries of Peter Daily as he tries to find forgiveness for the guilt that haunts him over the deaths of Martha Ferrel and her children. The landscapes are harsh, the prose is lyrical and the characters are miserable: this is gothic literature at its peak.
I found myself drawn to new characters: Daily’s sister is particular, who sees more grief and misery than any human has a right to, but still maintains kindness and a moral compass. Daily himself is made a much more complicated character than I would have given him credit for in Echoes. This sequel is a brilliant continuation of the heart-wrenching story we all know and loved.
January 20, 2025
Isolation, fear, and brutal heartache are some of the rollercoaster emotions that some of the characters experience in Wretched. As a reader, your soul will be touched, tears will be shed, and your heart will numb itself to cope with reaching the end of one of the most beautifully written ghost stories I have had the pleasure to read.
Rayner has a way of crafting his atmospheric prose to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. As a slow burn with an enormous emotional payoff, this novel was difficult to put down. In short, Wretched wrecked me.
Revisiting Leslie Wills from Echoes of Home, and learning the backstory to Peter Daily in past and present chapters interwoven to form a well thought out plot, strong characterization, and a somber mood throughout was a recipe for perfection. The juxtaposition of how haunting, yet beautiful the setting was, truly was captivating in his descriptions of the landscape in every location in the novel.
I will read and purchase every version of everything this author writes.
Thank you @m.l.rayner.author for the ARC and opportunity to begin to read your work before release.
Rayner has a way of crafting his atmospheric prose to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. As a slow burn with an enormous emotional payoff, this novel was difficult to put down. In short, Wretched wrecked me.
Revisiting Leslie Wills from Echoes of Home, and learning the backstory to Peter Daily in past and present chapters interwoven to form a well thought out plot, strong characterization, and a somber mood throughout was a recipe for perfection. The juxtaposition of how haunting, yet beautiful the setting was, truly was captivating in his descriptions of the landscape in every location in the novel.
I will read and purchase every version of everything this author writes.
Thank you @m.l.rayner.author for the ARC and opportunity to begin to read your work before release.
March 3, 2025
Travelling back to the story of Peter Daily, the heartless protagonist of Echoes of Home. This is his story following his flight on 9th March 1647 from the horrors of his own making. Try has he might he cannot escape the ghosts of his past, the consequences of his cruelty haunt him. Even his flight to the remote Scottish island of Lismore, his childhood refuge cannot stop the nightmares tormenting him.
In present day, Leslie Wills is intent on finding out what happened to Daily after all he witnessed in Elphin. He exchanges the handwritten journal of Daily’s callousness towards the people of the Highlands for a diary account of what happened to him after he ran away.
I loved Echoes of Home and this is the aftermath of that story but both can be read as standalones. This is darker, viscerally haunting and an incredible ghost story. As always with Matt’s writing, the imagery is stunningly beautiful, it oozes with gothic morbidity and is malevolently macabre.
Impossible to put down once it gets its icy claws into you, read by candlelight and bask in the otherworldly atmosphere.
This was a total immersive joy!
In present day, Leslie Wills is intent on finding out what happened to Daily after all he witnessed in Elphin. He exchanges the handwritten journal of Daily’s callousness towards the people of the Highlands for a diary account of what happened to him after he ran away.
I loved Echoes of Home and this is the aftermath of that story but both can be read as standalones. This is darker, viscerally haunting and an incredible ghost story. As always with Matt’s writing, the imagery is stunningly beautiful, it oozes with gothic morbidity and is malevolently macabre.
Impossible to put down once it gets its icy claws into you, read by candlelight and bask in the otherworldly atmosphere.
This was a total immersive joy!
January 13, 2025
In the present, Leslie is trying to find out the history of Peter Daily after learning of his atrocities in Echoes of Home, curious what happened to him after he left Elphin Cottage. He finally makes contact with an elusive historian who may have the knowledge he seeks.
In the past, Peter Daily is haunted by what he's done at Elphin (but is he, really?), and traveling to see his sister on the island he grew up on. It's bare and mostly vacant, and there he will face his demons that he brought upon himself.
Rayner has such a way with words. Like Echoes of Home, I read Wretched and felt like I was reading one of the classics. I love how he switched between past and present flawlessly, us learning about Daily's life after Elphin at the same time Les does. There was one pretty big twist that I saw coming, but several others that I didn't - one making my jaw drop.
If you want a fast paced read, wait until you have more time to enjoy this one. This is a novel best enjoyed savoring the words and taking your time reading it.
In the past, Peter Daily is haunted by what he's done at Elphin (but is he, really?), and traveling to see his sister on the island he grew up on. It's bare and mostly vacant, and there he will face his demons that he brought upon himself.
Rayner has such a way with words. Like Echoes of Home, I read Wretched and felt like I was reading one of the classics. I love how he switched between past and present flawlessly, us learning about Daily's life after Elphin at the same time Les does. There was one pretty big twist that I saw coming, but several others that I didn't - one making my jaw drop.
If you want a fast paced read, wait until you have more time to enjoy this one. This is a novel best enjoyed savoring the words and taking your time reading it.
July 30, 2025
I’m not sure I’ve read a book with so much…foreboding as Wretched by M L Rayner. Like all his books, it’s a masterclass in atmosphere and creeping dread. Both gothic and classic in its feel, which is driven as much by the characters and dialogue as by the historical setting. But this one just carried much more mystery, much more uncertainty for me.
Every chapter, every page, every line is imbued with this sense that there’s… something coming. Something is about to happen, or maybe already happening. But it’s just beyond your line of sight, just out of reach. Inescapable yet unreachable. As a result, the entire story carries that feeling of being watched by someone you can’t see. Fantastic, unique read.
Every chapter, every page, every line is imbued with this sense that there’s… something coming. Something is about to happen, or maybe already happening. But it’s just beyond your line of sight, just out of reach. Inescapable yet unreachable. As a result, the entire story carries that feeling of being watched by someone you can’t see. Fantastic, unique read.
September 4, 2025
After reading Echoes of Home, I was really looking forward to this one. M. L. Rayner has a real talent for telling ghost stories. This is genuinely, one of the best ghost stories I've read. The last line really got me. If you're looking for a creepy book, atmospheric and haunting, add this to your tbr. Excellent novel. Highly recommend.
July 24, 2025
well written, gripping story.
January 16, 2025
Wow. This book grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. Like Echoes Of Home, this book is so beautifully written - you truly feel like you’re right there within the pages.
The way Rayner portrays grief is both powerful & relatable, capturing not just the pain of loss but also the subtle, often unnoticed ways it reshapes a person’s world.
The dark atmosphere of the story is balanced by moments of hope and redemption, creating a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page.
Wretched had a lot to live up to for me as I loved Echoes Of Home so much. Not only did this live up to those expectations it completely exceeded them. This book challenges, it moves, and it stays with you. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough. I’m really hoping for a third book in this series!
The way Rayner portrays grief is both powerful & relatable, capturing not just the pain of loss but also the subtle, often unnoticed ways it reshapes a person’s world.
The dark atmosphere of the story is balanced by moments of hope and redemption, creating a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page.
Wretched had a lot to live up to for me as I loved Echoes Of Home so much. Not only did this live up to those expectations it completely exceeded them. This book challenges, it moves, and it stays with you. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough. I’m really hoping for a third book in this series!
July 25, 2025
Thank you for letting me read this, it was fantastic.
Rayner has a beautiful way with words, his paints a picture, and it just unfolds so effortlessly that I actually forgot this was just a book, I wasn't really there.
This was the story of Peter Daily and how he became well, person he is in Echoes of Home.
Tormented by nightmares and chased by the ghosts he's trying so hard to leave behind, its almost understandable to know of the cold Peter in Echoes.
I love when a story gets a back story and this one was hauntingly dark, and I don't know that I really feel for Peter, grief and horror can twist a person, but how much can you overlook. Sometimes you bring the worst problems on yourself.
This was excellent and once I started it, had a hard time stopping, really recommend it if you like a Wretched, or really hauntingly well done ghost story.
Rayner has a beautiful way with words, his paints a picture, and it just unfolds so effortlessly that I actually forgot this was just a book, I wasn't really there.
This was the story of Peter Daily and how he became well, person he is in Echoes of Home.
Tormented by nightmares and chased by the ghosts he's trying so hard to leave behind, its almost understandable to know of the cold Peter in Echoes.
I love when a story gets a back story and this one was hauntingly dark, and I don't know that I really feel for Peter, grief and horror can twist a person, but how much can you overlook. Sometimes you bring the worst problems on yourself.
This was excellent and once I started it, had a hard time stopping, really recommend it if you like a Wretched, or really hauntingly well done ghost story.
January 14, 2025
I’ve just finished Wretched by ML Rayner, and I absolutely loved it. Let me begin by saying I adored Echoes of Home. It is one of the most haunting ghost stories I have ever read. I recommend it every chance I get. The story is captivating, but the writing itself is the true gift. Rayner has the ability to make you feel like you are part of the story. I love writing that paints a picture, and Rayner does this to perfection.
When I finished Echoes I was left wishing I could read it again for the first time. Needless to say I was absolutely thrilled when I found out there would be another book in the Elphin saga, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Wretched takes us back to the beginning, and we see the history unfold through a story told. We’re taken to a time long ago, but made to feel like we are in the room watching events unfold. This book feels darker than Echoes, but in the best way.
I won’t say too much about the story itself. Just do yourself a favor and read it. It is time well spent.
When I finished Echoes I was left wishing I could read it again for the first time. Needless to say I was absolutely thrilled when I found out there would be another book in the Elphin saga, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Wretched takes us back to the beginning, and we see the history unfold through a story told. We’re taken to a time long ago, but made to feel like we are in the room watching events unfold. This book feels darker than Echoes, but in the best way.
I won’t say too much about the story itself. Just do yourself a favor and read it. It is time well spent.
January 5, 2025
Wretched 🪶🕯
M L Rayner Author
"It is without a shadow's doubt the best thing you have written. The best thing anyone has ever written, or I have ever read, for that matter."
See what I did there? 😉
How on earth can one artiticulate so well the verbiage and language of times long since passed? Even more so, the ability to make you feel present in those long ago times experiencing a long ago way of life. Such an extraordinary talent indeed. Or Matt is well and truly the ghost of Peter Daily himself come to tell his tale so that he and his wretched self truly cannot ever be forgotten..... 🤔
I have always found history intriguing. I love the mystery and the solving and the putting the whole story together piece by piece. It is just oh so very satisfying.
The way he can effortlessly and flawlessly switch from present day to the language and mannerisms of the past from one chapter to the next is absolutely remarkable.
From the very first page to the last you are engulfed in the mystery and as desperate for answers as Les. Matt has you at the literal edge of the cliffs of Lismore throughout the entire book. Hanging on to every word, not able to consume fast enough.
Ugh! I cannot say how much I absolutely loved this book! If you are into the unknown, the mystery, emotion, ghosts & time long since past- this is a ✨️must read✨️!
M L Rayner Author
"It is without a shadow's doubt the best thing you have written. The best thing anyone has ever written, or I have ever read, for that matter."
See what I did there? 😉
How on earth can one artiticulate so well the verbiage and language of times long since passed? Even more so, the ability to make you feel present in those long ago times experiencing a long ago way of life. Such an extraordinary talent indeed. Or Matt is well and truly the ghost of Peter Daily himself come to tell his tale so that he and his wretched self truly cannot ever be forgotten..... 🤔
I have always found history intriguing. I love the mystery and the solving and the putting the whole story together piece by piece. It is just oh so very satisfying.
The way he can effortlessly and flawlessly switch from present day to the language and mannerisms of the past from one chapter to the next is absolutely remarkable.
From the very first page to the last you are engulfed in the mystery and as desperate for answers as Les. Matt has you at the literal edge of the cliffs of Lismore throughout the entire book. Hanging on to every word, not able to consume fast enough.
Ugh! I cannot say how much I absolutely loved this book! If you are into the unknown, the mystery, emotion, ghosts & time long since past- this is a ✨️must read✨️!
January 12, 2025
Ghost stories are one of my favourite sub-genres of horror, and when they're as well written as this story they're unputdownable. Matt has such a way and style of writing that it feels like you're living the tale, and it really gets under your skin. There's an ever present ominous feeling, that only builds as the story unfolds, taking you to the conclusion that is both everything you want and more than you could imagine. All those little crumbs he feeds you along the way suddenly fall into place, and you're left open mouthed with shock though you should have seen it coming. Matt is a master storyteller, and I just want more and more, preferably told by candlelight on a chilly evening!
January 9, 2025
A stellar follow up to Echoes of Home!! I do have to say this one is creepier than its predecessor!! 🙌
Had some twists in this one as well - one I saw coming, but the others I did not!! 👏
While I did read this one after reading Echoes Of Home, I do feel it can be easily read as a standalone! However, I do feel that having read Echoes of Home prior to this does add a layer of understanding to the background and characters.
Thank you to M.L. Rayner for the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for my honest review!! ❤️ You’ve solidified your place as an auto-buy author for me!!
Had some twists in this one as well - one I saw coming, but the others I did not!! 👏
While I did read this one after reading Echoes Of Home, I do feel it can be easily read as a standalone! However, I do feel that having read Echoes of Home prior to this does add a layer of understanding to the background and characters.
Thank you to M.L. Rayner for the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for my honest review!! ❤️ You’ve solidified your place as an auto-buy author for me!!
December 31, 2024
Places can be haunted, but what about people? Wretched takes you back to the past to fully flesh out the history of Peter Daily and the events surrounding the manor at Elphin, both introduced in Echoes of Home. At times an empathetic character, Peter’s actions will also have you questioning who he really was, and the tragic legacy he left in his wake. This is haunting, quiet horror at its best and Rayner’s beautiful, lyrical prose is on full display. The story is a creeping slow burn, building upon dread and increasing anxiety to reveal jaw-dropping revelations and the stunning final lines that brought tears to my eyes.
December 14, 2025
Wretched by M.L. Rayner, the second book in the Lost Soul series, is every bit as haunting and immersive as Echoes of Home — and perhaps even darker. Once again, I stepped outside of my usual comfort zone, but this series has quickly shown me why it’s worth taking that leap. Rayner has a gift for blending history, folklore, and human frailty into a story that lingers.
This time, we move between two timelines: the past, where Peter Daily abandons his land during the Highland Famine, fleeing to the Isle of Lismore only to find himself tormented by guilt and memories that refuse to fade; and the present, where Leslie Wills continues his search for truth, determined to uncover the shadows that cling to him. Both threads are woven together with such precision that each revelation tightens the suspense and deepens the sense of unease.
The Isle of Lismore is described with incredible detail — isolated, battered by the sea, and cut off by high cliffs and dangerous waters. I could feel the weight of the island’s solitude, and that sense of being trapped made Peter’s torment all the more chilling. It’s the perfect stage for a story that asks whether we can ever truly escape our past.
What I found especially powerful here was how the haunting doesn’t just come from supernatural presences, but from guilt, memory, and the consequences of cruelty. The horror feels rooted in human weakness, which makes it all the more believable. The darkness that follows Peter, and the truths Leslie is determined to uncover, both pulled me in completely.
Wretched is beautifully written, atmospheric, and deeply unsettling. It left me feeling breathless at times, the tension creeping in with every turn of the page. As a continuation of the Lost Soul series, it’s an exceptional follow-up — richer, more chilling, and impossible to put down.
Haunting, powerful, and unforgettable — Wretched proves that fear, no matter how far you run, will always find you.
This time, we move between two timelines: the past, where Peter Daily abandons his land during the Highland Famine, fleeing to the Isle of Lismore only to find himself tormented by guilt and memories that refuse to fade; and the present, where Leslie Wills continues his search for truth, determined to uncover the shadows that cling to him. Both threads are woven together with such precision that each revelation tightens the suspense and deepens the sense of unease.
The Isle of Lismore is described with incredible detail — isolated, battered by the sea, and cut off by high cliffs and dangerous waters. I could feel the weight of the island’s solitude, and that sense of being trapped made Peter’s torment all the more chilling. It’s the perfect stage for a story that asks whether we can ever truly escape our past.
What I found especially powerful here was how the haunting doesn’t just come from supernatural presences, but from guilt, memory, and the consequences of cruelty. The horror feels rooted in human weakness, which makes it all the more believable. The darkness that follows Peter, and the truths Leslie is determined to uncover, both pulled me in completely.
Wretched is beautifully written, atmospheric, and deeply unsettling. It left me feeling breathless at times, the tension creeping in with every turn of the page. As a continuation of the Lost Soul series, it’s an exceptional follow-up — richer, more chilling, and impossible to put down.
Haunting, powerful, and unforgettable — Wretched proves that fear, no matter how far you run, will always find you.
September 19, 2025
Here is my review for Wretched by M L Rayner
This was a fantastic ghost story where Peter Daily is haunted on his journey in 1847 and his driver of the carriage sees nothing. Peter Daily seems to be a mean man, not even wanting to stop to let the horses feed and rest before continuing the journey the next day. I was hooked by this story right from the start of the book. This is book two of the Lost Souls Series and it’s been a great series which I have greatly enjoyed. The book is superbly written and the story is well told. The story is very descriptive and everything is described in great detail. I felt like I could visualize the story in my mind as some of the detail was described so vividly as I was reading it. I liked the author’s writing style as it was easy to read. I like the synopsis as it drew me to read the two books in this series.
Blurb :
In the wake of abandoning his land during the Highland Famine, Peter Daily struggles to accept the hauntings that have plagued his past. Attempting to flee his torments, he travels far to his childhood refuge on the Scottish Isle of Lismore, a small island cut off by high cliffs and churning waters. But escaping one's past is never as simple as it first seems. When the darkness descends, Daily is tormented by the memories he longs to suppress, forcing him to relive the horrors suffered by those he has cruelly wronged.
In current times, Leslie Wills seeks to uncover the truth. Driven by his connection, he delves into the past, determined to expose the shadows that cling to him.
One thing is certain. No matter where you try to hide, fear will always find you.
This was a fantastic ghost story where Peter Daily is haunted on his journey in 1847 and his driver of the carriage sees nothing. Peter Daily seems to be a mean man, not even wanting to stop to let the horses feed and rest before continuing the journey the next day. I was hooked by this story right from the start of the book. This is book two of the Lost Souls Series and it’s been a great series which I have greatly enjoyed. The book is superbly written and the story is well told. The story is very descriptive and everything is described in great detail. I felt like I could visualize the story in my mind as some of the detail was described so vividly as I was reading it. I liked the author’s writing style as it was easy to read. I like the synopsis as it drew me to read the two books in this series.
Blurb :
In the wake of abandoning his land during the Highland Famine, Peter Daily struggles to accept the hauntings that have plagued his past. Attempting to flee his torments, he travels far to his childhood refuge on the Scottish Isle of Lismore, a small island cut off by high cliffs and churning waters. But escaping one's past is never as simple as it first seems. When the darkness descends, Daily is tormented by the memories he longs to suppress, forcing him to relive the horrors suffered by those he has cruelly wronged.
In current times, Leslie Wills seeks to uncover the truth. Driven by his connection, he delves into the past, determined to expose the shadows that cling to him.
One thing is certain. No matter where you try to hide, fear will always find you.
September 6, 2025
Wretched by ML Rayner
5/5
I don't know if I have most broad tastes in the kind of horror I like. In fact, I tend to get suckered in by books that sound like the horror movies I warped my young mind with in my teens. I instinctively go for stories that sound like Evil Dead or The Exorcist, but I do like a good ghost story.
A short while ago I picked up Echoes of Home because it was in an Audible sale. One of those 'why not?' purchases.
Well, shit. Echoes of Home turned out to be one of my favourite straight up ghost stories ever. It felt like a modern equivalent of The Woman in Black. Nothing you could tell me would convince me this wasn't a modern classic.
Wretched shows this was no fluke. ML Rayner has the ability to write a style of horror that I might not usually go for, and make me love it.
Rayner is not just some dude writing books. He's a painter who uses a keyboard to craft his art. I lost count of how many times I scowled in annoyance at how good his descriptions were.
The sprawling narrative twists and turns with masterful efficiency. Not to mention the historical weight of the story. It could be easy to use the subject matter and make a heartless exploitation, but there is so much soul in Rayner's writing that you feel really connected to every character you encounter.
There are of course, plenty of creepy scenes, this is a horror after all, and the tone of those scares are very much in the vain of a classic Shirley Jackson novel.
With the cold weather drawing in, Wretched is the perfect book to read by the fire on a dark and stormy night.
5/5
I don't know if I have most broad tastes in the kind of horror I like. In fact, I tend to get suckered in by books that sound like the horror movies I warped my young mind with in my teens. I instinctively go for stories that sound like Evil Dead or The Exorcist, but I do like a good ghost story.
A short while ago I picked up Echoes of Home because it was in an Audible sale. One of those 'why not?' purchases.
Well, shit. Echoes of Home turned out to be one of my favourite straight up ghost stories ever. It felt like a modern equivalent of The Woman in Black. Nothing you could tell me would convince me this wasn't a modern classic.
Wretched shows this was no fluke. ML Rayner has the ability to write a style of horror that I might not usually go for, and make me love it.
Rayner is not just some dude writing books. He's a painter who uses a keyboard to craft his art. I lost count of how many times I scowled in annoyance at how good his descriptions were.
The sprawling narrative twists and turns with masterful efficiency. Not to mention the historical weight of the story. It could be easy to use the subject matter and make a heartless exploitation, but there is so much soul in Rayner's writing that you feel really connected to every character you encounter.
There are of course, plenty of creepy scenes, this is a horror after all, and the tone of those scares are very much in the vain of a classic Shirley Jackson novel.
With the cold weather drawing in, Wretched is the perfect book to read by the fire on a dark and stormy night.
July 16, 2025
Wretched is a sequel to Echoes of Home, and it continues the story of Peter Daily and what happened to him after he left Elphin. While I do think you could technically read Wretched on its own, as it does recap quite a bit of Echoes of Home, I would not recommend it. First, because Echoes of Home is also absolutely fantastic. Second, I don't think you'd get the full effect of what haunts Daily and why.
I absolutely love Rayner's books, Wretched being no exception, mostly because of the depth. Of course, you're reading a horror book. But you're reading more than that. There's a bit of a character study. Rayner really digs deep into Daily and Meredith, why they are who they are, but not in an overtly expositional way. You learn a lot about the characters by the way they move, the way they speak, and the choices they make. In addition, outside of the horror and unsettling moments, at its core, Wretched is a classic. It reads as though it may have been written this year, or it could have easily been written a hundred years ago. The atmosphere is familiar, beautiful, and haunting.
If you're interested in historical horror, classic horror, or cozy, atmospheric ghost stories, read Wretched ASAP!
I absolutely love Rayner's books, Wretched being no exception, mostly because of the depth. Of course, you're reading a horror book. But you're reading more than that. There's a bit of a character study. Rayner really digs deep into Daily and Meredith, why they are who they are, but not in an overtly expositional way. You learn a lot about the characters by the way they move, the way they speak, and the choices they make. In addition, outside of the horror and unsettling moments, at its core, Wretched is a classic. It reads as though it may have been written this year, or it could have easily been written a hundred years ago. The atmosphere is familiar, beautiful, and haunting.
If you're interested in historical horror, classic horror, or cozy, atmospheric ghost stories, read Wretched ASAP!
September 21, 2025
I loved the first in this series, and began reading this latest offering with great anticipation.
When Leslie Wills meets with historian Roderick, to show him the papers he found in a cottage he lived in, a tale of cruelty, horror and the haunting of Peter Daily, caused by his own hand is gradually revealed during the pages of this immersive and engrossing book. The writing took me straight into 1847, and the desolate island of Lismore. I felt as if I was there with Daily and his sorrowful sister, and could almost feel the isolation, greyness and misery of this bleak place. When Daily’s story began, I felt some sympathy for him, but this was quite quickly replaced by the sense of revulsion and dislike for the man. There are links to first book, Echoes of Home, which as I read further, gradually revealed themselves to me. Although this book isn’t fast paced, the skilful writing meant that I read late into the night to find out what happened to Daily and if there were any consequences for Leslie as he delves into the past that possibly should have remained forgotten.
Wretched can only be a 5* read from me as M L Rayner’s words, along with the ghosts from the past, will haunt me for some time to come.
When Leslie Wills meets with historian Roderick, to show him the papers he found in a cottage he lived in, a tale of cruelty, horror and the haunting of Peter Daily, caused by his own hand is gradually revealed during the pages of this immersive and engrossing book. The writing took me straight into 1847, and the desolate island of Lismore. I felt as if I was there with Daily and his sorrowful sister, and could almost feel the isolation, greyness and misery of this bleak place. When Daily’s story began, I felt some sympathy for him, but this was quite quickly replaced by the sense of revulsion and dislike for the man. There are links to first book, Echoes of Home, which as I read further, gradually revealed themselves to me. Although this book isn’t fast paced, the skilful writing meant that I read late into the night to find out what happened to Daily and if there were any consequences for Leslie as he delves into the past that possibly should have remained forgotten.
Wretched can only be a 5* read from me as M L Rayner’s words, along with the ghosts from the past, will haunt me for some time to come.
September 19, 2025
M. L. Rayner’s Wretched delves into trauma and the inescapable grip of the past, following Peter Daily's journey after the Highland Famine. His struggle to escape haunting memories and ultimately returning to the Isle of Lismore reveals a key theme: we cannot escape our history.
Rayner's evocative writing vividly portrays the rugged landscape, mirroring Peter's emotional isolation and unresolved guilt. The dual narrative between Peter and Leslie Wills, who seeks to uncover the truth of Peter's past, adds depth to the story, connecting historical grief to modern understanding.
The novel highlights the relentless nature of fear and guilt, with Rayner’s lyrical prose drawing readers into the characters' emotional turmoil. The chilling reminder that “fear will always find you” lingers throughout, creating a sense of dread.
In summary, "Wretched" is a powerful addition to the Lost Soul Series, blending history with psychological depth. Rayner offers a poignant reflection on how our past shapes us, making this sequel a compelling read for fans of the first book.
Rayner's evocative writing vividly portrays the rugged landscape, mirroring Peter's emotional isolation and unresolved guilt. The dual narrative between Peter and Leslie Wills, who seeks to uncover the truth of Peter's past, adds depth to the story, connecting historical grief to modern understanding.
The novel highlights the relentless nature of fear and guilt, with Rayner’s lyrical prose drawing readers into the characters' emotional turmoil. The chilling reminder that “fear will always find you” lingers throughout, creating a sense of dread.
In summary, "Wretched" is a powerful addition to the Lost Soul Series, blending history with psychological depth. Rayner offers a poignant reflection on how our past shapes us, making this sequel a compelling read for fans of the first book.
January 13, 2025
An emotional ride throught the words of Peter Daily's diary as we learn of his past and how it affects those he has come into contact with. Those he employed, those he was related to and those who are complete strangers in a world after his passing. To see a man changed because of what you learn from his words. To see the unimaginable and irreversible damage done and what it ends up costing him. To be such a coward and do the unthinkable just to feel as if your conscience would be clear in doing so. This is a slow burn but grips you from the start. You get transported to the past and feel the weight of the grief. You truly get to know the characters because of the authors magnificent storytelling and writing. You get immersed in the details and before you know it, the book is finished. Please get this book when you can, it is a phenomenal, gutwrenching, emotional tale that keeps you wanting more. Well done Mr. Rayner, well done.
March 20, 2025
ML Rayner's debut novel Echoes of Homes made me fall in love with ghost stories, while Wretched cements him as a writer at the top of his game in a genre that is often overlooked.
Matt writes evocative and emotive descriptive prose, teasingly drawing the reader in and layering the story without making it seem contrived or forced. Told in dual timelines of Peter Daily's present and that of Leslie as he tries to find out more about Peter, the book flows seamlessly from one to the other.
Peter Daily is not a sympathetic character, and yet you cannot help but feel for him at times during the novel. The author conveys the insidious way that grief not only affects the individual but also changes how they interact with the world.
Yet again ML Rayner has written a book that stays with the reader long after the last page has been turned, and I truly hope there is a third book in the series because I (for one) am desperate to know where this story leads
Matt writes evocative and emotive descriptive prose, teasingly drawing the reader in and layering the story without making it seem contrived or forced. Told in dual timelines of Peter Daily's present and that of Leslie as he tries to find out more about Peter, the book flows seamlessly from one to the other.
Peter Daily is not a sympathetic character, and yet you cannot help but feel for him at times during the novel. The author conveys the insidious way that grief not only affects the individual but also changes how they interact with the world.
Yet again ML Rayner has written a book that stays with the reader long after the last page has been turned, and I truly hope there is a third book in the series because I (for one) am desperate to know where this story leads
July 11, 2025
Was given the opportunity to read this one and thoroughly enjoyed this spooky, haunting story!
The story is set predominantly in the 1800's, a journal written by a haunted man, Peter Daily, looking to escape the horrors of his past that refuse to let go. He travels to a remote island in Scotland to visit his sister, looking for forgiveness and to escape the ghosts of his actions, yet even here, there is no escape...
Leslie Wills, in modern times, wants to hear more about Daily's woes and locates a man willing to share Daily's journals. But he too may be getting more than he bargained for....
The story was excellent. Haunting. The prose fit the timeframe perfectly and I was right there with Daily as he goes on his harrowing journey. Reading this book I felt I was right there with him; a testament to Rayner's ability as an author. If slowburn, hauting tales are your thing, I definitely recommend checking this one out!
The story is set predominantly in the 1800's, a journal written by a haunted man, Peter Daily, looking to escape the horrors of his past that refuse to let go. He travels to a remote island in Scotland to visit his sister, looking for forgiveness and to escape the ghosts of his actions, yet even here, there is no escape...
Leslie Wills, in modern times, wants to hear more about Daily's woes and locates a man willing to share Daily's journals. But he too may be getting more than he bargained for....
The story was excellent. Haunting. The prose fit the timeframe perfectly and I was right there with Daily as he goes on his harrowing journey. Reading this book I felt I was right there with him; a testament to Rayner's ability as an author. If slowburn, hauting tales are your thing, I definitely recommend checking this one out!
September 23, 2025
I really liked this book and everything about it. Firstly, the dark, monochromatic cover gives the exact vibes of the story. You feel the creepy underbelly oozing into your vision, just as you feel the darkness of the book flowing into your mind, as you read.
This is a gothic tale that really captures the essence of the feeling of the rift between rich and poor, those who have and those who can only just get by. We experience what this rift does to people and how they suffer during these dark times. Peter is given a time where he must endure for the pain that he created for others and feel the same as he made them feel. He must be plagued by the overall wrongs that were done to them and it is a read that almost makes you feel their pains as well, as the author really describes the scenes all too well.
Honestly, this was a great story and I really lik d the layout and the flow of the tale.
This is a gothic tale that really captures the essence of the feeling of the rift between rich and poor, those who have and those who can only just get by. We experience what this rift does to people and how they suffer during these dark times. Peter is given a time where he must endure for the pain that he created for others and feel the same as he made them feel. He must be plagued by the overall wrongs that were done to them and it is a read that almost makes you feel their pains as well, as the author really describes the scenes all too well.
Honestly, this was a great story and I really lik d the layout and the flow of the tale.
July 26, 2025
As good as Echoes of Home was, Wretched blows it away.
“Old school British horror” is a style I have always loved, and M L Rayner is a master of it. Set in mid-19th-century Scotland, his prose took me to the Highlands where I could feel the chill of the damp air and the fog enveloped me as I traveled through this tale of Peter Daily’s life. His mistakes, his torment and his ghosts haunted me, as they did him. I felt as if I were to walk out my front door I would have found the street to be cobblestone and would have heard the clanging of iron from the nearby blacksmith above the clomp of hooves and squeaky wheels of the carriages as they protected the wealthy from the poor beggars merely searching for a scrap of spoiled food.
The story is classically tragic, dark and bleak. Yet there is a beauty underneath provided by the author. I couldn’t determine if our MC was simply filled with guilt over his past, or if he was haunted by actual ghosts, or maybe he was just insane. I’ll leave it up to you to decide. And the final few pages were a perfect end to this treacherous tale.
I cannot recommend this book more vehemently.
“Old school British horror” is a style I have always loved, and M L Rayner is a master of it. Set in mid-19th-century Scotland, his prose took me to the Highlands where I could feel the chill of the damp air and the fog enveloped me as I traveled through this tale of Peter Daily’s life. His mistakes, his torment and his ghosts haunted me, as they did him. I felt as if I were to walk out my front door I would have found the street to be cobblestone and would have heard the clanging of iron from the nearby blacksmith above the clomp of hooves and squeaky wheels of the carriages as they protected the wealthy from the poor beggars merely searching for a scrap of spoiled food.
The story is classically tragic, dark and bleak. Yet there is a beauty underneath provided by the author. I couldn’t determine if our MC was simply filled with guilt over his past, or if he was haunted by actual ghosts, or maybe he was just insane. I’ll leave it up to you to decide. And the final few pages were a perfect end to this treacherous tale.
I cannot recommend this book more vehemently.
September 27, 2025
I recently read and reviewed Echoes of Home by Rayner and I wasn’t sure if anything could top it. Well Wretched, which helps continue on the story, is arguably even better. Once again Rayner’s writing captivates you from the start. I love the writing style and the slow unraveling of the mysteries. I said of the previous work it really felt like a classic Victorian ghost story for modern times and I absolutely stand by that. The atmosphere and pace sets up everything for a classic ghost story. I love how we learn from the past and present to try and piece everything together.
I will most certainly be reading Rayner’s other work now I’ve finished the current Echoes of Home stories. If you are looking for an atmospheric ghost story look no further.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
I will most certainly be reading Rayner’s other work now I’ve finished the current Echoes of Home stories. If you are looking for an atmospheric ghost story look no further.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
September 23, 2025
Thanks to Zooloo's Book Tours and the author for this ARC.
I enjoyed this book more than its predecessor - I felt the writing was stronger here, and the atmosphere was excellent. I think historical fiction might be the author's forte!
As with book one, I saw where the plot was going immediately, but the reluctant trepidation for the awful things that were to be revealed made for a decent read.
If you love to hate fictional characters, this book will make you satisfied - and angry. It's very sad, again, and honestly, the main character is a truly horrible person in every way. I liked meeting the other characters, and the way the present-day narrative slotted into the historical story was really good.
I enjoyed this book more than its predecessor - I felt the writing was stronger here, and the atmosphere was excellent. I think historical fiction might be the author's forte!
As with book one, I saw where the plot was going immediately, but the reluctant trepidation for the awful things that were to be revealed made for a decent read.
If you love to hate fictional characters, this book will make you satisfied - and angry. It's very sad, again, and honestly, the main character is a truly horrible person in every way. I liked meeting the other characters, and the way the present-day narrative slotted into the historical story was really good.
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