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The Village of Lost Souls
At five years old, John Andrews’ life is changed forever by a fistfight in a vacant lot. Twelve years later, fleeing a haunted past, he and his mother abandon post-war Newcastle for the hope of a better life in Cornwall—in the village.
Life in the village seems like a dream; John meets his first love. But the dream becomes a nightmare as his joy is overshadowed by terrors. A cascade of unexplainable events leaves him struggling to save what remains of his family, his love, and his sanity—not to mention his life—as the Village of Lost Souls hungers for more.
“Sam Kates’ writing style is elegant and deft, and his way with words is superbly meticulous. He paints a picture for the reader of color and space and emotion, but uses a light brush so that no two readers will see quite the same thing: he doesn’t overburden the reader with description but leaves just enough, and just the right things, to the imagination. Kates has written some of the most powerful scenes anyone has put on paper, yet his writing is smooth, effortless, and supremely comfortable.”
—Adam Byrn Tritt, author of the award-winning sci-fi short story “Ezekiel’s Wheel”
Life in the village seems like a dream; John meets his first love. But the dream becomes a nightmare as his joy is overshadowed by terrors. A cascade of unexplainable events leaves him struggling to save what remains of his family, his love, and his sanity—not to mention his life—as the Village of Lost Souls hungers for more.
“Sam Kates’ writing style is elegant and deft, and his way with words is superbly meticulous. He paints a picture for the reader of color and space and emotion, but uses a light brush so that no two readers will see quite the same thing: he doesn’t overburden the reader with description but leaves just enough, and just the right things, to the imagination. Kates has written some of the most powerful scenes anyone has put on paper, yet his writing is smooth, effortless, and supremely comfortable.”
—Adam Byrn Tritt, author of the award-winning sci-fi short story “Ezekiel’s Wheel”
- GenresHorrorParanormal
203 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2012
1 person is currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Sam Kates
18 books86 followersMy name is Sam Kates, at least when it comes to writing fiction. If there’s a photo on this page of a middle-aged bloke with a hair shortage, that’s me.
I live in Wales, a small constituent country of Great Britain and the U.K. Like many of my fellow countrymen, I possess a fondness for rugby union (though these days only as a spectator) and a good pint of beer. Usually the two go hand in hand.
My tastes in reading and film tend toward the darker side of life and the fantastic. Little surprise, then, that the fiction I write is usually science fiction and fantasy with a decidedly dark flavour, or outright horror.
Outside of writing, my main ambition is to see Wales beat the New Zealand All Blacks to win the Rugby World Cup. A forlorn hope, I suspect, but if you're going to harbour ambitions, they might as well be lofty, right?
I live in Wales, a small constituent country of Great Britain and the U.K. Like many of my fellow countrymen, I possess a fondness for rugby union (though these days only as a spectator) and a good pint of beer. Usually the two go hand in hand.
My tastes in reading and film tend toward the darker side of life and the fantastic. Little surprise, then, that the fiction I write is usually science fiction and fantasy with a decidedly dark flavour, or outright horror.
Outside of writing, my main ambition is to see Wales beat the New Zealand All Blacks to win the Rugby World Cup. A forlorn hope, I suspect, but if you're going to harbour ambitions, they might as well be lofty, right?
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 5, 2013
I met Sam Kates through Goodreads and bought his book on a whim. I am not a huge fan of horror nor a fan of detailed descriptive prose and yet... under the tutelage of Mr. Kates, I could learn to love them. He has a remarkable talent for both.
We first meet John as a child of five and we see his small world in pre-war England through his eyes, and herein lies Mr. Kates talent; I saw the world through a five year old's eyes. At ten, John is an exuberant boy whose world is shattered by WWII. Like a movie playing in my head, I saw it. I felt it.
All this is necessary to understand the young man of seventeen who has moved to the tiny village of Tregeagle and what a wonderful, honorable and courageous young man he is. Clinging to threads of childhood while surging into adulthood, John made me chuckle and sigh and his first foray into the world of love is such a bittersweet mixture of innocence and youthful lust that it will break your heart.
Into this heartbreakingly real world creeps a horror that sends chills up your neck and makes your hair stand on end before you really know it's there. You can feel it coming, yet you don't know what it is. Like the music from the movie 'Jaws', you hear it coming long before it gets there and you want to yell RUN! even if you're not sure what from.
This isn't the ax murderer horror of modern day movies. This is cold fingers of evil creeping up your spine and Mr. Kates' choice of setting plays into this perfectly: an idyllic rural village. The quiet innocence of a boy being torn apart by war juxtaposes frighteningly with the innocence of young love being torn apart by something sinister.
I absolutely loved this book. Loved it! It is beautifully written, beautifully staged and beautifully executed. It isn't just a horror novel. It's a story about love. Well done, Sam Kates!
We first meet John as a child of five and we see his small world in pre-war England through his eyes, and herein lies Mr. Kates talent; I saw the world through a five year old's eyes. At ten, John is an exuberant boy whose world is shattered by WWII. Like a movie playing in my head, I saw it. I felt it.
All this is necessary to understand the young man of seventeen who has moved to the tiny village of Tregeagle and what a wonderful, honorable and courageous young man he is. Clinging to threads of childhood while surging into adulthood, John made me chuckle and sigh and his first foray into the world of love is such a bittersweet mixture of innocence and youthful lust that it will break your heart.
Into this heartbreakingly real world creeps a horror that sends chills up your neck and makes your hair stand on end before you really know it's there. You can feel it coming, yet you don't know what it is. Like the music from the movie 'Jaws', you hear it coming long before it gets there and you want to yell RUN! even if you're not sure what from.
This isn't the ax murderer horror of modern day movies. This is cold fingers of evil creeping up your spine and Mr. Kates' choice of setting plays into this perfectly: an idyllic rural village. The quiet innocence of a boy being torn apart by war juxtaposes frighteningly with the innocence of young love being torn apart by something sinister.
I absolutely loved this book. Loved it! It is beautifully written, beautifully staged and beautifully executed. It isn't just a horror novel. It's a story about love. Well done, Sam Kates!
February 7, 2013
This book is marketed as horror but it is so much more. The elderly John Andrews is relating his life story, and the first part of the book tells of his childhood, partly during the Second World War and its effect on his small family in Newcastle. In its way, that is horror enough. After the war and his father’s death from cancer, he and his mother leave to join her sister in a small Cornish village and that’s when the strangeness begins. He meets a girl and falls in love and he finds that his aunt has secrets in her past which still haunt her.
Sam Kates is an articulate and gifted writer. His prose is eloquent and beautiful and, as the story progresses, we and John begin to feel that all is not right in the small village. The horror here is subtle and mounts inexorably. We read on in awe as the past catches up with the present and we fear that John will not be able to cope. I read this book in a day – admittedly staying up past my bedtime to finish it. How could I not? I only discovered Sam Kates’ work a few days ago. It’s wonderful and he has got himself another fan here!
Sam Kates is an articulate and gifted writer. His prose is eloquent and beautiful and, as the story progresses, we and John begin to feel that all is not right in the small village. The horror here is subtle and mounts inexorably. We read on in awe as the past catches up with the present and we fear that John will not be able to cope. I read this book in a day – admittedly staying up past my bedtime to finish it. How could I not? I only discovered Sam Kates’ work a few days ago. It’s wonderful and he has got himself another fan here!
February 13, 2013
(summary) This book is about the young life of John Andrews, who as a mere seventeen-year-old experiences strange and horrific paranormal events in a small village in Cornwall in England. The narrative is told from the perspective of an elderly John Andrews, who has lived out the remainder of his life in relative peacefulness but who is reminiscing on the first two decades or so of his life, which were, for the lack of a better word, chaotic.
This first part of the book focuses on John’s life in Newcastle, both on the events that had the most important effect on John (his brother’s fight with the Mahoney brothers, the outbreak of WWII, and the deaths of people who were very dear to him) and on the characters of the people who played a major role in his life: his mother; father; sister, Morfydd; brother, Callum; and the local oversized bully, Mitch.
After a series of tragedies from which his mother is nearly unable to recover, he moves away with her to his aunt’s house in Tregeagle to escape the emptiness that the familiar surroundings of home brings without one’s loved ones a part of it. Though being in a new place with fresh and lush surroundings as well as with the thrills and chills of a budding romance is initially quite restorative for him, the situation turns quite bleak quite quickly.
John begins to notice unusual things about this tiny village he has come to call home. Not only is this village a little “off” but John begins to have vivid dreams and see strange things during his waking hours that cause him to question his sense of what is real and what is not and to wonder what exactly is going on this quiet little unsuspecting village.
(review) Mr. Kates certainly has a wonderful way with words. His descriptions are painted with such a vivid brush that the reader can actually see the narrative unfold in his/her mind as if it were a movie or a theatrical play, with only the unnecessary details left to the imagination. This type of writing is too often lacking in modern novels, especially novels with a horror theme. Furthermore, the parts that are meant to scare or frighten are written carefully and precisely enough so as not to retreat from the pages too quickly, leaving the reader unfulfilled, nor to move so slowly that the reader is not sufficiently captured by the horror. Finally, good horror novels must also contain good humor, which this book is hardly lacking. So, bravo, Mr. Kates!
Though this was not a historical romance by any means, John Andrews’ experience with his first love played a large part in the second half of the book. I don’t particularly care for romance novels myself, but this book had just the perfect amount of lovey dovey material in it. Moreover, there has been only one other story I have read that has been written in such a sensual way to have caused a lump to settle in my throat, a hollow sensation to form in my stomach, and my breath to catch in my chest. In addition, Mr. Kates’ writing reminded me of thoughts and feelings I had as a teenager when I was dating my current husband. More commendations all around!
Now, to the criticisms. First, I would have preferred to see the first 20–25% or so of the novel incorporated into the story instead of set off at the beginning. There wasn’t really much plot development during these pages and I kept wondering where the story was going and what the point of all of those chapters were. If I hadn’t committed myself to reading this book, I don’t think I would have made it past the fourth or fifth chapter because there just wasn’t any direction in which the plot seemed to be heading.
Second, there were many places that were confusing to me and are potentially confusing to other readers as well. I won’t list them all since that could prove tedious, so I will simply provide the general characteristics of these bewildering areas: (1) there were areas where details were left out of the story where they were most certainly needed to avoid bewilderment, and (2) unusual uses of words were dropped in here and there in the novel.
Third, there was one particular inconsistency to note. Morfydd is said in the beginning to be five years old when John is born in 1930. Later, when John is five years old, she is said to be “barely nine years old.” But how can that be? She would either be ten or even eleven. But she most certainly could not be “barely nine.”
Finally, though quite minor, there are a number of spelling and grammatical errors in the book. They are not in any way numerous enough to detract from one’s enjoyment of the story, but they are still worthy of mention.
Although I did enjoy this book, I definitely felt that it was too short and could have used some more building up. I wish that there had been more to the horror aspect of the novel and about the “village of lost souls.” This is certainly a compliment to Mr. Kates, as I wish I had more of this book to read!
This first part of the book focuses on John’s life in Newcastle, both on the events that had the most important effect on John (his brother’s fight with the Mahoney brothers, the outbreak of WWII, and the deaths of people who were very dear to him) and on the characters of the people who played a major role in his life: his mother; father; sister, Morfydd; brother, Callum; and the local oversized bully, Mitch.
After a series of tragedies from which his mother is nearly unable to recover, he moves away with her to his aunt’s house in Tregeagle to escape the emptiness that the familiar surroundings of home brings without one’s loved ones a part of it. Though being in a new place with fresh and lush surroundings as well as with the thrills and chills of a budding romance is initially quite restorative for him, the situation turns quite bleak quite quickly.
John begins to notice unusual things about this tiny village he has come to call home. Not only is this village a little “off” but John begins to have vivid dreams and see strange things during his waking hours that cause him to question his sense of what is real and what is not and to wonder what exactly is going on this quiet little unsuspecting village.
(review) Mr. Kates certainly has a wonderful way with words. His descriptions are painted with such a vivid brush that the reader can actually see the narrative unfold in his/her mind as if it were a movie or a theatrical play, with only the unnecessary details left to the imagination. This type of writing is too often lacking in modern novels, especially novels with a horror theme. Furthermore, the parts that are meant to scare or frighten are written carefully and precisely enough so as not to retreat from the pages too quickly, leaving the reader unfulfilled, nor to move so slowly that the reader is not sufficiently captured by the horror. Finally, good horror novels must also contain good humor, which this book is hardly lacking. So, bravo, Mr. Kates!
Though this was not a historical romance by any means, John Andrews’ experience with his first love played a large part in the second half of the book. I don’t particularly care for romance novels myself, but this book had just the perfect amount of lovey dovey material in it. Moreover, there has been only one other story I have read that has been written in such a sensual way to have caused a lump to settle in my throat, a hollow sensation to form in my stomach, and my breath to catch in my chest. In addition, Mr. Kates’ writing reminded me of thoughts and feelings I had as a teenager when I was dating my current husband. More commendations all around!
Now, to the criticisms. First, I would have preferred to see the first 20–25% or so of the novel incorporated into the story instead of set off at the beginning. There wasn’t really much plot development during these pages and I kept wondering where the story was going and what the point of all of those chapters were. If I hadn’t committed myself to reading this book, I don’t think I would have made it past the fourth or fifth chapter because there just wasn’t any direction in which the plot seemed to be heading.
Second, there were many places that were confusing to me and are potentially confusing to other readers as well. I won’t list them all since that could prove tedious, so I will simply provide the general characteristics of these bewildering areas: (1) there were areas where details were left out of the story where they were most certainly needed to avoid bewilderment, and (2) unusual uses of words were dropped in here and there in the novel.
Third, there was one particular inconsistency to note. Morfydd is said in the beginning to be five years old when John is born in 1930. Later, when John is five years old, she is said to be “barely nine years old.” But how can that be? She would either be ten or even eleven. But she most certainly could not be “barely nine.”
Finally, though quite minor, there are a number of spelling and grammatical errors in the book. They are not in any way numerous enough to detract from one’s enjoyment of the story, but they are still worthy of mention.
Although I did enjoy this book, I definitely felt that it was too short and could have used some more building up. I wish that there had been more to the horror aspect of the novel and about the “village of lost souls.” This is certainly a compliment to Mr. Kates, as I wish I had more of this book to read!
February 14, 2013
This was a beautifully written sad story. There are brief moments of joy, but on the whole 75% of this story is heart wrenchingly sad. The description, dialog and pace of the story was perfect and the author has the ability to bring forth such strong emotion through his telling of the story. It was a tad gory in some of the descriptions and I can imagine anyone watching me read this would have witnessed my ick face in at least one part. I really felt bad for this family in all that they lost and were subjected to, but being a time of war (in the beginning at least) I'm sure theirs was not the only family to experience such hardship. Much of the second half of this story I spent feeling outrage on behalf of the characters be it the Aunt, Mary or the poor Flynn family. I loved what retribution that Aunt takes at her father's grave, I saw it coming, but thought it fitting all the same. This is a short story and not a happy one either, but is brilliantly told and perfect for those times when you may be feeling a bit of melancholy yourself. I received this story for an honest review and I am glad I tried it. It is very different from what I normally read, but I think others will enjoy it. Thank you for the lovely read.
April 7, 2013
As a newbie writer of paranormal/ horror, I appreciate just how difficult it is to get the balance right - and in my view, I think Sam Kates has done just that. The Village of Lost Souls is a captivating read that develops the plot at a good pace and keeps the reader guessing about how it's going to turn out.
My only reservation is the length of the first part of the book that introduces the main character and his family. But as soon as we get to the village, the sense that something is not right pervades the story and builds from there.
Where Kates really scores is his style and descriptions. Some writers get carried away with what they learned at their creative writing course, and then slow down the story with unnecessary language. Kates manages to give the reader a sense of location and character, whilst moving the story nicely along. The horror scenes are really quite chilling!
A great read. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
My only reservation is the length of the first part of the book that introduces the main character and his family. But as soon as we get to the village, the sense that something is not right pervades the story and builds from there.
Where Kates really scores is his style and descriptions. Some writers get carried away with what they learned at their creative writing course, and then slow down the story with unnecessary language. Kates manages to give the reader a sense of location and character, whilst moving the story nicely along. The horror scenes are really quite chilling!
A great read. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
April 22, 2013
John lost most of his family before he reached adulthood – a sister and brother during the war, and his father shortly after. He and his mother move to a small village to live with his aunt, and it’s quickly apparent there is something not quite right. He begins to have realistic ‘dreams’ where he meets his dead brother and a bully from their former life. He also discovers his first love, and fights to save her from a past seeking vengeance on the village.
Mr Kates does a fabulous job of portraying the sinister undertones of evil lurking in the idyllic setting. His writing style is beautifully and poetically descriptive, and builds tension as the horror creeps into the lives of the characters. Well done, sir!
Mr Kates does a fabulous job of portraying the sinister undertones of evil lurking in the idyllic setting. His writing style is beautifully and poetically descriptive, and builds tension as the horror creeps into the lives of the characters. Well done, sir!
March 14, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review, and am I ever glad that I requested it!
Sam Kates writes wonderfully, invoking emotions with what seems to be no effort at all! I didn't hit myself with my tablet once with this tale, as falling asleep wasn't an option. I basically had to tear my eyes away from the pages. My heart was very heavy beginning this book, and stayed that way the entire journey. It's a beautiful story, one that leaves me feeling honoured to have been a part of John's journey. Great storytellers have this gift. Sam Kates is a great storyteller.
Sam Kates writes wonderfully, invoking emotions with what seems to be no effort at all! I didn't hit myself with my tablet once with this tale, as falling asleep wasn't an option. I basically had to tear my eyes away from the pages. My heart was very heavy beginning this book, and stayed that way the entire journey. It's a beautiful story, one that leaves me feeling honoured to have been a part of John's journey. Great storytellers have this gift. Sam Kates is a great storyteller.
March 5, 2013
Nice and creepy without being too gory and graphic. The characters were well fleshed out and the plot was developed thoroughly without slowing down the pace. I was hooked from the early fight scene (you'll know the one if you read the book) all the way until the end. His losses, his first love, his supernatural experiences; they were all enjoyable to read. I'll be looking for more novels by Mr. Kates.
March 21, 2013
It was odd that I finished this book on the day that the death of James Herbert was announced. As the book progressed it reminded me very much of Herbert's early work - and that is high praise indeed.
The writing is pacy and convincing; the scene descriptions and the characterisation are excellent.
This is a strong and original story, very well told.
The writing is pacy and convincing; the scene descriptions and the characterisation are excellent.
This is a strong and original story, very well told.
June 29, 2024
Amazing
A ghost / horror / romance set in the 1940s. Excellent characterisation, excellent story telling. Sam kates is a truly superior auhor. An exquisite style of writing that you must read
A ghost / horror / romance set in the 1940s. Excellent characterisation, excellent story telling. Sam kates is a truly superior auhor. An exquisite style of writing that you must read
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews