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Jarbidge
For fans of Scott Smith's The Ruins, contemporary horror and historical curses, Basque culture, and remote corners of the American West.
Four friends on a camping trip in Nevada’s remote Jarbidge Mountains stir something hidden beneath the surface of a former mining boomtown. A local with a complicated past connected to his Basque heritage takes interest in the group, vowing to protect them. Will the group of friends figure out what they need protecting from too late?
Four friends on a camping trip in Nevada’s remote Jarbidge Mountains stir something hidden beneath the surface of a former mining boomtown. A local with a complicated past connected to his Basque heritage takes interest in the group, vowing to protect them. Will the group of friends figure out what they need protecting from too late?
- GenresHorror
Audible Audio
Published March 24, 2025
About the author
M. Bryce Ternet
6 books27 followersI was born in the American Midwest. While I appreciate the stable middle-America upbringing, I couldn’t wait to get out into the world. I finished high school a year early and spent my senior year as an exchange student in the French Basque Country, finding myself, learning French, and becoming entranced with Basque culture. I followed this act with college in Montana, a little more time in France (Paris mostly), then moved to Washington, DC and spent five years getting burnt-out in a high-profile federal government position which had me traveling throughout West Africa while I tacked on more trips to Europe.
Graduate school on California’s Monterey Peninsula was escape from the East Coast. Grad school turned into ten years in California, with a two-year Seattle area experiment, and meeting a future wife while hiking in Big Sur. More trips to Europe and expansion into Southeast Asia. Experiencing Idaho’s Sun Valley was next, filled with outdoor activities and searching for historical Basque sheepherder carvings in aspen trees. Now in Northern New Mexico, I spent most of my free time exploring the wild canyons and mountains of this place and searching for petroglyphs and historical ruins.
I started writing in my twenties after wanting to my entire life and find a way to continue in between family, career, and getting into the outdoors. I’ve have ten published books: A Basque Story, Diplomatic Weekends in Africa, Strohm Alley, The Yellow House on Maloney Grove, The American Middle Class Revolution, Rock Creek, The Stevenson Plan, A Novel of the Monterey Peninsula, The Basque Dilemma, The Cibola Treasure Hunt, and Sun Valley Serenade.
While at home in the historical-themed fiction and mystery/thriller genre (A Basque Story, The Stevenson Plan, The Basque Dilemma, Sun Valley Serenade), other interests include paranormal (The Yellow House on Maloney Grove, Rock Creek), coming-of-age psychological (Strohm Alley), examining contemporary society (The American Middle Class Revolution), a travelogue for former diplomatic experiences (Diplomatic Weekends in Africa), food & wine (numerous articles), and a treasure hunt novel set in the American Southwest, (The Cibola Treasure Hunt).
Whether the Basque Country, the Monterey Peninsula, Washington state, Montana, Sun Valley, the Southwest, the Midwest, West Africa, or some other European destination, I treat locations as character themselves.
I’m inspired by authors such as Ernest Hemingway, Robert Laxalt, Daniel Quinn, Stephen King, Peter Mayle, Paul Theroux, and Arturo Perez-Reverte.
The Basque Dilemma, was recently included on a list produced by Smithsonian Journeys on a reading list for France and Spain’s Basque Region, directly underneath The Basque History of the World by Mark Kurlansky.: https://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/t...
My newest release is a horror novel with Basque American elements set in Nevada's mysterious Jarbidge Mountains.
See https://www.facebook.com/mbryceternet/ for more.
Graduate school on California’s Monterey Peninsula was escape from the East Coast. Grad school turned into ten years in California, with a two-year Seattle area experiment, and meeting a future wife while hiking in Big Sur. More trips to Europe and expansion into Southeast Asia. Experiencing Idaho’s Sun Valley was next, filled with outdoor activities and searching for historical Basque sheepherder carvings in aspen trees. Now in Northern New Mexico, I spent most of my free time exploring the wild canyons and mountains of this place and searching for petroglyphs and historical ruins.
I started writing in my twenties after wanting to my entire life and find a way to continue in between family, career, and getting into the outdoors. I’ve have ten published books: A Basque Story, Diplomatic Weekends in Africa, Strohm Alley, The Yellow House on Maloney Grove, The American Middle Class Revolution, Rock Creek, The Stevenson Plan, A Novel of the Monterey Peninsula, The Basque Dilemma, The Cibola Treasure Hunt, and Sun Valley Serenade.
While at home in the historical-themed fiction and mystery/thriller genre (A Basque Story, The Stevenson Plan, The Basque Dilemma, Sun Valley Serenade), other interests include paranormal (The Yellow House on Maloney Grove, Rock Creek), coming-of-age psychological (Strohm Alley), examining contemporary society (The American Middle Class Revolution), a travelogue for former diplomatic experiences (Diplomatic Weekends in Africa), food & wine (numerous articles), and a treasure hunt novel set in the American Southwest, (The Cibola Treasure Hunt).
Whether the Basque Country, the Monterey Peninsula, Washington state, Montana, Sun Valley, the Southwest, the Midwest, West Africa, or some other European destination, I treat locations as character themselves.
I’m inspired by authors such as Ernest Hemingway, Robert Laxalt, Daniel Quinn, Stephen King, Peter Mayle, Paul Theroux, and Arturo Perez-Reverte.
The Basque Dilemma, was recently included on a list produced by Smithsonian Journeys on a reading list for France and Spain’s Basque Region, directly underneath The Basque History of the World by Mark Kurlansky.: https://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/t...
My newest release is a horror novel with Basque American elements set in Nevada's mysterious Jarbidge Mountains.
See https://www.facebook.com/mbryceternet/ for more.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 22, 2024
***Potential Spoilers***
I was awarded this book from a Goodreads Giveaway. I will start by saying that, overall, I did enjoy this book. Ternet has an interesting writing style that felt more conversational than narrative at most times, but that didn’t take away from the story for me (though it did take a bit to get used to).
I enjoyed the backstory and lore of the Basque people. For most of the book I thought the story was going to head more towards that legend and lore, I was even prepared for a supernatural sort of twist (final destination vibes). But instead it took a turn toward real life psychopaths, and Ben didn’t disappoint filling that role…
“When you don’t know people as well as you should, don’t be too quick to judge them.”
I would have liked some more depth of the main characters. It was difficult to relate and empathize with them. I do think Ben’s sociopathic traits were portrayed well, he flipped like a switch once everything started coming to light.
Overall there was a lot of buildup in the beginning of the book; not a lot actually takes place until around 70% into the book. If you stick around, it is an enjoyable and unexpected ending, at least it was for me.
I was awarded this book from a Goodreads Giveaway. I will start by saying that, overall, I did enjoy this book. Ternet has an interesting writing style that felt more conversational than narrative at most times, but that didn’t take away from the story for me (though it did take a bit to get used to).
I enjoyed the backstory and lore of the Basque people. For most of the book I thought the story was going to head more towards that legend and lore, I was even prepared for a supernatural sort of twist (final destination vibes). But instead it took a turn toward real life psychopaths, and Ben didn’t disappoint filling that role…
“When you don’t know people as well as you should, don’t be too quick to judge them.”
I would have liked some more depth of the main characters. It was difficult to relate and empathize with them. I do think Ben’s sociopathic traits were portrayed well, he flipped like a switch once everything started coming to light.
Overall there was a lot of buildup in the beginning of the book; not a lot actually takes place until around 70% into the book. If you stick around, it is an enjoyable and unexpected ending, at least it was for me.
August 21, 2023
GoodRead giveaway winner
May 1, 2024
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you!
This was a difficult book to read. It could benefit from both editing and proofreading. It seemed almost as though the author searched for the word "it" and then deleted that word from the manuscript, because it was lacking throughout the book and made sentences hard to read.
In addition, this book reads as though an adolescent wrote it - so much misogyny, including frequent descriptions of the women's bodies; the three women who purported to be each other's "closest, oldest friends" were constantly sniping at each other and talking about each other behind their backs. One of the women kept thinking of sleeping with the other's boyfriend, with the boyfriend thinking along these lines also. The woman who was supposed to be the least intelligent was always saying "like" in the middle of her sentences. This was extremely annoying. The first 3/4 of the book was filled with unnecessary information and the action that happened during the last 1/4 was rushed and did not really explain the motivation of the antagonist. The author puts much into this book about the Basque sheepherders, something of which he has knowledge, but it seemed extraneous to the story.
On a positive note, there was a good thread of tension sustained during the story. Fine-tuning would have made this a better book.
Thank you again for this opportunity.
This was a difficult book to read. It could benefit from both editing and proofreading. It seemed almost as though the author searched for the word "it" and then deleted that word from the manuscript, because it was lacking throughout the book and made sentences hard to read.
In addition, this book reads as though an adolescent wrote it - so much misogyny, including frequent descriptions of the women's bodies; the three women who purported to be each other's "closest, oldest friends" were constantly sniping at each other and talking about each other behind their backs. One of the women kept thinking of sleeping with the other's boyfriend, with the boyfriend thinking along these lines also. The woman who was supposed to be the least intelligent was always saying "like" in the middle of her sentences. This was extremely annoying. The first 3/4 of the book was filled with unnecessary information and the action that happened during the last 1/4 was rushed and did not really explain the motivation of the antagonist. The author puts much into this book about the Basque sheepherders, something of which he has knowledge, but it seemed extraneous to the story.
On a positive note, there was a good thread of tension sustained during the story. Fine-tuning would have made this a better book.
Thank you again for this opportunity.
April 1, 2024
It is a shame that Jarbidge's great information on Basque history and family dynamics within those Basque communities was overshadowed by the author's need to interject his misogynistic and close-minded views within the storyline.
Here are some examples:
All of these quotes from the book are within the first 30% of the book and are only a fraction of the amount I have highlighted. I know authors can write unlikable characters BUT every character in this book is TERRIBLE. The three girlfriends hate each other and constantly tear each other down in their inner monologues. Abby's boyfriend who is also on the trip is constantly thinking about f*cking her friend. Finally, the local, Ben, has these weird a** family flashbacks.
Maybe you're supposed to loathe all the characters in a horror book? The few other books I have read in this genre did not have characters THIS loathable.
I let this book sit for the weekend to see if I had a pull to read, but I did not. I thought about pushing through to see if it turned around, but life is too short for books you hate.
PS
Weed is not a narcotic.
Edibles you purchase from a dispensary are not "laced".
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, all opinions above are my own.
Here are some examples:
Confidence in a woman was good. Too much was too much though.
For as ditzy as Katie could be, as she was most of the time, she did know men.
Though her technical side had to resist pointing out that cannabis was the actual name of the narcotic.
They’d just have to wait until later when the others were asleep. That’d be fine. He really wanted some action. And that primal urge was not lessened by having sexpot Katie around.
Especially for women who liked to drink but didn’t like beer and didn’t like calories.
Abby began to think perhaps Katie had eaten too many of the THC-laced gummy bears.
Took me down by the river, threw me down to the ground, and rode me like a cowgirl, Grandad always said with a smirk. Though he still wouldn’t speak her name.
All of these quotes from the book are within the first 30% of the book and are only a fraction of the amount I have highlighted. I know authors can write unlikable characters BUT every character in this book is TERRIBLE. The three girlfriends hate each other and constantly tear each other down in their inner monologues. Abby's boyfriend who is also on the trip is constantly thinking about f*cking her friend. Finally, the local, Ben, has these weird a** family flashbacks.
Maybe you're supposed to loathe all the characters in a horror book? The few other books I have read in this genre did not have characters THIS loathable.
I let this book sit for the weekend to see if I had a pull to read, but I did not. I thought about pushing through to see if it turned around, but life is too short for books you hate.
PS
Weed is not a narcotic.
Edibles you purchase from a dispensary are not "laced".
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, all opinions above are my own.
October 10, 2023
“Jarbidge” is a horror novel written by M. Bryce Ternet. The book describes the story of four friends on a camping trip in the remote Jarbidge Mountains in Nevada. Suddenly, their pleasure adventure became a nightmare when they aroused something hidden beneath the surface of a former mining boomtown. Captivating from the very beginning to the last page, this novel is a must read for scary book lovers. What I found more interesting about this installment is how the author uses his fascination and knowledge about the Basque culture as a tool to write this intriguing tale. It is mysterious, strange, and at one point, original and educational. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fiction and mystery.
May 29, 2024
Addictive
I love stories like this one, with intrigue, mystery and the perfect dose of fear. The author makes a descriptive work; he points out each character in such detail that you can visualize and imagine them almost as if they exist in the environment you are in. The story of how this group of intrepid friends go into the mountains called by themselves "The Middle Of Nowwhere" or "Jarbidge Mountains" without full certainty of what they will find, is the guaranteed setting for a good plot. Having completely different plans than what they ended up facing, these characters will be put to the test by an unnerving force.
If you like adrenaline, this is a book for you, it has a lot of thrills in between tied to a good narrative. Read it!
I love stories like this one, with intrigue, mystery and the perfect dose of fear. The author makes a descriptive work; he points out each character in such detail that you can visualize and imagine them almost as if they exist in the environment you are in. The story of how this group of intrepid friends go into the mountains called by themselves "The Middle Of Nowwhere" or "Jarbidge Mountains" without full certainty of what they will find, is the guaranteed setting for a good plot. Having completely different plans than what they ended up facing, these characters will be put to the test by an unnerving force.
If you like adrenaline, this is a book for you, it has a lot of thrills in between tied to a good narrative. Read it!
June 4, 2024
Great novel.
It is a gripping mix of suspense and horror that captivates readers from the first page. "Jarbidge" follows the story of four friends on a camping trip in the Jarbidge Mountains. What begins as an adventurous getaway soon transforms into a traumatic experience as unexplained and ghostly events unfold.
I must say that the author masterfully creates tension, immersing readers in the chilling atmosphere of the mountains. The characters are put to the test as they face the sinister forces. The author's descriptions and well-crafted narrative keep the suspense high, making this book an exciting read for fans of horror and suspense. This novel shows Ternet's narrative expertise, leaving readers turning the pages until the end.
It is a gripping mix of suspense and horror that captivates readers from the first page. "Jarbidge" follows the story of four friends on a camping trip in the Jarbidge Mountains. What begins as an adventurous getaway soon transforms into a traumatic experience as unexplained and ghostly events unfold.
I must say that the author masterfully creates tension, immersing readers in the chilling atmosphere of the mountains. The characters are put to the test as they face the sinister forces. The author's descriptions and well-crafted narrative keep the suspense high, making this book an exciting read for fans of horror and suspense. This novel shows Ternet's narrative expertise, leaving readers turning the pages until the end.
October 10, 2023
If you are a lover of suspense and emotions that leave you breathless, "Jarbidge" is the novel you have been waiting for. The story follows four intrepid friends who decide to embark on a camping trip in the former lands of a booming mining town. What begins as a common adventure, quickly becomes a journey into bewilderment and terror.
This is a well-developed plot with multifaceted characters. Ternet's story spins a web of suspense and tension that keeps you turning the pages. Please, do yourself a favor and read it; you will thank me. It was a suspense thriller that I enjoyed and found entertaining; it never became tedious. It comes highly recommended by me!
This is a well-developed plot with multifaceted characters. Ternet's story spins a web of suspense and tension that keeps you turning the pages. Please, do yourself a favor and read it; you will thank me. It was a suspense thriller that I enjoyed and found entertaining; it never became tedious. It comes highly recommended by me!
October 12, 2023
Jarbidge by author M. Bryce Ternet is a good novel, full of suspense and thrilling events in its plot. This story of four friends camping in the Nevada´s Jarbidge Mountain is just laced with intrigue. The information and reveals behind a former mining town trickle in at an engaging pace that should keep any reader biting their nails throughout the course of the chapters. Moreover, the intrigue around the character of local Ben Kuhl unfolds with a good intensity, gradually drawing readers deeper into its compelling narrative. As a plus, this character has Basque roots and throughout the book, data and information about that culture are introduced in an interesting way.
October 13, 2023
Jarbidge by M. Bryce Ternet is a highly captivating suspense. The book tells the story of four friends camping in Nevada's Jarbidge Mountain. Ternet showed a rich understanding of Basque culture within the good story. The plot has unexpected wonderful twists, and it is framed perfectly by the writing style of the author. The language and vocabulary chosen picture every scene perfectly. I enjoyed every moment of the reading, I felt immersed in the plot, having the sense of being part of each scene.
In my opinion, this is one of the best suspense stories I have ever read. I’m following the author's work for sure and I will recommend it too.
In my opinion, this is one of the best suspense stories I have ever read. I’m following the author's work for sure and I will recommend it too.
May 29, 2024
A well-crafted suspenseful horror...
"Jarbidge" by M. Bryce Ternet is a riveting combination of mystery and cultural history set in Nevada's Jarbidge Mountains. The plot revolves around four friends whose camping trip becomes scary as they upset something old in a forsaken mining town. Ternet's conversational writing style draws readers into the unfolding events, while the incorporation of Basque culture provides depth and authenticity. Although the action is concentrated in the second half of the novel, the buildup culminates in an exciting finale. "Jarbidge" is a must-read for thriller fans who value a well-researched cultural setting with an exciting, unexpected ending.
"Jarbidge" by M. Bryce Ternet is a riveting combination of mystery and cultural history set in Nevada's Jarbidge Mountains. The plot revolves around four friends whose camping trip becomes scary as they upset something old in a forsaken mining town. Ternet's conversational writing style draws readers into the unfolding events, while the incorporation of Basque culture provides depth and authenticity. Although the action is concentrated in the second half of the novel, the buildup culminates in an exciting finale. "Jarbidge" is a must-read for thriller fans who value a well-researched cultural setting with an exciting, unexpected ending.
May 30, 2024
What a captivating story! It kept me on the edge of my seat and I didn't want to miss any details. One of the things I loved about this novel is that it’s extremely well-written and the action never ends.
The chapters are long but addictive and agile, and as the pages turn, we discover lots of details about the setting that produce chills and characters whose motivations and psychology are masterfully fleshing out.
The mystery is palpable throughout the novel and from the very beginning, I wished to know more about the four friends and the local man who will help them. However, things are not at all what they seem to be.
The chapters are long but addictive and agile, and as the pages turn, we discover lots of details about the setting that produce chills and characters whose motivations and psychology are masterfully fleshing out.
The mystery is palpable throughout the novel and from the very beginning, I wished to know more about the four friends and the local man who will help them. However, things are not at all what they seem to be.
May 31, 2024
Intriguing from start to finish.
It is excellent! It is one of those creepy stories that makes me want to cover my face but at the same time, I can't stop reading because I want to know how it continues. I think this speaks very well of both the story and the author.
Jarbidge by M. Bryce Ternet follows four friends on a camping trip in the remote Jarbidge Mountains of Nevada. They find something hidden and a local with a strange past promises to protect them, but the problem is who they should really protect themselves from.
The author did a great job mixing mysterious elements with cultural information, especially about Basque culture, while developing a solid plot.
It is excellent! It is one of those creepy stories that makes me want to cover my face but at the same time, I can't stop reading because I want to know how it continues. I think this speaks very well of both the story and the author.
Jarbidge by M. Bryce Ternet follows four friends on a camping trip in the remote Jarbidge Mountains of Nevada. They find something hidden and a local with a strange past promises to protect them, but the problem is who they should really protect themselves from.
The author did a great job mixing mysterious elements with cultural information, especially about Basque culture, while developing a solid plot.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews