A Shadow's Wraith

by J.B. Arnold

Two long years have passed, the time stolen from Frank’s life. He was guilty, and he understood that, deserving the prison sentence for his girlfriend’s death. But with time comes change. He’s a reformed man now, severed from his addiction and clean from its venomous grip. And now, he’s ready to reclaim his life.

One by one, he checks the boxes, jumps through the bureaucratic hoops to regain custody of his daughter, and the day of reuniting with her is nearing. But an unseen obstacle has his estranged, aging father.

Steered by self loathing and guilt, Frank brings his father home to live out his final days. As he tries to make peace with his past, and salvage their broken relationship before it’s too late, he discovers his father isn’t alone. A darkness long forgotten has returned to their lives, ready to continue its torment and misery.

Can Frank save himself and his daughter, or will the shadows feast once more?

277 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 25, 2024

About the author

J. B. Arnold is a thriller and horror writer who crafts his darkest tales under the bright California sun. He lives with his beautiful wife, their four children, and his most dedicated writing companion—Max, a gray tabby with impeccable taste in plot twists. When he's not exploring the shadows of the human psyche on the page, he can be found navigating the cheerful chaos of family life, proving that the best horror writers know how to balance the macabre with the mundane.

For more information, check out:

www.jbarnold-author.com
www.facebook.com/theauthorjbarnold
www.instagram.com/j.b.arnoldauthor

Reviews

[Jamie Dunsmuir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Franks world comes crashing down around him. He loses the love of his life to overdose, his daughter taken by social services and is incarcerated for two years. He is liberated, turns his life around, holds a steady job and jumps through any and all hoops to get custody back of his daughter. He then takes in his ailing dad, despite their past relationship, and things take a turn for the worst. Strange noises, electrical failures, plagued by horrendous nightmares that, at times, cause him to become catatonic with grief and memories of a past life. Is there a guardian angel in his not too distant future? He needs help now more than ever.

This is a must read for any horror fans out there. It’s gripping, intense, fast paced, thought provoking and deviously delicious in its horror - Arnold does a spectacular work! Thanks to J. B. for reaching out and offering me the chance to be an ARC reader. I thoroughly look forward to reading more of your work in the future.

[Tina Transformation · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.B. Arnold doesn’t just tell a scary story; he makes you feel it. The fear isn’t just in the shadows—it’s in the choices we make, the regrets we carry, and the things we try to outrun. The writing pulls you in, the tension builds steadily, and before you know it, you’re completely immersed in a world where the real horror isn’t just the monsters—it’s what they represent. If you’re looking for a story that’s gripping, thought-provoking, and genuinely eerie, A Shadow’s Wraith is one to check out.

[Rachel Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A Shadow's Wraith” by J. B. Arnold is a profoundly emotional and compelling narrative that delves into the harrowing struggle with addiction and the battle against inner demons. The story is deeply immersive, capturing the raw intensity of its themes with remarkable depth. Arnold's writing is both powerful and evocative, drawing me in from the very first page. I found myself completely engrossed in this powerful exploration of pain, redemption, and the human spirit.

[Horror Haus Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast paced horror novel that’s sure to terrify any reader. On top of all of the creepy vibes this book has to offer, it also deep dives into human emotions such as grief, loss, and guilt which can sometimes be more horrifying than evil forces lurking around the corner.

[Jessica Sorensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed listening to this one. The demon's voice sounds so cool. I felt the emotions right along with the MMC. Very well written. I can't wait to read more by this author.

[Milt Theo · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded to 4. "A Shadow's Wraith" has a main character I found myself rooting for, a dark plot around horrors of the ordinary life (from one's struggle to overcome addiction to the stress of winning back custody of a child), and an intriguing premise - according to which said horrors provide an opening to the demonic, and feed it with grief, guilt, and pain. Arnold has a solid story to tell, he cares about his characters, and never misses a chance to show the real struggles a former addict and former inmate has to face in order to rebuild his life practically from scratch. I could relate to the 'burden' of taking care of an aging parent, the anxiety of restoring relations with one's young child, and the dread and confusion when facing an uncertain future. However, I felt that the plot had two siginificant weaknesses, because of which I never managed to fully care about the plight of the main character: firstly, the author takes far too long to resolve the ambiguities of the supernatural presence in the main character's life; and secondly, the introduction of the supporting characters, especially Emma, was way too forced to feel natural. Both of these drawbacks put distance between me and the cast, so I never emotionally clicked for what was at stake in the supernatural battles when they finally came. Atmosphere and tension were severely lacking, and I'm still not convinced that I grasped the siginificance of the mysterious nurse, Kwame. Perhaps this would have worked better as a novella.

[Sarah King · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, thank you to the author for picking me to be part of his ARC team for this particular book. Second, isn’t the cover amazing?! This book was an emotional roller coaster. Frank is an ex drug addict whose life changed at a Halloween party. He turns his life around while in jail. He has a job. He has a roof over his head. He has new coping skills. He has a father who is very sick and needs to be looked after. He has social services giving him a hard time about getting his child back. Not to mention his sick dad is acting a little strange. Frank must confront his father and his past mistakes so he can save his daughter and himself. Please join Frank’s roller coaster of a life and enjoy the dialogue and the characters. You won’t be disappointed.

[Jenny Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I loved how descriptive the writing was. And the ending, oh my! Did not see that coming. I was so engrossed in the story that I hadn’t even realized an hour had passed, when it felt like just a few minutes! Highly recommend ♥️

[Alyssa Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slow but a good burn. This book made me feel so conflicted, love/hate, sympathy. The main characters struggles, the navigation throughout the story…. and the ENDING?! You have a new fan J.b Arnold!

[Lisa (the_epi_reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Shadow’s Wraith was a quick read tackling difficult topics that can create horrors in anyone’s life - addiction, caring for an aging parent, losing custody of a child, or making ends meet financially with little to no help. Not enough authors shed light on how this is everyday life for so many individuals, and I appreciate Arnold for addressing this in his novel. I did feel that it took a little too long to get into the horror elements of the novel, and I had difficulty getting fully immersed with the characters or scenes. I felt as if there was a layer that still needed to be revealed to develop a deeper connection with the characters. Moreover, I have always struggled with grief horror since it’s not a sub-genre I enjoy.

Thank you to J.B. Arnold and Twisted Tales for inviting me to be a part of the ARC team & providing me with a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Lacey Salois · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Reader here. This book is a quick read. Once you start, you will want to finish in one sitting!

Frank has not had the greatest of life experiences, but he has learned from them. He has suffered immense loss ending in the death loved ones and his daughter becoming a ward of the State. Once out of incarceration, Frank takes in his father, for what he quickly discovers may be a hospice situation. Or is it? Will the demons of his past addictions come back to haunt him?

Curl up by the fire and settle in for one wild ride! This book is perfect for "spooky season"! Such a great addition to any horror enthusiasts library. Get the book.

[Denise Little · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frank has been out of prison for two years. He is determined to get his life on track, and get custody of his daughter. Then he is called to take care of his aging father. Shadows from the past want something from him and won’t quit until they get it!! This was an outstanding thriller and I was scared to go to sleep!

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pretty solid supernatural horror. Still doesn't top Exit 202 for me, but it was very enjoyable nonetheless.

Full review soon....

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shadows Wraith by JB Arnold is a masterful blend of raw human emotion, suspense, and a chilling supernatural element. Frank’s journey from prison to redemption is compelling, filled with the weight of guilt and hope for a second chance with his daughter. His struggle to overcome his past, while trying to reconnect with his estranged, dying father, brings a deeply emotional layer to the story that feels authentic and heart-wrenching.

Arnold expertly crafts tension, not just between Frank and his father, but also through the lurking presence of the sinister darkness that threatens to undo everything Frank has worked for. The supernatural twist isn’t just about jump scares—it’s a metaphor for the demons Frank still battles inside, making the story both eerie and psychologically complex.

The pacing is relentless, the characters richly developed, and the haunting atmosphere keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The Shadows Wraith is a beautifully written, dark tale of survival and redemption, reminding us that the past can haunt us in more ways than one. A must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and supernatural suspense!

[Kate Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Shadow’s Wraith is a compelling story involving loss, grief, guilt, and sacrifice. After a hard life of drugs and prison, Frank tries his hardest to do the right thing for his family but the Shadows will not get out of the way. I couldn’t help but feel bad for him throughout the story.

The author does an excellent job of painting the picture. I had a visual of every scene!

This story was not predictable for me at all. I was truly surprised by the ending and I literally gasped! Out loud!

Do not sleep on J.B. Arnold! You will not be disappointed!

[Kim (alwaysadelaidesmom) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up. Another fast-paced and creepy read by J.B. Arnold! I'm so grateful to be an ARC reader for this book - it was such an anxiety-filled ride.

As Frank takes care of his ill father and tries to win back custody of his daughter, he starts to be haunted by dark shadows and terrifying visions. This book is filled with the haunting influence of addiction and the fight to find yourself again. With the help of friends will Frank be able to fight the darkness and give his daughter the life she deserves?

Read to find out! A Shadow's Wraith is released October 25th!

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dark read with some hard topics (drugs, addiction, abandonment, religion, demons); but one that will keep you on your seat for what is to come next. Removing the para from the story, the metaphor that can be found between the demons/shadows and addiction is very real and terrifying. Thankful for the ARC!!

[Michael Penning · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Shadow’s Wraith, J.B. Arnold weaves a haunting tale of redemption, grief, and the ghosts we carry—both literal and emotional. Arnold pulls us into the fragile psyche of a man clawing his way back from rock bottom. With raw emotional depth and an undercurrent of supernatural dread, this novel explores the heavy cost of forgiveness and the terrifying legacy of guilt. Blending heartache with horror, Arnold delivers a powerful narrative where healing and haunting walk hand in hand through both darkness and light.

[kimberly ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping quick read about loss, grief, and a dark past Frank can’t seem to shake despite overcoming every obstacle needed to get his life back on track.

I couldn’t predict what would happen next so I couldn’t put this book down!

[Maxwell Stegner · Rating 5 out of 5]

what a book to screw with your mind

So much going on in this book. I flew through this book and enjoyed every page. The MC went through so much in his life and I felt so bad for his daughter. The paranormal feel and the way J B Arnold was able to bring the scenes to life was a testament to his writing. You could really feel for each of the characters what what they were going through.
Also, great name for the cat.

[ScarlettAnomalyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not expect to be so engrossed in a book.
The synopsis snagged my attention but the book, stole my soul a bit lol.
I did not know if I was going to actually like Frank, I had some hard feelings at first but JB drug me in hard to this, and had me nervous about what's going to happen next.

October 25th it releases, grab it yall really

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of being a ARC for A SHADOWS WRAITH by Author J.B. Arnold (thank you!)
Published Date: 10/25/24

WTF did I just read!! (In the best way)
Gripping, tons of emotion, straight up mouth dropping.. (literally) loved it!!

A Must read!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 I give it 5 stars for sure 👍

I wonderful mix of raw human emotion,
and chilling suspense.

Buy it/ down load it!! You won’t regret it!!

[Janelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... This book was gritty, dark and gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of this story, it kept me on the edge of my seat with some parts that made my skin crawl and my heart race. Well written with a great pace, this story is going to stick with me for a while.

[Aeroreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Shadow’s Wraith is a gripping tale that will have adrenaline coursing through your system with each page turn. Deep and unnerving, this is a story that will possess your thoughts until the last line.

This is J.B. Arnold’s best yet. Each sentence felt like prose, and I could easily read this book in a weekend.

I received an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda Lamb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big thank you to J.B. Arnold for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

What a creepy and emotional book! I'm still thinking about poor Frank and his daughter Chloe. Since I hate spoilers I won't go into any detail. Just know that my feelings are hurt.

Do yourself a favor and check this book out when it releases October 25th.

[Hillary Specksgoor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC J.B !!!

This was a great read! Perfect for spooky season (or any season)

Follow Frank haunted by his past figure out how to navigate life now. Just when he thinks all is going to be well things decide to change!


Out October 25 get a copy!

[Tiffanianne Gourley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book as an ARC & I’m so glad I was! I sat and read this book in one day I couldn’t put it down. I was griped from the beginning. I could picture it I felt like I was there. Another great book by J.B.!

[Alix Kampen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shadow's Wraith is the second book I've read by JB Arnold, and like Exit 202 I was memorized by the descriptive writing JB uses. It puts you right there, in the moment as though you're part of the story yourself. Or it makes you feel you understand the characters every feeling as your own. The ending definitely had my jaw dropping, I can't say why as it's a major spoiler but it was very sad and humbling. The epilogue was the best part of the book, I was excited when I figured it out and had my thoughts validated. Hope there is a sequel, I want to know what happens next!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read this genre of book in a long time. This is a heart pounding thriller that kept me turning pages. Likeable characters that are able to give you all the feels but hang on.....it's about to hit the fan!
I read this book in 2 days!! I couldn't put it down!! So so good!! Enjoy everyone!

[Diane E. Navratil · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review - thank you JB Arnold for the opportunity to review your new book! An absolutely disturbing work involving drugs, love, a child, loss, recovery, family obligations and some very dark creatures. Read this in one day and I would recommend to anyone who is even slightly interested in a story such as this!