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Ghostly Summons: A Lars Kelsen Spectral Thriller
An eerie paranormal tale of ghostly haunting and human retribution.
Never a fan of the Netherworld, can a psychic investigator set aside his reluctance and once again match wits with a murderer?
Five years after leaving a career as a crime beat reporter, the tendrils of the Netherworld have found Lars Kelsen once more. Chilling visions of a murder victim have begun to haunt him. The serene beaches of his new home have turned deadly.
As Lars navigates this new web of murder and intrigue, he finds himself immersed in a world he thought he had escaped. Ethical lines blur. Stakes quickly escalate.
Has he lived in relative peace too long to be useful to a restless ghost? With an alluring county coroner complicating matters, can Kelsen outmaneuver a ruthless killer lurking in the shadows?
This spectral thriller is a story of supernatural and mortal motivations and the evil possessing a killer's soul.
Never a fan of the Netherworld, can a psychic investigator set aside his reluctance and once again match wits with a murderer?
Five years after leaving a career as a crime beat reporter, the tendrils of the Netherworld have found Lars Kelsen once more. Chilling visions of a murder victim have begun to haunt him. The serene beaches of his new home have turned deadly.
As Lars navigates this new web of murder and intrigue, he finds himself immersed in a world he thought he had escaped. Ethical lines blur. Stakes quickly escalate.
Has he lived in relative peace too long to be useful to a restless ghost? With an alluring county coroner complicating matters, can Kelsen outmaneuver a ruthless killer lurking in the shadows?
This spectral thriller is a story of supernatural and mortal motivations and the evil possessing a killer's soul.
Audible Audio
First published March 13, 2013
About the author
John Andrew Karr
21 books225 followersJohn Andrew Karr (also John A. Karr) writes of the strange and spectacular. He is the author of a handful of independent and small press novels and novellas, including the Mars Wars science fiction series via Kensington Books’ Rebel Base imprint. Short stories have appeared in New Reader Magazine, Flame Tree Publishing, Danse Macabre, Allegory and others.
He’s a North Carolina resident, IT worker, and all-around family guy. He is also an ardent believer in the quote from Carl van Doren (1885-1950), U.S. man of letters: Yes, it's hard to write, but it's harder not to.
www.johnandrewkarr.com
He’s a North Carolina resident, IT worker, and all-around family guy. He is also an ardent believer in the quote from Carl van Doren (1885-1950), U.S. man of letters: Yes, it's hard to write, but it's harder not to.
www.johnandrewkarr.com
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 25, 2013
Read all reviews at http://ssbookfanatics.blogspot.com
Copy received for review purposes
I agreed to review this book for three reasons. One, I liked the cover - something about the girl's look kept drawing my eyes to her face time and again. Two, the blurb obviously intrigued me, or I wouldn't have agreed to read it. We all know that by these two things alone, a good book it doesn't make. However, there are times when as soon as I start reading a book, I get a feeling. Sounds strange, maybe, but it's nevertheless true. I was right, it was good. And three, this isn't something I share with many people (too late now), but I've gone my whole life seeing my own brand of 'visitors'. Unlike the protagonist though, I don't investigate, do guns or get beat up! I'm scared that way. I just go about my business. So, it must be said that I loved this book - from the very first page.
Lars Kelsen is an awesome character, but not one without past mistakes, a divorce and a huge loss - his son, who was murdered. It's always said that when things go wrong, it not only rains but pours. True in his case. Lars has a psychic ability, something he doesn't believe in and since Harry Houdini thought so too, then it must be. By the end of Ghostly Summons, he thinks that perhaps old Harry could have been a tad wrong. I love the Harry Houdini mentions, not excluding a quote at the beginning of every chapter by Edgar Allan Poe from The Pit and the Pendulum. I've never read any of his work, but I must say it totally went down a treat.
Lars is a former investigative journalist. He left his old life behind, and is now working as a programmer, bar two days a week. Pleasant enough work. Anything is better than having to relive his son's death although his memories will never go way, and occasional flashbacks occur. He's also convinced himself that his visions and his 'visitors', including his divorce, are all behind him. Well, he truly hoped his visitors were a thing of the past. Not so. The prologue introduces you to some history pertaining to the OBX area, and ends with the naked body of a woman, Jeanette Broughton, being uncovered after a botched practice bomb drop. This same area has a dual purpose; it's a bombing range and the Dare County game lands to which the public has access to on occasion. Of course, it's thereafter that Lars starts seeing his 'visitor'. His visions, which really aren't visions in his mind but honest to goodness dead people (visitors, as you've gathered he calls them) standing upright, always, naked and wearing proof of the manner death was dealt them by the horrific tell and placement on their bodies, begin to make him think that doctors were right all along. He must be going mad. Lars tries to ignore this woman, this vision he wants no part of, but he can't. Her eyes beg for his help, she needs closure and those involved in her death need to be caught. One thing Lars can't do is have conversations with any of them - they are non-responsive, verbally. It's more a case of show, as in here I am - take a good look, and please solve my murder.
A good friend at the hospital introduces her husband to Lars. He's just taken over a newspaper, has his sights set on the story behind the dead woman, who just happened to be married to a very rich local businessman. Lars at first refuses, but when her visits become more constant, he eventually takes Frank up on his offer hoping that when this one is done they'll come to an end, and works on digging up information during the two days he's not at the hospital. He knows she was murdered. He's seen what was done to her. He just needs to prove it. Lars meets Stephanie Dietz, the local coroner, and they form a friendship which later turns into a mutual 'like/really like' of one another. From here on in, things heat up with twists and turns that kept me turning page after page, after page. Ghostly Summons is peppered with interesting characters, one for whom I felt very sad at the end.
Lars isn't afraid to go after what he wants, often to his own detriment. I'm surprised he managed to live till the end of the book. He can also be quite the charmer. Everything about his character worked for me, and he became an actual to goodness person in my mind. Good job, Mr. Karr.
I had no clue as to who the murderer was, and this is something I love. Okay, this particular person wasn't mentioned throughout the book at all, but someone close to them was. I've no problems with that, as long as the explanation afforded me makes sense. It did. I abhor finding out or guessing who the culprit is either right from the beginning, or halfway through the book. John Karr had me guessing up until it was time for the murderer to make an entrance. Superb.
Ghostly Summons has it all. Murder, suspense, action, hacking (I find this so interesting - and no, I'm not a hacker), and perhaps a blossoming love? I could read another book on Lars Kelsen. I'd be interested to see where their relationship would go, but I'd also like to see him go about solving more cases, maybe eventually being hired by say, the FBI. One can hope, especially as the cover sports: A Lars Kelsen Mystery.
It must be said that I have a huge interest in reading stories involving visions and/or psychic phenomena. As far as the writing is concerned, there isn't one single thing that irked me, in fact, it was written for me and to be honest, I thought Mr. Karr did a bang job - it was good! To end, I felt like I was watching this story unfold in my head where elements from a few of my favourite shows such as 24, CSI and The Mentalist, were bundled together and speckled throughout its pages.
Copy received for review purposes
I agreed to review this book for three reasons. One, I liked the cover - something about the girl's look kept drawing my eyes to her face time and again. Two, the blurb obviously intrigued me, or I wouldn't have agreed to read it. We all know that by these two things alone, a good book it doesn't make. However, there are times when as soon as I start reading a book, I get a feeling. Sounds strange, maybe, but it's nevertheless true. I was right, it was good. And three, this isn't something I share with many people (too late now), but I've gone my whole life seeing my own brand of 'visitors'. Unlike the protagonist though, I don't investigate, do guns or get beat up! I'm scared that way. I just go about my business. So, it must be said that I loved this book - from the very first page.
Lars Kelsen is an awesome character, but not one without past mistakes, a divorce and a huge loss - his son, who was murdered. It's always said that when things go wrong, it not only rains but pours. True in his case. Lars has a psychic ability, something he doesn't believe in and since Harry Houdini thought so too, then it must be. By the end of Ghostly Summons, he thinks that perhaps old Harry could have been a tad wrong. I love the Harry Houdini mentions, not excluding a quote at the beginning of every chapter by Edgar Allan Poe from The Pit and the Pendulum. I've never read any of his work, but I must say it totally went down a treat.
Lars is a former investigative journalist. He left his old life behind, and is now working as a programmer, bar two days a week. Pleasant enough work. Anything is better than having to relive his son's death although his memories will never go way, and occasional flashbacks occur. He's also convinced himself that his visions and his 'visitors', including his divorce, are all behind him. Well, he truly hoped his visitors were a thing of the past. Not so. The prologue introduces you to some history pertaining to the OBX area, and ends with the naked body of a woman, Jeanette Broughton, being uncovered after a botched practice bomb drop. This same area has a dual purpose; it's a bombing range and the Dare County game lands to which the public has access to on occasion. Of course, it's thereafter that Lars starts seeing his 'visitor'. His visions, which really aren't visions in his mind but honest to goodness dead people (visitors, as you've gathered he calls them) standing upright, always, naked and wearing proof of the manner death was dealt them by the horrific tell and placement on their bodies, begin to make him think that doctors were right all along. He must be going mad. Lars tries to ignore this woman, this vision he wants no part of, but he can't. Her eyes beg for his help, she needs closure and those involved in her death need to be caught. One thing Lars can't do is have conversations with any of them - they are non-responsive, verbally. It's more a case of show, as in here I am - take a good look, and please solve my murder.
A good friend at the hospital introduces her husband to Lars. He's just taken over a newspaper, has his sights set on the story behind the dead woman, who just happened to be married to a very rich local businessman. Lars at first refuses, but when her visits become more constant, he eventually takes Frank up on his offer hoping that when this one is done they'll come to an end, and works on digging up information during the two days he's not at the hospital. He knows she was murdered. He's seen what was done to her. He just needs to prove it. Lars meets Stephanie Dietz, the local coroner, and they form a friendship which later turns into a mutual 'like/really like' of one another. From here on in, things heat up with twists and turns that kept me turning page after page, after page. Ghostly Summons is peppered with interesting characters, one for whom I felt very sad at the end.
Lars isn't afraid to go after what he wants, often to his own detriment. I'm surprised he managed to live till the end of the book. He can also be quite the charmer. Everything about his character worked for me, and he became an actual to goodness person in my mind. Good job, Mr. Karr.
I had no clue as to who the murderer was, and this is something I love. Okay, this particular person wasn't mentioned throughout the book at all, but someone close to them was. I've no problems with that, as long as the explanation afforded me makes sense. It did. I abhor finding out or guessing who the culprit is either right from the beginning, or halfway through the book. John Karr had me guessing up until it was time for the murderer to make an entrance. Superb.
Ghostly Summons has it all. Murder, suspense, action, hacking (I find this so interesting - and no, I'm not a hacker), and perhaps a blossoming love? I could read another book on Lars Kelsen. I'd be interested to see where their relationship would go, but I'd also like to see him go about solving more cases, maybe eventually being hired by say, the FBI. One can hope, especially as the cover sports: A Lars Kelsen Mystery.
It must be said that I have a huge interest in reading stories involving visions and/or psychic phenomena. As far as the writing is concerned, there isn't one single thing that irked me, in fact, it was written for me and to be honest, I thought Mr. Karr did a bang job - it was good! To end, I felt like I was watching this story unfold in my head where elements from a few of my favourite shows such as 24, CSI and The Mentalist, were bundled together and speckled throughout its pages.
July 21, 2013
Original review here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2013/07/ghostly-summons-blog-tour-review-50-gc.html
Ghostly Summons follows a man named Lars Kelsen who has a chip on his shoulder. That chip being death. Lars has a psychic ability which he doesn't really believe in. He believes his “ability” is more of an illness. He gets “visits” from people who want him to find their killers. They don't go away until he solves their murders. He gets one visit from a rich woman. This visit will force Lars to face things he rather not face and do things he rather not do.
I really enjoyed this read. It is nice coming across a paranormal mystery read as intriguing as this one. This is my first read by Karr and I would love to read more by him. Karr has a great knack for storytelling. The way this book is written, you really feel like you are in the book with the character. Karr gives such detailed descriptions of Lars' surroundings. Oh Lars! Our introduction of Lars alone was quite an experience. The man is quite tortured. He has lost everything. His loss has made him one tough shell to crack. You will instantly have a connection with Lars even though he may depress some. He loss his son and that loss has ruined him. This has clearly made him far from perfect. Before he became a programmer, he was a crime reporter. He had a tendency to bend the rules a bit to get things done. But to be fair, he was usually on track. He also doesn't like being bothered by the ghostly visits either. Even though he can solve their murders, he wants nothing to do with them or anyone for that matter except Hooper the dog.
I love the story that Karr has given us. Lars is approached by a rich dead woman named Jeannette. She appears to him naked and clearly beaten to death. She needs Lars' help to solve her murder. But it is quite the mystery to uncover. Her case is bringing back the need of his old job of investigative reporting. I love seeing what Lars is willing to do to get the job done. He knows how to be charming to get what he wants and when all else fails, planting devices or evidence seems to also get the results he wants.
I would recommend this to fans of paranormal or mystery reads. This book balances the two out very well. Karr is a great writer and again, he really knows how the reel the reader in. The story moves at a great pace especially with the fight scenes.I loved the action in this book along with the suspense. I would love to see this as a series. Lars is just such a great character, one book just isn't enough.
Ghostly Summons follows a man named Lars Kelsen who has a chip on his shoulder. That chip being death. Lars has a psychic ability which he doesn't really believe in. He believes his “ability” is more of an illness. He gets “visits” from people who want him to find their killers. They don't go away until he solves their murders. He gets one visit from a rich woman. This visit will force Lars to face things he rather not face and do things he rather not do.
I really enjoyed this read. It is nice coming across a paranormal mystery read as intriguing as this one. This is my first read by Karr and I would love to read more by him. Karr has a great knack for storytelling. The way this book is written, you really feel like you are in the book with the character. Karr gives such detailed descriptions of Lars' surroundings. Oh Lars! Our introduction of Lars alone was quite an experience. The man is quite tortured. He has lost everything. His loss has made him one tough shell to crack. You will instantly have a connection with Lars even though he may depress some. He loss his son and that loss has ruined him. This has clearly made him far from perfect. Before he became a programmer, he was a crime reporter. He had a tendency to bend the rules a bit to get things done. But to be fair, he was usually on track. He also doesn't like being bothered by the ghostly visits either. Even though he can solve their murders, he wants nothing to do with them or anyone for that matter except Hooper the dog.
I love the story that Karr has given us. Lars is approached by a rich dead woman named Jeannette. She appears to him naked and clearly beaten to death. She needs Lars' help to solve her murder. But it is quite the mystery to uncover. Her case is bringing back the need of his old job of investigative reporting. I love seeing what Lars is willing to do to get the job done. He knows how to be charming to get what he wants and when all else fails, planting devices or evidence seems to also get the results he wants.
I would recommend this to fans of paranormal or mystery reads. This book balances the two out very well. Karr is a great writer and again, he really knows how the reel the reader in. The story moves at a great pace especially with the fight scenes.I loved the action in this book along with the suspense. I would love to see this as a series. Lars is just such a great character, one book just isn't enough.
August 1, 2013
Posted First by Blog Critics as Book Review: Ghostly Summons by John A. Karr
Sometimes in life we choose our own profession. There are numerous reasons for that choice, not always because it is what we love, but because it is what is available. Other times our profession chooses us. These are the professions that those who have them find most interesting.
In Ghostly Summons by John A. Karr, we follow the life and exploits of Lars Kelson. Once a crime reporter, he has put that life behind him. That was his past, a time in his life when all was crazy. Initially life was good; he had helped the police in their efforts to get the bad guys. All was pretty good with the world. Then his word had spun out of control after the murder of his son. Unable to have been there for his own son, he began seeing the ghosts of murder victims. He did not believe in psychic ability so knew that his mind was on a trip to where it might not recover. Choosing to change his career, he took a job that didn't deal with people. Computers were easy, and the event of ghosts settled into his past.
Or did it? When a beautiful woman shows up in his home, he knows immediately that she is the victim of foul play. Having put his past behind him, it appears that he does not control his destiny, and this ghostly presence will not go away until he helps to reveal the true nature of her death.
Karr has given us and interesting crime reporter sleuth, a person that seems to exude confidence to those around him. The flaw lies in the mind of this protagonist, he is sure he must be on the verge of losing it. This makes mush of the interplay more unique and interesting. His ghostly partner has her own set of foibles, yet without speech she is hard pressed to really help in any way. Her presence has to be enough to prod him into the search.
As he delves further into the mysterious uncovering of a woman's body at a bomb site, he finds himself in the cross hairs of a sniper bullet. Knowing from the visitor that shows up when he least expects her, and now with evidence that puts him as risk, he must help to prove that murder really occurred. Can he put her to rest before the rest of his mind takes a hiatus?
If you enjoy paranormal mysteries, you will enjoy this work. The protagonist is interesting and has a interesting take on life. He is tough, and has gone through some very perilous and devastating travails in his own life, which give him a strong character.
This would be a good book for a reading group, and a nice addition to your library.
Sometimes in life we choose our own profession. There are numerous reasons for that choice, not always because it is what we love, but because it is what is available. Other times our profession chooses us. These are the professions that those who have them find most interesting.
In Ghostly Summons by John A. Karr, we follow the life and exploits of Lars Kelson. Once a crime reporter, he has put that life behind him. That was his past, a time in his life when all was crazy. Initially life was good; he had helped the police in their efforts to get the bad guys. All was pretty good with the world. Then his word had spun out of control after the murder of his son. Unable to have been there for his own son, he began seeing the ghosts of murder victims. He did not believe in psychic ability so knew that his mind was on a trip to where it might not recover. Choosing to change his career, he took a job that didn't deal with people. Computers were easy, and the event of ghosts settled into his past.
Or did it? When a beautiful woman shows up in his home, he knows immediately that she is the victim of foul play. Having put his past behind him, it appears that he does not control his destiny, and this ghostly presence will not go away until he helps to reveal the true nature of her death.
Karr has given us and interesting crime reporter sleuth, a person that seems to exude confidence to those around him. The flaw lies in the mind of this protagonist, he is sure he must be on the verge of losing it. This makes mush of the interplay more unique and interesting. His ghostly partner has her own set of foibles, yet without speech she is hard pressed to really help in any way. Her presence has to be enough to prod him into the search.
As he delves further into the mysterious uncovering of a woman's body at a bomb site, he finds himself in the cross hairs of a sniper bullet. Knowing from the visitor that shows up when he least expects her, and now with evidence that puts him as risk, he must help to prove that murder really occurred. Can he put her to rest before the rest of his mind takes a hiatus?
If you enjoy paranormal mysteries, you will enjoy this work. The protagonist is interesting and has a interesting take on life. He is tough, and has gone through some very perilous and devastating travails in his own life, which give him a strong character.
This would be a good book for a reading group, and a nice addition to your library.
July 9, 2013
For as long as he can remember, Lars Kelsen has been haunted by visions. Mind you, they're not your everyday visions. He sees dead people. They come to him in the hopes of his helping the authorities to find their bodies, and put their memories to rest. They need closure, and he's the one to give them just that.
In Lars' mind, his 'visions' are not psychic related. He's convinced himself that what he sees are figments of his imagination, that the visitors do not truly exist. Yet deep inside, he knows better. The visitors do exist. They do their damnedest to make that fact known, even if they don't speak or move in doing so. At times, he wishes he could be rid of the uncanny gift he bears, yet its become an ingrained part of him that it's now hard to let go.
When his latest visitor turns up, Lars isn't sure as to what to make of it. He's spent so much time denying his abilities that the woman he now sees makes him question his sanity further. Still, he knows she needs help, and he's determined to get to the bottom of things, once and for all. In his mind, it'll help him to lay all of his ghosts to rest. Unfortunately, nothing ever works out as planned, most especially when his sanity comes into to question with every turn he takes.
This was honestly a good story. I enjoyed the premise of it, and do think that John did a good job in setting the stage for the story itself. Lars' insecurities and indecisions are certainly believable. As he delves deeper into his bouts of despair, we witness his descent into madness. So much so, that the character starts to question whether everything he sees and does is truly real.
I did have a hard time in getting into certain parts of the book. I think this is because some of the statements felt as if they were broken thoughts. It was as if they weren't fully formed phrases. There were a couple spots were the editing could be tightened up a little. Overall, the premise of the story is a good one. It's one of those stories that make you question things as you go along, and leave you a tad mind-boggled when you get to the very end.
In Lars' mind, his 'visions' are not psychic related. He's convinced himself that what he sees are figments of his imagination, that the visitors do not truly exist. Yet deep inside, he knows better. The visitors do exist. They do their damnedest to make that fact known, even if they don't speak or move in doing so. At times, he wishes he could be rid of the uncanny gift he bears, yet its become an ingrained part of him that it's now hard to let go.
When his latest visitor turns up, Lars isn't sure as to what to make of it. He's spent so much time denying his abilities that the woman he now sees makes him question his sanity further. Still, he knows she needs help, and he's determined to get to the bottom of things, once and for all. In his mind, it'll help him to lay all of his ghosts to rest. Unfortunately, nothing ever works out as planned, most especially when his sanity comes into to question with every turn he takes.
This was honestly a good story. I enjoyed the premise of it, and do think that John did a good job in setting the stage for the story itself. Lars' insecurities and indecisions are certainly believable. As he delves deeper into his bouts of despair, we witness his descent into madness. So much so, that the character starts to question whether everything he sees and does is truly real.
I did have a hard time in getting into certain parts of the book. I think this is because some of the statements felt as if they were broken thoughts. It was as if they weren't fully formed phrases. There were a couple spots were the editing could be tightened up a little. Overall, the premise of the story is a good one. It's one of those stories that make you question things as you go along, and leave you a tad mind-boggled when you get to the very end.
July 8, 2013
What if apparitions or ghosts of people that are victims of murders that have not been solved keep appearing to you? Are they real or just your imagination? What do they want from you if they are real, or as real as dead people can be?
In Author John A. Karr’s novel, GHOSTLY SUMMONS, crime reporter Lars Kelsen has Visitors (with a capitol V), not live ones either. Ghostly visions are not his only problem though. While pursuing the truth about the death of wealthy Jeanette Broughton, who first appeared to Lars as a Visitor, he faces tough guys, gets beat up more than once, and even becomes the target of someone that apparently wants him dead. Why? Is he close to finding Jeanette’s murderer? Several suspects are possible. Perhaps he’s making the guilty one uncomfortable. If you like a book that will keep you guessing who done it, then you’ll enjoy following along with Lars as he stops at nothing to solve the crime so Jeanette can rest in peace.
In addition to adventure, a mystery, and a crew of suspicious characters, the author gives the reader a bit of history of the Lost Colony of Roanoke Island and of Sir Francis Drake. To me, this slowed down the pace of the novel and the plot when I was more interested in discovering which of the suspects killed her and the reason why. It could just be me, of course. I have to admit my favorite character in the story is Hooper, Lars’ dog, that won my heart. The author paints a vivid picture of the emotional effect seeing the ghost of Jeanette has on Lars, and we also can sympathize with him in flashbacks of the death of his young son. Good descriptions of the setting and the characters’ actions place the reader in the story. I recommend GHOSTLY SUMMONS for mystery and adventure lovers and for those that like a touch of history in a story.
###
In Author John A. Karr’s novel, GHOSTLY SUMMONS, crime reporter Lars Kelsen has Visitors (with a capitol V), not live ones either. Ghostly visions are not his only problem though. While pursuing the truth about the death of wealthy Jeanette Broughton, who first appeared to Lars as a Visitor, he faces tough guys, gets beat up more than once, and even becomes the target of someone that apparently wants him dead. Why? Is he close to finding Jeanette’s murderer? Several suspects are possible. Perhaps he’s making the guilty one uncomfortable. If you like a book that will keep you guessing who done it, then you’ll enjoy following along with Lars as he stops at nothing to solve the crime so Jeanette can rest in peace.
In addition to adventure, a mystery, and a crew of suspicious characters, the author gives the reader a bit of history of the Lost Colony of Roanoke Island and of Sir Francis Drake. To me, this slowed down the pace of the novel and the plot when I was more interested in discovering which of the suspects killed her and the reason why. It could just be me, of course. I have to admit my favorite character in the story is Hooper, Lars’ dog, that won my heart. The author paints a vivid picture of the emotional effect seeing the ghost of Jeanette has on Lars, and we also can sympathize with him in flashbacks of the death of his young son. Good descriptions of the setting and the characters’ actions place the reader in the story. I recommend GHOSTLY SUMMONS for mystery and adventure lovers and for those that like a touch of history in a story.
###
July 21, 2013
Can you imagine life with dead people following you around?
For Lars Kelsen, it's a way of life. As much as he tries to convince himself he's mentally falling apart or as hard as he tries to run from his own life, he feels compelled to help the dead victims who appear before him--visitors as he calls them.
Trying to reinvent himself in North Carolina's Outer Banks, Lars is drawn into the murder of a millionaire's wife. His search for answers puts his own life in jeopardy, as the murderer (or murderers) is determined to shut him up. Can Lars survive, or will he become a visitor himself?
Intrigue and suspense pull the reader from page to page, but Ghostly Summons offers more than that. Lars is a character readers can care about--he's equal parts strength and vulnerability. He has suffered many losses thanks to his ability to see dead murder victims.
But most readers will be hooked by the twists and turns of the who-done-it. I was left guessing until the last few pages and on the edge of my seat until all was finally revealed. My only complaint... there was a bit of lull right around the middle. Once I got past that, it was a captivating thrill ride.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
PERSONAL ASIDE: I loved the Outer Banks setting (been going to Duck, NC since I was a kid) and the mention of Chocowinity, NC (my parents live there). LOVED!
For Lars Kelsen, it's a way of life. As much as he tries to convince himself he's mentally falling apart or as hard as he tries to run from his own life, he feels compelled to help the dead victims who appear before him--visitors as he calls them.
Trying to reinvent himself in North Carolina's Outer Banks, Lars is drawn into the murder of a millionaire's wife. His search for answers puts his own life in jeopardy, as the murderer (or murderers) is determined to shut him up. Can Lars survive, or will he become a visitor himself?
Intrigue and suspense pull the reader from page to page, but Ghostly Summons offers more than that. Lars is a character readers can care about--he's equal parts strength and vulnerability. He has suffered many losses thanks to his ability to see dead murder victims.
But most readers will be hooked by the twists and turns of the who-done-it. I was left guessing until the last few pages and on the edge of my seat until all was finally revealed. My only complaint... there was a bit of lull right around the middle. Once I got past that, it was a captivating thrill ride.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
PERSONAL ASIDE: I loved the Outer Banks setting (been going to Duck, NC since I was a kid) and the mention of Chocowinity, NC (my parents live there). LOVED!
July 4, 2013
You can find this and other reviews at Shut Up and Read.
John A. Karr is one of those hidden gems that stayed of my raider until I started my review blog. He is one of the - relatively few - authors that are worth promoting to a larger crowd. That need promoting.
Ghostly Summons is well written. There's a lot of stories out there with clever concepts and poor delivery (or vice-verse). It's hard to find authors that are both talented and write well-developed, interesting books. Especially in a society where people like Snooki make it as a bestselling author (shame on anyone who supported this).
The concept of six-sense with the character development akin to Stephen King. His characters are gritty, realistic, and seat-gripping. His plot is well-paced, well-informed, and worth the several hours you take to enter his fictional world.
I read this book over the space of two-days. I found it haunting, gritty, and wonderful.
I will tell you readers, that John A. Karr is ending up in my library.
John A. Karr is one of those hidden gems that stayed of my raider until I started my review blog. He is one of the - relatively few - authors that are worth promoting to a larger crowd. That need promoting.
Ghostly Summons is well written. There's a lot of stories out there with clever concepts and poor delivery (or vice-verse). It's hard to find authors that are both talented and write well-developed, interesting books. Especially in a society where people like Snooki make it as a bestselling author (shame on anyone who supported this).
The concept of six-sense with the character development akin to Stephen King. His characters are gritty, realistic, and seat-gripping. His plot is well-paced, well-informed, and worth the several hours you take to enter his fictional world.
I read this book over the space of two-days. I found it haunting, gritty, and wonderful.
I will tell you readers, that John A. Karr is ending up in my library.
July 3, 2013
John A. Karr is an ardent believer in the quote by Carl Van Doren (1885-1950), U.S. man of letters: "Yes, it's hard to write, but it's harder not to." This is a quote that I feel JD takes to heart. As a matter of fact I do not understand how a writer can NOT write. It is agony not to be able to put words to paper and let the characters come alive.
I have loved reading John A. Karr's book Ghostly Summons. It has the right balance between mystery and psycho drama. Having dealt with mental illness all of my life it is nice to know that some things can be a lil kookier than I am. Even if it is a story line made up by John A. Karr. Now the best part is that John makes it all seem quite believable. It is not like your sitting there going...yeah yeah sure....instead I was drawn in and enjoying my trip into insanity that sure seems like reality. John had me flipping pages to see if reality was actually there or was the main character Lars living a life in his mind only.
I have loved reading John A. Karr's book Ghostly Summons. It has the right balance between mystery and psycho drama. Having dealt with mental illness all of my life it is nice to know that some things can be a lil kookier than I am. Even if it is a story line made up by John A. Karr. Now the best part is that John makes it all seem quite believable. It is not like your sitting there going...yeah yeah sure....instead I was drawn in and enjoying my trip into insanity that sure seems like reality. John had me flipping pages to see if reality was actually there or was the main character Lars living a life in his mind only.
July 12, 2013
Ghostly Summons is a pretty good read. It definitely caught my interest from the beginning. The mystery of who killed Jeannette Broughton was well fleshed out. There are a few interesting suspects that will keep you guessing until the end. While I enjoyed the overall mystery, I found that the historical parts about Roanoke slowed the book down a bit. But I think lovers of history will find them interesting.
I liked the characters, especially Lars. He seemed very real to me. I always like a flawed character. His grief over the loss of his son was heart breaking. I felt for him as he tried to find out the truth so that Jeanette's ghost would go away. He is an intriguing character that I would love to read more about. This is definitely one to give a try if you like paranormal mysteries.
I liked the characters, especially Lars. He seemed very real to me. I always like a flawed character. His grief over the loss of his son was heart breaking. I felt for him as he tried to find out the truth so that Jeanette's ghost would go away. He is an intriguing character that I would love to read more about. This is definitely one to give a try if you like paranormal mysteries.
July 17, 2013
A paranormal mystery that will hook you from the very first page. Lars Kelsen doesn't want the visions - there's something wrong with him. But he's learned to deal with it over the years, even if he kicks and screams the whole way. But the latest vision is too horrific to ignore and he knows he needs to help find the killer before someone else gets hurt.
Karr writes superbly. With just a few choice words, the scene is vividly drawn and I could envision the happenings in my mind. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, Karr twists everything up and adds in another roadblock that had to be maneuvered. I really enjoyed this mystery with the added elements of supernatural. A taut, riveting read!
Karr writes superbly. With just a few choice words, the scene is vividly drawn and I could envision the happenings in my mind. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, Karr twists everything up and adds in another roadblock that had to be maneuvered. I really enjoyed this mystery with the added elements of supernatural. A taut, riveting read!
July 23, 2013
John Karr has created an interesting character with Lars Kelson. He’s three dimensional and you feel for him throughout the book. I love a character that makes me want to shout out his triumphs and mourn is tragedies. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
July 31, 2013
‘Ghostly Summons’ features Lars Kelsen, a former crime reporter, who also has Visitors. He sees murder victims…they appear to him unwanted and unwelcome. When he tries to ignore them, they’re more persistent – never speaking, just standing there staring. Kelsen is now a programmer, but when a new Visitor appears he’s drawn into an investigation. The investigation starts to take a toll, including threats on his life. Can Kelsen dodge the danger, solve the crime, and maybe even get the girl?
Lars Kelsen is a broken and haunted man, who is ‘cursed’ with seeing Visitors. He doesn’t think ghosts are real, but he has no explanation for the visitations. As he gets deeper into the mystery, it affects him deeply. ‘Ghostly Summons’ brings a likable and relatable character to readers in the form of Lars Kelsen. It’s easy to sympathize with him with his difficult circumstances and tough façade. The author has made the ‘spookier’ aspects of the story very believable and there is plenty of action, too, with a smidge of fledgling romance. I was drawn to the characters and the mystery was deviously clever. I’m interested to see where the author will take Kelsen next!
Lars Kelsen is a broken and haunted man, who is ‘cursed’ with seeing Visitors. He doesn’t think ghosts are real, but he has no explanation for the visitations. As he gets deeper into the mystery, it affects him deeply. ‘Ghostly Summons’ brings a likable and relatable character to readers in the form of Lars Kelsen. It’s easy to sympathize with him with his difficult circumstances and tough façade. The author has made the ‘spookier’ aspects of the story very believable and there is plenty of action, too, with a smidge of fledgling romance. I was drawn to the characters and the mystery was deviously clever. I’m interested to see where the author will take Kelsen next!
October 25, 2013
This is a paranormal mystery about a man who has lost a child that was murdered and then his wife walks out. He starts seeing nude murder victims that will not rest until he comes up with how it came about that they were murdered. Being a crime reporter helps him to look into these murders, go where others would not be allowed and even doing things that would be breaking the law to get at the truth. While investigating he finds a new love interest with the local coroner. Interesting suspects, to keep you guessing, who could have murdered this beautiful young woman. I enjoyed this book. Could hardly put it down. My kind of book. Will want to read more books by this writer.
August 18, 2013
This was a very interesting book by John A. Karr.
first book I have read by this author.
As a nurse R.N. I have dealt with mental illness and
the stress and heartbreak it brings. The main character of the book leads a busy live but has many stressors along the way. He is physic but believes the visions are mental illness. this is a fast moving book that is hard to put down very believable. A really good book to read.
I received this book free to review. This is not a book I would normally buy but really liked it. will read more books by this author.
first book I have read by this author.
As a nurse R.N. I have dealt with mental illness and
the stress and heartbreak it brings. The main character of the book leads a busy live but has many stressors along the way. He is physic but believes the visions are mental illness. this is a fast moving book that is hard to put down very believable. A really good book to read.
I received this book free to review. This is not a book I would normally buy but really liked it. will read more books by this author.
August 3, 2013
The macabre. What is it that holds such fascination for us? Certain psychologists who shall go unnamed would argue it is is a "ohmigosh I'm so glad it was them and not me" mentality. Others would claim we are all inherently morbid and macabre genres of entertainment offer most of us an avenue to explore that morbidity (perhaps an expression of id impulses?) without fear of a jail sentence. But what about when macabre is mixed with the supernatural? Well?...
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READ FULL REVIEW:
http://ogcmat.blogspot.com/2013/07/gh...
January 21, 2024
Really good
Mr. Later penned a great story! Keeps you guessing all the way through!
Spell bonding, well developed, and eye-opening. You really should read this "input downable story!
Mr. Later penned a great story! Keeps you guessing all the way through!
Spell bonding, well developed, and eye-opening. You really should read this "input downable story!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews