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The 3 Gates of the Dead #2
Dark Bride
When Father Neal deciphers a voodoo message with a dire warning, he reveals he is part of the Order of the Five Sorrows—a group dedicated to fighting evil with the use of holy objects present at Christ’s crucifixion—and Aidan is destined to become a member
The supernatural unleashed . . .
Still reeling from Father Neal’s revelation, Aidan assists his friend Brian by investigating a series of unexplained events at his farm, including eerie lights in the fields at night and his daughter’s fixation with an invisible friend. After women with mysterious powers, who are hunting down a witch from the 1600s, appear, the group embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the Dark Bride before the Grinning Man’s true purpose can come to pass . . . but they will be drawn into a horrific battle that some will not survive.
The supernatural unleashed . . .
Still reeling from Father Neal’s revelation, Aidan assists his friend Brian by investigating a series of unexplained events at his farm, including eerie lights in the fields at night and his daughter’s fixation with an invisible friend. After women with mysterious powers, who are hunting down a witch from the 1600s, appear, the group embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the Dark Bride before the Grinning Man’s true purpose can come to pass . . . but they will be drawn into a horrific battle that some will not survive.
- GenresHorror
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2014
13 people are currently reading
701 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Ryan
14 books78 followersJonathan Ryan is an author, columnist, blogger and speaker. The Library Journal called his debut paranormal thriller, 3 Gates of the Dead (Open Road Media), “a real attraction for fans of The Exorcist and the darker fiction of C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams.” Book two in the series, Dark Bride (Open Road Media), was released in April 2015.
Along with his novel writing, Ryan has written for Christianity Today, Quantum Fairy Tales, Huffington Post and Notre Dame Magazine. In 2013, he started The Rogue on the interfaith site, Patheos, where he interviewed Kirk Cameron, Ken Ham, Vera Faminga, and director James Wan. He produced live coverage of the Ken Ham/Bill Nye the Science Guy Creation Museum debate that went viral with the hashtag “HamonNye.”
Recently, he co-founded the blog, Sick Pilgrim, with Jessica Mesman Griffith as a way to explore the edge of faith, reason and doubt.
Jonathan was asked by the Charles Williams estate to write an introduction for the famous Inkling’s novels on e-book through Open Road, the first person since the renowned poet, T.S. Eliot, to introduce Williams’s work to the world.
He has spoken to a wide variety of crowds about writing, faith, religion, and the weird. His audiences have included The CCO Jubilee conference, Salt Lake City Comic Con, Teen Author Boot Camp, Get Inked Writer’s Conference, Women in Publishing (Chicago), and the Festival of Faith and Writing.
Jonathan currently lives in South Bend, Indiana, where he is an editor at Ave Maria Press. He is represented by Amy Jameson of A plus B Works Literary.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 21, 2014
*NetGalley book review*
WOW!! After reading the first one not too long ago, I was super excited to get approved to read book 2 in the series, which is about to become a film. I just love how the author grabs your attention and makes you hold your breath while you read this story. Sacrifices, voodoo, killers and a whole lot more crazy shit happens in this Ohio town. Excellent story. Keep the books coming Ryan, for sure!!
WOW!! After reading the first one not too long ago, I was super excited to get approved to read book 2 in the series, which is about to become a film. I just love how the author grabs your attention and makes you hold your breath while you read this story. Sacrifices, voodoo, killers and a whole lot more crazy shit happens in this Ohio town. Excellent story. Keep the books coming Ryan, for sure!!
June 6, 2017
Loved it!
What an amazing story! Read both books for the best experience. The books are connected and to grasp the story and these wonderful characters. These books also heightened and solidified my faith of the three in one. God is good...all the time! I'm praying that a third book will happen so I can find out what transpires next with the grinning man and Widen, and Father Neal.
What an amazing story! Read both books for the best experience. The books are connected and to grasp the story and these wonderful characters. These books also heightened and solidified my faith of the three in one. God is good...all the time! I'm praying that a third book will happen so I can find out what transpires next with the grinning man and Widen, and Father Neal.
May 3, 2020
Paranormal
Well written. There were so many excellent religious references and information on various religions that made the books informative as well as a very good read. The books make you stop and think......and then think some more
Well written. There were so many excellent religious references and information on various religions that made the books informative as well as a very good read. The books make you stop and think......and then think some more
April 1, 2019
Great Story
I enjoyed reading both books in this series, and I was sorry when the story ended. It did end with a lead in for additional books though, which makes me hopeful.p
I enjoyed reading both books in this series, and I was sorry when the story ended. It did end with a lead in for additional books though, which makes me hopeful.p
July 16, 2019
It feels like we need a third book to wrap things up. The Grinning Man is still out there.
March 22, 2017
Great read
Love the direction the message lead us to having faith in God and the love of friends and family. This book was hard to put down, a must read. Put a smile on my face many times.
Love the direction the message lead us to having faith in God and the love of friends and family. This book was hard to put down, a must read. Put a smile on my face many times.
July 19, 2015
This is my first book by this Author, and I am THRILLED to have found him! This was a you-don't-want-to-put-it-down read. Jonathan Ryan "gets it" and he put that into this book.
Father John Neil is an Anglican Priest. He is much more than he seems to be at first. Father Neal, Reg McClelland, Darrin Francis and Adian Schaeffer are a group of ministers who are on the cutting edge of real life spiritual warfare. Their group, run by someone we don't see much in this book, helps the police when things that can't be easily deal with by regular (non-spiritual) means occurs. Jen is on the police force, and she happens to be Adian's girlfriend. Adian is an assistant pastor of a Presbyterian church. From the start this author didn't hesitate to mix denominations. I really like that!
From the opening lines I was interested. This was about to get good, or go very badly. I have to share a quote. "The Bible is full of course language, crude bodily illustrations, and blunt language. God doesn't share our scruples about language when he is trying to our attention." As their discussion continued here is another quote. "Father Neal contained. "The church today could use a good dose of that sort of language. We have been whoring after our own gods way too long."
This is just the tip of the story, but a refreshingly honest look at the majority of "Christians".
This amazing group of people, along with some fallen Christians are about to be in a spiritual war they never wanted to acknowledge they were involved in. Actions have consequences, and they can be life or death ones. The Grinning Man has resurfaced, and he is working to have his very own Dark Bride. The lives of a child, several women, and many others are at risk if true faith isn't met with actions.
For many this is a Christian horror story. For me it is a beautiful and blunt look into the actions that cross over from the spirit realm into most people's every day world that they never even think to perceive. The Five Sorrows were new to me, but worked well for this book. I loved the honest, heart felt prayers that were used in this book. I did not read the first book yet, but I am saving up for it now. This book stood alone for me quite well.
Few are the books that I read more than once. This could well be one of them!
Johnathan Ryan, you have made it into my favorite authors list, and that is not an easy task. Thank you for writing this amazing book that isn't afraid to tackle issues while interest, shunning evil, and falseness, retaining interested and creating empathy and attachment to the characters you have created. I need way more than 5 stars for this book.
My copy came from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and nothing more.
Father John Neil is an Anglican Priest. He is much more than he seems to be at first. Father Neal, Reg McClelland, Darrin Francis and Adian Schaeffer are a group of ministers who are on the cutting edge of real life spiritual warfare. Their group, run by someone we don't see much in this book, helps the police when things that can't be easily deal with by regular (non-spiritual) means occurs. Jen is on the police force, and she happens to be Adian's girlfriend. Adian is an assistant pastor of a Presbyterian church. From the start this author didn't hesitate to mix denominations. I really like that!
From the opening lines I was interested. This was about to get good, or go very badly. I have to share a quote. "The Bible is full of course language, crude bodily illustrations, and blunt language. God doesn't share our scruples about language when he is trying to our attention." As their discussion continued here is another quote. "Father Neal contained. "The church today could use a good dose of that sort of language. We have been whoring after our own gods way too long."
This is just the tip of the story, but a refreshingly honest look at the majority of "Christians".
This amazing group of people, along with some fallen Christians are about to be in a spiritual war they never wanted to acknowledge they were involved in. Actions have consequences, and they can be life or death ones. The Grinning Man has resurfaced, and he is working to have his very own Dark Bride. The lives of a child, several women, and many others are at risk if true faith isn't met with actions.
For many this is a Christian horror story. For me it is a beautiful and blunt look into the actions that cross over from the spirit realm into most people's every day world that they never even think to perceive. The Five Sorrows were new to me, but worked well for this book. I loved the honest, heart felt prayers that were used in this book. I did not read the first book yet, but I am saving up for it now. This book stood alone for me quite well.
Few are the books that I read more than once. This could well be one of them!
Johnathan Ryan, you have made it into my favorite authors list, and that is not an easy task. Thank you for writing this amazing book that isn't afraid to tackle issues while interest, shunning evil, and falseness, retaining interested and creating empathy and attachment to the characters you have created. I need way more than 5 stars for this book.
My copy came from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and nothing more.
January 27, 2015
An Excellent Thriller Aiden, Father Neal, Reg and Darris are in an Ohio paranormal investigation club. They also fight demons and thwart evil magicians. Darin is the computer tech person. Reg is the resident skeptic as well as an OSU physics professor. Zoe is the group founder. Darris's girlfriend is the historical researcher. Aiden is an assistant pastor for a Presbyterian church. His girlfriend is Jen and she is a Columbus detective. Sometimes Aiden and the group are called in to help Jen on her investigations. The current investigation she called them in on showed some use of voodoo and Appalachian folk magic. Mike had been the pastor of the church Aidan is at but his evil came through. He and Daniel murdered Aiden's former fiance. Father Neal tells Aiden that the five sorrows have chosen him and also tells him about an old club of dark magicians called the Hell Fire Club. Aiden is not content at the church he's at, but finds his answers as the book goes on. He grows a lot throughout the story and changes in a good way. The book is very enjoyable. I'd recommend it to anyone. It reminds me of a roller coaster adventure. I can't wait to read more from this author.
April 25, 2015
***A FEW itty bitty SPOILERS THAT WON'T RUIN THE STORY AT ALL***
First I want to admit that some of the religious references were lost on me since I'm not an especially religious person but that my friends is what Google is for! I was skeptical when the plot went the way of Mothman (if you haven't read The Mothman Prophecies- now's the time) and I'm pretty sure I rolled my eyes and heaved a HUGE sigh. But surprisingly it wove into the story rather smoothly. The relationship between Pastor Aiden and Jen is nice but gag worthy. If I have to read one more "my love" "my dear" "baby" between them I'll need a glass of wine to go with the cheesiness.
So my review just sounded a *bit* negative I know. Which is funny because I actually REALLY liked this book. But I'm kind of a sucker for books that pit a religious person against an evil force. Takes me right back to the first time I read The Exorcist. A select few fighting an evil unseen to the rest of us with only their faith as a weapon... Yeah. I love that kind of thing and this book- has it in spades.
Only question is, how long until book 3??
First I want to admit that some of the religious references were lost on me since I'm not an especially religious person but that my friends is what Google is for! I was skeptical when the plot went the way of Mothman (if you haven't read The Mothman Prophecies- now's the time) and I'm pretty sure I rolled my eyes and heaved a HUGE sigh. But surprisingly it wove into the story rather smoothly. The relationship between Pastor Aiden and Jen is nice but gag worthy. If I have to read one more "my love" "my dear" "baby" between them I'll need a glass of wine to go with the cheesiness.
So my review just sounded a *bit* negative I know. Which is funny because I actually REALLY liked this book. But I'm kind of a sucker for books that pit a religious person against an evil force. Takes me right back to the first time I read The Exorcist. A select few fighting an evil unseen to the rest of us with only their faith as a weapon... Yeah. I love that kind of thing and this book- has it in spades.
Only question is, how long until book 3??
May 19, 2016
I won this book in a Goodreads.com giveaway.
"Dark Bride," by Jonathan Ryan, is Book II in a series of books. I haven't had the chance to read the first book; however, "Dark Bride" can be read as a stand alone.
When it comes to putting the Church into a dark, black magic mystery, along with a Presbyterian candidate second-questioning his calling, Jonathan Ryan has the skills and the magic to intertwine this complex, but wonderfully written story.
Aidan cannot decide on whether to stay with the Presbyterian Church or not. He has mix emotions,
but has to put them aside to help out his best friend, Brian. Aidan, along with the "Scooby Gang" goes on a mystery hunt looking for Brian's wife and daughter. Little do the realize, the Grinning Man is behind the whole story.
The characters were beautifully developed. The plot is so complex, it keeps you reading. There are even times when you have to find a lull in the story just to stop.
"Dark Bride" grips and pulls you in and keeps reeling to bring you into the story.
A must read for the mystery lovers.
"Dark Bride," by Jonathan Ryan, is Book II in a series of books. I haven't had the chance to read the first book; however, "Dark Bride" can be read as a stand alone.
When it comes to putting the Church into a dark, black magic mystery, along with a Presbyterian candidate second-questioning his calling, Jonathan Ryan has the skills and the magic to intertwine this complex, but wonderfully written story.
Aidan cannot decide on whether to stay with the Presbyterian Church or not. He has mix emotions,
but has to put them aside to help out his best friend, Brian. Aidan, along with the "Scooby Gang" goes on a mystery hunt looking for Brian's wife and daughter. Little do the realize, the Grinning Man is behind the whole story.
The characters were beautifully developed. The plot is so complex, it keeps you reading. There are even times when you have to find a lull in the story just to stop.
"Dark Bride" grips and pulls you in and keeps reeling to bring you into the story.
A must read for the mystery lovers.
May 19, 2015
Father Aiden is back in this sequel to 3 Gates of the Dead, investigating the paranormal happenings that are surrounding his best friend, Brian, and Aiden's attempts to save Brian and his family from the threat of the Grinning Man and his disciples. As a sequel, Dark Bride does a good job of delving more into the characters and adding and deepening the ongoing mysteries surrounding Aiden. It was nice to see Aidan and Jen's relationship holding strong through the book, and any conversations between Aidan and Father Neal are always very well done. Also good to see was the return of the paranormal crew, and I hope to see some more of Celestine and Emily, two new characters, introduced in this book. I am interested in seeing where Father Aiden goes from here.
April 28, 2015
I was so excited to win an ARC of this book from goodreads! In my excitement, I did not realize that this was a second book in a series. I was able to follow the story, though in my opinion, it would be easier to read the first one then read this one because then you have some background and understanding of some of what is mentioned. You may also have a stronger foundation of the characters. Now I need to go back and read the first one 3 Gates of the Dead and prepare for this series to continue.
This story follows Pastor Aiden Schaeffer and Father Neal as they investigate paranormal events around Ohio. Their investigation of the weird events around the farm of Aiden's best friend Brian ties into a much larger criminal case being worked by Aiden's girlfriend Jen.
This story follows Pastor Aiden Schaeffer and Father Neal as they investigate paranormal events around Ohio. Their investigation of the weird events around the farm of Aiden's best friend Brian ties into a much larger criminal case being worked by Aiden's girlfriend Jen.
May 26, 2016
Disclaimer: I won this book on Goodreads.
This is book 2 of a series, and I advise that book 1 be read first. Although the back cover describes this as a horror story, it was not that bad. (I usually avoid horror because of nightmares.) There are frequent occult and religious references. It was amusing watching the main characters figure out how to describe what is happening in terms the police will actually believe, but will not get them hurt or killed. I did feel bad for the patrol cops the task force head kept sending to search the woods and watch the cabin. There is some humor and romance to break up the constant attacks by the evil-doers. The end of the book strongly implied there will be more stories in this series. I would like to read the next book.
This is book 2 of a series, and I advise that book 1 be read first. Although the back cover describes this as a horror story, it was not that bad. (I usually avoid horror because of nightmares.) There are frequent occult and religious references. It was amusing watching the main characters figure out how to describe what is happening in terms the police will actually believe, but will not get them hurt or killed. I did feel bad for the patrol cops the task force head kept sending to search the woods and watch the cabin. There is some humor and romance to break up the constant attacks by the evil-doers. The end of the book strongly implied there will be more stories in this series. I would like to read the next book.
April 21, 2015
I was able to read an advanced copy of Dark Bride, the sequel to 3 Gates of the Dead, which releases today! This book does not disappoint! Jonathan Ryan really steps up his game in this terrifying next installment. As we follow, Aidan Schaefer in his continued struggle against the evil forces around him, a frightening and complex plot unfolds. The book deals with some very heavy topics--the disintegration of a family, human trafficking, dark powers and supernatural evil. The story will will freak you out and pull you along until the last page. You will think about the book long after you put it down. I loved it and hated it! Well played, Ryan, well played.
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November 13, 2015never received unable to review
May 23, 2015
Enjoyed this book can't wait for the last of the trilogy
I really got to love the characters . Really love the way he he pretrade Marie Laveau. And the daughters of Laveau.
I really got to love the characters . Really love the way he he pretrade Marie Laveau. And the daughters of Laveau.
December 11, 2015
Good Second
This book was good but not as strong as the first book in the series. Very interested in seeing where this tale winds up!
This book was good but not as strong as the first book in the series. Very interested in seeing where this tale winds up!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews