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Apple
Enter a gothic story of madness and cruelty, where the bonds of sibling loyalty are tested to the grave and beyond.
High on the hill, Cavington Hall lurks like a beast surveying its territory. Spoken of in hushed whispers, it is home to Doctor Charles Cavington, last of a family cursed by genius and insanity in equal parts. It has now become home to twelve year old Apple. A run-away, she is forced into the doctor's service as payment for saving her brother's life.
While Apple struggles to cope with her loneliness and isolation, the mysteries surrounding Doctor Cavington are growing. What exactly is his interest in the two siblings? Is there any truth to his strange tales of Guardians and Reapers, ethereal figures he claims are responsible for dealing with the souls of the dead?
And what is making that thumping noise in the locked nursery at night?
High on the hill, Cavington Hall lurks like a beast surveying its territory. Spoken of in hushed whispers, it is home to Doctor Charles Cavington, last of a family cursed by genius and insanity in equal parts. It has now become home to twelve year old Apple. A run-away, she is forced into the doctor's service as payment for saving her brother's life.
While Apple struggles to cope with her loneliness and isolation, the mysteries surrounding Doctor Cavington are growing. What exactly is his interest in the two siblings? Is there any truth to his strange tales of Guardians and Reapers, ethereal figures he claims are responsible for dealing with the souls of the dead?
And what is making that thumping noise in the locked nursery at night?
- GenresYoung AdultHorror
172 pages, Paperback
First published November 9, 2014
102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 17, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author R. A. Black.)
This was an okay story, but I did get a bit confused.
I liked Apple and Skye, but I felt like Apple was very young to leave home the way she did. She was also young to have to go through what she did, but thankfully her instincts helped her out a bit!
The storyline in this was okay, but I did get a bit confused in places.
The ending to this was quite sad, and I was a little disappointed at the deaths that occurred.
6 out of 10
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Buddy reading this today ☺ - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
This was an okay story, but I did get a bit confused.
I liked Apple and Skye, but I felt like Apple was very young to leave home the way she did. She was also young to have to go through what she did, but thankfully her instincts helped her out a bit!
The storyline in this was okay, but I did get a bit confused in places.
The ending to this was quite sad, and I was a little disappointed at the deaths that occurred.
6 out of 10
***************************************************************************
Buddy reading this today ☺ - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
April 30, 2015
I am both shocked and impressed by this book. I came in expecting a paranormal gothic tale of a young girl. I did not expect the horrific experiences she goes through. While this book is written from the eyes of a twelve year old girl, it reads for a more mature audience. This book captivates me right away and kept me there until the end. Read the whole book in just a few short hours. I hated putting it down even to get a quick bite to eat.
It starts off with farm-girl Apple (Nicknamed so by her brother) and Skye (the previously mentioned brother). Skye is very sick and they even expect him to die. While he does not die, he does not fully recover either. Unable to contribute to their already struggling family, eighteen year old Skye sets off on his one. Apple refuses to leave her brother so she follows him.
There journey is anything but pleasant but some hope is found when Apple stumbles across a doctor who takes her and Skye in and offers to help her brother in return for their services. She is even taught to read and write by him! But something in the house is wrong...very wrong...
I liked both Skye and Apple in this book. Loved their sibling relation to one another. Although I am a bit mad sick Skye dares allow his little sister to tag along when he can't even take care of himself. As for Apple, she is one perceptive 12 year old.A bit foolish at times but she is just a kid so it just makes the story more believable.
This book has a lot of dark aspects. From Cannibals, murderers and crazy doctors to ghosts and reapers! It is a short read, under 200 pages and works for a range of ages. From the mature middle grader to adults. If you are looking for a happy ending, don't read this. while it is a fitting ending, it is no fairy tale. I look forward to future books by RA Black.
*I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair/honest review.*
It starts off with farm-girl Apple (Nicknamed so by her brother) and Skye (the previously mentioned brother). Skye is very sick and they even expect him to die. While he does not die, he does not fully recover either. Unable to contribute to their already struggling family, eighteen year old Skye sets off on his one. Apple refuses to leave her brother so she follows him.
There journey is anything but pleasant but some hope is found when Apple stumbles across a doctor who takes her and Skye in and offers to help her brother in return for their services. She is even taught to read and write by him! But something in the house is wrong...very wrong...
I liked both Skye and Apple in this book. Loved their sibling relation to one another. Although I am a bit mad sick Skye dares allow his little sister to tag along when he can't even take care of himself. As for Apple, she is one perceptive 12 year old.A bit foolish at times but she is just a kid so it just makes the story more believable.
This book has a lot of dark aspects. From Cannibals, murderers and crazy doctors to ghosts and reapers! It is a short read, under 200 pages and works for a range of ages. From the mature middle grader to adults. If you are looking for a happy ending, don't read this. while it is a fitting ending, it is no fairy tale. I look forward to future books by RA Black.
*I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair/honest review.*
April 17, 2015
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
The two main characters in this, Apple and Skye, were okay characters, but they didn't make the best decisions.
This was an alright read, but there were times where I felt slightly confused or bored. It was quite a quick read though, so it wasn't too bad.
The ending wasn't awful, but I didn't really like it, as it was quite sad.
Overall, An okay read.
The two main characters in this, Apple and Skye, were okay characters, but they didn't make the best decisions.
This was an alright read, but there were times where I felt slightly confused or bored. It was quite a quick read though, so it wasn't too bad.
The ending wasn't awful, but I didn't really like it, as it was quite sad.
Overall, An okay read.
November 15, 2014
There's something to be said for stories that reach for your heart, and wrap a clawed hand around them. Apple is one such story, telling in the first person the horrifying story of young Apple and her brother Skye. They set out in the world only just before their parents kick them out, and it takes no time at all for things to go terribly wrong. Without wanting to spoil much, I can say that the author has a talent for making you care about the characters - making the resulting events that much more awful, in the best possible way. A horror story is a lot like a prison, in a way - once you open the book, you must do your time as you are entranced by the story, and no prison is complete without hope. You will hope for the characters, and you will hope for a happy ending, despite every single thing that seems to happen, and you will keep reading until you finish. Do not pass over this book. Read it, and shiver and quake as the shadows in your room suddenly seem that much more malevolent. This is an excellent story, and I strongly recommend it.
April 23, 2015
Recommend: Fans of haunted houses and sibling duos, this novel is for you.
Enjoyment: 5 Loved it. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Writing Style: 5 The writing is spectacularly vivid in some places and full of charm in others.
Plot: 4 Could be tighter towards the conflict/resolve, but excellent and tightly knitted elsewhere.
World & Concepts: 5 Brilliant scene descriptions and details on the era.
Characters: 5 I’m not sure whether I love Apple more or Skye.
Finish: 4 A few typos which should be addressed soon. I’m personally not a fan of the cover.
Strengths: The characters, the pace, the writing – it’s well-written.
Weakness: A few sections of the ending could be clearer if I need to be picky.
APPLE is engaging from start to finish. R.A. black uses the right amount of characterization, detail, and conflict from chapter one as straight away we’re introduced to twelve year old Philipa (Apple), her hard life on the farm, and her loving brother who is taken ill and doesn’t look like he’ll survive. Once I picked it up, I was hooked.
I found it hard to pick a favourite character. Apple is endearing. She’s young but brave – not that she doesn’t get scared. She puts her older brother first even when she’s terrified. Usually I have a bit of an issue with young narrators, but this never felt like a young children’s book and it always felt natural and engaging. If anything, it made me feel even more sympathetic to her cause because she’s so young.
Skye is another fantastic character. I thought it was clever how, although he’s older and much stronger than Apple, he’s riddled with illness which gives him a hurdle to overcome and means that both characters have to look out for each other. It’s their strong bond which makes this book special. There’s something about this sibling duo that makes me think Supernatural fans are in for a treat.
I also found the character of Dr Charles Carvington interesting, and well-named for a horror novel. Through Dr Carvington, we see a side of abuse that is very realistic – the abusive aggression followed by a kind side that begs for forgiveness which is seen so often in domestic abuse. The doctor isn’t a one dimensional villain.
The other real strength is the beautiful descriptions. I love the way R.A. Black describes absolutely anything. My favourite description was of the first night where Apple and Skye slept outside. In fact, R.A. Black has even written an article with tips on how to develop your descriptions and I can’t think of a better author to do it. (Coming later this month!)
It’s classed as a novella, but I would have quite happily read more of it. You know a book is good when you get to the end and still crave more!
It could do with the lightest of copy-edits which is astounding seeing as no professional has touched this. It’s the perfect example of how to use writing sites and honest, hard word to ensure top quality writing, and it is not something every author is capable of.
I should warn readers that while it is a gothic, creepy, and dark novel, I wouldn’t call it a strong horror. I felt it was a horror by the nature of the topics, but I read it at night and never felt scared (and I’m a wuss). A good horror book usually gets into my head while I sleep, but this one didn't quite have the fear factor for me. If you’re looking for a scare, it might not be the right novel for you. But if you’re looking for a creepy novel that’s well written with characters that jump off the page, then here’s the book for you.
My only real quibble is over the end part where we learn what Dr Carvington has been up to in the creepy house. It got me into a bit of a tangle at first. I’ll keep the details to myself to avoid spoilers, but the execution of the reveal could be made clearer. That’s a very small segment of the novel and didn’t spoil it one bit.
It’s certainly a tear jerker, too. My favourite books are always the ones that take you on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster and this lays out the tracks for an emotional ride. Endearing characters, dark troubles, and vivid imagery – I can’t recommend it more.
Source: Direct from author.
Blog:ScookieReviews
Enjoyment: 5 Loved it. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Writing Style: 5 The writing is spectacularly vivid in some places and full of charm in others.
Plot: 4 Could be tighter towards the conflict/resolve, but excellent and tightly knitted elsewhere.
World & Concepts: 5 Brilliant scene descriptions and details on the era.
Characters: 5 I’m not sure whether I love Apple more or Skye.
Finish: 4 A few typos which should be addressed soon. I’m personally not a fan of the cover.
Strengths: The characters, the pace, the writing – it’s well-written.
Weakness: A few sections of the ending could be clearer if I need to be picky.
APPLE is engaging from start to finish. R.A. black uses the right amount of characterization, detail, and conflict from chapter one as straight away we’re introduced to twelve year old Philipa (Apple), her hard life on the farm, and her loving brother who is taken ill and doesn’t look like he’ll survive. Once I picked it up, I was hooked.
I found it hard to pick a favourite character. Apple is endearing. She’s young but brave – not that she doesn’t get scared. She puts her older brother first even when she’s terrified. Usually I have a bit of an issue with young narrators, but this never felt like a young children’s book and it always felt natural and engaging. If anything, it made me feel even more sympathetic to her cause because she’s so young.
Skye is another fantastic character. I thought it was clever how, although he’s older and much stronger than Apple, he’s riddled with illness which gives him a hurdle to overcome and means that both characters have to look out for each other. It’s their strong bond which makes this book special. There’s something about this sibling duo that makes me think Supernatural fans are in for a treat.
I also found the character of Dr Charles Carvington interesting, and well-named for a horror novel. Through Dr Carvington, we see a side of abuse that is very realistic – the abusive aggression followed by a kind side that begs for forgiveness which is seen so often in domestic abuse. The doctor isn’t a one dimensional villain.
The other real strength is the beautiful descriptions. I love the way R.A. Black describes absolutely anything. My favourite description was of the first night where Apple and Skye slept outside. In fact, R.A. Black has even written an article with tips on how to develop your descriptions and I can’t think of a better author to do it. (Coming later this month!)
It’s classed as a novella, but I would have quite happily read more of it. You know a book is good when you get to the end and still crave more!
It could do with the lightest of copy-edits which is astounding seeing as no professional has touched this. It’s the perfect example of how to use writing sites and honest, hard word to ensure top quality writing, and it is not something every author is capable of.
I should warn readers that while it is a gothic, creepy, and dark novel, I wouldn’t call it a strong horror. I felt it was a horror by the nature of the topics, but I read it at night and never felt scared (and I’m a wuss). A good horror book usually gets into my head while I sleep, but this one didn't quite have the fear factor for me. If you’re looking for a scare, it might not be the right novel for you. But if you’re looking for a creepy novel that’s well written with characters that jump off the page, then here’s the book for you.
My only real quibble is over the end part where we learn what Dr Carvington has been up to in the creepy house. It got me into a bit of a tangle at first. I’ll keep the details to myself to avoid spoilers, but the execution of the reveal could be made clearer. That’s a very small segment of the novel and didn’t spoil it one bit.
It’s certainly a tear jerker, too. My favourite books are always the ones that take you on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster and this lays out the tracks for an emotional ride. Endearing characters, dark troubles, and vivid imagery – I can’t recommend it more.
Source: Direct from author.
Blog:ScookieReviews
December 1, 2014
A very interesting story! Right from the very beginning the story kept me hooked. I was really fascinated by the affection between the siblings. The author has successfully done in portraying their affections, and making the story emotional as well. This is a different type of creepy story that I've ever read. As though, something is going to happen... This curiosity made me read many chapters without keeping the book down. At any instant of time, I didn't feel as though I am reading something, but the strong imagery made me to think so.
The dialogues were well structured and fit in places. Especially, "wolves are meat eaters and they don't touch apples..." something like that I read, and also, "What were you doing here Apple?" "I hid up a tree..." I wanted to say, these sentences really captured my attention. The naturalistic way of telling the story, no beating around the bush, this is expected. The love and affection throughout the story- that is indeed a good quality a reader expects. No doubt, it takes the reader to a different world, and a pleasant state of mind.
When Skyee started coughing and feeling uneasy, a little bit tear jerks from the eyes of an average reader. I really felt sympathy on him.
Small children's pranks are really interesting for almost all of us. We can see that clearly in R A Black's novella. Hats off, the author managed to narrate the things from 12-year's point of view very clearly. I can point out certain sentences in the novella- like, the tossing of the coin to see whether they were stuck... etc... The reads along those lines were pretty interesting.
Next interesting part is the conversation with the doctor. The minute points, descriptions gave good imaginations, like... the lady in white, talking to Skyee, getting disappeared, observing his ring on finger, guessing he to be rich and afford to help her brother... thereby the introduction to Cavington Hall- that was another intriguing scene. There is something, suspense when Dr. Cavington tells her not to open the box unless he instructs her to do so.
When Philipa was treated cruelly when she opened the door, those scenes made me remember, Brahmstocker's 'Dracula'. (That was the first novel that I have read, by the time, I was just 9 years old). Since I loved it, I felt 'Apple' more interesting as well. I'd also say, with the awesome emotional set up and background settings, the read continues to be extraordinarily good.
It was a twist, when the doctor explained to her about his twins Rufus and Henreitta. Thereby, the read was a different experience.
Really sad when Skyee had amnesia, asking her 'who are you'. I feel, the emotion that Apple had at that time, could be more described. When the narrator says she was no longer upset with him, there was a question mark in my mind, as to why? Also, I feel the death of Dr. Cavington is a bit early. It could have been delayed for a bit more. "His presence lingered like a bad smell". The comparison to a bad smell-was it really necessary? What if it was compared to something more positive? But all these were really minor and they never affected the flow of the story in anyways. Maybe just me, I thought the author has successfully expressed her thoughts.
Overall, not a mere like, I loved it! Really... I feel I’m honored to read this creepy tale, definitely I would recommend this book to those who love horror stories. A must read horror novel!
The dialogues were well structured and fit in places. Especially, "wolves are meat eaters and they don't touch apples..." something like that I read, and also, "What were you doing here Apple?" "I hid up a tree..." I wanted to say, these sentences really captured my attention. The naturalistic way of telling the story, no beating around the bush, this is expected. The love and affection throughout the story- that is indeed a good quality a reader expects. No doubt, it takes the reader to a different world, and a pleasant state of mind.
When Skyee started coughing and feeling uneasy, a little bit tear jerks from the eyes of an average reader. I really felt sympathy on him.
Small children's pranks are really interesting for almost all of us. We can see that clearly in R A Black's novella. Hats off, the author managed to narrate the things from 12-year's point of view very clearly. I can point out certain sentences in the novella- like, the tossing of the coin to see whether they were stuck... etc... The reads along those lines were pretty interesting.
Next interesting part is the conversation with the doctor. The minute points, descriptions gave good imaginations, like... the lady in white, talking to Skyee, getting disappeared, observing his ring on finger, guessing he to be rich and afford to help her brother... thereby the introduction to Cavington Hall- that was another intriguing scene. There is something, suspense when Dr. Cavington tells her not to open the box unless he instructs her to do so.
When Philipa was treated cruelly when she opened the door, those scenes made me remember, Brahmstocker's 'Dracula'. (That was the first novel that I have read, by the time, I was just 9 years old). Since I loved it, I felt 'Apple' more interesting as well. I'd also say, with the awesome emotional set up and background settings, the read continues to be extraordinarily good.
It was a twist, when the doctor explained to her about his twins Rufus and Henreitta. Thereby, the read was a different experience.
Really sad when Skyee had amnesia, asking her 'who are you'. I feel, the emotion that Apple had at that time, could be more described. When the narrator says she was no longer upset with him, there was a question mark in my mind, as to why? Also, I feel the death of Dr. Cavington is a bit early. It could have been delayed for a bit more. "His presence lingered like a bad smell". The comparison to a bad smell-was it really necessary? What if it was compared to something more positive? But all these were really minor and they never affected the flow of the story in anyways. Maybe just me, I thought the author has successfully expressed her thoughts.
Overall, not a mere like, I loved it! Really... I feel I’m honored to read this creepy tale, definitely I would recommend this book to those who love horror stories. A must read horror novel!
September 18, 2015
From The Musings of a Starving Author:
Gothic horror! Now that’s a taste I haven’t pulled out of the pantry for some time. Today’s meal is Apple served up by chef R. A. Black, promising us tragedy, horror, and all manner of terrors. Will the taste rival the promise or will I be cutting up this apple to make a better apple pie?
Before we find out, let us put our hands on our hearts and recite the Starving Review creed:
I attempt to rate every book from the perspective of a fan of the genre
I attempt to make every review as spoiler-free as possible
Crisp, tart, and delightful, Apple delivers on its promise. As with my more positive reviews, this one will be short and sweet, much like the narrative itself. Short this meal is, but it still delivers a flavor-packed novel-sized feel. But why?
There are many reasons, but the core of Apple (pun not intended, but still funny) is its characters, especially its protagonist, the eponymous Apple herself. All the major players are fleshed out and feel real, with solid motivations while veiled in enough secrecy (outside of the first-person protagonist of course) to let the mystery necessary for horror to stay intact. Again, to give props to the flavorful protagonist, simply because it is a challenge to create a youthful character, have them act in an age-appropriate manner, while still keeping her a competent heroine.
As for the horror, Black delivers by flavoring her meal in layers, adding in dashes of despair, anxiety, hunger, want, desire, mystery, and a splash of good-old-fashioned bloodshed. By mixing all these elements of horror, both the very real and the supernatural, the chef never overdoes any one horrific flavor, avoiding the problem of desensitizing the reader from the ever-present aura of dread that pervades the plot once it winds up. Speaking of that, Apple takes its proper time to wind up the horror, blending in those varied spices over the first act before cranking it up hard. Pacing, pacing, pacing, it’s always about the pacing!
Which is excellent, much like everything else in this book. Alongside the build of dread, there’s a solid build of dramatic tension and the flavors build to a delightful intensity by the end. Every bite is delightful and every morsel feels like it fits the bigger meal, that it has a purpose. That is pacing done right.
There’s little else to say, so let’s sum this up. Apple is a delightful, perfectly baked slice of Gothic horror pie, a must-eat meal! Even if you don’t like Gothic horror, I think you should take the time to read this particular book, because I feel, as with the best representations of any genre, its quality transcends its genre. Bravo, Ms. Black, bravo!
FINAL VERDICT: ***** (A delightful, perfectly baked slice of Gothic horror pie, a must-eat meal!)
Gothic horror! Now that’s a taste I haven’t pulled out of the pantry for some time. Today’s meal is Apple served up by chef R. A. Black, promising us tragedy, horror, and all manner of terrors. Will the taste rival the promise or will I be cutting up this apple to make a better apple pie?
Before we find out, let us put our hands on our hearts and recite the Starving Review creed:
I attempt to rate every book from the perspective of a fan of the genre
I attempt to make every review as spoiler-free as possible
Crisp, tart, and delightful, Apple delivers on its promise. As with my more positive reviews, this one will be short and sweet, much like the narrative itself. Short this meal is, but it still delivers a flavor-packed novel-sized feel. But why?
There are many reasons, but the core of Apple (pun not intended, but still funny) is its characters, especially its protagonist, the eponymous Apple herself. All the major players are fleshed out and feel real, with solid motivations while veiled in enough secrecy (outside of the first-person protagonist of course) to let the mystery necessary for horror to stay intact. Again, to give props to the flavorful protagonist, simply because it is a challenge to create a youthful character, have them act in an age-appropriate manner, while still keeping her a competent heroine.
As for the horror, Black delivers by flavoring her meal in layers, adding in dashes of despair, anxiety, hunger, want, desire, mystery, and a splash of good-old-fashioned bloodshed. By mixing all these elements of horror, both the very real and the supernatural, the chef never overdoes any one horrific flavor, avoiding the problem of desensitizing the reader from the ever-present aura of dread that pervades the plot once it winds up. Speaking of that, Apple takes its proper time to wind up the horror, blending in those varied spices over the first act before cranking it up hard. Pacing, pacing, pacing, it’s always about the pacing!
Which is excellent, much like everything else in this book. Alongside the build of dread, there’s a solid build of dramatic tension and the flavors build to a delightful intensity by the end. Every bite is delightful and every morsel feels like it fits the bigger meal, that it has a purpose. That is pacing done right.
There’s little else to say, so let’s sum this up. Apple is a delightful, perfectly baked slice of Gothic horror pie, a must-eat meal! Even if you don’t like Gothic horror, I think you should take the time to read this particular book, because I feel, as with the best representations of any genre, its quality transcends its genre. Bravo, Ms. Black, bravo!
FINAL VERDICT: ***** (A delightful, perfectly baked slice of Gothic horror pie, a must-eat meal!)
February 22, 2015
Apple is an ingenious story! It’s a fresh adventure in horror. I could hardly stop reading once it began. The story begins with Phillipa, a young girl adorably nicknamed Apple, and her older brother Skye as they listen to a horror story narrated by their father.
Characters- I loved both of the main characters thoroughly! Apple herself is a determined young lady, who would protect her brother from anything. She is an intelligent, well rounded character at the beginning of the story, and in many respects matures and becomes braver by the end.
Skye seemed very much like what I imagine someone’s big brother to be. He teases Apple in a brotherly way, saying, “It’s the early bird that catches the worm, Apple.” I found it quite adorable.
Dr. Cavington is a very complex character, one that is essential to move the plot. He has an interesting dual personality. One moment he seems kind and approachable, but then scolds Apple for her curious nature. He keeps secrets from Apple while she stays with him, and hides his past from her. Dr. Cavington performs mysterious “experiments” with a machine he has developed and forbids Apple to unearth his secrets.
George is a minor character, but well developed nonetheless. He is a near-mute, with a loyal heart. One cannot help but feel sorry for him because of what happens to him in the end.
Plot- The story was fast paced, beginning with Skye’s terrible cough in the first few chapters. It escalates when Apple meets Dr. Cavington and is forced to stay with him due to Skye’s mishap on their journey. There’s plenty of heart racing adventure in between and afterwards, including cannibalism, ghosts, and other forces beyond the grave. I won’t say much more about the details of the plot to avoid ruining the story for future readers, but it is deliciously riddled with spine chilling details!
Overall, I loved this story so much! RA Black’s writing was very compelling and I couldn’t stop reading on more than one occasion. I know this review does little justice to the story itself, but it is a must-read for anyone who would love to read a fresh new take on horror and paranormal. Great read!
Characters- I loved both of the main characters thoroughly! Apple herself is a determined young lady, who would protect her brother from anything. She is an intelligent, well rounded character at the beginning of the story, and in many respects matures and becomes braver by the end.
Skye seemed very much like what I imagine someone’s big brother to be. He teases Apple in a brotherly way, saying, “It’s the early bird that catches the worm, Apple.” I found it quite adorable.
Dr. Cavington is a very complex character, one that is essential to move the plot. He has an interesting dual personality. One moment he seems kind and approachable, but then scolds Apple for her curious nature. He keeps secrets from Apple while she stays with him, and hides his past from her. Dr. Cavington performs mysterious “experiments” with a machine he has developed and forbids Apple to unearth his secrets.
George is a minor character, but well developed nonetheless. He is a near-mute, with a loyal heart. One cannot help but feel sorry for him because of what happens to him in the end.
Plot- The story was fast paced, beginning with Skye’s terrible cough in the first few chapters. It escalates when Apple meets Dr. Cavington and is forced to stay with him due to Skye’s mishap on their journey. There’s plenty of heart racing adventure in between and afterwards, including cannibalism, ghosts, and other forces beyond the grave. I won’t say much more about the details of the plot to avoid ruining the story for future readers, but it is deliciously riddled with spine chilling details!
Overall, I loved this story so much! RA Black’s writing was very compelling and I couldn’t stop reading on more than one occasion. I know this review does little justice to the story itself, but it is a must-read for anyone who would love to read a fresh new take on horror and paranormal. Great read!
August 15, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
Alright so I am going to get right to this. I just could not get into this book. I love gothic romances and gothic horror, but this was just not my cup of tea. When I have to force myself to read something there is a problem. I could not get engaged from the get go and that is something a book needs to do for me. If I am struggling in the first couple of chapters, I understand. Sometimes the story starts slow. This one, however, just never got me hooked. That actually made it hard for me to get through the whole book.
I am not sure if my struggles were due to the book not being geared toward me or the story itself. I wish that I could give this book a better review. The characters, Apple and Skye, they were just not fully developed for me. I also had a hard time with how they just left the family in the beginning. I know that in the past children left the family at some point, but I just had a hard time with how this played out.
I think that if this book was changed up a little it would turn into a great story and very engaging. I think that perhaps things with the family in the beginning could be changed a little. I think that some details could be elaborated on and that would help engage more in the beginning.
I know that I am mentioning engaging a lot but I find that I do better when books are just that, engaging.
Pros: At times the description was good, the author does know how to write.
Cons: The story just does not progress for me and felt forced. It was hard to engage and I could not get into the story at all.
Over all rating: I am not sure I would recommend this book. I think it could use some work before I would recommend it.
Alright so I am going to get right to this. I just could not get into this book. I love gothic romances and gothic horror, but this was just not my cup of tea. When I have to force myself to read something there is a problem. I could not get engaged from the get go and that is something a book needs to do for me. If I am struggling in the first couple of chapters, I understand. Sometimes the story starts slow. This one, however, just never got me hooked. That actually made it hard for me to get through the whole book.
I am not sure if my struggles were due to the book not being geared toward me or the story itself. I wish that I could give this book a better review. The characters, Apple and Skye, they were just not fully developed for me. I also had a hard time with how they just left the family in the beginning. I know that in the past children left the family at some point, but I just had a hard time with how this played out.
I think that if this book was changed up a little it would turn into a great story and very engaging. I think that perhaps things with the family in the beginning could be changed a little. I think that some details could be elaborated on and that would help engage more in the beginning.
I know that I am mentioning engaging a lot but I find that I do better when books are just that, engaging.
Pros: At times the description was good, the author does know how to write.
Cons: The story just does not progress for me and felt forced. It was hard to engage and I could not get into the story at all.
Over all rating: I am not sure I would recommend this book. I think it could use some work before I would recommend it.
April 20, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book from the author for review.)
This was a quick and enjoyable read. Great for a rainy day curled up by a fire. An original story with a good mix of creepiness; cannibals, evil doctors, Gothic haunted mansions, guardians, souls and sibling love to endure it all.
The plot was interesting, if a bit weak in spots and there was some confusion I had to work out.
I didn't love the characters at first, they were a bit flat and could have used some more building and descriptions. Apple, the heroine, is immature and struggling between being a child and growing up. She grew on me near the 2nd half.
I have to admit, without giving too much away, the ending was not expected.
The writing style was good but there were a few errors throughout. Not enough to distract from the story, just another edit would smooth it out.
A solid 3/5 with extra points for originality.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. Great for a rainy day curled up by a fire. An original story with a good mix of creepiness; cannibals, evil doctors, Gothic haunted mansions, guardians, souls and sibling love to endure it all.
The plot was interesting, if a bit weak in spots and there was some confusion I had to work out.
I didn't love the characters at first, they were a bit flat and could have used some more building and descriptions. Apple, the heroine, is immature and struggling between being a child and growing up. She grew on me near the 2nd half.
I have to admit, without giving too much away, the ending was not expected.
The writing style was good but there were a few errors throughout. Not enough to distract from the story, just another edit would smooth it out.
A solid 3/5 with extra points for originality.
March 25, 2015
This was a fun and unique read. Apple is unlike any story I have read and i applaud the author for that.
The story reads a little on the fast pace and at times I felt a little rushed. However the plot was intriguing and kept me reading. You start getting ideas along the plot on what is going on, but you will finally unravel the mystery when the author is ready.
Apple is an adorable heroine and extremely likeable. You feel along with Greer ups and downs and cheer for her along the way. Skye is also very likeable but most of the story focuses on Apple.
All in all this was a fun, just a little short book. I would definitely read a book from this author again.
I have received this book from the author for an honest review (LoP, lovers of paranormal).
The story reads a little on the fast pace and at times I felt a little rushed. However the plot was intriguing and kept me reading. You start getting ideas along the plot on what is going on, but you will finally unravel the mystery when the author is ready.
Apple is an adorable heroine and extremely likeable. You feel along with Greer ups and downs and cheer for her along the way. Skye is also very likeable but most of the story focuses on Apple.
All in all this was a fun, just a little short book. I would definitely read a book from this author again.
I have received this book from the author for an honest review (LoP, lovers of paranormal).
December 22, 2014
I loved this story, I love Stephen King and think this novel is comparable to some of his early horror work. I loved the idea of Guardians and Repears and hated the Doctor (as anyone should!). Apple became my favourite character and I even shed a tear whilst reading the epilogue.
December 28, 2014
Kind of gothic-esque fable/fairytale style young-adult novella. With a touch of the supernatural with ghosts, guardian angels and reapers. Apple is a 12 or 13 year old girl living on a farm with her parents and older, eighteen year old brother Skye. After a bout of serious illness, the family economy is in dire straits and the parents decide they've got to ask their son to move out. He packs his knappsack and heads off to the woods to find his fortune, and little girl Apple, who idolises her big brother, follows him and refuses to go home. And so their adventures begin.
It sets off with a touch of the Brother's Grimm, with these two kids setting off in the big unknown woods. They come to a lonesome cottage in a rainstorm where there is a suspicious old woman (regular cottage, not gingerbread cottage though!) whom they ask for shelter. And she has a disturbing number of spare clothes in the house... After escaping, with Skye at death's door, Dr Cavington comes across them and that's when the trouble really begins. We then go into a gothic tale, at the Dr's spooky mansion, with strange knocking noises coming from the nursery at night; the slightly suspicious demise of his wife several years ago, and the bullying, domineering man (the doctor) mostly mentally but sometimes physically beating Apple into submission, as happens to many a woman in many a gothic tale. Apple is incredibly naïve and trusting in staying in the place as "payment" for the first aid for her brother, and she screams and sobs her way through the next few days adventure at the mansion - in fairness to her, she does react as you would expect many a 12/13 year old girl to react to what unfolds.
Now, I think if I were a teenage girl I would have enjoyed this book. In all honesty I feel I'm too old for it now (I'm in my thirties). So as far as the goodreads scoreboard is concerned I'm giving it a two (I am a strict scorer on goodreads, and only a 1 star means I thought it was dreadful and not worth reading. I follow the goodreads' scoring comments for the stars). If I had been in my teens when I read this, I would think I would have scored it higher. For me as a reader now, it's just too simplistic and doesn't go into the darker sides of any of the characters or scenarios enough.
It sets off with a touch of the Brother's Grimm, with these two kids setting off in the big unknown woods. They come to a lonesome cottage in a rainstorm where there is a suspicious old woman (regular cottage, not gingerbread cottage though!) whom they ask for shelter. And she has a disturbing number of spare clothes in the house... After escaping, with Skye at death's door, Dr Cavington comes across them and that's when the trouble really begins. We then go into a gothic tale, at the Dr's spooky mansion, with strange knocking noises coming from the nursery at night; the slightly suspicious demise of his wife several years ago, and the bullying, domineering man (the doctor) mostly mentally but sometimes physically beating Apple into submission, as happens to many a woman in many a gothic tale. Apple is incredibly naïve and trusting in staying in the place as "payment" for the first aid for her brother, and she screams and sobs her way through the next few days adventure at the mansion - in fairness to her, she does react as you would expect many a 12/13 year old girl to react to what unfolds.
Now, I think if I were a teenage girl I would have enjoyed this book. In all honesty I feel I'm too old for it now (I'm in my thirties). So as far as the goodreads scoreboard is concerned I'm giving it a two (I am a strict scorer on goodreads, and only a 1 star means I thought it was dreadful and not worth reading. I follow the goodreads' scoring comments for the stars). If I had been in my teens when I read this, I would think I would have scored it higher. For me as a reader now, it's just too simplistic and doesn't go into the darker sides of any of the characters or scenarios enough.
December 21, 2014
I was gifted Apple by RA Black, by inkspand, in exchange for an honest review.
I have to love a story where it begins, "She stood in the graveyard, waiting, as she promised she would." Aaaaggghhh!!!! Why did Skye have to stop the story? Yes, the story within the story.
Oh my gosh, the real story is so much better than the story Pa was telling! I don't know if it was intended, but I began to see several fairy-tale stories mixed in the story. There are elements of Hansel and Gretel when Skye and Apple are on their own because Pa felt no alternative but to send Skye out and Apple followed. It goes further when they reach the first house to escape the rain. I also see an element of the fairy godmother watching over the two of them after they are hurt. Although not a fairy-tale, the doctor that "rescues" the two remind me of Dr. Frankenstein. There is also the mystery of Dr. Cavington's house. The ghostly laughter of a child and toys that seem to move in the nursery. The nursery that Apple is not supposed to enter. Dr. Cavington refuses to answer questions about his home and where his family is, or if George is the only "family" he has ever had.
This is a wonderful example of writing. The sentences weave a beautiful texture of characters, scenery, and storytelling. I found myself not wanting to put my kindle down. It was a great read. This book is an easy five star read!
I have to love a story where it begins, "She stood in the graveyard, waiting, as she promised she would." Aaaaggghhh!!!! Why did Skye have to stop the story? Yes, the story within the story.
Oh my gosh, the real story is so much better than the story Pa was telling! I don't know if it was intended, but I began to see several fairy-tale stories mixed in the story. There are elements of Hansel and Gretel when Skye and Apple are on their own because Pa felt no alternative but to send Skye out and Apple followed. It goes further when they reach the first house to escape the rain. I also see an element of the fairy godmother watching over the two of them after they are hurt. Although not a fairy-tale, the doctor that "rescues" the two remind me of Dr. Frankenstein. There is also the mystery of Dr. Cavington's house. The ghostly laughter of a child and toys that seem to move in the nursery. The nursery that Apple is not supposed to enter. Dr. Cavington refuses to answer questions about his home and where his family is, or if George is the only "family" he has ever had.
This is a wonderful example of writing. The sentences weave a beautiful texture of characters, scenery, and storytelling. I found myself not wanting to put my kindle down. It was a great read. This book is an easy five star read!
March 31, 2015
Shadows linger, things go bump in the night, and strange noises send you into a fright! Apple is a book that will make you watch over shoulder and discover the strange sounds that you may make you jump. The suspense was gripping. From the moment you meet Apple and her family you know that this story is not what you thought it would be. Apple and her brother Skye leave home and find that being on their own is harder than they knew. For people out in the world are not all as nice as they were used to. Their journey takes them through some dark, terrifying, and life altering paths and the people they meet I would not exactly call them friends.. I found myself gasping at several intervals throughout the book. This is not a book for the faint of heart however, I will say that even though I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat while reading Apple it is one book that I would LOVE to read more of. I am hoping that there is more to Apple's story.
August 5, 2015
4.5 rating
Apple is a wonderful novella with all the creepiness that you want in a book. Having read the story on figment I was overly excited to have a printed copy and wasn’t let down.
This book is self-published and there are some spelling and grammar errors here and there, but I only managed to catch them in my second read, the first time being to engrossed with the story.
It is a wonderful tale of the bond of brother and sister and their will to survive. There were some parts that I felt lost during or just seemed to be there to push the story forward but it was all together extremely enjoyable. It is going into my October re-reads for Halloween, when I need a dose of creepy in my life.
Apple is a wonderful novella with all the creepiness that you want in a book. Having read the story on figment I was overly excited to have a printed copy and wasn’t let down.
This book is self-published and there are some spelling and grammar errors here and there, but I only managed to catch them in my second read, the first time being to engrossed with the story.
It is a wonderful tale of the bond of brother and sister and their will to survive. There were some parts that I felt lost during or just seemed to be there to push the story forward but it was all together extremely enjoyable. It is going into my October re-reads for Halloween, when I need a dose of creepy in my life.
March 22, 2015
This is a short book and a smooth read. It has a few plot twists that keep a reader's interest. RA Black is an excellent writer. The book could use another round of editing as it seems to have a few more errors than most professionally written books. However, there are not so many that it distracts from the story. The main character is likable enough, but it's the brother you'll mostly cheer for, maybe because he always seems to be near death. There are cannibals, ghosts, soul swapping and mysterious barons all of which help hold the readers interest, provide plot twists, and move the story forward. RA Black presents a suspenseful story entwined with mystery. A good read. I wish it was longer.
March 27, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal).
This was a very intriguing story. I found myself pulling for the girl in this story. I found it really hard to put the book away. Not to ruin the story for anyone else, I understand the reason for the ending, but wished it could have been different.
This was a very intriguing story. I found myself pulling for the girl in this story. I found it really hard to put the book away. Not to ruin the story for anyone else, I understand the reason for the ending, but wished it could have been different.
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