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Beckoning Souls #1
Beckoning Souls
Nathan Gallagher doesn’t believe in ghosts. As a fireman, he’s seen his share of dead people, but they never spoke to him before—until now.His marriage is great and his relationship with his son is strong, but Nathan is sure that if he tells his family that he’s seeing ghosts, it is a quick ticket to a padded room and a straightjacket.When the ghosts become violent and attack Nathan, his secret is revealed—except his wife doesn’t believe his claim about the supernatural. She demands he seek professional help. He knows he’s not crazy, but with no proof that the ghosts are real, he’s committed to a mental hospital against his will. The ghosts follow him, pushing him farther into a terrifying world he can’t find his way out of.With his marriage, his sanity, and even his very life at stake, Nathan needs to find out why the ghosts are haunting him before it’s too late.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2014
89 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Tate
43 books23 followersLibrarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 30, 2016
Pointless
I found this story completely pointless.
I felt no sympathy, only annoyance with the main character. He was not the least bit likable.
I kept reading thinking the story will come around to have some type of meaning, but nope....it just ends leaving me wondering why I bothered to read it at all.
I found this story completely pointless.
I felt no sympathy, only annoyance with the main character. He was not the least bit likable.
I kept reading thinking the story will come around to have some type of meaning, but nope....it just ends leaving me wondering why I bothered to read it at all.
June 30, 2016
Like most movies labelled 'horror', this one starts with the promise of a steadily building creepy narrative - but rapidly shows itself to be a garden variety ghost story.
No gasps, no double-takes, not even a shake of the head at some ingenious scare. Sigh.
April 5, 2018
I really enjoyed the book...at first. The ending was such an eye roll for me. I hated the wife as soon as she didn't support her husband. And I felt that brining the dad into the story was pointless. In addition to bringing the dad in, the author provides the reader with information on how Nathan's little brother died when Nathan was 10 and his dad apparently blamed Nathan for it. The parents got divorced because of all that. None of this information was needed and didn't provide anything to the story. At first I thought the author was going to bring in Nathan's brother's ghost but nope. I felt like that was a missed opportunity honestly. Overall, the first 3/4 of the book were good. I kept wondering what was going to happen next and I finished the book rather quickly because I couldn't put it down. But then the ending was a disappointment. I won't be reading the rest of the books.
August 12, 2017
This was a fun horror story
Nathan is a firefighter who sees the ghosts of people who he could not save. At first, nobody believes him, including his wife and father. He ends up being committed to an insane asylum, and then things get really exciting. I enjoyed this book, and found it very well written.
Nathan is a firefighter who sees the ghosts of people who he could not save. At first, nobody believes him, including his wife and father. He ends up being committed to an insane asylum, and then things get really exciting. I enjoyed this book, and found it very well written.
February 19, 2018
Awesome Read
Poor Nathan...Husband Father Firefighter. Everyone thinks he is crazy. But he knows he's not. He's seeing ghosts. Ghosts of the people he wasn't able to save from fires. The ghosts are wondering why he couldn't save them and they're hostile. Follow Nathan on his journey to prove his sanity and save his marriage and his soul.
Poor Nathan...Husband Father Firefighter. Everyone thinks he is crazy. But he knows he's not. He's seeing ghosts. Ghosts of the people he wasn't able to save from fires. The ghosts are wondering why he couldn't save them and they're hostile. Follow Nathan on his journey to prove his sanity and save his marriage and his soul.
February 12, 2019
Page turner
It was well written. It didn't go overboard with descriptions. It stay on track and gave just enough to see the characters and places in my mind's eye! The read flowed well. Definitely want to read more of J.R's writings. Just the right scare of the supernatural. I see a movie for this one!
It was well written. It didn't go overboard with descriptions. It stay on track and gave just enough to see the characters and places in my mind's eye! The read flowed well. Definitely want to read more of J.R's writings. Just the right scare of the supernatural. I see a movie for this one!
April 8, 2018
Don't start right before bed time
Quick easy and slightly creepy read. I started it right before bed time and had to keep reading until I found a less creepy spot to stop.
What would you do if you were seeing ghosts and no one believed you?
Quick easy and slightly creepy read. I started it right before bed time and had to keep reading until I found a less creepy spot to stop.
What would you do if you were seeing ghosts and no one believed you?
June 30, 2017
Haunted by the dead
It was ok. A fireman thinks he's going insane, but in fact he's being visited by the souls of the dead that he couldn't save.
It was ok. A fireman thinks he's going insane, but in fact he's being visited by the souls of the dead that he couldn't save.
January 3, 2018
Scary good
I could taste the smoke, my eyes teared at the betrayal and God awful hurt this man went thru. I can't wait to read the next novel to see what else is in-store.
I could taste the smoke, my eyes teared at the betrayal and God awful hurt this man went thru. I can't wait to read the next novel to see what else is in-store.
March 15, 2018
A must read
Great book that is a quick read with turns and twists that will leave the reader guessing. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense, action,and 👻
Great book that is a quick read with turns and twists that will leave the reader guessing. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense, action,and 👻
March 3, 2017
Wow
Wow just a bought says it all this was really a good read one that is hard to put down
Wow just a bought says it all this was really a good read one that is hard to put down
May 30, 2016
Entertaining if a bit shallow and under-researched
Having worked in both the health field and as a volunteer firefighter, I was intrigued by the premise of this story. Who wouldn't be haunted by the people they were unable to save. The author presents that as literal in this tale. Unfortunately, it is a bit overstated through the appearance of ghosts who feel betrayed that they were not saved by Nathan Galagher, the main character. His wife, Rose, can't give her husband an inch of faith even though she's a nurse? The firefighting scenes, references to psych meds seem under-researched, as if the author did a quick Google search to see what a patient might be given for hallucinations. Contrary to the presentation in this story, the use of straight-jackets in mental health facilities of any repute in modern medicine is not an option. Restraints? Yes. Supervision? Yes. That the doctor was ready to jump to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in less than two weeks on just two medications (Seroquel and Thorazine? Really? No Lithium, a very common drug for schizophrenia, despite the modern medications that have proven effective?) - it showed a lack of understanding by the author of mental health treatment. In fact, it smacked of stereotypical ideation throughout. If a story is 80% about a character suffering what is believed to be a psychotic break, it would have been a four star book. I can't give it more than four only due to the fact that it was so predictable: brave firefighter not treated for PTSD because he sees things so he must be psychotic, wife who refuses to consider there is anything going on other than psychosis and ignores husband's wishes because she "doesn't feel safe", son who is angry with mom for abandoning father who never had any formal mental health issues, the absent father who jumps into the picture to help the wife put away his son - one he blamed for a death in the family. Perfect for the Lifetime Movie Channel, actually. Not so perfect for fans of paranormal or thrilling horror stories. I do want to say to this author that if better research had been conducted and characters developed beyond the pulpy predictability and stereotypical responses, the story would have not only been entertaining but original enough to have a healthy group of new readers who like a good mystery and a hunky fireman in their reading material.
Having worked in both the health field and as a volunteer firefighter, I was intrigued by the premise of this story. Who wouldn't be haunted by the people they were unable to save. The author presents that as literal in this tale. Unfortunately, it is a bit overstated through the appearance of ghosts who feel betrayed that they were not saved by Nathan Galagher, the main character. His wife, Rose, can't give her husband an inch of faith even though she's a nurse? The firefighting scenes, references to psych meds seem under-researched, as if the author did a quick Google search to see what a patient might be given for hallucinations. Contrary to the presentation in this story, the use of straight-jackets in mental health facilities of any repute in modern medicine is not an option. Restraints? Yes. Supervision? Yes. That the doctor was ready to jump to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in less than two weeks on just two medications (Seroquel and Thorazine? Really? No Lithium, a very common drug for schizophrenia, despite the modern medications that have proven effective?) - it showed a lack of understanding by the author of mental health treatment. In fact, it smacked of stereotypical ideation throughout. If a story is 80% about a character suffering what is believed to be a psychotic break, it would have been a four star book. I can't give it more than four only due to the fact that it was so predictable: brave firefighter not treated for PTSD because he sees things so he must be psychotic, wife who refuses to consider there is anything going on other than psychosis and ignores husband's wishes because she "doesn't feel safe", son who is angry with mom for abandoning father who never had any formal mental health issues, the absent father who jumps into the picture to help the wife put away his son - one he blamed for a death in the family. Perfect for the Lifetime Movie Channel, actually. Not so perfect for fans of paranormal or thrilling horror stories. I do want to say to this author that if better research had been conducted and characters developed beyond the pulpy predictability and stereotypical responses, the story would have not only been entertaining but original enough to have a healthy group of new readers who like a good mystery and a hunky fireman in their reading material.
December 6, 2015
Nathan is a firefighter who has started seeing, speaking to, and being attacked by spirits. When he tries to tell his wife, Rose, she dismisses what he says and makes plans to get her husband some 'help'
Nathan seems to have limitless patience. He keeps trying to explain events to Rose who thinks he has mental health issues, whilst also trying to find out why he is being attacked by the spirits. I thought his character developed well through the book and I share his opinions of the 'treatments' he underwent. Rose's character was also well written. So well that she annoyed and frustrated me with her opinion of her husband and what he is experiencing.
The book is well written and the dialogue between Nathan and Rose was natural and realistic. I liked how the story ended with a reason for Nathan's haunting and that he and Rose's marriage survives.
A great paranormal thriller.
Nathan seems to have limitless patience. He keeps trying to explain events to Rose who thinks he has mental health issues, whilst also trying to find out why he is being attacked by the spirits. I thought his character developed well through the book and I share his opinions of the 'treatments' he underwent. Rose's character was also well written. So well that she annoyed and frustrated me with her opinion of her husband and what he is experiencing.
The book is well written and the dialogue between Nathan and Rose was natural and realistic. I liked how the story ended with a reason for Nathan's haunting and that he and Rose's marriage survives.
A great paranormal thriller.
December 26, 2015
Nathan is a firefighter who begins to have visions of the deceased who then become violent with him. His wife and father won't believe him, so he ends up in a psychiatric hospital trying to prove he's not insane. This was an enjoyable paranormal and psychological story about trust, bravery and forgiveness. The biggest frustration was that his own wife didn't believe him, and I honestly disliked her. The reason behind Nathan's torment didn't quite make sense to me, but I am now compelled to read the sequel. I didn't particularly feel spooked over the description of the ghostly visitations, more or less just angry over Nathan being tortured. Overall I enjoyed the first-person storytelling and the two different point of views.
April 21, 2016
Beckoning Souls: A HORROR Story
Nathan is a firefighter..a good one. He has attained the rank of Lieutenant and is proud of his work and the people he works with.,However, the job seems to have gotten to him , as he is starting to imagine people..scary people. His problems get bigger as these imaginary people start attacking him and are making his family and he himself question if he is allowing his mind to take over his life. Has the job caused him to loose his mind ? Can he be saved? Or does he just give up and accept his mental collapse. An inspiring story and a GOOD READ you are sure to enjoy. I RECOMMEND
Nathan is a firefighter..a good one. He has attained the rank of Lieutenant and is proud of his work and the people he works with.,However, the job seems to have gotten to him , as he is starting to imagine people..scary people. His problems get bigger as these imaginary people start attacking him and are making his family and he himself question if he is allowing his mind to take over his life. Has the job caused him to loose his mind ? Can he be saved? Or does he just give up and accept his mental collapse. An inspiring story and a GOOD READ you are sure to enjoy. I RECOMMEND
June 8, 2016
This storyline is great, and I like the writing format used with several first person accounts. It allows you to see from different perspectives. Characters were were well developed and consistent. The firefighter's thoughts, though, were so chaotic and self-doubting that he felt like he was a weak person. He denied he was psychotic, but not very strongly when challenged. His own belief that what was happening was real seems as though it should have been stronger. I also didn't like the nurse much because she so quickly turned against her husband, never even giving him the benefit of the doubt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2015
Wayward Souls Begging For Release
Psychological Thriller is an accurate description for this book. Nathan, a fire fighter is losing his grip on his sanity. Or is he? A startling tale of "sometimes they come back". If he tells anyone what he's seeing will they lock him up and throw away the key? Start on the first page, you won't want to put this one down until you get to the end.
Psychological Thriller is an accurate description for this book. Nathan, a fire fighter is losing his grip on his sanity. Or is he? A startling tale of "sometimes they come back". If he tells anyone what he's seeing will they lock him up and throw away the key? Start on the first page, you won't want to put this one down until you get to the end.
September 27, 2016
An intriguing story about fire fighter Nathan who suddenly starts having visits from beyond the grave.
A short story but one that held my attention as Nathan fought his demons, and his wife Rose and father Jack. Only his son it seems was prepared to stand by him.
The book has received some mixed reviews but I personally enjoyed it and will read the follow up to see how Nathan is coping after his ordeal with his visiting ghosts!
A short story but one that held my attention as Nathan fought his demons, and his wife Rose and father Jack. Only his son it seems was prepared to stand by him.
The book has received some mixed reviews but I personally enjoyed it and will read the follow up to see how Nathan is coping after his ordeal with his visiting ghosts!
December 15, 2015
A good one
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Not much of a critic but I know what I like and I liked this. Definitely going to read the second book. It had me so disturbed I said a prayer before I went to sleep. I was angry, I felt the pain and I shed the tears. It's not often a book does that for me. But this did
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Not much of a critic but I know what I like and I liked this. Definitely going to read the second book. It had me so disturbed I said a prayer before I went to sleep. I was angry, I felt the pain and I shed the tears. It's not often a book does that for me. But this did
May 28, 2016
Hm, I'm unsure about this book. I was with it right up to the end, but it suddenly seemed a bit clunky in the last few chapters. I've bought the next book, because I'm intrigued to see if there's a good reason for it. I may come back and increase the star rating after reading the sequel. I really did enjoy it right til those last chapters.
May 30, 2016
This book is a bit different from the normal ghost story it had me from the first chapter anyone who likes to read about the supernatural should definitely read this book.
This book is a bit different from your normal ghost story it had me from the first chapter,anyone who likes to read supernatural books should read this.
This book is a bit different from your normal ghost story it had me from the first chapter,anyone who likes to read supernatural books should read this.
July 12, 2016
Excellent Ghost Story
Another reminder of what our unsung heroes go through. In this case the Lieutenant had to face the entities of the souls that he couldn't save. True to real life not everyone can be saved. It was very interesting how the author dealt with his demons and how the people he loved the most helped him through the crisis.
Another reminder of what our unsung heroes go through. In this case the Lieutenant had to face the entities of the souls that he couldn't save. True to real life not everyone can be saved. It was very interesting how the author dealt with his demons and how the people he loved the most helped him through the crisis.
February 22, 2015
This book was weird and creepy. Pretty entertaining. There are a lot of spooky parts, and I liked the first 2/3 of the book best. I did not like the dynamic between the husband and wife, and felt a bit let down by the ending.
May 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this book
Mr. Tate grabbed my attention on the first page and held it to the end. Well developed characters even though I did not like Rose. I will definitely look for more of this authors work. Fast paced read. I recommend you give him a try.
Mr. Tate grabbed my attention on the first page and held it to the end. Well developed characters even though I did not like Rose. I will definitely look for more of this authors work. Fast paced read. I recommend you give him a try.
June 1, 2016
Great!
I enjoyed the plot and premise of this book. I also enjoyed the writer's style. Very easy to read.
The supernatural aspects were good, but I would've like to get more in-depth descriptions.
Overall a great read.
I enjoyed the plot and premise of this book. I also enjoyed the writer's style. Very easy to read.
The supernatural aspects were good, but I would've like to get more in-depth descriptions.
Overall a great read.
May 30, 2016
Horror stalks a firefighter in this book.
A bit too scary for me. Reminds me of Coonts. I liked his Odd series but usually avoid the rest. Nothing against this author just my own prejudices
A bit too scary for me. Reminds me of Coonts. I liked his Odd series but usually avoid the rest. Nothing against this author just my own prejudices
June 6, 2016
Fantastic!
When I first saw this offered on BookBub I didn't know what to think. Glad I bought it, as it was a great choice! A good mix of action, the slightest bit of romance and some supernatural terrors for good measure. Recommended!
When I first saw this offered on BookBub I didn't know what to think. Glad I bought it, as it was a great choice! A good mix of action, the slightest bit of romance and some supernatural terrors for good measure. Recommended!
July 9, 2016
Beckoning Souls
It was a very easy read and very descriptive. I enjoyed it because it showed how even those who love you follow their own way . of thinking and find it hard to just trust in what they don't know.
It was a very easy read and very descriptive. I enjoyed it because it showed how even those who love you follow their own way . of thinking and find it hard to just trust in what they don't know.
July 13, 2016
This is a quick read about frighteningly believable possibilities. Imagine you started being haunted, and people either saw you talking to thin air, or you tried to tell someone what was going on. They would think you were losing your mind, right? That's exactly what happens in this book.
December 4, 2016
Good read
Easily identifiable and smooth reading. Feel connected with the characters and situations. Tears of sorrow and happiness throughout the story made me want to read the next chapters of these characters lives.
Easily identifiable and smooth reading. Feel connected with the characters and situations. Tears of sorrow and happiness throughout the story made me want to read the next chapters of these characters lives.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews