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Island of the Forbidden
Sometimes, the dead are best left in peace.
Jessica Backman has been called to help a strange family living on a haunted island in Charleston Harbor. Ormsby Island was the site of a brutal massacre two decades ago, and now the mysterious Harper family needs someone to exorcise the ghosts that still call it home. The phantoms of over one hundred children cannot rest.
But something far more insidious is living on the island. When the living and the dead guard their true intentions, how can Jessica discover just what sort of evil lurks on Ormsby Island? And why is Jessica the only one who can plumb its dark depths?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2015
3 people are currently reading
1122 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Shea
66 books1,009 followersHunter Shea is the author of over 25 books, with a specialization in cryptozoological horror that includes The Jersey Devil, The Dover Demon, Loch Ness Revenge and many others. As part of the new horror line at Flame Tree Press, his novel Creature has gained critical acclaim. His novel, The Montauk Monster, was named one of the best reads of the summer by Publishers Weekly. A trip to the International Cryptozoology Museum will find several of his cryptid books among the fascinating displays. Living in a true haunted house inspired his Jessica Backman: Death in the Afterlife series (Forest of Shadows, Sinister Entity and Island of the Forbidden). In 2011, he was selected to be a part of the launch of Samhain Publishing’s new horror line alongside legendary author Ramsey Campbell. When he’s not writing thrillers and horror, he also spins tall tales for middle grade readers on Amazon’s highly regarded Rapids reading app.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 26, 2017
ISLAND OF THE FORBIDDEN, by Hunter Shea, is the second book I've read to feature paranormal investigators Jessica Backman and Eddie Home. Despite the fact that they've appeared in another novel (SINISTER ENTITY), this is a complete stand-alone book that can be perfectly understood without any prior knowledge.
We begin with Daphne and Tobe Harper, who visit the uninhabited island, once home to generations of the Ormsby family. Since a "covered up" mass murder/suicide, the mansion has remained empty for the past 20 years. The first clue that there was something . . . unnatural . . . about the location is the absence of any natural animal/insect noise. Then, they reach the path.
"The path was a perfectly circular opening in the trees . . . It appeared natural and unnatural at the same time."
Shea wastes no time in establishing that supernatural entities are in control of the entire island in Charleston Harbor. From the intense cold magnified in the vicinity of Ormsby House, to the fact that while the outside looks to be rotting, the interior appears to be freshly cleaned and immaculate, we are made acutely aware of the sinister atmosphere.
". . . the house gave off an aura of malignancy."
Although Jessica has tried to isolate herself from any further E. B. (Energy Beings) investigations, the presence of the Harpers' two young and gifted children, Jason and Alice, is the incentive that finally gets her to agree to help Eddie uncover the mystery behind this Island of tragedy, and set things right.
As usual, Shea embodies each of his characters with fully complete personalities, emotions, and motivations. Each of the key players have come for their own secret reasons. However, the secret behind the Island's atrocities is far worse than any one of them could have ever imagined.
"It's this place. Whatever darkness comes to the Island, it's here to stay. Stick around long enough and it gets inside your skin, into you cells, like an infection."
Despite the incredible atmospheric descriptions, the action never lets up in this novel. Scene after scene pushes the story forward, keeping the reader in an unbreakable grip of fascination all throughout.
In my personal opinion, ISLAND OF THE FORBIDDEN has all the components of a great horror novel: all-consuming atmosphere, believable and motivated characters, death, mystery, discovery, and the ever intriguing "what if's???" left over in the readers' minds to keep the story going even after that last page has been read.
*If you haven't picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for?
Highly recommended!
We begin with Daphne and Tobe Harper, who visit the uninhabited island, once home to generations of the Ormsby family. Since a "covered up" mass murder/suicide, the mansion has remained empty for the past 20 years. The first clue that there was something . . . unnatural . . . about the location is the absence of any natural animal/insect noise. Then, they reach the path.
"The path was a perfectly circular opening in the trees . . . It appeared natural and unnatural at the same time."
Shea wastes no time in establishing that supernatural entities are in control of the entire island in Charleston Harbor. From the intense cold magnified in the vicinity of Ormsby House, to the fact that while the outside looks to be rotting, the interior appears to be freshly cleaned and immaculate, we are made acutely aware of the sinister atmosphere.
". . . the house gave off an aura of malignancy."
Although Jessica has tried to isolate herself from any further E. B. (Energy Beings) investigations, the presence of the Harpers' two young and gifted children, Jason and Alice, is the incentive that finally gets her to agree to help Eddie uncover the mystery behind this Island of tragedy, and set things right.
As usual, Shea embodies each of his characters with fully complete personalities, emotions, and motivations. Each of the key players have come for their own secret reasons. However, the secret behind the Island's atrocities is far worse than any one of them could have ever imagined.
"It's this place. Whatever darkness comes to the Island, it's here to stay. Stick around long enough and it gets inside your skin, into you cells, like an infection."
Despite the incredible atmospheric descriptions, the action never lets up in this novel. Scene after scene pushes the story forward, keeping the reader in an unbreakable grip of fascination all throughout.
In my personal opinion, ISLAND OF THE FORBIDDEN has all the components of a great horror novel: all-consuming atmosphere, believable and motivated characters, death, mystery, discovery, and the ever intriguing "what if's???" left over in the readers' minds to keep the story going even after that last page has been read.
*If you haven't picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for?
Highly recommended!
December 8, 2021
This is a very good haunted-house story set on a secluded island off of the Carolina coast. Over three generations, the mad lords of the manor have performed evil eugenics experiments resulting in the creation of a whole bunch of angry ghosts (or "E.B.'s," for "energy beings" as the protagonist puts it.) The new owners of the eerily preserved house intend to capitalize on the popular wave of paranormal investigation television shows, leaving their two psychically talented children in danger. Two psychics and a documentary film crew and the owners find themselves in trouble they hadn't counted upon... The story is interesting, the characters quite likeable, and the plot is fast paced... it's a real chiller.
May 15, 2016
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Ormsby Island has a dark and violent history, the Harper family decide that it's the perfect place to set up home. They are fully aware of it's troubled past and seek out professionals to release the restless spirits of the dead who still inhabit the island. Jessica and Eddie are hired to use their gifts to put the island at peace however once lured there they become aware of the Harpers true intentions but stay to protect the Harper children who are also blessed with some psychic gifts and are a beacon for the groups of spirits called The Last Children.
The Harpers get rich scheme involving another gifted but arrogant psychic soon gives everyone getting much more than they bargained for.
I wasn't aware that this was the third book of a series but it didn't matter much as this was a perfect standalone read. The writing is easily engaging and whilst no one character jumps out at you the author managed to write 5 or 6 characters that you can easily engage with. Eddie was probably my favourite character, so broken after his last paranormal experience that his gift has become muddled. His journey on the island was the most interesting as he began to reconnect with his power. Nina, the arrogant psychic as also great fun in a love to hate kind of way.
The story itself is built up slowly which I think really helped me to connect with the characters more. The ghost story aspect was enjoyable although it wasn't that creepy or frightening, it certainly kept me turning the pages.
A well written paranormal story with nicely fleshed out characters. My first read by Hunter Shea and one that will have me seeking out more of his work.
Ormsby Island has a dark and violent history, the Harper family decide that it's the perfect place to set up home. They are fully aware of it's troubled past and seek out professionals to release the restless spirits of the dead who still inhabit the island. Jessica and Eddie are hired to use their gifts to put the island at peace however once lured there they become aware of the Harpers true intentions but stay to protect the Harper children who are also blessed with some psychic gifts and are a beacon for the groups of spirits called The Last Children.
The Harpers get rich scheme involving another gifted but arrogant psychic soon gives everyone getting much more than they bargained for.
I wasn't aware that this was the third book of a series but it didn't matter much as this was a perfect standalone read. The writing is easily engaging and whilst no one character jumps out at you the author managed to write 5 or 6 characters that you can easily engage with. Eddie was probably my favourite character, so broken after his last paranormal experience that his gift has become muddled. His journey on the island was the most interesting as he began to reconnect with his power. Nina, the arrogant psychic as also great fun in a love to hate kind of way.
The story itself is built up slowly which I think really helped me to connect with the characters more. The ghost story aspect was enjoyable although it wasn't that creepy or frightening, it certainly kept me turning the pages.
A well written paranormal story with nicely fleshed out characters. My first read by Hunter Shea and one that will have me seeking out more of his work.
August 6, 2018
4.5 stars...
This is the third book in the Jessica Backman series. Jessica and her partner Eddie are called out to Ormbsy Island by the Harper family to investigate and exorcise the E.B.'s (energy beings) haunting the island. The Harper family has secrets and Jessica and Eddie don't trust them or their motives. Unable to leave the island which is accessible by boat only and determined to help the Harper's two children who have similar gifts to Jessica and Eddie's, they resign themselves to staying on the island and going through with their mission for the kids sake only.
Another great book in the Jessica Backman series! Jessica and Edie encounter far more EB's then they ever have before. A must read if you're fan of hauntings!
This is the third book in the Jessica Backman series. Jessica and her partner Eddie are called out to Ormbsy Island by the Harper family to investigate and exorcise the E.B.'s (energy beings) haunting the island. The Harper family has secrets and Jessica and Eddie don't trust them or their motives. Unable to leave the island which is accessible by boat only and determined to help the Harper's two children who have similar gifts to Jessica and Eddie's, they resign themselves to staying on the island and going through with their mission for the kids sake only.
Another great book in the Jessica Backman series! Jessica and Edie encounter far more EB's then they ever have before. A must read if you're fan of hauntings!
October 19, 2015
[Note: I received an advanced reader’s copy from the publisher via NetGalley for review.]
Hunter Shea’s latest, Island of the Forbidden, brings back his series heroine, Jessica Backman, and her paranormal hunting partner, Eddie Home, for a third adventure.
While I haven’t read any of the prior Backman books (yet!), Shea’s previous release, Hell Hole, was enough to get me to jump into the deep end with his assurances, via his blog, that this one could be read as a standalone novel. And, for the most part, I’d have to agree. Shea does a great job of catching reader’s up on the background between Backman and Home, and their last case together, which has weakened Home and driven a rift between he and Jessica, setting her off on a solo cross-country journey.
However, the paranormal perils of Ormsby Island and the threat it poses for two young children, are enough to draw Jessica and Eddie back together. The island, and the mansion that rests there, have been bought by the Harper family in an effort to drum up money by selling their real-life ghost story as a reality TV show. But, in order to do that, they first have to rile up the dead, putting themselves and their children in danger.
Island of the Forbidden is a bit of a slow-burn ghost novel. Shea does some strong character work, and it’s fascinating to witness how Ormsby Island changes the Harper’s, particularly Tobe, the family patriarch. (And, a side-note here, but I can’t but think that Tobe Harper may be a bit of an ode to horror film director Tobe Hooper, who is best known for the movie Poltergeist.) There’s also a long unraveling of what, exactly, happened on Ormsby Island, the site of a massive massacre (to say the least), a description that serves merely to scratch the surface of the awful truth.
Unlike the weird western Hell Hole, however, this work is not a constant stream of paranormal action and gunfights against the undead or undying. Rather, this is a more subtle and nuanced work of horror, with the ghostly shenanigans sprinkled throughout and building toward a powerful climax that sees the full fury of the island’s apparitions brought to bear against the living.
Overall, I was nicely satisfied by Island of the Forbidden, and found it to be an accessible entry-point to Shea’s series despite not having read any of the prior Jessica Backman novels. If anything, I’m even more intrigued in these past stories now and will be aiming to read through them as soon as I can. She’s a fun, plucky character that I’d like to read more about as she square’s off against ghastly, ghostly threats. Here’s to hoping we haven’t seen the last of her and Eddie.
Hunter Shea’s latest, Island of the Forbidden, brings back his series heroine, Jessica Backman, and her paranormal hunting partner, Eddie Home, for a third adventure.
While I haven’t read any of the prior Backman books (yet!), Shea’s previous release, Hell Hole, was enough to get me to jump into the deep end with his assurances, via his blog, that this one could be read as a standalone novel. And, for the most part, I’d have to agree. Shea does a great job of catching reader’s up on the background between Backman and Home, and their last case together, which has weakened Home and driven a rift between he and Jessica, setting her off on a solo cross-country journey.
However, the paranormal perils of Ormsby Island and the threat it poses for two young children, are enough to draw Jessica and Eddie back together. The island, and the mansion that rests there, have been bought by the Harper family in an effort to drum up money by selling their real-life ghost story as a reality TV show. But, in order to do that, they first have to rile up the dead, putting themselves and their children in danger.
Island of the Forbidden is a bit of a slow-burn ghost novel. Shea does some strong character work, and it’s fascinating to witness how Ormsby Island changes the Harper’s, particularly Tobe, the family patriarch. (And, a side-note here, but I can’t but think that Tobe Harper may be a bit of an ode to horror film director Tobe Hooper, who is best known for the movie Poltergeist.) There’s also a long unraveling of what, exactly, happened on Ormsby Island, the site of a massive massacre (to say the least), a description that serves merely to scratch the surface of the awful truth.
Unlike the weird western Hell Hole, however, this work is not a constant stream of paranormal action and gunfights against the undead or undying. Rather, this is a more subtle and nuanced work of horror, with the ghostly shenanigans sprinkled throughout and building toward a powerful climax that sees the full fury of the island’s apparitions brought to bear against the living.
Overall, I was nicely satisfied by Island of the Forbidden, and found it to be an accessible entry-point to Shea’s series despite not having read any of the prior Jessica Backman novels. If anything, I’m even more intrigued in these past stories now and will be aiming to read through them as soon as I can. She’s a fun, plucky character that I’d like to read more about as she square’s off against ghastly, ghostly threats. Here’s to hoping we haven’t seen the last of her and Eddie.
January 14, 2015
From the Description:
Sometimes, the dead are best left in peace.
Jessica Backman has been called to help a strange family living on a haunted island in Charleston Harbor. Ormsby Island was the site of a brutal massacre two decades ago, and now the mysterious Harper family needs someone to exorcise the ghosts that still call it home. The phantoms of over one hundred children cannot rest.
But something far more insidious is living on the island. When the living and the dead guard their true intentions, how can Jessica discover just what sort of evil lurks on Ormsby Island? And why is Jessica the only one who can plumb its dark depths?
If you love ghost stories as much as I do Island Of The Forbidden is a must have! Filled with characters that are both believable and easy to care about. Hunter Shea has created a truly creepy atmosphere on the Island and filled it with tons of ghost, scary and sympathetic. Although Island has lots of familiar ghostly goodness Hunter Shea has drug the ghost story kicking and screaming into the new millennium. I wasn't aware when I started reading that Island was part of a set but I loved this story so much I'm going to find the first two books ASAP. A great 5 star read!!
Island of the Forbidden by Hunter Shea continues the story of Jessica Bockman, the ghost-hunting heroine who has appeared in Forest of Shadows, The Graveyard Speaks and Sinister Entity, all published by Samhain Horror.
Blog Tour Giveaway:
Enter to win one of five Hunter Shea books being given away! Two signed copies of Montauk Monster, one signed copy of Sinister Entity, and two e-books of choice of his titles are up for grabs! One book to each winner, given in order of random drawing. Enter to win at the Rafflecopter link. Must use valid email that winners can be contacted by. Print books are U.S. residents only. Contest ends Feb. 28, 2015. Any questions, contact Erin Al-Mehairi, Publicist, at hookofabook@hotmail.com.
Direct Link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp...?
Sometimes, the dead are best left in peace.
Jessica Backman has been called to help a strange family living on a haunted island in Charleston Harbor. Ormsby Island was the site of a brutal massacre two decades ago, and now the mysterious Harper family needs someone to exorcise the ghosts that still call it home. The phantoms of over one hundred children cannot rest.
But something far more insidious is living on the island. When the living and the dead guard their true intentions, how can Jessica discover just what sort of evil lurks on Ormsby Island? And why is Jessica the only one who can plumb its dark depths?
If you love ghost stories as much as I do Island Of The Forbidden is a must have! Filled with characters that are both believable and easy to care about. Hunter Shea has created a truly creepy atmosphere on the Island and filled it with tons of ghost, scary and sympathetic. Although Island has lots of familiar ghostly goodness Hunter Shea has drug the ghost story kicking and screaming into the new millennium. I wasn't aware when I started reading that Island was part of a set but I loved this story so much I'm going to find the first two books ASAP. A great 5 star read!!
Island of the Forbidden by Hunter Shea continues the story of Jessica Bockman, the ghost-hunting heroine who has appeared in Forest of Shadows, The Graveyard Speaks and Sinister Entity, all published by Samhain Horror.
Blog Tour Giveaway:
Enter to win one of five Hunter Shea books being given away! Two signed copies of Montauk Monster, one signed copy of Sinister Entity, and two e-books of choice of his titles are up for grabs! One book to each winner, given in order of random drawing. Enter to win at the Rafflecopter link. Must use valid email that winners can be contacted by. Print books are U.S. residents only. Contest ends Feb. 28, 2015. Any questions, contact Erin Al-Mehairi, Publicist, at hookofabook@hotmail.com.
Direct Link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp...?
December 18, 2014
Hunter Shea pens another horrific thriller as he brings back Jessica Backman for a third novel. This time she and her one-time partner Eddie head to an abandoned house on an island in Charleston Harbor believed to be haunted. The story is a non-stop rush from the first chapter to the satisfying, terrifying end. Hunter continues to layer on more nuance to Jessica’s character with each novel and you’ll want to meet her again after you turn this book’s last page. There are some splendidly chilling scenes of mass hauntings that will stick with you for way too long. I was so lucky to get an advance copy of this one to read. This is 2015’s first must-read for the horror fan.
March 4, 2017
It has been three years, since Jessica and Eddie had worked together. Jessica, is called upon to help Daphne and Tobe Harper. Ormsby Island, is located in Charleston Harbor. No one has lived on the island for the last two decades. The Harper's need the help of Jessica, and Eddie, to free them, from the spirits that haunt the island. All the spirits that Eddie can see, are of children, something terrible happened on this island, many years ago. Tobe and his brother Paul, bring a psychic to the island, along with a filming crew. They are going to film a documentary on the child of Ormsby Island. If they could capture the ghost children on film, they would make a bundle of money. Inside the house, it was always freezing and the Harper's always had fires going, even though it was the middle of the summer. With Eddie's gift, he could see at least one hundred souls who haunt the island. It seems that the Ormsby men, were trying to create the perfect person. The Ormsby children, were either murdered by their father's or committed suicide. This went on for along time. The Harper children, Alice, and Jason, can also see the spirits of the dead children. Eddie, with the help of Jessica, must set the souls of the children free, so they no longer have to haunt the island. Hunter Shea's development of the characters, is done very well. The story is fast paced, with plenty of action. I was hooked on the story, from page one. The author has promised us, future adventures about Jessica and Eddie. You can also find Jessica and Eddie in Sinister Entity. I highly recommend this book.
August 25, 2015
This is a book that will grasp you by the throat and hold on tight until the ride is over. Hunter Shea uses his extraordinary gift for imagery to bring this heart-wrenching and eerily terrifying tale to life, or afterlife as depending on your perspective. The isolation of the long abandoned Ormsby Island makes this the perfect setting for the story. From the unimaginable horrors of the past to the fear and anger holding their spirits to Ormsby Island, Shea creates a world so incredibly realistic. The flesh and blood world blends seamlessly with the “netherworld” as Eddie sees it. The struggles that Jessica and Eddie face in trying to help the children of Ormsby Island, both living and dead, keep the story moving at a quick pace that will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish.
Hunter Shea is without a doubt a master of horror and chills and Island of the Forbidden is quite possibly his finest work yet! If you’re a fan of horror be sure to add this book to your must read list…if not, then this is the perfect choice to introduce you to an all new thrilling world!
Hunter Shea is without a doubt a master of horror and chills and Island of the Forbidden is quite possibly his finest work yet! If you’re a fan of horror be sure to add this book to your must read list…if not, then this is the perfect choice to introduce you to an all new thrilling world!
July 20, 2015
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/mini-rev...
This book is pretty amazing. It’s scary, horrifying, and atmospheric. Jessica Backman leaves to help a strange family on a haunted island. The island was once the site of a brutal massacre, where over one hundred kids died. Perhaps the book isn’t the most original in terms of what’s haunting the island, but then it takes a strange twist or two and before you know it, you’re facing a whole new kind of evil. The writing is great, the characters are amazing, and it’s seriously one of the most enjoyable horror books I’ve ever read.
This book is pretty amazing. It’s scary, horrifying, and atmospheric. Jessica Backman leaves to help a strange family on a haunted island. The island was once the site of a brutal massacre, where over one hundred kids died. Perhaps the book isn’t the most original in terms of what’s haunting the island, but then it takes a strange twist or two and before you know it, you’re facing a whole new kind of evil. The writing is great, the characters are amazing, and it’s seriously one of the most enjoyable horror books I’ve ever read.
January 26, 2015
Every once in a while a book comes along that has the ability to pull you into its pages, captivate your mind, and wreak havoc with your schedule.
Island of the Forbidden is just one of these books. I was immediately sucked into this fantastic tale, fascinated by the experiences and abilities of both Eddie and Jessica, and drawn by a morbid curiosity to experience the horror and angst that is found Ormsby Island.
If you like the paranormal, then you absolutely must check out the amazing story. Island of the Forbidden - a grand slam by Hunter Shea.
Island of the Forbidden is just one of these books. I was immediately sucked into this fantastic tale, fascinated by the experiences and abilities of both Eddie and Jessica, and drawn by a morbid curiosity to experience the horror and angst that is found Ormsby Island.
If you like the paranormal, then you absolutely must check out the amazing story. Island of the Forbidden - a grand slam by Hunter Shea.
March 29, 2015
If there's one thing that frightens me, it's creepy ghost children... Hunter Shea delivers another solid offering, the third in the Jessica Backman series. Hunter's direct writing style and well-paced storytelling makes his books a real pleasure to read. Island of the Forbidden is no different. Great setup, a wonderful cast of characters, an entire island of ghost children to scare the living crap out of you - Hunter has delivered one of his best novels to date. Again, I can't wait for the next one...
January 27, 2015
I'm a huge fan of Ghost Adventures and The Dead Files. These are television shows that deal with the paranormal. Ghost hunting with EMF detectors, night vision cameras, EM pumps, FLIR cameras... Ah, the list goes on. If you're not familiar with either show and you're interested in the paranormal, then I suggest checking them out because you're missing some good stuff. Both shows investigate claims of hauntings but each one does it using two completely different methods. One uses traditional equipment and some groundbreaking technology that'll make your jaw drop. The science behind it will make your jaw drop. The other show uses a skeptic retired homicide cop and a medium. Some of the things these shows have caught on tape is astounding. If it's all acting and CGI, then they deserve an Emmy. A big fat one.
I needed to mention my ghost fascination and nerdness around the subject because when I heard about Hunter Shea's new novel Island of the Forbidden was coming out and I was able to get my hands on a copy to review, I jumped at the bit. Not only because I've read some of his other works such as the Montauk Monster and I loved it, but because this novel deals with the paranormal and a ghost hunting team. As the title suggests, there is an island that's as haunted as Bobby Mackey's Music World and in the center of the island is the Ormsby mansion.
The novel starts out by introducing us to a paranormal investigative team that's been defunct. Enter Jessica and Eddie. Dysfunctional, powerful and at odds with each other, Mr. Shea recently posted to his blog about the naming of the character Jessica and the significance of her trials and tribulations. First you have to finish reading my article here and then you can read about that by going here: HunterShea.com
Through manipulation of forces unknown at first, the duo is brought back together to investigate the newly purchased Island that sat dormant for a long time. The steep history surrounding the island has been shrouded in silence so the team knows very little about what they're getting themselves into. Once they step foot on the island, the mystery behind the active haunting becomes entangled with the reasons why the team was brought there in the first place. Shea weaves a witty web of mystery, suspense and a sense of foreboding all throughout the story that keeps you guessing as to the all the secrets the island holds. As you try to help Jessica and Eddie solve the riddle of the Ormsby mansion and the motivations of the multitude of ghosts as well as try to understand the mysterious owners motivations, you get sucked into a paranormal investigation like no other. The plot is thick and keeps you guessing. It's a game of cat and mouse at the highest level where it's the living versus the dead. And that begs the question, how to you defend yourself against something you can't see? Thank goodness for Jessica and Eddie. You see, like Shea getting inside your head and playing around a bit, the dysfunctional ghost hunting duo have some pretty cool tricks up their sleeves.
The Island of the forbidden is a fun read that's packed with intrigue and lots of story. You'll get your moneys worth on this one. Pick up a copy.
I needed to mention my ghost fascination and nerdness around the subject because when I heard about Hunter Shea's new novel Island of the Forbidden was coming out and I was able to get my hands on a copy to review, I jumped at the bit. Not only because I've read some of his other works such as the Montauk Monster and I loved it, but because this novel deals with the paranormal and a ghost hunting team. As the title suggests, there is an island that's as haunted as Bobby Mackey's Music World and in the center of the island is the Ormsby mansion.
The novel starts out by introducing us to a paranormal investigative team that's been defunct. Enter Jessica and Eddie. Dysfunctional, powerful and at odds with each other, Mr. Shea recently posted to his blog about the naming of the character Jessica and the significance of her trials and tribulations. First you have to finish reading my article here and then you can read about that by going here: HunterShea.com
Through manipulation of forces unknown at first, the duo is brought back together to investigate the newly purchased Island that sat dormant for a long time. The steep history surrounding the island has been shrouded in silence so the team knows very little about what they're getting themselves into. Once they step foot on the island, the mystery behind the active haunting becomes entangled with the reasons why the team was brought there in the first place. Shea weaves a witty web of mystery, suspense and a sense of foreboding all throughout the story that keeps you guessing as to the all the secrets the island holds. As you try to help Jessica and Eddie solve the riddle of the Ormsby mansion and the motivations of the multitude of ghosts as well as try to understand the mysterious owners motivations, you get sucked into a paranormal investigation like no other. The plot is thick and keeps you guessing. It's a game of cat and mouse at the highest level where it's the living versus the dead. And that begs the question, how to you defend yourself against something you can't see? Thank goodness for Jessica and Eddie. You see, like Shea getting inside your head and playing around a bit, the dysfunctional ghost hunting duo have some pretty cool tricks up their sleeves.
The Island of the forbidden is a fun read that's packed with intrigue and lots of story. You'll get your moneys worth on this one. Pick up a copy.
January 26, 2015
Sometimes, the dead are best left in peace.
Jessica Backman has been called to help a strange family living on a haunted island in Charleston Harbor. Ormsby Island was the site of a brutal massacre two decades ago, and now the mysterious Harper family needs someone to exorcise the ghosts that still call it home. The phantoms of over one hundred children cannot rest.
But something far more insidious is living on the island. When the living and the dead guard their true intentions, how can Jessica discover just what sort of evil lurks on Ormsby Island? And why is Jessica the only one who can plumb its dark depths?
Review:
This well-crafted story is full of intense, spine tingling happenings. I like that this story is smart and draws you in, not just the characters but the great suspense/mystery of it. I also liked the setting of the story, I think a haunted house on an island in of itself is scary but then add in the ghosts of the children and you get a great vibe. Speaking of the kids, they were scary, but also so sad because of what happened to them. And with out giving anything away, I thought how the children got their resolution was very satisfying.
Now, I have read the Jessica Backman story that came right before this one "Sinister Entity" and I really came to like Jessica and her strong yet vulnerable character and I love Eddie too. This is the third story featuring Jessica and though this could be read as a stand-alone title, to really understand the turmoil and distance between Jessica and Eddie you should read "Sinister Entity", plus it is such a good story also.
After reading this great story, I keep asking myself "why I don't read as much of the horror genre as I used to? " and I don't have an answer when there are great stories such as these out there. There was a great ending to the story and cannot wait to see what the next tale will bring.
5Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review*
Jessica Backman has been called to help a strange family living on a haunted island in Charleston Harbor. Ormsby Island was the site of a brutal massacre two decades ago, and now the mysterious Harper family needs someone to exorcise the ghosts that still call it home. The phantoms of over one hundred children cannot rest.
But something far more insidious is living on the island. When the living and the dead guard their true intentions, how can Jessica discover just what sort of evil lurks on Ormsby Island? And why is Jessica the only one who can plumb its dark depths?
Review:
This well-crafted story is full of intense, spine tingling happenings. I like that this story is smart and draws you in, not just the characters but the great suspense/mystery of it. I also liked the setting of the story, I think a haunted house on an island in of itself is scary but then add in the ghosts of the children and you get a great vibe. Speaking of the kids, they were scary, but also so sad because of what happened to them. And with out giving anything away, I thought how the children got their resolution was very satisfying.
Now, I have read the Jessica Backman story that came right before this one "Sinister Entity" and I really came to like Jessica and her strong yet vulnerable character and I love Eddie too. This is the third story featuring Jessica and though this could be read as a stand-alone title, to really understand the turmoil and distance between Jessica and Eddie you should read "Sinister Entity", plus it is such a good story also.
After reading this great story, I keep asking myself "why I don't read as much of the horror genre as I used to? " and I don't have an answer when there are great stories such as these out there. There was a great ending to the story and cannot wait to see what the next tale will bring.
5Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review*
February 21, 2015
Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review
When we first reunite with Jessica and Eddie, they are both struggling to cope with the horrors they witnessed in the Leigh household. Jessica dyes her hair, shuts down fearnone.com and cuts herself off from her family while she travels the country losing herself in physical work of volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Eddie is a shell of his former self. His powers are nowhere near what they once were and he develops an addiction to alcohol and drugs in order to try to hide from the scores of spirits that appear to him begging for his help. Their partnership is nonexistent after the two having a falling out over how to handle Jessica’s unique gift as an energy source for EB’s.
However, Jessica finally reaches out to Eddie after her aunt Eve tells her Eddie has been leaving desperate messages on her phone. When she finally reaches him, he tells her that someone on the other side has been looking for her, leading to visions of EB’s that make it so he can hardly sleep at night. Just when Jessica is ready to give into her anger and frustration towards Eddie, he stops her cold when he tells her there are kids involved. Kids who have abilities like theirs and are being used as bait.
Jessica and Eddie are led to Ormsby Island, a deserted island in South Carolina after Daphne Harper contacts Jessica and pleads for her to help. She and her husband purchased the island on the cheap with the hopes that Jessica and Eddie could make the home safe for their two children, Jason and Alice. They immediately noticed that the island had some peculiar traits. There is an ominous chill that cloaks the property even in the humid heat of summer and the inside is immaculately preserved despite the exterior’s former splendor being ravaged by the passage of time and the elements.
Almost as soon as they step foot on the island, Eddie and Jessica realize Ormsby Island holds many secrets. There are well over a hundred spirits of deformed children all over the island, proof that gives some credence to the rumors concerning Ormsby Island’s brutal past. Then in the midst of the paranormal happenings on the island, there is the question about the Harpers. They seem like an average couple despite a hint of strangeness, it quickly becomes clear they are hiding something which could threaten everyone on the island. As Eddie and Jessica dig deeper into the mysteries of Ormsby Island, they discover the heartbreaking truth behind the activity in the house.
Island of the Forbidden was a great read and has the same excellent storytelling that made the other books in the series so enjoyable. There are multiple mysteries waiting to be discovered and Island of the Forbidden features the most diverse cast of characters yet. One of my favorites, not counting Eddie or Jessica of course, was Nina D’Arcangela. Nina is a psychic who has powers very similar to Eddie’s, but lacks the experience and control he has mastered. She is kind of like the anti-Eddie in the sense that where Eddie is confident and uses his gifts to help others, she is driven by the need to be appreciated by others and is looking to cash in on her abilities using any means necessary.
I also thought Ormsby Island is the perfect setting for a ghost story. It has a dark history that has made it a legend among the locals in the novel and is completely cut off from the outside world. Imagine that you walk into a reportedly haunted mansion and witness events that are not only unexplainable, but ripped straight from your worst nightmares. Normally, it would be easy to just leave the home, never return and that is the end of that right? But what if it wasn’t that easy? Having the story take place on Ormsby Island not only amplifies the horror because there is simply nowhere to run, it also forces all of the characters to confront the demons lurking in their past.
There are some chilling moments throughout the novel, but one that stands out is when Jessica and Eddie get a glimpse of Jason and Alice’s powers. Jason tells them about the “Last Kids”, the spirits that Eddie saw when he arrived on the island. When Eddie presses him for more information, Jason gives one simple statement that sent shivers down my spine and further proves that children in horror books/movies are downright creepy! “Yes. There were lots of them on the island. This is where the last ones went to sleep“.
I also loved the further character development of both Jessica Backman and Eddie Home in Island of the Forbidden. Hunter takes these characters to some very dark places and that only adds to the realism of the novel. The events of Sinister Entity placed both Jessica and Eddie through an emotional ringer that tested not just their abilities in solving paranormal cases, but their core values. It would have been easy to have Island of the Forbidden show Jessica and Eddie tackling more cases and kicking EB ass, but Hunter takes a more difficult yet rewarding path. Seriously, if you have not read any of the books in this series, I highly recommend checking them out. Whether you start from the beginning like I did or work your way back from Island of the Forbidden, you are in for some great stories from a truly great storyteller. I know it is early, but I definitely anticipate having Island of the Forbidden in my list of top reads for 2015.
When we first reunite with Jessica and Eddie, they are both struggling to cope with the horrors they witnessed in the Leigh household. Jessica dyes her hair, shuts down fearnone.com and cuts herself off from her family while she travels the country losing herself in physical work of volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Eddie is a shell of his former self. His powers are nowhere near what they once were and he develops an addiction to alcohol and drugs in order to try to hide from the scores of spirits that appear to him begging for his help. Their partnership is nonexistent after the two having a falling out over how to handle Jessica’s unique gift as an energy source for EB’s.
However, Jessica finally reaches out to Eddie after her aunt Eve tells her Eddie has been leaving desperate messages on her phone. When she finally reaches him, he tells her that someone on the other side has been looking for her, leading to visions of EB’s that make it so he can hardly sleep at night. Just when Jessica is ready to give into her anger and frustration towards Eddie, he stops her cold when he tells her there are kids involved. Kids who have abilities like theirs and are being used as bait.
Jessica and Eddie are led to Ormsby Island, a deserted island in South Carolina after Daphne Harper contacts Jessica and pleads for her to help. She and her husband purchased the island on the cheap with the hopes that Jessica and Eddie could make the home safe for their two children, Jason and Alice. They immediately noticed that the island had some peculiar traits. There is an ominous chill that cloaks the property even in the humid heat of summer and the inside is immaculately preserved despite the exterior’s former splendor being ravaged by the passage of time and the elements.
Almost as soon as they step foot on the island, Eddie and Jessica realize Ormsby Island holds many secrets. There are well over a hundred spirits of deformed children all over the island, proof that gives some credence to the rumors concerning Ormsby Island’s brutal past. Then in the midst of the paranormal happenings on the island, there is the question about the Harpers. They seem like an average couple despite a hint of strangeness, it quickly becomes clear they are hiding something which could threaten everyone on the island. As Eddie and Jessica dig deeper into the mysteries of Ormsby Island, they discover the heartbreaking truth behind the activity in the house.
Island of the Forbidden was a great read and has the same excellent storytelling that made the other books in the series so enjoyable. There are multiple mysteries waiting to be discovered and Island of the Forbidden features the most diverse cast of characters yet. One of my favorites, not counting Eddie or Jessica of course, was Nina D’Arcangela. Nina is a psychic who has powers very similar to Eddie’s, but lacks the experience and control he has mastered. She is kind of like the anti-Eddie in the sense that where Eddie is confident and uses his gifts to help others, she is driven by the need to be appreciated by others and is looking to cash in on her abilities using any means necessary.
I also thought Ormsby Island is the perfect setting for a ghost story. It has a dark history that has made it a legend among the locals in the novel and is completely cut off from the outside world. Imagine that you walk into a reportedly haunted mansion and witness events that are not only unexplainable, but ripped straight from your worst nightmares. Normally, it would be easy to just leave the home, never return and that is the end of that right? But what if it wasn’t that easy? Having the story take place on Ormsby Island not only amplifies the horror because there is simply nowhere to run, it also forces all of the characters to confront the demons lurking in their past.
There are some chilling moments throughout the novel, but one that stands out is when Jessica and Eddie get a glimpse of Jason and Alice’s powers. Jason tells them about the “Last Kids”, the spirits that Eddie saw when he arrived on the island. When Eddie presses him for more information, Jason gives one simple statement that sent shivers down my spine and further proves that children in horror books/movies are downright creepy! “Yes. There were lots of them on the island. This is where the last ones went to sleep“.
I also loved the further character development of both Jessica Backman and Eddie Home in Island of the Forbidden. Hunter takes these characters to some very dark places and that only adds to the realism of the novel. The events of Sinister Entity placed both Jessica and Eddie through an emotional ringer that tested not just their abilities in solving paranormal cases, but their core values. It would have been easy to have Island of the Forbidden show Jessica and Eddie tackling more cases and kicking EB ass, but Hunter takes a more difficult yet rewarding path. Seriously, if you have not read any of the books in this series, I highly recommend checking them out. Whether you start from the beginning like I did or work your way back from Island of the Forbidden, you are in for some great stories from a truly great storyteller. I know it is early, but I definitely anticipate having Island of the Forbidden in my list of top reads for 2015.
January 10, 2015
*I read an "ARC" of this novel, these are my honest to goodness feelings.
It's been a generation since anyone has lived in the old Ormsby estate, a dark sentinel standing shuttered and shunned on Ormsby Island in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor. Labeled as haunted by the locals, the secret horrors of Ormsby Island are more depraved than anyone dare fathom.
When the Harper family purchases the dilapidated (on the outside only...) house they seek the help of Jessica Backman and Eddie Home, former friends and partners, both with unique abilities and a history of parapsychology, to cleanse the island of lingering spirits. In hopes of making a safe living environment for the Harper children, a brother and sister with abilities similar to Jessica.
But the Harper's are a strange couple, they have secrets of their own. Are their intentions for Jessica true or do they have another agenda. Either way Ormsby Island has surprises for all and secrets will always be revealed.
I am new to the Hunter Shea game, I am not ashamed to admit that I have been missing the boat. I won't make any excuses, I'm here now and that is what matters most. "Island of the Forbidden" is my first novel length Hunter Shea read, and it is 100% entertainment. I enjoyed every moment of it.
I am a fan of the "classic ghost story" sub genre. Ghost stories and "creature features" are my bread and butter, and it seems to also be Hunter's wheelhouse as "Island of the Forbidden" is deftly handled. Mr. Shea provides a rock solid foundation of mystery supporting a structure built of compelling characters, believable dialog and eerie, descriptive imagery.
The island Hunter brings us to breathes life, as does the great cast of characters. Like Ormsby Island and the old namesake house, all of the players involved are showing a bit of weather, a little fray on the outside. You, the reader, become quickly invested in the events transpiring and the personalities that have chosen sides in the matters at hand. So that when the pace amps up, when the pieces begin falling into place the tingles start to trace the nape of your neck and the goose flesh rises.
I would feel absolutely comfortable in recommending this novel to others, knowing that I am steering them into an enjoyable read.
I wasn't aware of this book being a continuation of our character, Jessica Backman, until after I had finished reading it. I may have let out and audible "Hell yeah!" when I did learn. That being said, "Island of the Forbidden" works perfectly well on it's own. You're given a firm grasp of who our heroine is with just a little tease about what has taken place before. If you are well versed in the works of Hunter Shea, or the character of Jessica Backman then I am officially jealous and eager to backtrack and catch up.
Mr. Shea, thank you for throwing my to-read list in turmoil. It's good to have you here.
The Mouths of Madness Podcastshow
www.facebook.com/themouthsofmadness
It's been a generation since anyone has lived in the old Ormsby estate, a dark sentinel standing shuttered and shunned on Ormsby Island in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor. Labeled as haunted by the locals, the secret horrors of Ormsby Island are more depraved than anyone dare fathom.
When the Harper family purchases the dilapidated (on the outside only...) house they seek the help of Jessica Backman and Eddie Home, former friends and partners, both with unique abilities and a history of parapsychology, to cleanse the island of lingering spirits. In hopes of making a safe living environment for the Harper children, a brother and sister with abilities similar to Jessica.
But the Harper's are a strange couple, they have secrets of their own. Are their intentions for Jessica true or do they have another agenda. Either way Ormsby Island has surprises for all and secrets will always be revealed.
I am new to the Hunter Shea game, I am not ashamed to admit that I have been missing the boat. I won't make any excuses, I'm here now and that is what matters most. "Island of the Forbidden" is my first novel length Hunter Shea read, and it is 100% entertainment. I enjoyed every moment of it.
I am a fan of the "classic ghost story" sub genre. Ghost stories and "creature features" are my bread and butter, and it seems to also be Hunter's wheelhouse as "Island of the Forbidden" is deftly handled. Mr. Shea provides a rock solid foundation of mystery supporting a structure built of compelling characters, believable dialog and eerie, descriptive imagery.
The island Hunter brings us to breathes life, as does the great cast of characters. Like Ormsby Island and the old namesake house, all of the players involved are showing a bit of weather, a little fray on the outside. You, the reader, become quickly invested in the events transpiring and the personalities that have chosen sides in the matters at hand. So that when the pace amps up, when the pieces begin falling into place the tingles start to trace the nape of your neck and the goose flesh rises.
I would feel absolutely comfortable in recommending this novel to others, knowing that I am steering them into an enjoyable read.
I wasn't aware of this book being a continuation of our character, Jessica Backman, until after I had finished reading it. I may have let out and audible "Hell yeah!" when I did learn. That being said, "Island of the Forbidden" works perfectly well on it's own. You're given a firm grasp of who our heroine is with just a little tease about what has taken place before. If you are well versed in the works of Hunter Shea, or the character of Jessica Backman then I am officially jealous and eager to backtrack and catch up.
Mr. Shea, thank you for throwing my to-read list in turmoil. It's good to have you here.
The Mouths of Madness Podcastshow
www.facebook.com/themouthsofmadness
January 6, 2015
From the opening the book grabs your attention and sets up a completely eerie scene. A haunted mansion and a creepy island setting with spirits of the dead everywhere. Island of the Forbidden is about Jessica and her friend Eddie who have the gift of seeing and communicating with spirits/ghosts, or EB's (Energy Beings) as they call them. Jessica's gift is greater than that of her father who wished he could "talk" with the spirits. Eddie's gift is great, but more of a curse to him at this point, he can't stop from seeing and hearing the dead. Jessica and Eddie are asked to help the Harper family with their home which is full of the ghosts that inhabit the island.
Little do they know the real reason the Harper's have asked them for their help. Soon enough they learn what the Harper's are up to and this is where things get hairy. The story keeps you guessing with some excellent plot twists and interesting characters. The suspense and forward moving story line had me burning through the first half of the book in one sitting. Daphne Harper comes to have doubts as to whether they are doing the right thing while her husband Tobe is all in, even her brother Paul leaves her befuddled.
I found Daphne's brother Paul an interesting character, he comes off as a hard nose but soon you find he isn't sure if his sister's plan is all it's cracked up to be. There are plenty of great classic ghost hunting elements that work very well leaving you with a good book to read in a darkened room. I thought Tobe was a bit cold and didn't understand some of his actions/reactions throughout the book. His character left me a bit confused and maybe a bit undeveloped. Paul's friends Mitch and Rusty are quite and interesting pair and bring a great dimension to the story.
Hunter Shea pulls in some interesting characters that I have to leave up to you to read about, suffice it to say I was entertained. As the book progresses the elements of horror are ramped up and the complete plot is nicely filled in, I had no idea the depths to which this story would go and how frightening the characters would be. Everything is not as is seems from the beginning and the story was better and better as I reached the conclusion. When all is revealed there are some pretty disturbing topics the story is built around and heartbreaking horror that makes Island of the Forbidden a deep a great read.
Little do they know the real reason the Harper's have asked them for their help. Soon enough they learn what the Harper's are up to and this is where things get hairy. The story keeps you guessing with some excellent plot twists and interesting characters. The suspense and forward moving story line had me burning through the first half of the book in one sitting. Daphne Harper comes to have doubts as to whether they are doing the right thing while her husband Tobe is all in, even her brother Paul leaves her befuddled.
I found Daphne's brother Paul an interesting character, he comes off as a hard nose but soon you find he isn't sure if his sister's plan is all it's cracked up to be. There are plenty of great classic ghost hunting elements that work very well leaving you with a good book to read in a darkened room. I thought Tobe was a bit cold and didn't understand some of his actions/reactions throughout the book. His character left me a bit confused and maybe a bit undeveloped. Paul's friends Mitch and Rusty are quite and interesting pair and bring a great dimension to the story.
Hunter Shea pulls in some interesting characters that I have to leave up to you to read about, suffice it to say I was entertained. As the book progresses the elements of horror are ramped up and the complete plot is nicely filled in, I had no idea the depths to which this story would go and how frightening the characters would be. Everything is not as is seems from the beginning and the story was better and better as I reached the conclusion. When all is revealed there are some pretty disturbing topics the story is built around and heartbreaking horror that makes Island of the Forbidden a deep a great read.
January 7, 2015
Island of the Forbidden opens on a hardened, solitary Jessica Backman. More than a year has passed since her previous supernatural case, and despite her best attempts to erase all evidence of herself and her strange abilities, someone has found her. It seems the dead don't need to rely on the internet to track someone, not when they have access to Eddie, a medium. Despite Jessica's hard stance against coming in contact with Eddie again, news from the other side compels her to rekindle their strained partnership with him. Together, they join a cast of eccentric characters on Ormbsy Island, an isolated locale with a violent past.
The dangerous hubris of the characters in Island of the Forbidden is as prevalent and oppressive as the frigid temperatures they encounter in the crazy-creepy mansion. The Ormbsy founders had enough pride to believe they could create human perfection. The new owners of Ormbsy Island arrogantly believe they can trifle with the undead for profit. Even the hired psychic is overconfident in her power to control what she unleashes. Their collective pride results in death, emotional scarring, and a shattered marriage. All of this happens at a fast pace, and without using any literary shortcuts to go for cheap scares.
Shea skillfully builds the tension and mystery, producing that rare thing: a fun read that is also thought-provoking. Island is a haunted house story with a sidecar of mystery. It is also a cautionary tale about the danger of pride, and how being too focused on a single goal can turn even the most normal of humans into something monstrous.
The dangerous hubris of the characters in Island of the Forbidden is as prevalent and oppressive as the frigid temperatures they encounter in the crazy-creepy mansion. The Ormbsy founders had enough pride to believe they could create human perfection. The new owners of Ormbsy Island arrogantly believe they can trifle with the undead for profit. Even the hired psychic is overconfident in her power to control what she unleashes. Their collective pride results in death, emotional scarring, and a shattered marriage. All of this happens at a fast pace, and without using any literary shortcuts to go for cheap scares.
Shea skillfully builds the tension and mystery, producing that rare thing: a fun read that is also thought-provoking. Island is a haunted house story with a sidecar of mystery. It is also a cautionary tale about the danger of pride, and how being too focused on a single goal can turn even the most normal of humans into something monstrous.
March 16, 2015
Loved It! Jessica is back with Eddie and I enjoy both of them being together.
This one takes up where the 2nd novel - Sinister Entity ended. Jessica has taken down the website that her father created, dyes her hair blonde and has moved on. She has been doing some traveling and using her money to help others.
When she left Eddie, they had argued and she didn't want to talk or meet with him again..When he contacts her regarding a family and the children (who are like Jessica) he asks for her help.
When Jessica finally decides to go back home and visit her Aunt Eve (whom I just love) she does contact Eddie and tells him she will help.Okay, this is one creepy island that they are going to. They are going to Ormsby Island, a deserted island in South Carolina. The only way to get there is by boat, and when they arrive ghosts abound! Eddie is immediately being contacted by the spirits of the children.
The family who they are helping have 2 children - Jason and Alice who play with the spirits. The house is really, really creepy. The outside is falling down, but the inside is just like it was years ago. Only problem, it is freezing in this house.
What a roller coast ride of a book and I really loved it..You might want to turn the lights on when reading..Can't wait until Hunter comes out with the next one of these two characters. Oh, and I did love the ending of this one!
This one takes up where the 2nd novel - Sinister Entity ended. Jessica has taken down the website that her father created, dyes her hair blonde and has moved on. She has been doing some traveling and using her money to help others.
When she left Eddie, they had argued and she didn't want to talk or meet with him again..When he contacts her regarding a family and the children (who are like Jessica) he asks for her help.
When Jessica finally decides to go back home and visit her Aunt Eve (whom I just love) she does contact Eddie and tells him she will help.Okay, this is one creepy island that they are going to. They are going to Ormsby Island, a deserted island in South Carolina. The only way to get there is by boat, and when they arrive ghosts abound! Eddie is immediately being contacted by the spirits of the children.
The family who they are helping have 2 children - Jason and Alice who play with the spirits. The house is really, really creepy. The outside is falling down, but the inside is just like it was years ago. Only problem, it is freezing in this house.
What a roller coast ride of a book and I really loved it..You might want to turn the lights on when reading..Can't wait until Hunter comes out with the next one of these two characters. Oh, and I did love the ending of this one!
February 3, 2015
Reminiscent of Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House, and Richard Matheson's Hell House, Island of the Forbidden is a great addition to the haunted house vs powerful psychic sub-genre of horror.
Jessica Backman (Sinister Entity) comes out of early retirement, to help not only the living Harper children, whose parents have moved to haunted Ormsby Island, but to lay to rest the hundreds of restless spirits that are trapped on the island, as well. Throw in some surprise visitors (I'm not going to spoil it), and you have a great cast of characters, trapped in a terrifying situation.
Shea's writing is as crisp, clean, and fast paced as ever. Jessica, and the other return characters from Sinister Entity have grown, since their last "adventure," and the new characters are a nice mix of sympathetic and dastardly. (Yes. I said dastardly.) Shea does create some great characters, and it's nice to see how some of them have changed, since we last saw them.
The creepy atmosphere builds nicely, to a crazy crescendo. Shea writes moments of quiet dread that will stick with you. If you like ghost stories, pick up Island of the Forbidden. It will haunt you.
Jessica Backman (Sinister Entity) comes out of early retirement, to help not only the living Harper children, whose parents have moved to haunted Ormsby Island, but to lay to rest the hundreds of restless spirits that are trapped on the island, as well. Throw in some surprise visitors (I'm not going to spoil it), and you have a great cast of characters, trapped in a terrifying situation.
Shea's writing is as crisp, clean, and fast paced as ever. Jessica, and the other return characters from Sinister Entity have grown, since their last "adventure," and the new characters are a nice mix of sympathetic and dastardly. (Yes. I said dastardly.) Shea does create some great characters, and it's nice to see how some of them have changed, since we last saw them.
The creepy atmosphere builds nicely, to a crazy crescendo. Shea writes moments of quiet dread that will stick with you. If you like ghost stories, pick up Island of the Forbidden. It will haunt you.
January 7, 2015
I was salivating to get my hands on this book, and it sure didn't take me long to tear through it!
After the events in Sinister Entity, it makes sense that Jessica and Eddie have a lot to work through in terms of their own mental well-being and relationships with others. It's a struggle for both of them, which paints this book a darker color. But when Hunter Shea throws these two in a haunted house on a deserted island, the book gets super creepy.
I loved the character arcs of both Jessica and Eddie. Hunter writes these characters with such intelligence and heart (not to mention a large dose of kick-ass) that they leap off the pages.
While not as scary as Sinister Entity, the story still gave me chills in some parts. Even though I wasn't a huge fan of the very, very end (it was so abrupt!), I'll continue to stalk Hunter Shea across the interwebs.
Note - I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
After the events in Sinister Entity, it makes sense that Jessica and Eddie have a lot to work through in terms of their own mental well-being and relationships with others. It's a struggle for both of them, which paints this book a darker color. But when Hunter Shea throws these two in a haunted house on a deserted island, the book gets super creepy.
I loved the character arcs of both Jessica and Eddie. Hunter writes these characters with such intelligence and heart (not to mention a large dose of kick-ass) that they leap off the pages.
While not as scary as Sinister Entity, the story still gave me chills in some parts. Even though I wasn't a huge fan of the very, very end (it was so abrupt!), I'll continue to stalk Hunter Shea across the interwebs.
Note - I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2015
Firstly, what a great cover. It really did make me want to discover what was in these pages.
Secondly, This was a really good book. Unlike previous books by this author, this didn't have a tremendously fast pace to begin with, but was more cautious and psychological. The terror builds throughout the book until it reaches a peak and the characters must solve the mysteries, but even then the book remains interesting.
I thought this was a more mature effort from this author and it came together really well. The characters are smart, have enough background and solid personality that the reader can care about them without much effort and the story itself is exciting.
If you like books where the paranormal aspects are not just hinted at occasionally, this would be a good one to choose.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Secondly, This was a really good book. Unlike previous books by this author, this didn't have a tremendously fast pace to begin with, but was more cautious and psychological. The terror builds throughout the book until it reaches a peak and the characters must solve the mysteries, but even then the book remains interesting.
I thought this was a more mature effort from this author and it came together really well. The characters are smart, have enough background and solid personality that the reader can care about them without much effort and the story itself is exciting.
If you like books where the paranormal aspects are not just hinted at occasionally, this would be a good one to choose.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
December 21, 2014
Island of the Forbidden has chills, scares, suspense - you name it. There is something seriously wrong with Ormsby House. How can it be that, left to rot years ago, the inside of this mansion has remained immaculate while outside is derelict? How can it be that, on a hot summer's day, the temperature on the island and in the house is freezing?
Then there are the children - not just the living, but the scores of dead kids who need help and will do anything to secure it. Why are they still there? Who has wronged them so badly that they are unable to find peace?
Jessica Backman must find the answers and exorcise the spirits that refuse to leave but, in doing so, she will encounter an evil so vile and unimaginable, it threatens her life and the existence of those around her. This is compulsive horror, pacy and full of twists, turns and the unexpected. Loved it
Then there are the children - not just the living, but the scores of dead kids who need help and will do anything to secure it. Why are they still there? Who has wronged them so badly that they are unable to find peace?
Jessica Backman must find the answers and exorcise the spirits that refuse to leave but, in doing so, she will encounter an evil so vile and unimaginable, it threatens her life and the existence of those around her. This is compulsive horror, pacy and full of twists, turns and the unexpected. Loved it
May 19, 2015
What if you were trapped on an isolated island? What if that island was full of angry, vengeful ghosts? And what if, by some quirk of circumstance, those ghosts were able to hurt the living?
This is the setup of Hunter Shea's Island of the Forbidden, a Gothic-style horror novel with a modern twist.
I really connected with the novel's protagonists, Jessica and Eddie, who are both blessed and cursed with supernatural abilities--one can connect with the dead (among other things) and the other can give them power and send them to the afterlife.
Once I got immersed in the story, I found it difficult to put this book down. I'll definitely be buying more from Hunter Shea.
(And another bonus for readers like me, who prefer psychological horror to straight-up slasher: there is no gore in this book.)
This is the setup of Hunter Shea's Island of the Forbidden, a Gothic-style horror novel with a modern twist.
I really connected with the novel's protagonists, Jessica and Eddie, who are both blessed and cursed with supernatural abilities--one can connect with the dead (among other things) and the other can give them power and send them to the afterlife.
Once I got immersed in the story, I found it difficult to put this book down. I'll definitely be buying more from Hunter Shea.
(And another bonus for readers like me, who prefer psychological horror to straight-up slasher: there is no gore in this book.)
January 27, 2015
Island of the Forbidden is a non stop adventure that sucks you in from the first page. It is a gripping story of two people who are trying to solve the mystery of an island brimming with the ghosts of children. The only one who can solve the mystery and help the dead find peace is Jessica Bockman. She and her friend Eddie travel to the island only to find they are there under false pretenses. Why is Ormsby House so cold? Who can she and Eddie trust when everyone around them is acting on their own agenda? Jessica must protect the children, both the living and the dead and put a stop to the evil. You won't want to put this one down.
5/5
5/5
November 29, 2014
REVIEW ISLAND OF THE FORBIDDEN by Hunter Shea
Hunter Shea has become one of the authors I look to for opening my perspective. He isn't content to write just an engrossing horror story (though every one of his books is engrossing). Instead, he goes farther, deeper, and wider. When I'm ready to reconsider my views of the afterlife, of the nature and motivations of individuals, of the meanings of Life and purpose, I look to Hunter Shea. He brings to the early 21st century the kind of thought-provoking literary horror that Ambrose Bierce gave to the 19th century.
Hunter Shea has become one of the authors I look to for opening my perspective. He isn't content to write just an engrossing horror story (though every one of his books is engrossing). Instead, he goes farther, deeper, and wider. When I'm ready to reconsider my views of the afterlife, of the nature and motivations of individuals, of the meanings of Life and purpose, I look to Hunter Shea. He brings to the early 21st century the kind of thought-provoking literary horror that Ambrose Bierce gave to the 19th century.
April 27, 2016
I finally threw in the towel with this one. I don't like stories about ghost hunters or paranormal chasers but I gave it a shot based on the good reviews. The book is overly focused the ghost hunters and not the ghosts. I found it extremely boring. There is no build to a mystery and at 60% read I just don't care anymore.
February 4, 2015
Hunter Shea has done it again. Wonderful book. I loved the characters and would like to see them in another book or two. great, great read. Keep them coming!
January 4, 2015
A good ghost story
For a full review, please go to http://www.examiner.com/review/island... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
For a full review, please go to http://www.examiner.com/review/island... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
July 7, 2021
Island Of The Forbidden is the third sequel in the Jessica Blackman series of ghost adventure icky bug stories and it was another fun ride. This time she goes to an isolated island in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina where once again, mayhem ensues.
While the writing was outstanding and the characters, plot and pacing were top notch, this particular book was plagued with technical and editing issues. First off, the book title, while correct on the cover, was wrong on the inside page headers. Second, there were no scene breaks, which was quite jarring to go from one group or scene to the next with no transition at all. It was hard to tell if the author was head-hopping, or switching from one head to the next at first, until I figured out what was wrong. It was still jarring right through to the end.
The third issue was that the book was full of typos. Lots of them. It was like this was a draft that had not gone to the editor. While the actual writing was outstanding and never got in the way of the story, the editing and technical issues DID, which made the story harder to read. That’s such a shame because the author really topped his game with this third sequel. It makes me wonder if the e-book version is any better and the two didn’t come from the same edited draft.
Overall, this was still a good read and I hope the author can get the book properly formatted, edited and re-released because it’s a killer story that deserves to be presented in the best way possible. Still recommended.
While the writing was outstanding and the characters, plot and pacing were top notch, this particular book was plagued with technical and editing issues. First off, the book title, while correct on the cover, was wrong on the inside page headers. Second, there were no scene breaks, which was quite jarring to go from one group or scene to the next with no transition at all. It was hard to tell if the author was head-hopping, or switching from one head to the next at first, until I figured out what was wrong. It was still jarring right through to the end.
The third issue was that the book was full of typos. Lots of them. It was like this was a draft that had not gone to the editor. While the actual writing was outstanding and never got in the way of the story, the editing and technical issues DID, which made the story harder to read. That’s such a shame because the author really topped his game with this third sequel. It makes me wonder if the e-book version is any better and the two didn’t come from the same edited draft.
Overall, this was still a good read and I hope the author can get the book properly formatted, edited and re-released because it’s a killer story that deserves to be presented in the best way possible. Still recommended.
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