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Sag Harbor: an American Gothic Horror novel set in a small, isolated whaling town in the 1870s
Sag Harbor is an American Gothic vampire horror novel set in a small, isolated whaling town in the 1870s. When The Maiden, a whaling ship believed to be lost at sea, returns after 7 years, Elizabeth finds out that not all answered prayers are blessings. The ship has only one survivor - her husband, Daniel. The arrival of Daniel sparks an illness to sweep through the town. Elizabeth decides to find the truth of what happened on The Maiden and the evil that Daniel has brought back with him. Teaming up with a broken priest and a cursed witch, Elizabeth faces the darkness of the small town's superstition and an evil she isn't prepared to face.
- GenresHorror
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
22 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 10, 2025
Sagging In the Harbor...
SAG HARBOR
by Elliot Crowe
3 stars. Elizabeth's husband Daniel's heart belonged to the sea, and now, he wouldn't be returning to her...
The ship Maiden and its entire crew were lost at sea, and everyone presumed dead...
Still, she prayed: Just one more time...
As Father Jacob gave his eulogy for the lost men, a stranger passed through the crowd...
Suddenly...
Harry, the sheriff (and town drunk), called out that the Maiden was on the horizon. It had returned after all...
Daniel was the only survivor on a ship he declared cursed. He had sailed away a boy and returned a man...
However...
Daniel wasn't the same. He was at death's door, and he seemed to be preoccupied with a wolf that appeared to be following him...
Meanwhile...
A search team led by Father Jacob and Harry rowed out to the Maiden, but no one else was aboard...
They found wooden crates full of dirt in the hold and a seaman's journal...
Since Daniel's arrival...
The big wolf seemed to be prowling the village at night. A Romanian Gypsy fortuneteller living in the woods had answers, but time was running out...
The harbor town, and this story were sagging due to the excess weight of all the mysteries surrounding the Maiden...
I hate to bring this party down, especially after the author put two years of his life into writing this novel, but it was just a little bit of this and a little bit of that from other vampire novels, and nothing seemed different or original.
It's a shame that more of the action didn't take place on the vessel. A haunted ship in a fog-bound harbor would've added some interest and variety.
SAG HARBOR
by Elliot Crowe
3 stars. Elizabeth's husband Daniel's heart belonged to the sea, and now, he wouldn't be returning to her...
The ship Maiden and its entire crew were lost at sea, and everyone presumed dead...
Still, she prayed: Just one more time...
As Father Jacob gave his eulogy for the lost men, a stranger passed through the crowd...
Suddenly...
Harry, the sheriff (and town drunk), called out that the Maiden was on the horizon. It had returned after all...
Daniel was the only survivor on a ship he declared cursed. He had sailed away a boy and returned a man...
However...
Daniel wasn't the same. He was at death's door, and he seemed to be preoccupied with a wolf that appeared to be following him...
Meanwhile...
A search team led by Father Jacob and Harry rowed out to the Maiden, but no one else was aboard...
They found wooden crates full of dirt in the hold and a seaman's journal...
Since Daniel's arrival...
The big wolf seemed to be prowling the village at night. A Romanian Gypsy fortuneteller living in the woods had answers, but time was running out...
The harbor town, and this story were sagging due to the excess weight of all the mysteries surrounding the Maiden...
I hate to bring this party down, especially after the author put two years of his life into writing this novel, but it was just a little bit of this and a little bit of that from other vampire novels, and nothing seemed different or original.
It's a shame that more of the action didn't take place on the vessel. A haunted ship in a fog-bound harbor would've added some interest and variety.
August 28, 2025
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It's a little bit horror, a little bit romance. Historical, paranormal, haunted, vampy. Detailed in ways I didn't expect. Introspective on the part of the characters.
Don't go into it expecting it to adhere to a particular genre. It floats pretty fluidly through different genres and from one perspective to the next, back and forth in time. Just jump in and enjoy the ride.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It's a little bit horror, a little bit romance. Historical, paranormal, haunted, vampy. Detailed in ways I didn't expect. Introspective on the part of the characters.
Don't go into it expecting it to adhere to a particular genre. It floats pretty fluidly through different genres and from one perspective to the next, back and forth in time. Just jump in and enjoy the ride.
September 16, 2025
** Ireceived an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.**
I really enjoyed the atmosphere of this book, the setting and its descriptions really put me on edge and it made for perfect late night reading. The combination of Civil War flashbacks, classical horror references, and the religion of the time make for an interesting mix and it added to the intrigue and tension of the book.
I did notice a few typos and was often frustrated with the characters. There were a few instances where they directly contradict themselves within pages and I wish they’d been more fleshed out. The pacing needs a bit of work as well, it dragged in places and flew by in others. That said, I did enjoy this book and found it compelling, I look forward to seeing more from this author
I really enjoyed the atmosphere of this book, the setting and its descriptions really put me on edge and it made for perfect late night reading. The combination of Civil War flashbacks, classical horror references, and the religion of the time make for an interesting mix and it added to the intrigue and tension of the book.
I did notice a few typos and was often frustrated with the characters. There were a few instances where they directly contradict themselves within pages and I wish they’d been more fleshed out. The pacing needs a bit of work as well, it dragged in places and flew by in others. That said, I did enjoy this book and found it compelling, I look forward to seeing more from this author
August 15, 2025
⭐️ARC Review⭐️
I really enjoy this story. It gave Stephen King/spooky vibes throughout. I think I saw it was going to give Midnight Mass vibes and I definitely felt that too! There were some typos in my kindle version is the only reason for the 3.5-4 stars, and it was a little too descriptive in some parts. Also I wanted to know does Elizabeth die when she slices her wrist at the end or is that left up to reader interpretation?
I appreciate you giving me the ARC opportunity!
I really enjoy this story. It gave Stephen King/spooky vibes throughout. I think I saw it was going to give Midnight Mass vibes and I definitely felt that too! There were some typos in my kindle version is the only reason for the 3.5-4 stars, and it was a little too descriptive in some parts. Also I wanted to know does Elizabeth die when she slices her wrist at the end or is that left up to reader interpretation?
I appreciate you giving me the ARC opportunity!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
Book Review: Sag Harbor by Elliot Crowe
Elliot Crowe’s Sag Harbor plunges readers into a chilling blend of maritime lore and gothic horror. From the very first page, the story exudes a stormy, oppressive atmosphere, perfectly reflected in the cover’s imagery of crashing seas, a looming church, and the ghostly visage of fangs in the clouds.
The novel centers on the seemingly sleepy town of Sag Harbor, a place where whispers of the past are carried on the salt air. Beneath its quaint exterior lies something far darker—a history steeped in blood, secrets, and the supernatural. Crowe weaves an eerie tale that intertwines seafaring legends, religious undertones, and the sinister presence of vampiric forces.
What makes Sag Harbor compelling is not just its horror elements but the way it builds tension through setting and atmosphere. The ocean itself feels like a character, restless and dangerous, mirroring the dread that stalks the harbor. The church perched high above the cliffs hints at salvation, yet its shadowy presence feels more foreboding than comforting.
Crowe’s prose is sharp and evocative, often lyrical when describing storms or the oppressive silence of night. The pacing strikes a balance between slow-building dread and bursts of shocking violence, ensuring the reader never grows too comfortable.
If there is a flaw, it lies in the predictability of certain horror tropes—seasoned readers of vampire and gothic fiction may see some twists coming. However, the execution is strong enough that familiarity doesn’t detract much from the suspense.
Overall, Sag Harbor is a gripping gothic horror novel perfect for fans of storm-swept settings, supernatural folklore, and the creeping dread of things half-seen in the mist. It stands out not by reinventing vampire lore, but by grounding it in a richly atmospheric maritime world that feels both timeless and haunting.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Elliot Crowe’s Sag Harbor plunges readers into a chilling blend of maritime lore and gothic horror. From the very first page, the story exudes a stormy, oppressive atmosphere, perfectly reflected in the cover’s imagery of crashing seas, a looming church, and the ghostly visage of fangs in the clouds.
The novel centers on the seemingly sleepy town of Sag Harbor, a place where whispers of the past are carried on the salt air. Beneath its quaint exterior lies something far darker—a history steeped in blood, secrets, and the supernatural. Crowe weaves an eerie tale that intertwines seafaring legends, religious undertones, and the sinister presence of vampiric forces.
What makes Sag Harbor compelling is not just its horror elements but the way it builds tension through setting and atmosphere. The ocean itself feels like a character, restless and dangerous, mirroring the dread that stalks the harbor. The church perched high above the cliffs hints at salvation, yet its shadowy presence feels more foreboding than comforting.
Crowe’s prose is sharp and evocative, often lyrical when describing storms or the oppressive silence of night. The pacing strikes a balance between slow-building dread and bursts of shocking violence, ensuring the reader never grows too comfortable.
If there is a flaw, it lies in the predictability of certain horror tropes—seasoned readers of vampire and gothic fiction may see some twists coming. However, the execution is strong enough that familiarity doesn’t detract much from the suspense.
Overall, Sag Harbor is a gripping gothic horror novel perfect for fans of storm-swept settings, supernatural folklore, and the creeping dread of things half-seen in the mist. It stands out not by reinventing vampire lore, but by grounding it in a richly atmospheric maritime world that feels both timeless and haunting.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
September 30, 2025
Sag Harbor by Elliot Crowe honestly got under my skin in the best way. From the first few chapters, that old whaling town just feels wrong—like every creaky board and salt-soaked street is watching you. Crowe doesn’t just build atmosphere, he smothers you in it, and I loved that. It’s moody, eerie, and way more immersive than I expected. I caught myself reading at night and actually pausing to look around my own room, which is always a good sign a horror book is working.
The thing that surprised me most was how much I cared about the characters. They aren’t just there to get picked off or scream in the dark—they’ve got scars, secrets, and messy lives that make them feel real. The horror hits harder because of that. It’s not just about what’s lurking in the shadows, but also about how people deal with fear, survival, and their own mistakes. That blend of humanity and creep factor is what really hooked me.
And I’m not the only one feeling it. Early readers on Goodreads and Amazon have been calling out the same things: the killer atmosphere, the slow-burn suspense, and the fact that this doesn’t even feel like a debut. A lot of people said they couldn’t put it down once they got into it, and I totally get that. By the end, the book left me with that lingering unease you carry into your own quiet spaces. If you’re into American Gothic horror with a strong sense of place, this one’s definitely worth sinking into.
The thing that surprised me most was how much I cared about the characters. They aren’t just there to get picked off or scream in the dark—they’ve got scars, secrets, and messy lives that make them feel real. The horror hits harder because of that. It’s not just about what’s lurking in the shadows, but also about how people deal with fear, survival, and their own mistakes. That blend of humanity and creep factor is what really hooked me.
And I’m not the only one feeling it. Early readers on Goodreads and Amazon have been calling out the same things: the killer atmosphere, the slow-burn suspense, and the fact that this doesn’t even feel like a debut. A lot of people said they couldn’t put it down once they got into it, and I totally get that. By the end, the book left me with that lingering unease you carry into your own quiet spaces. If you’re into American Gothic horror with a strong sense of place, this one’s definitely worth sinking into.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
I received a complimentary ARC of Sag Harbor. Was intrigued to read this tale of vampires, a haunted ship and a seaside town as the setting.
The author paints a vivid picture of the titled town and its people. He creates the atmosphere you expect for this genre right away when a ship that was thought to be lost at sea returns after many years. And a curse falls upon this humble town.
The attention to details of the time period drew me in.
Conflicts between characters’ faith and beliefs were welcome additions to their battle against an unholy evil.
At times, the pacing and consistency could’ve been tighter. When it centered around the main protagonists and antagonist, I was engaged.
Overall, the book had the dark and haunting moments you want in a gothic horror tale. You feel like you’re part of the setting and want to go on this journey with these characters. Of course, if you love vampire stories, then you should give it read.
Very grateful to the author for letting me read it early and look forward to future stories from him.
The author paints a vivid picture of the titled town and its people. He creates the atmosphere you expect for this genre right away when a ship that was thought to be lost at sea returns after many years. And a curse falls upon this humble town.
The attention to details of the time period drew me in.
Conflicts between characters’ faith and beliefs were welcome additions to their battle against an unholy evil.
At times, the pacing and consistency could’ve been tighter. When it centered around the main protagonists and antagonist, I was engaged.
Overall, the book had the dark and haunting moments you want in a gothic horror tale. You feel like you’re part of the setting and want to go on this journey with these characters. Of course, if you love vampire stories, then you should give it read.
Very grateful to the author for letting me read it early and look forward to future stories from him.
August 23, 2025
Elliot Crowe’s Sag Harbor is not your typical vampire tale; it’s something deeper, more intimate, and far more haunting. At its core, this is a love story. The vampirism provides the shadows, the danger, and the inevitable pull of immortality, but the heart of the book beats strongest in its exploration of devotion, sacrifice, and the complexities of loving someone who straddles two worlds.
Crowe does a wonderful job weaving atmosphere into the story. The seaside setting feels both timeless and eerie, a perfect backdrop for a romance touched by darkness. The characters are fleshed out in ways that make you care for them beyond the fangs and blood. Their struggles, both human and supernatural, are relatable, and their relationship feels raw, flawed, and achingly real.
If you’re looking for a vampire novel that doesn’t just lean into the horror but instead wraps you in a bittersweet, hauntingly beautiful romance, Sag Harbor is well worth the read.
Crowe does a wonderful job weaving atmosphere into the story. The seaside setting feels both timeless and eerie, a perfect backdrop for a romance touched by darkness. The characters are fleshed out in ways that make you care for them beyond the fangs and blood. Their struggles, both human and supernatural, are relatable, and their relationship feels raw, flawed, and achingly real.
If you’re looking for a vampire novel that doesn’t just lean into the horror but instead wraps you in a bittersweet, hauntingly beautiful romance, Sag Harbor is well worth the read.
August 27, 2025
**I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.**
I sincerely love this book for the elements it weaves together. The callouts to classic horror combined with the Civil War, witchcraft, and Christianity are extremely unique. I found myself at times frustrated with characters, only to be cheering them on a few pages later - and I love that because it makes them feel more like real people.
If I could change anything about this book, it would be the pacing. I'd take some time to develop some of the conflicts and characters more. But honestly, that just indicates that I want more of this book, which is definitely a good thing!
All in all, I definitely recommend picking this book up and following this author. I happen to know he's got another book in the works, and he's got the literary knowledge to keep them coming.
I sincerely love this book for the elements it weaves together. The callouts to classic horror combined with the Civil War, witchcraft, and Christianity are extremely unique. I found myself at times frustrated with characters, only to be cheering them on a few pages later - and I love that because it makes them feel more like real people.
If I could change anything about this book, it would be the pacing. I'd take some time to develop some of the conflicts and characters more. But honestly, that just indicates that I want more of this book, which is definitely a good thing!
All in all, I definitely recommend picking this book up and following this author. I happen to know he's got another book in the works, and he's got the literary knowledge to keep them coming.
September 4, 2025
First, I liked the book cover. I think that it sets the tone for the book and makes people want to open it to see if it really is a scary read.
In my opinion, it is a spooky read. I was creeped out. The author sets up the atmosphere well. A missing ship appears out of nowhere, years after being declared lost. Empty but not. Angry townsfolk. Spooky spoken words from crewman and more give the reader a lot to ponder. I liked the scare and the way I wondered about things because of it.
I liked the dialogue and the characters. The story was unique and I found entertainment with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this story and I freely left this review.
In my opinion, it is a spooky read. I was creeped out. The author sets up the atmosphere well. A missing ship appears out of nowhere, years after being declared lost. Empty but not. Angry townsfolk. Spooky spoken words from crewman and more give the reader a lot to ponder. I liked the scare and the way I wondered about things because of it.
I liked the dialogue and the characters. The story was unique and I found entertainment with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this story and I freely left this review.
September 5, 2025
In the 1800s a whaling ship is lost at sea. All crew are assumed dead. Until the ship reappears from the mist. One survivor clinging to life,and hope. Within a few chapters I felt the Stephen King inspiration behind this book. The characters were well rounded and the story well written. A tale of good versus evil, witches, wolves and vampires but also how the strength of love, friendship and faith can pull together. A solid four star read
September 19, 2025
amazing
Recommended by a woman named Deborah who is near and dear to me ;)
This was definitely worth the wait and hard to put down! I love that it’s a different aspect of a vampire’s journey and transition and not a typical cringe love story. It was easy to envision and immerse yourself in. Definitely read this book if you’re into vampires, but not about Twilight. And it’s perfect for spooky season!
Recommended by a woman named Deborah who is near and dear to me ;)
This was definitely worth the wait and hard to put down! I love that it’s a different aspect of a vampire’s journey and transition and not a typical cringe love story. It was easy to envision and immerse yourself in. Definitely read this book if you’re into vampires, but not about Twilight. And it’s perfect for spooky season!
August 16, 2025
WOW! This book was incredible!! It was creepy and made me anxious as I was reading it. It was Salems Lot-esque. The author painted such eerie scenes that I would look up from the book and forgot it was actually beautiful outside. I highly recommend this book and add this author to your favorites list!
August 17, 2025
A haunting compelling read. Elliot delivers on bringing in the suspense and dread in this quaint village. ELizabeth must figure out what has happened to her husband once he's back from missing at sea. The pairing of the priest and the witch added more layers to the story and the dread. It pays off as they try to find the answers and the tension increases.
October 16, 2025
vampire Terrorized Sag Harbor
Elliot Crowe's thrilling Gothic Horror Novel copes with a vampire, Mullo , who terrorizes a harbor village community. Daniel returns to his wife, after seven years lost at sea on The Maiden ship. Memories torment the whale hunter. His wife's daughter and other young village girl's become Mullo's victims, too. A police detective, Catholic Priest, and Wicca Witch, face dire consequences and risk their lives. Crowe wrote well crafted characters.
Elliot Crowe's thrilling Gothic Horror Novel copes with a vampire, Mullo , who terrorizes a harbor village community. Daniel returns to his wife, after seven years lost at sea on The Maiden ship. Memories torment the whale hunter. His wife's daughter and other young village girl's become Mullo's victims, too. A police detective, Catholic Priest, and Wicca Witch, face dire consequences and risk their lives. Crowe wrote well crafted characters.
August 13, 2025
This was my first horror read and it was fantastic! It pulled me in from the first few chapters and I couldn’t put it down until I finished! It was captivating and haunting! It will definitely be on my bookshelf to read again during future spooky seasons. 😌
August 18, 2025
I was hooked from the very beginning! I fell in love with the characters and was anxiously waiting to see what was going to happen next. The book is so descriptive that I could picture it all. Great work by Elliot and hope to see more from this promising author!
August 24, 2025
WOW. I wouldn’t normally pick up a book of this genre but I’m glad I put my name down to be an ARC reader. If you like mysterious, foggy, vampire horrors, this is the book for you!!
Genuinely had my heart racing in the last few chapters (unlike some hearts🫣) and couldn’t put it down!
Genuinely had my heart racing in the last few chapters (unlike some hearts🫣) and couldn’t put it down!
August 29, 2025
I read this as an ARC.
"Sag Harbor" is not your typical vampire tale. There is depth and history intertwined in the story. You feel the town on many levels.
The characters were well written and full of life. The story had moments of feeling like it could say more, but overall a great read.
"Sag Harbor" is not your typical vampire tale. There is depth and history intertwined in the story. You feel the town on many levels.
The characters were well written and full of life. The story had moments of feeling like it could say more, but overall a great read.
August 30, 2025
Thank you to the author for giving me a e arc to read in advance.
More of a proper review to come.
🧛♀️🧛🦇🩸⚓️⛴️🚣🏻🙏🧙🏻♀️🔮
More of a proper review to come.
🧛♀️🧛🦇🩸⚓️⛴️🚣🏻🙏🧙🏻♀️🔮
September 2, 2025
it was a very fun read. theres a few points of views almost.
I love how it said strogai
it was based on the 1800s in a small fishing town.
I thought it was lovely paced, kept me on my toes, and was just an all-around fun one.
theres a shape shifting witch, tied fates, there is religious talk and mention, vampires, its more horror mystery in my opinion.
has gone Gothic spook vibes. a definite read in October to get the season rolling!
I love how it said strogai
it was based on the 1800s in a small fishing town.
I thought it was lovely paced, kept me on my toes, and was just an all-around fun one.
theres a shape shifting witch, tied fates, there is religious talk and mention, vampires, its more horror mystery in my opinion.
has gone Gothic spook vibes. a definite read in October to get the season rolling!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews