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Scatter the Dark: A Christian Supernatural Thriller Novel
The small town of Elmhurst is being consumed by darkness…
Ten years ago, a wrongful conviction stole Luca’s life, imprisoning him for his mother’s murder. Now, finally free, he carries the deep scars of a decade in darkness—a darkness that refuses to let him go.
A viral TikTok and an unshakable spiritual pull compel Grace Tethers, a widowed B&B owner, to offer Luca a a fresh start as her handyman and groundskeeper. Grace’s daughter, Kelsey, thinks her mother’s invitation to a “proven innocent” murderer is insanity. Yet, she can’t deny the mysterious and captivating light she sees in him.
An ancient evil has noticed his light, too. It stalks its way to Elmhurst, a small town on the brink of becoming ground zero in a war between light and shadow. The entity will stop at nothing to extinguish Luca’s burgeoning hope, even if it means engulfing the entire town in flames.
This isn’t just a thriller; it’s a supernatural showdown where faith is the ultimate weapon, and the darkest corners of human experience are illuminated by an unyielding light. When good stands firm, darkness has no choice but to scatter.
Will this new light in town be enough to Scatter the Dark?
Ten years ago, a wrongful conviction stole Luca’s life, imprisoning him for his mother’s murder. Now, finally free, he carries the deep scars of a decade in darkness—a darkness that refuses to let him go.
A viral TikTok and an unshakable spiritual pull compel Grace Tethers, a widowed B&B owner, to offer Luca a a fresh start as her handyman and groundskeeper. Grace’s daughter, Kelsey, thinks her mother’s invitation to a “proven innocent” murderer is insanity. Yet, she can’t deny the mysterious and captivating light she sees in him.
An ancient evil has noticed his light, too. It stalks its way to Elmhurst, a small town on the brink of becoming ground zero in a war between light and shadow. The entity will stop at nothing to extinguish Luca’s burgeoning hope, even if it means engulfing the entire town in flames.
This isn’t just a thriller; it’s a supernatural showdown where faith is the ultimate weapon, and the darkest corners of human experience are illuminated by an unyielding light. When good stands firm, darkness has no choice but to scatter.
Will this new light in town be enough to Scatter the Dark?
- GenresChristian Fiction
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
8 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
C.M. Powers
1 book22 followersI can’t do an author bio written in the third person. It’s weird. My name is Chris Powers, but I’m writing under my initials (CM) because, much to my surprise, there are many people in the world who go by the name Chris Powers. I’m talking about doctors and lawyers and such. We don’t want people to think they wrote these books, right?
So, here’s the deal. I wrote over 30 books spread across multiple genres, but I never quite felt right about the stories I was telling. They took me to some dark places and had me dipping my toes into too many worldly sandboxes.
Conviction from the Holy Spirit is real, man. God said, “Enough is enough,” and pulled the plug on my old writing. I felt it. I knew it was time to let it all go, so I unpublished all my books to focus on our Creator. If I’m not spreading the Gospel and telling people about Jesus, then I’m not doing it right.
As far as all that personal stuff goes, I plan to shine a light on the darkness from my home in West Virginia, where I live with my amazing wife, Jules. Together, we have seven children and find joy in a life centered on faith.
Hopefully, you’ll tag along with me on this journey. My books might be a bit edgy, but they’re real, and they’re always meant to glorify God.
So, here’s the deal. I wrote over 30 books spread across multiple genres, but I never quite felt right about the stories I was telling. They took me to some dark places and had me dipping my toes into too many worldly sandboxes.
Conviction from the Holy Spirit is real, man. God said, “Enough is enough,” and pulled the plug on my old writing. I felt it. I knew it was time to let it all go, so I unpublished all my books to focus on our Creator. If I’m not spreading the Gospel and telling people about Jesus, then I’m not doing it right.
As far as all that personal stuff goes, I plan to shine a light on the darkness from my home in West Virginia, where I live with my amazing wife, Jules. Together, we have seven children and find joy in a life centered on faith.
Hopefully, you’ll tag along with me on this journey. My books might be a bit edgy, but they’re real, and they’re always meant to glorify God.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 25, 2025
It's been almost a week since I've read this book, and still don't feel like my review can do justice for this book. I wanted to think and process and digest these written words before even trying to review. Despite the passage of time, I'm still not sure what to say. But I'll try my best.
Imagine Swan Song and The Stand merged together, but better (IMHO).
Both of those book touch upon good vs evil, spiritual struggles, and even religious themes.
This book does all of that, but I preferred this one much more. Why? I can't describe it, or rationalize it. But It all comes down to how this book made me feel.
It made me feel good.
The story starts with the MC as a child, and his hands covered in blood.... then he finds his murdered mother's body.
We (the reader) learn real fast that our MC is 'different'. I do believe the word spectrum is used. Powers gently hand fed small snippets to us to give us an overall idea as to how the world perceives Luca (the main character). My heart ached for Luca...
Luca goes to prison, and his story is followed online by a good-hearted woman, who offers Luca a second chance at life and gives him a job gardening at her bed and breakfast.
That sums up the basis of the story.
But there's so much more.
I really don't want to say too much more (spoilers), but I will say this. If you enjoyed The Stand or Swan Song. If you enjoy good vs evil stories. If you want to get the 'feels' (and process many emotions whilst reading a book). Do yourself a favor and read this book.
It was a beautiful journey.
Imagine Swan Song and The Stand merged together, but better (IMHO).
Both of those book touch upon good vs evil, spiritual struggles, and even religious themes.
This book does all of that, but I preferred this one much more. Why? I can't describe it, or rationalize it. But It all comes down to how this book made me feel.
It made me feel good.
The story starts with the MC as a child, and his hands covered in blood.... then he finds his murdered mother's body.
We (the reader) learn real fast that our MC is 'different'. I do believe the word spectrum is used. Powers gently hand fed small snippets to us to give us an overall idea as to how the world perceives Luca (the main character). My heart ached for Luca...
Luca goes to prison, and his story is followed online by a good-hearted woman, who offers Luca a second chance at life and gives him a job gardening at her bed and breakfast.
That sums up the basis of the story.
But there's so much more.
I really don't want to say too much more (spoilers), but I will say this. If you enjoyed The Stand or Swan Song. If you enjoy good vs evil stories. If you want to get the 'feels' (and process many emotions whilst reading a book). Do yourself a favor and read this book.
It was a beautiful journey.
October 16, 2025
I started this not knowing what I would think, but I know the author’s talent and it was on full display here. The characters are layered and relatable. The story is engaging from the very start, and the ending does not let you down. It’s cinematic and would easily translate to the big screen. You can feel the author’s faith and love for his faith throughout. That doesn’t mean this is a Christian book only for Christians. It is widely accessible. This is the direction he was meant to take in the writing field and you can feel that through every page.
October 12, 2025
Wow! I finished this wonderful book just before midnight last night!
I just finished Scatter the Dark, and it was absolutely powerful! I loved the depth of the characters, the realistic plot, and the way the author interwove the gospel with such conviction.
The DJ scenes paired with the playlist were fun, different and incredible — they added so much emotion and atmosphere to the story. I even saved the playlist to keep listening afterward! It’s so good.
I highlighted so many lines throughout because there were many passages that were so impactful. The Bible verses and the lessons woven into the story were deeply meaningful, and I truly pray this book draws many hearts closer to the Lord — I believe it will.
This was such a moving read. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read the ARC. I’ll definitely be snagging a physical copy for my collection!
I genuinely feel the Lord smiling down on the author through this work. I can even see this story being adapted into a film someday — it’s that powerful.
And this book gave me all sorts of goosebumps! Happy ones, thrilling ones, scary ones and heartfelt ones. It is well written and edited, which I appreciate also! 🙌
All the love for Scatter the Dark! Snag yourself a copy!
Thank you so much again for the opportunity!!!
I just finished Scatter the Dark, and it was absolutely powerful! I loved the depth of the characters, the realistic plot, and the way the author interwove the gospel with such conviction.
The DJ scenes paired with the playlist were fun, different and incredible — they added so much emotion and atmosphere to the story. I even saved the playlist to keep listening afterward! It’s so good.
I highlighted so many lines throughout because there were many passages that were so impactful. The Bible verses and the lessons woven into the story were deeply meaningful, and I truly pray this book draws many hearts closer to the Lord — I believe it will.
This was such a moving read. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read the ARC. I’ll definitely be snagging a physical copy for my collection!
I genuinely feel the Lord smiling down on the author through this work. I can even see this story being adapted into a film someday — it’s that powerful.
And this book gave me all sorts of goosebumps! Happy ones, thrilling ones, scary ones and heartfelt ones. It is well written and edited, which I appreciate also! 🙌
All the love for Scatter the Dark! Snag yourself a copy!
Thank you so much again for the opportunity!!!
October 12, 2025
I just finished this, and wow! The characters are well written and easy to relate to. The religious aspects of the book aren't over the tip or forced down your throat. They flow beautifully with the story. It's hard not to love the story and fall for the characters. Definitely give the book a read. You won't be disappointed.
October 5, 2025
I was lucky enough to be given a pre-release copy of this story by the author. And wow! Am I ever thankful!
This is the first Christian Supernatural novel I have ever read. I do not consider myself particularly religious. And while this story is heavily laced with religious aspects, at no point is it done in an obnoxious or forceful way. The characters were all well done. Great storyline. Good pacing. And plenty of spots that have you anxiously turning the page to see what happens next. Speaking of which, I am already anxious to read the author's next Christian Supernatural Thriller. More and more I have been seeing stories that mock religion. This story is a breath of fresh air for those who don't mind being open-minded on the subject. And again, while still having an entertaining story surrounding it.
This is the first Christian Supernatural novel I have ever read. I do not consider myself particularly religious. And while this story is heavily laced with religious aspects, at no point is it done in an obnoxious or forceful way. The characters were all well done. Great storyline. Good pacing. And plenty of spots that have you anxiously turning the page to see what happens next. Speaking of which, I am already anxious to read the author's next Christian Supernatural Thriller. More and more I have been seeing stories that mock religion. This story is a breath of fresh air for those who don't mind being open-minded on the subject. And again, while still having an entertaining story surrounding it.
October 10, 2025
There are very few Christen based books that capture the imagination... this is one of them. It pulled me in and I didn't want to put it down! I sincerely hope that he writes more faith- based books so I can add them to my collection.
October 9, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book. It shows Christains trying to be and do as the Lord would want them to, and evil doing its best to stop them. You will have to read it to see how it plays out. This book will definitely make you do some deep thinking.
November 3, 2025
I was finally able to finish this book and I'm obsessed! Ive been looking forward to finishing it and have been squeezing in time to read as much as possible the last few days. Scatter the Dark was truly amazing and I just love the way the story flowed and how well the characters developed . This book tackled spiritual warfare in a way that felt real and not cheesy like some Christian fiction I've read & Krite's POV was thought-provoking - it made me think about how the enemy can shape our perceptions. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places I'd highly recommend this book to Christians and non-Christians alike; it's a thought-provoking read that explores themes of spirituality and personal growth.
October 25, 2025
Right from the start, the tension is palpable. Powers has a knack for blending supernatural dread with spiritual urgency, so the thriller elements aren’t just for show—they feel meaningful. There were scenes that genuinely made my heart race, and I appreciated how the author didn’t shy away from the darker corners of faith, life, and redemption.
The faith dimension is integrated—this isn’t just a thriller with Christianity tacked on, but a story where supernatural horror and spiritual warfare meet in a compelling way. Luca’s back-story (wrongful conviction, the loss of his mother) gives real weight to his quest and makes the conflict more than just external. The pacing is solid: there are moments of quiet dread, followed by surges of action and revelation. For fans of spiritual thrillers, this delivers.
If you enjoy stories where spiritual stakes are real, where supernatural menace isn’t empty, and where faith and redemption are central themes, Scatter the Dark will likely hit the mark. It’s engaging, suspenseful, and thought-provoking. For a debut in this genre from the author, I found it very promising for his future novels. Scatter the Dark is a strong launch. C.M. Powers shows real potential—if he continues exploring spiritual thrillers with heart, I’ll certainly be reading his next.
I’d recommend for those who are:
-Readers of Christian suspense/thriller fiction who like their entertainment with spiritual depth.
-Looking for a supernatural thriller that balances horror/tension with hope.
(Really anyone, to be honest)
The faith dimension is integrated—this isn’t just a thriller with Christianity tacked on, but a story where supernatural horror and spiritual warfare meet in a compelling way. Luca’s back-story (wrongful conviction, the loss of his mother) gives real weight to his quest and makes the conflict more than just external. The pacing is solid: there are moments of quiet dread, followed by surges of action and revelation. For fans of spiritual thrillers, this delivers.
If you enjoy stories where spiritual stakes are real, where supernatural menace isn’t empty, and where faith and redemption are central themes, Scatter the Dark will likely hit the mark. It’s engaging, suspenseful, and thought-provoking. For a debut in this genre from the author, I found it very promising for his future novels. Scatter the Dark is a strong launch. C.M. Powers shows real potential—if he continues exploring spiritual thrillers with heart, I’ll certainly be reading his next.
I’d recommend for those who are:
-Readers of Christian suspense/thriller fiction who like their entertainment with spiritual depth.
-Looking for a supernatural thriller that balances horror/tension with hope.
(Really anyone, to be honest)
October 19, 2025
I was intrigued by the idea of a Christian Thriller and I didn't really know what to expect going into it. The author described it as edgy and the first chapter starts off quite dark. The spiritual warfare is done very well and Krite's POV is downright diabolical, reminiscent of C.S. Lewis's character Screwtape. I didn't care for some of the opinions in the book (yoga is evil), the commentary on so many of the characters' perceived attractiveness, the weirdness about Luca's age and which group he fit in with more (the language changes to steer the reader a specific direction,) the criticism of other religions, and most of all the inconsistency in judgement (gossip requires repentance but lying gets a pass several times.) Unfortunately for me this comes across as a sanctimonious perspective. The storyline suffers under the mantle of heavy-handed morality, which is an absolute shame because the characters are fully capable of telling the tale on their own. Kelsey and Grace had me laughing out loud with their banter and I loved reading about Luca and his gifts! I would definitely give this author another chance and I will keep an eye out for other Christian Thrillers!
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
October 17, 2025
⭐ Book Review: Scatter the Dark by C.M. Powers ⭐
This is a true Christian thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the very first page!
The story begins with a gripping first chapter that immediately pulls you in — why is there blood all over Luca’s hands? Who does he find? Was it him? You can’t help but keep turning the pages to find out.
Ten years later, Grace’s daughter Kelsey shows her a video about Luca, sparking a chain of events Grace could have never imagined. After losing her husband in a tragic accident, Grace runs a cozy bed and breakfast, hiding her pain behind her warm hospitality. But when she feels drawn to reach out to Luca, everything begins to unfold in unexpected ways.
Krite’s character was a mystery to me at first, but as the story progressed, his purpose became clear — and it really made me think about how certain people might influence our lives in unseen ways.
DJ Fly Boyd from Jubilee 106.5 FM also adds a fun and meaningful touch with his perfectly timed songs and words.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a faith-based thriller with heart, mystery, and redemption. It’s an amazing read that reminds you light will always scatter the dark. 🌟
This is a true Christian thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the very first page!
The story begins with a gripping first chapter that immediately pulls you in — why is there blood all over Luca’s hands? Who does he find? Was it him? You can’t help but keep turning the pages to find out.
Ten years later, Grace’s daughter Kelsey shows her a video about Luca, sparking a chain of events Grace could have never imagined. After losing her husband in a tragic accident, Grace runs a cozy bed and breakfast, hiding her pain behind her warm hospitality. But when she feels drawn to reach out to Luca, everything begins to unfold in unexpected ways.
Krite’s character was a mystery to me at first, but as the story progressed, his purpose became clear — and it really made me think about how certain people might influence our lives in unseen ways.
DJ Fly Boyd from Jubilee 106.5 FM also adds a fun and meaningful touch with his perfectly timed songs and words.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a faith-based thriller with heart, mystery, and redemption. It’s an amazing read that reminds you light will always scatter the dark. 🌟
October 23, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect or if it would feel too religious but man was I so happy I read this book. Scatter the Dark is amazing. The storytelling, the nuanced characters/character development, the storyline itself? Chefs kiss! It had me hanging on for the ride the whole time.
October 4, 2025
CM Powers has written an amazing book in Scatter the Dark. I found myself deeply invested in his well-developed characters and now that I’ve finished reading the book, it’s as if I have a new set of friends. At the same time, the author has effectively pulled back the veil of the spiritual world and given us a realistic view of what a true spiritual battle might look like. He backs everything up with scripture and yet it never feels heavy-handed or forced because in Scatter the Dark, the Holy Bible practically becomes one of the characters. I don’t see how this story could be told without that in place. But most importantly, Powers is a torch bearer for God in that he shows how the power of Almighty God is so much stronger than evil, to the point where the enemy doesn’t stand a chance. But be warned, this book is not for the faint of heart or the squeamish. The genre is classified as “thriller,” but the book is also equal parts supernatural and faith-based fiction with some mild elements of horror. Truly, a spiritual warfare novel that is breaking new ground in the brave tradition of Frank Peretti!
October 15, 2025
ARC Review – Scatter the Dark by CM Powers
I haven’t even finished Scatter the Dark yet, but I can already feel the weight and presence of what this book carries. There’s something powerful here: a stirring blend of faith, tension, and light breaking through darkness. Every page feels purposeful, like it’s meant to remind the reader that God’s truth still stands even in the deepest shadows.
This isn’t just a story— it’s an atmosphere. The writing moves between awe and ache, between fear and faith, and somehow lands on hope every time. I’ve had moments where I had to stop reading just to sit with what it stirred in me.
Even now, before the final chapter, I can tell this is a book that will linger long after it’s finished. It’s haunting in the best way... the kind that points your heart back toward the light.
All love and gratitude to Powers for crafting something this moving and spiritually rich.
I haven’t even finished Scatter the Dark yet, but I can already feel the weight and presence of what this book carries. There’s something powerful here: a stirring blend of faith, tension, and light breaking through darkness. Every page feels purposeful, like it’s meant to remind the reader that God’s truth still stands even in the deepest shadows.
This isn’t just a story— it’s an atmosphere. The writing moves between awe and ache, between fear and faith, and somehow lands on hope every time. I’ve had moments where I had to stop reading just to sit with what it stirred in me.
Even now, before the final chapter, I can tell this is a book that will linger long after it’s finished. It’s haunting in the best way... the kind that points your heart back toward the light.
All love and gratitude to Powers for crafting something this moving and spiritually rich.
October 13, 2025
This author can write just about anything! Scatter the Dark is a powerfully written Christian-based thriller with supernatural elements, and it'll give you some shivers as well as some warm feelings! It's such a beautiful story, from Luca's inner turmoil and Grace and Kelsey's own personal challenges, to the Lord's amazing way of gracing us with His strength.
The Bible verses were woven into the fabric of this book so cleverly. Even non-Christians can appreciate that there is evil in this world, and what better way to battle the dark than with God's light! I felt His divine strength in every verse, and the depictions of how hope and trust that good will triumph over evil was simply magnificent!
Trust me, you should grab a copy and read for yourself!
The Bible verses were woven into the fabric of this book so cleverly. Even non-Christians can appreciate that there is evil in this world, and what better way to battle the dark than with God's light! I felt His divine strength in every verse, and the depictions of how hope and trust that good will triumph over evil was simply magnificent!
Trust me, you should grab a copy and read for yourself!
October 8, 2025
Scatter the Dark is an amazing Christain thriller that grips you from the first page and doesn't let go. It dives into the battle between light and darkness- not just in the world around us but in the human heart. The message of hope and Gods power shines through every chapter.
CM Powers doesn't shy away from showing darkness but always reminds you that the light wins.
The character development was wonderful, and I was truly invested in their stories. What I loved most was how scripture was woven into the story seamlessly, never preachy but powerful and authentic, teaching me things along the way. This book really spoke to me. Powerful and amazing read!
CM Powers doesn't shy away from showing darkness but always reminds you that the light wins.
The character development was wonderful, and I was truly invested in their stories. What I loved most was how scripture was woven into the story seamlessly, never preachy but powerful and authentic, teaching me things along the way. This book really spoke to me. Powerful and amazing read!
January 8, 2026
I'm intriguingly hooked 100. I have to take my turtle time reading it in a good way. I love Luca with his special gift. The story's atmosphere is beautifully written from beginning to end. All the characters are amazing I cannot choose my favorite. I want to know more about Krite he's mysterious all the way. This story is very suspenseful that I can finish it in two days. I will follow Luca and Krite's journey to the end. I will be adding this book to my book collection 100. Iler.
October 16, 2025
love love love
Ever since I heard CM Powers was writing this book, I was super excited about reading it. I don’t get to do a lot of reading anymore ( except my Bible of course) due to a bad eye but like I said I was very excited about this one. I had no spoilers, no information at all really. All
I knew was that it was a Christian thriller. This is a new genre for me. I have never read this type of genre so that was a whole new level of suspense and awe as well.
Now on to my spoiler
free review of Scatter the Dark by CM Powers. This book had it all… a developed storyline, developed characters, suspenseful and intriguing characters, situations that were sometimes a little
disturbing, and most
of all the prevalence of good versus evil. I did learn a lot about myself spiritually reading this book ( Thanks Luca for that) and it also helped me remember to never forget the good in
everyone ( thanks Grace.) But most of all, I learned, God never leaves us…not even in the DARKNESS.
Give this author and this book a chance. You won’t be sorry. They are great!!
Ever since I heard CM Powers was writing this book, I was super excited about reading it. I don’t get to do a lot of reading anymore ( except my Bible of course) due to a bad eye but like I said I was very excited about this one. I had no spoilers, no information at all really. All
I knew was that it was a Christian thriller. This is a new genre for me. I have never read this type of genre so that was a whole new level of suspense and awe as well.
Now on to my spoiler
free review of Scatter the Dark by CM Powers. This book had it all… a developed storyline, developed characters, suspenseful and intriguing characters, situations that were sometimes a little
disturbing, and most
of all the prevalence of good versus evil. I did learn a lot about myself spiritually reading this book ( Thanks Luca for that) and it also helped me remember to never forget the good in
everyone ( thanks Grace.) But most of all, I learned, God never leaves us…not even in the DARKNESS.
Give this author and this book a chance. You won’t be sorry. They are great!!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews