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The Hangman's Hitch
If on some cold, dark despairing eve, you found yourself without God and devoid of hope, would you take the hand of the Devil? Would you do so wittingly? And if you found yourself there why was you questioning it all?
This is a tale of a man, a devil and a journey took to hell itself. Set in 18c England's South West counties with all the decadence and flamboyancy of a very liberal time. A perfect place for this tale of devilment, comedy and tragedy to set seed and flourish.
This is a tale of a man, a devil and a journey took to hell itself. Set in 18c England's South West counties with all the decadence and flamboyancy of a very liberal time. A perfect place for this tale of devilment, comedy and tragedy to set seed and flourish.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2014
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77 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 15, 2018
The Hangman’s Hitch is a devilishly dark and atmospheric historical horror, with a feel of those gothic horror classics I read many years ago. I couldn’t shift the constant feeling of foreboding while reading this, which made me think a little of the sinister atmosphere in Daphne du Maurier’s Jamaica Inn.
Add into the mix the style of language used in this story, and I regularly had images of actor Sean Bean in Lady Chatterley’s Lover popping up in my mind. Include some satanic shenanigans, an inn and characters called Mary and Joseph, and my whole Christian upbringing was unravelling from within me, as my subconscious had taken over and was placing the Bible Mary and Joseph into this book, and I was saying to myself “These thoughts in my mind are so wrong!” Ha ha!
I didn’t quite fall in love with this book, but I found it to be a fairly enjoyable read, and would definitely recommend it to those who love character led historical horrors set in a grim world with darkly flawed characters.
Add into the mix the style of language used in this story, and I regularly had images of actor Sean Bean in Lady Chatterley’s Lover popping up in my mind. Include some satanic shenanigans, an inn and characters called Mary and Joseph, and my whole Christian upbringing was unravelling from within me, as my subconscious had taken over and was placing the Bible Mary and Joseph into this book, and I was saying to myself “These thoughts in my mind are so wrong!” Ha ha!
I didn’t quite fall in love with this book, but I found it to be a fairly enjoyable read, and would definitely recommend it to those who love character led historical horrors set in a grim world with darkly flawed characters.
March 18, 2016
The Hangmans Hitch is the authors debut novel.
Set in the eighteenth century it certainly adds to the darkness and mystery of the whole storyline.
Freddy (Frederick) is quite a weak character. He quite happily goes off on a journey with a man (Joseph) who he knows nothing about. Where as Freddy is obviously easily led and weak, Joseph is the very opposite. He is a strong character with a purpose in his life. The unlikely friendship that the pair seem to strike up is a very strange one indeed.
The whole story very much has an air of mystery and suspense around it. It certainly isn’t your typical horror story which I have to admit was probably what I was expecting. It actually reminded me of Sleepy Hollow though more intriguing and less gore. There is certainly an underlying sense of humour through out the story which I think adds to the appeal of this novel.
The author certainly knows how to draw you into the story and keep you there. With an ending that I think was very fitting to the whole story, I think The Hangmans Hitch ticks all the boxes for a great debut.
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the eighteenth century it certainly adds to the darkness and mystery of the whole storyline.
Freddy (Frederick) is quite a weak character. He quite happily goes off on a journey with a man (Joseph) who he knows nothing about. Where as Freddy is obviously easily led and weak, Joseph is the very opposite. He is a strong character with a purpose in his life. The unlikely friendship that the pair seem to strike up is a very strange one indeed.
The whole story very much has an air of mystery and suspense around it. It certainly isn’t your typical horror story which I have to admit was probably what I was expecting. It actually reminded me of Sleepy Hollow though more intriguing and less gore. There is certainly an underlying sense of humour through out the story which I think adds to the appeal of this novel.
The author certainly knows how to draw you into the story and keep you there. With an ending that I think was very fitting to the whole story, I think The Hangmans Hitch ticks all the boxes for a great debut.
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2016
The Hangman's Hitch is one of the most original stories I have ever read. Evoking many a supernatural tale but with a very original feel, Donna Marie McCarthy has crafted something particularly unique and well worth reading if you haven't already done so.
Dealing with 'Fredrick's' meeting and subsequent dealings with the enigmatic and slightly curious Joseph, Hangman takes you on a journey that is both historical and otherworldly in the sense that dialogue and genuine attention to detail of the times and dialect whilst the story draws you into its supernatural undercurrent that is so subtly bubble beneath the surface. This has the very nice effect of leaving you with a sense of unease every time you encounter Fredrick and learn of his plight as he is drawn deep and deeper into an arrangement you know will not end in the most rewarding of ways (the end is both skin tingling and fitting). Add to this a romantic character in the form of Mary and you have a most unusual bizarre love triangle to quote New Order.
I was reminded of Angel Heart for a part of it (one of my favourite films) with a small portion of Supernatural, which thrilled me no end as I love tales with a supernatural angle.
Donna has an sublime skill of mirroring the dialect from the time perfectly with excellent attention to the details of the time period. Her use of period language is exceptional, her attention to detail compelling but not overwhelming.
I cannot wait for more form this lady...she is going to be making big waves!!
*I reviewed a preview copy of The Hangman's Hitch last year in exchange for a fair and honest review*
Dealing with 'Fredrick's' meeting and subsequent dealings with the enigmatic and slightly curious Joseph, Hangman takes you on a journey that is both historical and otherworldly in the sense that dialogue and genuine attention to detail of the times and dialect whilst the story draws you into its supernatural undercurrent that is so subtly bubble beneath the surface. This has the very nice effect of leaving you with a sense of unease every time you encounter Fredrick and learn of his plight as he is drawn deep and deeper into an arrangement you know will not end in the most rewarding of ways (the end is both skin tingling and fitting). Add to this a romantic character in the form of Mary and you have a most unusual bizarre love triangle to quote New Order.
I was reminded of Angel Heart for a part of it (one of my favourite films) with a small portion of Supernatural, which thrilled me no end as I love tales with a supernatural angle.
Donna has an sublime skill of mirroring the dialect from the time perfectly with excellent attention to the details of the time period. Her use of period language is exceptional, her attention to detail compelling but not overwhelming.
I cannot wait for more form this lady...she is going to be making big waves!!
*I reviewed a preview copy of The Hangman's Hitch last year in exchange for a fair and honest review*
April 27, 2016
Extraordinary debut. Deserves, nay, demands five stars!
By chance I read a short extract of this book many months ago, and that was enough to convince me to buy a copy as soon as it was published. I knew then that it was destined to be something quite special and Donna Maria McCarthy didn't disappoint. She has produced a novel of stunning originality that harks back to the gothic horror classics of Poe and Stoker. Dark and intriguing, humorous and beguiling, this novel carries you along on a tide of authentic prose and richly embroidered dialogue as the fortunes of the hapless Frederick Abbotsby Feltsham ebb and flow to their dramatic conclusion. What would poor Freddy give to recover the prospects he once knew? Alas, he doesn't stand a chance against the enigmatic Joseph Black and the cast of ignominious charmers who frequent the inn at the end of the world!
By chance I read a short extract of this book many months ago, and that was enough to convince me to buy a copy as soon as it was published. I knew then that it was destined to be something quite special and Donna Maria McCarthy didn't disappoint. She has produced a novel of stunning originality that harks back to the gothic horror classics of Poe and Stoker. Dark and intriguing, humorous and beguiling, this novel carries you along on a tide of authentic prose and richly embroidered dialogue as the fortunes of the hapless Frederick Abbotsby Feltsham ebb and flow to their dramatic conclusion. What would poor Freddy give to recover the prospects he once knew? Alas, he doesn't stand a chance against the enigmatic Joseph Black and the cast of ignominious charmers who frequent the inn at the end of the world!
March 31, 2016
Fredrick and Joseph are an unlikely pair of companions. Fredrick (Freddy) is weaker than Joseph and with a much more subservient personality. The story follows their 'friendship' and travels whilst leaving you wondering what it is that Joseph is wanting from Freddy.
When I first began reading I wasn't expecting the style of language or the dialect, but both added to feel of the story and once you get used to it it really works well. The book has a creepy, suspenseful air to it throughout which I enjoyed. I also liked the way that the author blended in some humour and a touch of romance along the way.
This is an interesting, enjoyable and original read, and a great debut novel.
I thank the author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
When I first began reading I wasn't expecting the style of language or the dialect, but both added to feel of the story and once you get used to it it really works well. The book has a creepy, suspenseful air to it throughout which I enjoyed. I also liked the way that the author blended in some humour and a touch of romance along the way.
This is an interesting, enjoyable and original read, and a great debut novel.
I thank the author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 3, 2016
Set in 18th century England, Frederick who has seemingly lost everything encounters the very dark and mysterious Joseph, but what Joseph's intents are - good or evil - will only unravel through the journey that Frederick must take along with the mysterious gentleman who offers Frederick the chance to regain some of his former standing in life - a roof over his head and food in his belly - but at what cost?
The author of this story has an amazing talent and has crafted a wonderful tale full of mischief a little humour, here and there, and for the most part a dark and intense novel. A thoroughly colourful and fast paced read. There must surely be other offerings from this gifted storyteller. Enjoyed it immensely and will certainly be looking for future books by this lady.
The author of this story has an amazing talent and has crafted a wonderful tale full of mischief a little humour, here and there, and for the most part a dark and intense novel. A thoroughly colourful and fast paced read. There must surely be other offerings from this gifted storyteller. Enjoyed it immensely and will certainly be looking for future books by this lady.
April 6, 2016
I received this as an arc from the book club ( tbc ) on fb in exchange for an honest review.
The Inn at the end of your world where satanic practice is the order and your soul required to pay for your stay.
Very good read.
I liked the story and the characters. This is different to what I usually read.
And I'm glad I read it.
I liked Joseph and Frederick.
I liked the ending too.
Hope to read more from this author
Highly recommended.
4*.
The Inn at the end of your world where satanic practice is the order and your soul required to pay for your stay.
Very good read.
I liked the story and the characters. This is different to what I usually read.
And I'm glad I read it.
I liked Joseph and Frederick.
I liked the ending too.
Hope to read more from this author
Highly recommended.
4*.
June 22, 2016
Wow! This is a book to take your time over, cleverly and intricately written by an obviously very talented author, this is her debut novel and I'm sure there will be more very interesting and successful books by her! The Hangmans Hitch has overtones of the supernatural, is mysterious and full of suspense. A great storyline with a fitting end! With fantastical character discriptions you almost feel you know them personally. Well done Donna!
April 5, 2016
Really enjoyed this book, read in one sitting. Funny and scary in parts..The style the novel was written on wasn't my usual read as it's set in the 18th period but I was soon drawn into the story...who wins...good/evil...weak/strong.
I look forward to reading more novels from Donna! :-)
I look forward to reading more novels from Donna! :-)
June 12, 2016
It’s devilishly good…
Whatever reservations I may have had about the ‘Shellyish’ style of language used throughout this book were soon swept away as I lost myself in the 18th century world that was captured brilliantly by the author. This was a very atmospheric debut-novel by a very talented and unique writer who managed to succeed in engaging my interest in a genre that is outside my comfort zone – namely historical horror fiction. Every time I opened its pages, the poetic dialogue drew me right back into the heart of the story which centres around ‘poor Freddie’, who has lost everything including his wealth, family and friends. Through wonderfully vivid description, I was able to picture each of the villainous characters that Freddie goes on to befriend. Perhaps ‘friend’ isn’t quite the right word for the cruel, heartless rogues that Freddie associates with, although some do have entertaining and redeemable features (particularly Mary). The dark and mysterious Joseph Black brings a sense of terror and unease to Freddie’s world but rather than rise above his dominating, malevolent nature - he sinks lower still. I was in fact quite shocked to find Freddie equally capable of dark deeds that transcended even Joseph’s devilment. The tone of this story is intense, dark and otherworldly but the author has allowed certain elements of romanticism and humour to tiptoe in; adding balance and credibility to the story. The author’s love of words does her credit and her enthusiasm for this lost language certainly won me over. Due to its wonderfully descriptive dialogue-driven plot, I suspect this novel would make a fantastic stage play. Such dark, dramatic theatre would surely be a real treat to see; especially if played out in a traditional Gothic style theatre.
Whatever reservations I may have had about the ‘Shellyish’ style of language used throughout this book were soon swept away as I lost myself in the 18th century world that was captured brilliantly by the author. This was a very atmospheric debut-novel by a very talented and unique writer who managed to succeed in engaging my interest in a genre that is outside my comfort zone – namely historical horror fiction. Every time I opened its pages, the poetic dialogue drew me right back into the heart of the story which centres around ‘poor Freddie’, who has lost everything including his wealth, family and friends. Through wonderfully vivid description, I was able to picture each of the villainous characters that Freddie goes on to befriend. Perhaps ‘friend’ isn’t quite the right word for the cruel, heartless rogues that Freddie associates with, although some do have entertaining and redeemable features (particularly Mary). The dark and mysterious Joseph Black brings a sense of terror and unease to Freddie’s world but rather than rise above his dominating, malevolent nature - he sinks lower still. I was in fact quite shocked to find Freddie equally capable of dark deeds that transcended even Joseph’s devilment. The tone of this story is intense, dark and otherworldly but the author has allowed certain elements of romanticism and humour to tiptoe in; adding balance and credibility to the story. The author’s love of words does her credit and her enthusiasm for this lost language certainly won me over. Due to its wonderfully descriptive dialogue-driven plot, I suspect this novel would make a fantastic stage play. Such dark, dramatic theatre would surely be a real treat to see; especially if played out in a traditional Gothic style theatre.
April 6, 2016
The Hangman's Hitch is an unusual read for me, set in 18th century England. Having completed it, I don't know why I don't read more in the Historical Horror genre.
The body of work is mainly dialogue, which left me with a feeling that I won't be at all surprised if in the future we see this adapted for screen or stage. Saying that, I was also left with vivid imagery of the scenery and location; haunting, dark landscapes with oil filled lamps and horseback for transport.
For prose that is laden with dialogue but still leaves me with a clear idea of setting is kudos to the talent of the author.
I loved the characters - the good guys and the baddies, and from the offset I thought the book had a feel of Dante's Divine Comedy.
As this is set in the 18th century, it shouldn't go unmentioned about the amount of research that must have gone into the novel and again, hats off for that.
All in all an unusual, addictive read. I'm looking forward to seeing what this author does next.
The body of work is mainly dialogue, which left me with a feeling that I won't be at all surprised if in the future we see this adapted for screen or stage. Saying that, I was also left with vivid imagery of the scenery and location; haunting, dark landscapes with oil filled lamps and horseback for transport.
For prose that is laden with dialogue but still leaves me with a clear idea of setting is kudos to the talent of the author.
I loved the characters - the good guys and the baddies, and from the offset I thought the book had a feel of Dante's Divine Comedy.
As this is set in the 18th century, it shouldn't go unmentioned about the amount of research that must have gone into the novel and again, hats off for that.
All in all an unusual, addictive read. I'm looking forward to seeing what this author does next.
June 1, 2016
I quickly familiarised myself with Donna’s clever use of language and the style of her writing and was drawn into the story really early on, and wanted to know where it was heading and how the lives of all those connected with Joseph Black would turn out.
As the events unfold they are well placed within the plot and described vividly without excessive blood thirstiness with an underlying sense of tension and foreboding all the way through.
A strong debut written by an author who clearly enjoys the period and the topic she is writing about, and I would recommend this to fans of the genre..
As the events unfold they are well placed within the plot and described vividly without excessive blood thirstiness with an underlying sense of tension and foreboding all the way through.
A strong debut written by an author who clearly enjoys the period and the topic she is writing about, and I would recommend this to fans of the genre..
May 7, 2016
Not my usual genre. But a fab debut novel by Donna Maria McCarthy . I loved the old dialogue in the book which made it more authentic. Would you give your soul to stay in the inn at the end of the world ? Read this remarkable book and find out 5 stars from me
September 18, 2016
I am still finding it hard to believe that this is Donna Maria McCarthy's debut novel. Set in the 18th century, I found myself transported right into the heart of this dark gothic tale and The Hangman's Hitch. It is here in this tavern that souls can be crushed or toyed with for the entertainment of Joseph Black and travellers are entertained by sweet Mary's singing and dancing while taking their fill of ale and pies from a dubious menu. This is Freddy's story an aristocrat fallen from grace and disowned by his wealthy family before being taken under the wing of the notorious Joseph Black.
This story was original and fascinating from the first chapter to the last. A tale that has no bench mark with me as to where it was going, but a truly compelling story which I read over a couple of nights. I have loved Donna Maria McCarthy's descriptions not just of the larger than life characters and the Hangman's Hitch, but even the smells that at times made my nose wrinkle and nostrils twitch! She simple captured the essence of it all.
It was heart breaking that the honour of a woman of stature would be defended with pistols while there was total disregard for the women that worked for the wealthy gentlemen. No law to protect them.
Would I recommend this novel?
Why yes. Donna Maria McCarthy hath prov'd herself more than worthy.
This story was original and fascinating from the first chapter to the last. A tale that has no bench mark with me as to where it was going, but a truly compelling story which I read over a couple of nights. I have loved Donna Maria McCarthy's descriptions not just of the larger than life characters and the Hangman's Hitch, but even the smells that at times made my nose wrinkle and nostrils twitch! She simple captured the essence of it all.
It was heart breaking that the honour of a woman of stature would be defended with pistols while there was total disregard for the women that worked for the wealthy gentlemen. No law to protect them.
Would I recommend this novel?
Why yes. Donna Maria McCarthy hath prov'd herself more than worthy.
October 11, 2016
Thanks to both the lovely Sarah Kenny and the immensely and equally lovely Donna Maria McCarthy, I can write an honest, enthusiastic and pleasing review of a book I have totally devoured! The Hangman's Hitch is most definitely a step, nay a stride away from my usual genre, - but my goodness, I'll be taking further strides in this direction! A good deal of the story takes place within The Hangman's Hitch, an inn, described on the back cover as being "at the end of your world". I had such a clear image of this place - surely to the credit of the writer, as being the inn in Les Miserables. Set around that era, I could see Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter, 'masters of the house', filching and whoring while drunken stupified wastrels rolled around the straw strewn stone floor. My goodness this was good! Once I got used to the 'speak', and I did quickly, I was transported back in time; - even finding myself reading it in a posh voice! This book gave so much pleasure and kept me guessing until the very end. Brilliant!
August 4, 2016
They really don't write them like this anymore but McCarthy has certainly managed to grasp the syntax of 18th century Britain and craft a genuinely unnerving story.
Freddie's descent into the dark is superbly written, the characters are brilliantly realised, in Joseph Black, we have a character every bit as good as those dreamt up by Dickens and although you may not be reading by candle light, it certainly feels like that as the darkness creeps in.
We follow Freddie's descent into the abyss, a man who has lost it all but will be drawn into a web of evil in his attempts to regain his position. Just how far he is prepared to go? Every corner you turn will reveal some unspeakable horror. Dark, unnerving and utterly satisfying.
Freddie's descent into the dark is superbly written, the characters are brilliantly realised, in Joseph Black, we have a character every bit as good as those dreamt up by Dickens and although you may not be reading by candle light, it certainly feels like that as the darkness creeps in.
We follow Freddie's descent into the abyss, a man who has lost it all but will be drawn into a web of evil in his attempts to regain his position. Just how far he is prepared to go? Every corner you turn will reveal some unspeakable horror. Dark, unnerving and utterly satisfying.
July 27, 2016
For fans of the great work of Edgar Allen Poe, this gothic horror really is a must. Donna Maria possesses a rare talent of writing style - a vintage twist which perfectly suits her historical genre.
But her most outstanding accomplishment by far is her creation of the inn itself, The Hangman's Hitch; it's dark secrets and ominous residents, and most of all, the smooth, dark, yet addictive Joseph Black. Weaved with spectacular vividness, Joseph will lure you into this novel just as you would expect the devil to tempt you into his pit. Fantastic character.
A thrilling ride. Highly recommended.
- Julie Spiller
Author of The Cornubian
But her most outstanding accomplishment by far is her creation of the inn itself, The Hangman's Hitch; it's dark secrets and ominous residents, and most of all, the smooth, dark, yet addictive Joseph Black. Weaved with spectacular vividness, Joseph will lure you into this novel just as you would expect the devil to tempt you into his pit. Fantastic character.
A thrilling ride. Highly recommended.
- Julie Spiller
Author of The Cornubian
October 18, 2016
While reading 'The Hangman's Hitch, one would assume it was penned by an eighteenth century writer. The archaic language added to the atmosphere and I absolutely adored this haunting dark tale of an intriguing encounter between two men: a privileged Freddie who is easy prey for the mysterious Joseph Black. The author's sharp wit made for a humorous but chillingly grim read and fans of Anne Rice, Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker (and horror fans in general) will love this novel as I did.
June 2, 2016
The Hangman's Hitch. Joseph and Freddy are a mismatch pair of gentlemen. You will like one but maybe not the other. Follow their fortunes or misfortunes, murders and maidens along the way. Funny characters intertwined too. A throughly enjoyable different book, took a while to get into the dialogue but soon got into the flow. Highly recommended.xxx
November 18, 2016
This was well out of my usual reading choices but I'm really glad I did. Donna Maria McCarthy has a clear talent; she can write all right. Because it's out of my preferred genre it took me a little while to settle to it but then I raced through it and found myself very keen to pick it up.
May 21, 2025
After reading Biddy Trott I have come to anticipate a certain style and wit from Donna Maria McCarthy and I was not disappointed. The Hangman’s Hitch is as dark and ribald and gruesome a novel there ever was.
Meet Freddy, or Frederick Abbotsby Feltsham, a fool, an ignoramus and a coward through and through, whose verbosity and quite ridiculous idiocy is a source of much of the humour in this novel. The antagonist, Joseph, is as despicable as they come, and enjoys nothing more than to apportion scorn and derision upon the sycophantic Freddy, luring him, tricking him, grooming him. Feeling he has no choice but to side with Joseph after being banished from the word of normalcy for his impropriety and cowardice, Freddy condones Joseph’s incessant jibes.
There is no morality at The Hangman’s Hitch. Patrons of this obscure hostelry hang their scruples on a hook outside. Inside, it is no holds barred as Joseph and his cronies enact one brutal scam after another. Just when you think the depravity cannot get any worse, it does.
I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s cutting wit, her characters exuding sarcasm in every utterance. The Hangman’s Hitch is written in old-school prose in keeping with the era, prose that is dense and heavy in dialogue, but don’t be put off! A dialogue-driven composition is not easy to pull off, but McCarthy has, and she has done so with aplomb. I thoroughly recommend this read to those after something different, a story that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche, one that tests the sympathies of even the most hardened reader.
Meet Freddy, or Frederick Abbotsby Feltsham, a fool, an ignoramus and a coward through and through, whose verbosity and quite ridiculous idiocy is a source of much of the humour in this novel. The antagonist, Joseph, is as despicable as they come, and enjoys nothing more than to apportion scorn and derision upon the sycophantic Freddy, luring him, tricking him, grooming him. Feeling he has no choice but to side with Joseph after being banished from the word of normalcy for his impropriety and cowardice, Freddy condones Joseph’s incessant jibes.
There is no morality at The Hangman’s Hitch. Patrons of this obscure hostelry hang their scruples on a hook outside. Inside, it is no holds barred as Joseph and his cronies enact one brutal scam after another. Just when you think the depravity cannot get any worse, it does.
I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s cutting wit, her characters exuding sarcasm in every utterance. The Hangman’s Hitch is written in old-school prose in keeping with the era, prose that is dense and heavy in dialogue, but don’t be put off! A dialogue-driven composition is not easy to pull off, but McCarthy has, and she has done so with aplomb. I thoroughly recommend this read to those after something different, a story that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche, one that tests the sympathies of even the most hardened reader.
October 18, 2017
This is not the usual modern-day crime/psychological thriller that I read; set in the eighteenth century and written in the way people would have spoken in those times, it took me a couple of chapters to get into the style but once I did, I really enjoyed it. This is one of those books that you need to savour; take time over. I kept thinking it had echoes of Dickens and then the Author mentioned she'd been influenced by him. It must have been difficult to write and certainly had me thinking about how different times were, in comparison to today. Our modern world of policing and forensic science catches many murderers these days but back then many were 'bumped off' without consequence. For those that frequent the inn at the Hangman's Hitch it's a way of life and that alone makes this an incredibly dark and intriguing tale. I loved the ending! It gets a well deserved 4.5 stars from me.
October 19, 2017
The author transport's you straight into life of Freddy the 18th century aristocrat who has fallen from grace and been disowned by his family. Freddy is alone and without a friend till the mysterious Joseph Black comes along and takes him to his home The Hangman's Hitch. Here he meets a host of characters including the loveable Mary who sings and dancers to entertain the inns visiters. But don't be fooled by the idealistic description the devil what's Freddys soul and he can't trust anyone he meets. To find out if Freddy can save his soul I highly recommend you read The Hangman's Hitch.
May 20, 2025
I read this years ago on its first outing & thoroughly enjoyed getting lost amongst the magical story & darkness. So obviously im getting lost in it again on its new journey.
As it’s says a tale of man a devil & a journey.
Go on get lost in its pages.
You won’t regret it.
As it’s says a tale of man a devil & a journey.
Go on get lost in its pages.
You won’t regret it.
May 18, 2019
Took a little to really get to the story, almost didn't read it, glad I did. Really good read
October 11, 2016
Having received such amazing support with my blog through twitter and Facebook by the author. I was very intrigued to know who this author was and what she wrote, so off to amazon I went. I am a massive fan or horror/supernatural stories. So can you imagine my surprise to find that this novel comes under the horror genre....Happy days. I was like a kid in a candy shop lol
And I sure has hell wasn't disappointed Donna Maria McCarthy is one dark horse that's for sure. With the shortest blurb I have ever read The Hangman's Hitch… The inn at the end of your world. Where satanic practice is the order and your soul required to pay for your stay … that really doesn't give a lot away I really didn't know what to expect. But I absolutely freaking loved it. And I still cannot believe this is a debut novel.
So in this story we meet two characters Fredrick and Joseph. Fredrick being the weaker character of them where we follow them on a journey of this rather strange friendship.
Now this is what I call Gothic horror with a story full of mystery. The authors writing skills are very well crafted keeping you gripped from the very first page until the end. And I loved how it was written with old dialogue which I found very fitting with the story set in the historical 18th century.
This story not only is fall of mystery and suspense there is some added humor in there to. So if you are looking for something that little bit different and original I highly recommend this giving it 5 unique stars.
And I sure has hell wasn't disappointed Donna Maria McCarthy is one dark horse that's for sure. With the shortest blurb I have ever read The Hangman's Hitch… The inn at the end of your world. Where satanic practice is the order and your soul required to pay for your stay … that really doesn't give a lot away I really didn't know what to expect. But I absolutely freaking loved it. And I still cannot believe this is a debut novel.
So in this story we meet two characters Fredrick and Joseph. Fredrick being the weaker character of them where we follow them on a journey of this rather strange friendship.
Now this is what I call Gothic horror with a story full of mystery. The authors writing skills are very well crafted keeping you gripped from the very first page until the end. And I loved how it was written with old dialogue which I found very fitting with the story set in the historical 18th century.
This story not only is fall of mystery and suspense there is some added humor in there to. So if you are looking for something that little bit different and original I highly recommend this giving it 5 unique stars.
April 8, 2016
An interesting take on the question of whether you would you sell your soul for the chance of riches. In Freddie's case he is already lacking in any kind of morality or integrity so his fall is only a question of how long will it take, not long at all as it turns out.
The humour that runs through the novel is well thought out and I enjoyed that side of it, although I was expecting a more traditional horror story.
For me this book is more about how easily weak and self delusional people can be manipulated, particularly when they have few choices because of past behaviour. I saw many parallels in real life where people can be persuaded to commit horrific acts if they feel it is their self interest.
I found the first two chapters difficult to follow at first as it is not always obvious who is speaking but apart from that I thought it was a well written book and a convincing debut novel. It has a very gothic feel to it and the suspense builds very naturally.
Thank you to TBC for my arc for an honest review.
The humour that runs through the novel is well thought out and I enjoyed that side of it, although I was expecting a more traditional horror story.
For me this book is more about how easily weak and self delusional people can be manipulated, particularly when they have few choices because of past behaviour. I saw many parallels in real life where people can be persuaded to commit horrific acts if they feel it is their self interest.
I found the first two chapters difficult to follow at first as it is not always obvious who is speaking but apart from that I thought it was a well written book and a convincing debut novel. It has a very gothic feel to it and the suspense builds very naturally.
Thank you to TBC for my arc for an honest review.
April 19, 2016
I think that there are many ways positive ways to describe this book, along with stylish, mysterious, original; characteristic must be in with them too. And with all of this I can honestly say I absolutely loved it. Not only that it seems like all of the others who have had the good fortune to read this have loved it too.
Set in the 1800’s the author has set about writing this novel in the style of this time and she has done it with a considerable amount of skill. Now I must admit at first I was not so sure I was going to enjoy this type of writing but really it only took me a few pages to get into it and then I was flying and I know this might sound corny but I did have a feeling I was actually there in the story.
So if you want to read an absolute cracker of a book that is just that little bit different I can certainly recommend this one, and will we be seeing anything else from this author? Let’s hope so because it is so easy to see this author has talent. Five stars from me.
Set in the 1800’s the author has set about writing this novel in the style of this time and she has done it with a considerable amount of skill. Now I must admit at first I was not so sure I was going to enjoy this type of writing but really it only took me a few pages to get into it and then I was flying and I know this might sound corny but I did have a feeling I was actually there in the story.
So if you want to read an absolute cracker of a book that is just that little bit different I can certainly recommend this one, and will we be seeing anything else from this author? Let’s hope so because it is so easy to see this author has talent. Five stars from me.
April 9, 2016
I received a copy through THE Book Club so many thanks for the opportunity.
I enjoyed the concept of this book and I found it very original. I was expecting a typical horror story, but it was written in a more subtly chilling and sinister way which made it very unique. I can completely understand the 4 and 5 star reviews as no doubt this is a very talented author - it's just through personal preference that I gave it 3 stars. The book is heavily focused on dialogue (in fact, it would make a great play!) and for me I prefer more of a narrative; how the character is feeling, their background etc to be able to relate more to them. In addition, the language used is quite complex, which really does fit the time period of the book and was beautifully done, however I lost parts of the plot because of this. Again, just a personal preference! All in all a very good read and I would try more books from this author.
I enjoyed the concept of this book and I found it very original. I was expecting a typical horror story, but it was written in a more subtly chilling and sinister way which made it very unique. I can completely understand the 4 and 5 star reviews as no doubt this is a very talented author - it's just through personal preference that I gave it 3 stars. The book is heavily focused on dialogue (in fact, it would make a great play!) and for me I prefer more of a narrative; how the character is feeling, their background etc to be able to relate more to them. In addition, the language used is quite complex, which really does fit the time period of the book and was beautifully done, however I lost parts of the plot because of this. Again, just a personal preference! All in all a very good read and I would try more books from this author.
December 17, 2016
Wow beautifully written like poetry on page. Almost reminds me of stories written of old. Dickens if he got visited by Poe perhaps. It's an odd tale that secretly may have an underlining Devilish take but nothing is is given to the reader head on. Allowing one to make up their own mind.
The Hangman's Hitch is an inn for the lost and the damned of people, the underdogs, thieves and villains but nothing hated about them, just the lower dregs of society.
It is here Frederic is taken by the agonisingly allure of Joseph Black, a man of mystery and intimidation, a real enigma of a character. Now Frederic is in his debt but what contracts does he have with people and what debt is it that Frederic will pay.
A very good book that will keep you reading if not for its style then character of Joseph Black, he is worse than Heathcliff.
The Hangman's Hitch is an inn for the lost and the damned of people, the underdogs, thieves and villains but nothing hated about them, just the lower dregs of society.
It is here Frederic is taken by the agonisingly allure of Joseph Black, a man of mystery and intimidation, a real enigma of a character. Now Frederic is in his debt but what contracts does he have with people and what debt is it that Frederic will pay.
A very good book that will keep you reading if not for its style then character of Joseph Black, he is worse than Heathcliff.
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