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Devil's Bluff
Devil's Bluff is a tiny idyllic town off the coast of England. Boasting crystal-blue waters and golden sands, it's a popular tourist spot during the warmer months, with people flocking from miles to enjoy a slice of relaxation. There's only one road in and one road out, and locals like it that way.
Sound perfect? There's a catch.
While tourists can come and go as they please, the last time a local allegedly attempted to leave town, they were found on the side of the road with mist pouring from every orifice and their eyes gouged out.
From an early age, parents tell their children stories about what happens if they try to cross the border, often using poor Tommy Nicholls as an example.
Eager to uncover the town's secrets and put paid to such fairytales, best friends Ryan and Zac plan a midnight stroll down Mulville Road.
What happens next? Find out if you dare…
Devil’s Bluff is a coming-of-age horror novel that strangles the innocence out of childhood. For fans of It: Welcome to Derry, Stranger Things, and The Mist.
Sound perfect? There's a catch.
While tourists can come and go as they please, the last time a local allegedly attempted to leave town, they were found on the side of the road with mist pouring from every orifice and their eyes gouged out.
From an early age, parents tell their children stories about what happens if they try to cross the border, often using poor Tommy Nicholls as an example.
Eager to uncover the town's secrets and put paid to such fairytales, best friends Ryan and Zac plan a midnight stroll down Mulville Road.
What happens next? Find out if you dare…
Devil’s Bluff is a coming-of-age horror novel that strangles the innocence out of childhood. For fans of It: Welcome to Derry, Stranger Things, and The Mist.
- GenresHorror
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2026
331 people are currently reading
483 people want to read
About the author
Mark Towse
102 books508 followersMark Towse is an English horror writer living in Australia. He would sell his soul to the devil or anyone buying if it meant he could write full-time. Alas, he left it very late to begin this journey, penning his first story since primary school at the ripe old age of forty-five. Since then, he's been published in over two hundred journals and anthologies, had his work made into full theatrical productions for shows such as The No Sleep Podcast and Tales to Terrify, and has penned fourteen novellas, including Nana, Gone to the Dogs, 3:33, and Crows. He also has two very well-received story collections, 'There's Something Wrong with Aunty Beth,' and 'You Only Live Once.' Chasing The Dragon is his debut novel.
'Mark Towse is an exciting new discovery. His stories are hidden gems that glint in the darkness. His characters draw you into their worlds, making you care, then plunge you into the abyss, leaving only a memory of warmth. These tales will linger in your mind long after the telling. His are heart-felt stories with an icy edge. Highly recommended.'
Trevor Denyer – Editor and Publisher – Midnight Street Press
https://twitter.com/MarkTowsey12
https://www.facebook.com/mark.towse.75
https://marktowsedarkfiction.wordpres...
'Mark Towse is an exciting new discovery. His stories are hidden gems that glint in the darkness. His characters draw you into their worlds, making you care, then plunge you into the abyss, leaving only a memory of warmth. These tales will linger in your mind long after the telling. His are heart-felt stories with an icy edge. Highly recommended.'
Trevor Denyer – Editor and Publisher – Midnight Street Press
https://twitter.com/MarkTowsey12
https://www.facebook.com/mark.towse.75
https://marktowsedarkfiction.wordpres...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
March 3, 2026
Wow what a fantastic read!
This was a common of age book that takes place on isolated town, and of course, some stuff starts happening.
Now the kids in this book written perfectly this feels so authentic and you really care for them. It’s what makes the suspense about what everything is happened such a big impact.
This book is shorter if I shoot through, but we left me wanting more. The suspense, the twist, and of course, more time with these wonderful characters.
Be sure to check this book out you’ll be glad you did!
This was a common of age book that takes place on isolated town, and of course, some stuff starts happening.
Now the kids in this book written perfectly this feels so authentic and you really care for them. It’s what makes the suspense about what everything is happened such a big impact.
This book is shorter if I shoot through, but we left me wanting more. The suspense, the twist, and of course, more time with these wonderful characters.
Be sure to check this book out you’ll be glad you did!
February 21, 2026
First, thank you to Mark Towse for providing me with an ARC of Devil’s Bluff. As my favorite geriatric horror writer, I was surprised to see that he wrote a coming-of-age story. It’s been a great time digging into something new!
Thank You for Visiting Devil’s Bluff.
Devil’s Bluff is the place to be, according to the adults— where crime doesn’t exist, divorce never happens, and the seaside beauty is nothing short of perfect. There’s no need to venture outside of such an idyllic little town.
It’s truly a slice of heaven on Earth.
For the residents of Devil’s Bluff, there’s just one downfall— they can never leave.
The town holds tightly to the lore surrounding Tommy Nicholls, a young man who found himself trying to escape down the infamous Mulville Road. Suffering a horrific demise— the borders of Devil’s Bluff are absolutely off-limits.
While most of the residents turn a blind eye, never questioning their fate— Ryan and Zac are on a mission to delve into the dark history of their community that hides behind summertime tourism, the wafting smell of coastal food stalls, and beautiful sandy beaches that stretch for as long as the eye can see.
This is a coming-of-age horror tale about two best mates whose deep curiosity sends them into a spiraling mystery that will spin everything they’ve known about themselves and their town, on its head.
I absolutely adored all of the different elements packed within the book. Leaning deeply into psychological horror, Devil’s Bluff also gives a nod to cult, folk, and a bit of supernatural horror.
Ryan and Zac’s journey kept me wanting more— and at over two-hundred pages, it still wasn’t enough. Their characters were fleshed out with such conviction, the setting felt beautiful but claustrophobic, and the mystery kept me guessing right alongside the pair of young friends. The revelation tied it all together, but left me feeling quite bothered. Endings aren’t always meant to bring a smile, but can be used to provoke alternative feelings— and I think Mark Towse did an incredible job with that.
Devil’s Bluff would typically be a book that is out of my interest due to the coming-of-age aspect and the supernatural/folk elements— but, because it’s written by Towse, it was automatically on my radar. Of course, I have no disappointment whatsoever. His writing continues to impress me. There is always a unique story with a savvy twist and he never writes the same character twice— the character inventory is insane.
This was a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ star read without a doubt. Believe me, I love an author who can challenge my reading habits and succeed in convincing me that it’s worth the read. What I thought would be one thing, was completely something else. That’s the talent of Mark Towse, people.
Thank You for Visiting Devil’s Bluff.
Devil’s Bluff is the place to be, according to the adults— where crime doesn’t exist, divorce never happens, and the seaside beauty is nothing short of perfect. There’s no need to venture outside of such an idyllic little town.
It’s truly a slice of heaven on Earth.
For the residents of Devil’s Bluff, there’s just one downfall— they can never leave.
The town holds tightly to the lore surrounding Tommy Nicholls, a young man who found himself trying to escape down the infamous Mulville Road. Suffering a horrific demise— the borders of Devil’s Bluff are absolutely off-limits.
While most of the residents turn a blind eye, never questioning their fate— Ryan and Zac are on a mission to delve into the dark history of their community that hides behind summertime tourism, the wafting smell of coastal food stalls, and beautiful sandy beaches that stretch for as long as the eye can see.
This is a coming-of-age horror tale about two best mates whose deep curiosity sends them into a spiraling mystery that will spin everything they’ve known about themselves and their town, on its head.
I absolutely adored all of the different elements packed within the book. Leaning deeply into psychological horror, Devil’s Bluff also gives a nod to cult, folk, and a bit of supernatural horror.
Ryan and Zac’s journey kept me wanting more— and at over two-hundred pages, it still wasn’t enough. Their characters were fleshed out with such conviction, the setting felt beautiful but claustrophobic, and the mystery kept me guessing right alongside the pair of young friends. The revelation tied it all together, but left me feeling quite bothered. Endings aren’t always meant to bring a smile, but can be used to provoke alternative feelings— and I think Mark Towse did an incredible job with that.
Devil’s Bluff would typically be a book that is out of my interest due to the coming-of-age aspect and the supernatural/folk elements— but, because it’s written by Towse, it was automatically on my radar. Of course, I have no disappointment whatsoever. His writing continues to impress me. There is always a unique story with a savvy twist and he never writes the same character twice— the character inventory is insane.
This was a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ star read without a doubt. Believe me, I love an author who can challenge my reading habits and succeed in convincing me that it’s worth the read. What I thought would be one thing, was completely something else. That’s the talent of Mark Towse, people.
Review of advance copy received from Author
rtc
March 26, 2026
Devils Bluff, nice coastal vacation destination where it’s always sunny and the air smells like sunscreen and salt water. Everything is perfect for Ryan and Zac until the two get a bit to nosey. The fog rolls in, a candy shop pops up over night and the legends they were told as kids start to become more than just ghost stories. The boys must fight for their lives in a coming of age horror story where not everything is what it seems. Welcome, to Devils Bluff.
I think the book is a good coming of age story and was written very well. There are some real Summerween vibes in this book. The incessant needing to be liked by Ryan was very apparent as well as the two boys friendship and what they meant to each other. How much they leaned on each other. The ending was a bit iffy for me overall. It still got a good rating but I did not like the ending in particular. The fact that Ryan gave In and became the one thing he didn’t want was disheartening to see. It also, went from 0-100 in terms of graphic violence. Was not expecting that at all. A good start to summer book, I would recommend.
I think the book is a good coming of age story and was written very well. There are some real Summerween vibes in this book. The incessant needing to be liked by Ryan was very apparent as well as the two boys friendship and what they meant to each other. How much they leaned on each other. The ending was a bit iffy for me overall. It still got a good rating but I did not like the ending in particular. The fact that Ryan gave In and became the one thing he didn’t want was disheartening to see. It also, went from 0-100 in terms of graphic violence. Was not expecting that at all. A good start to summer book, I would recommend.
March 21, 2026
I went into this book with low expectations as this is not a genre that I normally would have picked up but I have to say that I loved this book, a fantastic read that I couldn’t put down.
A coming-of-age story like no other. If you want a story that’s full of twists and turns and will definitely throw you off guard with every chapter, this is it. The story can be a little bit of a slow burn but it doesn’t take away from the story.
Remember boys and girls to always be friendly to locals and tip well….
A coming-of-age story like no other. If you want a story that’s full of twists and turns and will definitely throw you off guard with every chapter, this is it. The story can be a little bit of a slow burn but it doesn’t take away from the story.
Remember boys and girls to always be friendly to locals and tip well….
Review of advance copy received from Author
just finished my ARC of The Devil’s Bluff and WOW — hands down the best book I’ve ever read. I could not put it down. The writing is so descriptive that it felt more like watching a movie than reading a book… I could literally see everything playing out in my head. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time — like, I was ready to yell at the characters through the pages. The surprises just kept coming and I was never bored for a second.
It officially comes out March 3rd and is available for pre-order now — and trust me, you’re going to want this one on your shelf.
It officially comes out March 3rd and is available for pre-order now — and trust me, you’re going to want this one on your shelf.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Devil’s Bluff is the kind of horror novel that grabs you by the throat from the first page and refuses to let go. Mark Towse takes an idyllic seaside town: crystal-blue waters, golden sands and the kind of postcard charm that lures tourists in drove. He then peels back its sunlit veneer to reveal something far darker pulsing beneath the surface.
The result is a chilling, fast‑paced coming‑of‑age tale that feels like John Saul and a young Stephen King teamed up to write a Goosebumps book for adults.
The premise is irresistible: a town with only one road in and out, where tourists roam freely but locals know better than to cross the border. The legend of poor Tommy Nicholls—found with mist pouring from every orifice and his eyes gouged out—hangs over the community like a curse. Parents whisper warnings, children grow up afraid of the road, and the town’s beauty becomes a gilded cage.
Enter Ryan and Zac, two best friends determined to prove the stories wrong. Their midnight trek down Mulville Road is the spark that ignites the novel’s relentless tension. Towse masterfully captures that fragile moment between childhood bravado and the dawning realization that the world is far more dangerous than it seems. The dread builds slowly at first, then snowballs into a full‑blown nightmare as the boys uncover the truth behind Devil’s Bluff.
What makes this novella shine is Towse’s ability to blend nostalgia, terror, and emotional depth. The pacing is razor‑sharp, the atmosphere thick with impending doom, and the twists land with the force of a gut punch. Fans of It: Welcome to Derry, Stranger Things, and The Mist will feel right at home. This story taps into that same vein of small‑town secrets, supernatural menace, and the loss of innocence.
Devil’s Bluff is horrific in all the right ways: unsettling, imaginative, and impossible to put down. Towse delivers a wild ride that lingers long after the final page, proving once again that he’s a rising force in modern horror. If you’re brave enough to walk down Mulville Road, this novel is an absolute must‑read.
The result is a chilling, fast‑paced coming‑of‑age tale that feels like John Saul and a young Stephen King teamed up to write a Goosebumps book for adults.
The premise is irresistible: a town with only one road in and out, where tourists roam freely but locals know better than to cross the border. The legend of poor Tommy Nicholls—found with mist pouring from every orifice and his eyes gouged out—hangs over the community like a curse. Parents whisper warnings, children grow up afraid of the road, and the town’s beauty becomes a gilded cage.
Enter Ryan and Zac, two best friends determined to prove the stories wrong. Their midnight trek down Mulville Road is the spark that ignites the novel’s relentless tension. Towse masterfully captures that fragile moment between childhood bravado and the dawning realization that the world is far more dangerous than it seems. The dread builds slowly at first, then snowballs into a full‑blown nightmare as the boys uncover the truth behind Devil’s Bluff.
What makes this novella shine is Towse’s ability to blend nostalgia, terror, and emotional depth. The pacing is razor‑sharp, the atmosphere thick with impending doom, and the twists land with the force of a gut punch. Fans of It: Welcome to Derry, Stranger Things, and The Mist will feel right at home. This story taps into that same vein of small‑town secrets, supernatural menace, and the loss of innocence.
Devil’s Bluff is horrific in all the right ways: unsettling, imaginative, and impossible to put down. Towse delivers a wild ride that lingers long after the final page, proving once again that he’s a rising force in modern horror. If you’re brave enough to walk down Mulville Road, this novel is an absolute must‑read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness, what a ride. Not normally drawn to the genre but it had me hooked from the start. Talk about twists and turns. When I thought I had it sussed, I was thrown off course. Settled in for the ride then it threw me in a different direction. Did not see that ending coming. Mr Towse I bow to your writing skills, and thank you for allowing me to read a genre I would normally bypass. I will certainly be drawn to this type of book again. Wow, wow, wow 👏👏👏👏I was an arc reader for the author, book will be released on March 3rd
April 19, 2026
I had previously read this when it was titled Hope Wharf and I love it even more in this retitled and revamped edition.
Towse was able to make the town of Devil's Bluff a character on it's own. The mystery of why the townies have never left, only the tourists can come and go, makes the sense of dread build and build.
A coming of age story that have chills racing up and down your spine. Definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first ARC 🎉
Well Mark Towse thank you for saving me from writing anything negative 😅😂.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this quips and horror. Also the first book I have read by this Author.
When you are stuck in a perfect town and decide to go in adventure with your best mate what could go wrong...well its a horror so quite a bit 😉 Official relase date is said to be 3rd March 2026.
Well Mark Towse thank you for saving me from writing anything negative 😅😂.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this quips and horror. Also the first book I have read by this Author.
When you are stuck in a perfect town and decide to go in adventure with your best mate what could go wrong...well its a horror so quite a bit 😉 Official relase date is said to be 3rd March 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have just finished reading this outstanding horror novel by Mark Towse. What starts out to be an innocent story soon becomes a terrifying and captivating tale which keeps the reader hooked from page 1 until the very end. A book not to be missed.
March 8, 2026
Very repetitive for most of the book, took a long time to get to the point.
February 24, 2026
Devil’s Bluff by Mark Towse absolutely sank its claws into me and did NOT let go.
This book is the definition of small-town horror done right. Devil’s Bluff seems like paradise on the surface—beautiful beaches, peaceful charm, and a tight-knit community—but underneath? Pure nightmare fuel. The kind that creeps under your skin slowly… and then explodes into something deeply unsettling.
What made this story truly shine was the coming-of-age element. Ryan and Zac felt real—their curiosity, their bravery, and that dangerous pull toward the unknown. Watching their innocence unravel as they got closer to the truth was equal parts heartbreaking and terrifying.
The atmosphere was EVERYTHING. Thick dread. Constant tension. That suffocating sense that something is very, very wrong—and has been for a long time. The mystery surrounding the town had me completely hooked, and every reveal made the stakes feel higher and darker.
If you love the eerie nostalgia of Stranger Things, the creeping terror of The Mist, or the sinister small-town secrets promised in It: Welcome to Derry, this book will absolutely be your jam.
This wasn’t just horror—it was emotional, unsettling, and unforgettable. The kind of story that lingers long after you turn the last page.
⚠️ Creepy
⚠️ Atmospheric
⚠️ Emotional
⚠️ Deeply disturbing in the best way
Mark Towse delivered a haunting, unforgettable ride.
This book is the definition of small-town horror done right. Devil’s Bluff seems like paradise on the surface—beautiful beaches, peaceful charm, and a tight-knit community—but underneath? Pure nightmare fuel. The kind that creeps under your skin slowly… and then explodes into something deeply unsettling.
What made this story truly shine was the coming-of-age element. Ryan and Zac felt real—their curiosity, their bravery, and that dangerous pull toward the unknown. Watching their innocence unravel as they got closer to the truth was equal parts heartbreaking and terrifying.
The atmosphere was EVERYTHING. Thick dread. Constant tension. That suffocating sense that something is very, very wrong—and has been for a long time. The mystery surrounding the town had me completely hooked, and every reveal made the stakes feel higher and darker.
If you love the eerie nostalgia of Stranger Things, the creeping terror of The Mist, or the sinister small-town secrets promised in It: Welcome to Derry, this book will absolutely be your jam.
This wasn’t just horror—it was emotional, unsettling, and unforgettable. The kind of story that lingers long after you turn the last page.
⚠️ Creepy
⚠️ Atmospheric
⚠️ Emotional
⚠️ Deeply disturbing in the best way
Mark Towse delivered a haunting, unforgettable ride.
Read
February 9, 2026A town with beautiful waters and golden sands and even a carnival, what more could you want? There's a catch, ONLY tourists can leave . Even though tommy tried to, something happened to him. Which parents use him as an example oto warn their kids.
curiosity is a dangerous thing, this book had so many twists and turns, leaving me wanting more. The suspense was on point, and the characters were also fun!
curiosity is a dangerous thing, this book had so many twists and turns, leaving me wanting more. The suspense was on point, and the characters were also fun!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can picture this being made into a TV series!
Devils Bluff is a small seaside town off the coast of England, a popular retreat for tourists during summer. There's only one road in and one road out, while tourists can come and go as they please, allegedly locals cannot leave - the body of the last local who tried to leave was found on the side of the road, eyes gauged out, burnt from the inside.
Best friends Ryan (Ry) and Zac plan a midnight stroll...
Theme: horror, thriller, supernatural
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Coming of age story, summer vibes, a sense of adventure, night quest, pop up candy store, fog, smoke, survival, darkness, evil.
*Author lives in Australia
I absolutely loved reading this!
Great ending, ending was slightly different to what I expected!! But wowsers 😮
Thank you Mark for selecting me for this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy). Devils Bluff by Mark Towse.
Available now for preorder on Amazon. Release date 3rd March.
Devils Bluff is a small seaside town off the coast of England, a popular retreat for tourists during summer. There's only one road in and one road out, while tourists can come and go as they please, allegedly locals cannot leave - the body of the last local who tried to leave was found on the side of the road, eyes gauged out, burnt from the inside.
Best friends Ryan (Ry) and Zac plan a midnight stroll...
Theme: horror, thriller, supernatural
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Coming of age story, summer vibes, a sense of adventure, night quest, pop up candy store, fog, smoke, survival, darkness, evil.
*Author lives in Australia
I absolutely loved reading this!
Great ending, ending was slightly different to what I expected!! But wowsers 😮
Thank you Mark for selecting me for this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy). Devils Bluff by Mark Towse.
Available now for preorder on Amazon. Release date 3rd March.
February 7, 2026
Imagine if Stephen King, Thomas Olde Heuvelt, and Grady Hendrix had a baby... Now imagine that the baby in question wrote a horror book... I loved this book. The characters and dialogue were relatable and well written. March 3rd you must get yourself this book and join the rest of us in Devil's Bluff.
May 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. It has a nice boyhood spooky adventure feel to it for most of the story. Then it takes a hard left into the dark at the end. I must admit I thought the main character was a bit whiney but it turn out making the ending better in my opinion. The pacing kept me reading well passed my recommended bedtime. I really need to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off...Thank you Mark for the ARC!!
Preoder is up now! Release date is March 3rd. Get your copy preordered now!!
I sat down with my Kindle in hand and did not get up till I was done. From start to finish, this book had me in a chokehold!
Ryan and Zac are best friends who set out to uncover the secret of Devil's Bluff. The banter between these boys is perfect!! And the ending........Wtf??? I did not see that one coming. Perfect balance of mystery, creepyness, and some blood splattered in along the way.
Loved this one Mark!!!! (Please don't be the end!!) My sweaty balls can't take it 😂😭😂
Happy Reading and Splatter On.....
Preoder is up now! Release date is March 3rd. Get your copy preordered now!!
I sat down with my Kindle in hand and did not get up till I was done. From start to finish, this book had me in a chokehold!
Ryan and Zac are best friends who set out to uncover the secret of Devil's Bluff. The banter between these boys is perfect!! And the ending........Wtf??? I did not see that one coming. Perfect balance of mystery, creepyness, and some blood splattered in along the way.
Loved this one Mark!!!! (Please don't be the end!!) My sweaty balls can't take it 😂😭😂
Happy Reading and Splatter On.....
January 23, 2026
Devil’s Bluff is a seemingly perfect coastal tourist town. It’s full of attractions for the kids, beautiful beaches with crystal clear water and friendly natives around to sell delicious food and treats. While the town may seem like paradise, it holds many ominous secrets.
While this is a coming of age story, it was way more dark and intense than I was expecting. The mystery surrounding Devil’s Bluff and its inhabitants really kept me on my toes. There were constant twists and turns and the ending was one that I will definitely be thinking about for a long time. I really enjoyed this one and I think you will too!
While this is a coming of age story, it was way more dark and intense than I was expecting. The mystery surrounding Devil’s Bluff and its inhabitants really kept me on my toes. There were constant twists and turns and the ending was one that I will definitely be thinking about for a long time. I really enjoyed this one and I think you will too!
March 3, 2026
I received this arc copy in return for an honest review.
Well what can I say, this is my 2nd Mark Towse book and I can honestly say that it didn’t disappoint. What a fantastic read, full of suspense, paranormal activity.
If you’re in need of a vacation then I highly recommend Devil’s Bluff. It’s the place to go for beautiful beaches, amazing food, and even more amazing views. The locals are warm and welcoming and can’t do enough for you. However, when it’s time for you to leave, they can’t, they have to stay behind u til the next lot of tourists arrive.
Join me on a holiday of a lifetime and let’s figure out the mystery surrounding Devil’s Bluff. Are you ready for this vacation?
Relax, enjoy, soak up the sun, and let your cares slip away…the mystery grips you and you can’t stop until you figure it out.
5* read right here. Thank you once again Mark for the opportunity to read another one of your amazing books.
Well what can I say, this is my 2nd Mark Towse book and I can honestly say that it didn’t disappoint. What a fantastic read, full of suspense, paranormal activity.
If you’re in need of a vacation then I highly recommend Devil’s Bluff. It’s the place to go for beautiful beaches, amazing food, and even more amazing views. The locals are warm and welcoming and can’t do enough for you. However, when it’s time for you to leave, they can’t, they have to stay behind u til the next lot of tourists arrive.
Join me on a holiday of a lifetime and let’s figure out the mystery surrounding Devil’s Bluff. Are you ready for this vacation?
Relax, enjoy, soak up the sun, and let your cares slip away…the mystery grips you and you can’t stop until you figure it out.
5* read right here. Thank you once again Mark for the opportunity to read another one of your amazing books.
May 10, 2026
There is something very Stephen King about this book. It's a coming-of-age tale in a small town with a definite good verses evil premise.
A newxstore opens and two teens suspect things are too good to be true. The town also has an important rule - you cannot leave. This is something passed through the generations with many examples shared of those who did not listen. One if them being a guy called Tommy Nichols.
It's a good solid story with some well described scenes, and I enjoyed the banter between Ryan and Zac.
It fell just short in the latter stages but was still a really good read.
A newxstore opens and two teens suspect things are too good to be true. The town also has an important rule - you cannot leave. This is something passed through the generations with many examples shared of those who did not listen. One if them being a guy called Tommy Nichols.
It's a good solid story with some well described scenes, and I enjoyed the banter between Ryan and Zac.
It fell just short in the latter stages but was still a really good read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just had the privilege of reading devils bluff
Mark Towse did a fantastic job with this small town horror
Welcome to devils bluff where the tourists can come and go as they please but the residents can never leave
This book had me from page one if your looking for your next small town spooky read add this one to your TBR
It releases march 3rd
Keep this book on your radar!
Mark Towse did a fantastic job with this small town horror
Welcome to devils bluff where the tourists can come and go as they please but the residents can never leave
This book had me from page one if your looking for your next small town spooky read add this one to your TBR
It releases march 3rd
Keep this book on your radar!
March 22, 2026
The book had my attention start to finish! Especially finish because woah 🤯 superb ending!!
Did Not Finish
April 6, 2026DNF at page 43, but it's on me. I made the critical mistake of missing "coming of age" when reading about the book.
I just have no interest in reading a young kid's story anymore
I just have no interest in reading a young kid's story anymore
April 27, 2026
No offense to those who liked it, but I could not get past the plot not moving along. Only so many descriptions of curling smoke, "freak", and old man pecker made me have to call it. I made it 3/4 of the way, so maybe the ending makes it alright, but couldn't finish for me.
March 24, 2026
I am pretty new to the horror genre. I thought this book was ok. I didn't find it remotely scary or spooky. Maybe I wasn't supposed to. I just didn't love it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Devils Bluff seems like an idyllic small beach town, the perfect place to get away from it all. However, not all is as it appears. Teenagers Ryan and his sidekick Noah are determined to uncover the secrets of their hometown.
Devil's Bluff is full of witty teenage dialogue and captures small town life perfectly. This book hooked me immediately and kept me eagerly consuming pages. It's a thrill ride similar to those that exist in this seaside town. Hang on tight for the huge twists this story delivers.
Devil's Bluff is full of witty teenage dialogue and captures small town life perfectly. This book hooked me immediately and kept me eagerly consuming pages. It's a thrill ride similar to those that exist in this seaside town. Hang on tight for the huge twists this story delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Mark Towse’s upcoming novel, Devil’s Bluff, and I’m still reeling! It’s a thriller that truly gets into your head and stays there.
There is a chilling line that sums it up perfectly: "unlike other towns where kids celebrated their coming of age with beer, fast cars and budding romances, his town demanded a different type of initiation."
As someone who lives by the sea, my local beach walks are officially ruined (in the best way possible!). Mark Towse has a way of making "nice places" feel absolutely terrifying.
Keep an eye out for its release this March!
There is a chilling line that sums it up perfectly: "unlike other towns where kids celebrated their coming of age with beer, fast cars and budding romances, his town demanded a different type of initiation."
As someone who lives by the sea, my local beach walks are officially ruined (in the best way possible!). Mark Towse has a way of making "nice places" feel absolutely terrifying.
Keep an eye out for its release this March!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Devìl
Ryan has lived in the small sea side town of Devils Bluff his whole life. The townsfolk can't cross the borders of the town. If they do, they never return. Something gets them. This town has a deep, dark, evil secret. Ryan is about to find out what it is. There is something in the water. Amazing coming of age tale with a surprise ending.
Ryan has lived in the small sea side town of Devils Bluff his whole life. The townsfolk can't cross the borders of the town. If they do, they never return. Something gets them. This town has a deep, dark, evil secret. Ryan is about to find out what it is. There is something in the water. Amazing coming of age tale with a surprise ending.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an advance reader copy from the author.
Devil’s Bluff was a fun, creepy small-town horror with a really moody atmosphere. The seaside setting feels nice at first, but there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right.
I liked the friendship and coming-of-age aspect a lot, and the mystery around the town kept me reading. The scares are more on the eerie side than full-on scary, and while it’s a bit of a slow burn at times, it worked well overall.
I enjoyed this one. If you like small-town horror, creepy town legends it’s definitely worth a read.
Devil’s Bluff was a fun, creepy small-town horror with a really moody atmosphere. The seaside setting feels nice at first, but there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right.
I liked the friendship and coming-of-age aspect a lot, and the mystery around the town kept me reading. The scares are more on the eerie side than full-on scary, and while it’s a bit of a slow burn at times, it worked well overall.
I enjoyed this one. If you like small-town horror, creepy town legends it’s definitely worth a read.
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