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Voices

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Sometimes the ghosts from your past…are real.

Moira claims to hear voices and is sent a psychiatric hospital. Her doctor is hesitant to treat her as schizophrenic, as she doesn't show typical symptoms. As their sessions progress, she confesses there are two voices—and they aren't voices in her head, but the voices of ghosts.
And one is determined to drag her into the afterlife with him.

264 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 19, 2015

4 people are currently reading
227 people want to read

About the author

Clarissa Johal

11 books60 followers
Clarissa Johal is the bestselling author of paranormal novels, THE LIGHTHOUSE, WHISPERS IN THE WOOD, POPPY, THE ISLAND, VOICES, STRUCK, and BETWEEN. When she's not listening to the ghosts in her head, she's swinging from a trapeze, or taking pictures of gargoyles.

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5 stars
23 (57%)
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14 (35%)
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2 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Sandra Love.
Author 11 books276 followers
May 5, 2015
Received a Copy!
5 Brilliant Stars
I was intrigued by the description of this book, so I wanted to review this book. Boy am I glad. This book was one of those books that when you start you have to know what is going to happen. I was not able to put this book down. I love how the author added those twist in there, there were some OMG moments. Moira is hunted, she is followed by ghost. Without giving anything away, those ghost are tied to her for a reason. I thought the character growth was amazing along with the story line. AMAZING!!! A must read!
May 25, 2015
Wow. That one word pretty much sums up my reaction to this book. Johal managed to suck me in from the first page and I did not want to put it down. I absolutely loved the concept–a woman sentenced to time in a psych ward for a crime committed by the ghost that haunts her, a doctor forced to rethink what he knows, people that may not be as crazy as they appear… pure genius.

The story was extremely well written. The plot was well developed; the intrigue and suspense kept me riveted. Reading the blurb, I knew that one of the ghosts had sinister intentions but I kept guessing which one truly wished her harm and wondered when one would make the move to take her out. I couldn’t force myself to put the book down (in fact, I kinda whined a little when my phone died on me and I had to wait for it to charge). Another factor I found addicting was the way the author kept hinting at the possibility of a romantic relationship. One moment I’d think there was something between Moira and Richard and then a few pages later, there was an interaction with Adam that made me wonder what could happen between them. I kept wavering about which character I wanted her end up with–the sympathetic doctor or the patient that claims to see her ghosts. Both men want to protect her and they are willing to do whatever it takes.

I fell in love with the characters. Moira isn’t crazy although the tragedies of her past could easily drive anyone to the breaking point. The ghosts that haunt her have very distinctive personalities and they have different reasons for hanging around poor Moria. Isabella is a six-year-old child and exists as a perpetual annoyance (any parent out there would understand that phase–now imagine living with that for more than a decade). Jack is possessive and territorial; constantly trying to keep Moira isolated from any male attention (yeah, the girl is lucky she hasn’t gone insane). But Moira is strong but resigned to do whatever it takes to make it through her involuntary commitment, even if it means taking medication for an illness she doesn’t have. Dr. Cassano is compassionate and dedicated to helping people, unlike his colleagues who just medicated their patients into complacency. His back story explains why he is compelled to believe that Moira isn’t crazy. I admire the way he doesn’t buckle under pressure–he does what is right for his patient instead of following the general consensus. Adam is my favorite though. Like Moira, he isn’t crazy. Unfortunately, those around him don’t believe it. He comes off a bit jaded and he harbors a lot of anger towards his brother who keeps having him committed. But he is charming and sarcastic (a sexy combination in my opinion)–a completely lovable rogue.

Even though this is a paranormal, it has a very realistic feel, particularly in the characterizations: The apathy displayed by many of the doctors and staff of the hospital. The presence of the good-hearted individuals who still believe they can make a difference. The resiliency of those stuck in crappy situations. The power of family and their ability to either lift you up or drag you down. All of these elements make the story very believable–whether you believe in ghosts or not.

I give this one a perfect 10/5 star rating AND I will be adding this author to my favorites list. This is the second book I’ve read by Johal and both books have impressed me. I’m off to check out her other books and make sure I’m kept in the loop on upcoming releases. I can’t wait to see what she come up with next.
Profile Image for Sapphyria  .
2,265 reviews59 followers
May 27, 2015
Being haunted by two separate ghosts, Moira finds herself committed to a local mental health facility when of them decides to force her into violence. While there, the reader gets a fully developed explanation of who Moira is, who is attached to her, and why they are there. Moira's upbringing is less than ideal; until she and her brother were placed in the last foster home, there were problems aplenty. There is so much pain and tragedy and the author does an exceptional job of making them so realistic in the novel.

The whole structure of Voices is so different and unique from anything else I've read. I was pulled in from the very beginning from Clarissa's vivid imagery, great writing, and suspense. The character development and world building is executed nicely - not too fast, not too slow and with only the information that the reader truly needs to know.

Moira is a strong character - anyone else in her position may have cracked long ago, not endured as she has. The spirits that plague her have also isolated her. Moira keeps most people at arm's length because getting too close causes issues with some jealous dead people.

Moira's doctor, Richard Cassano, isn't the traditional type that pushes meds on all of this patients because it's easier than actually treating them. There aren't any signs of schizophrenia other than her admittance of hearing a voice or two. Richard must also confront his own demons, so-to-speak, when he realizes that Moira isn't just hearing voices; she's hearing the voices of real ghosts who happen to be attached to her. With his belief system tested, Richard must now dive deep into her past and figure out who is attached to Moira and why.

Adam Blackwood is a regular at the facility. He also sees and hears ghosts but his brother keeps having him committed against his will. Adam sees the entities attached to Moira and, after a time, begins instructing her on how to keep the spirits at bay. He's snarky and smart-mouthed; his coping mechanism for the hand he was dealt.

The connections that are built between Moira & Adam and Moira & Dr. Cassano will keep the reader guessing as to whom will be the knight in shining armor - if there even is one. With the malevolent entity attempting to control Moira, there may not be anything anyone can to do save her - especially when the evil grows out of control.

An excellent book, Voices will keep the reader up at night or from being productive at anything until the very last page is read. I highly recommend Voices to anyone who loves the paranormal combined with psychological ties, and rounded off nicely with suspense. You won't be disappointed!

Review copy courtesy of the author, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Star.
1,290 reviews61 followers
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July 18, 2015
VOICES is the story of Moira Flynn. Sentenced to a psych ward for a crime she didn’t commit, she’s being treated by Dr. Richard Cassano for what people believe is to be schizophrenia. However, Moira’s heard voices ever since she was young. During her ongoing treatment, she admits the voices aren’t in her head, but are two ghosts which are attached to her. One is a little girl, Isabella, and the other is Jack, a man who is intent on making Moira suffer the same fate he did. VOICES is beautifully written, with a well-developed plot and well-rounded characters. I was impressed at the flexibility Dr. Cassano showed when it came to Moira’s treatment and didn’t just shove medication down her throat. While VOICES is largely a paranormal story, the psychiatric aspects were very detailed and captured what seem to be realistic attitudes and beliefs of doctors and staff. Moira’s strength and resilience in the face of her ordeal is an inspiration. VOICES is an outstanding novel which showcases the writer’s abilities.
Profile Image for Cheap and Lazy.
676 reviews8 followers
June 21, 2015
First, I have to say that I like how the cover actually conveyed the mood and substance of the story, the title too. All of the main characters in this story are fully drawn, and even the bit players are consistent and realistic. That’s the thing about Ms. Johal’s characters, they are believable. Which makes the horror/paranormal elements believable (in this case, ghosts). I couldn’t help but put myself in Moira’s place (and it truly is a bad one). I felt sorry for her, and proud of her for being brave. I felt tired and confused and scared right along with her. The natural progression of the relationships between the characters and the slow reveal of their secrets satisfied me in the way only a good book can. The sweet promise of romance (and enough barriers to make me doubt its outcome) were icing on the cake. Finding an author you can trust to deliver the goods, and doesn’t make you read a series to keep enjoying her books, is a treasure indeed.
Profile Image for Vanessa Kings.
Author 5 books78 followers
May 28, 2015
I’ve read Clarissa’s books before and she just keeps surprising me. I had very high expectations with Voices, and I am not disappointed. This book had me hooked to it from the minute I met the characters and realized that one of the spirits is just a six-year-old little girl!
Moira is trying so hard to ignore the ghosts that became her every-day companions, just to find herself often feeling more comfortable in their presence than with “real people”. At least with them, she doesn’t have to pretend to be normal.
Clarissa manages to keep the suspense until the last minute, and you will find yourself wondering how things will solve all the time.
I really enjoyed the story and I wish we get a lot more of this amazing author’s books. I will never get tired of them!
Profile Image for Teresa Kander.
Author 1 book186 followers
May 22, 2015
I was intrigued by the description of this book, and it did not disappoint. There is suspense, humor, paranormal activity and romance all in the same book. Moira has two ghosts attached to her, for very different reasons. In the hospital, she meets another patient who believes her, because he deals with ghosts as well. The experiences they have on the way to solving Moira's problems are engrossing, and you will find this book tough to put down once you start reading it. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Jeanette A.
18 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2015
When the voices in your head start to cause real-world damage...
First off, there are a few things about this book that had me attracted to it from the get-go. I’m obsessed with mental hospitals, particularly poorly run ones. This is due to a morbid curiosity that was sparked at an early age, possibly by reading One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest waaaay earlier than is recommended. Also, there’s just something about the concept of insanity, dreams, and creativity that intrigues me. One is not so far from another and when they all blend together the mind walks a dangerous line between them all. So you’ve got a mental hospital, a fragile but likable character in Moira, with ghosts lurking around. That adds up to me being on board from page 1.

Now, even though there are ghosts involved, the haunting aspects aren’t as frequent as I would have liked, but there were some delightfully chilling scenes wrapped into the story. The moments where we get to see through Adam’s eyes at the mangled spirits that come after him, those were the best moments horror-wise. With Moira’s interaction with the two spirits attached to her it was a very different story. It is here that this book falls more into the realm of psychological suspense rather than paranormal. One of the spirits is an incredibly angry thing that is dead set on taking his fury out on Moira. There are many unsettling interactions between Moira and her malignant spirit. But rather than these interactions feeling like a traditional ghost story, they felt more like a narrative about an abusive relationship.This entity forces Moira to isolate herself and live in a constant state of fear because of the mental and physical abuse this spirit is laying on her. She becomes so small and fragile during this story, that she ends up seeking out a “knight in shining armor” to help protect her. Or rather, a psychic in flowing hospital gowns. Eh, close enough. Her need to seek out a protector was a little too meek for my tastes in a heroine but the way the story ended really turned that around.

I really enjoyed the development of the secondary characters, Dr Cassano and Adam. They both were so interesting and engaging that I was a little disappointed that there wasn’t more development in their character arcs. I wanted to see more of their lives and what their experience was like. Apart from that, I really enjoyed the characters and the world that was created.

Voices is a solid 4 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed the character arc of Moira and how this story seemed to explore the damage of abusive relationships without being too literal, but it would have been knocked out of the park if it had just a touch more development in Dr. Cassano and Adam.

If you enjoy ghosts, mental institutions, sexy but crazy psychics and a story focused on the female narrative, then I think you will enjoy this book.
Profile Image for Regan.
120 reviews15 followers
July 15, 2015
Moira is an intelligent, vibrant protagonist. As children, both her and her younger brother were both wards of the state. Hidden deep within her are stories of traumatic events from her youth; stories that lead to spiritual attachments. Now, she's a professional architect who is troubled. When a door-to-door religious peddler comes to her door, her life is torn apart.

Moira finds herself committed in a mental hospital. She's stuck in a tug-o-war with mental health professionals who feel she's schizophrenic and needs medications, and those who actually believe she may be haunted by something evil. Moira's brother, Liam, her foster mother Mom Adel and her therapist all push to get her early release and into the care of her brother.

Moira connects with another patient, and with his help, she attempts to purge her attachments.

I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read, entertaining, and well written. Clarissa is a strong author who weaves a fantastic storyline and creates believable characters. Her stories in the paranormal genre' never disappoint.

You know it's wonderful book when you're still up at 5am reading until you've finished. I look forward to more books Clarissa Johal puts out. You will not be disappointed with Voices by Clarissa Johal.
Profile Image for Michelle (Bookaholic Banter).
774 reviews161 followers
March 2, 2016
A hidden gem! A thrill ride from beginning to end!

This was the first book I have ever read from this author. I was pleasantly surprised! I really loved it! I will definitely be reading more of this author's novels. The night I picked this book up and started reading it, I couldn't put it down. I wound up staying up way past my bedtime and finishing half of the book. It is one of those stories you will want to read in one sitting. I flew through this book very quickly.

You can read my full review on my website: www.bookaholicbanter.com

* I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Reading Deals so I could give an honest review. *
Profile Image for Books.With.Becki.
94 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2022
Quick Read

I really enjoyed this book. The writing felt a little off at times. I hope to read more by this author.
Profile Image for Darlene.
376 reviews28 followers
December 16, 2015
I received an ARC from the author CLARISSA JOHAL-in exchange for an honest opinion. This is Mismousey’s very honest opinion of her book VOICES.

Having never read anything that Clarissa Johal has written. I was unsure of what to expect. But- I can say this- from the very first page of the book. You are held hostage! Voices is a edge of your page /seat read. You have to know what is going to happen next.

Ms. Johal is an exceptional author with her writing. When she takes her pen to paper- she creates such a creative -mind blowing story. One that will make you think. Can or does this happen ?

As our story opens we find our main character Moira Flynn in a mental hospital. It was part of her plea deal with the judge. If she went there and seeked help for voluntary treatment. Then the charges would be dropped. So here she is. Now Moira and her 2 friends (voices that no one hears or sees) basically stay in her room. That is until a new kid comes by the name of Adam Blackwood. They seemed to have something in common. Except Adam could actually see her ghosts. And he knew that one of them is not good at all. Adam decides to hang out with Moira. The doctors are trying to medicate him -however her doctor doesn’t feel it would be in her best interest to.

As Moira starts talking to her therapist Dr. Cassano. He finds out more and more about her and her childhood. He also finds out about the voices she is hearing. Dr. Cassano is starting to think that she is not schizophrenic-but is actually hearing voices in her head. If that is possible. He has a friend that deals with superstitions and how to rid them.

As time goes on Richard (who is Dr. Cassano) finds out that the little girl Isabella was one of the children at the foster home where she lived. Some thing happened there and to her. Now -I’m not gonna tell you what or how Isabella leaves Moira alone for good. As that would be giving away a spoiler. Let’s just say YOU NEED TO READ THIS AMAZING BOOK!!

Now Adam get away from the hospital and gets Moira also. Together they escape to a new place. Although she is still being bothered by that one ghost Jack. He wants to make her his. He keeps taking her back to the last night he was alive. Poor Moira- she keeps thinking that its her fault that he died. When Adam is around – Jack isn’t. Although he is starting to get stronger .

When Adam and Moira are in the forest hiding out together. Some things start to happen. Richard is looking for her as she is in danger not from Adam but from Jack.

Will Adam be able to save Moira from Jack? What about Richard ? Can Richard save both Adam and Moira ? And what happens with the hospital?

This story has so many twist and turns in . It keeps you on your toes! You never know what to expect. From the very first page it captures your attention. And holds it till the very end. I can say this -it is a edge of the seat/edge of the page turner. I recommend this book to all readers- especially those that paranormal. Mismousey gives it a firm 70 out 5 stars.

Now make sure to ADD THIS TO YOUR GOODREADS READING LIST
Profile Image for Melissa.
652 reviews18 followers
December 3, 2015
A Spine Tingling Page Turner!
If you are reading this review to see if this book is for you, then yes it is. Go buy it now! Oh you want more...*sigh* fiiiine don't believe me, but you will :)
I was totally hooked right from the beginning, before the beginning actually, when I got to the part of the synopsis that read "Moira confesses there are two voices--and they aren't voices in her head, but the voices of ghosts. Are they imaginary? Or are they actual spirits, attached to her for reasons of their own? As Moira's doctor uncovers more of her past, he begins to realize that her ghosts are real. And one of them is determined to drag Moira into the afterlife with him." I knew that this was a book that I NEEDED to read. The plot is so amazing, with so much intrigue and suspense to spare that I could not put this book down. I was totally glued to each page completely unaware of anything but what I was reading, experiencing even. The author really paints such a fantastically vivid picture, that you really are transported. I felt so totally connected with Moira, she is such a well developed, very real character, very strong, who is not crazy, but would have many reasons to be so. This is my first chance to read anything by this author but I can tell you for sure that it will not be my last! See? Now hurry up and grab your copy! I was generously given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Cassy .
136 reviews12 followers
January 11, 2016
First of all, I want to comment on the cover. it's perfect for this book. When I read the synopsis of this book, I knew I had to read it. I'm a sucker for books on mental illness and paranormal. Put them together and you have a recipe for a great book. I was not disappointed.

Moira Flynn finds herself under a court committal to a psychiatric hospital for a crime she didn't necessarily commit. Yes, she hears voices. Yes, she can see things no one else can see, but she's not schizophrenic like they want to treat her for. No one wants to believe she has 2 ghosts attached to her. Ghosts of people from her past. Isabella and Jack haunt her every waking minute. She's lost all hope that anyone would ever believe her when, Adam, another psych patient in the hospital, tells her that he can see her ghosts too. What's better is that they leave her alone when he's around her. More importantly Jack can't follow her when Adam's around. Jack is getting stronger, and his power over her is getting stronger. He won't stop until she's his forever.

I loved the whole book. I couldn't put the book down once I started. It's a unique story and really hooks you in. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Clarissa Johal. 5 well-deserved stars!
Profile Image for Judy.
33 reviews4 followers
October 27, 2015
Great ghost story! A woman name Moira has a problem with Jack and Isabella, two spirits that seems to like to hang around her.One is harmless the other not so much.Moira ends up in a Psych Ward because Jack got her in trouble. She soon learns that she is in real danger from Jack and needs help.She slowly confides in her assigned psychiatrist Dr. Cassano about what is happening to her.It doesn't take too long for him to be convinced that she is not schizophrenic and that her voices are real after he witnessed some strange things when she was in his office. While she's at the facility she meets another patient who suffers from ghost as well. Adam has been seeing ghost most of his life.He & Moira team up to help each other but they soon develop romantic feelings. Jack loathes Adam and makes things difficult for Moira.You get a few glimpse through the book on why Jack and Isabella are attached to Moira.Towards the end you learn the whole truth.This was an enjoyable book.It was a bit eerie but definitely full of suspense that kept me intrigued.I give it 5 stars.
Profile Image for Marissa.
3,581 reviews47 followers
November 30, 2015
Kindle Copy for Review

Moira Flynn finds herself arrested for attacking a door-to-door solicitor with a knife. Claiming a voice told her the man was going to assaulting her. Only problem she was the only one that heard the voice. Moira ends up striking a plea bargain as she is sent to a psychiatric hospital for voluntary treatment.

Dr. Richard Cassano is at first hesitant to treat her as schizophrenic because she does not show the standard symptoms. As their sessions progress, Moira confesses that there are two voices. The voices she hears are of ghosts and not in her head.

The problem are they imaginary or are they actual spirits that are attached to her for reasons of their own. As Moira’s doctor uncovers more of her past, he begins to realize that her ghosts are very real. That one of them is wants to drag Moira into the afterlife with him.

A fascinating read that moves along.
Profile Image for Sharon.
278 reviews
February 5, 2016
This psychological thriller was engrossing from the beginning. Moira, the main character, was thoroughly developed and I found myself completely mesmerized by her. I loved that Ms. Johal gradually led the reader into Moira's life, thoughts and history, telling just enough to bring the reader into the story but not too much which would have ruined the suspense. I will definitely read future books by this author and absolutely recommend this book to anyone who appreciates psychological thrillers combined with paranormal elements! I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, so I could give an honest review.
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