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The Exorcism of Sara May
It is 1936. The Great Depression is still strangling America. People are out of work. Out of options. And everyone is desperate. But in the small town of Rath, Minnesota, another kind of evil is holding sway.Something terrible has woken, and the little community will never be the same.
106 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2015
80 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Joe Hart
52 books1,376 followersJoe Hart is the Edgar Award-winning and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of seventeen novels including The River Is Dark, Obscura, The Last Girl, and Or Else. His work has been optioned for film and translated into eight languages. He lives with his family in Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 5, 2021
Rural life sometimes may be dangerous. In this wonderful coming of age story we hear about a young boy named Lane coming across possession and finding the love of his life. The narrative perspective here is quite interesting (told as an old man looking back to the days where it all happened). The characters are quite round and you feel set back to 1936. Is it compelling and eerie? Absolutely. It also has a fine twist at the end and you wonder who the mysterious lady that helped Lane really was. What a dark trip to the countryside. Fully recommended!
November 4, 2015
I loved this one! Lots of frightening moments and lots of plot twists. If you're a fan of horror and you haven't checked out one of Joe Hart's books this is a great place to start.
December 25, 2015
There's something dark lurking in the town of Rath, Minnesota and it's trying to make its presence known. Some strange occurrences start to happen and Lane Murphy just wants to know what is happening and why it's happening.
I'm usually not too keen about novellas because I feel like their always either rushed or there is just not enough substance; however, this was not the case for The Exorcism of Sara May. I definitely believe the story could have been much longer, but for a novella it was good enough for me. Not perfect by any means, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Plus, I was pleasantly surprised by the plot twist at the end. It's one of those things that kinda make sense after you realize what was really happening. This is the second exorcism book I've read this week... still don't know why I'm so interested in them. There were some parts that were a little creepy, but I definitely wouldn't consider this "horror."
I'm usually not too keen about novellas because I feel like their always either rushed or there is just not enough substance; however, this was not the case for The Exorcism of Sara May. I definitely believe the story could have been much longer, but for a novella it was good enough for me. Not perfect by any means, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Plus, I was pleasantly surprised by the plot twist at the end. It's one of those things that kinda make sense after you realize what was really happening. This is the second exorcism book I've read this week... still don't know why I'm so interested in them. There were some parts that were a little creepy, but I definitely wouldn't consider this "horror."
December 13, 2015
4.5 stars.
February 24, 2020
I should have read this in one sitting. I probably would have enjoyed it more. 😜
January 11, 2018
I've read a few of Joe Hart's and really enjoyed them. This title didn't initially attract me, but I started it today and I'm totally hooked. This is a brilliantly written story, the kind you can just sink into a deep chair with and get lost. Set in a very small, rural, American town in the 1930s, the sense of menace and creeping horror is brilliantly done.
I'll update when done.
Finished. This had a brilliant twist I didn't see coming. Well done, Hart.
Highly recommended for those who like literary ghost/horror stories - of the E M Benson, Susan Hill ilk. Deeply evocative of rural American life, well written and definitely a bit spooky.
I'll update when done.
Finished. This had a brilliant twist I didn't see coming. Well done, Hart.
Highly recommended for those who like literary ghost/horror stories - of the E M Benson, Susan Hill ilk. Deeply evocative of rural American life, well written and definitely a bit spooky.
December 11, 2015
Review to Follow!
March 3, 2019
Well done, creepy story.
December 6, 2015
Short and Sweet: Despite a shorter size and somewhat clunky writing, The Exorcism of Sara May packs a variety of creepy and unnerving moments, leading to an unexpected twist and satisfying conclusion.
We are introduced to Lane and his father, veterinarians in the world of post-depression Wisconsin. The town, while small, still boasts some semblance of modest wealth. A late-night, bizarre birth assist kicks us off into strange occurrences that grow stranger and sinister by the day. A malformed blackness crawling from a puddle in broad daylight, a vulture with an unwavering stare, and a plot twist that took me completely by surprise. This tells of an exorcism, but not in quite the way you may think.
While concise, the synopsis doesn’t really do this novella justice. I can see this easily becoming a full-length novel, only for the variety of questions I still had after I turned the last page and caught my breath.
“Lane, hold the lantern steady,” my father said. I did, the trembling in my arms making the glass shade rattle in place. Something growled like a tomcat and there was a wet tearing sound followed by another anguished bleat from Josha.
A match popped alight, blazing like a miniature sun.
In the glow, the two-headed kid stood behind my father on its hind legs, mouths crimson and dripping.
I did scream then."
We are introduced to Lane and his father, veterinarians in the world of post-depression Wisconsin. The town, while small, still boasts some semblance of modest wealth. A late-night, bizarre birth assist kicks us off into strange occurrences that grow stranger and sinister by the day. A malformed blackness crawling from a puddle in broad daylight, a vulture with an unwavering stare, and a plot twist that took me completely by surprise. This tells of an exorcism, but not in quite the way you may think.
While concise, the synopsis doesn’t really do this novella justice. I can see this easily becoming a full-length novel, only for the variety of questions I still had after I turned the last page and caught my breath.
“Lane, hold the lantern steady,” my father said. I did, the trembling in my arms making the glass shade rattle in place. Something growled like a tomcat and there was a wet tearing sound followed by another anguished bleat from Josha.
A match popped alight, blazing like a miniature sun.
In the glow, the two-headed kid stood behind my father on its hind legs, mouths crimson and dripping.
I did scream then."
February 17, 2019
Actually more of a 3.5 stars - caught somewhere between 3 and 4.
There was a lot of really lovely atmosphere in this, the type of chilling and well-executed creepiness that, if expanded, could have built a very solid novel. As a novella, it's not half-finished, but because there's not a lot of length to it, all the frightening elements happen very close to each other. Without the time given to build the slow apprehension between them, they seem rushed together. The ending, in particular, has a great twist to it, but also seems to happen too quickly. I hate saying this, as it's something that I find unhelpful when left as comments, but here, it is very true: I wish this had been a full novel. Fleshed out with the slow building fear and perhaps a strengthening of the relationships, this could have expanded into a spine-tingling historical tale. Still, a quick and very engaging read with some good creepy elements that made my skin crawl. I'll definitely look more into this author - the voice was fresh and intriguing.
There was a lot of really lovely atmosphere in this, the type of chilling and well-executed creepiness that, if expanded, could have built a very solid novel. As a novella, it's not half-finished, but because there's not a lot of length to it, all the frightening elements happen very close to each other. Without the time given to build the slow apprehension between them, they seem rushed together. The ending, in particular, has a great twist to it, but also seems to happen too quickly. I hate saying this, as it's something that I find unhelpful when left as comments, but here, it is very true: I wish this had been a full novel. Fleshed out with the slow building fear and perhaps a strengthening of the relationships, this could have expanded into a spine-tingling historical tale. Still, a quick and very engaging read with some good creepy elements that made my skin crawl. I'll definitely look more into this author - the voice was fresh and intriguing.
August 3, 2017
Short Story Heaven!
Except it was about a creature from Hell. Or beyond. As usual, Joe Heart grabs you, puts you right in the scene and thanks to his excellent writing, you are There! Smelling the warm animal smells in the dark barn, hearing the anguished cries of an abomination, feeling the turned dirt in the fields...and wondering, will you be able to leave? Hart is a tale conjurer. There's something magical about how he can transport you to different times and places, and make the characters come to life. I've read four of his books and now this short story ... he is scary and that's good! He reminds us all that though we may not believe in evil, evil believes in us. Great example in this one short cautionary tale. Read it, you'll know what I mean.
Except it was about a creature from Hell. Or beyond. As usual, Joe Heart grabs you, puts you right in the scene and thanks to his excellent writing, you are There! Smelling the warm animal smells in the dark barn, hearing the anguished cries of an abomination, feeling the turned dirt in the fields...and wondering, will you be able to leave? Hart is a tale conjurer. There's something magical about how he can transport you to different times and places, and make the characters come to life. I've read four of his books and now this short story ... he is scary and that's good! He reminds us all that though we may not believe in evil, evil believes in us. Great example in this one short cautionary tale. Read it, you'll know what I mean.
July 4, 2018
Somewhat short but a nice read nonetheless. Though not all that creepy it has its eerie and unnerving moments. A book with an astonishing twist! I didn't see that one coming.
“Something was stalking me. Something I couldn’t see or that was too fast to catch sight of. The image of the two-headed goat emerged in my mind, its horrible shape zipping onto and off the road on its cloven hind legs”
“A shriveled face peered out of my gaping mouth between the fingers. It was humanesque in the sense that it had a nose and two eyes as well as a mouth, but that was where the similarity stopped”
“Something was stalking me. Something I couldn’t see or that was too fast to catch sight of. The image of the two-headed goat emerged in my mind, its horrible shape zipping onto and off the road on its cloven hind legs”
“A shriveled face peered out of my gaping mouth between the fingers. It was humanesque in the sense that it had a nose and two eyes as well as a mouth, but that was where the similarity stopped”
March 16, 2016
I think what I enjoyed most about this book is that normal tropes were turned upside-down. The book takes place post-Depression, so the young main character's father should be angry, abusive, poor and withholding of affection? No, not really. The main character is seeing strange things. Does his family believe him? Yes, here they actually they do. The exorcist should be an old religious white guy? Not so much. This book surprised me by not being exactly what I expected, and for that, I enjoyed it immensely.
January 31, 2016
A Creepy Good Read
I mistook Author Joe Heart's "The Exorcism of Sara May" for a Joe Hill story. Turns out it was a perfect mistake as this quick little read was every bit as good as a Joe Hill or Stephen King book. If you like either of those story tellers and like a creepy but good tale, try this one. The writing is clever and straight to the point. You can just about read it in one sitting and it's just interesting and scary enough to keep you reading to the end.
I mistook Author Joe Heart's "The Exorcism of Sara May" for a Joe Hill story. Turns out it was a perfect mistake as this quick little read was every bit as good as a Joe Hill or Stephen King book. If you like either of those story tellers and like a creepy but good tale, try this one. The writing is clever and straight to the point. You can just about read it in one sitting and it's just interesting and scary enough to keep you reading to the end.
February 2, 2016
Creepy with a twist
What started out as a fairly normal story,all of a sudden twists and turns like you're on a rollercoaster ride! What and where you thought this was going suddenly goes way off the map you thought you had . Great book,I would tell you why I didn't give it that last star, but that would spoil it.
What started out as a fairly normal story,all of a sudden twists and turns like you're on a rollercoaster ride! What and where you thought this was going suddenly goes way off the map you thought you had . Great book,I would tell you why I didn't give it that last star, but that would spoil it.
November 28, 2015
Twisted in all the right ways
Was so happy to read an exorcism story with an amazing twist! Loved it, recommend to any fans of modern horror!
Was so happy to read an exorcism story with an amazing twist! Loved it, recommend to any fans of modern horror!
February 19, 2020
What a pleasant surprise it was. Another Joe Hart read for me and another excellent or say exceptional story to read. I really couldn't ask for more. Very much enthusiastic and entertaining to read. Joe Hart never displeased me, same goes to this book too...
The story was too good, too good to read. I just kept reading and admiring the writing style og the author. The fear, terrible incident of something unnatural thinh, well there's everything in it. In some point I was almost in verge of my nerve. But of course I kept going with the story and didn't have to wait for very long to enter in the main twist plot...
Lane and Jones best friend of their childhood only in fourteen years they both studying in school. Where their family lives thier life by doing agriculture and farming. Lane with his only best buddy Jones leading their life in fluid happiness, enjoying the moment of their childhood. And there's that girl and their classmate friend named Sara. Lane with obvious fact did have some strong feelings for Sara and Sara knew it too. But the problem is it was not all about of that love on first sign fact but something else with disturbing elements which was yet happen in near future in the story. It was something that Lane, Jones and Sara couldn't think of it, never. There's something very dark in there, people can feel it, something changing everything. But what it was really? Why the exorcism ritual? Was that really for Sara May? Or was there something else about that matter? You better read the story to dig out the answer...
The experience with this one by Joe Hart, I would say this totally make me feel very good through my mind. I could recall some events of this book and I liked the childhood crash thing and romance of Lane and Sara. If it was a romance book but not horror I think it would definitely stand out very beautifully as romance story, but it didn't happen and I glad it didn't (no offence of course, as I am hardcore Horror reader). So, yes thanks again to the Author again for bringing such best horror story of his work. Never have any doubt in me wherever I choose his book I repeat he never displeased me...
Love to give 5...
April 26, 2022
This was such a creepy and well written book. I love possession/exorcism books but I am always a little worried I won't enjoy a book that has a historic setting. I usually like modern hauntings. This one totally blew that idea out of the water. I felt like I was there, in Rath, watching this all play out and I LOVED it. It was creepy and scary. I loved the characters and loved the unexpected twist! Definitely looking to explore more from this author as this was my first read.
June 1, 2017
This book started off quite promising. It was quite creepy and engrossing and I really enjoyed the rural setting during the depression era. However, the author must have lost interest because all of a sudden he was wrapping up the story with a plot twist that wasn't entirely convincing. It was quite disappointing as it had great potential for a full length novel.
November 12, 2017
Wonderful
I've spent the last week reading everything by Joe Hart. Zoey,Quinn and so many unforgettable characters,so many wonderful places. Thank You. If you liked reading King or any of the greats you will Love anything by him.
I've spent the last week reading everything by Joe Hart. Zoey,Quinn and so many unforgettable characters,so many wonderful places. Thank You. If you liked reading King or any of the greats you will Love anything by him.
June 5, 2020
A definite page turner. Short enough to get 'stuck' in this book to get to the end asap.
June 7, 2016
I really like the characters in this book. In particular I enjoyed the interactions between Lane and his father. His father catches a glimpse of something that was chasing Lane shortly after the goat incident–and because he saw that thing, and even shot at it, he’s able to listen and believe as Lane tells him about each new strange event. Eventually Lane’s best friend Jones also sees one of the mysterious events. For once we don’t have the stereotype of the person who can’t tell anyone about anything lest he be thought insane–he actually has a couple of people who trust his observations. Lane is also in love with a local girl, Sara May, whose father hires Lane and Jones to help dig stumps out of his new field. As the dark and dangerous events ramp up, Lane’s father goes off to find an exorcist. Instead of a priest, he comes back with a woman named Catherine Abercrombie. Catherine wants Lane at the exorcism because he cares about Sara and she seems to care for him, so it’ll make things easier. For a horror novella, this tale actually packs in a fast-paced thrill ride that somehow manages to establish so much personality in his mixed group of locals.
Catherine seems to show up out of nowhere and things move even faster after she arrives. Some of the odd language she speaks feels a little silly. Ultimately I liked her, though. The exorcism is extremely difficult, and it has repercussions. I’m trying not to say too much about it, because there are some great things I don’t want to spoil for you.
I have a strong taste for horror novellas right now, and I think this one compares favorably to many of the ones I’ve read recently. I’ll have to look for more stories by Joe Hart.
Original review on my site: http://www.errantdreams.com/2016/06/r...
Catherine seems to show up out of nowhere and things move even faster after she arrives. Some of the odd language she speaks feels a little silly. Ultimately I liked her, though. The exorcism is extremely difficult, and it has repercussions. I’m trying not to say too much about it, because there are some great things I don’t want to spoil for you.
I have a strong taste for horror novellas right now, and I think this one compares favorably to many of the ones I’ve read recently. I’ll have to look for more stories by Joe Hart.
Original review on my site: http://www.errantdreams.com/2016/06/r...
December 18, 2023
Grade: 93%
Rating: ★★★★★
This Novella was beautifully constructed. I was a little worried about it due to its summary but I heard great things about the author and the novella, and I thought why not? I'm glad that I did read it because I will never forget it. This is a dark and gripping tale of a supernatural being tormenting the lives of fourteen-year-old Lane Murphy, his family, friends, and townspeople. While the story in its entirety is relatively PG, I would have to say only mature readers read it due to a few sexual comments that might spike conversation.
Rating: ★★★★★
This Novella was beautifully constructed. I was a little worried about it due to its summary but I heard great things about the author and the novella, and I thought why not? I'm glad that I did read it because I will never forget it. This is a dark and gripping tale of a supernatural being tormenting the lives of fourteen-year-old Lane Murphy, his family, friends, and townspeople. While the story in its entirety is relatively PG, I would have to say only mature readers read it due to a few sexual comments that might spike conversation.
April 8, 2016
Ok...... this book had a INCREDIBLE wow and pow factor!! Just the cover alone made me not read in the dark, and at times I HAD to.
It was so dang good...despite the unfortunate times I had to go to sleep, it was hard to put down.
LOL... Mr Hart, the ending was such a surprise that it literally dropped my mouth open and I said... wait,, WHAT !!!
Excellent book though, you wont be disappointed !
It was so dang good...despite the unfortunate times I had to go to sleep, it was hard to put down.
LOL... Mr Hart, the ending was such a surprise that it literally dropped my mouth open and I said... wait,, WHAT !!!
Excellent book though, you wont be disappointed !
November 6, 2015
I wanted more.
I felt like this had the potential to be so much more than it was. I wanted more from this. The descriptions of what was affecting the town were scary and gripping, and I just wanted *more*. It felt like it wrapped up too quickly. I love Hart's work, and I guess I just feel like this really just left me wanting.
I felt like this had the potential to be so much more than it was. I wanted more from this. The descriptions of what was affecting the town were scary and gripping, and I just wanted *more*. It felt like it wrapped up too quickly. I love Hart's work, and I guess I just feel like this really just left me wanting.
February 13, 2020
Another awesome read by Joe Hart
I don't even know how these stories take root in Mr. Harts head but yet again another thrilling, chilling tale was birthed. The ending took a surprising turn that I never saw coming. I love everything written by this author and am never disappointed.
I don't even know how these stories take root in Mr. Harts head but yet again another thrilling, chilling tale was birthed. The ending took a surprising turn that I never saw coming. I love everything written by this author and am never disappointed.
February 20, 2016
Thrilling
This book was really good. When I read horror novels I either expect to be blown away or left wanting more. This story blew me away. Even in the short amount of pages I felt completely satisfied after I finished reading it. There was plenty of suspense and gore and unexpected turns in the story to set it apart from all of the other exorcism novels out there.
This book was really good. When I read horror novels I either expect to be blown away or left wanting more. This story blew me away. Even in the short amount of pages I felt completely satisfied after I finished reading it. There was plenty of suspense and gore and unexpected turns in the story to set it apart from all of the other exorcism novels out there.
December 5, 2015
Joe Hart did an amazing job of creating a perfect setting for this book. The atmosphere was tangible and made me feel creeped out on several occasions.
I loved this story... up until the end. It felt contrived, which is a shame because the rest of the book was outstanding.
I loved this story... up until the end. It felt contrived, which is a shame because the rest of the book was outstanding.
December 16, 2015
Great novella
Loved the writing, the characters, the storyline. Wow would have loved it to be longer. Read in one sitting. The story is scary in a way that you can believe it happened.
Loved the writing, the characters, the storyline. Wow would have loved it to be longer. Read in one sitting. The story is scary in a way that you can believe it happened.
December 29, 2015
Awesome
How can you not love a story that has friendship , love , and demons. Joe Hart has done a great job with this story. Your reading along assuming you know what's going to happy and the all the sudden..... plot twist. Loved it
How can you not love a story that has friendship , love , and demons. Joe Hart has done a great job with this story. Your reading along assuming you know what's going to happy and the all the sudden..... plot twist. Loved it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews