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Dark Shadows
My name’s Ella Raimi.
Until last week, my life was pretty normal for a sixteen-year-old. Until I spent that awful night trapped in the janitor's closet in utter darkness. Until the dreams began — suffocating, panic-filled dreams. My best friend Kyla stays with me, but the dreams still continue. And I wake each morning with cuts & burns on my skin. I don’t recall inflicting them.
And then there is the blood on my hands and my sheets when I wake up.
I’m afraid of myself.
I'm afraid I am a killer.
~~~
This is a standalone title.
Until last week, my life was pretty normal for a sixteen-year-old. Until I spent that awful night trapped in the janitor's closet in utter darkness. Until the dreams began — suffocating, panic-filled dreams. My best friend Kyla stays with me, but the dreams still continue. And I wake each morning with cuts & burns on my skin. I don’t recall inflicting them.
And then there is the blood on my hands and my sheets when I wake up.
I’m afraid of myself.
I'm afraid I am a killer.
~~~
This is a standalone title.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
3 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 3, 2017
The perfect creepfest! Keeps you guessing and on the edge-of-your-seat. Sixteen-year-old Ella Raimi doesn't fit in at her school and is being bullied. One day, the bullying goes too far and Ella's life is changed. She tries to maintain some semblance of a normal life but horrifying discoveries make that near impossible. This is a book you won't be able to put down till you've reached the end. It's a quick read, but so worth your time. Gimme more by this talented author.
February 27, 2015
Oh, man, such a great, creepy book! So good, and I just loved that ending! So creepy, and yeah, just fantastic! Totally great!
November 11, 2015
When a group of high school bullies lock Ella Raimi inside of a janitorial closet on a Friday night and leave her there she isn't found until Saturday morning. Ella is in a state of shock when found and as she comes out of it she insists she OK and doesn't want to involve the police about her bullies.
Ella only has one friend, Kyla. Kyla stays with Ella after her incident and tries to care for her but shortly after the closet incident Ella begins to have horrible nightmares and find she wakes up to finding things have happened and no memory of them. Is Kyla somehow to blame? Is Ella doing these things in her sleep??
An excellent psychological thriller that pulls you in from the first moments of Ella being locked up in the closet and won't let go until the end. I did however figure out the ending fairly early on but even with guessing I still didn't want to put the story down until done.
Ella pulled me into her story from the first few moments just knowing that she would have such an interesting story to tell and definitely was not disappointed in the least. A rather emotional roller coaster that even when finishing a part of me is still thinking noooo I want to read more about Ella and what will happen. Always find it good to have a story or characters that it's hard to let them go when finished.
Great fast paced read that was tough to put down until finished.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Ella only has one friend, Kyla. Kyla stays with Ella after her incident and tries to care for her but shortly after the closet incident Ella begins to have horrible nightmares and find she wakes up to finding things have happened and no memory of them. Is Kyla somehow to blame? Is Ella doing these things in her sleep??
An excellent psychological thriller that pulls you in from the first moments of Ella being locked up in the closet and won't let go until the end. I did however figure out the ending fairly early on but even with guessing I still didn't want to put the story down until done.
Ella pulled me into her story from the first few moments just knowing that she would have such an interesting story to tell and definitely was not disappointed in the least. A rather emotional roller coaster that even when finishing a part of me is still thinking noooo I want to read more about Ella and what will happen. Always find it good to have a story or characters that it's hard to let them go when finished.
Great fast paced read that was tough to put down until finished.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
January 2, 2016
Ella Raimi is shoved into a janitor's closet Friday after school and isn't found until the next morning. The darkness eats at her while confined in the closet and continues to haunt her in her sleep afterwards. Every time she sleeps, the darkness takes over. It begins with horrible nightmares, but then she starts to wake up with cuts and burns, totally unaware of where they are coming from. Then the awful morning when she wakes up with blood covering her clothes and bedding. Her best friend Kyla sticks by her side; however, she's starting to wonder if she is to blame, or is it herself?
This is more of a 4.5/5, but it is worthy of rounding up. I haven't read a psychological thriller in a loooong time, so I was super into this. As soon as Ella was shoved into the closet, I was hooked. I did kinda figure out the ending a little over half-way through the story, but it still did not disappoint! I found myself not wanting to put the book down and when it ended I wanted more. I definitely want to read more about Ella and Kyla. If you're looking for a quick psych thriller to read, I'd definitely rec!
This is more of a 4.5/5, but it is worthy of rounding up. I haven't read a psychological thriller in a loooong time, so I was super into this. As soon as Ella was shoved into the closet, I was hooked. I did kinda figure out the ending a little over half-way through the story, but it still did not disappoint! I found myself not wanting to put the book down and when it ended I wanted more. I definitely want to read more about Ella and Kyla. If you're looking for a quick psych thriller to read, I'd definitely rec!
November 12, 2015
5 Stars for a fantastic book!!
Toni Vallan had me hanging onto every word in this psychological thriller, I only once put my kindle down and even then I didn't want to stop reading. I have read many psychological thrillers before and Dark Shadows is definitely one of the best I have read. No matter how much I tried to work out what was going on throughout the story, Toni surprised me and made it pretty much impossible to work out the truth until the very end and had me second guessing everything along the way.
The ending really threw me for a curve ball, I was not expecting that. I really didn't want this fast paced read to end and I wanted to know a lot more about Ella and her story and what's going to happen next for her.
Dark Shadows, is fantastic, captivating, gut-wrenching and one of the best psychological thrillers I have read this year. One that should not be missed!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review..
Toni Vallan had me hanging onto every word in this psychological thriller, I only once put my kindle down and even then I didn't want to stop reading. I have read many psychological thrillers before and Dark Shadows is definitely one of the best I have read. No matter how much I tried to work out what was going on throughout the story, Toni surprised me and made it pretty much impossible to work out the truth until the very end and had me second guessing everything along the way.
The ending really threw me for a curve ball, I was not expecting that. I really didn't want this fast paced read to end and I wanted to know a lot more about Ella and her story and what's going to happen next for her.
Dark Shadows, is fantastic, captivating, gut-wrenching and one of the best psychological thrillers I have read this year. One that should not be missed!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review..
August 7, 2015
Review to come
March 3, 2015
How does a person live with herself, her family, and those around her, without seeing what they see?
Ella Raimi is one such person. Life has been difficult for her in a new school, where she doesn’t seem to fit in with anyone. She’s fortunate to have one good friend, Kyla. And this friend is the only person she can turn to after a prank turns into serious trauma for the bullied junior.
Ella keeps much to herself, telling only her friend, but the truth will out. And when the murders start happening, and Kyla becomes a troublesome presence rather than a confidante, Ella knows it’s time to tell someone.
For the darkness is closing in, the nightmares never go away, and she is positive that there will be more pain and death unless she finds out what is hiding in the dark shadows within her.
I have read a lot of psychological thrillers, but this is the only one where the ending made me lose my breath for a moment. It was not only shocking, it was completely unexpected.
Many psychoses are the result of layer upon layer of traumatic experiences, so much so that it is hard to know where to begin to pull them away to find the real person underneath. In Ella’s case, the present-day trauma is merely a new platform for an old series of persecutions that she doesn’t remember. This story was so well-written that I am sure the authors spent a great deal of time researching. How Ella related to the world around her, and how she perceived it as relating to her, was a stunningly-written tale. It not only entertains, it also teaches an important lesson: bullying can sometimes cause much more than physical and momentary mental stress; it can lead to much more serious psychological disorders down the road.
And this case is no different.
“Dark Shadows” is a gut-punching, heart-rending story, and one that should not be missed.
Ella Raimi is one such person. Life has been difficult for her in a new school, where she doesn’t seem to fit in with anyone. She’s fortunate to have one good friend, Kyla. And this friend is the only person she can turn to after a prank turns into serious trauma for the bullied junior.
Ella keeps much to herself, telling only her friend, but the truth will out. And when the murders start happening, and Kyla becomes a troublesome presence rather than a confidante, Ella knows it’s time to tell someone.
For the darkness is closing in, the nightmares never go away, and she is positive that there will be more pain and death unless she finds out what is hiding in the dark shadows within her.
I have read a lot of psychological thrillers, but this is the only one where the ending made me lose my breath for a moment. It was not only shocking, it was completely unexpected.
Many psychoses are the result of layer upon layer of traumatic experiences, so much so that it is hard to know where to begin to pull them away to find the real person underneath. In Ella’s case, the present-day trauma is merely a new platform for an old series of persecutions that she doesn’t remember. This story was so well-written that I am sure the authors spent a great deal of time researching. How Ella related to the world around her, and how she perceived it as relating to her, was a stunningly-written tale. It not only entertains, it also teaches an important lesson: bullying can sometimes cause much more than physical and momentary mental stress; it can lead to much more serious psychological disorders down the road.
And this case is no different.
“Dark Shadows” is a gut-punching, heart-rending story, and one that should not be missed.
November 14, 2015
I received a copy of Dark Shadows via Netgalley and wish to thank them for their generosity.
Ella Raimi is a very bright young lady who has received a scholarship to a very prestigious school for the elite, but despite this, she is constantly being bullied because of the fact that she is not as rich as the other kids who attend this school. Bullying takes a turn for the worse when she is locked in a janitorial closet overnight which seems to trigger nightmares and time lapses and things she cannot remember doing after she has gone to bed. As you read further into the story there are many details that seem to bring to light many reasons why this is happening, but even though you feel there is something big coming, you cannot quite pinpoint exactly what until the last page and then BAM what a twist!(no peeking!) I have to say that this is one of those books where I feel it would make a great movie, because you always feel something big coming and even though you think you know what that might be, you are quite surprised to find out what it actually is! Great job!!!!
Ella Raimi is a very bright young lady who has received a scholarship to a very prestigious school for the elite, but despite this, she is constantly being bullied because of the fact that she is not as rich as the other kids who attend this school. Bullying takes a turn for the worse when she is locked in a janitorial closet overnight which seems to trigger nightmares and time lapses and things she cannot remember doing after she has gone to bed. As you read further into the story there are many details that seem to bring to light many reasons why this is happening, but even though you feel there is something big coming, you cannot quite pinpoint exactly what until the last page and then BAM what a twist!(no peeking!) I have to say that this is one of those books where I feel it would make a great movie, because you always feel something big coming and even though you think you know what that might be, you are quite surprised to find out what it actually is! Great job!!!!
December 31, 2015
Man, I tried and tried and tried...... and decided not to waste anymore time on a story that I do not enjoy. Too many books,too little time - so out the door. Person reasons - teenagers just don't appeal to me.
December 6, 2015
This book was a very enjoyable read. It was fast paced and I finished it in a day.
In the book the main character Ella, has been having a hard time at school. She is pushed into a janitors closet by some of her classmates and is left locked in the room overnight. From there strange things start to happen to her. She has very life like dreams that she is trapped somewhere, she wakes up with cuts and burns on her body and other times she wakes up with her clothes and bed soaked in blood. She doesn't know why these things are happening and at first she turns to her friend Kyla for help. Kyla is there for Ella but from the very beginning Kyla wants to get revenge on the people who hurt Ella. As time goes on Kyla gets more and more violent and angry. So not only does Ella have to deal with her issues but she has to deal with an angry friend.
I liked Ella. The poor girl couldn't catch a break. She was just trying to keep under the radar at school and just get through the days but it seemed as if everyone at school hated her. I do commend her for being very brave to deal with everything she dealt with and managed to not have a complete meltdown. She was very resilient and when she did need help she turned to her mother instead of trying to deal with everything on her own. I enjoyed that aspect of the book because y.a. books constantly have main characters in them who try to do everything themselves without asking for help and it usually leads to bigger problems. Ella was active in trying to get help for herself and was open to doing whatever she could to fix her situations.
I liked the fact that Ella's mom was a character who actually played a part in the book instead of just being there for show. Her mother was very caring and loved Ella a great deal. She was non-judgemental in hearing about Ella's issues and immediately found ways to help her daughter. She was a hard worker who tried to provide a good life for Ella. Her mother was very concerned about her daughter, was very understanding and tried very hard to help her.
I liked and didn't like Kyla. I liked her in the beginning. She was there for Ella when she needed her and talked to her about her problems/ situations. I agreed with Kyla when she called for revenge on the boys who put Ella in the closet. Kyla is a bit of a tough cookie who has no problems with violence and saying what's on her mind. Towards the middle and end of the book she became very annoying and I disliked her and her obsession about getting revenge.
This book was very fast paced with events happening in rapid succession. For me that was fine and it was not overwhelming. I felt that the book was predictable and I guessed what was really going on and why early on in the book. And I was right.
I do have to say that I didn't like the ending. The book ended too abruptly and left me with more question. The ending was kind of a revelation but it didn't explain why the revelation happened or how the revelation worked out to be the way it was which bothers me and probably will continue to bother me. I want to know the author's reasoning for ending the book that way and why.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on The Book Owl Extraordinaire
In the book the main character Ella, has been having a hard time at school. She is pushed into a janitors closet by some of her classmates and is left locked in the room overnight. From there strange things start to happen to her. She has very life like dreams that she is trapped somewhere, she wakes up with cuts and burns on her body and other times she wakes up with her clothes and bed soaked in blood. She doesn't know why these things are happening and at first she turns to her friend Kyla for help. Kyla is there for Ella but from the very beginning Kyla wants to get revenge on the people who hurt Ella. As time goes on Kyla gets more and more violent and angry. So not only does Ella have to deal with her issues but she has to deal with an angry friend.
I liked Ella. The poor girl couldn't catch a break. She was just trying to keep under the radar at school and just get through the days but it seemed as if everyone at school hated her. I do commend her for being very brave to deal with everything she dealt with and managed to not have a complete meltdown. She was very resilient and when she did need help she turned to her mother instead of trying to deal with everything on her own. I enjoyed that aspect of the book because y.a. books constantly have main characters in them who try to do everything themselves without asking for help and it usually leads to bigger problems. Ella was active in trying to get help for herself and was open to doing whatever she could to fix her situations.
I liked the fact that Ella's mom was a character who actually played a part in the book instead of just being there for show. Her mother was very caring and loved Ella a great deal. She was non-judgemental in hearing about Ella's issues and immediately found ways to help her daughter. She was a hard worker who tried to provide a good life for Ella. Her mother was very concerned about her daughter, was very understanding and tried very hard to help her.
I liked and didn't like Kyla. I liked her in the beginning. She was there for Ella when she needed her and talked to her about her problems/ situations. I agreed with Kyla when she called for revenge on the boys who put Ella in the closet. Kyla is a bit of a tough cookie who has no problems with violence and saying what's on her mind. Towards the middle and end of the book she became very annoying and I disliked her and her obsession about getting revenge.
This book was very fast paced with events happening in rapid succession. For me that was fine and it was not overwhelming. I felt that the book was predictable and I guessed what was really going on and why early on in the book. And I was right.
I do have to say that I didn't like the ending. The book ended too abruptly and left me with more question. The ending was kind of a revelation but it didn't explain why the revelation happened or how the revelation worked out to be the way it was which bothers me and probably will continue to bother me. I want to know the author's reasoning for ending the book that way and why.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on The Book Owl Extraordinaire
November 13, 2015
OMG! What a book! What an end!!
So far the best about starting this blog is discovering new genres and books that I wouldn't normally pick up and finding that I absolutely love those. This is one of those books.
From the first page we are joining Ella in her worse nightmare. Bullied, pushed and locked in a janitors cupboard at school over night. She is scared of the dark and is forced to spend the night in absolute panic, found only by the janitor the next day. She is in total shock, you can almost feel all her pain yourself. What a way to start. I am gripped from page one. Not only that but I find myself angry, angry at the school principal for how he is dealing with the situation. Angry at the kids that did this to her. This isn't an easy topic, sadly it happens in many schools. As a mother it's one real fear and it makes me rather emotional to read. Esp as the bullying gets worse to.
After her ordeal she finds herself having really dark dreams, but what's even worse is that she wakes up covered in blood. And it's not always hers. What is she up to at night? And why can't she remember? Now I am totally intrigued, what is going on? Is she capable of hurting herself or others? What is going on with her friend Kyla that stays over night but is always gone in the morning? It's the friend I can't put my finger on, and she is at the back of my mind at all times.
When one of her bullies turns up dead one morning she can't help but wonder if she has killed him. I can't help but hang on to every word, worried I will miss some clue as to what is happening to Ella. There is so many mysteries.
I love Ella's mum and their relationship. It's the kind of relationship every mum and daughter should have. When Ella's word is falling apart she manages to confide in her mother, who deals with everything in the best possible way. But is she being completely open with her daughter?
At this point I suspect everyone of something and it's nearly impossible to predict the end. And I have different suspicions myself. I am totally intrigues and drawn in, my guesses changing from page to page. What is real and what isn't? Why is she scared of her friend? Will Ella find a way out of the darkness that seems to drown her?
This isn't your typical who done it kind of book. This is so much more then that. This is as good as physiological thrillers come. It will have you wondering from the first page till the very last one.
To be totally honest I wish I could go on with my review. But if I do I might spoil it for other, what's best about this book is the surprises and I want others to experience them for themselves.
Go grab a copy!
So far the best about starting this blog is discovering new genres and books that I wouldn't normally pick up and finding that I absolutely love those. This is one of those books.
From the first page we are joining Ella in her worse nightmare. Bullied, pushed and locked in a janitors cupboard at school over night. She is scared of the dark and is forced to spend the night in absolute panic, found only by the janitor the next day. She is in total shock, you can almost feel all her pain yourself. What a way to start. I am gripped from page one. Not only that but I find myself angry, angry at the school principal for how he is dealing with the situation. Angry at the kids that did this to her. This isn't an easy topic, sadly it happens in many schools. As a mother it's one real fear and it makes me rather emotional to read. Esp as the bullying gets worse to.
After her ordeal she finds herself having really dark dreams, but what's even worse is that she wakes up covered in blood. And it's not always hers. What is she up to at night? And why can't she remember? Now I am totally intrigued, what is going on? Is she capable of hurting herself or others? What is going on with her friend Kyla that stays over night but is always gone in the morning? It's the friend I can't put my finger on, and she is at the back of my mind at all times.
When one of her bullies turns up dead one morning she can't help but wonder if she has killed him. I can't help but hang on to every word, worried I will miss some clue as to what is happening to Ella. There is so many mysteries.
I love Ella's mum and their relationship. It's the kind of relationship every mum and daughter should have. When Ella's word is falling apart she manages to confide in her mother, who deals with everything in the best possible way. But is she being completely open with her daughter?
At this point I suspect everyone of something and it's nearly impossible to predict the end. And I have different suspicions myself. I am totally intrigues and drawn in, my guesses changing from page to page. What is real and what isn't? Why is she scared of her friend? Will Ella find a way out of the darkness that seems to drown her?
This isn't your typical who done it kind of book. This is so much more then that. This is as good as physiological thrillers come. It will have you wondering from the first page till the very last one.
To be totally honest I wish I could go on with my review. But if I do I might spoil it for other, what's best about this book is the surprises and I want others to experience them for themselves.
Go grab a copy!
November 14, 2015
Wow!!! That's all I can say about this book!!! Sometimes I just need a change from my regular reading pattern and Toni Vallan was the perfect go to author this time around.
This isn't a romance, I just feel like stating that. It's a psychological thriller that will leave you guessing what happens next and leave you shocked by the end of it all.
You have Ella, who's a normal girl at a private school in the Boston area. One day after she's locked in the closet as a prank by some fellow students, strange events start happening to her. Her best friend Kayla is always there for her, trying to help her overcome this scary episode. But nothing is what it seems for poor Ella - her torturers end up dead and every evidence points to her. Little by little she starts to uncover hidden secrets from her past and she realizes that what she thing it's reality might as well be a dream.
I can't say more about this book because I don't want to give anything away, but trust me it's incredible. The writing was on point, it was suspenseful enough, and light enough for any YA reader out there. The author had me guessing all throughout the book and the ending just blew me away. There might be some given away plot twists and you'd think oh well, I know what will happen, but believe me you have no idea!!!
Well done! I'm definitely reading other books by Toni Vallen.
This isn't a romance, I just feel like stating that. It's a psychological thriller that will leave you guessing what happens next and leave you shocked by the end of it all.
You have Ella, who's a normal girl at a private school in the Boston area. One day after she's locked in the closet as a prank by some fellow students, strange events start happening to her. Her best friend Kayla is always there for her, trying to help her overcome this scary episode. But nothing is what it seems for poor Ella - her torturers end up dead and every evidence points to her. Little by little she starts to uncover hidden secrets from her past and she realizes that what she thing it's reality might as well be a dream.
I can't say more about this book because I don't want to give anything away, but trust me it's incredible. The writing was on point, it was suspenseful enough, and light enough for any YA reader out there. The author had me guessing all throughout the book and the ending just blew me away. There might be some given away plot twists and you'd think oh well, I know what will happen, but believe me you have no idea!!!
Well done! I'm definitely reading other books by Toni Vallen.
February 2, 2015
As one of Ayer's avid readers I was initially worried about this new release due to the repetitious nature of the first few chapters. I am normally able to jump head first into one of her novels with no qualms. Also, chapter four held only one sentence. Upon finishing the book, this issue I thought to be potentially problematic seemed justifiable, though I still feel it could have been added seperately to the end of chapter three.
I am beyond relieved and pleased to write that Ayer did not leave me at all dissatisfied. I found some elements easily predictable, but also so intriguing that I absolutely needed to know every minute detail of each scene. The emotional angst in the plot was palpable.
At times I felt I would go insane waiting and wishing to appease my curiosity at a faster - rate.
I did not, COULD NOT have predicted the conclusion to book! As if I hadn't already reprimanded myself enough for staying up into the late hours because I "needed" to finish Dark Shadows and satiate my curiosity, the end product was the catalyst for my mind to run hyper - actively for hours on end after finishing it.
Dark Shadows is horrifying in realistic matters, emotionally intense, and riddled with a rediculous amount of suspense. Congratulations Ayer on another 5 star novel!!!
I am beyond relieved and pleased to write that Ayer did not leave me at all dissatisfied. I found some elements easily predictable, but also so intriguing that I absolutely needed to know every minute detail of each scene. The emotional angst in the plot was palpable.
At times I felt I would go insane waiting and wishing to appease my curiosity at a faster - rate.
I did not, COULD NOT have predicted the conclusion to book! As if I hadn't already reprimanded myself enough for staying up into the late hours because I "needed" to finish Dark Shadows and satiate my curiosity, the end product was the catalyst for my mind to run hyper - actively for hours on end after finishing it.
Dark Shadows is horrifying in realistic matters, emotionally intense, and riddled with a rediculous amount of suspense. Congratulations Ayer on another 5 star novel!!!
February 16, 2015
With any type of mystery in a book I try to figure it out before I get to the end. At first I was sure I had it figured out than something would be thrown in and I would start second guessing myself. The ending really threw a curveball at me. I did not see it coming at all.
Poor Ella seemed to be the going feeling for me in this book and the skeptical feeling I had when it came to Kyla. Kyla the friend who was always trying to protect Ella who had bad things happen to her and wouldn’t do anything about it. Kyla was so angry all the time though and then bad things being to happen.
This book had a grip on me in the beginning. I was upset on Ella’s behalf and as a mom myself my heartbroke for her mother and the feelings that her mother was having. I finished this book in one sitting because I could not put it down. Especially after the murders started happening and Kyla got shadier than she was at the beginning. Then there was the introduction of Zach that still has me wondering.
At some points some things seemed predictable but it didn’t take from my overall interest in the story.
Great suspenseful horrifying thriller with lots of suspense and engrossing story line and fascinating characters.
Poor Ella seemed to be the going feeling for me in this book and the skeptical feeling I had when it came to Kyla. Kyla the friend who was always trying to protect Ella who had bad things happen to her and wouldn’t do anything about it. Kyla was so angry all the time though and then bad things being to happen.
This book had a grip on me in the beginning. I was upset on Ella’s behalf and as a mom myself my heartbroke for her mother and the feelings that her mother was having. I finished this book in one sitting because I could not put it down. Especially after the murders started happening and Kyla got shadier than she was at the beginning. Then there was the introduction of Zach that still has me wondering.
At some points some things seemed predictable but it didn’t take from my overall interest in the story.
Great suspenseful horrifying thriller with lots of suspense and engrossing story line and fascinating characters.
September 23, 2017
I was a huge fan of horror books when I was a teen. I will be honest and say that I haven't read many in the last 20 years, but when I was offered the chance to read this I couldn't say no. It was just the thing my teen self would have loved, and I wanted to see if the genre could still touch that spot after all these years. I am very happy to say that this one did! I was drawn into the story almost immediately, and the twist and turns kept me there. I loved the emotional roller coaster and the look into the psyche. I am so glad I gave this a chance and I can't wait to read more.
November 3, 2018
This was an interesting read. I was drawn to the cover because it intrigued me. The whole way through I was waiting for the twist. I could feel it coming, and I had my suspicions, but kept changing my mind as to what it might be. I think the author has done a good job at keeping the reader in suspense.
Ella is a sixteen year old girl who has dealt with bullies the majority of her time at school. Instead of belonging to a wealthy family like many of her peers, she got into Clayton on a scholarship, and the kids won't let her forget it. Most of the bullying has been verbal, but nothing comes close to what happens this time. The darkness consumes her, and that's when the dreams begin.
Ella feels as though she is going insane, but she doesn't know who she can trust. Who can she talk to without making things worse? Confiding in her best friend, Kyla eases her mind for a while, but then she starts acting weird too. When things start happening that she can't explain, she doesn't know where to turn.
I do like to be kept on my toes, and this book kept me guessing for the first half, maybe two thirds of the book before I was certain what was happening. I quite liked the last few chapters and the unraveling of everything. Definitely an author I'd like to read more of.
Ella is a sixteen year old girl who has dealt with bullies the majority of her time at school. Instead of belonging to a wealthy family like many of her peers, she got into Clayton on a scholarship, and the kids won't let her forget it. Most of the bullying has been verbal, but nothing comes close to what happens this time. The darkness consumes her, and that's when the dreams begin.
Ella feels as though she is going insane, but she doesn't know who she can trust. Who can she talk to without making things worse? Confiding in her best friend, Kyla eases her mind for a while, but then she starts acting weird too. When things start happening that she can't explain, she doesn't know where to turn.
I do like to be kept on my toes, and this book kept me guessing for the first half, maybe two thirds of the book before I was certain what was happening. I quite liked the last few chapters and the unraveling of everything. Definitely an author I'd like to read more of.
June 10, 2018
This dark psychological suspense book is an excellent story that really keeps you hooked - I was up most of the night reading it! With so many twists, you're never quite sure who's responsible, what's real, and what might happen next. And the final twist... Oooh! The only note of caution I'd give those looking to decide whether to read this book is that there are some moments of graphic violence, though they are central to the story (not just shoved in like some books do), and some potential mental health triggers, especially towards the end. I loved this book though, even as a person with mental health issues, and would definitely recommend it to other lovers of psychological suspense stories.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
September 15, 2017
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
I thought this was more of a psychological thriller than horror.
A girl in high school gets pushed into and locked in a janitors closet overnight as a prank. In the days following this traumatic event her world starts crumbling around her as she tries to make sense of her feelings and nightmares. Things start happening that she can't figure out.
This is a story that does touch on sensitive psychological issues, but I think that it has been written about very well. The story is told from a young girls point of view but done in a way that you can connect with what is happening. Also from my own point of view has helped me appreciate how these issues can manifest and affect people.
I thought this was more of a psychological thriller than horror.
A girl in high school gets pushed into and locked in a janitors closet overnight as a prank. In the days following this traumatic event her world starts crumbling around her as she tries to make sense of her feelings and nightmares. Things start happening that she can't figure out.
This is a story that does touch on sensitive psychological issues, but I think that it has been written about very well. The story is told from a young girls point of view but done in a way that you can connect with what is happening. Also from my own point of view has helped me appreciate how these issues can manifest and affect people.
April 21, 2018
I have an admission to make: I’m not really a fan of horror books and would not normally even think of something described as a “Psychological Horror”. I am, however, a huge fan of TG Ayer so I couldn’t resist Dark Shadows once I saw that it was written by her using her “Toni Vallan“ pen name. I’m glad I took the chance because this was one fine (even if yes, quite disturbing) book. Well written and powerfully done. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - these two books definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book set is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend.
July 5, 2017
Being a avid fan of any type of horror, I was very excited to get the chance to read Dark Shadows. This was a psychological horror if I've ever read one. Even though I had figured it out before the end, I was still impressed by the writing and the story all together. This is a must read for anyone looking for a good Psychological thriller.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
July 16, 2017
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is a wonderfully creepy story! Lots of drama, suspense, and twists that will keep you at the edge of your seat until you finish. Loved this crazy story and the shenanigans the main character got into. Excellent characterization and plot development as well!
This is a wonderfully creepy story! Lots of drama, suspense, and twists that will keep you at the edge of your seat until you finish. Loved this crazy story and the shenanigans the main character got into. Excellent characterization and plot development as well!
September 26, 2017
I was at first not sure if I would like the book till I got to reading more and then got hooked in the second chapter. A lot of suspence within the book and had me guessing a lot. What I did not expect is what I got to at the end. This is a must read.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
July 27, 2018
She was a normal teen until that fateful incident. She got locked in a janitor cupboard overnight. She starts to have nightmares while there and afterwards. She wakes up with blood on her hands. What is going on? Is she a killer? See what is really happening
I received an advanced copy and I enjoyed it so much that I want to review
I received an advanced copy and I enjoyed it so much that I want to review
December 6, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was dark and had twists and turns that I didn't expect. The story telling was well done and the characters were very lifelike and real, giving you a sense of caring about them that can often be left out of thrillers and horror fiction. I'd definitely read this if you're a fan of psychological thrillers or horror.
July 11, 2017
OMG, it was like I was part of this book. It draws you in and everything seems surreal. It makes you think about others in this situation and what they go through. I received a arc copy for my honest review.
July 16, 2017
Not quite what i was expecting, however it did have me gripped until the very end. With a few twists and turns and good characters, this is a book that will leave you with a few chills.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book.
June 30, 2017
Amazing scary book, the first time for this series for me. Super read and just fantastic. Reviewing because it's so enjoyable and brightens my day.
August 24, 2017
Good story, fast to read with plenty of psychological twists to keep you going. It was a different type of book than I usually read but I really enjoyed it.
November 19, 2015
Dark Shadows is the story of Ella, she’s alone except for her best friend Kyla. At school nobody talk to her and everybody treats her like a freak. After a prank where she spent a night in the Janitor’s closet, she’s becoming to do things in her dreams.
I won’t talk more about the story because you must discover it by yourself.
I like Ella, she is a sweet girl, she has suffered and her dreams are really weird. She doesn’t want to talk about the people who let her spent a night in a closet, and she doesn’t want to take revenge, because they are rich kids and they always passed through all problems.
Her mom is a nurse; she’s nice and takes good care of her daughter. She’s always here for her even if some secrets are between them.
Kyla is a little weird, she’s trying to protect Ella but she wants revenge, she’s always here to talk to here and the more I read the book the more I’m suspecting her.
That’s all for the character, I let you read the book and discover the others.
The story is really nice, the plot is good, I had doubt but the end is so good.
Toni has a real talent for thriller, Dark Shadows is the first book I read from this author but it’s really great. The characters are well define and the suspense are present all the pages. I had a lot of questions but all are answered in the end.
If you want a good thriller, go for it and have fun.
I won’t talk more about the story because you must discover it by yourself.
I like Ella, she is a sweet girl, she has suffered and her dreams are really weird. She doesn’t want to talk about the people who let her spent a night in a closet, and she doesn’t want to take revenge, because they are rich kids and they always passed through all problems.
Her mom is a nurse; she’s nice and takes good care of her daughter. She’s always here for her even if some secrets are between them.
Kyla is a little weird, she’s trying to protect Ella but she wants revenge, she’s always here to talk to here and the more I read the book the more I’m suspecting her.
That’s all for the character, I let you read the book and discover the others.
The story is really nice, the plot is good, I had doubt but the end is so good.
Toni has a real talent for thriller, Dark Shadows is the first book I read from this author but it’s really great. The characters are well define and the suspense are present all the pages. I had a lot of questions but all are answered in the end.
If you want a good thriller, go for it and have fun.
November 16, 2015
Ella has gotten a scholarship to a private school. Unfortunately things are not going well when she is constantly bullied for being a charity case and being poor. Then the bullying turns bad when she is locked into a closet overnight and discovered by the janitor the next day. Although she tells everyone that she is fine, Ella is the furthest from that. She starts having nightmare and waking with scratches on herself. Her only friend Kyla is there for her but disappears in the morning. Then she wakes with blood covering her and when a student is found dead she is blamed.
This is one amazing psychological thriller. I kind of had an idea of what may be happening but it didn’t really seem to fit. Besides the bullying, Ella has a great relationship with her mother and she can share with her the things that are going on. But the ending, it was great. I never expected it. With a couple good twists thrown in to keep me on my toes. I couldn’t put Dark Shadows down for long because I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next.
This is a great thriller. I have not read any books by Toni Vallan but I will be sure to add her to my must read list. If you like a great psychological thriller you need to get this book.
I received Dark Shadows for free from Mark My Words in exchange for an honest review.
This is one amazing psychological thriller. I kind of had an idea of what may be happening but it didn’t really seem to fit. Besides the bullying, Ella has a great relationship with her mother and she can share with her the things that are going on. But the ending, it was great. I never expected it. With a couple good twists thrown in to keep me on my toes. I couldn’t put Dark Shadows down for long because I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next.
This is a great thriller. I have not read any books by Toni Vallan but I will be sure to add her to my must read list. If you like a great psychological thriller you need to get this book.
I received Dark Shadows for free from Mark My Words in exchange for an honest review.
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