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Juniper's Shadow: Part One
When Leighton Banks finds an extremely rare record at a music fair, he is thrilled with his find. However, after hearing the legends and creepy stories associated with the music, he beings to wonder if the record is cursed. Thrown suddenly into a dark world where even music can put lives and souls at risk, Leighton soon learns that he must find a way to put a stop to a centuries long curse, or become victim to it himself.
- GenresHorror
54 pages, Paperback
First published December 14, 2015
1 person is currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Dodwell
16 books37 followersFiona Dodwell lives in the UK.
She has studied Theology, Drama, Psychology and Film studies.
She is extremely passionate about horror - both in film and literature - and began writing at an early age.
She has written for Paranormal Underground, Supernatural Magazine, Pinched Literary and completed a writing Internship with Tremr.
She has released several novels, novellas and short stories.
In 2018 she was commissioned to write liner notes for artist Morrissey.
She has studied Theology, Drama, Psychology and Film studies.
She is extremely passionate about horror - both in film and literature - and began writing at an early age.
She has written for Paranormal Underground, Supernatural Magazine, Pinched Literary and completed a writing Internship with Tremr.
She has released several novels, novellas and short stories.
In 2018 she was commissioned to write liner notes for artist Morrissey.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
December 29, 2015
'Could sounds create madness? Drive someone insane or petrify them? Or was the legend enough to simply play on people's minds and insecurities?" These questions are taken directly from Fiona Dodwell's eerie novella, Juniper's Shadow.
Leighton Banks, dissatisfied with his position as a general store clerk, quits his job to pursue his dream of opening his own shop. He has a passion for music, especially rare collectibles, and is actively searching for memorabilia and and other items for his new store. Leighton's wife, Jessica, is fully supportive of her husband, and is content to be the main breadwinner while Leighton works at his store.
While searching for items to to sell, Leighton encounters an older man at a music fair. The man has a table of vinyl records, one of which he claims is old and rare. It is a recording of a piano piece called Juniper's Shadow. The artist, Victor Marlow, was exceedingly talented, but Juniper's Shadow put an end to his career. After Marlow publicly performed the piece, many of his listeners committed suicide. Only a few recordings of the piece still exist, as most of the copies had been destroyed in mass burnings.
Leighton does not believe in the old legend, but decides that it could be a novel selling point for this rare recording. He brings the record home with him. That night, he receives a call from an unknown number. The male voice on the other end is not familiar to Leighton, but the caller seems to know a bit about Leighton and his wife, including the fact that Jessica is pregnant. The unfamiliar man is also aware of Leighton's new purchase. The caller advises Leighton not to listen to the recording, and then hangs up.
What follows is an eerie narration that fills the reader with dread. Is evil real, or does the mind play tricks on us? I read this story in one sitting, anxious to reach the conclusion. It is a well-written chiller.
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the to the author and the publicist.
Leighton Banks, dissatisfied with his position as a general store clerk, quits his job to pursue his dream of opening his own shop. He has a passion for music, especially rare collectibles, and is actively searching for memorabilia and and other items for his new store. Leighton's wife, Jessica, is fully supportive of her husband, and is content to be the main breadwinner while Leighton works at his store.
While searching for items to to sell, Leighton encounters an older man at a music fair. The man has a table of vinyl records, one of which he claims is old and rare. It is a recording of a piano piece called Juniper's Shadow. The artist, Victor Marlow, was exceedingly talented, but Juniper's Shadow put an end to his career. After Marlow publicly performed the piece, many of his listeners committed suicide. Only a few recordings of the piece still exist, as most of the copies had been destroyed in mass burnings.
Leighton does not believe in the old legend, but decides that it could be a novel selling point for this rare recording. He brings the record home with him. That night, he receives a call from an unknown number. The male voice on the other end is not familiar to Leighton, but the caller seems to know a bit about Leighton and his wife, including the fact that Jessica is pregnant. The unfamiliar man is also aware of Leighton's new purchase. The caller advises Leighton not to listen to the recording, and then hangs up.
What follows is an eerie narration that fills the reader with dread. Is evil real, or does the mind play tricks on us? I read this story in one sitting, anxious to reach the conclusion. It is a well-written chiller.
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the to the author and the publicist.
January 19, 2016
This is a very short story about a man who buys a particular piece of music that has devastating effects on all that listen to it.
It's written well but it just didn't have the chills, creeps or scare factor for me, and the potential to have it is there. Maybe as a seasoned dark fiction/horror reader it was too tepid for me.
The plot is good, characters work well and it's a decent piece of writing. Just not quite in the scary zone for me. I'd be keen to try more from this author for sure.
3.5 stars and the first book review of 2016.
Thanks to the author for a copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews, books to win and more!: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
It's written well but it just didn't have the chills, creeps or scare factor for me, and the potential to have it is there. Maybe as a seasoned dark fiction/horror reader it was too tepid for me.
The plot is good, characters work well and it's a decent piece of writing. Just not quite in the scary zone for me. I'd be keen to try more from this author for sure.
3.5 stars and the first book review of 2016.
Thanks to the author for a copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews, books to win and more!: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
January 22, 2016
Juniper's Shadow by Fiona Dodwell is a novella that reads like a novel. It also feels like the story isn't over. Far from it. And that's one thing I love about this story so much. The author could do so much with this concept, which isn't to say that Juniper's Shadow is lacking. It isn't by any degree.
The story is about Leighton and his pregnant wife, Jessica. Leighton is trying to make his dream of running a used and rare vinyl record shop a reality while Jessica works full time. One day Leighton is at a music fair and comes across an old and very rare vinyl record, Juniper's Shadow by Victor Marlow. He's never heard of it and is instantly interested. The old, creepy man selling the record tells Leighton the story behind the record, that people tend to commit suicide after listening to it. Leighton doesn't believe him. He's hypnotized by its dark power, and so he buys it.
The story then takes a turn for darker shores, with some genuinely frightening and disturbing scenes. It's better if you read it for yourself. I highly recommend this one as it was a lot of fun. There's a few great horror references that enriched the reading experience. The characters were real to me as they argued over small, and yet to them large, matters. Very well done and I can't wait to read more.
The story is about Leighton and his pregnant wife, Jessica. Leighton is trying to make his dream of running a used and rare vinyl record shop a reality while Jessica works full time. One day Leighton is at a music fair and comes across an old and very rare vinyl record, Juniper's Shadow by Victor Marlow. He's never heard of it and is instantly interested. The old, creepy man selling the record tells Leighton the story behind the record, that people tend to commit suicide after listening to it. Leighton doesn't believe him. He's hypnotized by its dark power, and so he buys it.
The story then takes a turn for darker shores, with some genuinely frightening and disturbing scenes. It's better if you read it for yourself. I highly recommend this one as it was a lot of fun. There's a few great horror references that enriched the reading experience. The characters were real to me as they argued over small, and yet to them large, matters. Very well done and I can't wait to read more.
December 5, 2017
Fantastic novella
Dodwell is certainly one to watch with her unique style and superb storytelling developing the modern ghost story for the new age.
Juniper's Shadow weaves it spell from the opening passages through to the end never leaving or straying from realistic characters and settings. The story starts out with a good solidarity between character relationships which holds true throughout the novella.
What Dodwell does extremely well is keeps you entertained by the normalcy of the characters who are so real that they come alive off the page. As the story delves deeper within the grooves of the pieces, things take a sinister turn which darkens the piece rather splendidly.
Fiona Dodwell is the new face of psychological paranormal thrillers which stays with you long after you read the final word. She is definitely one to watch for. Treat yourself to this great little read. Highly recommended.
Dodwell is certainly one to watch with her unique style and superb storytelling developing the modern ghost story for the new age.
Juniper's Shadow weaves it spell from the opening passages through to the end never leaving or straying from realistic characters and settings. The story starts out with a good solidarity between character relationships which holds true throughout the novella.
What Dodwell does extremely well is keeps you entertained by the normalcy of the characters who are so real that they come alive off the page. As the story delves deeper within the grooves of the pieces, things take a sinister turn which darkens the piece rather splendidly.
Fiona Dodwell is the new face of psychological paranormal thrillers which stays with you long after you read the final word. She is definitely one to watch for. Treat yourself to this great little read. Highly recommended.
January 1, 2016
Leighton Banks is a 29 year old guy living with his partner; Jessica, heavily pregnant and the main bread winner in the relationship, due to him walking out of his previous job at Adam's General Store. A job that he hated, a boss that he didn't like, and stuck in a rut of demeaning, degrading duties.
With the support of Jessica, Leighton persues his life long ambition to set up his own music store, one that will indulge his true passion; the store is to specialise in rare and obscure music.
His childhood and upbringing by his father; a salt of the earth guy who enjoyed life's simple pleasures, laid the foundation for his love of music. His taste catered to the wide, wonderful and sometimes weird.
Whilst at a record fair in Drury Lane, Leighton picks up a few collectable items, and stumbles across a small store that is selling un-marked and seemingly worthless vinyl. Almost passing the store by, his interest is sparked when he finds a copy of a record called 'Juniper's Shadow' by an artist called Victor Marlow from the mid 1940's. Initially the trader is reluctant to sell the pressing because of its sinister history, this is where the story kicks off.
Being a short story, I can't really give too much away, but I can guarantee that in a few pages, Fiona creates a twisted little tale of tragedy that will really get under your skin.
The most difficult thing to do with a short story is to create characters that the reader can connect with, and are believable. Dodwell does this effortlessly. Her writing is flawless, this story caters for what I suspect is two of her own passions - music and the macabre.
If, like me, you are a vinyl head; 3000 odd records stacked up in the garage may confirm that, then this story will really ignite a spark within you. There is nothing quite like the feel of holding that sleeve in your hands, you can feel the texture, inhale the aroma of the vinyl, enjoy the crackling sound as the stylus bears into the cutting; pure ecstasy.
This is only the second thing that I have read from Fiona Dodwell, the other was her contribution towards The Dichotomy of Christmas - The Wassall. A story that I already had placed in my top three from the book. I enjoy her style of writing, colourful and intense descriptives really paint a picture in just a few words. She is a talented writer, no doubt about that, and one who's work I will be persuing further.
My rating for Juniper's Shadow - 5/5. Eerily spectacular. My recommendation; go read it, then persue Fiona's new book - Nails. I will be.
With the support of Jessica, Leighton persues his life long ambition to set up his own music store, one that will indulge his true passion; the store is to specialise in rare and obscure music.
His childhood and upbringing by his father; a salt of the earth guy who enjoyed life's simple pleasures, laid the foundation for his love of music. His taste catered to the wide, wonderful and sometimes weird.
Whilst at a record fair in Drury Lane, Leighton picks up a few collectable items, and stumbles across a small store that is selling un-marked and seemingly worthless vinyl. Almost passing the store by, his interest is sparked when he finds a copy of a record called 'Juniper's Shadow' by an artist called Victor Marlow from the mid 1940's. Initially the trader is reluctant to sell the pressing because of its sinister history, this is where the story kicks off.
Being a short story, I can't really give too much away, but I can guarantee that in a few pages, Fiona creates a twisted little tale of tragedy that will really get under your skin.
The most difficult thing to do with a short story is to create characters that the reader can connect with, and are believable. Dodwell does this effortlessly. Her writing is flawless, this story caters for what I suspect is two of her own passions - music and the macabre.
If, like me, you are a vinyl head; 3000 odd records stacked up in the garage may confirm that, then this story will really ignite a spark within you. There is nothing quite like the feel of holding that sleeve in your hands, you can feel the texture, inhale the aroma of the vinyl, enjoy the crackling sound as the stylus bears into the cutting; pure ecstasy.
This is only the second thing that I have read from Fiona Dodwell, the other was her contribution towards The Dichotomy of Christmas - The Wassall. A story that I already had placed in my top three from the book. I enjoy her style of writing, colourful and intense descriptives really paint a picture in just a few words. She is a talented writer, no doubt about that, and one who's work I will be persuing further.
My rating for Juniper's Shadow - 5/5. Eerily spectacular. My recommendation; go read it, then persue Fiona's new book - Nails. I will be.
December 29, 2015
Music, Book, Horror & Occult Lovers UNITE here!
Legends, curses and evil forces at play, beware! This short story was gripping! I found this story exceedingly sad, dramatic, and tragic...but it was OH SO entertaining and interesting! I became obsessed with finding out what happened in the past and what would happen next! Beware of phone calls from 'withheld numbers' and take heed of warnings from your elders...This story fulfills your interests wither you're a music lover, a book lover, an occult aficionado or just a plain old horror lover like me. Ms. Dodwell's story, 'The Wassall' from The Dichotomy of Christmas was also amazing so I cannot wait to find out what she has in store for us next!
Highly recommend this to all fans of modern horror!
Legends, curses and evil forces at play, beware! This short story was gripping! I found this story exceedingly sad, dramatic, and tragic...but it was OH SO entertaining and interesting! I became obsessed with finding out what happened in the past and what would happen next! Beware of phone calls from 'withheld numbers' and take heed of warnings from your elders...This story fulfills your interests wither you're a music lover, a book lover, an occult aficionado or just a plain old horror lover like me. Ms. Dodwell's story, 'The Wassall' from The Dichotomy of Christmas was also amazing so I cannot wait to find out what she has in store for us next!
Highly recommend this to all fans of modern horror!
December 31, 2015
My first time reading Fiona Dodwell's work. A wonderful story about a haunted recording that I wish had been just a tad longer. One of those stories you just didn't want it to end.
Fiona packs a lot of information about the characters & the recording in a short story. But, you don't feel overwhelmed by all the information. It's just the right amount. And, it all comes together so nicely creating a wonderful read.
Her choice of using a recording was interesting. I will definitely be watching out for new works of hers to see what she decides to write about next.
I strongly recommend this book by this accomplished author.
Fiona packs a lot of information about the characters & the recording in a short story. But, you don't feel overwhelmed by all the information. It's just the right amount. And, it all comes together so nicely creating a wonderful read.
Her choice of using a recording was interesting. I will definitely be watching out for new works of hers to see what she decides to write about next.
I strongly recommend this book by this accomplished author.
February 5, 2016
f you've ever followed my reviews, you'll know that I'm a fan of Dodwell's work. I've become friends with her via my coverage of her books (full disclosure) and I have to say, she's only getting better.
Lately she's been on a short story spree, as "Juniper's Shadow" was preceded by the very excellent "The Redwood Lodge Investigation". She's been doing well with this format, as short stories lend themselves very well to horror, and I'm excited to see what she will come up with next.
Juniper's Shadow takes a little while to get started since much of its horror derives from Leighton's imperfect relationship with his pregnant wife Jessica, as the two constantly quibble about his dream to own a record store. She's supportive, but he feels like he's a failure since she's almost the main breadwinner. Leighton wants so desperately to succeed that it'd make sense that he'd jump on something that'd make a huge profit - a record by Victor Marlowe, a musician whose music has left a dark legacy. A legacy so dark that there have been efforts to eradicate all remaining recordings of his work.
This is where the horror comes in, because as the story progresses there's this increasing sense of dread. From the start Leighton is warned against purchasing the album (although the seller isn't that reluctant to let it leave his grasp), however he's lured in by its background and the idea of raising a large sum. He quickly grows obsessed with researching the record and if you're familiar with Dodwell's writing style then you know that what Leighton is going to find will be dark indeed.
Overall I was rather pleased with this story. It's not perfect, but that's mostly because this is something that I think would have worked far better as a longer piece, maybe as a novella or full novel. We're left with far too many questions at the end of this and while some don't need to be answered, I was just intensely curious as to the album's background. This next part is a mild spoiler, so I'll try to post it far enough down that those who want a spoiler free review can avoid it. It does somewhat pertain to the piece as a whole and it's not a major spoiler, if you're afraid of it giving away any large reveals.
If you're wondering if you should try this out, I say go for it. It's available for free for Kindle Unlimited readers and while $2.99 is a little pricey for a short story, I greatly enjoyed it.
4/5 stars
(Reader copy provided by the author)
Thar be spoilers
Lately she's been on a short story spree, as "Juniper's Shadow" was preceded by the very excellent "The Redwood Lodge Investigation". She's been doing well with this format, as short stories lend themselves very well to horror, and I'm excited to see what she will come up with next.
Juniper's Shadow takes a little while to get started since much of its horror derives from Leighton's imperfect relationship with his pregnant wife Jessica, as the two constantly quibble about his dream to own a record store. She's supportive, but he feels like he's a failure since she's almost the main breadwinner. Leighton wants so desperately to succeed that it'd make sense that he'd jump on something that'd make a huge profit - a record by Victor Marlowe, a musician whose music has left a dark legacy. A legacy so dark that there have been efforts to eradicate all remaining recordings of his work.
This is where the horror comes in, because as the story progresses there's this increasing sense of dread. From the start Leighton is warned against purchasing the album (although the seller isn't that reluctant to let it leave his grasp), however he's lured in by its background and the idea of raising a large sum. He quickly grows obsessed with researching the record and if you're familiar with Dodwell's writing style then you know that what Leighton is going to find will be dark indeed.
Overall I was rather pleased with this story. It's not perfect, but that's mostly because this is something that I think would have worked far better as a longer piece, maybe as a novella or full novel. We're left with far too many questions at the end of this and while some don't need to be answered, I was just intensely curious as to the album's background. This next part is a mild spoiler, so I'll try to post it far enough down that those who want a spoiler free review can avoid it. It does somewhat pertain to the piece as a whole and it's not a major spoiler, if you're afraid of it giving away any large reveals.
If you're wondering if you should try this out, I say go for it. It's available for free for Kindle Unlimited readers and while $2.99 is a little pricey for a short story, I greatly enjoyed it.
4/5 stars
(Reader copy provided by the author)
Thar be spoilers
June 27, 2018
Fiona is an absolutely wonder short novel writer, they are unique (not that there isn't similar concepts in other books there always will be). The way she executes the stories are amazing. I mean a supernatural record doesn't sound very interesting and played out (haunted tape (Ringu), haunted film real (Coming Soon) to name a few recent horror around the concept), but she makes it sound fresh, new, and compelling. Also the ending is beautiful and I think that is one of her gifts is amazing endings.
May 14, 2016
Received from the author in exchange for an honest review via the Media Bitch Literary Agency on Goodreads
2.5 stars
While Fiona might be a good writer, this is not the one to start with.
It's a short (31 page) exercise in poor content and execution. The writing itself is simplistic and repetitive without the ability to grab or keep your attention. The character of Leighton is tepid and pathetic with no redeeming qualities to get behind and root for.
Then there is the editing, which while not the authors fault, can make or break a story and, in this case, failed miserably. There are too many instances of poor proofing, editing, grammar and a general lack of responsibility of the editor to point out areas that needed improvement.
Consequently, while the storyline itself is interesting and worth checking out more of Ms. Dodwell's writing on that score alone, this particular story should go back for a rewrite.
I do not post an Amazon review if I have given less than 3 stars.
My Rating System:
* couldn't finish, ** wouldn't recommend, *** would recommend, **** would read again, ***** have read again.
2.5 stars
While Fiona might be a good writer, this is not the one to start with.
It's a short (31 page) exercise in poor content and execution. The writing itself is simplistic and repetitive without the ability to grab or keep your attention. The character of Leighton is tepid and pathetic with no redeeming qualities to get behind and root for.
Then there is the editing, which while not the authors fault, can make or break a story and, in this case, failed miserably. There are too many instances of poor proofing, editing, grammar and a general lack of responsibility of the editor to point out areas that needed improvement.
Consequently, while the storyline itself is interesting and worth checking out more of Ms. Dodwell's writing on that score alone, this particular story should go back for a rewrite.
I do not post an Amazon review if I have given less than 3 stars.
My Rating System:
* couldn't finish, ** wouldn't recommend, *** would recommend, **** would read again, ***** have read again.
April 22, 2016
Fantastic story!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews