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World on Fire #1
Raven's Peak
A quiet little mountain town is hiding a big problem. When the townsfolk of Raven's Peak start acting crazy, Abigail Dressler is called upon to discover the root of the evil affecting people. She uncovers a demonic threat unlike any she's ever faced and finds herself in a fight just to stay alive.
Abigail rescues Haatim Arison from a terrifying fate and discovers that he has a family legacy in the supernatural that he knows nothing about. Now she's forced to protect him, which is easy, but also to trust him if she wants to save the townsfolk of Raven's Peak. Trust, however, is something hard to have for someone who grew up living on the knife's edge of danger.
Can they discover the cause of the town's insanity and put a stop to it before it is too late?
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2016
304 people are currently reading
2255 people want to read
About the author
Lincoln Cole
31 books501 followersLincoln Cole
Lincoln Cole is a Columbus based author who enjoys traveling and has visited many different parts of the world, including Australia and Cambodia, but always returns home to his pugamonster puppy, Luther, and family. His love for writing was kindled at an early age through the works of Isaac Asimov and Stephen King and he enjoys telling stories to anyone who will listen.
Lincoln Cole is a Columbus based author who enjoys traveling and has visited many different parts of the world, including Australia and Cambodia, but always returns home to his pugamonster puppy, Luther, and family. His love for writing was kindled at an early age through the works of Isaac Asimov and Stephen King and he enjoys telling stories to anyone who will listen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
May 29, 2018
There’s a new demon slayer on the loose and she reminds me of Faith from Buffy the Vampire Slayer but on steroids.
Residents of Raven’s Peak are acting strange and the Council asks Frieda to send a hunter to investigate. She calls on the only one she knows who can handle it: Abigail.
The Council has Abigail on a short leash, thanks to her being possessed by a demon more than six months ago. But she’s determined to prove her dark past is behind her, at least that’s what she’s telling Frieda. Internally, though, she’s burning with guilt over the death of her mentor and former hunter (Reverend in the Prologue). She’s told to drop her investigation or else face the consequences. But she can’t, especially when she’s forced to protect Haatim (son of a powerful Council member) from those trying to execute him.
Now, the two of them are on their way to the small town of Raven’s Peak. Haatim is getting a crash course in his family heritage and all things paranormal. It’s a fight to the death and Abigail may have walked them into a trap. Can she survive and save the innocent people of Raven’s Peak or is she destined to forfeit her life like her mentor, the Reverend?
Some readers think the demon slayer genre is passé but Raven’s Peak is not your ordinary slayer story. Filled with high octane fight scenes, conflicted tortured characters and an original paranormal plot. Cole blurs the lines between good and evil, as evidenced by the Prologue. From the first page, I was drawn in and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
If you’re a fan of paranormal and are looking for an intense, pulse-pounding read, pick up this gem today! I can see why the story was a Kindle Scout winner.
Favorite Character:
Abigail. I loved everything about her from her dry humor to her ability to kick demon ass. She reminds me of Faith from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, only better. She’s a tortured soul, with a lot to atone for and so much to prove, yet that’s what draws my empathy to her. I mean, aren’t we all like Abigail: talented galore who’s made many mistakes and trying to make amends?
Favorite Quote:
“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster.”
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
Residents of Raven’s Peak are acting strange and the Council asks Frieda to send a hunter to investigate. She calls on the only one she knows who can handle it: Abigail.
The Council has Abigail on a short leash, thanks to her being possessed by a demon more than six months ago. But she’s determined to prove her dark past is behind her, at least that’s what she’s telling Frieda. Internally, though, she’s burning with guilt over the death of her mentor and former hunter (Reverend in the Prologue). She’s told to drop her investigation or else face the consequences. But she can’t, especially when she’s forced to protect Haatim (son of a powerful Council member) from those trying to execute him.
Now, the two of them are on their way to the small town of Raven’s Peak. Haatim is getting a crash course in his family heritage and all things paranormal. It’s a fight to the death and Abigail may have walked them into a trap. Can she survive and save the innocent people of Raven’s Peak or is she destined to forfeit her life like her mentor, the Reverend?
Some readers think the demon slayer genre is passé but Raven’s Peak is not your ordinary slayer story. Filled with high octane fight scenes, conflicted tortured characters and an original paranormal plot. Cole blurs the lines between good and evil, as evidenced by the Prologue. From the first page, I was drawn in and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
If you’re a fan of paranormal and are looking for an intense, pulse-pounding read, pick up this gem today! I can see why the story was a Kindle Scout winner.
Favorite Character:
Abigail. I loved everything about her from her dry humor to her ability to kick demon ass. She reminds me of Faith from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, only better. She’s a tortured soul, with a lot to atone for and so much to prove, yet that’s what draws my empathy to her. I mean, aren’t we all like Abigail: talented galore who’s made many mistakes and trying to make amends?
Favorite Quote:
“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster.”
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
June 21, 2016
I very much enjoyed this new action packed paranormal thriller and here’s why. I love strong, multi-dimensional characters who grow and progress throughout the story with every new challenge thrown at them. Both Haatim and Abigail are the perfect examples of strong characters, and especially Haatim, who starts off like an unsuspecting young blogger, who suddenly gets confronted by paranormal forces and realizes that all those stories about monsters were real. Abigail, a young courageous fighter working for an ancient Council, saves him, and both find themselves in the middle of action.
An ancient demon took possession of a small boy’s body and is looking to spread madness all over the world if not contained. Haatim and Abigail are ready to risk their lives for the sake of humanity, however time is quickly running out…
The action scenes were just incredible, and made me turn pages faster and faster. I found myself genuinely rooting for the main characters and their cause; their selflessness and bravery was indeed worth admiration. Having finished book one, I’ll be looking forward for the second one to see where the author will take his characters next. A great read!
An ancient demon took possession of a small boy’s body and is looking to spread madness all over the world if not contained. Haatim and Abigail are ready to risk their lives for the sake of humanity, however time is quickly running out…
The action scenes were just incredible, and made me turn pages faster and faster. I found myself genuinely rooting for the main characters and their cause; their selflessness and bravery was indeed worth admiration. Having finished book one, I’ll be looking forward for the second one to see where the author will take his characters next. A great read!
June 22, 2016
Characters I care about, checked. Narrative that engulfs me and won't let me go, checked. Pace, style, overall storytelling, checked.
The thing about this book is that it crawls into you and doesn't let you go. You are *right there* with the characters. Vivid description are one of the things I love the most about books, and this one delivers in spades. Plus, you want to know about the characters' pasts, and where would this story lead them. You're never sure who's going to make it, or where the next twist will come.
The thing about this book is that it crawls into you and doesn't let you go. You are *right there* with the characters. Vivid description are one of the things I love the most about books, and this one delivers in spades. Plus, you want to know about the characters' pasts, and where would this story lead them. You're never sure who's going to make it, or where the next twist will come.
July 7, 2016
This paranormal thriller from Lincoln Cole opens with the mysterious Reverend Arthur Vangeest who has voluntarily incarcerated himself in a desolate prison cell for the last five years. When he gets a female visitor, Frieda, who needs his help, he is reluctant to accept. From this point in the story had me hooked. Who was Arthur? Why did he lock himself away for so long? Why was he the only one who could help Frieda?
Arthur is a demon hunter and he wants revenge for the death of Abigail, someone he thought of as his daughter. However, he soon learns that Abigail isn't dead but possessed by a demon and in the act of saving her, Arthur is banished to Hell.
Now it is Abigail's turn to save Arthur, but it won't be easy. Abigail works for a secret organization known as the Council. In a series of events that end up with Abigail gaining a sidekick, Haatim; someone inexperienced to deal with demons and most other things, and together they travel across country, battling and fleeing from those who would try to harm them, both human and demon. Their quest takes them above and below ground as Abigail attempts to track down the whereabouts of Arthur and the means to save him.
QUALITY OF WRITING: Absorbing. Excellent. The author writes with confidence and there are no wasted words. Every sentence is there for a reason and adds to or carries the story along.
CHARACTERS: Well written and you easily become emotionally attached to Abigail and Haatim. I especially liked Haatim's character, who begins as an experienced, frightened youth but as the story progresses, grows more confident and better equipped to handle the strange situations and demons he and Abigail encounter and have to deal with.
LOCATIONS: Atmospheric locations enable the reader to become immersed in the story and range from prison cells, modern buildings, an abandoned mining town and below ground in tunnels.
PACE: The action packed scenes moves along quickly with exciting fight scenes.
PLOT: Interesting, well written and with a few unexpected twists.
This is one of those books that had me continually wanting to read just one more chapter, making my reading sessions longer than normal. I read the book in three sessions.
So we have a strong beginning, an exciting middle, but what about the ending? This is where so many books disappoint, but I'm glad to say, Lincoln is not guilty of this. Though the story leads into a second book, it's not a cliff hanger that fails to round off the story, but a logical extension of the story and the characters within.
All in all, a highly enjoyable story that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Arthur is a demon hunter and he wants revenge for the death of Abigail, someone he thought of as his daughter. However, he soon learns that Abigail isn't dead but possessed by a demon and in the act of saving her, Arthur is banished to Hell.
Now it is Abigail's turn to save Arthur, but it won't be easy. Abigail works for a secret organization known as the Council. In a series of events that end up with Abigail gaining a sidekick, Haatim; someone inexperienced to deal with demons and most other things, and together they travel across country, battling and fleeing from those who would try to harm them, both human and demon. Their quest takes them above and below ground as Abigail attempts to track down the whereabouts of Arthur and the means to save him.
QUALITY OF WRITING: Absorbing. Excellent. The author writes with confidence and there are no wasted words. Every sentence is there for a reason and adds to or carries the story along.
CHARACTERS: Well written and you easily become emotionally attached to Abigail and Haatim. I especially liked Haatim's character, who begins as an experienced, frightened youth but as the story progresses, grows more confident and better equipped to handle the strange situations and demons he and Abigail encounter and have to deal with.
LOCATIONS: Atmospheric locations enable the reader to become immersed in the story and range from prison cells, modern buildings, an abandoned mining town and below ground in tunnels.
PACE: The action packed scenes moves along quickly with exciting fight scenes.
PLOT: Interesting, well written and with a few unexpected twists.
This is one of those books that had me continually wanting to read just one more chapter, making my reading sessions longer than normal. I read the book in three sessions.
So we have a strong beginning, an exciting middle, but what about the ending? This is where so many books disappoint, but I'm glad to say, Lincoln is not guilty of this. Though the story leads into a second book, it's not a cliff hanger that fails to round off the story, but a logical extension of the story and the characters within.
All in all, a highly enjoyable story that I have no hesitation in recommending.
July 5, 2016
Raven's Peak is an outstanding, action packed adventure that kept moving rapidly till the bitter end. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel from the settings, to character development and the relationship between Abigail and Haatim. I look forward to the next installment of the series. Don't keep us waiting too long Mr. Cole.
I was a little jolted in parts of this story, one being the Interlude. That pulled me right out of the story and it took a day to get back to it. I understand why Mr. Cole choose to use this tactic, but I'm not convinced it worked well. Once I started reading I was glad I did. What a ride Mr. Cole took us on. The other jolt was the ending, it just stopped. Without the prelude the ending would have had me furious, but I tend to do that with my stories, so I forgive you for that one Mr. Cole. LOL
Overall this novel is well-written, well-developed and an author I will read more from. Well done Mr. Cole! Keep up the great work.
I was a little jolted in parts of this story, one being the Interlude. That pulled me right out of the story and it took a day to get back to it. I understand why Mr. Cole choose to use this tactic, but I'm not convinced it worked well. Once I started reading I was glad I did. What a ride Mr. Cole took us on. The other jolt was the ending, it just stopped. Without the prelude the ending would have had me furious, but I tend to do that with my stories, so I forgive you for that one Mr. Cole. LOL
Overall this novel is well-written, well-developed and an author I will read more from. Well done Mr. Cole! Keep up the great work.
June 29, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Kindle Scout.)
This book started out okay, but I lost interest as it went along. I didn’t really like the characters and I found it quite hard to connect with them, and the storyline was a bit weird also, and not what I was really expecting. I thought this was going to be about Abigail fighting demons, but it wasn’t that straightforward at all, and the book started out with someone having to rescue Abigail who had been possessed, and then went on to a man called Haatim being hired to follow Abigail because someone thought that she was trying to kill him.
Overall; not my cup of tea.
5 out of 10
This book started out okay, but I lost interest as it went along. I didn’t really like the characters and I found it quite hard to connect with them, and the storyline was a bit weird also, and not what I was really expecting. I thought this was going to be about Abigail fighting demons, but it wasn’t that straightforward at all, and the book started out with someone having to rescue Abigail who had been possessed, and then went on to a man called Haatim being hired to follow Abigail because someone thought that she was trying to kill him.
Overall; not my cup of tea.
5 out of 10
July 8, 2016
Raven's Peak: When I first saw the cover for this book, I hoped that I would enjoy... and it did not mislead because this is a story that I have no hesitation in recommending.
At the beginning I was reminded very much of Angels and Demons, and Silas the albino monk in his lonely cell, and I have to admit my mind closed a little... BUT, I was wrong, the plot moved swiftly on in a totally unexpected direction. The character in the cell, Arthur is clearly flawed yet I felt myself definitely on his side.
And then the story proper began, a story of two people. Haatim, a rebellious rich kid, a youth untouched by the hardships of life who is suddenly dragged into a frightening battle between good and evil... and Abigale, a disturbed, twenty something, black warrior who fights on the side of good.
Fate throws them together, and not wishing to reveal the plot or give any spoilers, I will say no more than you should read Raven's Peak for yourself... you will not regret.
Easily a 5 Star read.
At the beginning I was reminded very much of Angels and Demons, and Silas the albino monk in his lonely cell, and I have to admit my mind closed a little... BUT, I was wrong, the plot moved swiftly on in a totally unexpected direction. The character in the cell, Arthur is clearly flawed yet I felt myself definitely on his side.
And then the story proper began, a story of two people. Haatim, a rebellious rich kid, a youth untouched by the hardships of life who is suddenly dragged into a frightening battle between good and evil... and Abigale, a disturbed, twenty something, black warrior who fights on the side of good.
Fate throws them together, and not wishing to reveal the plot or give any spoilers, I will say no more than you should read Raven's Peak for yourself... you will not regret.
Easily a 5 Star read.
February 22, 2022
Just finished reading “Raven’s Peak (World on Fire, Book 1)”, by Lincoln Cole. I won this book in a giveaway on Goodreads.com. This is my first read by Lincoln and I look forward to the sequel to this paced supernatural thriller. Very strong well developed characters, and multiple plots throughout this book. I really enjoyed my first read of this author and look forward to many more.
Synopsis: A quiet little mountain town is hiding a big problem. When the townsfolk of Raven's Peak start acting crazy, Abigail Dressler is called upon to find out what is happening. She uncovers a demonic threat unlike any she's ever faced and finds herself in a fight just to stay alive.
She rescues Haatim Arison from a terrifying fate and discovers that he has a family legacy in the supernatural that he knows nothing about. Now she's forced to protect him, which is easy, and also trust him if she wants to save the townsfolk of Raven's Peak. Trust, however, is considerably more difficult for someone who grew up living on the knife's edge of danger.
Can they discover the cause of the town's insanity and put a stop to it before it is too late?
Synopsis: A quiet little mountain town is hiding a big problem. When the townsfolk of Raven's Peak start acting crazy, Abigail Dressler is called upon to find out what is happening. She uncovers a demonic threat unlike any she's ever faced and finds herself in a fight just to stay alive.
She rescues Haatim Arison from a terrifying fate and discovers that he has a family legacy in the supernatural that he knows nothing about. Now she's forced to protect him, which is easy, and also trust him if she wants to save the townsfolk of Raven's Peak. Trust, however, is considerably more difficult for someone who grew up living on the knife's edge of danger.
Can they discover the cause of the town's insanity and put a stop to it before it is too late?
February 17, 2017
This was an exceptionally fun read, and I immediately bought book two of the series for my kindle after I read the last page. Raven's Peak has great character development throughout. I found myself really connecting with Haatim and Abigale, as they have really nice depth and are empathetic characters. The pacing was really good from the first chapter and didn't slow down, and you are given just enough details of what's going on to keep you interested without feeling like too many details were revealed in too short a time. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for something fun to read over a couple day's span, and I am highly looking forward to the second and third installment of the series.
September 22, 2017
** I received this audiobook in exchange for a honest review**
The narrator did a great job. She has a very nice voice. The production was great, no problems there.
The story. Well... i didn't think it matched up to the description. Abby goes to Raven's Peak first then everyone goes crazy. The characters were fine but I didn't really click with any of them. Abby belongs to an order that helps protect the world against the supernatural.She's a solider that has lost the trust of most of the order. So demon hunting ensues. The story was ok, just not what I was expecting. One thing that kept standing out to me over & over- we, in the U.S., don't use meters. It was kinda aggravating. If this is a series, I don't think I'll read the next book.
The narrator did a great job. She has a very nice voice. The production was great, no problems there.
The story. Well... i didn't think it matched up to the description. Abby goes to Raven's Peak first then everyone goes crazy. The characters were fine but I didn't really click with any of them. Abby belongs to an order that helps protect the world against the supernatural.She's a solider that has lost the trust of most of the order. So demon hunting ensues. The story was ok, just not what I was expecting. One thing that kept standing out to me over & over- we, in the U.S., don't use meters. It was kinda aggravating. If this is a series, I don't think I'll read the next book.
July 5, 2016
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 Stars
This book dove right with some dark, twisted stuff, so I knew right away that I was gonna dig it. I was not disappointed. I felt like the story flowed along pretty smoothly, and I enjoyed the characters. The author did a great job building his world and all of the monsters and demons within it.
I really liked it, and think a lot of people who enjoy dark, demonic themed stories would, too. I'm definitely going to be buying more from this author!
Bob says: 4.5 Platypires, adding to faves of 2016
4.5 Stars
This book dove right with some dark, twisted stuff, so I knew right away that I was gonna dig it. I was not disappointed. I felt like the story flowed along pretty smoothly, and I enjoyed the characters. The author did a great job building his world and all of the monsters and demons within it.
I really liked it, and think a lot of people who enjoy dark, demonic themed stories would, too. I'm definitely going to be buying more from this author!
Bob says: 4.5 Platypires, adding to faves of 2016
July 9, 2016
This is a very polished horror thriller with interesting main characters and plenty of danger. I enjoyed the contst between Abigail and Haatim, the way the complemented each other, and the way their bond developed over the course of the book. The writing is clear and not overly embellished. The mythology is parceled out nicely. The story is compelling and frightening in equal measure. The gore is there, but it isn't offensive. All in all, very well done. I have high hopes for the rest of the series.
July 6, 2016
Wow. Cole has such a command of imagery in Raven's Peak. There were times when I was reading that I actually forgot I was reading--it was like I watching a movie instead because the scenes were so vivid and intense. This is my type of book--dark, thrilling, unexpected and unpredictable. It had me hooked from cover to cover (or, you know, first kindle swipe to last kindle swipe). Well written and plotted! Highly recommended!
July 11, 2016
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
From the moment I started reading Raven’s Peak, I couldn’t put it down. Raven’s Peak is a quiet little mountain town hiding a big problem – the townsfolk are starting to act crazy. Abigail Dressler is called upon to discover the root of the evil affecting people, and as such, discovers a demonic threat of epic proportions.
Abigail rescues Haatim Arison, a young man who has a family legacy in the supernatural, something he knew little about until now. Now he sees demons, scary supernatural beings, and must come to terms with his own legacy. In order to survive, Abigail will need to protect Haatim and learn to trust him – easier said than done.
I really liked Haatim. At the start of the book, he’s obviously lost, having dropped out of college and suffering personal loss. But as the story progresses, the reader sees him grow and change, and likewise, so does Abigail. The plot is engaging, and the writing is very fast-paced; I almost flew through the pages racing to the end.
This was definitely an on-the-edge-of-your-seat pageturner and paranormal thriller.
From the moment I started reading Raven’s Peak, I couldn’t put it down. Raven’s Peak is a quiet little mountain town hiding a big problem – the townsfolk are starting to act crazy. Abigail Dressler is called upon to discover the root of the evil affecting people, and as such, discovers a demonic threat of epic proportions.
Abigail rescues Haatim Arison, a young man who has a family legacy in the supernatural, something he knew little about until now. Now he sees demons, scary supernatural beings, and must come to terms with his own legacy. In order to survive, Abigail will need to protect Haatim and learn to trust him – easier said than done.
I really liked Haatim. At the start of the book, he’s obviously lost, having dropped out of college and suffering personal loss. But as the story progresses, the reader sees him grow and change, and likewise, so does Abigail. The plot is engaging, and the writing is very fast-paced; I almost flew through the pages racing to the end.
This was definitely an on-the-edge-of-your-seat pageturner and paranormal thriller.
August 14, 2017
The writing was great, no doubt in that. But I felt like most of the book was a little lost on me. Still, I find the world-building peculiar enough to go on with the story.
February 11, 2019
Me sorprendió, no pensé que fuera a gustarme tanto. Abigail, la protagonista, es todo lo que buscaba en un personaje femenino actual en una obra de ficción. Los escenarios aportan misterio y los eventos están muy bien narrados.
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August 8, 2018
This is a horror book about a man who likes whipping himself, who gets sent to hunt a demon. The demon likes to kill young girls and inhabit their bodies. I really was not enjoying the tale so I stopped reading. The location seems to be North America. I am sure some readers will enjoy this book more than I did.
I downloaded a copy from the Kindle Scout programme because I have enjoyed other works of fiction by this author.
This is an unbiased review.
I downloaded a copy from the Kindle Scout programme because I have enjoyed other works of fiction by this author.
This is an unbiased review.
July 7, 2016
Realism When You Need It; Fast-Pace Chills When You Don’t
Raven’s Peak is the story of Abigail Dressler, a relatively inexperienced “hunter” charged by a secret society with finding and subduing demons. Faced with threats greater than any she has encountered before, she must ally with Haatim Arison, who is oblivious to his own roots in this peace-keeping crusade.
Raven’s Peak finds the perfect blend of realism and the supernatural. It might seem that a book listed in the Occult genre need not worry about realism, but I would argue otherwise. Without a connection to reality, no tension is generated, and Haatim Arison feels quite real as the somewhat soft and overindulged recent college graduate. So, when he is plunged into life-threatening situations beyond his comprehension, you can identify. On the other side of this coin, author Lincoln Cole shows great creativity in the development of the supernatural side of the story. As one with a background in psychology, I particularly enjoyed the demon Belphegor…if it’s appropriate to say you enjoyed a demon.
This cast of a clueless human, a somewhat inexperienced hunter, and a collection of essences no one would want to meet on a dark alley move quickly through a fast-paced and exciting plot, making Raven’s Peak a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest, nonreciprocal review.
Raven’s Peak is the story of Abigail Dressler, a relatively inexperienced “hunter” charged by a secret society with finding and subduing demons. Faced with threats greater than any she has encountered before, she must ally with Haatim Arison, who is oblivious to his own roots in this peace-keeping crusade.
Raven’s Peak finds the perfect blend of realism and the supernatural. It might seem that a book listed in the Occult genre need not worry about realism, but I would argue otherwise. Without a connection to reality, no tension is generated, and Haatim Arison feels quite real as the somewhat soft and overindulged recent college graduate. So, when he is plunged into life-threatening situations beyond his comprehension, you can identify. On the other side of this coin, author Lincoln Cole shows great creativity in the development of the supernatural side of the story. As one with a background in psychology, I particularly enjoyed the demon Belphegor…if it’s appropriate to say you enjoyed a demon.
This cast of a clueless human, a somewhat inexperienced hunter, and a collection of essences no one would want to meet on a dark alley move quickly through a fast-paced and exciting plot, making Raven’s Peak a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest, nonreciprocal review.
December 18, 2016
Raven's Peak (World on Fire, #1) by Lincoln Cole is a creepy, disturbing, and wonderfully good read! It keeps you turning the page when you don't want to. I was afraid to read what might be next but couldn't help myself. This book is full of suspense and surprises. Loved it! Action, fantasy, demons, terror, and so much more. The characters are well developed and rich with their own uniqueness. I was terrified of the Reverend and I felt like I was there, with the guards, oh, my ticker was going for sure then... He was a very unique character! So much happens in this book, I am not going to give a book report here, you have to read it! I don't want to spoil a thing! I promise, it is well worth your time! This book was given to me and boy am I mad at myself for waiting so long to read it. Great job!
July 5, 2016
What an amazing novel! First, I was surprised by the sudden, abrupt beginning; but just after a few pages, I could not put the book out of my hands. Abigail, who is possessed by a demon in the beginning, meets Haatim. Together, they go on a mission to safe the world from evil.
In the book, you find everything: demons, demon hunters, secret societies-- everything exprerienced by dynamic characters. Especially Haatim was depicted in a very realistic and convincing way.
I would recommend this novel to anybody who loves dark fiction about demons. A really good read. Thank you, Loncoln Cole!
In the book, you find everything: demons, demon hunters, secret societies-- everything exprerienced by dynamic characters. Especially Haatim was depicted in a very realistic and convincing way.
I would recommend this novel to anybody who loves dark fiction about demons. A really good read. Thank you, Loncoln Cole!
Want to read
May 26, 2020author gift 99. downloaded October 2019 from Amazon - cannot find on Kindle on phone but downloaded on newest Mac - will have to read there. Why?
April 22, 2017
An excellent page-turning action/horror. Lots of plot twists, clear action, good characters, witty banter. Diverse cast and solid-seeming details. A feet-up, lean-back read. Well done.
November 1, 2016
Raven's Peak by Lincoln Cole is a fast-paced paranormal action thriller. It was also quite scary in places, and were it a movie with a bit of sound effects, it would definitely be creepy. It is the first instalment in the World on Fire series.
The novel opens with a lengthy but action-filled prologue where we are introduced to Abigail, a demon hunter, who was out on a mission but had been possessed by the demon she, along with two others, was sent to destroy. Her mentor, Arthur goes to rescue her and is instead taken by the demon after a bone-breaking supernatural fight in a church.
Though long, the prologue is eventful and exciting.
"What stood before Arthur was only the shell of the girl he loved. Something else was in control. He could feel the rage and hatred emanating from Abigail's lithe body. Her skin was covered in a heat rash, her flesh barely containing the demonic presence within."
After the prologue, the novel begins five months after the events at the church, where we meet Haatim, a theology graduate who recently lost his sister to cancer and returned to the US from India, feeling angry at his father and God. He is given a kind of freelance job, by a man named George, to take pictures of Abigail, who is seen following George.
From there, things progress as Haatim is thrust into the supernatural world of which he had no knowledge. Abigail attempts – at first – to withhold information regarding Haatim's father, who is a member of the Council that sanctions the missions against the demons.
The duo then flees from otherworldly creatures trying to kill or capture them. Abigail, secretly, tries to find out more about the demon that took Arthur and seeks to save him.
"They could feel the supernatural presence, the sheer wrongness of it, as easily as he could. Even the forest could sense something was amiss."
Abigail is tasked to go to Raven's Peak after rumours that there might be a minor demon in the area. From there, things take a whole new level of surprising and scary for both the demon hunter and Haatim.
Character development in the novel is significant for both Abigail and Haatim. Abigail is also a sarcastic though often serious character, making her interactions with Haatim quite funny, especially since he is new to the whole supernatural scene.
"I thought you said I wasn't worth anything to them without the pictures."
"I didn't think you were," she said. "Turns out, you're worth a whole hell of a lot."
Raven's Peak had many scary parts, some nearly had me biting my nails with suspense, but overall it wasn't horrifying. The pace is very quick, even the longer chapters slip by and you're hungry for more.
"What happens when I don't come back? When I become the new threat and you have no one else to send?"
Overall rating: 4.5 stars.
Note: I received a free copy of Raven's Peak from the author in exchange for an honest review (which was originally planned in October.)
The novel opens with a lengthy but action-filled prologue where we are introduced to Abigail, a demon hunter, who was out on a mission but had been possessed by the demon she, along with two others, was sent to destroy. Her mentor, Arthur goes to rescue her and is instead taken by the demon after a bone-breaking supernatural fight in a church.
Though long, the prologue is eventful and exciting.
"What stood before Arthur was only the shell of the girl he loved. Something else was in control. He could feel the rage and hatred emanating from Abigail's lithe body. Her skin was covered in a heat rash, her flesh barely containing the demonic presence within."
After the prologue, the novel begins five months after the events at the church, where we meet Haatim, a theology graduate who recently lost his sister to cancer and returned to the US from India, feeling angry at his father and God. He is given a kind of freelance job, by a man named George, to take pictures of Abigail, who is seen following George.
From there, things progress as Haatim is thrust into the supernatural world of which he had no knowledge. Abigail attempts – at first – to withhold information regarding Haatim's father, who is a member of the Council that sanctions the missions against the demons.
The duo then flees from otherworldly creatures trying to kill or capture them. Abigail, secretly, tries to find out more about the demon that took Arthur and seeks to save him.
"They could feel the supernatural presence, the sheer wrongness of it, as easily as he could. Even the forest could sense something was amiss."
Abigail is tasked to go to Raven's Peak after rumours that there might be a minor demon in the area. From there, things take a whole new level of surprising and scary for both the demon hunter and Haatim.
Character development in the novel is significant for both Abigail and Haatim. Abigail is also a sarcastic though often serious character, making her interactions with Haatim quite funny, especially since he is new to the whole supernatural scene.
"I thought you said I wasn't worth anything to them without the pictures."
"I didn't think you were," she said. "Turns out, you're worth a whole hell of a lot."
Raven's Peak had many scary parts, some nearly had me biting my nails with suspense, but overall it wasn't horrifying. The pace is very quick, even the longer chapters slip by and you're hungry for more.
"What happens when I don't come back? When I become the new threat and you have no one else to send?"
Overall rating: 4.5 stars.
Note: I received a free copy of Raven's Peak from the author in exchange for an honest review (which was originally planned in October.)
June 27, 2016
I received this book free from Kindle Scout by voting on it to be published and am so glad that I did. The excerpt that was put up for reading ended just before the prologue finished at a very tantalising dialogue and it was great to be able to keep finally reading the whole book.
The Reverend Arthur Vangeest has spent the last five years in an old forgotten prison cell. No one knows who he is. No one knows why he's there. No one knows how long he will spend there. But he spends his time lashing himself with a cat-o- nine-tails as penance for the deeds he has done and the lives he has taken in his lifetime.Deeds that he has performed as part of his job in The Order. Because Arthur isn't like every other prisoner, he's there voluntarily and could walk out anytime he likes, but that wouldn't be atonement for him then.
But then the day comes that Frieda comes to the prison to ask him for his help, to go back to what he is trained to do. Her reason? Three of their best demon hunters are dead; two are good friends of his, and the other is his adopted daughter Abigail.
The only reason he agrees is because of Abigail; he wants revenge and justice for her. But once he gets to the scene of the crime he realises something important; there are only enough mangled body parts for two bodies! And Abigail is not among them. But when he finds her, he's not happy with what has happened to her - she has been possessed by a demon! He manages to free her by making a deal that the demon takes him back to hell instead of Abigail.
Five month's later, Abigail is over the trauma that the demon had subjected her to, he's made her forget most of what had happened, but she is determined to find and bring Arthur back home from hell. The only thing is that The Council of The Order isn't very keen to trust in her now, she's only sent on low-level jobs that don't really matter. And she still isn't getting any closer to finding her adopted father!
Until that is, she comes across Haatim Arison who has been hired to follow her by a lower demon on the pretext that she is following the man and is going to kill him. Haatim doesn't believe in demons and the like, and it takes some getting used to when the truth of it all hits him as he is followed by the demons, attacked, captured, and tortured to make a deal with them.
Can Abigail free him and get him to safety? Just who is Haatim's father and what does he have to do with all the secrecy around what happened to her own father? According to the demon they capture, Haatim's father made a deal with it's Master and has gone back on it, but what was the deal about?
Haatim and Abigail bond as they look into the events at Raven's Peak and soon find that Haatim has a few gifts of his own to use. But will it all be enough to save Abigail's life?
The Reverend Arthur Vangeest has spent the last five years in an old forgotten prison cell. No one knows who he is. No one knows why he's there. No one knows how long he will spend there. But he spends his time lashing himself with a cat-o- nine-tails as penance for the deeds he has done and the lives he has taken in his lifetime.Deeds that he has performed as part of his job in The Order. Because Arthur isn't like every other prisoner, he's there voluntarily and could walk out anytime he likes, but that wouldn't be atonement for him then.
But then the day comes that Frieda comes to the prison to ask him for his help, to go back to what he is trained to do. Her reason? Three of their best demon hunters are dead; two are good friends of his, and the other is his adopted daughter Abigail.
The only reason he agrees is because of Abigail; he wants revenge and justice for her. But once he gets to the scene of the crime he realises something important; there are only enough mangled body parts for two bodies! And Abigail is not among them. But when he finds her, he's not happy with what has happened to her - she has been possessed by a demon! He manages to free her by making a deal that the demon takes him back to hell instead of Abigail.
Five month's later, Abigail is over the trauma that the demon had subjected her to, he's made her forget most of what had happened, but she is determined to find and bring Arthur back home from hell. The only thing is that The Council of The Order isn't very keen to trust in her now, she's only sent on low-level jobs that don't really matter. And she still isn't getting any closer to finding her adopted father!
Until that is, she comes across Haatim Arison who has been hired to follow her by a lower demon on the pretext that she is following the man and is going to kill him. Haatim doesn't believe in demons and the like, and it takes some getting used to when the truth of it all hits him as he is followed by the demons, attacked, captured, and tortured to make a deal with them.
Can Abigail free him and get him to safety? Just who is Haatim's father and what does he have to do with all the secrecy around what happened to her own father? According to the demon they capture, Haatim's father made a deal with it's Master and has gone back on it, but what was the deal about?
Haatim and Abigail bond as they look into the events at Raven's Peak and soon find that Haatim has a few gifts of his own to use. But will it all be enough to save Abigail's life?
June 23, 2016
I won this book on Kindle Scout, so yay for that!
Raven's Peak follows... well, it's either Abigail or Haatim. So my normal opening sentence does not work here. Basically, Abigail hunts demons, and Haatim is running from his past. When Haatim unwittingly becomes entangled in the whole demon world, he meets Abigail and things start to get weird and dangerous for him. The two eventually end up at a tiny town called Raven's Peak, where people are going crazy, and where Abigail and Haatim will both have to face their past in one way or another.
I've previously talked about Lincoln Cole's books, and this was as good as the other, even though he's writing in a completely different genre. I'm really not kidding or exaggerating when I say that I was flipping the pages as quickly as possible. From the prologue, which doesn't make sense until you're deep in the book and then it hits you, to the ending, the book had many twists and turns. It was definitely a thrilling read (kinda like the roller coaster of books, come to think of it).
As for the characters, I really liked Abigail and Haatim. They worked well together, and they both had that essential spark that made them come alive to me. For Abigail, it was her bonds to the man she thought of as father (or a father figure). For Haatim, it was the tragedy in his past. Both of them are weighed down by it, and getting over them is something that they have to do if they want to confront the external problem that's all around them.
If you're a fan of horror, I really recommend this book. And if my word isn't enough, think of it this way: enough people liked the book to nominate it, and it caught the editor's eye over at Kindle Scout, so that should tell you how good it is.
Disclaimer: I know the author, and I nominated the book for Kindle Scout, which is how I got my copy. The gushing, however, was made of my own free will and is my honest opinion.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Raven's Peak follows... well, it's either Abigail or Haatim. So my normal opening sentence does not work here. Basically, Abigail hunts demons, and Haatim is running from his past. When Haatim unwittingly becomes entangled in the whole demon world, he meets Abigail and things start to get weird and dangerous for him. The two eventually end up at a tiny town called Raven's Peak, where people are going crazy, and where Abigail and Haatim will both have to face their past in one way or another.
I've previously talked about Lincoln Cole's books, and this was as good as the other, even though he's writing in a completely different genre. I'm really not kidding or exaggerating when I say that I was flipping the pages as quickly as possible. From the prologue, which doesn't make sense until you're deep in the book and then it hits you, to the ending, the book had many twists and turns. It was definitely a thrilling read (kinda like the roller coaster of books, come to think of it).
As for the characters, I really liked Abigail and Haatim. They worked well together, and they both had that essential spark that made them come alive to me. For Abigail, it was her bonds to the man she thought of as father (or a father figure). For Haatim, it was the tragedy in his past. Both of them are weighed down by it, and getting over them is something that they have to do if they want to confront the external problem that's all around them.
If you're a fan of horror, I really recommend this book. And if my word isn't enough, think of it this way: enough people liked the book to nominate it, and it caught the editor's eye over at Kindle Scout, so that should tell you how good it is.
Disclaimer: I know the author, and I nominated the book for Kindle Scout, which is how I got my copy. The gushing, however, was made of my own free will and is my honest opinion.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
July 25, 2016
Loved this book! Honestly, I wasn't sure what I was getting into, but I'm glad I did! Lincoln Cole is a #NewToMe author, but is now on my short list of those I will keeping tabs on!
Raven's Peak deals with a Abigail, a young girl working for a secret organization that hunts down supernatural threats and deals with them. Demons, cults, you name it, she does it. She was brought into this world long ago, and her backstory is facinating. There's a lot of dark twisty stuff going on in this book, and you have to keep going in order to figure out what is really true and what's a lie.
Outstanding character development through this whole story. Poor Haatim, wrong place, wrong time, and now he's on the run for his life. He gets brought into this world only to find out his family was already in it. This blogger has a lot to learn and really develops over the course of the story, and I really enjoyed his character. Abigail is another character that really has some serious things to deal with over the course of the novel, but I think she handles them well, and really comes into her own. I hope we get to see more of her!
Loved the plot, kept me on my toes from beginning to end. I didn't know what to expect, and I love that the author kept upping the stakes and giving us more. I was so completely lost in this world, and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be looking forward to more books by this author. His voice is very unique and engaging! Fantastic!
*I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This review was done in conjunction with NerdGirl Official. For more information, visit them on FB!
Raven's Peak deals with a Abigail, a young girl working for a secret organization that hunts down supernatural threats and deals with them. Demons, cults, you name it, she does it. She was brought into this world long ago, and her backstory is facinating. There's a lot of dark twisty stuff going on in this book, and you have to keep going in order to figure out what is really true and what's a lie.
Outstanding character development through this whole story. Poor Haatim, wrong place, wrong time, and now he's on the run for his life. He gets brought into this world only to find out his family was already in it. This blogger has a lot to learn and really develops over the course of the story, and I really enjoyed his character. Abigail is another character that really has some serious things to deal with over the course of the novel, but I think she handles them well, and really comes into her own. I hope we get to see more of her!
Loved the plot, kept me on my toes from beginning to end. I didn't know what to expect, and I love that the author kept upping the stakes and giving us more. I was so completely lost in this world, and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be looking forward to more books by this author. His voice is very unique and engaging! Fantastic!
*I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This review was done in conjunction with NerdGirl Official. For more information, visit them on FB!
July 5, 2016
Raven’s Peak is a thoroughly engrossing supernatural thriller. In the Prologue, we meet Arthur, the Reverend, the master Hunter, now imprisoned by a powerful demon. There he is contacted by Frieda and sent on an important mission concerning Abigail.
The focus then shifts to the two main characters: Haatim and Abigail, who are thrown together in the battle against the demon who calls himself George Wertman. Haatim is my favorite character in this book. He’s bookish and heavy-set, not your typical action hero, but he grows into the part, and his knowledge of comparative religions proves crucial to the battle. In the beginning, he refuses to believe any of this supernatural stuff is real. Once he sees the proof, he’s terrified. And the reader goes right along with him.
Abigail is powerful but flawed, drawn to take risks beyond those she’s assigned by the Council, especially if she can find out what happened to Arthur, her former mentor.
Central to the story is the battle between good and evil. Evil comes in the form of demons who lure people to become their “vessels,” using humans’ dark emotions to foster chaos. Some of the demons are ancient and incredibly powerful, even against traditional protective signs and rituals.
The backwoods campground at Raven’s Peak is built next to the ruins of the old town, combining the power of the wild with the power of the dark past.
Put all this together and you have a first-rate thriller. The ending suggests a sequel, which I can’t wait to read.
The focus then shifts to the two main characters: Haatim and Abigail, who are thrown together in the battle against the demon who calls himself George Wertman. Haatim is my favorite character in this book. He’s bookish and heavy-set, not your typical action hero, but he grows into the part, and his knowledge of comparative religions proves crucial to the battle. In the beginning, he refuses to believe any of this supernatural stuff is real. Once he sees the proof, he’s terrified. And the reader goes right along with him.
Abigail is powerful but flawed, drawn to take risks beyond those she’s assigned by the Council, especially if she can find out what happened to Arthur, her former mentor.
Central to the story is the battle between good and evil. Evil comes in the form of demons who lure people to become their “vessels,” using humans’ dark emotions to foster chaos. Some of the demons are ancient and incredibly powerful, even against traditional protective signs and rituals.
The backwoods campground at Raven’s Peak is built next to the ruins of the old town, combining the power of the wild with the power of the dark past.
Put all this together and you have a first-rate thriller. The ending suggests a sequel, which I can’t wait to read.
November 9, 2016
Demon hunters, cults, possessions, and world-wide conspiracies. And no, I'm not talking about the US election results.
Lincoln Cole's first book in the World on Fire series makes a weighty stand in the genre of paranormal mashups, combining a thriller-esque pacing with a fascinating setup. You'll find your staples of the genre: strong female protagonist; witty dialogue; an end-of-world, cataclysmic doomsday appeal; but you'll also find a story that's well told.
By the end of the prologue I was hooked, though I did find Arthur the most fascinating character within this story and kept hoping he would reappear. There's a lot of potential within this book which surely will continue on through the next stories in the series. Cole manages to keep a good balance in a story that could have nose-dived into cliches, and the setting of Raven's Peak is excellently drawn.
A definite recommend for fans of supernatural / paranormal adventures, though if you like your horror dark, you may find this a little wanting.
Lincoln Cole's first book in the World on Fire series makes a weighty stand in the genre of paranormal mashups, combining a thriller-esque pacing with a fascinating setup. You'll find your staples of the genre: strong female protagonist; witty dialogue; an end-of-world, cataclysmic doomsday appeal; but you'll also find a story that's well told.
By the end of the prologue I was hooked, though I did find Arthur the most fascinating character within this story and kept hoping he would reappear. There's a lot of potential within this book which surely will continue on through the next stories in the series. Cole manages to keep a good balance in a story that could have nose-dived into cliches, and the setting of Raven's Peak is excellently drawn.
A definite recommend for fans of supernatural / paranormal adventures, though if you like your horror dark, you may find this a little wanting.
August 18, 2016
This book should be on your must-read pile.
The story begins with a dark, unsettling, spellbinding prologue and maintains the suspense until the final page.
Battling demons is rarely a task for the weak of body or mind and Abigail is certainly no exception. Strong, feisty, and with the ability to repartee just as devastatingly with words as a weapon, Abigail is an enjoyable hero to watch in action.
And as for the likeable but somewhat clueless Hateem, he may indeed find himself in more danger from Abigail than the demons stalking him.
An action-packed story, with great characters, an intriguing plot and an underlying cheeky humour ensured that this was never going to be a dry and sombre read.
I'm thankful that I was given the opportunity to read and review Raven's Peak by the author. It's a ripper of a read that I thoroughly enjoyed and cannot recommend highly enough.
Anxiously awaiting the sequel!
The story begins with a dark, unsettling, spellbinding prologue and maintains the suspense until the final page.
Battling demons is rarely a task for the weak of body or mind and Abigail is certainly no exception. Strong, feisty, and with the ability to repartee just as devastatingly with words as a weapon, Abigail is an enjoyable hero to watch in action.
And as for the likeable but somewhat clueless Hateem, he may indeed find himself in more danger from Abigail than the demons stalking him.
An action-packed story, with great characters, an intriguing plot and an underlying cheeky humour ensured that this was never going to be a dry and sombre read.
I'm thankful that I was given the opportunity to read and review Raven's Peak by the author. It's a ripper of a read that I thoroughly enjoyed and cannot recommend highly enough.
Anxiously awaiting the sequel!
July 27, 2016
Wow! Not my usual genre, but i really enjoyed it.
Very exciting from the start.
The prelude ended and I was suddenly without Arthur. Which didn't thrill me initially as I really liked him. I really wanted the story to be centred around him, but to my surprise it only got better. I was introduced to Abigail! What a great character! I loved her, such a strong, witty woman.
All the characters are really well written, I think Lincoln did a great job making you feel attached to them all. Especially Haatim, he grew with the story which was interesting to watch and feel a part of.
Articulate descriptions really set each scene. A lot of action, which I enjoyed.
All in all Lincoln did a really great job.
I loved that it ended without being left out on a limb...there is still more to come, but you are not left scratching your head.
If you like books with supernatural themes and demons...this is the book for you.
Highly recommend.
Very exciting from the start.
The prelude ended and I was suddenly without Arthur. Which didn't thrill me initially as I really liked him. I really wanted the story to be centred around him, but to my surprise it only got better. I was introduced to Abigail! What a great character! I loved her, such a strong, witty woman.
All the characters are really well written, I think Lincoln did a great job making you feel attached to them all. Especially Haatim, he grew with the story which was interesting to watch and feel a part of.
Articulate descriptions really set each scene. A lot of action, which I enjoyed.
All in all Lincoln did a really great job.
I loved that it ended without being left out on a limb...there is still more to come, but you are not left scratching your head.
If you like books with supernatural themes and demons...this is the book for you.
Highly recommend.
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