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Ozark Omens #1
The Girl Next Door
An undying girl. A young man destined to devour her. A town shrouded in mystery.
Nicholas Hemming has been caged his entire life. But in 1992—after a fire at the nightmarish ranch he called home in California—he moves to the Ozarks with his aunt Valerie to start over. The last thing he expects to find in the cemetery bordering his new home is the red-haired girl who has haunted his dreams for years.
Sorina Oleksander has lived in the grande house bordering Hart Hollow for decades, waiting to exact revenge on the being who stole from her. However, when Nicholas moves to town, she knows her days are numbered. And despite knowing his existence will be her undoing, she enrolls in the local high school to get closer to him.
Foretold to be each other’s ruin, Nicholas and Sorina begin to play games in the night. But when the body of a young preacher’s daughter is found, Nicholas knows he and his new group of misfit friends have to find out who’s stealing girls in the night. Can Nicholas convince his aunt Valerie to stay away from the enigmatic Deacon who watches over the town? Can they find the creature from his nightmares before it kills again?
Steeped in mythology, The Girl Next Door is a tale of omens, morbid bloodlines, revenge, and forbidden love that takes root in the darkest of hearts. This gothic tale is perfect for fans of Stranger Things, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and the early ’90s The Last Vampire series by Christopher Pike.
Please note The Girl Next Door contains dark themes such as explicit language, abuse, sexual violence, and murder, which may be triggering for some. Please see the author's website for the full content warning.
The Girl Next Door is the first book in the Ozark Omens series. It ends on a cliffhanger.
Nicholas Hemming has been caged his entire life. But in 1992—after a fire at the nightmarish ranch he called home in California—he moves to the Ozarks with his aunt Valerie to start over. The last thing he expects to find in the cemetery bordering his new home is the red-haired girl who has haunted his dreams for years.
Sorina Oleksander has lived in the grande house bordering Hart Hollow for decades, waiting to exact revenge on the being who stole from her. However, when Nicholas moves to town, she knows her days are numbered. And despite knowing his existence will be her undoing, she enrolls in the local high school to get closer to him.
Foretold to be each other’s ruin, Nicholas and Sorina begin to play games in the night. But when the body of a young preacher’s daughter is found, Nicholas knows he and his new group of misfit friends have to find out who’s stealing girls in the night. Can Nicholas convince his aunt Valerie to stay away from the enigmatic Deacon who watches over the town? Can they find the creature from his nightmares before it kills again?
Steeped in mythology, The Girl Next Door is a tale of omens, morbid bloodlines, revenge, and forbidden love that takes root in the darkest of hearts. This gothic tale is perfect for fans of Stranger Things, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and the early ’90s The Last Vampire series by Christopher Pike.
Please note The Girl Next Door contains dark themes such as explicit language, abuse, sexual violence, and murder, which may be triggering for some. Please see the author's website for the full content warning.
The Girl Next Door is the first book in the Ozark Omens series. It ends on a cliffhanger.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 22, 2022
14 people are currently reading
3271 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Rogue
60 books851 followersJ.R. Rogue first put pen to paper at the age of fifteen after developing an unrequited high school crush and has never stopped writing about heartache. She has published multiple volumes of poetry and novels. Her work has been recognized with three Goodreads Choice Awards nominations, a testament to the impact of her work on readers.
In addition to her writing, J.R. Rogue is a certified yoga teacher with additional certification in Yoga Nidra and Trauma-Informed Yoga. She is passionate about mindfulness and meditation, and currently studying Foundations in Meditation. Furthermore, J.R. Rogue has been sober from alcohol since January 1st, 2020, a personal achievement that she is proud of and that has strengthened her commitment to mindfulness and wellness.
J.R. Rogue resides in a small town in the Midwest with her family, where she enjoys a peaceful life reading and telling stories
In addition to her writing, J.R. Rogue is a certified yoga teacher with additional certification in Yoga Nidra and Trauma-Informed Yoga. She is passionate about mindfulness and meditation, and currently studying Foundations in Meditation. Furthermore, J.R. Rogue has been sober from alcohol since January 1st, 2020, a personal achievement that she is proud of and that has strengthened her commitment to mindfulness and wellness.
J.R. Rogue resides in a small town in the Midwest with her family, where she enjoys a peaceful life reading and telling stories
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 16, 2022
I dived into the unknown. A genre I’ve not stepped into before, so this popped that cherry well and truly. This was easy to get into and kept my attention throughout as I raced to uncover his true identity and those surrounding him.
This was well written, easy to follow, and the characters in his small group were likeable as they too tried to unravel all that was hidden from them.
When three newcomers shake up the little town, a town where young girls are known to go missing, assumed to of fled, but only one character knows the truth.
dnf-lost-interest
December 15, 2022"Steeped in mythology, The Girl Next Door is a tale of omens, morbid bloodlines, revenge, and forbidden love that takes root in the darkest of hearts. This gothic tale is perfect for fans of Stranger Things, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and the early ’90s The Last Vampire series by Christopher Pike."
June 11, 2024
Update: Here to remind you to read this book!
---
I’ve never read anything quite like this. And that’s saying something as someone who’s been reading for most of her life.
Rogue weaves this story, capturing us slowly. We don’t realize how invested we are until we’re at the ending, dying to know more.
The tale of Nicholas and Sorina, and the missing preachers’ daughters is one I can’t get out of my head. The eeriness, the way I could picture Hart Hollow’s shadows and the things that go bump in the night.
I’m in awe of this story, and if you’re looking for something different, something that’ll sink its fangs into you, pick up this macabre tale.
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I’ve never read anything quite like this. And that’s saying something as someone who’s been reading for most of her life.
Rogue weaves this story, capturing us slowly. We don’t realize how invested we are until we’re at the ending, dying to know more.
The tale of Nicholas and Sorina, and the missing preachers’ daughters is one I can’t get out of my head. The eeriness, the way I could picture Hart Hollow’s shadows and the things that go bump in the night.
I’m in awe of this story, and if you’re looking for something different, something that’ll sink its fangs into you, pick up this macabre tale.
December 1, 2022
❣︎✣︎𝑴𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑮𝑰𝑹𝑳 𝑵𝑬𝑿𝑻 𝑫𝑶𝑶𝑹 𝒃𝒚 𝑱.𝑹. 𝑹𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆✣︎❣︎
★︎4.25 STARS★︎
This story has an amazing gothic, otherworldly vibe. It’s mysterious, dark and gave me goosebumps.
I love the tone the author creates.
It’s told in third person which I think is perfect for this story.
Nicholas and his cousin have escaped incredible horror’s in a religious cult. They’ve wandered the country for a few years and now have been drawn to settle down in Hart Hollow a small town in middle America.
The town is odd, the inhabitants seem to have all been there for generations, everyone is a bit suspicious or strange. There seem to be many secrets and mysteries. Young daughters of religious leaders are disappearing or running away.
Nicholas is trying to do normal teenage things, he’s never been given that freedom. He makes some friends at school, a misfit group of opposites. They want to solve the disappearance of a classmate.
Sorina is new to town, she is otherworldly and very mysterious. Nicholas is immediately drawn to her. They have a very unique, unusual relationship. Their interactions and connection speaks of something deeper, something bigger. It’s sensual, dark and has a caring protective hint to it.
Deacon is a very creepy man who befriends Nicholas’ cousin Valerie. She’s immediately attracted to him and drawn into his life and church.
The pace of the story is steady, I was intrigued throughout and love the unknown factors.
The characters are all very interesting in different ways.
It does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book, I love this world , the characters and the authors uniquely beautiful storytelling.
★︎4.25 STARS★︎
This story has an amazing gothic, otherworldly vibe. It’s mysterious, dark and gave me goosebumps.
I love the tone the author creates.
It’s told in third person which I think is perfect for this story.
Nicholas and his cousin have escaped incredible horror’s in a religious cult. They’ve wandered the country for a few years and now have been drawn to settle down in Hart Hollow a small town in middle America.
The town is odd, the inhabitants seem to have all been there for generations, everyone is a bit suspicious or strange. There seem to be many secrets and mysteries. Young daughters of religious leaders are disappearing or running away.
Nicholas is trying to do normal teenage things, he’s never been given that freedom. He makes some friends at school, a misfit group of opposites. They want to solve the disappearance of a classmate.
Sorina is new to town, she is otherworldly and very mysterious. Nicholas is immediately drawn to her. They have a very unique, unusual relationship. Their interactions and connection speaks of something deeper, something bigger. It’s sensual, dark and has a caring protective hint to it.
Deacon is a very creepy man who befriends Nicholas’ cousin Valerie. She’s immediately attracted to him and drawn into his life and church.
The pace of the story is steady, I was intrigued throughout and love the unknown factors.
The characters are all very interesting in different ways.
It does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book, I love this world , the characters and the authors uniquely beautiful storytelling.
April 21, 2023
Let me start by staying this story had me hooked, it was both reminiscent and exciting. I could not stop reading and now that I've finished, I cannot wait to get my hands on the next part of Nicholas and Sorina's story!
"The darkness was my shroud, my mystery, and her eyes brought me out."
Nicholas and Sorina's tale is truly something special and nothing like I've ever read before. It took me back to my first time reading about vampires and beings from other worlds but it also held a fresh perspective that I simply could not step away from. I mostly judge a book by its ability to invade my dreams and this story invaded my dreams!
This book was so well written! I feel like that's always a big feat for me and I've only come across it twice before. This being the third time. The story managed to captivate me right from the beginning. It was the perfect mix of mystery and horror. A danger lurking beneath the surface. It was the perfect mix of poetry and prose. It met right in the middle and created this beautiful, almost lyrical piece. I might say this is Rogue's best writing yet!
"The darkness was my shroud, my mystery, and her eyes brought me out."
Nicholas and Sorina's tale is truly something special and nothing like I've ever read before. It took me back to my first time reading about vampires and beings from other worlds but it also held a fresh perspective that I simply could not step away from. I mostly judge a book by its ability to invade my dreams and this story invaded my dreams!
This book was so well written! I feel like that's always a big feat for me and I've only come across it twice before. This being the third time. The story managed to captivate me right from the beginning. It was the perfect mix of mystery and horror. A danger lurking beneath the surface. It was the perfect mix of poetry and prose. It met right in the middle and created this beautiful, almost lyrical piece. I might say this is Rogue's best writing yet!
November 23, 2022
(Thank you Peachy Keen and the author J.R. Rogue for the eARC in exchange for a spoiler free review)
Please check trigger warnings before reading.
When I saw that this book had a gothic theme, I signed up for it faster than I wanted to. I’m always on the lookout for gothic books (Gothikana was so impactful). I read the Muse and Music series by this author two years ago and that also prompted me to apply for this ARC.
I honestly don’t read many books about vampires after the Cullens which was in my teens so this book was a refreshing dive into that genre again. There was parts of horror, thriller, mystery and a pinch of smut scenes which made the book interesting.
Usually I would have gotten irritated from the multiple POVs but this book including that made it better. I loved the imagery of the settings and locations in the book, it made the experience more fun as you imagined in your head.
The characters in this book had a confusing story to tell so the more Nicholas dug in, the more confusing it was. I would have been able to enjoy this book more if there was more explanation or development plot-wise. The pacing of this book was also slow, I wanted it to pick up speed in some places but it didn’t and that made me a little frustrated to read at times.
This book was a good start to the series in all!
Muse and Music ratings
Burning Muses
Background Music
Please check trigger warnings before reading.
When I saw that this book had a gothic theme, I signed up for it faster than I wanted to. I’m always on the lookout for gothic books (Gothikana was so impactful). I read the Muse and Music series by this author two years ago and that also prompted me to apply for this ARC.
I honestly don’t read many books about vampires after the Cullens which was in my teens so this book was a refreshing dive into that genre again. There was parts of horror, thriller, mystery and a pinch of smut scenes which made the book interesting.
Usually I would have gotten irritated from the multiple POVs but this book including that made it better. I loved the imagery of the settings and locations in the book, it made the experience more fun as you imagined in your head.
The characters in this book had a confusing story to tell so the more Nicholas dug in, the more confusing it was. I would have been able to enjoy this book more if there was more explanation or development plot-wise. The pacing of this book was also slow, I wanted it to pick up speed in some places but it didn’t and that made me a little frustrated to read at times.
This book was a good start to the series in all!
Muse and Music ratings
Burning Muses
Background Music
November 16, 2022
One thing I adored about this book is the great story line. And the setting was so dark and haunting!
I'm not an expert in mythology, therefore I didn't compare this book to the actual myths or mythological lore. I simply read the book for its own story, which was amazing to me.
Nicholas and his aunt Valerie move into Ozarks in search of a fresh start. Their past is a dark one and quite depraved. Trying to get on with his life, Nicholas soon realizes that this town breathes darkness and evil. Before his arrival two girls went missing. Later a young preacher’s daughter's found dead.
Nicholas' friends from school, town people and his neighbour Sorina are all either talking in riddles or not saying much at all. He suspects that some of them are holding dark secrets. Even his aunt sneaks out at night and she's always with a man named Deacon. The guy gives Nicholas the creeps.
He tries to salve the mystery, but he isn't prepared for the shocking truth.
I really enjoyed The Girl Next Door!
I'm not an expert in mythology, therefore I didn't compare this book to the actual myths or mythological lore. I simply read the book for its own story, which was amazing to me.
Nicholas and his aunt Valerie move into Ozarks in search of a fresh start. Their past is a dark one and quite depraved. Trying to get on with his life, Nicholas soon realizes that this town breathes darkness and evil. Before his arrival two girls went missing. Later a young preacher’s daughter's found dead.
Nicholas' friends from school, town people and his neighbour Sorina are all either talking in riddles or not saying much at all. He suspects that some of them are holding dark secrets. Even his aunt sneaks out at night and she's always with a man named Deacon. The guy gives Nicholas the creeps.
He tries to salve the mystery, but he isn't prepared for the shocking truth.
I really enjoyed The Girl Next Door!
December 7, 2022
The book I had almost forgotten I needed.
Since I was young, I was always fascinated with horror. I still have my original 3 book set of Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark I proudly ordered through scholastic as a kid. Stephen Gammell’s artwork forever residing in my mind and Schwartz’s tales STILL cause me to shudder. The Buffy movie, Lost Boys, the craft - sooo many classics that continued my love for the genre as I got older.
In the past few years, I’ve read several thrillers but A Girl Next Door took me right back to classic horror and folklore!!! If not for wanting to write this review, I’d be at a loss for words. I don’t know where to begin! Rogue nails the mystery, she gives you goosebumps, her words are like a sharp fingernail grazing your bare back in the night. Like an uninvited whisper when you’re home alone.
Nicholas and Valerie have barely escaped a horrific cult and have found a small town in the Ozarks to begin again. But is their new beginning in their control?
Desire, goth, myths riddle Rogue’s novel but the biggest highlight for me?
Her characters! I’ve read enough of her books and poetry to know she can explore self and interpret others on a much higher level, giving her readers every tier of her character’s being-heart, soul, mind, dark sides. I don’t know what it is about this particular novel but I can NOT get over the characters. Every book I read leads me right into the bad boy, the jerk, the backstabbers, the liars and so on. Yes we have some blatant, terrible characters in this novel but she so subtly hands us these amazing teens that are so much more complex than any teen movie gives real teenagers credit for. They’re bitchy, irrational, flirty, scared, innocent, I’m floored by the directions she takes with her characters.
I’m in awe of the efforts put into this novel. It’s so different from her other work in regards to genre but damn, Rogue’s authenticity, darkness, passion-it’s all there in RAW form!
Since I was young, I was always fascinated with horror. I still have my original 3 book set of Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark I proudly ordered through scholastic as a kid. Stephen Gammell’s artwork forever residing in my mind and Schwartz’s tales STILL cause me to shudder. The Buffy movie, Lost Boys, the craft - sooo many classics that continued my love for the genre as I got older.
In the past few years, I’ve read several thrillers but A Girl Next Door took me right back to classic horror and folklore!!! If not for wanting to write this review, I’d be at a loss for words. I don’t know where to begin! Rogue nails the mystery, she gives you goosebumps, her words are like a sharp fingernail grazing your bare back in the night. Like an uninvited whisper when you’re home alone.
Nicholas and Valerie have barely escaped a horrific cult and have found a small town in the Ozarks to begin again. But is their new beginning in their control?
Desire, goth, myths riddle Rogue’s novel but the biggest highlight for me?
Her characters! I’ve read enough of her books and poetry to know she can explore self and interpret others on a much higher level, giving her readers every tier of her character’s being-heart, soul, mind, dark sides. I don’t know what it is about this particular novel but I can NOT get over the characters. Every book I read leads me right into the bad boy, the jerk, the backstabbers, the liars and so on. Yes we have some blatant, terrible characters in this novel but she so subtly hands us these amazing teens that are so much more complex than any teen movie gives real teenagers credit for. They’re bitchy, irrational, flirty, scared, innocent, I’m floored by the directions she takes with her characters.
I’m in awe of the efforts put into this novel. It’s so different from her other work in regards to genre but damn, Rogue’s authenticity, darkness, passion-it’s all there in RAW form!
December 5, 2022
Everything is Red
When I wasn’t reading this book I was thinking about it. Dreading it. Obsessing over it. So many secrets. I hate mystery. Red. Red. RED. Everything is red. The hair, the blood, the thread…
This really wasn’t overly romantic though it had it’s moments. Had some spice. Set in the past, but I almost never really felt like I was in the past. I definitely felt like I was in the Ozarks though I’ve never been I feel like It’s a core memory of mine now.
This was at it’s very core very much a J R Rogue novel. The elements she adds to all of her work present here. I really think this would’ve been a good one to query to a big publishing house. Tweak to fit either YA horror or tweak to fit adult horror. Idk, I don’t actually read horror. I just know I had to take this one slow. I’m so stressed out and worried for all of these kids!!
When I wasn’t reading this book I was thinking about it. Dreading it. Obsessing over it. So many secrets. I hate mystery. Red. Red. RED. Everything is red. The hair, the blood, the thread…
This really wasn’t overly romantic though it had it’s moments. Had some spice. Set in the past, but I almost never really felt like I was in the past. I definitely felt like I was in the Ozarks though I’ve never been I feel like It’s a core memory of mine now.
This was at it’s very core very much a J R Rogue novel. The elements she adds to all of her work present here. I really think this would’ve been a good one to query to a big publishing house. Tweak to fit either YA horror or tweak to fit adult horror. Idk, I don’t actually read horror. I just know I had to take this one slow. I’m so stressed out and worried for all of these kids!!
November 11, 2022
High intensity, high heat, high emotions. These two are explosive. Couldn’t put this book down. You won’t regret it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2022
What can I say… secrets, vampires, small town, twisted, more secrets, dark… amazing! From the beginning, you are captivated and held at what is going to happen.
This is the first book I’ve ever read from this author, and I’m glad I did.
Plot was amazing, great characters, over all, and amazingly dark dark read!
⚠️TW 🔞⚠️
This is the first book I’ve ever read from this author, and I’m glad I did.
Plot was amazing, great characters, over all, and amazingly dark dark read!
⚠️TW 🔞⚠️
January 22, 2023
This book is unlike any thing J. R. Rogue had written before. While dark and anxsty its also extremely shocking. Every time I thought things couldn't go worse... It had me wondering if I was even rooting for the right people. A must read! Can't wait for more in the series!
November 29, 2022
This book brought me back to the stories I used to read as a teenager. The typical small town shrouded in mysteries and the protagonist who's a newcomer and will find himself in the center of the intrigue. Add to that a hefty dose of ominous prophecies and a dash of spice and it's exactly the breath of fresh air I needed as an adult. I enjoyed everything about the way the author kept us in the dark for the most part, making us truly feel for Nicholas. We read the pov of the mmc, which is also something I haven't seen in a while. That, and the paranormal atmosphere we feel throughout, completed the nostalgia. I loved how everything was paced in a way were we could barely make sense just like the characters. All of them were interesting, and I definitely have a soft spot for the odd bunch Nicholas managed to bring together and call friends. I honestly missed reading about vulnerable mmcs, not all-knowing and with a dark past they're still trying to get over instead of wooing all the girls 😩. Tbh I'm really struggling to explain how much I loved this without giving any hints about the plot lol y'all will have to check it out for yourselves. It's spicy, and for my gothic romance fans out there : you will be pleased 😏
Finishing this book felt like waking up abruptly after a lucid dream.That cliffhanger left me with chills and I can't wait to see what choices will Nicholas make.
Finishing this book felt like waking up abruptly after a lucid dream.That cliffhanger left me with chills and I can't wait to see what choices will Nicholas make.
December 4, 2022
This is a gothic and mythology vampire and wolf romance/horror story. It is on the darker side and is a slow burn. In the beginning it's harder to understand what's going on because it takes a while for the whole truth to come out. Nicholas and his aunt Valerie moved to this small Missouri town to escape their violent past and fly under the radar. That doesn't happen. In this town preacher's daughter's are being kidnapped and are missing. Unbeknownst to Nicholas there is a dark force at play in this town that has been manipulating everything. Nicholas strikes up a few friendships but his closest relationship is with his red headed neighbor, Sorina. Sorina is also the only person Nicholas can allow to touch him. Nicholas and Sorina are drawn to one another. The book is very well written. I really enjoyed the story line. But be aware that this series has a 2nd book. This book left so many things unresolved intentionally. I hope there can be a future for Nicholas and Sorina but I'm also aware of what they're up against and don't know if that's possible. I'm looking forward to the 2nd book for Nicholas to grow into his power and himself. He only discovered what he is at the end of the book. There are so many secrets in this town.I don't know how anyone in the town will survive.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2022
This book is all consuming.
J.R. Rogue storytelling is just pure genius. I could vividly see the scenes layout before me. In their darkness, in the pain of sadness, in the presence of protectiveness and in the shadows of mystery.
Nicholas Hemming moved to the small town of Hart Hallow with the naïveté that this was his fresh start. A new beginning. A beginning where Nicholas truly wanted to become his authentic self, little did he know that here amongst the darkness of trees was a truth, a beginning that has haunted him always.
When he first sees the girl next door, all his dreams and reality converge into one. Sorina was a wisp of dream and a breeze of a nightmare. He has know of her long before he actually set eyes on her and with all that shrouds Hart Hallow, Nicholas is about to find what path he must take.
This book will devour you. There is a lot of heavy, a lot of secrets, and a lot of pain throughout all you meet on these pages, but slowly you see the seed of strength growing in each of them. Once you finish, you see how they grown and believe that in the darkness light sparks.
J.R. Rogue storytelling is just pure genius. I could vividly see the scenes layout before me. In their darkness, in the pain of sadness, in the presence of protectiveness and in the shadows of mystery.
Nicholas Hemming moved to the small town of Hart Hallow with the naïveté that this was his fresh start. A new beginning. A beginning where Nicholas truly wanted to become his authentic self, little did he know that here amongst the darkness of trees was a truth, a beginning that has haunted him always.
When he first sees the girl next door, all his dreams and reality converge into one. Sorina was a wisp of dream and a breeze of a nightmare. He has know of her long before he actually set eyes on her and with all that shrouds Hart Hallow, Nicholas is about to find what path he must take.
This book will devour you. There is a lot of heavy, a lot of secrets, and a lot of pain throughout all you meet on these pages, but slowly you see the seed of strength growing in each of them. Once you finish, you see how they grown and believe that in the darkness light sparks.
November 22, 2022
Having read Ms.Rogue's work many times before over the years it always brings a smile to my face whenever i get to pick up more of books! As soon as i stumbled across the announcement for this one on social media and i was instantly intrigued. I picked it up and got right into the Ozark Omens world! I enjoyed this book so much!
I was pulled in by Nicholas, Sorina, and Hart Hollow! Going into this book i didn't know what all to expect and that got me even more into the story.
I really liked how i could picture it all so clearly in my mind. From the setting to the characters there was such a uniqueness that i thoroughly enjoyed. This story and it's characters kept me on my toes, wondering what all was going to happen next.
With The Girl Next Door, Ms.Rogue has created such a good, dark, and one of a kind read that kept me turning the pages! If you haven't read her work before, you so need to. Her writing is addictive! I can't wait to get more with book two, The Ghost in the Grave!
Be sure to read the author's content warning as this story tackles dark things.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Peachy Keen Author Services / the author*
I was pulled in by Nicholas, Sorina, and Hart Hollow! Going into this book i didn't know what all to expect and that got me even more into the story.
I really liked how i could picture it all so clearly in my mind. From the setting to the characters there was such a uniqueness that i thoroughly enjoyed. This story and it's characters kept me on my toes, wondering what all was going to happen next.
With The Girl Next Door, Ms.Rogue has created such a good, dark, and one of a kind read that kept me turning the pages! If you haven't read her work before, you so need to. Her writing is addictive! I can't wait to get more with book two, The Ghost in the Grave!
Be sure to read the author's content warning as this story tackles dark things.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Peachy Keen Author Services / the author*
December 7, 2022
This book reminded me why I devour paranormal books. Once I started reading I could not stop and I need more, NOW!
"The darkness was my shroud, my mystery, and her eyes brought me out."
Nicholas and Sorina's tale is truly something unique and different, but oddly familiar. With echoes of a relatable world it took me back to my childhood first time reading about vampires and beings from other worlds but it also held a current relatability that I needed to keep reading about until I hit ‘the end’.
The story managed to slay me right from the beginning. It was the perfect mix of mystery and horror. A danger lurking in plain sight, just under the surface.True to Jen’s style it was the perfect alchemy of poetry and prose; a wickedly good spell of captivating reading and dangerous delights.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"The darkness was my shroud, my mystery, and her eyes brought me out."
Nicholas and Sorina's tale is truly something unique and different, but oddly familiar. With echoes of a relatable world it took me back to my childhood first time reading about vampires and beings from other worlds but it also held a current relatability that I needed to keep reading about until I hit ‘the end’.
The story managed to slay me right from the beginning. It was the perfect mix of mystery and horror. A danger lurking in plain sight, just under the surface.True to Jen’s style it was the perfect alchemy of poetry and prose; a wickedly good spell of captivating reading and dangerous delights.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2022
New to me author that drew me in with secrets and riddles throughout this gothic styled, paranormal book. Welcome to Hart Hollow, Missouri.
Prologue highlights Amber, daughter to the pastor, filled with fear and desire. Deacon Edward Rex, a rival of Amber's father, was blind, handsome and harboring evil within the depths of his milky eyes....
Nicholas Hemming along with his Aunt Valerie, seeking a fresh start from living a nomadic lifestyle to the town of Hart Hollow. Night terrors reliving his past, running from a childhood rife with wrongdoings dealt by a cult of zealots.
His dark dreams come to life with Sorina Olekdander, "foreign exchange student" from Romania and neighbor to Nicholas.
POVs are mostly Nicholas in first person, however other characters, including his aunt, are in third person. Intriguing flow.
Mystery shrouds their slow-paced quest of revenge. Steamy scenes envelope their forbidden love. Follow this unlikely couple as they grow their pain into strength. Cliffhanger leaves more questions than answers as it leads into The Ghost In The Grave.
Prologue highlights Amber, daughter to the pastor, filled with fear and desire. Deacon Edward Rex, a rival of Amber's father, was blind, handsome and harboring evil within the depths of his milky eyes....
Nicholas Hemming along with his Aunt Valerie, seeking a fresh start from living a nomadic lifestyle to the town of Hart Hollow. Night terrors reliving his past, running from a childhood rife with wrongdoings dealt by a cult of zealots.
His dark dreams come to life with Sorina Olekdander, "foreign exchange student" from Romania and neighbor to Nicholas.
POVs are mostly Nicholas in first person, however other characters, including his aunt, are in third person. Intriguing flow.
Mystery shrouds their slow-paced quest of revenge. Steamy scenes envelope their forbidden love. Follow this unlikely couple as they grow their pain into strength. Cliffhanger leaves more questions than answers as it leads into The Ghost In The Grave.
December 7, 2022
This is the first book I've read from this author, and my first time reading this genre, and I am not turning back!
I absolutely loved the gothic, culty, sexy, mysterious vibes of this story. I was hooked from the first chapter and every time I had to put it down, I couldn't wait to pick it up again. The characters are perfectly written, and the writing itself is so beautiful and almost poetic in parts. I'm so thankful to have read this ARC, and am looking forward to the sequel to find out what happens!
I received this free ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I absolutely loved the gothic, culty, sexy, mysterious vibes of this story. I was hooked from the first chapter and every time I had to put it down, I couldn't wait to pick it up again. The characters are perfectly written, and the writing itself is so beautiful and almost poetic in parts. I'm so thankful to have read this ARC, and am looking forward to the sequel to find out what happens!
I received this free ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 19, 2022
I swear this always happens I think I have my favorites list of the year solidified and then I read a book in December that completely blows me away!
The Girl Next Door by JR Rogue is that book this year. This was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down yet I would force myself to put it down just to savor it because I never wanted it to end.
The story is so dark, atmospheric and one of the more unique paranormal romances I’ve ever read. JR Rogue’s writing is so beautiful and lyrical, it just sucks you in and doesn’t let you go.
I adored this story and all its characters, it was the perfect mix of creepy atmosphere with an awesome mystery, and amazing characters! I can not wait for book two so I can be back in this world with these characters again!!!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is in the mood for a paranormal romance read!!
The Girl Next Door by JR Rogue is that book this year. This was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down yet I would force myself to put it down just to savor it because I never wanted it to end.
The story is so dark, atmospheric and one of the more unique paranormal romances I’ve ever read. JR Rogue’s writing is so beautiful and lyrical, it just sucks you in and doesn’t let you go.
I adored this story and all its characters, it was the perfect mix of creepy atmosphere with an awesome mystery, and amazing characters! I can not wait for book two so I can be back in this world with these characters again!!!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is in the mood for a paranormal romance read!!
November 12, 2022
This book was everything I didn't know I needed. Sucked me right back into teenage days of reading YA horror/thriller books, except bonus: there was lots of sexual tension and steamy scenes to keep adult me obsessed. The mystery surrounding the town of Hart Hollow, Valerie, Nicholas, Sarina, and The Deacon was absolute perfection. I couldn't put this book down. Definitely counting the days until the next in series!
December 9, 2022
This is one of the times I am excited to read new authors. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was written with care and attention. The story was really imaginative. I liked Nicholas character more than I expected to. The story was easy follow. I’m looking forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2022
I've read several books written by J.R. Rogue; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the first book in the Ozark Omens Series; it is the beginning of a new series. The story is about Sorina & Nicholas; after a fire at his ranch he moves to the Ozarks with his aunt and runs into her at the cemetery next to his new home.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in the Ozark Omens Series; it is the beginning of a new series. The story is about Sorina & Nicholas; after a fire at his ranch he moves to the Ozarks with his aunt and runs into her at the cemetery next to his new home.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2023
This book brings a new perspective to the world of vampires. It's mysterious and gloriously captivating. The world of Sorina and Nicholas is so beautifully written. Rogue did such an amazing job telling their story while weaving in romance, lust, shock and fear. I can barely wait for book two!!!
November 23, 2022
Man this book was interesting! I was hooked and each page kept me turning. The dark and haunting storyline was just amazing!
This was my first book by J.R. Rogue and won’t be my last
This was my first book by J.R. Rogue and won’t be my last
December 9, 2022
What i enjoyed the most about this story are the relationships. How Valerie and Nicholas attempted to have a new start in life. How you can't change things. How the people in town behave toward each other.
I have only read poems by Rogue so this a refreshing change for me. It held my attention. Looking forward to their next chapter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2022
So freaking good!!!! I loved every second of this!!! Definitely recommend!!
December 10, 2023
Overall ~ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This book was peculiar but I got it in a giveaway and the premise sounded good (vampiresque, small town with a murderer, and lost souls) so I pressed on. Turns out you just have to get used to the way this author tells her stories. By the end I was ready for the next installment.
For an Indie published book it is obvious the author went through a lot of effort to get it edited and printed in a way that reflected properly in her story telling abilities. It’s been a while since I saw something this well put together that wasn’t blowing up on Instagram. When it arrived I thought it was a IG giveaway I had won because it was more of a PR box, containing stickers and prints, along with the book.
I’ll admit, it started slow and you really aren’t sure where the story is going until about halfway through, but by the end it is obvious just how much work the author but into the world building and research to create these characters.
Please not that you should check the TW for this book, I would best describe it as a paranormal horror book. While it deals heavily with teenagers, duo to the level of violence and some sexual content, I would put it at NA rather than YA.
I’m quite impressed by how this book went and I’m very much looking forward to the next books. I’m just sorry it took me so long to read it. A
This book was peculiar but I got it in a giveaway and the premise sounded good (vampiresque, small town with a murderer, and lost souls) so I pressed on. Turns out you just have to get used to the way this author tells her stories. By the end I was ready for the next installment.
For an Indie published book it is obvious the author went through a lot of effort to get it edited and printed in a way that reflected properly in her story telling abilities. It’s been a while since I saw something this well put together that wasn’t blowing up on Instagram. When it arrived I thought it was a IG giveaway I had won because it was more of a PR box, containing stickers and prints, along with the book.
I’ll admit, it started slow and you really aren’t sure where the story is going until about halfway through, but by the end it is obvious just how much work the author but into the world building and research to create these characters.
Please not that you should check the TW for this book, I would best describe it as a paranormal horror book. While it deals heavily with teenagers, duo to the level of violence and some sexual content, I would put it at NA rather than YA.
I’m quite impressed by how this book went and I’m very much looking forward to the next books. I’m just sorry it took me so long to read it. A
November 22, 2022
The Girl Next Door by J.R. Rogue is the first book in her new series the Ozark Omens. A gothic tale with dark themes, based on omens, mythology and magic, but is it a fairytale or a horror story? The author creates so much mystery, you are left wondering what is a dream and what is reality. The main characters are Nicholas Hemming and Sorina Oleksander and their story is one of forbidden love and revenge. The other couple involved in all the strange things happening are Valerie, Nicholas’s aunt and the Deacon Edward Rex.
Welcome to Hart Hollow, a strange town set out like a cross with a church on each point. It is a dark forgotten town full of secrets with God fearing residents. Are the myths the locals believe real or just stories handed down the generations? The town has a history of girls going missing and the latest girl to vanish is Pastor Hugh’s daughter Amber. The residents presume the girls have all runaway but he knows the truth because he has been watching them.
The story unfolds as Nicholas and his aunt Valerie arrive at the trailer park in Hart Hollow. They both want to put all the horrors of their old lives at the ranch behind them and have a fresh start. The last two years have been rough since they left the religious cult and are looking to finally settle down. Nicholas is happy to have the chance to pretend he is a normal teenager and not haunted by the dark memories and horrors he experienced. Nicholas had such a horrendous and traumatic childhood he suffers from night terrors and very vivid dreams. He is shocked when some seem to be coming true and the red headed girl from his dreams turns out to live next door.
Nicholas meets Kyrie on his first day at school and she explains that few people move to their town, usually they leave without a word to anyone, so he’s a bit of a novelty to everyone. Then he is surprised when the red headed girl Sorina, is also introduced as a new student. Meanwhile, Valerie gets a job at the local diner and meets the local Deacon who is a handsome man but blind. He lives up on the hill at the Steele Heart Catholic Church and has a small but devout congregation.
What affect will these new friends have on Nicholas and Valerie. Can they really leave everything that happened to them in the past or will it come back to haunt them. Can Nicholas make friends and live a normal life. Will they find the missing girl?
I don’t normally read fantasy or paranormal stories so this took me out of my comfort zone.
It was a real mystery trying to work out what was really happening, what they were dreaming and what was drug induced. Who is fake and who is real, along with who was involved in what happened to him at the ranch and who is involved in all the current events. This is a weird and wonderful story with lots of twists and turns. There are many blurred lines between the truth and myths so bits did confuse me and I was left with many questions. I felt the ending let the book down as I would have preferred the cliffhanger to have been the dramatic one which brought things to a climax and not the one that linked back to the start. However, I still enjoyed the story and look forward to the next book - The Ghost In The Grave.
Welcome to Hart Hollow, a strange town set out like a cross with a church on each point. It is a dark forgotten town full of secrets with God fearing residents. Are the myths the locals believe real or just stories handed down the generations? The town has a history of girls going missing and the latest girl to vanish is Pastor Hugh’s daughter Amber. The residents presume the girls have all runaway but he knows the truth because he has been watching them.
The story unfolds as Nicholas and his aunt Valerie arrive at the trailer park in Hart Hollow. They both want to put all the horrors of their old lives at the ranch behind them and have a fresh start. The last two years have been rough since they left the religious cult and are looking to finally settle down. Nicholas is happy to have the chance to pretend he is a normal teenager and not haunted by the dark memories and horrors he experienced. Nicholas had such a horrendous and traumatic childhood he suffers from night terrors and very vivid dreams. He is shocked when some seem to be coming true and the red headed girl from his dreams turns out to live next door.
Nicholas meets Kyrie on his first day at school and she explains that few people move to their town, usually they leave without a word to anyone, so he’s a bit of a novelty to everyone. Then he is surprised when the red headed girl Sorina, is also introduced as a new student. Meanwhile, Valerie gets a job at the local diner and meets the local Deacon who is a handsome man but blind. He lives up on the hill at the Steele Heart Catholic Church and has a small but devout congregation.
What affect will these new friends have on Nicholas and Valerie. Can they really leave everything that happened to them in the past or will it come back to haunt them. Can Nicholas make friends and live a normal life. Will they find the missing girl?
I don’t normally read fantasy or paranormal stories so this took me out of my comfort zone.
It was a real mystery trying to work out what was really happening, what they were dreaming and what was drug induced. Who is fake and who is real, along with who was involved in what happened to him at the ranch and who is involved in all the current events. This is a weird and wonderful story with lots of twists and turns. There are many blurred lines between the truth and myths so bits did confuse me and I was left with many questions. I felt the ending let the book down as I would have preferred the cliffhanger to have been the dramatic one which brought things to a climax and not the one that linked back to the start. However, I still enjoyed the story and look forward to the next book - The Ghost In The Grave.
December 2, 2022
The Girl Next Door by J R Rogue is a thrilling dark paranormal romance. Valerie and Nicholas settle in a new town after years on the run following their escape from a cult. However, little do they know they are running directly into what they escaped from. Nicholas prefers solitude and adventures out after dark, while Valerie throws herself into her new job, trying to make a fresh start. There are secrets in their new town and a history of girls going missing or running away if you believe the gossip. Nicolas is overcome with dark nightmares and wonders if he's losing his mind until he discovers he's not the only one suffering from nightmares. When Nicholas befriends a redhead near their trailer park, he feels things he's never felt before and questions her as he feels something is off. He worries one of his only friends might be the next girl to disappear; he joins a ragtag group of friends determined to discover what happened to the missing girls. As the line between reality and myths blurs, will they discover the truth before it's too late?
This was a fascinating book filled with prophecies, omens, ancient myths, and creatures of legend with hints of Norse mythology. There is a realism to this story, and it's written as something that has passed, with the narrator occasionally mentioning, "this would be the last time or if I had known," to create foreshadowing and anticipation of something terrible to come. The characters are interesting and layered. There is what they show the world and then the truth of who they are behind closed doors. There is a lot to unpack in this story, and the author does a fantastic job at keeping readers on their toes and keeping them trying to figure out what is going on. The story is filled with hints of secrets and twists. The ending blew my mind with all the reveals I never saw coming!
I rate The Girl Next Door 4 out of 5 stars. I felt like, at times, the pace was a little slow, and towards the end, there was a lot of reveals but not quite enough resolution for me. There were just too many loose ends. I look forward to the next book to see what happens. If you like thrilling gothic paranormal romance books draped in darkness with creatures pulled from ancient religions and the world, then you will LOVE The Girl Next Door.
This was a fascinating book filled with prophecies, omens, ancient myths, and creatures of legend with hints of Norse mythology. There is a realism to this story, and it's written as something that has passed, with the narrator occasionally mentioning, "this would be the last time or if I had known," to create foreshadowing and anticipation of something terrible to come. The characters are interesting and layered. There is what they show the world and then the truth of who they are behind closed doors. There is a lot to unpack in this story, and the author does a fantastic job at keeping readers on their toes and keeping them trying to figure out what is going on. The story is filled with hints of secrets and twists. The ending blew my mind with all the reveals I never saw coming!
I rate The Girl Next Door 4 out of 5 stars. I felt like, at times, the pace was a little slow, and towards the end, there was a lot of reveals but not quite enough resolution for me. There were just too many loose ends. I look forward to the next book to see what happens. If you like thrilling gothic paranormal romance books draped in darkness with creatures pulled from ancient religions and the world, then you will LOVE The Girl Next Door.
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