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Gretel #2
Marlene's Revenge
Terror. Danger. Power. The witch has returned and no one is safe.
Almost a year has passed since Anika and Gretel's horrifying night in an abandoned cannery in the Back Country, and the subsequent beginning of their quest to the Old Country for answers to the mysteries of Orphism. But rumors are reaching the far shore that the evil Witch of the North, presumed dead since that night of terror, is alive and strong. And hunting again. But this time no one is safe. Everyone Gretel loves is in danger, and she must summon a new level of power and conviction to end her family's nightmare forever.
Almost a year has passed since Anika and Gretel's horrifying night in an abandoned cannery in the Back Country, and the subsequent beginning of their quest to the Old Country for answers to the mysteries of Orphism. But rumors are reaching the far shore that the evil Witch of the North, presumed dead since that night of terror, is alive and strong. And hunting again. But this time no one is safe. Everyone Gretel loves is in danger, and she must summon a new level of power and conviction to end her family's nightmare forever.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2016
474 people are currently reading
538 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Coleman
23 books144 followersChristopher Coleman lives in Maryland with his wife and two children. He is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in English Literature. A fan of classic and modern horror and thriller movies, his favorite movies are Rosemary's Baby and The Ring. When he's not writing fiction, you can find him reading, taking his kids to and from various sporting activities or watching horror movies with his wife who shares his affinity for the horror genre. His books will creep you out and leave you scared to turn off the lights and go to sleep.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
July 3, 2017
One never knows if an author can maintain the same level of excitement established in the opening book of a series, especially when it comes to crafting the middle of the story. In most areas, Christopher Coleman has performed successfully, making “Marlene’s Revenge” as good and sometimes better than the first book.
This book is a standalone and does not end with a cliffhanger, and can be read without reading “Gretel.” The author provides enough information to make this possible, although once you have read “Marlene’s Revenge,” you will know all the surprises (including the ending) of the first book. Many of these surprises are revealed early on, so I would suggest before you even begin reading this book to read “Gretel” first (that is, if you have any thoughts about reading all the books in the series).
The stylistic prose Mr. Coleman established in the first book continues. I can only describe it as evoking a feeling as if the words were written long ago, although the dialogue and setting appear to be current or very near future. This combination of styles gives the series a voice all its own, and it is appealing because it is different than many of today’s novels. The plot moves quickly, and when the story approaches the end, it races faster than a herd of wild horses. The horror is not forced, but yet pulls the reader into a world of evil that appears to be more powerful than anything that might defeat it.
The characterizations did not seem as strong as in the first book, but that may be due to many of the same characters returning. A main focus of this book is action, and I found myself reading the entire book in one morning. Parts of the story enlighten readers on more of the background and history of Marlene and her magical origins, a welcome inclusion. If I had any disappointment, it was only that the ultimate ending felt forced. Perhaps Mr. Coleman can be forgiven for creating an abrupt conclusion after serving up a masterful tale for the overwhelming majority of the book. Other than the names, any connection to the original fairy tale has been left by the wayside. This is a tale meant to scare, and should be read when the kids are not around. Four stars.
This book is a standalone and does not end with a cliffhanger, and can be read without reading “Gretel.” The author provides enough information to make this possible, although once you have read “Marlene’s Revenge,” you will know all the surprises (including the ending) of the first book. Many of these surprises are revealed early on, so I would suggest before you even begin reading this book to read “Gretel” first (that is, if you have any thoughts about reading all the books in the series).
The stylistic prose Mr. Coleman established in the first book continues. I can only describe it as evoking a feeling as if the words were written long ago, although the dialogue and setting appear to be current or very near future. This combination of styles gives the series a voice all its own, and it is appealing because it is different than many of today’s novels. The plot moves quickly, and when the story approaches the end, it races faster than a herd of wild horses. The horror is not forced, but yet pulls the reader into a world of evil that appears to be more powerful than anything that might defeat it.
The characterizations did not seem as strong as in the first book, but that may be due to many of the same characters returning. A main focus of this book is action, and I found myself reading the entire book in one morning. Parts of the story enlighten readers on more of the background and history of Marlene and her magical origins, a welcome inclusion. If I had any disappointment, it was only that the ultimate ending felt forced. Perhaps Mr. Coleman can be forgiven for creating an abrupt conclusion after serving up a masterful tale for the overwhelming majority of the book. Other than the names, any connection to the original fairy tale has been left by the wayside. This is a tale meant to scare, and should be read when the kids are not around. Four stars.
April 7, 2019
The second book in this series is just as good if not better than the first. The only downfall in it really is the fact that it was a bit predictable. I felt I knew exactly what was going to happen before it did. However, that didn't stop it from being a real nail biter. Having already come to know the characters, I was truely scared and worried for them. Yes I cried. I laughed. I was at times on the edge of my seat. I found it hard to put down and wonderful to pick back up.
I recommend this book for an adult audience despite the teenage main character. There is a lot of violence. I know that every parent has there own opinion of what is appropriate for the children and teens, but in my opinion it is not really suitable for anyone under 17.
I recommend this book for an adult audience despite the teenage main character. There is a lot of violence. I know that every parent has there own opinion of what is appropriate for the children and teens, but in my opinion it is not really suitable for anyone under 17.
July 20, 2018
I had been told the second book was better than the first, but I find that's rarely the case and thus was skeptical. I think in this instance, it might be true. I think this one was probably more brutal than the first, harder to read in places I felt, and definitely left me more shocked than the first. I love the author's writing style, as well as the well done plots with all it's twists and turns.
Highly recommended to horror lovers!
*5 Stars
Highly recommended to horror lovers!
*5 Stars
November 25, 2016
After reading Gretel, I was intrigued by the dark twist the classical fairytale experienced, so when I found out there would be a sequel, I have kindly asked for a reviewer copy – and I cannot be more satisfied. The book was simply excellent, far beyond my expectations!
Gretel is absolutely different from what one expects upon the classical tale, and she needs no Hansel to handle her business. Marlene is a creepy, insane, cruel creature - and an excellent element in exquisite horror story. The book grabs you from the first pages and keeps you tensed until the very end – with a surprising twist. The dark atmosphere seeps through the words and affects directly the reader – I literally felt chills running down my spine at several places.
The dark emotions are raw, deep and powerful, connecting the reader to the story so you feel present in the book world, accompanying Gretel on her journey as a silent observant. You witness the disgusting and horrific scenes in such detail that you only want to close your eyes and pray this will end, but nevertheless you continue reading, fascinated by the pure evil.
This book is twisted, insane, bloodthirsty and power-hungry, but you won´t be able to put it aside!
Gretel is absolutely different from what one expects upon the classical tale, and she needs no Hansel to handle her business. Marlene is a creepy, insane, cruel creature - and an excellent element in exquisite horror story. The book grabs you from the first pages and keeps you tensed until the very end – with a surprising twist. The dark atmosphere seeps through the words and affects directly the reader – I literally felt chills running down my spine at several places.
The dark emotions are raw, deep and powerful, connecting the reader to the story so you feel present in the book world, accompanying Gretel on her journey as a silent observant. You witness the disgusting and horrific scenes in such detail that you only want to close your eyes and pray this will end, but nevertheless you continue reading, fascinated by the pure evil.
This book is twisted, insane, bloodthirsty and power-hungry, but you won´t be able to put it aside!
May 9, 2018
Not the Hansel & Gretel you think you know!
I am totally captivated by this story! I did not write a review for the first book, Gretel, and for that I apologize. I was so involved in this story by the end of the first book that I immediately had to buy and read the second, Marlene's Revenge, to see what was going to happen next! I admit that the first book is a bit slow in building up but boy, when it does get there, it's like the first big hill on a rollercoaster, you are off! The story grabs you and doesn't release you. I have already bought the third book, Hansel, and felt I needed to write a small review or enticement, if you will, for anyone considering this series. You will NOT be disappointed in this series at all, as I've stated, they have me captivated and anxious now, to see what happens to these characters, they have been through sooo much! Well gotta go, Hansel awaits my attention😉 and I need to see where this story is going to take me next!🙌
I am totally captivated by this story! I did not write a review for the first book, Gretel, and for that I apologize. I was so involved in this story by the end of the first book that I immediately had to buy and read the second, Marlene's Revenge, to see what was going to happen next! I admit that the first book is a bit slow in building up but boy, when it does get there, it's like the first big hill on a rollercoaster, you are off! The story grabs you and doesn't release you. I have already bought the third book, Hansel, and felt I needed to write a small review or enticement, if you will, for anyone considering this series. You will NOT be disappointed in this series at all, as I've stated, they have me captivated and anxious now, to see what happens to these characters, they have been through sooo much! Well gotta go, Hansel awaits my attention😉 and I need to see where this story is going to take me next!🙌
January 3, 2017
I immediately began reading this book when I finished Gretel! I love the suspense and the horror of it all! There were a few new characters introduced and they brought interesting things to the plot. I love Gretel and how strong she is, and I am enjoying getting to know Hansel better. We certainly learn a lot more about Marlene (including her name). There is quite the plot twist at the end, and I couldn't believe where the author went with things! In the true style of original fairy tales, not everybody gets a happy ending.
September 11, 2019
Predictable.
August 29, 2020
Enjoyable read
Loads of action twists and turns throughout the whole book. Loved the new characters that came.into play and helped gretel. Lots of nail biting and fast reading to find out the outcome of situations. Thoroughly enjoyed, captivating and loaded with suspense. Definitely recommend.
Loads of action twists and turns throughout the whole book. Loved the new characters that came.into play and helped gretel. Lots of nail biting and fast reading to find out the outcome of situations. Thoroughly enjoyed, captivating and loaded with suspense. Definitely recommend.
November 28, 2018
The main plot point developed nicely and had a very satisfying resolution, but one of the others had a very forseeable, very quick resolution. I feel like there could have easily been an extra chapter or two to flesh out this second one.
Overall, a great sequel.
Overall, a great sequel.
August 12, 2018
A gruesome twist on the old tale. So well written as to suck you in to the characters and plot, hook-line-and sinker. Can't wait for the last of this series!
August 28, 2019
Strong Sequel
I'd say this is about a 3.5 out of 5. It was redundant in a lot of ways, but different enough to be enjoyable and make me want to continue on with this series.
I'd say this is about a 3.5 out of 5. It was redundant in a lot of ways, but different enough to be enjoyable and make me want to continue on with this series.
July 25, 2020
This book series is as addictive as any "potion" you can give me. I'm so ready for the next book.
October 1, 2020
I really liked this book, and I’m really enjoying the series. Looking forward to reading the next book. During the times I listened to the audible, the audible narration was great, too.
September 1, 2018
Are the Morgan family's terror over or just starting...
Gretel, Anika and Hansel leave the Back Country for the Old Country to get answers to their heritage and to Gretel's powers. Anika sends Gretel and Hansel back to the Back Country and she heads to the mountains to get a cute for her cancer. Gretel finds out that the witch is still alive and wants revenge on the Morgan family. Can she, Hansel and Petr stop her and live?
Book II thriller will keep on the edge of your seat as things get more violent and deadly for our heroes.
Jo-Ann Doyle
Gretel, Anika and Hansel leave the Back Country for the Old Country to get answers to their heritage and to Gretel's powers. Anika sends Gretel and Hansel back to the Back Country and she heads to the mountains to get a cute for her cancer. Gretel finds out that the witch is still alive and wants revenge on the Morgan family. Can she, Hansel and Petr stop her and live?
Book II thriller will keep on the edge of your seat as things get more violent and deadly for our heroes.
Jo-Ann Doyle
December 29, 2016
I really loved Gretel but Marlene's Revenge didn't quite live up to the first book. I still enjoyed it but it never developed the same atmosphere of horror and mystery that Gretel did. I guess that was a bit unavoidable since the antagonists were clearly defined and explored more in this book and the mysterious Orphism is no longer so mysterious.
It did still share the same flaws as the first book though. Such as inconsistencies like the As well as some spelling errors and/or typos. The biggest flaw in Coleman's books is pacing. Some parts are unnecessarily long, some parts feel kind of pointless, then the excitement happens way too fast and is over. Despite its flaws, it was still a good read that continued Gretel's story in a satisfying way. I'm looking forward to Hansel!
If I have one criticism to give to the author, it would be to stop using specific examples to describe a character's motion. Examples:
"The woman [held out] a welcoming hand ... the way a gentleman might hold the door for a lady entering a shop."
" ... her arms clasped behind her back like a professor sauntering his classroom while discussing some ambiguous phrase in a timeless piece of literature."
"[She] shook her head, like a child who'd just confessed to attempting some dangerous stunt and had been asked if she was hurt."
While being descriptive is good, these types of descriptions kind of take the reader out of the moment. We're already envisioning the scenario; don't make us envision a second scenario to envision the character. It's not that it's difficult to do; it's that reading it just feels awkward and interrupts the flow of the moment.
It did still share the same flaws as the first book though. Such as inconsistencies like the As well as some spelling errors and/or typos. The biggest flaw in Coleman's books is pacing. Some parts are unnecessarily long, some parts feel kind of pointless, then the excitement happens way too fast and is over. Despite its flaws, it was still a good read that continued Gretel's story in a satisfying way. I'm looking forward to Hansel!
If I have one criticism to give to the author, it would be to stop using specific examples to describe a character's motion. Examples:
"The woman [held out] a welcoming hand ... the way a gentleman might hold the door for a lady entering a shop."
" ... her arms clasped behind her back like a professor sauntering his classroom while discussing some ambiguous phrase in a timeless piece of literature."
"[She] shook her head, like a child who'd just confessed to attempting some dangerous stunt and had been asked if she was hurt."
While being descriptive is good, these types of descriptions kind of take the reader out of the moment. We're already envisioning the scenario; don't make us envision a second scenario to envision the character. It's not that it's difficult to do; it's that reading it just feels awkward and interrupts the flow of the moment.
January 10, 2017
A decent follow up to Gretel. Gretel, Hansel, Petr and their friend Ben work together to defeat Marlene, with some "in the knick of time" help from Gretel and Hansels mom, Anika. Anikas visit to the Back Country was an interesting part of the story line and I hope there will be more from there in the third book. Ending was an unexpected, but wonderfully twisted, surprise!
June 13, 2017
Wow! I read first Gretel & then Marlene's Revenge & couldn't hardly put it down until I knew what was going to happen next! Love it!
I love both books! When I finished Gretel, I could hardly wait to read the 2nd book Marlene's Revenge. Once I started the 2nd book, I had to keep reading until I finished it.
I love both books! When I finished Gretel, I could hardly wait to read the 2nd book Marlene's Revenge. Once I started the 2nd book, I had to keep reading until I finished it.
April 16, 2018
The witch is here
I know the first book was a little slow to start, but this one is the opposite. There was action going on all the time, just about!! Gretel, Hansel and their mother went to the old country for information regarding the witch. They spent a year there, then Gretel and Hansel went home where they had to deal with the witch. This series is really good!
I know the first book was a little slow to start, but this one is the opposite. There was action going on all the time, just about!! Gretel, Hansel and their mother went to the old country for information regarding the witch. They spent a year there, then Gretel and Hansel went home where they had to deal with the witch. This series is really good!
November 21, 2016
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I was honestly surprised by this creepy twist to the old fairy tale. If you like reading horror/suspense you will like this. Oh, and the ending had a twist I didn't see coming.
November 23, 2016
Enjoy a terrifying story? Then grab this horror NOW! The witch is back and Gretel has to try to stop her again. This is a unique twist on an old fable that puts you on the edge of your seat from start to finish , and the ending all I can say is OMG!
March 13, 2019
Not intriguing enough to finish the series
Gretel was captivating, but Marlene’s Revenge lacked the punch to keep me wanting more. This book simply reiterated the first and was plagued with poor grammar that good editing would have prevented.
Gretel was captivating, but Marlene’s Revenge lacked the punch to keep me wanting more. This book simply reiterated the first and was plagued with poor grammar that good editing would have prevented.
June 12, 2020
Enjoyable, but not as good as the first book
I enjoyed this book but it didn't hold my attention as did the first book. Still, I'd like to find out find out what happens next, so I'll read the third book.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't hold my attention as did the first book. Still, I'd like to find out find out what happens next, so I'll read the third book.
February 2, 2017
Good twist ending...looking forward to Book 3
Very good read. Would recommend to anyone who digs horror and magic. Looking forward to Hansel Book 3 sooner than later
Very good read. Would recommend to anyone who digs horror and magic. Looking forward to Hansel Book 3 sooner than later
February 9, 2017
Marlene is a monster....
Another good read, I enjoyed the first Gretel book and the second is an exciting read. Looking forward to book 3.
Another good read, I enjoyed the first Gretel book and the second is an exciting read. Looking forward to book 3.
July 24, 2019
This is the second of four books in the Gretel series. Just like the first, I wanted to read it to the end. Kept my interest to the end!
June 1, 2018
Not as good as the first one
November 14, 2021
Very slow pacing, even more so than the last one. A good story though.
May 25, 2025
If Gretel pulled me into its eerie world, Marlene’s Revenge deepened the nightmare. This sequel takes everything that made the first book chilling and suspenseful and raises the stakes. Almost a year has passed since Gretel and Anika’s terrifying encounter in the Back Country, but the evil Witch of the North is far from gone—and now, no one is safe.
This book pulled me in deeper than I ever expected. Marlene’s Revenge isn't just a sequel—it's an escalation of everything haunting and powerful about the first book. The tension, the dark magic, the sheer survival instinct—it all makes for a story that lingers long after the last page.
Reading this felt like stepping into a nightmare you can't wake up from—but one you don’t want to escape, either. The dread is tangible, the stakes are higher, and Gretel’s journey is more emotionally gripping than ever. Watching her navigate fear, vengeance, and resilience made me reflect on the way we all fight our own battles—some seen, some unseen.
Coleman’s writing is masterful, weaving terror with depth, forcing the reader to sit in the discomfort of the unknown. If you crave a story that chills you while making you root for its heroine with every ounce of your being, this book is absolutely worth the read.
⭐ Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy and horror!
This book pulled me in deeper than I ever expected. Marlene’s Revenge isn't just a sequel—it's an escalation of everything haunting and powerful about the first book. The tension, the dark magic, the sheer survival instinct—it all makes for a story that lingers long after the last page.
Reading this felt like stepping into a nightmare you can't wake up from—but one you don’t want to escape, either. The dread is tangible, the stakes are higher, and Gretel’s journey is more emotionally gripping than ever. Watching her navigate fear, vengeance, and resilience made me reflect on the way we all fight our own battles—some seen, some unseen.
Coleman’s writing is masterful, weaving terror with depth, forcing the reader to sit in the discomfort of the unknown. If you crave a story that chills you while making you root for its heroine with every ounce of your being, this book is absolutely worth the read.
⭐ Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy and horror!
June 16, 2020
This is the follow-up book to the author's "Gretel", which I found original, tense and entertaining. The old adage that sequels aren't usually as good as the original applies here.
Warning! There are spoilers from this point on, so stop reading this review if you plan on reading the book.
Turns out the witch survived the brutal attack at the end of the first book and, of course, she wants revenge. So far, so good. But most of the book deals with the long, long build-up to the final confrontation between the witch (Marlene) and Gretel. There are some side stories that seem to have been thrown-in simply to lengthen the book. These really had the effect of simply prolonging the final confrontation. However, I do believe the author had further sequels in mind (which are now available), so it seems the story involving Gretel's mother will play a more prominent role in later books.
In spite that this book took look too long to reach its climax, I still have an interest in the characters and will likely continue to read the series. So, I guess the author achieved at least one of his goals!
Warning! There are spoilers from this point on, so stop reading this review if you plan on reading the book.
Turns out the witch survived the brutal attack at the end of the first book and, of course, she wants revenge. So far, so good. But most of the book deals with the long, long build-up to the final confrontation between the witch (Marlene) and Gretel. There are some side stories that seem to have been thrown-in simply to lengthen the book. These really had the effect of simply prolonging the final confrontation. However, I do believe the author had further sequels in mind (which are now available), so it seems the story involving Gretel's mother will play a more prominent role in later books.
In spite that this book took look too long to reach its climax, I still have an interest in the characters and will likely continue to read the series. So, I guess the author achieved at least one of his goals!
May 24, 2017
Marlene’s Revenge (Gretel Book 2)
Christopher Coleman
This story is a fast paced follow up to Gretel. In parts it didn’t seem as dark as the first book, but in others it was more so. The characters growth from book one to book two is well done, and engaging. Gretel’s strength and fortitude are so real. The writing is so well done you can feel the desperation of the kids, the impatience of Marlene, and the faith of Mrs. Klahr. I’ve very much enjoyed the first two books and am looking forward to the release of Hansel (Gretel book 3) in August. Do yourself a favor and get these books today!
You can get your copy of Marlene’s Revenge (Gretel Book 2) on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Marlenes-Reven...
Christopher Coleman
This story is a fast paced follow up to Gretel. In parts it didn’t seem as dark as the first book, but in others it was more so. The characters growth from book one to book two is well done, and engaging. Gretel’s strength and fortitude are so real. The writing is so well done you can feel the desperation of the kids, the impatience of Marlene, and the faith of Mrs. Klahr. I’ve very much enjoyed the first two books and am looking forward to the release of Hansel (Gretel book 3) in August. Do yourself a favor and get these books today!
You can get your copy of Marlene’s Revenge (Gretel Book 2) on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Marlenes-Reven...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews