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Lance Brody #1
Dark Game
Less than twenty-four hours after the horrific events that forced him to flee his hometown, Lance Brody steps off a bus into a whole different nightmare.
The small town of Westhaven seems ordinary on the surface, but Lance can feel the evil lurking in the air … and it knows Lance has arrived.
After meeting two new friends — one of this world, and one of another — Lance learns that young men have been disappearing from Westhaven without a trace. No clues left behind, no answers.
Left with no choice but to use his unexplainable gifts—the ones that allow him see beyond the veil and into the shadows—Lance sets out to restore peace to Westhaven before another boy can vanish … But the darkness Lance felt the moment he arrived will do everything it can to stop him. No matter the lives lost.
The small town of Westhaven seems ordinary on the surface, but Lance can feel the evil lurking in the air … and it knows Lance has arrived.
After meeting two new friends — one of this world, and one of another — Lance learns that young men have been disappearing from Westhaven without a trace. No clues left behind, no answers.
Left with no choice but to use his unexplainable gifts—the ones that allow him see beyond the veil and into the shadows—Lance sets out to restore peace to Westhaven before another boy can vanish … But the darkness Lance felt the moment he arrived will do everything it can to stop him. No matter the lives lost.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2016
342 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Michael Robertson Jr.
40 books105 followersAside from his Lance Brody paranormal suspense series, Michael is the author of the horror/suspense novels ROUGH DRAFT, CEDAR RIDGE, suspense novel REGRET, as well as a collection of horror and suspense short stories THE TEACHERS' LOUNGE (both written under the pen name Dan Dawkins). His books have been downloaded over 100,000 times in Amazon's Kindle store.
Lives in Virginia where he's currently working on a new horror novel while trying to keep himself from thinking that his next book idea is better.
Favorite Authors: Stephen King, Harlan Coben, Jules Verne, JK Rowling, Chelsea Caine, Sandra Brown, Joe Hill, George R. R. Martin, John Connolly, Michael Chrichton, Ted Dekker, Greg Iles, Jeffery Deaver, Dennis Lehane, Justin Cronin, C.S. Lewis -- This is getting out of hand...
Lives in Virginia where he's currently working on a new horror novel while trying to keep himself from thinking that his next book idea is better.
Favorite Authors: Stephen King, Harlan Coben, Jules Verne, JK Rowling, Chelsea Caine, Sandra Brown, Joe Hill, George R. R. Martin, John Connolly, Michael Chrichton, Ted Dekker, Greg Iles, Jeffery Deaver, Dennis Lehane, Justin Cronin, C.S. Lewis -- This is getting out of hand...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 11, 2025
Stars: 2.5 out of 5
This was entertaining enough that I felt engaged with the story and cared about what happened to Lance and Leah, so I feel that a 2.5-star rating is earned. However, there are a few problems with this book that put me on the fence as to whether I will continue with the series.
First, this book is listed as the first in the series, but it starts with Lance on the run from something horrible that happened in his hometown. Something that probably killed his mother. This is very confusing for a first-time reader who doesn't know that there is a prequel novella about these events. It can be frustrating because it feels like we are missing a big chunk of the story.
The second issue is that Lance doesn't exactly think things through before he rushes headfirst to fight evil. This results in him being more of a damsel in distress who needs help and rescue from others, be it Leah, her father, or the paramedic. And people get hurt because of that. I would have liked him better if he had displayed at least some semblance of planning before rushing into the unknown. Also, he is no superhero; heck, he admits that his powers don't work on demand, so this recklessness is rather jarring with the rest of his character. My hope is that, being the first book, he will grow out of it as he matures.
The insta-love between him and Leah was also a bit cringe. In fact, I found that a lot of interactions between Lance and other characters were rather far-fetched. He just seems to "feel" which people are good and trustworthy. And these people just take his crazy stories at face value and agree to help him with everything he needs. Unfortunately, the world doesn't work that way. Also, it feels like everything comes too easily for him. He senses great evil in the town, and lo and behold, he meets Leah, who is EXACTLY the person to help him with that. He gets hurt in the car crash, but not to worry, because Leah's friend is a paramedic, who patches him up and doesn't even think about reporting him to the cops, even though he fled the scene of an accident where a cop was killed. He gets trapped by the big bad... and once again is rescued by somebody else.
If you look at it, Lance didn't DO anything to defeat this evil. He just showed up in town, created havoc by stumbling around like a bull in a China shop, and then let other people rescue him and save the day. We are told over and over that he is special, but none of his actions in this book illustrate that. Again, this being the first book in the series, I hope that Lance evolves as a character and matures in subsequent books, but I am not sure I want to invest my time in finding out.
This was entertaining enough that I felt engaged with the story and cared about what happened to Lance and Leah, so I feel that a 2.5-star rating is earned. However, there are a few problems with this book that put me on the fence as to whether I will continue with the series.
First, this book is listed as the first in the series, but it starts with Lance on the run from something horrible that happened in his hometown. Something that probably killed his mother. This is very confusing for a first-time reader who doesn't know that there is a prequel novella about these events. It can be frustrating because it feels like we are missing a big chunk of the story.
The second issue is that Lance doesn't exactly think things through before he rushes headfirst to fight evil. This results in him being more of a damsel in distress who needs help and rescue from others, be it Leah, her father, or the paramedic. And people get hurt because of that. I would have liked him better if he had displayed at least some semblance of planning before rushing into the unknown. Also, he is no superhero; heck, he admits that his powers don't work on demand, so this recklessness is rather jarring with the rest of his character. My hope is that, being the first book, he will grow out of it as he matures.
The insta-love between him and Leah was also a bit cringe. In fact, I found that a lot of interactions between Lance and other characters were rather far-fetched. He just seems to "feel" which people are good and trustworthy. And these people just take his crazy stories at face value and agree to help him with everything he needs. Unfortunately, the world doesn't work that way. Also, it feels like everything comes too easily for him. He senses great evil in the town, and lo and behold, he meets Leah, who is EXACTLY the person to help him with that. He gets hurt in the car crash, but not to worry, because Leah's friend is a paramedic, who patches him up and doesn't even think about reporting him to the cops, even though he fled the scene of an accident where a cop was killed. He gets trapped by the big bad... and once again is rescued by somebody else.
If you look at it, Lance didn't DO anything to defeat this evil. He just showed up in town, created havoc by stumbling around like a bull in a China shop, and then let other people rescue him and save the day. We are told over and over that he is special, but none of his actions in this book illustrate that. Again, this being the first book in the series, I hope that Lance evolves as a character and matures in subsequent books, but I am not sure I want to invest my time in finding out.
March 21, 2024
I didn't not like it. I actually liked most of the characters. I felt like the ending got a little too weird for me. The reasoning behind the deaths was sad. I did not really enjoy the bad guy and what their reasoning was. Just seemed silly. I might check out the next book.
January 13, 2021
Holy smokes! This is how you write a paranormal/thriller/mystery .... I don’t even know how to categorize this one.
I need to start by saying I don’t typically read series books. They actually bug me because I feel either very behind, or like I’m waiting around for the next release. Plus, a lot of them use super overplayed tropes (do we need another detective chasing serial killers series.... no, it’s way overdone) However, the description on this one intrigued me and sounded up my alley. I also had read two prior books by this author and loved the both.
I don’t want to spoil anything but Lance Brody is the kind of character you want to stick with. He’s quirky, funny, and has supernatural talents that make him an interesting character. The other people in this story are well developed and tied together in a cool small town setting. Nice pacing, nice story development, and great ending.
Now, my next task... do I read the prequel or the the second in series? Decisions, decisions....
I need to start by saying I don’t typically read series books. They actually bug me because I feel either very behind, or like I’m waiting around for the next release. Plus, a lot of them use super overplayed tropes (do we need another detective chasing serial killers series.... no, it’s way overdone) However, the description on this one intrigued me and sounded up my alley. I also had read two prior books by this author and loved the both.
I don’t want to spoil anything but Lance Brody is the kind of character you want to stick with. He’s quirky, funny, and has supernatural talents that make him an interesting character. The other people in this story are well developed and tied together in a cool small town setting. Nice pacing, nice story development, and great ending.
Now, my next task... do I read the prequel or the the second in series? Decisions, decisions....
December 15, 2018
Headline
Once again, a well written and great book from author Michael Robertson Jr. Kept me involved from the opening pages. Nothing better than reading when you almost feel as if you're a part of what's taking place. Now to find the next book in the Lance Brody series. Can't start something and then not finish. Many thanks to the author for a job well done.
Once again, a well written and great book from author Michael Robertson Jr. Kept me involved from the opening pages. Nothing better than reading when you almost feel as if you're a part of what's taking place. Now to find the next book in the Lance Brody series. Can't start something and then not finish. Many thanks to the author for a job well done.
February 26, 2025
This had elements of horror and elements of mystery but somehow they never really combined into a truly spooky or creepy story. I liked most of the characters, found Lance quite funny actually, how he'd say something normal and then fret about "flirting" too much.
October 18, 2023
Great first in the series, Lance is a captivating character and the story and writing is wonderful.
March 9, 2017
Great book
I really liked this first book of a series. After Lance had to leave his home town, he ended up in another little town feeling like the town and the people living there needed him. He met a ghost who used to own a little cafe and helped him with the evil in the town along with , Leah, a girl who worked at a little motel. I was disappointed with the ending. After you read the book, you will know why.
I really liked this first book of a series. After Lance had to leave his home town, he ended up in another little town feeling like the town and the people living there needed him. He met a ghost who used to own a little cafe and helped him with the evil in the town along with , Leah, a girl who worked at a little motel. I was disappointed with the ending. After you read the book, you will know why.
April 8, 2017
Great!
I was intrigued when I saw this book being compared to Dean Koontz 's Odd Thomas. I'm a long term fan of Koontz and very much enjoy Odd Thomas. Michael Robertson, Jr. is new to me. The comparison is valid but Lance Brody is his own unique self. I'm now a confirmed new fan of Mr. Robertson
I was intrigued when I saw this book being compared to Dean Koontz 's Odd Thomas. I'm a long term fan of Koontz and very much enjoy Odd Thomas. Michael Robertson, Jr. is new to me. The comparison is valid but Lance Brody is his own unique self. I'm now a confirmed new fan of Mr. Robertson
November 9, 2017
Excellent writing, didn't want to put it down. Looking forward to more Lance Brody books
Excellent writing, didn't want to put it down, looking forward to more Lance Brody books, was definitely worth reading, loved it
Excellent writing, didn't want to put it down, looking forward to more Lance Brody books, was definitely worth reading, loved it
April 17, 2017
Very entertaining novel
Engaging characters and a very good plot. The novel flows easily and keeps the reader interested. I hope the author continues the series.
Engaging characters and a very good plot. The novel flows easily and keeps the reader interested. I hope the author continues the series.
June 17, 2019
I really lost my self in this book. It was a easy read and I will read it again, and the novalle too.
December 4, 2018
Lance Brody series!!!! I'd love to see it become a series on Netflix!
August 9, 2025
I’d compare this to Beartown—though Beartown leans more into 13 Reasons Why territory. Both center on a small town rallying fiercely around its sports team. Here, the local football team mysteriously wins year after year. Lance arrives just after escaping a life-altering event of his own and instantly senses an evil presence, feeling compelled to free the town from it.
The trouble is, much of the story focuses on how his actions might be doing more harm than good. There are several incidents where, realistically, he should have landed in jail. The mysterious force—one I pictured as a black void—seems to hold the town in its grip. As the story progresses, Brody uncovers key players and brings closure to the cases of missing boys.
It’s dark, gritty, and, for me, a bit too bleak. The “who done it” is solid, but I didn’t connect with most of the characters. Even the love interest is stuck in a going-nowhere life, supporting her abusive father and running a rundown hotel instead of making changes for herself. She’s kind to guests but resigned to her fate.
Ultimately, it’s more “life sucks, stand up for good, and barely survive” than “fight for good and thrive.” I prefer more happily-ever-after in my reads. I’ll skim the start of the next book in the collection, but I’m probably stepping off this bus.
The trouble is, much of the story focuses on how his actions might be doing more harm than good. There are several incidents where, realistically, he should have landed in jail. The mysterious force—one I pictured as a black void—seems to hold the town in its grip. As the story progresses, Brody uncovers key players and brings closure to the cases of missing boys.
It’s dark, gritty, and, for me, a bit too bleak. The “who done it” is solid, but I didn’t connect with most of the characters. Even the love interest is stuck in a going-nowhere life, supporting her abusive father and running a rundown hotel instead of making changes for herself. She’s kind to guests but resigned to her fate.
Ultimately, it’s more “life sucks, stand up for good, and barely survive” than “fight for good and thrive.” I prefer more happily-ever-after in my reads. I’ll skim the start of the next book in the collection, but I’m probably stepping off this bus.
May 20, 2019
Finished this one in record time because I wanted to know how this would end! Was not disappointed.
This is a series of books about Lance Brody. In the prequel, Dark Beginnings, we find out the story of Lance and his mother and how he is out on the road now!
This second one - continues the story when Lance in on the run from evil! He winds up in a small town, Westhaven. All he has is the backpack on his back and nothing else. He does have some money to get him through. He immediately meets a "lost spirit" in the diner and they form a bond. In looking for a room for the night, he meets a new friend, Leah.
When Leah finds out about Lance's special powers (he can talk to the dead, see the dead, find lost things) she asks him to help her solve the mystery of what happened to her brother four years ago. He just vanished, in the next three years, three more boys are missing.
But in helping Leah, does Lance bring back the evil that has been chasing him? Is he falling for Leah and can he ever hope of having a normal life. A book that has it all - Supernatural thriller!
This is a series of books about Lance Brody. In the prequel, Dark Beginnings, we find out the story of Lance and his mother and how he is out on the road now!
This second one - continues the story when Lance in on the run from evil! He winds up in a small town, Westhaven. All he has is the backpack on his back and nothing else. He does have some money to get him through. He immediately meets a "lost spirit" in the diner and they form a bond. In looking for a room for the night, he meets a new friend, Leah.
When Leah finds out about Lance's special powers (he can talk to the dead, see the dead, find lost things) she asks him to help her solve the mystery of what happened to her brother four years ago. He just vanished, in the next three years, three more boys are missing.
But in helping Leah, does Lance bring back the evil that has been chasing him? Is he falling for Leah and can he ever hope of having a normal life. A book that has it all - Supernatural thriller!
June 4, 2022
I read this as part of the 0.5, 1 & 2 compilation.
0.5 is an introduction to Lance Brody and told us how he came to be, growing up with his single mother and learning to live with his ‘special’ abilities, and then after the tragic death of his mother, how at the age of 21yrs, he had to flee his hometown.
Part 1, Dark Game, tells how, after taking a bus to nowhere, he finds himself in a town that holds hidden dark secrets, which he senses immediately. Something that knows he is here, something evil and wants Lance gone. He is befriended by a presence that wants to help him rid the town of all this evil and when he goes to a motel for somewhere to stay, he meets Leah, the proprietors daughter who also becomes an ally.
I found this an exceptionally well written story, a great plot, fast paced and brilliant characters. I have read of Lance being compared to Dean Koontz ‘Odd Thomas’ but though they have similar abilities, they are completely different personalities.
I will be reading ‘Dark Son’ very soon because I know that I am already hooked on Lance Brody.
Full marks 5/5.
0.5 is an introduction to Lance Brody and told us how he came to be, growing up with his single mother and learning to live with his ‘special’ abilities, and then after the tragic death of his mother, how at the age of 21yrs, he had to flee his hometown.
Part 1, Dark Game, tells how, after taking a bus to nowhere, he finds himself in a town that holds hidden dark secrets, which he senses immediately. Something that knows he is here, something evil and wants Lance gone. He is befriended by a presence that wants to help him rid the town of all this evil and when he goes to a motel for somewhere to stay, he meets Leah, the proprietors daughter who also becomes an ally.
I found this an exceptionally well written story, a great plot, fast paced and brilliant characters. I have read of Lance being compared to Dean Koontz ‘Odd Thomas’ but though they have similar abilities, they are completely different personalities.
I will be reading ‘Dark Son’ very soon because I know that I am already hooked on Lance Brody.
Full marks 5/5.
April 17, 2022
Not the best quality of material used for book. I like to be able to spread the book out when reading it. When I flattened it at the binding, the pages started falling out. I hate that!!!
Author uses a lot of unnecessary words such as had, that, of. But, overall I thoroughly enjoyed this story and getting to know the characters. I hope to see Leah again, and I look forward to more from this author.
Love the paranormal twist to it.
Author uses a lot of unnecessary words such as had, that, of. But, overall I thoroughly enjoyed this story and getting to know the characters. I hope to see Leah again, and I look forward to more from this author.
Love the paranormal twist to it.
September 5, 2019
I haven’t read in a long time, kids kept me busy. I’ve picked up lots of books but put them straight back down. Now this book I just couldn’t put down. Went camping for 2 days and pretty much read it. Easy to read, story kept you wanting to read on.
Now to read the rest and hope they are as good as the first 😀
Now to read the rest and hope they are as good as the first 😀
September 19, 2019
I was wary of reading this because the hype on Amazon said horror. Now I am a fan of all things mythical and other worldly but I don’t like to be terrorised
I loved this book- the characters the story and the writing. However I felt it finished to quickly and from realising what was causing the deaths to putting it out of action wasn’t a big enough part of the story.
I loved this book- the characters the story and the writing. However I felt it finished to quickly and from realising what was causing the deaths to putting it out of action wasn’t a big enough part of the story.
August 30, 2020
Sorry, this is not a better review. I love paranormal reads and started this one with the prequel. It brought to light Lance ability of seeing ghost thus piqued my interest. So I moved to book 1. Nothing in it that pertained to the prequel and the ending was disappointing. A fire breathing somewhat dragon?! Seriously?! A witch and hot cauldron would've mixed better with ghost.
May 2, 2021
A Complete Shock!
When first I picked up this book I snidely thought it would be a quick read. Something to pass the time until another better read came along. So wrong with a capital "W". Totally caught off guard and pulled in. Read in completely in one day. I won't give it away just be surprised !!!
When first I picked up this book I snidely thought it would be a quick read. Something to pass the time until another better read came along. So wrong with a capital "W". Totally caught off guard and pulled in. Read in completely in one day. I won't give it away just be surprised !!!
December 19, 2021
Non stop action
I read the prequel to this book first. Glad I did because it made me feel more invested in this book. I enjoyed the fast pace of the book. Lance is just beginning to use his unusual abilities to help others. I’m ready to read the series and see where Lance will end up and who he will help next.
I read the prequel to this book first. Glad I did because it made me feel more invested in this book. I enjoyed the fast pace of the book. Lance is just beginning to use his unusual abilities to help others. I’m ready to read the series and see where Lance will end up and who he will help next.
July 6, 2022
This is a generic, less interesting knockoff of Dean Koontz’s “Odd Thomas”. I probably wouldn’t have even finished it except it was an audiobook and I had lots of chores to finish up.
It’s not awful but not great either. I have the next two in the series downloaded from the library… guess I’ll give the next one a chance.
It’s not awful but not great either. I have the next two in the series downloaded from the library… guess I’ll give the next one a chance.
February 8, 2023
Really enjoyed this book. Very similar to some of Dean Koontz writings. Story plot a little lacking in places and I think as readers we needed more history on the main character! However maybe that will come further on in the series. The author left me wanting more which is a good thing when this is only book 1.
February 27, 2023
Loved it. In this book I was not looking for a super hero, I was looking for a good guy that uses his talents to make the world (town by town) a better place. Lance is new at this bigger challenge and is learning along the way. I like that he has doubts and is going with the flow. Hopefully he gains wisdom and confidence along the way. I’m ready for the next book.
March 23, 2019
An extremely entertaining book!
I absolutely enjoyed this book! The story
line was incredible and the characters were
fantastic! Would have liked to have more
ghosts in the story, though. But all in all I
found this book intriguing and am going to
definitely follow this series.
I absolutely enjoyed this book! The story
line was incredible and the characters were
fantastic! Would have liked to have more
ghosts in the story, though. But all in all I
found this book intriguing and am going to
definitely follow this series.
May 16, 2019
Brilliant horror/ mystery
Anyone who has read the Odd Thomas books will like these books. Lance Brody can see ghosts and sense evil. He travels looking for it so he can end it. I loved this book and can't wait to read the next one.
Anyone who has read the Odd Thomas books will like these books. Lance Brody can see ghosts and sense evil. He travels looking for it so he can end it. I loved this book and can't wait to read the next one.
September 18, 2019
I am really loving this series! After being sucked into the story line by the prequel, Dark Beginning, I zipped through this one so fast because I couldn't put it down! Definitely a must add if you like a dark story filled with action, ghostly appearances and hold your breath moments!
February 9, 2020
This was a good, refreshing quick read with totally likable characters. I loved Lance’s innocence and the people who supported him. I loved the flow of the book, and the surprises. I look forward to reading the rest of the series!
February 21, 2020
Lance, still grieving the loss of his loving mom, running for his life and in the process of learning about his "abilities" has his first real test facing an unseen evil in another small town. Spooky and creepy. Excellent writing.
May 1, 2020
Lance
I very seldom come across a character series that catches my attention; however, Lance is one of broadcasters that you will follow as long as there are stories being written. Enjoy reading this series.
I very seldom come across a character series that catches my attention; however, Lance is one of broadcasters that you will follow as long as there are stories being written. Enjoy reading this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews