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Affinity's Window
Affinity Bell, a lonely child whose only companion is the threadbare doll she’s christened Mr. Moppet, roams the empty halls of Bell Manor attempting to escape the evil that pursues her. The Others, the horrifying creatures only she can see, attack young Affinity at every opportunity. But Mr. Moppet will protect her, he’s told her so, and Mr. Moppet knows magic.
Tanner Dann, a world-weary writer searching for proof that ghosts actually do exist, is being called by an unknown force to Bell Manor. Will the two powerful psychics he’s hired help him to discover the proof for which he’s been searching, or will they too be dragged down into the noxious pit that is Bell Manor?
Evil flows through the heart of Bell Manor, pulsing and ebbing like some hideous tide. Will it drag Tanner and his friends down into its gaping maw, or will they battle back at Affinity’s Window?
Tanner Dann, a world-weary writer searching for proof that ghosts actually do exist, is being called by an unknown force to Bell Manor. Will the two powerful psychics he’s hired help him to discover the proof for which he’s been searching, or will they too be dragged down into the noxious pit that is Bell Manor?
Evil flows through the heart of Bell Manor, pulsing and ebbing like some hideous tide. Will it drag Tanner and his friends down into its gaping maw, or will they battle back at Affinity’s Window?
- GenresHorror
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2016
12 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
December 8, 2020
Affinity may just be a little girl but she's already had to deal with so much more than anyone would have expected.
Affinity’s gaze fell upon the hideous red eyes of the others.
Bell Manor, her home, is lonesomely empty...and yet full of the Others.
The glowing, spinning crimson light held her eyes. “We are otherworldly.”The Others are the evil lurking in her house, and her only line of defense? A teddy named Mr. Moppet.
Meanwhile Tanner Dann has always wanted confirmation of the supernatural and when he heard of the Bell Manor, he just couldn't resist investigating.
But quite quickly, he realizes that Bell Manor is completely out of his league. Will he get his evidence? Will he even get out alive?
she said softly, “Mommies aren’t the only ones that need punishing sometimes.”Ooooo! This one was chilling.
I absolutely LOVED the way Wilson sets a scene. It's all in the tiny details and imagery.
The way he'd slowly unveil one bit after another until it becomes absolutely spine-tingling - fantastic!
The narration of Affinity really helped immerse me into the book - her young perspective on life and childlike sense of morals brought the tension up tenfold.
She was a delightfully terrifying child and I loved her for it.
And I adored the perspective of Tanner and his two investigators - their naivety and dawning horror - just totally cinched this book for me!
All in all, I loved this book!
Huge thank you to the author for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
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September 1, 2019
Have you ever walked into a place and instantaneously felt the tiny hairs upon the back of your neck stand straight up? All at once overcome by a feeling of pure dread and foreboding. There are places in this world which are pure evil incarnate. The Amityville House, Whaley House and Shanghai Tunnels all come to mind. Well... we can now add Bell Manor to that list! In his book Affinity's Window, author Douglas L. Wilson provides us with a textbook case of creepy and terrifying. This is absolutely a must read for fans of an intelligent, thrilling and suspense-filled supernatural story.
Many years ago, horrific and ghastly events unfolded at Bell Manor. Unmentionable things! Seven year-old Affinity knows this only too well. That is why she travels the halls of the home with her shabby doll Mr. Moppet as her protector. They are coming for her- and only Mr. Moppet can stop them.
Meanwhile, an embattled writer by the name of Taylor Dann has been drawn to the allure of Bell Manor. The proverbial fly to the web so to speak. Accompanied by two psychics, he is determined to unravel the mystery of the Manor and pen the next bestseller. However, things are not always what they appear to be- and sometimes the best laid plans in life go awry. Make no mistake... the malevolent presence at Bell Manor has something in store... for everyone!
I would have great difficulty trying to neatly categorize this novel into one particular genre. While it has all the required elements of a great horror story, such as fear, suspense and foreshadowing, it contains a variety of other thrilling components as well. The author utilized everything in his writer's toolbox to put this story together. It has a perfect flow to it and is absolutely captivating from start to finish. Also, the plot of the novel has many different events which must be meticulously pieced together. It is the type of story in which you become lost in the pages. As if you are actually there. Entirely fast-moving, complex and sophisticated. It explores the deepest depths of human psychology without the need for excessive gore. It is no "gory story." At its core Affinity's Window is a masterful piece of literary horror fiction which capitalizes on the power of the human mind to make its point. In the end that is the most powerful type of fear inducing horror which exists!
While the plot of the story is enthralling, so are the host of characters who play key roles in the book. From the deeply troubled Taylor Dann, the emulous Linda and the powerful yet overly altruistic Claire. Make no mistake however, this is Affinity's show! Right from the start she is entirely believable as a little seven year-old girl. However, she becomes absolutely memorable and mesmerizing as the horrific story events unfold. Her innocent and vernal character is cleverly juxtaposed with her more devious and daunting nature. This is a key ingredient which makes this story work so well.
Throw all the aforementioned details in a pot and mix them all up in a creepy old mansion called Bell Manor... and we have one terrifyingly terrific story left as the result!
I highly recommend this tale to all lovers of literary horror fiction. It does have many frightening scenes so be forewarned.
5 out of 5 Terrifyingly Terrific Stars for this one! *****
Many years ago, horrific and ghastly events unfolded at Bell Manor. Unmentionable things! Seven year-old Affinity knows this only too well. That is why she travels the halls of the home with her shabby doll Mr. Moppet as her protector. They are coming for her- and only Mr. Moppet can stop them.
Meanwhile, an embattled writer by the name of Taylor Dann has been drawn to the allure of Bell Manor. The proverbial fly to the web so to speak. Accompanied by two psychics, he is determined to unravel the mystery of the Manor and pen the next bestseller. However, things are not always what they appear to be- and sometimes the best laid plans in life go awry. Make no mistake... the malevolent presence at Bell Manor has something in store... for everyone!
I would have great difficulty trying to neatly categorize this novel into one particular genre. While it has all the required elements of a great horror story, such as fear, suspense and foreshadowing, it contains a variety of other thrilling components as well. The author utilized everything in his writer's toolbox to put this story together. It has a perfect flow to it and is absolutely captivating from start to finish. Also, the plot of the novel has many different events which must be meticulously pieced together. It is the type of story in which you become lost in the pages. As if you are actually there. Entirely fast-moving, complex and sophisticated. It explores the deepest depths of human psychology without the need for excessive gore. It is no "gory story." At its core Affinity's Window is a masterful piece of literary horror fiction which capitalizes on the power of the human mind to make its point. In the end that is the most powerful type of fear inducing horror which exists!
While the plot of the story is enthralling, so are the host of characters who play key roles in the book. From the deeply troubled Taylor Dann, the emulous Linda and the powerful yet overly altruistic Claire. Make no mistake however, this is Affinity's show! Right from the start she is entirely believable as a little seven year-old girl. However, she becomes absolutely memorable and mesmerizing as the horrific story events unfold. Her innocent and vernal character is cleverly juxtaposed with her more devious and daunting nature. This is a key ingredient which makes this story work so well.
Throw all the aforementioned details in a pot and mix them all up in a creepy old mansion called Bell Manor... and we have one terrifyingly terrific story left as the result!
I highly recommend this tale to all lovers of literary horror fiction. It does have many frightening scenes so be forewarned.
5 out of 5 Terrifyingly Terrific Stars for this one! *****
August 7, 2018
OMG Mr. Wilson! Don't know if to thank you or ??? My lights were on all night after reading this! I totally loved the book, it is refreshing REAL HORROR! I will recommend this book to all, your books are all yours but reminiscent of the original real horror genre! can't wait for another Masterpiece, I bow in gratitude. 5 Star Read, Creepalicious!
January 4, 2018
This book is great! Super Creepy and scary. I loved it! I was hoping we would get some "next generation" horror authors to come out. I feel I have not found good horror authors in a while this author may be up with Stephen King and more. I would read more from this author. I can't wait to see what else this author can do in horror! *This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.*
January 9, 2020
Affinity’s window is a 294 page horror book that feels more like dark suspense until around page 60. The book starts in the past where we meet Affinity, her strange window, her magical doll, Mr. Moppet, and Bell Manor, which is a sprawling mansion with more hidden secrets that you can count. Readers are taken through a little bit of Affinity's life and her past until Chapter 4. Without giving away any details, we can safely say that Affinity's past was horrific, and the Bell family had its fair share of strife for the short time they lived in the house.
At chapter 4, the book jumps 30 years to 1974. That may be a little jarring. Chapter 3 ends abruptly and Chapter 4 starts after a large time jump. The good news is that the story started in the first three chapters doesn’t end, but it does become conversations, psychic visions and flashbacks once the book time jumps.
At the time jump, we meet Tanner Dan and psychic Linda. Tanner is working on a book and trying to prove that ghosts exist. Linda is trying to help him believe in ghosts and finish his book. She also knows that Tanner is trying to solve the mystery of his brother, who disappeared in a house very similiar to Bell Manner.
Author Douglas L Wilson has a very interesting writing style in the fact that nearly every detail is described. I would classify it at an older writing style versus the modern writing style of only describing extremely important things. This means that if you like books with a lot of description, you’ll love this one.
Because of the description and the slow pacing (It’s not a thriller horror by any means.), the actual horror doesn’t start until page 60, so it may very well catch you off guard. The entire book is like a cross between The Ring, Poltergeist, The Others and Cujo, if Cujo were a demonic ghost dog, and you can throw a little Chucky in there as well. It’s a mishmash of a lot of different elements, and it’s done well.
Overall, it’s a pretty good book. I’d give it a solid 4 stars. The description is what got me at a few points because it almost gets tedious, but the story itself is fine. It’s interesting, and it will certainly suck you in. Affinity's Window does hit its paranormal horror genre, as in it hits the old definition of horror. I would say that it is certainly worth the read. Whether or not you want to sleep with your nightlight on after you read it is up to you.
At chapter 4, the book jumps 30 years to 1974. That may be a little jarring. Chapter 3 ends abruptly and Chapter 4 starts after a large time jump. The good news is that the story started in the first three chapters doesn’t end, but it does become conversations, psychic visions and flashbacks once the book time jumps.
At the time jump, we meet Tanner Dan and psychic Linda. Tanner is working on a book and trying to prove that ghosts exist. Linda is trying to help him believe in ghosts and finish his book. She also knows that Tanner is trying to solve the mystery of his brother, who disappeared in a house very similiar to Bell Manner.
Author Douglas L Wilson has a very interesting writing style in the fact that nearly every detail is described. I would classify it at an older writing style versus the modern writing style of only describing extremely important things. This means that if you like books with a lot of description, you’ll love this one.
Because of the description and the slow pacing (It’s not a thriller horror by any means.), the actual horror doesn’t start until page 60, so it may very well catch you off guard. The entire book is like a cross between The Ring, Poltergeist, The Others and Cujo, if Cujo were a demonic ghost dog, and you can throw a little Chucky in there as well. It’s a mishmash of a lot of different elements, and it’s done well.
Overall, it’s a pretty good book. I’d give it a solid 4 stars. The description is what got me at a few points because it almost gets tedious, but the story itself is fine. It’s interesting, and it will certainly suck you in. Affinity's Window does hit its paranormal horror genre, as in it hits the old definition of horror. I would say that it is certainly worth the read. Whether or not you want to sleep with your nightlight on after you read it is up to you.
August 7, 2017
First, I would just like to thank the author, Douglas Wilson, for sending me a copy of Affinity's Window for me to read and review. I love when I can be exposed to new books and/or authors I wouldn't normally find. And in turn I like to expose others to those books!
Affinity's Window reminded me of a ghost story told around a campfire where one person starts the story then another person takes over, and so on as it's passed around. The story just kept evolving and evolving and I kept wondering, "where is this going?!" I had to keep reading in order to find out how all the pieces fit together and how it was all going to end. There were times when the story got muddied and the action interrupted when a character recapped what was going on. I'd be in the midst of the meaty action and it would come to a halt while a character thought back about how they got to this point. That was distracting as I just wanted the crazy action!
I felt like the characters were well developed. I did enjoy how Tanner's past and family history were revealed a bit at a time. I figured there were going to be deep connections but I never guessed how deep the connections ran. I did feel like some history was overkill; there was too much talk about Claire's past that did not add anything pertinent to the story. And personally, I could have done without the love affair.
I would recommend Affinity's Window to someone who is looking to step out of their comfort zone genre and get their feet wet with horror. There were creepy aspects (can you say possessed doll and demons?!) but in my opinion, it was not scary. Perhaps that's just because I've been desensitized. However, this book is a nice introduction to the horror genre.
Affinity's Window reminded me of a ghost story told around a campfire where one person starts the story then another person takes over, and so on as it's passed around. The story just kept evolving and evolving and I kept wondering, "where is this going?!" I had to keep reading in order to find out how all the pieces fit together and how it was all going to end. There were times when the story got muddied and the action interrupted when a character recapped what was going on. I'd be in the midst of the meaty action and it would come to a halt while a character thought back about how they got to this point. That was distracting as I just wanted the crazy action!
I felt like the characters were well developed. I did enjoy how Tanner's past and family history were revealed a bit at a time. I figured there were going to be deep connections but I never guessed how deep the connections ran. I did feel like some history was overkill; there was too much talk about Claire's past that did not add anything pertinent to the story. And personally, I could have done without the love affair.
I would recommend Affinity's Window to someone who is looking to step out of their comfort zone genre and get their feet wet with horror. There were creepy aspects (can you say possessed doll and demons?!) but in my opinion, it was not scary. Perhaps that's just because I've been desensitized. However, this book is a nice introduction to the horror genre.
December 31, 2021
I had started this last year but had to stop and review others that needed doing right then.
But I picked it back up and am so glad I did! It’s creepy and dark, scary parts and did I say creepy?
Affinity is just yeah, hair on arms stand up.
Ghostly, creepy house, spirits, it covers a lot and is worth a read.
But I picked it back up and am so glad I did! It’s creepy and dark, scary parts and did I say creepy?
Affinity is just yeah, hair on arms stand up.
Ghostly, creepy house, spirits, it covers a lot and is worth a read.
July 3, 2020
Gripping!
I don't normally read this genre so I can't compare it to other horror books or other authors like Stephen King for example. What I CAN say is that several times I found my heart pounding with fear and suspense as I read and I would have to stop and take a breath before going on. I couldn't stop for long though before being pulled back to find out what was going to happen. At no point did I ever sense what was coming next and I LOVED that! It was very well written and in a way that had you feeling as though you were there with the characters. I'm actually looking forward not only to the next sequel in this series but other books in this genre as well!
I don't normally read this genre so I can't compare it to other horror books or other authors like Stephen King for example. What I CAN say is that several times I found my heart pounding with fear and suspense as I read and I would have to stop and take a breath before going on. I couldn't stop for long though before being pulled back to find out what was going to happen. At no point did I ever sense what was coming next and I LOVED that! It was very well written and in a way that had you feeling as though you were there with the characters. I'm actually looking forward not only to the next sequel in this series but other books in this genre as well!
September 27, 2020
A haunting and imaginative paranormal thriller
Wilson has written a thoroughly enjoyable ghost story and thriller in Affinity's Window. Affinity Bell is a little girl to be reckoned with, and although there are some storytelling choices that I disagree with, the story itself, of a trio of paranormal investigators invading the home of a ghost of a girl who allegedly killed her parents years ago, has more than enough to keep you reading.
Character development, from The bold, precocious Affinity to the mother/daughter clairvoyants, to the troubled Tanner Dan with an equally troubling past, is solid.
The story eventually develops a Christian good versus evil overtone, but not in an overly preachy way, far from it.
The biggest thing that bothered me, though is a little nagging mistake that I couldn't overlook. A significant symbolic element to the plot is a bond fire... I had a hard time getting past the term bond fire, and even wondered if I was wrong about what I always knew to be a bonfire. I even looked the term up thinking I just didn't know there was a term "bond fire." Research is a funny thing, because while I didn't find the term bond fire, I did learn the bonfire derived from bonefire, and I almost wish Wilson had used that term instead. It would have been appropriate.
Anyway, if you can overlook the usage of bond fire, there's a good chance you'll enjoy this book.
Wilson has written a thoroughly enjoyable ghost story and thriller in Affinity's Window. Affinity Bell is a little girl to be reckoned with, and although there are some storytelling choices that I disagree with, the story itself, of a trio of paranormal investigators invading the home of a ghost of a girl who allegedly killed her parents years ago, has more than enough to keep you reading.
Character development, from The bold, precocious Affinity to the mother/daughter clairvoyants, to the troubled Tanner Dan with an equally troubling past, is solid.
The story eventually develops a Christian good versus evil overtone, but not in an overly preachy way, far from it.
The biggest thing that bothered me, though is a little nagging mistake that I couldn't overlook. A significant symbolic element to the plot is a bond fire... I had a hard time getting past the term bond fire, and even wondered if I was wrong about what I always knew to be a bonfire. I even looked the term up thinking I just didn't know there was a term "bond fire." Research is a funny thing, because while I didn't find the term bond fire, I did learn the bonfire derived from bonefire, and I almost wish Wilson had used that term instead. It would have been appropriate.
Anyway, if you can overlook the usage of bond fire, there's a good chance you'll enjoy this book.
February 20, 2019
Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
First things first, this is hands-down one of the CREEPIEST books I have ever read! And I, of course, mean that in the absolute best way possible! I’m generally not someone who loves horror in any sense of the word-- I even hate watching horror movie commercials on television. But when Mar from over at The Bold Mom (check them out-- www.theboldmom.com) reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in reviewing some horror, I decided to give it a shot.
Needless to say, I was not disappointed! I’m going to try and give my thoughts without getting too much into the plot, because I wholeheartedly believe stories such as these are meant to be consumed knowing little to nothing about what’s to come. First of all, Douglas L. Wilson has an absolutely stunning style of writing. There are times when you’re so lost in the prose that it’s easy to forget the horror-nature of the story itself. I would give the book four stars for that alone. Besides Wilson’s stunning style of writing, I found the plot to be absolutely intriguing.
I especially loved the narration of Affinity-- there’s something about a child narrator that makes things all the more creepy. Wilson managed to build the suspense, particularly through Affinity, in a way that didn’t quite throw it in your face. I think the subtlety of this is what added to the creep-factor for me in a lot of ways.
To summarize, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the horror genre than I had with Affinity’s Window! It’s a beautifully crafted story that is sure to keep you up at night thinking about the absolutely horrifying “Others” and the strangeness of Mr. Moppet. I highly recommend you read with the lights on!
First things first, this is hands-down one of the CREEPIEST books I have ever read! And I, of course, mean that in the absolute best way possible! I’m generally not someone who loves horror in any sense of the word-- I even hate watching horror movie commercials on television. But when Mar from over at The Bold Mom (check them out-- www.theboldmom.com) reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in reviewing some horror, I decided to give it a shot.
Needless to say, I was not disappointed! I’m going to try and give my thoughts without getting too much into the plot, because I wholeheartedly believe stories such as these are meant to be consumed knowing little to nothing about what’s to come. First of all, Douglas L. Wilson has an absolutely stunning style of writing. There are times when you’re so lost in the prose that it’s easy to forget the horror-nature of the story itself. I would give the book four stars for that alone. Besides Wilson’s stunning style of writing, I found the plot to be absolutely intriguing.
I especially loved the narration of Affinity-- there’s something about a child narrator that makes things all the more creepy. Wilson managed to build the suspense, particularly through Affinity, in a way that didn’t quite throw it in your face. I think the subtlety of this is what added to the creep-factor for me in a lot of ways.
To summarize, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the horror genre than I had with Affinity’s Window! It’s a beautifully crafted story that is sure to keep you up at night thinking about the absolutely horrifying “Others” and the strangeness of Mr. Moppet. I highly recommend you read with the lights on!
October 13, 2018
Eerie, intriguing story about a little girl and her doll, yet the real story uncovers so much more. The girl's point of view is an interesting vantage point, allowing a creepy insight into the machinations of Bell Manor. Recommended for fans of haunted houses and supernatural horror.
January 3, 2020
Excellent ghost story!
Full of suspense and mystery, this story had me eagerly turning the pages for more. Fans of stories about creepy little ghost girls won't be disappointed. Twists and turns all the way to the end.
Full of suspense and mystery, this story had me eagerly turning the pages for more. Fans of stories about creepy little ghost girls won't be disappointed. Twists and turns all the way to the end.
February 3, 2020
Very well written.
Not my cup of tea, but not a disappointment either. A little weird, but that makes for a good story.
Not my cup of tea, but not a disappointment either. A little weird, but that makes for a good story.
September 5, 2017
If you like to be spooked then this is the book to read. It has lots of twists and turns along the way.
October 22, 2019
5 Stars
I am not going to lie- this book scared the cr@p out of me! It definitely delivers on the promise held in the blurb, that’s for sure. I read long into the night because I need to know what was going on and how everything would play out. I had so many scenarios running through my mind- but the story kept me guessing right till the end. It creeped me out so badly (in a great way), that I left the lights on when I finally went to bed. The story has a tightly woven, dark and twisty plot. I was completely engrossed right from the very first page, and couldn’t put it down till I had read every last word. I was looking over my shoulder the whole time, completely caught up in the creepy, chilling, hair-raising atmosphere that the story creates. And I admit to checking every room, behind the doors, in the closets, and under the beds- before I finally felt somewhat comfortable enough to go to bed. And it’s been a long time since a story has affected me to that extent- so kudos and well played Mr. Wilson!
Affinity’s Window by Douglas L. Wilson is the first book of his that I have read. I was looking for something a little different from what I had been reading of late, so when I saw this book in my social media feed- I knew I had to read it. It is everything it claims to be. A supernatural scare-fest, but with a cleverly woven, complex, and multi-layered storyline. Yes, the story dips into the horror pool- but there is so much more to it than that. A thought-provoking ‘horror- in a thrilling psychological way. Mr. Wilson turned the dial on gripping suspense up to maximum- while masterfully choreographing all the interconnected details and sprinkling ‘twisty’ bits throughout the story to keep us really guessing and on the edge of our seats.
I felt like I was right there in the story, experiencing everything alongside the characters. I felt their fear, pain, anguish, hate, anger, and terror- as well as the palpable ‘evil’ presence that lurks inside Bell Manor.
Mr. Wilson really knows how to spin a terrifying story- and has a knack for drawing you in and keeping your eyes glued to the pages, when all you want to do is slam the book and hide in the corner. I am still thinking about the story long after finishing it- and will probably continue to look over my shoulder and under the bed for the foreseeable future. And I love that it affected me like that. That’s a sure sign of a great writer. I will definitely be reading more of Mr. Wilson’s work! I can’t wait to see what else he has in store for me!
Thank you, Mr. Wilson!
I am not going to lie- this book scared the cr@p out of me! It definitely delivers on the promise held in the blurb, that’s for sure. I read long into the night because I need to know what was going on and how everything would play out. I had so many scenarios running through my mind- but the story kept me guessing right till the end. It creeped me out so badly (in a great way), that I left the lights on when I finally went to bed. The story has a tightly woven, dark and twisty plot. I was completely engrossed right from the very first page, and couldn’t put it down till I had read every last word. I was looking over my shoulder the whole time, completely caught up in the creepy, chilling, hair-raising atmosphere that the story creates. And I admit to checking every room, behind the doors, in the closets, and under the beds- before I finally felt somewhat comfortable enough to go to bed. And it’s been a long time since a story has affected me to that extent- so kudos and well played Mr. Wilson!
Affinity’s Window by Douglas L. Wilson is the first book of his that I have read. I was looking for something a little different from what I had been reading of late, so when I saw this book in my social media feed- I knew I had to read it. It is everything it claims to be. A supernatural scare-fest, but with a cleverly woven, complex, and multi-layered storyline. Yes, the story dips into the horror pool- but there is so much more to it than that. A thought-provoking ‘horror- in a thrilling psychological way. Mr. Wilson turned the dial on gripping suspense up to maximum- while masterfully choreographing all the interconnected details and sprinkling ‘twisty’ bits throughout the story to keep us really guessing and on the edge of our seats.
I felt like I was right there in the story, experiencing everything alongside the characters. I felt their fear, pain, anguish, hate, anger, and terror- as well as the palpable ‘evil’ presence that lurks inside Bell Manor.
Mr. Wilson really knows how to spin a terrifying story- and has a knack for drawing you in and keeping your eyes glued to the pages, when all you want to do is slam the book and hide in the corner. I am still thinking about the story long after finishing it- and will probably continue to look over my shoulder and under the bed for the foreseeable future. And I love that it affected me like that. That’s a sure sign of a great writer. I will definitely be reading more of Mr. Wilson’s work! I can’t wait to see what else he has in store for me!
Thank you, Mr. Wilson!
January 7, 2023
Delve into a Heartbreaking Loop of Madness and Despair
Affinity’s Window goes beyond the typical ghost story by twisting and merging the realms between the living and the dead and the creatures who control the planes between both worlds. At times, I felt myself racing along the floorboards of a great mansion with the spectre of Affinity Bell in hopes of protecting her and guiding her through the life of her unending death.
Wilson’s writing style is poetic and mesmerizing which lends itself perfectly to a horror-tinged ghost story. He has skillfully crafted the madness of the unending loop both the living and the dead are trapped within but as a reader you are kept guessing at the next sequence of events. I finished this book in two seatings as I was angst-ridden in my hopes and fears for the living but my emotions were given over mostly to Affinity Bell-a child lost to reliving the tragic days of her death.
I am looking forward to reading more from Wilson and will definitely read the sequel.
Affinity’s Window goes beyond the typical ghost story by twisting and merging the realms between the living and the dead and the creatures who control the planes between both worlds. At times, I felt myself racing along the floorboards of a great mansion with the spectre of Affinity Bell in hopes of protecting her and guiding her through the life of her unending death.
Wilson’s writing style is poetic and mesmerizing which lends itself perfectly to a horror-tinged ghost story. He has skillfully crafted the madness of the unending loop both the living and the dead are trapped within but as a reader you are kept guessing at the next sequence of events. I finished this book in two seatings as I was angst-ridden in my hopes and fears for the living but my emotions were given over mostly to Affinity Bell-a child lost to reliving the tragic days of her death.
I am looking forward to reading more from Wilson and will definitely read the sequel.
January 7, 2018
I received a copy of this book as an ARC and I am leaving an honest review of my thoughts.
It takes a while to catch onto to the rhythm of the book. The beginning chapters are a bit confusing. Once I caught on that it was a bit of a “Ground Hog Day” type of thing it was easier to follow. The book would skip through time so lining up the past with the present at times was a little confusing.
Getting to know Affinity Bell when she was a little girl helped set the stage for your sympathies to be with her. When we meet Linda and Tanner as they are investigating the Bell Manor you can feel their surface attraction and you also knew that they house was a magnet for one of them.
Linda is a physic whose powers are not as strong as she would like but she is still able to pickup signals and sensations. Tanner is a bit obsessed with the house and his underlying guilt is driving him to take unnecessary risks. As they investigate Bell Manor and learn more about what happened to its previous owners they reach out to Linda’s daughter Claire who is a much stronger physic than her mother, as they start combing their knowledge and skillset the story begins to pick up pace.
Once the story started picking up pace the storyline started evolving into a darker place. Some parts of the story were dragged out a bit a little less repetition of some of the same elements would have tightened the storyline. Some of the historical data while nice too know just added more of a drag to the story and bogged it down a bit. Then the unnecessary recap by some of the characters made you feel like you were experiencing a “Ground Hog Day” sensation yourself as you had already read about this part. Those unnecessary recaps affected the flow of the story and made it seem like you had gone back a page or two.
Then it went from a ghost story to a supernatural story introducing other world characters that were never fully explained as to why they were there and giving back story as to why these two demi-gods were using these particular people to fight their war.
Another kind of niggling point was Affinity was not aware that she was having a “Ground Hog Day” kind of moment until she realized that Linda, Tanner and Claire were not others but were actual people. Once she was snapped out of that delusion it was like she went from being seven years old to being a thirty something ghost and gained all of these skills.
The book had some really great elements, the unfolding story of Tanners’ past and why he was drawn to the house. The healing of the relationship between Linda and Claire and the very grown up choices that a victimized seven-year-old ghost had to make was the depth and meat of the story, it just had a little too much filler and some unnecessary side fixings that were not necessary for this great ghost story.
It takes a while to catch onto to the rhythm of the book. The beginning chapters are a bit confusing. Once I caught on that it was a bit of a “Ground Hog Day” type of thing it was easier to follow. The book would skip through time so lining up the past with the present at times was a little confusing.
Getting to know Affinity Bell when she was a little girl helped set the stage for your sympathies to be with her. When we meet Linda and Tanner as they are investigating the Bell Manor you can feel their surface attraction and you also knew that they house was a magnet for one of them.
Linda is a physic whose powers are not as strong as she would like but she is still able to pickup signals and sensations. Tanner is a bit obsessed with the house and his underlying guilt is driving him to take unnecessary risks. As they investigate Bell Manor and learn more about what happened to its previous owners they reach out to Linda’s daughter Claire who is a much stronger physic than her mother, as they start combing their knowledge and skillset the story begins to pick up pace.
Once the story started picking up pace the storyline started evolving into a darker place. Some parts of the story were dragged out a bit a little less repetition of some of the same elements would have tightened the storyline. Some of the historical data while nice too know just added more of a drag to the story and bogged it down a bit. Then the unnecessary recap by some of the characters made you feel like you were experiencing a “Ground Hog Day” sensation yourself as you had already read about this part. Those unnecessary recaps affected the flow of the story and made it seem like you had gone back a page or two.
Then it went from a ghost story to a supernatural story introducing other world characters that were never fully explained as to why they were there and giving back story as to why these two demi-gods were using these particular people to fight their war.
Another kind of niggling point was Affinity was not aware that she was having a “Ground Hog Day” kind of moment until she realized that Linda, Tanner and Claire were not others but were actual people. Once she was snapped out of that delusion it was like she went from being seven years old to being a thirty something ghost and gained all of these skills.
The book had some really great elements, the unfolding story of Tanners’ past and why he was drawn to the house. The healing of the relationship between Linda and Claire and the very grown up choices that a victimized seven-year-old ghost had to make was the depth and meat of the story, it just had a little too much filler and some unnecessary side fixings that were not necessary for this great ghost story.
March 19, 2018
Affinity’s Window was written by Douglas L. Wilson and published on 10 December 2016.
“Affinity Bell, a lonely child whose only companion is the threadbare doll she’s christened Mr. Moppet, roams the empty halls of Bell Manor attempting to escape the evil that pursues her. The Others, the horrifying creatures only she can see, attack young Affinity at every opportunity. But Mr. Moppet will protect her, he’s told her so, and Mr. Moppet knows magic.
Tanner Dann, a world-weary writer searching for proof that ghosts actually do exist, is being called by an unknown force to Bell Manor. Will the two powerful psychics he’s hired help him to discover the proof for which he’s been searching, or will they too be dragged down into the noxious pit that is Bell Manor?
Evil flows through the heart of Bell Manor, pulsing and ebbing like some hideous tide. Will it drag Tanner and his friends down into its gaping maw, or will they battle back at Affinity’s Window?”*
I was provided a complementary copy of Affinity’s Window to review. It in no way, shape, or form influenced my opinion/review of the book.
Psychologists would have an absolute field day with Douglas L. Wilson, who has penned a book so unsettling that I actually had to stop and take breaks from reading it.
Perhaps the most gripping part was Affinity Bell, a not-so-little girl who is forced to relive the day her parents were savagely murdered over, and over, and over, and over again. Affinity is troubled (and troublesome) in the way many children are not, but still manages to draw sympathy from the reader, whether you want her to or not. Perhaps it is the small injections of childlike wonder: Affinity has a missing tooth, a best buddy under her (literal, patent leather) belt, and a trusty steed/tricycle that goes by the name Mercury. Affinity is
Wilson uses repetition to create an unnerving sense of deja vu. I’d often have to stop myself and wonder “where did I hear that before?” Each repeated scene has tiny bits changed, which created a scavenger hunt that sent me flipping back and forth like a mad person. Thankfully, Wilson is so in touch with the reader that he knew when to drop to repetition and really hit the gas. As soon as I was frustrated with the Groundhog Day-like chapters, the plot drove on with wheels as oiled as the day Affinity got Mercury.
Speaking of mad people, this book is full of them. If you thought Affinity was messed up, just wait for the midpoint of the novel, where everything slowly descends into a harmonious madness that crescendos into the bridging of the human world with the supernatural. It’s not what I expected from the book, and perhaps that is what makes it so disturbing. I thought I had a grasp on the novel, until it all fell to pieces in the form of glowing bricks. The ending was unexpected and better than I could have ever imagined. The cohesion and inclusion of all five senses is a huge benefit to this. No sense is left untouched. On top of the brilliant visuals Wilson weaves for his readers, you can hear the lathe, smell the bonfire, and taste the bile. It’s creepy.
I love it.
Unfortunately, when the fog this book leaves in your mind dissipates, small mistakes here and there come out of the woodworks such as:
“Cut lose from the bone” (158)
“Planners were gone” (267)
And of course, while I have no idea whether it was intentional or not, the use of “bond fire” (as opposed to bonfire), which gives the strange illusion of Sean Connery lighting a cigarette and going, “Fire. Bond Fire.”
Also, I had a bit of an issue with the ending, where the same scene is retold by multiple characters. It becomes tedious, and so when you really want the action to start snowballing, it becomes bogged down by narration that simply isn’t important enough to be included. I don’t need three different accounts of the same situation, and so the lack of a neutral, omniscient narrator was sorely missed. This was the only part of the book where I ended up bored enough to close it and do something else, which is not something you want for a novel…especially the ending!
So, should you read it?
YES!
Overall, Affinity’s Window is terrifying on a deep-seeded, psychological level. If you like to be scared, or need a book that will make your life seem infinitely better in comparison, Affinity’s Window is for you.
4 out of 5 stars.
Image result for 4 out of 5 stars
*Blurb by Goodreads.
“Affinity Bell, a lonely child whose only companion is the threadbare doll she’s christened Mr. Moppet, roams the empty halls of Bell Manor attempting to escape the evil that pursues her. The Others, the horrifying creatures only she can see, attack young Affinity at every opportunity. But Mr. Moppet will protect her, he’s told her so, and Mr. Moppet knows magic.
Tanner Dann, a world-weary writer searching for proof that ghosts actually do exist, is being called by an unknown force to Bell Manor. Will the two powerful psychics he’s hired help him to discover the proof for which he’s been searching, or will they too be dragged down into the noxious pit that is Bell Manor?
Evil flows through the heart of Bell Manor, pulsing and ebbing like some hideous tide. Will it drag Tanner and his friends down into its gaping maw, or will they battle back at Affinity’s Window?”*
I was provided a complementary copy of Affinity’s Window to review. It in no way, shape, or form influenced my opinion/review of the book.
Psychologists would have an absolute field day with Douglas L. Wilson, who has penned a book so unsettling that I actually had to stop and take breaks from reading it.
Perhaps the most gripping part was Affinity Bell, a not-so-little girl who is forced to relive the day her parents were savagely murdered over, and over, and over, and over again. Affinity is troubled (and troublesome) in the way many children are not, but still manages to draw sympathy from the reader, whether you want her to or not. Perhaps it is the small injections of childlike wonder: Affinity has a missing tooth, a best buddy under her (literal, patent leather) belt, and a trusty steed/tricycle that goes by the name Mercury. Affinity is
Wilson uses repetition to create an unnerving sense of deja vu. I’d often have to stop myself and wonder “where did I hear that before?” Each repeated scene has tiny bits changed, which created a scavenger hunt that sent me flipping back and forth like a mad person. Thankfully, Wilson is so in touch with the reader that he knew when to drop to repetition and really hit the gas. As soon as I was frustrated with the Groundhog Day-like chapters, the plot drove on with wheels as oiled as the day Affinity got Mercury.
Speaking of mad people, this book is full of them. If you thought Affinity was messed up, just wait for the midpoint of the novel, where everything slowly descends into a harmonious madness that crescendos into the bridging of the human world with the supernatural. It’s not what I expected from the book, and perhaps that is what makes it so disturbing. I thought I had a grasp on the novel, until it all fell to pieces in the form of glowing bricks. The ending was unexpected and better than I could have ever imagined. The cohesion and inclusion of all five senses is a huge benefit to this. No sense is left untouched. On top of the brilliant visuals Wilson weaves for his readers, you can hear the lathe, smell the bonfire, and taste the bile. It’s creepy.
I love it.
Unfortunately, when the fog this book leaves in your mind dissipates, small mistakes here and there come out of the woodworks such as:
“Cut lose from the bone” (158)
“Planners were gone” (267)
And of course, while I have no idea whether it was intentional or not, the use of “bond fire” (as opposed to bonfire), which gives the strange illusion of Sean Connery lighting a cigarette and going, “Fire. Bond Fire.”
Also, I had a bit of an issue with the ending, where the same scene is retold by multiple characters. It becomes tedious, and so when you really want the action to start snowballing, it becomes bogged down by narration that simply isn’t important enough to be included. I don’t need three different accounts of the same situation, and so the lack of a neutral, omniscient narrator was sorely missed. This was the only part of the book where I ended up bored enough to close it and do something else, which is not something you want for a novel…especially the ending!
So, should you read it?
YES!
Overall, Affinity’s Window is terrifying on a deep-seeded, psychological level. If you like to be scared, or need a book that will make your life seem infinitely better in comparison, Affinity’s Window is for you.
4 out of 5 stars.
Image result for 4 out of 5 stars
*Blurb by Goodreads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2018
Bell Manor. Affinity Bell (7, daughter) unknown to her parents: Taylor Bell (husband/father) & Monica Bell (wife/mother, nee Blair) relies on Mr. Moppet (companion, threadbare doll) who knows magic to protect her from all the evil/misfortunes in the world.
Taylor a former oil baron now owned Bell Weapons (armaments co.). The family was quite well off.
Taylor wanted a son, & Monica could no longer have children. He now became very abusive.
Affinity had done her best to make sure he didn’t do that again.
He lied Monica had a huge black/blue welt on the side of her face.
1944, The family now lived in/at Bell Meadows.
Taylor loved his Milwaukee lathe. He could now make about anything.
1974, Clifton, VA. Tanner “Danny” Dann (writer/author, ghost hunter, retired USMC; Korea) & Linda Cookmeyer (widow/mother, psychic) were now parked in front of the empty Bell Meadows former estate that the company still owned.
Tanner’s newest quest was to write a book on ghosts.
The story was the 2 parents had been murdered & Affinity was never seen/heard from since.
Tanner & Linda finally managed to get inside the mansion.
Later he heard her scream, but Linda was found frightened & had a gash on her stomach.
Claire Cookmeyer (29, daughter, psychic) was now involved in Tanner & Linda venture.
What was Claire finding out in her investigation?
“Don’t sit under the apple tree, with anyone else but me…”
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, or violence, which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written psychological paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Pretty creepy! A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
Taylor a former oil baron now owned Bell Weapons (armaments co.). The family was quite well off.
Taylor wanted a son, & Monica could no longer have children. He now became very abusive.
Affinity had done her best to make sure he didn’t do that again.
He lied Monica had a huge black/blue welt on the side of her face.
1944, The family now lived in/at Bell Meadows.
Taylor loved his Milwaukee lathe. He could now make about anything.
1974, Clifton, VA. Tanner “Danny” Dann (writer/author, ghost hunter, retired USMC; Korea) & Linda Cookmeyer (widow/mother, psychic) were now parked in front of the empty Bell Meadows former estate that the company still owned.
Tanner’s newest quest was to write a book on ghosts.
The story was the 2 parents had been murdered & Affinity was never seen/heard from since.
Tanner & Linda finally managed to get inside the mansion.
Later he heard her scream, but Linda was found frightened & had a gash on her stomach.
Claire Cookmeyer (29, daughter, psychic) was now involved in Tanner & Linda venture.
What was Claire finding out in her investigation?
“Don’t sit under the apple tree, with anyone else but me…”
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, or violence, which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written psychological paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Pretty creepy! A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
August 28, 2017
What can I say about Affinity's Window? This book blew me away. It's probably the best horror story I've read in a while.
At first I was a little confused by the first few chapters, but then my mind caught up with everything and I realized what was going on. Affinity's Window is like Groundhog's Day (the movie), but a lot more horrific. Just trust me on that.
Once the story gets going in chapter four, that's when you'd best buckle up for one crazy, intense ride through a haunted house that hides more than just ghosts. It's a mansion filled with darkness, and the three main characters who aren't Affinity, must do whatever they can to survive it. Their souls depend on it.
I don't want to give anything away, because this book is fantastic, so I'll try not to give too much away in my review.
I really liked the characters Tanner, Linda, and Claire. Although they have their flaws, they're likeable characters who you can't help but root for. Their friendship builds the farther into the book you get, and by the end, well... I won't say anything more.
Affinity is also a character you want to like, but at the same time, you find yourself frustrated by her, or bothered by her. Although, to be fair, there's a reason for that that I won't spoil. Once you read the book, everything will start to make sense.
The plot is exciting, intense, and filled with moments of terror. It's like Poltergeist on crack or something. But better. It moves along at a steady pace, with the story falling into place more and more the farther into it you get. What seems confusing at first will end up having you on the edge of your seat, anticipation coursing through your veins as you anxiously await the thrilling finale.
I loved every second of this book, and if you're a fan of horror, I highly recommend it. Definitely worth it! I give it five very well-deserved stars!
At first I was a little confused by the first few chapters, but then my mind caught up with everything and I realized what was going on. Affinity's Window is like Groundhog's Day (the movie), but a lot more horrific. Just trust me on that.
Once the story gets going in chapter four, that's when you'd best buckle up for one crazy, intense ride through a haunted house that hides more than just ghosts. It's a mansion filled with darkness, and the three main characters who aren't Affinity, must do whatever they can to survive it. Their souls depend on it.
I don't want to give anything away, because this book is fantastic, so I'll try not to give too much away in my review.
I really liked the characters Tanner, Linda, and Claire. Although they have their flaws, they're likeable characters who you can't help but root for. Their friendship builds the farther into the book you get, and by the end, well... I won't say anything more.
Affinity is also a character you want to like, but at the same time, you find yourself frustrated by her, or bothered by her. Although, to be fair, there's a reason for that that I won't spoil. Once you read the book, everything will start to make sense.
The plot is exciting, intense, and filled with moments of terror. It's like Poltergeist on crack or something. But better. It moves along at a steady pace, with the story falling into place more and more the farther into it you get. What seems confusing at first will end up having you on the edge of your seat, anticipation coursing through your veins as you anxiously await the thrilling finale.
I loved every second of this book, and if you're a fan of horror, I highly recommend it. Definitely worth it! I give it five very well-deserved stars!
January 21, 2020
BOOK REVIEW / “Affinity’s Window”/ Douglas L. Wilson
___
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Pages: 294
Language: English
Publisher: A-Argus Publishing
Release date: 2016
Reading this book was like hanging on a liana under a filthy river full of snakes and crocodiles in a jungle late at night. The only exit is a window hidden among the jungle trees. You should swing yourself properly to reach it, otherwise, you’ll fall down and perish in the depths of the dark and dangerous river.
The Plot: After the mysterious disappearance of his younger brother, Tanner Dann is obsessed with ghost hunting. He desperately wants to prove that ghosts exist and to write a book about it. Meanwhile, he lives from check to check, writing stories and articles about ghosts for various magazines. Until one day, when he decides to cross a threshold of an appalling Bell Mansion.
The Writing Style: It’s my first book by this author, but I should mention that his writing style grabbed me from the very first pages. Dynamic pace with numerous awesome twists makes this book the captivating page-turner. Perfect description of fearsome moments made my goosebumps galloping back and forth for a long time. Easy writing about a fragile line between two worlds kept me on my toes from cover to cover.
The Characters: The number of characters isn’t numerous. Depicting the personalities of the characters, the writer succeeded in giving perfect blasts from the past of them, revealing their darkest secrets, fears and torturing musings.
Would I read other books by this author: Absolutely yes!
My humble rating is: 5/5
P.S. I bet that this book will get a brilliant movie adaptation soon if it still hasn't.
___
#AmReading #AffinitysWindow #DouglasLWilson #bookishlovegroup #unitedbookstagram #bookstagram #betterreadschallenge #bookreview
___
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Pages: 294
Language: English
Publisher: A-Argus Publishing
Release date: 2016
Reading this book was like hanging on a liana under a filthy river full of snakes and crocodiles in a jungle late at night. The only exit is a window hidden among the jungle trees. You should swing yourself properly to reach it, otherwise, you’ll fall down and perish in the depths of the dark and dangerous river.
The Plot: After the mysterious disappearance of his younger brother, Tanner Dann is obsessed with ghost hunting. He desperately wants to prove that ghosts exist and to write a book about it. Meanwhile, he lives from check to check, writing stories and articles about ghosts for various magazines. Until one day, when he decides to cross a threshold of an appalling Bell Mansion.
The Writing Style: It’s my first book by this author, but I should mention that his writing style grabbed me from the very first pages. Dynamic pace with numerous awesome twists makes this book the captivating page-turner. Perfect description of fearsome moments made my goosebumps galloping back and forth for a long time. Easy writing about a fragile line between two worlds kept me on my toes from cover to cover.
The Characters: The number of characters isn’t numerous. Depicting the personalities of the characters, the writer succeeded in giving perfect blasts from the past of them, revealing their darkest secrets, fears and torturing musings.
Would I read other books by this author: Absolutely yes!
My humble rating is: 5/5
P.S. I bet that this book will get a brilliant movie adaptation soon if it still hasn't.
___
#AmReading #AffinitysWindow #DouglasLWilson #bookishlovegroup #unitedbookstagram #bookstagram #betterreadschallenge #bookreview
July 19, 2019
Warning - this review contains spoilers.
It isn’t all that often I marathon a book in only two days, but this novel was extremely difficult to put down.
First off, from the very beginning the author succeeds in plunging you deep into a disturbing, embroiling atmosphere of darkness and suspense: first in the mindset of the sinister child Affinity, who seems to be constantly reliving her final days; then to the tension of present day characters as they tread fearfully through the old house where spirits do not rest.
There is nothing that pricks the senses and keeps you on your toes like a well-written ghost story, particularly one that also succeeds in chilling your blood, and this book triumphs in both respects. It has been a while since I have read such an excellent breath of fresh air. One scene stands out in particular - in a creepy cellar, during which the protagonist Danny loses his brother in childhood ... Not since Peter Straub’s ‘Ghost Story’ have I literally gripped a book/Kindle white-knuckled, realising afterward I was completely and totally submerged in the dark with them!
I admit I was disappointed that the antagonist demon was named after that poor old pagan god Pan. And I got slightly confused by Linda’s character development considering her true feelings for Danny.
Towards the ending, we are shown the same scene/s from each character’s POV, which is fine; only I didn’t think it was quite necessary to repeat the exact same scene over and over again as this slowed things down and cost the finale to lose some of its momentum.
Otherwise the author’s masterful way of embedding past and present, weaving chilling atmospheres and spine-tingling suspense, makes for an excellent read.
It isn’t all that often I marathon a book in only two days, but this novel was extremely difficult to put down.
First off, from the very beginning the author succeeds in plunging you deep into a disturbing, embroiling atmosphere of darkness and suspense: first in the mindset of the sinister child Affinity, who seems to be constantly reliving her final days; then to the tension of present day characters as they tread fearfully through the old house where spirits do not rest.
There is nothing that pricks the senses and keeps you on your toes like a well-written ghost story, particularly one that also succeeds in chilling your blood, and this book triumphs in both respects. It has been a while since I have read such an excellent breath of fresh air. One scene stands out in particular - in a creepy cellar, during which the protagonist Danny loses his brother in childhood ... Not since Peter Straub’s ‘Ghost Story’ have I literally gripped a book/Kindle white-knuckled, realising afterward I was completely and totally submerged in the dark with them!
I admit I was disappointed that the antagonist demon was named after that poor old pagan god Pan. And I got slightly confused by Linda’s character development considering her true feelings for Danny.
Towards the ending, we are shown the same scene/s from each character’s POV, which is fine; only I didn’t think it was quite necessary to repeat the exact same scene over and over again as this slowed things down and cost the finale to lose some of its momentum.
Otherwise the author’s masterful way of embedding past and present, weaving chilling atmospheres and spine-tingling suspense, makes for an excellent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2018
Affinity's Window is an expertly written book by Douglas L. Wilson. The author did an incredible job in developing an intricate plot that had me glued to the pages. Once I got started on this book it was impossible to really put it down, which was tough since it is not a short book at all. I was absolutely enthralled by the story that unraveled in front of my eyes, and the innocent first pages gave no clue what really awaited me soon. Thankfully I had a couple of days of, so I started early in the day and ended up reading late into the night until I was finally done.
The plot was absolutely perfect and would actually make great for a movie. It had some excellent twists hidden within. I am usually good in guessing them, but the author had me going for most of the book, which I applaud since it doesn't happen often. There were so many "how did I miss that moments" it almost physically hurt! The pace of the book was perfect and even though it was on the longer side I didn't even notice since I was so lost in the story of Affinity Bell, Danny, Linda, Claire and Bell Manor!
This book was perfect and I can only recommend it to anyone who loves a great horror story. This one is not one with lots of gore but one that creates it by sheer suspense and plot, which requires a lot more skill in my eyes and is a lot more difficult to do, and to do well! I will definitely be following this author and look for more books in his future!
I have received this book from the author for an honest review. (LoP, Lovers of Paranormal)
The plot was absolutely perfect and would actually make great for a movie. It had some excellent twists hidden within. I am usually good in guessing them, but the author had me going for most of the book, which I applaud since it doesn't happen often. There were so many "how did I miss that moments" it almost physically hurt! The pace of the book was perfect and even though it was on the longer side I didn't even notice since I was so lost in the story of Affinity Bell, Danny, Linda, Claire and Bell Manor!
This book was perfect and I can only recommend it to anyone who loves a great horror story. This one is not one with lots of gore but one that creates it by sheer suspense and plot, which requires a lot more skill in my eyes and is a lot more difficult to do, and to do well! I will definitely be following this author and look for more books in his future!
I have received this book from the author for an honest review. (LoP, Lovers of Paranormal)
March 18, 2018
Do you know the feeling of wanting to hide behind a pillow, or in this case, have to force yourself to read the next page, knowing what's coming in the next moment will keep you out of your sleep for hours?
This book has got me looking over my shoulder, under my bed and realy got to me. It is so well written. The characters come to life, and I was pulled into the story about Affinity's Window like I rarely have in horror story's. This is not just any window. This is not just any story.
This one can compeet with Stephen King. Having said that: Douglas has his own style, and I am more than curious to read Awakenings the sequel to Affinity's Window, even when I know I will lose sleep over it... Yes, it is that good!
Dutch:
Ken je het gevoel je achter een kussen te willen verbergen, of in dit geval, jezelf te dwingen de volgende pagina te lezen, wetende dat wat er op de volgende pagina gebeurt, je urenlang uit je slaap zal houden?
Dit boek heeft me over mijn schouder en onder mijn bed laten kijken. Het is zo goed geschreven. De personages komen tot leven en ik werd meegezogen in het verhaal over Affinity's Window zoals ik zelden in horrorverhalen heb meegemaakt. Dit is niet zomaar een boek over Affinity's venster. Dit is niet zomaar een verhaal.
Dit boek kan zich meten met Stephen King. Dat gezegd hebbende: Douglas heeft zijn eigen stijl, en ik ben meer dan nieuwsgierig om het volgende deel te lezen, zelfs als ik weet dat ik er wakker van zal liggen... Ja, het is zo goed!
This book has got me looking over my shoulder, under my bed and realy got to me. It is so well written. The characters come to life, and I was pulled into the story about Affinity's Window like I rarely have in horror story's. This is not just any window. This is not just any story.
This one can compeet with Stephen King. Having said that: Douglas has his own style, and I am more than curious to read Awakenings the sequel to Affinity's Window, even when I know I will lose sleep over it... Yes, it is that good!
Dutch:
Ken je het gevoel je achter een kussen te willen verbergen, of in dit geval, jezelf te dwingen de volgende pagina te lezen, wetende dat wat er op de volgende pagina gebeurt, je urenlang uit je slaap zal houden?
Dit boek heeft me over mijn schouder en onder mijn bed laten kijken. Het is zo goed geschreven. De personages komen tot leven en ik werd meegezogen in het verhaal over Affinity's Window zoals ik zelden in horrorverhalen heb meegemaakt. Dit is niet zomaar een boek over Affinity's venster. Dit is niet zomaar een verhaal.
Dit boek kan zich meten met Stephen King. Dat gezegd hebbende: Douglas heeft zijn eigen stijl, en ik ben meer dan nieuwsgierig om het volgende deel te lezen, zelfs als ik weet dat ik er wakker van zal liggen... Ja, het is zo goed!
August 21, 2022
Long story short: decent horror read, good as a quick read. Literary fiction readers might have multiple issues.
This book started out really well—especially the sense of mystery was what drew me in. The wonky (to avoid saying “wrong”) grammar and repetitive syntax (what’s with the million verb-ing modifiers, there are other sentence structures!) did annoy me but I was willing to put up with them for the sake of an intriguing book. But the grammar became vexing (a proofreader should know the difference between “peddling” and “pedaling” or “lie” and “lay,” “rise” and “raise,” or the spelling of “cobwebs,” or that a bonfire is a thing while a “bond fire”—repeated dozens of times—is not, or that there’s a difference between “black booted feet” and “black-booted feet”—no compound adjective is hyphenated here—I could go on but I suspect not everyone is as fixated on language as I am) and the story started over-explaining itself and being repetitive. Towards the end I was willing for it to be over rather than have the reasons behind Affinity’s captivity explained to me for the umpteenth time. I didn’t enjoy the by-the-way psychological redemption of Linda, which isn’t really built up to, and the final scene was so drawn out that I found it hard to continue reading the last 20 or so pages. Anyway, do read it if you’re looking for a decent horror book. Maybe not if you are rather high maintenance about grammar, sentence variety, and depth of characters.
This book started out really well—especially the sense of mystery was what drew me in. The wonky (to avoid saying “wrong”) grammar and repetitive syntax (what’s with the million verb-ing modifiers, there are other sentence structures!) did annoy me but I was willing to put up with them for the sake of an intriguing book. But the grammar became vexing (a proofreader should know the difference between “peddling” and “pedaling” or “lie” and “lay,” “rise” and “raise,” or the spelling of “cobwebs,” or that a bonfire is a thing while a “bond fire”—repeated dozens of times—is not, or that there’s a difference between “black booted feet” and “black-booted feet”—no compound adjective is hyphenated here—I could go on but I suspect not everyone is as fixated on language as I am) and the story started over-explaining itself and being repetitive. Towards the end I was willing for it to be over rather than have the reasons behind Affinity’s captivity explained to me for the umpteenth time. I didn’t enjoy the by-the-way psychological redemption of Linda, which isn’t really built up to, and the final scene was so drawn out that I found it hard to continue reading the last 20 or so pages. Anyway, do read it if you’re looking for a decent horror book. Maybe not if you are rather high maintenance about grammar, sentence variety, and depth of characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2018
It is a testament to the uniqueness of Douglas Wilson’s horror novel Affinity’s Window that I was several chapters in before I realized the story is in many ways a highly traditional one for the genre. At base it is a haunted house tale, with such familiar ingredients as a family curse, demonic possession, and women with psychic powers.
What makes the novel a standout is the titular character, seven-year-old poor little rich girl Affinity Bell. Much depends on whether the reader finds this exceptional protagonist credible, and I admit I had doubts on this score until almost the end. Neither an innocent little girl nor the stock horror character of the devil-child, Affinity is possessed of a terrifying if justifiable rage toward her violent father and passive mother, but she also lives in terror of the malevolent supernatural forces besieging her.
In parallel Wilson presents a plot line involving troubled war veteran and paranormal investigator Tanner Dann, who becomes professionally and romantically entangled with psychic seer and war widow Linda Cookmeyer and her more gifted daughter Claire. As this trio researches the disappearance of Affinity and the gruesome murders of her parents, long-buried secrets and emotions will come to light and hidden supernatural forces will clash in an epic battle. Recommended for fans of supernatural horror.
What makes the novel a standout is the titular character, seven-year-old poor little rich girl Affinity Bell. Much depends on whether the reader finds this exceptional protagonist credible, and I admit I had doubts on this score until almost the end. Neither an innocent little girl nor the stock horror character of the devil-child, Affinity is possessed of a terrifying if justifiable rage toward her violent father and passive mother, but she also lives in terror of the malevolent supernatural forces besieging her.
In parallel Wilson presents a plot line involving troubled war veteran and paranormal investigator Tanner Dann, who becomes professionally and romantically entangled with psychic seer and war widow Linda Cookmeyer and her more gifted daughter Claire. As this trio researches the disappearance of Affinity and the gruesome murders of her parents, long-buried secrets and emotions will come to light and hidden supernatural forces will clash in an epic battle. Recommended for fans of supernatural horror.
April 16, 2020
I would advise you to read this book during the day and not before bed, if you don’t want to invite any nightmares! A frightening mix of horror and the paranormal, that plunges us straight into the corridors of Bell Manor, where young Affinity Bell is terrified of the ghostly apparitions she encounters there.
The eerie atmosphere and prevailing evil is palpable and, for me, even Affinity’s precious doll, Mr. Moppet, which she relies on for protection, had a sinister dimension to it. As supernatural forces come into play, the fear and foreboding this engenders in the reader is reminiscent of Stephen King’s The Shining, although this is a very different story.
Affinity’s Window has a unique twist on the usual ghostly tales, which are often predictable. But the book really comes into its own when it switches to the present day, involving a writer searching for proof that ghosts really do exist and two psychics he enlists to help him explore Bell Manor.
Douglas L Wilson possesses a wonderful imagination and certainly knows how to heighten the tension in a tale of intrigue and horror that never lets up. His style is compelling and the writing excellent. The cleverly structured plot held me in thrall throughout and I look forward to reading the sequel ‘Awakening’. If you haven’t already done so, I recommend you give this author a try. I’m awarding this book a well deserved 5*
The eerie atmosphere and prevailing evil is palpable and, for me, even Affinity’s precious doll, Mr. Moppet, which she relies on for protection, had a sinister dimension to it. As supernatural forces come into play, the fear and foreboding this engenders in the reader is reminiscent of Stephen King’s The Shining, although this is a very different story.
Affinity’s Window has a unique twist on the usual ghostly tales, which are often predictable. But the book really comes into its own when it switches to the present day, involving a writer searching for proof that ghosts really do exist and two psychics he enlists to help him explore Bell Manor.
Douglas L Wilson possesses a wonderful imagination and certainly knows how to heighten the tension in a tale of intrigue and horror that never lets up. His style is compelling and the writing excellent. The cleverly structured plot held me in thrall throughout and I look forward to reading the sequel ‘Awakening’. If you haven’t already done so, I recommend you give this author a try. I’m awarding this book a well deserved 5*
June 4, 2018
This is the first piece I've read by this author. I'm greatly surprised. Ghosts and demons, pure paranormal threads are my thing in horror. I love them, and Wilson takes those terrifying strings and twirls them together, in such a loving way that you lose conscience of what side you are on.
He plays in two superimposed dimensions, jumping from one to another without making the reader feel lost, you just keep on and on, and never see the moment of putting down the book.
This tale is indeed, scary. He's an amazing narrator, so you can really feel the pain and anguish in the little girl. The fear... as well as the resentment, hate and anger of the evil entity crawling in the characters' minds, who have double blades and make you realise the way the author is playing with your thoughts.
Wilson knows horror. Every little detail is sewed to provoke that spine-chilling sensation in the reader. The doll, the mirrors, the abrupt and broken feelings of the little girl. Unexpectedness. This book will turn your dreams into nightmares, and the images he projects into your mind... those will steal your sleep and also, at the worst moment of loneliness, your wakefulness.
He plays in two superimposed dimensions, jumping from one to another without making the reader feel lost, you just keep on and on, and never see the moment of putting down the book.
This tale is indeed, scary. He's an amazing narrator, so you can really feel the pain and anguish in the little girl. The fear... as well as the resentment, hate and anger of the evil entity crawling in the characters' minds, who have double blades and make you realise the way the author is playing with your thoughts.
Wilson knows horror. Every little detail is sewed to provoke that spine-chilling sensation in the reader. The doll, the mirrors, the abrupt and broken feelings of the little girl. Unexpectedness. This book will turn your dreams into nightmares, and the images he projects into your mind... those will steal your sleep and also, at the worst moment of loneliness, your wakefulness.
May 18, 2020
Affinity's Window by Douglas L. Wilson is a thoroughly entertaining ghost story centred around young Affinity Bell, the 7-year-old daughter of a wealthy family. Told in two parts, one set in the 1944 and the other in 1974 the story follows an investigative writer, Tanner Dann, who is travelling the USA in search of haunted houses to write an expose on Ghost hauntings in America. Tanner, along with two psychics, Linda and her daughter Claire, travel to Bell Manor to uncover the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Affinity in the 1940s.
The story is enjoyable, and the characters are well thought out. My only complaint is the repetitious nature of the story as there are several sections, particularly towards the end, where you get the same scene from each of the different characters. It's not a significant problem, but I did find it slowed the ending down when it seemed to want to power ahead.
I've already bought the sequel, Awakening, and I look forward to seeing how the story progresses.
If you like ghost stories, this is one you can't afford to miss.
The story is enjoyable, and the characters are well thought out. My only complaint is the repetitious nature of the story as there are several sections, particularly towards the end, where you get the same scene from each of the different characters. It's not a significant problem, but I did find it slowed the ending down when it seemed to want to power ahead.
I've already bought the sequel, Awakening, and I look forward to seeing how the story progresses.
If you like ghost stories, this is one you can't afford to miss.
July 8, 2020
One of the best first few chapters I've ever read! Between disturbed Affinity and her possessed doll, Mr. Moppet, reading this caused my heart to race as the little girl wandered through her home, ready to punish her parents for what they've done to her. I loved the relationship between Mr. Moppet and Affinity! Like a leech draining a willing host.
I do have to say I enjoyed the book from Affinity's perspective better than Tanner Dan's and the Cookmeyer's. I had trouble connecting with the "humans" and I thought all of them were shallow characters and a bit unrealistic at times. Toward the end of the book, scenes grew quite repetitive because each character had to experience it and it felt like I was being told the story rather than being an active participant.
However, I adored Affinity and reading her story put me right back into my younger self, hiding under the bed and reveling in my own perceived invincibility.
Overall, a very creepy book that will make you rethink going into the basement alone!
I do have to say I enjoyed the book from Affinity's perspective better than Tanner Dan's and the Cookmeyer's. I had trouble connecting with the "humans" and I thought all of them were shallow characters and a bit unrealistic at times. Toward the end of the book, scenes grew quite repetitive because each character had to experience it and it felt like I was being told the story rather than being an active participant.
However, I adored Affinity and reading her story put me right back into my younger self, hiding under the bed and reveling in my own perceived invincibility.
Overall, a very creepy book that will make you rethink going into the basement alone!
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