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Father of Lies #3
Magda
A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Trilogy - Book 3 The dark and twisted community of Woodsend harbours a terrible secret - one tracing back to the age of the Elizabethan witch hunts, when many innocent women were persecuted and hanged. But there is a far deeper vein of horror running through this village; an evil that once invoked has no intention of relinquishing its grip on the modern world. Rather it watches and waits with a focused intelligence, leaving Ward Sister, Becky, and Police Officer, Toby, constantly checking over their shoulders and jumping at shadows. Just who invited in this malevolent presence? And is the demonic woman who possessed Magda back in the sixteenth century, the same one now gazing at Becky whenever she looks in the mirror? You may need to sleep with the lights on after reading this...Are you ready to meet Magda in this final instalment to the trilogy? Are you sure?
346 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2016
148 people are currently reading
459 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
May 28, 2025
5 freaking awesome stars! A brilliant finale to a really creepy occult spooky series! This book had me reading well into the wee hours of the morning and many a night falling asleep with the Kindle falling on my head (or my cat!). An exceptional finish. Bravo!
If you have not yet read the first book in the series Father of Lies or the second Tanners Dell: Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror then please do! The entire series is awesome. In book three we continue into the dark realms of S.E. England's imagination and I have to say I think this is the darkest book of the series! I love that. I love my dark fiction.
There are some exceptionally well written and scary scenes in Magda that had me mesmerised to my Kindle with shock and glee (yes, at the same time). I know Sarah's research into materials for this book would have taken her to dark places. All done for your enjoyment dear reader. If you are a fan of occult themed horror you will love Magda (and the series).
I love the horror genre and I find very few female writers that seem to hold their own amongst a very male dominated genre. Sarah England is doing just fine and is an author to watch. Her work just gets better and better and I can't wait for her next offering. I enjoyed this book very much from start to finish and there are some memorable love-to-hate characters and dark scenes. 5 stars!
I chose to read an ARC of this novel - all review opinions are my own and are totally unbiased.
Thanks for reading my review! Join me as a follower or send me a friend request. I love to connect with other book lovers.
If you are an Author or Publisher and would like me to consider reviewing your book/s please just send me a message.
If you have not yet read the first book in the series Father of Lies or the second Tanners Dell: Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror then please do! The entire series is awesome. In book three we continue into the dark realms of S.E. England's imagination and I have to say I think this is the darkest book of the series! I love that. I love my dark fiction.
There are some exceptionally well written and scary scenes in Magda that had me mesmerised to my Kindle with shock and glee (yes, at the same time). I know Sarah's research into materials for this book would have taken her to dark places. All done for your enjoyment dear reader. If you are a fan of occult themed horror you will love Magda (and the series).
I love the horror genre and I find very few female writers that seem to hold their own amongst a very male dominated genre. Sarah England is doing just fine and is an author to watch. Her work just gets better and better and I can't wait for her next offering. I enjoyed this book very much from start to finish and there are some memorable love-to-hate characters and dark scenes. 5 stars!
I chose to read an ARC of this novel - all review opinions are my own and are totally unbiased.
Thanks for reading my review! Join me as a follower or send me a friend request. I love to connect with other book lovers.
If you are an Author or Publisher and would like me to consider reviewing your book/s please just send me a message.
January 13, 2023
It felt like England just ran out of gas in the concluding volume of the Father of Lies trilogy. The denouement in the second volume seemed to have the demonic cabal 'banged up' except for Ida, but quickly in Magda, we discern that the cabal is actually vast, making those caught like the tip of an iceberg. Our main protagonist is once again Becky, the nurse and friend of Ruby, who is now married and expecting (seven months). Once again, evil raises it head, however, and the survivors of the first two volumes are all threatened in various ways...
The only thing really new here concerns lots of backstory on the 'witch' Magda, dating back to 1583, and the source of the original curse or something on the area. Unfortunately, England did not really do her homework here. I do not think that in 1583 peasant shacks had glass windows, or that the parson would have a Jack Russell terrier, as that breed did not come about until the 19th century. Slips like this marred the narrative of Magda and it was not very compelling. Regarding the present, it seems more like a rehash of what happened in the prior two volumes, just expanded in scope. Some group (e.g., the cabal) still has high levels of influence (judges, doctors, police chiefs, etc.) and are determined to 'reclaim' Ruby and her child Alice. Overall, this was not a bad read, it just suffered from too much rinse and repeat. 2 witchy stars.
The only thing really new here concerns lots of backstory on the 'witch' Magda, dating back to 1583, and the source of the original curse or something on the area. Unfortunately, England did not really do her homework here. I do not think that in 1583 peasant shacks had glass windows, or that the parson would have a Jack Russell terrier, as that breed did not come about until the 19th century. Slips like this marred the narrative of Magda and it was not very compelling. Regarding the present, it seems more like a rehash of what happened in the prior two volumes, just expanded in scope. Some group (e.g., the cabal) still has high levels of influence (judges, doctors, police chiefs, etc.) and are determined to 'reclaim' Ruby and her child Alice. Overall, this was not a bad read, it just suffered from too much rinse and repeat. 2 witchy stars.
February 4, 2017
To fully enjoy this novel I would say it is essential to have read book one and two in the trilogy before reading Magda. There is a lot you need to know about some of the characters which you will only get from reading the others.
After reading the first two books, I couldn’t wait to read the third and final one. I was desperate to know how it was all going to end and to finally find out once and for all the terrible secrets that the village hides.
Having read the book, I have to say how much the cover of the book ties in with the story and Magda. It has made me wary about looking in mirrors I can tell you. She is one scary lady.
I did enjoy the back ground story of Magda and where it all began. It is very much a story of past and present that comes together and makes some gripping reading.
A few of the characters have quite a rough time of it in this book. Toby I really felt sorry for as for him everything is literally at stake. You can tell what is going on in their lives is really starting to take it’s toll and they are desperate to put a stop to it.
Magda is just a cracker of a finale. Everything was wrapped up nicely for me which is what I would want when coming to an end of a series/trilogy. Even though there is a lot more background and answers for readers in Magda, the author doesn’t scrimp on the horror factor in the story. All I can say is that I am glad I was reading the paperback version of this book with the lights on rather than my kindle in the dark! Proper scary stuff!
After reading the first two books, I couldn’t wait to read the third and final one. I was desperate to know how it was all going to end and to finally find out once and for all the terrible secrets that the village hides.
Having read the book, I have to say how much the cover of the book ties in with the story and Magda. It has made me wary about looking in mirrors I can tell you. She is one scary lady.
I did enjoy the back ground story of Magda and where it all began. It is very much a story of past and present that comes together and makes some gripping reading.
A few of the characters have quite a rough time of it in this book. Toby I really felt sorry for as for him everything is literally at stake. You can tell what is going on in their lives is really starting to take it’s toll and they are desperate to put a stop to it.
Magda is just a cracker of a finale. Everything was wrapped up nicely for me which is what I would want when coming to an end of a series/trilogy. Even though there is a lot more background and answers for readers in Magda, the author doesn’t scrimp on the horror factor in the story. All I can say is that I am glad I was reading the paperback version of this book with the lights on rather than my kindle in the dark! Proper scary stuff!
November 13, 2016
This is one of the easiest 5* ratings I've ever given a book. I have enjoyed all three books in this series, but this has been my favourite and the best book I've read so far this year.
Sarah England gives anyone who is thinking of writing a horror, a masterclass in how to do it properly. She hasn't been given the title of The Queen of Horror for nothing! The building of suspense, the tension and out right gave-me-chills creepy atmosphere that seeps out of the story, make the story.
This is my favourite kind of horror. It stays in your head when you're not reading the book, and whilst you are, your imagination can fill in the gaps in-between what you are given by the author. Also, the characters, their relationships to each other and their battles against evil are all really interesting - especially Ruby and Alice.
Part of me felt some sympathy for Magda. Used and abandoned, she turned in a direction in which she thought she'd find support, but it led her further into darkness. I liked how some of the chapters were devoted to Magda back in the 1500's and how events in Woodsend began. I thought the ending was very clever - a little reminder from the past to all those involved in Ruby's case.
Does this mean there could be more books in this series?
I chose to read and review a free ARC copy of this book.
Sarah England gives anyone who is thinking of writing a horror, a masterclass in how to do it properly. She hasn't been given the title of The Queen of Horror for nothing! The building of suspense, the tension and out right gave-me-chills creepy atmosphere that seeps out of the story, make the story.
This is my favourite kind of horror. It stays in your head when you're not reading the book, and whilst you are, your imagination can fill in the gaps in-between what you are given by the author. Also, the characters, their relationships to each other and their battles against evil are all really interesting - especially Ruby and Alice.
Part of me felt some sympathy for Magda. Used and abandoned, she turned in a direction in which she thought she'd find support, but it led her further into darkness. I liked how some of the chapters were devoted to Magda back in the 1500's and how events in Woodsend began. I thought the ending was very clever - a little reminder from the past to all those involved in Ruby's case.
Does this mean there could be more books in this series?
I chose to read and review a free ARC copy of this book.
July 8, 2020
The first 2 books were good but I was kind of disappointed in this last book. I was expecting a different type of ending with more of a background to the witch in the town.
October 31, 2016
Well done, Sarah England... you've done it again! I loved Father of Lies, adored Tanners Dell and now there's Magda... where it all began. Going back in time to 16th century England, we meet the aforementioned Magda, a young girl living in Woodsend, a village caught in the iron grip of witchcraft and superstition. I won't rehash the plot but suffice to say that I loved the flashbacks to the era she lived in and felt it explained so much about the evil that haunts Woodsend, an evil that keeps on growing in intensity and affecting those that live in the present day, sometimes to the point of fatality. The horrors that grip the lead characters of Becky, Noel and Toby are terrifying, described so vividly I suffered a nightmare or two! Despite this, Magda makes for compulsive reading, it's brilliantly written, vividly descriptive and rattles along at an excellent pace. The final book in the trilogy, it wraps up the entire story of Ruby and Alice, the 'victims', but will still leave you contemplating its twists and turns for many a day to come.
January 29, 2017
Well, Amen to that! The final part of this occult horror trilogy totalling near 700 pages - read back to back. You have to. The three books knit seamlessly together. This final part takes us back to 1583, the superstitions that were rife, the Elizabethan witch-hunts, the terrors of black magic in Woodsend village - and Magda, possessed by a demonic woman that returns to haunt the prime protagonist, Ward Sister, Becky who is trying to protect Ruby along with police officer Toby. There are scenes of such depravity I wonder where Sarah England carried out her research into the Secret Art! This is really scary stuff; I cannot say much more without spoiling the threads that run through this dark trilogy.
If you like occult horror you will enjoy this - with the lights on!
If you like occult horror you will enjoy this - with the lights on!
March 24, 2025
Becky's husband is a f*cking idiot
At this point I am hoping she has written a book with Harry as main character
I loved noel
The magda backstory was ok
The ending felt rushed, this series deserved a fourth volume
At this point I am hoping she has written a book with Harry as main character
I loved noel
The magda backstory was ok
The ending felt rushed, this series deserved a fourth volume
March 31, 2022
Such a good series. I wish there were more. It’s dark and creepy and gave me chills. Read this!!
November 28, 2016
Where does one start?, this can be a stand alone book, but I highly recommend reading the trilogy, I have just read Father Of Lies, followed by Tanners Dell, and completed with the amazing Magda, and have over dosed on all thing's dark, creepy, spooky and at time's frightening, to the point I left the light on at night!..Sarah England is one mind blowing author, the depth of her writing, the description and detail, transported me to Woodsend , I felt the fear of those who have lived there through the centuries, the evil that permeate's the air. We learn where the trilogy started, a decision made that for the next 500 years will still impact on the people of Woodsend, and anyone who get's too close to the truth. The characters came alive, and my heart almost stopped beating few times, following Ruby, a young woman being treated for severe psychotic episodes, and the medical team treating her, who cannot ignore that dark force's may be involved as they try to find out who she is. I have never read a book on such a dark subject matter, characters that were just downright frightening, that is so breathtaking in it's detail, that I saw beauty in the word's, the swirling fog that descended off the moors and the icy clear water of the stream , that when the sun shone , looked like crystals were just bouncing off it. This will stay with me, there is so much more in the story and I truly believe not just Magda , but the Trilogy deserves to be on the big screen.
May 19, 2019
Oh my God!! no flipping nails left, thank you Sarah England for scaring me silly.. Following on from the fantastic Father of Lies and Tanner's Dell, Magda is the third, in the trilogy.
After the horrors, they witnessed, Becky, Toby are still jumpy. and constantly looking over their shoulders, listening for any little sound, that doesn't sound quite right, but happy to get on with lives. Becky now pregnant is having nightmares, Toby can't sleep, and both know that the evil is still waiting, watching from the dark.
When Becky gets a message from Ruby's spirit guide Celeste telling her to beware of Lilith, she decides to see just who this "Lilith" is.What she finds, chills her to the bone, Lilith is a demon , and she comes to pregnant women, for their baby's, and she's set her sights on Becky.., But who let this demon free, and what does it have to do with Magda, the possessed woman from the sixteenth century?
Once again Sarah England has woven a story, that will wishing you had Holy Water, close by, along with Rosary Beads, that you didn't have to turn the lights off. and wishing you could remember all the prayers you said as a child .. Go on read the Trilogy... I dare you....
After the horrors, they witnessed, Becky, Toby are still jumpy. and constantly looking over their shoulders, listening for any little sound, that doesn't sound quite right, but happy to get on with lives. Becky now pregnant is having nightmares, Toby can't sleep, and both know that the evil is still waiting, watching from the dark.
When Becky gets a message from Ruby's spirit guide Celeste telling her to beware of Lilith, she decides to see just who this "Lilith" is.What she finds, chills her to the bone, Lilith is a demon , and she comes to pregnant women, for their baby's, and she's set her sights on Becky.., But who let this demon free, and what does it have to do with Magda, the possessed woman from the sixteenth century?
Once again Sarah England has woven a story, that will wishing you had Holy Water, close by, along with Rosary Beads, that you didn't have to turn the lights off. and wishing you could remember all the prayers you said as a child .. Go on read the Trilogy... I dare you....
February 10, 2019
Final instalment of a thrilling trilogy
I've waited until I've read all 3 novels before writing any reviews. I really enjoyed all 3 books, the settings were familiar to me as I live in the North of England, and come from a mining family. I've had an ongoing interest in the occult, horror and witchcraft, which is very different from Satanism, I feel must be pointed out, so this was an ideal set for me to read. It was an interesting story, covering a variety of eras and characters, and yet all mainly based around 1 family and their acquaintances, for want of a better word. The descriptions of some of the activities that take place within the storyline, and the kinds of people associated with evildoing were quite vivid and frightening, to think that this kind of thing has actually occurred in reality and even within the last 50 years is terrifying. I recommend this to anyone interested in medical treatment of children and young adults with mental health and other difficulties, and who are also interested in the occult in general, it's effects on people and attempts to help people recover from negative experiences.
I've waited until I've read all 3 novels before writing any reviews. I really enjoyed all 3 books, the settings were familiar to me as I live in the North of England, and come from a mining family. I've had an ongoing interest in the occult, horror and witchcraft, which is very different from Satanism, I feel must be pointed out, so this was an ideal set for me to read. It was an interesting story, covering a variety of eras and characters, and yet all mainly based around 1 family and their acquaintances, for want of a better word. The descriptions of some of the activities that take place within the storyline, and the kinds of people associated with evildoing were quite vivid and frightening, to think that this kind of thing has actually occurred in reality and even within the last 50 years is terrifying. I recommend this to anyone interested in medical treatment of children and young adults with mental health and other difficulties, and who are also interested in the occult in general, it's effects on people and attempts to help people recover from negative experiences.
February 6, 2020
In this 3rd and final book in the Father of Lies trilogy we go back in time to 1583 and are introduced to Magda around the time of the Elizabethan witch hunts. It is in this timeline that we find out the history behind Tanners Dell and the evil goings on there. All the characters from the 2nd book, Becky, Toby and Noel, are being followed and tormented by an evil presence and there are some truly scary scenes, one especially which occurs in the underground tunnels of Tanners Dell. That scene was so atmospheric and terrifying! I love Sarah's writing and it is very clear that she has done extensive research into the occult. Whether you are a believer in the dark arts or not, the Father of Lies trilogy is a fantastic read and one which will stay with you long after you have turned the last page. I really loved this series and am excited to start The Owlmen to get even more backstory into Tanners Dell.
December 6, 2017
Just as bewitching as the first two books. Its a shame it's ended or has it....
There are so many things left partially unresolved that a sequel could be written easily.
I however truly enjoyed this book and am now searching out other books by Sarah.
There are so many things left partially unresolved that a sequel could be written easily.
I however truly enjoyed this book and am now searching out other books by Sarah.
November 25, 2016
This is the final book in the trilogy after the brilliant Father of Lies and Tanners Dell and, although enough (but not too much) information from previous books is included in this, it would really be better reading the trilogy as a whole as to be honest, that's how it was designed to be read.
So, this book continues where Tanners Dell left off. Several of our characters are still trying to come to terms with what happened. Trying to make sense of it all. Especially affected are Becky. Noel and Toby; now returned to work and all trying to get some normality back into their lives but all still haunted by what they witnessed. This proves to be a bit complicated considering the nature of the still ongoing, unresolved events.
As we follow in the present day, every so often we witness the past and meet Magda. She's an interesting character to say the least and that's not even considering the very scary times in which she is living and growing up. Learning a devastating fact sets her on a new path. On that will set the course for things to come right throughout time, even to the present day.
It's a spooky, scary old tale. One that I read with Malcolm, my black cat, wanting to stay very close to me throughout. To be honest, I was glad of the company!
As with previous books, the author's research shines out in this book. I think it must be quite hard for an author to write a credible occult based story. Trust me, I have read some dodgy ones in the past, but here, Ms England serves up just the right balance of everything. Tension builds up nicely; it's like when you are watching a suspenseful scene on the screen, you get accompanying music to ramp it up. Well, here she manages to do that just as effectively with words alone and that really impressed me. But there are also some scenes that give respite to the reader - well needed I can tell you - so overall, it doesn't get all too much.
The flashbacks of Magda's story were very well inserted into the present day narrative. They gave background and explanation for some of the things that were happening in the here and now and gave insight as to how and why it all started.
Although this final book completed the trilogy perfectly for me, I can't help wanting more. I am definitely going to miss some of the characters I have got to know through this book and would really love to see what they all make of their lives going forward. Some characters I am happy to leave as soon as I have finished their journey but, for some reason, I'm not ready to close the door on this bunch just yet.
All in all, a very satisfying conclusion to a wonderful trilogy. I wonder what Ms England has up her sleeve for next time.
My thanks goes to TBC for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
So, this book continues where Tanners Dell left off. Several of our characters are still trying to come to terms with what happened. Trying to make sense of it all. Especially affected are Becky. Noel and Toby; now returned to work and all trying to get some normality back into their lives but all still haunted by what they witnessed. This proves to be a bit complicated considering the nature of the still ongoing, unresolved events.
As we follow in the present day, every so often we witness the past and meet Magda. She's an interesting character to say the least and that's not even considering the very scary times in which she is living and growing up. Learning a devastating fact sets her on a new path. On that will set the course for things to come right throughout time, even to the present day.
It's a spooky, scary old tale. One that I read with Malcolm, my black cat, wanting to stay very close to me throughout. To be honest, I was glad of the company!
As with previous books, the author's research shines out in this book. I think it must be quite hard for an author to write a credible occult based story. Trust me, I have read some dodgy ones in the past, but here, Ms England serves up just the right balance of everything. Tension builds up nicely; it's like when you are watching a suspenseful scene on the screen, you get accompanying music to ramp it up. Well, here she manages to do that just as effectively with words alone and that really impressed me. But there are also some scenes that give respite to the reader - well needed I can tell you - so overall, it doesn't get all too much.
The flashbacks of Magda's story were very well inserted into the present day narrative. They gave background and explanation for some of the things that were happening in the here and now and gave insight as to how and why it all started.
Although this final book completed the trilogy perfectly for me, I can't help wanting more. I am definitely going to miss some of the characters I have got to know through this book and would really love to see what they all make of their lives going forward. Some characters I am happy to leave as soon as I have finished their journey but, for some reason, I'm not ready to close the door on this bunch just yet.
All in all, a very satisfying conclusion to a wonderful trilogy. I wonder what Ms England has up her sleeve for next time.
My thanks goes to TBC for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
February 14, 2017
Magda by Sarah England is a dark and disturbing occult horror trilogy.
The dark and twisted community of woodsend harbours a terrible secretions tracing back to the age of the elizabrthan witch hunts, when many innocent woman were persecuted and hanged.
OMG absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved becky. She was my favourite character. Seriously spooky and do not read alone. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
Merged review:
Fantastic read. OMG.
Magda by Sarah England is a dark and disturbing occult horror trilogy.
The dark and twisted community of woodsend harbours a terrible secretions tracing back to the age of the elizabrthan witch hunts, when many innocent woman were persecuted and hanged.
OMG absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved becky. She was my favourite character. Seriously spooky and do not read alone. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
The dark and twisted community of woodsend harbours a terrible secretions tracing back to the age of the elizabrthan witch hunts, when many innocent woman were persecuted and hanged.
OMG absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved becky. She was my favourite character. Seriously spooky and do not read alone. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
Merged review:
Fantastic read. OMG.
Magda by Sarah England is a dark and disturbing occult horror trilogy.
The dark and twisted community of woodsend harbours a terrible secretions tracing back to the age of the elizabrthan witch hunts, when many innocent woman were persecuted and hanged.
OMG absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. Loved becky. She was my favourite character. Seriously spooky and do not read alone. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from tbc on fb.
November 26, 2016
Magda: A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Trilogy - Book 3
By: Sarah England
5 out of 5 stars
The story Magda: A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Trilogy - Book 3 by Sarah England is an occult horror book. There is something dark and twisted in the community of Woodsend. A secret that can be traced back to the age of the Elizabethan witch hunts. Just who invited this malevolent presence and what does it want?
Reading this book will send shivers up and down your spine. It projects an atmosphere that is dark and foreboding. Just what a true horror book should do. The story shifts back and forth from the past to the present to show the beginning of the evil and how it has spread. The characters of Becky and Toby are wonderful. They both truly want to help rid the world of this force and they are constantly looking over their shoulders. Filled with plenty of scenes that make your blood run cold I highly recommend this book to any horror fan. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
By: Sarah England
5 out of 5 stars
The story Magda: A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Trilogy - Book 3 by Sarah England is an occult horror book. There is something dark and twisted in the community of Woodsend. A secret that can be traced back to the age of the Elizabethan witch hunts. Just who invited this malevolent presence and what does it want?
Reading this book will send shivers up and down your spine. It projects an atmosphere that is dark and foreboding. Just what a true horror book should do. The story shifts back and forth from the past to the present to show the beginning of the evil and how it has spread. The characters of Becky and Toby are wonderful. They both truly want to help rid the world of this force and they are constantly looking over their shoulders. Filled with plenty of scenes that make your blood run cold I highly recommend this book to any horror fan. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
November 9, 2016
An extremely dark and disturbing book, which I thoroughly enjoyed! I would have given it 5 stars except I felt that I was missing out having not read the previous two in the series. It obviously can be read as a stand alone, but I imagine that it would be better to read the books in sequence. The book was well written, Becky, Callum, Noel and Toby are all very likeable characters and you are invested in wanting them to all "live happily ever after". I feel I must read the other books in the series now and then I will probably re-read this book and give it a 5 star review. Very, very scary!
November 28, 2016
Wow. Wow. Wow. And a bit more Wow! A must read for any occult fans out there!!
This is the last in the trilogy that starts with Father of Lies, followed by Tanner's Dell and then Magda.
Excellent.
Thank you to TBC for the opportunity to read this book.
This is the last in the trilogy that starts with Father of Lies, followed by Tanner's Dell and then Magda.
Excellent.
Thank you to TBC for the opportunity to read this book.
November 26, 2020
Not the best endung
I really enjoyed the first two books in the the series, I feel as though the author had enough and rushed the final book and made me feel the same, there were some gaps and unanswered questions, overall not bad but I think could have finished better
I really enjoyed the first two books in the the series, I feel as though the author had enough and rushed the final book and made me feel the same, there were some gaps and unanswered questions, overall not bad but I think could have finished better
November 9, 2016
Brilliant so sad it has finished
July 21, 2017
Originally reviewed at www.swordsandspectres.wordpress.com
I have been hooked on this trilogy ever since reading the blurb for 'Father of Lies.' The whole idea of a patient in a mental facility being possessed by demonic entities was simply too good for the horror fan in me to pass up. I was not disappointed by Father of Lies. It was great.
Tanners Dell (book 2), I thought was better than Father of lies. It had way more action and just all around horror goodness in it. Now that I have finished Magda, I still think Tanners Dell is the better book of the trilogy but that is not to take away anything from the other two. They are both great, I just found Tanners Dell more exciting.
Following on from the events of the first two books, we focus on the aftermath of all the excitement that made Tanners Dell so interesting. I'm really struggling to say anything without spoiling, but I will do my best.
Much in the same vein as the previous books, shadowy people are working for the greater purpose of furthering the machinations of the ancient evil that dwells with in Tanners Dell/the village of Bridesmoore. In 'Magda' we are treated to a separate story alongside the main narrative. Every few chapters the author reverts back a few centuries to tell the tale of a young girl (named Magda in case you hadn't guessed) and how her life/actions shape the present day.
Admittedly, I did not really see the point of the Magda chapters until the very end. Up until then it doesn't really feel like it has anything to do with the main storyline and, with the tag line 'Are you ready to meet Magda', I simply expected more out of her than I felt I got. But, pushing through to the very end I can see how her chapters were important. It all ties up very nicely.
Although it doesn't boast as much action as Tanners Dell; Magda does offer a wide range of occult goings on from satanic orgies to other people looking back at you in the mirror. The theme of the unseen demonic presence being all powerful is very strong throughout. Whenever you think the main characters have something sorted or a solid bit of help coming their way, tragedy strikes as quick as a hiccup. At times I honestly couldn't figure out how they would get out of the situation they were in with their sanity in tact. That's not to say that they did. Win, lose or draw, you don't tangle with the ultimate mind warp that is the demonic and come out as sane as you entered.
The 'horrory' bits are written with just enough fright to make those noises in my house seem ominous when reading this in the dark on my kindle. The writing itself is very strong and the research done into the medical side of things is top notch, as with the last two books.
I would have liked an epilogue, sort of detailing how the characters get on in the future. I really wanted certain ones to have their happily ever after and would have liked to know if they got them, but I suppose I can't have everything. What I did get, however, was three very enjoyable books. Three books that have made it so I want to jump into Sarah England's next work 'The Soprano' when it comes out in August.
All in all, it's a heck of a horror trilogy and I would suggest anyone who likes a touch of the demonic should hop onto Amazon and grab yourself the series.
I have been hooked on this trilogy ever since reading the blurb for 'Father of Lies.' The whole idea of a patient in a mental facility being possessed by demonic entities was simply too good for the horror fan in me to pass up. I was not disappointed by Father of Lies. It was great.
Tanners Dell (book 2), I thought was better than Father of lies. It had way more action and just all around horror goodness in it. Now that I have finished Magda, I still think Tanners Dell is the better book of the trilogy but that is not to take away anything from the other two. They are both great, I just found Tanners Dell more exciting.
Following on from the events of the first two books, we focus on the aftermath of all the excitement that made Tanners Dell so interesting. I'm really struggling to say anything without spoiling, but I will do my best.
Much in the same vein as the previous books, shadowy people are working for the greater purpose of furthering the machinations of the ancient evil that dwells with in Tanners Dell/the village of Bridesmoore. In 'Magda' we are treated to a separate story alongside the main narrative. Every few chapters the author reverts back a few centuries to tell the tale of a young girl (named Magda in case you hadn't guessed) and how her life/actions shape the present day.
Admittedly, I did not really see the point of the Magda chapters until the very end. Up until then it doesn't really feel like it has anything to do with the main storyline and, with the tag line 'Are you ready to meet Magda', I simply expected more out of her than I felt I got. But, pushing through to the very end I can see how her chapters were important. It all ties up very nicely.
Although it doesn't boast as much action as Tanners Dell; Magda does offer a wide range of occult goings on from satanic orgies to other people looking back at you in the mirror. The theme of the unseen demonic presence being all powerful is very strong throughout. Whenever you think the main characters have something sorted or a solid bit of help coming their way, tragedy strikes as quick as a hiccup. At times I honestly couldn't figure out how they would get out of the situation they were in with their sanity in tact. That's not to say that they did. Win, lose or draw, you don't tangle with the ultimate mind warp that is the demonic and come out as sane as you entered.
The 'horrory' bits are written with just enough fright to make those noises in my house seem ominous when reading this in the dark on my kindle. The writing itself is very strong and the research done into the medical side of things is top notch, as with the last two books.
I would have liked an epilogue, sort of detailing how the characters get on in the future. I really wanted certain ones to have their happily ever after and would have liked to know if they got them, but I suppose I can't have everything. What I did get, however, was three very enjoyable books. Three books that have made it so I want to jump into Sarah England's next work 'The Soprano' when it comes out in August.
All in all, it's a heck of a horror trilogy and I would suggest anyone who likes a touch of the demonic should hop onto Amazon and grab yourself the series.
April 20, 2019
'Madga' continues the story of Ruby, the young woman with dissociative identity disorder and the gift of extreme clairvoyance, two of her nurses, Noel and Becky, and Toby, the local police officer that helped with the issues in Tanner's Dell about a year prior. With everyone thinking the worst is over, no one can explain why most involved are still having nightmares, seeing things and how Ida, the woman who supposedly raised Ruby and her sister after their real mother died, mysteriously disappeared as all of the other members of the Satanic cult were arrested. With Ruby learning her gift with the help of Celeste, she begins to be shown the culprit and how the story of these characters will end, but the danger will always be out there..."Tell Becky about Lilith...and be careful of mirrors..." She also must find a way to speak to her daughter, Alice, because she knows how much trouble she's still in, so she must do everything she can while locked up in an asylum.
Although I found the third installment to be less frightening and entertaining as the other two, I do agree with another review I read that said, "The Worst Part About This Book is that It's Over." I completely agree and am so sad that I'm having to drift away from Ruby, Becky and Toby. The characters were so well-drawn and the writing was impeccable. I absolutely love Ms. England's trilogy and can confidently say that it is the scariest thing I've ever read. It doesn't matter if we are talking about a standalone or a series--these three books told a story that was chilling and intriguing. This was a wonderful "end" to the trilogy and I can't wait to read more by Sarah England!
I gave 'Father of Lies' and 'Tanner's Dell' 5 Stars on the Goodreads scale and Book 1 an A and Book 2 an A+ in my own person scoring. 'Magda,' although incredibly well-written and scary, will get an A-. I can't put my finger on it exactly, but it just doesn't deserve the same ratings as the other two. It is, however, definitely worth reading the entire series, because it got me all the way to my core...
Although I found the third installment to be less frightening and entertaining as the other two, I do agree with another review I read that said, "The Worst Part About This Book is that It's Over." I completely agree and am so sad that I'm having to drift away from Ruby, Becky and Toby. The characters were so well-drawn and the writing was impeccable. I absolutely love Ms. England's trilogy and can confidently say that it is the scariest thing I've ever read. It doesn't matter if we are talking about a standalone or a series--these three books told a story that was chilling and intriguing. This was a wonderful "end" to the trilogy and I can't wait to read more by Sarah England!
I gave 'Father of Lies' and 'Tanner's Dell' 5 Stars on the Goodreads scale and Book 1 an A and Book 2 an A+ in my own person scoring. 'Magda,' although incredibly well-written and scary, will get an A-. I can't put my finger on it exactly, but it just doesn't deserve the same ratings as the other two. It is, however, definitely worth reading the entire series, because it got me all the way to my core...
February 12, 2021
Was really looking forward to this trilogy after reading the reviews and being told it was a great horror story.... however I felt it fell short. The first book is very interesting and set out Ruby's story along with the villages and the Second book wrapped things up but obviously left it open for the last book which I felt was rushed and not really needed. The last book could of been combined into the first two to add more context. The story didn't need to be dragged out, too many characters added last minuet only to be killed pages later so there was no build up, I ended up caring what happen to Callum in the second book and by the third he was none existent. Like I said the end was very rushed too, main parts of the story that had been built up to glazed over and then all wrapped up with a bow in about 4 pages.
Enjoyed reading the story, it wasn't boring but like I said just dragged in parts could skim pages. Sad really because it had promise to be a scary story but without caring for the characters it was hard to feel anything but annoyance to get to the end.
Also not impressed with the use of Samhain as a title and "mote it be" being used in Satanatic terms as they are Wiccan terms not used within dark magic and it can lead to further false knowledge about Wiccan practices.
Enjoyed reading the story, it wasn't boring but like I said just dragged in parts could skim pages. Sad really because it had promise to be a scary story but without caring for the characters it was hard to feel anything but annoyance to get to the end.
Also not impressed with the use of Samhain as a title and "mote it be" being used in Satanatic terms as they are Wiccan terms not used within dark magic and it can lead to further false knowledge about Wiccan practices.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2016
Wow Sarah, thanks for scaring the you-know-whatsies out of me once again! Nah, I love a bit of a scare and reading this book, the third in the trilogy, was a fantastic experience :)
In Magda, we meet up with most of the characters from the first two books, and as well as that, the book explores how it all began, centuries ago. I found this fascinating, and scarily believable. I was right there, when Magda was going through the things she went through....and my brain was whirring the whole time. I had no idea how it was all going to finish and was at the edge of my seat for the entire read. Many a night I read into the early hours, Kindle switching itself off, only to dream about what I had just been reading about! Didn't allow for restful sleep, I can tell you.
Anyway, I have loved the entire trilogy, Sarah is an incredible writer and I can't wait to read more of her amazing books.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book and the opinions are my own. With thanks to THE Book Club and the author.
In Magda, we meet up with most of the characters from the first two books, and as well as that, the book explores how it all began, centuries ago. I found this fascinating, and scarily believable. I was right there, when Magda was going through the things she went through....and my brain was whirring the whole time. I had no idea how it was all going to finish and was at the edge of my seat for the entire read. Many a night I read into the early hours, Kindle switching itself off, only to dream about what I had just been reading about! Didn't allow for restful sleep, I can tell you.
Anyway, I have loved the entire trilogy, Sarah is an incredible writer and I can't wait to read more of her amazing books.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book and the opinions are my own. With thanks to THE Book Club and the author.
April 1, 2025
OK. This was scary for me.
The story exudes an eerie, almost paganistic vibe, where ancient rituals and dark secrets are woven into the very fabric of the Bridesmoor. The village feels haunted not just by literal ghosts but by its dangerous past. England's articulation of horror and the atmosphere she brings to the novel is truly convincing.
The village is like a living, breathing entity, keeping its secrets hidden while manipulating those who cross its threshold. It’s a place where the line between myth and reality blurs, and where the consequences of ignoring the past are dire.
While some characters, particularly Toby, felt frustratingly stupid in their decisions, Magda’s powerful sense of place and its tragic, complex protagonists' more than make up for it. The story taps into fears of scapegoating, superstition, and dark, hidden forces that I don't think has ever been written about.
Overall, one of the best horror series I ever read. I really think this deserves a longer series because the ending seemed like it needed another book.
The story exudes an eerie, almost paganistic vibe, where ancient rituals and dark secrets are woven into the very fabric of the Bridesmoor. The village feels haunted not just by literal ghosts but by its dangerous past. England's articulation of horror and the atmosphere she brings to the novel is truly convincing.
The village is like a living, breathing entity, keeping its secrets hidden while manipulating those who cross its threshold. It’s a place where the line between myth and reality blurs, and where the consequences of ignoring the past are dire.
While some characters, particularly Toby, felt frustratingly stupid in their decisions, Magda’s powerful sense of place and its tragic, complex protagonists' more than make up for it. The story taps into fears of scapegoating, superstition, and dark, hidden forces that I don't think has ever been written about.
Overall, one of the best horror series I ever read. I really think this deserves a longer series because the ending seemed like it needed another book.
October 13, 2018
Absolutely believable horror trilogy !
The amount of research you put into writing your novels is truly apparent in making the book a believable piece of fiction. Amy Cross may have written a few more books than you,but as far as I am concerned she has nothing on you when it comes to the quality of your writing. I absolutely loved the whole trilogy,and hated to see it come to an end having grown so close to all the characters involved with telling this incredible tale. I have read several horror novels lately which compared to yours would be considered something on the order of an extremely bad b-horror movie. The one saving factor in having come to the end of the trilogy is the fact that I still have two more novels to read of yours until you come up with the next installment in the owlmen series.
The amount of research you put into writing your novels is truly apparent in making the book a believable piece of fiction. Amy Cross may have written a few more books than you,but as far as I am concerned she has nothing on you when it comes to the quality of your writing. I absolutely loved the whole trilogy,and hated to see it come to an end having grown so close to all the characters involved with telling this incredible tale. I have read several horror novels lately which compared to yours would be considered something on the order of an extremely bad b-horror movie. The one saving factor in having come to the end of the trilogy is the fact that I still have two more novels to read of yours until you come up with the next installment in the owlmen series.
April 25, 2023
Thank You Sarah England, and Henrietta Meire
This Book I had two read twice. I have a hard time with audiobooks that flip-flops timelines. Some things were not heard correctly just hearing it. This book can be read as a stand alone or an anchor book of the
Trilogy Father of Lies.
Henrietta Meire enhances this story. I love her accent. She did seem to rush the reading of this story
Father of Lies
Tanner's Dell
Magda
I had a small discussion with my husband about this one. This is my first time learning the full story of Lilith. I did not know that Lilith was connected with SIDS. I actually never Heard of Lilith before mid high school.
The author did a really good job creating this trilogy. I am 99.9% sure anyone that enjoys Religious Horror and Mental Health will enjoy 😉 this story.
Occult
Supernatural
Religious Folklore
Graphic Novel Violence and Language
Erotica
This Book I had two read twice. I have a hard time with audiobooks that flip-flops timelines. Some things were not heard correctly just hearing it. This book can be read as a stand alone or an anchor book of the
Trilogy Father of Lies.
Henrietta Meire enhances this story. I love her accent. She did seem to rush the reading of this story
Father of Lies
Tanner's Dell
Magda
I had a small discussion with my husband about this one. This is my first time learning the full story of Lilith. I did not know that Lilith was connected with SIDS. I actually never Heard of Lilith before mid high school.
The author did a really good job creating this trilogy. I am 99.9% sure anyone that enjoys Religious Horror and Mental Health will enjoy 😉 this story.
Occult
Supernatural
Religious Folklore
Graphic Novel Violence and Language
Erotica
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2023
Seriously three books for that ending! I read three books for that ending...which was no ending of any real consequence. The last few pages felt rushed and jumped past so much story that needed to be told and the ending was as flat as a tortilla. I should have learned my lesson with Baba Lenka, which was another of Sarah England's books that had no ending. She seems to be able to write a book that gives you hope something good is going to happen, but then your bubble bursts as you realise you've been dragged along to read a mediocre book that has no scare value and a disappointing conclusion. I was going to read Owlmen which is a side story to this trilogy but I won't be bothering with this author again. My lesson has been learned.
September 29, 2018
Fabulous read
This is the last book in the occult trilogy. It is intense from start to finish, draws you in with a great story and likeable characters. The trilogy flows well from each book to the next or as a stand alone read. I would definitely recommend this author and her books. The next book after this one (trilogy) is a stand alone book but follows from the same place written about in the trilogy and funnily from around my home town of Doncaster so I can't wait to read it! 5 stars excellent.
This is the last book in the occult trilogy. It is intense from start to finish, draws you in with a great story and likeable characters. The trilogy flows well from each book to the next or as a stand alone read. I would definitely recommend this author and her books. The next book after this one (trilogy) is a stand alone book but follows from the same place written about in the trilogy and funnily from around my home town of Doncaster so I can't wait to read it! 5 stars excellent.
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