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Little One
Death is cold.
Kelsea Stone can’t remember her childhood, and frankly, she doesn’t really care. She’s doing fine on her own in L.A. without any family to tie her down. But when she finds out her estranged birth parents have died and left her their house in Canaan Valley, West Virginia, she discovers more than just an inheritance waiting for her in the mountains. An angry presence lingers there, and it won’t rest until it has had its revenge.
Kelsea Stone can’t remember her childhood, and frankly, she doesn’t really care. She’s doing fine on her own in L.A. without any family to tie her down. But when she finds out her estranged birth parents have died and left her their house in Canaan Valley, West Virginia, she discovers more than just an inheritance waiting for her in the mountains. An angry presence lingers there, and it won’t rest until it has had its revenge.
237 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2017
About the author
Timothy G. Huguenin
15 books62 followersTimothy G. Huguenin is a hillbilly writer of the strange and spooky, living in the dark Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. He is the author of the books WHEN THE WATCHER SHAKES, LITTLE ONE, and UNKNOWING, I SINK. His short stories have appeared in various publications including VASTARIEN: A LITERARY JOURNAL, COSMIC HORROR MONTHLY, and the THE SATURDAY EVENING POST. Follow his work and get a free ebook at https://tghuguenin.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 27, 2017
BOO!
I can't help it...I'm drawn to ghost stories...especially ones set in a remote area...with blizzard conditions...and a mystery to solve.
I have never read a ghost story quite like this one though...with such an active little ghost...who seems almost alive...one with an agenda...one who seeks vengeance with a passion.
LITTLE ONE begins on the creepy side with an angry soul sneaking about when Kelsea Stone arrives to clean out her estranged parents home in the mountains of West Virginia...and she receives a lot more than she bargained for...including a hunky lawyer-type with "soft blue eyes, broad shoulders and jeans that stretch just enough in all the right places" who is more than willing to meet her every need.
FOR ME, not a scary read, but there is a dark side to the story. Fairly predictable, sometimes even nonsensical, but an atmospheric mystery with a ghost, a twist and a place on my women's fiction shelf. 3+ Stars with a round up...bc I liked it...and for keeping me entertained.
Many thanks to NetGalley, author Timothy G. Huguenin and Weapenry Co-op for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2018
4 Stars
Arc Book Review
Release Date-18/7/18
This was such a great little ghost story wasn't expecting to like it quite as much as I did.
The tale centres around Kelsea Stone and her return to her roots after her parent's death.
Kelsea can't remember her early childhood its all a blank: all she recalls is the experience of growing up in care without a mum or dad.
So when she is the beneficiary of there will after there demise shes heads back to her beginnings to close up the house she has inherited and close the door on this chapter of her existence for good.
But somethings there and its been patiently waiting for her return: what's more it's really angry and wants some justice served.
Kelsea is in for some scary ghostly encounters while reclaiming her inheritance.
So that's it in a nutshell: really can't elaborate more without spoiling this.
So what I will say is give this a go: it was surprisingly addictive, so much so that I raced through this in one sitting.
An unexpected little gem that hooked me from the start: managing to expertly ramp up the suspense and the tension until I was practically on the edge of my seat: biting my nails from the nerves.
A story that just when you think you've got its number manages to change directions on you catching you completely unawares.
This was really well written and ever so nicely done indeed.
This one most certainly gets a thumbs up from me.
Thank you to the Author and NetGalley for providing me with a review copy of "Little One" of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
July 23, 2017
As someone who gets spooked from hearing bumps and creaks in the night, Little One started out exactly as I anticipated from a ghost story. Haunted houses, forgotten backstories, little girls who kill people… what more could you possibly want?
The plot wasn't the most original - I've definitely heard the idea of a little girl haunting a house a few times before - but I didn't really care since this book had me hooked from beginning to end. I flew through the pages. And something about the characters and setting in the snowy, cold woods, in a creaky old house where the electricity kept going out, was eerie and refreshing.
Kelsea Stone never knew her birth parents since she was given up for adoption at a young age. Now an adult, she inherits her deceased parents' house in the back woods of West Virginia. What Kelsea doesn't understand are the rumors she keeps hearing in town about the house. And she can't help feeling that something - or someone - is inside the house.
I did have a few problems with Little One, mainly that the dialogue wasn't always convincing. The story switched POVs quite a lot and even went into the mind of the ghost girl. And I'm sorry, but when a wrathful ghost says things like this, I find it more laughable than scary:
This really isn't a horror book, and I don't even think readers who barely read horror would get scared. There's only a few shiver-inducing moments, and even those were tame. What this is is an atmospheric paranormal mystery, and I must say the author did a fantastic job at describing the atmosphere - at really making me feel the cold inside the house and frightened along with Kelsea.
Another problem I had was with the mini romance. When Kelsea arrived in West Virginia, she was greeted by her lawyer who helped her get settled in, and the minute Kelsea laid eyes on James she was awestruck by his good looks. It also just didn't seem very professional that the two entered into a relationship when he was her lawyer and she was his client.
I mean, this is a full grown woman and she's blushing just from shaking his hand? *shakes head*
I really liked the twists at the end that caught me by surprise and how crazy things got after the final reveal. If not a bit cheesy at times, Little One was still a quick, creepy, and satisfying read. I would recommend it to people who are in the mood for some early shivery autumnal vibes.
The plot wasn't the most original - I've definitely heard the idea of a little girl haunting a house a few times before - but I didn't really care since this book had me hooked from beginning to end. I flew through the pages. And something about the characters and setting in the snowy, cold woods, in a creaky old house where the electricity kept going out, was eerie and refreshing.
Kelsea Stone never knew her birth parents since she was given up for adoption at a young age. Now an adult, she inherits her deceased parents' house in the back woods of West Virginia. What Kelsea doesn't understand are the rumors she keeps hearing in town about the house. And she can't help feeling that something - or someone - is inside the house.
I did have a few problems with Little One, mainly that the dialogue wasn't always convincing. The story switched POVs quite a lot and even went into the mind of the ghost girl. And I'm sorry, but when a wrathful ghost says things like this, I find it more laughable than scary:
“Good riddance! Her tallness, her womanliness, her pretty long blond hair and green eyes and fancy leather purse and long eyelashes and full lips—she makes me sick; doesn’t she make you sick? People like her, they always whine about life’s unfairness. Look at them! Death—that’s what’s unfair.”
This really isn't a horror book, and I don't even think readers who barely read horror would get scared. There's only a few shiver-inducing moments, and even those were tame. What this is is an atmospheric paranormal mystery, and I must say the author did a fantastic job at describing the atmosphere - at really making me feel the cold inside the house and frightened along with Kelsea.
Another problem I had was with the mini romance. When Kelsea arrived in West Virginia, she was greeted by her lawyer who helped her get settled in, and the minute Kelsea laid eyes on James she was awestruck by his good looks. It also just didn't seem very professional that the two entered into a relationship when he was her lawyer and she was his client.
“He stuck out a hand, and she shook it. His grip was firm and cool. She was embarrassed to find herself caught in his soft blue eyes for a few seconds longer than was polite. She looked away and blushed.”
I mean, this is a full grown woman and she's blushing just from shaking his hand? *shakes head*
I really liked the twists at the end that caught me by surprise and how crazy things got after the final reveal. If not a bit cheesy at times, Little One was still a quick, creepy, and satisfying read. I would recommend it to people who are in the mood for some early shivery autumnal vibes.
June 27, 2017
This is a good little ghost story. At first I thought I was going to end up with some YA romance (despite picking up a horror title) but it ends up being quite the opposite. Kelsea arrives at her family home in the middle of nowhere just as the worst snow storm ever is about to hit. Turns out she can't remember her childhood as she's spent a life I care and has blocked out all past after believing her (now deceased) parents gave her away.
The ghost in question is out for vengeance and at first (little spoiler) we think she's ready to haunt Kelsea but again it quickly comes apparent the ghost has someone else in mine. What's discovered quite early on is that the ghost in question is a 6 year old little girl but one with a fair bit of ghostly power. She can rip books, turn locks and much more. Kelsea is probably the only one in this book who is exactly as she seems.
It's a short book which loses a bit of the story, I think maybe some of the sidebar stories of the supplementary characters could have been given more time. But it's a quick read, a good page turner and I'll probably track down more of the authors works because of it.
Free arc from netgalley
June 24, 2019
Rating 4 out of 5 stars
My rating system:
initial feeling= 4
writing= 3
readability= 5
plot= 5
originality= 3
predictability= 3
ending= 4
interest= 5
This book was surprisingly good. Between the cover and the fact that I got it for free, I was expecting a 3 star at best. However I found it to be creepy and an amazing storyline. I thought it was a bit predictable, but that might be because of someone the reviews I read before hand that gave away some hints. It was easy to read and to want to read. It definitely earned its stars and I will be watching this author to see what else he comes up with.
My rating system:
initial feeling= 4
writing= 3
readability= 5
plot= 5
originality= 3
predictability= 3
ending= 4
interest= 5
July 17, 2017
I received a free copy of the book via Netgalley.
'Little One' is the story of Kelsea who return to her distant hometown in West Virginia after her parents died. Although she has been given up for adoption at the age of 6 and never reconciled with her parents they leave her all her possessions. So, her plan is to return for a week, sort out what is needed to be looked after and then return to L.A. and sell the house. Little does she know what's waiting for her and how much her past will interfere with her present.
This book might have some flaws but I'm more than happy to ignore them for the creepy hours I spent reading it. I wasn't sure at first if the way of telling the story would work but I decided to love it after a couple of chapters. It's no spoiler to tell you that part of the story is told from the ghost's POV although you don't know the relationship between the protagonists. I wasn't sure if a book can be scary if you already know that there's a ghost... I was dead wrong on this. The author maybe did use a lot of cliché horror themes but they worked well on me. I actually put the book down one evening to not finish it when it's dark outside and I'm alone at home. The small-town atmosphere worked well and I started to care for Kelsea quickly.
Now, as for its flaws. Honestly, it was a little easy to guess who is the bad guy. And for some parts of the story I wanted to kick Kealsea just a little because she acted like a dumb child. Asking myself a lot 'Why can't she see this?'.
I was also a little disappointed with the ending. It was too easy and a little rushed if you asked me. Overall, I believe the story would have benefitted from a little more character building, a little less insta-love and just more pages to set the atmosphere later.
However, it was a great read and I decided to give it the highest rating because I read a lot of bad horror books in the last years and I love the fact that there are still good ones out there.
'Little One' is the story of Kelsea who return to her distant hometown in West Virginia after her parents died. Although she has been given up for adoption at the age of 6 and never reconciled with her parents they leave her all her possessions. So, her plan is to return for a week, sort out what is needed to be looked after and then return to L.A. and sell the house. Little does she know what's waiting for her and how much her past will interfere with her present.
This book might have some flaws but I'm more than happy to ignore them for the creepy hours I spent reading it. I wasn't sure at first if the way of telling the story would work but I decided to love it after a couple of chapters. It's no spoiler to tell you that part of the story is told from the ghost's POV although you don't know the relationship between the protagonists. I wasn't sure if a book can be scary if you already know that there's a ghost... I was dead wrong on this. The author maybe did use a lot of cliché horror themes but they worked well on me. I actually put the book down one evening to not finish it when it's dark outside and I'm alone at home. The small-town atmosphere worked well and I started to care for Kelsea quickly.
Now, as for its flaws. Honestly, it was a little easy to guess who is the bad guy. And for some parts of the story I wanted to kick Kealsea just a little because she acted like a dumb child. Asking myself a lot 'Why can't she see this?'.
I was also a little disappointed with the ending. It was too easy and a little rushed if you asked me. Overall, I believe the story would have benefitted from a little more character building, a little less insta-love and just more pages to set the atmosphere later.
However, it was a great read and I decided to give it the highest rating because I read a lot of bad horror books in the last years and I love the fact that there are still good ones out there.
July 20, 2017
It is always satisfying to discover a book by a yet unknown author, take the risk of reading it and find out that it was worth it. 'Little One' is a cleverly plotted ghost story with a twist, and though the storyline was predictable at times, it was mainly the writing that made reading this book a pleasure.
At the beginning, I was afraid it would turn into some kind of cozy romance ghost story, but fortunately it soon became much darker and things turned out to be very different from what they seemed...
As I mentioned before, the story was predictable at times, and I often wondered how the female main character could not notice what I already knew to come. But then again, it's always easier to see the whole picture from the outside rather than being right in the middle of it.
Still, on several occasions I wanted to smack her on the head for acting so naive. How could she just go to sleep and rely on her - only barely known - friend to 'take care of things' with a dead body lying in her backyard? It just seemed plain stupid. Then going into town next morning without immediately rushing over to the police station, but instead doing nothing about it - again? That was a complete no-go. However, it explained her repeatedly unsuspecting behavior - but then again, the story would have been much shorter if she acted more clever, I guess.
Still, despite these flaws I was totally immersed this book, due to the author's very fine writing skills which created a perfect reading flow. Also, I did like the mostly sad but also scary ghost part of the story, and how the reader was mislead in the beginning, only to be rewarded with a very fascinating turn of events. If you like ghost stories, you may want to add this one to the list.
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
At the beginning, I was afraid it would turn into some kind of cozy romance ghost story, but fortunately it soon became much darker and things turned out to be very different from what they seemed...
As I mentioned before, the story was predictable at times, and I often wondered how the female main character could not notice what I already knew to come. But then again, it's always easier to see the whole picture from the outside rather than being right in the middle of it.
Still, on several occasions I wanted to smack her on the head for acting so naive. How could she just go to sleep and rely on her - only barely known - friend to 'take care of things' with a dead body lying in her backyard? It just seemed plain stupid. Then going into town next morning without immediately rushing over to the police station, but instead doing nothing about it - again? That was a complete no-go. However, it explained her repeatedly unsuspecting behavior - but then again, the story would have been much shorter if she acted more clever, I guess.
Still, despite these flaws I was totally immersed this book, due to the author's very fine writing skills which created a perfect reading flow. Also, I did like the mostly sad but also scary ghost part of the story, and how the reader was mislead in the beginning, only to be rewarded with a very fascinating turn of events. If you like ghost stories, you may want to add this one to the list.
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
April 10, 2017
While the story started off well and while I was pulled into the story line at the beginning that did not hold true for the entire length of this book..By the middle of this book I had lost a lot of my interest and the story starting to fall flat to me. Then, some really strange reactions by a few of the characters put me off for awhile and the last one third of the book was a bit of a chore to finish.. I would recommend this book to younger readers.. maybe 16 to 20 years olds..
Thank you go Net galley and the publisher for a chance to read and give an honest review of this book.
Thank you go Net galley and the publisher for a chance to read and give an honest review of this book.
October 11, 2019
I came across this book at our local book fair. I was strolling though the author section and this cover of the book really stood out to me with its creepy appeal. I love a good ghost story and this one was great! I had been in a reading runt, not finding that story that would reel me in from the beginning. This one did!
May 24, 2024
4/5
I haven’t read a “ghost story” in a long time and this was the perfect one to dip my toe back into the water with.
Very easy to read, dialogue felt very natural, characters were not very fleshed out but enough to be enjoyable.
Not sure if “cozy horror” is a thing - like “cozy mysteries” - but I think this qualifies as one. Not scary or gory. The ghosts were all good intentioned and the antagonist, once revealed, got what they deserved. Everything was tied up neatly with a bow.
Sweet little ghost story, basically.
I haven’t read a “ghost story” in a long time and this was the perfect one to dip my toe back into the water with.
Very easy to read, dialogue felt very natural, characters were not very fleshed out but enough to be enjoyable.
Not sure if “cozy horror” is a thing - like “cozy mysteries” - but I think this qualifies as one. Not scary or gory. The ghosts were all good intentioned and the antagonist, once revealed, got what they deserved. Everything was tied up neatly with a bow.
Sweet little ghost story, basically.
March 2, 2018
I was provided a complementary copy off this book for my honest review.
I gave this book 4 stars, it was an easy read about a ghost but also about life choices and how they can impact your life. I really enjoyed this book.
I gave this book 4 stars, it was an easy read about a ghost but also about life choices and how they can impact your life. I really enjoyed this book.
March 12, 2017
I was so immersed in this story that I started it last night and finished this morning.
The story begins in LA with Kelsea getting on a plane for West Virginia where her birth parents have both died and she needs to decide what to do with the house. Kelsea was raised in foster care after age six and never knew why her parents gave her away; she is resentful. She doesn't remember much of her early life. Eerie things start happening and the story takes a dark turn in West Virginia which provided lots of suspense and kept me turning the pages.
I gave the book 4 stars rounding up from 3 1/2 because I liked the story and the writing style. I will look forward to more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book from the author Timothy G. Huguenin through NetGalley for an honest review and I do recommend this book.
The story begins in LA with Kelsea getting on a plane for West Virginia where her birth parents have both died and she needs to decide what to do with the house. Kelsea was raised in foster care after age six and never knew why her parents gave her away; she is resentful. She doesn't remember much of her early life. Eerie things start happening and the story takes a dark turn in West Virginia which provided lots of suspense and kept me turning the pages.
I gave the book 4 stars rounding up from 3 1/2 because I liked the story and the writing style. I will look forward to more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book from the author Timothy G. Huguenin through NetGalley for an honest review and I do recommend this book.
July 26, 2017
Filled with eccentric characters and a unique plot it will keep you interested and surprised at where it takes you! It is hard to believe this is only Huguenin's second novel!
October 13, 2019
Perfect Halloween read. Not for scaredy-cats 😊
August 13, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Little One in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Little One by Timothy G. Huguenin is a suspenseful tale set in the remote mountains of West Virginia. The story follows Kelsea Stone, who inherits a secluded house from a grandmother she never knew. Seeking answers about her mysterious family history, Kelsea moves into the old house. But she finds herself drawn into a web of eerie occurrences and unsettling secrets.
The Details
Huguenin excels at creating an atmospheric setting. The isolated house, surrounded by thick woods and shadowy paths, adds a palpable sense of dread to the narrative. The author’s descriptive prose captures the eerie beauty of the Appalachian landscape. It adds to the setting as much a character as Kelsea herself. The novel’s pacing is steady, slowly building tension as Kelsea unravels the mysteries surrounding her inheritance.
However, the book doesn’t fully capitalize on its promising premise. While the atmosphere is well-crafted, the story sometimes falls into familiar tropes of the horror and mystery genres. The plot twists are predictable, and seasoned readers of suspense may see them coming long before they’re revealed. Additionally, the character development is somewhat lacking. Kelsea, while relatable in her quest for answers, doesn’t quite stand out as a memorable protagonist. Also, her emotional journey feels underexplored.
The Verdict
Overall, Little One offers a good, if not exceptional, reading experience. It’s a book that might appeal to fans of gothic horror and those who enjoy a slow-burn mystery set against an evocative backdrop. However, it doesn’t quite deliver the spine-tingling impact that could have elevated it from a solid read to a truly unforgettable one.
July 19, 2017
Kelsea was on her way to Davis, West Virginia to meet with a lawyer named James. Kelsea’s home was in LA her home was anonymity. Kelsea remembers none of her first six years of life which had been here in Davis, West Virginia. It.was all blackness even bouncing around foster homes was hazy as soon as Kelsea was old enough she moved away from West Virginia running from her past. Kelsea was now thirty one and back in west Virginia. James met her at the Charleston airport as he said he would drive the couple hours to get to Chelsea’s biological home. Chelsea never knew why her parents had put her up for adoption at six years old. It was basically a nice home so why did her parents give Chelsea up for adoption if not financial reasons? There was a ghost- a child- who watched the truck pull away from the house. The child was thinking how funny it was the habits you kept after you died. Reading had become easy for after the child was separated from the human body and frail human brain. Losing your shell allowed awareness to expand in ways you’ll never know until it happens to you. Kelsea tells James that she plans on returning to LA in a week and that she will probably put the house up for sale. Kelsea wasn’t sure if she wanted to go through the stuff in the house or hire someone to go through it. James offered to let Kelsea borrow one of his truck to get around. Kelsea asked James if he had known her parents he had said yes they were good to him , he thought of them like family. Kelsea went out to the truck to get her phone charger even if there was no single and suitcase and somehow the door was now locked. She broke a window to get back in. Kelsea wrote for Ensemble Weekly- an entertainment magazine back in LA.
I just couldn’t really get into this story. I read this for awhile but it just didn’t keep my attention but I am sure others will enjoy this book but others will enjoy this.
I just couldn’t really get into this story. I read this for awhile but it just didn’t keep my attention but I am sure others will enjoy this book but others will enjoy this.
August 15, 2017
Kelsea Stone was adopted as a child and never reconciled with her birth parents but when they die she inherits their property in Davis, WV. Being from Los Angeles this area seems very small and remote to her and she wants to clean the house and put it on the market fast so she can return to LA. James, a handsome young local lawyer picks her up at the airport in Charleston and drives her to Davis, about 3 hours away. Soon after they arrive a major snowstorm hits, adding to Kelsea's isolation. Since the book is told from the viewpoints of Kelsea and a very vengeful ghost who seems out to harm her, the reader is aware that something is amiss from the beginning. Kelsea soon begins to hear things and strange things begin to happen, all typical ghost story elements. However, these ghosts are unlike any I have ever read about. They are very physical, capable of interacting with the other characters and physically influencing the outcome of the story. They are not necessarily bad ghosts and some can be quite friendly and helpful. The book is not really unpredictable but it is a satisfying read with no loose ends. I chose to review this book for the Reading Deals Review Club because it was a ghost story but mainly because it was set in West Virginia. We are a small state that doesn't get much recognition and what we get is often bad. The author has lived in the area and has a sense of the beauty of the area and the people. I could relate to this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thank the Review Club and the author for allowing me to read it
July 26, 2017
The creep factor in this book was over the top for me. I was on vacation with my Daughter and Grand Kids when I started reading this book. I was setting outside on the front porch of the cabin surrounded by a mountain in a very dark area while reading this. All at once I felt the need to go in the house and not read anymore. I also turned the TV on for the night in the room I was sleeping in, and I had only read half the book.
The book is about Kelsea Hendricks Stone. She was given up for adoption as a young child. She doesn't remember her life before being adopted. Her birth parents have passed away and left her their house and possessions. Kelsea heads to a remote town in West Virginia to clean out the house and get it ready to sell.
What Kelsea doesn't know is there is a spirit living in the house and she is not a happy one. Kayla, the spirit, is looking to revenge her death and really doesn't care who she takes out if they get in her way. She died at age 6 and has had 25 years to plan her revenge. Now that the adults are gone it is time to get her revenge on the person responsible for her death.
I received this book from the Author or Publisher via Netgalley.com to read and review.
The book is about Kelsea Hendricks Stone. She was given up for adoption as a young child. She doesn't remember her life before being adopted. Her birth parents have passed away and left her their house and possessions. Kelsea heads to a remote town in West Virginia to clean out the house and get it ready to sell.
What Kelsea doesn't know is there is a spirit living in the house and she is not a happy one. Kayla, the spirit, is looking to revenge her death and really doesn't care who she takes out if they get in her way. She died at age 6 and has had 25 years to plan her revenge. Now that the adults are gone it is time to get her revenge on the person responsible for her death.
I received this book from the Author or Publisher via Netgalley.com to read and review.
October 13, 2017
Kelsea Stone is flying from Los Angeles to West Virginia to clean out her parents home and sell it. She is met by the lawyer, James Pendleton who caller her about her parents death. When she arrives to the home, she thinks that she saw someone behind a window on the top floor. Kelsea didn't know her parents as she was fostered out at an early age. Why? She has mixed feelings about her parents. As she stays at the house, she notices some strange happenings.
"Little One" is a horror and murder mystery novel. The writing is excellent. I became more curious with the novel as I read it. I wanted to know what was going to happen. The author narrates the story using the different characters in the novel. There are plot twists that kept me reading later than I planned.! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
"Little One" is a horror and murder mystery novel. The writing is excellent. I became more curious with the novel as I read it. I wanted to know what was going to happen. The author narrates the story using the different characters in the novel. There are plot twists that kept me reading later than I planned.! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
March 15, 2023
This book is fine.
In the interest of being positive when possible, it's unusual to find the ghost of a child that is supposed to have decayed and matured that way. That is effectively an ancient anger trapped in the body of a child, lacking compassion or the temperance of someone younger. That was interesting, and I would have liked to see more of that. It's reasonably easy to read, and the characters are easy enough to relate to. There's minor violence and alludes to a sexual assault but not much happens on screen, which is nice.
On the flip side, this book feels more like one that should be written for a teenagers sort of entrance to thrillers (maybe it was and I didn't pay attention to the rating). It has almost an identical plot to a horror movie I watched as a child (which I believed was called "The Marsh" which was horrifying then but is sort of passe now. The twist is incredibly predictable.
All in all, a decent read if you have nothing else in the dentist office to partake in, but I felt no compulsion to finish it.
In the interest of being positive when possible, it's unusual to find the ghost of a child that is supposed to have decayed and matured that way. That is effectively an ancient anger trapped in the body of a child, lacking compassion or the temperance of someone younger. That was interesting, and I would have liked to see more of that. It's reasonably easy to read, and the characters are easy enough to relate to. There's minor violence and alludes to a sexual assault but not much happens on screen, which is nice.
On the flip side, this book feels more like one that should be written for a teenagers sort of entrance to thrillers (maybe it was and I didn't pay attention to the rating). It has almost an identical plot to a horror movie I watched as a child (which I believed was called "The Marsh" which was horrifying then but is sort of passe now. The twist is incredibly predictable.
All in all, a decent read if you have nothing else in the dentist office to partake in, but I felt no compulsion to finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2017
I picked this book out of the horror section, but it's more a mystery/ghost story.
Kelsea Stone arrives to take possession of a house left to her by her birth parents after their death. She has not seen them in years and barely remembers them at all. She has few memories of her early childhood and none that start before she was given up for adoption. She doesn't even remember that as a small child she once lived in this very home.
She intends to clear it out and sell it off, or perhaps rent it out as a vacation property. However that proves difficult with the rumors surrounding the home. The story line was fairly predictable but I enjoyed the spooky atmosphere, as I am a sucker for howling winds, heavy snowfall, and buried secrets.
I received an advance copy for review.
Kelsea Stone arrives to take possession of a house left to her by her birth parents after their death. She has not seen them in years and barely remembers them at all. She has few memories of her early childhood and none that start before she was given up for adoption. She doesn't even remember that as a small child she once lived in this very home.
She intends to clear it out and sell it off, or perhaps rent it out as a vacation property. However that proves difficult with the rumors surrounding the home. The story line was fairly predictable but I enjoyed the spooky atmosphere, as I am a sucker for howling winds, heavy snowfall, and buried secrets.
I received an advance copy for review.
July 2, 2017
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
Here is what I think. You either love this story or think it is ok. No in between. At least I do not think there would be any who hate it. And my other thought is there are no longer any true ghost stories.
I really hoped this story would prove me wrong and be a true ghost story but it wasn’t. I mean seriously, I don’t think the ghost has done more than look at people for ¾ of the book. What is scary about that? However in the beginning the story seemed to catch my attention it just never stayed caught. The good thing is it is a short book (200+ pages) and a quick read.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Here is what I think. You either love this story or think it is ok. No in between. At least I do not think there would be any who hate it. And my other thought is there are no longer any true ghost stories.
I really hoped this story would prove me wrong and be a true ghost story but it wasn’t. I mean seriously, I don’t think the ghost has done more than look at people for ¾ of the book. What is scary about that? However in the beginning the story seemed to catch my attention it just never stayed caught. The good thing is it is a short book (200+ pages) and a quick read.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2017
Suffice to say, I didn't like this one very much. It tells the story of Kelsea and her return to her childhood home after the death of her estranged parents to inherit their creepy house. I read a lot of novels and stories that require the suspension of disbelief and that's fine, so long as the internal logic of the world created makes sense. In too many instances in this book, that was not the case and consequently, the narrative just fails. As a ghost story, it does not scare and the characters are completely flat and have ridiculous decision-making inflicted upon them. The prose is ok and the book does move at a good pace, but it just wasn't an enjoyable ride for me I'm afraid.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 8, 2019
Eerie little ghost story written by Timothy Huguenin that had some great little surprises.
We are introduced to our main character, Kelsea, as she is reintroduce to her estranged family’s mountain home at the time of their death. Of course she finds more than just dusty belongings. She also finds the vengeful spirit of a little girl ghost.
Who is this ghost? Why is she vengeful and what does it have to do with Kelsea? The mystery of the story wasn’t too surprising to me. However, the author adds other surprises for the reader that elevates the usual ghost story.
Not an overly scary story but one that is pleasantly creepy and suspenseful. Great read for the upcoming Halloween season . It surprised me how much I enjoyed this.
We are introduced to our main character, Kelsea, as she is reintroduce to her estranged family’s mountain home at the time of their death. Of course she finds more than just dusty belongings. She also finds the vengeful spirit of a little girl ghost.
Who is this ghost? Why is she vengeful and what does it have to do with Kelsea? The mystery of the story wasn’t too surprising to me. However, the author adds other surprises for the reader that elevates the usual ghost story.
Not an overly scary story but one that is pleasantly creepy and suspenseful. Great read for the upcoming Halloween season . It surprised me how much I enjoyed this.
May 18, 2021
Surprising
I liked this ghost story. Kelsea inherits her biological parents home in Virginia Appalachia. Kelsea really wants nothing to do with the house. She hasn't seen her parents since they gave her up to foster homes. Kelsea goes anyway to meet with their lawyer James to do the paperwork. While she is there in the house very strange things keep happening to her. I thought I knew who the "bad guy" was in 40 % of the book, I was close, but I was wrong. There is another twist about a neighbor I was surprised about too. I thought the ending was a little cheesy, too much lovey-dovey, but I liked the whole story.
I liked this ghost story. Kelsea inherits her biological parents home in Virginia Appalachia. Kelsea really wants nothing to do with the house. She hasn't seen her parents since they gave her up to foster homes. Kelsea goes anyway to meet with their lawyer James to do the paperwork. While she is there in the house very strange things keep happening to her. I thought I knew who the "bad guy" was in 40 % of the book, I was close, but I was wrong. There is another twist about a neighbor I was surprised about too. I thought the ending was a little cheesy, too much lovey-dovey, but I liked the whole story.
September 5, 2017
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
With that being said, I would gladly pay for this book! My attention was captured from the very first page. This book is very well written.
It is a ghost story, yes. But it is also a story about revenge, hate, finding oneself, and how our choices can affect us for the rest of our "life". It is also a reminder that karma is a b****.
If I didn't have to work, I would have read this book in one sitting. I will definitely be checking out more books by Timothy G Huguenin soon.
With that being said, I would gladly pay for this book! My attention was captured from the very first page. This book is very well written.
It is a ghost story, yes. But it is also a story about revenge, hate, finding oneself, and how our choices can affect us for the rest of our "life". It is also a reminder that karma is a b****.
If I didn't have to work, I would have read this book in one sitting. I will definitely be checking out more books by Timothy G Huguenin soon.
September 15, 2017
DNF'd at 55%.
I really like the opening scene where we start with the ghost. It quickly fell apart for me after that, and I could not get into it at all. There were times where the writing was lovely and other/most of the time it was cringy. For example, one of the female characters referencing one of the male characters as kind of a "hunk"... I just couldn't. Our main character Kelsea, just seemed rude and not at all likeable to me. I would like to try something else by this author mostly because I felt this had so much potential, as I said, that opening scene was just great and creepy.
I really like the opening scene where we start with the ghost. It quickly fell apart for me after that, and I could not get into it at all. There were times where the writing was lovely and other/most of the time it was cringy. For example, one of the female characters referencing one of the male characters as kind of a "hunk"... I just couldn't. Our main character Kelsea, just seemed rude and not at all likeable to me. I would like to try something else by this author mostly because I felt this had so much potential, as I said, that opening scene was just great and creepy.
August 29, 2017
Heartwarming ghost story!
I don't usually go for any of the warm fuzzy stuff, which this story does contain. But in just the right amounts, in just the right places. It also includes enough of the creepy,angry and unstable spirit to draw your attention to the supernatural ghost story. Not overly deep or dark,I feel it shouldn't have been. The feelings of the ghost were a wonderful touch!
I don't usually go for any of the warm fuzzy stuff, which this story does contain. But in just the right amounts, in just the right places. It also includes enough of the creepy,angry and unstable spirit to draw your attention to the supernatural ghost story. Not overly deep or dark,I feel it shouldn't have been. The feelings of the ghost were a wonderful touch!
December 31, 2017
Some need to remember this is a YA book and being so it is very good. It is well written. It twist from what you first think its going to be like and it is creepy. Theres not much more to say. Its about an adopted girl who doesn't remember her life before she was adopted. Shes left everything from her parents who past including a ghost in the house. Youll have to read to find out what happens with "little one."
November 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I picked it up at the WV Book Festival last weekend and I'm glad I did. Despite my usual fair consisting of horror, I often shy away from ghost stories. Mostly because they creep me out (bad dreams, haha), but I gave this a try anyways based on the way the author described it. I had my suspicions early on what was going on, and just had to get to the end to see how everything tied together. Give it a read, and leave the lights on!
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