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Kiara Duet #1
Ensnared
Moving to an isolated farm was not what Amari wanted to do with her life, but since she doesn’t know what she wants to do, following her parents is her only option.
Then strange things start to happen. She finds a diary with a girl trapped inside it by a witch.
Now Amari must face dark magic to save Kiara, herself and her family.
A true teenage horror.
Then strange things start to happen. She finds a diary with a girl trapped inside it by a witch.
Now Amari must face dark magic to save Kiara, herself and her family.
A true teenage horror.
- GenresHorror
194 pages, ebook
Published July 15, 2017
2 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Sian B. Claven
41 books320 followersBorn in South Africa, in the heart of Johannesburg, Sian Claven grew up with a vivid imagination. When she wasn't immersing herself in books, she was actively creating her own stories.
At 29 years old, left to her own devices after her sister immigrated, Sian, wrote her first horror book Ensnared and dared to publish it under the guidance of indie authors Toni Cox and Ashleigh Giannaccaro.
Now she has released more than ten books including a thriller and sci-fi fantasy.
In 2019, Sian took up the challenge of publishing 11 books in 11 months.
Sian came second place in the First Annual Indie Awards for Favourite African Author.
Sian's book, Sylvana, the final book in her Butcher series, made the Amazon top 100 best sellers list in several categories across three countries.
In her spare time, Sian is an avid Harry Potter fan, pop collector and Bingo addict. She resides in Johannesburg with her 2 best friends, their daughter, their 6 dogs and 2 cats.
At 29 years old, left to her own devices after her sister immigrated, Sian, wrote her first horror book Ensnared and dared to publish it under the guidance of indie authors Toni Cox and Ashleigh Giannaccaro.
Now she has released more than ten books including a thriller and sci-fi fantasy.
In 2019, Sian took up the challenge of publishing 11 books in 11 months.
Sian came second place in the First Annual Indie Awards for Favourite African Author.
Sian's book, Sylvana, the final book in her Butcher series, made the Amazon top 100 best sellers list in several categories across three countries.
In her spare time, Sian is an avid Harry Potter fan, pop collector and Bingo addict. She resides in Johannesburg with her 2 best friends, their daughter, their 6 dogs and 2 cats.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 26, 2017
My son won this book - "Ensnared" - by South African author Sian B. Claven, in the Goodreads Giveaways and I'm very pleased he did as this is a cracking horror story that is compelling and gripping from the start.
I say 'horror' but it's probably more in the supernatural/witchcraft genre in my opinion - even fits in with a modern day fairytale theme - which I am very pleased about as I don't like true over the top slasher style horror, this was much more old fashioned creepy, scary and palpable anticipation type horror. I also think both young and old would get enjoyment from this book and with it being a quick and easy to understand novella you really get the full terrifying experience in one reading.
Twenty year old Amari reluctantly moves to a farm with her parents to start a new life. However, nestled away, surrounded by an eerie and totally dead forest, the farmhouse they have moved to holds a sad and dark history. After discovering an eerie leather bound book in the attic that appears to hold a chilling long kept secret, Amari does everything she can to protect her family and their dreams before it's too late.
The major twist at the end was NOT what I was expecting AT ALL! I was totally shocked and it was a very ingenious plot twist for the very aptly named book 'Ensnared' which so fits the story.
Highly recommended and well worth a read, I loved it!
5 stars.
I say 'horror' but it's probably more in the supernatural/witchcraft genre in my opinion - even fits in with a modern day fairytale theme - which I am very pleased about as I don't like true over the top slasher style horror, this was much more old fashioned creepy, scary and palpable anticipation type horror. I also think both young and old would get enjoyment from this book and with it being a quick and easy to understand novella you really get the full terrifying experience in one reading.
Twenty year old Amari reluctantly moves to a farm with her parents to start a new life. However, nestled away, surrounded by an eerie and totally dead forest, the farmhouse they have moved to holds a sad and dark history. After discovering an eerie leather bound book in the attic that appears to hold a chilling long kept secret, Amari does everything she can to protect her family and their dreams before it's too late.
The major twist at the end was NOT what I was expecting AT ALL! I was totally shocked and it was a very ingenious plot twist for the very aptly named book 'Ensnared' which so fits the story.
Highly recommended and well worth a read, I loved it!
5 stars.
July 16, 2017
‘Ensnared’ is a return to old-school horror, a genre that is dying simply because it is difficult to make a reader scared in a world filled with in-your-face movies and life-like gaming.
But ‘Ensnared’ delivers. A taut plotline gently, almost imperceptibly, builds a tension within the reader as the story unfolds. Claven has taken an imaginative concept and turned it into a novel that pulls the reader in and toys with their fears, daring them to go further even as her immense readability holds them captivated.
By allowing her three main characters to have only brief interactions with the world outside, Claven creates an almost dystopian family, of which each member ultimately contributes to the terror of ‘Ensnared’. But it is her lead character, Amari, who has the complexity to accept both the wickedness that is unfolding, and her inner turmoil caused by her battles with herself and her family. Indeed, it is only the flawed Amari that can rescue her family from the evil in their world.
Claven’s special knack is with description, an ability to make the written word become alive in the reader’s mind. It is this, combined with the wonderfully paced storyline, which ensures ‘Ensared’ is a superb novel, rather than just a good one. Get it – the fear is addictive.
But ‘Ensnared’ delivers. A taut plotline gently, almost imperceptibly, builds a tension within the reader as the story unfolds. Claven has taken an imaginative concept and turned it into a novel that pulls the reader in and toys with their fears, daring them to go further even as her immense readability holds them captivated.
By allowing her three main characters to have only brief interactions with the world outside, Claven creates an almost dystopian family, of which each member ultimately contributes to the terror of ‘Ensnared’. But it is her lead character, Amari, who has the complexity to accept both the wickedness that is unfolding, and her inner turmoil caused by her battles with herself and her family. Indeed, it is only the flawed Amari that can rescue her family from the evil in their world.
Claven’s special knack is with description, an ability to make the written word become alive in the reader’s mind. It is this, combined with the wonderfully paced storyline, which ensures ‘Ensared’ is a superb novel, rather than just a good one. Get it – the fear is addictive.
September 22, 2017
This was the first book from author Sian Claven, and it was a nice first offering.
The story had a lot of clever twists and turns that I appreciated. Amari was a bit of a spoiled and restless young lady with confusion about her future and conflict with her parents. When her father set guidelines she began to show some maturity and she became more likable.
The setting was just isolated enough to set the stage for the creepiness that was about to ensue.
I admit there were several moments in the book that gave me a fright and came out of left field but it was a chilling tale of horror and paranormal events.
Ensnared is a great title and it certainly kept me reading. I am not much of a horror reader, but this one had a lot of interesting elements.
I see a lot of potential in this young writer. She has an eye for detail and a way with the eerie words.
The story had a lot of clever twists and turns that I appreciated. Amari was a bit of a spoiled and restless young lady with confusion about her future and conflict with her parents. When her father set guidelines she began to show some maturity and she became more likable.
The setting was just isolated enough to set the stage for the creepiness that was about to ensue.
I admit there were several moments in the book that gave me a fright and came out of left field but it was a chilling tale of horror and paranormal events.
Ensnared is a great title and it certainly kept me reading. I am not much of a horror reader, but this one had a lot of interesting elements.
I see a lot of potential in this young writer. She has an eye for detail and a way with the eerie words.
March 5, 2020
The author, Sian B. Claven, knows how to weave a tale that is literally dripping with dread. Spooky location ..... check! Clueless parents ...... check! A book containing a trapped girl ...... check! And let's not forget the spirit of the witch who trapped her there! It all makes for an enthralling read that leaves you with shivers down your spine (spooky forest - UGH!!) and an unsettling feeling of having backed the wrong horse completely. Very much recommended.
July 23, 2017
Good old fashioned horror. At times had a twisted fairy tale feel to it. There was just the right amount of suspense and a (spoiler alert) good plot twist at the end. Very clever debut.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2017
Ensnared is the first book Sian B. Claven has written and published. Out of habit I tend to be very wary of first books - more because I feel authors are still finding their footing and their 'voice'. I took a sneak peak during an ad break on TV, reading the first two or three pages...
... two hours later and there I sat on the couch, shivering with what must have been shock because I was huddled in a very warm blanket.
The Book
Amari isn't overly thrilled about moving to a farm house in the middle of nowhere with her parents Jono and Sashqua Ida. She is a 20 year old trapped by indecision over her future, unable to decide on a career path. Dependent on her parents she falls into farm life regretably but with ease. Moving into her new attic-bedroom she discovers a book unlike any other she's ever read. If she had only read between the lines....
My Thoughts
I do not enjoy horrors. In particular, I blame the movies for this, and as the sole reason I've avoided reading too many books in the genre. I find that horror is often overly gory with more focus placed on blood, guts and slashing than on plot. Sian B. Claven has given me a glimpse of how wrong I may have been in avoiding horror books.
I did find the dynamic of Amari and her parents to be a little fuzzy; Where Sashqua gives a definite air of motherly affection and love, giving the reader a clear understanding of the mother/daughter relationship dynamic - this isn't as clear with Jono. I couldn't quite decide what type of Dad he was - strict, overbearing, demanding? Unsure, cautious and concerned? I didn't fully grasp the dynamic between Amari and him which I'd have liked to understand a bit better.
Amari and Kiara's method of interaction left me feeling a little warm and fluffy inside; it was a stunning inclusion which appealed to the imagination and left me wishing a parcel would fall from the rafters in my room (if my room had rafters).
The story is classic horror in approach - spooky forests and shadows, strange noises and the old, eerie house. But it's the way that these elements are combined that left me wondering where exactly Claven would be taking me. I assumed I had it all figured out, I thought I knew why Maggie was there, I thought that Amari would be our hero and that I'd be able to retire to bed satisfied and comfortable.
Sian B. Claven gave me the characters I have come to expect in a horror; curious, cautious and determined young girl, her doting but strict parents, the weird little girl, the looming dark shadow, the trappped soul - building their stories and actions in ways that would be considered necessary for a good story.
And then of course the ending. That infuriating ending. Is it a cliff hanger or a really well executed shock-ending? I do not know. I'm kinda hoping this is the start of a series, but also - I don't think I have the stamina for any potential book 2 *just* yet. I do not think Amari and her companion are done with us.
Conclusion
Like Amari, I was almost certain that time had somehow fast forwarded itself. Had I missed pages? Was the clock wrong? No. No to all. I'd just been swallowed by the book and spat out again, covered in shock and absolute disbelief. Maybe I'll go back for another go, it'll be far easier to do now that I don't have any mirrors near me and it's broad day light.
If you're looking for a horror that packs an incredible plot-gut punch. Ensnared is it, I certainly will be far more open to adding some horror to my shelves.
... two hours later and there I sat on the couch, shivering with what must have been shock because I was huddled in a very warm blanket.
The Book
Amari isn't overly thrilled about moving to a farm house in the middle of nowhere with her parents Jono and Sashqua Ida. She is a 20 year old trapped by indecision over her future, unable to decide on a career path. Dependent on her parents she falls into farm life regretably but with ease. Moving into her new attic-bedroom she discovers a book unlike any other she's ever read. If she had only read between the lines....
My Thoughts
I do not enjoy horrors. In particular, I blame the movies for this, and as the sole reason I've avoided reading too many books in the genre. I find that horror is often overly gory with more focus placed on blood, guts and slashing than on plot. Sian B. Claven has given me a glimpse of how wrong I may have been in avoiding horror books.
I did find the dynamic of Amari and her parents to be a little fuzzy; Where Sashqua gives a definite air of motherly affection and love, giving the reader a clear understanding of the mother/daughter relationship dynamic - this isn't as clear with Jono. I couldn't quite decide what type of Dad he was - strict, overbearing, demanding? Unsure, cautious and concerned? I didn't fully grasp the dynamic between Amari and him which I'd have liked to understand a bit better.
Amari and Kiara's method of interaction left me feeling a little warm and fluffy inside; it was a stunning inclusion which appealed to the imagination and left me wishing a parcel would fall from the rafters in my room (if my room had rafters).
The story is classic horror in approach - spooky forests and shadows, strange noises and the old, eerie house. But it's the way that these elements are combined that left me wondering where exactly Claven would be taking me. I assumed I had it all figured out, I thought I knew why Maggie was there, I thought that Amari would be our hero and that I'd be able to retire to bed satisfied and comfortable.
Sian B. Claven gave me the characters I have come to expect in a horror; curious, cautious and determined young girl, her doting but strict parents, the weird little girl, the looming dark shadow, the trappped soul - building their stories and actions in ways that would be considered necessary for a good story.
And then of course the ending. That infuriating ending. Is it a cliff hanger or a really well executed shock-ending? I do not know. I'm kinda hoping this is the start of a series, but also - I don't think I have the stamina for any potential book 2 *just* yet. I do not think Amari and her companion are done with us.
Conclusion
Like Amari, I was almost certain that time had somehow fast forwarded itself. Had I missed pages? Was the clock wrong? No. No to all. I'd just been swallowed by the book and spat out again, covered in shock and absolute disbelief. Maybe I'll go back for another go, it'll be far easier to do now that I don't have any mirrors near me and it's broad day light.
If you're looking for a horror that packs an incredible plot-gut punch. Ensnared is it, I certainly will be far more open to adding some horror to my shelves.
July 17, 2017
This was a kick-arse horror novella! There was little that the author did not throw at the reader – tumble-down farm house in rural farmlands, a clearing of dead trees that harbours secrets of dark magic, black birds, a ghost girl, smashing glass, entities in mirrors, dead skinned animals, witches, spells… Claven’s imagination is clearly piled with ideas and a plot that draws one into the story immediately and keeps one entertained and guessing.
I think the universal locale of ‘Ensnared’ will give it wide appeal. It is a return to old fashioned horror, well executed and with a finale that cranks things up dramatically. I imagine scores of young adults will devour the book and wait impatiently for the next installment. Best you get writing, Ms Claven!
I think the universal locale of ‘Ensnared’ will give it wide appeal. It is a return to old fashioned horror, well executed and with a finale that cranks things up dramatically. I imagine scores of young adults will devour the book and wait impatiently for the next installment. Best you get writing, Ms Claven!
February 28, 2022
A pleasantly paced ghost story. Although half way through I kind of figured it out, I was still ensnared in this tale and wanted to see how it ended. If you like haunting stories without a lot of gore you'll enjoy this book.
October 10, 2017
This is my first book by this Author.
It will not be my last from the start I was hooked and the story flows so well it has you turning the pages trying to find out what will happen.
So many twists and turns. I liked the characters and would love to read more. I really didn't expect that ending.
It will not be my last from the start I was hooked and the story flows so well it has you turning the pages trying to find out what will happen.
So many twists and turns. I liked the characters and would love to read more. I really didn't expect that ending.
September 11, 2017
Fantastically creepy introduction to the book, I felt specially drawn into the unique character names. The ending was rather quick and sudden, and leaves a lot of room of a sequel which i hope comes soon!
August 18, 2017
Ensnared is a gripping read and somehow took me back to my younger years. It is easy to feel empathy for the young Amari who has no choice but to move with her parents to a new place where she knows nobody and feels isolated from the outside world. Though her parents are loving and only want the best for her, they place pressure on her to make decisions about her future that she does not feel ready to make. Unbeknownst to Amari and her parents, there are dark forces around them trying to get a foothold into Amari’s mind. Slowly the tension builds as the evil presence around them subtly finds a way in and grows stronger, threatening their very existence in this dark and lonely forest setting. Not for the faint hearted...
July 20, 2017
Not knowing what to expect from this new author, i was extremely impressed.
The book travels along at a very good pace, which is why you don't want to put it down.
I really enjoyed her characters.
The main character Amari, is a young woman who has been putting off going to college
and does not know what to do with her life.
It starts with the family moving out of the city to a little farm in the middle of nowhere.
The story really speeds up when her parents allow Amari to move her bedroom to the attic,
where she finds a diary belonging to a girl called Kiara. She starts to read the words, but they disappear and new words appear...
Kiara is trapped in the book, Amari becomes determined to free her, while fighting against
an evil spirit. Be prepared for a major twist.
This is a book to simply enjoy.
The book travels along at a very good pace, which is why you don't want to put it down.
I really enjoyed her characters.
The main character Amari, is a young woman who has been putting off going to college
and does not know what to do with her life.
It starts with the family moving out of the city to a little farm in the middle of nowhere.
The story really speeds up when her parents allow Amari to move her bedroom to the attic,
where she finds a diary belonging to a girl called Kiara. She starts to read the words, but they disappear and new words appear...
Kiara is trapped in the book, Amari becomes determined to free her, while fighting against
an evil spirit. Be prepared for a major twist.
This is a book to simply enjoy.
July 16, 2017
A gripping read from start to finish, the tension is built slowly, merely a 20 year old woman who is forced to move to the country with her parents. From the start, we are met with specters that are strange, with the timeless classics of farmhouses, woods, children and attics. This story leads to a terrifying conclusion, and cannot be put down until one is sure of the fate of all the characters. A brilliant storyline from debut author, Sian B. Claven.
September 22, 2017
A wonderful first novel from a brilliant new author.
It has just enough pace and suspense to keep you turning the pages. Watch out, though, for all is not as it seems and the twist at the end is sure to catch you by surprise.
Although horror is not my favourite genre, I enjoyed this book and cannot wait for what this author has in store for us next.
It has just enough pace and suspense to keep you turning the pages. Watch out, though, for all is not as it seems and the twist at the end is sure to catch you by surprise.
Although horror is not my favourite genre, I enjoyed this book and cannot wait for what this author has in store for us next.
September 26, 2017
Won in the Goodreads Giveaways - my mother's review -
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 6, 2017
Take a bow Sian...for a debut book, I loved reading it. I am not into the horror genre but this one was very interesting. You have a beautiful way of weaving words with simplicity and understanding. The storyline was easy to follow.
August 30, 2017
I haven't read a horror story in a while and Ms Claven's book was chilling and thrilling. Each bit of information through the book is carried through to the end, exactly as the cover suggested "read between the lines". I fell in love with Amari's character, as she enters into her early twenties and finds herself "relating" to Kiara. But of course there are plot changes as the book builds up to an epic finish, leaving one wanting more as the horror unfolds. There were moments I slammed the book closed and looked around...goosebump moments. (Stand alone book, but I would read a follow up). Congratulations on a well put together book which is excellently tied together with really clever and spooky plot twists. Bravo!
August 20, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I decided to read a few chapters before bed and ended up staying up all night and finishing it in one go. The writing was very involving and I couldn't bear to put it down and have to wait to find out what happened next. There was a twist that took me completely by surprise, and I loved it! Great book, can't wait to see what the author brings us next.
September 5, 2017
What a great escape read. I enjoyed the book from the beginning to the end. Loved the main character Amari.
August 20, 2017
As the title suggests, I was completely ensnared in "Ensnared". From the moment I picked up the book I could not put it down. It played on so many of my long established fears and I slept with the light on that night. I can't sing it's praises enough.
August 1, 2017
This story will give you the creeps,make you shiver in your skin and have you not just looking behind you but beside you as well. Nothing like a good old horror story to keep you on your toes. Well done Sian Claven on a great story.
October 23, 2017
More than a ghost story
I love a good ghost story. This one had all the right elements. The author does a nice job of drawing you into Amari’s world. The setting is well-imagined, and the adventure comes complete with some genuinely creepy scares. I also like how the story twisted into more than a ghost story. I’d share more, but, you know... spoilers.
It’s a quick read, but delivers a lot despite its shorter length. A good choice for this Halloween season!
I love a good ghost story. This one had all the right elements. The author does a nice job of drawing you into Amari’s world. The setting is well-imagined, and the adventure comes complete with some genuinely creepy scares. I also like how the story twisted into more than a ghost story. I’d share more, but, you know... spoilers.
It’s a quick read, but delivers a lot despite its shorter length. A good choice for this Halloween season!
October 26, 2021
Captivating
Moving is always a pain, but when weird things start happening it's time to get out! I love the suspense that Sian Claven makes us weave through in order to get the whole story. Another great book!
Moving is always a pain, but when weird things start happening it's time to get out! I love the suspense that Sian Claven makes us weave through in order to get the whole story. Another great book!
May 23, 2022
This was different from the typical books I read. It was highly enjoyable. It was a ghost and spirit story that draws you in from the first page.
July 21, 2019
A fun, quick horror that reminds me of the days spent reading RL Stine and Christopher Pike as a kid.
Really enjoyed this.
Really enjoyed this.
January 31, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. Really good plot to the story. Very well written. Would highly recommend it to anyone who likes this kind of stories. Can't wait to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2018
Uncaged Review: A story that will have you hooked from page one. Amari and her parents move to a farm house where Amari finds a strange journal. Spooky things start to happen. I read this in one sitting as I fell in love with the story. It hooked me from the start and didn’t fail to entertain me until I had finished it. I would now read more of this author’s work. Such a perfect spooky tale for any age to read. Reviewed by Jennifer
April 17, 2019
Kiara has moved to the farm with mom and dad, a Broken down looking old place. Old place with Rats making kiara shriek with terror. This was just the beginning of her nightmare...more to come finding a old diary with hidden secrets....but I dont want to spoil this Fabulous book .I will say it kept me on the Edge of my seat ..pick up your copy.. your gonna Love this author....she never disappoints I've never read a book of hers I have not loved and I know you will love this author as well......
October 16, 2017
I'm such a big fan of any horror story books.
When I read Ensnared I was so impressed by Sian B Claven imagination to write such an amazing book. I read it in two days when I was at the beach.
Sian your books are amazing and you know how to give the readers goosebumps with your books.
For those who hasn't read Ensnared yet, please do!
When I read Ensnared I was so impressed by Sian B Claven imagination to write such an amazing book. I read it in two days when I was at the beach.
Sian your books are amazing and you know how to give the readers goosebumps with your books.
For those who hasn't read Ensnared yet, please do!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews