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Dark Terror #1
The Dowling House
Since 1954, the Dowling House remained unoccupied until George and Melissa purchased it, hoping to renovate it for a profit. Their dream for a new lucrative business encounters a few challenges, but they can be easily overcome….or can they? Join George and Melissa on their amazing journey into the supernatural, but be warned, it is very engaging and you might not get out alive.
- GenresHorrorFictionParanormal
101 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2017
12 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
A. Drew
9 books65 followersA. Drew is a happily married Turkish Australian writer.
She writes paranormal, contemporary romance, including LGBT. She also writes supernatural thriller.
She writes paranormal, contemporary romance, including LGBT. She also writes supernatural thriller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 11, 2017
Fast paced and engaging, The Dowling House is a short read that tells the story of George and Melissa and their encounter with a demon. The amount of detail the author used not only to describe the setting and characters but also the events of the possession and exorcism were all wonderfully written. I would recommend this book for fans of the paranormal and horror.
September 24, 2021
Although this is the first of three novels, I read them in reverse order, somehow, and feel they are all stand-alone enough to be read individually. In fact, I even read a prequel to this first novel before Dowling House so had already met Phil and John the exorcists.
As with the others in the series, the main message is not to mess with the other side via seance or ouija and in this first book Phil and John have their work cut out to get demons exorcised. Anyone who is part of a couple will place themselves in the position of the protagonist who is only trying to do the best that they can.
All I can say about this one, without giving away any spoilers, is that it ain't over until it's over and expect gore and fright to the very end. The usual build to climax and spine chilling writing from this author and well worth five stars.
As with the others in the series, the main message is not to mess with the other side via seance or ouija and in this first book Phil and John have their work cut out to get demons exorcised. Anyone who is part of a couple will place themselves in the position of the protagonist who is only trying to do the best that they can.
All I can say about this one, without giving away any spoilers, is that it ain't over until it's over and expect gore and fright to the very end. The usual build to climax and spine chilling writing from this author and well worth five stars.
September 26, 2021
Back around the middle of the 20th century, an ill-advised séance goes horribly wrong, leaving the participants in a somewhat worse condition than when they started and the house in which they undertook this course of action deserted, and with a creepy reputation.
Fast-forward to the present day and the house is bought by George and Melissa, a young couple with a plan to do it up and sell it on for a large profit to get them out of their financial difficulties. But matters take a turn for the worse …
Blood-curdling supernatural horror from author A Drew which it would probably be a good idea to read in daylight only! It’s the first in a set of three, the second of which I shall begin to read when the sun is high in the sky.
Fast-forward to the present day and the house is bought by George and Melissa, a young couple with a plan to do it up and sell it on for a large profit to get them out of their financial difficulties. But matters take a turn for the worse …
Blood-curdling supernatural horror from author A Drew which it would probably be a good idea to read in daylight only! It’s the first in a set of three, the second of which I shall begin to read when the sun is high in the sky.
October 1, 2023
This book is very hard to put down. The story is about a house but it is the people and what happens to them that matters. As you read, the author keeps the scent of fear ever present.
A. Drew did a terrific job of developing her characters and this added to the suspense as there were times when some acted way out of character.
As the book progressed, I had a desire to put it down, which was overridden by a desire to see what happens next.
While I did like the book, I made sure I had the lights on as I read. It certainly qualifies as a good scary read.
I should note that I felt sorry for George, the boyfriend, who pushed to buy the house for profit but later wished he had researched it more.
I strongly recommend this book for those who love the paranormal and horror.
A. Drew did a terrific job of developing her characters and this added to the suspense as there were times when some acted way out of character.
As the book progressed, I had a desire to put it down, which was overridden by a desire to see what happens next.
While I did like the book, I made sure I had the lights on as I read. It certainly qualifies as a good scary read.
I should note that I felt sorry for George, the boyfriend, who pushed to buy the house for profit but later wished he had researched it more.
I strongly recommend this book for those who love the paranormal and horror.
September 27, 2018
This is the first A Drew book that I've picked up, but I'm interested in reading more. It's quite a short story. It starts with a tragedy that results in a seance. Years later the house is purchased by a young couple who have experienced their own tragedy. The main part of the story is told from the perspectives of the house-buyer, George, and later a psychic, Phil. It feels as though The Dowling House is the work of the developing voice of an emerging writer. The characters could be fuller and the start and end could have been tied more strongly together, however the horror is visceral, sometimes sexy, frequently violent. I believe A Drew is a writer to watch.
April 28, 2019
Before reading this, I was reading two different books by different authors that was heavy on details and mood, ( burned out big time-- too many characters to follow and topics was depressing etc UGGHHH!)
I was searching for something light and short story and this book hit the things I was looking for, made me appreciate this author's approach, a godsend. YEEHAWW!
It is short enough and clear details on a spooky horror? (Brief spooky sections whew and not too graphic details on horror murder victim! )
Paranormal horror theme (my first theme). I smiled reading on a physic or medium trying to evict the ghost spell on the house. I like paranomal themes and have read this author before. I will search out other books by this author. :)
I was searching for something light and short story and this book hit the things I was looking for, made me appreciate this author's approach, a godsend. YEEHAWW!
It is short enough and clear details on a spooky horror? (Brief spooky sections whew and not too graphic details on horror murder victim! )
Paranormal horror theme (my first theme). I smiled reading on a physic or medium trying to evict the ghost spell on the house. I like paranomal themes and have read this author before. I will search out other books by this author. :)
January 16, 2018
Gripping Horror Story!
What could have easily succumbed to a typical story about an old house haunted by evil spirits possessing its occupants over the years, became so much more because of the author’s adept storytelling prowess to string the reader along. Like a violinist, A. Drew executed those rapid, screeching sequence of notes when called for—causing the hairs on the nape of my neck to stand on end.
The story held me in its grip from start to unpredictable finish. Horror elements set aside, the characters’ background and vulnerabilities are intricately interwoven throughout this well-thought and well-written novel.
Once you cross over the reading threshold into Dowling House, the story will possess you!
What could have easily succumbed to a typical story about an old house haunted by evil spirits possessing its occupants over the years, became so much more because of the author’s adept storytelling prowess to string the reader along. Like a violinist, A. Drew executed those rapid, screeching sequence of notes when called for—causing the hairs on the nape of my neck to stand on end.
The story held me in its grip from start to unpredictable finish. Horror elements set aside, the characters’ background and vulnerabilities are intricately interwoven throughout this well-thought and well-written novel.
Once you cross over the reading threshold into Dowling House, the story will possess you!
November 28, 2017
I just finished reading, The Dowling House.
Wow! What a ride that Was! Phew... A very chilling and thought provoking read indeed!
It's not often I give a five star rating. But it deserves it.
I was impressed at how well this book is edited and thoughtfully written.
It's a fast-paced, shocking thrill of a ride that takes you into hidden realms of fear. An unseen world where you just might discover the secrets that exist there, may be better off left to rot.
Bottom line, I really enjoyed this book -I especially loved Phil (I won’t spoil it for you here though).
The only thing I regret: I wish it were a longer ride.
This book would make a great gift this year for those who love horror books. It’s shorter than a novel, yet long enough to get to know the characters.
I recommend it for those who like a good haunt in the theme and content of: The Stand, Watchers, Pet Cemetery, The Exorcism of Emily Rose , and the like.
Spooky. Smart. Insightful. Riveting.
~What a treat!
Wow! What a ride that Was! Phew... A very chilling and thought provoking read indeed!
It's not often I give a five star rating. But it deserves it.
I was impressed at how well this book is edited and thoughtfully written.
It's a fast-paced, shocking thrill of a ride that takes you into hidden realms of fear. An unseen world where you just might discover the secrets that exist there, may be better off left to rot.
Bottom line, I really enjoyed this book -I especially loved Phil (I won’t spoil it for you here though).
The only thing I regret: I wish it were a longer ride.
This book would make a great gift this year for those who love horror books. It’s shorter than a novel, yet long enough to get to know the characters.
I recommend it for those who like a good haunt in the theme and content of: The Stand, Watchers, Pet Cemetery, The Exorcism of Emily Rose , and the like.
Spooky. Smart. Insightful. Riveting.
~What a treat!
August 16, 2018
Review: THE DOWLING HOUSE by A. Drew
For me the strength of this supernatural horror lay in the characters as much as in the haunting, which is implacable and quite scary. The characters, of two different eras, are well-developed and the authors do well at drawing out the hidden issues and revealing them transposed against the era's cultural mores.
The earlier period (1954) reminded me (in characters and plotting and setting) of the Gothic suspense I devoured as a child antiquities ago.
For me the strength of this supernatural horror lay in the characters as much as in the haunting, which is implacable and quite scary. The characters, of two different eras, are well-developed and the authors do well at drawing out the hidden issues and revealing them transposed against the era's cultural mores.
The earlier period (1954) reminded me (in characters and plotting and setting) of the Gothic suspense I devoured as a child antiquities ago.
March 8, 2019
Fantastic
Wow. Wasn’t prepared when I started this book for it being so very compelling. Couldn’t put it down till I got to the end and what an end. Wow lily it was amazing I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend it to those who love this genre. Great great great going to look for book 2 now.
Wow. Wasn’t prepared when I started this book for it being so very compelling. Couldn’t put it down till I got to the end and what an end. Wow lily it was amazing I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would recommend it to those who love this genre. Great great great going to look for book 2 now.
September 22, 2018
Deliciously campy!
April 22, 2019
Wow wow wow!!
What a ride. The chills from reading this. Thrilling, shocking, and heart breaking with surprises you don't see coming. You might want to read this one during daylight hours.
What a ride. The chills from reading this. Thrilling, shocking, and heart breaking with surprises you don't see coming. You might want to read this one during daylight hours.
January 11, 2020
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: The Dowling House
Subtitle: (Dark Terror #1)
Author: A. Drew
Genre: Horror, Supernatural
Part of a series? No
Order in series:
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
A beautiful old house, unoccupied since the fifties hides evil within its walls. A young couple buys the house expecting it to be a good investment but soon find first impressions can be deceptive. A chilling read which I nearly put down due to being so chilling.
What I liked about the book:
The book continuously kept you on your toes and held your heart in a vice-like grip.
What I didn’t like about the book:
Definitely not a book to read at bedtime if you want a good and restful sleep. The book was a really good read.
My favourite bits in the book:
How the seemingly weak guy managed to save the day.
My least favourite bits in the book:
How salvation came a little too late.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
I believe this author has written more books.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book had similar chilling moments to the movie ‘Carrie’.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Probably not
Adult Yes
If you like horror, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Since 1954, the Dowling House remained unoccupied until George and Melissa purchased it, hoping to renovate it for a profit. Their dream for a new lucrative business encounters a few challenges, but they can be easily overcome….or can they? Join George and Melissa on their amazing journey into the supernatural, but be warned, it is very engaging and you might not get out alive.
About the Author:
A. Drew is a happily married Turkish Australian writer.
She writes paranormal, contemporary romance, including LGBT. She also writes supernatural thriller.
Basic Details:
Book Title: The Dowling House
Subtitle: (Dark Terror #1)
Author: A. Drew
Genre: Horror, Supernatural
Part of a series? No
Order in series:
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
A beautiful old house, unoccupied since the fifties hides evil within its walls. A young couple buys the house expecting it to be a good investment but soon find first impressions can be deceptive. A chilling read which I nearly put down due to being so chilling.
What I liked about the book:
The book continuously kept you on your toes and held your heart in a vice-like grip.
What I didn’t like about the book:
Definitely not a book to read at bedtime if you want a good and restful sleep. The book was a really good read.
My favourite bits in the book:
How the seemingly weak guy managed to save the day.
My least favourite bits in the book:
How salvation came a little too late.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
I believe this author has written more books.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This book had similar chilling moments to the movie ‘Carrie’.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Probably not
Adult Yes
If you like horror, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Since 1954, the Dowling House remained unoccupied until George and Melissa purchased it, hoping to renovate it for a profit. Their dream for a new lucrative business encounters a few challenges, but they can be easily overcome….or can they? Join George and Melissa on their amazing journey into the supernatural, but be warned, it is very engaging and you might not get out alive.
About the Author:
A. Drew is a happily married Turkish Australian writer.
She writes paranormal, contemporary romance, including LGBT. She also writes supernatural thriller.
July 14, 2024
Quite chilling
Reading "Dowling House" was an unexpected journey into a chilling narrative that gripped me from start to finish. The story, crafted by the imaginative A. Drew, revolves around George and Melissa who buy an old, abandoned house with the dream of renovating it for profit. However, they soon find themselves entangled in its dark history and supernatural occurrences that turn their venture into a haunting ordeal.
The book expertly weaves together timelines and characters from different eras, with a particular focus on the year 1954, which adds a rich layer of Gothic suspense reminiscent of the classics I loved as a child. The characters are meticulously developed, making it easy to become invested in their fates. The contrast between the past and present is skillfully handled, revealing hidden issues and cultural nuances that enhance the story's depth and intrigue.
What I admired most about "Dowling House" was its relentless pace and the author's ability to maintain suspense through well-timed twists and a detailed narrative that almost makes you wonder if the author herself has had encounters with the paranormal. The horror elements are not just superficial scares but are integrated into the storyline in ways that evoke a genuine sense of dread.
This is not a book with a happy ending, and it doesn’t need one to be compelling. A. Drew’s narrative prowess shines as she takes a simple ghost story to its limits, creating scenes of intense horror that I couldn’t have imagined myself. The final surprise twist was the icing on the cake, leaving me eagerly anticipating her next work.
Overall, "Dowling House" is a masterful blend of horror, suspense, and historical narrative that offers more than just a ghost story. It’s a thrilling ride for anyone who appreciates a good scare with a side of depth. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or a casual reader like myself, drawn in by striking cover art, this book is well worth your time.
Reading "Dowling House" was an unexpected journey into a chilling narrative that gripped me from start to finish. The story, crafted by the imaginative A. Drew, revolves around George and Melissa who buy an old, abandoned house with the dream of renovating it for profit. However, they soon find themselves entangled in its dark history and supernatural occurrences that turn their venture into a haunting ordeal.
The book expertly weaves together timelines and characters from different eras, with a particular focus on the year 1954, which adds a rich layer of Gothic suspense reminiscent of the classics I loved as a child. The characters are meticulously developed, making it easy to become invested in their fates. The contrast between the past and present is skillfully handled, revealing hidden issues and cultural nuances that enhance the story's depth and intrigue.
What I admired most about "Dowling House" was its relentless pace and the author's ability to maintain suspense through well-timed twists and a detailed narrative that almost makes you wonder if the author herself has had encounters with the paranormal. The horror elements are not just superficial scares but are integrated into the storyline in ways that evoke a genuine sense of dread.
This is not a book with a happy ending, and it doesn’t need one to be compelling. A. Drew’s narrative prowess shines as she takes a simple ghost story to its limits, creating scenes of intense horror that I couldn’t have imagined myself. The final surprise twist was the icing on the cake, leaving me eagerly anticipating her next work.
Overall, "Dowling House" is a masterful blend of horror, suspense, and historical narrative that offers more than just a ghost story. It’s a thrilling ride for anyone who appreciates a good scare with a side of depth. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or a casual reader like myself, drawn in by striking cover art, this book is well worth your time.
December 10, 2017
The Dowling house is a nice quick read set over two time periods. At times atmospheric and the descriptions vivid, this is a classic styled haunted house novel. When will people learn never to buy a house that was the scene of a horrific murder! But then again we wouldn't get to feed our passions for the macabre. The story shifts through following three different sets of individuals so it is hard to comment on one main protagonist, At the beginning you get a glimpse of the house' past history and meet the previous owners, following their unfortunate tale. Years later when a new couple move into the empty house the story switches to their lives and focus's on them as they discover they have bought more than a rundown unkempt property. The final third of the book sees the story switch to Phil and his sidekick who are brought in to investigate the unusual events that have occurred in the house.
January 19, 2018
This is an interesting read. While the basics of the book (possession) are not unique, the author puts some nice twists on it to make it their own original storyline. I was a little worried that it would not explain the background, but it does and in a good way. It is not just a case of ‘ here’s what happened and why’. It starts off in the past, providing some history and hints as to what is to come, but still leaves an element of mystery there that does not get answered until later in the book. It has an unexpected ending, which is nice. I won’t provide details as I don’t believe in giving away spoilers. This book is an enjoyable read. For me, though, it does seem a bit rushed in places. The séance scene, for example, could have been longer and more detailed to build up the tension. Overall, if you are looking for a good book that you don’t get too drawn into and won’t give you nightmares, you should give this one a go.
July 3, 2024
A gripping read!
This is not my usual genre and it has been a while since I have read a horror- however - I was truly gripped! The Dowling house is a quick read - but not just because of the length of the story.
We meet characters George and Melissa who have purchased an abandoned house, hoping to renovate it. Their dream of a new business encounters a few issues.
I loved that the story was set over two time periods and that it is written in the classic style of a haunted house story too.
The story shifts through following three different sets of individuals, setting a glimpse of the house' past history and meet the previous owners, following their unfortunate tale.
Such a gripping, harrowing and scary tale! Thanks for the chills! Highly recommended.
This is not my usual genre and it has been a while since I have read a horror- however - I was truly gripped! The Dowling house is a quick read - but not just because of the length of the story.
We meet characters George and Melissa who have purchased an abandoned house, hoping to renovate it. Their dream of a new business encounters a few issues.
I loved that the story was set over two time periods and that it is written in the classic style of a haunted house story too.
The story shifts through following three different sets of individuals, setting a glimpse of the house' past history and meet the previous owners, following their unfortunate tale.
Such a gripping, harrowing and scary tale! Thanks for the chills! Highly recommended.
October 5, 2020
The Dowling House was an unsettling read for me. It had several dark and thrilling elements to it. The history of the house alone was chilling and then what happens after George and Melissa buy the home uncovers even more darkness. Their excitement quickly turns to dread as they start to uncover what happened in the house. Soon after more strange things begin taking place in the house haunting the couple. An evil entity lurks and waits for the perfect time to strike wreaking havoc on the couple.
This was my first time reading A. Drew's work and I enjoyed it. Great story telling. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
This was my first time reading A. Drew's work and I enjoyed it. Great story telling. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
September 14, 2025
I wish this book had been a little more stretched out. The pacing felt very fast, and I think it could have benefited from more detail. I was left with so many questions. For example, the beginning sets up a mystery involving the daughter’s death and a strange house, but it’s barely mentioned again. At one point, I even went back to check if I had missed a chapter.
In terms of scares, I personally found it lacking. That said, I admit I’m tough to scare (I rarely find books or movies that truly unsettle me) so I recognize that might just be me.
Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read, and I would still recommend it to fellow horror fans
In terms of scares, I personally found it lacking. That said, I admit I’m tough to scare (I rarely find books or movies that truly unsettle me) so I recognize that might just be me.
Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read, and I would still recommend it to fellow horror fans
January 7, 2022
A realistic new twist to a supernatural encounter
Great storyline, I loved it! You put the reader right into the action as I wanted to help the psychics with their exorcism. I loved how you gave Phil his credibility of explaining his past childhood of when he first encountered his abilities.
Also their use of herbs, candles and chanting were similar to what I had used in my book for voodoo expelling of an evil possessed dragon.
I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Great storyline, I loved it! You put the reader right into the action as I wanted to help the psychics with their exorcism. I loved how you gave Phil his credibility of explaining his past childhood of when he first encountered his abilities.
Also their use of herbs, candles and chanting were similar to what I had used in my book for voodoo expelling of an evil possessed dragon.
I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
June 26, 2024
Delightful and thrilling !!
The author's exceptional creativity shines through as the story unfolds. She masterfully intertwines the experiences of characters across various time periods, drawing readers deeply into the narrative. Melissa and George, in particular, transcend their roles as mere characters, becoming friends whose journeys you eagerly follow. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait for the next installment of this captivating saga!
The author's exceptional creativity shines through as the story unfolds. She masterfully intertwines the experiences of characters across various time periods, drawing readers deeply into the narrative. Melissa and George, in particular, transcend their roles as mere characters, becoming friends whose journeys you eagerly follow. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait for the next installment of this captivating saga!
August 25, 2024
Enjoyed it!
"Dowling House" by A. Drew is a chilling masterpiece that weaves together dark history, supernatural occurrences, and gripping suspense.
George and Melissa's dream renovation turns into a haunting ordeal, revealing hidden secrets and eerie connections to the past.
With meticulous character development, relentless pacing, and expertly timed twists, this book delivers intense horror and a shocking finale.
A must-read for fans of horror, suspense, and historical narratives.
"Dowling House" by A. Drew is a chilling masterpiece that weaves together dark history, supernatural occurrences, and gripping suspense.
George and Melissa's dream renovation turns into a haunting ordeal, revealing hidden secrets and eerie connections to the past.
With meticulous character development, relentless pacing, and expertly timed twists, this book delivers intense horror and a shocking finale.
A must-read for fans of horror, suspense, and historical narratives.
May 9, 2021
If you like paranormal fiction this is one good short read.
I liked the story but felt like the characters needed more background. Having read the third book first this one seemed pretty little lacking in development due to the third book the characters were younger than in this one. This one should have been three and three should have been one. Otherwise it is a good self contained story and I enjoyed reading it
I liked the story but felt like the characters needed more background. Having read the third book first this one seemed pretty little lacking in development due to the third book the characters were younger than in this one. This one should have been three and three should have been one. Otherwise it is a good self contained story and I enjoyed reading it
April 4, 2025
Horrific Rollercoaster!
I recommend not to read this one at night in bed alone, as it’s terrifying. You will find yourself transported into this grisly tale of possession, black magic, mediums, and nasty deaths that will make you want to check under the bed and your bedroom cupboard before going to sleep. It’s a compelling read. You won’t be able to put it down.
I recommend not to read this one at night in bed alone, as it’s terrifying. You will find yourself transported into this grisly tale of possession, black magic, mediums, and nasty deaths that will make you want to check under the bed and your bedroom cupboard before going to sleep. It’s a compelling read. You won’t be able to put it down.
March 30, 2018
This is a well written traditional horror story. The characters are nicely developed and the pace kept this reader going. There are a few gruesome bits adding to the depth. If you like horror stories, you won't be disappointed.
November 19, 2018
This book gave me chills. I didn't really care for the main characters, the original Dowling family and the couple who later bought their home, but their stories were sad and terrifying. This was well-written and engrossing. It was a very creepy read.
January 30, 2019
The plot caught my attention, as did the reviews and at a Kindle bargain, I could not resist. The writing did not grab my attention. Too many clichés. I gave it two stars because I did not finish it. Maybe it would've gotten better.
December 6, 2019
Easy entry to horror/paranormal
The scene is set brilliantly, enough to give a shiver or two. The oace picks up dramatically and I did find it difficult to stop reading. A good one to start with if, like me, you don’t normally read this genre.
The scene is set brilliantly, enough to give a shiver or two. The oace picks up dramatically and I did find it difficult to stop reading. A good one to start with if, like me, you don’t normally read this genre.
January 21, 2018
Decent story but with pretty graphic unnecessary sex scenes.
July 27, 2018
I love pretty much everything paranormal, but I found this story exceptional. Interesting characters and wonderful writing kept me turning pages.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews