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The Haunting in Barry's Lodge
Some things refuse to stay buried...
Alfred, a washed-up author, plagued by failures can’t believe his luck when his father-in-law, Frank, provides him with a chance that he direly craved for:
Seven days alone in an isolated Motel with the task of finishing his upcoming book!
But little does he know about the Motel’s unsavory history. Hidden in the copse of trees and about 400 miles away from his home, it is a two-storey facade located in the dark forest of Skiddaw. With no WIFI, poor signals and weird set of rules, the dark atmosphere soon turns his seemingly idyllic trip into a living nightmare. Apart from the usual creaks, groans, and moans of the motel, he soon finds himself face to face with an entity. An urban legend that is lurking in the woods long before the motel found its existing foundations.
The Motel’s dark and deadly history quickly becomes tangled with Alfred’s life as he frantically searches for answers. Barry, the caretaker, is hiding something. But what is it? Is there someone else living in the motel besides him? Or is Barry not what he seemingly appears?
Alfred rapidly begins to lose his tenuous grip on reality as he sinks further and further into an intricately designed game of deceit and lies that might put his life in danger! Or is he a threat to himself and everybody around him?
Alfred, a washed-up author, plagued by failures can’t believe his luck when his father-in-law, Frank, provides him with a chance that he direly craved for:
Seven days alone in an isolated Motel with the task of finishing his upcoming book!
But little does he know about the Motel’s unsavory history. Hidden in the copse of trees and about 400 miles away from his home, it is a two-storey facade located in the dark forest of Skiddaw. With no WIFI, poor signals and weird set of rules, the dark atmosphere soon turns his seemingly idyllic trip into a living nightmare. Apart from the usual creaks, groans, and moans of the motel, he soon finds himself face to face with an entity. An urban legend that is lurking in the woods long before the motel found its existing foundations.
The Motel’s dark and deadly history quickly becomes tangled with Alfred’s life as he frantically searches for answers. Barry, the caretaker, is hiding something. But what is it? Is there someone else living in the motel besides him? Or is Barry not what he seemingly appears?
Alfred rapidly begins to lose his tenuous grip on reality as he sinks further and further into an intricately designed game of deceit and lies that might put his life in danger! Or is he a threat to himself and everybody around him?
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2023
463 people are currently reading
416 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 30, 2017
Received a copy in exchange for a fair review.
Okay. I *did* wish that the book had more polish in a few places. But it was exactly what I was in the mood for, so I guess that just has to be overlooked. It was a solid 4 stars of cheesy, over-the-top, nawwwww-that-can't-be-it-is-it? horror. I called the twist. Not too early, juuuuust right--I felt smug that I'd figured it out, then realized that the author wanted me to figure it out just a little early because that was more fun. It was one of those books that you laugh at, not because the book deserved to be mocked, but because both you and the writer recognize that certain agreements have been made and shall be carried out OR ELSE!!! For example, there will be BATS. There will be words WRITTEN IN BLOOD. There will be HANDS CHILLED BY DEATH. There will be MYSTERIOUS NOISES THAT MUST BE THE PLUMBING. BROKEN MIRRORS and STRANGE AGREEMENTS SIGNED WITH A CROW'S FEATHER, DOTTED WITH BLOOOOOOD.
If that's the mood you're in, go for it. If you're not in a popcorn kind of mood, go for something else!
Okay. I *did* wish that the book had more polish in a few places. But it was exactly what I was in the mood for, so I guess that just has to be overlooked. It was a solid 4 stars of cheesy, over-the-top, nawwwww-that-can't-be-it-is-it? horror. I called the twist. Not too early, juuuuust right--I felt smug that I'd figured it out, then realized that the author wanted me to figure it out just a little early because that was more fun. It was one of those books that you laugh at, not because the book deserved to be mocked, but because both you and the writer recognize that certain agreements have been made and shall be carried out OR ELSE!!! For example, there will be BATS. There will be words WRITTEN IN BLOOD. There will be HANDS CHILLED BY DEATH. There will be MYSTERIOUS NOISES THAT MUST BE THE PLUMBING. BROKEN MIRRORS and STRANGE AGREEMENTS SIGNED WITH A CROW'S FEATHER, DOTTED WITH BLOOOOOOD.
If that's the mood you're in, go for it. If you're not in a popcorn kind of mood, go for something else!
April 30, 2017
Peculiar Read that all I can say. Unlike the usual scary stories, it doesn't rely on gore and graphic details to scare you but adopts a very different approach.
Liked it a lot. Finished it in 2 hours.
Liked it a lot. Finished it in 2 hours.
April 30, 2017
It's been a long time since I read some serious horror/ thriller. This book made me finish it in one go. It is definitely one of the best on the edge thrillers.
The writing style is very casual and easy to understand. The book cover obviously is very interesting to pick up the book. The blurb is also tempting enough. The story is about an author(Alfred) who lacked motivation from a long time to finish his book and comes to a haunted hotel unknowingly searching for a peaceful undisturbed environment to finish his book.
The story starts out with a brief introduction about Alfred and goes through his experience in the creepy motel. The mystery is maintained until the end and the twists are very unpredictable. My only complaint about this book is that it could have been edited better. There are some grammatical mistakes that were overlooked during editing and it surely disappointed me. Other than that, the story is dealt in a good way as required for a horror novel. I felt the climax is quick though unexpected. It might have been more clear.
I recommend this to every reader who loves horror and on the edge thrillers. This wonderful book kept my attention throughout. Moreover, it's free on kindle today and tomorrow. Check it out!
PS: I have received this book from the author and this is my honest opinion on the book.
The writing style is very casual and easy to understand. The book cover obviously is very interesting to pick up the book. The blurb is also tempting enough. The story is about an author(Alfred) who lacked motivation from a long time to finish his book and comes to a haunted hotel unknowingly searching for a peaceful undisturbed environment to finish his book.
The story starts out with a brief introduction about Alfred and goes through his experience in the creepy motel. The mystery is maintained until the end and the twists are very unpredictable. My only complaint about this book is that it could have been edited better. There are some grammatical mistakes that were overlooked during editing and it surely disappointed me. Other than that, the story is dealt in a good way as required for a horror novel. I felt the climax is quick though unexpected. It might have been more clear.
I recommend this to every reader who loves horror and on the edge thrillers. This wonderful book kept my attention throughout. Moreover, it's free on kindle today and tomorrow. Check it out!
PS: I have received this book from the author and this is my honest opinion on the book.
July 1, 2017
I was addicted from page one. I really enjoyed the writing style and the story unfolded in a great and interesting way after Alfred ends up in the haunted lodge. Good Ghost story
February 8, 2018
I am going to be going against general consensus here but this story just didn't sit right with me for a variety of reasons. I'm going to put my review into flat out pros and cons, which is something I haven't felt the need to do before.
Pro's: The copy of the novella I downloaded was the 5th edition and as such looks to be far more polished than previous reviews suggest. It was well written with good grammar and typesetting and only the odd typo, which doesn't really count. The cover has also had a reboot and looks far more professional and ties in better with the story.
The author did a wonderful job creating an anxiety filled atmosphere and detailing Arthur's descent into fear and paranoia.
Cons: In my opinion the plot didn't run smoothly and there were times I was going "Huh?", " Where's the author going with this?" and "Well, that doesn't make sense". The general premise was creepy but the main plot and subplots didn't mesh together well. The mental asylum escapees plotline fitted in well with the general plot of an unsuccessful, aspiring author being sent to Barry's Lodge by his father-in-law as a last resort to get his shit together. The whole subplot of Mad Mary sort of lost me even though she was the source of the haunting. The story of Mad Mary given in a chapter went some some way to explaining her but still didn't explain how she came to haunt the lodge (ie. how did she die?) and what exactly she was. The whole "evil forest" premise sort of lost me as well. Finally, the ending seemed rushed. I know the author was going for a "shocking twist" ending but it still felt like there were some gaps that needed filling.
I think if the book was given a professional editing to help with the plotting and gaps, it would be a far better "poop your pants" ghost story.
Pro's: The copy of the novella I downloaded was the 5th edition and as such looks to be far more polished than previous reviews suggest. It was well written with good grammar and typesetting and only the odd typo, which doesn't really count. The cover has also had a reboot and looks far more professional and ties in better with the story.
The author did a wonderful job creating an anxiety filled atmosphere and detailing Arthur's descent into fear and paranoia.
Cons: In my opinion the plot didn't run smoothly and there were times I was going "Huh?", " Where's the author going with this?" and "Well, that doesn't make sense". The general premise was creepy but the main plot and subplots didn't mesh together well. The mental asylum escapees plotline fitted in well with the general plot of an unsuccessful, aspiring author being sent to Barry's Lodge by his father-in-law as a last resort to get his shit together. The whole subplot of Mad Mary sort of lost me even though she was the source of the haunting. The story of Mad Mary given in a chapter went some some way to explaining her but still didn't explain how she came to haunt the lodge (ie. how did she die?) and what exactly she was. The whole "evil forest" premise sort of lost me as well. Finally, the ending seemed rushed. I know the author was going for a "shocking twist" ending but it still felt like there were some gaps that needed filling.
I think if the book was given a professional editing to help with the plotting and gaps, it would be a far better "poop your pants" ghost story.
May 23, 2017
I read this book two times because the first version released by Miss Walters had plenty of errors, but I must say that the second edition was an improved one. And personally speaking, I enjoyed it more the second time. No wonder, a good plot suffers due to bad editing! But the experience was overall a good one. Will look out for this author.
June 25, 2017
Simply loved reading this book. Well weaved plot with enough supernatural elements to keep me interested. I wish it was longer though
October 26, 2017
The Haunting of Barry's Lodge by Annie Walters is a quick, engaging horror/thriller with settings that are very typical and anticipated. A quintessential ghost story to curl up with would rather describe it perfectly.
Alfred is an aspiring author who has been trying to write a book since years. But due to his familial responsibilities, he ends up doing odd jobs without making any real progress with his book. When his father in law suggests that Alfred spend a week at the isolated motel, Barry's Lodge, he jumps at the opportunity. A week without disturbances should be enough to come up with a draft. But little does Alfred know that Barry's Lodge has a disturbing past and he realizes it soon as it doesn't allow him a moment's peace. Amidst zero connectivity, strange noises and even stranger sightings, Alfred's agitation is so strong that he just wants to leave the place. But will he succeeded?
The story is a typical horror tale. With ghosts, strange noises and horrifying sights, it is a complete book in the said genre. The writing style is something that I wasn't comfortable with. In my opinion, it could have been more polished. The narration is in the third person. The story line was predictable after a point but, nevertheless, it is an absorbing read. It is quick, which gives no room for unnecessary details, which I love. The description of the lodge and its surrounding is done well, in fact, a perfect read for a rainy weekend, I would say.
I wouldn't describe The Haunting of Barry's Lodge as a fantastic read because it isn't a unique story. But it did manage to keep me engaged throughout. A decent read for thriller/horror lovers.
Alfred is an aspiring author who has been trying to write a book since years. But due to his familial responsibilities, he ends up doing odd jobs without making any real progress with his book. When his father in law suggests that Alfred spend a week at the isolated motel, Barry's Lodge, he jumps at the opportunity. A week without disturbances should be enough to come up with a draft. But little does Alfred know that Barry's Lodge has a disturbing past and he realizes it soon as it doesn't allow him a moment's peace. Amidst zero connectivity, strange noises and even stranger sightings, Alfred's agitation is so strong that he just wants to leave the place. But will he succeeded?
The story is a typical horror tale. With ghosts, strange noises and horrifying sights, it is a complete book in the said genre. The writing style is something that I wasn't comfortable with. In my opinion, it could have been more polished. The narration is in the third person. The story line was predictable after a point but, nevertheless, it is an absorbing read. It is quick, which gives no room for unnecessary details, which I love. The description of the lodge and its surrounding is done well, in fact, a perfect read for a rainy weekend, I would say.
I wouldn't describe The Haunting of Barry's Lodge as a fantastic read because it isn't a unique story. But it did manage to keep me engaged throughout. A decent read for thriller/horror lovers.
June 28, 2017
STORY-LINE THE HAUNTING OF BARRY'S LODGE BY ANNIE WALTERS:
In The Haunting of Barry's Lodge, up and coming British author Annie Walters, created a psychological thriller which is dark, disturbing and scary. Alfred's a failure at everything he tries. Although he has not written a word in 5 years, he believes he's a writer. The long-awaited novel is almost nonexistent. His father-in-law, who has financed Alfred's family for years, gives him one last chance. A week in a remote lodge to write his book or he's cut off.
But what Alfred finds at Barry's Lodge will not be peace and quite in which to write but terror. With a long history of disturbing events, Barry's Lodge takes hold of Alfred mind and test his sanity as he falls under it's spell. My review of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Author Annie Walters, created a deeply psychological thriller in The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. The main character, Alfred, frightened and alone, wonders if he is loosing his mind. With terrifying moments of ghostly appearance, strange emails, weird sounds, voices, mad Martha, and Barry the owner, Walters kept me on the edge of my seat. I began to wonder if Barry's mental disturbed, as well as, a failure. Walters created a vivid monstrous history of horror for Barry's Lodge; Alfred descends into hell.
I found the pace of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge fast with a well-developed story-line. The events developed smoothly as Walters created her tale of horror. Transitioning smoothly from scene to scene, Walters described each scene in detail. Ghost, monsters, and madness fill The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. With an ending which I did not expect, Walters concluded a well crafted psychological thriller. Were the monsters real? You will have to read the book to find out.
THE HAUNTING OF BARRY'S LODGE RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4
FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I borrowed this book from kindle unlimited. I chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest psychological thriller book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. No one influenced my psychological thriller book review of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge.
In The Haunting of Barry's Lodge, up and coming British author Annie Walters, created a psychological thriller which is dark, disturbing and scary. Alfred's a failure at everything he tries. Although he has not written a word in 5 years, he believes he's a writer. The long-awaited novel is almost nonexistent. His father-in-law, who has financed Alfred's family for years, gives him one last chance. A week in a remote lodge to write his book or he's cut off.
But what Alfred finds at Barry's Lodge will not be peace and quite in which to write but terror. With a long history of disturbing events, Barry's Lodge takes hold of Alfred mind and test his sanity as he falls under it's spell. My review of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge follows.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:
Author Annie Walters, created a deeply psychological thriller in The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. The main character, Alfred, frightened and alone, wonders if he is loosing his mind. With terrifying moments of ghostly appearance, strange emails, weird sounds, voices, mad Martha, and Barry the owner, Walters kept me on the edge of my seat. I began to wonder if Barry's mental disturbed, as well as, a failure. Walters created a vivid monstrous history of horror for Barry's Lodge; Alfred descends into hell.
I found the pace of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge fast with a well-developed story-line. The events developed smoothly as Walters created her tale of horror. Transitioning smoothly from scene to scene, Walters described each scene in detail. Ghost, monsters, and madness fill The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. With an ending which I did not expect, Walters concluded a well crafted psychological thriller. Were the monsters real? You will have to read the book to find out.
THE HAUNTING OF BARRY'S LODGE RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4
FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:
Additionally, I borrowed this book from kindle unlimited. I chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest psychological thriller book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. No one influenced my psychological thriller book review of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge.
June 30, 2017
I loved this! Cool psychological and very strange tale. I distinctly remember not wanting it to finish. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
September 23, 2017
For me this book started out a little slow, but picked up pace as time went on. The story is about a man named Alfred who thinks he is a writer and his family decides he needs to maybe get away somewhere to put his writing skills to the test. Alfred goes to a lodge that is out in the middle of nowhere to try and write his novel.
He thinks he will be able to get in writer's mode and not be disturbed. But what he finds out at the lodge is far from peaceful as things start happening to him which will stretch his mind beyond its limits. Is something haunting Barry's Lodge or is it all in Alfred's mind? You will just have to read the book to find out. Three stars for this one.
He thinks he will be able to get in writer's mode and not be disturbed. But what he finds out at the lodge is far from peaceful as things start happening to him which will stretch his mind beyond its limits. Is something haunting Barry's Lodge or is it all in Alfred's mind? You will just have to read the book to find out. Three stars for this one.
September 25, 2023
This was a quick, but engaging story with settings that are very typical of what the reader would anticipate with a "haunting". A ghost story for the "Ghost Story Junkie" to curl up with. Our main character, Alfred, is an aspiring author who has been trying to write a book for many years. Due to his familial responsibilities, he winds up doing odd jobs without making any real progress with his book. When his father-in-law suggests that Alfred spend a week at an isolated motel where he would have less if no distractions, Barry’s Lodge, he thinks this is the perfect opportunity that he needs. He plans for a week without disturbances...that should give him enough time to come up with a draft. Little does our Alfred know that Barry’s Lodge has a deeply disturbing past, and he quickly realizes it as it doesn’t the lodge doesn't allow him even a moment of peace. There's zero connectivity, strange noises and even stranger sightings, Alfred’s agitation is so strong that he just wants to leave the place, but he soon realizes that he may not EVER be able to. The story in itself, is a typical ghostly horror tale. Unhappy ghosts, (is there ever a happy one?), strange noises and horrifying sights, and the living occupant's inability to escape. The writing style was okay, but it could have been better. Heaven knows I am no expert author...but I am a polished reader and I know when the words grab me and pull me completely into the story...this one did some of the time...but not the entire time. I found myself adding in my head what could have been said on the page. The narration was always in the third person and the story line became predictable. It is an absorbing read, and its quick, which gives it no room for unnecessary details, which I found to be a point in its favor. The description of the lodge and its surrounding is very well done. This book would be a perfect read for a rainy weekend. I wouldn’t describe The Haunting of Barry’s Lodge as a fantastic read, but it did manage to keep me engaged. I would call it a decent read for horror lovers and all "Ghost Story Junkies" like me.
June 29, 2021
New edition just out...
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May 23, 2017
"Not As Gripping As I Hoped"
I started reading this story which begins with an "epilogue" rather than the "prologue." Hmm, is this an error or the intent of the author? Anyway, this story is about Alfred, an author who has fallen on hard times. But his father-in-law, Frank, arranges for him a motel room for a week which may help him finish his manuscript. However, the motel has a scary history and is located deep in a forest about 400 miles from his home, without WiFi or cellphone connection. There is something evil lurking in the motel and also in the dark woods. First, this short 180-page novel lacks good proofreading which causes distraction for the reader. Also, the punctuation is awkward and needs improving. I found this story irritating because of poor editing, but read to the end. The story line is great, but a better review/rewrite would make it more outstanding.
I started reading this story which begins with an "epilogue" rather than the "prologue." Hmm, is this an error or the intent of the author? Anyway, this story is about Alfred, an author who has fallen on hard times. But his father-in-law, Frank, arranges for him a motel room for a week which may help him finish his manuscript. However, the motel has a scary history and is located deep in a forest about 400 miles from his home, without WiFi or cellphone connection. There is something evil lurking in the motel and also in the dark woods. First, this short 180-page novel lacks good proofreading which causes distraction for the reader. Also, the punctuation is awkward and needs improving. I found this story irritating because of poor editing, but read to the end. The story line is great, but a better review/rewrite would make it more outstanding.
July 21, 2017
Arnold is an author, right now not a good one, and needs a plan. When his father-in-law provides him with a week away he decides that, "This is it. I have a plan". When he gets to Barry's Lodge he finds that things are not as they seem. Weird things are happening and he begins to have no clue what is real and what is not.
The first thing I noticed about this story is the editing. It has quite a few issues with spelling and grammar. This is a bit of an issue, especially to a reader such as myself. But, despite this, I continued reading and found that this story is shrouded in mystery. It was a thriller that offered a good bit of scare. It was definitely a different type of read than what I am used to in a thriller/horror. It is psychologically bewildering and the ending is a wild ride.
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The first thing I noticed about this story is the editing. It has quite a few issues with spelling and grammar. This is a bit of an issue, especially to a reader such as myself. But, despite this, I continued reading and found that this story is shrouded in mystery. It was a thriller that offered a good bit of scare. It was definitely a different type of read than what I am used to in a thriller/horror. It is psychologically bewildering and the ending is a wild ride.
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June 22, 2017
When Alfred's father-in-law offers him the chance to go on a writing retreat in an isolated motel, he jumps at the opportunity to finish his upcoming book. However, everything at the motel is not as it seems, and soon the complete isolation turns from a blessing to a nightmare.
Honestly, if this book had been longer, I probably wouldn't have finished it. It has potential: the story is intriguing and has some decent, unexpected twists, but it is hugely underdeveloped and not brilliantly written. There were a number of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors (which I really struggle to overlook in a published book) and the general style is very simple, which made it not particularly engaging. There are also some pretty abrupt changes in narrative angle which made parts of the plot quite difficult to follow. Lastly, there wasn't enough description or scene-setting, so it isn't very atmospheric which is very important in horror stories.
Overall, it could have been worse but definitely could have been better. As it is, this is not a very scary horror story.
June 30, 2017
The Haunting of Barry's Lodge: An Unsettling Ghost Story and A Dark Disturbing Psychological Thriller This was such a scary quick read! I am so pleased I was given a free copy of this book to read, I had about 5 hours to kill and that's about how long it took me to read it, This is not the genre I would typically find myself reading but I was pleasantly surprised The characters are interesting and well enough developed to become people you might actually know, and this makes the plot that much better and that much more believable. If you liked the shining you will love this one as it's based on a similar premise, I recommend this book and can't wait for the next offering from this new exciting author.
January 29, 2018
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A modern day classic horror story comes to brilliant life in author Annie Walter's novel The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. A blend of old school ghost stories with psychological horror, this book takes readers on a whirlwind journey through one terrifying week in the life of an aspiring writer. Here's the synopsis:
Alfred, a washed-up author, plagued by failures can’t believe his luck when his father-in-law, Frank, provides him with a chance that he direly craved for:
Seven days alone in an isolated Motel with the task of finishing his upcoming book!
But little does he know about the Motel’s unsavory history. Hidden in the copse of trees and about 400 miles away from his home in the dark forest of Skiddaw, it is a two-storey facade with twisting, malevolent chimneys and an eerie allure.Lack of WI-FI, poor signals and weird set of rules, the dark atmosphere soon turns his seemingly idyllic trip into a living nightmare. Apart from the usual creaks, groans, and moans of the crumbling structure, he soon finds himself face to face with an entity. An urban legend that is lurking in the woods long before the Motel found its existing foundations.
The Motel’s dark and haunting history quickly becomes tangled with Alfred’s life as he frantically searches for answers. Barry, the caretaker is hiding something. But what is it? Is there someone else living in the motel beside him? Or is the caretaker not what he seemingly appears?
Alfred quickly begins to lose his tenuous grip on reality as he sinks further and further into an intricately designed game of deceit and lies that might put his life in danger! Or is he a threat to himself and everybody around him?
The Haunting at Barry's Lodge is a full-length novel of a riveting ghost story and a third edition by the author, Annie Walters, previously published as Barry's Lodge A Haunting.
This was a fantastic new horror story. Playing on the classic themes of psychological terror and spine-chilling ghost stories, readers will be on the edge of their seat as they try to find out who Alfred can trust, and what is coming for him in this strange and eerie motel. The book was fast paced and drew the reader in with it's vivid imagery and haunting backstory. Expertly crafted to paint an image in your mind, the story takes readers through the darkest corners of Barry's Lodge, keeping the reader on their toes as friends become enemies and salvation may be a trap for Alfred.
Overall this was a fantastic story. Building a modern day classic, author Annie Walters has done an expert job of bringing this story to life. With a shocking twist ending, horror fans will not want to miss this brand new adventure. Be sure to pick up your copies of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge today!
A modern day classic horror story comes to brilliant life in author Annie Walter's novel The Haunting of Barry's Lodge. A blend of old school ghost stories with psychological horror, this book takes readers on a whirlwind journey through one terrifying week in the life of an aspiring writer. Here's the synopsis:
Alfred, a washed-up author, plagued by failures can’t believe his luck when his father-in-law, Frank, provides him with a chance that he direly craved for:
Seven days alone in an isolated Motel with the task of finishing his upcoming book!
But little does he know about the Motel’s unsavory history. Hidden in the copse of trees and about 400 miles away from his home in the dark forest of Skiddaw, it is a two-storey facade with twisting, malevolent chimneys and an eerie allure.Lack of WI-FI, poor signals and weird set of rules, the dark atmosphere soon turns his seemingly idyllic trip into a living nightmare. Apart from the usual creaks, groans, and moans of the crumbling structure, he soon finds himself face to face with an entity. An urban legend that is lurking in the woods long before the Motel found its existing foundations.
The Motel’s dark and haunting history quickly becomes tangled with Alfred’s life as he frantically searches for answers. Barry, the caretaker is hiding something. But what is it? Is there someone else living in the motel beside him? Or is the caretaker not what he seemingly appears?
Alfred quickly begins to lose his tenuous grip on reality as he sinks further and further into an intricately designed game of deceit and lies that might put his life in danger! Or is he a threat to himself and everybody around him?
The Haunting at Barry's Lodge is a full-length novel of a riveting ghost story and a third edition by the author, Annie Walters, previously published as Barry's Lodge A Haunting.
This was a fantastic new horror story. Playing on the classic themes of psychological terror and spine-chilling ghost stories, readers will be on the edge of their seat as they try to find out who Alfred can trust, and what is coming for him in this strange and eerie motel. The book was fast paced and drew the reader in with it's vivid imagery and haunting backstory. Expertly crafted to paint an image in your mind, the story takes readers through the darkest corners of Barry's Lodge, keeping the reader on their toes as friends become enemies and salvation may be a trap for Alfred.
Overall this was a fantastic story. Building a modern day classic, author Annie Walters has done an expert job of bringing this story to life. With a shocking twist ending, horror fans will not want to miss this brand new adventure. Be sure to pick up your copies of The Haunting of Barry's Lodge today!
November 28, 2017
Format Read for Review: Kindle copy provided by the author in return for an honest review.
Pages: 218
Description: Alfred runs a recording studio and dreams of being an author. His father in law gives him a chance to get some writing done by offering him one week of solitude at an isolated motel. But after he gets there he finds himself cut off from the outside world and surrounded by eerie sights and sounds. He discovers the dark history of the place and struggles to get a grasp on reality.
“The blank paper grinned at my melancholy every night. The cicadas chirped, yet I was there staring at the keyboard.”
In Short: This is a good scary story with some writing flaws. If you like ghost stories you should check this one out. Just be prepared to go on a weird ride and have your dictionary handy. I recommend this book to fans of horror and psychological thrillers.
“Words written in blood glared back at us from everywhere”
Pros: I really liked the story and enjoyed reading this book. The story is very interesting, multilayered and full of danger. A very creative and spooky ghost story that at times played out in my head like a scary movie. I really liked the ending, it was full of terror and twists. I felt like this book was the perfect length. The story was paced very nicely and covered a lot of ground while still making for fairly quick reading. There are so many fun horror elements that are well used in this book! There is a haunting, urban legends, psychic powers, and even demonic activity. This book is very unique and one of the spookiest horrors I have read in a long time. It has a ton of potential and I would definitely read more by this author.
“His eyes bulged in surprise. He raised his arm and pointed behind my back.”
Cons: I never thought I’d say this in a review, but this book had too much medical terminology. Even as a medical professional the terminology used would make me have to stop and think to visualize what was being described, taking me out of the terror of the moment. One example: “A red, wide streak traced its way from my left shoulder towards the right iliac fossa.” The protagonist does not have a medical background so he would never describe his injury this way. Instead of “iliac fossa” he probably would have just said “hip” or “stomach.” I think the author is too smart for their own good. The story was a little hard to follow at times. I’m not sure if it was just because it was told from the point of view of someone who was being messed with and haunted but it was confusing. This book would benefit from editing. I think the story is really good but it would be scarier if the writing wasn’t as distracting.
“LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO.”
Parent’s Guide: Contains violence, murder, and gore.
Pages: 218
Description: Alfred runs a recording studio and dreams of being an author. His father in law gives him a chance to get some writing done by offering him one week of solitude at an isolated motel. But after he gets there he finds himself cut off from the outside world and surrounded by eerie sights and sounds. He discovers the dark history of the place and struggles to get a grasp on reality.
“The blank paper grinned at my melancholy every night. The cicadas chirped, yet I was there staring at the keyboard.”
In Short: This is a good scary story with some writing flaws. If you like ghost stories you should check this one out. Just be prepared to go on a weird ride and have your dictionary handy. I recommend this book to fans of horror and psychological thrillers.
“Words written in blood glared back at us from everywhere”
Pros: I really liked the story and enjoyed reading this book. The story is very interesting, multilayered and full of danger. A very creative and spooky ghost story that at times played out in my head like a scary movie. I really liked the ending, it was full of terror and twists. I felt like this book was the perfect length. The story was paced very nicely and covered a lot of ground while still making for fairly quick reading. There are so many fun horror elements that are well used in this book! There is a haunting, urban legends, psychic powers, and even demonic activity. This book is very unique and one of the spookiest horrors I have read in a long time. It has a ton of potential and I would definitely read more by this author.
“His eyes bulged in surprise. He raised his arm and pointed behind my back.”
Cons: I never thought I’d say this in a review, but this book had too much medical terminology. Even as a medical professional the terminology used would make me have to stop and think to visualize what was being described, taking me out of the terror of the moment. One example: “A red, wide streak traced its way from my left shoulder towards the right iliac fossa.” The protagonist does not have a medical background so he would never describe his injury this way. Instead of “iliac fossa” he probably would have just said “hip” or “stomach.” I think the author is too smart for their own good. The story was a little hard to follow at times. I’m not sure if it was just because it was told from the point of view of someone who was being messed with and haunted but it was confusing. This book would benefit from editing. I think the story is really good but it would be scarier if the writing wasn’t as distracting.
“LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO.”
Parent’s Guide: Contains violence, murder, and gore.
August 20, 2017
Read this review and more on my blog at [Roxie Writes].
'The Haunting of Barry's Lodge' by Annie Walters
⭐️⭐️ 2/5
Finished on August 10, 2017
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $.99 on Kindle | $10.33 in Paperback
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Alfred, a wanna-be author who has struggled to get his manuscript on paper for years, is given the opportunity to go to the secluded Barry's Lodge for a week by his father-in-law to finally finish his book. But when he gets there, he discovers there won't be much time for writing because there's something very, very wrong at Barry's Lodge. Something wrong and murderous, and Alfred will have to solve the mystery to make it out alive.
MY REVIEW:
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a struggle for me to get through, honestly. The writing is flat, and there was nothing about these characters that made me want to keep reading about them. I saw the "twist" coming from a mile away, and the paranormal aspects made little sense. A lot of things about this story made little sense.
I wanted to find something to like about this story, but perhaps it just wasn't for me.
'The Haunting of Barry's Lodge' by Annie Walters
⭐️⭐️ 2/5
Finished on August 10, 2017
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $.99 on Kindle | $10.33 in Paperback
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Alfred, a wanna-be author who has struggled to get his manuscript on paper for years, is given the opportunity to go to the secluded Barry's Lodge for a week by his father-in-law to finally finish his book. But when he gets there, he discovers there won't be much time for writing because there's something very, very wrong at Barry's Lodge. Something wrong and murderous, and Alfred will have to solve the mystery to make it out alive.
MY REVIEW:
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a struggle for me to get through, honestly. The writing is flat, and there was nothing about these characters that made me want to keep reading about them. I saw the "twist" coming from a mile away, and the paranormal aspects made little sense. A lot of things about this story made little sense.
I wanted to find something to like about this story, but perhaps it just wasn't for me.
October 12, 2017
This book began with the epilogue, which confused me. Then we go to the story where Alfred’s father-in-law offered him a place to go and write without being disturbed. But when he got to the isolated hotel, he found out he couldn’t get cell phone reception and there wasn’t any wifi! It wasn’t long before he realized that what he thought was going to be a quiet retreat, was nothing like what he expected. The hotel was down-right creepy and haunted!
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review but I put off reading it because of the cover. The face turned me off. In general, I didn’t find this story easy to follow. Because I had a hard time figuring out who everyone was and what was going on, I didn’t find it scary. I liked the idea of the storyline but there was something about the way it was written that had me constantly trying to figure out who was a ghost and who wasn't. It didn’t help that it needs an editor in the worst way - or at lease proofreading. It ruined the story. Some other reviewers said it was “the best thriller” so they definitely saw something I missed. I am giving it 2.5 stars.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review but I put off reading it because of the cover. The face turned me off. In general, I didn’t find this story easy to follow. Because I had a hard time figuring out who everyone was and what was going on, I didn’t find it scary. I liked the idea of the storyline but there was something about the way it was written that had me constantly trying to figure out who was a ghost and who wasn't. It didn’t help that it needs an editor in the worst way - or at lease proofreading. It ruined the story. Some other reviewers said it was “the best thriller” so they definitely saw something I missed. I am giving it 2.5 stars.
January 24, 2019
3,5 stars.
Very engaging story right from the start. The atmosphere painted was quite sinister and I must say I loved it. I was really in the mood to read something similar to this, forest, haunted motel and supernatural events that actually make sense to the reader. I actually pictured myself in that creepy motel and it totally gave me goosebumps.
Though a few points were missing like:
1. The rules that were signed the first day. I was looking forward to some explanation as was it some kind of binding agreement or something.
2. What was haunting the forest and how did Martha died.
3. Some explanation why Alfred's father in law specifically sent him to Barry's lodging.
Indeed there were many plot holes but overall I enjoyed the ride!!!
Very engaging story right from the start. The atmosphere painted was quite sinister and I must say I loved it. I was really in the mood to read something similar to this, forest, haunted motel and supernatural events that actually make sense to the reader. I actually pictured myself in that creepy motel and it totally gave me goosebumps.
Though a few points were missing like:
1. The rules that were signed the first day. I was looking forward to some explanation as was it some kind of binding agreement or something.
2. What was haunting the forest and how did Martha died.
3. Some explanation why Alfred's father in law specifically sent him to Barry's lodging.
Indeed there were many plot holes but overall I enjoyed the ride!!!
August 8, 2017
I rarely write a review but in this case I'll make an exception. This was indeed the worst book I've ever attempted to read. The spelling and the grammar was awful and the phraseology more suited to a 9 year old. The story line was not only ridiculous but impossible to follow although I ploughed on in the hope that things would get better, reaching 62% read on my Kindle. At that point I decided that I just couldn't waste any more time trying to understand this awful book and gave up.
I'm an avid reader who reads approximately two books weekly and I like the majority of reads, though my preference is for psychological thrillers. I would not recommend this book to anyone.
I'm an avid reader who reads approximately two books weekly and I like the majority of reads, though my preference is for psychological thrillers. I would not recommend this book to anyone.
September 6, 2019
The plot was imaginative and gripping. In general it was well written however, it does need proper proof reading as there are many errors. I felt that the author could not make up their mind to write as an English author or an American one. This led to the use of both which was very confusing. There were also errors in the story line, which, good proof reading would have picked up and allowed to be corrected. I would definitely read another book from this author especially if they get good proof reading. Thank you.
March 21, 2020
I just couldn't get excited about this book. The author's word usage was odd, causing me to stop and try to figure out what she meant. The plot was equally disjointed and incomprehensible. Basically, the story is about an author who is sent to this lodge in order to complete a book he's late in finishing. Problems, of course, ensue. There are too many problems with the plot to enumerate them. Perhaps I was not connecting with the author. Either the one in the book or the one who wrote this book.
October 16, 2021
Kind of weird
I like haunted house stories and the premise of this one is interesting. Unfortunately that's as good as it got. The writing is stilted, almost formal, and often the words used don't make sense. The story is all over the place like it can't decide where to go next. Lots of ideas introduced and then dropped.
I read it in about an hour. I'm still not sure what it was about.
I like haunted house stories and the premise of this one is interesting. Unfortunately that's as good as it got. The writing is stilted, almost formal, and often the words used don't make sense. The story is all over the place like it can't decide where to go next. Lots of ideas introduced and then dropped.
I read it in about an hour. I'm still not sure what it was about.
August 17, 2017
This book is about a writer who goes to a remote lodge in the hopes of finishing his first book, but soon after he arrives, strange things start to happen.
The amount of mistakes in this book is ridiculous! It doesn't seem like it has been edited at all.
The book itself is okay. Quite fast paced with a good twist at the end.
The amount of mistakes in this book is ridiculous! It doesn't seem like it has been edited at all.
The book itself is okay. Quite fast paced with a good twist at the end.
January 3, 2018
This is not a bad premise for a story. I enjoyed the style, and it truly fits the horror genre. I read this in record time, and enjoyed it. The only problem I found, which is why it's not getting 5 stars, is that the book really needs an editor. If it had been edited and proofread to perfection, it would have been flawless!
June 12, 2020
Kept my interest
Overall, I enjoyed this story. Once I got into the story, It was difficult to put down. However, It was hard for me to fit the prelude and epilogue with the body of the story. It took concentration to understand the ending. Good for those who have no distractions while doing their read.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. Once I got into the story, It was difficult to put down. However, It was hard for me to fit the prelude and epilogue with the body of the story. It took concentration to understand the ending. Good for those who have no distractions while doing their read.
February 15, 2018
Don’t waste your time. There is no coherent plot. The characters are weak. There are improbabilites in the storyline. It’s British, making it slightly more difficult to read, with not all terms transferable.
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