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Rage's Echo
He longs for heaven...and for revenge.
Jessica Roman-Dell, a paranormal investigator from small-town Ohio, wants to find a ghost to prove that life continues after death. Little does Jessica realize the danger she’ll face when the spirit of a murder victim named Jerry Madison follows her home from a graveyard one night and refuses to leave.
Jerry says he is lonely. He wishes to go to heaven because watching the world pass by without him is more unbearable than death itself. But Jerry is there for another reason that will hit closer to home than Jessica ever could have imagined.
For Jerry is not as innocent as Jessica thinks. Like his murderers, he, too, has killed—and he will stop at nothing to send those responsible for his death to the grave.
Jessica Roman-Dell, a paranormal investigator from small-town Ohio, wants to find a ghost to prove that life continues after death. Little does Jessica realize the danger she’ll face when the spirit of a murder victim named Jerry Madison follows her home from a graveyard one night and refuses to leave.
Jerry says he is lonely. He wishes to go to heaven because watching the world pass by without him is more unbearable than death itself. But Jerry is there for another reason that will hit closer to home than Jessica ever could have imagined.
For Jerry is not as innocent as Jessica thinks. Like his murderers, he, too, has killed—and he will stop at nothing to send those responsible for his death to the grave.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
3 people are currently reading
1340 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Bailey
25 books250 followersJ. S. Bailey enjoys writing speculative tales that keep readers on the edges of their seats. She has published eight novels and twenty-two short stories, with more on the way. Bailey is fond of long walks in the woods, British television, and lots of burritos. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 21, 2013
This story was amazing! Full of twists and turns, I couldn't put it down! That said, I normally avoid ghost stories like the plague. I had agreed to review Rage's Echo long before I knew what it was about. I had read J.S.'s other book The Land Beyond the Portal and had loved it, so I figured this book would be equally well written. I had no idea what I was in for.
In a small town where everyone knows everyone and you can't pick your nose without the whole town knowing, there are some dark secrets hidden. The story centers around Jessica Roman-Dell, a jobless, apartment-less paranormal investigator from small town Ohio who longs to prove the existence of ghosts and life beyond. Jessica lives with her two good friends Wayne and his cousin Sidney when she gets a call to investigate a local church. What Jessica doesn't know is that this call will turn her world upside-down.
At the church graveyard she has a chance encounter with a lonely murder victim named Jerry Madison. Jerry follows Jessica home, and it soon becomes clear that he's lonely in a way that's quite like a stalker. While Jessica is torn between maintaining a relationship with Jerry and telling him to get lost, she begins realizing a long hidden desire to be with Wayne. Jerry becomes so jealous and possessive of Jessica that even Wayne and Sidney begin feeling the presence of Jerry, and it's not good.
Jerry has a skeleton in his closet, and he believes it's one that would send him straight to Hell if he passed to the after-life. Digging into Jerry's past has the potential to destroy Jessica's life, for a reason she couldn't begin to guess at, but will hit closer to home than she can imagine. Jerry's not the only one with secrets to hide though. Will Jessica dig into Jerry's past? Will she tell Wayne of her feelings? Who else has skeletons in the proverbial closet in this small town?
Those are questions you can only answer by reading this book. It is a must read for any mystery lover, thrill seeker or ghost fanatic. Thankfully for me, the first two were enough to keep me on the edge of my seat and get over the fear of "things that go bump in the night." I purposely kept the review spoiler free because I hate spoilers and wish to read a book to find out the ending for myself. Thank you J.S. for another wonderfully written story!
In a small town where everyone knows everyone and you can't pick your nose without the whole town knowing, there are some dark secrets hidden. The story centers around Jessica Roman-Dell, a jobless, apartment-less paranormal investigator from small town Ohio who longs to prove the existence of ghosts and life beyond. Jessica lives with her two good friends Wayne and his cousin Sidney when she gets a call to investigate a local church. What Jessica doesn't know is that this call will turn her world upside-down.
At the church graveyard she has a chance encounter with a lonely murder victim named Jerry Madison. Jerry follows Jessica home, and it soon becomes clear that he's lonely in a way that's quite like a stalker. While Jessica is torn between maintaining a relationship with Jerry and telling him to get lost, she begins realizing a long hidden desire to be with Wayne. Jerry becomes so jealous and possessive of Jessica that even Wayne and Sidney begin feeling the presence of Jerry, and it's not good.
Jerry has a skeleton in his closet, and he believes it's one that would send him straight to Hell if he passed to the after-life. Digging into Jerry's past has the potential to destroy Jessica's life, for a reason she couldn't begin to guess at, but will hit closer to home than she can imagine. Jerry's not the only one with secrets to hide though. Will Jessica dig into Jerry's past? Will she tell Wayne of her feelings? Who else has skeletons in the proverbial closet in this small town?
Those are questions you can only answer by reading this book. It is a must read for any mystery lover, thrill seeker or ghost fanatic. Thankfully for me, the first two were enough to keep me on the edge of my seat and get over the fear of "things that go bump in the night." I purposely kept the review spoiler free because I hate spoilers and wish to read a book to find out the ending for myself. Thank you J.S. for another wonderfully written story!
August 10, 2014
First and foremost, I'd like to thank the author, J.S. Bailey, for generously allowing me to read her novel in exchange for this review. I consider her to be a personal friend and a wonderful person. If not for her kind offer, I probably wouldn't have read it.
Going into Bailey's second novel, Rage's Echo, I really didn't know what to expect, as this was my first experience with her work (I'm proud to say it won't be my last.)
From the get-go, the reader is magically transported to Jerry's world, and doesn't let up much until the final page. The aforementioned scene shows the reader the dire peril this wretched soul is in, with a liberal air of mystery.
This is only the beginning, though. Next, we're introduced to our main protagonist, Jessica Roman-Dell, a paranormal investigator. Alongside her is Sydney (whose questions about faith make for fascinating discussion,) and Wayne. Since a young age, he has had to endure an already trying life as one with cerebral palsy.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerebral...
These characters aren't cardboard flat, either. Bailey clearly spent countless hours familiarizing herself with them. She's able to expose their weaknesses and strengths; dreams, ambitions, even their convictions. As the novel progresses, she sheds light on a dark past that seemingly affects them all, and inevitably draws the quartet together. In essence, there is no black and white here. There are very few innocents.. Thematically, I think what she's trying to convey here is quite poignant, and relevant to just about anyone: we live in a broken world where very few of us are genuinely innocent. We all have our flaws, obstacles to overcome. And with faith and strength from the Lord, we can overcome anything.
If I had to choose just character that still resonates today, two weeks later, I would undoubtedly and with no hesitation say Jerry Madison. Perhaps that's a little morbid, considering his past, but I found myself identifying with his wretchedness and despair that's beyond my ability to adequately describe. I have first-hand experience with depression, and its debilitating reality. Rarely getting out of bed, eating only when absolutely necessary, that was me. Years later, I still haven't fully recovered (it's a life-long process, I guess,) from my poor self-image, feelings of not ever being good enough, and constantly becoming easily discouraged..
But enough about me. In truth, I hadn't realized until now just how much I truly identified with Jerry.. I miss him dearly..
I thought I'd add that it's clearly apparent that Bailey had a blast writing about him, which- in turn- made him a lot of fun to read about.
The author also tackles some controversial topics, such as pro-life/pro-choice, spirituality, the afterlife, the impacts of childhood trauma, to name a few.. At the heart of the novel, however, is forgiveness and redemption, and the necessity of letting go in order to move on. This and Jerry's character are definitely my favorite aspects, and probably the novel's strongest elements.
Up until the second half, I was loving it. And although there are several profound scenes in the latter half, coupled with a dark twist that may just blow your mind (I found it underwhelming, slightly contrived and convenient, myself,) and Bailey's impressive writing, the overall story kind of fell flat. Perhaps my expectations were too high, as I thought it would escalate much, much more, with significantly darker overtones.
All in all, an impressive sophomore effort. A little verbose at times, but even the best writers can get a bit wordy, right? I love her style, and the beautiful visuals throughout took Rage's Echo from 3 stars to 4. Keep up the good work, my friend!
"..Half a mile to the southwest, the Ohio River flowed by in all its brownish-blue glory. Most of the village of Eleanor lay below in the flood plain. The green hills of Kentucky rose up from the other side of the river, where another village--Iron Springs-- sprawled out along the riverbank like a mirror image of the Ohio side.."
October 4, 2013
To tell you the truth, I really did not know what to expect from this book. I did however not have any doubts that I would like it because J.S. Bailey is a very gifted individual. I learned that from reading The Land Beyond the Portal. And when I had the opportunity to read this and review it I was ecstatic, and I could not wait to get started on it.
I instantly liked Jessica, right off the bat. I feel she was a pretty strong character along with her partners in crime, Wayne and Sidney. The three of them together in this story really made the story come to life. Even with all of their flaws and misconceptions you grew to love them. You could identify with them because they were every day people living in a very messed up world, and forced into horrific circumstances beyond their control.
I loved all the secrets that slowly became uncovered, it added a great air of mystery to the story. And wow the twists in the story blew me away. One after the other, especially when you did not expect them. I gotta say that I really did not like Jerry or Jessica's mother at all. They both seriously made me see red. And I could not feel sorry for either of them, and still I really don't feel that sorry for them. When I got closer to the end of the story though, I started to see the lessons that were playing out and I began to see how forgiveness played a huge role in the Authors vision of this story.
Ok now on with what I did not like about the story. It will be short and sweet. I did not agree with one part of the story, near the ending, that I won't post here even in a spoiler. (I know there are some people who can't resist clicking the spoiler links. LOL). I can kind of see why it was wrote the way it was, why it had to end the way it did, but still it seemed a little unfair to me and I guess that just stems from what I believe. But overall, the story was awesome.
I instantly liked Jessica, right off the bat. I feel she was a pretty strong character along with her partners in crime, Wayne and Sidney. The three of them together in this story really made the story come to life. Even with all of their flaws and misconceptions you grew to love them. You could identify with them because they were every day people living in a very messed up world, and forced into horrific circumstances beyond their control.
I loved all the secrets that slowly became uncovered, it added a great air of mystery to the story. And wow the twists in the story blew me away. One after the other, especially when you did not expect them. I gotta say that I really did not like Jerry or Jessica's mother at all. They both seriously made me see red. And I could not feel sorry for either of them, and still I really don't feel that sorry for them. When I got closer to the end of the story though, I started to see the lessons that were playing out and I began to see how forgiveness played a huge role in the Authors vision of this story.
Ok now on with what I did not like about the story. It will be short and sweet. I did not agree with one part of the story, near the ending, that I won't post here even in a spoiler. (I know there are some people who can't resist clicking the spoiler links. LOL). I can kind of see why it was wrote the way it was, why it had to end the way it did, but still it seemed a little unfair to me and I guess that just stems from what I believe. But overall, the story was awesome.
September 11, 2013
I finished this book and I have to say...WOW!! The characters were amazing and this book was definitely not your average paranormal ghost story. No main character falling in love with the ghost or the ghost being all nice like Casper. A nice dark twist that kept me wanting more! The plot and story behind the characters weaved them into a giant web that made you ask when is everything going to explode or come crashing down? And what is going to happen next?
Love love love this book! It might not be for everyone but trust me, you have to give this book a try. The author did an amazing job writing this and it kept me at the edge of my seat. Yes I had to put it down which made me sad but once I got my hands on it again I was excited to continue the story. I say READ IT! J. S. Bailey wrote an amazing story! And I'm telling you the truth!
Love love love this book! It might not be for everyone but trust me, you have to give this book a try. The author did an amazing job writing this and it kept me at the edge of my seat. Yes I had to put it down which made me sad but once I got my hands on it again I was excited to continue the story. I say READ IT! J. S. Bailey wrote an amazing story! And I'm telling you the truth!
August 18, 2013
Jessica Roman-Dell is a paranormal investigator (read ghost hunter) with a problem. Nope, it’s not that she spent all of her money on her ghost hunting equipment and has nothing in reserve. Nope, it’s not that she’s lost her job and had to move in with her ex-coworker and a long time friend. It seems that Jessica has found a ghost, and, like the proverbial puppy dog, it followed her home. Jerry Madison, the ghost, has found a way to communicate with an adult human being and seems to have found that he likes having a friend – a little too much. Jerry begins to show signs of jealousy and possessiveness when it comes to Jessica and soon her house-mates Sidney and Wayne begin to see Jerry or feel the effects of his presence in bad ways.
As time goes on, we learn that Jerry is not just a human-infatuated ghost whose fascination with Jessica would be cute, had it not bordered on stalking. Jessica is torn between caring for Jerry and not really caring for any kind of relationship with him as a long covered up desire to be with Wayne begins to come to the surface. We soon learn that Jerry has a deep dark secret. He isn’t ready to “pass” to the after-life because he believes his destination would be hell because of that secret. As a result, the relationship with Jessica becomes more dangerous and lives are at stake as he slowly takes control of the relationship. As the story continues we discover that Jerry is not the only one with secrets as Wayne, the friend who owns the home has his secrets as do Jessica’s hated parents. Does Jerry get a chance to deal with his own personal demons? Can Jessica ever break free of Jerry? Will Jessica and Wayne ever get together? Will Jessica and her parents reconcile?
In small town, America everyone knows each other and knows each other’s business. It’s important to understand that when you get to the end of the book. As the book wraps up the relationships that bring all of the characters together are vital as they help you understand the plot. Slowly deep dark secrets are revealed as we come to the climax of the story; but will those secrets destroy or help the relationships?
I have to admit that when I heard that Rage’s Echo was a ghost story, I was very leery of reading the book. The only reason I agreed to read and review was that I had developed a friendship with the author, J. S. Bailey and she sent me a free autographed review copy. That being said I found this book intriguing, exciting and gripping. I had to put it down early enough so I didn’t read it too close to bed time because it is, after all, a ghost story. But more than a ghost story, it’s a story about relationships; how they go wrong and how they grow. How do our sins affect the way we deal with each other? How does our background affect the people we befriend? If we can’t accept ourselves, how can we expect others to love us as we are? Bailey touches on all of these issues in this book and soon the story becomes ours, if we think deeply enough, as we confront the ghosts of our own past.
I make a point of not posting reviews of books that I can’t recommend. I can recommend Rage’s Echo highly. Buy it! It’s labeled as “Christian Speculative Fiction.” What does that mean? If you are into ghost stories, you will enjoy this book. If you aren’t into ghost stories, though, there is a lot to like about this book, especially from a Christian perspective. It is not meant to be a theological reference work. It does talk a lot about being truthful with those we love. It does talk about building relationships and how important it is to develop strong relationships with friends and family. Most of all, it does all these things wrapped around a great story and a believable premise.
Rage’s Echo is available now from the author (look her up on Facebook) and from the publisher (Tate Publishing). Here’s the secret: officially the sales start on Amazon on October 1, so you can get a pre-release copy by contacting the author or the publisher. If you want to wait until the official release date you can pre-order it from Amazon. The Kindle Edition is available to pre-order now at http://www.amazon.com/Rages-Echo-eboo... the paperback version should be available soon and it will be released just in time for Halloween.
As time goes on, we learn that Jerry is not just a human-infatuated ghost whose fascination with Jessica would be cute, had it not bordered on stalking. Jessica is torn between caring for Jerry and not really caring for any kind of relationship with him as a long covered up desire to be with Wayne begins to come to the surface. We soon learn that Jerry has a deep dark secret. He isn’t ready to “pass” to the after-life because he believes his destination would be hell because of that secret. As a result, the relationship with Jessica becomes more dangerous and lives are at stake as he slowly takes control of the relationship. As the story continues we discover that Jerry is not the only one with secrets as Wayne, the friend who owns the home has his secrets as do Jessica’s hated parents. Does Jerry get a chance to deal with his own personal demons? Can Jessica ever break free of Jerry? Will Jessica and Wayne ever get together? Will Jessica and her parents reconcile?
In small town, America everyone knows each other and knows each other’s business. It’s important to understand that when you get to the end of the book. As the book wraps up the relationships that bring all of the characters together are vital as they help you understand the plot. Slowly deep dark secrets are revealed as we come to the climax of the story; but will those secrets destroy or help the relationships?
I have to admit that when I heard that Rage’s Echo was a ghost story, I was very leery of reading the book. The only reason I agreed to read and review was that I had developed a friendship with the author, J. S. Bailey and she sent me a free autographed review copy. That being said I found this book intriguing, exciting and gripping. I had to put it down early enough so I didn’t read it too close to bed time because it is, after all, a ghost story. But more than a ghost story, it’s a story about relationships; how they go wrong and how they grow. How do our sins affect the way we deal with each other? How does our background affect the people we befriend? If we can’t accept ourselves, how can we expect others to love us as we are? Bailey touches on all of these issues in this book and soon the story becomes ours, if we think deeply enough, as we confront the ghosts of our own past.
I make a point of not posting reviews of books that I can’t recommend. I can recommend Rage’s Echo highly. Buy it! It’s labeled as “Christian Speculative Fiction.” What does that mean? If you are into ghost stories, you will enjoy this book. If you aren’t into ghost stories, though, there is a lot to like about this book, especially from a Christian perspective. It is not meant to be a theological reference work. It does talk a lot about being truthful with those we love. It does talk about building relationships and how important it is to develop strong relationships with friends and family. Most of all, it does all these things wrapped around a great story and a believable premise.
Rage’s Echo is available now from the author (look her up on Facebook) and from the publisher (Tate Publishing). Here’s the secret: officially the sales start on Amazon on October 1, so you can get a pre-release copy by contacting the author or the publisher. If you want to wait until the official release date you can pre-order it from Amazon. The Kindle Edition is available to pre-order now at http://www.amazon.com/Rages-Echo-eboo... the paperback version should be available soon and it will be released just in time for Halloween.
October 30, 2013
I was familiar with J.S. Bailey's rather amazing short stories and have excitedly featured her on my blog in the past. She's quite the talent. This is the first full-length novel I've read by her (though I'm heading to Amazon in a second to get The Land Beyond The Portal) and I have to say, as good as her shorts are, when given a chance to tell a full length tale she really rocks it. I might add, I suspected so all along-- especially after reading her short, "Vapors".
Rage's Echo is a ghost story, but without spoiling it for you, let's just say, it is SO much more.
This isn't just some average girl meets a ghost tale. In fact, if you're expecting a sheet-clad specter that causes a few doors to close in order to scare the living... well you better hang on to your drawers, because you're in for a thrilling and chilling awakening!
The characters are so well-written that you form a friendship with them quickly. You have a genuine interest in their lives and you find yourself feeling as if you can just hop on Facebook and ask Jessica how the ghost hunting is going. You really forget this is a work of fiction. These characters are real. That's what I love about them most. They are just like your real-life friends and neighbors.
The setting is excellently described so that you feel as if you have visited your new friends at least once.
The pace is spot on. Turning page after page and reading nearly the whole thing in one sitting is a distinct possibility here.
Spooky? Yes, oh yes. Bailey spins a full on spine-tingling, hair-on-end, check to be sure you locked the door (and then quake in your shoes when you remember that ghosts don't use doors)kind of story. It's very subtle at times... sneaking up on you. You don't realize how terrifying something she's crafted in her tale is until it's after midnight, the lights are all out, and you find yourself hoping you don't bump into a boxer-clad stranger in your darkened hallway as you hurry off to bed... only to lie awake listening for things that go bump in the night. Definitely, there is a creep factor to this ghost story. It's perfectly done with just right shivers that keep you sleeping with one eye open... assuming you can sleep at all.
The ending. BAM. Yes, that's all I'm going to tell you. I like a good story, but I truly adore a satisfying ending. Your adrenaline rises as the tale progresses and by the time you finish this one off, you'll be wore slap out... in a good way.
If you are looking for a good book to read before bedtime, I hope you are a night owl. This one keeps you up all night thanks to J.S. Bailey's story telling prowess and the delicious dose of spook factor. You might rather read it by daylight. Unless, like me, you just enjoy staying up all night looking for unexpected house guests.
P.S. There is a moral to this story that we can all relate to... one that you will find yourself addressing by the final pages, if you haven't already.
Rage's Echo is a ghost story, but without spoiling it for you, let's just say, it is SO much more.
This isn't just some average girl meets a ghost tale. In fact, if you're expecting a sheet-clad specter that causes a few doors to close in order to scare the living... well you better hang on to your drawers, because you're in for a thrilling and chilling awakening!
The characters are so well-written that you form a friendship with them quickly. You have a genuine interest in their lives and you find yourself feeling as if you can just hop on Facebook and ask Jessica how the ghost hunting is going. You really forget this is a work of fiction. These characters are real. That's what I love about them most. They are just like your real-life friends and neighbors.
The setting is excellently described so that you feel as if you have visited your new friends at least once.
The pace is spot on. Turning page after page and reading nearly the whole thing in one sitting is a distinct possibility here.
Spooky? Yes, oh yes. Bailey spins a full on spine-tingling, hair-on-end, check to be sure you locked the door (and then quake in your shoes when you remember that ghosts don't use doors)kind of story. It's very subtle at times... sneaking up on you. You don't realize how terrifying something she's crafted in her tale is until it's after midnight, the lights are all out, and you find yourself hoping you don't bump into a boxer-clad stranger in your darkened hallway as you hurry off to bed... only to lie awake listening for things that go bump in the night. Definitely, there is a creep factor to this ghost story. It's perfectly done with just right shivers that keep you sleeping with one eye open... assuming you can sleep at all.
The ending. BAM. Yes, that's all I'm going to tell you. I like a good story, but I truly adore a satisfying ending. Your adrenaline rises as the tale progresses and by the time you finish this one off, you'll be wore slap out... in a good way.
If you are looking for a good book to read before bedtime, I hope you are a night owl. This one keeps you up all night thanks to J.S. Bailey's story telling prowess and the delicious dose of spook factor. You might rather read it by daylight. Unless, like me, you just enjoy staying up all night looking for unexpected house guests.
P.S. There is a moral to this story that we can all relate to... one that you will find yourself addressing by the final pages, if you haven't already.
October 1, 2013
I've never been into ghost stories, so this book was a bit of a gamble for me. I'd read a short story by this author before that I really enjoyed, so I looked forward to this book.
What I felt like this book really had going for it was the sense of the unexpected. As far as plot movement, it never disappointed. The characters felt like real people. They are working the same kind of jobs that everyday people work, dealing with the same issues as everyone else. In that aspect, I really liked the characters.
The ghost, Jerry Madison, was sufficiently creepy while surprisingly human. While I didn't connect with him, that's a good thing. I did like the main character, and felt that even the supporting characters developed in ways of their own.
Bailey doesn't hesitate to make her characters desperate or unusual, which really helped with the forward momentum. I didn't see the plot twist at the end coming, which made the ending go really fast.
The only thing that I didn't like about the book was that some of the conversations took awhile to take off. Not too long, that I lost interest in reading, but it felt very much like a stream-of-consciousness small-talk narrative on occasions that I wondered about.
Great read. I'm recommending this to several friends. I also plan to read more of the author's work in the future.
What I felt like this book really had going for it was the sense of the unexpected. As far as plot movement, it never disappointed. The characters felt like real people. They are working the same kind of jobs that everyday people work, dealing with the same issues as everyone else. In that aspect, I really liked the characters.
The ghost, Jerry Madison, was sufficiently creepy while surprisingly human. While I didn't connect with him, that's a good thing. I did like the main character, and felt that even the supporting characters developed in ways of their own.
Bailey doesn't hesitate to make her characters desperate or unusual, which really helped with the forward momentum. I didn't see the plot twist at the end coming, which made the ending go really fast.
The only thing that I didn't like about the book was that some of the conversations took awhile to take off. Not too long, that I lost interest in reading, but it felt very much like a stream-of-consciousness small-talk narrative on occasions that I wondered about.
Great read. I'm recommending this to several friends. I also plan to read more of the author's work in the future.
November 16, 2014
I am a very slow reader. My apologies to the author for taking so long to finish this review. I started the book and then set it aside and then picked it back up. I am impressed with this story which explores the ghosts of our past. I think every reader will find a bit of themselves among the cast of characters. I like the areas that this book dares to explore - there are some surprisingly dark places. Quite a journey.
The first work I read by J.S. Bailey was The Land Beyond the Portal and it was Amazing - Dean Koontz meets The Chronicles of Narnia. When I heard the author was releasing a new title I immediately got excited for Rage's Echo. Rage's Echo - just considering the title causes me think about the implications that resonate and hope that this novel will be nothing short of Wonderful.
Is there life after death? Could one of life's greatest mysteries be answered and life after death proven? What will happen when a paranormal investigator meets a ghost in a graveyard and the ghost follows her home?
Thank you to the author for providing me with an free, advance, signed copy of Rage's Echo.
The first work I read by J.S. Bailey was The Land Beyond the Portal and it was Amazing - Dean Koontz meets The Chronicles of Narnia. When I heard the author was releasing a new title I immediately got excited for Rage's Echo. Rage's Echo - just considering the title causes me think about the implications that resonate and hope that this novel will be nothing short of Wonderful.
Is there life after death? Could one of life's greatest mysteries be answered and life after death proven? What will happen when a paranormal investigator meets a ghost in a graveyard and the ghost follows her home?
Thank you to the author for providing me with an free, advance, signed copy of Rage's Echo.
October 11, 2013
This was, by the very definition, an original story. It is truly like no ghost story I've read, doesn't feel reminiscent of anything, it is an original by an original author.
Thematically, it's at times harrowing, shocking, positive, dreary, hopefully, frightening, confusing, unashamed, unabashed, and even laugh-out-loud hilarious.
In the first of this 248-page tome, there were a couple pacing issues that I found some minor difficulty trudging through. Yet, once I got through 43% of it, the story took off with the mysteries, deep characterization, its own story nuances, inside jokes, and even intertwining character personalities. Needless to say, this was definitely an impressive ghost story to get to know.
And the way it ends is both chilling and hopeful.
Not hopeful in "Hope there's a sequel in the works," but hopeful in the thematic structure and for what could happen.
Thematically, it's at times harrowing, shocking, positive, dreary, hopefully, frightening, confusing, unashamed, unabashed, and even laugh-out-loud hilarious.
In the first of this 248-page tome, there were a couple pacing issues that I found some minor difficulty trudging through. Yet, once I got through 43% of it, the story took off with the mysteries, deep characterization, its own story nuances, inside jokes, and even intertwining character personalities. Needless to say, this was definitely an impressive ghost story to get to know.
And the way it ends is both chilling and hopeful.
Not hopeful in "Hope there's a sequel in the works," but hopeful in the thematic structure and for what could happen.
April 5, 2017
I really enjoyed this story, especially considering it isn't something I would normally pick up. I've had this book on my shelf for a few years (ashamed to say) and wished I would have read it sooner. It has a lot of Christian views, which again, even though I am a Christian, I don't normally read. I think my favorite character was Wayne throughout the story, couldn't tell you why, maybe I just like the male characters more. Jerry was likeable, but I don't spoil it. It took an unexpected turn towards the end and though I was starting to suspect one thing I certainly didn't see another coming.
September 17, 2014
This was a roller coaster of a read! The pace was great! Jerry scared me and I have to admit that I slept with the light on for a few days. J.S. is a master storyteller and I can't wait to read her other books!
March 18, 2016
If you are reading this, pass on this one.
October 21, 2014
I would like to thank author J.S. Bailey for generously providing me with an ARC of Rage's Echo won in a Goodreads giveaway. She thoughtfully sent it right away, and even spelled my name correctly in signing it. Extremely thoughtful!
Jessica Roman-Dell is a young woman working through unemployment, a possible new romance with a long-time friend and new roommate, and an estrangement from her parents. With those stresses on her mind, she turns to her hobby of ghost hunting for relaxation. Early in the novel, she meets her first real non-corporeal being, Jerry Madison. Jerry manages to erase all of her documentation of the experience, and then adds insult to injury by following her home. The mystery of Jerry's untimely death unfolds throughout the novel.
From the beginning, I didn't know what to expect from this book. I knew Rage's Echo would be spooky, but I was truly impressed with the twists and turns Bailey plotted out to avoid it becoming a "cookie cutter" ghost story. She also did a GREAT job in making all of her characters and their motivations realistic. Jessica was broke after losing her job, so Bailey made gas conservation and the real worry of running out of groceries a true concern. In other books, no matter the genre, characters always have some magical savings to get them through jetting here and there. The reality of being unemployed was kept true as a part of the story, and it was appreciated.
Some readers may not appreciate the heavy Christian themes throughout the story, but I think it added to what most people fear regarding the afterlife: the big question of where we'll end up as heaven or hell.
This is my first experience with a book by J.S. Bailey, but have added her other books to my must-read list. For reference, they are:
The Land Beyond the Portal
Vapors Kindle short
Weary Traveler Kindle short
Solitude
Jessica Roman-Dell is a young woman working through unemployment, a possible new romance with a long-time friend and new roommate, and an estrangement from her parents. With those stresses on her mind, she turns to her hobby of ghost hunting for relaxation. Early in the novel, she meets her first real non-corporeal being, Jerry Madison. Jerry manages to erase all of her documentation of the experience, and then adds insult to injury by following her home. The mystery of Jerry's untimely death unfolds throughout the novel.
From the beginning, I didn't know what to expect from this book. I knew Rage's Echo would be spooky, but I was truly impressed with the twists and turns Bailey plotted out to avoid it becoming a "cookie cutter" ghost story. She also did a GREAT job in making all of her characters and their motivations realistic. Jessica was broke after losing her job, so Bailey made gas conservation and the real worry of running out of groceries a true concern. In other books, no matter the genre, characters always have some magical savings to get them through jetting here and there. The reality of being unemployed was kept true as a part of the story, and it was appreciated.
Some readers may not appreciate the heavy Christian themes throughout the story, but I think it added to what most people fear regarding the afterlife: the big question of where we'll end up as heaven or hell.
This is my first experience with a book by J.S. Bailey, but have added her other books to my must-read list. For reference, they are:
The Land Beyond the Portal
Vapors Kindle short
Weary Traveler Kindle short
Solitude
May 15, 2014
This was one of those books that the reviews made me very apprehensive about reading. I can't put my finger on what it was exactly that made me feel that way, but if did! Anyway, I read and enjoyed the book in the end. Good plot, characters not too bad. The only thing I have a gripe about was how everything fitted together far too well in the end.
August 24, 2014
This is an easy paranormal read. Great, quick, page turner. Kinda wish I would have known how Steven King like it was (to me) before I read it because that and the paranormal aspect would have had me waiting until October to read it! Chills!
July 7, 2015
It was well written. However, I wasn't anticipating it to be Christian fiction. I was expecting a good ghost story/mystery. Instead it appeared to be the author touting her religious beliefs and creating a story around them.
September 19, 2014
good book. was hard finding time to finish it but once I did I found it to be very riveting. the times I did read it was hard to put down.
March 6, 2019
Honestly this was the worst books I've ever read. Do not recommend this author.
July 3, 2017
I gave this book 4 stars because I really like how this author writes. However, you should not read this book if:
1. You have any theological issues with the afterlife. (Note: this is FICTION. Not for learning the Bible. And the author never said this was a Christian novel.)
2. You have a weak stomach. (Some very graphic descriptions of violence.)
3. You are easily offended by diabetes jokes. (As a mom of a little girl with T1D, I was angry at the ignorance of the characters for making jokes about this serious condition. Reminder: Type 1 Diabetes is an auto-immune disease that is NOT caused by eating too much candy!!)
4. You are strongly pro-choice and do not want to hear otherwise. (I didn't have a problem with this, though the explicit description of an abortion did make my stomach turn.
I don't normally read this kind of work, though I do love to ponder the spiritual world. (Usually more about angels and demons, though.) Still, like I said, this writer writes very well.
1. You have any theological issues with the afterlife. (Note: this is FICTION. Not for learning the Bible. And the author never said this was a Christian novel.)
2. You have a weak stomach. (Some very graphic descriptions of violence.)
3. You are easily offended by diabetes jokes. (As a mom of a little girl with T1D, I was angry at the ignorance of the characters for making jokes about this serious condition. Reminder: Type 1 Diabetes is an auto-immune disease that is NOT caused by eating too much candy!!)
4. You are strongly pro-choice and do not want to hear otherwise. (I didn't have a problem with this, though the explicit description of an abortion did make my stomach turn.
I don't normally read this kind of work, though I do love to ponder the spiritual world. (Usually more about angels and demons, though.) Still, like I said, this writer writes very well.
October 2, 2019
This was my first book from J. S. Bailey and I'm looking forward to reading more in the future. Anyone who likes paranormal suspense will love this book. It will grab you from the first page and keep you guessing until the end. Perfect scary story for this time of year!
June 7, 2021
This book was one of the best paranormal books I’ve ever read. Definitely one of my favorites!
July 27, 2015
My Review
I was really excited by the premise of this novel but to me it fell flat. I had a hard time getting in to it and I had to drag through the beginning to get to a place that became decently interesting. What was missing for me were relatable and likeable characters.
I really did not like the characters. The main protagonist, Jessica, was irritating and her friends were not much better. Every time they argued or even spoke rationally with each other I felt myself rolling my eyes. She is whiny and needy. Her relationship with her family is nonexistent, but I couldn’t empathize. I found myself not caring and that is never good. Jerry, the ghost with a hidden past, was not much more interesting. I love scary and murderous characters but I just felt annoyed by him. As he followed Jessica, I felt like he was a buzzing fly that wouldn’t go away rather than a terrifying haunting presence.
The mid point of the book got a bit more interesting as secrets began to come out. However, I found that the majority was pretty easy to deduce and it left me wanting. The first connection/plot twist was predictable. However, the second plot twist was definitely a blindside and I must give credit where credit is due. The story picked up towards the end with these twists but it wasn’t enough to redeem the book.
In Summary
The Good
•Great premise
•Decent plot twists, particularly the second
The Not So Good
•Irritating characters
•Was not captivating and it didn’t make me want to read more
•Somewhat predictable
Recommendation
Not really, no. It was just okay to me. If you have a copy in your library or for free, it is not a bad way to spend an afternoon but I would not purchase this book.
I was really excited by the premise of this novel but to me it fell flat. I had a hard time getting in to it and I had to drag through the beginning to get to a place that became decently interesting. What was missing for me were relatable and likeable characters.
I really did not like the characters. The main protagonist, Jessica, was irritating and her friends were not much better. Every time they argued or even spoke rationally with each other I felt myself rolling my eyes. She is whiny and needy. Her relationship with her family is nonexistent, but I couldn’t empathize. I found myself not caring and that is never good. Jerry, the ghost with a hidden past, was not much more interesting. I love scary and murderous characters but I just felt annoyed by him. As he followed Jessica, I felt like he was a buzzing fly that wouldn’t go away rather than a terrifying haunting presence.
The mid point of the book got a bit more interesting as secrets began to come out. However, I found that the majority was pretty easy to deduce and it left me wanting. The first connection/plot twist was predictable. However, the second plot twist was definitely a blindside and I must give credit where credit is due. The story picked up towards the end with these twists but it wasn’t enough to redeem the book.
In Summary
The Good
•Great premise
•Decent plot twists, particularly the second
The Not So Good
•Irritating characters
•Was not captivating and it didn’t make me want to read more
•Somewhat predictable
Recommendation
Not really, no. It was just okay to me. If you have a copy in your library or for free, it is not a bad way to spend an afternoon but I would not purchase this book.
January 13, 2015
Let me start by saying I had never read anything by J.S. Bailey. When I saw the cover, I knew I was in for something special. One of the biggest strengths of this story are the characters. I was always taught that if your characters do not come alive, you have not done a good job telling the story. In this case, I fell in love with the characters. All of them have imperfections and you get this feeling you know them.
I kept wanting to skip to the end, not that this is bad thing, but as usual I stopped myself. Let me just says that I've wanted to do that with many great books like One Hundred Years of Solitude, Horns, and No Disrespect. As a reader, I know that is the worst thing you can do. Sometimes to truly understand the ending you have to read the whole story.
Near the end of this book I realized I am now a fan of J.S. Bailey. I was not expecting that ending, but what I am expecting are great things from her in the future.
I kept wanting to skip to the end, not that this is bad thing, but as usual I stopped myself. Let me just says that I've wanted to do that with many great books like One Hundred Years of Solitude, Horns, and No Disrespect. As a reader, I know that is the worst thing you can do. Sometimes to truly understand the ending you have to read the whole story.
Near the end of this book I realized I am now a fan of J.S. Bailey. I was not expecting that ending, but what I am expecting are great things from her in the future.
October 1, 2015
This was a perfect read for this time of year! I love ghost stories, and it's been a long time since I've read one.
Basically, a young woman (Jessica) who fancies herself a paranormal investigator, is asked to check out and see if a church's graveyard is haunted. It turns out that not only is it haunted, but she can speak to the ghost, and he follows her home against her wishes. From there, the story gets not just creepy and spooky, but it also becomes quite scary. There is also some seriousness woven through the story, but it's not so heavy that you'll feel it weigh the story down. The seriousness is what I think will give you something to think about after finishing the book, at least it has felt that way for me.
The writing is good, and I will definitely read more from Bailey, she is a fantastic story-teller. This would make a great book club read!
Basically, a young woman (Jessica) who fancies herself a paranormal investigator, is asked to check out and see if a church's graveyard is haunted. It turns out that not only is it haunted, but she can speak to the ghost, and he follows her home against her wishes. From there, the story gets not just creepy and spooky, but it also becomes quite scary. There is also some seriousness woven through the story, but it's not so heavy that you'll feel it weigh the story down. The seriousness is what I think will give you something to think about after finishing the book, at least it has felt that way for me.
The writing is good, and I will definitely read more from Bailey, she is a fantastic story-teller. This would make a great book club read!
June 23, 2016
After having met J.S. Bailey at a Ted Dekker book signing, I checked out a couple of her short stories & novels. Rage's Echo most interested me as it centers around the premise of a Christian protagonist who considers herself a paranormal investigator. This is practically unheard of in Christian circles, not surprisingly. However, having been on ghost walks & find myself interested in the paranormal, this book seemed really intriguing.
I appreciated the premise and storyline; however, I wished the characters would have explored the ideas of death, the afterlife, and forgiveness throughout the story rather than simply at the end. It would have provided more depth to the characters.
Overall, I'd recommend Rage's Echo for those who like easy reading ghost stories.
I appreciated the premise and storyline; however, I wished the characters would have explored the ideas of death, the afterlife, and forgiveness throughout the story rather than simply at the end. It would have provided more depth to the characters.
Overall, I'd recommend Rage's Echo for those who like easy reading ghost stories.
Read
October 6, 2016Thanks to Good Reads, I recieved an autographed copy of this book, with the author daring me to read it. I took the dare, and thoroughly enjoyed. it. I have to say that the author proved that there can be a good book to read that has decent language (the characters don't speak with swear words as every other word.) Even though there was a hint of romance, there wasn't lurid bedroom scenes that had no baring whatsoever to the story. It was a fast moving story that grabbed my attention, and wouldn't let go. I must say, I will miss these characters, as I came to like them.
July 17, 2015
I loved this book the whole time I did not what to suspect I can tell you this book was definitely had it's own unique plot which I loved and I highly recommend everybody to read this book.
I also received this book through Goodreads First Read
I also received this book through Goodreads First Read
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