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Legacy of Darkness #1
The Meadows
A decades-old murder. A strange, blood-thirsty cult. And a house full of spirits.
It was supposed to be a new beginning, a fresh start in the Shenandoah Valley, where Scarlett’s memories weren’t riddled with drug addiction and rehab. But after purchasing an abandoned house with a checkered past in the hopes of transforming it into a luxury bed and breakfast, strange things start to happen. Disturbing voices and noises interrupt her new life. Strangers appear, bearing cryptic warnings. A tunnel is discovered underneath the house—one historically used for a local cult’s rituals. After several of Scarlett’s guests are hospitalized, she realizes she is being targeted by violent spirits.
Driven to the edge of despair, Scarlett vows to fight back—but she has no idea what she’s really battling. And her nightmare is just beginning…
The Meadows is a gripping supernatural thriller in which the monsters may be vampires, demons, or flesh and blood. It is a nightmare that will make you believe it could easily happen to you.
It was supposed to be a new beginning, a fresh start in the Shenandoah Valley, where Scarlett’s memories weren’t riddled with drug addiction and rehab. But after purchasing an abandoned house with a checkered past in the hopes of transforming it into a luxury bed and breakfast, strange things start to happen. Disturbing voices and noises interrupt her new life. Strangers appear, bearing cryptic warnings. A tunnel is discovered underneath the house—one historically used for a local cult’s rituals. After several of Scarlett’s guests are hospitalized, she realizes she is being targeted by violent spirits.
Driven to the edge of despair, Scarlett vows to fight back—but she has no idea what she’s really battling. And her nightmare is just beginning…
The Meadows is a gripping supernatural thriller in which the monsters may be vampires, demons, or flesh and blood. It is a nightmare that will make you believe it could easily happen to you.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2018
650 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
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January 15, 20223.5 STARS
Loved the first half and the second half was a bit muddled.
A GOTHIC haunted house (my favorite aspect of the story) is being renovated into a bed and breakfast, but the new owner, Scarlett DeHaven has her hands full with this purchase. It was known to locals as The Addam's family house with its spires, climbing ivy, gargoyles jutting out and crumbling towers. Scarlett calls it a hidden gem!
Recommend if you enjoy super natural, haunted house, cult plots, vampires, ghosts, and creepy bumps in the night. I do love the author's writing and plan to read more of her novels and perhaps the next in this series.
From by owned books shelf! Read in June 2021
Loved the first half and the second half was a bit muddled.
A GOTHIC haunted house (my favorite aspect of the story) is being renovated into a bed and breakfast, but the new owner, Scarlett DeHaven has her hands full with this purchase. It was known to locals as The Addam's family house with its spires, climbing ivy, gargoyles jutting out and crumbling towers. Scarlett calls it a hidden gem!
Recommend if you enjoy super natural, haunted house, cult plots, vampires, ghosts, and creepy bumps in the night. I do love the author's writing and plan to read more of her novels and perhaps the next in this series.
From by owned books shelf! Read in June 2021
November 17, 2018
The Meadows was an enjoyable and creepy read-4.5 stars! The book centers around Scarlett-a country music writer that is fresh out of rehab. In order to get her life straight, Scarlett leaves Nashville and buys an abandon mansion in the Shenandoah Valley in hopes of restoring it and making it a bed and breakfast. As Scarlett begins renovations, she quickly finds out that she is way out of her depths on this one.
This is no ordinary mansion-it’s a large creepy place where an entire family was brutally murdered. Oh, also add that paranormal activity is a regular event in the house and that a strange cult (calling themselves The Colony) stalks the house and the surrounding land.
The Meadows is a highly atmospheric book that I would highly recommend to readers that love horror/dark books. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me review this.
This is no ordinary mansion-it’s a large creepy place where an entire family was brutally murdered. Oh, also add that paranormal activity is a regular event in the house and that a strange cult (calling themselves The Colony) stalks the house and the surrounding land.
The Meadows is a highly atmospheric book that I would highly recommend to readers that love horror/dark books. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me review this.
May 17, 2020
Very creepy story of a beautiful antebellum housed possessed by demonic presences and used by a cult of human vampires. I hope I’m not going to regret reading this late into the night!
January 23, 2019
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ok what do I say?
Firstly the good stuff
- I enjoyed the writing style and found the narrative smooth and easy to follow.
- I liked the premise of the book, however
The not-so-good stuff
- I found the story extremely repetitive
- I found the female lead character frustrating
- I didn’t like any characters
- The plot gets a bit ridiculous
It just wasn’t for me 🤷♀️😊
Ok what do I say?
Firstly the good stuff
- I enjoyed the writing style and found the narrative smooth and easy to follow.
- I liked the premise of the book, however
The not-so-good stuff
- I found the story extremely repetitive
- I found the female lead character frustrating
- I didn’t like any characters
- The plot gets a bit ridiculous
It just wasn’t for me 🤷♀️😊
November 20, 2018
This one initially attracted me with a mention of a cult in description. But then there were all these detractors…unknown author, unknown publisher, horrid choice of a name for the main character, (actually, having read this, all around questionable name choices), but ok, gave it a try. And it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I mean, yes, there are vampires, of course there are vampires, just look at the author’s photo, pure goth there, but the book itself was a lot of fun to read. The protagonist is the abysmally named Scarlett DeHaven (like something straight out of a bodice ripper, isn’t it), but then again at least it isn’t Angel. And, of course, she is no angel, she’s an addict and an alcoholic, straight out of rehab, who decided it’s time for a fresh start and sinks millions (lucrative career as a modern country song writer…yikes and generous daddy) into an abandoned derelict mansion (yes, a gothic mansion, naturally) with the idea of turning it into a B’n’B. The minute she gets there she energetically jumps off the wagon, but nevertheless proceeds with the renovations. But things get in a way. Because the mansion appears to be haunted, possessed and used for cult rituals. Yes, a triple whammy. Because apparently this is the sort of thing one might expect when buying a property on a whim without doing any due diligence. Initially Scarlett insists she doesn’t care about the place’s dark past, but very soon it gets to be too much and no amount of alcohol is enough and then it’s time to call the exorcist. So, ok, when I describe it that way, it kinda sounds silly, but it’s actually surprisingly well written, atmospheric and dynamic with the right degree of realism to the dramatic writing and, contrary to expectations, a surprising lack of vapidity when it came to the female characters. A great October read read a month too late. The author might have introduced entirely too many elements into the haunting of the Meadows Mansion, but she juggled it all nicely and wrapped things up nicely also. Although inexplicably there appears to be a sequel in the works, since this is subtitled as book one. So yeah, well done, London Clarke, for just about completely subverting expectations, pleasantly surprising and generally entertaining way more than anyone has any right to expect from a random book about vampires. Thanks Netgalley.
January 22, 2019
I never read scary books, and I probably shouldn't have read this one. The Meadows is straight up creepy and menacing. Scarlett made a bad decision when she bought the house. I would be more like-I'm not buying that gothic manor house out here in the black forest! But she did buy it and the story unfolds all the sinister secrets of this place. Murder and mayhem and evil spirits. I felt like something was watching me every time I read the story. I did like the plot overall. I thought Scarlett was not well developed. If you want scary, I recommend this one. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2022
Buddy read with Terry! Something I was excited about and asked the author in a facebook group was about the main character. She made the main character vegan. I found that fascinating. I don’t get to read many books 📕 with vegan characters. So easy to relate too. Great book! Clarke is a very talented writer. This book scared to poop out of me in some places. I hope to read the next two in the series soon.
December 5, 2018
Wow, this is a gripping story. It is about the dark history of a mansion that is brought to life by Scarlett. Creepy enough for me.
Thank you Netgalley for this nice book.
Thank you Netgalley for this nice book.
February 2, 2019
THE MEADOWS is one SCARY novel! The author finely tunes the tension, drawing the reader along to follow the feckless, definitely self-destructive, heroine, an acclaimed songwriter, as she battles her addictions, not very successfully. But the real question becomes: Is she hallucinating from alcohol and controlled substances, or are these apparitions, manifestations, sounds, voices, actually REAL? Is this property, the size of an estate, actually HAUNTED? Or has falling off the wagon after five months simply created sights, sounds, touch, in her mind? Either way, our protagonist is in deep trouble. DEEP trouble. She's sunk about $5 million into buying a property in the scenic Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, where she studied for her undergraduate degree at Shenandoah University. She intends to renovate, then open the house as a bed-and-breakfast, and attract "leaf peepers," newlyweds, couples celebrating anniversaries, plus businesspersons and corporate "retreats." An admirable goal, one which will not be accomplished unless the house is cleared of its "other" inhabitants; and unless Scarlett can find a way to stop the rising death toll. The house is already notorious for mass murders occurring in 1986, including paranormal elements, and had been abandoned for over 30 years. Scarlett is trapped between a rock and a hard place, and possibly there may be no earthly solution.
May 11, 2019
Firstly, many thanks to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Having just finished another horror story, I was looking forward to feasting my eyes on this. As I read the synopsis I thought the book was right up my street. A haunted house. The main character fighting her demons. Yes, it definitely sounded like my kind of story.
Unfortunately this book didn’t do it for me. It felt overcrowded with scenarios and characters, most of whom I took an instant dislike to but the main character was my biggest bugbear. She annoyed me to the point where I had to turn my Kindle off and try again after I’d calmed down. If I hadn’t been gifted this by NetGalley and BooksGoSocial I wouldn’t have finished it. Sorry, not for me.
Having just finished another horror story, I was looking forward to feasting my eyes on this. As I read the synopsis I thought the book was right up my street. A haunted house. The main character fighting her demons. Yes, it definitely sounded like my kind of story.
Unfortunately this book didn’t do it for me. It felt overcrowded with scenarios and characters, most of whom I took an instant dislike to but the main character was my biggest bugbear. She annoyed me to the point where I had to turn my Kindle off and try again after I’d calmed down. If I hadn’t been gifted this by NetGalley and BooksGoSocial I wouldn’t have finished it. Sorry, not for me.
February 18, 2019
This book is a bit creepy and super fun to read. If you like things that go bump in the night, this book is for you. I enjoyed it! I love dark and spooky with little something different on the side. A creepy house and so much more caught my attention in this book. I could picture parts of this book and house in my mind. What a great mansion! *This book was given to me for free at my request from NetGalley and I provided this voluntary review.*
November 16, 2018
A brilliantly creepy and wonderfully written book, the only real issue for me was the ending which was not as strong as the rest of the book. However, despite this I really enjoyed reading this book which provides some genuine scares and creepy moments.
We follow Scarlett, a recovering alcoholic, who buys The Meadows in order to transform it into a B and B. However, the house is hiding some secrets that are now starting to come out of the woodwork.
Scarlett is an interesting and multidimensional main character. Her decision making is sometimes flawed but as a reader you still feel a degree of sympathy for her. As she is our only narrator we only see things from her perspective meaning that there are moments of confusion for the reader as she discovers what is going on. Stella, Hunter, Ryan and Mia were all amazing characters, providing a great cast to follow along with and I think that the book may benefit from a multi perspective retelling, as it would be interesting to see events through the eyes of these characters. Although the single narrative does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book, I think that some of the scary elements could have been enhanced if we had been shown them rather than just told about them through the narrative.
I also thought that this book gave too much away during the first chapter, and that it may be extraneous as we cover the same story later in the story. It may be worth, therefore, removing this chapter and starting straight with Scarlett as some of the creepiness is lost by knowing who is behind the whole thing.
Equally the twist at the end was reasonably predictable and not really that shocking. Added to the fact that the ending itself was confusing and there is no explaination as to what is going to happen as a result of the events at the house means that I left the book feeling slightly dissatisfied and hoping that there will be a sequel in order to explain the consequences of these events.
However, that being said, I really enjoyed reading this book and the creepiness was maintained throughout. There are some really scary scenes and moments dotted throughout. It is a great Halloween read. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an Arc of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
We follow Scarlett, a recovering alcoholic, who buys The Meadows in order to transform it into a B and B. However, the house is hiding some secrets that are now starting to come out of the woodwork.
Scarlett is an interesting and multidimensional main character. Her decision making is sometimes flawed but as a reader you still feel a degree of sympathy for her. As she is our only narrator we only see things from her perspective meaning that there are moments of confusion for the reader as she discovers what is going on. Stella, Hunter, Ryan and Mia were all amazing characters, providing a great cast to follow along with and I think that the book may benefit from a multi perspective retelling, as it would be interesting to see events through the eyes of these characters. Although the single narrative does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book, I think that some of the scary elements could have been enhanced if we had been shown them rather than just told about them through the narrative.
I also thought that this book gave too much away during the first chapter, and that it may be extraneous as we cover the same story later in the story. It may be worth, therefore, removing this chapter and starting straight with Scarlett as some of the creepiness is lost by knowing who is behind the whole thing.
Equally the twist at the end was reasonably predictable and not really that shocking. Added to the fact that the ending itself was confusing and there is no explaination as to what is going to happen as a result of the events at the house means that I left the book feeling slightly dissatisfied and hoping that there will be a sequel in order to explain the consequences of these events.
However, that being said, I really enjoyed reading this book and the creepiness was maintained throughout. There are some really scary scenes and moments dotted throughout. It is a great Halloween read. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an Arc of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
October 23, 2018
The first half of this story deserves 5 stars hands down. I was riveted to the pages, couldn't flip 'em fast enough.
Then, the edge of your seat 'what the hell is going on?' lost its luster. The second-half went on for far too long, and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as the first half.
5 stars for the first-half, 3 stars for the second. Overall rating 4 stars.
Copy obtained via NetGalley.
Then, the edge of your seat 'what the hell is going on?' lost its luster. The second-half went on for far too long, and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as the first half.
5 stars for the first-half, 3 stars for the second. Overall rating 4 stars.
Copy obtained via NetGalley.
February 6, 2019
Creepy, terrifying, and extremely mysterious. This paranormal horror had me constantly on the edge of my seat into the wee hours of the morning (or really my bed, just not too close to the edge in case something scary popped out 👻). If you’re still looking for something slightly unsettling that will make you want to keep the lights on this October, look no further than The Meadows. My next read may have to be a little lighter so that I can maybe sleep tonight. Excellent book!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers at BooksGoSocial for providing this ebook for free in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers at BooksGoSocial for providing this ebook for free in exchange for my honest review.
June 18, 2019
London Clark's The Meadows is the best kind of horror or psychological thriller. Many novels of these types pile on the scares and we want the protagonists to escape from the spooky situation.
Then there are ones like The Meadows where the scares happen, but it might be impossible for the protagonist to escape, because the protagonist themselves are the problem. The protagonist is filled with some deep secret or personal problem that affects the environment around them. They do this to the point where no one knows if the spooky things are real, manifestations of the protagonist’s guilt, or just hallucinations from an already unhinged mind.
Scarlet is a Nasville-based songwriter and recovering alcoholic. During a drunken binge, she mentioned a childhood fantasy about buying an old mansion and turning it into a B&B. A realtor takes her up on the offer and shows her a property with a unique and bizarre history. Despite her apprehensions, Scarlet longs for a fresh start and decides to pursue that dream.
Unfortunately, Scarlet not only purchases a big sprawling Southern house called The Meadows, she buys a curse to go with it. She hears footsteps and whispers particularly some that countdown to some mysterious deadline. She also sees apparitions of creepy hooded figures in the woods. Then she hears the back story that the house was the central location for a cult that may or may not still be on the premises and that it may or may not be haunted by former members or their sacrificial victims.
The Meadows is a great book for experiencing fear. Like the best kinds of horror novels, it doesn’t overdo with big scary monsters or axe-wielding serial killers. The creepiest moments are some of the most subtle such as when Scarlet is alone and she hears or thinks she hears someone chanting numbers. When the monsters come in full force at the end, the fear is well-earned because of the build up that happens in the previous chapters.
Some of the scariest parts involve Scarlet’s friends’ encounters with the mysterious goings-on. One friend disappears and is missing throughout most of the book. In one of the scariest parts of the book, another friend comes down the stairs in a hypnotic daze repeating the same phrase over and over as though he were brainwashed or possessed by demons.
Above all, author London Clark really opens up how these events affect Scarlet. She is guilt-stricken about her alcoholic behavior and has trouble remembering large chunks of her life caused by heavy drinking. She is also consumed with grief over a death that happened when she was younger. When she believes she sees a ghost from her past, she is willing to run towards it that she wants to sacrifice her life to make the pain go away.
It is clear that Scarlet is every bit as haunted as her environment, so it becomes hard to tell whether the mysterious events are external or from within. Until the events affect her friends, Scarlet isn’t sure whether they are real or all in her head. That makes the most interesting kind of haunting when the protagonist is every bit as psychologically damaged as the house.
The Meadows ultimately becomes a story of redemption. Scarlet has to look inward to find her inner strength to battle the monsters haunting her house and the monsters inside herself. Even though, she surrenders to the temptation to drink, she realizes how wrong she is and fights with those urges. She realizes how much of her life had been surrendered to her addiction and is committed to making the B&B for a new fresh start.
Scarlet battles the horrors in her house as much as she battles the horrors of alcoholism and grief. With a house and a protagonist that are haunted, The Meadows is a true horror novel indeed.
Then there are ones like The Meadows where the scares happen, but it might be impossible for the protagonist to escape, because the protagonist themselves are the problem. The protagonist is filled with some deep secret or personal problem that affects the environment around them. They do this to the point where no one knows if the spooky things are real, manifestations of the protagonist’s guilt, or just hallucinations from an already unhinged mind.
Scarlet is a Nasville-based songwriter and recovering alcoholic. During a drunken binge, she mentioned a childhood fantasy about buying an old mansion and turning it into a B&B. A realtor takes her up on the offer and shows her a property with a unique and bizarre history. Despite her apprehensions, Scarlet longs for a fresh start and decides to pursue that dream.
Unfortunately, Scarlet not only purchases a big sprawling Southern house called The Meadows, she buys a curse to go with it. She hears footsteps and whispers particularly some that countdown to some mysterious deadline. She also sees apparitions of creepy hooded figures in the woods. Then she hears the back story that the house was the central location for a cult that may or may not still be on the premises and that it may or may not be haunted by former members or their sacrificial victims.
The Meadows is a great book for experiencing fear. Like the best kinds of horror novels, it doesn’t overdo with big scary monsters or axe-wielding serial killers. The creepiest moments are some of the most subtle such as when Scarlet is alone and she hears or thinks she hears someone chanting numbers. When the monsters come in full force at the end, the fear is well-earned because of the build up that happens in the previous chapters.
Some of the scariest parts involve Scarlet’s friends’ encounters with the mysterious goings-on. One friend disappears and is missing throughout most of the book. In one of the scariest parts of the book, another friend comes down the stairs in a hypnotic daze repeating the same phrase over and over as though he were brainwashed or possessed by demons.
Above all, author London Clark really opens up how these events affect Scarlet. She is guilt-stricken about her alcoholic behavior and has trouble remembering large chunks of her life caused by heavy drinking. She is also consumed with grief over a death that happened when she was younger. When she believes she sees a ghost from her past, she is willing to run towards it that she wants to sacrifice her life to make the pain go away.
It is clear that Scarlet is every bit as haunted as her environment, so it becomes hard to tell whether the mysterious events are external or from within. Until the events affect her friends, Scarlet isn’t sure whether they are real or all in her head. That makes the most interesting kind of haunting when the protagonist is every bit as psychologically damaged as the house.
The Meadows ultimately becomes a story of redemption. Scarlet has to look inward to find her inner strength to battle the monsters haunting her house and the monsters inside herself. Even though, she surrenders to the temptation to drink, she realizes how wrong she is and fights with those urges. She realizes how much of her life had been surrendered to her addiction and is committed to making the B&B for a new fresh start.
Scarlet battles the horrors in her house as much as she battles the horrors of alcoholism and grief. With a house and a protagonist that are haunted, The Meadows is a true horror novel indeed.
January 10, 2019
Scarlett DeHaven is a country-song songwriter who let success in Nashville lead her to fall into the trap of drugs and alcohol. After a stint in rehab, she moves to Virginia after having purchased a huge gothic historic mansion, and plans to turn it in to a bed and breakfast, despite the enormity of the task or even all the signs she seems to be getting from around her that it’s the wrong thing to do.
She gradually finds out that Asphodel House and Meadows was the site of a brutal mass killing, and ever since then, it’s been said to be used for some sort of cult, maybe even vampires or druids. Scarlett doesn’t want to believe any of it, and she soon breaks her sobriety when her friend Stella comes to stay and starts to feel things will be okay with this new start.
That’s where the downward spiral, inside and out, seems to begin.
This is a not only an excellent paranormal thriller and ghost story, with elements of a cult and vampiric rituals, but also a novel about someone trying to go through recovery and deal with addiction and the trappings of what fame and fortune can do. It’s a lot more involved than initially meets the eye.
When asked to review this novel, I said yes based on it purely being a paranormal haunting-type story set in old house, and that didn’t even remotely set me up for what an amazing ride I had with this book.
Every time I sat down to read it, I was deeply entrenched in Scarlett’s plight: she had taken on this multi-million dollar money-pit with good intentions (even though her original search for the house was made when she was high), and she starts drinking more as the stress of it starts to take hold. When she breaks sobriety it broke my heart, but I found myself empathizing with the inner battle she constantly has with herself throughout the novel, and recognize the shame and isolation she feels. The addiction story may be hard for some people to read if they have had some experience dealing with addicts or recovery themselves. Still, it’s not done with kid gloves and Clarke does it with kindness and realistically.
Author London Clarke paints a vivid picture of both this looming mansion as well as this addiction in Scarlett’s life as they take over congruently; they work simultaneously like the demons that take hold. Asphodel House itself becomes its own character in the novel and is a force to be reckoned with, and it made me think of other famous literary haunted houses such as Hill House, and Amityville.
Scarlett’s past comes back to haunt her in many forms, and the other characters in the novel serve to remind her that she can’t step away from it. There are several humbling moments that serve as pivotal points for her too, and her story arc is heart-wrenching. There are many bright spots though, as she pushes forward, and I appreciated the levity brought by some of the positivity she has (her denial serves her well too), and it broke up the moments where I truly had chills reading this book. It takes a lot for me, having read countless horror and thriller novels, and having worked on horror movies too. I also found the twists and turns to really take me by surprise.
I liken this indie-published ebook to one of the many independent movies I worked on when I worked in film; not enough people will get to read it (like they didn’t see those brilliant movies) because it’s not attached to a big publishing house (studio) or has a big name attached to it, and that’s a shame. This book is EXCELLENT. I was gripped all the way through. I want to make sure everyone I know who loves a good, chilling read, hears about ‘The Meadows’.
*I received a free copy of this book to review and this did not affect my opinion of the book.
She gradually finds out that Asphodel House and Meadows was the site of a brutal mass killing, and ever since then, it’s been said to be used for some sort of cult, maybe even vampires or druids. Scarlett doesn’t want to believe any of it, and she soon breaks her sobriety when her friend Stella comes to stay and starts to feel things will be okay with this new start.
That’s where the downward spiral, inside and out, seems to begin.
This is a not only an excellent paranormal thriller and ghost story, with elements of a cult and vampiric rituals, but also a novel about someone trying to go through recovery and deal with addiction and the trappings of what fame and fortune can do. It’s a lot more involved than initially meets the eye.
When asked to review this novel, I said yes based on it purely being a paranormal haunting-type story set in old house, and that didn’t even remotely set me up for what an amazing ride I had with this book.
Every time I sat down to read it, I was deeply entrenched in Scarlett’s plight: she had taken on this multi-million dollar money-pit with good intentions (even though her original search for the house was made when she was high), and she starts drinking more as the stress of it starts to take hold. When she breaks sobriety it broke my heart, but I found myself empathizing with the inner battle she constantly has with herself throughout the novel, and recognize the shame and isolation she feels. The addiction story may be hard for some people to read if they have had some experience dealing with addicts or recovery themselves. Still, it’s not done with kid gloves and Clarke does it with kindness and realistically.
Author London Clarke paints a vivid picture of both this looming mansion as well as this addiction in Scarlett’s life as they take over congruently; they work simultaneously like the demons that take hold. Asphodel House itself becomes its own character in the novel and is a force to be reckoned with, and it made me think of other famous literary haunted houses such as Hill House, and Amityville.
Scarlett’s past comes back to haunt her in many forms, and the other characters in the novel serve to remind her that she can’t step away from it. There are several humbling moments that serve as pivotal points for her too, and her story arc is heart-wrenching. There are many bright spots though, as she pushes forward, and I appreciated the levity brought by some of the positivity she has (her denial serves her well too), and it broke up the moments where I truly had chills reading this book. It takes a lot for me, having read countless horror and thriller novels, and having worked on horror movies too. I also found the twists and turns to really take me by surprise.
I liken this indie-published ebook to one of the many independent movies I worked on when I worked in film; not enough people will get to read it (like they didn’t see those brilliant movies) because it’s not attached to a big publishing house (studio) or has a big name attached to it, and that’s a shame. This book is EXCELLENT. I was gripped all the way through. I want to make sure everyone I know who loves a good, chilling read, hears about ‘The Meadows’.
*I received a free copy of this book to review and this did not affect my opinion of the book.
December 2, 2018
The Meadows is an eerie, hair-raising tale that takes readers on a journey of dark mysteries and vengeful spirits. This book is the first one to ever give me goosebumps and a feeling that "someone is watching me." I loved that it could do that to me-something I never thought possible. The descriptions were so well written that I could picture every intended detail.
I couldn't quite relate to the main character as much as I would have liked, but she was still a good lead. Her struggles and decision-making processes were believable and added to the depth of the story.
Where this book fell short for me was in the ending. It seemed rushed and certain character endings seemed abrupt, almost unfinished in a way. Even the main character, Scarlett, seemed to just drop off in terms of the conclusion. I also found the spirits significantly more exciting-and creepier-than the cult which made me feel that the cult was sort of unnecessary. Despite this, I do believe the book is worth the read, even if only for a good scare.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
I couldn't quite relate to the main character as much as I would have liked, but she was still a good lead. Her struggles and decision-making processes were believable and added to the depth of the story.
Where this book fell short for me was in the ending. It seemed rushed and certain character endings seemed abrupt, almost unfinished in a way. Even the main character, Scarlett, seemed to just drop off in terms of the conclusion. I also found the spirits significantly more exciting-and creepier-than the cult which made me feel that the cult was sort of unnecessary. Despite this, I do believe the book is worth the read, even if only for a good scare.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
February 19, 2019
I am reviewing this book after receiving a free copy from Hidden Gems Books.
I had no idea what to expect from this book. It took me longer to read than I expected, only because I couldn't read it at night. I doubt I would have slept well! As soon as I read the prologue I was hooked and then I didn't put it down. Only when I had to! While reading it I got so engrossed that I would jump when someone spoke to me or I heard a noise I wasn't expecting. The Meadows was so thrilling and the suspense was unbearable.
I enjoyed all the characters and was intrigued by Scarlett because of her real struggles. It was refreshing to read a character that wasn't perfect and did make mistakes. All the events that happened to lead up to the events happening in the house were graphic and well written. There were many twists and turns that kept me reading. Knowing that this will become a series really excites me for the next book.
This was my first book from the author London Clarke and I am glad to have found her work. I will be greatly anticipating her next book and recommend this book to those who love reading thrillers.
Amy x
I had no idea what to expect from this book. It took me longer to read than I expected, only because I couldn't read it at night. I doubt I would have slept well! As soon as I read the prologue I was hooked and then I didn't put it down. Only when I had to! While reading it I got so engrossed that I would jump when someone spoke to me or I heard a noise I wasn't expecting. The Meadows was so thrilling and the suspense was unbearable.
I enjoyed all the characters and was intrigued by Scarlett because of her real struggles. It was refreshing to read a character that wasn't perfect and did make mistakes. All the events that happened to lead up to the events happening in the house were graphic and well written. There were many twists and turns that kept me reading. Knowing that this will become a series really excites me for the next book.
This was my first book from the author London Clarke and I am glad to have found her work. I will be greatly anticipating her next book and recommend this book to those who love reading thrillers.
Amy x
October 13, 2019
A fantastic thrill ride through the pages of vampires, demons and mystery. London Clarke has a voice reminiscent of the gothic tales of old. Although the main character was flawed and ever so slightly unlikable, she felt real and her efforts at cleansing her new home kept me reading into the small hours.
February 6, 2020
Great characters and a well-crafted storyline make The Meadows an excellent read. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a book to burn through on the weekend.
December 3, 2018
(This review is also on my blog All the Ups and Downs.)
I loved London Clarke's first book, Wildfell, so I was definitely looking forward to her next book, The Meadows. I loved this book! It was so spooky and creepy which are my favorite types of books.
The pacing for The Meadows was perfect. Not once did I feel like this book slowed down where I was becoming bored. It is definitely a fast paced thriller, but it's not too fast paced in the sense that you have no clue what just happened.
The world building and plot are done extremely well. London Clarke does such an excellent job of describing what's going on, that I actually felt like I was staying at Asphodel House, the spooky house where all the paranormal things happen. The Meadows felt so real, I would actually stay awake a little longer after reading some of it because I was so spooked! It was easy to envision a cult like The Colony (as named in The Meadows) that believe themselves to be vampires who use willing and unwilling sacrifices. I would be more surprised if a cult like that didn't exist!
I loved all the characters in The Meadows! Each character was written exceptionally well. I loved how real and raw Scarlett was. It was nice to read about a character who was flawed. Scarlett suffered with a drug and alcohol problem in the past, and it was interesting to read about her struggle with it in present day and the choices she made. Yes, she did fall off the wagon after coming to Asphodel House, but I couldn't blame her. I'd be stressed out and scared too! Scarlett isn't perfect, and that's what I loved about her. She feels like a real human being, not some happily ever after book character. She's a little selfish, but who isn't in real life? Scarlett was such a great character. Even the supporting characters were great. I would have liked Stella, Scarlett's best friend, to be featured more, but that's only a minor thing. Stella was such a great friend to Scarlett, and I admired her loyalty to Scarlett. I loved Ryan, and it was interesting to read the back story between him and Scarlett. Hunter was also a very interesting character. I enjoyed his back story. I don't want to go into detail with him because I feel like there's a minor plot twist with that.
Trigger warnings for The Meadows include demons, the occult, cults, violence, murder, death, alcohol use, prescription pill abuse, ghosts, some swearing (although nothing too bad), and sex scenes (nothing graphic though).
Overall, The Meadows is a very chilling, dark, and spooky read. It is such a great book though. The characters, the setting, the plot were all written very well. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the Legacy of Darkness series. I would recommend The Meadows by London Clarke to everyone aged 17+ especially if you love being creeped out. This one definitely kept me awake with how creepy it was, and if a book can do that, it is definitely a good one!
I loved London Clarke's first book, Wildfell, so I was definitely looking forward to her next book, The Meadows. I loved this book! It was so spooky and creepy which are my favorite types of books.
The pacing for The Meadows was perfect. Not once did I feel like this book slowed down where I was becoming bored. It is definitely a fast paced thriller, but it's not too fast paced in the sense that you have no clue what just happened.
The world building and plot are done extremely well. London Clarke does such an excellent job of describing what's going on, that I actually felt like I was staying at Asphodel House, the spooky house where all the paranormal things happen. The Meadows felt so real, I would actually stay awake a little longer after reading some of it because I was so spooked! It was easy to envision a cult like The Colony (as named in The Meadows) that believe themselves to be vampires who use willing and unwilling sacrifices. I would be more surprised if a cult like that didn't exist!
I loved all the characters in The Meadows! Each character was written exceptionally well. I loved how real and raw Scarlett was. It was nice to read about a character who was flawed. Scarlett suffered with a drug and alcohol problem in the past, and it was interesting to read about her struggle with it in present day and the choices she made. Yes, she did fall off the wagon after coming to Asphodel House, but I couldn't blame her. I'd be stressed out and scared too! Scarlett isn't perfect, and that's what I loved about her. She feels like a real human being, not some happily ever after book character. She's a little selfish, but who isn't in real life? Scarlett was such a great character. Even the supporting characters were great. I would have liked Stella, Scarlett's best friend, to be featured more, but that's only a minor thing. Stella was such a great friend to Scarlett, and I admired her loyalty to Scarlett. I loved Ryan, and it was interesting to read the back story between him and Scarlett. Hunter was also a very interesting character. I enjoyed his back story. I don't want to go into detail with him because I feel like there's a minor plot twist with that.
Trigger warnings for The Meadows include demons, the occult, cults, violence, murder, death, alcohol use, prescription pill abuse, ghosts, some swearing (although nothing too bad), and sex scenes (nothing graphic though).
Overall, The Meadows is a very chilling, dark, and spooky read. It is such a great book though. The characters, the setting, the plot were all written very well. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the Legacy of Darkness series. I would recommend The Meadows by London Clarke to everyone aged 17+ especially if you love being creeped out. This one definitely kept me awake with how creepy it was, and if a book can do that, it is definitely a good one!
June 20, 2019
My first horror book on the read shelf. Amazing for the ones who like Horror. Engaging and mysterious. Action filled. The haunted house legend and the presence of unknown spirits. The tunnel part was amazing connecting to the river where all the rituals are being done by the vampire cults.
A must read for the Horror lovers.
A must read for the Horror lovers.
July 4, 2020
Not normally the sort of book I read, but the creeptastic storyline kept me turning pages! Unlike Scarlett, I wouldn't have made it past the first night at The Meadows.
September 6, 2021
Self published horror novels are really hit or miss, but this one was a hit. Well written, good characters and really tense and creepy.
January 1, 2019
London Clarke, it seems, has a penchant for gothic. This one is about a professional singer with major drink issues who decides to go into real estate instead. She buys an ancient mansion in the middle of nowhere, at a bargain rate whilat at the same time, a loyal d friend Stella joins her as they wait for the house to be renovated in its full glory.....
Of course, it follows that the house is haunted, not just from chandelier rattling ghosts, but from demons, succubi and wannabee vampires. To say nothing of the odd murderer.
If that all sounds a little OTT, I would say that that probably is, but perhaps the author can be excused for pulling out all stops available to deliver a few real scares. It may well be difficult to squeeze much drama and danger out of a mere haunting.
The main characters all seem a bit silly, apart from the heroine's long-suffering best friend, Stella. Her musician mates arrive looking for the opportunity to party wildly, even as the things going bump in the night from sinister hidden trapdoors frighten off the wiring crew. Like children left alone for the night by the grownups, they guests want thrills, so of course they 'have' to have a seance. The teetotal house owner cannot keep away from the drink. Maybe they as learn that ghosts have ravaged the new owner and left three scratches on their person, the demon's calling card according the lore of all this game paranormal, the others want one too.
This is part romance too, as the heroine finds herself attracted to more than one man, one of whom will prove to be the strong and true. It seems that those living in the provinces share many stories and talents they do not initially let on to and surprises await the reader in what does prove to be a fairly decent denouement, as the biggest villain's face is unmasked. It is all happily ever after too, with some lessons learned.
This novel should please those who runs like gothic entertainment with a the trimmings, though once again, I do feel that the tale could have done with a little less, in terms of woo-woo scares. Still, London Clarke does know how to ratchet up the suspense enough to keep the pages turning.
Of course, it follows that the house is haunted, not just from chandelier rattling ghosts, but from demons, succubi and wannabee vampires. To say nothing of the odd murderer.
If that all sounds a little OTT, I would say that that probably is, but perhaps the author can be excused for pulling out all stops available to deliver a few real scares. It may well be difficult to squeeze much drama and danger out of a mere haunting.
The main characters all seem a bit silly, apart from the heroine's long-suffering best friend, Stella. Her musician mates arrive looking for the opportunity to party wildly, even as the things going bump in the night from sinister hidden trapdoors frighten off the wiring crew. Like children left alone for the night by the grownups, they guests want thrills, so of course they 'have' to have a seance. The teetotal house owner cannot keep away from the drink. Maybe they as learn that ghosts have ravaged the new owner and left three scratches on their person, the demon's calling card according the lore of all this game paranormal, the others want one too.
This is part romance too, as the heroine finds herself attracted to more than one man, one of whom will prove to be the strong and true. It seems that those living in the provinces share many stories and talents they do not initially let on to and surprises await the reader in what does prove to be a fairly decent denouement, as the biggest villain's face is unmasked. It is all happily ever after too, with some lessons learned.
This novel should please those who runs like gothic entertainment with a the trimmings, though once again, I do feel that the tale could have done with a little less, in terms of woo-woo scares. Still, London Clarke does know how to ratchet up the suspense enough to keep the pages turning.
October 31, 2020
Enjoyed listening to this Creepy haunted house story. It has it all.
January 6, 2019
If you usually seek to be gripped by fear in the middle of the night (or in the afternoon, whatever time you fancy to be scared for leisure), this book is for you. The slow yet engaging plot of the story leaves the reader hesitantly wanting for more, knowing it's gonna hurt, but going ahead and deciding it's worth it. It's not your usual Vampire novel, which to be honest is what I thought it's going to be when I first started reading it. But NO, I was dead wrong. It's not Bella falling in love with Edward, nor Elena choosing between Damon or Stefan--not the giddy and corny other-worldly love story we all kind of grown up to. Oh no... The Meadows is the more bad-ass version of the supernatural, it's the real deal. The one that makes it all the more scary because there's always this part of you that knows it could be real, and it could be happening near you or to you. It is a classic Gothic take on haunted houses but set and specialized to the modern times--which makes it relatable and creepier, in a good way.
Reading The Meadows is like watching "The Haunting of Hill House" (it's on Netflix and if you haven't watched it, you're missing half of your life; it's devastatingly good ((I haven't read the original 1959 novel but the TV Show is all I need--it's THAT good)) but since you have to read it carefully to understand what's happening, the fear optimizes to a certain controlled level of pain and pleasure, unlike watching a horror story on TV which is always in a fast pace. And if you enjoy that and all things supernatural, you will certainly love the brilliance of this book. The careful details written by Ms. Clarke makes it all the more scarier, haunted, and freakishly good.
Furthermore, The Meadows discusses mental health with the persona of the protagonist, Scarlett--the most relevant part of the story, in my opinion. It battles what's real and what could be part of your own haunted mind. The novel discusses the modern woman's take on mental health and how all of us, not just women really, struggles to make it in this world while battling our own demons inside our heads. And what more if we need to battle demons outside of it in the real world? I shudder just at the thought... The way Scarlett handled all of it was real and genuine, and it makes this book really good for me.
However, I didn't like the ending too much as the relationship between Scarlett and the men of the story were not established well, in my humble opinion. Nonetheless, the story was great, the writing style was brilliant, and I enjoyed reading it as much as I was scared of it. What a good read, indeed.
Reading The Meadows is like watching "The Haunting of Hill House" (it's on Netflix and if you haven't watched it, you're missing half of your life; it's devastatingly good ((I haven't read the original 1959 novel but the TV Show is all I need--it's THAT good)) but since you have to read it carefully to understand what's happening, the fear optimizes to a certain controlled level of pain and pleasure, unlike watching a horror story on TV which is always in a fast pace. And if you enjoy that and all things supernatural, you will certainly love the brilliance of this book. The careful details written by Ms. Clarke makes it all the more scarier, haunted, and freakishly good.
Furthermore, The Meadows discusses mental health with the persona of the protagonist, Scarlett--the most relevant part of the story, in my opinion. It battles what's real and what could be part of your own haunted mind. The novel discusses the modern woman's take on mental health and how all of us, not just women really, struggles to make it in this world while battling our own demons inside our heads. And what more if we need to battle demons outside of it in the real world? I shudder just at the thought... The way Scarlett handled all of it was real and genuine, and it makes this book really good for me.
However, I didn't like the ending too much as the relationship between Scarlett and the men of the story were not established well, in my humble opinion. Nonetheless, the story was great, the writing style was brilliant, and I enjoyed reading it as much as I was scared of it. What a good read, indeed.
August 3, 2021
Well this was definitely a horror novel! I think maybe I’m very used to thrillers that border on horror, but it’s rare I read a pure horror novel. I’m very happy The Meadows was the book I chose. This book unravels a history of brutal murder. We are first introduced to a sober songwriter who is flush with cash and is looking to start anew. She chooses a location that reminds her of college days. Unfortunately there’s something about this monstrous property that holds a horrible secret. While she sets the property up for the intentions of opening a Bed and Breakfast, all of her friends come to pitch in. It seems like everyone was blown in my coincidence and they all play a roll in the haunting. I really don’t want to give a lot up but I will say this book is deeply scary. This book is one installment in a series and this first book scared me so bad I won’t be reading the others. I truly believe that’s how you know you’ve ventured into an excellent horror novel. I gave it five stars because this author achieved something not many can. This book literally kept me up all night, if you are a big horror fan especially in the realm of haunting this one is for you!
June 6, 2021
A gothic supernatural chiller to haunt your waking moments.
Scarlett DeHaven plans to start life afresh, focusing on her songwriting and new business venture, leaving her history of addiction behind. Moving to a remote town, she purchases a property with plans to open a bed and breakfast. But Asphodel House has a disturbing history, one that haunts it from every nook and cranny.
The strange atmosphere of the house rapidly unsettles Scarlett and she begins to feel, hear and see anomalies she fears may not be real, while the prospect of them being real is more terrifying still. With its history of brutal murders, reports of paranormal activity, and its use by a cult purporting to be vampires, in the present day the Meadows poses a threat to Scarlett’s sanity.
As she descends back into addiction she hoped to escape, Scarlett desperately searches for answers, finding help from demonologist Hunter Massabrook, who has his own history with the house. But as forces of darkness coagulate around Asphodel House, it becomes clear that whatever malign scheme has played out within its walls has not yet come to its conclusion and no one who has been touched by its shadow is safe.
London Clarke’s first volume of the ‘Legacy of Darkness’ is a gripping, thrilling delight for fans of gothic horror – with its setting of a lonely, secluded property haunted by malign entities that may be demonic or spirits of the dead; the mysterious cult, calling themselves the Colony, which may or may not exist, while its members may or may not be vampires; a group of outsiders, aliens in this secluded spot, meeting an array of locals, some portraying their fair share of eccentricities.
Creative, troubled and aspiring for a new start, Scarlett is a splendid central character – at times endearing and at others difficult to relate to, perfectly capturing the jarring nature of a relationship with an addict, as both an observer and from Scarlett’s own perspective. Her mistrust of her own recollections and emotions heightens the mystery and suspense that envelope every twist and turn of the plot, as it propels towards its conclusion and the secrets of the Meadows are finally unveiled.
With its host of well-drawn characters, gothic imagery and lightning-paced plotting, the novel takes inspiration from the classics to conjure a contemporary tale of unease. By the time I closed the book on the final page, I was already very excited to delve into ‘Whickering Place’, London Clarke's second volume in the ‘Legacy of Darkness’ trilogy.
Gothic and atmospheric, ‘The Meadows’ is a well-crafted and thrilling paranormal horror novel, demonstrating the allure of the supernatural remains as resolutely unshakeable as the walls of Asphodel House itself.
Scarlett DeHaven plans to start life afresh, focusing on her songwriting and new business venture, leaving her history of addiction behind. Moving to a remote town, she purchases a property with plans to open a bed and breakfast. But Asphodel House has a disturbing history, one that haunts it from every nook and cranny.
The strange atmosphere of the house rapidly unsettles Scarlett and she begins to feel, hear and see anomalies she fears may not be real, while the prospect of them being real is more terrifying still. With its history of brutal murders, reports of paranormal activity, and its use by a cult purporting to be vampires, in the present day the Meadows poses a threat to Scarlett’s sanity.
As she descends back into addiction she hoped to escape, Scarlett desperately searches for answers, finding help from demonologist Hunter Massabrook, who has his own history with the house. But as forces of darkness coagulate around Asphodel House, it becomes clear that whatever malign scheme has played out within its walls has not yet come to its conclusion and no one who has been touched by its shadow is safe.
London Clarke’s first volume of the ‘Legacy of Darkness’ is a gripping, thrilling delight for fans of gothic horror – with its setting of a lonely, secluded property haunted by malign entities that may be demonic or spirits of the dead; the mysterious cult, calling themselves the Colony, which may or may not exist, while its members may or may not be vampires; a group of outsiders, aliens in this secluded spot, meeting an array of locals, some portraying their fair share of eccentricities.
Creative, troubled and aspiring for a new start, Scarlett is a splendid central character – at times endearing and at others difficult to relate to, perfectly capturing the jarring nature of a relationship with an addict, as both an observer and from Scarlett’s own perspective. Her mistrust of her own recollections and emotions heightens the mystery and suspense that envelope every twist and turn of the plot, as it propels towards its conclusion and the secrets of the Meadows are finally unveiled.
With its host of well-drawn characters, gothic imagery and lightning-paced plotting, the novel takes inspiration from the classics to conjure a contemporary tale of unease. By the time I closed the book on the final page, I was already very excited to delve into ‘Whickering Place’, London Clarke's second volume in the ‘Legacy of Darkness’ trilogy.
Gothic and atmospheric, ‘The Meadows’ is a well-crafted and thrilling paranormal horror novel, demonstrating the allure of the supernatural remains as resolutely unshakeable as the walls of Asphodel House itself.
July 27, 2019
I received a free copy of The Meadows from the author (via Booktasters) in exchange for an honest review.
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In my opinion, stories about haunted houses never get old, so I was thrilled to read this book.
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London Clarke builds tension well, to the point that I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. There was a creepiness surrounding most of the setting (which was beautifully described).
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The main character, Scarlett, did frustrate me on occasion - but given that she's a recovering drug addict, I expected some poor decision making and possible self-absorption. I enjoyed the first half more than the second as most of the twists were predictable and the ending left me dissatisfied.
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Overall my favourite aspect of the story was the creepiness that followed the wide range of characters, most of which I didn't trust to a degree - a must in this genre.
.
In my opinion, stories about haunted houses never get old, so I was thrilled to read this book.
.
London Clarke builds tension well, to the point that I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. There was a creepiness surrounding most of the setting (which was beautifully described).
.
The main character, Scarlett, did frustrate me on occasion - but given that she's a recovering drug addict, I expected some poor decision making and possible self-absorption. I enjoyed the first half more than the second as most of the twists were predictable and the ending left me dissatisfied.
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Overall my favourite aspect of the story was the creepiness that followed the wide range of characters, most of which I didn't trust to a degree - a must in this genre.
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