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Found Shadows
Decades ago, six children from across the United States disappeared on the same afternoon. Now the only one who escaped is the only one who can stop it from happening again.
Eric Partin doesn’t understand what happened thirty years ago. All he knows is that he was taken by strangers and locked in a small room for weeks before he escaped his captors.
Now the other five have been found living seemingly normal adult lives in the small town of Wakefield, Tennessee. But the Wakefield Five aren’t like other people. There’s something wrong with their minds. The only consistency in their wildly conflicting stories is that they all blame one person for what happened: Eric Partin.
Eric must return to Wakefield to uncover the truth before the evil infects another generation.
Eric Partin doesn’t understand what happened thirty years ago. All he knows is that he was taken by strangers and locked in a small room for weeks before he escaped his captors.
Now the other five have been found living seemingly normal adult lives in the small town of Wakefield, Tennessee. But the Wakefield Five aren’t like other people. There’s something wrong with their minds. The only consistency in their wildly conflicting stories is that they all blame one person for what happened: Eric Partin.
Eric must return to Wakefield to uncover the truth before the evil infects another generation.
- GenresHorror
Paperback
First published October 13, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 21, 2020
** Edited as review is now live on Kendall Reviews! **
Found Shadows is the first book I’ve read from Hylton but knowing it’s set up a bit of an ongoing series, I’ll be excited to see how this keeps playing out. I remember when this book was offered for review, the synopsis really grabbed me, but by the time I got to reading it, I’d forgotten, which I think worked really well.
What I liked: This book opens with an absolute bang – we get throw into the mix with 12-year-old Eric, recently kidnapped and locked up in a strange room. He hears and see’s ‘things’ and as the days go on, he grows more and more scared.
Flash forward 30 years later and Hylton picks up with Eric’s story as he’s drawn to a small town that may hold the keys to why he was kidnapped and even more importantly – why he was released.
Hylton creates a great world after this, which really plays off the urban fantasy/paranormal themes well with a really great cast of characters, both good and bad, that push the story along nicely.
What I didn’t like: The only bit I wasn’t too fond of was Eric’s side story with a character called Lewis. You’d need to read the book to really see what I mean, but I felt it was odd to have Eric leave Wakefield and have the events happen. We do get an explanation as to the true purpose of the trip later on, but for me it still felt like an unnecessary diversion.
Why you should buy it: This really was a fun, captivating read and Hylton has created something here that I think, can continue to expand and keep readers clamouring for more. I’d definitely want to see Baughman and Eric’s work together expanded and will be watching for the next release!
Found Shadows is the first book I’ve read from Hylton but knowing it’s set up a bit of an ongoing series, I’ll be excited to see how this keeps playing out. I remember when this book was offered for review, the synopsis really grabbed me, but by the time I got to reading it, I’d forgotten, which I think worked really well.
What I liked: This book opens with an absolute bang – we get throw into the mix with 12-year-old Eric, recently kidnapped and locked up in a strange room. He hears and see’s ‘things’ and as the days go on, he grows more and more scared.
Flash forward 30 years later and Hylton picks up with Eric’s story as he’s drawn to a small town that may hold the keys to why he was kidnapped and even more importantly – why he was released.
Hylton creates a great world after this, which really plays off the urban fantasy/paranormal themes well with a really great cast of characters, both good and bad, that push the story along nicely.
What I didn’t like: The only bit I wasn’t too fond of was Eric’s side story with a character called Lewis. You’d need to read the book to really see what I mean, but I felt it was odd to have Eric leave Wakefield and have the events happen. We do get an explanation as to the true purpose of the trip later on, but for me it still felt like an unnecessary diversion.
Why you should buy it: This really was a fun, captivating read and Hylton has created something here that I think, can continue to expand and keep readers clamouring for more. I’d definitely want to see Baughman and Eric’s work together expanded and will be watching for the next release!
January 5, 2022
Finding Shadows was a book I had on my TBR for quite some time and I’m now kicking myself for leaving it so long. A story of trying to outrun past trauma’s but as we know you can only keep running for so long. After the kick-ass prologue, I kept turning the pages with such untamed veracity that I had consumed the story within a few hours. You see so many books trending and being shouted about on social media, but Finding Shadows is one of those rare gems, I’ve rarely seen anyone blog about it but every horror lover needs to find time for this compulsive Firestarter.
I was excited to learn that Finding Shadows was going to become part of a series. The epilogue left me with many questions and had me excited at the prospect of what could come next. Leave me hanging, why don’t you? The writing contained within is like an exquisite dish – it fits perfectly with your palette and leaves you hungering for more. It had all the elements that I love – a beaten-down protagonist, an eerie threat, and an antagonist that will stop at nothing to see his will come to fruition.
Finding Shadows has Eric, a forty-something grown man, he’s become disillusioned with life. His marriage has fallen apart and is now divorced, and he is now selling his beloved landscaping firm to his ex-wife and her new husband. She accuses him of having lost all the passion for everything. The comment hurts but he can’t deny that what she says is true. As much as he’d like to deny it does it have something to do with his experience as a 12-year-old boy who was kidnapped from his parents? He was kept captive for 3 weeks but was released, so it doesn’t have an impact, right?
The story surrounds everything that happened when he was kidnapped as a twelve-year-old boy. Eric is aided by the man that investigated his disappearance, FBI Agent, Baughman. He’s haunted by the case that slipped through his fingers and when he gets a lead from a woman that will only give out names to Eric, he knows he needs to involve him. They head back to Wakefield, Tennessee, and find out things are still as eerie as they were. It seems the children who were taken are all affected by a supernatural element, The Fade.
The characters were all interesting and with more than one shade of grey to make the reader question their moral code. It’s one of those stories that you can’t believe how things are going down, I just love when the impossible happens.
I was excited to learn that Finding Shadows was going to become part of a series. The epilogue left me with many questions and had me excited at the prospect of what could come next. Leave me hanging, why don’t you? The writing contained within is like an exquisite dish – it fits perfectly with your palette and leaves you hungering for more. It had all the elements that I love – a beaten-down protagonist, an eerie threat, and an antagonist that will stop at nothing to see his will come to fruition.
Finding Shadows has Eric, a forty-something grown man, he’s become disillusioned with life. His marriage has fallen apart and is now divorced, and he is now selling his beloved landscaping firm to his ex-wife and her new husband. She accuses him of having lost all the passion for everything. The comment hurts but he can’t deny that what she says is true. As much as he’d like to deny it does it have something to do with his experience as a 12-year-old boy who was kidnapped from his parents? He was kept captive for 3 weeks but was released, so it doesn’t have an impact, right?
The story surrounds everything that happened when he was kidnapped as a twelve-year-old boy. Eric is aided by the man that investigated his disappearance, FBI Agent, Baughman. He’s haunted by the case that slipped through his fingers and when he gets a lead from a woman that will only give out names to Eric, he knows he needs to involve him. They head back to Wakefield, Tennessee, and find out things are still as eerie as they were. It seems the children who were taken are all affected by a supernatural element, The Fade.
The characters were all interesting and with more than one shade of grey to make the reader question their moral code. It’s one of those stories that you can’t believe how things are going down, I just love when the impossible happens.
October 28, 2021
Solid Paranormal Thriller
This was a good read. I very much enjoyed it. It's much more thriller than horror, but it worked well for what it was. The only thing I would say was lacking was the relationship aspect. In most ways it's enough to hold the story, but in many other ways there were characters who betrayed others and there was no distrust or anger after. They just kinda stayed in their corners and played their roles. So very much plot-driven. I do enjoy the relationship aspect to be the star of the show. And I like some depth and thematic elements. But this was a solid, entertaining story and I liked it for what it was.
This was a good read. I very much enjoyed it. It's much more thriller than horror, but it worked well for what it was. The only thing I would say was lacking was the relationship aspect. In most ways it's enough to hold the story, but in many other ways there were characters who betrayed others and there was no distrust or anger after. They just kinda stayed in their corners and played their roles. So very much plot-driven. I do enjoy the relationship aspect to be the star of the show. And I like some depth and thematic elements. But this was a solid, entertaining story and I liked it for what it was.
October 28, 2022
Okay, I am almost half way through this and it still has NOT grabbed me in any way....Hmmm?
I DNF'd it at 53% it was SO SO SO boring....... 'The Fade' was just not scary!
I DNF'd it at 53% it was SO SO SO boring....... 'The Fade' was just not scary!
June 1, 2022
There’s no denying that Found Shadows is a unique horror. The writing quality is superb and the tale grabbed my attention immediately. While it never failed to entertain, I expected to be a bit more blown away by the explanation behind the kidnappings and narrated strangeness. However, I do think it was all developed creatively, mysteriously, and horrifically.
March 16, 2021
A hidden gem. This novel is a well written ghost story of a different kind. I'll be reading more from P.T. Hylton.
4 1/2 Stars
4 1/2 Stars
March 2, 2025
This definitely took a minute to get going, it still felt long and drawn out, despite being a short book.
September 11, 2022
Highly recommend the audiobook, excellent narrator.
August 11, 2023
I was interested at first but it never picked up for me. Disappointing.
December 9, 2019
Found Shadows, by P.T. Hylton, starts off with a bang. Books tend to hook me when they begin with an engaging, creepy, and mysterious prologue that leads to a time jump into our main story. Specific, I know, but it tells me that the author has already planned the payoff for me later, and is trying to spring that trap on me in as creative a manner as possible.
Once we get to the present, we meet our main character, Eric Partin. Eric was kidnapped when he was twelve years old, kept for weeks on end with nothing much really happening except for some strange tests, and then released with no answers or explanations. He goes on to live a relatively normal life, but is never able to shake those inexplicable events. When some strange happenings bring those past events racing to catch up with Eric, he's forced to return to his hometown of Wakefield to get the bottom of it.
Hylton's concept of the fade, which most of this book revolves around, is refreshingly original. We get a chance to see how different characters and different personality types handle this supernatural ability in a variety of ways. Seeing this, the author has created a lore that is explored thoroughly in Found Shadows, but hints at a multitude of other ways that this ability could pervade life both in and outside of Wakefield. As a rule, concept is only as good as characters, and Hylton gives us a cast we can root for or against as the situation dictates. Eric is likeable and relatable, especially as he deals with normal transition in life, and is then thrust into extraordinary events. In the author's note when we read that we'll get to see what happens next with him, it just feels right. Baughman, our FBI agent who can't let a cold case go is all too easy to empathize with. Perhaps the story the reader will want to continue with the most is Becky, with the events she goes through and the teases present in the afterward. Our villain, Merle, is a bad dude, who somehow never comes off quite as threatening as he should given his actions throughout. If I had to guess at a reason for this, it could be because I wanted to find out more about his backstory and reasoning. Admittedly this is something that could be resolved in a sequel.
Something else about Hylton's work that caught my attention is the way he has carved a little piece of Appalachia out to make room for something of a shared universe. I'm an absolute sucker for stories that span not only multiple books, but even multiple series within an author's work. Wakefield/Rook Mountain make up Hylton's very own Castle Rock type getaway. Finding this out, I've now got my eye out for his Deadlock Series. If it's as alluring as Found Shadows, I'm sold. I received a copy of this book from the author for review consideration.
Once we get to the present, we meet our main character, Eric Partin. Eric was kidnapped when he was twelve years old, kept for weeks on end with nothing much really happening except for some strange tests, and then released with no answers or explanations. He goes on to live a relatively normal life, but is never able to shake those inexplicable events. When some strange happenings bring those past events racing to catch up with Eric, he's forced to return to his hometown of Wakefield to get the bottom of it.
Hylton's concept of the fade, which most of this book revolves around, is refreshingly original. We get a chance to see how different characters and different personality types handle this supernatural ability in a variety of ways. Seeing this, the author has created a lore that is explored thoroughly in Found Shadows, but hints at a multitude of other ways that this ability could pervade life both in and outside of Wakefield. As a rule, concept is only as good as characters, and Hylton gives us a cast we can root for or against as the situation dictates. Eric is likeable and relatable, especially as he deals with normal transition in life, and is then thrust into extraordinary events. In the author's note when we read that we'll get to see what happens next with him, it just feels right. Baughman, our FBI agent who can't let a cold case go is all too easy to empathize with. Perhaps the story the reader will want to continue with the most is Becky, with the events she goes through and the teases present in the afterward. Our villain, Merle, is a bad dude, who somehow never comes off quite as threatening as he should given his actions throughout. If I had to guess at a reason for this, it could be because I wanted to find out more about his backstory and reasoning. Admittedly this is something that could be resolved in a sequel.
Something else about Hylton's work that caught my attention is the way he has carved a little piece of Appalachia out to make room for something of a shared universe. I'm an absolute sucker for stories that span not only multiple books, but even multiple series within an author's work. Wakefield/Rook Mountain make up Hylton's very own Castle Rock type getaway. Finding this out, I've now got my eye out for his Deadlock Series. If it's as alluring as Found Shadows, I'm sold. I received a copy of this book from the author for review consideration.
November 22, 2019
Don't miss out on this book!!!
First time reader of Mr. Hylton. This book is totally different then my normal read. I couldn't put it down. The characters came to life for me. I'm looking forward to more of his books.
First time reader of Mr. Hylton. This book is totally different then my normal read. I couldn't put it down. The characters came to life for me. I'm looking forward to more of his books.
January 15, 2020
Found shadowd
I've read quite a few of P T Hylton's books and always enjoyed them ,haven't always understood them mind you but I think that's a lacking in my part not the books.If you're a fan of slightly weird and off kilter books then I would recommend reading this chap
I've read quite a few of P T Hylton's books and always enjoyed them ,haven't always understood them mind you but I think that's a lacking in my part not the books.If you're a fan of slightly weird and off kilter books then I would recommend reading this chap
October 21, 2019
Captivating
Thought this was going to be a typical ghost story but it turned out to be all that and more. Eric is my hero and I can't wait to read more books written by this author.
Thought this was going to be a typical ghost story but it turned out to be all that and more. Eric is my hero and I can't wait to read more books written by this author.
February 16, 2021
Very entertaining.
June 7, 2022
Fantastic thriller!
A unique paranormal thriller that will have your heart pumping. Kidnapped children, ghosts, evil spirits this book has all the mystery you’d expect. I loved every minute of it. It was definitely a page turner.
The narration was fantastic. Creepy in all the right places. Character emotions were absolutely brilliant. Well done.
This book is a complete standalone.
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
A unique paranormal thriller that will have your heart pumping. Kidnapped children, ghosts, evil spirits this book has all the mystery you’d expect. I loved every minute of it. It was definitely a page turner.
The narration was fantastic. Creepy in all the right places. Character emotions were absolutely brilliant. Well done.
This book is a complete standalone.
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
December 9, 2020
This was actually pretty good! I wasn't sure what to expect, as it was advertorial as horror, but it maybe wasn't quite horror? There were elements of horror, thriller, and some mystery, and it worked out quite well. A weird, well thought-out premise, a relatable main character, and some amount of closure at the end (but obviously open for a sequel or a series). I enjoyed it.
July 19, 2021
Fascinating Storyline
This book was impossible to put down. No spoilers it has a unique story and the lead character Eric is an everyday type of man who definitely believes in doing the right thing. My advice is to read this book and I am thrilled to know the author plans to continue this storyline. I look forward to spending more time in Eric's world.
This book was impossible to put down. No spoilers it has a unique story and the lead character Eric is an everyday type of man who definitely believes in doing the right thing. My advice is to read this book and I am thrilled to know the author plans to continue this storyline. I look forward to spending more time in Eric's world.
April 28, 2020
Weird. Not my kind of book. Strange glowing lake, disappearing people.
June 27, 2022
This was an interesting supernatural horror/suspense. It's a different genre for me, but I found myself engaged throughout and interested in the storyline. Novel idea with good execution.
July 22, 2022
Interesting premise and decently written. The narrator did a good job too.
June 13, 2024
I can't believe this hasn't received more attention. One of my favourite books due the story, characters including villains and world building. A must read or listen to!
August 10, 2024
what even was that
December 15, 2025
3.25 ⭐
Not bad, an interesting story but not super spooky.
Not bad, an interesting story but not super spooky.
November 12, 2019
The only thing I did not like was that it was not long enough! Great read. This author creates really good characters. Shades of the great man Stephen King. Seemingly ordinary people who are faced with extraordinary circumstances. The opening line in a book is always an indicator for me. Eric saw his first ghost when he was 12 drew me in right away. Same with this author's other book The Deadlock Trilogy. (a great read too). I always give a book a few chapters and then decide if I am in or not --but those opening lines do it best.
I am at a loss as to why PT has to self publish and the likes of other new authors likes of CJ Tudor
(The Chalk Man and The Taking of Annie Thorn are seemingly bestsellers. I loved both by the way!) The best personal complement I can pay this writer is to say that if I truly love a book, I will buy the hardcopy. My reader is great, but having a words on a paper page is still very special! Just to have the story and the people in it on my bookshelf. I just brought Deadlock and have Found Shadows on my Christmas list!!
PT can not write fast enough and look forward to hearing more about Eric, Baughman and Becky of course!
I am at a loss as to why PT has to self publish and the likes of other new authors likes of CJ Tudor
(The Chalk Man and The Taking of Annie Thorn are seemingly bestsellers. I loved both by the way!) The best personal complement I can pay this writer is to say that if I truly love a book, I will buy the hardcopy. My reader is great, but having a words on a paper page is still very special! Just to have the story and the people in it on my bookshelf. I just brought Deadlock and have Found Shadows on my Christmas list!!
PT can not write fast enough and look forward to hearing more about Eric, Baughman and Becky of course!
November 16, 2019
Outstanding!
I read this in 2 days, I didn't want it to end but I needed to find out the ending. It grabs your mind and won't let go.
I really hope the next one is soon because I know I'll be thinking
of this story for a long time.
I still think of Rook Mountain that was a phenomenal book also!
I read this in 2 days, I didn't want it to end but I needed to find out the ending. It grabs your mind and won't let go.
I really hope the next one is soon because I know I'll be thinking
of this story for a long time.
I still think of Rook Mountain that was a phenomenal book also!
October 28, 2019
Wow!
Kickass book! Can't wait until the next one! Don't go swimming in a lake that's lit up. If you have a black speck in your eye it's too late! The Fade owns you!!
Kickass book! Can't wait until the next one! Don't go swimming in a lake that's lit up. If you have a black speck in your eye it's too late! The Fade owns you!!
November 21, 2019
Clever Premise
This was a good book with a very clever premise. It was well written with well presented characters. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to the sequel.
This was a good book with a very clever premise. It was well written with well presented characters. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to the sequel.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews