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Matt Hunter #4
Possessed
When a blood-soaked man is discovered with the word Baal-Berith scored into his flesh, the bewildered police call on expert Professor Matt Hunter to assist. Before long, a gruesome discovery is made and Hunter is drawn into a frenzied murder investigation.
With a fury of media interest in the case, and the emerging link to a documentary on demonic possession, Hunter is unable to escape a dark world of exorcism and violence ... even when events spiral frighteningly out of control.
With a fury of media interest in the case, and the emerging link to a documentary on demonic possession, Hunter is unable to escape a dark world of exorcism and violence ... even when events spiral frighteningly out of control.
- GenresHorror
416 pages, Paperback
Published February 20, 2020
2 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 6, 2020
Oh my gosh another heart pounding novel here from Peter Laws featuring Matt Hunter, ex minister now supernatural debunker, whose “stage presence” in these stories is second to none. Both funny and fascinating he gets called in whenever things get, erm, a tiny bit weird.
Well things are most definitely weird in this instalment, as it seems demonic possession is on the rise- with a brutal murder in the mix, plus a claim that the demon did it, with his usual eye roll and tendency towards the more logical way of thinking, Matt digs in. But of course it’s never entirely simple…his own very personal and very real demons add a certain amount of uncertainty..
I love how these play out – each one offers a different thought provoking theme, both spiritual and literal, with an insightful eye on the world we live in. In a traditional sense, the detective lurking inside Matt Hunter inevitably gets to the truth of the matter – yet there are always just those one or two things that will keep you up at night…those “What ifs” that haunt us all.
Possession is deeply dark and oft disturbing, the descriptive sense the author brings to it really does make you shiver. At the same time it is hugely compelling- as the finale unfolded over several heart stopping chapters, without realising it I was locking my jaw so OUCH when it was finally over. I just love a book that can do that
Overall truly excellent once more. If you’ve not started these yet then do. But make sure you’ve got REALLY BRIGHT lights around you at all times…because that shadow in the corner? Perhaps it’s not just a shadow…..
Highly Recommended.
Well things are most definitely weird in this instalment, as it seems demonic possession is on the rise- with a brutal murder in the mix, plus a claim that the demon did it, with his usual eye roll and tendency towards the more logical way of thinking, Matt digs in. But of course it’s never entirely simple…his own very personal and very real demons add a certain amount of uncertainty..
I love how these play out – each one offers a different thought provoking theme, both spiritual and literal, with an insightful eye on the world we live in. In a traditional sense, the detective lurking inside Matt Hunter inevitably gets to the truth of the matter – yet there are always just those one or two things that will keep you up at night…those “What ifs” that haunt us all.
Possession is deeply dark and oft disturbing, the descriptive sense the author brings to it really does make you shiver. At the same time it is hugely compelling- as the finale unfolded over several heart stopping chapters, without realising it I was locking my jaw so OUCH when it was finally over. I just love a book that can do that
Overall truly excellent once more. If you’ve not started these yet then do. But make sure you’ve got REALLY BRIGHT lights around you at all times…because that shadow in the corner? Perhaps it’s not just a shadow…..
Highly Recommended.
March 9, 2021
Despite Possessed being book 4 in the Matt Hunter series you can definitely read it as a stand-alone also.
Peter Laws is one of my favourite authors and I’m always looking forward to reading more Matt Hunter stories.
Even though they’re considered crime novels his stories have a constant supernatural theme which I find very refreshing.
Peter Laws is an ordained Baptist minister himself so it’s very interesting to have these themes that bring forward the dark aspects of religion throughout a crime series.
If you haven’t read the previous books, Matt Hunter basically plays an amateur detective with everything supernatural and spooky being an ex minister himself.
The story begins as a normal, typical early morning village setting but soon turns to things much sinister and macabre. The theme of this book is demonic possession and exorcisms verses mental health. The story is genuinely explosive from start to end.
Despite the dark subject matter, Matt Hunter is a very relatable guy and his reactions to things are humorous which makes the reader feel closer to him. I really can’t wait for book 5.
Great for readers who like John Connolly and Stephen King
Peter Laws is one of my favourite authors and I’m always looking forward to reading more Matt Hunter stories.
Even though they’re considered crime novels his stories have a constant supernatural theme which I find very refreshing.
Peter Laws is an ordained Baptist minister himself so it’s very interesting to have these themes that bring forward the dark aspects of religion throughout a crime series.
If you haven’t read the previous books, Matt Hunter basically plays an amateur detective with everything supernatural and spooky being an ex minister himself.
The story begins as a normal, typical early morning village setting but soon turns to things much sinister and macabre. The theme of this book is demonic possession and exorcisms verses mental health. The story is genuinely explosive from start to end.
Despite the dark subject matter, Matt Hunter is a very relatable guy and his reactions to things are humorous which makes the reader feel closer to him. I really can’t wait for book 5.
Great for readers who like John Connolly and Stephen King
February 13, 2023
Enjoyable read. Professor Matt Hunter is an expert in demonology. The author himself an ex ordained Baptist minister. Nice pace and humour in a John Connolly manner but without the truly evil characters. Naturally I have come into the series at book 4. I intend to dig out the previous works.
February 12, 2020
Matt Hunter #4
British Matt Hunter is a former Baptist minister who lost his faith and now serves as a professor of Sociology of Religion. A very erudite and highly educated individual with deep knowledge of ancient and historical texts, both medieval and arcane, Hunter also exhibits an occasional lowbrow humor which provides comic relief in a very serious novel.
Called in as an "expert" due to the combination of his ministerial background, his erudition, and his current position as Professor, he becomes involved in a murder case in a small village. The case is exceptional because the killer "seems" to evidence possession, and his pastor is convinced. When a widely known American "exorcist " appears on the scene, Matt's scientific rationalism is tested against "blind faith " in widespread demonic possession, and his own faith in psychology is strenuously taxed.
British Matt Hunter is a former Baptist minister who lost his faith and now serves as a professor of Sociology of Religion. A very erudite and highly educated individual with deep knowledge of ancient and historical texts, both medieval and arcane, Hunter also exhibits an occasional lowbrow humor which provides comic relief in a very serious novel.
Called in as an "expert" due to the combination of his ministerial background, his erudition, and his current position as Professor, he becomes involved in a murder case in a small village. The case is exceptional because the killer "seems" to evidence possession, and his pastor is convinced. When a widely known American "exorcist " appears on the scene, Matt's scientific rationalism is tested against "blind faith " in widespread demonic possession, and his own faith in psychology is strenuously taxed.
February 13, 2020
Absolutely superb - genuinely thrilling, chilling, exciting and intriguing and also written with a great deal of wit and warmth. Matt Hunter is a terrific hero and here he is tested to his limits. What a fantastic story! I've enjoyed all of these books but I think this one could well be my favourite. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
August 1, 2022
This was my first reading of a Peter Laws novel. This story, based around a murder and demonic possession, was an enjoyable read. The first part of the tale grabbed my attention and in parts was genuinely scary. There was a patch through the middle of the book where the debate about possession and exorcism went on a little too long for my liking. The narrative wasn't moving forward and my interest was waning. However by virtue of a long and exciting climax, Laws got me back and closed things off in a satisfying manner. A delightfully creepy development right near the end added to the novel's excellent wrap up. This was a three and a half star novel and I am keen to read more by Laws.
March 26, 2020
After a run of reading a run of crime novels it was a welcome change of tone to pick up Possessed and let some demonic possession into my reading.
This chilling tale puts Professor Matt Hunter back into the thick of the action as he faces the horror of a brutal murder and then the even more alarming prospect of a reality television show seeking to exorcise demons from a group of individuals who believe they are each possessed.
Matt is initially asked to assist the police after a suspect showing signs of “possession” is discovered to have carved the name of a demon into his own body. The suspect is identified and it is not long before Matt and the police find a body – brutally mutilated and abandoned in her home.
The suspect appears to have no self control and indicates all his actions are being controlled by a demon – one famed for murdering thousands of humans down the centuries. A local minister and friend of the suspect insists he knew of the possession and had tried to perform an exorcism. Matt maintains demons and possession cannot be real and the murderer must be ill and in need of medical care.
News of the horrific murder soon reaches the media and Matt is brought to the tv studios to provide the balanced viewpoint on discussions around the possibility of demons being real and the effectiveness of exorcism. During the course of the show a “famed” expert tries to conduct an exorcism on air. Matt ends the debacle but the show’s producer sees the potential in giving more airtime to a live exorcism.
Matt is approached again to participate in a documentary which will give him the opportunity to explain why demons cannot be real and exorcisms are not authentic treatments for people who may be in real need of medical intervention. Sadly for Matt the producers have not been honest with him in the nature of the show they planned and a reality tv show which plans to conduct full exorcisms live on air has been arranged.
Against his better judgement Matt agrees to provide scientific balance to the occasion. It should come as no surprise to fans of horror fiction that all does not go as planned.
I love an unpredictable horror tale and Possessed delivers the shocks, the chills and the nasty surprises I had hoped for. The use of a calm voice of reason (Matt) in a scenario of hysteria and drama is particularly effective and Peter Laws brings a devious mystery to the story which will keep readers guessing.
Horror fans should jump at the chance to read the Matt Hunter books – Possessed may just be the best of the series (so far). More like this please!
This chilling tale puts Professor Matt Hunter back into the thick of the action as he faces the horror of a brutal murder and then the even more alarming prospect of a reality television show seeking to exorcise demons from a group of individuals who believe they are each possessed.
Matt is initially asked to assist the police after a suspect showing signs of “possession” is discovered to have carved the name of a demon into his own body. The suspect is identified and it is not long before Matt and the police find a body – brutally mutilated and abandoned in her home.
The suspect appears to have no self control and indicates all his actions are being controlled by a demon – one famed for murdering thousands of humans down the centuries. A local minister and friend of the suspect insists he knew of the possession and had tried to perform an exorcism. Matt maintains demons and possession cannot be real and the murderer must be ill and in need of medical care.
News of the horrific murder soon reaches the media and Matt is brought to the tv studios to provide the balanced viewpoint on discussions around the possibility of demons being real and the effectiveness of exorcism. During the course of the show a “famed” expert tries to conduct an exorcism on air. Matt ends the debacle but the show’s producer sees the potential in giving more airtime to a live exorcism.
Matt is approached again to participate in a documentary which will give him the opportunity to explain why demons cannot be real and exorcisms are not authentic treatments for people who may be in real need of medical intervention. Sadly for Matt the producers have not been honest with him in the nature of the show they planned and a reality tv show which plans to conduct full exorcisms live on air has been arranged.
Against his better judgement Matt agrees to provide scientific balance to the occasion. It should come as no surprise to fans of horror fiction that all does not go as planned.
I love an unpredictable horror tale and Possessed delivers the shocks, the chills and the nasty surprises I had hoped for. The use of a calm voice of reason (Matt) in a scenario of hysteria and drama is particularly effective and Peter Laws brings a devious mystery to the story which will keep readers guessing.
Horror fans should jump at the chance to read the Matt Hunter books – Possessed may just be the best of the series (so far). More like this please!
February 28, 2020
All of my reviews can be found at https://damppebbles.com/
I chose to read and review an eARC copy of Possessed but that has in no way influenced my review.
It was around this time last year that I first discovered how utterly brilliant Laws’ writing is. I picked up a copy of Purged, the first book in the Matt Hunter series, and devoured it in a few short sittings. I have a bit of a thing for crime/horror crossover novels so the books Laws writes really appeal to me. My plan, as bookish plans normally go, was to read books two and three in the series next but what is it they say about best-laid plans….? Well, exactly. I was offered the opportunity to read the brand new fourth book in the series, Possessed, so of course I jumped at the chance. Just call me ‘rebel’! 😉
Matt Hunter is an instantly likeable character who trained as a Baptist Minister but lost his faith and turned his back on the church. Now a professor of sociology and a consultant to the police when things turn a little…’weird’, his life doesn’t contain a dull moment. If Matt’s on the case then things are gonna get interesting! Normally the kind of interesting that sends shivers down the reader’s spine and has you wondering exactly what that strange scratching noise at the window is.
Matt is called to assist with a suspect the police believe to be possessed. Nice, normal, boring Tom has changed beyond recognition, has carved ‘Baal-Berith’ into his abdomen and is showing all the signs of demonic possession. Tom’s peculiar mutterings lead the police straight to his home and his poor wife’s mutilated remains. As the news of a man possessed by a demon committing tortuous murder breaks, Matt is reluctantly drawn into a world where he’s put under a constant spotlight and pushed in front of the TV cameras to provide a balanced, scientific point of view. But this is TV and that’s just no fun at all. Who wants boring old balanced and stuffy scientific? Not when you can showcase a live exorcism! But when you’re playing with forces you can never understand, it’s no surprise when things go horribly, horribly wrong…
Laws’ use of language is fantastic and it makes his novels so easy to read. I was particularly pleased to find the word ‘crud’ used in one section of dialogue which made my heart sing, as I thought I was one of the last few remaining people uttering this wonderful word under my breath (ah crud – we’re all so old and unfashionable that we’ve all pretty much died out!). This is only one small example though of how the author draws the reader in, making you feel a connection to his stories. Another way is by creating one of the most likeable, humorous and utterly brilliant lead characters to grace fiction – Professor Matt Hunter. There is a hilarious section near the beginning of the book where Matt is meeting his new therapist for the first time which had me crying with laughter. The warmth and wit Laws puts into the character of Matt Hunter makes him a joy to read.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. One hundred percent, yes. If you haven’t read the first three books in the series then there’s no need to worry. Possessed works just as well as a standalone but I can guarantee you will want to read Purged, Unleashed and Severed immediately afterwards so you can lose yourself in Hunter’s world once more (I’m off to pick up my copy of Unleashed now!) . It’s a devilishly (!) good read, with lots of thrills and chills to keep those pages turning. A true fictional delight and one that I heartily recommend to all.
I chose to read and review an eARC copy of Possessed but that has in no way influenced my review.
It was around this time last year that I first discovered how utterly brilliant Laws’ writing is. I picked up a copy of Purged, the first book in the Matt Hunter series, and devoured it in a few short sittings. I have a bit of a thing for crime/horror crossover novels so the books Laws writes really appeal to me. My plan, as bookish plans normally go, was to read books two and three in the series next but what is it they say about best-laid plans….? Well, exactly. I was offered the opportunity to read the brand new fourth book in the series, Possessed, so of course I jumped at the chance. Just call me ‘rebel’! 😉
Matt Hunter is an instantly likeable character who trained as a Baptist Minister but lost his faith and turned his back on the church. Now a professor of sociology and a consultant to the police when things turn a little…’weird’, his life doesn’t contain a dull moment. If Matt’s on the case then things are gonna get interesting! Normally the kind of interesting that sends shivers down the reader’s spine and has you wondering exactly what that strange scratching noise at the window is.
Matt is called to assist with a suspect the police believe to be possessed. Nice, normal, boring Tom has changed beyond recognition, has carved ‘Baal-Berith’ into his abdomen and is showing all the signs of demonic possession. Tom’s peculiar mutterings lead the police straight to his home and his poor wife’s mutilated remains. As the news of a man possessed by a demon committing tortuous murder breaks, Matt is reluctantly drawn into a world where he’s put under a constant spotlight and pushed in front of the TV cameras to provide a balanced, scientific point of view. But this is TV and that’s just no fun at all. Who wants boring old balanced and stuffy scientific? Not when you can showcase a live exorcism! But when you’re playing with forces you can never understand, it’s no surprise when things go horribly, horribly wrong…
Laws’ use of language is fantastic and it makes his novels so easy to read. I was particularly pleased to find the word ‘crud’ used in one section of dialogue which made my heart sing, as I thought I was one of the last few remaining people uttering this wonderful word under my breath (ah crud – we’re all so old and unfashionable that we’ve all pretty much died out!). This is only one small example though of how the author draws the reader in, making you feel a connection to his stories. Another way is by creating one of the most likeable, humorous and utterly brilliant lead characters to grace fiction – Professor Matt Hunter. There is a hilarious section near the beginning of the book where Matt is meeting his new therapist for the first time which had me crying with laughter. The warmth and wit Laws puts into the character of Matt Hunter makes him a joy to read.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. One hundred percent, yes. If you haven’t read the first three books in the series then there’s no need to worry. Possessed works just as well as a standalone but I can guarantee you will want to read Purged, Unleashed and Severed immediately afterwards so you can lose yourself in Hunter’s world once more (I’m off to pick up my copy of Unleashed now!) . It’s a devilishly (!) good read, with lots of thrills and chills to keep those pages turning. A true fictional delight and one that I heartily recommend to all.
February 18, 2020
I'll start by saying that I love the books by Peter Laws, and this one was not an exception. I've read all four in the Matt Hunter series and raced through them.
Each book has been a page-turner, but this one is a real thrill ride. The first chapter starts with what appears to be a pretty typical early morning village scene and then turns into something quite horrific. It reminded me very much of some of the Horror movies I've watched where evil turns up in the most routine and mundane places unexpectedly. The whole book felt like it could be turned into a film and if it was, it's one I'd watch.
The theme of the book is demonic possession and exorcism, and it also features a so-called expert in this field who flys in from America to help out us poor folk in the UK where demonic possession is a growing and problematic issue. The one voice of reason throughout is Matt Hunter, an ex-member of the church and now a University Lecturer. He brings an interesting and rational perspective around mental health issues to the exorcism party, but of course, no-one wants to listen to him. Possession and exorcism are all far more glamorous. Matt's character also brings a welcome sense of humour - something again that I enjoy in good horror movies. It lightens the mood and shifts our perspectives, so the monsters don't seem quite so scary.
I loved the setting of The Reed, so remote, so isolated and so hard to get away from should things go wrong. It has a real Brutalist concrete urban architecture feel which very much adds to the story.
I think this is the goriest and most horrifying book in the series, but that didn't stop me reading. In my opinion, I still believe book 2 is the creepiest but read them all and make up your own mind. You can read this as a standalone novel if you choose. Peter Laws kindly fills in some of the backgrounds just in case you haven't read the others, but if you have, some things will make a lot more sense.
As someone who enjoys horror writing and the crime genre, I give this five stars and can't wait to find out what Matt Hunter will be up against in the next book.
Many thanks to Rev Peter Laws, Allison & Busby and Netgalley for enabling me to read an early release of this book.
Each book has been a page-turner, but this one is a real thrill ride. The first chapter starts with what appears to be a pretty typical early morning village scene and then turns into something quite horrific. It reminded me very much of some of the Horror movies I've watched where evil turns up in the most routine and mundane places unexpectedly. The whole book felt like it could be turned into a film and if it was, it's one I'd watch.
The theme of the book is demonic possession and exorcism, and it also features a so-called expert in this field who flys in from America to help out us poor folk in the UK where demonic possession is a growing and problematic issue. The one voice of reason throughout is Matt Hunter, an ex-member of the church and now a University Lecturer. He brings an interesting and rational perspective around mental health issues to the exorcism party, but of course, no-one wants to listen to him. Possession and exorcism are all far more glamorous. Matt's character also brings a welcome sense of humour - something again that I enjoy in good horror movies. It lightens the mood and shifts our perspectives, so the monsters don't seem quite so scary.
I loved the setting of The Reed, so remote, so isolated and so hard to get away from should things go wrong. It has a real Brutalist concrete urban architecture feel which very much adds to the story.
I think this is the goriest and most horrifying book in the series, but that didn't stop me reading. In my opinion, I still believe book 2 is the creepiest but read them all and make up your own mind. You can read this as a standalone novel if you choose. Peter Laws kindly fills in some of the backgrounds just in case you haven't read the others, but if you have, some things will make a lot more sense.
As someone who enjoys horror writing and the crime genre, I give this five stars and can't wait to find out what Matt Hunter will be up against in the next book.
Many thanks to Rev Peter Laws, Allison & Busby and Netgalley for enabling me to read an early release of this book.
September 12, 2021
I found this book a bit hard going if I'm honest. I think it could have been shorter and the story wasn't very strong. A bit disappointing.
February 9, 2020
I bloody loved this book- and now have the long wait to book five coming out to wonder how much darker Matt Hunter’s life is going to get.
It has it all, tension- fear- humour and reflection. Just hopefully not shadowy ones with pointed ears
It has it all, tension- fear- humour and reflection. Just hopefully not shadowy ones with pointed ears
February 17, 2022
More 2.5 than 2, really. While being a distinct improvement on the previous one, it's still nowhere close to his first 2. The mystery element is hardly there and the section aout the exorcisms at The Reed centre went on so long I was getting rather bored. A good beginning let down by the ending.
April 28, 2020
Review for 'Possessed ' by Peter Laws
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Allison & Busby publishing.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last and I've already added all his other books to my wishlists. This is the fourth book in the 'Matt Hunter' series but can easily be read as a standalone which is what I did with no problems at all.
Written in 3 parts with 64 chapters. The chapters are approx 3 to 5 pages long, so ideal if you want to read 'just one more chapter' (which turned into 5 in my case in this book).
This book is set in the UK which I always love as I live there and sometimes have visited places mentioned in UK set books.
I must admit I can't remember why I chose to review this book as I picked it a while back. When I get to a book that I chose to review I always reread the blurb and when I did that this time I doubted my choice and remembered one of the reasons I picked it was the main characters surname was Hunter (same as my son), bad I know 😂. I then looked on Amazon for the price to put in my review and realised that Peter Laws is a church minister. Now, I wouldn't class myself as an atheist as I do believe there's something there, but not sure if there is a God, so when I seen this my first thoughts (sorry I know it's judgemental but this is an honest review) were 'Great, this is going to be full of preaching, etc'!! Well, well, well Peter Laws proved me wrong!!! I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Yes, there were some small references but they were completely appropriate to the plot as they were from the pastor.
What an explosive book from start to beginning!! The plot was unique and hugely compelling and filled with horror, mystery, murder, crime, suspense, humour and wit. A MASSIVE congratulations to Peter Laws for being able to put horror and humour together in such a fantastic way!!! I also found the book very thought provoking so another well done there!!
The descriptions were fantastic and made the storyline very atmospheric. I was completely lost in the plot and felt myself next to Matt Hunter on many occasions. Many times I told myself one more chapter just to then read another 4 or 5 as the chapters kept ending on cliffhangers.
THE characters themselves were very strong and well rounded. I absolutely loved Matt Hunter and his wit and dark humour. I cannot wait to read more about him and his adventures! He will definitely stay with me a while after this book.
I loved the ending which really made me think and I even read the acknowledgements which I NEVER do but I was intrigued to read more about Peter Laws. I'm glad I did as even they made me laugh. Well done Peter Laws FANTASTIC WORK!!
The cover is very attractive and works very well with the storyline. It was another reason I decided to read this book.
I honestly cannot recommend this brilliant book and author enough!! If you are looking for a macabre, heart stopping, page turner which is chilling, exciting, intriguing, compelling and unpredictable then what are you waiting for!! Grab your copy now!! Fans of horror, crime, psychological thrillers and all the above will love this!!
416 pages
£6.02 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a great price for this book!
Rated 5/5 ( I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#Possessed #PeterLaws #Allison&Busby #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Allison & Busby publishing.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last and I've already added all his other books to my wishlists. This is the fourth book in the 'Matt Hunter' series but can easily be read as a standalone which is what I did with no problems at all.
Written in 3 parts with 64 chapters. The chapters are approx 3 to 5 pages long, so ideal if you want to read 'just one more chapter' (which turned into 5 in my case in this book).
This book is set in the UK which I always love as I live there and sometimes have visited places mentioned in UK set books.
I must admit I can't remember why I chose to review this book as I picked it a while back. When I get to a book that I chose to review I always reread the blurb and when I did that this time I doubted my choice and remembered one of the reasons I picked it was the main characters surname was Hunter (same as my son), bad I know 😂. I then looked on Amazon for the price to put in my review and realised that Peter Laws is a church minister. Now, I wouldn't class myself as an atheist as I do believe there's something there, but not sure if there is a God, so when I seen this my first thoughts (sorry I know it's judgemental but this is an honest review) were 'Great, this is going to be full of preaching, etc'!! Well, well, well Peter Laws proved me wrong!!! I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Yes, there were some small references but they were completely appropriate to the plot as they were from the pastor.
What an explosive book from start to beginning!! The plot was unique and hugely compelling and filled with horror, mystery, murder, crime, suspense, humour and wit. A MASSIVE congratulations to Peter Laws for being able to put horror and humour together in such a fantastic way!!! I also found the book very thought provoking so another well done there!!
The descriptions were fantastic and made the storyline very atmospheric. I was completely lost in the plot and felt myself next to Matt Hunter on many occasions. Many times I told myself one more chapter just to then read another 4 or 5 as the chapters kept ending on cliffhangers.
THE characters themselves were very strong and well rounded. I absolutely loved Matt Hunter and his wit and dark humour. I cannot wait to read more about him and his adventures! He will definitely stay with me a while after this book.
I loved the ending which really made me think and I even read the acknowledgements which I NEVER do but I was intrigued to read more about Peter Laws. I'm glad I did as even they made me laugh. Well done Peter Laws FANTASTIC WORK!!
The cover is very attractive and works very well with the storyline. It was another reason I decided to read this book.
I honestly cannot recommend this brilliant book and author enough!! If you are looking for a macabre, heart stopping, page turner which is chilling, exciting, intriguing, compelling and unpredictable then what are you waiting for!! Grab your copy now!! Fans of horror, crime, psychological thrillers and all the above will love this!!
416 pages
£6.02 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a great price for this book!
Rated 5/5 ( I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#Possessed #PeterLaws #Allison&Busby #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
August 5, 2020
Couldn't Put It Down
What's not to love about this Matt Hunter novel? It makes you question everything you believe, or think you believe.
Possessions, manipulation and mental illness. Dark, grisly with just enough violence and action for the grimmest horror fans. Not to mention Hunter's own brand of geeky humour that is perfectly placed.
Brilliantly done.
What's not to love about this Matt Hunter novel? It makes you question everything you believe, or think you believe.
Possessions, manipulation and mental illness. Dark, grisly with just enough violence and action for the grimmest horror fans. Not to mention Hunter's own brand of geeky humour that is perfectly placed.
Brilliantly done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2020
Review for 'Possessed ' by Peter Laws
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Allison & Busby publishing.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last and I've already added all his other books to my wishlists. This is the fourth book in the 'Matt Hunter' series but can easily be read as a standalone which is what I did with no problems at all.
Written in 3 parts with 64 chapters. The chapters are approx 3 to 5 pages long, so ideal if you want to read 'just one more chapter' (which turned into 5 in my case in this book).
This book is set in the UK which I always love as I live there and sometimes have visited places mentioned in UK set books.
I must admit I can't remember why I chose to review this book as I picked it a while back. When I get to a book that I chose to review I always reread the blurb and when I did that this time I doubted my choice and remembered one of the reasons I picked it was the main characters surname was Hunter (same as my son), bad I know 😂. I then looked on Amazon for the price to put in my review and realised that Peter Laws is a church minister. Now, I wouldn't class myself as an atheist as I do believe there's something there, but not sure if there is a God, so when I seen this my first thoughts (sorry I know it's judgemental but this is an honest review) were 'Great, this is going to be full of preaching, etc'!! Well, well, well Peter Laws proved me wrong!!! I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Yes, there were some small references but they were completely appropriate to the plot as they were from the pastor.
What an explosive book from start to beginning!! The plot was unique and hugely compelling and filled with horror, mystery, murder, crime, suspense, humour and wit. A MASSIVE congratulations to Peter Laws for being able to put horror and humour together in such a fantastic way!!! I also found the book very thought provoking so another well done there!!
The descriptions were fantastic and made the storyline very atmospheric. I was completely lost in the plot and felt myself next to Matt Hunter on many occasions. Many times I told myself one more chapter just to then read another 4 or 5 as the chapters kept ending on cliffhangers.
THE characters themselves were very strong and well rounded. I absolutely loved Matt Hunter and his wit and dark humour. I cannot wait to read more about him and his adventures! He will definitely stay with me a while after this book.
I loved the ending which really made me think and I even read the acknowledgements which I NEVER do but I was intrigued to read more about Peter Laws. I'm glad I did as even they made me laugh. Well done Peter Laws FANTASTIC WORK!!
The cover is very attractive and works very well with the storyline. It was another reason I decided to read this book.
I honestly cannot recommend this brilliant book and author enough!! If you are looking for a macabre, heart stopping, page turner which is chilling, exciting, intriguing, compelling and unpredictable then what are you waiting for!! Grab your copy now!! Fans of horror, crime, psychological thrillers and all the above will love this!!
416 pages
£6.02 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a great price for this book!
Rated 5/5 ( I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#Possessed #PeterLaws #Allison&Busby #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Allison & Busby publishing.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely won't be my last and I've already added all his other books to my wishlists. This is the fourth book in the 'Matt Hunter' series but can easily be read as a standalone which is what I did with no problems at all.
Written in 3 parts with 64 chapters. The chapters are approx 3 to 5 pages long, so ideal if you want to read 'just one more chapter' (which turned into 5 in my case in this book).
This book is set in the UK which I always love as I live there and sometimes have visited places mentioned in UK set books.
I must admit I can't remember why I chose to review this book as I picked it a while back. When I get to a book that I chose to review I always reread the blurb and when I did that this time I doubted my choice and remembered one of the reasons I picked it was the main characters surname was Hunter (same as my son), bad I know 😂. I then looked on Amazon for the price to put in my review and realised that Peter Laws is a church minister. Now, I wouldn't class myself as an atheist as I do believe there's something there, but not sure if there is a God, so when I seen this my first thoughts (sorry I know it's judgemental but this is an honest review) were 'Great, this is going to be full of preaching, etc'!! Well, well, well Peter Laws proved me wrong!!! I absolutely LOVED IT!!! Yes, there were some small references but they were completely appropriate to the plot as they were from the pastor.
What an explosive book from start to beginning!! The plot was unique and hugely compelling and filled with horror, mystery, murder, crime, suspense, humour and wit. A MASSIVE congratulations to Peter Laws for being able to put horror and humour together in such a fantastic way!!! I also found the book very thought provoking so another well done there!!
The descriptions were fantastic and made the storyline very atmospheric. I was completely lost in the plot and felt myself next to Matt Hunter on many occasions. Many times I told myself one more chapter just to then read another 4 or 5 as the chapters kept ending on cliffhangers.
THE characters themselves were very strong and well rounded. I absolutely loved Matt Hunter and his wit and dark humour. I cannot wait to read more about him and his adventures! He will definitely stay with me a while after this book.
I loved the ending which really made me think and I even read the acknowledgements which I NEVER do but I was intrigued to read more about Peter Laws. I'm glad I did as even they made me laugh. Well done Peter Laws FANTASTIC WORK!!
The cover is very attractive and works very well with the storyline. It was another reason I decided to read this book.
I honestly cannot recommend this brilliant book and author enough!! If you are looking for a macabre, heart stopping, page turner which is chilling, exciting, intriguing, compelling and unpredictable then what are you waiting for!! Grab your copy now!! Fans of horror, crime, psychological thrillers and all the above will love this!!
416 pages
£6.02 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a great price for this book!
Rated 5/5 ( I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#Possessed #PeterLaws #Allison&Busby #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
February 16, 2020
You know how you yell at the fool in the horror movie going to investigate the strange noise?
Yeah, you might find yourself yelling at characters in this book for the same reason. When a catatonic man covered in blood is brought in to a police station, they are baffled by an odd name carved into his stomach. So they call in expert Matt Hunter to help them determine what on earth is going on. What begins as a John Doe case quickly turns into a murder investigation further fueled by the belief that the murderer in question is in fact possessed. Matt Hunter, with his wry Scully like wit is not so sure, even as he wrestles with demons of his own.
This is the fourth book in the Matt Hunter series and full disclosure I have not read the previous 3. While I was not familiar with the character or his previous cases I found that I had no issues as Rev. Laws reached out with his literary talons and dragged me along on this creepy trip into psychology, possession, greed, religion, and sin. Matt Hunter is skeptical but humorous and the mystery is well written and full of tension and fear. It will appeal to those that prefer to broach matters like this with logic, even if they wake up wary at 3 am due to the skilled psychological suggestions weaved in the story.
Laws does an excellent job with descriptions, pop culture references, genuine creepiness, and well placed humor. "You can be Chief Brody and I'll be the Mayor of Amity." Possessed is an intriguing look into society and how we view mental illness and Laws also conjures up some what ifs to hover around Matt Hunter like shadows. An excellent read and I must now read the others.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Yeah, you might find yourself yelling at characters in this book for the same reason. When a catatonic man covered in blood is brought in to a police station, they are baffled by an odd name carved into his stomach. So they call in expert Matt Hunter to help them determine what on earth is going on. What begins as a John Doe case quickly turns into a murder investigation further fueled by the belief that the murderer in question is in fact possessed. Matt Hunter, with his wry Scully like wit is not so sure, even as he wrestles with demons of his own.
This is the fourth book in the Matt Hunter series and full disclosure I have not read the previous 3. While I was not familiar with the character or his previous cases I found that I had no issues as Rev. Laws reached out with his literary talons and dragged me along on this creepy trip into psychology, possession, greed, religion, and sin. Matt Hunter is skeptical but humorous and the mystery is well written and full of tension and fear. It will appeal to those that prefer to broach matters like this with logic, even if they wake up wary at 3 am due to the skilled psychological suggestions weaved in the story.
Laws does an excellent job with descriptions, pop culture references, genuine creepiness, and well placed humor. "You can be Chief Brody and I'll be the Mayor of Amity." Possessed is an intriguing look into society and how we view mental illness and Laws also conjures up some what ifs to hover around Matt Hunter like shadows. An excellent read and I must now read the others.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 24, 2020
Demons, whispering from the shadows, names carved into vulnerable flesh. Memories, whispering slithering, tormenting, suggesting. Welcome to Possessed, the forth in Peter Laws’ Matt Hunter series, combining the everyday with the esoteric
Possessed is a great addition to the Matt Hunter stable, eminently readable, gleefully gory, yet holding a deeper resonance that makes you think even after the screaming stops. It switches between the lens of reality, and the distortion of the subconscious. It takes Matt’s rationality and tears it to shreds, with mass hysteria, hip deep in blood, and the misapplication of faith. Events play out in a narrow timeframe, within locations where Matt fights to assert rational thought, but where the narrative is taken from him time and again. All rising towards a crescendo of fear and violence, played out within a short timeframe. Superb.
Read my full review here: https://irregularfiction.wordpress.co...
With huge thanks to Peter Laws, Allison & Busby and Netgalley for the ARC of Possessed. Much appreciated.
Possessed is a great addition to the Matt Hunter stable, eminently readable, gleefully gory, yet holding a deeper resonance that makes you think even after the screaming stops. It switches between the lens of reality, and the distortion of the subconscious. It takes Matt’s rationality and tears it to shreds, with mass hysteria, hip deep in blood, and the misapplication of faith. Events play out in a narrow timeframe, within locations where Matt fights to assert rational thought, but where the narrative is taken from him time and again. All rising towards a crescendo of fear and violence, played out within a short timeframe. Superb.
Read my full review here: https://irregularfiction.wordpress.co...
With huge thanks to Peter Laws, Allison & Busby and Netgalley for the ARC of Possessed. Much appreciated.
February 12, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Allison and Busby for the eARC.
Professor Matt Hunter is called in by the local police because they're baffled and hope he can shed some light on the bloodied man who has just killed his wife in a horrific way. He seems to believe he's possessed and Matt is a bit of an expert on the subject of demons, not believing in them but looking for mental health issues instead. The case takes quite a turn, involving the media, a pastor and several others who believe they are also possessed. To top it all a famous American exorcist flies in to feature in a BBC documentary, where he will exorcise a group of people in front of the camera.
Matt is a very likeable character with a good home life with his wife and daughters, I liked him a lot. The story was a fun read and entertaining read. Like Matt, I don't believe in the supernatural, so didn't have to sleep with the lights on and could sift back and enjoy the fast and furious ride. Recommended!
Professor Matt Hunter is called in by the local police because they're baffled and hope he can shed some light on the bloodied man who has just killed his wife in a horrific way. He seems to believe he's possessed and Matt is a bit of an expert on the subject of demons, not believing in them but looking for mental health issues instead. The case takes quite a turn, involving the media, a pastor and several others who believe they are also possessed. To top it all a famous American exorcist flies in to feature in a BBC documentary, where he will exorcise a group of people in front of the camera.
Matt is a very likeable character with a good home life with his wife and daughters, I liked him a lot. The story was a fun read and entertaining read. Like Matt, I don't believe in the supernatural, so didn't have to sleep with the lights on and could sift back and enjoy the fast and furious ride. Recommended!
March 9, 2020
When a blood-soaked man is discovered with the word Baal-Berith scored into his flesh, the bewildered police call on expert Professor Matt Hunter to assist. Before long, a gruesome discovery is made and Hunter is drawn into a frenzied murder investigation.
With a fury of media interest in the case, and the emerging link to a documentary on demonic possession, Hunter is unable to escape a dark world of exorcism and violence … even when events spiral frighteningly out of control.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
With a fury of media interest in the case, and the emerging link to a documentary on demonic possession, Hunter is unable to escape a dark world of exorcism and violence … even when events spiral frighteningly out of control.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
February 29, 2020
Professor Matt Hunter is called in by the local police to investigate when an unidentified and blood soaked man is discovered with the name Baal-Berith scored into his flesh.
As an atheist ex-minister and expert on religion, Matt can shed light on the ancient Canaanite demon known as the spirit of blasphemy and murder, but as he's drawn into a frenzied murder investigation when a widely known American exorcist appears on the scene. Matt's scientific rationalism is tested against blind faith in widespread demonic possession, and his own faith in psychology is taxed.
This was a pretty creepy novel, not usually the type I'd read but I'm glad I did. It also #4 in the Matt Hunter series, tho I haven't read the others it was good by itself.
I recieved this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
As an atheist ex-minister and expert on religion, Matt can shed light on the ancient Canaanite demon known as the spirit of blasphemy and murder, but as he's drawn into a frenzied murder investigation when a widely known American exorcist appears on the scene. Matt's scientific rationalism is tested against blind faith in widespread demonic possession, and his own faith in psychology is taxed.
This was a pretty creepy novel, not usually the type I'd read but I'm glad I did. It also #4 in the Matt Hunter series, tho I haven't read the others it was good by itself.
I recieved this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
March 2, 2020
Possessed is the fourth book in the Matt Hunter series and the first that I have read. I had no issues about joining this series late apart from a need to know what happened to his mother and to know more about his wife Wren but I will read those earlier books, this was a book I really enjoyed.
Matt was a character that I really liked. Funny, down to earth and the only one involved in the exorcism show who managed to keep a level head. It’s something that I don’t know if I could achieve with the increasingly scary events that occurred.
There is little that intimidates me more than religion being used as a way of control. The two who use it to their advantage in this novel are very convincing in the way they manipulate the situation for their own needs. At times they even convinced Matt that they were correct and he was the one who was placing others in danger.
It’s quite gory, full of rage and religious fervour but most of all it is very entertaining. The media scrum, the TV crew who are only concerned about the show they are producing, the opening chapter that hooked me straight away and one scene that I appreciated more than any other was seeing the fear that Matt’s daughter showed. I thought that this scene showed how easy it was to make somebody, especially if they are vulnerable, think that something sinister was happening to them.
I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Matt was a character that I really liked. Funny, down to earth and the only one involved in the exorcism show who managed to keep a level head. It’s something that I don’t know if I could achieve with the increasingly scary events that occurred.
There is little that intimidates me more than religion being used as a way of control. The two who use it to their advantage in this novel are very convincing in the way they manipulate the situation for their own needs. At times they even convinced Matt that they were correct and he was the one who was placing others in danger.
It’s quite gory, full of rage and religious fervour but most of all it is very entertaining. The media scrum, the TV crew who are only concerned about the show they are producing, the opening chapter that hooked me straight away and one scene that I appreciated more than any other was seeing the fear that Matt’s daughter showed. I thought that this scene showed how easy it was to make somebody, especially if they are vulnerable, think that something sinister was happening to them.
I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
May 16, 2020
Thankyou to NetGalley, Allison and Busby and the author, Peter Laws, for the opportunity to read a digital copy of Possessed in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I was so excited to receive a copy of this book. I have read and enjoyed the other books in the Matt Hunter series, so I knew Possessed was going to be an incredible read. I was not disappointed.
The characters, the narrative and the settings were rich in detail and draws you in. I had to read this book in one sitting as it was impossible to put down. 4.5 stars.
Well worth a read.
I was so excited to receive a copy of this book. I have read and enjoyed the other books in the Matt Hunter series, so I knew Possessed was going to be an incredible read. I was not disappointed.
The characters, the narrative and the settings were rich in detail and draws you in. I had to read this book in one sitting as it was impossible to put down. 4.5 stars.
Well worth a read.
March 11, 2020
It's the first book I read in this series and won't surely be the last as I found it excellent.
It's scary, gripping, enthralling and it makes you feel scared and curious about what will come next.
I loved the style of writing, the amazing world building and the well thought cast of characters.
it was an excellent read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's scary, gripping, enthralling and it makes you feel scared and curious about what will come next.
I loved the style of writing, the amazing world building and the well thought cast of characters.
it was an excellent read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Read
September 12, 2020Darkly Disturbing and Gruesomely gripping
In Possessed, Peter Laws takes his readers by the hand and leads them into a dark labyrinth constructed of an original blend of murder and exorcism, media and demons, religion and psychology. His characters are so real, I tried to take them by the hand and pull them out again!
A thought provoking blend of crime and horror, and an utterly compelling read/listen. I loved it!
In Possessed, Peter Laws takes his readers by the hand and leads them into a dark labyrinth constructed of an original blend of murder and exorcism, media and demons, religion and psychology. His characters are so real, I tried to take them by the hand and pull them out again!
A thought provoking blend of crime and horror, and an utterly compelling read/listen. I loved it!
August 7, 2020
When I first started this book, I did not think I would like the story or plot, but I kept reading. And, I was wrong about my preview opinion! It is a very interesting view into human understanding of the human mind, and pre-expectations of solutions to problems of the mind by diverse groups. It was well researched, and well written in my opinion. Well worth the read!
October 22, 2020
3.5* but rounding up to 4. Probably one of the better ‘paranormal’ thrillers I’ve read, however it didn’t quite get me in the end. No real ‘twists’ but I thoroughly enjoyed the first part to this book, definitely freaked me out.
Picked it up randomly in a 3 for £5 deal at ‘The Works’ - so it was nice surprise!
Picked it up randomly in a 3 for £5 deal at ‘The Works’ - so it was nice surprise!
March 24, 2020
A good, entertaining story. A definite page turner
It is part of a series but can be read quite happily as a standalone as no previous knowledge of the characters is required in order to thoroughly enjoy the book .
It is part of a series but can be read quite happily as a standalone as no previous knowledge of the characters is required in order to thoroughly enjoy the book .
May 7, 2020
I LOVED this horror/mystery. Gripped from the first page, I read this at one sitting.
Blinking brilliant book.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blinking brilliant book.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
I love it!! The characters, the stories, the descriptive writing, the promise from Matt in the acknowledgments that he wasn't possessed while writing the book. I cursed a few times, I laughed and I was hooked til the end.
February 19, 2020
Not my cup of tea. Too gory,muddled and unrealistic. A murder triangle wrapped up in demon mumbo jumbo.
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