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The Soul Searchers Mysteries #1
Donn's Hill
Mackenzie Clair needs a fresh start. The death of her father and a broken relationship rendered her old life unlivable. What better place to build a new one than Donn’s Hill, the most haunted town in America and her favorite childhood vacation spot?
But returning to Donn’s Hill awakens more than nostalgia. As memories resurface, so does a lost psychic ability to talk to the dead... a power the poltergeist haunting Mac’s apartment is eager to use.
Aided by her new roommate—a spirited Tortoiseshell cat named Striker—and the ghost-hunting crew of the Soul Searchers, Mac struggles to control her newfound talents. She’d better get a handle on them fast, because someone in town is hiding a deadly secret. If Mac can’t divine the truth, Donn’s Hill will never be the same.
But returning to Donn’s Hill awakens more than nostalgia. As memories resurface, so does a lost psychic ability to talk to the dead... a power the poltergeist haunting Mac’s apartment is eager to use.
Aided by her new roommate—a spirited Tortoiseshell cat named Striker—and the ghost-hunting crew of the Soul Searchers, Mac struggles to control her newfound talents. She’d better get a handle on them fast, because someone in town is hiding a deadly secret. If Mac can’t divine the truth, Donn’s Hill will never be the same.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2017
311 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
Caryn Larrinaga
26 books212 followersCaryn Larrinaga is an internationally best-selling mystery and horror author. She has won multiple awards for her work, including the League of Utah Writers Gold Typewriter and the Cat Writers Association Muse Medallion. In 2021, she was named Writer of the Year by the League of Utah Writers.
In addition to her novels and short story collections, Caryn has written for tabletop RPGs, podcasts, literary journals, newspapers, and zines. Her work has been adapted for audio, short films, and a forthcoming animation. Her spooky supernatural whodunit, DONN'S HILL, topped the Amazon best seller lists for psychic mysteries and cozy animal mysteries.
Watching scary movies through split fingers terrified Caryn as a child, and those nightmares inspire her to write now. Her 90-year-old house has a colorful history, and the creaking walls and narrow hallways send her running (never walking) up the stairs. Exploring her fears through writing makes Caryn feel a little less foolish for wanting a buddy to accompany her into the tool shed.
Caryn lives near Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband and their clowder of cats. She is an active member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, the Cat Writers Association, and the League of Utah Writers.
Visit www.carynlarrinaga.com for free short fiction and true tales of haunted places.
In addition to her novels and short story collections, Caryn has written for tabletop RPGs, podcasts, literary journals, newspapers, and zines. Her work has been adapted for audio, short films, and a forthcoming animation. Her spooky supernatural whodunit, DONN'S HILL, topped the Amazon best seller lists for psychic mysteries and cozy animal mysteries.
Watching scary movies through split fingers terrified Caryn as a child, and those nightmares inspire her to write now. Her 90-year-old house has a colorful history, and the creaking walls and narrow hallways send her running (never walking) up the stairs. Exploring her fears through writing makes Caryn feel a little less foolish for wanting a buddy to accompany her into the tool shed.
Caryn lives near Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband and their clowder of cats. She is an active member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Horror Writers Association, the Cat Writers Association, and the League of Utah Writers.
Visit www.carynlarrinaga.com for free short fiction and true tales of haunted places.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
October 4, 2017
“This is home.”
Moving in and getting used to a new town can be difficult for anyone but Mackenzie’s move to Donn’s Hill takes the prize. The story begins with Mackenzie exploring her new town and meeting new people, each and every character had a unique personality and I enjoyed discovering more about them as the story progressed.
It wasn’t long before peculiar things started happening in this book and I was so surprised to see just how many odd things could one little town like Donn’s Hill, have going on. There were plenty of ghosts or “travelers” as Mackenzie used to call them when she was little, a ghost hunting crew, a few dead bodies, criminals and illegal businesses and after all this, the town somehow still managed to organize a festival and entertain the newly arrived tourists.
Sometimes I felt that the story was a bit slow and needed more action, but for the most part I really enjoyed it. It was very interesting reading about the backstory of not only the secondary characters, but also the ghosts and when things got to dark the heroine’s familiar, a clever and naughty cat named Striker, was there to light things up.
For me, what was missing from this book , was an epilogue. After the mystery is solved I felt that the story ended a bit abruptly and I would have liked to see what happened with Graham and with the episode that Mackenzie shot with the Soul Searchers.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that i received via Reading Alley.
July 27, 2021
What to say about Donn's Hill other than what an amazing book. It kept me turning pages for hours on end.
It is labeled as mystery but it could also be catorgorized as paranormal. Its a mystery with a paranormal twist.
The main character learns that she has psychic abilities that allows her to see the dead. She comes to Donn's Hill and is followed by the spirit of a dead man named Tom Bishop. The story is how she helps Tom find his killer and to move on to the next life.
It is labeled as mystery but it could also be catorgorized as paranormal. Its a mystery with a paranormal twist.
The main character learns that she has psychic abilities that allows her to see the dead. She comes to Donn's Hill and is followed by the spirit of a dead man named Tom Bishop. The story is how she helps Tom find his killer and to move on to the next life.
February 16, 2017
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll admit, I’m not generally a big reader of mystery and thrillers, but the synopsis for this book had me interested enough to give it a try. Plus the paranormal element and ghost hunters definitely helped sell it.
I am happy to report, I am glad I took a chance on reading something different. If I had of passed on this book, I really would have been missing out. I ended up thoroughly enjoying Donn’s Hill. I read the whole thing in two days while cooped up in bed ill.
Mackenzie is starting fresh in a new town that holds some of her favorite childhood memories. After the death of her father and the discovery that her boyfriend is cheating, she needs this. Instead she finds a town rife with secrets all of it’s own. Why does the deputy mayor hate her on sight? Is every place in town haunted? What secrets was her mother keeping from her all these years?
Mackenzie as a character? I loved her! Here’s a young woman wanting nothing more than to just get on with her life. Instead, she is pulled into a world she never believed existed, add to the fact that she rediscovers a childhood ability to talk to the dead and her new friend is a paranormal investigator and her world is turned upside down.
The moment Mackenzie has he first run in with her first ghost sent literal chills through me and had me closing the book for a good few minutes. (Did I mention I don’t usually read mystery thrillers?) I felt like I was there, definitely creepy, it was awesome. Though I was a little more cautious turning the page.
The overall plot was interesting and kept me intrigued the whole way through. Family secrets. Town secrets. So many secrets! Toss in a few psychics, ghost hunters, Mackenzie’s cutie-pie landlord (in my opinion) and her new feline friend Striker (I loooovveee that cat) and you have a great mystery to solve.
I’m curious to know if Mackenzie’s story is over. I really hope not. I for one would love to see what she get’s up to next in the quirky town of Donn’s Hill.
I’ll admit, I’m not generally a big reader of mystery and thrillers, but the synopsis for this book had me interested enough to give it a try. Plus the paranormal element and ghost hunters definitely helped sell it.
I am happy to report, I am glad I took a chance on reading something different. If I had of passed on this book, I really would have been missing out. I ended up thoroughly enjoying Donn’s Hill. I read the whole thing in two days while cooped up in bed ill.
Mackenzie is starting fresh in a new town that holds some of her favorite childhood memories. After the death of her father and the discovery that her boyfriend is cheating, she needs this. Instead she finds a town rife with secrets all of it’s own. Why does the deputy mayor hate her on sight? Is every place in town haunted? What secrets was her mother keeping from her all these years?
Mackenzie as a character? I loved her! Here’s a young woman wanting nothing more than to just get on with her life. Instead, she is pulled into a world she never believed existed, add to the fact that she rediscovers a childhood ability to talk to the dead and her new friend is a paranormal investigator and her world is turned upside down.
The moment Mackenzie has he first run in with her first ghost sent literal chills through me and had me closing the book for a good few minutes. (Did I mention I don’t usually read mystery thrillers?) I felt like I was there, definitely creepy, it was awesome. Though I was a little more cautious turning the page.
The overall plot was interesting and kept me intrigued the whole way through. Family secrets. Town secrets. So many secrets! Toss in a few psychics, ghost hunters, Mackenzie’s cutie-pie landlord (in my opinion) and her new feline friend Striker (I loooovveee that cat) and you have a great mystery to solve.
I’m curious to know if Mackenzie’s story is over. I really hope not. I for one would love to see what she get’s up to next in the quirky town of Donn’s Hill.
May 25, 2020
Mackenzie Clair has had a rough time of it. Her father just passed away and after coming home from the funeral she finds her boyfriend in bed with another woman. She decides its time for a change, and new start. She gets a bit more then she expects. She heads back to Donn's Hill. A place she loved going on vacation as a child. She starts to find out a few things about her mother who passed several years ago. She also is found by a kitten who decides Mackenzie is her person. She also meets a group of Ghost Huneters known as the The Soul Searchers. Oh yea and Mackenzie is psychic, she just doesn't know it yet.
This book is a mix of murder mystery and urban fantasy. The spook factor is there from the first few pages. And the body list builds quickly. Caryn Larrinaga does a really great job with this story. Jessica McEvoy's narration is pretty good. At time her over pronunciation got a but rough, but other then that I really enjoyed the book.
This book is a mix of murder mystery and urban fantasy. The spook factor is there from the first few pages. And the body list builds quickly. Caryn Larrinaga does a really great job with this story. Jessica McEvoy's narration is pretty good. At time her over pronunciation got a but rough, but other then that I really enjoyed the book.
February 20, 2017
I received a free copy of Donn’s Hill in exchange for an honest review.
Donn’s Hill was most definitely expertly written, with a good mix of characters. It was an interesting idea to have Mac who could genuinely interact with people who had passed mixing with a ghost hunting show. This gave a good fictional representation of both sides of opinion as to whether ghosts etc are real.
Personally, I felt the plot was a bit slow but the expert writing made up for this.
Donn’s Hill was most definitely expertly written, with a good mix of characters. It was an interesting idea to have Mac who could genuinely interact with people who had passed mixing with a ghost hunting show. This gave a good fictional representation of both sides of opinion as to whether ghosts etc are real.
Personally, I felt the plot was a bit slow but the expert writing made up for this.
February 27, 2017
Mackenzie Clair pares down everything she owns into one backpack. She decides to move after she finds her boyfriend cheating on her upon coming home from her father's funeral. She ends up in Donn's hill the place her mother used to take her as a child. Strange things start happening when she arrives like seeing a man that's not really there. She is welcome by some but not by others in this strange little town. She starts to find there are paranormal forces at work and they are trying to tell her about a murder that happened. The ghost is seeking peace from Mackenzie finding out who the killer is. It's dangerous work, but someone's got to do it.
In an Oyster Shell - A surprisingly easy comfortable read for a paranormal mystery.
The Pearls - I like small town settings and Donn's Hill is one of them. Mackenzie goes to seek refuge there having such fond memories of it in the past. There are a lot of quirks in this little town that also has it's dark secrets. The reader along with Mackenzie gets to enjoy the process of finding what these secrets are.
The characters were fairly vast and all distinctive and well developed. This book was an equally plot driven and character driven story. It was a good balance of both. A rarity. The characters brought a lot of variety to the story. Mackenzie makes a lot of friends and a few enemies in the short time she is in Donn's hill. It makes the story interesting.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
In an Oyster Shell - A surprisingly easy comfortable read for a paranormal mystery.
The Pearls - I like small town settings and Donn's Hill is one of them. Mackenzie goes to seek refuge there having such fond memories of it in the past. There are a lot of quirks in this little town that also has it's dark secrets. The reader along with Mackenzie gets to enjoy the process of finding what these secrets are.
The characters were fairly vast and all distinctive and well developed. This book was an equally plot driven and character driven story. It was a good balance of both. A rarity. The characters brought a lot of variety to the story. Mackenzie makes a lot of friends and a few enemies in the short time she is in Donn's hill. It makes the story interesting.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
March 3, 2017
Mackenzie Clair’s mother died when she was very young. Now, her father has died also, leaving her with no living relatives. When she finds out that her long-time boyfriend is cheating on her, she kicks him out, finding herself alone for the first time in her life. Deciding to make a fresh start, she moves to Donn’s Hill since she has fond childhood memories of going there with her mother. As soon as she gets there though, a disturbing spirit starts haunting her. That’s when she finds out that Donn’s Hill is one of the most haunted places there is. But that is nothing compared to what she discovers about herself.
Donn’s Hill sounds like my kind of place, I would love to go to a festival with the activities depicted in this story. Mac seemed to be a confident, well-rounded character, and an easy person to like. The postage stamp town and its eccentric characters were perfect too. With a plot of mystery and secrets, and a little cat with a mind of its own, I couldn’t help but be entertained immensely.
Donn’s Hill sounds like my kind of place, I would love to go to a festival with the activities depicted in this story. Mac seemed to be a confident, well-rounded character, and an easy person to like. The postage stamp town and its eccentric characters were perfect too. With a plot of mystery and secrets, and a little cat with a mind of its own, I couldn’t help but be entertained immensely.
March 3, 2017
Loved it!
I received an ARC in exchange for a review on my website, and I can't shut up about the book ever since. Caryn has a way with characters. All of them have their own story, and felt very real.
I can't say what captured my attention. The plot is a little slow, but captivating. I probably got through it faster than most novels I read. It kept me hooked. I think the character and world building were the cause. It also kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the plot would twist in a new direction. Love the combination of supernatural, mystery, and horror. Very entertaining read. Keep an eye on this author.
I received an ARC in exchange for a review on my website, and I can't shut up about the book ever since. Caryn has a way with characters. All of them have their own story, and felt very real.
I can't say what captured my attention. The plot is a little slow, but captivating. I probably got through it faster than most novels I read. It kept me hooked. I think the character and world building were the cause. It also kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the plot would twist in a new direction. Love the combination of supernatural, mystery, and horror. Very entertaining read. Keep an eye on this author.
March 3, 2017
This novel was sent to my wife as an ARC for an honest review. I'll write her words here as she does not have an Amazon account.
The main character is brilliant and my wife says if we didn't have a house full of rescue dogs then she'd adopt a cat as she fell in love with striker. If you love the Ghost Hunters and other Paranormal T.V shows then this book is right up your street. It is has ghosts, psychics, seances and a murder mystery. What more could you ask for, apart from the next in the series :)
The main character is brilliant and my wife says if we didn't have a house full of rescue dogs then she'd adopt a cat as she fell in love with striker. If you love the Ghost Hunters and other Paranormal T.V shows then this book is right up your street. It is has ghosts, psychics, seances and a murder mystery. What more could you ask for, apart from the next in the series :)
January 3, 2021
Started out promising and then went completely into the dumpster. It's a shame, there were some interesting concepts and the writing quality was fairly decent, but there were just too many issues, mainly in the character department.
Mac was a doormat, and the first person perspective made it worse.
Striker started as a cute cat then turned into a narrative security blanket/sedative for whenever Mac started to have emotions.
The story meandered quite a bit, ended extremely abruptly, and was never actually scary (the above was a contributing factor).
Kat was a manipulative, narcissistic thrill-seeker and it was framed as totally acceptable. Her response to Mac's concern about going to a haunted location was bad, her response to the first dead body was callous, and her response to the second was completely out-of-line. Sure it resulted in a fight with Mac, but that fight ended up being dismissed as Mac being angry cause she was tired, as if she hadn't made some good points. As if there was nothing wrong with being unreservedly excited about their day after Mac nearly got killed by a ghost and they found another dead body. "I manipulated you, lied to you, and put you in danger, but it was for my dad so it's okay" is not an excuse. Their entire friendship was based on lies. Kat was using Mac to get what she wanted. Of course that conversation got cut off, cause had it continued the author probably couldn't have justified their staying friends.
Really everyone's flaws were treated in a similar way. Philip's sleazy behavior that bordered on sexual harassment was treated as a harmless quirk. Penelope's vicious snobbery was treated as a minor overreaction to her stressful situation. This was made even worse by how one-dimensional pretty much every character is. The nice barista, the mean high-society snob, the old pervert, the nice landlord, the cheerful manipulative narcissist friend, the desperate deputy, the suspicious psychic (so suspicious I had her clocked as the murderer even before they found a body), the fish-out-of-water newcomer.
Mac was a doormat, and the first person perspective made it worse.
Striker started as a cute cat then turned into a narrative security blanket/sedative for whenever Mac started to have emotions.
The story meandered quite a bit, ended extremely abruptly, and was never actually scary (the above was a contributing factor).
Kat was a manipulative, narcissistic thrill-seeker and it was framed as totally acceptable. Her response to Mac's concern about going to a haunted location was bad, her response to the first dead body was callous, and her response to the second was completely out-of-line. Sure it resulted in a fight with Mac, but that fight ended up being dismissed as Mac being angry cause she was tired, as if she hadn't made some good points. As if there was nothing wrong with being unreservedly excited about their day after Mac nearly got killed by a ghost and they found another dead body. "I manipulated you, lied to you, and put you in danger, but it was for my dad so it's okay" is not an excuse. Their entire friendship was based on lies. Kat was using Mac to get what she wanted. Of course that conversation got cut off, cause had it continued the author probably couldn't have justified their staying friends.
Really everyone's flaws were treated in a similar way. Philip's sleazy behavior that bordered on sexual harassment was treated as a harmless quirk. Penelope's vicious snobbery was treated as a minor overreaction to her stressful situation. This was made even worse by how one-dimensional pretty much every character is. The nice barista, the mean high-society snob, the old pervert, the nice landlord, the cheerful manipulative narcissist friend, the desperate deputy, the suspicious psychic (so suspicious I had her clocked as the murderer even before they found a body), the fish-out-of-water newcomer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2021
This book pulled me in right away. Great characters, cat, and ookie-spooky stuff.
March 20, 2020
AUDIO BOOK REVIEW: DONN'S HILL takes an interesting premise and runs with it. I was intrigued by the idea that grief and stress could trigger a long-time hidden psychic ability. Pairing that concept with a town that has an annual paranormal festival and houses the crew of a televised ghost-hunting show, readers are given a captivating and creepy story to enjoy.
“You have the air of someone who prefers words on a page to the world around her.”
I knew right away that character Mac was my kind of gal. From the opening scene and her care of her Vonnegut book, to the remorse she feels after having to get rid of her books (and oh, how she misses them), to the excitement she shows when she discovers the new town has a bookstore, I connected to her. Add that the first place she visits (and frequently returns to for her caffeine fix) is the town’s coffee shop, and I felt Mac was one of my people.
“One thing was certain: I needed caffeine to make sense of anything.”
Author Caryn Larrinaga gives readers snippets to begin sketching Mac’s character, but she fills-in the gaps so that Mac is a fully fleshed-out and complicated character by story’s end. Mac’s introversion is painful at times, as is her drive to handle things alone. As she becomes aware of her psychic gifts (curses?) and they are kicking into high gear, she caves inward. Even as she acknowledges to others that there’s a ghost in her apartment, she doesn’t share her experiences, with said ghost, with others. And she doesn’t share her struggle in knowing what’s real and what’s other-worldly. This was frustrating given the people she had access to, but maybe Mac’s hesitation is more than introversion? While readers get to know Mac, Larrinaga is less generous in giving us insight into other characters; we see the surface and we judge accordingly. This is intentional on the author’s part, and she does a great job of leading readers to conclusions that are often wrong (and often showing Mac’s intuition was right).
“My toes felt claustrophobic in my shoes. Sandal weather had arrived, and my narrow little piggies knew it.”
Larrinaga’s storytelling style is mostly straightforward; she doesn’t add a lot of flourish to her writing and is efficient but effective in describing scenes and vibes. There are a few real gems that catch the listeners’ ears but mostly, she pulls readers into the story in a subtle way, relying heavily on dialogue. She slowly, masterfully builds the dread, then piles on some intense action that will have readers sitting up straighter – and maybe looking over their shoulders a bit.
DONN'S HILL has a satisfying resolution without any cliffhangers, but the ending does set the stage for what I imagine is a plot point in the next book in the series, DONN'S SHADOW. With Mac’s job and abilities, the door is wide-open for plenty of ghostly adventures, danger, and maybe even a romance in the works. I’ll be checking out the next book to find out.
ABOUT THE NARRATION: Jessica McEvoy does a great job performing voices both male and female and characters with a variety of accents. Her delivery is even, but the pace is a little slow for me, so I bumped it to 1.25x after about an hour of listening at regular speed. McEvoy’s enunciation is so precise that it is a little distracting because most people don’t speak that clearly. The result is that it draws attention to the words instead of to the story. However, by the end of the book, McEvoy’s clear articulation became another aspect of Mac’s personality, and I can’t imagine another person voicing her.
Thank you to the author and Audiobookworm Productions for providing me an audio code in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
“You have the air of someone who prefers words on a page to the world around her.”
I knew right away that character Mac was my kind of gal. From the opening scene and her care of her Vonnegut book, to the remorse she feels after having to get rid of her books (and oh, how she misses them), to the excitement she shows when she discovers the new town has a bookstore, I connected to her. Add that the first place she visits (and frequently returns to for her caffeine fix) is the town’s coffee shop, and I felt Mac was one of my people.
“One thing was certain: I needed caffeine to make sense of anything.”
Author Caryn Larrinaga gives readers snippets to begin sketching Mac’s character, but she fills-in the gaps so that Mac is a fully fleshed-out and complicated character by story’s end. Mac’s introversion is painful at times, as is her drive to handle things alone. As she becomes aware of her psychic gifts (curses?) and they are kicking into high gear, she caves inward. Even as she acknowledges to others that there’s a ghost in her apartment, she doesn’t share her experiences, with said ghost, with others. And she doesn’t share her struggle in knowing what’s real and what’s other-worldly. This was frustrating given the people she had access to, but maybe Mac’s hesitation is more than introversion? While readers get to know Mac, Larrinaga is less generous in giving us insight into other characters; we see the surface and we judge accordingly. This is intentional on the author’s part, and she does a great job of leading readers to conclusions that are often wrong (and often showing Mac’s intuition was right).
“My toes felt claustrophobic in my shoes. Sandal weather had arrived, and my narrow little piggies knew it.”
Larrinaga’s storytelling style is mostly straightforward; she doesn’t add a lot of flourish to her writing and is efficient but effective in describing scenes and vibes. There are a few real gems that catch the listeners’ ears but mostly, she pulls readers into the story in a subtle way, relying heavily on dialogue. She slowly, masterfully builds the dread, then piles on some intense action that will have readers sitting up straighter – and maybe looking over their shoulders a bit.
DONN'S HILL has a satisfying resolution without any cliffhangers, but the ending does set the stage for what I imagine is a plot point in the next book in the series, DONN'S SHADOW. With Mac’s job and abilities, the door is wide-open for plenty of ghostly adventures, danger, and maybe even a romance in the works. I’ll be checking out the next book to find out.
ABOUT THE NARRATION: Jessica McEvoy does a great job performing voices both male and female and characters with a variety of accents. Her delivery is even, but the pace is a little slow for me, so I bumped it to 1.25x after about an hour of listening at regular speed. McEvoy’s enunciation is so precise that it is a little distracting because most people don’t speak that clearly. The result is that it draws attention to the words instead of to the story. However, by the end of the book, McEvoy’s clear articulation became another aspect of Mac’s personality, and I can’t imagine another person voicing her.
Thank you to the author and Audiobookworm Productions for providing me an audio code in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and more special features on Hall Ways Blog.
April 1, 2020
Ghost hunters, a cat familiar, the unruly dead, seances, and the ability to see spirits – Mac surely has her hands full! This was a great listen. I got attached to Mac right away. She’s restarting her life after a failed marriage and the death of her father a year ago. So she ends up going to Donn’s Hill, a small town that she and her mom visited often when she was a kid.
Right away, spooky stuff starts happening. As Mac meets a variety of characters, her newly rediscovered psychic abilities begin to blossom. But as they grow in strength, the scarier things get. Bodies start hitting the floor.
I love the mix of murder mystery and urban fantasy. The ghost hunters group, called Soul Searchers, is a nice touch too. Mac meets Kit because they live in the same apartment house and Kit’s dad founded the small team Soul Searchers. The entire town is gearing up for their annual festival which is a celebration of spirits and ghosts. The entire place is starting to look a little spooky.
As Mac fumbles through using her skills and tries to outwit a killer, she also learns more about her parents. Turns out quite a few people in Donn’s Hill remember Mac’s mom (Evelyn) and a few knew her dad as well. There’s a few touching moments as Mac reconnects with her family’s past.
Overall, the story had great pacing with the action being mixed in with humor, touching moments, eerie happenings, and reflection. Looking forward to Book 2! 4.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Jessica McEvoy was spot on for Mac. She sounded fully engaged in the story. McEvoy has unique voices for all the characters. Her Russian accent is decent however her Spanish accent needs a little work. Sometimes her male character voices needed a little masculinity and sometimes her female character voices needed a little femininity (I’m thinking of the lady sheriff in particular). The pacing was good and there were no technical issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Right away, spooky stuff starts happening. As Mac meets a variety of characters, her newly rediscovered psychic abilities begin to blossom. But as they grow in strength, the scarier things get. Bodies start hitting the floor.
I love the mix of murder mystery and urban fantasy. The ghost hunters group, called Soul Searchers, is a nice touch too. Mac meets Kit because they live in the same apartment house and Kit’s dad founded the small team Soul Searchers. The entire town is gearing up for their annual festival which is a celebration of spirits and ghosts. The entire place is starting to look a little spooky.
As Mac fumbles through using her skills and tries to outwit a killer, she also learns more about her parents. Turns out quite a few people in Donn’s Hill remember Mac’s mom (Evelyn) and a few knew her dad as well. There’s a few touching moments as Mac reconnects with her family’s past.
Overall, the story had great pacing with the action being mixed in with humor, touching moments, eerie happenings, and reflection. Looking forward to Book 2! 4.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Jessica McEvoy was spot on for Mac. She sounded fully engaged in the story. McEvoy has unique voices for all the characters. Her Russian accent is decent however her Spanish accent needs a little work. Sometimes her male character voices needed a little masculinity and sometimes her female character voices needed a little femininity (I’m thinking of the lady sheriff in particular). The pacing was good and there were no technical issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
September 3, 2017
This is the perfect summer read, especially if you can’t commit to a book genre. What I mean is that this story has something for all of your cravings: it’s part supernatural/paranormal, part mystery, and part crime, with a touch of horror. This is also a character driven story about self-discovery, friendship, trusting intuition, and much more. What makes Mackenzie’s journey so enjoyable is her voice. There’s a casual, down-to-earth tone to the narrative that kept me flipping the pages. She’s self-reflective, self-deprecating, perceptive, skeptical, kind, and so many other things that she feels like a well-rounded and real person. In short, I found her to be very believable, partly because she’s not perfect. She sometimes lashes out under duress, for example, but manages to do the right thing when all is said and done.
It’s also interesting to follow Mac while she tries to figure out how and why she’s able to see ghosts. And, these particular spirits aren’t just random sightings—everything in this story is connected in some way to the strange and violent happenings occurring in Donn’s Hill. Seemingly random instances and encounters with other characters are not what they seem, and Mac eventually solves the puzzle. Several clues fall in her lap over the course of the plot, which makes what happens to her often unexpected—such as the surprising conclusion.
I have to say that my absolute favorite aspect of this story is the cat, Striker. The way this animal becomes Mac’s familiar and supports her at every turn is so entertaining and heartwarming, something that surprised me. (Oddly enough, I read this book with my own cats at my sides, which enhanced my reading experience). If you love animals and believe they have uncanny abilities to think and feel, you’ll love this facet as much as I did.
Definitely pick up this book. It’s spooky and touching and will leave you with a satisfying feeling when all the details are neatly tied up in the end. I anticipate Larrinaga’s future works, as they are sure to be just as gratifying.
It’s also interesting to follow Mac while she tries to figure out how and why she’s able to see ghosts. And, these particular spirits aren’t just random sightings—everything in this story is connected in some way to the strange and violent happenings occurring in Donn’s Hill. Seemingly random instances and encounters with other characters are not what they seem, and Mac eventually solves the puzzle. Several clues fall in her lap over the course of the plot, which makes what happens to her often unexpected—such as the surprising conclusion.
I have to say that my absolute favorite aspect of this story is the cat, Striker. The way this animal becomes Mac’s familiar and supports her at every turn is so entertaining and heartwarming, something that surprised me. (Oddly enough, I read this book with my own cats at my sides, which enhanced my reading experience). If you love animals and believe they have uncanny abilities to think and feel, you’ll love this facet as much as I did.
Definitely pick up this book. It’s spooky and touching and will leave you with a satisfying feeling when all the details are neatly tied up in the end. I anticipate Larrinaga’s future works, as they are sure to be just as gratifying.
September 5, 2017
Read this review and more on my blog at [Roxie Writes].
'Donn's Hill' by Caryn Larrinaga (narrated by Jessica McEvoy)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on August 20, 2017
$2.99 on Kindle | $14.99 in Paperback | FREE with Audible Trial
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Mackenzie Clair's father died. She found her boyfriend cheating on her. Now, she needs a fresh start. So, she moves to Donn's Hill, a place she used to go with her mother as a little girl, but when she gets there, more is awakened in her than just nostalgia. She discovers a latent ability to communicate with the dead, and a spirit in her apartment is eager to use it to find his killer.
With a group of new friends and a scrappy cat, she must learn to manage her new skill all while learning secrets about her family and about Donn's Hill. Nothing will be the same again.
MY REVIEW:
Caryn Larrinaga tells a lovely story about a grown woman who is adrift in her life, struggling to find her place after losing everyone she loves. She only knows a portion of her history and longs to know more. She believes returning to Donn's Hill, a place she remembers visiting with her mother as a child, will help her do so. She has no idea what it actually has in store for her.
I listened to this as an audiobook narrated by Jessica McEvoy. Her narration is wonderfully done. Her voice is perfectly suited to this tale. She reads this exactly as I would have read it in my own head -- with perfect cadence, intonation, and emotion. She plays all of the characters impeccably, even the cat, if you can believe that. I have been a fan of McEvoy's for quite a while, and she never ceases to amaze me with her talent and her range. She is always able to convey the truth of human experience and emotion through the power of her voice. She's a real powerhouse.
The combination of Larrinaga's beautifully written characters, intriguing plot, captivating setting, and McEvoy's exquisitely done narration, this story comes alive. It's creepy yet endearing in the complexity of its humanity.
'Donn's Hill' by Caryn Larrinaga (narrated by Jessica McEvoy)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on August 20, 2017
$2.99 on Kindle | $14.99 in Paperback | FREE with Audible Trial
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Mackenzie Clair's father died. She found her boyfriend cheating on her. Now, she needs a fresh start. So, she moves to Donn's Hill, a place she used to go with her mother as a little girl, but when she gets there, more is awakened in her than just nostalgia. She discovers a latent ability to communicate with the dead, and a spirit in her apartment is eager to use it to find his killer.
With a group of new friends and a scrappy cat, she must learn to manage her new skill all while learning secrets about her family and about Donn's Hill. Nothing will be the same again.
MY REVIEW:
Caryn Larrinaga tells a lovely story about a grown woman who is adrift in her life, struggling to find her place after losing everyone she loves. She only knows a portion of her history and longs to know more. She believes returning to Donn's Hill, a place she remembers visiting with her mother as a child, will help her do so. She has no idea what it actually has in store for her.
I listened to this as an audiobook narrated by Jessica McEvoy. Her narration is wonderfully done. Her voice is perfectly suited to this tale. She reads this exactly as I would have read it in my own head -- with perfect cadence, intonation, and emotion. She plays all of the characters impeccably, even the cat, if you can believe that. I have been a fan of McEvoy's for quite a while, and she never ceases to amaze me with her talent and her range. She is always able to convey the truth of human experience and emotion through the power of her voice. She's a real powerhouse.
The combination of Larrinaga's beautifully written characters, intriguing plot, captivating setting, and McEvoy's exquisitely done narration, this story comes alive. It's creepy yet endearing in the complexity of its humanity.
June 9, 2020
I listened to the audiobook for this story and enjoyed the production by narrator Jessica McEvoy.
In Donn's Hill, Mackenzie Clair moves back to the town she remembers from childhood to restart her life after a nasty break-up with her cheating boyfriend. The town is haunted, however, with a lot of strange activity, and her road to reinvention and self-discovery leads her into paranormal territory she's never taken seriously before. An old cat named Stryker also adopts her for its new owner after the original owner passes away, and the cat's personality and antics play a large role in taking Mackenzie through her journey to unravel mysteries about herself and her childhood town.
This story is mainly about the main character rediscovering her gift for sensing the supernatural, and learning more about the secrets of her deceased parents. The first half of the story is character development in this regard, with adventures that lead the main character to join a ghost hunting TV show crew, dabble in psychic activities with the town's medium, volunteer at a town festival celebrating the dead, and forge new friendships with a variety of characters, including a possible budding new love interest. The second half evolves a brief murder mystery and personal conflicts between herself, law enforcement, and the town mayor. Discovering the strength of her own gifts, and following her cat into eavesdropping range of others in town who have deep personal secrets, complicates all of these.
This cozy paranormal story with mystery elements is delightful and entertaining. The story moves at an easy, unhurried pace, and has an interesting premise. The main character is likable and assertive, with relatable flaws. The accompanying characters have a few layers, and aren't exactly what they first appear to be on the surface. And the backdrop of Don's Hill, where the story takes place, has fun quirks. I love how Caryn has given a wave to Salt Lake City, and integrated her own love of cats and passion for animal rescue into the main character's background and story.
In Donn's Hill, Mackenzie Clair moves back to the town she remembers from childhood to restart her life after a nasty break-up with her cheating boyfriend. The town is haunted, however, with a lot of strange activity, and her road to reinvention and self-discovery leads her into paranormal territory she's never taken seriously before. An old cat named Stryker also adopts her for its new owner after the original owner passes away, and the cat's personality and antics play a large role in taking Mackenzie through her journey to unravel mysteries about herself and her childhood town.
This story is mainly about the main character rediscovering her gift for sensing the supernatural, and learning more about the secrets of her deceased parents. The first half of the story is character development in this regard, with adventures that lead the main character to join a ghost hunting TV show crew, dabble in psychic activities with the town's medium, volunteer at a town festival celebrating the dead, and forge new friendships with a variety of characters, including a possible budding new love interest. The second half evolves a brief murder mystery and personal conflicts between herself, law enforcement, and the town mayor. Discovering the strength of her own gifts, and following her cat into eavesdropping range of others in town who have deep personal secrets, complicates all of these.
This cozy paranormal story with mystery elements is delightful and entertaining. The story moves at an easy, unhurried pace, and has an interesting premise. The main character is likable and assertive, with relatable flaws. The accompanying characters have a few layers, and aren't exactly what they first appear to be on the surface. And the backdrop of Don's Hill, where the story takes place, has fun quirks. I love how Caryn has given a wave to Salt Lake City, and integrated her own love of cats and passion for animal rescue into the main character's background and story.
March 25, 2020
**4.5 Stars**
I think this had a very sad vibe to it with Mac having a lot of past baggage that she had not fully come to terms with yet, dealing with the recent loss of her father and betrayal of her boyfriend to the unknown past with her mother and the secrets of her visitors. I usually try to avoid books that are more serious like this but I did not feel overwhelmed by the sadness in the book because I think the author did a good job of putting danger and mystery in to keep the pacing of the plot moving.
Also, the cast of characters was quirky and had so much personality, be it solid and dependable Graham (who I am hoping Mac with fall in love with- no this was not a romance, but a girl can dream), Kat the friendly neighbor who shows up just in the right time, even to the crotchety Mayor and the lecherous old man who always shows up. But most importantly, there was a nosy, curious and incredible insightful cat Striker that was the perfect tool/character to help Mac find her way.
Donn's Hill is the second series I have read by this author and I found it to be just as unique and engaging as I hoped it would be. This was a great jump into what I am hoping will be more creepy, mysterious, interesting books set in Donn's Hill with Mac. I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys complicated murder mysteries, scary encounters and ghost interactions, ghost hunting reality shows and great characters. I really enjoyed listening to the narrator give Mac life and sass in this first book and I look forward to more adventures with Mac and her friends.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
I think this had a very sad vibe to it with Mac having a lot of past baggage that she had not fully come to terms with yet, dealing with the recent loss of her father and betrayal of her boyfriend to the unknown past with her mother and the secrets of her visitors. I usually try to avoid books that are more serious like this but I did not feel overwhelmed by the sadness in the book because I think the author did a good job of putting danger and mystery in to keep the pacing of the plot moving.
Also, the cast of characters was quirky and had so much personality, be it solid and dependable Graham (who I am hoping Mac with fall in love with- no this was not a romance, but a girl can dream), Kat the friendly neighbor who shows up just in the right time, even to the crotchety Mayor and the lecherous old man who always shows up. But most importantly, there was a nosy, curious and incredible insightful cat Striker that was the perfect tool/character to help Mac find her way.
Donn's Hill is the second series I have read by this author and I found it to be just as unique and engaging as I hoped it would be. This was a great jump into what I am hoping will be more creepy, mysterious, interesting books set in Donn's Hill with Mac. I highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys complicated murder mysteries, scary encounters and ghost interactions, ghost hunting reality shows and great characters. I really enjoyed listening to the narrator give Mac life and sass in this first book and I look forward to more adventures with Mac and her friends.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
October 31, 2021
I chose to listen to this book after receiving a free audio copy from Audiobookworm Promotions. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
Mac moves to Donn’s Hill which she has fond memories of visiting when she was young. As she starts a new page in her life, her psychic abilities are heightened. Her character is developed throughout the story and as Mac learns more about herself, the reader learns more about her as well. The other characters are interesting, some quirky, and although they’re not as well developed as Mac, they add a lot to the story. My favorite character is Mac’s cat, Striker. Actually, I’m not sure if Striker belongs to Mac or if it’s the other way around.
The story started slowly but became more interesting once Mac meets the Soul Searchers, a group who help people find closure with ghosts, and they even have their own show. They’re excited to have a psychic on their team before Mac even realizes that that is what she is. Shortly after she joins the Soul Searchers, Mac finds a body and realizes that it’s the man (poltergeist) who has been haunting her since she arrived in town. She has so many questions once she finds the body! Will she be able to sort things out? Will she be able to find the killer?
Jessica McEvoy does a great job with the different voices in the story. She’s the perfect narrator for Donn’s Hill. This is more a performance than a narration and she brings the story alive. I did have to increase the speed to 1.3X because the narration was a little slow but then it was perfect.
I’m looking forward to listening the next book in the series!
Mac moves to Donn’s Hill which she has fond memories of visiting when she was young. As she starts a new page in her life, her psychic abilities are heightened. Her character is developed throughout the story and as Mac learns more about herself, the reader learns more about her as well. The other characters are interesting, some quirky, and although they’re not as well developed as Mac, they add a lot to the story. My favorite character is Mac’s cat, Striker. Actually, I’m not sure if Striker belongs to Mac or if it’s the other way around.
The story started slowly but became more interesting once Mac meets the Soul Searchers, a group who help people find closure with ghosts, and they even have their own show. They’re excited to have a psychic on their team before Mac even realizes that that is what she is. Shortly after she joins the Soul Searchers, Mac finds a body and realizes that it’s the man (poltergeist) who has been haunting her since she arrived in town. She has so many questions once she finds the body! Will she be able to sort things out? Will she be able to find the killer?
Jessica McEvoy does a great job with the different voices in the story. She’s the perfect narrator for Donn’s Hill. This is more a performance than a narration and she brings the story alive. I did have to increase the speed to 1.3X because the narration was a little slow but then it was perfect.
I’m looking forward to listening the next book in the series!
October 22, 2019
Larrinaga blends high suspense, tense mystery, a poignant account of finding friendships and loyalty, and a touching narrative to craft this hard-to-put-down paranormal mystery series.
In the first book, untimely death of her father and a broken relationship forces Mackenzie Clair to leave her home and city behind to start afresh in her favorite childhood vacation spot, the small town of Donn’s Hill. As her lost psychic ability to talk to the dead returns, Mackenzie joins the team of Soul Searchers, a ghost hunting crew, and come face to face with a troubled spirit who wants justice at any cost. In the second book, a world-famous paranormal debunker tries to prove Soul Searchers’ work a sham when a murder happens and suspicion falls on Mackenzie. To prove her innocence, Mackenzie will go to any lengths even if it means taking help from the dead.
Larrinaga has scored a winner in both the books with her tightly constructed plot, atmospherics setting of a haunted town, and nonstop action. Larrinaga’s chillingly depicted paranormal activities in the books are both realistic and convincing and her characterization thoroughly done; Mackenzie’s as a woman trying to find her place in a new town is complex as well as easy to like; the other characters (major and ancillary) are equally complex.
With high tension and a breakneck pace, Soul Searchers’ explorations become a definite page-turner, and readers looking for a touching, fast-paced paranormal mysteries will find much to love.
In the first book, untimely death of her father and a broken relationship forces Mackenzie Clair to leave her home and city behind to start afresh in her favorite childhood vacation spot, the small town of Donn’s Hill. As her lost psychic ability to talk to the dead returns, Mackenzie joins the team of Soul Searchers, a ghost hunting crew, and come face to face with a troubled spirit who wants justice at any cost. In the second book, a world-famous paranormal debunker tries to prove Soul Searchers’ work a sham when a murder happens and suspicion falls on Mackenzie. To prove her innocence, Mackenzie will go to any lengths even if it means taking help from the dead.
Larrinaga has scored a winner in both the books with her tightly constructed plot, atmospherics setting of a haunted town, and nonstop action. Larrinaga’s chillingly depicted paranormal activities in the books are both realistic and convincing and her characterization thoroughly done; Mackenzie’s as a woman trying to find her place in a new town is complex as well as easy to like; the other characters (major and ancillary) are equally complex.
With high tension and a breakneck pace, Soul Searchers’ explorations become a definite page-turner, and readers looking for a touching, fast-paced paranormal mysteries will find much to love.
October 28, 2021
Mackenzie Clair is starting over after catching her boyfriend with his assistant. She remembered Donn’s Hill from her childhood with her mother and decided to start over there. After a rough start she finds a great apartment, a tortoiseshell kitty, and an odd job with Soul Searchers, a local paranormal research group/television show.
But Mac seems to have creepy things happening around her and is seeing ghosts. But when the body of a very prominent resident, Tom Bishop is discovered, things take a turn for the worst. It seems he was involved in scrupulous dealings.
I loved this story! Mac is a good person that has found herself in hard times. I loved the whole paranormal abilities and festival. That would be a blast to attend. Of course, I was left guessing who the killer was and I kind of felt sorry for her too. It doesn’t make what she did right, but I could understand part of it. I also felt Jessica McEvoy did a fantastic job of narrating this story. She drew me right in and didn’t let me go until the end.
I strongly recommend this mystery to those that like a little paranormal twist to a mystery. I’m really excited that I signed up to review all three books. I can’t wait to jump into Donn’s Shadow.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. I voluntarily chose to listen to and post an honest review.
But Mac seems to have creepy things happening around her and is seeing ghosts. But when the body of a very prominent resident, Tom Bishop is discovered, things take a turn for the worst. It seems he was involved in scrupulous dealings.
I loved this story! Mac is a good person that has found herself in hard times. I loved the whole paranormal abilities and festival. That would be a blast to attend. Of course, I was left guessing who the killer was and I kind of felt sorry for her too. It doesn’t make what she did right, but I could understand part of it. I also felt Jessica McEvoy did a fantastic job of narrating this story. She drew me right in and didn’t let me go until the end.
I strongly recommend this mystery to those that like a little paranormal twist to a mystery. I’m really excited that I signed up to review all three books. I can’t wait to jump into Donn’s Shadow.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. I voluntarily chose to listen to and post an honest review.
April 10, 2019
Absolutely terrific - Ghosts Whisperer meets Supernatural
What a fantastic read and am so glad to hear that this is going to be a series. A plot full of murder and greed with a liberal dose of ghosts. The characters embody strength and resistance whilst making the storyline flow. (Although some proofing errors in the time line should have been picked up)
With the death of her father, the betrayal of her longterm boyfriend and a general dissatisfaction with her life have led her to this particular place. A place that has only good memories of her mother and she wants to recapture them. Meeting the cat is also a bonus, a new friend in her new life but the motel is a nightmare. From the figure in the mirror to the wet footsteps by the bed. A new place to live, new friends, new job and a new skill. A skill that a friend of her mother's has told her about. A psychic! Ghostly activities, the hatred of the deputy mayor, a new job, a couple of dead bodies and numerous criminal activities. Will she work out what the ghost wants before harm comes to her? Will she turn hatred into acceptance? Will the underlying criminal activity in the town be brought to an end?
What a fantastic read and am so glad to hear that this is going to be a series. A plot full of murder and greed with a liberal dose of ghosts. The characters embody strength and resistance whilst making the storyline flow. (Although some proofing errors in the time line should have been picked up)
With the death of her father, the betrayal of her longterm boyfriend and a general dissatisfaction with her life have led her to this particular place. A place that has only good memories of her mother and she wants to recapture them. Meeting the cat is also a bonus, a new friend in her new life but the motel is a nightmare. From the figure in the mirror to the wet footsteps by the bed. A new place to live, new friends, new job and a new skill. A skill that a friend of her mother's has told her about. A psychic! Ghostly activities, the hatred of the deputy mayor, a new job, a couple of dead bodies and numerous criminal activities. Will she work out what the ghost wants before harm comes to her? Will she turn hatred into acceptance? Will the underlying criminal activity in the town be brought to an end?
October 10, 2024
After the death of her father and a boyfriend who cheated on her, Mackenzie Clair seeks a new start in a small town she has wonderful memories in. What she didn't remember was that Donn's Hill is haunted, and there were many reasons her mother took her there as a kid that weren't just for rest and relaxation. Mac's psychic powers begin to resurface and she doesn't want to believe her new apartment is haunted. When she starts to find dead bodies, she believes her luck is really bad, but can she help the spirits find justice or will she end up a ghost herself?
The is the first book in the wonderfully written paranormal urban fantasy series, the Soul Searchers Mysteries. The Soul Searchers being a ghost hunting team made up of a father (Yuri) and daughter (Kit). Kit and Mac develop a quick friendship, and Kit hires Mac to work with them. Of course, Mac has the knack for finding trouble. I love the realism and Mac's skepticism. A stray calico named Striker also adopts Mac and may be more than just a cat. The plot didn't move quickly, but I was never bored, and we were taken on some great twists. I'll definitely be picking up the next books in the series.
The is the first book in the wonderfully written paranormal urban fantasy series, the Soul Searchers Mysteries. The Soul Searchers being a ghost hunting team made up of a father (Yuri) and daughter (Kit). Kit and Mac develop a quick friendship, and Kit hires Mac to work with them. Of course, Mac has the knack for finding trouble. I love the realism and Mac's skepticism. A stray calico named Striker also adopts Mac and may be more than just a cat. The plot didn't move quickly, but I was never bored, and we were taken on some great twists. I'll definitely be picking up the next books in the series.
October 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this and plan on tracking down more books by this author. Lot of fun, lot of humor and a super cool cat named Striker. The author obviously has cats because she describes Striker absolutely perfectly. At one point Striker poses in the shape of a loaf of bread and I never realized I knew exactly what the pose was. The main character, Mac(kenzie) loses her father and decides she wants to start over and move to where she and her mother vacationed as a child. Mac lost her mother as a child and doesn't remember a lot about her mother. The town she moves to is called Donn's Hill, the title of the book. The town is pretty strange and Mac starts to think she may be able to see ghosts. Donn's Hill happens to claim to be the most haunted town in the world and even has an Afterlife Festival every year. People start to die and Mac has to figure out why and how. This is the first in a series, I believe. Story has a great ending and there is no annoying cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2019
Welcome to Donn’s Hill.
A new life was to being for Mackenzie.
On the first night in a dingy motel, Mac awoke to an intruder. Or, at least, she thought it was an intruder. But there was no one there. Could the Travelers be back? Travelers?
It would seem that the Travelers were her imaginary friends. Or were they…?
The odd thing was that Mac showed up at the peak of the Afterlife Festival. Strange how that cat just kept following her around. Strange things kept happening.
Story had a good concept, but a slow pace. It got more interesting with the appearance of the Soul Searchers, a group of paranormal investigators that aired a show on Scream TV. Between the festival, the Soul Searchers, and her mother’s death, talk of ghosts and spirits abound this little tale. It takes a while for the story to settle with the investigation of a haunted house.
I was intrigued by the ghostly presence, but I felt that there were too many angles to sort through.
An okay mystery.
A new life was to being for Mackenzie.
On the first night in a dingy motel, Mac awoke to an intruder. Or, at least, she thought it was an intruder. But there was no one there. Could the Travelers be back? Travelers?
It would seem that the Travelers were her imaginary friends. Or were they…?
The odd thing was that Mac showed up at the peak of the Afterlife Festival. Strange how that cat just kept following her around. Strange things kept happening.
Story had a good concept, but a slow pace. It got more interesting with the appearance of the Soul Searchers, a group of paranormal investigators that aired a show on Scream TV. Between the festival, the Soul Searchers, and her mother’s death, talk of ghosts and spirits abound this little tale. It takes a while for the story to settle with the investigation of a haunted house.
I was intrigued by the ghostly presence, but I felt that there were too many angles to sort through.
An okay mystery.
December 30, 2019
This is a book about grief, self-discovery, and starting over. It is also a book about murder and the paranormal. Mackenzie Clair has just returned from her father's funeral to discover her boyfriend in bed with another woman. She packs the essentials and turns her back on the life she has to return to a place she knows only as a childhood memory shared with her mother. She hopes to reconnect with the feelings she had there before her mother's death when Mac was only 8 years old. Instead, she connects with a very determined cat, an angry spirit, and a team of ghost hunters as she discovers her own psychic abilities. These abilities land her smack in the middle of a murder investigation as she tries to determine friend from foe. The body count rises, and Mac needs to solve the mystery before she becomes a victim. I really enjoyed this book. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing. It was one of those books that I wanted to read in one sitting, one of those you can't put down. I recommend this book to lovers of mystery and ghosts.
September 23, 2019
I picked this novel up at Boise Book Fest. I was hesitant to dive in as I don't typically read horror, but I found it to be a consistently enjoyable read. There was one thrilling scene at a haunted cabin in the woods but nothing too scary. I'd call Donn's Hill a cozy mystery with a paranormal twist.
The story is well-written with a relatable narrator, perfect pacing, expertly woven-in and relevant backstory, well-developed characters, just the right amount of description, and delightful dashes of humor. I liked that the victims weren't necessarily innocent (before or after death) and the "perp" wasn't necessarily evil. I liked Kit and Graham and cat Striker (of course).
The hint of a new romance for poor Mac is enough to make me want to read the sequel. I also look forward to seeing her newfound psychic abilities in action as she works with the Soul Searchers.
The story is well-written with a relatable narrator, perfect pacing, expertly woven-in and relevant backstory, well-developed characters, just the right amount of description, and delightful dashes of humor. I liked that the victims weren't necessarily innocent (before or after death) and the "perp" wasn't necessarily evil. I liked Kit and Graham and cat Striker (of course).
The hint of a new romance for poor Mac is enough to make me want to read the sequel. I also look forward to seeing her newfound psychic abilities in action as she works with the Soul Searchers.
March 21, 2020
Not many towns can boast an annual paranormal festival, but Donn's Hill is a town like no other. Everyone has an aura, a vibe or a fascination with the paranormal. There's even a dedicated team of ghost hunters for a TV show. Not that Mac knew this when she moved there, though she did remember her mom taking her to the festival when she was a child. It's probably her only memory of her mom whose maternal instinct was somewhat lacking. Raised by her father, recently passed, and finding her boyfriend is a cheat, Mac packs up her belongings and heads for Donn's Hill where she discovers an ability to communicate with the dead, who are most eager to talk to her.
Mac is a likeable character, a true bookworm, an introvert, and coffee addict - how could I not like her? ;)
Learning her new "apartment" has a ghost is the least of her problems to start with, and she keeps the fact to herself for some time, trying hard to adapt to her new surroundings and not wishing to cause a fuss. At least she has Striker the cat to share her woes. Not just any cat though, Striker comes to her defence many a time, and especially when it matters most. When her apartment ghost proves more difficult, then she calls for help from the town's medium, Gabriela to rid her space of the now-frantic poltergeist.
Mac starts working for the ghost-hunting team, as they recognise her affinity with the spirit world, and how she seems to attract the very ghosts they are looking for. Except, ghost-hunting leads to her finding some more recently deceased residents. Solving these murders now becomes a priority.
The narration by Jessica McEvoy is well done; she plays the characters with differing tone making it easy to follow. Combined with an intriguing storyline, fascinating backdrops, and well-rounded characters the story comes alive in all its creepy eeriness and Mac's moments of vulnerability. I'm hooked and in this for the long haul - bring on book two!
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Mac is a likeable character, a true bookworm, an introvert, and coffee addict - how could I not like her? ;)
Learning her new "apartment" has a ghost is the least of her problems to start with, and she keeps the fact to herself for some time, trying hard to adapt to her new surroundings and not wishing to cause a fuss. At least she has Striker the cat to share her woes. Not just any cat though, Striker comes to her defence many a time, and especially when it matters most. When her apartment ghost proves more difficult, then she calls for help from the town's medium, Gabriela to rid her space of the now-frantic poltergeist.
Mac starts working for the ghost-hunting team, as they recognise her affinity with the spirit world, and how she seems to attract the very ghosts they are looking for. Except, ghost-hunting leads to her finding some more recently deceased residents. Solving these murders now becomes a priority.
The narration by Jessica McEvoy is well done; she plays the characters with differing tone making it easy to follow. Combined with an intriguing storyline, fascinating backdrops, and well-rounded characters the story comes alive in all its creepy eeriness and Mac's moments of vulnerability. I'm hooked and in this for the long haul - bring on book two!
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Caryn Larrinaga. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
January 16, 2021
Donn’s Hill by Caryn Larrinaga is a psychic mystery with great writing and interesting characters.
Larrinaga did well crafting unique characters with their own voice and personality. In fact, I think the interpersonal relationships are the crux of this story and it’s how our main character, Mackenzie Clair, learns to accept and understand herself.
There’s a lot of mystery and intrigue, but the tone throughout the book seemed off and a little too light for how the novel began. While the lightness may work for some people, it, and the slow pacing, pulled me out of the story.
Here’s my favorite quote:
“For one hideous instant, I thought he was drinking his tobacco spit back down.”
Donn's Hill is for a reader who really loves the back-and-forth with characters, but it wasn’t for me.
Larrinaga did well crafting unique characters with their own voice and personality. In fact, I think the interpersonal relationships are the crux of this story and it’s how our main character, Mackenzie Clair, learns to accept and understand herself.
There’s a lot of mystery and intrigue, but the tone throughout the book seemed off and a little too light for how the novel began. While the lightness may work for some people, it, and the slow pacing, pulled me out of the story.
Here’s my favorite quote:
“For one hideous instant, I thought he was drinking his tobacco spit back down.”
Donn's Hill is for a reader who really loves the back-and-forth with characters, but it wasn’t for me.
March 9, 2021
Mac’s Life Changed Forever When She Moved To Donn’s Hill
After her father died, Mackenzie decided to leave her boyfriend and go back to the place she remembered from her childhood. It was almost time for the annual Afterlife Festival, a good time to visit and rekindle memories. Her backpack filled with all her worldly possessions, she hitched a ride to a small dingy motel, a place to spend her first night in town. From that first day in Donn’s Hill, strange things began to happen. Then she met Striker, a small addition to her new life.
Very well written, this is the first book in the series of three. Mac has seen and done a lot in the course of the book, you might say she came of age from the naive girl at the beginning. I’m looking forward to reading on as her story progresses in the next book.
After her father died, Mackenzie decided to leave her boyfriend and go back to the place she remembered from her childhood. It was almost time for the annual Afterlife Festival, a good time to visit and rekindle memories. Her backpack filled with all her worldly possessions, she hitched a ride to a small dingy motel, a place to spend her first night in town. From that first day in Donn’s Hill, strange things began to happen. Then she met Striker, a small addition to her new life.
Very well written, this is the first book in the series of three. Mac has seen and done a lot in the course of the book, you might say she came of age from the naive girl at the beginning. I’m looking forward to reading on as her story progresses in the next book.
June 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I found it by accident really on my kindle. I had looked up another book and it had this one showing what other people bought when they got the particular book I was looking at. So I thought I would buy buy it and give it a try. I am so glad I did. So with me sharing how I found this book and author i will tell you my thoughts on the book lol.
I normally don't read paranormal books. I was caught up in the synopsis of the book. Mac moving back home after the death of her dad and finding her boyfriend cheating on her. She has all these strange events happening to her. She finds out she is a physic and someone wants her to help find his killer. I read the book in one day I didn't want to put it down. You should get your book you won't be disappointed.
I normally don't read paranormal books. I was caught up in the synopsis of the book. Mac moving back home after the death of her dad and finding her boyfriend cheating on her. She has all these strange events happening to her. She finds out she is a physic and someone wants her to help find his killer. I read the book in one day I didn't want to put it down. You should get your book you won't be disappointed.
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