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Hode's Hill #3
Eventide
The darkness is coming . . .
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death...
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death...
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2019
27 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Mae Clair
24 books565 followersA member of the International Thriller Writers, Mae Clair is also a founding member and contributor to the award-winning writing blog, Story Empire. Her preferred genre is mystery/suspense, though she flavors her plots with elements of urban legend and folklore.
Mae is married to to her high school sweetheart, lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about cryptozoology, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail, and cats. Sign-up for her newsletter at https://maeclair.com/newsletter
You an also discover more about Mae on her website and blog at MaeClair.com
Finally, follow Mae on BookBub for more bookish recommendations and reviews: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mae-c...
Mae is married to to her high school sweetheart, lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about cryptozoology, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail, and cats. Sign-up for her newsletter at https://maeclair.com/newsletter
You an also discover more about Mae on her website and blog at MaeClair.com
Finally, follow Mae on BookBub for more bookish recommendations and reviews: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mae-c...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 18, 2020
Eventide is the 3rd book in the Hode's Hill series written by Mae Clair. It was published in December 2019, and since I previously read the first two last year, I had to jump on this one. When a friend mentioned she would be reading it too, we decided to buddy read the book this month. Robbie and I are chatting about our thoughts now, so I'm writing the review at the same time. I enjoyed reading this one, and it's always great to have a friend to discuss it with, especially as you are reading and thinking about it.
In this tale, several characters from the previous book become the central focus. Madison has had a rough past, and now that she's starting over, she decided to buy a house to build a future. Only it's haunted. When her sorta boyfriend (Roth, a jerk who has anger and control issues) tries to stop her, it only make the situation worse. He agrees to help her get settled, and somehow, they stumble upon a cistern in the basement. When they open it to see what's inside, evil is released... we just don't know what it's all about. In the past, we meet a different set of characters, potentially the original owners of the house, and learn how they died. Darrin and Sylvia had a rocky marriage with two sons. They hired live-in help when Sylvia began having psychotic episodes. Whatever became of them? There are only 3 graves in the backyard, so that means someone's is missing!
First of all, the book takes place in Pennsylvania and has alternating time lines. These are two of my favorite things. Throw in a supernatural town (just enough to be creepy, not enough to push this too far in a genre I don't know a whole lot about), and you've got a winner. This third book feels a bit like a combination of the first two, as we have similar threads and connections happening. As the plot unfolds, we see where things went awry, and we find out just how much someone has been keeping secrets. Of course, this is where Dante, our resident supernatural expert, returns... and things have changed since the previous book, especially given his relationship with another character. No spoilers here... you'll have to check that part out for yourself.
One area that really appealed to me in this book was the detailed descriptions of the evil and the ghoul lurking around town. Several murders occur, all seemingly unrelated to the core characters, but then it comes together in a shocker. I liked the various threads, and sometimes they seemed a little too reminiscent of the previous books, but when we begin to see how it all connects together, I found myself quickly embroiled in the clever drama. It gets quite spooky when invisible forces start physically interacting with a couple of characters. I don't know about you, but if something invisible starting poking at me, I'd be out of there. Madison is a brave woman!
If you like a little paranormal uncertainty and a town tainted by evil, you'll love these books. Definitely read them in order, and of the three, I think the first book is my favorite... but I did like how a few things come full circle in this one, which I wasn't expecting. Now I'm left wondering... will there be a fourth one?
In this tale, several characters from the previous book become the central focus. Madison has had a rough past, and now that she's starting over, she decided to buy a house to build a future. Only it's haunted. When her sorta boyfriend (Roth, a jerk who has anger and control issues) tries to stop her, it only make the situation worse. He agrees to help her get settled, and somehow, they stumble upon a cistern in the basement. When they open it to see what's inside, evil is released... we just don't know what it's all about. In the past, we meet a different set of characters, potentially the original owners of the house, and learn how they died. Darrin and Sylvia had a rocky marriage with two sons. They hired live-in help when Sylvia began having psychotic episodes. Whatever became of them? There are only 3 graves in the backyard, so that means someone's is missing!
First of all, the book takes place in Pennsylvania and has alternating time lines. These are two of my favorite things. Throw in a supernatural town (just enough to be creepy, not enough to push this too far in a genre I don't know a whole lot about), and you've got a winner. This third book feels a bit like a combination of the first two, as we have similar threads and connections happening. As the plot unfolds, we see where things went awry, and we find out just how much someone has been keeping secrets. Of course, this is where Dante, our resident supernatural expert, returns... and things have changed since the previous book, especially given his relationship with another character. No spoilers here... you'll have to check that part out for yourself.
One area that really appealed to me in this book was the detailed descriptions of the evil and the ghoul lurking around town. Several murders occur, all seemingly unrelated to the core characters, but then it comes together in a shocker. I liked the various threads, and sometimes they seemed a little too reminiscent of the previous books, but when we begin to see how it all connects together, I found myself quickly embroiled in the clever drama. It gets quite spooky when invisible forces start physically interacting with a couple of characters. I don't know about you, but if something invisible starting poking at me, I'd be out of there. Madison is a brave woman!
If you like a little paranormal uncertainty and a town tainted by evil, you'll love these books. Definitely read them in order, and of the three, I think the first book is my favorite... but I did like how a few things come full circle in this one, which I wasn't expecting. Now I'm left wondering... will there be a fourth one?
November 18, 2019
She survived the devastation of her husband’s murder, her breakdown and now, in an effort to heal and move on with her life, Madison Hewitt purchases an old home in Hode’s Hill, but will she be able to survive the ghosts that seem to haunt it or is her mind slipping back into the black hole she struggled to crawl out of? Worse, what if it isn’t a haunting at all, but a cry for help from beyond?
Mae Clair’s EVENTIDE takes us back to Hode’s Hill as one woman discovers that ghosts may be real, and the history of her new home may hold dark secrets from the past so evil that if the walls could talk, they would shriek in terror. And. I. Am. Hooked.
Once again, Mae Clair makes things that “go bump in the night” come to life with devilishly detailed scenes, a plot that encompasses decades and a mystery that begs to be uncovered. Will Madison survive intact? IS the house evil? Are the dangers from beyond the veil, from the cemetery on the property, or perhaps the unraveling of unsolved police cases that she may be getting too close to solving?
Great characters, a touch of the paranormal, and a rollercoaster ride to the end! Be sure to keep some candles handy, just in case...because the veil is thinnest at EVENTIDE.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Mae Clair and Lyrical Press! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Hode's Hill - Book 3
Publisher: Lyrical Press (December 31, 2019)
Publication Date: December 31, 2019
Genre: Supernatural Thriller
Print Length: 252 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Mae Clair’s EVENTIDE takes us back to Hode’s Hill as one woman discovers that ghosts may be real, and the history of her new home may hold dark secrets from the past so evil that if the walls could talk, they would shriek in terror. And. I. Am. Hooked.
Once again, Mae Clair makes things that “go bump in the night” come to life with devilishly detailed scenes, a plot that encompasses decades and a mystery that begs to be uncovered. Will Madison survive intact? IS the house evil? Are the dangers from beyond the veil, from the cemetery on the property, or perhaps the unraveling of unsolved police cases that she may be getting too close to solving?
Great characters, a touch of the paranormal, and a rollercoaster ride to the end! Be sure to keep some candles handy, just in case...because the veil is thinnest at EVENTIDE.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Mae Clair and Lyrical Press! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Hode's Hill - Book 3
Publisher: Lyrical Press (December 31, 2019)
Publication Date: December 31, 2019
Genre: Supernatural Thriller
Print Length: 252 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 15, 2020
Eventide is the third book in the Hode's Hill series by this author. The book is written on two timelines, the first of which features the current life of Madison Hewitt and to a lesser extent, her boyfriend, Roth, and her sister and her psychic boyfriend, Dante. Madison has recently recovered from a lengthily period of complete withdrawal from the world following the violent murder of her husband which she experienced with him due to her empathic abilities. Madison appears to have recovered psychologically and has bought her own house, a charming but run down house that is quite far out of town. The house features its own graveyard where the remains of three members of the Steward family are buried. The gravestones show that Sylvia Steward and her son, Nathaniel, both died on the same day. Sylvia's husband, Darrin, and Nathaniel's father died a number of years before them. Within a short period, Madison starts have unusual and paranormal experiences in the house and quickly discovers that that there was a second Steward son, Tristan, who no-body knows what happened to or how he died. One thing is obvious though, his body is not buried in the family graveyard.
Madison was an interesting character and I enjoyed her rediscovered strength following her breakdown in the previous book. She has good survival instincts although she works against them some of the time and does some rather unexpected things. Her boyfriend, Roth, quickly shows himself to have some undesirable characteristics which Madison glosses over due to a lack of confidence and a forgiving nature.
The second timeline features Hollande Moore, a gentlewoman who is compelled by her brother to take a live-in position as a companion to Sylvia Steward. Soon after her arrival at the Steward Mansion, Hollande realises that Sylvia is a most difficult and jealous woman who enjoys making the lives of those around her miserable. This selfish and unpleasant attitude also extends to her son, Nathaniel, who lives with her in the house and sees to the accounts and administrative requirements of the family business. It does not, however, extend to her other son, Tristan, who comes home at night after his days at the family business in a neighbouring town and on whom Sylvia dotes.
When Hollande and Nathaniel start to develop feelings towards each other, the full extent of Sylvia's madness starts making itself known.
Hollande is a lovely character and, on the whole, behaves sensibly and reasonably. I really admired her right up to the end of the book. Nathaniel and Tristan, on the other hand, were rather weak characters and I didn't feel that Nathaniel deserved Hollande's affections.
There was a feeling of familiarity with my reading of this book in the first half, but it picked up tremendously in the second half. My reading experience for this book was not quite as smooth as it was with the first two books and book 2 is still my favourite of this series.
This story is darker than the other two and has some rather unnerving and graphic parts. It was an enjoyable story and tied up all the loose ends creating a satisfactory conclusion to the series.
Madison was an interesting character and I enjoyed her rediscovered strength following her breakdown in the previous book. She has good survival instincts although she works against them some of the time and does some rather unexpected things. Her boyfriend, Roth, quickly shows himself to have some undesirable characteristics which Madison glosses over due to a lack of confidence and a forgiving nature.
The second timeline features Hollande Moore, a gentlewoman who is compelled by her brother to take a live-in position as a companion to Sylvia Steward. Soon after her arrival at the Steward Mansion, Hollande realises that Sylvia is a most difficult and jealous woman who enjoys making the lives of those around her miserable. This selfish and unpleasant attitude also extends to her son, Nathaniel, who lives with her in the house and sees to the accounts and administrative requirements of the family business. It does not, however, extend to her other son, Tristan, who comes home at night after his days at the family business in a neighbouring town and on whom Sylvia dotes.
When Hollande and Nathaniel start to develop feelings towards each other, the full extent of Sylvia's madness starts making itself known.
Hollande is a lovely character and, on the whole, behaves sensibly and reasonably. I really admired her right up to the end of the book. Nathaniel and Tristan, on the other hand, were rather weak characters and I didn't feel that Nathaniel deserved Hollande's affections.
There was a feeling of familiarity with my reading of this book in the first half, but it picked up tremendously in the second half. My reading experience for this book was not quite as smooth as it was with the first two books and book 2 is still my favourite of this series.
This story is darker than the other two and has some rather unnerving and graphic parts. It was an enjoyable story and tied up all the loose ends creating a satisfactory conclusion to the series.
January 7, 2020
A new house. A new start. A backyard cemetery.
Madison knew about tending graves and was not bothered by the three in her backyard. She would tend them as if they were her ancestors.
Her welcome was creepy and I’m not sure it’s a good thing.
We flip from past to present, learning the history of the house.
Uh oh, me thinks they better not touch that stone lid.
Madison has a gift…empathy. But, since the death of her husband, where she felt his death as if it was her own, her gift had left her. She wanted her independence after the time it took to recover from her husband’s death, and now she has it. Knowing Madsion, if anyone can uncover the mystery of the house, it’s her.
Dante…OMG…I’m freaking out for him, yet he’s as cool as a cucumber.
Mae Clair writes a wonderful gothic novel filled with creepiness, eeriness, and subtle menace. I have my thoughts on where the story will go and I am eager to see how close I come. We have danger, ghosts, friendship, love, rage…We have plenty of supernatural goodness, creatures from the beyond and things that go bump in the night. BEWARE:
“Dusk is the perfect time.”
“Or in the old vernacular – EVENTIDE.”
“At EVENTIDE, the veil between worlds grows thin.”
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Eventide by Mae Clair.
See more at fundinmental
Madison knew about tending graves and was not bothered by the three in her backyard. She would tend them as if they were her ancestors.
Her welcome was creepy and I’m not sure it’s a good thing.
We flip from past to present, learning the history of the house.
Uh oh, me thinks they better not touch that stone lid.
Madison has a gift…empathy. But, since the death of her husband, where she felt his death as if it was her own, her gift had left her. She wanted her independence after the time it took to recover from her husband’s death, and now she has it. Knowing Madsion, if anyone can uncover the mystery of the house, it’s her.
Dante…OMG…I’m freaking out for him, yet he’s as cool as a cucumber.
Mae Clair writes a wonderful gothic novel filled with creepiness, eeriness, and subtle menace. I have my thoughts on where the story will go and I am eager to see how close I come. We have danger, ghosts, friendship, love, rage…We have plenty of supernatural goodness, creatures from the beyond and things that go bump in the night. BEWARE:
“Dusk is the perfect time.”
“Or in the old vernacular – EVENTIDE.”
“At EVENTIDE, the veil between worlds grows thin.”
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Eventide by Mae Clair.
See more at fundinmental
January 2, 2020
Somehow I missed the second book in the Hode's Hill series, but the first book, Cusp of Night, was so good that I jumped right on this new book! I will back track and read End of Day. This series is so creepy cool and chilling! I really enjoy it!
Madison Hewitt is starting over. Her husband died four years ago, and after that shock she spent some time in a mental hospital. She has since moved on...she has a new boyfriend, just bought a house and is trying to put the past behind her. She isn't too bothered by the three graves in the yard or the sealed cistern in the basement.....but then her tires are slashed and she received strange threatening messages. Is her mind playing tricks on her again? Or is something more dangerous going on?
This book was a total binge read for me. Suspenseful and creepy! The plot jumps back and forth in time...which usually annoys me a bit...but this time it worked. The author writes it well, and it just works perfectly with the plot.
I'm definitely on board for the next book in this series! And End of Day is sitting right on top my TBR list! Always an entertaining, spooky read! I like the cover art for this book. It's so atmospheric and spooky looking. Perfect! Full stars from me!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Madison Hewitt is starting over. Her husband died four years ago, and after that shock she spent some time in a mental hospital. She has since moved on...she has a new boyfriend, just bought a house and is trying to put the past behind her. She isn't too bothered by the three graves in the yard or the sealed cistern in the basement.....but then her tires are slashed and she received strange threatening messages. Is her mind playing tricks on her again? Or is something more dangerous going on?
This book was a total binge read for me. Suspenseful and creepy! The plot jumps back and forth in time...which usually annoys me a bit...but this time it worked. The author writes it well, and it just works perfectly with the plot.
I'm definitely on board for the next book in this series! And End of Day is sitting right on top my TBR list! Always an entertaining, spooky read! I like the cover art for this book. It's so atmospheric and spooky looking. Perfect! Full stars from me!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
November 9, 2019
Intense - One sitting -Clair has done it again. I have read all of the Hode's Hill series but they stand alone with no problem. Mix the Past with Future. Mix Paranormal ghosts and a heroine with a sole that is in need of healing. Madison stuffs all her money in an old mansion with its own graveyard on the property. She is looking for a fresh start and a place to start over. But... cold spots, electrical outages, and the sensation of being watched puts Madison on the quest for the history that still roams the halls of her new home. "A copy of this book was provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion."
January 16, 2020
Read with the lights on good!
When Madison Hewitt buys an old house on the banks of the Yarrow River, she’s looking for a fresh start. Instead, she inherits a century-old murder-mystery and a malevolent spirit who is determined to stop Madison and her friends from finding out the truth.
Meanwhile, a vicious killer is on a murdering rampage in Hode’s Hill and leave the police baffled. Witnesses swear the ‘thing’ isn’t human and the victims' wounds support their theory, but what else could it be?
This story had me glued to my Kindle!
Mae Clair seamlessly blends past and present timelines, gothic creatures, ghosts and complex characters to create an unforgettable story.
There were a few edge-of-my-seat moments that left me looking for the nearest flashlight, lol (You’ll have to read the story to see why), and the twist at the end… wow! I didn’t see that one coming!
I give Eventide 5+ lovely kisses- This is going on my re-read shelf!
When Madison Hewitt buys an old house on the banks of the Yarrow River, she’s looking for a fresh start. Instead, she inherits a century-old murder-mystery and a malevolent spirit who is determined to stop Madison and her friends from finding out the truth.
Meanwhile, a vicious killer is on a murdering rampage in Hode’s Hill and leave the police baffled. Witnesses swear the ‘thing’ isn’t human and the victims' wounds support their theory, but what else could it be?
This story had me glued to my Kindle!
Mae Clair seamlessly blends past and present timelines, gothic creatures, ghosts and complex characters to create an unforgettable story.
There were a few edge-of-my-seat moments that left me looking for the nearest flashlight, lol (You’ll have to read the story to see why), and the twist at the end… wow! I didn’t see that one coming!
I give Eventide 5+ lovely kisses- This is going on my re-read shelf!
November 18, 2019
Now that’s the way to end a series.
Wow. Just… wow. She’s done it, again. Mae Clair wraps up her Hode’s Hill series with another dual-timeline masterpiece. My only complaint is that the saga is over.
Because this is the third book in the series, we’re treated to cameo appearances by former favorite characters. And the new protagonists are friends who were waiting in the wings. The one thing that’s constant? The character development. As I’ve come to expect from this author, I’ve found she’s written three-dimensional, well-developed people. That’s right; people. This cast transcends the bounds of fiction. They’re more like people in your real life you know and love. Well, the protagonists are. The antagonists are as vile and frightening as they come.
The plot—no, plots, as this is a dual timeline—are cleverly crafted, perfectly paced, and kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly swiping toward the climax. The setting, as expected, is both intimately familiar and freshly described.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the art of the writing itself. Mae Clair has an unparalleled voice. Her writing is lyrically beautiful and powerfully evocative. She sets a sinister mood like no other author on the market. She’s on my auto-buy list, and with good reason. (I pre-ordered my copy the day I saw it listed.)
Just when I think she can’t possibly top her last work, she does. I’m eagerly awaiting her next title, and it is without reservation I give this novel five well-deserved stars. Saying I “heartily recommend” Eventide is not nearly high enough praise.
Wow. Just… wow. She’s done it, again. Mae Clair wraps up her Hode’s Hill series with another dual-timeline masterpiece. My only complaint is that the saga is over.
Because this is the third book in the series, we’re treated to cameo appearances by former favorite characters. And the new protagonists are friends who were waiting in the wings. The one thing that’s constant? The character development. As I’ve come to expect from this author, I’ve found she’s written three-dimensional, well-developed people. That’s right; people. This cast transcends the bounds of fiction. They’re more like people in your real life you know and love. Well, the protagonists are. The antagonists are as vile and frightening as they come.
The plot—no, plots, as this is a dual timeline—are cleverly crafted, perfectly paced, and kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly swiping toward the climax. The setting, as expected, is both intimately familiar and freshly described.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the art of the writing itself. Mae Clair has an unparalleled voice. Her writing is lyrically beautiful and powerfully evocative. She sets a sinister mood like no other author on the market. She’s on my auto-buy list, and with good reason. (I pre-ordered my copy the day I saw it listed.)
Just when I think she can’t possibly top her last work, she does. I’m eagerly awaiting her next title, and it is without reservation I give this novel five well-deserved stars. Saying I “heartily recommend” Eventide is not nearly high enough praise.
December 17, 2019
Madison buys an old house and thinks she's going to have a fresh start and a new outlook on life after her husband's murder. Hah! She's moved to Hode's Hill where nothing is as it seems and there are ghosts about. She did know (how could she miss it?) that there is a graveyard on her property and some other creepy stuff but she didn't expect all the bad things that begin to happen. This moves back and forth in time as Clair parcels out the history of the house and its owners. Madison's a good character (if a bit naive at first). It's the third in a series but reads fine as a standalone. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Fans of ghost stories should try this.
October 27, 2019
Thankyou to NetGalley, Kensington Books and the author, Mae Clair, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of Eventide in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I have to say, I loved this book. I was drawn in from the start.
The storyline was well thought out and written with well developed characters. I love the creepiness that was interwoven throughout.
Well worth a read
I have to say, I loved this book. I was drawn in from the start.
The storyline was well thought out and written with well developed characters. I love the creepiness that was interwoven throughout.
Well worth a read
April 23, 2020
Eventide, the last story in Mae Clair’s terrifying trilogy reminded me of a Victorian melodrama, all dark and very mysterious.
The dual timeline ramped up the tension and stretched my nerves so thin, I thought they would break. But I loved the way the past seemed to mirror the present and that they combined at the end in one breath taking chapter...
Perfectly written and calculated to give anyone nightmares, these books should probably come with a health warning for all those of a nervous disposition!
I loved the part when Madison tackled the weeds in the flowerbeds of her new house, something I love to do to relax my mind. Mae Clair described it all so well too, but the peace wasn’t to last. The tension returns as Madison feels she is being watched, and things begin to happen…
The ghosts start coming out of the woodwork and in no time at all this story becomes icy with terrifying chills coming in quick succession.
Eventide is one of the best ghost stories I have ever read!
The dual timeline ramped up the tension and stretched my nerves so thin, I thought they would break. But I loved the way the past seemed to mirror the present and that they combined at the end in one breath taking chapter...
Perfectly written and calculated to give anyone nightmares, these books should probably come with a health warning for all those of a nervous disposition!
I loved the part when Madison tackled the weeds in the flowerbeds of her new house, something I love to do to relax my mind. Mae Clair described it all so well too, but the peace wasn’t to last. The tension returns as Madison feels she is being watched, and things begin to happen…
The ghosts start coming out of the woodwork and in no time at all this story becomes icy with terrifying chills coming in quick succession.
Eventide is one of the best ghost stories I have ever read!
January 25, 2020
Oh my, oh my, oh my, what a great read. Eventide was my favorite of the Hode’s Hill trilogy and polishes off the series with a lot of scary, spooky shine. The suspense in this paranormal thriller starts on page one and zooms right to the last.
The main storyline is basically about Madison Hewitt, her purchase of a haunted house, and how the mystery of the haunting is revealed. Madison and the cast of characters were all present in the first two novels, but in this one, Madison takes center stage. I found the characters well-rounded and believable, free of most of the nonsensical decisions and lack of insight that tend to escalate tension in many thriller novels.
Each chapter starts back in 1878 with the story of Hollande, a young woman employed as a companion for a mentally unstable and bitter woman (in the same house that Madison just purchased). This is a strong subplot, and I found Hollande’s story mesmerizing as little by little the secrets of the house and what happened there are revealed.
And while that’s all going on, there’s a third plotline - a monster is tearing people apart in town. AND there’s a fourth plotline - Madison is being harassed by someone trying to scare her or worse, possibly a murderous thug from her past. Is there too much going on in this book? Nope. The author drip-feeds the reader tidbits of information, plus some red herrings, and the tension builds and builds and builds until all four plotlines come together in a great conclusion. So well done!
I believe Eventide can be read as a stand-alone without much confusion, though I recommend the whole series to readers who love paranormal thrillers and great writing.
The main storyline is basically about Madison Hewitt, her purchase of a haunted house, and how the mystery of the haunting is revealed. Madison and the cast of characters were all present in the first two novels, but in this one, Madison takes center stage. I found the characters well-rounded and believable, free of most of the nonsensical decisions and lack of insight that tend to escalate tension in many thriller novels.
Each chapter starts back in 1878 with the story of Hollande, a young woman employed as a companion for a mentally unstable and bitter woman (in the same house that Madison just purchased). This is a strong subplot, and I found Hollande’s story mesmerizing as little by little the secrets of the house and what happened there are revealed.
And while that’s all going on, there’s a third plotline - a monster is tearing people apart in town. AND there’s a fourth plotline - Madison is being harassed by someone trying to scare her or worse, possibly a murderous thug from her past. Is there too much going on in this book? Nope. The author drip-feeds the reader tidbits of information, plus some red herrings, and the tension builds and builds and builds until all four plotlines come together in a great conclusion. So well done!
I believe Eventide can be read as a stand-alone without much confusion, though I recommend the whole series to readers who love paranormal thrillers and great writing.
November 13, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley and Lyrical Underground for an ARC of this book.
I have read all of Mae Clair’s Hodes Hill books, and this one is by far my favourite. I loved the mix of the supernatural with typical ghosts spiced up with a deadly and terrifying ghoul. All in all, this is a great series that works well both to read as a run on and for each book to stand alone, although you get more by seeing the character progression throughout the series if you read them in order. Having read of Madison, the main character, in previous books and seeing her struggle through the eyes of others, it is nice to see her getting a book to herself, and what a strong heroine she turns out to be.
The plot runs both in the past (1800s) and in the present day and gives you plenty of mystery, suspense, and twists in both timelines. While I sussed out that something was up with the historical brothers early on, I completely failed to work out what it was, so kudos to the author for that bit of cunning.
I highly recommend this book and will be reading more from this writer. A solid five star read.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
Merged review:
Thanks to NetGalley and Lyrical Underground for an ARC of this book.
I have read all of Mae Clair's Hodes Hill books, and this one is by far my favourite. I loved the mix of the supernatural with typical ghosts spiced up with a deadly and terrifying ghoul. All in all, this is a great series that works well both to read as a run on and for each book to stand alone, although you get more by seeing the character progression throughout the series if you read them in order. Having read of Madison, the main character, in previous books and seeing her struggle through the eyes of others, it is nice to see her getting a book to herself, and what a strong heroine she turns out to be.
The plot runs both in the past (1800s) and in the present day and gives you plenty of mystery, suspense, and twists in both timelines. While I sussed out that something was up with the historical brothers early on, I completely failed to work out what it was, so kudos to the author for that bit of cunning.
I highly recommend this book and will be reading more from this writer. A solid five star read.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
I have read all of Mae Clair’s Hodes Hill books, and this one is by far my favourite. I loved the mix of the supernatural with typical ghosts spiced up with a deadly and terrifying ghoul. All in all, this is a great series that works well both to read as a run on and for each book to stand alone, although you get more by seeing the character progression throughout the series if you read them in order. Having read of Madison, the main character, in previous books and seeing her struggle through the eyes of others, it is nice to see her getting a book to herself, and what a strong heroine she turns out to be.
The plot runs both in the past (1800s) and in the present day and gives you plenty of mystery, suspense, and twists in both timelines. While I sussed out that something was up with the historical brothers early on, I completely failed to work out what it was, so kudos to the author for that bit of cunning.
I highly recommend this book and will be reading more from this writer. A solid five star read.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
Merged review:
Thanks to NetGalley and Lyrical Underground for an ARC of this book.
I have read all of Mae Clair's Hodes Hill books, and this one is by far my favourite. I loved the mix of the supernatural with typical ghosts spiced up with a deadly and terrifying ghoul. All in all, this is a great series that works well both to read as a run on and for each book to stand alone, although you get more by seeing the character progression throughout the series if you read them in order. Having read of Madison, the main character, in previous books and seeing her struggle through the eyes of others, it is nice to see her getting a book to herself, and what a strong heroine she turns out to be.
The plot runs both in the past (1800s) and in the present day and gives you plenty of mystery, suspense, and twists in both timelines. While I sussed out that something was up with the historical brothers early on, I completely failed to work out what it was, so kudos to the author for that bit of cunning.
I highly recommend this book and will be reading more from this writer. A solid five star read.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
January 7, 2020
I have loved this series and was looking forward to the final book. I have to say this was the best of all the stories, and that’s saying a lot. “Eventide” has everything I enjoy in a story, including a haunted house, graveyard, relationships, mystery, and great characters all offered in a dual timeline. I was rooting for not only Madison as she started over in a haunted house after a breakdown, but some ghosts, too. It was great to have past characters and their stories cross over into the current tale. There was plenty of mystery. Some of it I figured out, but there were a few surprises, too. I was happy to see how past romances were doing, but it was Madison’s determination that resonated deeply with me. The settings were poetically presented, which I appreciated, the characters were real with their flaws, and the paranormal believably frightening—what a great way to end a series. I highly recommend this book, but I suggest you go back and read all three so you don’t miss out on anything!
January 3, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book is a superb way to end this marvelous series. Five Star reading all the way.
Author Mae Clair has the wonderful ability to combine the darkness and secrets of times past with the terrifying occurrences of the present, and she does it seamlessly. I’ve read and loved Books 1 and 2 of this series and this one is such an intensely satisfying conclusion. It can also be easily read as a stand-alone novel.
It’s such a pleasure to read a book from an author who so clearly loves what she is creating.
That talent shines through every paragraph.
Madison Hewitt is struggling to survive the trauma of her recent past, and desperately in search of peace of mind and new beginnings. The character becomes intensely real and made this reader want things to end well for her. She is intensely visual, as is every scene in this book. Author Mae Clair invites you in and takes you on a terrifying journey into the paranormal. She challenges her creations to give us a reading experience that will have us coming back again and again for more.
This book is a superb way to end this marvelous series. Five Star reading all the way.
Author Mae Clair has the wonderful ability to combine the darkness and secrets of times past with the terrifying occurrences of the present, and she does it seamlessly. I’ve read and loved Books 1 and 2 of this series and this one is such an intensely satisfying conclusion. It can also be easily read as a stand-alone novel.
It’s such a pleasure to read a book from an author who so clearly loves what she is creating.
That talent shines through every paragraph.
Madison Hewitt is struggling to survive the trauma of her recent past, and desperately in search of peace of mind and new beginnings. The character becomes intensely real and made this reader want things to end well for her. She is intensely visual, as is every scene in this book. Author Mae Clair invites you in and takes you on a terrifying journey into the paranormal. She challenges her creations to give us a reading experience that will have us coming back again and again for more.
This book is a superb way to end this marvelous series. Five Star reading all the way.
December 31, 2019
Mae Clair offers a well written paranormal horror novel told between alternating time lines. The scene is perfectly set as Clair personifies a macabre old house as its very own character. The storyline is chock full of mystery, gore, and hauntings. The characters are well developed and the plot does pull the reader's interest, especially as the background details of the house and its "occupants" are brought to light. Unfortunately, the trope is a bit too familiar to the genre leaving the overall feel of the book a bit lackluster. 3 stars.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC of #Eventide which was read and reviewed voluntarily by Tarrah Marie (@wayward_readers)
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC of #Eventide which was read and reviewed voluntarily by Tarrah Marie (@wayward_readers)
December 25, 2019
4 stars
This book is an excellent addition to the series.
Madison Hewitt witnessed the stabbing death of her husband some time ago. She has now declared herself recovered and a bought an old house in an isolated spot in Pennsylvania.
But all is not well in her new house. There are noises – and that cistern in the basement!!
This story move back and forth between the present and the 1890's. Something very bad happened back then and the old house has held on to it.
Tension ratchets up as the story goes along. Ms. Clair is a fantastic writer. Her stories are filled with reality. That is to say, the reader could almost believe that the events are really happening. The book is remarkably well written and plotted. One event follows another in a logical progression. The characters are colorful and likable – for the most part. I liked Madison, her slightly psychic sister and her new beau. Well done, Ms. Clair! More please.
I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground for forwarding to me a copy of this book for me to read, enjoy and review.
This book is an excellent addition to the series.
Madison Hewitt witnessed the stabbing death of her husband some time ago. She has now declared herself recovered and a bought an old house in an isolated spot in Pennsylvania.
But all is not well in her new house. There are noises – and that cistern in the basement!!
This story move back and forth between the present and the 1890's. Something very bad happened back then and the old house has held on to it.
Tension ratchets up as the story goes along. Ms. Clair is a fantastic writer. Her stories are filled with reality. That is to say, the reader could almost believe that the events are really happening. The book is remarkably well written and plotted. One event follows another in a logical progression. The characters are colorful and likable – for the most part. I liked Madison, her slightly psychic sister and her new beau. Well done, Ms. Clair! More please.
I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground for forwarding to me a copy of this book for me to read, enjoy and review.
December 2, 2019
If you haven’t as yet discovered author Mae Clair, Eventide, as well as the entire Hode’s Hill series, would be a great place to start! In this series we have past meeting present in the most chilling of ways. Eventide is no exception. In this enthralling tale, we follow Madison Hewett as she begins a new chapter in her life. A chapter that is essential to her well-being and peace of mind. But peace comes at a price as she purchases a very old house that is quite haunted by its former residents. Are they friends? Foes? A show down of good versus evil? Imagined or real? The whys and the wherefores of this story kept me turning the pages and my burning, sleep-deprived eyes glued to the pages until at last I had my answers!
Mae Clair paints her stories with masterful imagery and a host of lovable characters just as imperfect and flawed as the rest of us. That makes walking beside them within the story, all the easier! If you love a great mystery with a touch of the paranormal, you won’t be disappointed in Eventide!
The copy of this book was provided by Netgalley.
Mae Clair paints her stories with masterful imagery and a host of lovable characters just as imperfect and flawed as the rest of us. That makes walking beside them within the story, all the easier! If you love a great mystery with a touch of the paranormal, you won’t be disappointed in Eventide!
The copy of this book was provided by Netgalley.
December 14, 2019
Amazing! Just when I think I have a favorite Mae Clair book, she ups the stakes.
I have read all of the Hode’s Hill series, and this was by far my favorite. As with the other books of the series, there is a dual timeline with interwoven twists between past and present.
Madison Hewitt is ready to move on with her life. She purchases an old home Hode’s Hill but soon discovers someone doesn’t want her there. Is it someone from the present or the past?
There is plenty of mystery, intrigue, and of course, the supernatural. The action is paced just right and will keep you turning the pages. Although it is the third in a series, the book could easily stand-alone.
Clair’s writing style is unparalleled. She is on my must-read list of authors. I highly recommend End of Day and give it a solid five stars.
I have read all of the Hode’s Hill series, and this was by far my favorite. As with the other books of the series, there is a dual timeline with interwoven twists between past and present.
Madison Hewitt is ready to move on with her life. She purchases an old home Hode’s Hill but soon discovers someone doesn’t want her there. Is it someone from the present or the past?
There is plenty of mystery, intrigue, and of course, the supernatural. The action is paced just right and will keep you turning the pages. Although it is the third in a series, the book could easily stand-alone.
Clair’s writing style is unparalleled. She is on my must-read list of authors. I highly recommend End of Day and give it a solid five stars.
October 30, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author, for the chance to read an advanced copy.
This was a decent ghost story told in past and present timelines. I read many horror, supernatural and haunted house books. I found this book to be pretty typical of the average haunted house story. It was not what I would consider a memorable novel but it was entertaining. The writing was good but it was a little unbelievable (could have done without the ghoul and just stuck with the ghosts) and the mystery was fairly easy to figure out by the half way mark but the story was interesting enough to keep me reading until the end. Easy read. Solid 3 star rating. If you are looking for a fun and spooky book I would recommend Eventide.
This was a decent ghost story told in past and present timelines. I read many horror, supernatural and haunted house books. I found this book to be pretty typical of the average haunted house story. It was not what I would consider a memorable novel but it was entertaining. The writing was good but it was a little unbelievable (could have done without the ghoul and just stuck with the ghosts) and the mystery was fairly easy to figure out by the half way mark but the story was interesting enough to keep me reading until the end. Easy read. Solid 3 star rating. If you are looking for a fun and spooky book I would recommend Eventide.
November 9, 2019
I went into this book a little worried, because I had seen it was part of a series. Let me tell you know that it stood alone great. There were a few parts were past book plots were referenced but not enough to mess you up in the story. It did make me curious about the previous 2.
Eventide was a very well done ghost story but I felt that some things were left unexplained. For fear of spoiling the book, I won't tell you what those concerns are because they do have do to with the end of the book.
It does start off fast and keeps you wondering what the end will be like with , what seems like, 3 different mysteries. One past, two present day mysteries.
Good book for: Rainy/stormy evenings with a full cup of coffee.
Thank you NetGalley for exchange for an honest review.
Eventide was a very well done ghost story but I felt that some things were left unexplained. For fear of spoiling the book, I won't tell you what those concerns are because they do have do to with the end of the book.
It does start off fast and keeps you wondering what the end will be like with , what seems like, 3 different mysteries. One past, two present day mysteries.
Good book for: Rainy/stormy evenings with a full cup of coffee.
Thank you NetGalley for exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2019
This was a solid ghost haunting horror book. I really liked it from the beginning to the end.
I thought that the author did a great job portraying all of the characters in the book and the reasons why they did the things they did.
I thought it was a great story and I loved the connection between the past, the present, and the ghoul!
I think anyone who loves horror will LOVE this book!
Writing was clear, concise, and had a great voice.
The only downfall was if Sylvia was REALLY insane.....was her husband having an affair or NOT?
That was never fully worked out.
Overall, a great book.
I thought that the author did a great job portraying all of the characters in the book and the reasons why they did the things they did.
I thought it was a great story and I loved the connection between the past, the present, and the ghoul!
I think anyone who loves horror will LOVE this book!
Writing was clear, concise, and had a great voice.
The only downfall was if Sylvia was REALLY insane.....was her husband having an affair or NOT?
That was never fully worked out.
Overall, a great book.
November 22, 2019
Madison has just bought an old house. She is wanting to put her life back together and forget the horrible memories of watching someone killed.
She is an empathetic, she can feeling the emotions of others.
Living in the manor has it's perks. It's large spacious and has a history to it. Soon she learns that that history can kill her and maybe she friends. The house is filled with manivelence. She will have to remove the darkness before she is free to enjoy her life.
Great story, good characters. Spooky and dark. Recommended.
She is an empathetic, she can feeling the emotions of others.
Living in the manor has it's perks. It's large spacious and has a history to it. Soon she learns that that history can kill her and maybe she friends. The house is filled with manivelence. She will have to remove the darkness before she is free to enjoy her life.
Great story, good characters. Spooky and dark. Recommended.
November 26, 2019
I think this was a good and solid horror/ghost story with the right creep factor and a solid plot.
I liked the entertaining and gripping plot that kept me on the edge, the well thought cast of characters and the world building.
Even if it's the last in a series i had no issues with the plot or the characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author as I really liked her style of writing.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the entertaining and gripping plot that kept me on the edge, the well thought cast of characters and the world building.
Even if it's the last in a series i had no issues with the plot or the characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author as I really liked her style of writing.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
March 27, 2020
The third book in Mae Claire’s Hode’s Hill dual timeline Series is called “Eventide.” Wowser! Like the two previous books, this third novel delivers a wallop of a suspenseful tale which wraps up the series in ways I never anticipated! I’m blown away by the writing, the plot, and the ending!
Madison (Maddy) from the second book, has now fully recovered from her ordeal following the violent murder of her husband. She’s ready to get out on her own, and she purchases a house on the outskirts of town. Meanwhile, Jillian, Maddy’s sister, doesn’t think this is the right move for her, causing friction between them.
Once Maddy moves in, she quickly realizes that the Stewart house is haunted. She discovers three gravestones in the family burial plot behind the house. From the dates on the stones, Maddie realizes Sylvia Steward and her son, Nathaniel, both died on the same day. The third grave contain’s Sylvia’s husband, Darrin, who died years before them. What kind of tragedy could have caused a mother and her son to perish on the same day? Just wait… it gets creepier!
Not long after moving in, Maddy encounters a paranormal entity (or two) lurking inside the house who helps her learn about a second Steward son, named Tristan. Whatever caused his death remains a secret waiting to unravel.
Adding to her problems, Maddy realizes her boyfriend, Roth, is not what she expected. His anger issues and possessiveness are only part of the issue.
One day, Maddy finds her tires slashed. Her dead husband hung around with some unsavory characters. Could someone from her past be trying to scare her?
The future meets the past in the second timeline, which puts the reader in the year, 1878. We’re introduced to Hollande Moore, an unmarried woman past her prime, who is obliged to take a live-in position as a companion to Sylvia Steward by order of her brother.
Living in the Steward Mansion becomes unbearable when Hollande discovers Sylvia enjoys inflicting misery upon everyone. Nathaniel, Sylvia’s son, runs the family business. He is a disagreeable man with the same negative attitude as his mother.
Hollande doesn’t know how she will cope with the family until she meets Tristan, the second son who is the exact opposite of his brother. He runs the family business from another location and only comes home in the evening, regaling his mother and Hollande with tales of his adventures. Hollande notices how Sylvia adores Tristan, unlike her other son, Nathaniel.
Eventually, Hollande discovers Nathaniel to be a pleasant man away from the company of his mother. Before she knows it, Hollande and Nathaniel have fallen in love. Suddenly jealous with rage, Sylvia’s madness promises to upend the family.
When the past and the present collide in a trifecta of paranormal occurrences, Maddy stumbles upon an unfathomable evil in the house’s basement. Terrified, she calls in her sister’s boyfriend, Dante, to help her rid the house of the evil within. Together, Dante and the two sisters battle the unknown for the soul of Hode’s Hill. Who will survive?
By Mae Clair
This is one of the most outstanding paranormal series I’ve read. Mae Clair is a master at writing suspense, on a par with Dean Koontz and even Stephen King. In true nail-biter fashion, I couldn’t tear myself away from several of the action scenes, reading late into the night.
Clair doesn’t describe much gore in her novels, which I found appealing. Instead, she strings you along, building the tension until you think you’ll explode from your own impatience to find out what happens next! If you enjoy reading “paranormal-weird” this is the author for you.
I also enjoyed how the character’s personalities flowed throughout the three novels, lending a continuity to the tale of this strange place called Hode’s Hill. I thought I would have a favorite book, but I can honestly say, I loved all three. I’m sad the series is complete.
If you love paranormal fiction filled with a touch of history, romance, and the right amount of things that go bump in the night, you will love the Hode’s Hill series! Just make sure to only read with the light on!
Madison (Maddy) from the second book, has now fully recovered from her ordeal following the violent murder of her husband. She’s ready to get out on her own, and she purchases a house on the outskirts of town. Meanwhile, Jillian, Maddy’s sister, doesn’t think this is the right move for her, causing friction between them.
Once Maddy moves in, she quickly realizes that the Stewart house is haunted. She discovers three gravestones in the family burial plot behind the house. From the dates on the stones, Maddie realizes Sylvia Steward and her son, Nathaniel, both died on the same day. The third grave contain’s Sylvia’s husband, Darrin, who died years before them. What kind of tragedy could have caused a mother and her son to perish on the same day? Just wait… it gets creepier!
Not long after moving in, Maddy encounters a paranormal entity (or two) lurking inside the house who helps her learn about a second Steward son, named Tristan. Whatever caused his death remains a secret waiting to unravel.
Adding to her problems, Maddy realizes her boyfriend, Roth, is not what she expected. His anger issues and possessiveness are only part of the issue.
One day, Maddy finds her tires slashed. Her dead husband hung around with some unsavory characters. Could someone from her past be trying to scare her?
The future meets the past in the second timeline, which puts the reader in the year, 1878. We’re introduced to Hollande Moore, an unmarried woman past her prime, who is obliged to take a live-in position as a companion to Sylvia Steward by order of her brother.
Living in the Steward Mansion becomes unbearable when Hollande discovers Sylvia enjoys inflicting misery upon everyone. Nathaniel, Sylvia’s son, runs the family business. He is a disagreeable man with the same negative attitude as his mother.
Hollande doesn’t know how she will cope with the family until she meets Tristan, the second son who is the exact opposite of his brother. He runs the family business from another location and only comes home in the evening, regaling his mother and Hollande with tales of his adventures. Hollande notices how Sylvia adores Tristan, unlike her other son, Nathaniel.
Eventually, Hollande discovers Nathaniel to be a pleasant man away from the company of his mother. Before she knows it, Hollande and Nathaniel have fallen in love. Suddenly jealous with rage, Sylvia’s madness promises to upend the family.
When the past and the present collide in a trifecta of paranormal occurrences, Maddy stumbles upon an unfathomable evil in the house’s basement. Terrified, she calls in her sister’s boyfriend, Dante, to help her rid the house of the evil within. Together, Dante and the two sisters battle the unknown for the soul of Hode’s Hill. Who will survive?
By Mae Clair
This is one of the most outstanding paranormal series I’ve read. Mae Clair is a master at writing suspense, on a par with Dean Koontz and even Stephen King. In true nail-biter fashion, I couldn’t tear myself away from several of the action scenes, reading late into the night.
Clair doesn’t describe much gore in her novels, which I found appealing. Instead, she strings you along, building the tension until you think you’ll explode from your own impatience to find out what happens next! If you enjoy reading “paranormal-weird” this is the author for you.
I also enjoyed how the character’s personalities flowed throughout the three novels, lending a continuity to the tale of this strange place called Hode’s Hill. I thought I would have a favorite book, but I can honestly say, I loved all three. I’m sad the series is complete.
If you love paranormal fiction filled with a touch of history, romance, and the right amount of things that go bump in the night, you will love the Hode’s Hill series! Just make sure to only read with the light on!
January 17, 2020
Review for 'Eventide' by Mae Clair
Read and reviewed via NetGalley
THE STORYLINE
The darkness is coming . . .
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death...
REVIEW
This book is part of the Hode's Hills series. However I read it as a standalone with no problems. It does contain references to previous books but covers the information needed.
This was an absolutely fantastic, creepy, suspense, horror and thriller packed read. The storyline was excellent and I just couldn't put it down. The characters are strong, very realistic and likeable.
I loved the fact that the storyline went from past to present at approximately the same time the characters from the past and present were doing almost the same things. Everything was wrapped up in the end so there was no loose ends leaving you with questions which I dislike in a book.
The setting was brilliant and it even creeped me out which isn't an easy thing to do!!! I will definitely be purchasing the previous books in the Hode's Hill series as well as looking for more books by this author.
I highly recommend this book to fans of horror, thrillers, suspense and anyone who enjoys a creepy, ghost filled and excellent read. I couldn't recommend this book enough, well done to a very talented author!!!
Rated 5/5 on Goodreads and Amazon
£4.58 to purchase on kindle
Read and reviewed via NetGalley
THE STORYLINE
The darkness is coming . . .
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death...
REVIEW
This book is part of the Hode's Hills series. However I read it as a standalone with no problems. It does contain references to previous books but covers the information needed.
This was an absolutely fantastic, creepy, suspense, horror and thriller packed read. The storyline was excellent and I just couldn't put it down. The characters are strong, very realistic and likeable.
I loved the fact that the storyline went from past to present at approximately the same time the characters from the past and present were doing almost the same things. Everything was wrapped up in the end so there was no loose ends leaving you with questions which I dislike in a book.
The setting was brilliant and it even creeped me out which isn't an easy thing to do!!! I will definitely be purchasing the previous books in the Hode's Hill series as well as looking for more books by this author.
I highly recommend this book to fans of horror, thrillers, suspense and anyone who enjoys a creepy, ghost filled and excellent read. I couldn't recommend this book enough, well done to a very talented author!!!
Rated 5/5 on Goodreads and Amazon
£4.58 to purchase on kindle
January 23, 2020
Eventide is the closing chapter of the Hode's Hill series, following the footsteps of the earlier books with dual timelines, folk legends, and local mysterious happenings. Madison Hewitt is getting her life back on track after witnessing a horror that left her locked inside her head. Now that she has recovered, she is taking control of her life, starting with buying an old house on the edge of town. After her traumatic past, cold spots and nasty odors aren't going to scare her away, even after she learns of the house's storied history. This, like the other books in the series, starts innocently enough, but quickly draws the reader in with suspense and twists in the past driving the spooky mystery of the present. Loved how Madison confronts the house's secrets head on, and the beauty of the past helping her at the end.
Eventide can be read on its own, without having read the other two books in the series, but if you haven't read Cusp of Night or End of Day, you are missing out! I can't wait for Mae's next project!
Eventide can be read on its own, without having read the other two books in the series, but if you haven't read Cusp of Night or End of Day, you are missing out! I can't wait for Mae's next project!
January 7, 2020
This is the third book in the Hode's Hill series, and what an ending! It can be read as a standalone without a problem, but if you've read the first two books, you're even more invested in the characters. Madison's been through so much, she was lucky she hung in there in this book. She bought an old house she loved. Unfortunately, it came with not one, but three ghosts. The ghost, Sylvia, was evil and belligerent. And that's not the worst of her problems. A dark presence attached itself to the evil of the house. The author seamlessly jumps back and forth between the past happenings of the house and the present day with Madison and her friends. And both parts of the story are creepy, the sort of tale that makes you want to keep the room lit while you read. On top of everything else, the man Madison is getting serious about turns more and more controlling the longer the book goes. There are some outright scary scenes, but everything comes to a satisfying ending. I love Mae Clair's use of language, her descriptions and scene setting. It only added to the atmosphere of this dark novel. A great final book in the series.
April 22, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/e...
Eventide
Hode’s Hill, Book #3
By Mae Clair
ISBN# 9781516107292
Author Website: maeclair(.)net
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death. (Goodreads)
Review:
Eventide is the third book in the Hode’s Hill series by Mae Clair, but it can easily be read as a standalone novel. A damaged protagonist, Gothic feel, ghosts, and evil come together to make an entertaining, hair-raising read.
Madison, who not only witnessed but actually experienced her husband’s murder, had a complete mental breakdown, but now she is ready for a new start. She is excited by the possibilities of her new home, but she did not count on unleashing evil and the ghosts. In addition, someone is vandalizing her property, and her boyfriend is not happy about her move. When town residents are brutally murdered, Madison cannot help but think everything is related to the house. With the help of her sister and friends, she faces danger and proves her past is once and for all behind her.
With its mix of ghost story, murder mystery, and horror, Eventide is just the right amount of creepy and has a good amount of tension throughout the tale. Madison’s past trials, the historical thread, and the present evil all mingle together seamlessly and come together to make a suspenseful reading experience. The writing is descriptive, and I felt the chill and smelled the nastiness of the evil just as the characters do.
Madison has a supernatural ability, but it is not overplayed and comes across as somewhat plausible. Even with her insecurities and past baggage, she is brave and relatable. I like her. Her boyfriend is a jerk, but he plays an integral part in the story. Madison’s sister and friends add variety and have experience and skills that help solve the historical and present day mysteries.
I enjoyed Eventide and recommend it to fans of supernatural books with a touch of horror.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Eventide
Hode’s Hill, Book #3
By Mae Clair
ISBN# 9781516107292
Author Website: maeclair(.)net
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
The old house near Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania is a place for Madison Hewitt to start over—to put the trauma of her husband’s murder, and her subsequent breakdown, behind her. She isn’t bothered by a burial plot on the property, or the mysterious, sealed cistern in the basement. Not at first. Even the presence of cold spots and strange odors could be fabrications of her still troubled mind. But how to explain her slashed tires, or the ominous messages that grow ever more threatening?
Convinced the answer lies in the past, Madison delves into the history of the home’s original owners, only to discover the origin of a powerful evil. An entity that may be connected to a series of gruesome attacks that have left police baffled. No matter where she turns—past or present—terror lingers just a step away, spurred on by a twisted obsession that can only be satisfied through death. (Goodreads)
Review:
Eventide is the third book in the Hode’s Hill series by Mae Clair, but it can easily be read as a standalone novel. A damaged protagonist, Gothic feel, ghosts, and evil come together to make an entertaining, hair-raising read.
Madison, who not only witnessed but actually experienced her husband’s murder, had a complete mental breakdown, but now she is ready for a new start. She is excited by the possibilities of her new home, but she did not count on unleashing evil and the ghosts. In addition, someone is vandalizing her property, and her boyfriend is not happy about her move. When town residents are brutally murdered, Madison cannot help but think everything is related to the house. With the help of her sister and friends, she faces danger and proves her past is once and for all behind her.
With its mix of ghost story, murder mystery, and horror, Eventide is just the right amount of creepy and has a good amount of tension throughout the tale. Madison’s past trials, the historical thread, and the present evil all mingle together seamlessly and come together to make a suspenseful reading experience. The writing is descriptive, and I felt the chill and smelled the nastiness of the evil just as the characters do.
Madison has a supernatural ability, but it is not overplayed and comes across as somewhat plausible. Even with her insecurities and past baggage, she is brave and relatable. I like her. Her boyfriend is a jerk, but he plays an integral part in the story. Madison’s sister and friends add variety and have experience and skills that help solve the historical and present day mysteries.
I enjoyed Eventide and recommend it to fans of supernatural books with a touch of horror.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
December 15, 2019
Eventide takes us to Hode’s Hill once again for another chilling mystery involving all kinds of spooky, paranormal occurrences. Madison Hewitt has bought the old house at the end of the road (a.k.a. Stewart Manor) and is looking forward to starting over on her own, spending time with her sister, and enjoying her career in real estate. Spooky things begin to happen immediately upon her moving in, but then she also learns a few days later about longtime rumors of the place being haunted. But the little quirks and curiosities seem to intensify after her boyfriend, Roth, unseals an old cistern in the basement.
This novel is told from multiple POV’s and from dual timelines – present day and the 1870’s. The narrator from the 1870s is a young woman named Hollande Moore who is moving to Stewart Manor to work as a companion to Sylvia Stewart, the aging mother of adult sons/twins Nathaniel and Tristan. Hollande quickly learns how argumentative and unpleasant the woman is, as well as, she gets the feeling that there are many secrets within the family. Meanwhile, the present-day story involves Madison trying to figure out what or who is causing problems in her home, seeking help from her empath sister Jillian and her boyfriend Dante, an artist that has the ability to communicate with those beyond the grave.
There are times when I read novels with dual timelines that it gets frustrating and there are times that it is absolute perfection. Eventide is a novel where the execution of the plot is perfect. The creepiness factor is already through the roof with Mae Clair’s trademark creativity and vivid imagery. Even little things like a glove being moved are scary when written by Mae. But alternating between the creepy things happening in the past and present provides the reader with a wonderfully unsettling feeling that keeps the pages turning with wild anticipation about what will happen next. Be warned there are frequent descriptions that are quite graphic, but this all just adds to the wonder and mystery of the story.
I have mentioned before that I never had any interest in reading this genre until Mae Clair came into my life. Eventide is another example of a book that, a few years ago, I never would have picked up. However, it is one of my favorite books from her to date and certainly in my top 10 reads this year. I have liked all of her books (loved, really) but Eventide just completely gripped me from beginning to end. With Mae’s exquisite writing, character development, and endless surprises – Eventide was far beyond a five-star read for me. This one is highly recommended, but definitely read it in the daytime, with lights on, someone sitting nearby, and so forth – it is scary!
*Thanks to NetGalley, Lyrical Underground, and Mae Clair for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
This novel is told from multiple POV’s and from dual timelines – present day and the 1870’s. The narrator from the 1870s is a young woman named Hollande Moore who is moving to Stewart Manor to work as a companion to Sylvia Stewart, the aging mother of adult sons/twins Nathaniel and Tristan. Hollande quickly learns how argumentative and unpleasant the woman is, as well as, she gets the feeling that there are many secrets within the family. Meanwhile, the present-day story involves Madison trying to figure out what or who is causing problems in her home, seeking help from her empath sister Jillian and her boyfriend Dante, an artist that has the ability to communicate with those beyond the grave.
There are times when I read novels with dual timelines that it gets frustrating and there are times that it is absolute perfection. Eventide is a novel where the execution of the plot is perfect. The creepiness factor is already through the roof with Mae Clair’s trademark creativity and vivid imagery. Even little things like a glove being moved are scary when written by Mae. But alternating between the creepy things happening in the past and present provides the reader with a wonderfully unsettling feeling that keeps the pages turning with wild anticipation about what will happen next. Be warned there are frequent descriptions that are quite graphic, but this all just adds to the wonder and mystery of the story.
I have mentioned before that I never had any interest in reading this genre until Mae Clair came into my life. Eventide is another example of a book that, a few years ago, I never would have picked up. However, it is one of my favorite books from her to date and certainly in my top 10 reads this year. I have liked all of her books (loved, really) but Eventide just completely gripped me from beginning to end. With Mae’s exquisite writing, character development, and endless surprises – Eventide was far beyond a five-star read for me. This one is highly recommended, but definitely read it in the daytime, with lights on, someone sitting nearby, and so forth – it is scary!
*Thanks to NetGalley, Lyrical Underground, and Mae Clair for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
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