The Houses of Lorian Hollow: The Soundtrack to Your Scream

by Sarah Seado, Ofelia Ochoa (Illustrator), Charlotte Steinard (Editor)

Draped in Spanish moss and drowning in the scent of orange blossoms, Southern tradition permeates the everyday life of the Old-Florida town of Lorian Hollow. October welcomes the town’s 600th anniversary. To mark the momentous occasion, a slew of ritualistic murders plagues The Hollow. The killings are so horrifying, the town works quickly to bury the truth, like corpses in the swamp. As the bodycount climbs, the mortal Guardians, who police the immortal Evolved dwelling within the town, find themselves the victims of the very crimes they are investigating. As the killings intensify, so do the revelations about Lorian Hollow and the dark secrets the founding families are harboring. Secrets abound, more sinister than the murders themselves.

Genres: Horror, Fantasy

ebook

First published October 19, 2019

About the author

Hailing from a sleepy southern Florida town, Sarah has spent most of her ​life pursuing creativity and art. She has a Bachelor's in Marketing, ​experience working in the music industry, magazine publishing, and finally a ​short stint in the fashion world.

After having experienced every exciting avenue available to a dreamer, ​she recently discovered her love for writing and has dreamed Lorian ​Hollow into existence.

THE HOUSES OF LORIAN HOLLOW series has a cult-like following of devoted ​readers who love and love to hate her complex characters.

With THE SOUNDTRACK TO YOUR SCREAM receiving high praise upon release, the ​series and Sarah were quickly picked up by 4 Horsemen Publications in 2023.

January of 2025, Sarah exited 4HP and is once more publishing independently, releasing her second title THE REVERIE OF RECOMPENSE as well as a special edition version that binds both books in one cover.

Chaotic, sweet, weird, and slightly wheels off, Sarah Seado continues to ​write with the help of her trusted canine sidekicks, Frankenstein and Igor.

Reviews

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from Voracious Readers Only and the author. At first I was overwhelmed by how long the book was, so it took me a little while to want to start it. I regret not starting it right away because once I started reading, I wanted to read the entire book. I had to know more about the people of this town. It was really descriptive about what happened at one point, which made this story a little more of a thriller than I usually read. Joan, Lucas, Judas, Carter are great characters. High action and a surprise ending. I can't wait to read the next story.

[Megan McKinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this books for free through Booksprouts and it was worth every page. The characters and the events in the book keep you engaged from beginning to end. Loved this story, excited for the next.

[Katinka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joan Sclacht is a Lorian Hollow Guardian. She helps to protect the human citizens of the town from those who would hurt and cause destruction to others, as well as keeping the peace among all the citizens of the town.Those who have spent their whole lives in the town know that the founding families are not human, and many of them have spent years training and joining the Guardians to help protect people. Others have no idea about the hidden dangers lurking in the town. And when someone begins killing people, removing tongues, eyes, and then sewing the mouth shut, it’s up to the guardians to solve these murders.

I read a review copy of this book. It was an unusual horror novel with some interesting twists. Not everything is as it seems, and that will make tracking down this mysterious murderer that much more difficult for Joan and the other Guardians. Judas Lorian, One of the immortal members of the founding families, loves Joan, but can never tell her. He is immortal and has his secrets, while she is human. Long ago he loved and lost a human, and he has yet to forgive himself for that tragedy. And that is only one of the complications going on in this book.

I cannot go into much detail here, as I am afraid that would cause me to accidentally give away some of what is happening, and thus spoil the story for you, but I will say that I am interested in seeing what happens in book two in this series.

If you enjoy horror stories that involve some mystery, murder, and quite a bit of gore with a touch of the supernatural attached, then I think you will likely enjoy this book.

[Tiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A supernatural thriller that you won't be able to put down!

I had the immense pleasure of beta-reading this novel for Sarah before it's official release, and believe me when I tell you that you will not believe this is her debut novel!

Sarah is a masterful story weaver, incorporating all of the thrilling elements of her genre into the story with flare. From the first page her writing ensnares your senses and engrosses your attention, leaving you to frantically read through chapter after chapter to find out more, and drop into the pits of angst when to reach the final page knowing you will have a while to wait for the sequel. She executes suspense to the extreme, and keeps your mind twisting with second guesses at the outcome of the story with the skill and pacing of a seasoned professional. She has written a rich, layered, and well developed cast that the reader won't be able to help but love (or love to hate lol). Her lead character, Joan, is the ultimate kick-ass YA female protagonist I can't get enough of!

The vivid descriptions and imagery Sarah uses throughout the story created movies running through my mind as I devoured page after page (honestly, I see this book series adapting very well for film/tv). Finally, the way she took various species of Evolved beings and blended them with the theme of feuding familial dynasties is sheer perfection!

I'm not usually a thriller/horror genre type of person, but I couldn't get enough of this book and I 1,000,000% recommend you read it!!

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this book is an overall enjoyable read. It may look intimidating to some by the thickness of the book, but I assure you it is a quick read once you get into the meat of the story. The protagonist is a spunky lady determined to find the truth, but the truth is more harrowing than she could possibly fathom.
There is a lot of action to the book and a twist that many people didn’t expect. If you are a fan of mysteries, you might pick up on the clues dropped throughout the book, but even if you do figure out the secret halfway through like I did, it is still an enjoyable read with a few twists I didn’t quite expect. It ends on a cliffhanger that definitely will make the reader eager to pick up the next installment when it comes out.

My biggest criticism is that the beginning is a little slow and until there is clarity on the relationships of some of the characters later revealed in the story it can be a little jarring. Like their mannerisms don’t quite sit well with the reader until they are later explained. Sometimes the writing also trips over itself putting in extra working that doesn’t need to be there and disengages you from the rhythm of the read. But where it needs to flow it does well. The action scenes are fast paced and thrilling keeping you on edge.
Overall, I recommend if you can handle violent death scenes and gruesome imagery. People do not die prettily one this book.

[Christian Murdoch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like other readers, I was put off by the size of this book, but I have to say, it was devoured in no time at all! Loved the characters and spooky world of Lorian Hollow. This was a lot of fun and it only took a few days for me to get through it (work and school kind of got in the way of my reading time!). Definitely recommend if you like suspense and thrillers!

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah Seado has managed to capture all of the realms of magic and monsters and print them on paper. From the very start of the book, the introduction of a non-typical protagonist, the twists and turns of Lorian Hollow, Sarah shows she is not afraid to break the norms. Absolutely fun and incredible read!

[Loren · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read in forever! The author sets the scene so well, you feel like you're actually there. The scary factor is definitely there, The writing keeps you on edge, constantly asking what's going to happen next. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of supernatural things, unlikely heroes, fans of horror, thrillers, mysteries, and suspense.

[Blanche Padgett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to the series

I really liked Joan amd most of the others she was brave and stubborn as well as nice to her friends. The action was great too. Can't wait to read the next one

[Angela Mckamey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read by a new and upcoming author!

This is an excellent fantasy book. It i is engaging, modern and easy to read. Anyone who enjoys fantasy will love this book! It takes you away!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is quite a thriller- lots of action with plenty of twists and turns. This is a well written story and I will be looking for additional books by this author.

[hailey jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

HOLY. SHIT.
i could not put this book down. i ate it up. devoured it. reminiscent of Ninth House but with more action

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

It had a very absorbing plot with an unpredictable twist! I can't wait to read the others! I also love how the author included shorter chapters (which definitely keeps you reading)

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 out of 5 stars ⭐️

I was a bit worried about the book at first, but I devoured this book (all 652 pages).

Very keen to see where this series goes.

[SpiderMam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy immortals Batman!!! This book was incredible. I am not sure what I expected but I enjoyed this so much. The suspense that was right throughout the story kept me totally hooked and I had trouble putting it down to participate in life. Joan is one of my favourite characters that I’ve read in a long time. She’s a badass, hilarious, fun and powerful woman who is not afraid to be herself and to challenge authority when it’s needed. She puts herself in the line in so many ways because she believes in her job and truly wants to protect.
The secrets she uncovers clearly ruined her life but I just know she’s coming back with a vengeance that town won’t forget, if they survive her wrath!
I neeeed the next book YESTERDAY! I would give my right arm for it right now.
I really liked how the characters could have plutonic relationships and friendships, it was clear to me that Judas was in love with Joan but they kept it professional and kept their friendship alive. I cried so hard as I felt their hearts break at the end and even though Judas is clearly in the wrong, I hope so much that they can find each other again.
Absolutely recommend this to anyone who enjoys an urban fantasy, thriller laced with humour and fun and enjoys a sassy, foul mouthed but sweet MFC.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, that was a wild ride!

The world-building is great, and you're immediately immersed into a very relatable world filled with shadows and the paranormal.

The main character, Joan, is a hot mess at the best of times, but her life has been dedicated to ensuring security and peace as a Guardian of Lorian Hollow.

But death and murder are stalking the Town, leaving mutilated remains in their wake. Can Joan and the Guardians stop the murderer before it's too late?

This is a cleverly layered story that has so much going on. The murders, the uneasy relationships between the families of the Hollow, the role the Guardians play in protecting the families, and the manipulation of the town folk and Guardians alike.

The more truths that Joan uncovers, the more the manipulation tightens its hold... and that's before the necromancers get involved!

This was a great page-turner that had me on the edge of my seat all the way through. Joan is a wonderful and yet real fallible woman just trying to succeed in life.

I can't wait to read the next book so I can continue on this journey!

*I received an advance reader copy via Booksprout, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.*

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joan feels like your typically, everyday lady who enjoys relaxing with a good horror movie, however, she also has a mysterious duty- she fights monsters to ensure the security of her home.

Joan is a great character that I related to quite a bit. The way she relates to all the characters feels fresh and relatable. She's not perfect, and that's what makes her so great.

The story is fantastic. There's nothing quite as enjoyable having a murderous stalking threatening to kill everything and everyone. The story will keep you up, turning each page as quickly as you can.

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.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the luck of picking up this read back in July. Let me tell you, this book was so well written! I absolutely was drawn in immediately by the main character Joan who is an absolutely loveable person! The book keeps you engaged throughout the entire book as each page reels you in more and more.
When I say that this book has action, chaos, suspense, mystery and supernatural forces I mean it. At times it would slow down and just when you thought it might be winding down, BAM back into action and excitement. The writing and story were told so well, you will fall in love with Joan. Loved this book!

[Andrew Rawlinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, it had action and chaos, The characters were human with there insecurities and Flaws Joan was a loveable person who showed the different sides of herself based on who she was dealing with at the time. The story flowed well and had a mixture of action and slow times it was a perfect blend which made this a 5 star read for me. I will be following up with the rest of the books in the series.

[Letsreadagoodbook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty good read! Had me biting my nails!

[Daphne Hanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first edition of this fun read when it was released in 2019. Protagonist Joan draws readers into the eerie depths of Lorian Hollow where her fierce, tattooed heroine self battles supernatural forces in a Florida-but-gothic setting. Suspenseful, vivid, and full of mystery, I gobbled up this fun book fast.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book overal, although it was slow to get going and the characters initially difficult to connect with, once I got into it I found it difficult to put down.
The mystery of the small town and the elite members of its community drew me in, in a way that I did not expect. Great YA read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this as a opening chapter to the Houses of Lorian Hollow series. It had that horrifying element that I was hoping for and thought the monster hunting angle worked well. I enjoyed how good the characters were and that they had that feel that I wanted. I hope there is more in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacie G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joan must protect the Evolved from themselves and their secrets from the outside world as the Lorian Hollow Guardian. She finds herself chasing down a murderer who wants her.
This was well written and really thought out. I enjoyed the story and the shocking moments.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[AMBER CLARK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging from beginning to end! Joan is a great character and so relatable/likeable. The story is suspenseful and well written with just the right amount of supernatural. Hoping there are more books to come!.