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Monkspike: You Are Not Forgiven
1149 was a violent year in the Forest of Dean. During the reign of King Stephen laws were lax, and landowners exacted high tithes from peasants forced to hand over their produce or face torture. One sector in society however, did not have to pay, and those were the monks. A fact which enraged local tyrant, Baron John Rivers.
Today, nearly 900 years later, the forest village of Monkspike sits brooding. There is a sickness here passed down through ancient lines, one which is noted and deeply felt by Sybil Massey, the new psychologist. What is wrong with nurse, Belinda Sully's, son? Why did her husband take his own life? Why are the old people in Temple Lake Nursing Home so terrified? And what are the lawless inhabitants of nearby Wolfs Cross hiding?
It is a dark village indeed, but one which has kept its secrets well. That is until local girl, Kezia Elwyn, returns home as a practising Satanist, and resurrects a hellish wrath no longer containable.
Burdo, the white monk, will infect your dreams....This is pure occult horror and definitely not for the faint of heart...
Today, nearly 900 years later, the forest village of Monkspike sits brooding. There is a sickness here passed down through ancient lines, one which is noted and deeply felt by Sybil Massey, the new psychologist. What is wrong with nurse, Belinda Sully's, son? Why did her husband take his own life? Why are the old people in Temple Lake Nursing Home so terrified? And what are the lawless inhabitants of nearby Wolfs Cross hiding?
It is a dark village indeed, but one which has kept its secrets well. That is until local girl, Kezia Elwyn, returns home as a practising Satanist, and resurrects a hellish wrath no longer containable.
Burdo, the white monk, will infect your dreams....This is pure occult horror and definitely not for the faint of heart...
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2019
196 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 31, 2019
3.5 stars
While I really enjoyed parts of this story I couldn't get a handle on all the characters this time around, though that might have been because it took me far too long to read a short novel due to other commitments (i.e. baby), I think it needs to be read in far fewer sittings than I managed. Still, I enjoyed the brooding atmosphere, the historical backstory and the overall creepy atmosphere. Not my favourite by this author but still worth a read.
Recommended for fans of occult horror.
While I really enjoyed parts of this story I couldn't get a handle on all the characters this time around, though that might have been because it took me far too long to read a short novel due to other commitments (i.e. baby), I think it needs to be read in far fewer sittings than I managed. Still, I enjoyed the brooding atmosphere, the historical backstory and the overall creepy atmosphere. Not my favourite by this author but still worth a read.
Recommended for fans of occult horror.
November 1, 2019
An interesting story which scared me in parts and kept me entertained in most. A horror than happened 900 years ago still affected the village of Monkspike.
Sylvia, the new psychologist in town, saw weird things happening around, and everyone seemed petrified. Soon it affected the people working with her. Was it a sickness or something more?
My first book by author Sarah England, and I liked how the white monk Burdo and his followers emerged into the prose. Evil was still lurking around, but this time it caught Sylvia unawares, especially when it came to the forefront to deal with her and her family. I liked her as the main character; she was relentless in her efforts to help people.
The writing was atmospheric, everything was kept in shadows. Horror and eeriness had a stranglehold on the prose, adding to the aura of the darkness in the village. The forest surrounding it and Kezia, a practicing Satanist, helped to build up the creepiness factor.
I wanted something more from the book, it didn't pull me into it. At places, I had to force myself to concentrate.
Overall, it was a fun read, well suited for Halloween.
Sylvia, the new psychologist in town, saw weird things happening around, and everyone seemed petrified. Soon it affected the people working with her. Was it a sickness or something more?
My first book by author Sarah England, and I liked how the white monk Burdo and his followers emerged into the prose. Evil was still lurking around, but this time it caught Sylvia unawares, especially when it came to the forefront to deal with her and her family. I liked her as the main character; she was relentless in her efforts to help people.
The writing was atmospheric, everything was kept in shadows. Horror and eeriness had a stranglehold on the prose, adding to the aura of the darkness in the village. The forest surrounding it and Kezia, a practicing Satanist, helped to build up the creepiness factor.
I wanted something more from the book, it didn't pull me into it. At places, I had to force myself to concentrate.
Overall, it was a fun read, well suited for Halloween.
March 26, 2020
This is the 5th book I have read from this wonderful author and I have loved each and every one of them. It started for me with the Father of Lies Trilogy then the follow on book The Owlmen. I absolutely love Sarah's books! Sarah writes about the occult so well and has a way of drawing you into a story with descriptions that make you feel like you are right there. Her stories are dark, gloomy and deliciously frightening and this one was no exception. If you enjoy occult horror then I highly recommend you read this book and everything else written by the talented Sarah England.
November 4, 2019
I have read a few of this author's books so I know that I can rely on her to deliver something rather spooky, scary and thrilling. I was not disappointed by this, her latest offering. Set in the forest village of Monkspike - the name alone starts to send chills - where rumours and myths are aplenty. Schoolchildren grow up learning of these tales of the past and fear them. From what happens in this book, their fears are well founded. Practice nurse, Brenda Sully's husband took his own life a few years ago. She and her children are still suffering the fallout from that event. Her son appears especially wounded by it all. Psychologist Sylvia, new in town has started to notice people in the village acting strange. And then, when you throw into the mix practising satanist Kezia, well, you have yourself a rather strange and scary ride which throws you back some 900 years when King Stephen ruled and punished all who wouldn't pay his taxes. But what really happened in those times and why are the repercussions still happening now.
This is a really rather convoluted book. There is so much going on with all of the richly described characters that I really had to have my wits about me all the way through. That's when I wasn't reading from behind a cushion. With all the lights on. In the daytime. It was all things scary and I had my heart in my mouth several times throughout. Holding my breath at times, especially when I heard the truth of what had happened in the past. Oh my days, it really was a different time then. And no wonder there are restless spirits abroad seeking, well, you'll have to read the book to see what happens there. No spoilers here.
What I really love about this author and her occult books is her obviously high standard of research into every aspect of whatever she is writing about. The hexes, the charms, the incantations and rituals that surround what is going on with the characters. And those characters were all very well drawn and each played their parts with aplomb.
But, with such a convoluted plot, spanning the years, there was a tendency for the narrative to run away with itself at times and there were a few parts that I had to back up to and re-read cos I got in a bit of a pickle. That might have been more me than the author but it did break the spell that the book had me under so it wasn't as fluid a read as I would have liked.
On the whole though, this was a gripping read that I did enjoy and which left me satisfied at its conclusion. I wonder what she will cook up next time...
This is a really rather convoluted book. There is so much going on with all of the richly described characters that I really had to have my wits about me all the way through. That's when I wasn't reading from behind a cushion. With all the lights on. In the daytime. It was all things scary and I had my heart in my mouth several times throughout. Holding my breath at times, especially when I heard the truth of what had happened in the past. Oh my days, it really was a different time then. And no wonder there are restless spirits abroad seeking, well, you'll have to read the book to see what happens there. No spoilers here.
What I really love about this author and her occult books is her obviously high standard of research into every aspect of whatever she is writing about. The hexes, the charms, the incantations and rituals that surround what is going on with the characters. And those characters were all very well drawn and each played their parts with aplomb.
But, with such a convoluted plot, spanning the years, there was a tendency for the narrative to run away with itself at times and there were a few parts that I had to back up to and re-read cos I got in a bit of a pickle. That might have been more me than the author but it did break the spell that the book had me under so it wasn't as fluid a read as I would have liked.
On the whole though, this was a gripping read that I did enjoy and which left me satisfied at its conclusion. I wonder what she will cook up next time...
December 8, 2019
Monkspike, as with all of Sarah's books, take you not only into the darkest parts of people's minds, but also their souls.
In the village of Monkspike people feel trapped and haunted by the presence of a ghostly monk. No one really knows who he is until a young man is possessed by him. The history of the village, and how it got it's name, is then revealed.
I really admire Sarah's way with words - her ability to put you in a dark, gloomy forest, or make you feel the fear of those affect by possession. She always gets it just right.
This is a dark occult thriller that is creepy, atmospheric, and very well thought out. One of my top reads of 2019.
In the village of Monkspike people feel trapped and haunted by the presence of a ghostly monk. No one really knows who he is until a young man is possessed by him. The history of the village, and how it got it's name, is then revealed.
I really admire Sarah's way with words - her ability to put you in a dark, gloomy forest, or make you feel the fear of those affect by possession. She always gets it just right.
This is a dark occult thriller that is creepy, atmospheric, and very well thought out. One of my top reads of 2019.
October 28, 2019
Author Sarah England has a particular flair for Occult Rural England Horror, with perpetually dark forests and tiny inbred villages, old folk tales with historical foundation, mystery, human evil, and Supernatural evil as well. I always feel reading her novels that I am peeking in on an environment where the sun never shines and where generation after generation slump under the weight of centuries of ancestral guilt and fear. The terror here is all the more intense because it's implacable.
February 8, 2025
This definitely seemed the sort of book I would like, so it is no surprise that its plot and atmosphere are what made it work for me. I feel the writing and the characters were okay but I struggled to really care about anybody in the book, likely because I prefer a poetic and highly descriptive tone to a conversational one, but that’s just me.
One thing that confused me is the idea of past lives; the entire Rivers family were described as being killed so how could Mark be a direct descendant of John, and therefore cursed? The same goes for Kezia—why her? She’s not a direct descendant of Kitty and there are other Morse family members. Or is that not how it works at all… I don’t know.
One thing that confused me is the idea of past lives; the entire Rivers family were described as being killed so how could Mark be a direct descendant of John, and therefore cursed? The same goes for Kezia—why her? She’s not a direct descendant of Kitty and there are other Morse family members. Or is that not how it works at all… I don’t know.
April 11, 2020
I’m never disappointed with the level of spooky chills in this author’s work & once again here is a brilliantly woven tale of witchcraft, superstition & ghostly goings on. England writes with an icy pen, turning the readers skin to freezing as they are pulled in to the story, a perfect fusion of historical myth & modern day beliefs. I’ve enjoyed this from start to finish & have already purchased my next read from this very talented dark writer.
November 12, 2019
As a member of TBC, I received a copy of Monkspike in exchange for an honest review.
A darkness descends in the small village of Monkspike. Quiet and cast in the shadows of a dark wood, at its epicenter lies a foreboding monument haunted for an age. Terrible things are rumored to happen there and for Sylvia, she’s made it her personal mission to find out exactly what that is. Physiological horror to twist your mind, this story is sure to keep you wondering exactly what is going on.
Which leads me to my critique of the story. It had all of the right necessary elements, character development and the like, but there were times navigating through the cycle of three POV’s that a certain sense of dread was not reached. The back and forth between characters was bit confusing at times. Character possession in this case was hard to follow. A few times I went back to read what was happening. Aside from this minor flare, the rest of the book delivered its superiority in what is expected in occult horror. Description and dialogue made you feel the surroundings all around you. Descriptions of the monastery were very gothic in nature and Burdo, the main spirit, was a horrific sight to behold all in itself.
I’ve read other works by Sarah and found them to be a real treat. I will admit I thoroughly enjoyed the cover art of this particular novel.
Thank you, Sarah, for providing a copy to read!
3 out of 5 stars.
F. D. Gross
A darkness descends in the small village of Monkspike. Quiet and cast in the shadows of a dark wood, at its epicenter lies a foreboding monument haunted for an age. Terrible things are rumored to happen there and for Sylvia, she’s made it her personal mission to find out exactly what that is. Physiological horror to twist your mind, this story is sure to keep you wondering exactly what is going on.
Which leads me to my critique of the story. It had all of the right necessary elements, character development and the like, but there were times navigating through the cycle of three POV’s that a certain sense of dread was not reached. The back and forth between characters was bit confusing at times. Character possession in this case was hard to follow. A few times I went back to read what was happening. Aside from this minor flare, the rest of the book delivered its superiority in what is expected in occult horror. Description and dialogue made you feel the surroundings all around you. Descriptions of the monastery were very gothic in nature and Burdo, the main spirit, was a horrific sight to behold all in itself.
I’ve read other works by Sarah and found them to be a real treat. I will admit I thoroughly enjoyed the cover art of this particular novel.
Thank you, Sarah, for providing a copy to read!
3 out of 5 stars.
F. D. Gross
November 5, 2019
Set in the Forest of Dean in the creepy (fictional) village of Monkspike, a dark and evil force has been unleashed in the form of a malevolent monk who wants revenge for some terrible events which occurred 900 years ago.
When I first started reading this book I felt a little confused as I didn’t really understand what was going on. Then it became clear about halfway through the story and was quite the rollercoaster from then on. It had me on the edge of my seat. It’s definitely a scary and nail biting tale. Burdo the monk is the stuff of nightmares, the author describes him so vividly! 😱. Some of the themes did remind me a little of Barbara Erskine’s work and could give Dennis Wheatley a good run for his money.
Atmospherically written with some fascinating characters, the air of menace and foreboding is alway apparent and kept me on my toes. I always know I’m in for a chilling and hair raising ride when reading a Sarah England book and this one is no exception. Disturbingly enjoyable - best read with the lights on! 👀😈😈
When I first started reading this book I felt a little confused as I didn’t really understand what was going on. Then it became clear about halfway through the story and was quite the rollercoaster from then on. It had me on the edge of my seat. It’s definitely a scary and nail biting tale. Burdo the monk is the stuff of nightmares, the author describes him so vividly! 😱. Some of the themes did remind me a little of Barbara Erskine’s work and could give Dennis Wheatley a good run for his money.
Atmospherically written with some fascinating characters, the air of menace and foreboding is alway apparent and kept me on my toes. I always know I’m in for a chilling and hair raising ride when reading a Sarah England book and this one is no exception. Disturbingly enjoyable - best read with the lights on! 👀😈😈
November 12, 2019
As a big horror fan, I was looking forward to reading this novel by Sarah England as I had not had the chance to read any of her previous books but knew of her name, and blimey........what an introduction to her work!
The story is set in the dark village of Monkspike, a place of history and myth and jumps between characters in different time settings. The author skilfully weaves the story together, building complex and interesting characters and a story that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat; or hiding behind the sofa.
An atmospheric, disturbing, dark story full of terror that has left me wanting more from this author
The story is set in the dark village of Monkspike, a place of history and myth and jumps between characters in different time settings. The author skilfully weaves the story together, building complex and interesting characters and a story that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat; or hiding behind the sofa.
An atmospheric, disturbing, dark story full of terror that has left me wanting more from this author
November 4, 2019
Sarah England is quickly becoming one of my favourite Authors and this book proves once again, why.
Set in strange village called Monkspike in the Forest of Dean, the atmosphere to this story is immediately dark and eerie with an air of desperation and poverty.
Many poor folk and sick folk live here as Sylvia and her Husband Mark soon find out, but the longer they stay, Sylvia who is very spiritual begins to unravel a horror that is affecting Monkspike to its very core.
The characters of this novel were well thought out and I got a feel for them, though the only people I really warmed to were the daughters of Bel and Sylvia, I’m not sure why, I just didn’t find the others very endearing.
However the plot was fast paced and spooky with a solid storyline involving the supernatural and human behaviour at its worse, the ending was satisfying and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Set in strange village called Monkspike in the Forest of Dean, the atmosphere to this story is immediately dark and eerie with an air of desperation and poverty.
Many poor folk and sick folk live here as Sylvia and her Husband Mark soon find out, but the longer they stay, Sylvia who is very spiritual begins to unravel a horror that is affecting Monkspike to its very core.
The characters of this novel were well thought out and I got a feel for them, though the only people I really warmed to were the daughters of Bel and Sylvia, I’m not sure why, I just didn’t find the others very endearing.
However the plot was fast paced and spooky with a solid storyline involving the supernatural and human behaviour at its worse, the ending was satisfying and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
November 28, 2019
A compulsive and thought provoking read!
This was a well written, dark and disturbing story. Black magic, racial memory, reincarnation, collective guilt and ghostly vengeance, haunting a village and it's inhabitants for nearly 900 years. A psychiatrist, who did not believe in the paranormal, and his psychologist wife, who most certainly did, bring this story to a satisfactory conclusion. Well recommended!
This was a well written, dark and disturbing story. Black magic, racial memory, reincarnation, collective guilt and ghostly vengeance, haunting a village and it's inhabitants for nearly 900 years. A psychiatrist, who did not believe in the paranormal, and his psychologist wife, who most certainly did, bring this story to a satisfactory conclusion. Well recommended!
April 7, 2020
I have a love-hate relationship with ghost stories. I love them, but they are the only type of horror story that truly spook me out! That's a good kind of hate, right? Well, this book succeeded. Normally, I read at night, in bed, in an effort to escape real life and actually be able to fall asleep. Yeah, well, not with this one. A few late nights ensued.
Monkspike, a small forest village, is haunted by its own history. 900 years ago, the monastery in the forest was the scene of a gruesome massacre. Every last monk living there was murdered, beheaded, and their heads stuck on spikes - hence where the village got its name. But that's not where it ended. Burdo, the White Monk, former Abbott of the monastery, is still hanging around, and he is really pissed!
This story revolves around a family, who have moved to Monkspike to start a new life; a local family who have suffered the tragedy of a suicide; and a local woman, involved in the dark arts of witchcraft. What happens is a story of revenge from the grave, evil spirits and evil people, and the struggle of good.
I loved the characters. They were very well developed, with just enough backstory to give some understanding to their motives and mentality without taking away from the present situation. There were a few extra characters who really didn't play a big part, but that was ok. The only negative I can really suggest is the ending. It didn't really wrap things up for me and left me with a few questions. Having said that, there was also a little tidbit of mystery left over, giving the author the option to continue into a sequel, although not essential. Overall, a great read, with a good amount of chills.
Monkspike, a small forest village, is haunted by its own history. 900 years ago, the monastery in the forest was the scene of a gruesome massacre. Every last monk living there was murdered, beheaded, and their heads stuck on spikes - hence where the village got its name. But that's not where it ended. Burdo, the White Monk, former Abbott of the monastery, is still hanging around, and he is really pissed!
This story revolves around a family, who have moved to Monkspike to start a new life; a local family who have suffered the tragedy of a suicide; and a local woman, involved in the dark arts of witchcraft. What happens is a story of revenge from the grave, evil spirits and evil people, and the struggle of good.
I loved the characters. They were very well developed, with just enough backstory to give some understanding to their motives and mentality without taking away from the present situation. There were a few extra characters who really didn't play a big part, but that was ok. The only negative I can really suggest is the ending. It didn't really wrap things up for me and left me with a few questions. Having said that, there was also a little tidbit of mystery left over, giving the author the option to continue into a sequel, although not essential. Overall, a great read, with a good amount of chills.
August 25, 2022
Something's not right in Monkspike. Set in the Forest of Dean in the village of Monkspike, a dark and evil force has been unleashed in the form of a malevolent monk who wants revenge for a terrible slaying which occurred 900 years ago. A local psychiatrist begin to sense that something is wrong with her coworker Belinda, who is grieving the death of her husband. Soon enough it spreads from Belinda to the people closest to her.
Is this just a grieving family or is it something more sinister going on?
This is the kind of occult horror I love, satanic rituals in a dark creepy forest, the haunted ruins of a monastery, mixed in with a witch's curse and demonic possessions.
Sadly, this feels more like a draft or something rather than a finished book because the writing is so poor, and there is so much that should have been taken out in editing. I had a hard time focusing, but it was a fast read. I almost DNFed at 20% but after reading about halfway it started picking up and the last bit of it was so creepy. There are definhtely passages in this book that are just Chefs Kiss, and will surely live on for a while in my mind.
tw: sexual assault/rape, death, torture, mental illness, suicide, violence and infidelity
Is this just a grieving family or is it something more sinister going on?
This is the kind of occult horror I love, satanic rituals in a dark creepy forest, the haunted ruins of a monastery, mixed in with a witch's curse and demonic possessions.
Sadly, this feels more like a draft or something rather than a finished book because the writing is so poor, and there is so much that should have been taken out in editing. I had a hard time focusing, but it was a fast read. I almost DNFed at 20% but after reading about halfway it started picking up and the last bit of it was so creepy. There are definhtely passages in this book that are just Chefs Kiss, and will surely live on for a while in my mind.
tw: sexual assault/rape, death, torture, mental illness, suicide, violence and infidelity
September 4, 2025
S.E. England delivers another unsettling slice of psychological and supernatural horror in MoonSpikes. This is a novella that feels like a fever dream—dark, strange, and deeply unnerving.
The story drops the reader into a hauntingly isolated setting where reality and delusion blur, and every page seems to tighten the grip of unease. England’s trademark style is here in full force: unreliable perspectives, disturbing imagery, and a creeping sense that something ancient and malevolent lurks just out of sight. The characters feel fractured and raw, their emotions feeding into the surreal nightmare atmosphere, and the prose itself has a lyrical, almost hypnotic quality that pulls you deeper into the madness.
What makes MoonSpikes stand out is its dreamlike structure. It doesn’t always play by conventional storytelling rules, but that’s what makes it so effective—it unsettles you because you’re never entirely sure where you are or what’s real. The result is a haunting read that feels both intimate and cosmic in its terror.
For fans of horror that leans more on atmosphere, folklore, and psychological dread than on gore or shock value, MoonSpikes is a chilling addition to S.E. England’s body of work. It’s short, sharp, and impossible to shake off.
The story drops the reader into a hauntingly isolated setting where reality and delusion blur, and every page seems to tighten the grip of unease. England’s trademark style is here in full force: unreliable perspectives, disturbing imagery, and a creeping sense that something ancient and malevolent lurks just out of sight. The characters feel fractured and raw, their emotions feeding into the surreal nightmare atmosphere, and the prose itself has a lyrical, almost hypnotic quality that pulls you deeper into the madness.
What makes MoonSpikes stand out is its dreamlike structure. It doesn’t always play by conventional storytelling rules, but that’s what makes it so effective—it unsettles you because you’re never entirely sure where you are or what’s real. The result is a haunting read that feels both intimate and cosmic in its terror.
For fans of horror that leans more on atmosphere, folklore, and psychological dread than on gore or shock value, MoonSpikes is a chilling addition to S.E. England’s body of work. It’s short, sharp, and impossible to shake off.
January 8, 2020
First, Sarah or S.E. England has written four of my favorite horror novels. Granted, all four of them were in the same basic universe, but they were incredible. I had an extremely hard time deciding how to review this book, because of a few things: the narrator, at first, is so atrocious, but I did finally get past that, it seemed to be a little short, and the ending felt strange to me. I loved 95% of the book and it would've gotten 5 Stars from me, but the ending changed everything.
The history incorporated in this book is incredible! The past lives and Sylvia's incredible gifts are so interesting and Ms. England is spectacular with historical horror and I think that it's worth it to read. It's such an amazing story and, after an email with the author, there's a chance that she'll revisit the town of Monkspike!!
Monkspike will receive a B- from me; again, it would've gotten an A without the ending, but it wasn't the WORST ending I've ever read.
If this is your first book by Ms. England, DO NOT GIVE UP ON HER BOOKS! She is so talented and such a sweetheart in her emails to fans.
January 8, 2020
I have taken a long time reading this book, why? to savour the delicious dark terrifying story..
After reading Sarah's other books, I knew I was in for a treat, Was I right? Oh yes, I haven't read anything as terrifying (occult wise) since the Exorcist.. Ghosts, possession, demons, all here in these. books by the Sarah England, the new Queen of Horror, Stephen King, eat your heart out, nothing you have written has scared me (apart from.IT) like these books , I've had nightmares, and read the lines between my fingers!' I can't wait the next one! if these were made into movies, I'd be first in.the queue!
After reading Sarah's other books, I knew I was in for a treat, Was I right? Oh yes, I haven't read anything as terrifying (occult wise) since the Exorcist.. Ghosts, possession, demons, all here in these. books by the Sarah England, the new Queen of Horror, Stephen King, eat your heart out, nothing you have written has scared me (apart from.IT) like these books , I've had nightmares, and read the lines between my fingers!' I can't wait the next one! if these were made into movies, I'd be first in.the queue!
August 20, 2021
I'm not sure if I was in the right frame of mind while reading this book, a lot was going on IRL. I had heard good things about the book but for me, it was a disappointing read and the ending was a let down.
Still, I did enjoy the background of the plot and the jumping back and forth through time to push along the story but overall, it was underwhelming. I really wanted to like it more than I did. I think I kept expecting something much more horrible to happen and it never did? So maybe my expectations were greater than they should have been?
#occulthorror #monks #witchery #pastandpresent
Still, I did enjoy the background of the plot and the jumping back and forth through time to push along the story but overall, it was underwhelming. I really wanted to like it more than I did. I think I kept expecting something much more horrible to happen and it never did? So maybe my expectations were greater than they should have been?
#occulthorror #monks #witchery #pastandpresent
February 1, 2020
Up to today every book I've read by this author have gripped me from the very first page to the very last page very addictive she has not disappointed me with Monkspike being the latest.
Be warned though this dark, shockingly terrifyingly creepy and very disturbing tale kept me enthralled all the way through. Not a book which shouldn't be read before turning in for the night. Loved the way it went from one era to the present day.
Some parts where hard to digest that is why I believe this is the darkest of her books so far. As always looking forward to the next dark and terrifyingly creepy book.
Well done Sarah E England you've outdone yourself outstanding read.
Be warned though this dark, shockingly terrifyingly creepy and very disturbing tale kept me enthralled all the way through. Not a book which shouldn't be read before turning in for the night. Loved the way it went from one era to the present day.
Some parts where hard to digest that is why I believe this is the darkest of her books so far. As always looking forward to the next dark and terrifyingly creepy book.
Well done Sarah E England you've outdone yourself outstanding read.
April 22, 2023
A good occult horror.
The first third was a slow burn for me, but after that the threat and horror begins and doesn’t let up.
What I really enjoyed about this occult horror has demons, witchcraft, possession and is laced with a back story over a 1000 years old that continues to haunt not just one person, but a whole town.
A good story with a big cast. One of my favourites being the creep Burdo - a white robed Monk (the one on the cover).
Definitely worth a read.
The first third was a slow burn for me, but after that the threat and horror begins and doesn’t let up.
What I really enjoyed about this occult horror has demons, witchcraft, possession and is laced with a back story over a 1000 years old that continues to haunt not just one person, but a whole town.
A good story with a big cast. One of my favourites being the creep Burdo - a white robed Monk (the one on the cover).
Definitely worth a read.
January 21, 2020
Monkspike is a great ghost storytelling. This was the first Novel of Sarah England's that I've read and she's one Hell of an Author and Story Teller. I wasn't really expecting to love this book from the first 100 pages, but Sarah has this way or building tension ass the story becomes more apparent.
March 23, 2020
Well apparently I’m supposed to sleep tonight but after finishing this book I’m not so sure.
Sarah has a way of delving into your brain like nothing I’ve known and finding those things that give you chills and a feeling you’re being watched!
I adore her books and can’t wait for Babba Lenka bring it on as well as sleeping with the lights on!!
Sarah has a way of delving into your brain like nothing I’ve known and finding those things that give you chills and a feeling you’re being watched!
I adore her books and can’t wait for Babba Lenka bring it on as well as sleeping with the lights on!!
March 27, 2020
Darkly atmospheric
Great book! Sarah England knows how to put you into her character's shoes. This story feels menacing from start to finish, with a few storylines coming together for a terrific ending. This is a tale that is better read in the daylight. Some scenes are genuinely creepy as hell. If you're a fan of satanic, or occult horror, you'll love this book!
Great book! Sarah England knows how to put you into her character's shoes. This story feels menacing from start to finish, with a few storylines coming together for a terrific ending. This is a tale that is better read in the daylight. Some scenes are genuinely creepy as hell. If you're a fan of satanic, or occult horror, you'll love this book!
April 11, 2020
Mixed feelings
I should have liked this book more. The premise was interesting, the writing itself was very good and I Iove stories set in England. I just found it tedious at times and for the most part not very scary given the subject. I found it hard to get caught up in the story and really didn't connect with any of the characters.
I should have liked this book more. The premise was interesting, the writing itself was very good and I Iove stories set in England. I just found it tedious at times and for the most part not very scary given the subject. I found it hard to get caught up in the story and really didn't connect with any of the characters.
April 15, 2020
Very dark and chilling read...
that is not for the faint of heart. I just couldn't put this one down. Gripping from the first chapter. A great book with great characters and a creepy atmosphere. I really want to know what happened to Sylvia though so hopefully there will be a sequel.
that is not for the faint of heart. I just couldn't put this one down. Gripping from the first chapter. A great book with great characters and a creepy atmosphere. I really want to know what happened to Sylvia though so hopefully there will be a sequel.
August 16, 2020
Spoliers
I felt like I was left hanging. I wanted to know how the battle went between Sylvia and burdo. You kinda get hints that things were resolved but I wanted to know the details. I like how everything was intertwined. The history of the town and what was happening. Past lives is a touchy subject.
I felt like I was left hanging. I wanted to know how the battle went between Sylvia and burdo. You kinda get hints that things were resolved but I wanted to know the details. I like how everything was intertwined. The history of the town and what was happening. Past lives is a touchy subject.
January 4, 2020
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes atmospheric mystery.
Loved this book and couldn't put it down,very well written. Big fan of the talented Sarah England would highly recommend.
Loved this book and couldn't put it down,very well written. Big fan of the talented Sarah England would highly recommend.
January 12, 2020
WoW
I've never read a book as quickly as I read this one. It's a book that you can't put down. As you read this book, you can actually see it in your mind. It would make a great film.
I've never read a book as quickly as I read this one. It's a book that you can't put down. As you read this book, you can actually see it in your mind. It would make a great film.
June 30, 2020
I really liked this. the author has a fantastic ability to paint a picture of dark and forboding places. It made me feel as though I'd been transported to a different time and place. Really good story.
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