What do you think?
Rate this book
Dead Remaining #2
Hidden Bones
Amazon Charts bestselling author Vivian Barz pits Susan Marlan and Eric Evans against a new menacing adversary in this suspenseful sequel to her acclaimed debut, Forgotten Bones.
Two months have passed, and the horrors of Death Farm still torment police officer Susan Marlan and college professor Eric Evans. Susan struggles to regain her zeal for fighting crime, while Eric is slowly coming to terms with his newfound “gift” of seeing the dead.
Seeking much-needed rest, Susan and Eric follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Washington State. But once they reach the cheerless town of Clancy, Eric’s murderous visions start again. Something seems wrong about the town and its aloof citizens—and suspicions turn to dread when members of Jake’s band go missing.
Eric, Susan, and Jake search deep in the dark forest of the Olympic Peninsula, where many have disappeared. But the harder they search, the less cooperative the locals become. As the case begins looking more like a murder investigation, the trio must work together to locate the lost and uncover chilling town secrets buried in the darkest of places.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2020
644 people are currently reading
2082 people want to read
About the author
Vivian Barz
4 books367 followersVivian Barz grew up on a farm in a small Northern Californian town with a population of less than three thousand. With plenty of fresh air and space to let her imagination run wild, she began penning mysteries at a young age. She kept writing, later studying English and film at the University of California, Irvine. She's always working on her next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 12, 2020
#NetGalley #ThomasandMercer #HiddenBones
"Careful, it sounds like you’re starting to drink the Kool-Aid,”
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz was an ok read. I thought it was written pretty well and flowed easily from one page to the next once it started moving. There were the main characters: Susan, a police officer, Eric, a psychic professor, and Jake, a former student of the professor.
I enjoyed how the main characters worked together to solve the mystery. I thought they interacted on a personal level. I liked the setting, in a town called Clancy, in rural Washington. I found it quite interesting, and frankly kind of creepy how the townspeople were so unwelcoming to them. I also really enjoyed the character Eric who was just beginning to come to accept his 'psychic' gift.
With that being said, this one did not do it for me. I felt it had so much potential but ultimately fell kind of flat.
Overall, I would recommend Hidden Bones, by Vivian Barz to mystery lovers who enjoy a light and easy quick read. It was just not for me. This was my first book by the author and I would be willing to try another.
"Careful, it sounds like you’re starting to drink the Kool-Aid,”
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz was an ok read. I thought it was written pretty well and flowed easily from one page to the next once it started moving. There were the main characters: Susan, a police officer, Eric, a psychic professor, and Jake, a former student of the professor.
I enjoyed how the main characters worked together to solve the mystery. I thought they interacted on a personal level. I liked the setting, in a town called Clancy, in rural Washington. I found it quite interesting, and frankly kind of creepy how the townspeople were so unwelcoming to them. I also really enjoyed the character Eric who was just beginning to come to accept his 'psychic' gift.
With that being said, this one did not do it for me. I felt it had so much potential but ultimately fell kind of flat.
Overall, I would recommend Hidden Bones, by Vivian Barz to mystery lovers who enjoy a light and easy quick read. It was just not for me. This was my first book by the author and I would be willing to try another.
November 10, 2020
#NetGalley #ThomasandMercer #HiddenBones
"Careful, it sounds like you’re starting to drink the Kool-Aid,”
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz was an ok read. I thought it was written pretty well and flowed easily from one page to the next once it started moving. There were the main characters: Susan, a police officer, Eric, a psychic professor, and Jake, a former student of the professor.
I enjoyed how the the main characters worked together to solve the mystery. I thought they interacted on a personal level. I liked the setting, in a town called Clancy, in rural Washington. I found it quite interesting, and frankly kind of creepy how the townspeople were so unwelcoming to them. I also really enjoyed the character Eric who was just beginning to come to accept his 'psychic' gift.
With that being said, this one did not do it for me. I felt it had so much potential but ultimately fell kind of flat.
Overall, I would recommend Hidden Bones, by Vivian Barz to mystery lovers who enjoy a light and easy quick read. It was just not for me. This was my first book by the author and I would be willing to try another.
"Careful, it sounds like you’re starting to drink the Kool-Aid,”
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz was an ok read. I thought it was written pretty well and flowed easily from one page to the next once it started moving. There were the main characters: Susan, a police officer, Eric, a psychic professor, and Jake, a former student of the professor.
I enjoyed how the the main characters worked together to solve the mystery. I thought they interacted on a personal level. I liked the setting, in a town called Clancy, in rural Washington. I found it quite interesting, and frankly kind of creepy how the townspeople were so unwelcoming to them. I also really enjoyed the character Eric who was just beginning to come to accept his 'psychic' gift.
With that being said, this one did not do it for me. I felt it had so much potential but ultimately fell kind of flat.
Overall, I would recommend Hidden Bones, by Vivian Barz to mystery lovers who enjoy a light and easy quick read. It was just not for me. This was my first book by the author and I would be willing to try another.
August 18, 2020
Hidden Bones is worth reading, but with a caveat. If you, like me, don't believe in psychics, you will have to suspend your disbelief. One of the main characters, Eric Evans, is a schizophrenic with psychic tendencies. In Hidden Bones, Eric, a college professor, and his girlfriend, Susan, a police officer, join Eric's former student, Jake and his band, on a trip to Seattle where they are doing a gig. For Eric and Susan it is a mini vacation away from Perrick, California, where some truly disturbing things happened to them in the first book in this series. For Jake it is a chance to visit Clancy, Washington, where the band has an on-the-way gig, because it is where his beloved Dylan Kincaid spy thrillers are set.
When they reach Clancy, however, they find a very strange town. People in Clancy seem to dislike outsiders. There are many empty houses. Most businesses have closed. There no people on the streets. Jake's band performs, and although they are becoming nationally well known, the response is less than ecstatic.
The next morning, Eric and Susan decide to go for a hike before they head for Seattle.. As they are hiking, Eric has an out of body experience in which he sees a murder from the point of view of the man being killed. Things go downhill quickly from there for Eric, Susan and Jake. Will they be able to leave Clancy with their lives? Who is behind the strange things going on in the small, desolate town?
Hidden Bones is a slightly above average mystery. Bartz writes well enough; I would read another of her books. Her characters are reasonably well developed, especially Eric, whose schizophrenia and psychic abilities are explored to some extent. The plot will keep you turning pages, if you can suspend any disbelief you may have. So, 3.5 stars. Recommended, with caveats.
Thank you to Vivian Bartz, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for the ARC of Hidden Bones in return for this honest review.
When they reach Clancy, however, they find a very strange town. People in Clancy seem to dislike outsiders. There are many empty houses. Most businesses have closed. There no people on the streets. Jake's band performs, and although they are becoming nationally well known, the response is less than ecstatic.
The next morning, Eric and Susan decide to go for a hike before they head for Seattle.. As they are hiking, Eric has an out of body experience in which he sees a murder from the point of view of the man being killed. Things go downhill quickly from there for Eric, Susan and Jake. Will they be able to leave Clancy with their lives? Who is behind the strange things going on in the small, desolate town?
Hidden Bones is a slightly above average mystery. Bartz writes well enough; I would read another of her books. Her characters are reasonably well developed, especially Eric, whose schizophrenia and psychic abilities are explored to some extent. The plot will keep you turning pages, if you can suspend any disbelief you may have. So, 3.5 stars. Recommended, with caveats.
Thank you to Vivian Bartz, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for the ARC of Hidden Bones in return for this honest review.
September 26, 2022
While i liked this book it was less thrilling than the 1st one in the paranormal department... it was still exciting and i liked the story so am planning on finishing the last book as it is a solid series.
May 18, 2020
Susan and Eric follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Washington State. But once they reach the cheerless town of Clancy, Eric’s murderous visions start again. Something seems wrong about the town and its aloof citizens—and suspicions turn to dread when members of Jake’s band go missing.
Eric, Susan, and Jake search deep in the dark forest of the Olympic Peninsula, where many have disappeared. But the harder they search, the less cooperative the locals become. As the case begins looking more like a murder investigation, the trio must work together to locate the lost and uncover chilling town secrets buried in the darkest of places.
The book started off so good! The prologue had me hooked but it just went downhill from there. This is the second book in this series and is NOT a standalone. I was so lost on half of the stuff with Eric and Susan because there was literally no backstory to help from book one to two. I felt that the 'visions' and seeing the dead stuff either needed to be amplified or just taken away; I just didn't feel it enough.
The story line was pretty good and if it had been written differently or more fully it would have been an incredible read. However, the end just left me hanging with the story. Like how was Gus in this whole thing? Who was the Sheriff's son? Where did Darla go? Or What happened to Darla? So many questions left unanswered.
Eric, Susan, and Jake search deep in the dark forest of the Olympic Peninsula, where many have disappeared. But the harder they search, the less cooperative the locals become. As the case begins looking more like a murder investigation, the trio must work together to locate the lost and uncover chilling town secrets buried in the darkest of places.
The book started off so good! The prologue had me hooked but it just went downhill from there. This is the second book in this series and is NOT a standalone. I was so lost on half of the stuff with Eric and Susan because there was literally no backstory to help from book one to two. I felt that the 'visions' and seeing the dead stuff either needed to be amplified or just taken away; I just didn't feel it enough.
The story line was pretty good and if it had been written differently or more fully it would have been an incredible read. However, the end just left me hanging with the story. Like how was Gus in this whole thing? Who was the Sheriff's son? Where did Darla go? Or What happened to Darla? So many questions left unanswered.
October 10, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz is the second book in the Dead Remaining series and YES, you must read the first book to understand this one! Easy to follow, just one timeline and no multiple POVs.
In the first book, we have a chance to get to know police officer Susan and college professor Eric Evans. In this book, they are working closely together and it's so enjoyable to follow their dynamics!
They both are exhausted by the events of Death Farm so they agree to follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Clancy, a creepy town in Washington State.
It was so nice to witness the development of their relationship. How they are learning about each other and things that are happening!
There is so much happening. Similar to the first book, they constantly hit their head on the brick wall! It's not easy to explain Eric's visions, and even harder is to attach them to an investigation!
I can't wait to dive into the third one!
Hidden Bones by Vivian Barz is the second book in the Dead Remaining series and YES, you must read the first book to understand this one! Easy to follow, just one timeline and no multiple POVs.
In the first book, we have a chance to get to know police officer Susan and college professor Eric Evans. In this book, they are working closely together and it's so enjoyable to follow their dynamics!
They both are exhausted by the events of Death Farm so they agree to follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Clancy, a creepy town in Washington State.
It was so nice to witness the development of their relationship. How they are learning about each other and things that are happening!
There is so much happening. Similar to the first book, they constantly hit their head on the brick wall! It's not easy to explain Eric's visions, and even harder is to attach them to an investigation!
I can't wait to dive into the third one!
April 18, 2020
Hidden Bones Review
2 stars.
Vivian Barz’ thriller has some interesting ideas and dark, horror-influenced sequences but is let down by clunky dialogue and unconvincing characters.
Hidden Bones starts with an excellently chilly prologue where a corpse is hidden beneath the roots of a tree. This opening sets the tone well and helps establish some key plot points about a sinister crime organisation. The first couple of chapters build on this strong start and allude to the events of the previous book in the series in a way that is not too jarring for readers like myself who approached Hidden Bones as a stand-alone novel.
Barz has crafted an intriguing plot featuring a missing person case and the story jumps between a number of subplots which help keep the narrative engaging. However, the rising tension is often undermined by the characters making stupid jokes that seem out of place given the stressful situation that they are in. Additionally, too many chapters in the middle of the book feature unnatural dialogue where characters stand around and explain the plot to each other.
The descriptions of the scenary are elegantly written but the dialogue routinely ruins the atmosphere. An early example of this is Chapter 5 where a sinister mood is created through the behaviour of the locals in the town of Clancy. The tone is abruptly ruined by the characters commenting on how unsafe the town is for tourists. I would have preferred it if the writer trusted the reader to be able to make inferences from the descriptions rather than have the characters tell the audience how they should be feeling at every point in the story.
The dialogue so frustrating because it lets down the parts of the story which are genuinely great. Eric has psychic powers and although this supernatural element is introduced in a slightly over-the-top way for people who are unfamiliar with the series so far, his horrifying visions are a real highlight of the novel.
Hidden Bones has some major flaws in terms of its dialogue and uninteresting characters but the fast-paced plot and well written descriptions kept me mostly engaged throughout the story.
2 stars.
Vivian Barz’ thriller has some interesting ideas and dark, horror-influenced sequences but is let down by clunky dialogue and unconvincing characters.
Hidden Bones starts with an excellently chilly prologue where a corpse is hidden beneath the roots of a tree. This opening sets the tone well and helps establish some key plot points about a sinister crime organisation. The first couple of chapters build on this strong start and allude to the events of the previous book in the series in a way that is not too jarring for readers like myself who approached Hidden Bones as a stand-alone novel.
Barz has crafted an intriguing plot featuring a missing person case and the story jumps between a number of subplots which help keep the narrative engaging. However, the rising tension is often undermined by the characters making stupid jokes that seem out of place given the stressful situation that they are in. Additionally, too many chapters in the middle of the book feature unnatural dialogue where characters stand around and explain the plot to each other.
The descriptions of the scenary are elegantly written but the dialogue routinely ruins the atmosphere. An early example of this is Chapter 5 where a sinister mood is created through the behaviour of the locals in the town of Clancy. The tone is abruptly ruined by the characters commenting on how unsafe the town is for tourists. I would have preferred it if the writer trusted the reader to be able to make inferences from the descriptions rather than have the characters tell the audience how they should be feeling at every point in the story.
The dialogue so frustrating because it lets down the parts of the story which are genuinely great. Eric has psychic powers and although this supernatural element is introduced in a slightly over-the-top way for people who are unfamiliar with the series so far, his horrifying visions are a real highlight of the novel.
Hidden Bones has some major flaws in terms of its dialogue and uninteresting characters but the fast-paced plot and well written descriptions kept me mostly engaged throughout the story.
April 2, 2020
Two months have passed, and the horrors of Death Farm still torment police officer Susan Marlan and college professor Eric Evans. Susan struggles to regain her zeal for fighting crime, while Eric is slowly coming to terms with his newfound “gift” of seeing the dead.
Seeking much-needed rest, Susan and Eric follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Washington State. But once they reach the cheerless town of Clancy, Eric’s murderous visions start again. Something seems wrong about the town and its aloof citizens, and suspicions turn to dread when members of Jake’s band go missing.
Eric, Susan, and Jake search deep in the dark forest of the Olympic Peninsula, where many have disappeared. But the harder they search, the less cooperative the locals become. As the case begins looking more like a murder investigation, the trio must work together to locate the lost and uncover chilling town secrets buried in the darkest of places.
This is the second book in the Dead Remaining series, I loved the premise of it when I read the first one and this one was on par with that one. It starts off a little slow like the first book but I really liked it. A few twists I didn't see coming and I like the growth the 2 main characters showed in this book. I also have a soft spot for Jake, hoping he continues throughout the series! You don't have to read the first one to enjoy this one but it will help with a few references, i.e. The Death Farm.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Seeking much-needed rest, Susan and Eric follow their musician friend Jake and his band to Washington State. But once they reach the cheerless town of Clancy, Eric’s murderous visions start again. Something seems wrong about the town and its aloof citizens, and suspicions turn to dread when members of Jake’s band go missing.
Eric, Susan, and Jake search deep in the dark forest of the Olympic Peninsula, where many have disappeared. But the harder they search, the less cooperative the locals become. As the case begins looking more like a murder investigation, the trio must work together to locate the lost and uncover chilling town secrets buried in the darkest of places.
This is the second book in the Dead Remaining series, I loved the premise of it when I read the first one and this one was on par with that one. It starts off a little slow like the first book but I really liked it. A few twists I didn't see coming and I like the growth the 2 main characters showed in this book. I also have a soft spot for Jake, hoping he continues throughout the series! You don't have to read the first one to enjoy this one but it will help with a few references, i.e. The Death Farm.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
November 11, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the second book in the Dead Remaining series by Vivian Barz.
It took me a few chapters before I got a good idea who the main characters of this story were. Even though the police officer usually leads a story like this, I felt like the teacher, Eric was way more compelling. I loved his uneasiness with his new psychic gift and how it might affect his relationship with Susan.
The story was a bit of a mind-bender but that doesn’t mean it was bad. You just really need to pay attention to all the players and what is going on to get anything out of this. Definitely a great read that I completely enjoyed.
I will look into book one and see how that differs from this one. I look forward to see where the story goes from here. I am surely intrigued.
If you love a good police procedural, detective fiction mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the second book in the Dead Remaining series by Vivian Barz.
It took me a few chapters before I got a good idea who the main characters of this story were. Even though the police officer usually leads a story like this, I felt like the teacher, Eric was way more compelling. I loved his uneasiness with his new psychic gift and how it might affect his relationship with Susan.
The story was a bit of a mind-bender but that doesn’t mean it was bad. You just really need to pay attention to all the players and what is going on to get anything out of this. Definitely a great read that I completely enjoyed.
I will look into book one and see how that differs from this one. I look forward to see where the story goes from here. I am surely intrigued.
If you love a good police procedural, detective fiction mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
April 20, 2020
This is book 2 in the series (I read and reviewed book 1 previously on netgalley). Sad to say, this one didn’t do it for me. Whether I’ve read too much between book 1 and 2, or I forgot too much of book 1 ... I didn’t care for the characters at all this time. The paranormal aspect was too much - it seemed irrelevant - just something added that was unnecessary. It didn’t really add any dynamic to the characters or the storyline, if anything, it took away from the story.
That being said, I think the story itself has lots of potential. I figured out the villain early on so not much of a surprise there, Unfortunately, for me, this book was just ok. I probably will not continue to read this series.
Can’t like them all. Thank you #netgalley and #thomasandmercer for the eARC.
That being said, I think the story itself has lots of potential. I figured out the villain early on so not much of a surprise there, Unfortunately, for me, this book was just ok. I probably will not continue to read this series.
Can’t like them all. Thank you #netgalley and #thomasandmercer for the eARC.
August 11, 2020
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This book was such a disappointment! I have not read book #1 so I don't know if that affected my opinion. This book is wordy and skips all over place, unable to keep track of what's happening when and with whom. I'm sure there are others in the reading world that will make up for my dislike. I WAS UNABLE TO FINISH THIS BOOK! 📚
December 30, 2020
Four friends on a road trip culminating in a music festival stop off at a small town. Susan and Eric both have a lot to put behind them - Susan her last episode with crime and dead bodies and Eric with his new found ability to see the dead.
When Madison and Clark two of their group go missing, and when the Chief of Police in this town scoffs at the idea of there being foul play the remaining members know that it is upto them to undertake a search operation for their friends.
The entire town of Clancy is downright antagonistic and in several instances dangerous. Their room has been vandalized, all their equipment damaged beyond repair, they've been threatened by goons in the town but they still are adamant they will not leave till they find out what has happened to their friends.
Getting information from the FBI and using that as well to their advantage, they discover a trail of drugs, intimidation by the mayor who was not averse to using blackmail to get the town to do what she wants, they discover so much murder and mayhem and sadly the dead bodies of their two friends.
The atmosphere of the book was always antaganostic and tense. The physical surroundings of Clancy added to the general weirdness weighing down the town.
When Madison and Clark two of their group go missing, and when the Chief of Police in this town scoffs at the idea of there being foul play the remaining members know that it is upto them to undertake a search operation for their friends.
The entire town of Clancy is downright antagonistic and in several instances dangerous. Their room has been vandalized, all their equipment damaged beyond repair, they've been threatened by goons in the town but they still are adamant they will not leave till they find out what has happened to their friends.
Getting information from the FBI and using that as well to their advantage, they discover a trail of drugs, intimidation by the mayor who was not averse to using blackmail to get the town to do what she wants, they discover so much murder and mayhem and sadly the dead bodies of their two friends.
The atmosphere of the book was always antaganostic and tense. The physical surroundings of Clancy added to the general weirdness weighing down the town.
April 21, 2025
"Hidden Bones" by Vivian Barz is a thrilling read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The suspense builds beautifully, pulling you deeper into the story with each turn of the page. I thoroughly enjoyed following the characters on their journey as they navigate a world filled with corruption and chaos. Barz has a skillful way of unfolding the narrative slowly, which allows tension to rise and engages you even more. Overall, a captivating continuation that leaves you eager for what comes next!
November 2, 2024
Wow! What a truly horrible experience these friends lived through. I always get mad when the bad guys make it impossible for regular people to get any justice. But eventually they usually get what they deserve….don’t they?!? This was a wild, scary, and ultimately sad adventure and another enjoyable addition to the series.
November 4, 2021
I’m really glad I found this series! The characters are great. Storyline starts shortly after where Forgotten Bones left readers. Eric and Susan take a vacation but find themselves in a strange town surrounded by even more strange townsfolk. Mystery, tension, and suspense are literally found with every step! Can’t wait to read the third installment.
August 24, 2020
Review to come
November 13, 2023
Probably like a 3.5? I kept zoning out, idk if it was me or the book.
September 2, 2024
Well developed characters, love the slightly spooky psychic twist, will continue series!
August 21, 2020
No..just no
I am sorry..I hate to sy this,but the book was..not good, told badly and hard to read..intellectually simple..sorry I really wanted to like it
I am sorry..I hate to sy this,but the book was..not good, told badly and hard to read..intellectually simple..sorry I really wanted to like it
August 25, 2020
Just as with Forgotten Bones, Hidden Bones draws you in from the first page. It had been a while since I read the first book in this series, but Ms. Barz makes sure you are kept up to speed without being heavy handed about it, which is quite refreshing. There is no long spiel about how in the previous book this, this and this happened, but it is gracefully weaved into the story organically.
And speaking of organic, the writing, itself, is spectacular. The descriptions make you feel as if you are in the moment with the characters Jake, Susan, and Eric. I felt completely immersed while reading! There were also unintentional Easter eggs to my own background in there which were very fun! Getting to understand and know the places spoken of in the novel really brought me into it that much more!
Eric, in this novel, seems like he is getting a handle on his ability. He is not as afraid of it as he was in Forgotten Bones which is amazing! So often, people may be inclined to fall back into the trope of fear and anguish when experiencing something new, but in Hidden Bones, he is written with care along with his fear. He does not use his fear as a crutch, but a motivation.
Susan is the kind of badass I aspire to be. She knows her shit and calls people out on theirs whenever she sees it, even if it puts her in an awkward position. She has trauma she is healing from, but, again, does not use that trauma as a crutch to fall back on. She is actively trying to push through it.
Jake is my favorite. His sarcasm kills me every time he talks, and his love of his friends and his music give him a beautifully human aspect to his personality. He is well rounded and endearing. I would love to have him as a friend!
The plot was fantastic. It felt too short, only because I wanted to stay in the world longer, though the story itself played out in just the right amount of space. Pacing was excellent! I felt on the edge of my seat from the beginning, especially when the dark stuff started happening! It was almost as if I was watching a movie while reading it, though far better and far more intricate than a movie like this could be. Each moment was so full of a charged energy, even in the more peaceful and fun moments, that electricity was still there, which was, in my opinion, phenomenal. In any kind of thriller book, I want to be forced in that uncomfortable, uneasy emotion.
Genuinely, I adored this book and cannot wait until the next Dead Remaining book comes out!
Congratulations to Vivian for her beautiful book!
And speaking of organic, the writing, itself, is spectacular. The descriptions make you feel as if you are in the moment with the characters Jake, Susan, and Eric. I felt completely immersed while reading! There were also unintentional Easter eggs to my own background in there which were very fun! Getting to understand and know the places spoken of in the novel really brought me into it that much more!
Eric, in this novel, seems like he is getting a handle on his ability. He is not as afraid of it as he was in Forgotten Bones which is amazing! So often, people may be inclined to fall back into the trope of fear and anguish when experiencing something new, but in Hidden Bones, he is written with care along with his fear. He does not use his fear as a crutch, but a motivation.
Susan is the kind of badass I aspire to be. She knows her shit and calls people out on theirs whenever she sees it, even if it puts her in an awkward position. She has trauma she is healing from, but, again, does not use that trauma as a crutch to fall back on. She is actively trying to push through it.
Jake is my favorite. His sarcasm kills me every time he talks, and his love of his friends and his music give him a beautifully human aspect to his personality. He is well rounded and endearing. I would love to have him as a friend!
The plot was fantastic. It felt too short, only because I wanted to stay in the world longer, though the story itself played out in just the right amount of space. Pacing was excellent! I felt on the edge of my seat from the beginning, especially when the dark stuff started happening! It was almost as if I was watching a movie while reading it, though far better and far more intricate than a movie like this could be. Each moment was so full of a charged energy, even in the more peaceful and fun moments, that electricity was still there, which was, in my opinion, phenomenal. In any kind of thriller book, I want to be forced in that uncomfortable, uneasy emotion.
Genuinely, I adored this book and cannot wait until the next Dead Remaining book comes out!
Congratulations to Vivian for her beautiful book!
March 9, 2021
To say that Vivian Barz' book, Forgotten Bones, was a nail-biter is an understatement. Hidden Bones continues with many of the same characters (to my delight) and she also introduces several new ones. It maintained the feeling of suspense throughout although not to the same degree (for me, that is). I enjoyed reading about the continuing lives of old characters but it was not fun seeing what kind of trouble was brewing for them in Hidden Bones. Alas, that very thing leads to the suspenseful theme throughout. This was not a book I had received from Goodreads or any publisher, but one that I had purchased because I liked Forgotten Bones so much. The theme was horrific, and the surprises kept coming, but I didn't like it as much as the first one. I have pre-ordered the third book in the series, Campus Bones, and I do hope I have come to "love" the entire series once again. There is no graphic sexual content although some of the scenes are rather gory. The suspense starts almost immediately and continues until the last page. I would say that this would be for mainly mature audiences due to the nature of the horror. Good, but not great. Reads quickly.
November 4, 2020
I wanted to like this novel, but if I am being honest... I was not too impressed. Although it is not one of the worst books I have read and I did finish the novel, it was just lacking.
Compared to the first book, there was just something a bit off about this particular novel. I cannot quite put my finger on it, but to me it seemed a bit rushed as well as... just bland to me. I feel like this novel could have been more that it was.
The first chapter of the book just confused me and I was unsure as to what I was getting into. Although I understand it a bit more now after I finished reading the book, I had to ask why? Why did the author write the first chapter of the book like that, but then not include it further on in the novel or even the plot? Why? It would have been more beneficial if it had just been excluded entirely or even from a different point of view. I just simply do not understand.
Eric and Jake were my favorite characters out of the trio, but during the entirety of the book, I just had to keep asking why? There is only so much stupidity I can take and I ended up asking many questions about why did the author choose to go this direction when they could have played a much smarter role. Both Jake and Susan could have made smarter choices and I just had to ask, if I was in this situation, especially in the role of police officer, it would have gone much different.
It is not the psychic role, although I do not believe in them, that baffled me. I love having a bit of paranormal things spattered throughout the novel, it was the down to earth choices that a normal person would have made instead of going the opposite direction that the characters decided that had me confounded. The realistic parts to me were not very realistic.
Warning spoiler next:
For example, why didn't Jake go to the media? I can understand being hesitant on it at first, trying to save face with the locals, but after the way that they were treated, he should have gone all over social media and brought it to peoples attention. If it was something in real life, that would be posted everywhere including the treatment of the town folk.
Also, I know that Susan is not in her jurisdiction as a police officer, but the way that she handled things, like really? It could have been handled so much better if she had called the FBI earlier or just someone for some tips and information. Maybe that is just the true crime junkie that I am coming out, but the way that things were handled did not just seem real to me. The big one is Jake not going to social media or even informing his missing friend's parents. It just irked me.
Compared to the first book, there was just something a bit off about this particular novel. I cannot quite put my finger on it, but to me it seemed a bit rushed as well as... just bland to me. I feel like this novel could have been more that it was.
The first chapter of the book just confused me and I was unsure as to what I was getting into. Although I understand it a bit more now after I finished reading the book, I had to ask why? Why did the author write the first chapter of the book like that, but then not include it further on in the novel or even the plot? Why? It would have been more beneficial if it had just been excluded entirely or even from a different point of view. I just simply do not understand.
Eric and Jake were my favorite characters out of the trio, but during the entirety of the book, I just had to keep asking why? There is only so much stupidity I can take and I ended up asking many questions about why did the author choose to go this direction when they could have played a much smarter role. Both Jake and Susan could have made smarter choices and I just had to ask, if I was in this situation, especially in the role of police officer, it would have gone much different.
It is not the psychic role, although I do not believe in them, that baffled me. I love having a bit of paranormal things spattered throughout the novel, it was the down to earth choices that a normal person would have made instead of going the opposite direction that the characters decided that had me confounded. The realistic parts to me were not very realistic.
Warning spoiler next:
For example, why didn't Jake go to the media? I can understand being hesitant on it at first, trying to save face with the locals, but after the way that they were treated, he should have gone all over social media and brought it to peoples attention. If it was something in real life, that would be posted everywhere including the treatment of the town folk.
Also, I know that Susan is not in her jurisdiction as a police officer, but the way that she handled things, like really? It could have been handled so much better if she had called the FBI earlier or just someone for some tips and information. Maybe that is just the true crime junkie that I am coming out, but the way that things were handled did not just seem real to me. The big one is Jake not going to social media or even informing his missing friend's parents. It just irked me.
November 7, 2020
Another wild - and ghostly - ride with this book! As Eric and Susan head off to a creepy town named Clancy to see Jake and husband perform, things get deadly fast.
I think the positives to this book lay in the fact that there is deception at every turn and it’s hard to know just who’s out to get you and who’s not. The creepy factor is a moderate 5 out of 10 for me I think? Not in a bad way. I thought it was just a about right though there could have been more?
The things I was less pleased about star with the dialogue. It just didn’t fit. It’s hard to explain but it felt odd and clunky, not logical most times, and a bit off putting at others. I also felt like it was a bit too drawn out to get to the conclusion abs Susan was far too trusting for the majesty (for a cop at least).
It was a good read filled with “hum, what’s going to happen” thoughts, but I did find myself skipping pages in parts where I felt like the story wasn’t progressing or was a little to unbelievable.
If you like slightly creepy mysteries and paranormal aspects, this may just be the book for you!
!There is a fair bit of language in this one.
* I received a copy of this book from the author, I was in no way influenced to leave this review. All opinions are my own.
I think the positives to this book lay in the fact that there is deception at every turn and it’s hard to know just who’s out to get you and who’s not. The creepy factor is a moderate 5 out of 10 for me I think? Not in a bad way. I thought it was just a about right though there could have been more?
The things I was less pleased about star with the dialogue. It just didn’t fit. It’s hard to explain but it felt odd and clunky, not logical most times, and a bit off putting at others. I also felt like it was a bit too drawn out to get to the conclusion abs Susan was far too trusting for the majesty (for a cop at least).
It was a good read filled with “hum, what’s going to happen” thoughts, but I did find myself skipping pages in parts where I felt like the story wasn’t progressing or was a little to unbelievable.
If you like slightly creepy mysteries and paranormal aspects, this may just be the book for you!
!There is a fair bit of language in this one.
* I received a copy of this book from the author, I was in no way influenced to leave this review. All opinions are my own.
June 22, 2021
This was so exciting that I just couldn’t put the book down!
An unlikely pair teams up to investigate a brutal murder in a haunting thriller that walks the line between reality and impossibility. Truly an interesting who-dun-it!
When small-town police officers discover the grave of a young boy, they’re quick to pin the crime on a convicted criminal who lives nearby.
But when it comes to murder, Officer Susan Marlan never trusts a simple explanation, so she’s just getting started.
Meanwhile, college professor Eric Evans hallucinates a young boy in overalls and a horse: a symptom of his schizophrenia - or so he thinks. But when more bodies turn up, Eric has more visions, and they mirror details of the murder case.
As the investigation continues, the police stick with their original conclusion, but Susan’s instincts tell her something is off. The higher-ups keep stonewalling her, and the FBI’s closing in.
Desperate for answers, Susan goes rogue and turns to Eric for help. Together they take an unorthodox approach to the case as the evidence keeps getting stranger.
With Eric’s hallucinations intensifying and the body count rising, it is quite difficult to separate truth from illusion long enough to catch the monster.
An unlikely pair teams up to investigate a brutal murder in a haunting thriller that walks the line between reality and impossibility. Truly an interesting who-dun-it!
When small-town police officers discover the grave of a young boy, they’re quick to pin the crime on a convicted criminal who lives nearby.
But when it comes to murder, Officer Susan Marlan never trusts a simple explanation, so she’s just getting started.
Meanwhile, college professor Eric Evans hallucinates a young boy in overalls and a horse: a symptom of his schizophrenia - or so he thinks. But when more bodies turn up, Eric has more visions, and they mirror details of the murder case.
As the investigation continues, the police stick with their original conclusion, but Susan’s instincts tell her something is off. The higher-ups keep stonewalling her, and the FBI’s closing in.
Desperate for answers, Susan goes rogue and turns to Eric for help. Together they take an unorthodox approach to the case as the evidence keeps getting stranger.
With Eric’s hallucinations intensifying and the body count rising, it is quite difficult to separate truth from illusion long enough to catch the monster.
April 12, 2020
*** ARC provided by Netgalley via the publisher in exchange for an honest review. ***
Chuck, Madison and Jake are all part of a music band.
Susan is a local cop and Eric is a professor at the community college. Eric is a clairvoyant/schizophrenic who aided in the investigation of the death farm and has received a lot of attention based on this. He is offered a respite by his music band friends to go on tour with them for the summer. Susan has received a lot of harrassment because of Eric's death farm/clairvoyant involvement so she is up for the road trip.
This story is filled with characters ranging from a cop to a clairvoyant to a music band all wrapped up in a small town with sketchy townspeople who are hiding a secret. When two of their friends go missing, the remaining three band together and use their skills to combat a crooked cop, shady mayor and sketchy ranger all wrapped around townspeople who are either 'with' them or too scared to go against them.
There’s action packed in every chapter of this book and it’s awesome; there’s never a dull moment. I would definitely read more of Barz’s stories and highly recommend this one.
Chuck, Madison and Jake are all part of a music band.
Susan is a local cop and Eric is a professor at the community college. Eric is a clairvoyant/schizophrenic who aided in the investigation of the death farm and has received a lot of attention based on this. He is offered a respite by his music band friends to go on tour with them for the summer. Susan has received a lot of harrassment because of Eric's death farm/clairvoyant involvement so she is up for the road trip.
This story is filled with characters ranging from a cop to a clairvoyant to a music band all wrapped up in a small town with sketchy townspeople who are hiding a secret. When two of their friends go missing, the remaining three band together and use their skills to combat a crooked cop, shady mayor and sketchy ranger all wrapped around townspeople who are either 'with' them or too scared to go against them.
There’s action packed in every chapter of this book and it’s awesome; there’s never a dull moment. I would definitely read more of Barz’s stories and highly recommend this one.
May 9, 2020
Hidden Bones is my first book by this author and is the second book in a series but I did not have trouble catching up with the gist of the original story. On leave after a horrible past case, police officer Susan Marlan and college professor Eric Evans are looking for a good time by following their friend's band to a small town called Clancy for a concert. Eric is struggling to decide if he believes in his psychic like premonitions or to contribute the things he sees to his schizophrenia. The town of Clancy is steeped in secrets and its people are not welcoming. The forest seems to make people disappear. The suspense is good and the story flows quickly but I find the ending annoying as all get out. The whodunit is so obvious its like watching the Scooby gang unmask the bad guy for the protagonists to finally figure it all out, not real great for a hotshot cop and a psychic. Overall, I liked the characters but I wished the psychic bit was played up a bit more but I would read more in this series. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy from Netgalley.
October 7, 2020
Hidden Bones was a thrilling and easy to follow book. However, unlike the first book, Forgotten Bones, this one was more thriller/crime and less creepy/supernatural. Still, it was an enjoyable read was hard to put down. Vivian Barz does a good job giving you just enough information to keep you reading from chapter to chapter, and she has made characters that are likable. Susan, and Eric make a great team, and the addition of Jake and his quick wit make the book much more enjoyable.
The books does have its flaws, much like the first one; some predictability and a bit of a slow start, but nothing too big to make me walk away from the book. I also wish Eric’s “powers” were more present in this book (something that hooked me in the first one), and that there was more supernatural occurrences outside of Eric's gift, which we got a taste of at the end. But at the end of the day, it was an entertaining read, worth investing time in if you’re looking for something fun and easy to read. I cannot wait to see what Susan and Eric (and maybe Jake?), will come up against in the third book!
The books does have its flaws, much like the first one; some predictability and a bit of a slow start, but nothing too big to make me walk away from the book. I also wish Eric’s “powers” were more present in this book (something that hooked me in the first one), and that there was more supernatural occurrences outside of Eric's gift, which we got a taste of at the end. But at the end of the day, it was an entertaining read, worth investing time in if you’re looking for something fun and easy to read. I cannot wait to see what Susan and Eric (and maybe Jake?), will come up against in the third book!
November 11, 2023
I borrowed this title in Kindle Unlimited Read and Listen for Free, and listened to it in the Audible app.
Again, this installment is beautifully narrated\performed by Julie McKay.
I can happily report that the MMC, Eric's, failed marriage does not feature in this book.
The story was interesting, but Eric, Susan and their friend Jake, find themselves being stonewalled by authorities in a small Washington town while searching for Jake's bandmates who go missing after playing a gig at the local tavern. While the characters are being given the runaround by locals, the story spun its wheels to some extent until picking back up closer to the conclusion. It felt like there was a fair bit of retracing steps and confronting the same characters repeatedly. I suspect that McKay's voice acting chops helped keep my interest better than reading may have. The dialogue between characters is well executed (and well-performed by McKay), which helps smooth over slow parts. I enjoyed the listen.
Again, this installment is beautifully narrated\performed by Julie McKay.
I can happily report that the MMC, Eric's, failed marriage does not feature in this book.
The story was interesting, but Eric, Susan and their friend Jake, find themselves being stonewalled by authorities in a small Washington town while searching for Jake's bandmates who go missing after playing a gig at the local tavern. While the characters are being given the runaround by locals, the story spun its wheels to some extent until picking back up closer to the conclusion. It felt like there was a fair bit of retracing steps and confronting the same characters repeatedly. I suspect that McKay's voice acting chops helped keep my interest better than reading may have. The dialogue between characters is well executed (and well-performed by McKay), which helps smooth over slow parts. I enjoyed the listen.
August 28, 2020
This is an interesting psychic mystery. Eric is a schizophrenic who in the first book in the series, "Forgotten Bones", begins to have visions of the dead. He has difficulty separating his ability from his disease. In "Hidden Bones" he has come to grips with his visions, but is extremely cautious about revealing them. He only really trusts his new girlfriend Susan. She is a police officer who has seen his ability work, yet still has doubts. She knows there is something there, she just doesn't quite know how to deal with it. Ms. Barz keeps a nice balance between the paranormal and straight mystery parts of her book, not letting either take over the story. Although there are clear differences, this reminds me of the television show "Perception" which I enjoyed. I enjoyed this book very much and recommend it if you like your mystery with a slight twist of the paranormal. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
November 9, 2020
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway! Thanks Goodreads!
It wasn't great, but it wasn't bad, and it was a good 2020 escape read. It's the second in a series featuring Eric, a geology professor with schizophrenia, who is learning he is also psychic, and his girlfriend Susan, a police detective. Still reeling from the events of the first story (which I have not read), Eric and Susan seek a relaxing escape as they travel with a friend and his band to a small Washington town, but they quickly find themselves again entangled in mystery and danger. I thought the story was well-constructed while approaching implausible in the way mystery novels should. I liked how Eric is portrayed as a reluctant psychic while he begins to trust his visions, and I think we are supposed to believe that the schizophrenia is a misdiagnosis of psychic experiences. But I felt no romantic connection between Eric and Susan, and the book was lacking in character development overall.
It wasn't great, but it wasn't bad, and it was a good 2020 escape read. It's the second in a series featuring Eric, a geology professor with schizophrenia, who is learning he is also psychic, and his girlfriend Susan, a police detective. Still reeling from the events of the first story (which I have not read), Eric and Susan seek a relaxing escape as they travel with a friend and his band to a small Washington town, but they quickly find themselves again entangled in mystery and danger. I thought the story was well-constructed while approaching implausible in the way mystery novels should. I liked how Eric is portrayed as a reluctant psychic while he begins to trust his visions, and I think we are supposed to believe that the schizophrenia is a misdiagnosis of psychic experiences. But I felt no romantic connection between Eric and Susan, and the book was lacking in character development overall.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews