The Poe Consequence

by Keith Steinbaum

After the death of an innocent bystander in a drive-by shooting, the two rival street gangs responsible for his murder soon face an Edgar Allan Poe inspired vow of revenge from beyond the grave.

Genres: Horror, Thriller

313 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 28, 2017

About the author

THE POE CONSEQUENCE:

WINNER - 2021 Book Excellence Awards for Best Fiction novel

WINNER 2022 Maincrest Media Awards in the Supernatural genre category

WINNER - 2024 American Fiction Awards in the Horror:Supernatural/Paranormal category

WINNER - 2024 Global Book Awards for Suspense Action Fiction

Premise:
After the drive-by shooting of an innocent bystander, the two gangs responsible for his murder face an Edgar Allan Poe inspired vow of revenge from beyond the grave.

“Keith Steinbaum crafts one of those thrillers that resolutely refuses to let go until you have read the last sentence. Then you want to read it again."

- TheBookCommentary.com

YOU SAY GOODBYE:

WINNER for the Fiction/Intrigue category in TopShelf magazine's 2020 Book of the Year competition.

FINALIST - Book Excellence Awards for Mystery

WINNER 2022 Maincrest Media Awards Mystery category

WINNER 2024 Global Book Awards for Traditional Detective Mysteries

Premise:
The murder of an ex-rock star’s girlfriend leads a detective to conclude that the perpetrator is not only a renowned serial killer, but probably somebody the singer knows.

"One of the most touching and inspiring crime thrillers you'll ever read."
- Donald Richard, TopShelf Reviews

"The difference between Steinbaum's two novels is almost night and day, yet each provides readers with a depth of complexity that is beyond the norm and originality."
- GABixler Reviews

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS - release date 3/26/24

WINNER - sub-category of the 2024 Shelley Paranormal Fiction Chanticleer International Book Awards

FINALIST - 2024 American Fiction Book Awards

BRONZE MEDALIST - Global Book Awards

WINNER of the 2026 Rising Reader Choice Award

Premise:
There are over 300,000 gravesites in Evergreen Cemetery, and all of the occupants are resting in peace. Except for two. One with a warning to give. The other who the warning is about.

"Keith Steinbaum crafts a thoroughly engrossing horror saga that moves between worlds and purposes to draw readers into darkness similar to what classics such as Dracula achieved."
-D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Reviews

For more information about the author and his books visit:http://www.keithsteinbaum.com

Reviews

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith Steinbaum’s The Poe Consequence is a compelling mix of supernatural suspense and deep emotional exploration. After a tragic drive-by shooting, the ghost of an innocent victim embarks on a chilling Edgar Allan Poe-inspired revenge mission against two rival street gangs. What could have been a simple revenge story quickly evolves into something much more profound, as the book tackles heavy themes like grief, trauma, racism, and loss. With its fast-paced narrative and Poe-inspired atmosphere, the story keeps you hooked from start to finish, blending horror and mystery with a literary flair that will satisfy fans of both genres.

What sets The Poe Consequence apart is not only its gripping plot but its emotional depth. Steinbaum explores the complex impact of violence and loss, delving into the struggles of the characters with nuance and sensitivity. The writing is accessible, making it easy to get lost in the story, while the inclusion of Edgar Allan Poe references adds a unique layer of intellectual intrigue. Although the book touches on difficult topics like gang violence and systemic racism, it never feels exploitative, instead offering a thought-provoking experience. This book is a fantastic read for anyone looking for a story that’s as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling.

Five out of five stars.

I received this book for free from the author, Keith Steinbaum, in exchange for an honest review.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book to give an honest review.

First let me say yes there is references to Edgar Allen Poe but you do not have to fully understand Poe's way of writing to read this story. Two brothers start this book off Kevin and Warren. Warren is very much into Poe and into psychics which I think is pretty amazing when he gets a reading he doesn't want to hear it all the way through which can be expected especially when it says he will be dying. When the unthinkable happens Warren's son Seth is all alone besides his Uncle Kevin who has no clue how to take care of a young boy. We see how Seth holds a lot of hatred in his heart for Mexicans because his father was killed in front of him by two rival Mexican gangs. Seth eventually learns to let go of things but it takes time not only for him to understand not everyone is the same, but to heal properly.
Kevin turns to the bottle that is until a very young Mexican-American woman catches his eye. Veronica has her own hidden past something that is very troubling and you feel for her on so many levels especially when the rape scene occurs. Eventually we learn that the two rival gang members the Diablos and the Lobos are dying left and right from their heart being turned cold. It is a rare case that has everyone baffled until eventually Kevin and Seth put it all together the person or thing that is doing this believes to be doing the right thing.
I honestly did not want to put this book down I was very intrigued on how Poe was woven into the story line. I enjoyed the Mexican slang through out the book and found myself attempting to say some of the words.
There is a lot of cussing and a rape scene that makes you get the chills and want to hurt the person involved but you got to tell yourself it is a book there will be justice somewhere down the line.
Overall a very enjoyable book that has us readers learn that you shouldn't judge everyone just by the wrongs of those of the same race, not only that but love will find you even from beyond the grave.

[Geza Tatrallyay · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Poe Consequence, author Keith Steinbaum connects his interest in poetry and the tales of Edgar Allen Poe with his research into the violent lives of the young LatInos who end up in the gangs of Los Angeles to weave a mystery horror tale of retribution from beyond the grave. After a frightening consultation with a Tarot card reader in New Orleans, Professor Warren Palmer—a lover of Poe’s stories and poems—is accidentally killed in a botched robbery that turns into gangland warfare. He leaves behind an orphan son, Seth, who as a result hates all Latinos, until he slowly develops a respect and admiration for Veronica, his beautiful Latina tutor, with whom his uncle Kevin, his guardian, ends up falling in love. In the meantime, the LA police are puzzled by a series of strange heart attack deaths that plague the two gangs involved in Warren’s death, always coupled with a gangland murder and always at 4 am in the morning. Kevin and Seth, with the help of Veronica and her gangland member brother, intervene to unravel the mystery of the deaths and to help put an end to them.

Keith Steinbaum shows an impressive knowledge of LA gangland life and weaves a gripping story with strong, well-created characters that carry the plot forward. As someone who does not read many tales that involve beyond the grave actors or events, this reader found the link to Edgar Allen Poe’s stories an engaging ploy and an excellent point of departure. A great read!

[Join the Penguin Resistance! · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review: THE POE CONSEQUENCE by Keith Steinbaum


THE POE CONSEQUENCE is very, very good. No, that's an understatement: the talent with which author Keith Steinbaum creates and maintains multiple levels of meaning, juggling a vast cast of characters, and reaching into the inner recesses of each of these characters, is awe-inspiring! For each character, I felt as if I lived inside that individual, comprehending the character's motivations and understanding the thoughts. Then there is the incredible framework, which makes this a trans-genre novel, even transcending genre limitations. Definitely a Best of its Year, and I will be seeking it out to reread.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

“The Poe Consequence” is a paranormal thriller set in present day Los Angeles, California. The story centers around an 11 year old boy named Seth Palmer, his father, Warren Palmer, and his uncle, Kevin Palmer.

We begin in New Orleans where Warren, a college poetry professor in L.A. who is obsessed with Edgar Allen Poe’s work, seeks a psychic to tell him if he has gotten a position he applied for at USC. After some searching and divine intervention, he finds Madame Sibilia. During his tarot reading we find out that part of his past is filled with pain. Warren explains that Seth’s mother, Michelle, has died only months ago from cancer. She continues and foretells Warren’s death and explains that after his he will become a restless spirit seeking revenge, and in the process of revenge will become evil. Not wanting to hear anymore, he runs out of her shop before learning the last card of his fortune and jumps on a plane back to L.A.

Days later, Warren and Kevin take Seth to a Dodger’s game and before going home, Warren has to stop at a local market to get aspirin for a building migraine. In the parking lot, on their way out of the store a gang, the North Rampart Lobos, takes Warren’s wallet and threatens them both. While the Lobos are terrorizing them a rival gang, Alvarado Street Diablos, conduct a drive by shooting to exact revenge for the Lobos murdering one of their own. Through the scrambling of bodies and bullets flying, Warren is shot and killed. Now alone, Seth goes to live with his Uncle Kevin who drinks all day and then works nights as a news reporter for the L.A. Times and Daily News.

While we continue to follow Seth and Kevin as they struggle to adjust, young and healthy Lobo’s and Diabol’s are dying of heart attacks. We follow members of each gang as they experience a series of nightmarish symptoms right out of the work’s of Edgar Allen Poe before each heart stops at 4:00 AM. The L.A. police investigate and discover a pattern; a gang related murder has taken place prior to every heart attack. Curious, it’s almost like…revenge.

Keith Steinbaum does an excellent job holding the readers attention as he weaves an emotional tale of a young boy struggling to trust the adults in his life as he tries to make sense of life’s tragedies. I’ve cheered for characters as they overcome their obstacle’s, but the empathy I felt for Seth was more intense than I’ve felt before. I contribute my strong reaction to Seth’s character to the author’s ability to portray the hurt and anger felt by a young boy forced to learn some early lessons in adulthood. As I read, I’m appreciative of the time and thought the author poured into developing his characters. Veronica and Alex are two supporting character’s who come into the lives of the Palmer’s when Seth falls behind in school and begins fighting with some of the Latino students. The story then transforms further and we see a heart warming group of people develop and grow individually as they provide support and encouragement for one another.

The book does fall short in its attempt at involving the paranormal. The concept that a victim of a shooting extends beyond the grave to exact his revenge by using various theatrical themes from the works of Edgar Allen Poe is very ambitious. Unfortunately, the author is unsuccessful at his attempt to develop this concept. It seemed Mr. Steinbaum was content with leaving abstract description of after-life events and trusting the reader to make sense of his concept of revenge turning a spirit evil. To me, it felt incomplete, disjointed and placed too much responsibility on the audience to be a successful part of the book. It would have been more advantageous to leave this concept out of the book all together.

Overall, I enjoyed the story our author was able to tell, but felt the paranormal and spiritual part of the book was neglected.

[Rich Stoehr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Los Angeles gangbangers, vengeful spirits...and Edgar Allen Poe? That couldn't possibly work...could it? As it turns out, it does - and pretty well overall.

When I first read the idea behind The Poe Consequence - a story that blends inner-city gang violence with Poe-inspired vengeance - I pretty much knew I'd have to read it, if only to see how wrong it could go. Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be a book that, while not perfect, mostly overcame the early threat of stereotype and told a cracking good story to boot.

On the surface it's a fairly simple story - a single father, whose wife passed away only months earlier, is caught in the crossfire of two warring gangs in Los Angeles and killed right in front of his young son. Soon after, gang members from both sides of the gun battle that killed Warren start to die of sudden, inexplicable heart attacks - events which leave their hearts literally frozen.

The mystery unravels as Warren's surviving family must deal with their loss, while the police and the gangs try to find out why so many young men are dying. Lives intertwine in unexpected ways, anger gives way to understanding, and the possibility of redemption is at hand - for a price.

And yes, the influence of Poe is felt throughout, though honestly not as strongly as I would have liked. Warren, the murdered father, is teacher and a devotee of Edgar Allen Poe. When his spirit tries to protect his son from beyond the grave, it's in Poe's obsession with death that he finds inspiration, and each killing incorporates elements of "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Fall of the House of Usher," and most especially, "The Tell-Tale Heart." And at first, the effect of these references is chilling - but eventually it gets a little repetitive. With such a rich body of work to draw on, why not dig even deeper with it? Bring in the chilling yowls of "The Black Cat" perhaps, or the impending sense of unstoppable doom of "The Masque of the Red Death," or even the deep-seated subtle horror of "The Premature Burial" would have worked well here. And why, in a story fueled by revenge, would the ultimate tale of cold-blooded vengeance - "A Cask of Amontillado" - not even get a mention? While I very much appreciated the references and allusions to Poe's work in The Poe Consequence, I must confess I was hoping for even more.

Still, all in all, The Poe Consequence is a well-crafted book. Keith Steinbaum's writing style isn't flashy, but it serves the story well, only occasionally showing its seams in a piece of clunky dialogue or curious word choice. The characters, who start out feeling a little flat (the angry child, the troubled alcoholic, etc.), grow past their stereotype into people with dimension, the capacity to change, and with a life beyond the pages. The story is paced well and ends well, satisfying without pandering too much to the reader.

It was an audacious concept, for sure - one I was ready to think wouldn't work at all. Keith Steinbaum's trick in blending the subtle darkness of Edgar Allen Poe with the brash violence of L.A. street gangs shouldn't have worked - but somehow, it did.

----------------
I received a free copy of The Poe Consequence for the purpose of reviewing.

[Sadie Forsythe · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting book. It held my attention. I thought the writing was perfectly passable and I only noticed a few editing mistakes (mostly missing spaces, oddly). So, a solid middle of the road read.

However, it did feel very much like an indie book, if you know what I mean. If you read a lot of indies you probably do and if you don't I'm not sure how to explain it to you. They often have a certain feel to them. The stories often have a certain blunt, straightforwardness. Not necessarily inelegance, at least not in this case, but things move along in very plodding, determined ways. They are heavy on the tell instead of show. Emotions tend to be shallow or stated instead of experienced. Flashbacks are used a lot. Names and titles are often used too frequently. That's especially apparent here where names are Face, Swat, King, and such. Stories often have moral themes or lessons that are heavy handed. 'Please' seems to be over used and people are often too polite. Conversations are often stilted or to abbreviated.

Similarly, but I think deserving of its own point; the bad guy is often a rapist. Even when there are numerous bad men in a book, if you want to find THE bad man look to see who is sexually abusing a woman. Apparently rape has become a flag for true evilness. It's like a secret book code or something. But it's so overused as to have become cliché and meaningless. As a package, all of this becomes recognizably indie. Not bad necessarily, but recognizable.

I thought Steinbaum did a nice job of showing Seth's devastation and trouble adjusting. But the depiction of the Latino gangs, gang culture and language couldn't have been a whiter middle class imitation of it if the author had set out to write a satire. It didn't come across as natural or real at all. Further, I found the frequent use of Spanish distracting. It never seemed to blend into what should have been a natural mesh of the two languages. It felt gimmicky. There was a mild spiritual/religious undertone, but not enough to chafe.

All in all a decent read.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not like any other I've read. I'd classify it as thriller/mystery/ horror. It begins when a man Warren goes to New Orleans and goes down an alley way to see a fortune teller though he doesn't really believe in these things. She reads his Tarot cards and gives him an extremely grim destiny. She tells him not long from now he's going to come into an extremely violent situation that will end tragically. with this man who goes to New Orleans and while there goes to visit a fortune teller. She does not give him a pleasant reading. In fact, she tells him not long from now he's going to be in a dangerous situation that leads to tragedy. And there is where our story begins. The paranormal horror is indeed horrifying but yet fascinating in its connection with Poe. I felt like I was watching a horror movie yet covering one eye and then uncovering it to see what's going on. Steinbaum writes this tale cleverly, and I will definitely read more of his books!

[Jneener · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gritty, well researched, well written book by a good friend of mine.

[Tucker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I closed The Poe Consequence by Keith Steinbaum and just sat there for a few minutes.

Not because I was confused.
Not because I didn’t understand what I had read.

But because I felt like I had just witnessed something larger than a story.

At its core, this novel begins as a gang revenge thriller set in Los Angeles two rival gangs locked in generational hatred, a drive-by gone wrong, and an innocent life lost. But what unfolds afterward is where this book separates itself from typical crime fiction. The retaliation doesn’t come from another gang. It comes from something… else. Something precise. Something intentional. Something that arrives at the exact same time of day, every time.

That detail alone sent chills down my spine.

But what truly elevates this novel is that the supernatural force is not random horror. It feels like consequence personified. It feels like judgment. It feels like the embodiment of a question the book relentlessly asks:

What happens when violence finally meets something stronger than itself?

Steinbaum doesn’t glorify gang culture. He dissects it. He forces readers to examine why someone becomes violent, how hatred is inherited, and whether redemption is even possible in a system built on retaliation. The psychological layers here are intense. Every act feels like it carries spiritual weight.

The integration of Edgar Allan Poe themes adds a literary sophistication I didn’t expect. The influence isn’t superficial it deepens the atmosphere and gives the supernatural elements intellectual grounding. There’s a haunting rhythm to the narrative that mirrors Poe’s moral darkness and obsession with guilt.

And then there’s the emotional core: the young boy who despises gangs yet attempts to save a gang member. That storyline pierced me. It introduces the possibility that compassion can interrupt destiny that maybe cycles of violence aren’t as permanent as they seem. The spiritual undertones regarding souls, prophecy, and eternal consequence make this more than a thriller. It becomes a meditation on fate, morality, and hope.

What struck me most is how balanced the novel is. It explores darkness without drowning in it. It acknowledges brutality but never celebrates it. It asks uncomfortable questions about racism, loyalty, masculinity, and generational despair yet it also plants seeds of transformation.

The pacing is relentless, but the ideas linger long after the final page.

This is not a casual read. It demands thought. It demands emotional participation. It demands that the reader confront the cost of revenge not just physically, but spiritually.

If you’re expecting a simple supernatural horror novel, you’ll be surprised. This is a social commentary wrapped in suspense. A moral inquiry disguised as a gang thriller. A story about what happens when hate collides with something unstoppable.

And perhaps most haunting of all it asks whether enemies can ever unite when faced with a greater reckoning.

By the end, I wasn’t just thinking about the characters.

I was thinking about consequence itself.

Highly recommended for readers who want intensity, depth, and something that lingers in the mind long after the last page.

[Brannon]

The Poe Consequence operates on two planes simultaneously: the visible world of gang rivalry and the invisible architecture of moral reckoning. What initially presents as a retaliatory act between rival factions slowly evolves into something far more philosophical a meditation on consequence that feels almost sentient.

The recurring deaths at the exact same time of day are one of the most unsettling structural choices in the novel. This repetition transforms horror into ritual. It removes randomness and replaces it with inevitability. Violence, in this world, no longer feels chaotic it feels scheduled. That precision is psychologically disturbing because it suggests design rather than coincidence.

What struck me most profoundly was the inversion of power. The Diablos and the Lobos are accustomed to operating through intimidation and control. Yet as the supernatural presence closes in, fear migrates. The predators become hyper-aware prey. Steinbaum subtly asks: What happens when those who inflict terror must live inside it?

This novel doesn’t glorify violence it dissects it. And by the end, I was left contemplating whether justice, when denied by society, manifests in other forms.

This is not just a thriller. It is a philosophical reckoning wrapped in suspense.

[Amy Ingalls · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book in a giveaway.

I am struggling to review this. Usually a book takes me 2-3 days tops to get through. This one took me 28. In the beginning I was struggling to get into it. I was reading it simply because I felt bad that I won it and it had been sitting on my Kindle for so long. I ignored it to read other books.

However, somewhere around the time Veronica joins the book I started to get interested. The story was still a bit clunky but I was beginning to car about the characters. However, the author's writing style kept pulling me back out of the story.

. . . another swallow and cherished the deep rich texture of the golden nectar as it swan dived from the back of his tongue into his belly.

. . . Face's hourglass of patience trickled down to its final few grains.

Honestly, what is that? So even though I started to care about Veronica and Seth and Face I wasn't really pulled in. I also didn't understand the instant love between Veronica and Seth. I didn't get why she agreed to date him, and we didn't get to see their relationship develop-- we were just told that they were in love.

I love Poe and this idea of coming back and using his poems for revenge but I do agree with another reviewer-- why not go further into his body of work? There was so much to draw from.

So I am rambling, because the book annoyed me but I kind of liked the second half. It was like watching a TV show that you know is cheesy but you stick with it to the end because it hooked your interest just enough to make you want to see how it ends. Or a B movie. Yep, this book is a B movie.

[Saralyn Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters are what resonate most with me in this roller coaster ride of a thriller. So many people today have a good-guy-bad-guy mentality, but this book shows us that no one is all good or all evil. Our lives can turn in a moment, and we are all subject to being overcome by negative emotions, unless we find the way to rise above them. Steinbaum takes on the difficult topic of gang violence and turns it into a love story. Brilliant!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a book you will not want to put down! It combines the supernatural with everyday events. At least the everyday events in the lives of ruthless gangs determined to kill each other off. And the lives of those who get caught up in between. I can totally understand why it won an award as a Supernatural Thriller Book of the Year.

Warren, a teacher, had just lost his wife and was attempting to get his young son and himself through it. He decides to go see a psychic in New Orleans who tells him some pretty disturbing things which he decides to ignore and walks out before she is totally finished, but he does tell his twin brother some of what was said. Warren is an authority on Edgar Allen Poe-he can recite many of the works verbatim. I don't know if any of you have read any of Poe's work--it is pretty dark and gruesome stuff! Well, Warren stops in a store to get some aspirin and gets in the middle of the shootout between the two rival gangs. His son was with him and saw his Dad murdered. Seth went to live with his Dad's twin and strange things started to happen which the police could not figure out! (NO, I'm not telling you what-----).

Seth had some serious problems and began to act out-completely understandable and was finally introduced to a tutor who was able to help him. This young woman just happened to be the sister of one of the gang members. Through her, Seth was finally able to reconcile that not all Mexicans are bad people and starts the healing process. Meanwhile gang members are still dying in a very strange way-but only after they have killed someone in the rival gang-it happens at precisely the same time. The police really can't figure this out--no fingerprints., no nothing!

If I go much further I will give the plot away and I really do not want to do that-just know that good prevails over evil in every way possible!The Poe Consequence

[Darcia Helle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taking on Poe is a tough challenge, but Keith Steinbaum handles it well. The subject is dark, as we look at death and inner city gangs. But we're also given glimmers of hope and redemption, which keeps this story from veering into unbearable despair.

A familiarity with Poe's writing is not required in order to enjoy this book. The character's focus here is on a few of Poe's most popular works, with specific bits woven continuously throughout the story. Someone unfamiliar with Poe might overlook a few references with the murders along the way but, as I said, it shouldn't alter how this story is understood.

The surprise for me was the underlying theme of prejudice. Steinbaum dives right in and handles this incredibly well. The story never gets preachy. In fact, the realism is striking. We aren't handed a magical, fairy tale solution. Instead, we're shown the injustice of it in a way that makes it understandable, almost forgivable, but never tolerable.

The stumbling points for me are relatively minor. There are a lot of characters, many with point of view parts, that we get to know in a fleeting moment before we move on to the next. While I appreciate Steinbaum's attempt here, I think development of the important characters suffered because of the sheer volume of characters we were expected to get to know.

Mostly, I wanted more from Warren. His character is central to this entire story, yet we didn't get to stay with his point of view. I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say that I think a continued POV from Warren, with a little less from minor characters, would have added more depth and power to this story.

Overall, this is a dark but thoughtful piece.

[Shani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect read for those that love gritty thrillers mixed with a touch of supernatural/paranormal. Kevin is a man who has been pushed into the role of a parent after his brother passes. Through his grief he turns to the wrong things to help him deal. In some ways he’s neglectful to Seth, his nephew. Seth has a lot of anger and resentment, and rightfully so. He doesn’t understand why these things happened to him and his family. Though it's difficult to wander through the chaotic feelings they both are dealing with, they come through it as better people.

Kevin meets a young woman named Veronica that has a very hidden past. One that can cause even greater issues than she’s been handed through a very traumatic and violent experience. he’s drawn to her but doesn’t quite understand why. Her connection to those involved in their own past is concerning.

When the two factions that were at war and caused the death of his brother start dying off, Warren is stumped. Together he and Seth venture out to find out what “being” is causing the hearts of the members to die off and drop like flies. They’re determined to find out the truth.

The whole book was beyond intriguing and fantastic! I will say there are some extremely hard scenes to deal with. There are sexual assault and detailed violence that may be a trigger for some. Overall though, well written, thought out, and fabulous!

[Romaine Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Poe Consequence is a suspenseful thriller set in modern day California involving two rival gangs with a touch of paranormal.
One tarot card changed the lives of a family.
The Poe Consequence is a  tragic story of what twelve year boy had to endure will break your heart.
Seth witnessed his father's murder one night by Latino gang members. He begins to struggle in school when Latinos start bullying him. It's hard for Seth to trust adults.
Gangbangers are dropping like flies. They are mysteriously dying with no traces of foul play.
Uncle Kevin's girlfriend Veronica who is Latino and her brother Alex show Seth that not all Latinos are bad.
Alex may have lead a bad life as a gang member but he was wise and had a good heart.
I felt the characters emotions throughout the story. Pain. Revenge. Redemption. Trust.
King and Alex's fight scene had my heart racing. Loved it!
Poe's references of literature in the story was the cherry on top of the cake.
Found a new author and will be reading more of his masterpieces.
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a fabulous complimentary copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[MELODY · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Poe Consequence is based around the Palmer family – 11 year old Seth whose mother has recently died, his dad Warren and his uncle Kevin. The story starts with Warren visiting a Psychic and you feel the foreboding. Shortly after Warren is killed the gang members start having heart attacks, somehow their hearts become frozen. The gangs and the police are trying to figure out what is happening. And the story takes you along for a ride.

If you have read any Poe – you will feel the parallels in through the novel. Mr. Steinbaum’s writing is well thought and his research into Poe’s stories is evident. I enjoyed the story very much – it dragged a bit in the beginning but the undertaking of translating some of Poe’s works into a modern story is done quite well.

If you are a fan of Poe or looking for a good mystery with a bit of paranormal flair then I strongly recommend this one.

[Trish Meade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi Bookies! This book was selected for my Book Club, because 1. Our member knew the author & 2. She thought it would be fun to have him come to the next meeting to hear our reviews.

When I first started to read the book I thought, "Okay, just what I want to read... a book about gang members!" My second thought was, "Get over your Lilly white self and start reading." After all I didn't want to let the Book Club down! It didn't take long before I was totally drawn into the story and the mystery that unfolds. I definitely am happy I continued to read The Poe Consequence and would recommend it highly to you Bookies out there in Goodreads land.

It was so much fun to actually meet Keith at our Book Club meeting and ask him questions regarding the characters and why he went in some of the directions he chose. It is a very well written piece of work and it gets 5 stars from me.

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this book has elements of the supernatural, none of them are unrealistic or detract from the great story. It provides a broad reflection on human nature and how it impacts the world around us both good and bad. A dire fortune from a strange seer in New Orleans leads twin brothers into a wild confrontation with all the evil in the gangs of LA and the good that manages to survive in that environment. If you have experienced and enjoyed the works of Edgar Alan Poe, you will appreciate the many references in this story. The style of writing tends toward big words, not always apt in the context. Perhaps that is meant to mimic Poe, but he does a much better job of using old English words and structure. The plot was clever and interesting, and ended in a "feel-good" conclusion. I received an advanced copy of this book from Hidden Gems, and found it worthy of a review.

[Cyndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warren and his son Seth stop at a convenience store after a baseball game so Warren can get something to help his pounding headache. In the parking lot, they are attacked by one gang, while another gang is plotting their revenge against this gang. They get caught in a drive by shooting and Warren dies trying to save his son. This event starts strange killings within both gangs. Every time one of these gang members kills another gang member, they end up suffering a very unique death that no one can explain.

The police and gang members are all trying to figure out these unexplained deaths, while Seth and his Uncle have to deal with their loss. These two main stories are connected in many ways and I love how the author brings everything together. This is a great paranormal thriller!

[Richard Howard · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are poor books, there are bad books and there are terrible books. Then there are books so excruciatingly awful that, as you keep reading, you fear a portal will open up and you'll be sucked into hell. 'The Poe Consequence' is such a book. Marketed as a paranormal thriller it is largely an endless description of two Latino gangs cursing each other and vowing vengeance. The paranormal element appears at the beginning and towards the end but in between the reader is subjected to page after page where nothing happens of any relevance to the story. Oh, there are also some of the most embarrassingly bad sex scenes ever set down. There is maybe enough content here to make a half decent short story but that content is stretched and stretched to form a truly terrible novel.

[Cair-Paravel Emyth Brenn De Luney Morrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was really good. EAP is one of my favourite authors and he has taken essential pieces from works by Poe, incorporating it into a marvellous story. Gangs, murder, love, trauma and so much more are packed into this wonderful ghost story. I love it.

I received a free copy from Hidden Gems Books in return for an honest review.

[Eunice Fuller · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was very good. I liked the real life stuff mixed with paranormal. 2 rival gangs and trying to save lives. Good job

[Jonathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started reading The Poe Consequence, I expected a gritty crime story about gang rivalry in Los Angeles. What I didn’t expect was a novel that would slowly evolve into something far more haunting and thought-provoking. This is the kind of book that begins in a familiar place—territory disputes, loyalty between friends, and the cycle of revenge that often traps young people in violent neighborhoods—but then gradually transforms into a supernatural mystery that forces both the characters and the reader to ask deeper questions about fate, guilt, and consequences.

The story centers on two rival gangs: the Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos. Their hostility toward each other has been simmering for years, but it becomes even more intense after the murder of one of the Diablos’ closest members. In honor of their fallen friend, a drive-by retaliation is planned. What is supposed to be an act of loyalty quickly spirals into tragedy when the attack goes wrong and an innocent bystander is killed instead.

At that point the novel takes a chilling turn.

Only hours after the shooting, the person responsible for pulling the trigger suffers a bizarre and horrifying death—one that cannot easily be explained. Soon afterward, more deaths follow, each one stranger than the last. What makes these events truly unsettling is the pattern behind them: every death occurs at the exact same time of day.

The repetition of that moment becomes almost like a ticking clock hanging over the characters. Every time the hour approaches, the tension builds. Someone knows another death might be coming, but no one understands why or how it’s happening.

What impressed me most about the novel is how carefully the supernatural elements are introduced. The author doesn’t rush into the horror. Instead, he allows the mystery to unfold gradually, giving readers time to question whether there might still be a rational explanation. That slow buildup creates an atmosphere that feels genuinely unsettling.

Another powerful aspect of the story is the way it humanizes characters who might easily have been portrayed as simple stereotypes. The gang members are not just violent figures moving through the plot; they are young men shaped by their environment, loyalty, and fear. Their reactions to the unexplained deaths—confusion, denial, anger, and eventually terror—make the story feel grounded even as it moves into supernatural territory.

The novel also introduces a young boy whose hatred of gangs comes from painful personal experiences. His storyline adds an emotional counterbalance to the violence and introduces the possibility that the events unfolding in Los Angeles might be connected to something much larger. As pieces of a mysterious prophecy begin to surface, the narrative expands beyond gang rivalry and becomes something closer to a spiritual or moral puzzle.

There is also a fascinating thread involving a psychic prophecy delivered earlier in New Orleans. At first it feels disconnected from the gang conflict, but as the story progresses, the connection between that prophecy and the unfolding deaths becomes increasingly clear. This element adds a layer of inevitability to the narrative, as if the characters have stepped into a chain of events that may have been set in motion long before they realized it.

What ultimately makes The Poe Consequence memorable is the way it blends darkness with reflection. The novel explores violence not just as an action but as something that leaves spiritual and emotional echoes. The title itself begins to feel symbolic—the idea that every action carries consequences that may extend far beyond what we can see.

By the time the story reaches its final chapters, the novel feels less like a traditional horror story and more like a meditation on justice, fate, and redemption. The supernatural elements remain chilling, but they also serve a deeper purpose: forcing the characters to confront the impact of their choices.

In the end, The Poe Consequence stands out because it refuses to stay within a single genre. It is part crime drama, part supernatural thriller, and part moral reflection. Readers who enjoy stories that blend suspense with philosophical questions will likely find themselves drawn into its dark and mysterious world. And once that strange clock of recurring deaths begins ticking, it becomes almost impossible to stop reading until the truth behind it is finally revealed.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith Steinbaum’s The Poe Consequence is a gripping blend of gang warfare, supernatural horror, and fate-driven suspense. Set in a gritty section of Los Angeles, the novel revolves around two rival gangs—the Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos—locked in a vicious cycle of revenge and violence. What begins as a typical tale of gang rivalry takes a spine-chilling turn when an act of retaliation results in the death of an innocent bystander, triggering a series of eerie and inexplicable events.


The novel kicks off with the Diablos seeking revenge for the murder of one of their own. However, their planned drive-by shooting goes awry, leading to the death of an innocent man. What follows is a string of supernatural occurrences that defy logic. The members of both gangs begin to die in horrific ways, each death happening at the exact same time of day. The connection to Edgar Allan Poe’s themes of death and fate adds a layer of literary depth, hinting at an unstoppable force beyond the gangs' comprehension.

As the deaths continue, the tension between the gangs escalates, but they soon realize that the true enemy is something much more sinister. The novel skillfully intertwines the fate of a gang-hating boy trying to save a member's life and a prophecy from a psychic in New Orleans, creating a complex narrative that keeps readers engaged.


Steinbaum explores the consequences of violence and the supernatural's role in balancing the scales of justice. The novel touches on social and ethnic divisions, reflecting the harsh realities of life in gang-ridden neighborhoods. The integration of Poe’s dark themes of death, destiny, and guilt elevates the story from a simple gang narrative to a thought-provoking exploration of morality and fate.


Steinbaum’s writing is intense and atmospheric, capturing the bleakness of gang life in Los Angeles while seamlessly blending it with elements of supernatural horror. His pacing is tight, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on edge. The dialogue is authentic, reflecting the rough lives of the characters, while the supernatural elements are handled with subtlety, enhancing the story’s eerie mood.


The characters in The Poe Consequence are well-developed, each grappling with their own demons, both literal and metaphorical. The gang members are portrayed with nuance, showing their humanity alongside their brutality. The inclusion of a psychic and a young boy trying to escape the cycle of violence adds emotional depth to the story, making the reader root for their survival.


The Poe Consequence is a compelling read that stands out for its unique blend of crime fiction and supernatural horror. Steinbaum skillfully weaves a tale of revenge, fate, and the unknown, making it a must-read for fans of both genres. The novel’s exploration of gang culture and the consequences of violence adds a layer of social commentary, making it more than just a horror story.


This book is recommended for readers who enjoy crime thrillers with a supernatural twist, fans of Edgar Allan Poe, and those interested in stories that explore the darker aspects of human nature and fate. With its intense atmosphere and gripping plot, *The Poe Consequence* will appeal to readers looking for a thought-provoking and chilling read.

[Velindraoriven Lunarae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up The Poe Consequence thinking it would be a straightforward crime novel about gang violence in Los Angeles, but it turned out to be far more layered and haunting than I expected. What begins as a story about revenge between two rival gangs slowly evolves into something darker and more mysterious, and the transition is done in a way that keeps you questioning what exactly is happening behind the scenes.

The rivalry between the Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos feels disturbingly real. The tension between them isn’t just about territory; it’s about pride, loyalty, and the kind of anger that builds when young people feel trapped in circumstances they didn’t choose. When the Diablos plan a drive-by to avenge their fallen friend, it seems like the predictable continuation of that cycle of retaliation. But when the wrong person dies—an innocent bystander—the entire story begins to shift.

What follows is where the book really grabbed me.

Not long after the shooting, the one responsible for the trigger experiences a death so bizarre that it forces both gangs to question whether something supernatural might be involved. At first it seems like coincidence. But when similar deaths start occurring again and again, always at the same exact time of day, the tension becomes almost unbearable.

That repeated moment in time becomes like a shadow hanging over the story.

I found myself checking the clock while reading certain chapters, anticipating what might happen next. The author does a great job of letting the mystery unfold slowly rather than revealing everything too quickly. Every chapter adds another small piece to the puzzle, but never enough to completely solve it.

Another aspect that stood out to me was the emotional depth of the characters. These gang members are not written as simple villains. They are flawed people who are struggling with loyalty, fear, and the consequences of their own choices. As the unexplained deaths continue, their confidence and bravado slowly give way to something closer to dread.

The introduction of the young boy who despises gang culture adds another interesting layer. His perspective gives the story a sense of innocence that contrasts sharply with the violence surrounding him. At the same time, his connection to the unfolding events suggests that the story might be about something larger than just gang rivalry.

The supernatural aspects of the novel feel almost philosophical. Instead of simply being used for shock value, they seem tied to the idea that actions have consequences beyond what we can immediately see. That idea becomes more powerful as the story progresses.

By the time I reached the final chapters, I realized the book wasn’t just about horror or crime—it was about accountability and the unseen forces that shape our lives.

I finished the book feeling unsettled in the best possible way.

[Adesokan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished The Poe Consequence a few days ago and I’m still thinking about it, which is usually the best sign that a novel has done something right. When I first started reading, I assumed I was stepping into a gritty crime story about rival gangs in Los Angeles. The opening chapters certainly support that expectation. The tension between the Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos is immediate and believable, and the author wastes no time showing how deep the hostility between them runs.

What struck me early on was the way the characters were written. Instead of reducing gang members to stereotypes, the book portrays them as complicated individuals shaped by loyalty, pride, fear, and circumstance. They make terrible choices, yes, but they also carry emotional weight that makes the story feel more grounded.

The turning point for me was the drive-by shooting meant to avenge a fallen member. Revenge is such a common theme in stories like this that I thought I knew exactly where the plot was heading. But when the attack results in the death of an innocent bystander instead of the intended target, the emotional atmosphere of the book changes dramatically.

It’s as if the story itself pauses and asks: what happens when violence spills beyond its intended target?

Then the strange deaths begin.

The first time it happens, I wasn’t even sure how to interpret it. The description of the death is unsettling and mysterious, and the fact that it occurs only hours after the shooting immediately suggests that some kind of connection exists. But the author wisely doesn’t rush to explain anything.

Instead, the mystery deepens.

More deaths follow, each one stranger than the last, and each one happening at the exact same time of day. That repeating moment becomes almost symbolic, like an invisible clock ticking over the entire narrative.

What fascinated me most was watching the gang members slowly confront something they can’t control. These are people who are used to fighting their enemies with weapons, intimidation, or strategy. But how do you confront something supernatural?

You can’t.

And that realization introduces a kind of fear that’s very different from the street violence that begins the story.

Another element I appreciated was the young boy who hates gang culture but becomes connected to the unfolding events. His storyline adds emotional contrast and also hints that the story might be about redemption as much as it is about punishment.

By the end, the novel feels less like a simple thriller and more like a meditation on consequence—how actions ripple outward in ways we never anticipate.

It’s not a comfortable story, but it’s definitely a memorable one.

[Ayobami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished The Poe Consequence a few days ago and I’m still thinking about it, which is usually the best sign that a novel has done something right. When I first started reading, I assumed I was stepping into a gritty crime story about rival gangs in Los Angeles. The opening chapters certainly support that expectation. The tension between the Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos is immediate and believable, and the author wastes no time showing how deep the hostility between them runs.

What struck me early on was the way the characters were written. Instead of reducing gang members to stereotypes, the book portrays them as complicated individuals shaped by loyalty, pride, fear, and circumstance. They make terrible choices, yes, but they also carry emotional weight that makes the story feel more grounded.

The turning point for me was the drive-by shooting meant to avenge a fallen member. Revenge is such a common theme in stories like this that I thought I knew exactly where the plot was heading. But when the attack results in the death of an innocent bystander instead of the intended target, the emotional atmosphere of the book changes dramatically.

It’s as if the story itself pauses and asks: what happens when violence spills beyond its intended target?

Then the strange deaths begin.

The first time it happens, I wasn’t even sure how to interpret it. The description of the death is unsettling and mysterious, and the fact that it occurs only hours after the shooting immediately suggests that some kind of connection exists. But the author wisely doesn’t rush to explain anything.

Instead, the mystery deepens.

More deaths follow, each one stranger than the last, and each one happening at the exact same time of day. That repeating moment becomes almost symbolic, like an invisible clock ticking over the entire narrative.

What fascinated me most was watching the gang members slowly confront something they can’t control. These are people who are used to fighting their enemies with weapons, intimidation, or strategy. But how do you confront something supernatural?

You can’t.

And that realization introduces a kind of fear that’s very different from the street violence that begins the story.

Another element I appreciated was the young boy who hates gang culture but becomes connected to the unfolding events. His storyline adds emotional contrast and also hints that the story might be about redemption as much as it is about punishment.

By the end, the novel feels less like a simple thriller and more like a meditation on consequence—how actions ripple outward in ways we never anticipate.

It’s not a comfortable story, but it’s definitely a memorable one.

[Cj · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up The Poe Consequence expecting a gritty urban thriller, but what I ended up reading was something far stranger and more reflective than I anticipated. The novel opens with a tense depiction of life in a Los Angeles neighborhood where gang loyalties dominate daily existence. The Alvarado Street Diablos and the North Rampart Lobos control their respective territories, and the tension between them feels like a constant electrical charge running through the streets.
What makes the opening chapters effective is how grounded they feel. The characters speak and behave like people who have grown up in an environment where survival often depends on reputation and loyalty. When one of the Diablos is murdered, the emotional response from the gang feels painfully real. Revenge becomes less of a choice and more of an expectation.
But the retaliation that follows is where the story truly begins.
The drive-by shooting meant to avenge their fallen friend goes horribly wrong when an innocent bystander becomes the victim instead. That moment shifts the tone of the entire book. Suddenly the violence isn’t just part of gang rivalry anymore—it becomes the catalyst for something much darker.
Only hours after the shooting, the gunman dies in a bizarre and terrifying way that seems almost impossible to explain. The death is disturbing not just because of its description but because of the sense that it doesn’t belong in the normal world.
Then it happens again.
And again.
Each death occurs at the exact same time of day, which introduces a sense of eerie inevitability into the story. The characters begin to realize that something beyond their understanding may be involved.
What fascinated me most was the psychological impact this realization has on them. These are people who are used to solving problems with violence or intimidation, but neither of those strategies work against an invisible force.
Fear begins to replace confidence.
The novel also introduces spiritual and prophetic elements that gradually connect to the gang conflict. A prophecy delivered earlier in New Orleans starts to feel less like a coincidence and more like a warning that has finally begun to unfold.
By the end, the story becomes a meditation on cause and effect. The violence that begins as a street-level act of revenge eventually spirals into something that feels almost cosmic in its consequences.
It’s a strange, unsettling, and surprisingly thoughtful novel that stayed with me long after I finished reading it.