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The Crying Boy
A grieving mother develops a dangerous bond with a haunted painting in this chilling thriller from the author of The Butcher’s Daughter.
Clayton and Avril Shaw have lost their little boy and are still mourning when they move into Swallow’s Nest on the Yorkshire moors.
In their new house Avril discovers a painting. When she learns that the boy in the painting was deaf, like her dead son, she starts to try to communicate with his ghost.
Meanwhile, Clayton finds himself entangled in an equally undesirable friendship with a retired fire chief who knows more about the painting than he is prepared to let on.
Is The Crying Boy painting cursed, and can numerous house fires be linked to it?
Struggling with their unstable marriage, the couple find themselves in further danger as an increasingly disturbing bond develops between Avril and The Crying Boy.
In a twist of events Avril’s irrational behavior is brought to a dramatic halt when she discovers she is pregnant. With her affections once again restored for Clayton, she decides to dispose of the sinister portrait. But the cast off painting wants revenge and its anger towards Avril’s unborn child might just prove immeasurable.
Clayton and Avril Shaw have lost their little boy and are still mourning when they move into Swallow’s Nest on the Yorkshire moors.
In their new house Avril discovers a painting. When she learns that the boy in the painting was deaf, like her dead son, she starts to try to communicate with his ghost.
Meanwhile, Clayton finds himself entangled in an equally undesirable friendship with a retired fire chief who knows more about the painting than he is prepared to let on.
Is The Crying Boy painting cursed, and can numerous house fires be linked to it?
Struggling with their unstable marriage, the couple find themselves in further danger as an increasingly disturbing bond develops between Avril and The Crying Boy.
In a twist of events Avril’s irrational behavior is brought to a dramatic halt when she discovers she is pregnant. With her affections once again restored for Clayton, she decides to dispose of the sinister portrait. But the cast off painting wants revenge and its anger towards Avril’s unborn child might just prove immeasurable.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2017
46 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
About the author
Jane E. James
18 books250 followersBest selling author, Jane E James creates chilling reads that appeal to fans of psychological thrillers, mysteries and dark fiction. Jane loves to weave tense and haunting tales that stay in the reader's mind. All her books are standalone novels.
An animal lover, who believes ‘all life is precious’ Jane is a vegan and an animal rights advocate. She lives in the UK with her two cats Hero and Halo, who are sometimes featured in her books.
When she isn't writing (or reading) Jane enjoys living 'the good life' in the Rutland countryside, in a small village close to the town of Stamford, Lincolnshire in the UK; known for its quirky tea shops and cobbled streets.
Although born in Cambridgeshire, she is half Welsh and hopes, one day, to retire to the mountains of South Wales, where she feels closest to her late mother, whose maiden name 'James' is where Jane gets her pen name from. Once there, she plans to adopt and rescue all kinds of animals including donkeys, sheep, chickens and goats.
Rebecca, Carrie, The Woman in Black and Wuthering Heights are among some of Jane's favourite reads.
Visit her website www.janeejames.com or catch up with her on facebook and twitter. But bring Monster Munch and wine...
An animal lover, who believes ‘all life is precious’ Jane is a vegan and an animal rights advocate. She lives in the UK with her two cats Hero and Halo, who are sometimes featured in her books.
When she isn't writing (or reading) Jane enjoys living 'the good life' in the Rutland countryside, in a small village close to the town of Stamford, Lincolnshire in the UK; known for its quirky tea shops and cobbled streets.
Although born in Cambridgeshire, she is half Welsh and hopes, one day, to retire to the mountains of South Wales, where she feels closest to her late mother, whose maiden name 'James' is where Jane gets her pen name from. Once there, she plans to adopt and rescue all kinds of animals including donkeys, sheep, chickens and goats.
Rebecca, Carrie, The Woman in Black and Wuthering Heights are among some of Jane's favourite reads.
Visit her website www.janeejames.com or catch up with her on facebook and twitter. But bring Monster Munch and wine...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 23, 2021
As soon as I read the blurb for this book I had to get it straight away. Good call! It did not let me down in the slightest. The plot in this book is just brilliant, so intriguing and one to hold your interest all the way through.
When I read that this book was based on a true story I was flabbergasted and somewhat even more disturbed. Meet one of the Crying Boys..
The Crying Boy is one of many paintings painted by the one artist where owners claim that they are indestructible in a fire and the cause of a curse upon any that owns one. When you read about how seriously the public took these paintings it's really very creepy stuff. So keep that in mind when reading this fiction story - because there could be a lot of fact weaved in there.
A young couple, grieving and at a loss start a new beginning in a brand new house in the country. It's a fresh start, a chance to heal, a place of peace - or so they thought. Let the spooky music commence! This is no ordinary house, with no ordinary occupants and nothing very ordinary is going to happen within it's four walls. We get taken on one hell of a journey page by page that is just riveting to read!
I feel the main characters were written very well, I connected with them all, I felt like I was right there in the story with them, there is plenty of light and shade to keep you on your toes with each character. Plenty of damage and flaws. This is not a happy, functional marriage and the new beginning is fraught with strange events that are disturbing to say the least. I would have been running from the house if it were me! Running, very fast, no looking back. But nobody runs. So let the games begin..
The Crying Boy WILL NOT be ignored..
The book just has so much going for it. It's thrilling, the characters suck you in, the plot weaves it's magic around you and the ending blew me away. I did NOT see that coming and was rendered rather speechless. Excellently executed ending! The book is creepy and spooky and being mindful of the true facts behind these paintings, even more so. 5 stars for The Crying Boy and I am now off to Google more about these paintings. Jane E James has written a highly entertaining, suitably atmospheric creepy tale that really does make you think. Don't miss this one!
P.S. I was so disturbed and creeped out when searching for these actual paintings online to put in this review that I had to wipe them off my hard-drive, I had genuine reactions to them.
I read a Kindle version of this novel which I purchased. All review opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
When I read that this book was based on a true story I was flabbergasted and somewhat even more disturbed. Meet one of the Crying Boys..
The Crying Boy is one of many paintings painted by the one artist where owners claim that they are indestructible in a fire and the cause of a curse upon any that owns one. When you read about how seriously the public took these paintings it's really very creepy stuff. So keep that in mind when reading this fiction story - because there could be a lot of fact weaved in there.
A young couple, grieving and at a loss start a new beginning in a brand new house in the country. It's a fresh start, a chance to heal, a place of peace - or so they thought. Let the spooky music commence! This is no ordinary house, with no ordinary occupants and nothing very ordinary is going to happen within it's four walls. We get taken on one hell of a journey page by page that is just riveting to read!
I feel the main characters were written very well, I connected with them all, I felt like I was right there in the story with them, there is plenty of light and shade to keep you on your toes with each character. Plenty of damage and flaws. This is not a happy, functional marriage and the new beginning is fraught with strange events that are disturbing to say the least. I would have been running from the house if it were me! Running, very fast, no looking back. But nobody runs. So let the games begin..
The Crying Boy WILL NOT be ignored..
The book just has so much going for it. It's thrilling, the characters suck you in, the plot weaves it's magic around you and the ending blew me away. I did NOT see that coming and was rendered rather speechless. Excellently executed ending! The book is creepy and spooky and being mindful of the true facts behind these paintings, even more so. 5 stars for The Crying Boy and I am now off to Google more about these paintings. Jane E James has written a highly entertaining, suitably atmospheric creepy tale that really does make you think. Don't miss this one!
P.S. I was so disturbed and creeped out when searching for these actual paintings online to put in this review that I had to wipe them off my hard-drive, I had genuine reactions to them.
I read a Kindle version of this novel which I purchased. All review opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
April 2, 2017
This is by far the creepiest, chilling reads I have read this year to date.
Its sadness surrounds Clayton and Avril who sadly lost their little boy. They are still grieving when they decide to move house.
They take up residence in the Yorkshire moors in a home called Swallows nest.
But in the house Avril discovers a painting. This has captured her curiosity, so she explores further only to find the painting is of a boy not disimilar to her child she is grieving for and once more, the boy in the painting was deaf just like her son.
Her grief takes her on a journey including the atmospheric and chilling complex history relating to the painting that hit the papers THE CRYING BOY.
I think I have been hiding under a rock as until now, this is the first I hear of this painting which took me on a Google search.
I love this authors books, she 'does it for me everytime' keeps my intrigued, interested and alert despite having supernatural overtures in this one, which I usually steer clear of as I am easily disturbed. I was totally hooked.
Chills ran down my spine plenty of times and the hairs on the back of my neck stood out.
Fab read which I would highly recommend.
Its sadness surrounds Clayton and Avril who sadly lost their little boy. They are still grieving when they decide to move house.
They take up residence in the Yorkshire moors in a home called Swallows nest.
But in the house Avril discovers a painting. This has captured her curiosity, so she explores further only to find the painting is of a boy not disimilar to her child she is grieving for and once more, the boy in the painting was deaf just like her son.
Her grief takes her on a journey including the atmospheric and chilling complex history relating to the painting that hit the papers THE CRYING BOY.
I think I have been hiding under a rock as until now, this is the first I hear of this painting which took me on a Google search.
I love this authors books, she 'does it for me everytime' keeps my intrigued, interested and alert despite having supernatural overtures in this one, which I usually steer clear of as I am easily disturbed. I was totally hooked.
Chills ran down my spine plenty of times and the hairs on the back of my neck stood out.
Fab read which I would highly recommend.
April 24, 2017
Holy flying Scotsman, what the heck was that?!
Really, there's only one word that applies to this book and it's "creepy". Creeeeeeepy! The stuff of nightmares!
My in-laws used to have this painting on the wall in their living room. Even then, it freaked me out and I didn't even know the story behind it back then. And no, before you ask, their house never burnt down.
I'd like to say that in the spirit of broadening my horizon, I picked up this book because I'm not normally interested in the paranormal or supernatural (unless it involves the Winchester brothers) but I'd be lying. The truth is, I kept seeing the cover pop up on my twitter timeline and I couldn't forget about it. Then when I realised it was a "thriller", I was too intrigued for my own good. So I had absolutely no idea what the book was about and I'm glad I didn't.
Clayton and Avril move to Swallow's Nest on the Yorkshire moors after the death of their son. They find a painting that looks remarkably like their little boy. But this painting of The Crying Boy is nothing like any other painting. It is steeped in mystery and believed to be cursed.
The painting itself kicks off the book by relaying events through its own eyes, so to speak. Did I mention creepy? What a way to hook a reader! I would have loved to have seen more chapters like that one. As it is, it set the tone perfectly for what lay ahead.
This is one nailbiting read, where the action builds up from first page to last. I wondered what was going on and I couldn't quite figure out how things would end up. And ... well, if that ending doesn't shock you to the core, then there's no hope for you!
A dark and disturbing book, with the Yorkshire moors providing the perfect setting. Chilling, creepy, absolutely brilliant! I'll definitely be keeping an eye on Jane E. James!
Really, there's only one word that applies to this book and it's "creepy". Creeeeeeepy! The stuff of nightmares!
My in-laws used to have this painting on the wall in their living room. Even then, it freaked me out and I didn't even know the story behind it back then. And no, before you ask, their house never burnt down.
I'd like to say that in the spirit of broadening my horizon, I picked up this book because I'm not normally interested in the paranormal or supernatural (unless it involves the Winchester brothers) but I'd be lying. The truth is, I kept seeing the cover pop up on my twitter timeline and I couldn't forget about it. Then when I realised it was a "thriller", I was too intrigued for my own good. So I had absolutely no idea what the book was about and I'm glad I didn't.
Clayton and Avril move to Swallow's Nest on the Yorkshire moors after the death of their son. They find a painting that looks remarkably like their little boy. But this painting of The Crying Boy is nothing like any other painting. It is steeped in mystery and believed to be cursed.
The painting itself kicks off the book by relaying events through its own eyes, so to speak. Did I mention creepy? What a way to hook a reader! I would have loved to have seen more chapters like that one. As it is, it set the tone perfectly for what lay ahead.
This is one nailbiting read, where the action builds up from first page to last. I wondered what was going on and I couldn't quite figure out how things would end up. And ... well, if that ending doesn't shock you to the core, then there's no hope for you!
A dark and disturbing book, with the Yorkshire moors providing the perfect setting. Chilling, creepy, absolutely brilliant! I'll definitely be keeping an eye on Jane E. James!
March 31, 2017
This is the second novel I have read by this author and I have to say she sure knows how to write an atmospheric and disturbing read!
The house that Avril and Clayton move in to sounds wonderful. A big rambling house set in the wonderful moors of Haworth where the famous Bronte sisters lived. Sadly though it does come with a bit of history.
I loved that the story is set around an actual painting that has a very disturbing history of its own. It makes the whole story feel more real which makes it very creepy!
Both Avril and Clayton have been through the mill. To lose a child has to be a parents worst nightmare and my heart went out to both characters. What I loved though is that both characters are quite flawed. Neither are perfect and it actually made them more human and easier to relate to.
The Crying Boy is a story full of suspense that is very much a mix of the super natural and horror genre. It would be great for on the screen that’s for sure. There is a great build up through out the story and it’s one that will have you on tender hooks all the way through. A highly enjoyable read.
The house that Avril and Clayton move in to sounds wonderful. A big rambling house set in the wonderful moors of Haworth where the famous Bronte sisters lived. Sadly though it does come with a bit of history.
I loved that the story is set around an actual painting that has a very disturbing history of its own. It makes the whole story feel more real which makes it very creepy!
Both Avril and Clayton have been through the mill. To lose a child has to be a parents worst nightmare and my heart went out to both characters. What I loved though is that both characters are quite flawed. Neither are perfect and it actually made them more human and easier to relate to.
The Crying Boy is a story full of suspense that is very much a mix of the super natural and horror genre. It would be great for on the screen that’s for sure. There is a great build up through out the story and it’s one that will have you on tender hooks all the way through. A highly enjoyable read.
April 14, 2017
This book is, in one word, creepy! The opening packs a punch with the-painting-that-won't-burn's POV. I liked this because it's different and grabs your attention. I would have liked more of it occasionally through the rest of the book too.
Avril's emotions and her reaction to the painting are brilliantly written, as is Clay's character. Their relationship is really put through the wringer as they both try to cope in different ways. A chilling atmosphere is maintained throughout the book and the cover is the perfect fit for the story.
Avril's emotions and her reaction to the painting are brilliantly written, as is Clay's character. Their relationship is really put through the wringer as they both try to cope in different ways. A chilling atmosphere is maintained throughout the book and the cover is the perfect fit for the story.
April 6, 2017
Now I’m a bit of a wuss when it comes to scary stuff in films, on tv, in books…..okay so most things! But I was recommended Jane E James first book, The Long Weekend, and so was eagerly awaiting her second. It took me a little longer to read than it would normally though as I tend to read in bed…in the dark…AND I JUST COULDN’T DO IT!! Honestly this book is so creepy that I still can’t even look at that cover and I’ve had to take it off my kindle!
I remember when The Sun newspaper first reported the curse of The Crying Boy painting and created a public frenzy which had people sending in their pictures to The Sun to be destroyed. Apparently it started when a firefighter told the paper that no firefighter would have one in their home as they always seemed to survive house fires undamaged. And that’s why I went into this book very gingerly! I’m not superstitious but you can never be too careful…can you?!
Jane E James has created an atmospheric and darkly suspenseful story here that scared the **** out of me at times! Avril and her husband Clayton are just normal people who have had tragedy thrown at them, making them more susceptible to the events that occur when they move into their new home. I really felt for Avril as soon as I found out how she had lost her son in an accident and the circumstances surrounding it. Her emotions were overwhelming for her but when she looked for comfort in the portrait of The Crying Boy it set off a spine chilling “relationship” between them. And it was the descriptions of that portrait itself and it’s actions that freaked me out the most. Watching bereaved parents falling apart was hard enough but to watch helplessly as an outside influence threatened to destroy their relationship completely was utterly nerve wracking!
This is one of the most chilling books that I have read in a long time mainly due to the fact that it was based around a true story. But Jane E James has taken that story and weaved her own terrifying tale around it that will unnerve even the most sceptical of readers. Just make sure you read it with the lights on!
I remember when The Sun newspaper first reported the curse of The Crying Boy painting and created a public frenzy which had people sending in their pictures to The Sun to be destroyed. Apparently it started when a firefighter told the paper that no firefighter would have one in their home as they always seemed to survive house fires undamaged. And that’s why I went into this book very gingerly! I’m not superstitious but you can never be too careful…can you?!
Jane E James has created an atmospheric and darkly suspenseful story here that scared the **** out of me at times! Avril and her husband Clayton are just normal people who have had tragedy thrown at them, making them more susceptible to the events that occur when they move into their new home. I really felt for Avril as soon as I found out how she had lost her son in an accident and the circumstances surrounding it. Her emotions were overwhelming for her but when she looked for comfort in the portrait of The Crying Boy it set off a spine chilling “relationship” between them. And it was the descriptions of that portrait itself and it’s actions that freaked me out the most. Watching bereaved parents falling apart was hard enough but to watch helplessly as an outside influence threatened to destroy their relationship completely was utterly nerve wracking!
This is one of the most chilling books that I have read in a long time mainly due to the fact that it was based around a true story. But Jane E James has taken that story and weaved her own terrifying tale around it that will unnerve even the most sceptical of readers. Just make sure you read it with the lights on!
August 28, 2019
A dark and brooding tale.
A psychological ghost story/thriller. This was not a story to read just before bedtime. It was frighteningly creepy, with an unexpected and shocking ending. As with other stories from the pen of Ms. James, this troubling tale will stay with me for some time. No happy ending this one but, nevertheless, it was one hell of a read.
A psychological ghost story/thriller. This was not a story to read just before bedtime. It was frighteningly creepy, with an unexpected and shocking ending. As with other stories from the pen of Ms. James, this troubling tale will stay with me for some time. No happy ending this one but, nevertheless, it was one hell of a read.
April 28, 2017
There are a lot of 'holes' in this story. Very frustrating
April 7, 2017
The Crying Boy is an excellent myth on which to base a novel and one that Jane James clearly has some in depth knowledge on. The opening section of the book – in first-person from the painting’s POV- really jolted me, hard. This was an excellent section, wholly immersive, tantalisingly creepy and pitch-perfect in the narrative choice. It also demonstrated a particular strong grasp and use of dialogue by James. All in, The Crying Boy has one of the strongest openings to any book I’ve read. Ever.
With such an accomplished opening, I had high expectations going into the rest of the book, which for the most part were met.
Utilising a third-person, present-tense throughout, Jane’s prose is accomplished and very descriptive, skilfully immersing the reader in the musty, opaque corridors of the world James exposes them to. I was slightly disappointed by the lack of dialogue present in parts of the book, mostly because the writer demonstrated a high degree of skill in writing the spoken word in the earliest scenes of the book, making me want more… a lot more. As a result of this reduction in dialogue, the prose felt a little exposition-heavy at times for my tastes, but perhaps, where dialogue is concerned, others will find that less is more in this case.
For me personally I’d like to have seen more interactions between the characters similar to those that took place in the prologue. Similarly, I’d have liked to have seen the painting’s ‘character’ pushed to the fore. This was a skilful use of characterisation, and an adept use of alternative viewpoint. For me, the novel would have benefited from a greater presence of this ‘character’. Perhaps even as the main protagonist throughout.
Despite a few minor quibbles, most of which are wholly subjective, I really enjoyed The Crying Boy. James’ novel is a fine example of an eerie, insular, tightly-cornered beast of a story; all threatening corners and complex emotions and characters. To read, it felt like watching an early John Carpenter movie, like The Thing. Seeped in intrigue and threatening presence. It’s a book I know that I’ll revisit several times, as it is one of those reads in which the reader finds something new to love or fear or recoil from on each visit.
A very accomplished story from a skilled author.
With such an accomplished opening, I had high expectations going into the rest of the book, which for the most part were met.
Utilising a third-person, present-tense throughout, Jane’s prose is accomplished and very descriptive, skilfully immersing the reader in the musty, opaque corridors of the world James exposes them to. I was slightly disappointed by the lack of dialogue present in parts of the book, mostly because the writer demonstrated a high degree of skill in writing the spoken word in the earliest scenes of the book, making me want more… a lot more. As a result of this reduction in dialogue, the prose felt a little exposition-heavy at times for my tastes, but perhaps, where dialogue is concerned, others will find that less is more in this case.
For me personally I’d like to have seen more interactions between the characters similar to those that took place in the prologue. Similarly, I’d have liked to have seen the painting’s ‘character’ pushed to the fore. This was a skilful use of characterisation, and an adept use of alternative viewpoint. For me, the novel would have benefited from a greater presence of this ‘character’. Perhaps even as the main protagonist throughout.
Despite a few minor quibbles, most of which are wholly subjective, I really enjoyed The Crying Boy. James’ novel is a fine example of an eerie, insular, tightly-cornered beast of a story; all threatening corners and complex emotions and characters. To read, it felt like watching an early John Carpenter movie, like The Thing. Seeped in intrigue and threatening presence. It’s a book I know that I’ll revisit several times, as it is one of those reads in which the reader finds something new to love or fear or recoil from on each visit.
A very accomplished story from a skilled author.
May 21, 2017
Did I read a different book to everyone else?!
This was terrible!
I was intrigued by the cover and blurb, as I had read about the Crying Boy paintings as a teen; but the book itself is very poor quality.
The characters barely even qualify as one-dimensional, let alone believable, and the story itself seems hastily thrown together.
Plus, it's supposed to be a horror but there were zero scares in there.
You could have Vincent Price reading this to a particularly sensitive toddler and still not get a reaction.
This was terrible!
I was intrigued by the cover and blurb, as I had read about the Crying Boy paintings as a teen; but the book itself is very poor quality.
The characters barely even qualify as one-dimensional, let alone believable, and the story itself seems hastily thrown together.
Plus, it's supposed to be a horror but there were zero scares in there.
You could have Vincent Price reading this to a particularly sensitive toddler and still not get a reaction.
March 26, 2018
Well this has been one crazy creepy read, I think it's the creepiest story I've ever read. It has seriously messed with my head.
I'll say one thing for sure, I so never want to come into contact with The Crying Boy. I'd definitely run for the hills.
It was a brilliant read, so wasn't what I was expecting at all. The story plot was very cleverly written and kept me captivated throughout. I was completely surprised by the ending as so wasn't expecting it.
If you like your reads to be creepy, then I'd highly recommend you read this.
I'll say one thing for sure, I so never want to come into contact with The Crying Boy. I'd definitely run for the hills.
It was a brilliant read, so wasn't what I was expecting at all. The story plot was very cleverly written and kept me captivated throughout. I was completely surprised by the ending as so wasn't expecting it.
If you like your reads to be creepy, then I'd highly recommend you read this.
April 23, 2017
The synopsis of the book made it sound like a good read but the first twenty chapters were boring. I had to fast forward to the end to see if there was any point continuing. . but I didn't. This author is very descriptive and good with words, but the story just bored me. Maybe I missed out the part where it got better and warranted a five star review. .😠
April 24, 2017
WOW
I loved reading this book the characters were very interesting.
But it was the last chapter, that had my heart racing the most above the rest of the book, which was excellent.
I loved reading this book the characters were very interesting.
But it was the last chapter, that had my heart racing the most above the rest of the book, which was excellent.
April 2, 2017
The crying boy is the eagerly awaited second novel from the truly talented author Jane E James. As my friends know, i'm a big fan and after the wait this one does not disappoint.
We meet Avril & Clayton. A couple who have suffered a tragedy that no-one should have to bear. I cannot imagine the heartache and the upset that they've had to endure. To help move on, they move house. They buy a stunning long, low, sprawling property that sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors, Swallows Nest. With the house comes a painting, The Crying Boy. With the painting comes a story all of its own.
I like my stories to be captivating & scary. I like to feel the goosebumps and the chill as icy cold fingers trace the curve of my spine, whilst i am completely immersed in the pages. This hits the spot! I really enjoy Janes writing style, it is confident and flowing and easy to read allowing the reader to enjoy the story in it's entirety. With it's descriptive prowess and in depth personalities of the characters who are perfectly imperfect, we have here a cleverly woven tale of horror and the supernatural that is nothing short of a treat. I have no problem at all in recommending this to everyone.
We meet Avril & Clayton. A couple who have suffered a tragedy that no-one should have to bear. I cannot imagine the heartache and the upset that they've had to endure. To help move on, they move house. They buy a stunning long, low, sprawling property that sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors, Swallows Nest. With the house comes a painting, The Crying Boy. With the painting comes a story all of its own.
I like my stories to be captivating & scary. I like to feel the goosebumps and the chill as icy cold fingers trace the curve of my spine, whilst i am completely immersed in the pages. This hits the spot! I really enjoy Janes writing style, it is confident and flowing and easy to read allowing the reader to enjoy the story in it's entirety. With it's descriptive prowess and in depth personalities of the characters who are perfectly imperfect, we have here a cleverly woven tale of horror and the supernatural that is nothing short of a treat. I have no problem at all in recommending this to everyone.
April 18, 2017
Chilling!
I remember the picture of the crying boy from my childhood, we had 1 which I was always mesmerised by. Years later visiting family in New Zealand, I was surprised to see the same pictures hanging on their wall. I didn't know anything about the curse until reading this book, for that I am grateful. The chilling story told so eerily by Jane, would have had me booking into the nearest hotel for the duration of my stay.
A great tale, well told x
I remember the picture of the crying boy from my childhood, we had 1 which I was always mesmerised by. Years later visiting family in New Zealand, I was surprised to see the same pictures hanging on their wall. I didn't know anything about the curse until reading this book, for that I am grateful. The chilling story told so eerily by Jane, would have had me booking into the nearest hotel for the duration of my stay.
A great tale, well told x
May 4, 2017
Clever...a story that creeps up on you..Sssh don't turn around
Avril and Clayton move to a house on the moors for a fresh start after the loss of their child.Avril is not over the loss yet,when she finds a painting of the crying boy the resemblance of the painting to the child who died makes her put the painting up on the wall...and from here the story takes a sinister turn..A neighbour the retired fire chief makes friends with Clayton but Avril is not quite as keen on him ..there's something about the man that Avril feels is off.As they try to settle in to the new house a darkness seems to be pressing down on them and Avril getting thinner by the day is retreating into herself ,they love each other yet they are falling apart at the same time...Avril researchers the history of the painting ,learning the dark ,tragic tale of the lost crying boy...sinking under a dark cloud at the same time is she losing her mind?..Then Avril falls pregnant bringing this couple c!oser than ever before.As Avril tries to put the past behind her to build a future , there are dark forces at work here that send silent shivers up and down your spine..Just when you start to believe that the scars from the past will melt away...A dark and evil cloud is gathering..... This book is one of those that pulled me in from the cover...the story pulls the reader in..there's something in this story a darkness that gets under your skin ...all the while you want this couple to find peace and have a beautiful life....The Crying Boy will have you riveted to the spot ..as you turn the pages..Its mystical... dark ,scarey in parts the ending threw me completely... I wanted to reach into the pages ...instead there was a sharp intake of air...Omg ...when I was a child an old lady had one of these on her wall ...I haven't seen one in years ....but if I do I will always remember this Crying Boy.....
Avril and Clayton move to a house on the moors for a fresh start after the loss of their child.Avril is not over the loss yet,when she finds a painting of the crying boy the resemblance of the painting to the child who died makes her put the painting up on the wall...and from here the story takes a sinister turn..A neighbour the retired fire chief makes friends with Clayton but Avril is not quite as keen on him ..there's something about the man that Avril feels is off.As they try to settle in to the new house a darkness seems to be pressing down on them and Avril getting thinner by the day is retreating into herself ,they love each other yet they are falling apart at the same time...Avril researchers the history of the painting ,learning the dark ,tragic tale of the lost crying boy...sinking under a dark cloud at the same time is she losing her mind?..Then Avril falls pregnant bringing this couple c!oser than ever before.As Avril tries to put the past behind her to build a future , there are dark forces at work here that send silent shivers up and down your spine..Just when you start to believe that the scars from the past will melt away...A dark and evil cloud is gathering..... This book is one of those that pulled me in from the cover...the story pulls the reader in..there's something in this story a darkness that gets under your skin ...all the while you want this couple to find peace and have a beautiful life....The Crying Boy will have you riveted to the spot ..as you turn the pages..Its mystical... dark ,scarey in parts the ending threw me completely... I wanted to reach into the pages ...instead there was a sharp intake of air...Omg ...when I was a child an old lady had one of these on her wall ...I haven't seen one in years ....but if I do I will always remember this Crying Boy.....
November 12, 2017
Almost all of the books I got from NetGalley are due not until next year. So I thought this would be a good time to read some books I bought myself. But apparently I am better at choosing books from NetGalley than find some of my own on amazon. This book is the third or even fourth in a row of books I bought which I really disliked.
The blurb sounds promising and I heard about the cursed paintings many years ago. And I am always looking for a good horror book (which is hard to find). I saw all the good reviews and I happily started reading. But this book took ages to get started. I almost gave up. But somebody wrote that the story gets better after 25% into it. I can confirm that. But it doesn’t get much better. I was so annoyed by the characters. Clifton is dumb and Avril is just horrible. She is so changeable in her feelings for her husband. One minute she despises him almost, the next minute it is quite the opposite. Each conversation between them changed everything. And I really could not understand Clifton’s urge to move on and his mixes feelings for his dead child. This whole situation was just chaotic. Maybe I would have be Ok with that if at least the story would have been good. It’s not the thing with the picture. It is more how it was developed. The story was very weird, but not in a good way. Everybody is a mess and changes their opinion all the time. The story is not gripping or even frightening. Just chaotic and nothing makes sense. And it is a loooong book. I don’t know why I did not stop reading. The end annoyed me even more when stupid and stubborn Avril makes the dumbest decision ever to go back to that house*eyeroll*.
This was just a waste of time.
The blurb sounds promising and I heard about the cursed paintings many years ago. And I am always looking for a good horror book (which is hard to find). I saw all the good reviews and I happily started reading. But this book took ages to get started. I almost gave up. But somebody wrote that the story gets better after 25% into it. I can confirm that. But it doesn’t get much better. I was so annoyed by the characters. Clifton is dumb and Avril is just horrible. She is so changeable in her feelings for her husband. One minute she despises him almost, the next minute it is quite the opposite. Each conversation between them changed everything. And I really could not understand Clifton’s urge to move on and his mixes feelings for his dead child. This whole situation was just chaotic. Maybe I would have be Ok with that if at least the story would have been good. It’s not the thing with the picture. It is more how it was developed. The story was very weird, but not in a good way. Everybody is a mess and changes their opinion all the time. The story is not gripping or even frightening. Just chaotic and nothing makes sense. And it is a loooong book. I don’t know why I did not stop reading. The end annoyed me even more when stupid and stubborn Avril makes the dumbest decision ever to go back to that house*eyeroll*.
This was just a waste of time.
April 3, 2017
Avril and Clayton are starting a fresh in their new home, however Avril feels a chill from the home, called Swallows Nest and feels her presence is unwelcome.
Jane has given us a story with great atmosphere in various guises. From the setting on the moors, the portrait. I remember the story of the painting as we had one, it really was chilling at the time and Jane has captured that feeling greatly and added a layer of ghostly telling with it.
The tension builds from the beginning, and Avril and Clayton are surrounded in some mystery of their own. It took me a while to warm to the couple and individually. As the story unfolds and you read more of the history of the couple it compels you to read on.
The History of the Crying Boy is revealed through the telling and daily living of Avril and Clayton, there were elements of this story I did not know and found it interesting and a great concept for a book.
If you are looking for an intriguing, haunting read. Look no further.
The Crying Boy by Jane E James as a chilling presence from beginning to end.
4.5 star rating review from Bookstormer.
Jane has given us a story with great atmosphere in various guises. From the setting on the moors, the portrait. I remember the story of the painting as we had one, it really was chilling at the time and Jane has captured that feeling greatly and added a layer of ghostly telling with it.
The tension builds from the beginning, and Avril and Clayton are surrounded in some mystery of their own. It took me a while to warm to the couple and individually. As the story unfolds and you read more of the history of the couple it compels you to read on.
The History of the Crying Boy is revealed through the telling and daily living of Avril and Clayton, there were elements of this story I did not know and found it interesting and a great concept for a book.
If you are looking for an intriguing, haunting read. Look no further.
The Crying Boy by Jane E James as a chilling presence from beginning to end.
4.5 star rating review from Bookstormer.
November 6, 2017
What a creepy legend & a creepy book! I liked how this book was inspired by true events although the book is purely fiction & is based off the true history of the Crying Boy painting.
Arvil & Clayton move into their new home-one that was rebuilt when the original home was destroyed by a mysterious fire. The fire demolished the home & everything in it except for one thing...The Crying Boy painting. Little do Arvil & Clayton know the curse of the painting that they discover in the attic. Already plagued by tragedy, the couple lost a son in a horrible accident before they moved into the new home. The painting seems to be crying out to Avril, demanding her attention & reminding her of her deceased son. When strange things begin to happen, she starts communicating with the boy in the painting, until she discovers she is pregnant & then only wants her baby & no longer the Crying Boy. Rejecting the painting may come with a price to pay.
Arvil & Clayton move into their new home-one that was rebuilt when the original home was destroyed by a mysterious fire. The fire demolished the home & everything in it except for one thing...The Crying Boy painting. Little do Arvil & Clayton know the curse of the painting that they discover in the attic. Already plagued by tragedy, the couple lost a son in a horrible accident before they moved into the new home. The painting seems to be crying out to Avril, demanding her attention & reminding her of her deceased son. When strange things begin to happen, she starts communicating with the boy in the painting, until she discovers she is pregnant & then only wants her baby & no longer the Crying Boy. Rejecting the painting may come with a price to pay.
April 7, 2017
WOW! I've not read anything from this author before, but picked up this one on pre-order as it sounded very tantalising as far as darker books go. It was AMAZING! The story starts with a couple moving into a new home on the Yorkshire moors, but yet a strange painting that bears a resemblance to their recently deceased child hidden away in the attic is the centre of a scary curse. With Avril feeling the loss of her son and her husband, Clay drifted away from her the couple are thrown in at the deep end. I was addicted to turning the pages, wanting to make sure that I read as much of it as I could. It was dark, terrifying and so so very good! Brilliantly written and a masterpiece. This is one author I will be keeping a close eye on, because she writes amazing books!
March 27, 2017
I am very grateful to Bloodhound Books for sending me an ARC of The Crying Boy. This is a very well written and enjoyable book and, were it not for my own personal reservations about stories involving the paranormal, I would be inclined to award five stars. The Crying Boy of the title is a painting which is said to be capable of inflicting a curse on those who come into contact with it, and this is certainly the case with a couple who, having lost their child, move from Leeds into the Yorkshire countryside in an attempt to escape their sadness. Naturally they are unsuccessful and they encounter strange occurrences and characters in the course of the novel.
April 5, 2017
My review of The Crying Boy by Jane E James
I remember the drama with the paintings from the Sun all those years ago and was keen to read Jane's book.
The cover is creepy and so are the first few pages.
There's a lot to recommend here. I was involved quickly and found myself coming back to the book regularly. It's a big read but I needed to get to the end.
The characters are believable, the suspense palpable and, best of all, the similes are lovable. Well done on some excellent writing.
I remember the drama with the paintings from the Sun all those years ago and was keen to read Jane's book.
The cover is creepy and so are the first few pages.
There's a lot to recommend here. I was involved quickly and found myself coming back to the book regularly. It's a big read but I needed to get to the end.
The characters are believable, the suspense palpable and, best of all, the similes are lovable. Well done on some excellent writing.
June 5, 2017
Chilling
I found the beginning of this a bit disjointed but that may be because I was trying to read it outside in direct sunlight on a kindle fire! However once I got passed this I really enjoyed this book. I remember the 'curse of the crying boy' in the papers and this story really played to the fears that particular tabloid frenzy brought out. I love being creeped out and this book certainly did that. Definitely worth a read.
I found the beginning of this a bit disjointed but that may be because I was trying to read it outside in direct sunlight on a kindle fire! However once I got passed this I really enjoyed this book. I remember the 'curse of the crying boy' in the papers and this story really played to the fears that particular tabloid frenzy brought out. I love being creeped out and this book certainly did that. Definitely worth a read.
November 26, 2017
I really, really tried to get into this novel but to no avail. The description of the story intrigued me yet I'm confused by the high ratings. It simply couldn't keep my attention, I was skipping ahead to see if things warmed up. Both Avril and her Clayton are dull, one sided characters and nothing about how they were written could pique my interest.
It's a sad and reluctant one star from me. Such a shame.
It's a sad and reluctant one star from me. Such a shame.
May 18, 2018
Wow, happy moving day, then........
When this kicks off it really kicks in.
The crying boy alone has a long troubled history, to then weave this into a story! Brilliant
Such a happy day, new home, life should get better right? Read this then you'll know why I'm answering, yeah right!
Buy it enjoy it
When this kicks off it really kicks in.
The crying boy alone has a long troubled history, to then weave this into a story! Brilliant
Such a happy day, new home, life should get better right? Read this then you'll know why I'm answering, yeah right!
Buy it enjoy it
April 1, 2017
Well written book that captures the imagination, creepy characters that you can't second guess what they're going to do next
July 24, 2019
There were a lot of things that the author really needed to go into more details about, some stuff didn’t make as much sense as it should have. I was also left with a lot of questions. I also don’t see why that whole therapist part was even in there considering it was only in the book the one time and by the way that introduced her it seemed like she was going to be a bigger character in the story. I was also very disappointed with the ending.
January 8, 2025
This is the first horror book I’ve read since goosebumps as a child probably 🤣 I remember reading about the curse of the Crying Boy painting years ago, so this book got my attention.
Did the book need to be as long as it was? Probably not, but it was well written so I didn’t really mind. Having said that, I would have preferred there to be more chapters including the therapist… 3.5 stars rounded up ✨
Did the book need to be as long as it was? Probably not, but it was well written so I didn’t really mind. Having said that, I would have preferred there to be more chapters including the therapist… 3.5 stars rounded up ✨
October 29, 2022
I remember the tale of the curse of the crying boy from when I was younger. My Nana had one of these pictures on her wall and it always freaked me out. The eyes followed you no matter where you were in the room.
This book is really creepy and it lives up to the curse of the crying boy and takes it to the next level.
This book is really creepy and it lives up to the curse of the crying boy and takes it to the next level.
February 14, 2025
Chilling. Absolutely chilling.
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