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Friday Nightmares
For generations, the wizards of Candle Paranormal Investigations have helped the people of Boston with everything from garden-variety poltergeists to Eldritch abominations. Sixteen-year-old Henry Candle, however, has no interest in taking over the family business and would much rather spend time hanging out in cafes with his human friends. But when his father is brutally murdered while working on a case, Candle Paranormal Investigations magically falls into Henry’s possession — and so does a warning: “BEWARE, HENRY. HE’LL COME FOR YOU, TOO.”
Henry does some digging and discovers that two other wizards have been killed in the past month, both of their bodies found with the same symbol scrawled into their chest as his father. He decides to reopen the case so he can discover who (or what) is murdering Boston’s wizards before he's next. Aided by his pug familiar, a witch and a group of human friends, Henry must stop a supernatural serial killer and find an evil spell book that could end the world.
Henry does some digging and discovers that two other wizards have been killed in the past month, both of their bodies found with the same symbol scrawled into their chest as his father. He decides to reopen the case so he can discover who (or what) is murdering Boston’s wizards before he's next. Aided by his pug familiar, a witch and a group of human friends, Henry must stop a supernatural serial killer and find an evil spell book that could end the world.
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Published February 9, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 5, 2021
2.5 ⭐
Thank you to the #NetGalley and to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of Friday Nightmares by Corey Edward in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a lot of potential. The idea was solid, the writing style pretty good and I really liked the atmosphere.
However, I think that the story needed some more work. There were parts that were very repetitive, some things felt a bit inconsistent and the character work, though good for the most part, had some moments that felt completely out of place.
It was clear that the author had a solid storytelling talent, and as this is his debut work, I can see his future books being much better polished than this one. Friday Nightmares, though, was a miss for me.
You can find my full review on my book blog NovelOnMyMind.
❤️️ ❤️️ ❤️️
Thank you to the #NetGalley and to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of Friday Nightmares by Corey Edward in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a lot of potential. The idea was solid, the writing style pretty good and I really liked the atmosphere.
However, I think that the story needed some more work. There were parts that were very repetitive, some things felt a bit inconsistent and the character work, though good for the most part, had some moments that felt completely out of place.
It was clear that the author had a solid storytelling talent, and as this is his debut work, I can see his future books being much better polished than this one. Friday Nightmares, though, was a miss for me.
You can find my full review on my book blog NovelOnMyMind.
❤️️ ❤️️ ❤️️
January 19, 2021
This book was a yearlong labor of love that is soon coming alive. I am thankful for everyone's support and I hope you enjoy reading about Henry's magical adventures as much as I enjoyed writing about them.
January 7, 2021
When I picked up Friday Nightmares at the beginning of this year (last week), I was expecting a cute, magical, murder mystery Young Adult novel. What I read was the complete opposite. I found that this story is so much more than a typical YA story, especially from a new author.
Corey Edward is a brand new Author on the YA scene, he obviously worked hard and long to bring this story to life. He has beautifully fleshed out every character in his book, From our main character Henry, his friends and family and his Pug Familiar Rusty. I felt like I knew every single one of them and accompanied them on their journey to find out what happened to Henry's father, James Candle.
Not only does he portray the loyalty and characteristics of Henry and his friends and family perfectly, Corey Edward brought to life countless Darkon in such a realistic way that I was too spooked to get water in the middle of the night.
Stories about magic and good vs evil have always been some of my favorites, and sometimes they can all seem too similar. But I did not find this to be true about Friday Nightmares at all. I was constantly surprised at the uniqueness of the storyline, characters and especially the mythology and backstory to this universe that Henry and his friends exist.
In all of the magical, good vs evil challenges that Henry and his friends faced, there were also real world issues addressed in this book that I'm sure all of us could relate to growing up.
What I took away from this great book was the following: It's okay to be different, be true to yourself, loyal to your friends, be honest and together with those you love and trust most, you can conquer darkness with your light. Also, pugs are adorable. Period.
I highly recommend reading this book. I also so look forward to seeing what Mr. Corey Edward does with Henry Candle and his band of misfits in their paranormal investigations in the future.
Corey Edward is a brand new Author on the YA scene, he obviously worked hard and long to bring this story to life. He has beautifully fleshed out every character in his book, From our main character Henry, his friends and family and his Pug Familiar Rusty. I felt like I knew every single one of them and accompanied them on their journey to find out what happened to Henry's father, James Candle.
Not only does he portray the loyalty and characteristics of Henry and his friends and family perfectly, Corey Edward brought to life countless Darkon in such a realistic way that I was too spooked to get water in the middle of the night.
Stories about magic and good vs evil have always been some of my favorites, and sometimes they can all seem too similar. But I did not find this to be true about Friday Nightmares at all. I was constantly surprised at the uniqueness of the storyline, characters and especially the mythology and backstory to this universe that Henry and his friends exist.
In all of the magical, good vs evil challenges that Henry and his friends faced, there were also real world issues addressed in this book that I'm sure all of us could relate to growing up.
What I took away from this great book was the following: It's okay to be different, be true to yourself, loyal to your friends, be honest and together with those you love and trust most, you can conquer darkness with your light. Also, pugs are adorable. Period.
I highly recommend reading this book. I also so look forward to seeing what Mr. Corey Edward does with Henry Candle and his band of misfits in their paranormal investigations in the future.
August 7, 2021
I received a copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
3.5⭐
(contains spoilers)
The world is interesting with its many different creatures. Not quite what i expected though, as the book wasn't as serious and dark. It reminded me of Disney's Spooksville. It is more about friendship in my opinion than anything else. There was a bit of info and moments of Henry's friends but it wasn't really so we'd know more about their characters but more so about ✨the power of friendship✨.
A group of nerds fighting monsters, and the injustice of social inequality. If you don't mind bizzare magic/creatures and you like this trope you might like this book.
We see plently of the world Henry lives in too, although not as in much depth as i would have liked. I wish the difference between Henry's magic that's "based on energy", and Delaney's "mental abilities" was explained more. Like, she isn't a witch, only witches and wizards have magic. Then why does she have some powers as well? As she is the only person we see that is not a monster, a wizard/witch, but she still has abilities which makes me curious about how their magic/world exactly works.
I like how Henry is sensible (and funny) given the circumstances he's in. (Excluding the ending). The few cases Henry takes on, where something weird and dangerous happens are the best. I wish there were more cases but i get the book's main goal isn't Henry going on various cases. I wouldn't say there's a huge plot twist waiting to happen. It was interesting and good and even though it was weird at moments i loved it, if it weren't for the last 50 pages. When the purse got spit back out ✨magically✨ i knew things (in my opinion) were going to go downhill with the story. Then we proceed with what happened at the end. I didn't thought i'd signed up for american prom king and queen drama. The ending is the typical sappy unrealistical ending. (Rigged winning. The typical crown scene. Frankie singing for the first time without Henry's help. Making the bullies to stop bullying you with a speech.) Then it gets even better with Henry with his ✨magical✨ cape and wizarding hat; him feeling as a ✨true✨ wizard. Aaaand, a pep talk to his familiar so he can make his broom fly.... One thing i didn't expect of this book was brooms/capes etc. All of a sudden here they are. The end just blew my mind in a bad way and annoyed me beyond reason.
Also how was it so the three wizards just arrested Carter and left? James had to delete the memories of every human he helped and we were told how important and vital that part is. Then without questions or scolding or ANY attention towards Henry and his human friends the good guys just showed up, literally just put cuffs on Carter and left? It felt too weird, too rushed, considering the magical folk wants no human to know about it and there he was, 16 year old wizard with human friends in the middle of it all.
The love story was weak and Molly's story had so much potential but like i said, it wasn't really a serious and dark book. They were dealing with other things other than her problem, then conveniently the bad guy comes for her and they beat him up real quick before heading for the ball.
It was fun and interesting, and the monsters something new, but the ending ruined it for me.
3.5⭐
(contains spoilers)
The world is interesting with its many different creatures. Not quite what i expected though, as the book wasn't as serious and dark. It reminded me of Disney's Spooksville. It is more about friendship in my opinion than anything else. There was a bit of info and moments of Henry's friends but it wasn't really so we'd know more about their characters but more so about ✨the power of friendship✨.
A group of nerds fighting monsters, and the injustice of social inequality. If you don't mind bizzare magic/creatures and you like this trope you might like this book.
We see plently of the world Henry lives in too, although not as in much depth as i would have liked. I wish the difference between Henry's magic that's "based on energy", and Delaney's "mental abilities" was explained more. Like, she isn't a witch, only witches and wizards have magic. Then why does she have some powers as well? As she is the only person we see that is not a monster, a wizard/witch, but she still has abilities which makes me curious about how their magic/world exactly works.
I like how Henry is sensible (and funny) given the circumstances he's in. (Excluding the ending). The few cases Henry takes on, where something weird and dangerous happens are the best. I wish there were more cases but i get the book's main goal isn't Henry going on various cases. I wouldn't say there's a huge plot twist waiting to happen. It was interesting and good and even though it was weird at moments i loved it, if it weren't for the last 50 pages. When the purse got spit back out ✨magically✨ i knew things (in my opinion) were going to go downhill with the story. Then we proceed with what happened at the end. I didn't thought i'd signed up for american prom king and queen drama. The ending is the typical sappy unrealistical ending. (Rigged winning. The typical crown scene. Frankie singing for the first time without Henry's help. Making the bullies to stop bullying you with a speech.) Then it gets even better with Henry with his ✨magical✨ cape and wizarding hat; him feeling as a ✨true✨ wizard. Aaaand, a pep talk to his familiar so he can make his broom fly.... One thing i didn't expect of this book was brooms/capes etc. All of a sudden here they are. The end just blew my mind in a bad way and annoyed me beyond reason.
Also how was it so the three wizards just arrested Carter and left? James had to delete the memories of every human he helped and we were told how important and vital that part is. Then without questions or scolding or ANY attention towards Henry and his human friends the good guys just showed up, literally just put cuffs on Carter and left? It felt too weird, too rushed, considering the magical folk wants no human to know about it and there he was, 16 year old wizard with human friends in the middle of it all.
The love story was weak and Molly's story had so much potential but like i said, it wasn't really a serious and dark book. They were dealing with other things other than her problem, then conveniently the bad guy comes for her and they beat him up real quick before heading for the ball.
It was fun and interesting, and the monsters something new, but the ending ruined it for me.
May 13, 2021
When Henry's arranging his late father's affairs, he doesn't expect to battle a tomato can demon, yet that's how the book opens and how we learn of magic. What follows it a tale of adventure, grief, friendship and plenty of shenanigans as Henry, Enisa, Frank, and Molly race to save Boston from an undead pharaoh.
At 16, Henry must decide to take on the mantle of paranormal investigator or forsake his magic. This proves an increasingly difficult decision as magic is what killed both of his parents, but it's also something that's part of him. Throughout the novel, he wrestles with his consciousness, his grandparents, and his friends until he is able to come to a decision that he is satisfied with. As a main character, Henry was fun to experience. He punctuates most of his thoughts with a joke or sarcastic comment, but is able to be serious when the situation requires it.
The secondary characters were just as fun. Enisa, Frank, and Molly all support Henry in his journey, while facing their own struggles as 16yo teens (magical or no) which gives them more depth as characters. While Henry's grandparents appear less, they still hold a special place in the story which comes through whenever any of the gang talk about them.
The antagonists, however, came off as formulaic. Sophie was the only one with a deeper reason as to why she was doing anything, but even that was flimsy. Not to say that I didn't enjoy them, but more depth would've made them even better.
As for the plot, it followed a classic murder mystery pattern with an added twist towards the end, which I enjoyed. Most didn't surprise me, but it was well written and the characters carried it forward. I found a couple subplots dragged down the story, especially as they all wrapped up with the central plot's climax, making them feel a tad rushed.
Friday Nightmares by Corey Edwards was a delight to read and I definitely recommend it if you want something quick but fun.
At 16, Henry must decide to take on the mantle of paranormal investigator or forsake his magic. This proves an increasingly difficult decision as magic is what killed both of his parents, but it's also something that's part of him. Throughout the novel, he wrestles with his consciousness, his grandparents, and his friends until he is able to come to a decision that he is satisfied with. As a main character, Henry was fun to experience. He punctuates most of his thoughts with a joke or sarcastic comment, but is able to be serious when the situation requires it.
The secondary characters were just as fun. Enisa, Frank, and Molly all support Henry in his journey, while facing their own struggles as 16yo teens (magical or no) which gives them more depth as characters. While Henry's grandparents appear less, they still hold a special place in the story which comes through whenever any of the gang talk about them.
The antagonists, however, came off as formulaic. Sophie was the only one with a deeper reason as to why she was doing anything, but even that was flimsy. Not to say that I didn't enjoy them, but more depth would've made them even better.
As for the plot, it followed a classic murder mystery pattern with an added twist towards the end, which I enjoyed. Most didn't surprise me, but it was well written and the characters carried it forward. I found a couple subplots dragged down the story, especially as they all wrapped up with the central plot's climax, making them feel a tad rushed.
Friday Nightmares by Corey Edwards was a delight to read and I definitely recommend it if you want something quick but fun.
May 15, 2021
At first, when I came across this book, I honestly did not know what to think.
The title didn't make much sense to me; it seemed more like an anthology of horror short stories surrounding Halloween. I read the description and realised it probably wasn't. I was interested enough to add it to my TBR list and get it at some point.
I got my chance to read it recently and I took it. And man, was I blown! I was hooked from the very first line until the end, hardly able to take any kind of break in between, it was so addictive! The twists and turns and the roller-coaster rides that Corey Edward took his readers in was mind-blowing! In the end, when I finally finished it, I was a little exhausted, but very much hungry for a sequel. If it does come out, I'll be sure to read it!
What a great name Henry Candle is! I always thought that the best part of a fantasy story was the names that it had and this book fits right into that category without exception!
Anyway, overall, a great read! The book had a few typos in it, but nothing to completely throw me off the track, rendering me confused. I really, truly enjoyed the ride this book delivered to me!
What was so unique about this book was the main character: He wasn't as clueless as most urban fantasy main characters are - quite the opposite. Not that either is bad - just saying that this troupe is less common than the other. Something that didn't escape my notice.
All five stars from me! I'd recommend this to any reader who, like me, has read the Harry Potter books enough to decide she didn't like it. This book is a must-read for all readers seeking to sink their teeth into a wild, roller-coaster novel with plenty of time to spare!
The title didn't make much sense to me; it seemed more like an anthology of horror short stories surrounding Halloween. I read the description and realised it probably wasn't. I was interested enough to add it to my TBR list and get it at some point.
I got my chance to read it recently and I took it. And man, was I blown! I was hooked from the very first line until the end, hardly able to take any kind of break in between, it was so addictive! The twists and turns and the roller-coaster rides that Corey Edward took his readers in was mind-blowing! In the end, when I finally finished it, I was a little exhausted, but very much hungry for a sequel. If it does come out, I'll be sure to read it!
What a great name Henry Candle is! I always thought that the best part of a fantasy story was the names that it had and this book fits right into that category without exception!
Anyway, overall, a great read! The book had a few typos in it, but nothing to completely throw me off the track, rendering me confused. I really, truly enjoyed the ride this book delivered to me!
What was so unique about this book was the main character: He wasn't as clueless as most urban fantasy main characters are - quite the opposite. Not that either is bad - just saying that this troupe is less common than the other. Something that didn't escape my notice.
All five stars from me! I'd recommend this to any reader who, like me, has read the Harry Potter books enough to decide she didn't like it. This book is a must-read for all readers seeking to sink their teeth into a wild, roller-coaster novel with plenty of time to spare!
April 25, 2021
Henry is a young wizard. After the mysterious death of his father, he's forced to take over the family's business, or lose his magic forever.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. The entire cast of characters felt real and well rounded. I grew attached to them easily. Friday Nightmares was well written and dealt with many hot topic issues in a great way. Including racism and xenophobia.
Some small things, the random references to Harry Potter or Twilight were out of place and (I feel) took away from the story. As well as randomly throwing in that Henry is questioning his sensuality at the end. There's no romance subplot to this story and it's never mentioned or relevant except in that one spot.
*Thank you to the publisher for this ebook.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. The entire cast of characters felt real and well rounded. I grew attached to them easily. Friday Nightmares was well written and dealt with many hot topic issues in a great way. Including racism and xenophobia.
Some small things, the random references to Harry Potter or Twilight were out of place and (I feel) took away from the story. As well as randomly throwing in that Henry is questioning his sensuality at the end. There's no romance subplot to this story and it's never mentioned or relevant except in that one spot.
*Thank you to the publisher for this ebook.
April 27, 2021
I received a free copy with no requirements. I think this is a solid YA novel, with a younger reader in mind. Still, even as an adult I enjoyed this, especially from a new writer. It was entertaining, funny, and I appreciated the inclusiveness, especially the points made around one of the characters. It’s a horror story, but there’s a lot of super sweet positivity that is surprisingly not over the top. For some older readers it may be a bit much, but for preteens/early teens who aren’t in their jaded phase, I think they’ll definitely enjoy it. Even some of us olders with hearts of black May like it more than we’d expect. I’d definitely read more.
February 28, 2021
This was a very well written book. I felt like I could relate to the bullying issue that was in the book and the parental distance as well. It's kind of a parnormal mystery/horror which was really interesting.
Overall, I really liked this book as the characters could be related to, the plotline was interesting and it was something that kept you looking forward to the rest of the book. The characters show loyalty and perserverance which was interesting to see. It wasn't a typical YA book, seems like a good read for all ages. I'd read more of it.
Overall, I really liked this book as the characters could be related to, the plotline was interesting and it was something that kept you looking forward to the rest of the book. The characters show loyalty and perserverance which was interesting to see. It wasn't a typical YA book, seems like a good read for all ages. I'd read more of it.
March 2, 2021
Corey Edward is such an imaginative and descriptive storyteller. This book was very easy to follow as a reader.
I never felt confused and that is a great testament when you are introducing readers to new characters and a world such as this.
There was one ultimate plot and goal in the book, but that there were several personal issues for the characters along the way. And many other little issues along the way.
I definitely think if you are looking for a fresh new world to dive into, this one is for you. He does a great job of melding many elements to make a cohesive FUN Fantasy read.
I never felt confused and that is a great testament when you are introducing readers to new characters and a world such as this.
There was one ultimate plot and goal in the book, but that there were several personal issues for the characters along the way. And many other little issues along the way.
I definitely think if you are looking for a fresh new world to dive into, this one is for you. He does a great job of melding many elements to make a cohesive FUN Fantasy read.
March 3, 2021
Corey Edward, your imagination is wonderful and I was happy to be swept away into the world you created.
I liked that there was one ultimate plot and goal in the book, but that there were several personal issues for the characters along the way. There were little issues along the way. It kept the pacing fast and I found myself constantly wondering what we would uncover next.
I definitely think if you are looking for a fresh new world to dive into, this one is for you. He does a great job of melding many elements to make a cohesive Fantasy read.
I liked that there was one ultimate plot and goal in the book, but that there were several personal issues for the characters along the way. There were little issues along the way. It kept the pacing fast and I found myself constantly wondering what we would uncover next.
I definitely think if you are looking for a fresh new world to dive into, this one is for you. He does a great job of melding many elements to make a cohesive Fantasy read.
June 28, 2021
Friday Nightmares is a great YA Halloween novel. With a strong start and an even stronger finish, it captured my attention from the beginning and did not let it go until the end. I loved every single character in the novel, even the villains and the bullies, though it cannot be denied that they deserved their comeuppance. Jam packed with adventure, the book was a fun read.
I let my 11 year old son read the first chapter, and he was hooked as well. Highly recommended! I received this book for free, and I am voluntarily writing this review.
I let my 11 year old son read the first chapter, and he was hooked as well. Highly recommended! I received this book for free, and I am voluntarily writing this review.
March 1, 2021
What I loved about this was that Corey Edward did not just write a story, he brought so much extra into it. He had so many references throughout the story that I need to go back through and see what I may have missed. I always love that in books.
Edward definitely shows his wild imagination. He was able to bring such a vibrant world to life with his words.
Lovers of Fantasy books NEED to read this. It's action packed and fast moving. You won't want to put it down. So much fun!
Edward definitely shows his wild imagination. He was able to bring such a vibrant world to life with his words.
Lovers of Fantasy books NEED to read this. It's action packed and fast moving. You won't want to put it down. So much fun!
March 2, 2021
Corey Edward has no problem getting the story started.
This story managed to surprise me several times. I liked how balanced the characters were, I felt like each one served their own purpose and had a valid place in the novel.
I was very intrigued by the story, characters, and how everything came together. It was a wild ride and I was full entertained.
This story managed to surprise me several times. I liked how balanced the characters were, I felt like each one served their own purpose and had a valid place in the novel.
I was very intrigued by the story, characters, and how everything came together. It was a wild ride and I was full entertained.
March 28, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book to review and it was honestly pretty lackluster to me. I enjoyed what the author tried to do with inserting references to shows/authors/etc but they just fell a bit flat. In regards to the story line, it definitely felt a bit repetitive. However, I can see this author being good as they get more experience.
February 10, 2021
A wonderful debut by a young, new author. The story is clever and imaginative and the ending is suspenseful and satisfying. Thankfully Corey Edward is busy working on the sequel. I'm looking forward to more from this talented writer.
April 28, 2021
Friday Nightmares was a fun, enjoyable read. The group of so-called 'outcasts' had me laughing out loud quite a bit. If you want to have some fun--while dealing with some creepy horror--check out this book!
November 13, 2021
Enjoyable read and greatful to read this book. It was this author debut novel and could have some work done to it. The author has a great store and plot but requires a little extra work. Either was still enjoyed it.
March 11, 2022
This was a good YA book. The characters were fun to get to know. I enjoyed the mix of paranormal and humor. It was an enjoyable read.
Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
January 27, 2021
Wow
A wonderful book full with some twist. Love the fantasy of this story you will love this story a must read
A wonderful book full with some twist. Love the fantasy of this story you will love this story a must read
July 21, 2021
A fun read with cool, contemporary characters and a uniquely created magical setting and story.
September 4, 2021
a somewhat interesting take on the whodunnit and supernatural genres but i found that it didn't quite grip me like other books. a good effort on the author's part though.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews