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Penny Wright #1
Devil's Night: The Haunting of Eden
Every summer, revelers sneak into the abandoned town of Eden, Colorado, to celebrate an infamous crime: the Devil's Night Massacre, committed over a century ago by an outlaw nicknamed Bloody Marian. Penny Wright knows the gruesome legends better than most. She’s seen the ghosts that haunt the ruins firsthand, and she shares a history with Eden that she hoped to escape.
Now it’s Penny's job, funded by a corporate sponsor, to make this Devil’s Night the biggest ever. When she returns home for the first time in years, she must face not only her family but Matthew Larsen—once the boy she loved, now the man who broke her heart.
But before the festival even begins, Penny makes a grisly discovery that forces her to question how much she really knows about Eden’s secrets. As Devil’s Night approaches, the lines between the past and present begin to blur. And for Penny, the real nightmare is only just beginning.
Now it’s Penny's job, funded by a corporate sponsor, to make this Devil’s Night the biggest ever. When she returns home for the first time in years, she must face not only her family but Matthew Larsen—once the boy she loved, now the man who broke her heart.
But before the festival even begins, Penny makes a grisly discovery that forces her to question how much she really knows about Eden’s secrets. As Devil’s Night approaches, the lines between the past and present begin to blur. And for Penny, the real nightmare is only just beginning.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2021
559 people are currently reading
520 people want to read
About the author
A.N. Willis
16 books134 followersA.N. Willis writes gripping mysteries and paranormal suspense where the past never stays buried.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
January 20, 2022
Overall, I found the idea of this book to be one that I really enjoyed. The characters were engaging, and the flashbacks to the occurrences of the past kept my attention. The only reason for the three star rating, instead of four, is that the actual "supernatural action" lagged/was absent for long periods of time. Instead, (what I felt were) "unrealistic relationships" were explored--even among some of the side characters, and I just wanted to be back with the Devil's Night ghosts.
Your opinion may vary. :D
Your opinion may vary. :D
March 2, 2021
3.75 ⭐️
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
TW/CW: death, violence, ghosts, murder
I don't usually read books regarding ghosts and this type of paranormal activity but the synopsis to this one left me really curious as to what was going to happen this year on Devil's Night. This was a solid interesting story, I loved that we got this dual POV between the present and 1894, I will say that the story set in 1894 was, in my opinion, better developed and much more engaging than some chapters set in the present. But we have an all around very different cast of women all of them dealing with different situations, some of them more likeable than others all of them dealing with mansplaining men, except maybe Matthew, he's a sweetheart. Coming back into Eden allows Penny to find her way, deal with past trauma, and reconnect with several people from her past. This story with it's flawed characters great, I loved the setting, Eden was the perfect amount of creepy and interesting, a western ghost story is such an amazing setting for a book. I definitely think that the setting and the whole atmosphere of the book were a very big bonus on the story because they made everything just fit.
Of course I loved that we get a character named Sara (a very side character but who doesn't love seeing their name in a book 😂).
Onto some of the less positive aspects, I felt like the romance was lacking in some areas but since this is, I think, a series maybe it will develop in later books. And that some of the present day chapters were slow and could have been used differently, but overall a very interesting start to the series (which I only discovered was a series by the end - but no worries it is definitely a beginning to end story you can read this one and have an ending you are happy with).
Marian was without a doubt my favorite character but I did think the "ending" in regards to her spirit was a little anticlimactic because the other one in regards to a certain other character was very involving and I think really well done.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
TW/CW: death, violence, ghosts, murder
I don't usually read books regarding ghosts and this type of paranormal activity but the synopsis to this one left me really curious as to what was going to happen this year on Devil's Night. This was a solid interesting story, I loved that we got this dual POV between the present and 1894, I will say that the story set in 1894 was, in my opinion, better developed and much more engaging than some chapters set in the present. But we have an all around very different cast of women all of them dealing with different situations, some of them more likeable than others all of them dealing with mansplaining men, except maybe Matthew, he's a sweetheart. Coming back into Eden allows Penny to find her way, deal with past trauma, and reconnect with several people from her past. This story with it's flawed characters great, I loved the setting, Eden was the perfect amount of creepy and interesting, a western ghost story is such an amazing setting for a book. I definitely think that the setting and the whole atmosphere of the book were a very big bonus on the story because they made everything just fit.
Of course I loved that we get a character named Sara (a very side character but who doesn't love seeing their name in a book 😂).
Onto some of the less positive aspects, I felt like the romance was lacking in some areas but since this is, I think, a series maybe it will develop in later books. And that some of the present day chapters were slow and could have been used differently, but overall a very interesting start to the series (which I only discovered was a series by the end - but no worries it is definitely a beginning to end story you can read this one and have an ending you are happy with).
Marian was without a doubt my favorite character but I did think the "ending" in regards to her spirit was a little anticlimactic because the other one in regards to a certain other character was very involving and I think really well done.
June 21, 2022
IF YOU....... (Yes you)…… were in charge of choosing an event where you would promote a new ENERGY DRINK,............ Where would you pick??
A popular TV show?
A Concert?
A football game?
All good ideas I suppose, but PENNY chooses DEVILS NIGHT which takes place in Americas most haunted town, In an old hotel where some awful massacre took place 100 years ago and people sneak into the town to celebrate this, for some reason....
Penny used to live there too, before she went to LA to pursue her dreams I guess..... AND who is the first person she meets when coming back? Her douchebag ex boyfriend, NO cliché there then ..
OH, almost forgot, Penny can see GHOSTs - she sees them everywhere and now she's in the most haunted town in the U.S - I just wonder what she may find, any guesses? This knowledge actually stole away any fear factor completely... I mean, if the WEATHER report promises rain in the morning, your hardly going to pull back the curtains and scream in HORROR when you see that the window is wet. It sort of left me feeling like I had read a RL Stein Point Horror ( apart from the fact that this book is about 300 pages longer and a lot less fun)
I would normally finish by saying 'enjoy' which I have.. and I hope you do ..... but you probably won't......but you might...
A popular TV show?
A Concert?
A football game?
All good ideas I suppose, but PENNY chooses DEVILS NIGHT which takes place in Americas most haunted town, In an old hotel where some awful massacre took place 100 years ago and people sneak into the town to celebrate this, for some reason....
Penny used to live there too, before she went to LA to pursue her dreams I guess..... AND who is the first person she meets when coming back? Her douchebag ex boyfriend, NO cliché there then ..
OH, almost forgot, Penny can see GHOSTs - she sees them everywhere and now she's in the most haunted town in the U.S - I just wonder what she may find, any guesses? This knowledge actually stole away any fear factor completely... I mean, if the WEATHER report promises rain in the morning, your hardly going to pull back the curtains and scream in HORROR when you see that the window is wet. It sort of left me feeling like I had read a RL Stein Point Horror ( apart from the fact that this book is about 300 pages longer and a lot less fun)
I would normally finish by saying 'enjoy' which I have.. and I hope you do ..... but you probably won't......but you might...
November 9, 2021
In Devil's Night, author Willis does a great job combining the paranormal with a strong sense of history and place, and managed to give me a haunting right before bed. She has delivered a book that is engaging on every level... a little whodunnit, a little romance, complete with a scary and vengeful ghost.
Penny has a history with the town of Eden, as well as an unusual gift. In an ambitious maneuver, she leverages her knowledge of her hometown's paranormal story to stage a publicity event for a major advertising client, in an effort to make a name for herself at her firm. Her coworkers are heroes, disappointments, or cads... when the action starts you begin to learn who is made of the right stuff.
There is a parallel story within this story, that of the ghost herself, and the evil men who hurt her over a hundred years earlier. Penny's gift is the only thing that can free her from her endless pain.
Honestly, whenever I had to put this book aside (to sleep, to eat, to work!), I couldn't wait to get back to the story. It was a fun read propelled by lots of action and twists, and I found myself rooting for Penny to land on her feet. She so deserved a victory after everything that happened!
Penny has a history with the town of Eden, as well as an unusual gift. In an ambitious maneuver, she leverages her knowledge of her hometown's paranormal story to stage a publicity event for a major advertising client, in an effort to make a name for herself at her firm. Her coworkers are heroes, disappointments, or cads... when the action starts you begin to learn who is made of the right stuff.
There is a parallel story within this story, that of the ghost herself, and the evil men who hurt her over a hundred years earlier. Penny's gift is the only thing that can free her from her endless pain.
Honestly, whenever I had to put this book aside (to sleep, to eat, to work!), I couldn't wait to get back to the story. It was a fun read propelled by lots of action and twists, and I found myself rooting for Penny to land on her feet. She so deserved a victory after everything that happened!
February 22, 2022
Cannot stand an audiobook that is SO poorly narrated that it sounds like a bad, I mean REALLY bad robotic reading of a tale. This was so bad, that I only could take the first 40% of it, though I wanted to see where the story was going.....could not stand it anymore. The author narrated it, and there was NOT A SINGLE bit of feeling or excitement to her voice.....
SKIP THIS ONE.
SKIP THIS ONE.
March 18, 2021
This is such a wonderful mix of paranormal, mystery, romance, and suspense! I really loved the characters throughout the story. Our main character, Penny can see ghosts, which fits in so well with the town she lives in. It's filled with ghost stories, and Penny can really see the ghosts. Her return to her hometown for the Devil's Night celebration turns out to be so much more than she planned!
This one tells the story through dual timelines, which I always enjoy. I really liked the historic portion of the timeline. I just felt completely immersed in the world Willis creates, but truly both timelines are wonderful. I found the romance to be good, but I'm looking for a bit more. This is a series, and really think that this portion is going to develop in future books, which I am looking forward to!!
Overall, this is a perfect read for people that enjoy a paranormal romance!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
This one tells the story through dual timelines, which I always enjoy. I really liked the historic portion of the timeline. I just felt completely immersed in the world Willis creates, but truly both timelines are wonderful. I found the romance to be good, but I'm looking for a bit more. This is a series, and really think that this portion is going to develop in future books, which I am looking forward to!!
Overall, this is a perfect read for people that enjoy a paranormal romance!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 30, 2021
Penny can see and hear ghosts and believes them to be harmless...more emotion than physical presence. Until Devil's Fest that is. With her job on the line, she plans a huge social PR festival that brings her back to Eden, Colorado on the anniversary of Devil's Night...a night supposedly full of blood and massacre that happened long ago at the hands of a woman named Marian.
During the festival weird things happens, voices are heard, people go missing and "accidents" happen. Can Penny get over her fear of the dead and figure out the mystery behind Devil's Night before more people are hurt?
Devil's Night is the first in a paranormal mystery series. I loved the setting and the characters. The writing is easy to get lost in as it flows well and keeps you engaged.
The mystery itself was interesting and I enjoyed the dual timelines as you get a hint of the past and how it collides with the present. I also loved how Penny's gift eventually comes full circle with the ghosts of the past and also with her own.
Perfect read for Spooktober or for those who are looking for a good paranormal mystery. Definitely continuing this series. I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Book Sirens for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
During the festival weird things happens, voices are heard, people go missing and "accidents" happen. Can Penny get over her fear of the dead and figure out the mystery behind Devil's Night before more people are hurt?
Devil's Night is the first in a paranormal mystery series. I loved the setting and the characters. The writing is easy to get lost in as it flows well and keeps you engaged.
The mystery itself was interesting and I enjoyed the dual timelines as you get a hint of the past and how it collides with the present. I also loved how Penny's gift eventually comes full circle with the ghosts of the past and also with her own.
Perfect read for Spooktober or for those who are looking for a good paranormal mystery. Definitely continuing this series. I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Book Sirens for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
January 9, 2022
This was a great ghost story. I loved the different points of view that the tale was told from. The characters were well developed and believable. I really enjoyed reading Marion’s story told in parallel with Penny’s.
I loved the setting of the story as well. Living in Colorado, and reading about towns that I have driven past (but never visited, unfortunately) gave a new perspective to this spooky tale.
I did find Penny and Matthew’s romance a bit predictable; and the strife between Penny and her father was a bit trite to me.
I did enjoy Penny’s ghostly tale and I am very interested in what situations she encounters next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the setting of the story as well. Living in Colorado, and reading about towns that I have driven past (but never visited, unfortunately) gave a new perspective to this spooky tale.
I did find Penny and Matthew’s romance a bit predictable; and the strife between Penny and her father was a bit trite to me.
I did enjoy Penny’s ghostly tale and I am very interested in what situations she encounters next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2021
Willis does it again! There are chills, thrills and all the feels from beginning to end. This read will appeal to both historical and contemporary supernatural thriller fans.
The characters are flawed and compelling and the setting is as alive as it is ghostly and spooky. I am not usually a fan of ghost stories, but Willis is a wonderful exception. If you’re in the mood for an immersive read that takes you out of your own world and transports you into another time and place that will both scare you and tantalize you, pick up this book. You won’t be able to put it down.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are flawed and compelling and the setting is as alive as it is ghostly and spooky. I am not usually a fan of ghost stories, but Willis is a wonderful exception. If you’re in the mood for an immersive read that takes you out of your own world and transports you into another time and place that will both scare you and tantalize you, pick up this book. You won’t be able to put it down.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2023
The writing in this is of a high level, but the story left me wanting. It lacked the setting and ghost story atmosphere that I find compelling. It just failed to produce any goosebump moments. The most compelling parts to read are definitely the period scenes set in the 1800s.
March 17, 2021
From the opening pages to the pulse-pounding conclusion, this book unfolded like a movie, taking you from one chilling scene to the next. Interspersed within the current events of Devil's Night, we're also treated to a compelling historical tale which gives us a glimpse into Penny's past. This book was peopled with so many flavorful characters that it didn't matter who was at the forefront of the action at any given moment, all of it was thrilling and suspenseful. This is an excellent series opener and definitely makes me want to continue reading more.
***I received an ARC copy though Book Sirens. My review is strictly voluntary.***
***I received an ARC copy though Book Sirens. My review is strictly voluntary.***
March 22, 2021
Wow what an amazing book. I just can't get enough of this author and her stories. Get ready for an awesome story with so much to keep you reading til you are done. Love the story line and characters. Wish I lived in Colorado still. Now to wait for the next adventure. Well done!
February 14, 2021
This is an interesting book that weaves the past and present together into a modern day ghost story.
I really enjoyed the story, or stories. The book is set up with flash backs and blurbs from a book to fill in the back story and add to the suspense. It's well done and the flashbacks especially add to the richness.
I did struggle with parts of the book. I never connected with any of the characters. I feel like Penny should have at least elicited some sort of emotional response, she has had a rough time, but I honestly didn't really care about any of them. I felt like maybe there were too many characters and that the conflicts were only there to push the plot forward. I think maybe there were too many instances where we were told what everyone was feeling/thinking, and I personally connect better if I am shown.
Personally I enjoyed the flashbacks more than the present day timeline. For me the climax wasn't big enough to support all the build up. I found myself skimming the story to get to the action.
Overall there were parts I liked and parts I was lukewarm about. I would recommending giving the book a try, it is an interesting story. It is the start of a series, but the main plot wraps up, so no cliffhanger.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed the story, or stories. The book is set up with flash backs and blurbs from a book to fill in the back story and add to the suspense. It's well done and the flashbacks especially add to the richness.
I did struggle with parts of the book. I never connected with any of the characters. I feel like Penny should have at least elicited some sort of emotional response, she has had a rough time, but I honestly didn't really care about any of them. I felt like maybe there were too many characters and that the conflicts were only there to push the plot forward. I think maybe there were too many instances where we were told what everyone was feeling/thinking, and I personally connect better if I am shown.
Personally I enjoyed the flashbacks more than the present day timeline. For me the climax wasn't big enough to support all the build up. I found myself skimming the story to get to the action.
Overall there were parts I liked and parts I was lukewarm about. I would recommending giving the book a try, it is an interesting story. It is the start of a series, but the main plot wraps up, so no cliffhanger.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2021
A really good book about a woman who can see ghosts but wants nothing to do with them. She left her home town to gain anonymity from publicity produced by her father. She returns when trying to get a promotion through work. Her father tries to get her to cancel the festival because of the danger to her and festival goers. She does not listen and catastrophic consequences follow.
March 22, 2023
This was a book I have never heard of and an author I have never read. So on a whim I took a chance and was definitely not disappointed. This thrilling ghost story had a lot a chills and a great back story.
September 30, 2024
September hit and I had one more Kindle read left in my challenge. This book was in a collection of reads under "Spooky" in my Kindle Library so I picked it up as we rolled into fall. I started this book and almost immediately knew it would be a slow trudge into "What is this?" at what felt like each chapter.
It shocks me that Penny Wright has a six-book series. Starting this book and getting into it, I don't think I felt anything for Penny until I was close to 75% in. Yes, she's a medium connected to old souls. Yes, she seems to want to create her world. I never felt she was living for herself, but instead what those around her needed. Even with Matthew, it felt like he wanted her to move there and she slowly gave in. I don't have any interest in continuing her story.
This company - while Penny continually painted it as a prestigious place to work, sounded continually toxic.
I hope A.N. Willis improves her craft throughout this series but this just isn't it.
It shocks me that Penny Wright has a six-book series. Starting this book and getting into it, I don't think I felt anything for Penny until I was close to 75% in. Yes, she's a medium connected to old souls. Yes, she seems to want to create her world. I never felt she was living for herself, but instead what those around her needed. Even with Matthew, it felt like he wanted her to move there and she slowly gave in. I don't have any interest in continuing her story.
Her mom had it wrong: Penny didn’t want or even need to be different. She simply had always been different. She came into the world that way, named for the rust color of her hair when she was born, hair that only a couple of random cousins on her dad’s side shared.Her relationship with Matthew felt lackluster. While I liked them slowly getting to know each other again, it felt like Matthew had expectations of her and she was simply meeting them. The fact he avoided her at first, and then came on strong telling her she should move there to be with him... I just got red flags from him.
Matthew’s gaze was flinty. Like he was annoyed at her. Like he wasn’t the one who’d vanished from her life, ignoring her emails and calls.
He watched her patiently. She felt a flare of anger at that nonchalance—if he hadn’t been so damned patient when they were growing up, waiting around for their relationship to magically begin, maybe things would be different now. Maybe I’d never have left here at all, she thought. But that would mean losing the life she’d worked so hard to create—on her own, with nobody’s help. She wouldn’t be her own person.Tripp & Sterling PR
This company - while Penny continually painted it as a prestigious place to work, sounded continually toxic.
Penny loved being surrounded by so much beauty and creativity. But if Sterling PR was the picture-perfect image of a workplace, then she was the droopy pothos plant in the corner that somebody forgot to water.
Tripp wasn’t an awful boss. He never screamed at them or cursed. Instead, he conveyed his displeasure through small jabs that one could dismiss as unintentional. Like the way he’d forgotten Penny’s name one afternoon, though their office had just ten people. Or leaving her off the cc list for an important email. But when he was pleased, Tripp did have a certain charisma. His movie star smile felt like a special gift you’d earned.The way that some characters only seemed to be a part of the story and supporting the current story was so odd to me. The random lady who popped up twice and was mentioned a third time, who first just hated Penny and then came back and was like hey, I didn't explain this to you fully was just too odd for me.
I hope A.N. Willis improves her craft throughout this series but this just isn't it.
February 26, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you love ghost stories, then this is the series for you. It’s a gripping tale that swings back and forth between the past and the present and features strong female characters who overcome their challenging pasts.
Penny, the main character of the series, travels back to her hometown as that is the site for a marketing event that she pitched for her employer, a PR firm. It also happens to have been the site of a “massacre” and because of this, everyone in the book believes that it is haunted. Penny happens to also be a medium and it is her affinity for ghosts that caused rifts between her, her family (especially, her dad) and her childhood flame, Matt. Being back in her hometown brings back these rifts front and center for Penny. However, the event also gives Penny the opportunity to reconcile not only her relationships, but I think her sense of self, too. I think this subtle development of her inner strength and purpose throughout the story was believable and that overall, this made Penny a very likable protagonist.
The other characters rounding out the cast were just as good, too - a strong set of females from Linden, Penny’s superior with whom she has a strong friendship, to June, one of the executives of the client to Penny’s marketing firm. Penny’s relationship with Matt was a nice addition to the story as well - it was Just enough romance throughout the story without it being too over the top. The “Will they or won’t they” vibe between Matt and Penny is a tried and true trope that still appealed to my romantic sensibilities. I truly loved seeing their relationship deepen and resolve from the rift that caused them to separate in the first place - in fact, the climax of their relationship turning the corner, with Penny helping Matt was one of my favorite moments in the story.
The Western ghost story within this book is great, too. I felt like Marian, the protagonist of the B story was like an Annie Oakley of sorts. The author was so detailed in her description of the “Wild West” past of Eden. She (the author) was wonderful in her writing of her (Marian’s) challenges that I felt great sympathy for Marian- once you find out how her story plays out, it goes so well towards the climax of everything! Marian’s story also features another female character, Anabel, which reinforces the theme of females helping each other.
Throughout reading this book, I got a real sense that it could easily be turned into a great TV show...perhaps a Medium vibe, like the show with Jennifer Love Hewitt. Overall, I was really impressed by the feminism and empowerment each and every female character that the author created and developed. That to me made it a good read more so than the plot itself. I would say that this was a good start to the series and an enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing what the sequel holds.
If you love ghost stories, then this is the series for you. It’s a gripping tale that swings back and forth between the past and the present and features strong female characters who overcome their challenging pasts.
Penny, the main character of the series, travels back to her hometown as that is the site for a marketing event that she pitched for her employer, a PR firm. It also happens to have been the site of a “massacre” and because of this, everyone in the book believes that it is haunted. Penny happens to also be a medium and it is her affinity for ghosts that caused rifts between her, her family (especially, her dad) and her childhood flame, Matt. Being back in her hometown brings back these rifts front and center for Penny. However, the event also gives Penny the opportunity to reconcile not only her relationships, but I think her sense of self, too. I think this subtle development of her inner strength and purpose throughout the story was believable and that overall, this made Penny a very likable protagonist.
The other characters rounding out the cast were just as good, too - a strong set of females from Linden, Penny’s superior with whom she has a strong friendship, to June, one of the executives of the client to Penny’s marketing firm. Penny’s relationship with Matt was a nice addition to the story as well - it was Just enough romance throughout the story without it being too over the top. The “Will they or won’t they” vibe between Matt and Penny is a tried and true trope that still appealed to my romantic sensibilities. I truly loved seeing their relationship deepen and resolve from the rift that caused them to separate in the first place - in fact, the climax of their relationship turning the corner, with Penny helping Matt was one of my favorite moments in the story.
The Western ghost story within this book is great, too. I felt like Marian, the protagonist of the B story was like an Annie Oakley of sorts. The author was so detailed in her description of the “Wild West” past of Eden. She (the author) was wonderful in her writing of her (Marian’s) challenges that I felt great sympathy for Marian- once you find out how her story plays out, it goes so well towards the climax of everything! Marian’s story also features another female character, Anabel, which reinforces the theme of females helping each other.
Throughout reading this book, I got a real sense that it could easily be turned into a great TV show...perhaps a Medium vibe, like the show with Jennifer Love Hewitt. Overall, I was really impressed by the feminism and empowerment each and every female character that the author created and developed. That to me made it a good read more so than the plot itself. I would say that this was a good start to the series and an enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing what the sequel holds.
May 14, 2021
Thanks to BookSirens for a free advance copy of this title, which was published on April 1, 2021 by Observatory Books. I'm writing this review voluntarily.
Visiting home after a long absence is often an awkward affair, but Penny Wright's situation truly takes the cake: when she goes back to Ashton, Colorado, she sees ghosts. Everyone in the area knows her as "ghost girl"--when she was five, Penny accompanied her father and a group of paranormal researchers on an investigation of the nearby abandoned ghost town of Eden, where an event called the Devil's Night Massacre occurred in 1894. Her father even wrote a book about the frightening experience, detailing his daughter's shocking medium abilities. From Penny's point of view, the entire thing is exaggerated and ridiculous.
But now, Penny's home with the intent to bury that story and her past: she's working for an LA PR firm, and has successfully pitched a music festival launch for an energy drink client. The location? Eden, Colorado. The time? The 125th anniversary of the Devil's Night Massacre, of course. What could possibly go wrong?
A.N. Willis' "Devil's Night" is a masterful blend of past and present, as the narrative deftly weaves between Penny's present struggles to keep the festival running safely, text from her father's book, and past sections describing what really happened in Eden back in 1894. Not only is Penny coping with increasingly malevolent and dangerous ghosts, but she's also desperately trying to hold onto her job and please her client. Additional worries: fending off her family and other locals' belligerent criticisms of her decision to host an event in Eden, and maybe rekindling an abandoned romance with the local love of her life who got away. The entire situation is an endlessly entertaining mess of characters, opinions, and emotions, which Willis manages with ease. Sometimes the book can drag slightly in the present sections, with perhaps one too many complicated interpersonal relationships, but overall "Devil's Night" is a brilliantly well-written book about how the past can repeat itself if we hold onto anger and guilt about our own mistakes--and about how important it is to correct the historical record when we uncover the truth. Definitely a strong start to an anticipated spooky series.
Visiting home after a long absence is often an awkward affair, but Penny Wright's situation truly takes the cake: when she goes back to Ashton, Colorado, she sees ghosts. Everyone in the area knows her as "ghost girl"--when she was five, Penny accompanied her father and a group of paranormal researchers on an investigation of the nearby abandoned ghost town of Eden, where an event called the Devil's Night Massacre occurred in 1894. Her father even wrote a book about the frightening experience, detailing his daughter's shocking medium abilities. From Penny's point of view, the entire thing is exaggerated and ridiculous.
But now, Penny's home with the intent to bury that story and her past: she's working for an LA PR firm, and has successfully pitched a music festival launch for an energy drink client. The location? Eden, Colorado. The time? The 125th anniversary of the Devil's Night Massacre, of course. What could possibly go wrong?
A.N. Willis' "Devil's Night" is a masterful blend of past and present, as the narrative deftly weaves between Penny's present struggles to keep the festival running safely, text from her father's book, and past sections describing what really happened in Eden back in 1894. Not only is Penny coping with increasingly malevolent and dangerous ghosts, but she's also desperately trying to hold onto her job and please her client. Additional worries: fending off her family and other locals' belligerent criticisms of her decision to host an event in Eden, and maybe rekindling an abandoned romance with the local love of her life who got away. The entire situation is an endlessly entertaining mess of characters, opinions, and emotions, which Willis manages with ease. Sometimes the book can drag slightly in the present sections, with perhaps one too many complicated interpersonal relationships, but overall "Devil's Night" is a brilliantly well-written book about how the past can repeat itself if we hold onto anger and guilt about our own mistakes--and about how important it is to correct the historical record when we uncover the truth. Definitely a strong start to an anticipated spooky series.
January 6, 2022
Thank you to the publisher and BookSirens for giving me a copy of this book!
I'm going to be honest. This book is what Home Before Dark wanted to be. Let me explain:
Characters: The characters were well written. Penny has a main character was fantastic. I really liked her relationship with Matthew. I think that was handled nicely. Penny had character development without changing her entire character, and I appreciated that. I liked the dichotomy between the characters from the 1800s and the present day characters.
Atmosphere: A big old hotel in a town with secrets. What's not to like? I also liked the general atmosphere of the festival that was going on during this book. It added more tenseness to the problem at hand.
Writing: The writing was good. I think the flipping between the two timelines was done well. I really have no complaints about it.
Plot: The plot was well done. I liked seeing how the past plays a part with what was happening in the future. Penny's powers were interesting to see as the book progressed. The plot seemed similar to Home Before Dark, and then went the route of actual ghosts which is what I think most people wanted in Home Before Dark. Even though this wasn't really a ghost hunter book, I still got ghost hunter vibes and really enjoyed that aspect. I also really enjoyed the parts where we read Penny's dad's book. That was something I really enjoyed in Home Before Dark, and I'm glad another author has done something similar.
Intrigue: I was intrigued to see how Penny was going to get out the situation. I was intrigued about what her decision was going to be at the end of it all. I liked Marian's storyline and wanted to know about her. The intrigue was held through the entire novel.
Logic: I feel like the book kept within its own rules.
Enjoyment: Overall I really enjoyed this book. I actually bought a physical copy of this book and the 2nd book. I will most definitely be continuing this series. If you wished Home Before Dark had ghosts, this is the book for you. If you liked Home Before Dark, I think you would still like this book. 5 stars.
I'm going to be honest. This book is what Home Before Dark wanted to be. Let me explain:
Characters: The characters were well written. Penny has a main character was fantastic. I really liked her relationship with Matthew. I think that was handled nicely. Penny had character development without changing her entire character, and I appreciated that. I liked the dichotomy between the characters from the 1800s and the present day characters.
Atmosphere: A big old hotel in a town with secrets. What's not to like? I also liked the general atmosphere of the festival that was going on during this book. It added more tenseness to the problem at hand.
Writing: The writing was good. I think the flipping between the two timelines was done well. I really have no complaints about it.
Plot: The plot was well done. I liked seeing how the past plays a part with what was happening in the future. Penny's powers were interesting to see as the book progressed. The plot seemed similar to Home Before Dark, and then went the route of actual ghosts which is what I think most people wanted in Home Before Dark. Even though this wasn't really a ghost hunter book, I still got ghost hunter vibes and really enjoyed that aspect. I also really enjoyed the parts where we read Penny's dad's book. That was something I really enjoyed in Home Before Dark, and I'm glad another author has done something similar.
Intrigue: I was intrigued to see how Penny was going to get out the situation. I was intrigued about what her decision was going to be at the end of it all. I liked Marian's storyline and wanted to know about her. The intrigue was held through the entire novel.
Logic: I feel like the book kept within its own rules.
Enjoyment: Overall I really enjoyed this book. I actually bought a physical copy of this book and the 2nd book. I will most definitely be continuing this series. If you wished Home Before Dark had ghosts, this is the book for you. If you liked Home Before Dark, I think you would still like this book. 5 stars.
March 9, 2021
For Penny Wright, the town of Eden, Colorado holds more ghosts than anyone suspects. Ever since she was little, she has been able to see and communicate with the departed, becoming the central feature of her father’s book chronicling the infamous Devil’s Night Massacre of 1894. She has done everything to escape her past by moving to Los Angeles, but when a massive PR project brings her back to Eden, she must face the many ghosts—alive and dead—that await her there.
A.N. Willis’ writing style brings past and present into sharp relief for the reader. Told from multiple points of view and two different time periods, the narrative unfolds in a captivating and all-encompassing way. Readers learn about each character’s feelings first-hand, often knowing more than other people in the story. Interspersed within the narrative itself are selections from Penny’s father’s book A Devil in Eden, which provide the feeling of a factual, historical anchor within this fictional story.
Though this is a ghost story with all the frightening moments that one would expect, there are also deep human connections that add meat to the story’s bones. Bloody Marian, the woman around whom the Devil’s Night Massacre revolves, has more to her story than is at first evident. The narrative style permits readers to learn about her background along with Penny, shedding unexpected light upon Marian’s terrible history.
The first of Willis’ books for adults, Devil’s Night features her recognizable narrative structure within a more mature context. Sex, violence, and harsh language appear in this story, though mature young adult readers will enjoy the narrative as much as an adult. Readers who enjoy a good ghost story with historical ties are sure to appreciate this multifaceted tale and look forward to the arrival of book two.
A.N. Willis’ writing style brings past and present into sharp relief for the reader. Told from multiple points of view and two different time periods, the narrative unfolds in a captivating and all-encompassing way. Readers learn about each character’s feelings first-hand, often knowing more than other people in the story. Interspersed within the narrative itself are selections from Penny’s father’s book A Devil in Eden, which provide the feeling of a factual, historical anchor within this fictional story.
Though this is a ghost story with all the frightening moments that one would expect, there are also deep human connections that add meat to the story’s bones. Bloody Marian, the woman around whom the Devil’s Night Massacre revolves, has more to her story than is at first evident. The narrative style permits readers to learn about her background along with Penny, shedding unexpected light upon Marian’s terrible history.
The first of Willis’ books for adults, Devil’s Night features her recognizable narrative structure within a more mature context. Sex, violence, and harsh language appear in this story, though mature young adult readers will enjoy the narrative as much as an adult. Readers who enjoy a good ghost story with historical ties are sure to appreciate this multifaceted tale and look forward to the arrival of book two.
July 9, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another great read from A.N. Willis.
I do not normally read ghost stories. I do not like being scared while reading, which I guess is weird since I like horror and ghost story movies. But there's something different about reading a ghost story vs watching one. I'm very visual and when I read its like a movie playing out and I'm easily scared.
That being said, I was intrigued but this story.
Penny is a young girl who has a job as a PR rep with a history of seeing ghosts, starting when she was 5 years old. She pitches an ad campaign set in Eden, a town with a violent history. For her, its coming home to her past, to deal with her family, a lost love and the ghosts of not just her past but that of the town too.
Along side her story, is a story set in the late 1800s ( I really have a thing with that time period). I loved the back and forth. The story taking place in 2019 and the story taking place in 1894. The author does a great job of dual story telling, really transporting you back to that time.
This book has a lot going for it. Mystery, paranormal, romance, and suspense. I literally did not want to put it down. There were a few times I got teary eyed and I found myself yearning for Penny to finally end up with her lost love.
This is a series that I am definitely looking forward to more of. In fact I have the next book ready to go to start tomorrow. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.
Another great read from A.N. Willis.
I do not normally read ghost stories. I do not like being scared while reading, which I guess is weird since I like horror and ghost story movies. But there's something different about reading a ghost story vs watching one. I'm very visual and when I read its like a movie playing out and I'm easily scared.
That being said, I was intrigued but this story.
Penny is a young girl who has a job as a PR rep with a history of seeing ghosts, starting when she was 5 years old. She pitches an ad campaign set in Eden, a town with a violent history. For her, its coming home to her past, to deal with her family, a lost love and the ghosts of not just her past but that of the town too.
Along side her story, is a story set in the late 1800s ( I really have a thing with that time period). I loved the back and forth. The story taking place in 2019 and the story taking place in 1894. The author does a great job of dual story telling, really transporting you back to that time.
This book has a lot going for it. Mystery, paranormal, romance, and suspense. I literally did not want to put it down. There were a few times I got teary eyed and I found myself yearning for Penny to finally end up with her lost love.
This is a series that I am definitely looking forward to more of. In fact I have the next book ready to go to start tomorrow. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.
March 4, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of Devil’s Night as one of its beta readers. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I absolutely devoured this paranormal romance/ghost story, the second ghost story I’ve read by author A.N. Willis. Penny has known she was different ever since she was a child—that her ability to see ghosts was something unusual even in her small Colorado hometown where paranormal rumors ran wild and her father published a book about her and their famous ancestor, Marian. Now a decade after she left home for college in California, she’s come back to Colorado for the Devil’s Night celebration to promote a product for her company—and the paranormal activity is intensifying. Also there’s the issue of Matthew, her childhood sweetheart who she may not have ever gotten over.
I loved the setting in this one. Some books are just like taking a trip while you’re in their pages, and Devil’s Night totally immersed me in this small Colorado town with its lavish descriptions. I also loved the characters, especially Penny, Lyndon, Matthew and Marian. I am a lover of many genres, and this was a wonderful blend of PNR, with a great paced mystery to go along with it. Told in dual timelines, we see events unfold for Penny and Matthew in the present, while seeing how they happened for her ancestor Marian in the past. (So a bit of historical fiction as well!) I can’t wait for book two!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
I absolutely devoured this paranormal romance/ghost story, the second ghost story I’ve read by author A.N. Willis. Penny has known she was different ever since she was a child—that her ability to see ghosts was something unusual even in her small Colorado hometown where paranormal rumors ran wild and her father published a book about her and their famous ancestor, Marian. Now a decade after she left home for college in California, she’s come back to Colorado for the Devil’s Night celebration to promote a product for her company—and the paranormal activity is intensifying. Also there’s the issue of Matthew, her childhood sweetheart who she may not have ever gotten over.
I loved the setting in this one. Some books are just like taking a trip while you’re in their pages, and Devil’s Night totally immersed me in this small Colorado town with its lavish descriptions. I also loved the characters, especially Penny, Lyndon, Matthew and Marian. I am a lover of many genres, and this was a wonderful blend of PNR, with a great paced mystery to go along with it. Told in dual timelines, we see events unfold for Penny and Matthew in the present, while seeing how they happened for her ancestor Marian in the past. (So a bit of historical fiction as well!) I can’t wait for book two!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
March 31, 2021
A. N. Willis, a great author, has done it again! She has kept me on my toes with this one! So, I have to ask this question, Do you believe in ghosts? Have you ever glanced over your shoulder and thought, just for a split second, you saw something moving in the shadows, in the dark? Then, just as suddenly, nothing was there? Could your eyes be playing tricks on you? Could the immagination be working over-time? I think ghosts are a fascinating subject to read about.
In this book, DEVIL'S NIGHT: PENNY WRIGHT SERIES BOOK 1, Penny, along with a few other characters, are getting ready for Devil's Fest night. Will someone or something try to stop them? Are they on the verge of falling into a spine tingling adventure they will not soon forget?
There were a few sad parts in this story. Chapter twenty-seven is one of them. As Penny searched through the house, I felt the sadness and emptiness close in around her, as if it went right through Penny's heart. I also felt the warmth she shared as she looked around each room. Then something happened that only the reader will know! I know this story will stay with me for quite some time. Amazing read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this book, DEVIL'S NIGHT: PENNY WRIGHT SERIES BOOK 1, Penny, along with a few other characters, are getting ready for Devil's Fest night. Will someone or something try to stop them? Are they on the verge of falling into a spine tingling adventure they will not soon forget?
There were a few sad parts in this story. Chapter twenty-seven is one of them. As Penny searched through the house, I felt the sadness and emptiness close in around her, as if it went right through Penny's heart. I also felt the warmth she shared as she looked around each room. Then something happened that only the reader will know! I know this story will stay with me for quite some time. Amazing read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 22, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free through Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Penny has been able to see ghosts since she was a child. Now in her 20s, she’s trying to hold on to her job when she suggests holding a launch in Eden, a place where evil things happened many years ago and where she discovered the ghosts her father wrote a book about. As the launch goes ahead, it becomes clear that some ghosts aren’t quite ready to rest…
I enjoyed the plot of this book. Splitting between the present day and the historical events that lead up to Devil’s Night, I needed to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next and also what had happened before. There were a couple of small twists as well which I thought were well done. I thought it was paced really well, and the chapters were mixed up just enough to keep things moving. I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the characterisations - Penny came across as a complete “throw away this life and start again” mess, but she’s only 23! But I did like the cute fade to black romance that occurred, and I like the paranormal mystery romance fee of the book.
All in all, definitely an enjoyable read (especially if you’re a fan of paranormal mystery romance), and I’ll be picking up Book 2 when it’s out.
Penny has been able to see ghosts since she was a child. Now in her 20s, she’s trying to hold on to her job when she suggests holding a launch in Eden, a place where evil things happened many years ago and where she discovered the ghosts her father wrote a book about. As the launch goes ahead, it becomes clear that some ghosts aren’t quite ready to rest…
I enjoyed the plot of this book. Splitting between the present day and the historical events that lead up to Devil’s Night, I needed to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next and also what had happened before. There were a couple of small twists as well which I thought were well done. I thought it was paced really well, and the chapters were mixed up just enough to keep things moving. I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the characterisations - Penny came across as a complete “throw away this life and start again” mess, but she’s only 23! But I did like the cute fade to black romance that occurred, and I like the paranormal mystery romance fee of the book.
All in all, definitely an enjoyable read (especially if you’re a fan of paranormal mystery romance), and I’ll be picking up Book 2 when it’s out.
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June 22, 2021I received an advance review copy for free through Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Penny has been able to see ghosts since she was a child. Now in her 20s, she’s trying to hold on to her job when she suggests holding a launch in Eden, a place where evil things happened many years ago and where she discovered the ghosts her father wrote a book about. As the launch goes ahead, it becomes clear that some ghosts aren’t quite ready to rest…
I enjoyed the plot of this book. Splitting between the present day and the historical events that lead up to Devil’s Night, I needed to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next and also what had happened before. There were a couple of small twists as well which I thought were well done. I thought it was paced really well, and the chapters were mixed up just enough to keep things moving. I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the characterisations - Penny came across as a complete “throw away this life and start again” mess, but she’s only 23! But I did like the cute fade to black romance that occurred, and I like the paranormal mystery romance fee of the book.
All in all, definitely an enjoyable read (especially if you’re a fan of paranormal mystery romance), and I’ll be picking up Book 2 when it’s out.
Penny has been able to see ghosts since she was a child. Now in her 20s, she’s trying to hold on to her job when she suggests holding a launch in Eden, a place where evil things happened many years ago and where she discovered the ghosts her father wrote a book about. As the launch goes ahead, it becomes clear that some ghosts aren’t quite ready to rest…
I enjoyed the plot of this book. Splitting between the present day and the historical events that lead up to Devil’s Night, I needed to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next and also what had happened before. There were a couple of small twists as well which I thought were well done. I thought it was paced really well, and the chapters were mixed up just enough to keep things moving. I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the characterisations - Penny came across as a complete “throw away this life and start again” mess, but she’s only 23! But I did like the cute fade to black romance that occurred, and I like the paranormal mystery romance fee of the book.
All in all, definitely an enjoyable read (especially if you’re a fan of paranormal mystery romance), and I’ll be picking up Book 2 when it’s out.
April 11, 2022
Penny left her home town in Colorado to follow her dreams and to get away from the stigma of the paranormal book her father wrote about her and Eden, a haunted town. She had to live with the name "ghost girl" through her childhood because of her gift, which is one she never wanted. She left behind Matthew, who never really got over Penny, and rarely sees her family.
Penny now lives in California, works for a PR firm and decides she wants to throw an event at Eden for a new client. Since so many years have passed..what could go wrong? Penny believes the ghost story of Eden was all exaggerated by her father and the child she was. This event could be her big break. Her selfish, arrogant boss, Tripp, latches onto the idea and runs with it.
The place is said to be haunted by Marian, a woman who was abused and whose ghost can never be at rest. The story explains what happened with Marian, and goes back and forth from past to present, as Penny sets up Eden for a modern Devil's Night.
Things start to heat up with Penny and Matthew again, plus "accidents" begin and people start to disappear or act strange. Penny realizes she's made a mistake and is not sure what's happening, but she knows it's not good.
Penny now lives in California, works for a PR firm and decides she wants to throw an event at Eden for a new client. Since so many years have passed..what could go wrong? Penny believes the ghost story of Eden was all exaggerated by her father and the child she was. This event could be her big break. Her selfish, arrogant boss, Tripp, latches onto the idea and runs with it.
The place is said to be haunted by Marian, a woman who was abused and whose ghost can never be at rest. The story explains what happened with Marian, and goes back and forth from past to present, as Penny sets up Eden for a modern Devil's Night.
Things start to heat up with Penny and Matthew again, plus "accidents" begin and people start to disappear or act strange. Penny realizes she's made a mistake and is not sure what's happening, but she knows it's not good.
February 19, 2021
Book Review: Devil’s Night by A.N. Willis ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have to admit that I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book. A massacre happened on Devil’s Night in Eden, CO in 1894 and 125 years later, Penny, who grew up in the area, decided to launch a party for one of her clients on that night. It was also a romance story between Penny and her high school crush Matthew who reappears when she comes back into town. While this book had some parts that I was clinging to my seat to find out what happened, I felt that the book in a whole was hard to read. There were a lot more slow parts than I would expect from a thriller book. I did like the ending and it is a series so there will be more books coming out, but I just don’t think this book was for me. If you like ghost stories and don’t mind some slow parts, then I definitely recommend you read this book!
#bookreview #bookrecommendation #bookrecommendations #booksirens #ARC #thrillerbook ##booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booklover #booknerd #bookworm #goodreadschallenge2021 #goodreads
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have to admit that I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book. A massacre happened on Devil’s Night in Eden, CO in 1894 and 125 years later, Penny, who grew up in the area, decided to launch a party for one of her clients on that night. It was also a romance story between Penny and her high school crush Matthew who reappears when she comes back into town. While this book had some parts that I was clinging to my seat to find out what happened, I felt that the book in a whole was hard to read. There were a lot more slow parts than I would expect from a thriller book. I did like the ending and it is a series so there will be more books coming out, but I just don’t think this book was for me. If you like ghost stories and don’t mind some slow parts, then I definitely recommend you read this book!
#bookreview #bookrecommendation #bookrecommendations #booksirens #ARC #thrillerbook ##booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booklover #booknerd #bookworm #goodreadschallenge2021 #goodreads
March 29, 2021
This is a wonderful read! The characters are so well rounded (and flawed! I love flawed characters!) and the setting is absolutely spooky. This story hooked me right from the beginning and did not let go!
I loved the connection from the present to the past, and how the two were completely interwoven. Sometimes books that use past and present perspectives can reveal secrets too early or make the story feel choppy, but for the most part this was not the case with Devil's Night! Occasionally, I did feel that some of the past chapters could have been moved to a different place, but it was nothing too jarring. Marian and Anabel's story was so compelling and I loved how the women worked together when they had no one else.
Penny is such a relatable character and I really enjoyed how her personal struggles were woven into the paranormal events. The paranormal element is not super scary either, so if you're looking for an introduction into paranormal this is a good place to start. I also really liked the romance!
I think if you liked The Diviners you will really like this read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.5 stars
I loved the connection from the present to the past, and how the two were completely interwoven. Sometimes books that use past and present perspectives can reveal secrets too early or make the story feel choppy, but for the most part this was not the case with Devil's Night! Occasionally, I did feel that some of the past chapters could have been moved to a different place, but it was nothing too jarring. Marian and Anabel's story was so compelling and I loved how the women worked together when they had no one else.
Penny is such a relatable character and I really enjoyed how her personal struggles were woven into the paranormal events. The paranormal element is not super scary either, so if you're looking for an introduction into paranormal this is a good place to start. I also really liked the romance!
I think if you liked The Diviners you will really like this read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.5 stars
August 19, 2021
Devil’s Night is a suspenseful, supernatural, page turner with a sprinkle of romance. I was so intrigued by Penny’s character and how Devil’s Night would play out.
I’ll be honest I haven’t read many supernatural, ghost-centered novels, but I was sucked in by the thrill of A.N. Willis’ story. I like there was a spin of romance involved.
Penny Wright is a small town girl with a lot to prove. Everything she’s worked so hard for is on the line. She needs to show not only her coworkers, but also her family and the town that she is not “ghost girl”. She plans to throw the party of the year for Dark Energy, an energy drink company. But she gets a few more visitors than she expects.
I loved seeing Penny persevere despite obstacles and the push-back from those around her. She quickly realized how bad her decisions were to come back home, but didn’t let that stop her. She had a bad ass attitude in the end and love in her heart.
What didn’t make the mark for me—
The main event lagged a little. I was expecting more of a twist and more ‘darkness’.
Overall, good read and I look forward to what is to become of Penny & Matthew.
“Next time.”
“But if there is—when there is—don’t think you have to do it alone.”
I’ll be honest I haven’t read many supernatural, ghost-centered novels, but I was sucked in by the thrill of A.N. Willis’ story. I like there was a spin of romance involved.
Penny Wright is a small town girl with a lot to prove. Everything she’s worked so hard for is on the line. She needs to show not only her coworkers, but also her family and the town that she is not “ghost girl”. She plans to throw the party of the year for Dark Energy, an energy drink company. But she gets a few more visitors than she expects.
I loved seeing Penny persevere despite obstacles and the push-back from those around her. She quickly realized how bad her decisions were to come back home, but didn’t let that stop her. She had a bad ass attitude in the end and love in her heart.
What didn’t make the mark for me—
The main event lagged a little. I was expecting more of a twist and more ‘darkness’.
Overall, good read and I look forward to what is to become of Penny & Matthew.
“Next time.”
“But if there is—when there is—don’t think you have to do it alone.”
January 11, 2022
I really loved how this book was paced! I spent so much time not knowing what was going to happen and not really knowing who to trust, which is kind of what you want in a mystery/thriller.
Over a century ago, a massacre occurred in Eden, Colorado and we get both the current timeline and the past, with the events leading up to the brutality. I think those chapters were my favorite. The story of Bloody Marian was intrinsic to the story and it was so much fun to read.
Now, the annual Devil’s Night is approaching and Penny, who grew up there and knows these legends intimately, is going home for the first time in many, many years. This year, she is funded by a big conglomerate and her job is to make the Devil’s Night festival HUGE. But there is an intense evil lurking here and it’s stronger than ever.
Since childhood, Penny has seen ghosts and it has affected many aspects of her life. Now she is an adult and she has figured out ways to compartmentalize the way spirits affect her. I really enjoyed her strong-willed character. She was brave and resilient. I adored the unavoidable romance between Penny and her childhood love, Matthew, too.
Over a century ago, a massacre occurred in Eden, Colorado and we get both the current timeline and the past, with the events leading up to the brutality. I think those chapters were my favorite. The story of Bloody Marian was intrinsic to the story and it was so much fun to read.
Now, the annual Devil’s Night is approaching and Penny, who grew up there and knows these legends intimately, is going home for the first time in many, many years. This year, she is funded by a big conglomerate and her job is to make the Devil’s Night festival HUGE. But there is an intense evil lurking here and it’s stronger than ever.
Since childhood, Penny has seen ghosts and it has affected many aspects of her life. Now she is an adult and she has figured out ways to compartmentalize the way spirits affect her. I really enjoyed her strong-willed character. She was brave and resilient. I adored the unavoidable romance between Penny and her childhood love, Matthew, too.
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