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Blackstoke
WEALTH. SECURITY. PROSPERITY. NONE OF IT MATTERS IN THE DARK.
In a quiet cul-de-sac on the newly-opened, much sought-after Blackstoke housing development, the first handful of families are moving in. These neighbours, thrown together for the first time, are looking forward to settling into their bright new lives—with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The estate couldn’t be nicer, but it’s a big change for everyone.
Then things start to happen. Bad things. As if something doesn't want them there.
As the new residents try to make sense of events, the buried history of the area makes itself suddenly, deeply apparent—with a series of shocking, violent escalations.
Soon, no one is safe, as the original powers of Blackstoke return to reclaim their territory and birthright in a final night of dark revelations, gore and bloodshed.
In a quiet cul-de-sac on the newly-opened, much sought-after Blackstoke housing development, the first handful of families are moving in. These neighbours, thrown together for the first time, are looking forward to settling into their bright new lives—with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The estate couldn’t be nicer, but it’s a big change for everyone.
Then things start to happen. Bad things. As if something doesn't want them there.
As the new residents try to make sense of events, the buried history of the area makes itself suddenly, deeply apparent—with a series of shocking, violent escalations.
Soon, no one is safe, as the original powers of Blackstoke return to reclaim their territory and birthright in a final night of dark revelations, gore and bloodshed.
- GenresHorror
258 pages, Hardcover
First published March 25, 2021
About the author
Rob Parker
34 books73 followersRob Parker is a married father of three, who lives in Warrington, UK. The author of the Ben Bracken thrillers, Crook’s Hollow and the Audible bestseller Far From The Tree, he enjoys a rural life, writing horrible things between school runs. Rob writes full time, attends various author events across the UK, and boxes regularly for charity.
He spends a lot of time in schools across the North, encouraging literacy, story-telling and creative-writing, and somehow squeezes in time to co-host the For Your Reconsideration film podcast, appear regularly on The Blood Brothers Crime Podcast, and is a member of the Northern Crime Syndicate.
He spends a lot of time in schools across the North, encouraging literacy, story-telling and creative-writing, and somehow squeezes in time to co-host the For Your Reconsideration film podcast, appear regularly on The Blood Brothers Crime Podcast, and is a member of the Northern Crime Syndicate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 30, 2021
When I was in my early teens back in the mid-Eighties, we used to hire videos from a mobile van and the driver had a very relaxed attitude towards age ratings. My parents' only rule was that we weren't allowed to watch The Exorcist or The Texas Chainsaw Massacre but otherwise my brothers and I had free reign of any horror film we fancied - and we watched a lot. Blackstoke might be set in the present day but it's vividly reminiscent of those classic movies and though it is undeniably spine-chilling, it is also a tremendously fun read.
The cinematic feel is present right from the very start as we are steadily introduced to the residents of a quiet cul-de-sac on the prestigious new Blackstoke estate. It's moving-in day for the West family - Peter, Pam and their children, Alice and Jacob but it quickly becomes apparent that there are tensions in their marriage and as the perspective switches from husband to wife, their mutual unspoken resentment suggests their new home might not be a fresh start. Of course, their marital grievances are eventually the least of their problems but at first, there are just little hints here and there that Blackstoke is hiding a dark secret.
Retired couple, Quint (presumably a reference to the Jaws character?) and Wendy Fenchurch, young lawyer, Grace Milligan and her Irish Wolfhound, Dewey, David and Christian Lyons and their baby daughter, Olivia and local MP, Fletcher Adams, his long-suffering wife, Joyce and their twin boys are the Wests' neighbours. The narrative focuses on them in turn over the course of a few days, giving readers the opportunity to develop opinions about each before the inevitable horror is unleashed. Some are infinitely more likeable than others and in the first part of the book, there is a fair amount of humour to be found in the witty descriptions and sharp dialogue although there is always a creeping sense of dread.
The tension rises inexorably as neighbour starts to turn on neighbour until a terrifying development and a grotesque discovery triggers a night of sheer terror. Rob Parker barely gives his characters - and his readers - a chance to draw breath before the next gruesome scene or nightmarish fright. Bloody, brutal and twisted, this dark thriller isn't for the faint-hearted but those who enjoy a twisted tale will love the blood-curdling revelations and almost relentless non-stop action.
It's not just a gore-fest however; there is a perplexing mystery at the heart of Blackstoke while the scenes of courage and selflessness as characters realise what is really important are genuinely moving. At the start of this review I compared Blackstoke to a 70s or 80s horror movie and although it definitely encapsulates the essence of many of those films, it could never be accused of suffering from the one-dimensional, often misogynistic characterisation frequently seen back then. Rob Parker ensures his characters are people to care about, many have a redemptive arc and there is even some empathy spared for the hideous antagonists, despite their monstrous activities.
Blackstoke may not be welcomed by housebuilders but this descent into a suburban hellscape is viscerally suspenseful and unrelentingly compulsive - I absolutely loved it!
The cinematic feel is present right from the very start as we are steadily introduced to the residents of a quiet cul-de-sac on the prestigious new Blackstoke estate. It's moving-in day for the West family - Peter, Pam and their children, Alice and Jacob but it quickly becomes apparent that there are tensions in their marriage and as the perspective switches from husband to wife, their mutual unspoken resentment suggests their new home might not be a fresh start. Of course, their marital grievances are eventually the least of their problems but at first, there are just little hints here and there that Blackstoke is hiding a dark secret.
Retired couple, Quint (presumably a reference to the Jaws character?) and Wendy Fenchurch, young lawyer, Grace Milligan and her Irish Wolfhound, Dewey, David and Christian Lyons and their baby daughter, Olivia and local MP, Fletcher Adams, his long-suffering wife, Joyce and their twin boys are the Wests' neighbours. The narrative focuses on them in turn over the course of a few days, giving readers the opportunity to develop opinions about each before the inevitable horror is unleashed. Some are infinitely more likeable than others and in the first part of the book, there is a fair amount of humour to be found in the witty descriptions and sharp dialogue although there is always a creeping sense of dread.
The tension rises inexorably as neighbour starts to turn on neighbour until a terrifying development and a grotesque discovery triggers a night of sheer terror. Rob Parker barely gives his characters - and his readers - a chance to draw breath before the next gruesome scene or nightmarish fright. Bloody, brutal and twisted, this dark thriller isn't for the faint-hearted but those who enjoy a twisted tale will love the blood-curdling revelations and almost relentless non-stop action.
It's not just a gore-fest however; there is a perplexing mystery at the heart of Blackstoke while the scenes of courage and selflessness as characters realise what is really important are genuinely moving. At the start of this review I compared Blackstoke to a 70s or 80s horror movie and although it definitely encapsulates the essence of many of those films, it could never be accused of suffering from the one-dimensional, often misogynistic characterisation frequently seen back then. Rob Parker ensures his characters are people to care about, many have a redemptive arc and there is even some empathy spared for the hideous antagonists, despite their monstrous activities.
Blackstoke may not be welcomed by housebuilders but this descent into a suburban hellscape is viscerally suspenseful and unrelentingly compulsive - I absolutely loved it!
April 6, 2021
What a fabulous book! Rob Parker is a master storyteller. He builds the plot well, introducing us to a variety of characters. Each character is meticulously drawn with plenty of depth. I found myself rooting for most of them! Blackstoke is a horror story, a compelling thriller with plenty of twists to keep you captivated, but deep down, it is also a story of love, of hope and the meaning of family. I raced through it. A triumph!"
March 28, 2021
‘He was small. So small. As if some higher being agreed to grant him life – but begrudgingly, using only the scan test of table scraps’ – the first paragraph was all it took to hook me into this incredible, edge of your seat thriller.
The story follows 5 families as they each start there new life in their new home on Blackstoke, until slowly one by one they are targeted from what can only be described as the ‘hills have eyes’ people.
Each character was incredibly well written, and likeable in their own way, but my favourite character had to have been Grace… such a strong and independent female lead who I loved almost instantly.
The progression of this story was perfect, starting as a slow burner and slowly but surely you could feel it gravitating to something more sinister with each turn of the page.
The story follows 5 families as they each start there new life in their new home on Blackstoke, until slowly one by one they are targeted from what can only be described as the ‘hills have eyes’ people.
Each character was incredibly well written, and likeable in their own way, but my favourite character had to have been Grace… such a strong and independent female lead who I loved almost instantly.
The progression of this story was perfect, starting as a slow burner and slowly but surely you could feel it gravitating to something more sinister with each turn of the page.
March 28, 2021
Horror is a Genre I don’t read enough of. After Blackstoke by Rob Parker, it’s something I’ll read much more of as Parker delivers an outstanding modern chiller.
Blackstoke is a Newly built community. Securely gated off from the world, this exclusive development is welcoming it’s residents into its slick new builds.
An intriguing, eccentric and often amusing cast of characters set the scene as the new community begin their new lives, sussing each other out as they settle into their new lives with these new neighbours.
Sounds like a new soap opera right?...
Parker gently draws you into his story, leading you down the path as he lays the bricks of this haunting and fear inducing read.
Small things begin to happen,leading to bigger, unexplainable events that sow the seeds of doubt into the residents and us, the readers.
What Follows is this story is quite something that takes you on a journey to the very darkest corners of this newly constructed town, frights, shocks, misdirection and some truly deranged bad guys await.
The story has some chilling and disturbing scenes, that will live long in my memory as Parker triumphantly nails what he set out to do by scaring and entertaining at the same time.
Invoking a real sense of dread and panic, Parker writes his tale with the feel of a writer who is excitedly and mischievously scribbling down his ideas with a devious and sinister grin on his face.
Reading this book took me back to watching Horror Movies in my youth. A feeling of fear and foreboding constantly as i raced through each horrifying page.
This Book needs to be found by Netflix, and it deserved to be found by readers of crime, horror and suspense. As it has them
all in abundance.
One of my best reads on the year so far, this fear inducing, dread invoking horror fest is an absolute joy!
Genius
Blackstoke is a Newly built community. Securely gated off from the world, this exclusive development is welcoming it’s residents into its slick new builds.
An intriguing, eccentric and often amusing cast of characters set the scene as the new community begin their new lives, sussing each other out as they settle into their new lives with these new neighbours.
Sounds like a new soap opera right?...
Parker gently draws you into his story, leading you down the path as he lays the bricks of this haunting and fear inducing read.
Small things begin to happen,leading to bigger, unexplainable events that sow the seeds of doubt into the residents and us, the readers.
What Follows is this story is quite something that takes you on a journey to the very darkest corners of this newly constructed town, frights, shocks, misdirection and some truly deranged bad guys await.
The story has some chilling and disturbing scenes, that will live long in my memory as Parker triumphantly nails what he set out to do by scaring and entertaining at the same time.
Invoking a real sense of dread and panic, Parker writes his tale with the feel of a writer who is excitedly and mischievously scribbling down his ideas with a devious and sinister grin on his face.
Reading this book took me back to watching Horror Movies in my youth. A feeling of fear and foreboding constantly as i raced through each horrifying page.
This Book needs to be found by Netflix, and it deserved to be found by readers of crime, horror and suspense. As it has them
all in abundance.
One of my best reads on the year so far, this fear inducing, dread invoking horror fest is an absolute joy!
Genius
March 26, 2021
Welcome to Blackstoke, a new development of executive homes in a gated community, for those who can pay the price for 24-hour security and a swanky postcode.
The first group of residents have moved into their quiet cul-de-sac and are looking forward to settling down in their little corner of, what the glossy brochures assure them will be, rural heaven. Each of them is finding the move a little difficult for reasons of their own.
Meet Quint and Wendy, the retired couple looking for peace and quiet; David and Christian settling into new parenthood with their adopted baby daughter, Olivia; Grace the young, ambitious lawyer, with her Irish wolfhound, Dewey; boorish MP Peter, his long-suffering wife Joyce, and their twin boys; and the latest Blackstoke arrivals, Peter looking to make a impression on his less than impressed wife Pam, and teenage children Alice and Jacob. Each of them have their own trials and tribulations that they would prefer to keep secret behind their brand spanking new front doors, and inevitably the forced familiarity with their new neighbours does lead to tension.
So, a domestic drama set in a refined cul-de-sac, in the leafy countryside you imagine? Well, dear reader, think again... for while we are getting to know our new neighbours and their little ways, we start to get the idea that there might be more than meets the eye about this residential development. Why is there zero work going on in the rest of the sizeable, planned development? Where is the promised 24-hour security, especially when odd things are going on in the middle of the night? And what is that damned awful smell?
Rob Parker has a few tricks up his sleeve when it comes to where this story takes us, and the direction is a truly shocking one. The odd happenings escalate into something far more dangerous with the advent of mysterious abductions and bloody violence, with an abruptness that sends you completely off balance - almost as if you have been hit with a sharp thwack to the head (pretty pertinent this reference) and off we go into nightmare country!
And, boy, does Parker let his imagination run away with him when his full intentions become clear. Be prepared for some very unsettling scenes, menacing monsters with morbid motives, and our gang of new neighbours fighting for survival as they discover the true nature of Blackstoke and its history - all while the lights have rather inconveniently gone out.
Knowing Parker's penchant for an oldie but goodie when it comes to film and literary gems, there are definite nods to some of the thriller and horror greats to be spotted among the macabre twists and turns of his own creation, all of which kept me entertained all the way through. The pace never lets up once the full-blown grisly action kicks off, and I lapped up the whole lovely lot in a single glorious sitting.
I have many thoughts about where this story leaves off. It's just the kind of unsettling conclusion a bloodbath horror story deserves, but I really want to know what happens next! I would also really enjoy hearing more about Jacob and his unexpected allies, the twins (who reminded me a bit of the Frog brothers from The Lost Boys, bizarrely), as they really needed more of a moment to shine once they had formed their band of brothers outfit.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mad-cap ride into the gates of Hell, and even though this something of a departure from Rob Parker's tried and tested broken-hero-with-a-heart or Northern noir story, he pulls it off with style. I am a big fan of Parker's books and think he can now confidently add the title 'horror writer' to the growing CV. I am looking forward to seeing where his imagination takes me next!
The first group of residents have moved into their quiet cul-de-sac and are looking forward to settling down in their little corner of, what the glossy brochures assure them will be, rural heaven. Each of them is finding the move a little difficult for reasons of their own.
Meet Quint and Wendy, the retired couple looking for peace and quiet; David and Christian settling into new parenthood with their adopted baby daughter, Olivia; Grace the young, ambitious lawyer, with her Irish wolfhound, Dewey; boorish MP Peter, his long-suffering wife Joyce, and their twin boys; and the latest Blackstoke arrivals, Peter looking to make a impression on his less than impressed wife Pam, and teenage children Alice and Jacob. Each of them have their own trials and tribulations that they would prefer to keep secret behind their brand spanking new front doors, and inevitably the forced familiarity with their new neighbours does lead to tension.
So, a domestic drama set in a refined cul-de-sac, in the leafy countryside you imagine? Well, dear reader, think again... for while we are getting to know our new neighbours and their little ways, we start to get the idea that there might be more than meets the eye about this residential development. Why is there zero work going on in the rest of the sizeable, planned development? Where is the promised 24-hour security, especially when odd things are going on in the middle of the night? And what is that damned awful smell?
Rob Parker has a few tricks up his sleeve when it comes to where this story takes us, and the direction is a truly shocking one. The odd happenings escalate into something far more dangerous with the advent of mysterious abductions and bloody violence, with an abruptness that sends you completely off balance - almost as if you have been hit with a sharp thwack to the head (pretty pertinent this reference) and off we go into nightmare country!
And, boy, does Parker let his imagination run away with him when his full intentions become clear. Be prepared for some very unsettling scenes, menacing monsters with morbid motives, and our gang of new neighbours fighting for survival as they discover the true nature of Blackstoke and its history - all while the lights have rather inconveniently gone out.
Knowing Parker's penchant for an oldie but goodie when it comes to film and literary gems, there are definite nods to some of the thriller and horror greats to be spotted among the macabre twists and turns of his own creation, all of which kept me entertained all the way through. The pace never lets up once the full-blown grisly action kicks off, and I lapped up the whole lovely lot in a single glorious sitting.
I have many thoughts about where this story leaves off. It's just the kind of unsettling conclusion a bloodbath horror story deserves, but I really want to know what happens next! I would also really enjoy hearing more about Jacob and his unexpected allies, the twins (who reminded me a bit of the Frog brothers from The Lost Boys, bizarrely), as they really needed more of a moment to shine once they had formed their band of brothers outfit.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mad-cap ride into the gates of Hell, and even though this something of a departure from Rob Parker's tried and tested broken-hero-with-a-heart or Northern noir story, he pulls it off with style. I am a big fan of Parker's books and think he can now confidently add the title 'horror writer' to the growing CV. I am looking forward to seeing where his imagination takes me next!
March 25, 2021
Brace yourselves, I think this is possibly my longest review ever!
I am not going to lie, it has taken me some time to get my thoughts together after finishing this book, but that is not necessarily a bad thing! The thoughts and words that were flying around my head straight after finishing would not have done this book justice and were mainly NSFW, but the over-riding thought is still, WTAF have I just read!
Full disclosure, I don't generally read horrors for a few reasons. Firstly, I do most of my reading at night before I go to sleep so can do without the scary stuff being in my head as I am dozing off. Secondly, the last time I read a creepy book at night, I almost throat-punched my own child when he ninja'd up to my side of the bed! I screamed, which made the peacefully sleeping dog next to me jump, who then kicked my also sleeping husband square in the balls! Nobody got much sleep that night, everyone was in a mood for days, it wasn't fun. So you can see why I was slightly apprehensive! But, I have followed Rob on the socials for a while now, seen him on some virtual book events and am a regular listener to podcasts he is on, and he comes across as a genuine, chatty bloke with a cheeky, infectious laugh. How bad could it be?!
The first half of this book kind of pootles along setting the scene, introducing all the characters, while a general creepy undertone settles around the estate that the new residents are all moving to. It is testament to the writing that despite the unsettled atmosphere and every warning sign going, you feel compelled to read on. There are some very believable, relatable characters here and you will no doubt identify any and all the residents as similar to those in your own neighbourhood. I am declaring it now though, best character for me was Dewey!
From about halfway though, the creepiness dials up to full-on terrifying and shit gets well and truly real! But by that point the author has drawn you in, got you invested in the story and concerned about the characters, so buckle up, you are in it for the long haul! For two nights running, I had to put this book down when I got to certain parts (baby monitor and kitchen island - if you know, you know!) and carry on the following day, in daylight, with some very loud Biffy Clyro playing, as there was no way I would have slept if I had carried on with it!
I won't say any more about the plot because I think the less you know going in the better, but honestly, from a non-horror reader, this book is worth the disturbance for the excellent storytelling and brilliant characters.
I am not going to lie, it has taken me some time to get my thoughts together after finishing this book, but that is not necessarily a bad thing! The thoughts and words that were flying around my head straight after finishing would not have done this book justice and were mainly NSFW, but the over-riding thought is still, WTAF have I just read!
Full disclosure, I don't generally read horrors for a few reasons. Firstly, I do most of my reading at night before I go to sleep so can do without the scary stuff being in my head as I am dozing off. Secondly, the last time I read a creepy book at night, I almost throat-punched my own child when he ninja'd up to my side of the bed! I screamed, which made the peacefully sleeping dog next to me jump, who then kicked my also sleeping husband square in the balls! Nobody got much sleep that night, everyone was in a mood for days, it wasn't fun. So you can see why I was slightly apprehensive! But, I have followed Rob on the socials for a while now, seen him on some virtual book events and am a regular listener to podcasts he is on, and he comes across as a genuine, chatty bloke with a cheeky, infectious laugh. How bad could it be?!
The first half of this book kind of pootles along setting the scene, introducing all the characters, while a general creepy undertone settles around the estate that the new residents are all moving to. It is testament to the writing that despite the unsettled atmosphere and every warning sign going, you feel compelled to read on. There are some very believable, relatable characters here and you will no doubt identify any and all the residents as similar to those in your own neighbourhood. I am declaring it now though, best character for me was Dewey!
From about halfway though, the creepiness dials up to full-on terrifying and shit gets well and truly real! But by that point the author has drawn you in, got you invested in the story and concerned about the characters, so buckle up, you are in it for the long haul! For two nights running, I had to put this book down when I got to certain parts (baby monitor and kitchen island - if you know, you know!) and carry on the following day, in daylight, with some very loud Biffy Clyro playing, as there was no way I would have slept if I had carried on with it!
I won't say any more about the plot because I think the less you know going in the better, but honestly, from a non-horror reader, this book is worth the disturbance for the excellent storytelling and brilliant characters.
August 15, 2021
Having long been a huge fan of Rob Parker's Ben Bracken series, I was intrigued to read his first foray into horror writing. It's never an easy feat to switch genres, but I have to say Parker pulls it off faultlessly and kept me hooked and turning the pages furiously well into the night, albeit with the light on, just because it's such a deliciously dark, creepy tale. I am not usually a fan of horror so this is testament to Parker's skill and the fact that he intersperses the 'horror' moments with brilliant and varies characterisation, not to mention many humorous moments that made me chuckle out loud.
Parker lulls you into a false sense of security in the first quarter, introducing you to the latest residents who have just moved into the high end housing estate, Blackstoke, and their eclectic set of neighbours, all with their own problems, hang-ups and idiosyncrasies. But then unsettling things start to happen, all with seemingly innocent explanations at first, although your heart is in your mouth just because Parker expertly maintains a dark sense of foreboding and you know something BAD is about to happen. Sure enough, before long the residents soon find themselves working together to survive what can only be described as their worst nightmare. There were moments that had me gasping out loud, but what's so clever about this book is that it's not all blood and gore, there's also a very clever twist which I never saw coming. Highly recommended!!
Parker lulls you into a false sense of security in the first quarter, introducing you to the latest residents who have just moved into the high end housing estate, Blackstoke, and their eclectic set of neighbours, all with their own problems, hang-ups and idiosyncrasies. But then unsettling things start to happen, all with seemingly innocent explanations at first, although your heart is in your mouth just because Parker expertly maintains a dark sense of foreboding and you know something BAD is about to happen. Sure enough, before long the residents soon find themselves working together to survive what can only be described as their worst nightmare. There were moments that had me gasping out loud, but what's so clever about this book is that it's not all blood and gore, there's also a very clever twist which I never saw coming. Highly recommended!!
March 30, 2021
WOW!! This book blew me away.
I have always loved horror and how it confronts the deepest darkest fears, embedded in us all. This book meets and exceeds the genre, because it examines as all the best horrors do, people. The who, the why.
It harks for me to the days of James Herbert and Stephen King who always looked not just at the gore and fears we all have, but about taking a person, and making them an unlikely hero. Except he’s not Herbert or King, because Parker makes the beautifully fearsome trio and stands alone.
The book crosses genre in an extremely clever way more than once. Yet, it’s utterly seamless.
I read it in one sitting, in the dark, by candlelight. And that was because I had a powercut. However, the writing is so chilling, yet so filled with hope for the characters that while having moments of, is reading this now a good idea? I carried on, because I was rooting for the characters and could visualise them totally.
Some writers explore a new genre and it really doesn’t work at all. Some smash it out of the park (into a dark wood!) and they make you want the next book badly.
Absolutely brilliant stuff, Rob Parker! If I could go higher than 5 stars I would and I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys horror and edgy crime and more importantly things about people.
Thanks for the ARC to Rob Parker and Red Dog Press.
I have always loved horror and how it confronts the deepest darkest fears, embedded in us all. This book meets and exceeds the genre, because it examines as all the best horrors do, people. The who, the why.
It harks for me to the days of James Herbert and Stephen King who always looked not just at the gore and fears we all have, but about taking a person, and making them an unlikely hero. Except he’s not Herbert or King, because Parker makes the beautifully fearsome trio and stands alone.
The book crosses genre in an extremely clever way more than once. Yet, it’s utterly seamless.
I read it in one sitting, in the dark, by candlelight. And that was because I had a powercut. However, the writing is so chilling, yet so filled with hope for the characters that while having moments of, is reading this now a good idea? I carried on, because I was rooting for the characters and could visualise them totally.
Some writers explore a new genre and it really doesn’t work at all. Some smash it out of the park (into a dark wood!) and they make you want the next book badly.
Absolutely brilliant stuff, Rob Parker! If I could go higher than 5 stars I would and I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys horror and edgy crime and more importantly things about people.
Thanks for the ARC to Rob Parker and Red Dog Press.
March 21, 2024
Five families move into the first phase of the new housing estate known as Blackstoke. Each of the families have their own domestic challenges to face but these are nothing compared to the horror that awaits them on their newly built properties.
Rob Parker is mainly a thriller writer and this would seem a bit of a departure for him by taking on a horror story. He initially builds the story nicely by introducing us to each of the occupants of the cult-de-sac and the domestic struggles that each ‘family’ is facing before he slowly introduces the strange goings on that start to occur. Eventually culminating in a night of full blown mayhem that is bloody, gory, chilling and at times downright disturbing. There is also a neat twist to the tale that is only revealed in the last chapter of the novel.
Rob Parker is mainly a thriller writer and this would seem a bit of a departure for him by taking on a horror story. He initially builds the story nicely by introducing us to each of the occupants of the cult-de-sac and the domestic struggles that each ‘family’ is facing before he slowly introduces the strange goings on that start to occur. Eventually culminating in a night of full blown mayhem that is bloody, gory, chilling and at times downright disturbing. There is also a neat twist to the tale that is only revealed in the last chapter of the novel.
April 26, 2023
This novel has been described as fitting into the horror genre.I agree but think that it is a mild example of horror.
The opening chapters focus on the arrival of the West( Peter, Pam, Alice and Jacob) family to their new home in in the initial section of Blackstoke, a proposed large development on the outskirts of a major city. They quickly meet their new neighbours. These range from a retired couple, Quint and Wendy Fenchurch, to a MP, Fletcher Adams, from a neighbouring constituency, his wife and twin sons. Also nearby are two married gay men (David and Christian) and their adopted baby daughter Olivia. But perhaps the most appealing of the neighbours is an attractive young female lawyer Grace, who has a large wolfhound named Dewey who plays a central role as the plot advances.
Parker does a great job of delineating his characters such that they could be neighbours just around the corner from us, the readers. We take an early dislike to Mr. Fenchurch, a retired police officer, and the pompous MP who is setting up a Neighbourhood Watch, quite ironic as the story unfolds.
After the initial meet and greet sessions, some strange things begin to occur. First is an altercation between Mr. Fenchurch and Grace. Fenchurch discovers excrement on his lawn and later thrown on his house. Dewey is the obvious culprit as Fenchurch imagines. But Grace knows that is not the case.
Early on every one notices a strange offsetting smell hanging over their area. There is no apparent explanation. Then the excitement begins as strange creatures, humanoid-like but not quite human, make an appearance. One gory scene occurs in the West's kitchen as these strange creatures encounter and dismember the unlikeable but unfortunate MP. Then baby Olivia is abducted and subsequently Alice disappears. The Fenchurches are discovered murdered and terror overwhelms the survivors.
The survivors band together and set out to investigate the strange events. What is plaguing Blackstoke? Who are these weird creatures? As the plot advancers we find out about their origin and their abode underneath Blackstoke.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for providing me with an Advance Review Copy of this novel
The opening chapters focus on the arrival of the West( Peter, Pam, Alice and Jacob) family to their new home in in the initial section of Blackstoke, a proposed large development on the outskirts of a major city. They quickly meet their new neighbours. These range from a retired couple, Quint and Wendy Fenchurch, to a MP, Fletcher Adams, from a neighbouring constituency, his wife and twin sons. Also nearby are two married gay men (David and Christian) and their adopted baby daughter Olivia. But perhaps the most appealing of the neighbours is an attractive young female lawyer Grace, who has a large wolfhound named Dewey who plays a central role as the plot advances.
Parker does a great job of delineating his characters such that they could be neighbours just around the corner from us, the readers. We take an early dislike to Mr. Fenchurch, a retired police officer, and the pompous MP who is setting up a Neighbourhood Watch, quite ironic as the story unfolds.
After the initial meet and greet sessions, some strange things begin to occur. First is an altercation between Mr. Fenchurch and Grace. Fenchurch discovers excrement on his lawn and later thrown on his house. Dewey is the obvious culprit as Fenchurch imagines. But Grace knows that is not the case.
Early on every one notices a strange offsetting smell hanging over their area. There is no apparent explanation. Then the excitement begins as strange creatures, humanoid-like but not quite human, make an appearance. One gory scene occurs in the West's kitchen as these strange creatures encounter and dismember the unlikeable but unfortunate MP. Then baby Olivia is abducted and subsequently Alice disappears. The Fenchurches are discovered murdered and terror overwhelms the survivors.
The survivors band together and set out to investigate the strange events. What is plaguing Blackstoke? Who are these weird creatures? As the plot advancers we find out about their origin and their abode underneath Blackstoke.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for providing me with an Advance Review Copy of this novel
April 17, 2021
Something is very, very wrong at Blackstoke. A once dormant force awakens to bring bloodshed and evil to this tiny community...
Things start out innocently enough. A few strange things happen, sure. But that's life right? Sometimes, things just happen. As the story progresses, however, you realize that something far more sinister is lurking just around the corner. This book is exactly my kind of horror. Absurd weirdness and a haunting atmosphere joining forces will always be a win for me.
This being my first book by Rob Parker, I went in not knowing what to expect. The first thing to jump out at me is the sheer brilliance that he creates characters with. Every single character felt like a real person, they were fleshed out, raw, flawed people. Some I loved, some I hated with a fiery passion, but I couldn't help but feel massively impacted by each of their stories.
The less you know going in, the better, let this be an experience. Visit Blackstoke, and enjoy seeing what horrors await you.
Things start out innocently enough. A few strange things happen, sure. But that's life right? Sometimes, things just happen. As the story progresses, however, you realize that something far more sinister is lurking just around the corner. This book is exactly my kind of horror. Absurd weirdness and a haunting atmosphere joining forces will always be a win for me.
This being my first book by Rob Parker, I went in not knowing what to expect. The first thing to jump out at me is the sheer brilliance that he creates characters with. Every single character felt like a real person, they were fleshed out, raw, flawed people. Some I loved, some I hated with a fiery passion, but I couldn't help but feel massively impacted by each of their stories.
The less you know going in, the better, let this be an experience. Visit Blackstoke, and enjoy seeing what horrors await you.
January 31, 2023
I came to this having met the author and understanding that he wrote crime.
I soon realised this was most definitely not crime but most definitely compelling prose
I started this and spent the first 145 with an incredible feeling of creeping dread. A perfectly realised estate with strong believable characters. There is something off from the start but what it is you never quite put your finger until......it changes and the fear you had escalates.
The escalation in pace and development of the everything that you could worry about being so much worse than you thought is expertly done and I genuinely couldn't put this down.
I've already invested in more of his work and can't wait to see where it takes me.
I soon realised this was most definitely not crime but most definitely compelling prose
I started this and spent the first 145 with an incredible feeling of creeping dread. A perfectly realised estate with strong believable characters. There is something off from the start but what it is you never quite put your finger until......it changes and the fear you had escalates.
The escalation in pace and development of the everything that you could worry about being so much worse than you thought is expertly done and I genuinely couldn't put this down.
I've already invested in more of his work and can't wait to see where it takes me.
April 17, 2023
Disclaimer: free advanced cop for review) A new housing estate is under construction and the first five families have just moved in to the first completed cut-de-sac. An ordinary family of four, an MP with his wife and twin boys, a retired couple, an gay couple with a new baby and a young woman and her dog. Everyone introduces themselves and all is fine, until one resident accuses another of something they didn't do. Then other strange things start to happen that noone can explain. This escalates to a kidnapping and murder, when it begins to become clear what the origin of the estate is. The story was good, some nasty scenes and a bit of a twist at the end. Some more in depth explanation of how some of the characters reacted to others would have been good. Loved the dog 🥰. Might not look when I'm passing a housing estate under construction!!
April 19, 2023
The blurb of this book really intrigued me.
I loved the idea of the new residents of Blackstoke moving into their pristine new homes. Feeling safe in their gated environment and hoping for a fresh start, it was such a wonderful comparison to the dark horrors that were eventually revealed.
I liked that we got time to learn about all the different families living there and the relationships between the characters which allowed us to make an emotional connection ready for the action in the second half of the book.
This is a gothic horror that also reads as a suspenseful thriller. It has some really grotesque and repulsive moments that bring real shock value.
A well thought out storyline that leads you into a world of darkness and depravity.
I loved the idea of the new residents of Blackstoke moving into their pristine new homes. Feeling safe in their gated environment and hoping for a fresh start, it was such a wonderful comparison to the dark horrors that were eventually revealed.
I liked that we got time to learn about all the different families living there and the relationships between the characters which allowed us to make an emotional connection ready for the action in the second half of the book.
This is a gothic horror that also reads as a suspenseful thriller. It has some really grotesque and repulsive moments that bring real shock value.
A well thought out storyline that leads you into a world of darkness and depravity.
November 26, 2023
I picked up this book randomly from a library shelf as I wanted something easy for a weekend read. Why not a good old horror, right?
The first half of the book was great, the odd strange thing happening here and there, neighbours getting turned against each other, the atmosphere filled with a slowly building a tension. Very promising.
Unfortunately about half way through the story quickly turned into a full on sort of a zombie apocalypse (although the monsters in question were not really zombies). Lots of running, shouting, fighting and gore. And very little tension and suspense. Somewhat disappointing.
And then in the epilogue the story was “explained” in the most cliche way possible. Another star down.
Overall solid 3 stars for an easy weekend read.
The first half of the book was great, the odd strange thing happening here and there, neighbours getting turned against each other, the atmosphere filled with a slowly building a tension. Very promising.
Unfortunately about half way through the story quickly turned into a full on sort of a zombie apocalypse (although the monsters in question were not really zombies). Lots of running, shouting, fighting and gore. And very little tension and suspense. Somewhat disappointing.
And then in the epilogue the story was “explained” in the most cliche way possible. Another star down.
Overall solid 3 stars for an easy weekend read.
April 24, 2023
Blackstoke by Rob Parker is the first book I have read from the author and I just love finding new authors to get my teeth into their books. WoW this was so good! everything I had planned for that day and some of the next just went out of the window!!!
This was a scary read that just had my attention and I could not put it down.........Especially as it drew me in from the start till the very end! and great to read on a cold stormy night.........This atmosphere would be great for Blackstoke.....This will be a book that will be with me a long time and i will be reading more books from Rob Parker!
I highly recommend Blackstoke 5 Stars read! x
This was a scary read that just had my attention and I could not put it down.........Especially as it drew me in from the start till the very end! and great to read on a cold stormy night.........This atmosphere would be great for Blackstoke.....This will be a book that will be with me a long time and i will be reading more books from Rob Parker!
I highly recommend Blackstoke 5 Stars read! x
April 14, 2023
I’m not a fan of horror so I have no idea why I thought it was a good idea to read a horror book, BUT I loved it. It reminded me of my childhood, sleepovers with my cousins & friends where we would stay up late and tell each scary stories or even watch those popular 80’s horrors. A well paced and exciting read.
Blackstoke is an exclusive gated community for the rich, and the first 5 homes are now occupied in their little corner of the exclusive development. But all is not what it seems, with a strange smell and happenings, who or what is to blame? It’s a fight for survival!
Blackstoke is an exclusive gated community for the rich, and the first 5 homes are now occupied in their little corner of the exclusive development. But all is not what it seems, with a strange smell and happenings, who or what is to blame? It’s a fight for survival!
April 21, 2023
This is a horror story. A new estate is being built on the Blackstock estate, at present only a five of the houses in the gated community have been built in one small area. As the last of the families move in the book introduces us to the characters, as Peter and Pam, who have just moved in, go around introducing them selves to their neighbours.
Strange things begin to happen to accompany the strange smell that comes from the nearby woodland. Then two of the children go missing and the story truly becomes one of horror.
Strange things begin to happen to accompany the strange smell that comes from the nearby woodland. Then two of the children go missing and the story truly becomes one of horror.
March 27, 2021
So far I’ve only ever read Rob’s Ben Bracken series, and this is quite a change from those, although he does still manage to keep you on the edge of your seat, only this time you need a spare hand to hold the cushion while you hide behind it.
It starts off all nice, introducing you to the latest members of the new high end housing estate, Blackstoke, which is still in development, then strange things start to happen, all innocent at first but soon the residents find themselves staring in their worst nightmare, fighting god knows what, in order to survive.
It starts off all nice, introducing you to the latest members of the new high end housing estate, Blackstoke, which is still in development, then strange things start to happen, all innocent at first but soon the residents find themselves staring in their worst nightmare, fighting god knows what, in order to survive.
April 21, 2023
This story is coming April 21, 2023. The paperback is available. The story opens up with Peter West in his new home. Peter and his wife Pam. Peter forty- two years old and Pam forty-one years old. They have children, too. The book 📙 have other characters. that's what makes this novel so gripping. The storyline was frighteningly entertaining, amazingly creative. an intense suspenseful story. The ending is fantastic.
April 24, 2023
I loved this book! It had me gripped from the first chapter & I raced through it eager to find out what happened next.
5 families move into an idyllic luxury development, but that’s when things start to happen….
The characters are well written and likeable (even the not so good ones have redeeming qualities!), and the story was excellent, with twists and turns throughout…some expected and some definitely not!
All in all an excellent read, highly recommended!
5 families move into an idyllic luxury development, but that’s when things start to happen….
The characters are well written and likeable (even the not so good ones have redeeming qualities!), and the story was excellent, with twists and turns throughout…some expected and some definitely not!
All in all an excellent read, highly recommended!
April 12, 2023
When residents start moving in to a new housing estate it all seems perfect, until things begin to happen that can’t be explained. As the events start to escalate blame starts to be thrown around but nobody expects what happens next. A truly terrifying scenario and conclusion. Some great characters and story lines, I will certainly be doing my homework if I ever buy a new house again!
April 14, 2023
This was a bit of a strange one for me not really a fan of horror, kind of similar to Peter James Cold Hill & Secrets of Cold Hill, although not as good.
I did manage to read it from beginning to end and its certainly readable just not what I would normally read. If you like this sort of book then its well worth a read.
I did manage to read it from beginning to end and its certainly readable just not what I would normally read. If you like this sort of book then its well worth a read.
April 21, 2023
This was a great read and creepy. The book is built around the point of views of each adult in a newly constructed cul de sac area in a development that is still under construction. Weird mischievous things start to happen. With a great twist. Rob Parker wrote this in a great way that builds each character and the plot
April 21, 2023
A slow burner to start, with the first half setting the scene and introducing us to the characters which was done exceptionally well with sympathies (or not) being formed quickly. Then that steady moderate pace is forgotten and things go from 0 to 60 incredibly fast, a good horror story with all the expected gore and also some unexpected twists.
April 18, 2023
What a fantastic read this is. A varied group of people who all want better lives, brought together in horrific circumstances….be careful what you wish for.
Thrilling, thought provoking, unimaginable horror at its best, akin to Stephen King.
Thrilling, thought provoking, unimaginable horror at its best, akin to Stephen King.
April 21, 2023
Blackstoke by Rob Parker.
On a quiet cul-de-sac in the just-opened, much sought-after Blackstoke housing development, the first handful of families are moving in. Then things start to happen. Bad things. Like something doesn’t want them there.
Brilliant read. Spooky and creepy. Loved it. 5*.
On a quiet cul-de-sac in the just-opened, much sought-after Blackstoke housing development, the first handful of families are moving in. Then things start to happen. Bad things. Like something doesn’t want them there.
Brilliant read. Spooky and creepy. Loved it. 5*.
May 6, 2021
Brilliantly paced and genuinely disturbing. Blackstoke is a gripping piece of suburban horror that kept me enthralled from beginning to grisly end. This one is best read by torchlight.
April 14, 2023
Really good with just the right balance of scary
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