Ultimate Cause

Zack Bolder #4

by Janice Tremayne

When a former penal colony island is besieged by a murderous curse, can a man of God cleanse it before the shores wash red with blood?

Tasmania, Australia. Zack Bolder left the priesthood for a higher calling. Now a spirit hunter, he’s on his way to investigate a series of grisly tourist murders on a lonely isle off the coast. But his presence awakens a vengeful demon intent on swallowing his soul…

Determined to resist the powerful pull of evil, Zack’s pursuit of evidence leads to another body and a missing person. And a shocking clue points him to a lethal confrontation that will test every ounce of his grit.

Can this holy warrior save the people from a monstrous creature before he’s torn to shreds?

Bolder Ultimate Cause is the fourth standalone book in the suspenseful Zack Bolder Supernatural Series. If you like intense intrigue, harrowing horror, and edge-of-your-seat tension, then you’ll love Janice Tremayne’s terrifying thriller.

*This book can be read as a standalone.

Genres: Horror

ebook

Published August 10, 2021

About the author

Janice Tremayne is an Amazon bestselling and award-winning independent supernatural horror writer. Janice is a finalist in the Readers' Favorite 2020 International Book Awards in fiction-supernatural and was awarded the distinguished favorite prize for paranormal horror at the New York City Big Book Awards. She recently was awarded the silver medal at the IPPY Awards 2021 Australia/New Zealand/Pacific Rim – Best Regional Fiction. In 2023 she was awarded the Literary Titan Gold Book Award as a mark of distinction, recognizing excellence in writing that is both innovative and impactful.

She is an Australian author who lives with her family in Melbourne. Her publication, Haunting in Hartley, reached number one in the Amazon Kindle ranking for Occult Supernatural, Ghosts, and Haunted Houses categories hot new releases/bestsellers.

Janice is well-versed in her cultural superstitions and how they influence daily life and customs. She has developed a passion and style for writing supernatural horror novels for adult readers.

Writing the Haunting Clarisse series was spawned over a cup of coffee many years ago, and she has never looked back since. Her books contain heart-thumping, bone-chilling, and thought-provoking paranormal experiences that deliver a new twist to every tale.

Find out more about Janice at www.janicetremayne.com.

Reviews

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, absolutely fantastic. Wherever there’s Zack Bolder, you know there’s an adventure coming up. Couldn’t put it down.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well Janice has done it again! I’m giving this book 4 1/2 stars. I was totally hooked from the very first paragraph, it was the perfect opening that could depict a good movie coming. Instead it was a good book and Bolder fascinates me. Detective Wellock is growing on me and seeing how he’s turned into a coffee barista is very amusing.

John Stable seems to love antagonizing Bolder that it’s now amusing. I really enjoyed this story and liked that Kayla was brought in. I thought Bel was the decapitating demon but was found to be wrong but there is definitely something up with that dude. And I liked the cliffhanger left at the end… Totally can’t wait for the next one! Bolder rocks!
P.S this would make a great show in TV.

I received this book from BookSirens and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.

[Shannon Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book just continues right on from the last one! I breezed through this book, very easy and fun to read. I would have liked a little more depth to the inmates dealing with the evil on the island, really dig in more to what they were experiencing. And it would have made the book longer, which I would have loved. More detail on how the evil got there and its enjoyment of having the penitentiary to feed its evil ways could have added even more of the history that fill the author's books. I love reading her work and if you enjoy a good paranormal mystery with rich history and interesting demonic trickery, the Bolder series and her Haunting Clarisse series are a must read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Margarita Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I foolishly started reading this book just before bed. DO NOT DO THAT! Its a spine tingling bone chilling read. After reading the book trying to go to sleep was not an option. John Stable is anything but stable. A demon that uses his intelligence and deceit to confuse you. He wants to make a deal with Bolder. Will Bolder fall for his lies? Can they escape and defeat this time? Once you read the ending you are going NO WAY JOSE! leaving you in a mindset of how can I wait for the next book. This is a Stephen King replacement author. I am going to look for more of Janice Tremayne books. I received ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Witch-at-Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bolder Ultimate Cause takes place at an old Penal Colony on Maria Island, in Tasmania, Australia.
It was the site of an old prison in 1847. We get a little background on the penitentiary, and the prisoners in 1847 that die there. This book really starts off with a bang!

Zack and Detective Wellock are called to Maria Island to investigate deaths in the present day. When they arrive on the island they find Detective Kayla who arrives before them to the island and she has already started looking into the deaths. Detective Wellock was not thrilled to learn about a new detective but he has no choice but too work with her.

I was fascinated that the murders were connected to the past when there were prisoners on the island. I truly enjoy the Zack Bolder series with all the ghosts and the hauntings and this book doesn't disappoint.

Bolder Ultimate Cause is a very fast paced and intense read filled with plenty of action keeping you reading at break neck speed to see how it all turns out! I highly recommend this series and I am very excited fircthe next installment.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bolder Ultimate Cause, the fourth novel in the Zach Bolder Supernatural Thriller series, is a fantastic, terrifying, paranormal thriller from author Janice Tremayne. Zach Bolder, known as a spirit hunter investigates grisly murders and odd disappearances at the former penal colony on Maria Island. He is joined on this endeavour with his colleague Detective Wellock and a new addition, Detective Kayla. What will surprise him is the presence of an old foe, John Stable, a demon who wishes to make a deal with Bolder. As the suspense grows, and the horrific murders add up, the spirit hunter will have his hands full dealing with it all. A bone-chilling nail-biter from the start to the end…..and what an ending. I look forward to reading the next novel in this wonderful series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sheri Corriero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Bolder, priest and spirit hunter, pairs with Detective Wellock again. There has been suspicious murders and missing people on a remote island that had served as a penal colony way back. The worst of the worst criminals were holed up there but now it is empty and just a tourist attraction. The boss adds a new detective, Kayla, who is keen to assist and doesn’t scoff at the spirit side of things. I really liked this episode as a remote abandoned island is the perfect setting. Janice Tremayne wrote it well and I could picture it all in my mind. Not sure if Kayla is here to stay …. But I enjoyed the book.

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Fast-paced, informative, and the right amount of spookiness. This author's work keeps getting better as time goes on. There isn't a lot of background to the main characters as the focus is on their present lives; but I like the way it is written. You get just enough information so that you know the characters without being bogged down with details.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father Bolder and Detective Wellock, along with young Detective Kayla, are on Maria Island off the coast of Tasmania, looking into the deaths of two young men when they hear about the death of a young woman and her missing friend. Bolder gets propositioned by the demon that uses John Stable as its persona. Bolder is definitely smarter than to accept. There are plenty of evil actions in this book so readers will get their share of the creeps. Unfortunately, it ends in a cliffhanger. Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ruth Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great books

I really enjoyed reading the Boulder stories. Can’t wait for more. Couldn’t put them down and when I did I couldn’t wait to start reading again

[Aparna J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome.

I think it's a splendid book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading every page. It's a spine chilling supernatural thriller that kept me glued until the end. I admire Zack Bolder's calm demeanor while dealing with Spirits and demons. I also loved the twists in the climax. I highly recommend it for reading by all the supernatural thriller lovers. It's definitely a must-read. I thank Ms. Tremayne for the advance review copy for a free read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Noble · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hard to put down because I wanted to know how it ended. The plot twists were great! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it. I'm going to read the other books in the series. I received this copy for free and leaving this review voluntarily.

[Robin Ginther-Venneri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bolder Ultimate Cause: A Zack Bolder Supernatural Suspense Thriller
By Janice Tremayne

What do you do when a demon follows you?

On Maria Island in Tasmania, Australia, there’s an old penal colony that has been plagued with a murderous curse, caused by a demon that likes mind games. He’s always looking for a way to elevate his demon status.

Zack Bolder a spirit hunter, parapsychologist and former priest, with partner Detective Wellock team up with Detective Kayla from the State Police to investigate a murder/suicide case. They make a formidable tag team of supernatural crime investigators, working for the police branch for unexplained crimes. But his mere presence awakens a vengeful demon intent on swallowing his soul.

Bolder and Wellock work together like a well-oiled machine, knowing each other’s expertise, but now there is a new team member, Kayla who is sent to learn the ropes. However, has spirit hunter, Zack Bolder met his match? Can a parapsychologist trained by the Church withstand the guilt-edged torments of the demon? This poltergeist dangles psychology as its weapon by tempting that frail part of the mind to those that get in its way.

Bolder is determined to resist the powerful pull of evil and not cave to temptation in order to save a woman.

Ultimate Cause is the fourth standalone book in the suspenseful Zack Bolder Supernatural Suspense Thriller Series.

Tremayne’s characters jump up to join the fight in this terrifying thriller. If you like intense intrigue, harrowing horror, and edge-of-your-seat tension, then you’ll love Janice Tremayne’s Ultimate Cause.

[Theresa A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m hooked on this series! Bolder and Wellock are back. They are on the remote Maria Island to investigate what looks to be a murder-suicide, but no motive can be found. Bolder and Wellock have been successful with strange cases. So much so that Wellock has been asked to take a young officer from the State Police department under his wing and show her the ropes. Detective Kayla’s already on the island and has worked up some great background information to help them get started. The demon John Stable is back again to torment the team. Why is this demon back? Is he helping or does he have another sinister plan in the works? It’s not too long before the demon has killed another and one girl is still missing. I was on the edge of my seat with this one! This series is getting better and better! The addition of the new detective adds another layer to the stories and I’m excited to know if Kayla will be back for the next adventure. The ending has me wondering what is next for the team! *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. I am not required to leave a review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.*

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another perfectly intense & spooky Bolder installment!!
An old enemy pops up. Grizzly, utterly horrific murders. A new detective with an open mind. A desolate island full of demonic history. Help from an excellent source. A who did it that is so hard to figure out, that I couldn't until it was revealed (testament to good writing) & an ending that has you going........Oh HELL NO!
It also leaves you desperately wanting to read the next Bolder & Wellock book. As I have said from book one, Janice Tremayne is a master of her craft & researches all her settings like nobody I've ever read before.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND ALONG WITH ALL THE BOLDER BOOKS. Buy with one click. Go. Now.

[Doreen Fernandes]

Mayhem on Maria Island

Maria Island is beautiful. Maria Island has a dark history. Some tourists have met with a grisly end and not by human hands. Bolder and Wellock are called upon to use their expertise in solving the gruesome murders on Maria Island. Janice Tremayne has painstakingly researched the history of the island. Her portrayal of the macabre events and Bolder's encounter with the dark entity are guaranteed to send chills up your spine. I could actually visualize the horrific scenario.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So! So! Good!
Wow, is all I can say about this story! This installment takes a deeper look into evil of the island but still leaves you guessing. I loved the unknown, the unanswered questions, it a chill down the spine read. This is so well-done the author has one heck of a mind to think this series up. Take it from me you will not want to put the book down even when you are scared to death by what you are read. It was excellent from start to finish. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[fred jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great addition to this excellent series. Well written story with great well described characters including a new detective joining the group, excellent vivid descriptions of the historic but decaying ruins on the island.. A devious and powerful enemy and a ending that leaves an opening for more atories. A book to read on a stormy night. Creepy stuff. I like this authors work and am l looking forward to reading more in this aeries. I received a complimentary copy from the author and am leaving a honest voluntary review

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review.
A fantastic, well written read! Spooky! Grizzly, horrific murders!
Careful, you wont be able to escape this one! It sucks you in and you devour every page until there is none left! But maybe your hunger will be satisfied! Find out for your self if you dare! Warning you will be exposed to unnecessary (cuss) words in this well crafted scary adventure! Read and enjoy!

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bolder is back and better than ever. Zack visits a penal colony Island in Australia where tourists are dying in this spooky, paranormal story that will keep you up late. Don't start reading before bed or you will lose sleep. I didn't expect the ending and the cliffhanger that made me excited for the next book. I would highly recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Patty Mele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the overall book was very good and I read it from the very beginning to the very end. I thought the character built up was fantastic and this is my opinion. I thought the story telling was magical and I enjoyed it very much. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rowan Creech · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like Criminal Minds and want to mix a little paranormal and ghosts in the mix, then you have found the right book. This book is one of a series and is spooky and spine-tingling. Janice Tremayne has the uncanny knack with her writing to make her stories so relatable and real. Simply fantastic to read!

[SHA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Working in a prison, seeing monsters! What else could possibly happen. Highly recommend this story.

[Emily Haynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boulder and Wellock have a new partner on this case at a old penal colony. They face a old foe who wants to make a deal. Chilling thriller that pulls you in.

[Cat B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 STARS
Another supernatural thriller starring Zack Bolder and Detective Wellock. The narrative remains
smooth and tight and flows along effortlessly. In this tale, a nemesis of Zack's raises its ugly head once again and a new team member slides into the story to add a little flavour to the team. One thing I would enjoy would be a bit more rounding out of and a deeper back story on the characters that fill out and complete the story.
Other than that, I enjoyed the telling of the tale, again. Not sure that I could become tired of these
characters and the cases they are brought in on. I would recommend these books for a nice light read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and unbiased review

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bolder Ultimate Cause takes place at an old Penal Colony on Maria Island, Tasmania, Australia. Maria Island was a prison colony in 1847. Bolder Ultimate Cause opens by giving us a little background on the Penal Colony, the penitentiary, and the prisoners in 1847 and the deaths that occurred then.

Zack Bolder and Detective Wellock are called to Maria Island to investigate more deaths in the present day. When they arrive on the island they find another detective, Detective Kayla has already beat them to the island. Detective Wellock was not too thrilled to learn about this new detective but he wasn’t given any choice on the matter.

I liked the fact that the murders were sort of linked back to the past in1847 in a way, back to the time when there were prisoners on the island. I really enjoy reading the Zack Bolder series with all the ghosts and the hauntings that are involved. I like the fact that the murders are tied in with ghosts and demons. I like watching Zack as he investigates each murder scene and all that it entails.

Bolder Ultimate Cause is a very intense, edge of your seat book filled with mystery and suspense with loads of action pouring out of each page as you race to the end to see how it all turns out and to find out what happened to an ending that I would never have thought would be an ending that will leave you hanging and wanting more. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the Zack Bolder series to see where our team of detectives head to next.

I would recommend Bolder Ultimate Cause to anyone looking for their next great read! And I would also like to recommend that you check out all the books in the Zack Bolder series as well as the Haunting Clarissa series!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Ultimate Cause' is the fourth book in the Zack Bolder series by Janice Tremayne and will not disappoint.

Zack Bolder is requested to investigate ghostly goings on at a lonely isolated island.

As with all of Janice Tremayne books this is well researched and really does set the scene. Each book I read of here never fails to chill me and this one is the same.

Zack is accompanied by his usual detective companion and there is also an addition to their team.

Well written and a great book to escape in to.

Highly recommended.