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Lively Deadmarsh #2
Abandoned: Beginnings and Betrayals
Some questions are finally answered, but others arise as Lively and Minerva find the Sinclair Resort Hotel to be much more than it seems. In a bold attempt to uncover more of what transpired forty years before, the pair formulate a plan that will either help them immensely or doom them completely.
Chief Inspector John Harder continues his official investigation to peel back the intricate web of mystery surrounding the Sinclair Incident. Along the way, he discovers that he may have a far greater role to play in things than he'd initially thought and that the stakes are more personal than he could have ever imagined.
Chief Inspector John Harder continues his official investigation to peel back the intricate web of mystery surrounding the Sinclair Incident. Along the way, he discovers that he may have a far greater role to play in things than he'd initially thought and that the stakes are more personal than he could have ever imagined.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2021
253 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Katie Berry
12 books133 followersKatie Berry is a Canadian Author of Thrillers.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario, Katie moved west to British Columbia during a family migration that occurred during the later-half of the 20th century.
A longtime writer and voracious reader, Katie enjoys a variety of creative and recreational activities when she's not absorbed in the written word.
With many years of keyboard experience, Katie is an avid digital musician, involved in many musical theatre and stage productions in the beautiful West Kootenay region of BC over the past several years.
An eye for detail helps Katie capture many magical moments with her camera as she interprets the natural beauty of the world that surrounds her through its lens.
Always looking for something new to advance her artistic experimentation, Katie is an accomplished sketch artist. She specialises in detailed drawings of friends, family and clients, including fur-babies, such as cats, dogs and the odd ferret.
After a lifetime of experience in numerous fields of endeavour, Katie now spends her days, and most nights, doing what she loves, bringing stories alive for people who enjoy a tale where the everyday suddenly becomes something much, much more...
Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario, Katie moved west to British Columbia during a family migration that occurred during the later-half of the 20th century.
A longtime writer and voracious reader, Katie enjoys a variety of creative and recreational activities when she's not absorbed in the written word.
With many years of keyboard experience, Katie is an avid digital musician, involved in many musical theatre and stage productions in the beautiful West Kootenay region of BC over the past several years.
An eye for detail helps Katie capture many magical moments with her camera as she interprets the natural beauty of the world that surrounds her through its lens.
Always looking for something new to advance her artistic experimentation, Katie is an accomplished sketch artist. She specialises in detailed drawings of friends, family and clients, including fur-babies, such as cats, dogs and the odd ferret.
After a lifetime of experience in numerous fields of endeavour, Katie now spends her days, and most nights, doing what she loves, bringing stories alive for people who enjoy a tale where the everyday suddenly becomes something much, much more...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 28, 2021
I simply cannot say enough, what a pleasant surprise this author, Katie Berry, has been for me. I first came across her book, "Claw". A prehistoric monster is unearthed and set lose on a small town. While it was simple, it was done well, thoroughly entertaining.
I then decided to pick up her new series, "ABANDONED". A paranormal haunted hotel theme. The hotel has been shut down for decades after unexplainable events occurred. Now, two siblings, both with "psychic paranormal" abilities themselves, are hired to inspect the hotel i.e. "clear it all it can be reopened".
This is certainly not my typical theme of book. But I gave it a shot. Turns out Katie Berry knows how to frighten even myself. I was also excited and nervous reading it!
So now I've finished this book the 2nd in series. And Dammit, I should know better than starting a series before it's completed. I can't wait for the 3rd book!
I then decided to pick up her new series, "ABANDONED". A paranormal haunted hotel theme. The hotel has been shut down for decades after unexplainable events occurred. Now, two siblings, both with "psychic paranormal" abilities themselves, are hired to inspect the hotel i.e. "clear it all it can be reopened".
This is certainly not my typical theme of book. But I gave it a shot. Turns out Katie Berry knows how to frighten even myself. I was also excited and nervous reading it!
So now I've finished this book the 2nd in series. And Dammit, I should know better than starting a series before it's completed. I can't wait for the 3rd book!
July 9, 2024
I really like the two characters in this book and the fact that they are brother and sister, so no romantic entanglements. I love seeing them working their psychic skills, and trying to solve the riddle. Can't wait for the next one.
Also, I never knew that I liked reading about people eating and enjoying food, but I do....now, anyone seen my gravy boat.
Also, I never knew that I liked reading about people eating and enjoying food, but I do....now, anyone seen my gravy boat.
September 7, 2021
Before you begin this installment ask yourself are you brave and fearless? The author did her research. We have Masons and the esoteric woven within the story in a very believable narrative. I've decided that the Sinclair Resort is dimensional and enjoys playing with her guests or are they her victims. Once again our main protagonist does not fail in keeping the reader engaged. I doubt that I would personally spend a minute in the company of Sinclair although she is a good hostess and provides what you require. She is tempting and I'm sure she could change my mind if I could manage to set aside the fears that lurk within my mind. I am sad for John Harder, as he did not expect any of the events that impacted his life so painfully. Helen is trapped somewhere in the vast universe of the Sinclair, glimpsing her and seeing her fear and her request for his help within a mirror image does not ease his concern. He manages to find Amanda and together they attempt to figure things out. Amanda, I do not think she will ever set foot in the Sinclair again but that only counts if she is allowed to leave. The reader then finds something unexpected in regards to Amanda as does John.
As for Lively and Minerva, their adventures at the Sinclair are just about to become more intense. Doppelgangers along with the three that call the Executive Gaming room home will make the adventure so much more fun. Charlie the resident Arachnid turns out to be an interesting guide but one must wonder if our Arachnid is friend or foe. As Lively and Minerva work towards an answer to what happened within the Sinclair Resort things become more intense and the book falls into the “edge of the seat” reading category. I had said in my first review that Sinclair was a living entity with a mind and an agenda, that agenda would be to stay very much alive. You once again will not be disappointed in this author's telling of the events of the Sinclair Hotel Resort; you will unfortunately, impatiently, wait for the next installment. I absolutely am enjoying this adventure and look forward to my next encounter. After all, unlike those who are trapped within this story I can close the book and put the fear of the unknown aside. Will you ?
As for Lively and Minerva, their adventures at the Sinclair are just about to become more intense. Doppelgangers along with the three that call the Executive Gaming room home will make the adventure so much more fun. Charlie the resident Arachnid turns out to be an interesting guide but one must wonder if our Arachnid is friend or foe. As Lively and Minerva work towards an answer to what happened within the Sinclair Resort things become more intense and the book falls into the “edge of the seat” reading category. I had said in my first review that Sinclair was a living entity with a mind and an agenda, that agenda would be to stay very much alive. You once again will not be disappointed in this author's telling of the events of the Sinclair Hotel Resort; you will unfortunately, impatiently, wait for the next installment. I absolutely am enjoying this adventure and look forward to my next encounter. After all, unlike those who are trapped within this story I can close the book and put the fear of the unknown aside. Will you ?
October 4, 2021
A continuation of creepy exploration.
First off all, I enjoy the banter of the twins. They are a comic relief when things get really serious. The story continues to add questions and mystery the more you read. I'm eager for the third book.
First off all, I enjoy the banter of the twins. They are a comic relief when things get really serious. The story continues to add questions and mystery the more you read. I'm eager for the third book.
June 24, 2021
I loved the first book in this series, and I enjoyed the second just as much. Sometimes when I read books like this it's more for the plot and just being scared, but I was as invested in the characters in Abandoned as much as I was the storyline. I did find this book a little creepier than the first, mostly because of one particular room and certain things inside that room that seemed to have a life of their own, but it still managed to be light-hearted with Lively and his sister, who I just adore. I can't wait for the third book. If you haven't read this you're missing out. It manages to do so many things at once and not become predictable, which is usually the reason I'll DNF. I breezed through this and loved every second.
July 19, 2021
I still think this and the next two novelettes, should have been saved for one decent-sized novel. The story does continue with new mysteries and very few answers from the previous novelette. Still a very enjoyable read.
December 23, 2021
The story of the Sinclair Resort Hotel, Lively and Minerva Deadmarsh, and Inspector John Harder continues to unfold. Lively and Minerva makes some disconcerting discoveries and uncover answers that had eluded everyone until now. Inspector John Harder is not only searching for answers, his missing officers but now his wife. All these stories are unfolding together but separately. Is this a supernatural tale, a tale of dimensions, a tale of lost time, or something deadlier and more evil?
Katie Berry, the author, continues to weave the tale of the Sinclair Resort Hotel and create plot twists that are both fascinating and horrifying. Just when you think you know what’s going on, bam … she broadsides you with an expertly devised plot twist. Characters continue to evolve as their time in the hotel grows. Lively’s enthusiasm with meatloaf MRE’s is a bit terrifying. The dialog flows smoothly and authentically.
The narrator, Alex Knox gives another top-notch performance. His voices are consistent with the previous book and his ease at performing is obvious. I enjoy his voices and his cadence. He moves the story along smoothly and interjects the perfect amount and appropriate emotions. He is a joy to hear.
This is a series that I have enjoyed from the moment I started listening. It is through the work of Berry and Knox for the listener to lose themselves in the story. Like the first, this has some jump-worthy moments! I cannot wait to see where this story takes me.
There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook, it was clear and well produced.
Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-bias, honest review.
Katie Berry, the author, continues to weave the tale of the Sinclair Resort Hotel and create plot twists that are both fascinating and horrifying. Just when you think you know what’s going on, bam … she broadsides you with an expertly devised plot twist. Characters continue to evolve as their time in the hotel grows. Lively’s enthusiasm with meatloaf MRE’s is a bit terrifying. The dialog flows smoothly and authentically.
The narrator, Alex Knox gives another top-notch performance. His voices are consistent with the previous book and his ease at performing is obvious. I enjoy his voices and his cadence. He moves the story along smoothly and interjects the perfect amount and appropriate emotions. He is a joy to hear.
This is a series that I have enjoyed from the moment I started listening. It is through the work of Berry and Knox for the listener to lose themselves in the story. Like the first, this has some jump-worthy moments! I cannot wait to see where this story takes me.
There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook, it was clear and well produced.
Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-bias, honest review.
September 17, 2021
I read Claw Bk 1 & 2 small sequence books. They were good & I was intrigued about the reference to Abandoned, so bought Abandoned Bk 1 & 2. Half way through #1, I wanted to know what happened to several of the people & I wanted to know NOW. So I almost frantically searched the names through both books with no answers. Found out that I have to wait until the end of Dec for the next two books. As I kept reading, I got more & more into the story & what is causing these events & how it is going to be resolved. Darn. This is going to do me in.
July 12, 2021
I cannot believe what a great adventure is happening
Katy Berry 's story is very interesting, and I cannot wait for the next book. I really enjoy her characterizations, They are unique, and exciting, and strange. Anyway I loved the 1st book, I loved the second book, I will love the 3rd book. Katie Please keep writing
Katy Berry 's story is very interesting, and I cannot wait for the next book. I really enjoy her characterizations, They are unique, and exciting, and strange. Anyway I loved the 1st book, I loved the second book, I will love the 3rd book. Katie Please keep writing
September 25, 2021
Hi, Miss Katie
Could you write Quicker, cause I can't Wait for Lively and Minerva to solve this mystery!
Reading about this brother and sister, makes me happy that their connection is so strong.
They compliment one another, keeping an Eye out for any Bugaboo that might be lurking near.
Come along with this dynamic duo, and don't forget to freshen up you drink!
Could you write Quicker, cause I can't Wait for Lively and Minerva to solve this mystery!
Reading about this brother and sister, makes me happy that their connection is so strong.
They compliment one another, keeping an Eye out for any Bugaboo that might be lurking near.
Come along with this dynamic duo, and don't forget to freshen up you drink!
June 24, 2021
Loved the combination of science and spookiness!! And it’s set in BC!
Absolutely loving this series...completely captivated. Lots of pieces to put together....I think this would make an amazing tv series! Can’t wait for book 3.
Absolutely loving this series...completely captivated. Lots of pieces to put together....I think this would make an amazing tv series! Can’t wait for book 3.
August 11, 2021
Really enjoyed this series!
November 20, 2021
Book Two Amps up the Fear Factor
We are finding out more about the characters, their backstories, in book two, as well as more about the hotel itself. Further theories are advanced as to what is actually happening at the Sinclair. Can’t wait to read onward!
We are finding out more about the characters, their backstories, in book two, as well as more about the hotel itself. Further theories are advanced as to what is actually happening at the Sinclair. Can’t wait to read onward!
December 12, 2021
The mystery continues
Where is everyone disappearing to? Now Lively!
The hotel holds more adventures for all who enter.
What will happen next?
Where is everyone disappearing to? Now Lively!
The hotel holds more adventures for all who enter.
What will happen next?
July 3, 2021
Oh WOW!
Just as good as the first book. Had to actually nerve my self up to start reading then sucked in to the end… and no!!!!! Need next book, you can’t leave us hanging like this!
Definitely recommend.
Just as good as the first book. Had to actually nerve my self up to start reading then sucked in to the end… and no!!!!! Need next book, you can’t leave us hanging like this!
Definitely recommend.
October 12, 2021
What a imagination!! Bring on book 3
January 15, 2022
Wow, a real page turner! Creepy and Mysterious. Book one was amazing, book two is even better.. I just ordered book 3 and can't wait!
December 12, 2021
Mind Bending Terror
Wow just WOW. My mind is reeling after finishing Book 2 of the Lively Deadmarsh series. He and his sister are getting closer (perhaps TOO close) to solving the mystery of the Sinclair Hotel! This series is a mind bending roller coaster ride into a disappearance 40 years ago and it seems that our hero Lively may just be the latest victim! A mixture of occult, mystery, physics and science fiction the author has created a story of unequalled terror. A real page turner, couldn’t put it down until the last page. Now can’t wait until the next installment.
Wow just WOW. My mind is reeling after finishing Book 2 of the Lively Deadmarsh series. He and his sister are getting closer (perhaps TOO close) to solving the mystery of the Sinclair Hotel! This series is a mind bending roller coaster ride into a disappearance 40 years ago and it seems that our hero Lively may just be the latest victim! A mixture of occult, mystery, physics and science fiction the author has created a story of unequalled terror. A real page turner, couldn’t put it down until the last page. Now can’t wait until the next installment.
May 16, 2024
great book !
This was even creepier than book 1. On to book 3 now. Great storyline. This will make me think twice about hotels for the rest of my life.
This was even creepier than book 1. On to book 3 now. Great storyline. This will make me think twice about hotels for the rest of my life.
December 21, 2021
I enjoyed reading the second book in her series and looking forward to reading the next issue.
I like the storyline with all its many time-shifting and the brother & sister mental connection.
I like the storyline with all its many time-shifting and the brother & sister mental connection.
August 15, 2023
EDIT:
I initially read only the first two books of the series and was not too impressed due to the reasons mentioned in my review below. However, I have decided to re-read (or listen rather) them, and I am coming away with a different view. Perhaps I just wasn't into the story at the first reading, but finding myself rather enjoying it now. I have even upgraded my initial two stars to four. I find reading them one after the other made for a more compelling story. It also helped that the storyline was fresh in my mind. Now onto Book 3.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
Oh boy, what to make of this book? I became a huge Katie Berry fan after reading her first novel, Claw. It had suspense, atmosphere and nicely developed characters. In addition, Katie is a fantastic storyteller with great pacing and a wonderful and competent way of writing. I was immediately hooked.
When ABANDONED, Arrivals and Awakenings came out I couldn't wait to read it. While I rated it four stars, I had three major gripes with book. These issues have remained in this second of four novel(las).
Firstly ABANDONED, Beginnings and Betrayals is no more than a novella. Let me be honest. I feel cheated. I'm paying the same for the book (6 hours) on Audible than I would for a 30-hour book by, say, Stephen King. It is not so much that the story is short, but that the series does not warrant 4 books. This book went absolutely nowhere. It went from one scene to another without progressing the story. Sure, two books of around 12 hours each would be fine, but splitting it up into four feels like an attempt to extort every last cent out of me.
Secondly, the dialogue between the twins are just terrible. I made a comment in my review of the first book in the series that the dialogue was juvenile. Unfortunately, I have not changed my mind. It is dribble. There is also no chemistry between these two characters. I would have preferred two individuals that were edgy with each other as it would have contributed to the overall ghost story. This book could most definitely do with some atmosphere and "edge of the seat" stuff. I'm surprised Katie's editor hasn't suggested changes to the sections of dialogue.
I feel terrible being so harsh, but these two issues are significant distractions from an otherwise very promising series. I love the storyline and want it to be so much more (like Claw). Currently the ABANDONED series feels like a dirty BMW. Yeah, it's a nice German automobile, but being dirty, one feels let down. It would be nice if the story was fully developed and released as one or even two books. I'd happily pay more to read the story in one go. At this stage the books are so short that I'm not invested in it, and frankly couldn't remember any of the characters' names after finishing the first book a few months ago.
I like the idea of a Deadmarsh series, but then ABANDONED could have been one book. The next book could have dealt with another supernatural story in another exotic location. It could be similar to the Pendergast series by Preston and Child. And yes, I do mention Katie Berry in the same breath as these esteemed authors - she could be/is that good.
Considering my gripes, I will wait till the last two books are both released before continuing with the series. I sincerely hope the story goes somewhere as it is one of the most original stories I've read in a while.
I initially read only the first two books of the series and was not too impressed due to the reasons mentioned in my review below. However, I have decided to re-read (or listen rather) them, and I am coming away with a different view. Perhaps I just wasn't into the story at the first reading, but finding myself rather enjoying it now. I have even upgraded my initial two stars to four. I find reading them one after the other made for a more compelling story. It also helped that the storyline was fresh in my mind. Now onto Book 3.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
Oh boy, what to make of this book? I became a huge Katie Berry fan after reading her first novel, Claw. It had suspense, atmosphere and nicely developed characters. In addition, Katie is a fantastic storyteller with great pacing and a wonderful and competent way of writing. I was immediately hooked.
When ABANDONED, Arrivals and Awakenings came out I couldn't wait to read it. While I rated it four stars, I had three major gripes with book. These issues have remained in this second of four novel(las).
Firstly ABANDONED, Beginnings and Betrayals is no more than a novella. Let me be honest. I feel cheated. I'm paying the same for the book (6 hours) on Audible than I would for a 30-hour book by, say, Stephen King. It is not so much that the story is short, but that the series does not warrant 4 books. This book went absolutely nowhere. It went from one scene to another without progressing the story. Sure, two books of around 12 hours each would be fine, but splitting it up into four feels like an attempt to extort every last cent out of me.
Secondly, the dialogue between the twins are just terrible. I made a comment in my review of the first book in the series that the dialogue was juvenile. Unfortunately, I have not changed my mind. It is dribble. There is also no chemistry between these two characters. I would have preferred two individuals that were edgy with each other as it would have contributed to the overall ghost story. This book could most definitely do with some atmosphere and "edge of the seat" stuff. I'm surprised Katie's editor hasn't suggested changes to the sections of dialogue.
I feel terrible being so harsh, but these two issues are significant distractions from an otherwise very promising series. I love the storyline and want it to be so much more (like Claw). Currently the ABANDONED series feels like a dirty BMW. Yeah, it's a nice German automobile, but being dirty, one feels let down. It would be nice if the story was fully developed and released as one or even two books. I'd happily pay more to read the story in one go. At this stage the books are so short that I'm not invested in it, and frankly couldn't remember any of the characters' names after finishing the first book a few months ago.
I like the idea of a Deadmarsh series, but then ABANDONED could have been one book. The next book could have dealt with another supernatural story in another exotic location. It could be similar to the Pendergast series by Preston and Child. And yes, I do mention Katie Berry in the same breath as these esteemed authors - she could be/is that good.
Considering my gripes, I will wait till the last two books are both released before continuing with the series. I sincerely hope the story goes somewhere as it is one of the most original stories I've read in a while.
February 27, 2022
Just as good as book 1 in the series!
September 20, 2024
This was even better than the first book! As in the first one, I enjoyed the past chapters more than the present, but I did find Lively and Minerva less annoying this time. They were still pretty goofy, but at least they had some normal conversations and there were times they were actually taking events seriously. There are quite a few creepy scenes and all scenes with "Charlie" are terrifying to me because I have severe arachnophobia. The cliffhanger at the end was jaw-dropping and I can't wait to start reading the next one! This is turning out to be a great series for the spooky season, and I am so glad the whole thing is out already!
July 10, 2024
Now we're getting somewhere
In Book 2, I feel the author is finding her stride! The characters aren't quite so annoying, and we're starting to get into some serious mystery and chaos now. What is going on in this crazy place?! Is the original inspector going to end up joining in? So many questions!! Now on to book 3!
In Book 2, I feel the author is finding her stride! The characters aren't quite so annoying, and we're starting to get into some serious mystery and chaos now. What is going on in this crazy place?! Is the original inspector going to end up joining in? So many questions!! Now on to book 3!
July 18, 2024
Argh!
Lively, where are you? Book two is great! Loving every minute of it. These books remind me of several of my favorite horror/supernatural films and stories. On to book 3!
Lively, where are you? Book two is great! Loving every minute of it. These books remind me of several of my favorite horror/supernatural films and stories. On to book 3!
October 12, 2024
a fun continuation….
Filled with intrigue, humor, and creepiness.
The only think I don’t like are the grammatical mistakes, but that’s a personal preference.
Filled with intrigue, humor, and creepiness.
The only think I don’t like are the grammatical mistakes, but that’s a personal preference.
December 31, 2023
Hmmm.... I see the review for this one never actually posted for some reason?? I guess they always dont go through from my kindle.
Anyway this was the second book in this series and loads of fun. And my favorite character Charlie is in here too! You would be surprised if you knew who he was! You can see a wee bit of him on the front cover if you look closely. But this story was non stop action and the mystery grew bigger. I would have to try and go find my review on Amazon to post here.
But these books are great fun!
Here is my original Amazon review of this book:
Wow! Its rare when Book 2 out does Book 1 but this is definitely the case here! And what an ending too! I am quite shocked and very eager to read book 3 now! The story moves at a very good pace and it is never boring. At all. There are major secrets in this hotel. Whoever built it was up to some major nefarious stuff - like next level stuff. We are talking metaphysics here. Space twisting secrets.
This is one of those complicated stories where there are tons of weird stuff going on. And as you read you try to figure out what is going on. You know the usual questions like is it ghosts? Is the place haunted? Is it people playing tricks to make it look like ghosts? Is it something even weirder?! Maybe its metaphysics?? So you get all of these thoughts and you try to figure it out as you read. But there is just so much going on that you just end up turning the pages to see what will happen next. And a TON of stuff happens in here! There is the bizarre and scary moments and a very detailed history of the hotel too. There are myths from Scotland and some very unique critters. My dad was Charlie. I hope he returns in the next book.
The characters in here are great. I have not found any truly awful ones. They are well developed and I certainly enjoy reading about their adventures in this hotel. Of course Lively and his twin sister Minerva are the main characters. It is quiet amazing the stuff they just simply accept. I must say they certainly have made progress in here by poking at stuff. Are we closer to finding the truth about the hotel? The answer will have to wait for book #3.
But I read this book in less than a day. It was that good. In fact I read the majority of it last night.
This is no ordinary hotel. This place has MAJOR secrets. And those secrets has captured my imagination and I want to know what it is all about!!
Anyway this was the second book in this series and loads of fun. And my favorite character Charlie is in here too! You would be surprised if you knew who he was! You can see a wee bit of him on the front cover if you look closely. But this story was non stop action and the mystery grew bigger. I would have to try and go find my review on Amazon to post here.
But these books are great fun!
Here is my original Amazon review of this book:
Wow! Its rare when Book 2 out does Book 1 but this is definitely the case here! And what an ending too! I am quite shocked and very eager to read book 3 now! The story moves at a very good pace and it is never boring. At all. There are major secrets in this hotel. Whoever built it was up to some major nefarious stuff - like next level stuff. We are talking metaphysics here. Space twisting secrets.
This is one of those complicated stories where there are tons of weird stuff going on. And as you read you try to figure out what is going on. You know the usual questions like is it ghosts? Is the place haunted? Is it people playing tricks to make it look like ghosts? Is it something even weirder?! Maybe its metaphysics?? So you get all of these thoughts and you try to figure it out as you read. But there is just so much going on that you just end up turning the pages to see what will happen next. And a TON of stuff happens in here! There is the bizarre and scary moments and a very detailed history of the hotel too. There are myths from Scotland and some very unique critters. My dad was Charlie. I hope he returns in the next book.
The characters in here are great. I have not found any truly awful ones. They are well developed and I certainly enjoy reading about their adventures in this hotel. Of course Lively and his twin sister Minerva are the main characters. It is quiet amazing the stuff they just simply accept. I must say they certainly have made progress in here by poking at stuff. Are we closer to finding the truth about the hotel? The answer will have to wait for book #3.
But I read this book in less than a day. It was that good. In fact I read the majority of it last night.
This is no ordinary hotel. This place has MAJOR secrets. And those secrets has captured my imagination and I want to know what it is all about!!
July 2, 2022
Lively and Minerva are still wandering around this massive hotel in the rugged Canadian mountains. Why are they doing this? I’m not real sure. There was a very vague reason given in the first book. I know the company that owns the hotel wants to reopen it and Lively is supposed to be assessing how haunted it is. Is he supposed to cleanse it? Write up a report? Document paranormal events? If any of those are his job he royally sucks at it. Instead he and his stupid sister just blunder around until something happens. When the things happen they could be creepy moments but these two characters are so terrible (I actually hate them) that their dialogue makes the scene ridiculous. Their reactions to astounding events are mind bogglingly dumb. Knowing how dangerous the hotel is they continually split up and explore alone. They poke around with things that they seem to have no knowledge of. They eat food that magically appears without much question. Maybe they’re being dosed with something, but they don’t even question it.
Nothing happens in this short novella to progress the story forward. No questions are answered. It is literally a pointless book. I can’t believe this is a 4 “book” series. Based on the first two it could have been a 2 book series and saved the readers some time and money. The worst part is that the idea behind the novellas was promising. The scenes that are from the past are written alright, not great, but enough to keep me reading. Even those have their issues though. I can’t imagine why only 3 police officers would respond to the disappearance of 98 people!!! How could they possibly ascertain what happened? They don’t respond to things like normal people would either. It’s supposed to be the 1980’s but comes off as being more like the 1950’s or 60’s. It’s a hot mess.
I don’t think I will be finishing the series. I don’t care enough about any of it to torture myself with more Lively and Minerva.
Nothing happens in this short novella to progress the story forward. No questions are answered. It is literally a pointless book. I can’t believe this is a 4 “book” series. Based on the first two it could have been a 2 book series and saved the readers some time and money. The worst part is that the idea behind the novellas was promising. The scenes that are from the past are written alright, not great, but enough to keep me reading. Even those have their issues though. I can’t imagine why only 3 police officers would respond to the disappearance of 98 people!!! How could they possibly ascertain what happened? They don’t respond to things like normal people would either. It’s supposed to be the 1980’s but comes off as being more like the 1950’s or 60’s. It’s a hot mess.
I don’t think I will be finishing the series. I don’t care enough about any of it to torture myself with more Lively and Minerva.
July 28, 2022
This is essentially a review for the entire series. There’s a lot of potential for serious fear in this series about an evil hotel. Psychic investigators Lively and Minerva are looking into the disappearance of over 100 people, 40 years prior. The hotel seems almost sentient and is filled with secrets. Additionally we have possible kelpies, ghosts, zombies, quantum entanglement, animated inanimate objects, the multiverse, seances…you name it, it’s in the series. Unfortunately Lively and Minerva show so little fear response that I did not feel fear either. They seem too confident.
This also feels like one very long novel chopped into four books. None of the books can really stand alone and the first three end on a cliffhanger. Not a huge deal now that they are all out, but I’m not sure I would have chosen to continue if I didn’t want some resolution to the many questions. It started to feel like homework after awhile. Just know you pretty much have to read all 4 books or be left wondering.
They are included with Kindle Unlimited.
This also feels like one very long novel chopped into four books. None of the books can really stand alone and the first three end on a cliffhanger. Not a huge deal now that they are all out, but I’m not sure I would have chosen to continue if I didn’t want some resolution to the many questions. It started to feel like homework after awhile. Just know you pretty much have to read all 4 books or be left wondering.
They are included with Kindle Unlimited.
August 17, 2025
Good but frustrating in parts
It's a good story but frustrating in parts , firstly the relationship between livley and Minerva is very strange, they often talk to each other like a couple would not brother and sister, it's a bit off putting. Secondly why can't they just say " I'm just heading to the car for something " instead of referring to the cars by make and model every time , the story can also be over explained at times too, a bit too much information if you will. All that being said it's an intriguing story and I really like the switch between past and present, I also particularly enjoy the parts where we see things though the eyes of John Harder of the RCMP , I really like his character
It's a good story but frustrating in parts , firstly the relationship between livley and Minerva is very strange, they often talk to each other like a couple would not brother and sister, it's a bit off putting. Secondly why can't they just say " I'm just heading to the car for something " instead of referring to the cars by make and model every time , the story can also be over explained at times too, a bit too much information if you will. All that being said it's an intriguing story and I really like the switch between past and present, I also particularly enjoy the parts where we see things though the eyes of John Harder of the RCMP , I really like his character
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