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Souls #1
The Book of Souls
Things do more than go bump in the night in The Book of Souls, a paranormal thriller. The Book of Souls tells the story of Jack, a married man of forty-something with three kids, who suddenly wakes up as his thirteen-year-old self after apparently falling through the floors of an old abandoned boarding house and suffering serious head injuries.
His memories of being married with three kids, he’s told, are the result of this “injury to his brain.” Now he’s back with his father and still in the eighth-grade Catholic school classroom of his youth. Despite his protests, the doctors, his dad and numerous psychiatrists tell him his memories of his wife and kids are just the result of his fall.
But then, he starts to experience strange powers and frightening scenes. He hears peoples’ thoughts on the subway, sees dead people, is threatened by strange and evil creatures. Most disturbing, he starts to wonder about a strange resident of an apartment—Apartment 3C— across the way from his eighth-grade classroom, who seems to stare at him, to know him.
Who is this strange man, and why does he fixate on Jack? Why does Jack fixate on him?
The Book of Souls tells the story of Jack’s journey back to himself while helping the once-famous artist Kasper Greenstreet, the troubled ghost in Apartment 3C, find his way back home.
His memories of being married with three kids, he’s told, are the result of this “injury to his brain.” Now he’s back with his father and still in the eighth-grade Catholic school classroom of his youth. Despite his protests, the doctors, his dad and numerous psychiatrists tell him his memories of his wife and kids are just the result of his fall.
But then, he starts to experience strange powers and frightening scenes. He hears peoples’ thoughts on the subway, sees dead people, is threatened by strange and evil creatures. Most disturbing, he starts to wonder about a strange resident of an apartment—Apartment 3C— across the way from his eighth-grade classroom, who seems to stare at him, to know him.
Who is this strange man, and why does he fixate on Jack? Why does Jack fixate on him?
The Book of Souls tells the story of Jack’s journey back to himself while helping the once-famous artist Kasper Greenstreet, the troubled ghost in Apartment 3C, find his way back home.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2022
123 people are currently reading
3500 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Moore
7 books84 followersAbout the Author
Kevin Moore
Meet Kevin Moore, the imaginative storyteller behind Jack Kelly's captivating world and extraordinary paranormal adventures. His debut novel, The Book of Souls, earned praises as an Amazon Editors' pick for Best Science Fiction and Fantasy and introduced readers to Kelly's mesmerizing abilities. Building on this success, Moore delved deeper into the supernatural realm with "The Book of Demons," a thrilling blend of magic and suspense—think Harry Potter meets The Exorcist. Brace yourselves for the next chapter in the Jack Kelly saga. "Pandora's Box and The Lost Boys" promises to unleash an even more intense level of spine-tingling drama in early 2025.
But Moore's literary talents are not confined to the paranormal. His anthology "Christmas Stories 7: Original Short Stories" became an Amazon #1 bestseller, showcasing his ability to craft heartwarming tales. The eagerly awaited "Christmas Stories Volume II" is set for release in November 2024, promising more enchanting narratives.
And in early 2025, prepare to be captivated by "Waking Sleeping Beauty," a spiritual thriller about three very different women.
Away from the written page, Moore draws inspiration from lucid dreaming. He infuses his writing process with a unique depth and clarity. However, Moore's pursuits are not limited to the arts. He is a certified Yoga teacher and Advanced Reiki Practitioner, embracing holistic practices that enrich his personal and professional life, a testament to his dedication to personal growth and enrichment.
Discover more about Moore and his captivating books, and consider inviting him to your next Book Club event for an unforgettable literary experience. moorebooks59@gmail.com
Kevin Moore
Meet Kevin Moore, the imaginative storyteller behind Jack Kelly's captivating world and extraordinary paranormal adventures. His debut novel, The Book of Souls, earned praises as an Amazon Editors' pick for Best Science Fiction and Fantasy and introduced readers to Kelly's mesmerizing abilities. Building on this success, Moore delved deeper into the supernatural realm with "The Book of Demons," a thrilling blend of magic and suspense—think Harry Potter meets The Exorcist. Brace yourselves for the next chapter in the Jack Kelly saga. "Pandora's Box and The Lost Boys" promises to unleash an even more intense level of spine-tingling drama in early 2025.
But Moore's literary talents are not confined to the paranormal. His anthology "Christmas Stories 7: Original Short Stories" became an Amazon #1 bestseller, showcasing his ability to craft heartwarming tales. The eagerly awaited "Christmas Stories Volume II" is set for release in November 2024, promising more enchanting narratives.
And in early 2025, prepare to be captivated by "Waking Sleeping Beauty," a spiritual thriller about three very different women.
Away from the written page, Moore draws inspiration from lucid dreaming. He infuses his writing process with a unique depth and clarity. However, Moore's pursuits are not limited to the arts. He is a certified Yoga teacher and Advanced Reiki Practitioner, embracing holistic practices that enrich his personal and professional life, a testament to his dedication to personal growth and enrichment.
Discover more about Moore and his captivating books, and consider inviting him to your next Book Club event for an unforgettable literary experience. moorebooks59@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
March 9, 2022
Jack is happily married with three kids who suddenly wakes up as his thirteen-year-old self in the hospital. He can't understand what has happened. He keeps asking for his wife and children and his doctors and father attribute this to the head injuries he suffered when he fell playing in an abandoned building. He is told he has an injury to his brain, and therefore he believes he is a married man with kids.
So maybe with time he can buy that, but what about seeing dead people (this is no sixth sense) and evil demons. Then there is Apartment 3C. It is across from his classroom and the resident appears to be staring at him.
The premise of this book was intriguing, but the execution did not work for me. Neither did the narrator. There were parts that I found to be very interesting, and I was fully engaged, then there were parts that dragged, and I lost interest. This is the first book in a series, and I will not be reading the rest.
Others have been captivated by this book, so please read their reviews as well.
2.5 stars
Thank you to Books Fluent and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
So maybe with time he can buy that, but what about seeing dead people (this is no sixth sense) and evil demons. Then there is Apartment 3C. It is across from his classroom and the resident appears to be staring at him.
The premise of this book was intriguing, but the execution did not work for me. Neither did the narrator. There were parts that I found to be very interesting, and I was fully engaged, then there were parts that dragged, and I lost interest. This is the first book in a series, and I will not be reading the rest.
Others have been captivated by this book, so please read their reviews as well.
2.5 stars
Thank you to Books Fluent and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
February 24, 2022
Jack Kelly was happily married to his wife, Katherine. He and Katherine had three beautiful children — Stevie, Lily and Mike. They were the perfect family. But their idyllic family is upended when Stevie falls ill with a strange sickness that had doctors befuddled. It is Stevie’s illness that would be the turning point of Jack’s life as he knew it.
On that fateful day in Jack’s life, Jack is besieged by shadows and is knocked unconscious. When Jack wakes, he is no longer the man and husband, but a mere teenager. A man trapped in a 13 year old body. Along with that, Jack now has the uncanny ability to see, hear, and feel otherworldly connections. And those connections would be the start of Jack’s new purpose in life.
The Book of Souls is the first book in the horror duology. It is mildly terrifying but not enough to keep you awake all night.
The characters are developed enough. And for their part in a horror genre, they don’t need to be fleshed out as much as if they were in a historical fiction novel. The character of Jack was the most interesting because here you have a grown man in a boy’s body. And Jack’s stature belies his vast knowledge, intelligence and maturity.
As for the story, it is a satisfying read if you are a fan of horror. However, the transitions were a little rough, and the narrative seemed a bit disjointed throughout.
Overall, The Book of Souls is an average and decent read. I’m probably the minority of opinion with a three star rating. The story will conclude with author Kevin Moore’s upcoming novel, The Book of Demons. But I probably won’t be in line for that one anytime soon.
I received a digital ARC from Books Fluent through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
On that fateful day in Jack’s life, Jack is besieged by shadows and is knocked unconscious. When Jack wakes, he is no longer the man and husband, but a mere teenager. A man trapped in a 13 year old body. Along with that, Jack now has the uncanny ability to see, hear, and feel otherworldly connections. And those connections would be the start of Jack’s new purpose in life.
The Book of Souls is the first book in the horror duology. It is mildly terrifying but not enough to keep you awake all night.
The characters are developed enough. And for their part in a horror genre, they don’t need to be fleshed out as much as if they were in a historical fiction novel. The character of Jack was the most interesting because here you have a grown man in a boy’s body. And Jack’s stature belies his vast knowledge, intelligence and maturity.
As for the story, it is a satisfying read if you are a fan of horror. However, the transitions were a little rough, and the narrative seemed a bit disjointed throughout.
Overall, The Book of Souls is an average and decent read. I’m probably the minority of opinion with a three star rating. The story will conclude with author Kevin Moore’s upcoming novel, The Book of Demons. But I probably won’t be in line for that one anytime soon.
I received a digital ARC from Books Fluent through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 4, 2021
Jack Kelly wakes up from a coma believing he is a married man with a wife and kids. However, when Jack wakes up he is a thirteen year old child with vivid memories through adulthood and the accident that he believed that his brother suffered is now his own. Along with the brain injury, Jack can now read people's minds, feel their emotions and see the ghosts and demons that linger in the city and pull people into the next world. With an introduction to others like him, Jack begins to refine his gift and hones into one particular ghost in the apartment building across from his school. The ghost and Jack have a connection, but the ghost does not want to leave. A supernatural fight ensues as Jack tries to convince the ghost to move on.
From the beginning, Jack's story pulled me into this intriguing supernatural thriller. From the start, the demons and ghosts in the shadows were gripping, creating an intense and foreboding atmosphere. I was very interested in Jack's family as an adult and how that experience shaped how he came back as a child. Jack's reintroduction to life and his childhood after his coma were fascinating. Jack's character held the duality of being in a child's body with the memories and emotional control of an adult. The writing switched between the points of view of Jack and the ghost, Kasper Greenstreet. I was equally attracted to Kasper's storyline as Jack's. Being able to read about Kasper's life and death created him as a full person. I loved reading about his artistic process and the passion he put into his work. As Jack's interactions with Kasper increase, so does the suspense, culminating in an exciting ending. With many questions still unanswered, I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
From the beginning, Jack's story pulled me into this intriguing supernatural thriller. From the start, the demons and ghosts in the shadows were gripping, creating an intense and foreboding atmosphere. I was very interested in Jack's family as an adult and how that experience shaped how he came back as a child. Jack's reintroduction to life and his childhood after his coma were fascinating. Jack's character held the duality of being in a child's body with the memories and emotional control of an adult. The writing switched between the points of view of Jack and the ghost, Kasper Greenstreet. I was equally attracted to Kasper's storyline as Jack's. Being able to read about Kasper's life and death created him as a full person. I loved reading about his artistic process and the passion he put into his work. As Jack's interactions with Kasper increase, so does the suspense, culminating in an exciting ending. With many questions still unanswered, I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
April 30, 2022
Marketed as a paranormal thriller, The Book of Souls focuses on the merged stories of Jack, a man stuck in his boy self, Kasper, a confused ghost, and Peter, the man connecting the two.
I'm not typically a horror-reader, but I really wanted to try myself at something new. Besides, the story seemed intriguing. I really loved the pacing of the story, even with the back-and-forth bouncing of the line. Jack's visions throughout the book were probably some of the most terrifying scenes. It feels like the doubtful thoughts that we hear when we're struggling or working through hard things. Although, they're more severe, they could certainly be a metaphor for those inner, overwhelming thoughts.
From the story alone, it's clear that the author has a personal interest in the sixth sense and the paranormal. This gave the story so much heart, and made it genuinely a book of a soul (yes, I'm aware; I'm not funny) My biggest issue was the element of religion. I'm definitely not a heavily religious persona and sometimes this can make me slightly uncomfortable. Especially in terms of discrimination.
Overall, however, I did like this book, and if you're into the paranormal, religious aspects and spirituality, go for this.
Thank you to NetGalley, Books Fluent and the author, of course!!
I'm not typically a horror-reader, but I really wanted to try myself at something new. Besides, the story seemed intriguing. I really loved the pacing of the story, even with the back-and-forth bouncing of the line. Jack's visions throughout the book were probably some of the most terrifying scenes. It feels like the doubtful thoughts that we hear when we're struggling or working through hard things. Although, they're more severe, they could certainly be a metaphor for those inner, overwhelming thoughts.
From the story alone, it's clear that the author has a personal interest in the sixth sense and the paranormal. This gave the story so much heart, and made it genuinely a book of a soul (yes, I'm aware; I'm not funny) My biggest issue was the element of religion. I'm definitely not a heavily religious persona and sometimes this can make me slightly uncomfortable. Especially in terms of discrimination.
Overall, however, I did like this book, and if you're into the paranormal, religious aspects and spirituality, go for this.
Thank you to NetGalley, Books Fluent and the author, of course!!
March 12, 2022
3.5/5
“The dead don't come back, but some never leave…”
When 47-year-old Jack has a near-death experience that leaves him seeing ghosts and shadowy creatures, he is further baffled by the fact that he has awakened in the body of his 13-year-old self. Why do doctors keep saying his memories are residual effects of the accident when he has such vivid memories of a wife and children as well as a lifetime of experiences? In this paranormal thriller, Jack embarks on a journey to make his way back to the reality he has already lived.
So in the horror movie Insidious, there’s a character who can astral project to a place in between life and death. When he’s unable to get back into his body, he’s plagued by demons and all sorts of horrors in this in-between. I kept imagining these particular scenes while reading this book. The writing style was so visceral and read in a very cinematic way, which elevated the suspenseful mood of the story. There was a sense of eeriness and uncomfortable stillness that never quite left the room regardless of the scene I found myself reading.
Moore has an incredible way of drawing you into the horrors of this universe. I can’t tell you how many times I felt my skin crawl at the creepy moments in which Jack is tortured by visions of demons and ghosts. There’s a huge mystery involved in the central plot, which added to the tense atmosphere of this story and left me feeling as disoriented as its characters. The pov alternated between a number of characters, but the way the story was woven together kept me guessing at everyone’s motives and connections.
This is a dark tale that touches on a number of themes such as identity and one’s sense of self, religion, the occult, belief and support systems, substance abuse, and the struggle to connect to others. I felt the paranormal aspects of this story were an interesting touch to a tale that strongly focuses on the loneliness with which many individuals struggle, and the sense of belonging that some struggle to achieve. Behind the creepy and horror filled pages was the respective journeys these characters took to find their identity and purpose in life.
If I had to be nitpicky, there were some noticeable grammatical and punctuation errors in the writing. The perspective also sometimes would switch between first and third person in the same paragraphs and same chapters, of which I was not a fan. But overall it didn’t detract too much from the storytelling and I still enjoyed the thriller elements. Although the main story ended on a cliffhanger, multiple narratives came together to resolve a few of the conflicts Jack encountered throughout the novel. The ending left on a bittersweet note, and readers will have to wait until Oct 2022 for the second installment in this series.
Huge thanks to the author, Books Fluent, and my partners at Books Forward for an arc of this novel and the bookish swag in exchange for my honest thoughts!
“The dead don't come back, but some never leave…”
When 47-year-old Jack has a near-death experience that leaves him seeing ghosts and shadowy creatures, he is further baffled by the fact that he has awakened in the body of his 13-year-old self. Why do doctors keep saying his memories are residual effects of the accident when he has such vivid memories of a wife and children as well as a lifetime of experiences? In this paranormal thriller, Jack embarks on a journey to make his way back to the reality he has already lived.
So in the horror movie Insidious, there’s a character who can astral project to a place in between life and death. When he’s unable to get back into his body, he’s plagued by demons and all sorts of horrors in this in-between. I kept imagining these particular scenes while reading this book. The writing style was so visceral and read in a very cinematic way, which elevated the suspenseful mood of the story. There was a sense of eeriness and uncomfortable stillness that never quite left the room regardless of the scene I found myself reading.
Moore has an incredible way of drawing you into the horrors of this universe. I can’t tell you how many times I felt my skin crawl at the creepy moments in which Jack is tortured by visions of demons and ghosts. There’s a huge mystery involved in the central plot, which added to the tense atmosphere of this story and left me feeling as disoriented as its characters. The pov alternated between a number of characters, but the way the story was woven together kept me guessing at everyone’s motives and connections.
This is a dark tale that touches on a number of themes such as identity and one’s sense of self, religion, the occult, belief and support systems, substance abuse, and the struggle to connect to others. I felt the paranormal aspects of this story were an interesting touch to a tale that strongly focuses on the loneliness with which many individuals struggle, and the sense of belonging that some struggle to achieve. Behind the creepy and horror filled pages was the respective journeys these characters took to find their identity and purpose in life.
If I had to be nitpicky, there were some noticeable grammatical and punctuation errors in the writing. The perspective also sometimes would switch between first and third person in the same paragraphs and same chapters, of which I was not a fan. But overall it didn’t detract too much from the storytelling and I still enjoyed the thriller elements. Although the main story ended on a cliffhanger, multiple narratives came together to resolve a few of the conflicts Jack encountered throughout the novel. The ending left on a bittersweet note, and readers will have to wait until Oct 2022 for the second installment in this series.
Huge thanks to the author, Books Fluent, and my partners at Books Forward for an arc of this novel and the bookish swag in exchange for my honest thoughts!
March 7, 2022
THIS BOOK!
From page 1 I was either creeped out, scared or completely engrossed in the storyline!
Menacing shadows on the walls. Nuns who are protectors or witches (who knows?). Ghosts who haunt places and people, driving others to lose their mind. Voices of the dead, can they be trusted? Birds attacking windows, with predictions of death.
I'm not kidding when I say that walking around in the dark was put on hold for a couple of weeks after reading this book.
The overall storyline is so creative, crazy and wholly entertaining. Jack is a sympathetic character, one who you will easily root for! The cast of characters were great and will stick with me for a long time.
I was racing to the end and realizing that the big, overwhelming problem in the story line could in no way be resolved in the last 20 pages. Then I realized it was a Book 1. WHYYYYYYY!!!!!????? Now I have to wait to find out what happens! I want to stop my feet and wail like a child! Please get Book 2 to us soon.
Such a great horror story. If you like this genre, this needs to be on your list!
From page 1 I was either creeped out, scared or completely engrossed in the storyline!
Menacing shadows on the walls. Nuns who are protectors or witches (who knows?). Ghosts who haunt places and people, driving others to lose their mind. Voices of the dead, can they be trusted? Birds attacking windows, with predictions of death.
I'm not kidding when I say that walking around in the dark was put on hold for a couple of weeks after reading this book.
The overall storyline is so creative, crazy and wholly entertaining. Jack is a sympathetic character, one who you will easily root for! The cast of characters were great and will stick with me for a long time.
I was racing to the end and realizing that the big, overwhelming problem in the story line could in no way be resolved in the last 20 pages. Then I realized it was a Book 1. WHYYYYYYY!!!!!????? Now I have to wait to find out what happens! I want to stop my feet and wail like a child! Please get Book 2 to us soon.
Such a great horror story. If you like this genre, this needs to be on your list!
March 26, 2022
The Book of Souls outlines a new way of thinking about the intentions of others and the shadows around you. Kevin Moore guides the reader through his protagonist's struggles almost like he is having a conversation with his readers as the events unfold.
Jack is a forty-seven-year-old man with a wife and three children. When his son becomes sick, Jack begins to see shadows until those shadows whisk him away from his family. Upon waking, Jack learns that he is thirteen years old, and the family he loved was considered to be "an insult to his brain" after a horrific fall in an abandoned building. Jack tries to understand his life, working around his new physical and mental limitations, but can he reconstruct the life of a teenager when he's certain he has already lived it? The book takes a turn when Jack sees a man in the window across the street from his Catholic school. Jack meets the owner of the apartment, Peter, and Peter asks him to work for him. But Jack has a secret he's carried with him since his accident, and the shadows he sees are getting closer. Who was in Peter's apartment, and why is Jack seeing things differently?
The book had a slow start, but background information was needed before the reader could appreciate the journey through the book. I liked the multi-sided characters, and I wanted to change Jack's situation, even though he needed the event to transpire.
I recommend the book for older teens, young adults, and mature readers, as there's a fair number of expletives sprinkled across the pages.
Jack is a forty-seven-year-old man with a wife and three children. When his son becomes sick, Jack begins to see shadows until those shadows whisk him away from his family. Upon waking, Jack learns that he is thirteen years old, and the family he loved was considered to be "an insult to his brain" after a horrific fall in an abandoned building. Jack tries to understand his life, working around his new physical and mental limitations, but can he reconstruct the life of a teenager when he's certain he has already lived it? The book takes a turn when Jack sees a man in the window across the street from his Catholic school. Jack meets the owner of the apartment, Peter, and Peter asks him to work for him. But Jack has a secret he's carried with him since his accident, and the shadows he sees are getting closer. Who was in Peter's apartment, and why is Jack seeing things differently?
The book had a slow start, but background information was needed before the reader could appreciate the journey through the book. I liked the multi-sided characters, and I wanted to change Jack's situation, even though he needed the event to transpire.
I recommend the book for older teens, young adults, and mature readers, as there's a fair number of expletives sprinkled across the pages.
January 1, 2022
This book captures you right from the beginning with its eerie prologue and vivid, scary scenes that make you physically cringe.
Jack Kelly can't help but to remember his beautiful wife and family of three children even after he awakens as a 13 year old boy who has just experienced a life-altering accident. Not only does he become a 13 year old after the incident, but he also holds the ability to read minds, smell fear, and see dead people, ghosts, demons, and shadow creatures. His journey within the book is to help one soul cross over and find answers about his family he remembers so vividly.
This horrifying story leaves you with the perfect amount of unanswered questions to make you feel as though you understand what is going on all while making you want more. With life lessons about fear and time, this story will be on your mind 24/7.
I loved the simplistic writing where it was a direct line into the minds of the characters and their thought processes. The way the story was laid out is the perfect way to reveal the secrets about the characters so by the end you feel it all come together so well. I can't wait to read the sequel to this book to get even more answers about Jack, his family, and all the questions you're left with.
Jack Kelly can't help but to remember his beautiful wife and family of three children even after he awakens as a 13 year old boy who has just experienced a life-altering accident. Not only does he become a 13 year old after the incident, but he also holds the ability to read minds, smell fear, and see dead people, ghosts, demons, and shadow creatures. His journey within the book is to help one soul cross over and find answers about his family he remembers so vividly.
This horrifying story leaves you with the perfect amount of unanswered questions to make you feel as though you understand what is going on all while making you want more. With life lessons about fear and time, this story will be on your mind 24/7.
I loved the simplistic writing where it was a direct line into the minds of the characters and their thought processes. The way the story was laid out is the perfect way to reveal the secrets about the characters so by the end you feel it all come together so well. I can't wait to read the sequel to this book to get even more answers about Jack, his family, and all the questions you're left with.
December 18, 2021
May I state, that I wanted more and not end? At first, I will admit, I was confused at the beginning because it was a mixed up. Which later, I came to understand it was like a dream when a dream gets distorted. As I continued to read, it got better and better. I really loved the characters, especially the main one and of course, Kasper. They were very interesting. I really couldn't stop myself, but continued reading. The story is SCARY and even had my jaw dropped on certain parts. It's very eerie. I've enjoyed that a lot. When I came to the end, I did not want it to be done, I wanted more. I was even upset and ranted to my mother about it. LoL. It's a fantastic book and certainly a must-have. I hope part 2 will be in the making so I could find out, what happens next! :)
March 11, 2022
From the first page, I was intrigued.
It started off with really creepy vibes. I felt for Jack as he continued life after waking up from a coma. Everyone around him told him he was only 13 years old and the family he remembers so vividly was a result from the injury he received after falling in an abandoned building.
The story itself kept me interested throughout the whole book. I did not hear any issues with narration and found the narrator easy/enjoyable to listen to. I am interested in continuing the story when the next book comes out in fall of 22.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review
It started off with really creepy vibes. I felt for Jack as he continued life after waking up from a coma. Everyone around him told him he was only 13 years old and the family he remembers so vividly was a result from the injury he received after falling in an abandoned building.
The story itself kept me interested throughout the whole book. I did not hear any issues with narration and found the narrator easy/enjoyable to listen to. I am interested in continuing the story when the next book comes out in fall of 22.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review
December 6, 2021
An intriguing tale that grabs the reader and sends them tumbling down a tunnel with the main character. Jack is fighting for the well-being of his sick son. Next thing he knows, he has awakened from a brain injury and everything he thought he knew about his reality is shattered. Gazing in the mirror, he is no longer a middle aged father, but a boy of 13 years old. And no matter who he tells his tale to, he must now pretend that his previous life was just a fantasy.
Beautifully written story that leaves you wondering.
The next book will come out in October 2022.
Beautifully written story that leaves you wondering.
The next book will come out in October 2022.
January 4, 2022
I am super cautious of anything that promises a sequel these days, however I found this to be a very intriguing supernatural thriller. But then when a book starts out with an accident that causes the main character to wake up as a teenager, wondering what happened to his wife and kids, it definitely intrigues me. I have to provide trigger warnings for suicidal behavior and violent religious fanatics. With that being said, this is a unique twist on a ghost story that I really enjoyed. In spite of myself, I will also want to read the sequel.
March 4, 2022
Book of Souls by Kevin Moore follows the character Jack who has a near death experience after an accident. While, he is fighting for his life, Jack has a vivid dream of a wife and kids that seems to play out of the course of a few weeks to months. When he awakens he finds himself in the hospital and inside a 13 year old's body.
Jack tells his father and doctors about his wife and kids, however no one believes him since he is a 13 year old boy. Everyone believes it is a direct link to his accident and the trauma he suffered because of the accident, but Jack believes his wife and kids were real.
Jack begins to experience things that cannot be explained by normal standards. He is introduced to others who are kind of like him in different ways and they teach him how to better harness his new abilities. Jack can seemingly sense things about people, specifically private things that he would never know about, he can see the shadows and ghosts and commune with them.
In learning about his abilities he meets Peter who is not the person he was expecting to meet in the apartment across the street from his Catholic school. Jack is trying to figure out what is going on in Peter's apartment and why he thought someone else lived there.
Does Jack really have a wife and kids somewhere? Was it all a dream? How can he get back to them? Who is the mysterious person Jack sees in Peter's apartment and what does this person want?
I listened to this book in audio form. The voice actor, Luke Welland, for the book was good. He has a pleasant voice and is nice and level with his voice, which makes it easy on the ears. I do wish there was a little more emotion during some of the parts of the book with Mr. Welland, but overall I really enjoyed listening to him narrate the book.
The Book of Souls is well thought out and weaves a fairly complicated web of reality mixed with the supernatural. I like the writing style of the book, the style really comes through in the narration and gives you the feeling of suspense for most of the book as Jack is trying to figure out the shadows, the mystery person, and what is happening to himself. It is interesting to hear about the different kinds of abilities Jack learns to use and it is interesting to hear how he uses these new abilities of his.
I also like that we do get outside perspectives of what other characters in the book see when Jack is using his abilities and how people can misconstrue or become fearful of the things they do not understand.
For me the overall feel of the book was suspenseful and mysterious. I could figure out some of things that were going on, but I did not figure all of it out. Which I really love it when I cannot figure everything out in a book.
The book does jump back and forth between characters and I know for some people going back and forth between characters can become confusing. If you are one of those people do not let that discourage you from reading or listening to the book. It will all come together and make perfect sense in the end.
I do recommend if you are going to listen to the audiobook that you pay close attention because there are details throughout the book that matter to the conclusion of this book.
The Book of Souls did not bore me and it kept my attention the whole time because I constantly wanted to know what was going on and how it was going to play out. This book is worth the read or the listen and I am excited and highly anticipate the next book.
Jack tells his father and doctors about his wife and kids, however no one believes him since he is a 13 year old boy. Everyone believes it is a direct link to his accident and the trauma he suffered because of the accident, but Jack believes his wife and kids were real.
Jack begins to experience things that cannot be explained by normal standards. He is introduced to others who are kind of like him in different ways and they teach him how to better harness his new abilities. Jack can seemingly sense things about people, specifically private things that he would never know about, he can see the shadows and ghosts and commune with them.
In learning about his abilities he meets Peter who is not the person he was expecting to meet in the apartment across the street from his Catholic school. Jack is trying to figure out what is going on in Peter's apartment and why he thought someone else lived there.
Does Jack really have a wife and kids somewhere? Was it all a dream? How can he get back to them? Who is the mysterious person Jack sees in Peter's apartment and what does this person want?
I listened to this book in audio form. The voice actor, Luke Welland, for the book was good. He has a pleasant voice and is nice and level with his voice, which makes it easy on the ears. I do wish there was a little more emotion during some of the parts of the book with Mr. Welland, but overall I really enjoyed listening to him narrate the book.
The Book of Souls is well thought out and weaves a fairly complicated web of reality mixed with the supernatural. I like the writing style of the book, the style really comes through in the narration and gives you the feeling of suspense for most of the book as Jack is trying to figure out the shadows, the mystery person, and what is happening to himself. It is interesting to hear about the different kinds of abilities Jack learns to use and it is interesting to hear how he uses these new abilities of his.
I also like that we do get outside perspectives of what other characters in the book see when Jack is using his abilities and how people can misconstrue or become fearful of the things they do not understand.
For me the overall feel of the book was suspenseful and mysterious. I could figure out some of things that were going on, but I did not figure all of it out. Which I really love it when I cannot figure everything out in a book.
The book does jump back and forth between characters and I know for some people going back and forth between characters can become confusing. If you are one of those people do not let that discourage you from reading or listening to the book. It will all come together and make perfect sense in the end.
I do recommend if you are going to listen to the audiobook that you pay close attention because there are details throughout the book that matter to the conclusion of this book.
The Book of Souls did not bore me and it kept my attention the whole time because I constantly wanted to know what was going on and how it was going to play out. This book is worth the read or the listen and I am excited and highly anticipate the next book.
March 4, 2022
4.5 Rounded to 5
I am an avid fan of horror and all things supernatural, and boy did this deliver!
I had a very hard time putting this down and quickly got lost in the darkness of both Jack's and Kasper's worlds. On the one hand you have Jack, an adult seemingly trapped in a teen's body. On the other you have Kasper, tortured artist and soul, who is full of rage and confusion. When the two collide...well you'll have to read it to find out..
Very well-written, dark and atmospheric story. I love when a horror can pull me in and actually have me checking over my shoulder. That does not happen often. There are some very creepy elements to this one and I was so there for it. I cannot wait for The Book of Demons to see where Jack's story finishes.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Books Forward for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
I am an avid fan of horror and all things supernatural, and boy did this deliver!
I had a very hard time putting this down and quickly got lost in the darkness of both Jack's and Kasper's worlds. On the one hand you have Jack, an adult seemingly trapped in a teen's body. On the other you have Kasper, tortured artist and soul, who is full of rage and confusion. When the two collide...well you'll have to read it to find out..
Very well-written, dark and atmospheric story. I love when a horror can pull me in and actually have me checking over my shoulder. That does not happen often. There are some very creepy elements to this one and I was so there for it. I cannot wait for The Book of Demons to see where Jack's story finishes.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Books Forward for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
March 18, 2022
This is my Kevin Moore first book that I've read and I can now say I am hooked. His weaving style of present and past is genius. Moore has not only made me feel like a character in his work, but has also left my mind spinning and yet wanting more. This is a must read or listen to book!
February 5, 2022
Where to start?
The prologue in The Book of Souls grabbed my attention. For me, I was wondering "what is going on"? As it progressed I wanted more and to know more. Then the prologue ends and we finally make our way to the first chapter. Which takes place in a different setting that is completely normal. Talk about an attention grabber. Loved it.
As I devoured the rest of this book (without giving too much away), this book kept me wanting more.
One scene that stuck out to me the most was Jack calling for help but instead, he was told to let the holy spirit in. I felt that. That pain of relying on someone but never receiving help except in the phrases of "God heals" or "believe in god". That scene made me emotional because I have been there. I am glad the dad did help jack come morning.
This book was thrilling from start to finish. It is a fast-paced read. Overall I would rate this book 4.5 stars.
The prologue in The Book of Souls grabbed my attention. For me, I was wondering "what is going on"? As it progressed I wanted more and to know more. Then the prologue ends and we finally make our way to the first chapter. Which takes place in a different setting that is completely normal. Talk about an attention grabber. Loved it.
As I devoured the rest of this book (without giving too much away), this book kept me wanting more.
One scene that stuck out to me the most was Jack calling for help but instead, he was told to let the holy spirit in. I felt that. That pain of relying on someone but never receiving help except in the phrases of "God heals" or "believe in god". That scene made me emotional because I have been there. I am glad the dad did help jack come morning.
This book was thrilling from start to finish. It is a fast-paced read. Overall I would rate this book 4.5 stars.
September 21, 2022
4.2 stars
Categories & Content: Adult, horror, mental illness, suicide, blood rituals
Well this book was interestingly good! Definitely not a style I'm used to and still could not stop listening to this audio arc!
If you don't mind character centered slow burn narratives and like vintage stories about ghostly realms, near death experiences (NDE) and afterlife mythology such as The Sixth Sense , Insidious , Stranger Things , What Dreams May Come , and Poltergeists ; you'd probably like this book as much as I did! All these movies come to mind because this book would also make for a great adaptation!
I would skip the prologue. I almost gave up while reading it because too far down the rabbit hole.
I'm glad I kept reading because it is so vintage-surreal-gothic-dark GOOD!! Can't wait to read the second book of this series!
Categories & Content: Adult, horror, mental illness, suicide, blood rituals
Well this book was interestingly good! Definitely not a style I'm used to and still could not stop listening to this audio arc!
If you don't mind character centered slow burn narratives and like vintage stories about ghostly realms, near death experiences (NDE) and afterlife mythology such as The Sixth Sense , Insidious , Stranger Things , What Dreams May Come , and Poltergeists ; you'd probably like this book as much as I did! All these movies come to mind because this book would also make for a great adaptation!
I would skip the prologue. I almost gave up while reading it because too far down the rabbit hole.
I'm glad I kept reading because it is so vintage-surreal-gothic-dark GOOD!! Can't wait to read the second book of this series!
January 23, 2022
I couldn’t put this book down! Jack Kelly is such a developed character that I felt like I was on this paranormal journey with him! What a thrilling read that left me guessing til the end. Can’t wait for the sequel!
March 1, 2022
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this audiobook.
Very eerie in SUCH a good way. It seems to jump right in at the beginning, then slows down but the action at the end makes up for it. There were a few times when listening that I didn't notice a change in perspective so that got a little confusing but overall this was well written, and I will definitely be looking into the sequel. Narrator did a great job as well.
Very eerie in SUCH a good way. It seems to jump right in at the beginning, then slows down but the action at the end makes up for it. There were a few times when listening that I didn't notice a change in perspective so that got a little confusing but overall this was well written, and I will definitely be looking into the sequel. Narrator did a great job as well.
October 28, 2021
This story really wowed me. Not only did it remind me a lot of The Sixth Sense (except the main character helps the ghosts), but it also has a lot of duality between life/death, past/present, and good/evil. I loved seeing the dichotomy of these aspects played out as Jack helps Kasper and others, and find a way to get home.
November 10, 2021
Really enjoyed this one! Moore creates the perfect eerie atmosphere and is insightful about what truly matters in life. Would definitely recommend.
March 7, 2022
It was a good read!
March 5, 2022
First of all, I didn’t realise this was the authors FIRST released novel until the end of the audible and I presumed they have written many more great novels before this one because of how natural and well written this one is.
The author captures spooky/horror perfectly and describes just enough for your mind to really grasp what the world and the souls look like.
Book cover wise, I would really invest in upgrading it and spending more money on someone who can really bring it to life because it does not do the novel justice. I know we say ‘don’t judge a book by a cover’ (which this book is evidence on why we shouldn’t) but we sadly do.
For the audible, the reader has a clear and crisp voice. Although I did chuckle to myself at the beginning with the little tune after each statement but it was a good chuckle. I liked the music and it really set the tone going in. It suited the story well and got us prepared. One thing though, he didn’t say “twat” correctly (says it more “tawe”). Very American way of saying it. I’ve also never heard an American say “twat” either despite this novel being set in the US? But maybe I’m wrong.
The story is serious but it does have humorous moments which I also enjoyed. It really got me to bond with the characters more. I loved Jack and he wasn’t an annoying main character. You really start to feel from him before chapter two which is rare. Although at the beginning his is older and he clearly still shares those older qualities when he’s 14, you also see how the author naturally starts writing him as a 14 year old and at time you see his age show through. It’s done naturally and progressively though which is nice. It really makes it realistic.
My favourite soul is the horse head with a tail that gets swung in the beginning. Such a menace little thing, but also funny scenario to imagine.
One minute I was on chapter two and then next it was 10 and so on. It’s so easy to just listen to and follow along. You also WANT to pick up your device and listen to some more. I’m looking forward to book two and hearing more stories about the souls and also that old man he’s helped.
I was also an anxious child too so I related a lot to Jack on that aspect. One thing he said was “fear is not living” and I will carry that with me from now on, thanks Jack!
I see a very successful career for this writer and I look forward to reading more of his work :). Highly recommend!
The author captures spooky/horror perfectly and describes just enough for your mind to really grasp what the world and the souls look like.
Book cover wise, I would really invest in upgrading it and spending more money on someone who can really bring it to life because it does not do the novel justice. I know we say ‘don’t judge a book by a cover’ (which this book is evidence on why we shouldn’t) but we sadly do.
For the audible, the reader has a clear and crisp voice. Although I did chuckle to myself at the beginning with the little tune after each statement but it was a good chuckle. I liked the music and it really set the tone going in. It suited the story well and got us prepared. One thing though, he didn’t say “twat” correctly (says it more “tawe”). Very American way of saying it. I’ve also never heard an American say “twat” either despite this novel being set in the US? But maybe I’m wrong.
The story is serious but it does have humorous moments which I also enjoyed. It really got me to bond with the characters more. I loved Jack and he wasn’t an annoying main character. You really start to feel from him before chapter two which is rare. Although at the beginning his is older and he clearly still shares those older qualities when he’s 14, you also see how the author naturally starts writing him as a 14 year old and at time you see his age show through. It’s done naturally and progressively though which is nice. It really makes it realistic.
My favourite soul is the horse head with a tail that gets swung in the beginning. Such a menace little thing, but also funny scenario to imagine.
One minute I was on chapter two and then next it was 10 and so on. It’s so easy to just listen to and follow along. You also WANT to pick up your device and listen to some more. I’m looking forward to book two and hearing more stories about the souls and also that old man he’s helped.
I was also an anxious child too so I related a lot to Jack on that aspect. One thing he said was “fear is not living” and I will carry that with me from now on, thanks Jack!
I see a very successful career for this writer and I look forward to reading more of his work :). Highly recommend!
March 2, 2022
Special Thanks to Books Fluent and NetGalley for this dark tale. An ARC for a review? I’ll take it!
*disclaimer*
I am a reader. Not a writer. So keep your expectations low here.
Let’s get the trigger warnings out of the way: Death. Violence. Suicide. Addiction. The Occult. Self Harm. Nuns (some people find them scary) Okay…that’s enough. It’s a horror book…so use your imagination.
I spent the first couple chapters of this book with a puzzled look on my face. Thanks for the wrinkles Kevin Moore. Thankfully the pieces fell into place for me almost a quarter way through.
I dug the dual timelines as well as the characters whose lives they followed. Jack Kelly’s storyline could have gotten derailed into cheese land so many times, but it managed to stay authentic and believable. Even when waking up from a coma as his younger self, or fighting demons…I was in it the whole time.
Casper Greenstreet and his life (and death) was just as captivating. As an artist, I loved his wild creative process and found his voice really fascinating. Again, things could have unraveled so many times but Moore did a great job navigating even the toughest of scenarios.
The only time I did a double take was when we find out about the Nun’s hidden deformity. I found my uncontrollable visual comparison to Total Recall a bit distracting. 🤦♀️😆
I’m a sucker for great characters who are fully developed and this book had them. And as their stories continued to intertwine, so did the suspense. I was hard pressed to put this book down right up to end. Well played Mr. Moore. And well read Luke Welland.
I’m glad to know the story will continue, I’ll be looking for book 2t.
*disclaimer*
I am a reader. Not a writer. So keep your expectations low here.
Let’s get the trigger warnings out of the way: Death. Violence. Suicide. Addiction. The Occult. Self Harm. Nuns (some people find them scary) Okay…that’s enough. It’s a horror book…so use your imagination.
I spent the first couple chapters of this book with a puzzled look on my face. Thanks for the wrinkles Kevin Moore. Thankfully the pieces fell into place for me almost a quarter way through.
I dug the dual timelines as well as the characters whose lives they followed. Jack Kelly’s storyline could have gotten derailed into cheese land so many times, but it managed to stay authentic and believable. Even when waking up from a coma as his younger self, or fighting demons…I was in it the whole time.
Casper Greenstreet and his life (and death) was just as captivating. As an artist, I loved his wild creative process and found his voice really fascinating. Again, things could have unraveled so many times but Moore did a great job navigating even the toughest of scenarios.
The only time I did a double take was when we find out about the Nun’s hidden deformity. I found my uncontrollable visual comparison to Total Recall a bit distracting. 🤦♀️😆
I’m a sucker for great characters who are fully developed and this book had them. And as their stories continued to intertwine, so did the suspense. I was hard pressed to put this book down right up to end. Well played Mr. Moore. And well read Luke Welland.
I’m glad to know the story will continue, I’ll be looking for book 2t.
March 8, 2022
“The Book of Souls” is an intriguing and descriptive tale with interesting twists throughout. I enjoy the authors writing style, the complexity to the storyline, and was one I could not put down.
I anxiously await “The Book of Demons"!
A sincere thank you to NetGalley and Books Fluent for providing me an advance copy (ARC) of the audiobook “The Book of Souls” in exchange for an honest review. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to listen to this story and leave my review voluntarily.
I anxiously await “The Book of Demons"!
A sincere thank you to NetGalley and Books Fluent for providing me an advance copy (ARC) of the audiobook “The Book of Souls” in exchange for an honest review. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to listen to this story and leave my review voluntarily.
June 12, 2022
While there are many things to like about this book, there are some frustrating aspects as well.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 1, 2022
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by Books Fluent.
The Book of Souls tells the story of Jack, a married man of forty-something with three kids, who suddenly wakes up as his thirteen-year-old self after apparently falling through the floors of an old abandoned boarding house and suffering serious head injuries. His memories of being married with three kids, he’s told, are the result of this “injury to his brain.” Now he’s back with his father and still in the 8th Catholic school classroom of his youth. Despite his protests, the doctors, his dad and numerous psychiatrists tell him his memories of his wife and kids are just the result of his fall.
But then, he starts to experience strange powers and frightening scenes. He hears peoples’ thoughts on the subway, sees dead people, is threatened by strange and evil creatures. Most disturbing, he starts to wonder about a strange resident of an apartment—Apartment 3C— across the way from his eighth-grade classroom, who seems to stare at him, to know him.
The premise of this book was intriguing, but the execution did not work for me. I did like the narrator, however, there were parts that were interesting, but there were parts that just dragged and I lost interest. I felt the last 1-2 hours of the audiobook was the most boring and I wished this book was shorter. I really do not like when a book goes from first to third person. The characters and character building for the first book of the series was well done. I am unsure if I will be reading the second book in the series.
The Book of Souls tells the story of Jack, a married man of forty-something with three kids, who suddenly wakes up as his thirteen-year-old self after apparently falling through the floors of an old abandoned boarding house and suffering serious head injuries. His memories of being married with three kids, he’s told, are the result of this “injury to his brain.” Now he’s back with his father and still in the 8th Catholic school classroom of his youth. Despite his protests, the doctors, his dad and numerous psychiatrists tell him his memories of his wife and kids are just the result of his fall.
But then, he starts to experience strange powers and frightening scenes. He hears peoples’ thoughts on the subway, sees dead people, is threatened by strange and evil creatures. Most disturbing, he starts to wonder about a strange resident of an apartment—Apartment 3C— across the way from his eighth-grade classroom, who seems to stare at him, to know him.
The premise of this book was intriguing, but the execution did not work for me. I did like the narrator, however, there were parts that were interesting, but there were parts that just dragged and I lost interest. I felt the last 1-2 hours of the audiobook was the most boring and I wished this book was shorter. I really do not like when a book goes from first to third person. The characters and character building for the first book of the series was well done. I am unsure if I will be reading the second book in the series.
March 7, 2022
Jack Kelly is a thirteen-year-old boy who has a tragic accident in an abandoned building that leaves him clinically dead. While in the in-between state of life and death, Jack lives life to over forty years old with a wife and three children. Jack loves his wife and children dearly, which is why he finds it so hard to leave them to deal with the consequences of living in the in-between.
The Book of Soul contains ghosts, demons, shadow creatures, and many questionable moral acts. Trigger Warning!!! There is also talk of suicide and infidelity.
I was enamored with this book from the very first page. The fear factor was ever-present, and I never knew what was going to happen next. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book! Toward the end of the book, I was brought to tears by the author's depiction of struggles with mental illness and loss of direction in life. His descriptions of the character's thoughts and emotions after death made the concept of hauntings not quite so terrifying. I appreciated the ending to this story, and it was a nice setup for the second book in the duology. I am looking forward to the continuation of Jack Kelly's story!
#TheBookofSouls #NetGalley
The Book of Soul contains ghosts, demons, shadow creatures, and many questionable moral acts. Trigger Warning!!! There is also talk of suicide and infidelity.
I was enamored with this book from the very first page. The fear factor was ever-present, and I never knew what was going to happen next. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book! Toward the end of the book, I was brought to tears by the author's depiction of struggles with mental illness and loss of direction in life. His descriptions of the character's thoughts and emotions after death made the concept of hauntings not quite so terrifying. I appreciated the ending to this story, and it was a nice setup for the second book in the duology. I am looking forward to the continuation of Jack Kelly's story!
#TheBookofSouls #NetGalley
February 23, 2023
Well that was something...
This one was not bad at all, but man was it long. Not too scary for those who like less fear in their reading.
Anyways, this was about Jack, who fell down and woke up being 13 again, losing his family all in one swoop. There were ghosts, some good and one not. It ends in a cliffhanger in regards to Jack.
There were also povs from other people that really shouldn't have happened. Also, this should have been about 100 pages less. Some places dragged on too long and there were way too! many! random! exclamation! points!
But the idea was good. It just wasn't executed very well.
This one was not bad at all, but man was it long. Not too scary for those who like less fear in their reading.
Anyways, this was about Jack, who fell down and woke up being 13 again, losing his family all in one swoop. There were ghosts, some good and one not. It ends in a cliffhanger in regards to Jack.
There were also povs from other people that really shouldn't have happened. Also, this should have been about 100 pages less. Some places dragged on too long and there were way too! many! random! exclamation! points!
But the idea was good. It just wasn't executed very well.
July 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. Couldn’t put it down.
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