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The Dreams in the Pearl House
A heavy fog has settled over Portland, OR, where Charlie West has returned after the devastating events in Astoria. Trapped between a lost dream and a life he hoped to leave behind, he takes up residency at the Portland City Mission. Shards of a recurring dream plague his nights, eroding his ability to sleep a little more each day. Despondent, he's tried everything he can to manufacture rest and peace and sleep, but to no avail. He resigns to haunting the streets all night, hoping to exhaust himself into whatever few hours of restless sleep he can, each day feeling somehow thinner and more hollow than the day before.
Fall gives way to Winter, and a series of grizzly murders terrorizes the city's streets. Deformed bodies, riddled with strange bruising, baffle the police. Following a lead, Detectives Cait Lane and Scott Donovan find themselves at The Mission meeting Charlie, who holds a vital piece of information.
Astoria's Order is gone, but the organization is vast and its reach is long. Charlie must decide whether to pick up the reins of his own life or let them go forever and give in to the currents the world would have for him.
Follow along as these seemingly unconnected paths converge in the explosive next chapter of The Northwest Trilogy.
Fall gives way to Winter, and a series of grizzly murders terrorizes the city's streets. Deformed bodies, riddled with strange bruising, baffle the police. Following a lead, Detectives Cait Lane and Scott Donovan find themselves at The Mission meeting Charlie, who holds a vital piece of information.
Astoria's Order is gone, but the organization is vast and its reach is long. Charlie must decide whether to pick up the reins of his own life or let them go forever and give in to the currents the world would have for him.
Follow along as these seemingly unconnected paths converge in the explosive next chapter of The Northwest Trilogy.
336 pages, Paperback
Published October 21, 2022
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21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 24, 2022
This book is certainly a worthy successor to the first, though still keeping the intrigue needed to keep you longing for answers, setting the stage for a third book. We get to see more of the mysterious organisation tied to the eldritch powers present in Craig Randall's creation and we get to see Charlie struggle through a rather dire period. We also get to see more of the things that make him interesting to those who seek him, in the closing chapters of the book. It's certainly a great read but I can't wait for their to be a third book, it certainly feels like parts of one grand tale.
January 19, 2024
I was gifted both Doom and Dreams by the author, but the review is my own honest opinion.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
This trilogy is more than just cosmic horror, this is a story about flawed people finding their strengths when the weight of the world is on their shoulders. Not just the doom brought on thanks to a cult of crazies trying to bring the world's end - though that's in there plenty - but just life in general. I thoroughly enjoy how real these characters feel, how much they struggle and you see their inner monologue as they fight through these scenarios. I relate wholeheartedly with characters like this, much more than the flawless heroes you see often. Charlie especially, though I absolutely loved Cait in this too!
Craig really knows how to build tension as well. I was on the edge of my seat, practically screaming in my head at times as I read through this story - especially when the action hit. I was trying to practice speed reading just so I could see what happens next faster haha! This book is slow burn, but I felt it built up to the action rather steadily. It didn't drag too much, and there's plenty of intrigue in the beginning to hold your interest while the story built.
This was an amazing second part to this trilogy, and probably my favorite of the trio so far. I literally felt much more for the characters in this one, even teared up a few times. There's some gut punching scenes in this, you've been warned! I also enjoyed the cosmic horror elements as well, very mad scientist meets eldritch horror / cult. I know I focused mostly on the characters in this review, but this story really is a study of the flawed person becoming an unexpected hero, more so than the horror elements.
The third of the trilogy isn't out yet, but the epilogue in this one sets you up for it without any major cliffhangers - which I appreciate. I'm eager to read the third book, once it's out! I have to know what the conclusion is for this wild ride poor Charlie's having to go through.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
This trilogy is more than just cosmic horror, this is a story about flawed people finding their strengths when the weight of the world is on their shoulders. Not just the doom brought on thanks to a cult of crazies trying to bring the world's end - though that's in there plenty - but just life in general. I thoroughly enjoy how real these characters feel, how much they struggle and you see their inner monologue as they fight through these scenarios. I relate wholeheartedly with characters like this, much more than the flawless heroes you see often. Charlie especially, though I absolutely loved Cait in this too!
Craig really knows how to build tension as well. I was on the edge of my seat, practically screaming in my head at times as I read through this story - especially when the action hit. I was trying to practice speed reading just so I could see what happens next faster haha! This book is slow burn, but I felt it built up to the action rather steadily. It didn't drag too much, and there's plenty of intrigue in the beginning to hold your interest while the story built.
This was an amazing second part to this trilogy, and probably my favorite of the trio so far. I literally felt much more for the characters in this one, even teared up a few times. There's some gut punching scenes in this, you've been warned! I also enjoyed the cosmic horror elements as well, very mad scientist meets eldritch horror / cult. I know I focused mostly on the characters in this review, but this story really is a study of the flawed person becoming an unexpected hero, more so than the horror elements.
The third of the trilogy isn't out yet, but the epilogue in this one sets you up for it without any major cliffhangers - which I appreciate. I'm eager to read the third book, once it's out! I have to know what the conclusion is for this wild ride poor Charlie's having to go through.
October 8, 2022
4.25/5
*I'm not going to give you the 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. This one is a slow burn. The end of The Doom That Came to Astoria was BIG and action packed, so I just assumed this book would start with action. It doesn't, LOL, the action comes much later.
2. Kind of going along with point 1 - many books are written from an 'outside' perspective. What I mean by that is you're typically spending a lot of time on the exterior of a person - the places/things/people that they come into contact with and how those exterior situations play out. A lot of this book is set in or comes back to a more 'inside' perspective. Charlie has some mental health issues; (who amongst us doesn't?!) specifically depression and anxiety. Craig does an amazing job of cultivating that mind set and really making you understand what is happening inside of Charlie. So, yes, it's a slow burn, but it's very emotional in a way that I haven't seen in many other books. It's uncomfortable but important being confronted with mental illness in this way. As someone who is very familiar with anxiety, I thought it was wonderful to see honestly portrayed characters in a book struggling with the same issues I have struggled with. It's not pretty, it can be debilitating, and I'm sure it can be annoying for people who don't understand what anxiety feels like, but have to face it through those they love. That's a big big part of this book. Like I said, I loved it, but can 100% understand that it may not be everyone's cup of tea. Just make sure you're prepared when you go in.
3. Likeable characters abound! I fell for each new character that was introduced in this book. There are some genuinely good people who look out for Charlie when he can't look out for himself and that made my heart soar! Cait is one of the new characters in this installment of the Northwest Trilogy and I cannot wait to learn more about her in book 3. There's a whole backstory that is teased and I hope we get it in the next book because she's a fascinating character.
4. There IS action. It happens late in the book, but once it starts it's a fast and thrilling ride. Pearl House really does take you through the whole range of emotions, so be prepared to feel.
*I'm not going to give you the 'what this book is about' blurb - you can read that elsewhere.
1. This one is a slow burn. The end of The Doom That Came to Astoria was BIG and action packed, so I just assumed this book would start with action. It doesn't, LOL, the action comes much later.
2. Kind of going along with point 1 - many books are written from an 'outside' perspective. What I mean by that is you're typically spending a lot of time on the exterior of a person - the places/things/people that they come into contact with and how those exterior situations play out. A lot of this book is set in or comes back to a more 'inside' perspective. Charlie has some mental health issues; (who amongst us doesn't?!) specifically depression and anxiety. Craig does an amazing job of cultivating that mind set and really making you understand what is happening inside of Charlie. So, yes, it's a slow burn, but it's very emotional in a way that I haven't seen in many other books. It's uncomfortable but important being confronted with mental illness in this way. As someone who is very familiar with anxiety, I thought it was wonderful to see honestly portrayed characters in a book struggling with the same issues I have struggled with. It's not pretty, it can be debilitating, and I'm sure it can be annoying for people who don't understand what anxiety feels like, but have to face it through those they love. That's a big big part of this book. Like I said, I loved it, but can 100% understand that it may not be everyone's cup of tea. Just make sure you're prepared when you go in.
3. Likeable characters abound! I fell for each new character that was introduced in this book. There are some genuinely good people who look out for Charlie when he can't look out for himself and that made my heart soar! Cait is one of the new characters in this installment of the Northwest Trilogy and I cannot wait to learn more about her in book 3. There's a whole backstory that is teased and I hope we get it in the next book because she's a fascinating character.
4. There IS action. It happens late in the book, but once it starts it's a fast and thrilling ride. Pearl House really does take you through the whole range of emotions, so be prepared to feel.
October 21, 2022
The Dreams in the Pearl House (Northwest Trilogy 2) by Craig Randall
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
After the events in Astoria, Charlie is left helpless and drifting. His attempts to take control of his life dashed disastrously. Now he wanders, looking for an end, yet incapable of acting (Hamlet vibes....). Still, dark forces are seeking him to use for their own ends. Still, Charlie will find no rest (or will he....?)
Meanwhile, we meet Cait, rookie detective attempting to solve recent serial murders in the area. Cait is everything Charlie is not, often acting on impulse before thinking.
Soon their paths will cross in a very dark time for everyone.
Randall writes characters well. You will hurt for Charlie. In fact, I don't know if I want to shake him out of it or give him a hug. And you will adore Cait. I love her. Halfway through the book, I almost wrote the author to tell him nothing bad better happen to Cait. But it is psychological horror ... so guess I knew what I was getting into.
Randall's story feels uncomfortable at times. I've decided that's because his characters are easy to empathize with and he purposefully plays against some of the expected tropes and story beats while still hitting others. Well played, Randall.
I liked this one even more than book 1. Looking forward to the final installment. I'm trying not to guess what comes next for Charlie but I have my hopes that the end of this book lead where I hope they do... (no spoilers, y'all... sorry that's vague)
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
After the events in Astoria, Charlie is left helpless and drifting. His attempts to take control of his life dashed disastrously. Now he wanders, looking for an end, yet incapable of acting (Hamlet vibes....). Still, dark forces are seeking him to use for their own ends. Still, Charlie will find no rest (or will he....?)
Meanwhile, we meet Cait, rookie detective attempting to solve recent serial murders in the area. Cait is everything Charlie is not, often acting on impulse before thinking.
Soon their paths will cross in a very dark time for everyone.
Randall writes characters well. You will hurt for Charlie. In fact, I don't know if I want to shake him out of it or give him a hug. And you will adore Cait. I love her. Halfway through the book, I almost wrote the author to tell him nothing bad better happen to Cait. But it is psychological horror ... so guess I knew what I was getting into.
Randall's story feels uncomfortable at times. I've decided that's because his characters are easy to empathize with and he purposefully plays against some of the expected tropes and story beats while still hitting others. Well played, Randall.
I liked this one even more than book 1. Looking forward to the final installment. I'm trying not to guess what comes next for Charlie but I have my hopes that the end of this book lead where I hope they do... (no spoilers, y'all... sorry that's vague)
October 19, 2022
I'm not going to spoiler in this review, because where's the fun in that? But my general impression is to go buy this book immediately, because it's quite a wild ride!
I think Craig's biggest strength is putting into words the emotions all of us feel, especially those of us that struggle with anxiety. I swear sometimes I had to look away for a moment to catch my breath because I relate so much to how Charlie struggles with his mental health sometimes.
The beginning of this books is "slow" for the lack of a better word, but that's not a bad thing. I am always a fan of the books that let you get attached to characters, learn more about them, and get into the story before throwing action at you right and left. This book gives the tension and anticipation a chance to build, and the payoff is one you aren't going to be disappointed in. I don't enjoy horror books that are non-stop action. My opinion is that horror isn't... horrifying if you don't have that underlying tension while things get worse and worse. So this book was exactly what I enjoy.
I'm already demanding he get the next one out ASAP, because I really want to see where this trilogy ends!
I think Craig's biggest strength is putting into words the emotions all of us feel, especially those of us that struggle with anxiety. I swear sometimes I had to look away for a moment to catch my breath because I relate so much to how Charlie struggles with his mental health sometimes.
The beginning of this books is "slow" for the lack of a better word, but that's not a bad thing. I am always a fan of the books that let you get attached to characters, learn more about them, and get into the story before throwing action at you right and left. This book gives the tension and anticipation a chance to build, and the payoff is one you aren't going to be disappointed in. I don't enjoy horror books that are non-stop action. My opinion is that horror isn't... horrifying if you don't have that underlying tension while things get worse and worse. So this book was exactly what I enjoy.
I'm already demanding he get the next one out ASAP, because I really want to see where this trilogy ends!
October 21, 2022
Craig once again did a phenomenal job! I’m not a fan of horror unless it’s written by this author, this is the first horror series I have ever enjoyed. I can’t wait for book 3!
I loved book 1, The Doom that came to Astoria, and it ended with some really good action. The Dreams in the Pearl House started out slower and built up to its action.
I feel like Craig is helping with the negative stigma that comes with having mental health problems. He puts those things front and center when it comes to his main character. That is one of the things I love most about his work. As a person who has mental health issues I find it refreshing and amazing to not have a ‘perfect’ lead character. I love how I could relate to Charlie.
I loved book 1, The Doom that came to Astoria, and it ended with some really good action. The Dreams in the Pearl House started out slower and built up to its action.
I feel like Craig is helping with the negative stigma that comes with having mental health problems. He puts those things front and center when it comes to his main character. That is one of the things I love most about his work. As a person who has mental health issues I find it refreshing and amazing to not have a ‘perfect’ lead character. I love how I could relate to Charlie.
October 6, 2022
The Dreams in the Pearl House is the follow up to Craig Randall's first book, The Doom that Came to Astoria, and boy does it amp up the tension. The anticipation and action really build up, and we get to meet Kate, who is a fantastic addition to the series. We get to see the aftermath of Astoria and how Charlie copes/tries to move on... but things aren't over with the order, and soon Charlie and Cait find themselves in the middle of another horrifying situation. It all builds up to an ending that has me ready for the next book already. In fact, this book is probably my favorite of the 3 planned books. I also suggest listening to Carry 0n my Wayward Son before you start reading because if you keep it in your head, it makes the opening play out like a big screen movie!
October 23, 2022
I love Craig’s writing style. His first published work is a book of poetry and that bleeds over into how he writes novels. The descriptive words he uses draw you in hypnotically. One thing that stood out to me in both novels is that there is depth behind the story. You could dissect this novel in a book club or classroom and be hard-pressed to run out of things to discuss.
Dreams picks up right where Doom left off and Charlie is a mess, emotionally and physically. His anxiety and depression are at an all time high because of the events that transpired in Astoria. His demeanor is palpable and even if you can’t personally relate to him, you get a glimpse into how deep-rooted depression can be for so many people. It’s not just sadness, it’s all-encompassing. Charlie tries to work through his struggles alone by but never truly figures out how to take control of them until later. I cannot wait to see what book 3 has in store for Charlie and his self-worth. I hope we get to see him overcome his inner battles and see how remarkable he truly is.
In Dreams we get to meet some wonderful new characters which I adore! Cait is a strong female lead and one POV we get throughout the novel. She is driven, self-aware, and smart. I love her because she is a great representation of a person whose positivity can completely change the outcome of a situation.
This trilogy crosses multiple genres, breaks the mold of various tropes, and proves that a story doesn’t have to fit in a neat box to be gripping.
Thank you to Craig Randall for the advanced copy of this book! All thoughts are my own.
Dreams picks up right where Doom left off and Charlie is a mess, emotionally and physically. His anxiety and depression are at an all time high because of the events that transpired in Astoria. His demeanor is palpable and even if you can’t personally relate to him, you get a glimpse into how deep-rooted depression can be for so many people. It’s not just sadness, it’s all-encompassing. Charlie tries to work through his struggles alone by but never truly figures out how to take control of them until later. I cannot wait to see what book 3 has in store for Charlie and his self-worth. I hope we get to see him overcome his inner battles and see how remarkable he truly is.
In Dreams we get to meet some wonderful new characters which I adore! Cait is a strong female lead and one POV we get throughout the novel. She is driven, self-aware, and smart. I love her because she is a great representation of a person whose positivity can completely change the outcome of a situation.
This trilogy crosses multiple genres, breaks the mold of various tropes, and proves that a story doesn’t have to fit in a neat box to be gripping.
Thank you to Craig Randall for the advanced copy of this book! All thoughts are my own.
October 21, 2022
After reading book 1 of the Northwest Trilogy, I knew I was in for a real treat with book 2, The Dreams in the Pearl House, and I was not disappointed! Craig brought back the emotional intensity, dark vibes, and fast-paced action, along with another fantastic cast of characters.
We meet back up with Charlie as he struggles to cope with major loss, giving up on his dreams, and his continuing mental health challenges. We’re swept into his emotional turmoil as the anxiety and depression continue to plague him. Even his dreams are haunting him now, and sleep is quickly becoming unobtainable. When his path crosses with Cait, who is investigating a string of grizzly murders that has police baffled, they realize they are fighting the same evil and join forces as tragedy strikes.
I always appreciate a story that builds a world for me to get lost in. This one is so detailed, raw, and emotional, and feels so relatable, it’s hard not to get sucked in deep. The tension builds slowly, but then explodes into action-packed scenes midway and remains strong right till the end.
I love Cait as a confidant , tough female protagonist. She is such a cool character. And I really enjoyed Charlie’s growth in the book, and found it inspiring. When the book ended, I wanted to keep reading. I’m just happy there’s a third book on the way! I need to see what happens next!!!
We meet back up with Charlie as he struggles to cope with major loss, giving up on his dreams, and his continuing mental health challenges. We’re swept into his emotional turmoil as the anxiety and depression continue to plague him. Even his dreams are haunting him now, and sleep is quickly becoming unobtainable. When his path crosses with Cait, who is investigating a string of grizzly murders that has police baffled, they realize they are fighting the same evil and join forces as tragedy strikes.
I always appreciate a story that builds a world for me to get lost in. This one is so detailed, raw, and emotional, and feels so relatable, it’s hard not to get sucked in deep. The tension builds slowly, but then explodes into action-packed scenes midway and remains strong right till the end.
I love Cait as a confidant , tough female protagonist. She is such a cool character. And I really enjoyed Charlie’s growth in the book, and found it inspiring. When the book ended, I wanted to keep reading. I’m just happy there’s a third book on the way! I need to see what happens next!!!
June 26, 2023
It’s hard not to compare this book to the first one, so I won’t try to avoid that…for me, this one was a little too slow in the beginning compared to the first one. I’m also not a huge fan of magical elements, so those are the cons for me. I wanted more of Charlie, & less of the magical stuff, although I do completely understand why the it all took the path that it did. These are just my personal preferences & wants. All of that aside, this is an incredibly well-written book with great character development & relationships. As we came to expect after the first book, the way mental illness & the MCs relationship to it is portrayed is incredible. It’s so raw & real, it’s completely relatable. I’m excited to read the next installment to learn more about Charlie & Cait & how their relationship grows, as well as what happens with The Order & how Charlie deals with everything that’s unfolding.
January 3, 2023
In his second novel in his Northwest Trilogy, The Dreams in the Pearl House, Craig Randall has written a well-paced mystery with strong characters. It is easy to empathize with Charlie and the new impulsive detective, Cait, while hoping they both find the answers they are looking for. I enjoyed the way his characters mentored and supported each other while demonstrating their own personality flaws. Once
again, I enjoyed Randall's setting in Portland, Oregon with so many familiar and recognizable landmarks. His descriptions of these places is well-written, so I felt like I was right there with Charlie and Cait. I look forward to the final novel in this trilogy, so I can know what happens to Charlie as he take more control of his own life. I highly recommend this book and this trilogy for those who love a good mystery.
again, I enjoyed Randall's setting in Portland, Oregon with so many familiar and recognizable landmarks. His descriptions of these places is well-written, so I felt like I was right there with Charlie and Cait. I look forward to the final novel in this trilogy, so I can know what happens to Charlie as he take more control of his own life. I highly recommend this book and this trilogy for those who love a good mystery.
October 22, 2022
After book one, it was impossible to not be waiting to find out what happened to Charlie. This poor guy has really been through massive trauma, and Craig Randall does a phenomenal job of portraying the PTSD and how it seeps into all aspects of a person’s life, sometimes to the point of almost crippling them. And yet, Charlie, wonderful guy that he is, still wants to be kind and help others. It’s a tentacular—I mean, spectacular—story of the mental health struggle of Charlie and all the horrors he must face, both past and present. We also met Cait, and I loved her. Such a great character, as is Charlie.
October 6, 2023
Thank You Craig Randall
This is the second book of a trilogy. The writing is so much more improved then the first book. It picks up close to the ending of the first book. I really am glad I decided to continue to read the second part of the story. I am looking forward to see how this wraps up. This is a solid 4.5 star. The main character has blocked out the events that took place in the first book. The Police Department is getting pressure from higher ups to drop their investigation into why several bodies are being deposited in different parts of the city. Read to find out what happens next.
Cosmic Horror
Lovecraftian
Mental Health
This is the second book of a trilogy. The writing is so much more improved then the first book. It picks up close to the ending of the first book. I really am glad I decided to continue to read the second part of the story. I am looking forward to see how this wraps up. This is a solid 4.5 star. The main character has blocked out the events that took place in the first book. The Police Department is getting pressure from higher ups to drop their investigation into why several bodies are being deposited in different parts of the city. Read to find out what happens next.
Cosmic Horror
Lovecraftian
Mental Health
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2022
Craig builds on what he started with The Doom that Came to Astoria. Charlie was left off in a dark spot at the end of Doom. And Craig does a wonderful job of getting into Charlies head and showing the pain Charlie is going through. Throughout the book Craig makes you feel what Charlie is feeling.
You will fall in love with the new characters introduced. Without giving anything away Cait is easily my favorite character in the book. She is very well written and a great contrast to Charlie.
When the book ended I just wanted to keep reading. Can't wait for book 3 to come out!
You will fall in love with the new characters introduced. Without giving anything away Cait is easily my favorite character in the book. She is very well written and a great contrast to Charlie.
When the book ended I just wanted to keep reading. Can't wait for book 3 to come out!
January 18, 2024
Where do I start? What I loved most about this book was the way the tension was built. There was not a single moment where I didn’t feel connected to the story. I found myself rooting for Charlie through the entire book. I loved the character of Cait and her role in Charlie’s story. Book 2 of the trilogy did not disappoint and I for one cannot wait to see what comes of Charlie West in the final book.
October 21, 2022
The emotion captured in this book (and the previous) is the authors strength. He has a way of bringing you into the anxiety, fear, calm, and curiosity if his characters.
I won’t give any spoilers but I wasn’t expecting so many new characters and a new story line, that still cohesively fit with the first. This book is wonderful!!
I won’t give any spoilers but I wasn’t expecting so many new characters and a new story line, that still cohesively fit with the first. This book is wonderful!!
October 21, 2022
What an incredible follow up to The Doom That Came to Astoria! I was so hooked the whole way through. Sometimes adding a new perspective in a sequel can be a big turn off for me, but Randall managed to make it work in the best possible way! His characters were fascinating and compelling, and the plot comes together in a wild climax that does not disappoint. 5 stars.
August 4, 2023
I think I enjoyed this installment of Charlie’s adventures even more then the first. The tension really built throughout the story making it a compelling read. I related to so much of Charlie’s and Cait’s internal processing. This novel is both fast paced and thought provoking and a highly enjoyable read.
January 2, 2023
This book follows up on the first book in the Northwest Trilogy by Craig Randall and you can really feel the author coming in to his own voice here. The themes related to the overcoming of mental health challenges were well established in the Astoria focused first book, but now there is a powerful new propulsive quality to the storytelling that surprised me at many turns. Put another way, the same deep insights are there but the action is ratcheted up a few notches, and the book is downright action packed in the last third. I was reading to help fall asleep during late nights with my young son, and this actually ended up keeping me up later as the book really ramped up towards the end. It is a lot of fun to see the author come in to his own, and the action towards the end was delivered in a very understated matter of fact way that reminded me of my favorite Cormac McCarthy novels. That it is all in service of a story of overcoming personal challenges by pursuing connection with others elevates the stakes and resolution. Highly recommend.
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