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Kaw Lake
Undoubtedly you have heard the rumors and conspiracies. You've probably heard of the BIA's involvement and potentially recognize the name Mozaq. But until now, there has been no investigation or publications regarding these events.
This book is the first-hand account of those involved. Brannigan Novak's collected works clarify the situation's reality and finally answer the
What really happened at Kaw Lake?
This book is the first-hand account of those involved. Brannigan Novak's collected works clarify the situation's reality and finally answer the
What really happened at Kaw Lake?
- GenresHorror
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2022
25 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 11, 2023
TW: Language, gory scenes, blood, death, depression
*****SPOILERS*****
About the book:Undoubtedly you have heard the rumors and conspiracies. You've probably heard of the BIA's involvement and potentially recognize the name Mozaq . But until now, there has been no investigation or publications regarding these events.This book is the first-hand account of those involved. Brannigan Novak's collected works clarify the situation's reality and finally answer the What really happened at Kaw Lake ?
Release Date: December 31, 2022
Genre: Horror
Pages: 295
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
What I Liked:
1. The writing style is good
2. All the characters are written so well
3. Very atmospheric
4. Bridge City Sinners 💚
5. Loved the audiobook
What I Didn't Like:
1. Certain scene's felt drawn out
2. The ending
Overall Thoughts:
I was given this audiobook by the author. I had never heard of this book and I'm glad I now know it exists. The book is an easy read and the characters are well rounded. I found myself completely drawn into the story. There were scene's where I was startled - dude losses his leg and I gasped - did not expect that at all. The story flowed. I felt like I was watching a movie because of how much description was in this book.
Some parts of the book took odd turns - a new set of legs shortly after a character lost them - felt very deus ex machina.
The audiobook was the format I decided to go with and I do not regret that decision. The person reading the book did an excellent job and had the perfect voice to match what was happening. There were even moments where Novak was on a walkie talkie and it sounded just like they really were. That added to the immersion I felt as a reader.
I adored all the mentions of music - Metallica - Bridge City Sinners.
Final Thoughts:
Sadly I didn't care for the direction this book took. We had a dangerous creature on the loose killing people then add in a bionic man and a homeless man doctor that changes his body.
I guess for me I just wish there would have been more talk about how Novick had lost his body parts and had been morphed it seems like it was a topic that was kind of just passed over, without any reaction from him really. The doctor just tells him what happens and he's kind of like okay.
Recommend For:
• Jaws
• Lake Placid
• Deep character development
• Strong male friendships
IG|Blog
March 16, 2024
This book had me hooked pretty instantly. It starts right in on some tense action and horrific happenings. The author paints such a clear picture throughout the book that characters and settings are easily imagined. I definitely recommend this book; maybe not at a beach or in the bathtub as being in water is sounding kind of risky after this story.
April 24, 2023
I really didn't know what to expect. I thought it was going to be a typical creature feature, which is a sub-genre that I really enjoy. This was a creature feature but there was nothing typical about it. Lake monster, dinosaurs, gore, genetic terrorism and psychological warfare are all themes in this one. I didn't expect the turns the story took at all. I liked that there were interviews and personal accounts from different parties involved, making it all feel real. It was cool to see the references to Oklahoma because that's where I grew up. Raven was my favorite character. She was such a badass!
Sometimes the flipping between points of view felt abrupt even though it was separated by chapters. There were a couple of scenes that I thought needed a little more. Otherwise, it was a fun read! It was fast paced, action packed and left me guessing. I enjoyed it!
Sometimes the flipping between points of view felt abrupt even though it was separated by chapters. There were a couple of scenes that I thought needed a little more. Otherwise, it was a fun read! It was fast paced, action packed and left me guessing. I enjoyed it!
March 7, 2023
Jaws just met its match!!!!!
This book just gave me another reason not to swim in lakes.
There's a leviathan in Kaw Lake. It's like an alligator, but wait upon further investigation, it's more a whole lot more.
Chief Brannigan Novak is recovering from ACL surgery when he gets the call about a murder / accident at Kaw Lake. So begins this story that includes everything from replicans, hints of genetic terrorism, and oh yes, an aspect of psychological warfare.
Science fiction, thriller and suspense, and outstanding character development and characters written so real you'd swear this was a true story.
The audiobook version of this has an outstanding narrator highly recommend. I listened to the audiobook after I was gifted a code from the author, but I immediately purchased a physical copy because this book is one that I will reread.
If you like Jaws, you'll love Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book just gave me another reason not to swim in lakes.
There's a leviathan in Kaw Lake. It's like an alligator, but wait upon further investigation, it's more a whole lot more.
Chief Brannigan Novak is recovering from ACL surgery when he gets the call about a murder / accident at Kaw Lake. So begins this story that includes everything from replicans, hints of genetic terrorism, and oh yes, an aspect of psychological warfare.
Science fiction, thriller and suspense, and outstanding character development and characters written so real you'd swear this was a true story.
The audiobook version of this has an outstanding narrator highly recommend. I listened to the audiobook after I was gifted a code from the author, but I immediately purchased a physical copy because this book is one that I will reread.
If you like Jaws, you'll love Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 5, 2023
Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards is a great well written, small-town creature horror! I could not put this book down. Great characters and setting.
A boy, Tommy, and his friends go out on Kaw Lake and get attacked. Tommy makes it out and goes to hire an attorney, Stuart McConnell.
What happened? Well you must read and find out!
Do I want to go swim in a lake? Um, hell no!
Thank you Ethan Richards for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I would definitely recommend this book.
A boy, Tommy, and his friends go out on Kaw Lake and get attacked. Tommy makes it out and goes to hire an attorney, Stuart McConnell.
What happened? Well you must read and find out!
Do I want to go swim in a lake? Um, hell no!
Thank you Ethan Richards for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I would definitely recommend this book.
April 5, 2023
For fans of creature horror, Jurassic park, & cryptids. This one had some interesting twists and turns. I really enjoyed the first half of the story when there was an air of mystery, as that’s my personal thing. The second half if more action packed. So, if you enjoy lots of action, then I’d say you’d enjoy this story.
March 20, 2023
This gory creature feature is going to have you asking for more. I’m not a huge fan of gore but this one was just great. I mean it’s a monster attacking people, so think of jaws and jurassic park combined, oh wait but there might be some kind of conspiracy for the local police department to solve too.
•
I had a-lot of fun reading this one. It has a great storyline and just enough information about characters that you know what’s up. If you are into Cryptid Horror, you will enjoy this one.
•
I had a-lot of fun reading this one. It has a great storyline and just enough information about characters that you know what’s up. If you are into Cryptid Horror, you will enjoy this one.
April 10, 2023
Kaw Lake
By Ethan Richards
Narrated by Jeffery S. Fellin
2.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was sent this audiobook by the author in exchange for an honest review
Kaw Lake begins with the mystery of a giant leviathan in the lake which is killing people. It’s an awesome start and I really enjoyed the first half of this story. It was atmospheric, creepy as hell and Richards is great at writing gore.
Unfortunately I got a little lost in the second half of the book. The narrator didn’t really distinguish between characters and this did have an impact on my engagement. The story unfurled into a sci-fi thriller which was very action and battle heavy. I prefer character and atmosphere driven stories, which was probably a factor in preference in the first half of this book!
If you like a quick action packed read then this is a great book for you. I would recommend grabbing a physical copy over the audiobook though!
By Ethan Richards
Narrated by Jeffery S. Fellin
2.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was sent this audiobook by the author in exchange for an honest review
Kaw Lake begins with the mystery of a giant leviathan in the lake which is killing people. It’s an awesome start and I really enjoyed the first half of this story. It was atmospheric, creepy as hell and Richards is great at writing gore.
Unfortunately I got a little lost in the second half of the book. The narrator didn’t really distinguish between characters and this did have an impact on my engagement. The story unfurled into a sci-fi thriller which was very action and battle heavy. I prefer character and atmosphere driven stories, which was probably a factor in preference in the first half of this book!
If you like a quick action packed read then this is a great book for you. I would recommend grabbing a physical copy over the audiobook though!
July 7, 2023
Kaw Lake sure took me on an adventure! What starts off as a small town creature feature takes a script flipping turn 1/3 of the way in and it was a rollercoaster!
I really enjoyed the narration, however I did listen at 1.7x as he was a slower speaker. I really enjoyed the walkie talkie additions to the audiobook- brilliant way to have more immersion into the story.
If you are into creature features you will enjoy this one, however the way it turned out for the last 2/3 it would also be great for people who enjoy war stories/WW2 themes.
I really enjoyed the narration, however I did listen at 1.7x as he was a slower speaker. I really enjoyed the walkie talkie additions to the audiobook- brilliant way to have more immersion into the story.
If you are into creature features you will enjoy this one, however the way it turned out for the last 2/3 it would also be great for people who enjoy war stories/WW2 themes.
April 15, 2023
I'm not usually a fan of audio books, but this one was amazing. The narration, the story, and all of it was great. I listened to this with my husband on a long drive, and he isn't a reader, but he really enjoyed the action and suspenseful in this book. Would recommend this book to fans of action, sci-fi or horror.
April 12, 2023
I’m not usually into sci fi in book form but I very much enjoyed this book! Was even better than I expected definitely recommended!
August 23, 2023
RydiaReviews!
Kaw Lake
📖 Title: Kaw Lake
✍ Author: Ethan Richards
📚 Series: None that I know of. Although it has potential for one
🌍 Country of origin: USA
🔖 Genre: Thriller, Horror, Action, Sci-Fi, Military, Mystery, Contemporary Literature
👥 Favorite character: Raven Reeves
💬 Favorite quote(s):
The man's mouth dropped open and he fell to the ground, I stood over him. But despite the urge to eat, I remained calm. Luddy was right. I wasn't a murderer.
🌟 Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5 Stars
Hi everyone! Its me again, Rydia your favorite liVRarian with yet another installment of RydiaReviews!
Reading indie and less known authors is something I really enjoy, it not only supports the works of creative minds, but it also allows us to delight ourselves in stories that wouldn't normally be seen on mainstream literature.
I also from time to time enjoy going outside from my comfort zone (fantasy, romance, if this is the first time you're reading me and also, thank you for doing so!) but it's usually a hit or miss with it because I either enjoy them a lot or I end up not liking them at all.
Kaw Lake was the former one.
Now where to start describing this book? I think its best if I talk about what I expected from this. I enjoy the horror genre but what you'd call 'creature feature' (like Godzilla, King Kong, etc.) not so much, it has to be exceptionally good or include a twist that's interesting to keep me engaged. I also did not know how well this would translate to literature, it's a bit hard to achieve but spoiler not-so-spoiler alert: This book delivered!
This book is written in such a way that it reads more like an action movie, including flashbacks, interviews and recollection of documents and "found footage" of the case. I find this very interesting and a way to include different points of views on what's happening since every character involved has a different way of seeing the events. This could become a bit confusing to follow who says what and when is this happening, but it isn't so much that it makes you re-read something many times, you can usually deduce what's happening quite easily and doesn't take away from the experience reading the book.
This book is fast paced, full of action, so I'd say it's best for male audiences since it has all this diverse cast of men bonding over their quest and working towards their goal. Yet, that doesn't mean us girls can't enjoy it. My favorite character was Raven, a girl that was such a kick-butt character and not a simple love interest, placeholder or useless character. I wish we spent more time with her, probably in a sequel or spinoff. (Pretty please, Ethan?)
So, what is this book about? It's going to be *VERY* hard not to speak about what this book is about without spoilers, so I'm not even going to TRY, still spoiler tags because reasons.
The book was a great read, it had many of the things I love, many stuff I didn't know I could like, a mystery to follow, veiled romance (don't worry guys, it won't take away from the action), tons of actions, big guns, monsters, and finally dinosaurs, and nazis
The book also shows how much the author loves weapons, his vast military knowledge and most likely is a history buff and he definitely did some research on the environment, science, biology and history to further enrich his book and make it as plausible as possible.
I must warn that the book does contain a dash of political commentary, not anything that might seemed bigoted or mock any side on the spectrum, but I feel like if this could be a potential trigger or sensitive subject for you, I had to note it but, in my opinion, its nothing to worry about or deters from enjoying the story.
If you like action, Jurassic Park, monsters, big guns, sci-fi and intrigue this book is for you.
If you don't like plot twists, big monsters getting shot, guns or gore then you might as well pass on this one. I know I won't do it for other works of the author, it was a quite pleasant surprise!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read you on the next RydiaReviews!
Toodles~!
Rydia ✨
Kaw Lake
📖 Title: Kaw Lake
✍ Author: Ethan Richards
📚 Series: None that I know of. Although it has potential for one
🌍 Country of origin: USA
🔖 Genre: Thriller, Horror, Action, Sci-Fi, Military, Mystery, Contemporary Literature
👥 Favorite character: Raven Reeves
💬 Favorite quote(s):
The man's mouth dropped open and he fell to the ground, I stood over him. But despite the urge to eat, I remained calm. Luddy was right. I wasn't a murderer.
🌟 Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5 Stars
Hi everyone! Its me again, Rydia your favorite liVRarian with yet another installment of RydiaReviews!
Reading indie and less known authors is something I really enjoy, it not only supports the works of creative minds, but it also allows us to delight ourselves in stories that wouldn't normally be seen on mainstream literature.
I also from time to time enjoy going outside from my comfort zone (fantasy, romance, if this is the first time you're reading me and also, thank you for doing so!) but it's usually a hit or miss with it because I either enjoy them a lot or I end up not liking them at all.
Kaw Lake was the former one.
Now where to start describing this book? I think its best if I talk about what I expected from this. I enjoy the horror genre but what you'd call 'creature feature' (like Godzilla, King Kong, etc.) not so much, it has to be exceptionally good or include a twist that's interesting to keep me engaged. I also did not know how well this would translate to literature, it's a bit hard to achieve but spoiler not-so-spoiler alert: This book delivered!
This book is written in such a way that it reads more like an action movie, including flashbacks, interviews and recollection of documents and "found footage" of the case. I find this very interesting and a way to include different points of views on what's happening since every character involved has a different way of seeing the events. This could become a bit confusing to follow who says what and when is this happening, but it isn't so much that it makes you re-read something many times, you can usually deduce what's happening quite easily and doesn't take away from the experience reading the book.
This book is fast paced, full of action, so I'd say it's best for male audiences since it has all this diverse cast of men bonding over their quest and working towards their goal. Yet, that doesn't mean us girls can't enjoy it. My favorite character was Raven, a girl that was such a kick-butt character and not a simple love interest, placeholder or useless character. I wish we spent more time with her, probably in a sequel or spinoff. (Pretty please, Ethan?)
So, what is this book about? It's going to be *VERY* hard not to speak about what this book is about without spoilers, so I'm not even going to TRY, still spoiler tags because reasons.
The book was a great read, it had many of the things I love, many stuff I didn't know I could like, a mystery to follow, veiled romance (don't worry guys, it won't take away from the action), tons of actions, big guns, monsters, and finally dinosaurs, and nazis
The book also shows how much the author loves weapons, his vast military knowledge and most likely is a history buff and he definitely did some research on the environment, science, biology and history to further enrich his book and make it as plausible as possible.
I must warn that the book does contain a dash of political commentary, not anything that might seemed bigoted or mock any side on the spectrum, but I feel like if this could be a potential trigger or sensitive subject for you, I had to note it but, in my opinion, its nothing to worry about or deters from enjoying the story.
If you like action, Jurassic Park, monsters, big guns, sci-fi and intrigue this book is for you.
If you don't like plot twists, big monsters getting shot, guns or gore then you might as well pass on this one. I know I won't do it for other works of the author, it was a quite pleasant surprise!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read you on the next RydiaReviews!
Toodles~!
Rydia ✨
September 28, 2024
The scenes in this book are so vividly described that I could actually see it all play out. This book had so much action in it. It was an amazing read.
This was my first audiobook and I absolutely loved it. What a way to get into audiobooks. The narrator was absolutely awesome.
Usually don't like sci-fi but this book OMG!!! Replicants, dinosaurs, psychological warfare and genetic terrorism. This book really needs to be a movie!!!
This was my first audiobook and I absolutely loved it. What a way to get into audiobooks. The narrator was absolutely awesome.
Usually don't like sci-fi but this book OMG!!! Replicants, dinosaurs, psychological warfare and genetic terrorism. This book really needs to be a movie!!!
August 3, 2025
When I say things are about to get weird—things are about to get weird.
Well, I guess every year of reading has to include a book you consider the WORST of the bunch. And right now, Ethan Richards' "Kaw Lake" is so far ahead of the pack - or should that be behind? - that I don't see any other book managing to replace it. This was just an awful, over-the-top, misogynistic and macho mess that makes any of the "Jurassic Park" movie sequels look like Academy Award-worthy cinematic masterpieces (all said chapters featuring ScarJo aside, because, well, you know, it's ScarJo!). And if this book has been edited AT ALL, then someone missed the dozens upon dozens of mistakes, ranging from punctuation to vocabulary to almost manic repetition plus choppiness, and even some of the characters' names. Seriously, is the one agent's name Felix American PONY or Felix American HORSE? Because we get both.
Fingers, bones, bits of flesh littered the air like confetti.
Granted it does read fast, in large part owing to multi-page chapter headings. But look: if you have a 15-hour layover in some airport and the local knick-knack shop is offering copies of "Kaw Lake" for a penny if you buy a half-pound of Skittles, well… no, I still don't think it would be worth your money. But if you do decide to pick up a copy, be prepared for an absolutely ludicrous story featuring dinosaur-like "replicants" (those converted turkeys are no laughing matter! And don't get me started about the ostriches!!), that are even called "kaiju" in the description for the next book. These hungry critters have been created by Axis era enemies of "freedom-loving" nations everywhere, which in this case have been allowed to take-over the local dam by posing as a social media company (we're watching you Zuckerberg!). Maybe they mean Tok-tok (SIC) which the author stresses at one point has been infiltrated by the Chinese government to make American teenagers act stupid? Pfft, as if they needed help, right?
Outsourcing the dam? Felons running around with Eastern Bloc weapons? No way.
I'm not joking: we're talking the actual bad guys from World War II setting up shop in the United States trying to sow discontent and fan the flames of facism, in part by ruining tourism and making it so that folks from towns associated with weird happenings can't get hired anywhere (true story!). Heck, even the main bad guy wears his goose-stepping heritage not only proudly but with a ton of melodrama, going by the silly name of Caesar Dracone, also known as Adolf Da Vinci. Did I mention he wears a toga when fighting to the death with his Roman long sword? And that he's over 100 years old but that's ok because this group has not only created the weird dino-serum, but also can regrow limbs, restore an addicts mental acuities, block phone signals, and much much more!
Do you know how stupid that sounds?
But, hey, if you enjoy massive gun-play - especially with the author providing us with convenient BANG! BANG! BANG! descriptives every time someone pulls the trigger on any kind of weapon (seriously, why do we need this for AUTOMATIC weapons?)! - then go for it. Me? I picked up my copy because I wanted the background for my real target, namely, Richards' "Meth Gator". Now I wouldn't pick this up if you paid me with a chest full of doubloons and whatever other secret cache of gold you might have been holding on to since the late 1930s. Bottom-line is that this gets 1 star from me only because goodreads doesn't allow half-stars. Seriously, this stunk worse than Mozaq's breath.
Well, I guess every year of reading has to include a book you consider the WORST of the bunch. And right now, Ethan Richards' "Kaw Lake" is so far ahead of the pack - or should that be behind? - that I don't see any other book managing to replace it. This was just an awful, over-the-top, misogynistic and macho mess that makes any of the "Jurassic Park" movie sequels look like Academy Award-worthy cinematic masterpieces (all said chapters featuring ScarJo aside, because, well, you know, it's ScarJo!). And if this book has been edited AT ALL, then someone missed the dozens upon dozens of mistakes, ranging from punctuation to vocabulary to almost manic repetition plus choppiness, and even some of the characters' names. Seriously, is the one agent's name Felix American PONY or Felix American HORSE? Because we get both.
Fingers, bones, bits of flesh littered the air like confetti.
Granted it does read fast, in large part owing to multi-page chapter headings. But look: if you have a 15-hour layover in some airport and the local knick-knack shop is offering copies of "Kaw Lake" for a penny if you buy a half-pound of Skittles, well… no, I still don't think it would be worth your money. But if you do decide to pick up a copy, be prepared for an absolutely ludicrous story featuring dinosaur-like "replicants" (those converted turkeys are no laughing matter! And don't get me started about the ostriches!!), that are even called "kaiju" in the description for the next book. These hungry critters have been created by Axis era enemies of "freedom-loving" nations everywhere, which in this case have been allowed to take-over the local dam by posing as a social media company (we're watching you Zuckerberg!). Maybe they mean Tok-tok (SIC) which the author stresses at one point has been infiltrated by the Chinese government to make American teenagers act stupid? Pfft, as if they needed help, right?
Outsourcing the dam? Felons running around with Eastern Bloc weapons? No way.
I'm not joking: we're talking the actual bad guys from World War II setting up shop in the United States trying to sow discontent and fan the flames of facism, in part by ruining tourism and making it so that folks from towns associated with weird happenings can't get hired anywhere (true story!). Heck, even the main bad guy wears his goose-stepping heritage not only proudly but with a ton of melodrama, going by the silly name of Caesar Dracone, also known as Adolf Da Vinci. Did I mention he wears a toga when fighting to the death with his Roman long sword? And that he's over 100 years old but that's ok because this group has not only created the weird dino-serum, but also can regrow limbs, restore an addicts mental acuities, block phone signals, and much much more!
Do you know how stupid that sounds?
But, hey, if you enjoy massive gun-play - especially with the author providing us with convenient BANG! BANG! BANG! descriptives every time someone pulls the trigger on any kind of weapon (seriously, why do we need this for AUTOMATIC weapons?)! - then go for it. Me? I picked up my copy because I wanted the background for my real target, namely, Richards' "Meth Gator". Now I wouldn't pick this up if you paid me with a chest full of doubloons and whatever other secret cache of gold you might have been holding on to since the late 1930s. Bottom-line is that this gets 1 star from me only because goodreads doesn't allow half-stars. Seriously, this stunk worse than Mozaq's breath.
September 5, 2023
In full transparency I was asked to review this novel from the author. At the time I got this request I was reading The Lake by R Karl Largent. So, piggy backing off that book to this one was excellent. It starts with a Jurassic Park vibe and then goes completely somewhere else that continues to change in the second and third part of the book.
Diving into Kaw Lake was an exhilarating journey right from the start, as a mysterious leviathan lurked beneath the surface, adding an edge of thrill and mystery. The first half had me hooked, with an atmospheric and spine-chilling setting that Richards masterfully crafted. His talent for vividly depicting the gruesome and gory added an extra layer of intensity. Moving into the second part of the book is where this novel goes from good to fantastically fun.
Ethan describes the horror scenes with bloody terror. Here are some lines in the book that I loved - “Parts of the head and hair floated on the water with biofluids floating on the surface like an oil spill”, “It’s gone from a ghost house to a crack house.”, “Let those raptors know there’s food here Maybe add a dinner bell.”
How this book changes from part to part is so fun. The characters are complex, and the array of the group protagonists are fascinating. The action scenes are so vivid that you feel like you are watching this at the theater. I am not going to give too much away…but this book has it all – dinosaurs, machine guns, secret organizations from the past, and replicants.
I am glad I got the opportunity to hear this incredible story. Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards will ensnare you into an action filled horror. After listening to this book on Audible, I will buy this paperback to add to my collection. Question is ....will there be a sequel or prequel Ethan??
Diving into Kaw Lake was an exhilarating journey right from the start, as a mysterious leviathan lurked beneath the surface, adding an edge of thrill and mystery. The first half had me hooked, with an atmospheric and spine-chilling setting that Richards masterfully crafted. His talent for vividly depicting the gruesome and gory added an extra layer of intensity. Moving into the second part of the book is where this novel goes from good to fantastically fun.
Ethan describes the horror scenes with bloody terror. Here are some lines in the book that I loved - “Parts of the head and hair floated on the water with biofluids floating on the surface like an oil spill”, “It’s gone from a ghost house to a crack house.”, “Let those raptors know there’s food here Maybe add a dinner bell.”
How this book changes from part to part is so fun. The characters are complex, and the array of the group protagonists are fascinating. The action scenes are so vivid that you feel like you are watching this at the theater. I am not going to give too much away…but this book has it all – dinosaurs, machine guns, secret organizations from the past, and replicants.
I am glad I got the opportunity to hear this incredible story. Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards will ensnare you into an action filled horror. After listening to this book on Audible, I will buy this paperback to add to my collection. Question is ....will there be a sequel or prequel Ethan??
August 14, 2023
I received the audiobook from the author (though I went ahead and read the digital copy instead). The review is my honest opinion.
First of all, I would like to say, I so want to see this as a movie. If you like those over the top 80s/early 90s action films as well as creature horrors, you'd love this. Even if it's set in modern times, that's exactly what it felt like to me while reading it!
The first part, you're introduced to all the characters - including the creature. Then the last two parts dive right into non-stop action until the very end. And, since the chapters are very short (perhaps too short at times), everything flew by. I swear I could have read it in one sitting, if I didn't have to pace myself.
There is a lot of components to this story. Scifi elements, alternative history, creature feature, etc. I didn't mind how jam packed it was. As I said before, it felt very 80s despite the modern setting because of this. I know that isn't for everyone, however.
I will also point out, there are multiple PoVs in this first person written story. I normally don't pay attention to chapter titles and dive right into the reading, but I found out very quickly I should note the title as it tells you whose PoV you're reading next. That was awkward for me to break my habit of ignoring chapter titles, but once I got into this new habit, I was able to transition PoVs easily enough.
There is a sequel currently in the making, with the same characters I believe? I have the ARC and super excited to see where things go next. This book wraps up in a neat (perhaps slightly abrupt) bow, so don't worry about cliffhangers.
First of all, I would like to say, I so want to see this as a movie. If you like those over the top 80s/early 90s action films as well as creature horrors, you'd love this. Even if it's set in modern times, that's exactly what it felt like to me while reading it!
The first part, you're introduced to all the characters - including the creature. Then the last two parts dive right into non-stop action until the very end. And, since the chapters are very short (perhaps too short at times), everything flew by. I swear I could have read it in one sitting, if I didn't have to pace myself.
There is a lot of components to this story. Scifi elements, alternative history, creature feature, etc. I didn't mind how jam packed it was. As I said before, it felt very 80s despite the modern setting because of this. I know that isn't for everyone, however.
I will also point out, there are multiple PoVs in this first person written story. I normally don't pay attention to chapter titles and dive right into the reading, but I found out very quickly I should note the title as it tells you whose PoV you're reading next. That was awkward for me to break my habit of ignoring chapter titles, but once I got into this new habit, I was able to transition PoVs easily enough.
There is a sequel currently in the making, with the same characters I believe? I have the ARC and super excited to see where things go next. This book wraps up in a neat (perhaps slightly abrupt) bow, so don't worry about cliffhangers.
September 15, 2023
There are strange things happening at Kaw Lake in Oklahoma. People are being murdered in horrendous ways. Attorney Stuart McConnell has been called to represent a teenage kid accused of murdering his friend. What he uncovers is a strange tale of conspiracy, science, and an evil that never died.
I really wanted to like this book. There is a book out there for everyone and this just isn't for me. I think the premise of it is good, it just was too much put in a short amount. It would benefit from being separated into more than 1 book. The format of the book is often distracting and makes the book hard to read.
This really felt like I was reading a rough draft. It would benefit from work done by a skilled proofer and editor. I believe people at Reedsy.com could help out with this tremendously. To quote a friend of mine: "Most people are a good editor away from a decent story".
To imitate a show I love watching: "This book has: Splattered teenagers on the beach, Severed limbs used as weapons, Shadow government conspiracies, Japanese government conspiracies, Kung-Fu, Dino-Fu, Genetically Modified Super Soldier Dino Man-Fu, Nazis, Dinosaurs, Secret underground bases, and Genetic terrorism just to name a few. Check it out, It's 'Kaw Lake'."
I really wanted to like this book. There is a book out there for everyone and this just isn't for me. I think the premise of it is good, it just was too much put in a short amount. It would benefit from being separated into more than 1 book. The format of the book is often distracting and makes the book hard to read.
This really felt like I was reading a rough draft. It would benefit from work done by a skilled proofer and editor. I believe people at Reedsy.com could help out with this tremendously. To quote a friend of mine: "Most people are a good editor away from a decent story".
To imitate a show I love watching: "This book has: Splattered teenagers on the beach, Severed limbs used as weapons, Shadow government conspiracies, Japanese government conspiracies, Kung-Fu, Dino-Fu, Genetically Modified Super Soldier Dino Man-Fu, Nazis, Dinosaurs, Secret underground bases, and Genetic terrorism just to name a few. Check it out, It's 'Kaw Lake'."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2023
It was fun, easy to follow, had a smart writer, and it was interesting.
This story had an AMAZING prologue where we get a glimpse of a swimmer have close contact with the monster in Kaw Lake.
I found myself wanting more monster scenes like that but was disappointed. I had to change my perspective of this novel and then I started enjoying it more. This is less of a monster story and more of a work that explores the idea that we shouldn’t trust authority figures or the government. In that sense, it did a great job because the political/social commentary is very interesting. It also shows us how misinformed we are about history.
I think this is a fair novel. Something to pick up a copy or put on your kindle before a plane ride. Or maybe just to read before bed. This is where I place most newsstand authors like Danielle Steel or James Patterson. If you like them, this is for you!
The main characters inner dialogue did drag things down a bit though. I also had an audiobook and did not like the narrator’s performance. Go for the regular novel.
I feel like once Ethan Richards finds the right editor, we will see his books side-by-side in stores with Steele and Patterson.
This story had an AMAZING prologue where we get a glimpse of a swimmer have close contact with the monster in Kaw Lake.
I found myself wanting more monster scenes like that but was disappointed. I had to change my perspective of this novel and then I started enjoying it more. This is less of a monster story and more of a work that explores the idea that we shouldn’t trust authority figures or the government. In that sense, it did a great job because the political/social commentary is very interesting. It also shows us how misinformed we are about history.
I think this is a fair novel. Something to pick up a copy or put on your kindle before a plane ride. Or maybe just to read before bed. This is where I place most newsstand authors like Danielle Steel or James Patterson. If you like them, this is for you!
The main characters inner dialogue did drag things down a bit though. I also had an audiobook and did not like the narrator’s performance. Go for the regular novel.
I feel like once Ethan Richards finds the right editor, we will see his books side-by-side in stores with Steele and Patterson.
May 7, 2023
Audiobook Review
Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards
I'm calling it right now. The audiobook for Kaw Lake will be the ultimate road trip companion for summer 2023.
While reading a synopsis might make a reader think this story is Jurassic Park in Oklahoma, it really isn't. This is a story of its own, blending monsters, science fiction, small-town bravery, and strong male friendships into a heart-racing tale.
As a prairie Canadian, it took a minute to get used to the accent of the narrator. However, I loved how his voice brought life to the characters. It really helped me get immersed in the story.
If you want a book that is action from start to finish, but can still manage to have a climatic ending, this is the book for you.
I think this audiobook should have a PG-13 rating. I would absolutely let someone older than 10 listen to it. I think Kaw Lake would be a great book to inspire a love of reading in young boys who haven't found their genre of book yet.
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards
I'm calling it right now. The audiobook for Kaw Lake will be the ultimate road trip companion for summer 2023.
While reading a synopsis might make a reader think this story is Jurassic Park in Oklahoma, it really isn't. This is a story of its own, blending monsters, science fiction, small-town bravery, and strong male friendships into a heart-racing tale.
As a prairie Canadian, it took a minute to get used to the accent of the narrator. However, I loved how his voice brought life to the characters. It really helped me get immersed in the story.
If you want a book that is action from start to finish, but can still manage to have a climatic ending, this is the book for you.
I think this audiobook should have a PG-13 rating. I would absolutely let someone older than 10 listen to it. I think Kaw Lake would be a great book to inspire a love of reading in young boys who haven't found their genre of book yet.
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2023
A Different Monster Story
This story is a different kind of monster story. Here the monsters are part of a diabolical scheme by a bunch of former fascist left over from World War Two. The only thing the bad guys didn't think about was how the locals of Kaw City were going to take their town become a breeding ground for replicant dinosaurs. Now some might find the way the story is laid out, but when you get into it you see the sense of it. Spoiler alert: this time the bad guys know what they are doing and don't feel bad about it. For me this was just one of those guilty pleasures you like to read every so often.
This story is a different kind of monster story. Here the monsters are part of a diabolical scheme by a bunch of former fascist left over from World War Two. The only thing the bad guys didn't think about was how the locals of Kaw City were going to take their town become a breeding ground for replicant dinosaurs. Now some might find the way the story is laid out, but when you get into it you see the sense of it. Spoiler alert: this time the bad guys know what they are doing and don't feel bad about it. For me this was just one of those guilty pleasures you like to read every so often.
April 6, 2023
ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ
Kaw Lake - Ethan Richards
I won’t lie, I thought Kaw Lake might be a Jaws type rip-off, but I was wrong. The book went in a completely different direction to what I was expecting and was more Jurassic Park vs genetically modified humans.
I listened to the audiobook, and enjoyed the narrator, but did struggle at times to differentiate between the characters.
Kaw Lake is a small town creature feature, with twists and turns and plenty of gore to satisfy the horror heads.
Overall a solid read/listen
3.5 rounded up
Thank you to the author Ethan Richards & Primal Publishing for sending me Kaw Lake in exchange for an honest review
Kaw Lake - Ethan Richards
I won’t lie, I thought Kaw Lake might be a Jaws type rip-off, but I was wrong. The book went in a completely different direction to what I was expecting and was more Jurassic Park vs genetically modified humans.
I listened to the audiobook, and enjoyed the narrator, but did struggle at times to differentiate between the characters.
Kaw Lake is a small town creature feature, with twists and turns and plenty of gore to satisfy the horror heads.
Overall a solid read/listen
3.5 rounded up
Thank you to the author Ethan Richards & Primal Publishing for sending me Kaw Lake in exchange for an honest review
June 16, 2023
This was a wild ride! I enjoyed the investigation and mystery vibes of this book. The idea that seemingly prehistoric creatures could be roaming Oklahoma is intense. The descriptions of the attacks were gory and intense, but they fit very well in the scheme of the story. I do think there were some strange plot points and twists that needed some suspension of belief, but overall this was a solid adventure story!
I also really liked the narrators accents and the special effects used for the radio broadcasts. This was well done.
I also really liked the narrators accents and the special effects used for the radio broadcasts. This was well done.
August 13, 2023
Lake placid meets Jurassic World with some terrorism thrown in. Really enjoyable creature feature. Thanks to the author reaching out.
November 1, 2023
Need to find a better spellchecker. Unless I got lost somehow I think a chapter or part of one is missing (Where the mob guy was arrested). I didn’t bother going back to look.
July 2, 2024
Fantastic monster story that had me hooked from the beginning!
July 26, 2023
🐊 Kaw Lake by Ethan Richards🐊
I was sent the audio book for Kaw Lake from the author in exchange for an honest review.
●PROS●
》 Kaw Lake starts out so eerie and full of dread in the Prologue. I love feeling that looming fear. Like you are screaming ... " DON'T GO NEAR THE WATER!!" I was hooked from the first scene. When the beast rises up, opens its mouth and reveals what's inside, shivers.
》 Jeffrey S. Fellin did an incredible job at narrarating. He was able to make each character very distinguishable. He made it very immersive. I'm from Texas, so I enjoyed his drawl quite a bit.
》 This book was so gorey and action packed.
》 The characters were intriguing and I loved seeing the bonds of friendship.
》 The political/social commentary was interesting.
》 The first half of the book was full of creepy moments, atmosphere, and showcased Richards skills at writing gore.
》 I loved the Investigatory aspects. Richards did such a good job of making them feel so real.
●CONS●
》 My only con for this book is the latter half of the book. Although still enjoyable, it seemed to veer more to scifi action thriller. Don't get me wrong I was ok with it. But it was a bit battle heavy and I was missing the dread.
《 BUZZ WORDS 》
Leviathan • Creature • Cryptid • Jaws • Investigatory • Bonds • Action • Genetic Terr0rism • Replicans • Realistic Investigation • Lake Placid • Thriller • Dread • Gore
I was sent the audio book for Kaw Lake from the author in exchange for an honest review.
●PROS●
》 Kaw Lake starts out so eerie and full of dread in the Prologue. I love feeling that looming fear. Like you are screaming ... " DON'T GO NEAR THE WATER!!" I was hooked from the first scene. When the beast rises up, opens its mouth and reveals what's inside, shivers.
》 Jeffrey S. Fellin did an incredible job at narrarating. He was able to make each character very distinguishable. He made it very immersive. I'm from Texas, so I enjoyed his drawl quite a bit.
》 This book was so gorey and action packed.
》 The characters were intriguing and I loved seeing the bonds of friendship.
》 The political/social commentary was interesting.
》 The first half of the book was full of creepy moments, atmosphere, and showcased Richards skills at writing gore.
》 I loved the Investigatory aspects. Richards did such a good job of making them feel so real.
●CONS●
》 My only con for this book is the latter half of the book. Although still enjoyable, it seemed to veer more to scifi action thriller. Don't get me wrong I was ok with it. But it was a bit battle heavy and I was missing the dread.
《 BUZZ WORDS 》
Leviathan • Creature • Cryptid • Jaws • Investigatory • Bonds • Action • Genetic Terr0rism • Replicans • Realistic Investigation • Lake Placid • Thriller • Dread • Gore
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