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Kane Pryce #2
Devil's Gate: A Kane Pryce Novel
Some places are doomed to be haunted . . . Twenty-eight-year-old Kane Pryce used to have one of the strangest jobs in the world—capturing and exorcising spirits from people’s lives. After the stress of the job finally got to him, he left ghost hunting and has been busy reinventing himself as the lead guitarist of a band on the brink of success. But it isn’t long before Kane is asked to investigate a case involving Pasadena’s infamous Suicide Bridge, and gets sucked back into the supernatural realm. A mysterious force is luring hopeless victims to their death off the bridge, and Kane must discover what power is keeping the lost souls trapped there. As Kane uncovers the sinister, deadly secrets of the bridge, he spirals into the dangerous, shadowy world of the occult—the seedy underground world of the Hollywood music scene, tumultuous romances, and maddening journeys into the shattered minds of suicide victims. With the Soul Trap as his only defense, Kane must combat evil supernatural forces on a spiritual battlefield, a place between life and death, where the fate of his own soul hangs in the balance.
- GenresHorror
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2012
35 people want to read
About the author
F.J. Lennon
4 books22 followersF.J. Lennon is a novelist, screenwriter, and independent digital media producer, designer, and writer.
During his 25-year career, Lennon has been actively employed in multiple industries including video games, interactive television, advertising, and toys.
He has authored three books: Soul Trapper (Atria, 2011) and Devil’s Gate (Atria, 2012), the first two novels in a series of supernatural thrillers that follow the turbulent life of rogue ghost hunter, Kane Pryce; and Every Mistake in the Book (HarperCollins/Regan Books, 2001), a light-hearted business memoir about Lennon’s years in the video game industry. He has also written numerous screenplays and teleplays in various stages of development.
Since 1985, Lennon has been instrumental in the development of 47 interactive games, educational software titles, and entertainment properties for companies including Electronic Arts, Take 2 Interactive, Disney Interactive, Mattel, Sesame Street, DIRECTV, Paramount Digital Entertainment, Simon and Schuster Interactive, Marvel Comics, MicroProse Software, and the U.S. Federal Government.
Between 1985 and 1996, Lennon was Take 2 Interactive Software’s Creative Director and Senior Vice President of Product Development, a Senior Producer for MicroProse Software, Inc., and the co-founder and Vice President of Paragon Software Corporation, which was sold to MicroProse in 1992.
Lennon is a 1986 magna cum laude graduate of Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in Communications and a minor in English Literature.
He is a native of Latrobe, Pennsylvania and currently resides in Los Angeles, California with his wife and daughter.
During his 25-year career, Lennon has been actively employed in multiple industries including video games, interactive television, advertising, and toys.
He has authored three books: Soul Trapper (Atria, 2011) and Devil’s Gate (Atria, 2012), the first two novels in a series of supernatural thrillers that follow the turbulent life of rogue ghost hunter, Kane Pryce; and Every Mistake in the Book (HarperCollins/Regan Books, 2001), a light-hearted business memoir about Lennon’s years in the video game industry. He has also written numerous screenplays and teleplays in various stages of development.
Since 1985, Lennon has been instrumental in the development of 47 interactive games, educational software titles, and entertainment properties for companies including Electronic Arts, Take 2 Interactive, Disney Interactive, Mattel, Sesame Street, DIRECTV, Paramount Digital Entertainment, Simon and Schuster Interactive, Marvel Comics, MicroProse Software, and the U.S. Federal Government.
Between 1985 and 1996, Lennon was Take 2 Interactive Software’s Creative Director and Senior Vice President of Product Development, a Senior Producer for MicroProse Software, Inc., and the co-founder and Vice President of Paragon Software Corporation, which was sold to MicroProse in 1992.
Lennon is a 1986 magna cum laude graduate of Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where he earned a degree in Communications and a minor in English Literature.
He is a native of Latrobe, Pennsylvania and currently resides in Los Angeles, California with his wife and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 3, 2014
Astral Fountain is on the brink of big success and Kane Pryce is planning to ride the wave as far as he can. As the lead guitarist with the band, he stands to profit big time if rumors of a record deal become a reality. But when his old friend and ghost hunting partner, Ned, turns up at a show with an interesting proposal, Kane finds himself pulled back into a life he thought he'd left behind. A wealthy heiress has hired Ned and Kane to exorcise the spirits of an old California bridge. She claims her motivations are altruistic -- one too many suicides and she's tired of the whole thing -- but Kane and Ned soon find there's something bigger going on. With almost 200 deaths to its name, the bridge seems to be connected to a long and dark history of occult practice. If Kane persists with the job, he could find himself the latest victim.
I really enjoyed the ghost busting portions of this book. In truth, it makes up about 3/4 of the story. The history of the bridge and the job Kane and Ned are hired to do are interesting and make for a unique read.
The other 1/4 of the book concerns Kane's band career. I know that it's all character development as far as Kane is concerned but the bickering and the rock and roll lifestyle didn't mesh well with the rest of the book for me personally. To be honest, I couldn't wait to get through each part about the band just so I could get back to the real meat of the story. The continued conflict with the lead singer also started to really get on my nerves. I wanted Kane to just deck the guy and move on!
The band Kane was more than a little bit of an asshole. The ghost busting Kane was still a bit of a jerk, but definitely much more appealing -- especially paired with the soul trap and the spirits, the mystery of the latest suicide victim, and the Crowley occult stuff.
I didn't dislike Devil's Gate by any means. I didn't love it either. It was a good read but I couldn't fully enjoy it simply because I felt this constant sort of disconnect -- like I was reading two books at once rather than one cohesive story.
Devil's Gate is F.J. Lennon's second book to feature Kane Pryce. Although I have not read the first installment, Soul Trapper, it seems that Devil's Gate stands pretty well on its own. There's enough backstory and recap material present throughout the book that someone unfamiliar with Kane's previous story quickly catches on. That said, I'm curious about Kane's first adventure and the soul trap as well.
I really enjoyed the ghost busting portions of this book. In truth, it makes up about 3/4 of the story. The history of the bridge and the job Kane and Ned are hired to do are interesting and make for a unique read.
The other 1/4 of the book concerns Kane's band career. I know that it's all character development as far as Kane is concerned but the bickering and the rock and roll lifestyle didn't mesh well with the rest of the book for me personally. To be honest, I couldn't wait to get through each part about the band just so I could get back to the real meat of the story. The continued conflict with the lead singer also started to really get on my nerves. I wanted Kane to just deck the guy and move on!
The band Kane was more than a little bit of an asshole. The ghost busting Kane was still a bit of a jerk, but definitely much more appealing -- especially paired with the soul trap and the spirits, the mystery of the latest suicide victim, and the Crowley occult stuff.
I didn't dislike Devil's Gate by any means. I didn't love it either. It was a good read but I couldn't fully enjoy it simply because I felt this constant sort of disconnect -- like I was reading two books at once rather than one cohesive story.
Devil's Gate is F.J. Lennon's second book to feature Kane Pryce. Although I have not read the first installment, Soul Trapper, it seems that Devil's Gate stands pretty well on its own. There's enough backstory and recap material present throughout the book that someone unfamiliar with Kane's previous story quickly catches on. That said, I'm curious about Kane's first adventure and the soul trap as well.
May 24, 2014
I loved the first book, and I loved this one as well. Unlike most people, I found Kane to be a likable character. Was he a horrible alcoholic and a bit of an asshole? Sure. Underneath all of that, though, is a guy who's trying to be a better person. Being around music and art for years, and being an artist and music lover myself, I understood this guy. Hell, I've dated this guy (and I married a guy who probably was once very much like him). This is an engaging, wild ride of a story, packed with elements I love:the paranormal, demons and angels, rock and roll, evil vs good, unsappy romance, mysticism, and the afterlife. I also have a vested interest in suicide prevention, and what the author writes in the afterward blew me away. My hope is that there will be more adventures for Kane Pryce.
August 6, 2012
Sex, drugs, rock 'n roll and suicide. Kane has his work cut out for himself - trying to launch a band and researching multiple suicides off a haunted bridge.
Lennon has done a great job of background investigation in order to write this story. More of it is real than is fiction. It is scary and so very sad at the same time.
Lennon has done a great job of background investigation in order to write this story. More of it is real than is fiction. It is scary and so very sad at the same time.
August 3, 2019
"Soul Trapper" was great. This follow-up is even better.
I first heard of F.J. Lennon when he was a guest on the Coast to Coast AM radio show (8/10/12). He sounded interesting, so I ordered his (as of the time I'm posting this) two novels. I didn't know what to expect. Opened the books and was immediately captivated.
F.J. Lennon knows how to tell the story. He keeps it moving forward, never dragging, painting the picture with just the right amount of detail to make the characters real and the settings vivid.
I'm in Los Angeles, and the book covers familiar turf, which adds to the fun. The local historical background which blends into the story is also correct.
With so many true details underlying it, the overall effect is to blur the line between reality and the author's imagination. It makes it easy and natural for me to follow the tale down the rabbit hole.
How to describe the book? Maybe call it supernatural-noir escapism. I enjoy it the way I enjoy the best of Mickey Spillane. If Mike Hammer were a young man in 2012, and he was something of a ghostbuster rather than a detective, then maybe his book would look something like this.
"Devil's Gate" is the second book in the series. If you're interested, you'll want to first look for Soul Trapper.
Warning: Raw language, raw situations. Narrator is gritty. I enjoyed it, but some will be put off. I wouldn't give this to a young kid.
I first heard of F.J. Lennon when he was a guest on the Coast to Coast AM radio show (8/10/12). He sounded interesting, so I ordered his (as of the time I'm posting this) two novels. I didn't know what to expect. Opened the books and was immediately captivated.
F.J. Lennon knows how to tell the story. He keeps it moving forward, never dragging, painting the picture with just the right amount of detail to make the characters real and the settings vivid.
I'm in Los Angeles, and the book covers familiar turf, which adds to the fun. The local historical background which blends into the story is also correct.
With so many true details underlying it, the overall effect is to blur the line between reality and the author's imagination. It makes it easy and natural for me to follow the tale down the rabbit hole.
How to describe the book? Maybe call it supernatural-noir escapism. I enjoy it the way I enjoy the best of Mickey Spillane. If Mike Hammer were a young man in 2012, and he was something of a ghostbuster rather than a detective, then maybe his book would look something like this.
"Devil's Gate" is the second book in the series. If you're interested, you'll want to first look for Soul Trapper.
Warning: Raw language, raw situations. Narrator is gritty. I enjoyed it, but some will be put off. I wouldn't give this to a young kid.
July 19, 2020
not too sure what i think. wasn't sure where the band & him ghost hunting tied in together... almost seemed like 2 different stories. it wasn't that bad of a book, but definately not one of my favorites.
Read
November 7, 2012If you’re a latecomer to the Kane Pryce novels as I was, my suggestion is run, don’t walk to snatch up Lennon’s latest release, “Devil’s Gate.” Rich with the history of Pasadena’s famed Colorado Street Bridge…also known as a “Suicide Bridge,” the Devil’s Gate
Dam, the Los Angeles Rock-and-Roll scene, and the mysterious world of the paranormal, Lennon creates a moving tale that is sure to fit the needs of any reader’s tastes. Kane Pryce is on the verge of living a dream. It’s not just his dream, but also the dream of thousands of budding musicians across the world. He’s a talented guitarist with a real shot at the big time and he’s stashed away his aptly named Soul Trap—a device he’s effectively used to do exactly as it should. Kane’s focused on the future: women, drugs, and Rock-and-Roll. He doesn’t want to look back, well, not until he’s faced with a challenge from his ex-cohort, Ned Ross, and the prospect of a small fortune from a billionairess. They’re hired to spiritually clean the Suicide Bridge.
Ned and Kane quickly find that they’re outnumbered by ghouls gone-astray and malicious supernatural energy, and Mrs. Barrington, their benefactor, hasn’t been honest about her past or the links to the bridge and dam’s demonic past. They’ve bitten off more than they—or frankly, anyone—could chew and both Kane and Ned are struggling to juggle their separate worlds. Besieged by the demonic presence controlling the bridge, it’s soon reaching beyond to attack Kane when he should feel secure. Nowhere is safe.
A thought-provoking plot, “Devil’s Gate” is more than a battle between good vs. evil. It’s first class writing and the characters are unforgettable beyond the last page, as even the bridge and surrounding area practically become characters unto themselves. Lennon keeps the door wide open for the exceptional series and the in-depth duo to continue forward for the foreseeable future. I, for one, will be waiting.
Reviewed by Shannon Raab with Suspense Magazine
Dam, the Los Angeles Rock-and-Roll scene, and the mysterious world of the paranormal, Lennon creates a moving tale that is sure to fit the needs of any reader’s tastes. Kane Pryce is on the verge of living a dream. It’s not just his dream, but also the dream of thousands of budding musicians across the world. He’s a talented guitarist with a real shot at the big time and he’s stashed away his aptly named Soul Trap—a device he’s effectively used to do exactly as it should. Kane’s focused on the future: women, drugs, and Rock-and-Roll. He doesn’t want to look back, well, not until he’s faced with a challenge from his ex-cohort, Ned Ross, and the prospect of a small fortune from a billionairess. They’re hired to spiritually clean the Suicide Bridge.
Ned and Kane quickly find that they’re outnumbered by ghouls gone-astray and malicious supernatural energy, and Mrs. Barrington, their benefactor, hasn’t been honest about her past or the links to the bridge and dam’s demonic past. They’ve bitten off more than they—or frankly, anyone—could chew and both Kane and Ned are struggling to juggle their separate worlds. Besieged by the demonic presence controlling the bridge, it’s soon reaching beyond to attack Kane when he should feel secure. Nowhere is safe.
A thought-provoking plot, “Devil’s Gate” is more than a battle between good vs. evil. It’s first class writing and the characters are unforgettable beyond the last page, as even the bridge and surrounding area practically become characters unto themselves. Lennon keeps the door wide open for the exceptional series and the in-depth duo to continue forward for the foreseeable future. I, for one, will be waiting.
Reviewed by Shannon Raab with Suspense Magazine
September 4, 2012
Kane is an even bigger prick in this novel than he was in the first. After his blow up with Eva after she used the soul trap, the term "bitter" takes on a whole new meaning. Kane tries to leave his soul trapping days behind him, and with his recent success with his new band, sex, drugs and rock and roll start to define Kane.
The main site of thais book takes place at the Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena, also called Devils Bridge. I love that all the places that Kane visits in his journeys are actual places. I couldn't help but look up the Klerksdorp Sphere, Gravity Hill and of course the Devils Gate and the Devils Bridge. It's quite interesting side reading that adds a who,e different depth to the book.
I don't want to say to much about what transpires in this book, mostly because that's half the joy, seeing where Kane's jagged path will lead him. At one point your rooting for his music career to take off and hate the egomania that assaults him from Drexel. On the other hand, the soul trap is calling and the mystery just digs deeper.
The ending to this book was definitely a different time than the first, and I love it just as much. Kane took quite a journey on this one and you get to see and experience his growth and flood of emotions on this ride. I hope F.J. Lennon continues to write Kane Pryce novels, because that boy is just getting started....
December 28, 2014
I was so very happy when I found Devil's Gate. It had been about 6 months since I finished Soul Trapper, and I was genuinely missing Kane and Eva and Ned and their wonderful and horrible device.
The follow up to Soul Trapper delivers on every level. I won't give details in a review, because you should read the book. If I don't write anything about a book I've read, that says it all. If I'm moved to 'review' a book, its because I want others to experience what I did.
The Kane Pryce series is so entertaining, and such good reading, even just 2 books in, I'm completely sold. Its big fun!! I'm literally anxious for it continue.
The follow up to Soul Trapper delivers on every level. I won't give details in a review, because you should read the book. If I don't write anything about a book I've read, that says it all. If I'm moved to 'review' a book, its because I want others to experience what I did.
The Kane Pryce series is so entertaining, and such good reading, even just 2 books in, I'm completely sold. Its big fun!! I'm literally anxious for it continue.
October 9, 2012
An outstanding book; Lennon weaves together real paranormal reports, the occult, historical accounts and creates an exceptional story with highly creative and unexpected twists. As a sequel to Soul Trapper, this book still serves as a super stand-alone read, and it was easy to understand even without having read Soul Trapper first. The book is 400 pages, and every chapter leaves you wanting to remain wrapped up in the exciting and surprising evolution of the narrative.
October 9, 2015
I enjoyed this one a lot more than the first one but it's probably because I had all of the necessary background and it jumped right into the story for the most part. I would have liked the twist to be more of an actual twist. I had the actual JD pegged from pretty much the beginning of the story. For some people it might have been a shock though. If there's a third I will read it. Kane is a pretty likeable character, most of the time.
August 27, 2012
The soul Trapper is back and this time it involves suicides, homicides and Satan. Plus a healthy does of rock and roll and an archangel or two. More than a typical ghost story this book will leave you pondering life after death.
September 8, 2012
This is the first book in a long time that I could not get enough of cannot wait for the next book!
May 2, 2016
I rest enjoyed both Kane Pryce books, and hope there will be more.
January 22, 2013
Wouldn't say it was one of my favorites but I did enjoy most of it. There was a lot of emotional pain involved but it kept my interest. Good vs evil. I won't say who won out.
September 25, 2013
A sluggish storyline which makes you yawn.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews