After seeing the stage production twice, I was curious about what the original novel contained. From a writer's view it was quite an interesting struc...moreAfter seeing the stage production twice, I was curious about what the original novel contained. From a writer's view it was quite an interesting structure and format. From a reader's perspective, although at times you lose track of its direction, you soon find yourself back on the path of the story. As a classic it should be read by all. The stage production truly does this novel justice.(less)
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel o...more “The Black Witch” by Author Micheal Rivers
The gripping tale of a ship of doom…
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appreciate it when viewed from shore. But I do enjoy a good nautical tale, especially one with a paranormal theme, and respect the addiction and love many hold for sailing the seas.
The descriptive depiction of the ship drew me into this story then the lure of the sea as felt by its seafaring crews came next. I was drawn into the seemingly hypnotic grip which the Black Witch laid upon all that neared her. Unique in build, a magnificent vessel with a truly mysterious background of fatal voyages, I soon discovered I wanted to learn more about the coming journey of the doomed, assorted passengers. With a ghostly foundation being well set by the author, I wondered how each would fare, curious what trials were to be set upon them.
The spectrum of characters is well balanced. Their diversity at first leaves you interested in how they will interface, yet by the novel’s end each retained an appropriate part in what became horrific experiences. Whether you believe in the devil or not, the demon that walks the ship plays havoc with your thoughts, leaving you disturbed at how he plies upon the weaknesses of mankind, taking pleasures as he desires against anyone’s will.
In truth, I became so absorbed in my reading at one point that I startled when my dog stood and nosed me for attention. I found myself wanting to know what lay next for the passengers and how much worse their plight could be—and when I believed I knew what might come, something different occurred to my surprise.
So for those readers who love an adventurous seafaring tale with a depth of paranormal blended tightly within, The Black Witch is worth the read. And if I were to ever buy a boat, which I doubt, it surely will not have the name “The Black Witch” painted along its sides. (less)
This is the sequel to Guild's "The Assyrian." Being one of his fans, I enjoyed this book and wish he had not stopped writing. There was supposed to be...moreThis is the sequel to Guild's "The Assyrian." Being one of his fans, I enjoyed this book and wish he had not stopped writing. There was supposed to be a third book to follow "The BloodStar" and quite a disappointment when I learned he stopped writing.
If you love good action, deep thought, and fantastic writing, then read "The Assyrian" first then "The Bloodstar." Superb writing. (less)
I received a copy of “Bloodstains” from a friend. My only knowledge of it was that the author was said to be...moreReview: “Bloodstains” Author: Jeff Mudgett
I received a copy of “Bloodstains” from a friend. My only knowledge of it was that the author was said to be the great-great-grandson of a man believed to have been Jack the Ripper. As a former law enforcement officer my interest in the psychological makeup of serial killers and sociopaths was heightened by this book. I had read articles, books, watched movies and documentaries, and heard countless theories about the true “Jack.” Nothing seemed of a definitive nature to truly identify the infamous murderer and in all honesty, part of me doubted this writing would be any different. But, I remained open to all possibilities—and am glad I did. I wasn’t disappointed in the least.
In the prologue you are introduced to Herman Webster Mudgett, the great-great-grandfather. History knows him as Dr. H. H. Holmes, the infamous serial killer, yet calling him such does his pure evil little justice as you come to know him throughout the book. In the cover’s photo of Holmes’ eyes you sense he is devoid of emotion. It is the indifferent stare of a man who sets his own boundaries of humanity regardless of how degenerate they may be.
Within the first chapter you realize a dysfunctional chord runs throughout the Mudgett family. Bert, the grandfather, was a man who remained to himself: cold, hard, seemingly without love from his family, or displays of love to anyone. In life he was focused on his grandson, Jeff. Yet never was there outward affection a loving grandfather should have for a grandson. In death, he was only considered with disregard. Other family members have their problems as well, but it is Jeff’s introspection as an adult, his questions about lack of emotions, concerns about his lineage, his odd thoughts and such that becomes our focal point. And it is not until his father presents two boxes, items willed to Jeff by an uncaring grandfather that the true essence of the book begins to be revealed.
I now take absolute care in not writing any form of spoiler pertaining to “Bloodstains.” I state this because the story is well written, each page so masterfully woven with the next that I fear too much information could easily be divulged. But once the boxes were produced, my mind locked upon them, demanding to learn more.
The boxes contain two private journals of his great-great-grandfather, Herman W. Mudgett, aka Dr. H. H. Holmes. The journals are keys which unlock doors of knowledge that have never been ventured through since the beast closed them. And like Pandora’s Box, once the doors were opened, the evil within escapes.
This book is not for anyone with a weak constitution. It is not a graphically written horror story or tainted with pornographic flavor. But it will be disturbing, chilling, and emotionally destructive to the average person innocent of the mindsets and actions of serial killers. I also believe there will be readers who do not complete the book simply because it evokes such a spectrum of horrid mental images.
You follow Jeff’s plight and struggle with his bloodline demon. You begin to learn information which contradicts other writings about H. H. Holmes, about Jack the Ripper, yet you will find yourself nodding agreement that this is plausible and sickeningly truthful. There will be moments of doubt and confusion, and you will wonder about Jeff’s own degree of sanity, but the threads of the story are so tightly woven that soon its full tapestry, however macabre, comes clearly into view.
Could a demon have risen from the entries of a murderer’s journal, infect and disease Jeff’s soul as it did, especially with the writer being his lineage? Such a question is one each individual must answer for themselves. After having spent time as part of a paranormal investigative team and researched related subject matter through the years, I would not cast it all aside as foolishness. After all, the Catholic Church still performs exorcisms.
The presentation of Dr. H. H. Holmes in “Bloodstains” rightfully depicts a man as heartless as Vlad the Impaler, but displays a level of intelligence worthy of acknowledgment in the field of medicine. This acceptance of his dual nature creates conflict with a reader because you want to see him solely as a wrong-doer, not one involved with academic scientific pursuits.
When the last page was read, I sat in silence, debating my new concerns with all the tales about Jack the Ripper. Within the book I had viewed Jeff’s internal struggle with a demon so vile Hannibal Lecter paled in comparison to, and realized once more the mind still retains unexplored regions. I was relieved though that a troubled grandfather at last received his worthy redemption. And when I closed the book, I felt it remain in my thoughts for many hours.
“Bloodstains” is well written—no, it is masterfully written. Jeff Mudgett has bared himself for all to see, whether good or bad, presenting the reader with a turbulent story that allows for personal acceptance or denial. I give this book the highest marks for the depth its journey carries a reader. Everyone has skeletons in their family closet. Unfortunately, some have demons.
Glenn Starkey, Author “Solomon’s Men” “Year of the Ram” “The Cobra and Scarab: A Novel of Ancient Egypt” http://GlennStarkey.net(less)
I found this book to be a good assortment of tales and history. It appeared to be well researched and written. I would recommend it more as an excelle...moreI found this book to be a good assortment of tales and history. It appeared to be well researched and written. I would recommend it more as an excellent book to use for student or writers research than to read for short story interests. Regardless though, it appealed to me due to my enjoyment of historical facts. (less)
If you love history, old ghost tales, appreciate knowing more about areas you drive through while on vacation, or simply want to relax by the fireplac...moreIf you love history, old ghost tales, appreciate knowing more about areas you drive through while on vacation, or simply want to relax by the fireplace with a good read then “Ghosts of the North Carolina Shores” is a MUST HAVE for your literary collection.
North Carolina is a beautiful state, rich with history and wonderful people. I viewed this book as being someone’s personal tour guide as they drove through the state, relating unknown ghostly lore about the communities you may travel through.
The book immediately appealed to me on so many levels that I have difficulty limiting my review to a short passage. The civil war history was intriguing. The tales of ghostly spirits was well balanced in depth and length, leaving me with a want to know more. And throughout the book, I continually learned tidbits of Americana that were previously unknown to me.
As an author I found Mr. River’s writing style carried me smoothly from one short story to the next. I thoroughly enjoyed “Ghosts of the North Carolina Shores” from first page to last and willingly give it top ratings and recommendation.
Glenn Starkey Author of Solomon's Men, The Cobra and Scarab, and Year of the Ram(less)
The power of an ancient evil goddess is unleashed by a series of discovered writings. The volatile Middle East is thrust further into turmoil. A ticki...moreThe power of an ancient evil goddess is unleashed by a series of discovered writings. The volatile Middle East is thrust further into turmoil. A ticking-clock countdown exists between a museum consultant and Russian corporation’s henchmen as they race to find the remaining writings before she does. It’s all a lethal combination for a dramatic formula of chaos.
Written with a James Patterson flair and style for short, swift-paced dialogue, James Bryce’s “The Quest for Lorimer Jack” fits the bill for readers wanting the same flavor, only with an ancient, paranormal twist.
Although not a fan of Patterson’s writing styles, I must be honest and say that within a few chapters of Bryce’s book I found myself growing more interested in the characters and antiquities storyline. Yes, it’s a fast, easy read, but written and constructed in such a manner which makes you want to read one more paragraph before putting the novel away for the night.
Bryce has good characters and a fast moving tale, blended with the research of antiquities. Readers wanting to follow an intelligent hero through a series of novels should read “The Quest for Lorimer Jack.”
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appr...moreThe gripping tale of a ship of doom…
First, understand I am not one who enjoys being at sea aboard a vessel of any size. I like the ocean and best appreciate it when viewed from shore. But I do enjoy a good nautical tale, especially one with a paranormal theme, and respect the addiction and love many hold for sailing the seas.
The descriptive depiction of the ship drew me into this story then the lure of the sea as felt by its seafaring crews came next. I was drawn into the seemingly hypnotic grip which the Black Witch laid upon all that neared her. Unique in build, a magnificent vessel with a truly mysterious background of fatal voyages, I soon discovered I wanted to learn more about the coming journey of the doomed, assorted passengers. With a ghostly foundation being well set by the author, I wondered how each would fare, curious what trials were to be set upon them.
The spectrum of characters is well balanced. Their diversity at first leaves you interested in how they will interface, yet by the novel’s end each retained an appropriate part in what became horrific experiences. Whether you believe in the devil or not, the demon that walks the ship plays havoc with your thoughts, leaving you disturbed at how he plies upon the weaknesses of mankind, taking pleasures as he desires against anyone’s will.
In truth, I became so absorbed in my reading at one point that I startled when my dog stood and nosed me for attention. I found myself wanting to know what lay next for the passengers and how much worse their plight could be—and when I believed I knew what might come, something different occurred to my surprise.
So for those readers who love an adventurous seafaring tale with a depth of paranormal blended tightly within, The Black Witch is worth the read. And if I were to ever buy a boat, which I doubt, it surely will not have the name “The Black Witch” painted along its sides. (less)
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