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Black Hill Farm #1
Black Hill Farm: Book 1
When sixteen year-old Ben McCloud moves to Black Hill Farm, he soon falls in love with the mysterious and seductive Andrea Black.
Finding themselves alone on this remote farm and desperate to stay together, Ben and Andrea’s world spirals out of control. As they fight for survival, every step they take leads them into an ever darker world of forbidden love and despair.
A dark romance with a deadly twist.
This is a new adult novel recommended for 16 years +.
‘Black Hill Farm: Andy’s Diary’ Book 2 is Now Available!
Finding themselves alone on this remote farm and desperate to stay together, Ben and Andrea’s world spirals out of control. As they fight for survival, every step they take leads them into an ever darker world of forbidden love and despair.
A dark romance with a deadly twist.
This is a new adult novel recommended for 16 years +.
‘Black Hill Farm: Andy’s Diary’ Book 2 is Now Available!
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2011
15 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Tim O'Rourke
212 books1,044 followersTim is the author of over sixty books including the No 1 bestselling 'Kiera Hudson Series', 'Samantha Carter - Vampire Seeker Series', 'The Sydney Hart Mysteries', 'The Moon Trilogy, and 'The Mechanic' among other titles.
Tim is currently working on new Kiera Hudson books and other works.
Don't be shy; feel free to contact Tim at any of the following:
Email: Kierahudson91@aol.com
Website: www.timorourkeauthor.com
Tim O'Rourke Fan club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/offic...
Tim is currently working on new Kiera Hudson books and other works.
Don't be shy; feel free to contact Tim at any of the following:
Email: Kierahudson91@aol.com
Website: www.timorourkeauthor.com
Tim O'Rourke Fan club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/offic...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 65 reviews
January 11, 2023
4.5 stars for the story. It's not a layered tale ... no secondary characters and just one straightforward plot but that plot is good one! I was quite enthralled all the way through. Surprise ending twist ... those are always fun! 😲
3.5 stars for how the story was told. This is written in the form of police interview transcripts and the detective's notes. Those kinda literary shenanigans don't work for me ... they're silly and trite. Just tell the story. 🙄
3.5 stars for how the story was told. This is written in the form of police interview transcripts and the detective's notes. Those kinda literary shenanigans don't work for me ... they're silly and trite. Just tell the story. 🙄
April 12, 2013
OMG. This is an intense, horrific, jaw-dropping book. If you have read any of this author's other books, then put them all aside. This book stands alone. The shocks and twists - and even some humor - are in a class all by itself.
One of Tim's first books, this has now reached to the top of the favorite pile. I literally couldn't put it down. Cliche, I know, but I kept telling myself I was gonna have nightmares if I didnt stop reading. But did I? Of course not! Finished the book in 3 days (with nightmares).
I'm not even sure what to say about the story itself except be prepared for a lot of gore and shock. If you have a weak stomach, this isn't for you...but maybe I'm just a wimp ;) I think Tim channeled his inner Stephen King for this one!
Five. Massive. Stars!
One of Tim's first books, this has now reached to the top of the favorite pile. I literally couldn't put it down. Cliche, I know, but I kept telling myself I was gonna have nightmares if I didnt stop reading. But did I? Of course not! Finished the book in 3 days (with nightmares).
I'm not even sure what to say about the story itself except be prepared for a lot of gore and shock. If you have a weak stomach, this isn't for you...but maybe I'm just a wimp ;) I think Tim channeled his inner Stephen King for this one!
Five. Massive. Stars!
December 11, 2015
My original Black Hill Farm audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Following his parents’ deaths, sixteen-year-old Ben is sent to live with his uncle on an isolated farm on the South Coast of England. Life with an uncle he doesn’t know and with his mysterious cousin Andrea “Andy” is harsh. Written from the perspective of DCI John Walker, who has been conducting interviews with Ben in the police station, this dark and disturbing story unfolds through these interviews.
Black Hill Farm is a very chilling young adult horror story with elements of romance and the paranormal.
This was my first book by Tim O’Rourke, and immediately after finishing it, I had to download one of his other books. This guy can write. While I managed to predict some of the things that were going on here, I was totally drawn in by how wonderfully eerie and haunting this story was. Beware if you are squeamish, for a young adult book I thought this was pretty gory, but I loved it. It was super suspenseful with some great twists, and the way it all came together at the end was really cleverly done. There is a sequel, Andy’s Diary, which I can’t wait to listen to.
As far as Anna Parker-Naples’ narration is concerned, I initially kept wondering why a female narrator when most of the narrative was from a middle aged male policeman and a 16-year-old boy. It was a bit distracting at first, but I became so involved in the story, I quickly got used to it, and Anna Parker-Naples actually turned out to be a very talented narrator. Her emotive narration pulled me in and captivated me so much, I listened to the entire audio in one go. She really managed to bring these characters to life with distinct accents and traits.
To enjoy this, you don’t need to be a young adult reader. If you like scary tales and the supernatural and you don’t mind some brutal and gruesome scenes, then Black Hill Farm is a definite must-have.
Audiobook provided for review by the narrator.
Following his parents’ deaths, sixteen-year-old Ben is sent to live with his uncle on an isolated farm on the South Coast of England. Life with an uncle he doesn’t know and with his mysterious cousin Andrea “Andy” is harsh. Written from the perspective of DCI John Walker, who has been conducting interviews with Ben in the police station, this dark and disturbing story unfolds through these interviews.
Black Hill Farm is a very chilling young adult horror story with elements of romance and the paranormal.
This was my first book by Tim O’Rourke, and immediately after finishing it, I had to download one of his other books. This guy can write. While I managed to predict some of the things that were going on here, I was totally drawn in by how wonderfully eerie and haunting this story was. Beware if you are squeamish, for a young adult book I thought this was pretty gory, but I loved it. It was super suspenseful with some great twists, and the way it all came together at the end was really cleverly done. There is a sequel, Andy’s Diary, which I can’t wait to listen to.
As far as Anna Parker-Naples’ narration is concerned, I initially kept wondering why a female narrator when most of the narrative was from a middle aged male policeman and a 16-year-old boy. It was a bit distracting at first, but I became so involved in the story, I quickly got used to it, and Anna Parker-Naples actually turned out to be a very talented narrator. Her emotive narration pulled me in and captivated me so much, I listened to the entire audio in one go. She really managed to bring these characters to life with distinct accents and traits.
To enjoy this, you don’t need to be a young adult reader. If you like scary tales and the supernatural and you don’t mind some brutal and gruesome scenes, then Black Hill Farm is a definite must-have.
Audiobook provided for review by the narrator.
February 8, 2013
What to say about this book.....well I didn't see that coming!
I am an avid reader of Tim's Kiera Hudson and Cowgirl's & Vampires series and this is the third series I have got my teeth into.
After adjusting to the "Interview" type way it is written I just couldn't get to the end fast enough to find out who done it and why it was happening. This book is darker than the other series with just as many twists and turns with a shocking ending that I would never have guessed in a million years!
It's witty in places, with the genius that is Tim's mind littered throughout the book and the link to the other series had me gushing at the brilliance of the writing.
Fab read, that is yet another winner for Tim!
I am an avid reader of Tim's Kiera Hudson and Cowgirl's & Vampires series and this is the third series I have got my teeth into.
After adjusting to the "Interview" type way it is written I just couldn't get to the end fast enough to find out who done it and why it was happening. This book is darker than the other series with just as many twists and turns with a shocking ending that I would never have guessed in a million years!
It's witty in places, with the genius that is Tim's mind littered throughout the book and the link to the other series had me gushing at the brilliance of the writing.
Fab read, that is yet another winner for Tim!
May 6, 2012
Ok this book is definitely dark and surprised the hell out of me....it is not my usual reading material type but Tim has become one of my FAVE authors so decided to give it a try.
SOOO with that being said let me get on with it..I found it entertaining, but majorly disturbing...all I can say Emily the Cow just gives me the willies. It was a horror novel with a dash of teenage romance, a pinch of "Cujo", a sprinkling of the crypt keeper and a hand full of the insane asylum thrown into the mix.
I made the mistake of reading it at night and had to sleep with the light on. Not my favorite book BUT I am probably going to read the 2nd book just to see what else happened.
SOOO with that being said let me get on with it..I found it entertaining, but majorly disturbing...all I can say Emily the Cow just gives me the willies. It was a horror novel with a dash of teenage romance, a pinch of "Cujo", a sprinkling of the crypt keeper and a hand full of the insane asylum thrown into the mix.
I made the mistake of reading it at night and had to sleep with the light on. Not my favorite book BUT I am probably going to read the 2nd book just to see what else happened.
January 27, 2013
I love the way Tim O'Rourke writes, his style is captivating and his characters endearing. This book took my by surprise every chapter. I usually lie trying to guess what's coming and most of the times, I'm never too far off... in this book I felt frustrated with my guessing since I was never right. Black Hill farm is a book you should read, a place you should visit and a surprise you should have!!
November 6, 2015
Review of Audio book ‘Black Hill Farm’ Written by: Tim O'Rourke
Narrated by: Anna Parker-Naples
Great story beautifully narrated:
This is a young adult horror romance novel with a paranormal twist. I was so captivated with this audio that I listened to the whole thing in under 24 hours.
Set on a old dairy farm in modern day, rural Cornwall England, O’Rourke’s Genius with this story is that he leads you into the plot after the murders have taken place and then the whole of the past events is spread out before you, so you get to unravel it along with the unwitting police, but just when you think that you know the facts, there is more, much more.
What a tale! It starts off with Chief Inspector John Walker interviewing 16 year old Ben McCloud under the watchful eye of Ms. Hughes from child services.
Ben who had turned up at the police station and told them that he wanted to confess to murder at the farm, did not appear to be the stereo typical serial murder, and throughout the questioning John noticeably makes notes highlighting this, which we get to share between the taped interviews.
John is an old and skilled inspector who is in charge of the murders at Black Hill farm. He likes to do things by the rule book and finds the way that Ben insists on conducting the interview frustrating. However with no leads he is prepared to sit it out, give him more rope, to hang himself as the old county expression goes.
Ben is keen to tell his story and leaves no detail untold, the story is of true and enduring love, of betrayal of lost dreams. It is full of dark twists that will leave you on feeling happy but also devastated at times and gasping in wonder. O'Rourke wrote economically with his characters, every one was important, even the once who did appear so at first.
To me the best bit is the way the story has been brought to live by the extremely talented Ann Parker-Naples. Anna uses a wide range of voices and a depth of emotions in her narration of Black Hill Farm. She makes the characters so believable and she has the perfect voice for the young heroine Andy, and I was able to picture this 17 year beautiful blond girl in my mind clearly as Anna spoke. I was also able to picture all the other well written and narrated characters. I loved how Anna made Mr Parker so slimly, Emily the old cow more dribbley, Ben sound so lost and Inspector John sound so very human. Anna has a supreme talent to understand how the authors see their characters and she crafts her voice which such a all encompassing gentle power that you are literally lifted out of your seats to sit in the rooms in black hill farm and experience every feeling; every happiness like the wonders of biting into a birthday cake, romance of sharing a bath to the complete horror of staring at a magott infested face.
I could say much more but I don’t want to spoil the ending for you, so I will end by simply saying that this audio book is a triumph and one that you should defiantly add to your collection.
Narrated by: Anna Parker-Naples
Great story beautifully narrated:
This is a young adult horror romance novel with a paranormal twist. I was so captivated with this audio that I listened to the whole thing in under 24 hours.
Set on a old dairy farm in modern day, rural Cornwall England, O’Rourke’s Genius with this story is that he leads you into the plot after the murders have taken place and then the whole of the past events is spread out before you, so you get to unravel it along with the unwitting police, but just when you think that you know the facts, there is more, much more.
What a tale! It starts off with Chief Inspector John Walker interviewing 16 year old Ben McCloud under the watchful eye of Ms. Hughes from child services.
Ben who had turned up at the police station and told them that he wanted to confess to murder at the farm, did not appear to be the stereo typical serial murder, and throughout the questioning John noticeably makes notes highlighting this, which we get to share between the taped interviews.
John is an old and skilled inspector who is in charge of the murders at Black Hill farm. He likes to do things by the rule book and finds the way that Ben insists on conducting the interview frustrating. However with no leads he is prepared to sit it out, give him more rope, to hang himself as the old county expression goes.
Ben is keen to tell his story and leaves no detail untold, the story is of true and enduring love, of betrayal of lost dreams. It is full of dark twists that will leave you on feeling happy but also devastated at times and gasping in wonder. O'Rourke wrote economically with his characters, every one was important, even the once who did appear so at first.
To me the best bit is the way the story has been brought to live by the extremely talented Ann Parker-Naples. Anna uses a wide range of voices and a depth of emotions in her narration of Black Hill Farm. She makes the characters so believable and she has the perfect voice for the young heroine Andy, and I was able to picture this 17 year beautiful blond girl in my mind clearly as Anna spoke. I was also able to picture all the other well written and narrated characters. I loved how Anna made Mr Parker so slimly, Emily the old cow more dribbley, Ben sound so lost and Inspector John sound so very human. Anna has a supreme talent to understand how the authors see their characters and she crafts her voice which such a all encompassing gentle power that you are literally lifted out of your seats to sit in the rooms in black hill farm and experience every feeling; every happiness like the wonders of biting into a birthday cake, romance of sharing a bath to the complete horror of staring at a magott infested face.
I could say much more but I don’t want to spoil the ending for you, so I will end by simply saying that this audio book is a triumph and one that you should defiantly add to your collection.
February 13, 2012
RATING: 5 DARK, CAPTIVATING STARS!!
WOW!
CREEPY!
VERY DARK
INSANELY CAPTIVATING!
A THRILLER THAT TWISTS THE READER
INSIDE & OUT
TIM IS FEARLESS WITH HIS CHARACTERS!
I could so easily see this book made into a play. I visualise the stage with the left hand corner set up as the interview room where Chief Inspector John Walker, the suspect, Ben McCloud and Ms. Hughes, the Appropriate Adult sit and the interview takes place. Ben’s story is recorded regarding the events that took place at Black Hill Farm.
The lights go dark over left of centre stage.
The lights go on over centre stage. The scenes are acted out from Ben’s point of view, telling the story of Black Hill Farm.
Right of centre stage, would be John’s scenes.
This is an incredible read, very dark and twisted. If you have read any of Tim’s Kiera Hudson series, he doesn’t shy away from gore, dark moments and twists and turns in his story telling.
Hold on to your seats in this tale of Andy and Ben, cousins who live at Black Hill Farm with Andy’s father, Uncle Michael. Ben is an orphan and he has come to live with his relatives.
This story has few characters. Andy, Ben, Uncle Michael, Parker, the fortunetella, John Walker and of course last but not least, Emily-the-old-cow.
Andy and Ben are characters that I felt almost sad for. They have many secrets that are dark and dangerous. They are barely holding on.
Tim weaves a lot into this book and what happens at the end............EeeEeeppppp!!
This is a very different, twisted, dark, captivating tale which has even more to offer the reader in book 2, Andy’s Diary.
This is not a happy tale filled with unicorns and rainbows, it is a stunningly twisted tale of characters who want to be loved and have been let down too much by those that should have cared and not given enough time with those that did.
Tim in my eyes is unfolding to become a true Master of deceiving the reader.
WOW!
CREEPY!
VERY DARK
INSANELY CAPTIVATING!
A THRILLER THAT TWISTS THE READER
INSIDE & OUT
TIM IS FEARLESS WITH HIS CHARACTERS!
I could so easily see this book made into a play. I visualise the stage with the left hand corner set up as the interview room where Chief Inspector John Walker, the suspect, Ben McCloud and Ms. Hughes, the Appropriate Adult sit and the interview takes place. Ben’s story is recorded regarding the events that took place at Black Hill Farm.
The lights go dark over left of centre stage.
The lights go on over centre stage. The scenes are acted out from Ben’s point of view, telling the story of Black Hill Farm.
Right of centre stage, would be John’s scenes.
This is an incredible read, very dark and twisted. If you have read any of Tim’s Kiera Hudson series, he doesn’t shy away from gore, dark moments and twists and turns in his story telling.
Hold on to your seats in this tale of Andy and Ben, cousins who live at Black Hill Farm with Andy’s father, Uncle Michael. Ben is an orphan and he has come to live with his relatives.
This story has few characters. Andy, Ben, Uncle Michael, Parker, the fortunetella, John Walker and of course last but not least, Emily-the-old-cow.
Andy and Ben are characters that I felt almost sad for. They have many secrets that are dark and dangerous. They are barely holding on.
Tim weaves a lot into this book and what happens at the end............EeeEeeppppp!!
This is a very different, twisted, dark, captivating tale which has even more to offer the reader in book 2, Andy’s Diary.
This is not a happy tale filled with unicorns and rainbows, it is a stunningly twisted tale of characters who want to be loved and have been let down too much by those that should have cared and not given enough time with those that did.
Tim in my eyes is unfolding to become a true Master of deceiving the reader.
February 13, 2012
MICHELLE'S REVIEW:
RATING: 5 DARK , CAPTIVATING STARS!!
WOW!
CREEPY!
VERY DARK
INSANELY CAPTIVATING!
A THRILLER THAT TWISTS THE READER
INSIDE & OUT
TIM IS FEARLESS WITH HIS CHARACTERS!
I could so easily see this book made into a play. I visualise the stage with the left hand corner set up as the interview room where Chief Inspector John Walker, the suspect, Ben McCloud and Ms. Hughes, the Appropriate Adult sit and the interview takes place. Ben’s story is recorded regarding the events that took place at Black Hill Farm.
The lights go dark over left of centre stage.
The lights go on over centre stage. The scenes are acted out from Ben’s point of view, telling the story of Black Hill Farm.
Right of centre stage, would be John’s scenes.
This is an incredible read, very dark and twisted. If you have read any of Tim’s Kiera Hudson series, he doesn’t shy away from gore, dark moments and twists and turns in his story telling.
Hold on to your seats in this tale of Andy and Ben, cousins who live at Black Hill Farm with Andy’s father, Uncle Michael. Ben is an orphan and he has come to live with his relatives.
This story has few characters. Andy, Ben, Uncle Michael, Parker, the fortunetella, John Walker and of course last but not least, Emily-the-old-cow.
Andy and Ben are characters that I felt almost sad for. They have many secrets that are dark and dangerous. They are barely holding on.
Tim weaves a lot into this book and what happens at the end............EeeEeeppppp!!
This is a very different, twisted, dark, captivating tale which has even more to offer the reader in book 2, Andy���s Diary.
This is not a happy tale filled with unicorns and rainbows, it is a stunningly twisted tale of characters who want to be loved and have been let down too much by those that should have cared and not given enough time with those that did.
Tim in my eyes is unfolding to become a true Master of deceiving the reader.
RATING: 5 DARK , CAPTIVATING STARS!!
WOW!
CREEPY!
VERY DARK
INSANELY CAPTIVATING!
A THRILLER THAT TWISTS THE READER
INSIDE & OUT
TIM IS FEARLESS WITH HIS CHARACTERS!
I could so easily see this book made into a play. I visualise the stage with the left hand corner set up as the interview room where Chief Inspector John Walker, the suspect, Ben McCloud and Ms. Hughes, the Appropriate Adult sit and the interview takes place. Ben’s story is recorded regarding the events that took place at Black Hill Farm.
The lights go dark over left of centre stage.
The lights go on over centre stage. The scenes are acted out from Ben’s point of view, telling the story of Black Hill Farm.
Right of centre stage, would be John’s scenes.
This is an incredible read, very dark and twisted. If you have read any of Tim’s Kiera Hudson series, he doesn’t shy away from gore, dark moments and twists and turns in his story telling.
Hold on to your seats in this tale of Andy and Ben, cousins who live at Black Hill Farm with Andy’s father, Uncle Michael. Ben is an orphan and he has come to live with his relatives.
This story has few characters. Andy, Ben, Uncle Michael, Parker, the fortunetella, John Walker and of course last but not least, Emily-the-old-cow.
Andy and Ben are characters that I felt almost sad for. They have many secrets that are dark and dangerous. They are barely holding on.
Tim weaves a lot into this book and what happens at the end............EeeEeeppppp!!
This is a very different, twisted, dark, captivating tale which has even more to offer the reader in book 2, Andy���s Diary.
This is not a happy tale filled with unicorns and rainbows, it is a stunningly twisted tale of characters who want to be loved and have been let down too much by those that should have cared and not given enough time with those that did.
Tim in my eyes is unfolding to become a true Master of deceiving the reader.
May 2, 2011
I had seen an ad on Facebook for this book and just the title drew me in. I read the description on Goodreads and added it to my to-read list. Right off the bat I was so engrossed, sucked in to the story that I didn't want to put it down. This book was written from the perspective of the Detective and his notes of the interview with the suspect, and I actually really enjoyed it that way. It was the complete opposite from any other book that I had read. As the Suspect is telling his story there is enough detail that it left nothing to wonder and I could picture it all in my mind as I was reading. I don't like to spoil a good book for anyone but I have to admit that I had a feeling about one of the characters but once I got to almost the end of the book I was half right and half wrong about that certain person. The ending through me for a complete loop where I was screaming what just happened here (but in a really good way) I didn't see it coming at all and was actually kind of sad the book was over. Tim O'Rourke has a new fan. I hope his other book "Zachary Black & The Doorways To Endra" is just as good as "Black Hill Farm" was and look forward to new books from him. As much as I wanted to give this book 5 stars, I couldn't because of a few (and trust me it's not many) spelling errors, which I seem to notice a lot of e-books have.
Overall, well done Tim! Thank you for a great, odd story!
Overall, well done Tim! Thank you for a great, odd story!
April 22, 2012
This book is definitely a turn on all the lights and crawl under the covers whilst being freaked out kinda book! I loved it; just when you think you know where the story is going your thrown in a different direction. O'Rourke keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout both books in anticipation for what awaits around the next corner.
In this dark tale of Romance, Murder and Mystery you will be kept guessing right up until the very end when you will be shocked and blown away at the ending.
Our two main characters, Ben and Andrea, form an almost unbreakable bond in a relationship that is doomed before it even begins. Quickly getting out of their control and ultimately leading to Murder as they struggle to stay alive and stay together. It is difficult to say much more without giving something away! You simply must read these books; Black Hill Farm book 1 is the beginning and ending of their journey together BUT it doesn't explain their entire story. Black Hill Farm book 2, Andy's Diary, really brings the story to a climatic ending explaining some things that may have left you wondering in the first book. The same story, told from 2 different POV and yet, it's almost as if O'Rourke has written a 2 book series here.
I am excited to read Tim O'Rourke's other works as the BHF books left my mouth watering for more!
5 Feathers people, be warned, this is NOT a YA book.. it is an Adult Murder Mystery, sort of Twilight Zone-esque!
In this dark tale of Romance, Murder and Mystery you will be kept guessing right up until the very end when you will be shocked and blown away at the ending.
Our two main characters, Ben and Andrea, form an almost unbreakable bond in a relationship that is doomed before it even begins. Quickly getting out of their control and ultimately leading to Murder as they struggle to stay alive and stay together. It is difficult to say much more without giving something away! You simply must read these books; Black Hill Farm book 1 is the beginning and ending of their journey together BUT it doesn't explain their entire story. Black Hill Farm book 2, Andy's Diary, really brings the story to a climatic ending explaining some things that may have left you wondering in the first book. The same story, told from 2 different POV and yet, it's almost as if O'Rourke has written a 2 book series here.
I am excited to read Tim O'Rourke's other works as the BHF books left my mouth watering for more!
5 Feathers people, be warned, this is NOT a YA book.. it is an Adult Murder Mystery, sort of Twilight Zone-esque!
November 28, 2012
I am a huge fan of Tim's Kiera Hudson series from way back but did not for whatever reason pick up this book till now. Honestly in the beginning I was finding it difficult to get involved in the story as the detached kind of way it was narrated by McCloud kept me from getting invested in the characters. I decided to persevere as knowing the author it had to be a good book so I kept reading and I must say that just over half way through I was completely overwhelmed. This confession of sorts from McCloud was bizarre to say the least and the circumstances surrounding his relationship with Andy was kind of obsessive yet their interaction was stilted and unromantic. It was more like two broken people drawn together by circumstances and then held together because the alternative was too terrible to consider. The finely woven threads were coming together and I did figure out Emily quite early on in the piece. The gamut of emotions I experienced from recoiling in horror and disgust to emphasising on some level with McCloud and then the disbelief over the ending as it was a total surprise to me. I originally thought it was more of a CSI type novel but I should have known better as the undercurrents were there and I just did not see the signs. This is what a wonderful story teller does, he surprises, confuses and amazes you and you never want the story to end. I am avidly reading Andy's Diary now while I wait for the next Kiera book to be released.
May 15, 2011
I’m still reeling an hour after finishing this novel—this was a superb read and I just can’t get over how incredibly creepy it is. I feel a little like I’ve been kicked in the gut… a little queasy… but not in a bad way, if that makes sense? It’s riveting and surprising and I still can’t catch my breath. Black Hill Farm is a crazy psychological thriller, and I found it impossible to put down, especially as events began to pick up as Ben McCloud’s world sputtered out of control.
I love the way O’Rourke put this novel together; it’s the transcript of the police interview John Walker conducted with Ben McCloud as he confesses to the murders at Black Hill Farm. Walker begins the story explaining that, in order to find peace, he feels the need to share the transcript, along with his thoughts and feelings, in order to clear the air. From there, the novel takes off in rapid succession as McCloud starts his tale from the very beginning; from the first time he ever saw Black Hill Farm.
To read my full review (6/10):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
I love the way O’Rourke put this novel together; it’s the transcript of the police interview John Walker conducted with Ben McCloud as he confesses to the murders at Black Hill Farm. Walker begins the story explaining that, in order to find peace, he feels the need to share the transcript, along with his thoughts and feelings, in order to clear the air. From there, the novel takes off in rapid succession as McCloud starts his tale from the very beginning; from the first time he ever saw Black Hill Farm.
To read my full review (6/10):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
March 10, 2015
4½ stars for this one
By Tim O'Rourke a new author , for me , but I will certainly be looking into his other books.
I was given this audiobook in return for an honest review.
This was a very unusual story, told mainly through a boys confession at the police station. The plot was very cleaverly put together, gradually getting darker and darker, with one hell of a twist at the end ..... I can see that this continues as a series , and would certainly like to hear more when it's out in audio download .
the Narration was done by Anna Parker-Naples, whilst being a very talented narrator , I personly did not feel that she was the right choice for this book. Her voice is very young girl sounding and although the two main characters are teenagers, I didn't feel it was well suited. I found it a bit distracting to start with , but the story is too well told to be ruined completely by this.
By Tim O'Rourke a new author , for me , but I will certainly be looking into his other books.
I was given this audiobook in return for an honest review.
This was a very unusual story, told mainly through a boys confession at the police station. The plot was very cleaverly put together, gradually getting darker and darker, with one hell of a twist at the end ..... I can see that this continues as a series , and would certainly like to hear more when it's out in audio download .
the Narration was done by Anna Parker-Naples, whilst being a very talented narrator , I personly did not feel that she was the right choice for this book. Her voice is very young girl sounding and although the two main characters are teenagers, I didn't feel it was well suited. I found it a bit distracting to start with , but the story is too well told to be ruined completely by this.
May 2, 2012
I was introduced to Tim O'Rourke thru the Kiera Hudson Series (which I HIGHLY recommend BTW!!) and I will be forever grateful :] this author truely has a way of pulling you into his stories right from the beginning & not letting go til the very end. this story was no different. Gritty, gruesome, and messy, farm life will never be the same again!! But be prepared, you will not see the end coming til it smacks you in the face. That is one of my favorite things about this Author, he sure favors his twists & turns. The one thing you can ALWAYS expect from Mr O'Rourke is the out-of-the-blue unexpected. I highly recommend reading every single one of his books, just be prepared to put in the time. Once you start reading, its damn near impossable to stop LMAO
November 29, 2012
I just realised I haven't written a review for this flipping fantastic book.This is the first book of Mr.O'Rourke's that I read.I am now a die hard fan of his.I gobble up anything that he write.This book is so twisted and chilling,but things are not what they seem.I love the way it was written from one of the main character's (Ben) point of view.It goes back and forth from present day to the past as he retells horrifying events that happen at Black Hill Farm.You will be slack jawed with the surprise ending.I love this book and series!!!!Once you are finished with this...you must read the second in the series..Andy's Diary.It will answer many questions and have you shaking your head is disbelief!
January 9, 2015
Wow. Just Wow! As we are drawn into the lives of the people living on Black Hill Farm I found myself questioning if what I was hearing was the truth.... Through Sgt. John's report and the words of Ben McCloud we are led further into a world of developing love, betrayal, accidental death, suicide and murder. It was my need to get through the speculation and did that really just happen that kept me turning the pages. Another amazing read by one of my favourite authors. Don't even get me started of the first line of the 2nd book as I can guarantee I will be starting and finishing Andy's Diary today! Thanks Tim, as always you managed to keep me guessing right to the end....
June 7, 2016
WOW! I am not sure what I was expecting when I first started this one, but I could not put it down. I was afraid I would have a hard time getting into it because it is written as the transcript of a British Police officer...I thought I would be bored with the style. O'Rourke nailed this style of writing and had no problem keeping my attention.
This novel has everything a good psychological thriller should have...estranged characters, a troubled background, isolated setting. No detail was left out, and I was shocked when the story completely unfolded. I love when a good book can trick me right up to the end!
This novel has everything a good psychological thriller should have...estranged characters, a troubled background, isolated setting. No detail was left out, and I was shocked when the story completely unfolded. I love when a good book can trick me right up to the end!
September 15, 2011
“Black Hill Farm” drops the reader into a dysfunctional family and a relative who joins them, resulting in a cataclysm of events that result in inter-family intrigue and murder. I especially liked the story’s presentation, with the police inspector interviews driving the plot. Living in the isolation of a farm near nowhere, and having few people to count on, the characters live and scheme in what appears to be a small world, but for them is the entire world. I highly recommend this book to those that enjoy suspense where things are not what they seem. Four stars!
July 13, 2012
Full Review at Talk Supe
Everything that Tim said and implied in BLACK HILL FARM was enough to set my mind reeling. Ben and Andy's background in particular was deeply disturbing Freud will have a field day analyzing these teens. They went through so much for a pair of 16yo teens it's no wonder their moral compass doesn't point North anymore. But it's how they coped with the tragedies in the Farm that got me really perturbed, only a deranged person can survive in that Farm the way these two have.
Everything that Tim said and implied in BLACK HILL FARM was enough to set my mind reeling. Ben and Andy's background in particular was deeply disturbing Freud will have a field day analyzing these teens. They went through so much for a pair of 16yo teens it's no wonder their moral compass doesn't point North anymore. But it's how they coped with the tragedies in the Farm that got me really perturbed, only a deranged person can survive in that Farm the way these two have.
September 23, 2014
At first, I was like...I bet this would be a very boring book which I will only read half way and throw it aside.
Boy, I was wrong and all my guesses on who is the culprit throw mw tumbling down hill. It's really not who I thought it would be!
Written as a diary entry the story got me entwined with the storyline as much as the character. Although some scene might be bleak (to me), but follow up event is not as what I expected it would be. I ended up got my nose stuck to this book until the end.
Really looking forward to next installment of this series...
Boy, I was wrong and all my guesses on who is the culprit throw mw tumbling down hill. It's really not who I thought it would be!
Written as a diary entry the story got me entwined with the storyline as much as the character. Although some scene might be bleak (to me), but follow up event is not as what I expected it would be. I ended up got my nose stuck to this book until the end.
Really looking forward to next installment of this series...
December 16, 2012
Excellent.... the depth of the dark love he has makes you shout "NO!!! Wake up BOY!!!" Is it just him being young and foolish? Perhaps, but most of us have experience unrelenting love/lust for someone that we should NOT have those feelings for! The end - holy sh**... Can only be described as BOOM!!!! Just when you are totally not expecting it or predicting what might happen and Mr O'Rourke turns everything on his head - A. GAIN!!!
June 28, 2011
This is the first book I read from author Tim O'Rourke and I loved it. This is a dark paranormal romance that really got me sucked into the story. One twist inparticular I still can't get over. I love the way the author set out the book as twelve police interviews. I have never read anything like this before. This is the sort of book that is left playing on your mind long after you finish it.
July 4, 2013
There is only one thing in my mind after reading this AWESOME book:
Out On the wiley, windy moors
We'd roll and fall in green
You had a temper, like my jealousy
Too hot, too greedy
How could you leave me
When I needed to possess you?
I hated you, I loved you too ...
Again, Tim thanks soooo much for this wonderfull read, I LOVED it soooo much.
You're the best !!!
Out On the wiley, windy moors
We'd roll and fall in green
You had a temper, like my jealousy
Too hot, too greedy
How could you leave me
When I needed to possess you?
I hated you, I loved you too ...
Again, Tim thanks soooo much for this wonderfull read, I LOVED it soooo much.
You're the best !!!
November 30, 2012
My head is so crowded right now. Way to make the reader lose their mind Tim O'Rourke! That was beyond brilliant! Ben had me questioning his sanity through the whole book. I never thought that he was too bright in the beginning. Yet in the end, he had me with my jaw on the floor. I'm eager to start book 2 (Andy's Diary) so I'll just get right to it! Great read!
August 13, 2016
I loved the way this story was told by the investigating inspector and the interrogation of a suspect of a series of murders. It was creepy and dark. The characters were interesting and by the end, it left me really wanting to read the next book, Andy's Diary, because Andy was left as such an intriguing and mysterious character. I also enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the story.
January 6, 2012
SOOOO good! Another great one!
November 5, 2012
it was good loved the twist at the end.kept u thinking.
May 26, 2012
Very cool twist at the end!
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