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Reaper's Walk #1
Reaper’s Walk: Hellstone
After 10 generations, the Reaper is coming to collect his due...
The dark witch, Umaa, was raised for one purpose: to punish the white men for taking her people as slaves. Her revenge was terrible. Harper’s Town burned along with every living thing within its boundaries. The price was to be her soul, but she cheated death and even cheated the Devil. Impressed, Satan postponed his payment for 10 generations.
In the modern era, Lita Harper is the ten-times descendent of Umaa. The circle is closing, and it’s time for the Reaper to collect her soul.
Lita learns the shocking truth about the cursed patch of Washington D.C. that had once been Harper’s Town, and of the hooded figure carrying a scythe who can be seen patrolling the perimeter of the area known as... The Reaper’s Walk.
The dark witch, Umaa, was raised for one purpose: to punish the white men for taking her people as slaves. Her revenge was terrible. Harper’s Town burned along with every living thing within its boundaries. The price was to be her soul, but she cheated death and even cheated the Devil. Impressed, Satan postponed his payment for 10 generations.
In the modern era, Lita Harper is the ten-times descendent of Umaa. The circle is closing, and it’s time for the Reaper to collect her soul.
Lita learns the shocking truth about the cursed patch of Washington D.C. that had once been Harper’s Town, and of the hooded figure carrying a scythe who can be seen patrolling the perimeter of the area known as... The Reaper’s Walk.
- GenresHorror
204 pages, Paperback
First published October 11, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 9, 2012
There were a lot of things I loved about The Reaper's Walk: the plot development, the story, the characters and the theme. Don Frankilin created a world which incorporates just about every conceivable form of monster there is and turns them on two young women, Lita and Lydia.
Lita's grandmother calls her one day and says she needs to see her. When she arrives, her grandmother tells her the story of Umaa, a practitioner of dark magic. Interwoven in her tale are stories of Satan, curses, shapeshifters,witches, and the Grim Reaper. Lita soon discovers she is on a journey that will take her to the very depth of her soul.
I loved the mixture of cultures, the blend of European and African magic and the rich descriptions of mythology. What did not work for me was how rushed it felt in places. I found myself having to go back and re-read sections because there were elements I had missed and what I was reading, was not making sense. For me, there were a few too many things going on in the story at the same time. I would have preferred a more linear approach to a story this rich in detail rather than the plot and time jump between then and now.
All in all, a really good story, well written and very entertaining. I will definitely read more of Don Franklin's work. And if this is his first novel, I cannot wait for the next. The man has a talent for writing and weaving a tale.
Lita's grandmother calls her one day and says she needs to see her. When she arrives, her grandmother tells her the story of Umaa, a practitioner of dark magic. Interwoven in her tale are stories of Satan, curses, shapeshifters,witches, and the Grim Reaper. Lita soon discovers she is on a journey that will take her to the very depth of her soul.
I loved the mixture of cultures, the blend of European and African magic and the rich descriptions of mythology. What did not work for me was how rushed it felt in places. I found myself having to go back and re-read sections because there were elements I had missed and what I was reading, was not making sense. For me, there were a few too many things going on in the story at the same time. I would have preferred a more linear approach to a story this rich in detail rather than the plot and time jump between then and now.
All in all, a really good story, well written and very entertaining. I will definitely read more of Don Franklin's work. And if this is his first novel, I cannot wait for the next. The man has a talent for writing and weaving a tale.
November 4, 2012
To begin with Reaper's Walk: Hellstone (which I henceforth might refer to as: RWH) is the start of an ambitious 5-book project by Vermont-based author, Don Franklin. This may be his first novel, but it's clear that he's no stranger to the world of contemporary fantasy fiction, as he draws on a melange of sources from European, African and American mythology to construct a dense weave of a tale that revolves around Lita Harper, her cousin Lydia, and their two witchy grandmothers (Dora and Eva) as they struggle against an ancient contact that may well end with Lita having to surrender her very soul to Satan.
At the heart of this struggle is a race to discover four magical stones (one of which is the Hellstone of the title) that can control (and offer great power to) demons, witches, vampires and werewolves respectively. These stones may offer Lita a chance at saving her soul, but soon draws some terrifying and interested parties including an ancient vampire, a do-gooder werewolf gang, and a variety of demons, Satan, and Satan's chief aid, the (D.N.F.W.)** Grim Reaper (who graces the cover). This fine blend of adversaries and myth is one of the hallmarks of this book; in fact, you would be surprised to discover just how many characters Franklin has tucked into this relatively slim novel work
Another strength of RWH is that Franklin does a deft job of bouncing back and forth between story lines. The plot has a tightly-knit feel which is important because- for our heroes and villains- every minute counts and in fact, some important elements from the front thrid of the book (especially a planned exchange between Lita and Satan himself) play a big role in the final act. You get a nice sense of control throughout the book.
Consider me a Don Franklin fan, however, from my own perspective, there were a few things that could have used a bit of development. One was the rushed tone of the narrative which often felt like it was being delivered as part of a newspaper report. Scenes bounced quickly from one to another leading (honestly) to an ending that while smartly executed, felt a bit rushed and not as rich as it should have been.
Also, our two heroines, Lita and Lydia could have benefited from a bit more shading and complexity, and differentiation.
A few other notes of interest:
1. I was also very interested in reading RWH because Don Franklin is not a white author, which may seem like a funny reason to some people, but I recently became involved in a diversity reading challenge after I learned that- in my own reading habits- I read almost exclusively white authors (around 98% white). I also learned (as part of this diversity challenge) that the grand majority of published fantasy authors are white, so it was great for me to step outside of my own familiar zone and get a different POV. Franklin (who is African-American) does a solid job of integrating elements of cultural experience (including African lore and the painful history of slavery) into Hellstone.
2. This book also contains some great/ terrifying elements of horror, in particular in Franklin's creepy description of dark magic (brujura magic). In particular watch out for a spell called "the hunger" and a circle of protection that is cast with the aid of a dead cat; that's the stuff of nightmares.
All in all, Hellstone: Reaper's Walk is a finely scripted and bold thriller and I recommend it to fans of fantasy and horror.
footnote
** DNFW = Do Not F*ck With
At the heart of this struggle is a race to discover four magical stones (one of which is the Hellstone of the title) that can control (and offer great power to) demons, witches, vampires and werewolves respectively. These stones may offer Lita a chance at saving her soul, but soon draws some terrifying and interested parties including an ancient vampire, a do-gooder werewolf gang, and a variety of demons, Satan, and Satan's chief aid, the (D.N.F.W.)** Grim Reaper (who graces the cover). This fine blend of adversaries and myth is one of the hallmarks of this book; in fact, you would be surprised to discover just how many characters Franklin has tucked into this relatively slim novel work
Another strength of RWH is that Franklin does a deft job of bouncing back and forth between story lines. The plot has a tightly-knit feel which is important because- for our heroes and villains- every minute counts and in fact, some important elements from the front thrid of the book (especially a planned exchange between Lita and Satan himself) play a big role in the final act. You get a nice sense of control throughout the book.
Consider me a Don Franklin fan, however, from my own perspective, there were a few things that could have used a bit of development. One was the rushed tone of the narrative which often felt like it was being delivered as part of a newspaper report. Scenes bounced quickly from one to another leading (honestly) to an ending that while smartly executed, felt a bit rushed and not as rich as it should have been.
Also, our two heroines, Lita and Lydia could have benefited from a bit more shading and complexity, and differentiation.
A few other notes of interest:
1. I was also very interested in reading RWH because Don Franklin is not a white author, which may seem like a funny reason to some people, but I recently became involved in a diversity reading challenge after I learned that- in my own reading habits- I read almost exclusively white authors (around 98% white). I also learned (as part of this diversity challenge) that the grand majority of published fantasy authors are white, so it was great for me to step outside of my own familiar zone and get a different POV. Franklin (who is African-American) does a solid job of integrating elements of cultural experience (including African lore and the painful history of slavery) into Hellstone.
2. This book also contains some great/ terrifying elements of horror, in particular in Franklin's creepy description of dark magic (brujura magic). In particular watch out for a spell called "the hunger" and a circle of protection that is cast with the aid of a dead cat; that's the stuff of nightmares.
All in all, Hellstone: Reaper's Walk is a finely scripted and bold thriller and I recommend it to fans of fantasy and horror.
footnote
** DNFW = Do Not F*ck With
February 25, 2013
Bequeathed an unsuspecting legacy, Lita Harper has spent most of her life listening to tales surrounding the dark witch, Umaa. Stories about her ancestor have intrigued her from an early age. She knows that magic exists. She's had proof of it every day. Though, she's no longer sure as to whether the stories surrounding Umaa are really true.
An unexpected attack soon has her questioning that very fact. Delving into the secrets of her family's past, Lita soon realizes that there is definitely truth in fiction. Umaa really is what her family has said she is. It's a certainty she soon comes face to face with when her grandmother summons her ancestor's spirit from the profound pits of Hell.
Not sure as to what to make of the new knowledge she's been saddled with, Lita does her best to understand the machinations Umaa set forth in the past. She no longer doubts that there is a darker power in existence. Spirits and demons surround her every wake, and she knows that other supernaturals are sure to follow.
Determined to set Umaa's wrongs to right, once and for all, Lita sets off on a journey that is not one of her choosing. If she's to eliminate the threat against her family, she'll need to find the Hellstone. Sadly, it's whereabouts are unknown. Her family's legacy means everything to her, something she intends to preserve by any means necessary. One way or another, she'll do everything possible to thwart the Devil's plans.
A dark and totally twisted tale, Don Franklin draws us into a world where the dark magic, demons, and the secrets of the Underworld collide. He's taken a plethora of myths, and woven them in such a way that they'll have you wondering as to whether there's more truth to them than fable. He's introduced us to a myriad of supernaturals intent on getting their hands on a set of fabled stones said to enrich the holder in different ways. Stones that are capable of destroying the world as Lita knows it if used incorrectly.
I think this is the start of truly unique series. Don has certainly set things up in a way that leaves the reader wanting to know more. I found the lore surrounding Harper Town quite intriguing. So much so, that I can't wait to see what Lita does next as she strives to piece together the broken legacy Umaa has left behind.
An unexpected attack soon has her questioning that very fact. Delving into the secrets of her family's past, Lita soon realizes that there is definitely truth in fiction. Umaa really is what her family has said she is. It's a certainty she soon comes face to face with when her grandmother summons her ancestor's spirit from the profound pits of Hell.
Not sure as to what to make of the new knowledge she's been saddled with, Lita does her best to understand the machinations Umaa set forth in the past. She no longer doubts that there is a darker power in existence. Spirits and demons surround her every wake, and she knows that other supernaturals are sure to follow.
Determined to set Umaa's wrongs to right, once and for all, Lita sets off on a journey that is not one of her choosing. If she's to eliminate the threat against her family, she'll need to find the Hellstone. Sadly, it's whereabouts are unknown. Her family's legacy means everything to her, something she intends to preserve by any means necessary. One way or another, she'll do everything possible to thwart the Devil's plans.
A dark and totally twisted tale, Don Franklin draws us into a world where the dark magic, demons, and the secrets of the Underworld collide. He's taken a plethora of myths, and woven them in such a way that they'll have you wondering as to whether there's more truth to them than fable. He's introduced us to a myriad of supernaturals intent on getting their hands on a set of fabled stones said to enrich the holder in different ways. Stones that are capable of destroying the world as Lita knows it if used incorrectly.
I think this is the start of truly unique series. Don has certainly set things up in a way that leaves the reader wanting to know more. I found the lore surrounding Harper Town quite intriguing. So much so, that I can't wait to see what Lita does next as she strives to piece together the broken legacy Umaa has left behind.
March 14, 2013
(This review may contain spoilers).
(I received this book as part of the 'read...review...repeat' offer by Grey Hart Press).
I was a bit hesitant about requesting this book, but finally decided that the idea sounded intriguing enough and I was in the mood for a horror book.
The idea was one that particularly caught my attention. Witches haven't quite got to the constantly irritating stage with me that vampires and werewolves have and even though there were both in this book, I was fairly eager to read something that centered on witches.
I think there were too many characters introduced in the book. My head was spinning towards the end, with how many different heads I was getting in. That wouldn't have been such a bad thing, but the POV changed within the space of a few paragraphs, which wasn't nearly enough time for me to connect with the characters. I didn't find myself able to 'bond' with Lita and what happened with Eva didn't affect me at all.
I liked the portrayal of vampires - and that, currently, there seems to be no vampire romance going on. There were parts of the book I thought were rushed, while others seemed to drag on a bit too long - and the constant going back and forth with the explanation of the story behind the deal was a bit much. I think that, either the story should have been told at the beginning, or - if it had to be told in a flashback - it should have just been in one sitting, rather than having the characters pause to use the bathroom and eat.
I did like Angel and Dominic, even though I thought they could have been introduced earlier on. The author did a really good job with showing their relationship. Also, the descriptions of the violence and deaths in the book were particularly well done, enough so that I could see it happening in my mind.
I think that Lita and Lydia could have been combined into the same character. They came across as too similar to me. Dora and Eva were fairly similar in personality and character, too. I think the book would have benefited from combining more of the characters together and jumping less between different characters and time frames.
(I received this book as part of the 'read...review...repeat' offer by Grey Hart Press).
I was a bit hesitant about requesting this book, but finally decided that the idea sounded intriguing enough and I was in the mood for a horror book.
The idea was one that particularly caught my attention. Witches haven't quite got to the constantly irritating stage with me that vampires and werewolves have and even though there were both in this book, I was fairly eager to read something that centered on witches.
I think there were too many characters introduced in the book. My head was spinning towards the end, with how many different heads I was getting in. That wouldn't have been such a bad thing, but the POV changed within the space of a few paragraphs, which wasn't nearly enough time for me to connect with the characters. I didn't find myself able to 'bond' with Lita and what happened with Eva didn't affect me at all.
I liked the portrayal of vampires - and that, currently, there seems to be no vampire romance going on. There were parts of the book I thought were rushed, while others seemed to drag on a bit too long - and the constant going back and forth with the explanation of the story behind the deal was a bit much. I think that, either the story should have been told at the beginning, or - if it had to be told in a flashback - it should have just been in one sitting, rather than having the characters pause to use the bathroom and eat.
I did like Angel and Dominic, even though I thought they could have been introduced earlier on. The author did a really good job with showing their relationship. Also, the descriptions of the violence and deaths in the book were particularly well done, enough so that I could see it happening in my mind.
I think that Lita and Lydia could have been combined into the same character. They came across as too similar to me. Dora and Eva were fairly similar in personality and character, too. I think the book would have benefited from combining more of the characters together and jumping less between different characters and time frames.
December 22, 2012
From the first sentence of this book, I was hooked…and the more I read the better it got.
How Mr. Franklin could come up with such a new and fresh story is just amazing. I love the way the book starts with the curse and then it explodes. What a great mind Mr. Franklin has…to not only imagine such a exciting adventure but to also put it into a book that makes you feel like you are in the middle of all that is going on. This book scared me but I couldn't put it down wanting to know what was going to happen next.
It is brilliant the way that the author has woven together so many monsters and it works. If you like vampire stories it has it, if you like werewolf stories it has that also, or demons or witches or voodoo hoodoo it has all that also…and it all works/flows together seamlessly.
I loved this book and can’t wait for the next story.
How Mr. Franklin could come up with such a new and fresh story is just amazing. I love the way the book starts with the curse and then it explodes. What a great mind Mr. Franklin has…to not only imagine such a exciting adventure but to also put it into a book that makes you feel like you are in the middle of all that is going on. This book scared me but I couldn't put it down wanting to know what was going to happen next.
It is brilliant the way that the author has woven together so many monsters and it works. If you like vampire stories it has it, if you like werewolf stories it has that also, or demons or witches or voodoo hoodoo it has all that also…and it all works/flows together seamlessly.
I loved this book and can’t wait for the next story.
December 12, 2012
Hmmmm. I don't know exactly what to say about this book. I definitely think it was too short. The last chapter, is where the book really started gettin good. It was a great premise, but the execution of it seemed wrong. I gave it 3 stars, b/c the premise was great. I don't want to judge it too harshly b/c it was the 1st book by this author. Since I'm a writer, I hope someone will give me the same courtesy. I think the authors execution will get better & I hope he's workin on the next part of this book, cuz I'd want to read it.
December 18, 2012
The premise for Reaper's Walk is tantalizing enough to grab your attention immediately, but it is it's development that will hold your breath hostage until the last page is turned. There is a bit of everything for true lovers of the genre, from witches to werewolves in a supernatural cauldron that encompasses demons, vampires, the Grim Ripper and even werecats. The pace is unrelenting and the author is at his best when detailing obscure passages of times long past. Reaper's Walk is the perfect story to start a saga. Keep your eyes open for whatever Don Franklin has prepared for us next.
December 20, 2012
All I can say is "Job well done"! This story is so intriguing from start to finish. It captures you with the name alone. Every creature from werewolves to panthers come into play, while Lydia and Lita begin their journey. I simply cannot wait until the next book in the series. Don Franklin proves to be a great storyteller with vivid imagery, well-researched and developed characters, and great word play. I look to have him around for many years to come. I would recommend this book to anyone who isn't afraid of dark creatures or a wonderful story. You will love it! Great read!
November 21, 2012
Don Franklin brings heart back to horror. Reaper's Walk is a great orginal idea. As you read this novel you feel the love and excitement for the genre that he loves, I rank Don as one of the best up and coming horror writers. Not since Joe Mckinney, has a first novel had so much love for horror, and been brought to life behind the words on the page. If you read one new writer this year I highly recommend Don Franklin.
November 13, 2012
It took me a few pages to get into this book but once I did I was hooked. The story is fast paced and combines elements of a horror story and a thriller.
December 12, 2012
This book sucks you into the story. I flew through it because it kept my attention and there was no lack of action/drama going on during the story.
May 3, 2013
Review coming soon.
July 28, 2015
started iff a little slow but wow! it went crazy fast was awesome can't wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews