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A Night at the Asylum
Sara Featherstone is a loser. At twenty she is still indentured to her parents, her best friend is a closet clairvoyant, and her long time boyfriend just dumped her and refuses to tell her why. Five years ago her world ended with her brother, Tommy, running his motorcycle into a tree, and the life she might have led had never started.
Catapulted into the dark streets after a "visitation" from Tommy, Sara has no idea that all that wasted time is about to catch up with her. A chance encounter with a man wielding a knife sets in motion a chain of events so bizarre that Sara will soon question everything she has ever believed. From her boyfriend's fidelity to her best friend's innocence to what her brother knew about a missing classmate, irony is about to make Sara its bitch, and the next twelve hours might be her last.
Catapulted into the dark streets after a "visitation" from Tommy, Sara has no idea that all that wasted time is about to catch up with her. A chance encounter with a man wielding a knife sets in motion a chain of events so bizarre that Sara will soon question everything she has ever believed. From her boyfriend's fidelity to her best friend's innocence to what her brother knew about a missing classmate, irony is about to make Sara its bitch, and the next twelve hours might be her last.
156 pages, ebook
First published June 28, 2013
2 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Jade McCahon
1 book34 followersJade McCahon is an author, artist, musician, and friend to ghosts. She lives in Lawrence, Kansas, with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 4, 2013
~I received a copy of this book from the Lovers of Paranormal Goodreads group in exchange for an honest review.~
A Night at the Asylum is the story of the single most important twelve hours of 20-year-old Sara Featherstone's life. Sara is just a normal girl whose family has a tragic past. That is, until she dreams a very real dream where her dead brother, Tommy, speaks to her cryptically. In twelve hours she will be faced with a rapid-fire turn of events that include communicating with her dead brother, finding love, watching her friend become the vessel for a spirit guide, and uncovering the twisted truth behind the corrupt cops in her hometown. In just twelve hours, she will find out just who the man responsible for not just the death of her brother, but also the disappearance of her friend's sister, and all the answers are in the asylum.
I found no spelling or grammar errors and the plot flowed smoothly in time with the urgency of the characters' situations.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the paranormal, supernatural, horror, and thriller/suspense genres. The content of the book has elements that I feel would appeal to a broad spectrum of readers.
All in all, A Night at the Asylum was an amazing read. I felt the characters' urgency and enjoyed learning and growing with Sara in just the short time the story spans. I never wanted the story to end and found myself going back to it frequently because it had such a powerful draw. Mrs. McCahon definitely has talent as a writer and I look forward to seeing more works from her in the future.
A Night at the Asylum is the story of the single most important twelve hours of 20-year-old Sara Featherstone's life. Sara is just a normal girl whose family has a tragic past. That is, until she dreams a very real dream where her dead brother, Tommy, speaks to her cryptically. In twelve hours she will be faced with a rapid-fire turn of events that include communicating with her dead brother, finding love, watching her friend become the vessel for a spirit guide, and uncovering the twisted truth behind the corrupt cops in her hometown. In just twelve hours, she will find out just who the man responsible for not just the death of her brother, but also the disappearance of her friend's sister, and all the answers are in the asylum.
I found no spelling or grammar errors and the plot flowed smoothly in time with the urgency of the characters' situations.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the paranormal, supernatural, horror, and thriller/suspense genres. The content of the book has elements that I feel would appeal to a broad spectrum of readers.
All in all, A Night at the Asylum was an amazing read. I felt the characters' urgency and enjoyed learning and growing with Sara in just the short time the story spans. I never wanted the story to end and found myself going back to it frequently because it had such a powerful draw. Mrs. McCahon definitely has talent as a writer and I look forward to seeing more works from her in the future.
April 1, 2014
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal).
When I read the blurb for this book, I was immediately intrigued. I love reading paranormal, and this seemed like a fresh, new, different kind of book.
The book starts as a dream that the main character, Sara Featherstone is having about herself and her deceased brother. When I first started reading this book, I was thinking "What is going ON here?" and then BAM....the author wastes no time taking the book into overdrive and taking the reader along for the ride.
Ghosts? check. Psychics/vessels for spirit guides? check. Crazy gun and knife wielding guys? check. Crooked cops? check. A Night at the Asylum has all of the above and more. AND it is SO beautifully written.
Jade McCahon is a true ninja of words.
This book is a must read for thriller/murder mystery/paranormal fans. I gave it 5/5 stars. Cant wait to read more from this author!!
When I read the blurb for this book, I was immediately intrigued. I love reading paranormal, and this seemed like a fresh, new, different kind of book.
The book starts as a dream that the main character, Sara Featherstone is having about herself and her deceased brother. When I first started reading this book, I was thinking "What is going ON here?" and then BAM....the author wastes no time taking the book into overdrive and taking the reader along for the ride.
Ghosts? check. Psychics/vessels for spirit guides? check. Crazy gun and knife wielding guys? check. Crooked cops? check. A Night at the Asylum has all of the above and more. AND it is SO beautifully written.
Jade McCahon is a true ninja of words.
This book is a must read for thriller/murder mystery/paranormal fans. I gave it 5/5 stars. Cant wait to read more from this author!!
November 3, 2013
A Night at the Asylum by Bella Jade McCahon
I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
This is a brilliant book that follows Sara and the events that lead to her revealing a mystery that began at the time of her brother’s death. This book has well crafted elements of mystery and intrigue and will keep you guessing until the very end. The plot is excellent, and very well thought out. The style of writing is rich and descriptive and flows well, making the book an easy read. The characters are well described and true to life, and some a a little bit spooky to say the least. This book is a real page turner that will have you hooked until the very end. If you love books with a Supernatural theme, then you will enjoy this one. I will definitely be looking for more of this talented authors work.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
This is a brilliant book that follows Sara and the events that lead to her revealing a mystery that began at the time of her brother’s death. This book has well crafted elements of mystery and intrigue and will keep you guessing until the very end. The plot is excellent, and very well thought out. The style of writing is rich and descriptive and flows well, making the book an easy read. The characters are well described and true to life, and some a a little bit spooky to say the least. This book is a real page turner that will have you hooked until the very end. If you love books with a Supernatural theme, then you will enjoy this one. I will definitely be looking for more of this talented authors work.
November 3, 2014
I was interested in reading this book because the blurb sounded so different from other books. The totally normal voice in which it was written make it even creepier! I was expecting something completely out of the way from the paranormal books I usually read and I totally got that! The thing I liked the most was that this wasn't a romance novel unlike most of the books written in this genera lately. I was kinda tired of reading those. I was also not expecting the title to be so literal. But it is. All the events in the book take place within one night and that's unbelievable. There is so much that happens... it takes time to digest. Also, Sara Featherstone aka the loser made a lovely MC. I loved her relationship with her brother and the plot was great.
Note:I was given a free copy of this book for review by the LoP group.
Note:I was given a free copy of this book for review by the LoP group.
November 12, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal).
I was expecting this book to be a little 'different' after reading the blurb and I wasn't disappointed. It grabbed my attention from the off and didn't let go. There were a couple of expected twists but some definitely unexpected ones. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and wasn't expecting to be crying through the last few pages the way I was.
If I have to be picky I would have liked a bit more in the back story of the Emmett relationship and maybe a bit of a clue as to Raymond but then maybe he was supposed to have been a surprise twist. It's just me - I like to know as much as possible about a character.
I think overall I would have liked the story to be a little longer and a little more in depth. That is not, however, a criticism, more a case of I enjoyed it so much I wanted more.
I was expecting this book to be a little 'different' after reading the blurb and I wasn't disappointed. It grabbed my attention from the off and didn't let go. There were a couple of expected twists but some definitely unexpected ones. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and wasn't expecting to be crying through the last few pages the way I was.
If I have to be picky I would have liked a bit more in the back story of the Emmett relationship and maybe a bit of a clue as to Raymond but then maybe he was supposed to have been a surprise twist. It's just me - I like to know as much as possible about a character.
I think overall I would have liked the story to be a little longer and a little more in depth. That is not, however, a criticism, more a case of I enjoyed it so much I wanted more.
October 17, 2013
This is going to sound weird, but I was meant to read this book. I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, which in no way affects my opinion of this book. I have a list of books that I have promised to review. I generally keep to the order for the most part. For some reason, I picked this book up even though it wasn’t next. Here is why it is weird: The day before I picked up this book, I had just read a book on Astral Projection. The quote on the very first page of this book, even before the acknowledgements, it says:
“I wish that death would bring one long and dreamless sleep. But alas, my experiences have proved conclusively to me that-'dust thou art and to dust thou returneth'- was not written of the Soul."
-From The Projection of the Astral Body, by Sylvan Muldoon and Hereward Carrington”.
This was so weird to me because I’ve never read a book that has anything to do with astral projection until the previous book. I consulted a few people, and they all told me if I didn’t read it right away I would upset the balance of the universe and probably cause the apocalypse. Never fear, I had you all in mind, so if the apocalypse does come, it’s not my fault and I refuse to take any responsibility for it!
This book itself is sort of weird, but in a good way. There is all kinds of crazy things going on and you really want to pay attention.
Sara Feathersone is a normal girl. Her brother Tommy died a few years earlier in a motorcycle accident, but life goes on. Her boyfriend broke up with her recently, which sucks, but she’ll get over it. One night after sneaking out of the house, she gets into a bad situation. She is arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. That’s when we find out there is more going on in this town than Sara ever knew. The police force in her town is corrupt with crazy people. Secrets are everywhere, and the only person Sara can trust is Jamie, her friend with the religious freak for a mom.
Sara has weird dreams about her brother. It seems like he is trying to tell her something but she has no idea what. Then she starts dreaming about a girl from her town who went missing not long before her brother died. She’s trying to figure out how the dreams are connected but it seems like everything is just out of her grasp of understanding. What is going on in this town? Will Sara figure out what her dreams mean? Maybe bwahahaha (insert evil laugh here)
This book is well written, the characters are adequately developed, and the world building is pretty good. I enjoyed this book and the story without a doubt. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and wondering what will happen next, to whom, and what this will mean for that person. You are constantly kept guessing, and I loved that aspect of the book.
This book really is action packed. Jade McCahon's writing style is awesome. She has a way of building her characters so you know enough to love them (or hate them), but still want to know more about them. I would like to know more about Emmett or Cole. Jamie was a total surprise for me.
The one thing I can say I didn't like was how much time WASN'T spent in or at the Asylum. From the title, I got the impression that the majority of the story would take place during a NIGHT at the ASYLUM, when in fact, they are only there for a short time at night, and for a bit of time during the day. It doesn't take away from the story or the writing, but it was something of a disappointment.
In the end it wasn’t a huge surprise to find out who the “bad guy” was, but in my opinion, that isn’t what the “climax” was about. There were so many aspects to the climax that the revelation of the bad guy wasn’t the point anyway.
I think people of almost any age can enjoy this book. It’s not got an overly complicated storyline, but isn’t so basic you feel like you are reading a middle school book. There isn’t much sexual content, but there is some violence, so be warned of that.
Overall, this book is more creepy than anything else, and I thought it was pretty cool. I’d really like to visit the Asylum in this book if it actually existed. I love spooky things like that.
“I wish that death would bring one long and dreamless sleep. But alas, my experiences have proved conclusively to me that-'dust thou art and to dust thou returneth'- was not written of the Soul."
-From The Projection of the Astral Body, by Sylvan Muldoon and Hereward Carrington”.
This was so weird to me because I’ve never read a book that has anything to do with astral projection until the previous book. I consulted a few people, and they all told me if I didn’t read it right away I would upset the balance of the universe and probably cause the apocalypse. Never fear, I had you all in mind, so if the apocalypse does come, it’s not my fault and I refuse to take any responsibility for it!
This book itself is sort of weird, but in a good way. There is all kinds of crazy things going on and you really want to pay attention.
Sara Feathersone is a normal girl. Her brother Tommy died a few years earlier in a motorcycle accident, but life goes on. Her boyfriend broke up with her recently, which sucks, but she’ll get over it. One night after sneaking out of the house, she gets into a bad situation. She is arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. That’s when we find out there is more going on in this town than Sara ever knew. The police force in her town is corrupt with crazy people. Secrets are everywhere, and the only person Sara can trust is Jamie, her friend with the religious freak for a mom.
Sara has weird dreams about her brother. It seems like he is trying to tell her something but she has no idea what. Then she starts dreaming about a girl from her town who went missing not long before her brother died. She’s trying to figure out how the dreams are connected but it seems like everything is just out of her grasp of understanding. What is going on in this town? Will Sara figure out what her dreams mean? Maybe bwahahaha (insert evil laugh here)
This book is well written, the characters are adequately developed, and the world building is pretty good. I enjoyed this book and the story without a doubt. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and wondering what will happen next, to whom, and what this will mean for that person. You are constantly kept guessing, and I loved that aspect of the book.
This book really is action packed. Jade McCahon's writing style is awesome. She has a way of building her characters so you know enough to love them (or hate them), but still want to know more about them. I would like to know more about Emmett or Cole. Jamie was a total surprise for me.
The one thing I can say I didn't like was how much time WASN'T spent in or at the Asylum. From the title, I got the impression that the majority of the story would take place during a NIGHT at the ASYLUM, when in fact, they are only there for a short time at night, and for a bit of time during the day. It doesn't take away from the story or the writing, but it was something of a disappointment.
In the end it wasn’t a huge surprise to find out who the “bad guy” was, but in my opinion, that isn’t what the “climax” was about. There were so many aspects to the climax that the revelation of the bad guy wasn’t the point anyway.
I think people of almost any age can enjoy this book. It’s not got an overly complicated storyline, but isn’t so basic you feel like you are reading a middle school book. There isn’t much sexual content, but there is some violence, so be warned of that.
Overall, this book is more creepy than anything else, and I thought it was pretty cool. I’d really like to visit the Asylum in this book if it actually existed. I love spooky things like that.
November 20, 2013
2.5 Stars
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review via the Read 2 Review program in the Lovers of Paranormal group on Goodreads.
To be honest, there were a few things I liked about the story and many things I wish had been better. The descriptive writing is wonderful. McCahon has a gift for painting pictures in your mind. The opening dream scene was so real that I could feel the wind, smell the storm in the air, and hear the creak of the porch swing. Also, the book is edited well with no glaring errors.
The plot is good but I felt it could have been better. A combination of mystery and paranormal is a nice surprise, but the author's sequence of events were not used to their strengths. So much more could have happened in the jail scene between Sara, Brad, and Ead that would have set the reader up for a twist or shocking revelation. Instead, the dialogue between the three was rushed while less important parts dragged on. This was a theme I found throughout the book.
Most of characters were not portrayed in a way as to make us feel any emotion for them one way or another. I found Sara abrasive, depressing, and, at times, irritating. Raymond was nonexistent until the last third of the book. Emmett was near death almost the entire story until he had a miraculous recovery and was able to fight his brother and father. As far as Brad and Ead are concerned, there was no back story – no history to explain WHY they were like they were. I think Jamie was my favorite out of all the characters. She had personality and was diverse in her behavior and moods.
Lastly, there was no night at the asylum as one other reviewer pointed out. Most of the story takes place riding in cars. There were a few hours at the asylum during the DAY. I find the title of the book misgiving and wonder why the author chose it.
All in all, this was not a 'bad' book but it is one that I would not read again. I feel the book could be much better with a little effort.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review via the Read 2 Review program in the Lovers of Paranormal group on Goodreads.
To be honest, there were a few things I liked about the story and many things I wish had been better. The descriptive writing is wonderful. McCahon has a gift for painting pictures in your mind. The opening dream scene was so real that I could feel the wind, smell the storm in the air, and hear the creak of the porch swing. Also, the book is edited well with no glaring errors.
The plot is good but I felt it could have been better. A combination of mystery and paranormal is a nice surprise, but the author's sequence of events were not used to their strengths. So much more could have happened in the jail scene between Sara, Brad, and Ead that would have set the reader up for a twist or shocking revelation. Instead, the dialogue between the three was rushed while less important parts dragged on. This was a theme I found throughout the book.
Most of characters were not portrayed in a way as to make us feel any emotion for them one way or another. I found Sara abrasive, depressing, and, at times, irritating. Raymond was nonexistent until the last third of the book. Emmett was near death almost the entire story until he had a miraculous recovery and was able to fight his brother and father. As far as Brad and Ead are concerned, there was no back story – no history to explain WHY they were like they were. I think Jamie was my favorite out of all the characters. She had personality and was diverse in her behavior and moods.
Lastly, there was no night at the asylum as one other reviewer pointed out. Most of the story takes place riding in cars. There were a few hours at the asylum during the DAY. I find the title of the book misgiving and wonder why the author chose it.
All in all, this was not a 'bad' book but it is one that I would not read again. I feel the book could be much better with a little effort.
July 31, 2013
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The opening scene of this novel is eerie, haunting, and so moving. Sara is dreaming of her dead brother Tommy, only the dream seems a bit too real for comfort. Thus begins a harrowing night that turns into a day of chilling revelations; twelve short hours that will ultimately reveal the shocking truth behind a five year old small town mystery. I call this paranormal due to the ghost aspect but you won't find any vampires or other paranormal creatures here.
A Night at the Asylum is written in first person from Sara Featherstone's point of view. Sara has been 'dreaming' of her dead brother Tommy for a while, but isn't willing to admit to herself that the dream may be something more. Sara is a likeable character. She has a backbone which I enjoy in female protagonists. Sara learns so much in these twelve hours, I would imagine many falling under the immense pressure. No matter how difficult, Sara continues to propel herself forward, to see this through to the bitter end.
There are many interesting peripheral characters in this novel. Jamie, the best friend is fun and quirky with a wild streak that I thoroughly enjoyed. Emmett is strange and mysterious; one of those characters that leaves the reader wondering about his intent. Ead and Brad are great antagonists, I wanted to knock them senseless the second they appeared.
The pacing is fast and furious making it difficult to put the novel down once started. I enjoyed the way the plot unfolded, revealing clues about the characters and past events. I recommend this book to those 17+ who enjoy a thrilling paranormal mystery.
The opening scene of this novel is eerie, haunting, and so moving. Sara is dreaming of her dead brother Tommy, only the dream seems a bit too real for comfort. Thus begins a harrowing night that turns into a day of chilling revelations; twelve short hours that will ultimately reveal the shocking truth behind a five year old small town mystery. I call this paranormal due to the ghost aspect but you won't find any vampires or other paranormal creatures here.
A Night at the Asylum is written in first person from Sara Featherstone's point of view. Sara has been 'dreaming' of her dead brother Tommy for a while, but isn't willing to admit to herself that the dream may be something more. Sara is a likeable character. She has a backbone which I enjoy in female protagonists. Sara learns so much in these twelve hours, I would imagine many falling under the immense pressure. No matter how difficult, Sara continues to propel herself forward, to see this through to the bitter end.
There are many interesting peripheral characters in this novel. Jamie, the best friend is fun and quirky with a wild streak that I thoroughly enjoyed. Emmett is strange and mysterious; one of those characters that leaves the reader wondering about his intent. Ead and Brad are great antagonists, I wanted to knock them senseless the second they appeared.
The pacing is fast and furious making it difficult to put the novel down once started. I enjoyed the way the plot unfolded, revealing clues about the characters and past events. I recommend this book to those 17+ who enjoy a thrilling paranormal mystery.
October 4, 2013
SPINE TINGLING SUSPENSE THAT'S SURE TO KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT!
I love a good scary tale that doesn't rely on the gory gruesome effect to get your attention, & this one definitely hit the mark! A book I simply could not put down! It's not your average ghost story laying it all out plain & simple with a few lil' bumps in the night. Oh no, this is full of suspense that will have you guessing until the very end. Spine tingling questions, answers you never saw coming unfold before your eyes, & just when you think you've figured it all out a new piece of the puzzle falls in our laps.
I am really digging Jade McCahon's writing style! My favorite being her skillful use of what we believe (or may have heard) about the "other side" with her own unique twists including plenty of spooky details to bring it to life. The characters are borderline addictive yet very believable dealing with their own demons & drama, the ghostly visits creepy enough to have you jumping at the slightest squeak, & the unraveling plot totally paralyzing. Tommy is the typical older brother who we think we know everything about, but later come the surprising revelations that make total sense after the fact. At times I found myself unknowingly holding my breath in sync with Sara. Jamie amazes me! I really enjoyed getting to know Cole a bit more. Raymond is not at all what he seems, & Emmett is the unexpected domino in this wild chain reaction! If you enjoy a ghostly encounter that's sure to keep you up at night you are in for a treat!
I love a good scary tale that doesn't rely on the gory gruesome effect to get your attention, & this one definitely hit the mark! A book I simply could not put down! It's not your average ghost story laying it all out plain & simple with a few lil' bumps in the night. Oh no, this is full of suspense that will have you guessing until the very end. Spine tingling questions, answers you never saw coming unfold before your eyes, & just when you think you've figured it all out a new piece of the puzzle falls in our laps.
I am really digging Jade McCahon's writing style! My favorite being her skillful use of what we believe (or may have heard) about the "other side" with her own unique twists including plenty of spooky details to bring it to life. The characters are borderline addictive yet very believable dealing with their own demons & drama, the ghostly visits creepy enough to have you jumping at the slightest squeak, & the unraveling plot totally paralyzing. Tommy is the typical older brother who we think we know everything about, but later come the surprising revelations that make total sense after the fact. At times I found myself unknowingly holding my breath in sync with Sara. Jamie amazes me! I really enjoyed getting to know Cole a bit more. Raymond is not at all what he seems, & Emmett is the unexpected domino in this wild chain reaction! If you enjoy a ghostly encounter that's sure to keep you up at night you are in for a treat!
September 29, 2013
Sara lost her brother five years ago to an accident. She still sees him as he visits her dreams often. She has just went through a breakup and now after a visit from her brother she goes out not expecting her life to change. She gets caught up in a knife wielding loon and ends up in the police station. After she is let go she begins to unravel the mystery of how she got caught up in this mess only to find it goes way back. Back to her brother and other odd things that have happened. Now she has to stay alive and go to the asylum to look for clues before it is tore down. With the help of spirits she has to figure out what really happened years ago. She doesn't know who to trust as everyone seems to have secrets and the law may not be the safest people around.
I really enjoyed this story as it has action, mystery and a touch of paranormal as the spirits help Sara out. I liked getting to know her and try to figure it all out along with her. Asylums can be scary places and this one fits perfect as the scene of where to look. The author does a fantastic job writing this book as you really can't put it down. You have to see what will happen to Sara and her friends. From car wrecks to ghost this book has a little but of it all. I really loved the ending of this book it added the perfect touch and in a way made you wonder. No I won't give away any spoilers. If you like a story with spirits or just a good mystery try this one.
I really enjoyed this story as it has action, mystery and a touch of paranormal as the spirits help Sara out. I liked getting to know her and try to figure it all out along with her. Asylums can be scary places and this one fits perfect as the scene of where to look. The author does a fantastic job writing this book as you really can't put it down. You have to see what will happen to Sara and her friends. From car wrecks to ghost this book has a little but of it all. I really loved the ending of this book it added the perfect touch and in a way made you wonder. No I won't give away any spoilers. If you like a story with spirits or just a good mystery try this one.
September 18, 2013
3.5 stars. The title of this novella is somewhat of a misnomer. Yes, there is a creepy asylum in the town, but only a small bit of the action actually takes place there...and NOT during the night. I'll have to say I was a little disappointed with that revelation.
But, "A Night at the Asylum" is gripping, with fluid writing and clever delivery of a series of weird circumstances that make you think, what just happened here? And, I want to read more, now!
This starts with 20-year Sara, who is having a very vivid dream of her older--but deceased--brother. These dreams come often, and he keeps saying he's frustrated with her for not getting his point as they continue to play games together. But she's just clueless as to what he means.
When she wakes up, she leaves her parents' home to get a drink from a nearby convenience store. Her chance encounter with a former classmate starts a chain of events that alters her life.
This book is about solving a few of the town's mysteries. (Those "missing Jenny" signs are still up, five years later!) There is a bit of paranormal mixed in as well. And the book continually makes you think, is this all a dream? But ultimately, I was a bit disappointed with the circumstances that were revealed at the end.
However, that didn't alter the fact that I enjoyed the writing. I'll have to look for more books from this author!
But, "A Night at the Asylum" is gripping, with fluid writing and clever delivery of a series of weird circumstances that make you think, what just happened here? And, I want to read more, now!
This starts with 20-year Sara, who is having a very vivid dream of her older--but deceased--brother. These dreams come often, and he keeps saying he's frustrated with her for not getting his point as they continue to play games together. But she's just clueless as to what he means.
When she wakes up, she leaves her parents' home to get a drink from a nearby convenience store. Her chance encounter with a former classmate starts a chain of events that alters her life.
This book is about solving a few of the town's mysteries. (Those "missing Jenny" signs are still up, five years later!) There is a bit of paranormal mixed in as well. And the book continually makes you think, is this all a dream? But ultimately, I was a bit disappointed with the circumstances that were revealed at the end.
However, that didn't alter the fact that I enjoyed the writing. I'll have to look for more books from this author!
August 13, 2016
Sara Featherstone is a lost soul. Her beloved brother recently died in a motorcycle “accident.” She feels trapped working at the family diner, and hates her suburban small town, dominated by the evil Sutter family. On a late night convenience store trip, Sara is accosted by one of the Sutters, and by an unfortunate twist, lands in police custody. Thus begins a tense, supernatural saga that will bring down the Sutters, avenge Sara’s brother’s death, and help her find love in, of all things, the one Sutter with a heart.
So, a sympathetic heroine with a worthy goal, a loathsome antagonist, plenty of conflict with mystery and supernatural flavor, and a surprise love interest—all the makings of a good story, and McCahon has made one here. Sara’s “voice” is engaging, her plight and motivations understandable. It’s a quick story, and fun throughout.
The about-to-be-demolished asylum is where all the important evidence implicating a particular Sutter is hidden. The fact it’s an asylum wasn’t terribly important to the story other than to provide a creepy setting for the Sara-Sutter showdown, but that’s okay. Asylum is a self-published work that proves indie books can be great reading. It will remain on my permanent bookshelf, and I will be reading more of McCahon. You should, too!
So, a sympathetic heroine with a worthy goal, a loathsome antagonist, plenty of conflict with mystery and supernatural flavor, and a surprise love interest—all the makings of a good story, and McCahon has made one here. Sara’s “voice” is engaging, her plight and motivations understandable. It’s a quick story, and fun throughout.
The about-to-be-demolished asylum is where all the important evidence implicating a particular Sutter is hidden. The fact it’s an asylum wasn’t terribly important to the story other than to provide a creepy setting for the Sara-Sutter showdown, but that’s okay. Asylum is a self-published work that proves indie books can be great reading. It will remain on my permanent bookshelf, and I will be reading more of McCahon. You should, too!
July 14, 2013
This book wasn't anything what I had expected! I had heard from a couple other people that it was very good so I decided to move it up on my TBR list and read it. Jades writing is amazing! I was sucked in and completely lost track of time and the world around me!
When I started it I thought I was being sucked into a bad dream, but soon enough things started falling into place. Sara had lost her brother, Tommy, in a motorcycle accident five years before. She was having a very hard time dealing with his death; even after so long. The nightmares were getting worse and more intense. In her dreams her brother, Tommy, always wanted to play games and when she didn't want to he would threaten to leave. After waking up one night from a particularly bad dream, she decided to go for a walk to get a soda.....the next thing I knew I was finished with the book and it was 4:00 in the morning! I cannot go into anymore detail lest I ruin it for other readers. Especially the end, amazing! You just have to pick it up and read it for yourself! Don't wait!
When I started it I thought I was being sucked into a bad dream, but soon enough things started falling into place. Sara had lost her brother, Tommy, in a motorcycle accident five years before. She was having a very hard time dealing with his death; even after so long. The nightmares were getting worse and more intense. In her dreams her brother, Tommy, always wanted to play games and when she didn't want to he would threaten to leave. After waking up one night from a particularly bad dream, she decided to go for a walk to get a soda.....the next thing I knew I was finished with the book and it was 4:00 in the morning! I cannot go into anymore detail lest I ruin it for other readers. Especially the end, amazing! You just have to pick it up and read it for yourself! Don't wait!
August 12, 2014
I received this book by the author through Lovers of Paranormal in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is jam packed with mystery, suspense, and paranormal mixed in with a little romance. The romance plot seemed to be shoehorned in as something written in fate. I think that it would have worked better if it was a silent and implied romance. While I found this to be overly descriptive at times, I found it to be a real page turner. I figured out the big mystery early on, but it did not hurt the novel one bit as it wasn't the mystery that was the draw, but how it unfolded to the characters and the town. I really liked the secondary characters, especially Jaime. I wish there was a little more about them, but since this was narrated by Sara, we only saw and experienced what she did. If you are interested in paranormal mysteries, this is definitely a novel that is worth picking up. It is well written, explores grief, and touches upon various areas of the spirit world.
This novel is jam packed with mystery, suspense, and paranormal mixed in with a little romance. The romance plot seemed to be shoehorned in as something written in fate. I think that it would have worked better if it was a silent and implied romance. While I found this to be overly descriptive at times, I found it to be a real page turner. I figured out the big mystery early on, but it did not hurt the novel one bit as it wasn't the mystery that was the draw, but how it unfolded to the characters and the town. I really liked the secondary characters, especially Jaime. I wish there was a little more about them, but since this was narrated by Sara, we only saw and experienced what she did. If you are interested in paranormal mysteries, this is definitely a novel that is worth picking up. It is well written, explores grief, and touches upon various areas of the spirit world.
August 9, 2016
I received this book for The Lovers of Paranormal Group in exchange for an honest review.
This book took me completely off guard because i wasn't expecting it to be so intense. The blurb about the book got me right off the bat and i'm so glad i took the chance to read this book. We meet Sara who is a normal woman, who's family had a tragic past and she was having a hell of a time dealing with it. In a span of 12 hours, she will discover her world is upside down. I don't want to say much more because it will ruin the book for everyone, but this is a MUST READ!! The author really has a way of describing the scenes as if you right there in the midst of the action and that made me love the book so much more. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
This book took me completely off guard because i wasn't expecting it to be so intense. The blurb about the book got me right off the bat and i'm so glad i took the chance to read this book. We meet Sara who is a normal woman, who's family had a tragic past and she was having a hell of a time dealing with it. In a span of 12 hours, she will discover her world is upside down. I don't want to say much more because it will ruin the book for everyone, but this is a MUST READ!! The author really has a way of describing the scenes as if you right there in the midst of the action and that made me love the book so much more. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
November 9, 2013
I received this book by the author through Lovers of Paranormal in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very fast paced book and good for a quick read. I felt that the pace was too fast in places, and I missed out on the development of the characters. I did not appreciate the idea of instant love and I did not feel the chemistry between the characters. I enjoyed the way the paranormal element was presented in this story, and how it was not over the top. I had many laughs at the one-liners throughout the story. I would recommend this story for a quick read.
This was a very fast paced book and good for a quick read. I felt that the pace was too fast in places, and I missed out on the development of the characters. I did not appreciate the idea of instant love and I did not feel the chemistry between the characters. I enjoyed the way the paranormal element was presented in this story, and how it was not over the top. I had many laughs at the one-liners throughout the story. I would recommend this story for a quick read.
January 3, 2014
I really liked this book in the beginning, but once I got about half way through it I got tired of reading A Night at the Asylum. It was eerie and strange and things just got a little boring for me. I did like it, don't get me wrong, but I couldn't finish reading it without skipping pages and scanning them. I did think the ending was nice, though. So good job to the author.
August 31, 2013
This book has just the right amount of tension, mystery and cussing. Jade weaves a deft narrative of suspense and intrigue that immediately nestles itself among the folds of your cortex. She has a preternatural talent for storytelling and an artists impeccable ear for composition and rhythm. So believe me when I tell you, this is the best of the best of this genre.
November 12, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review for LoP.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Reminded me of the TV Series 24. Totally action packed and fast paced. You won’t want to the put this book down. The author takes us on a wild 12 hour ride in the life of Sara Featherstone. The characters are real and the story line flows beautifully. Very well written novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Reminded me of the TV Series 24. Totally action packed and fast paced. You won’t want to the put this book down. The author takes us on a wild 12 hour ride in the life of Sara Featherstone. The characters are real and the story line flows beautifully. Very well written novel.
August 16, 2013
This is really good storytelling, made all the more interesting, by the sensitive nature of the subject matter. I thoroughly enjoyed this ghost story and would readily recommend it.
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