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High Moor #2
Moonstruck
The people of High Moor are united in horror at the latest tragedy to befall their small town. As dawn breaks, the town is left to count the cost and mourn its dead, while breathing a collective sigh of relief. John Simpson, the apparent perpetrator of the horrific murders, is in police custody. The nightmare is over.
Isn't it?
Detective Inspector Phil Fletcher and his partner, Constable Olivia Garner, have started to uncover some unsettling evidence during their investigations of John Simpson’s past - evidence that supports his impossible claims: that he is a werewolf, and will transform on the next full moon to kill again.
However a new threat is now lurking in the shadows. A mysterious group have arrived in High Moor, determined to keep the existence of werewolves hidden.
And they will do anything to protect their secret. Anything at all.
Isn't it?
Detective Inspector Phil Fletcher and his partner, Constable Olivia Garner, have started to uncover some unsettling evidence during their investigations of John Simpson’s past - evidence that supports his impossible claims: that he is a werewolf, and will transform on the next full moon to kill again.
However a new threat is now lurking in the shadows. A mysterious group have arrived in High Moor, determined to keep the existence of werewolves hidden.
And they will do anything to protect their secret. Anything at all.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2013
251 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Graeme Reynolds
20 books234 followersGraeme Reynolds is an exile from the North East of England, hiding out in the South West where he spends his time thinking up new ways to terrify people.
You can read more of his work on his web-site:
http://www.graemereynolds.com
You can read more of his work on his web-site:
http://www.graemereynolds.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
May 22, 2020
When I read High Moor, I was pretty impressed and so I came into Moonstruck with high expectations. Although I don't have the same enthusiasm for it as I had for the first book, I have to say that Graeme Reynolds delivered all the action and gore.
With the exception of the prologue, the entirety of the book is set in the present and focuses on The Pack as the MCs. Picking up right where High Moor left off, the story begins with six Pack werewolves working to clean up (and cover up) the mess created by John Simpson, a moonstruck wolf (out of control and only turns at the full moon). The group splits into two, with one trio working to destroy evidence, and another trio working to assassinate John before the public realizes werewolves really do exist. When John refuses to cooperate by being killed and victims begin turning instead of dying, things go pear-shaped. The Pack teams disagree about how to proceed and what level of carnage is appropriate - one in particular has a score to settle on this assignment, and she could care less about orders to handle things "quietly."
What I liked about this book is that we get to see more of the makeup of The Pack, with its military-like command structure and training. We see there are two types of wolves: moonborn from two were-parents, and the rest who turned by surviving an attack. Although the current Alpha was infected, the rest of the governing body are all moonborn and there's a certain elitist philosophy that the Alpha should be a moonborn, too. So while the tactical operation in the UK keeps getting worse, Alpha Michael is also dealing with political maneuverings to get him replaced.
In trying to work out why I was a little disappointed, I think it's because the book was all Pack vs. the police and John Simpson. Everybody involved had at least an inkling of what they were dealing with, so a certain level of shock is gone. Even when the cops refuse to take a supernatural cause seriously hey, they still know it's something that can rip a victim to pieces. In contrast, the first book was more about ordinary people being attacked, and the tension for me was higher.
I look forward to reading the finale, Bloodmoon, which happily has the least-cheesy cover of the trilogy.
With the exception of the prologue, the entirety of the book is set in the present and focuses on The Pack as the MCs. Picking up right where High Moor left off, the story begins with six Pack werewolves working to clean up (and cover up) the mess created by John Simpson, a moonstruck wolf (out of control and only turns at the full moon). The group splits into two, with one trio working to destroy evidence, and another trio working to assassinate John before the public realizes werewolves really do exist. When John refuses to cooperate by being killed and victims begin turning instead of dying, things go pear-shaped. The Pack teams disagree about how to proceed and what level of carnage is appropriate - one in particular has a score to settle on this assignment, and she could care less about orders to handle things "quietly."
What I liked about this book is that we get to see more of the makeup of The Pack, with its military-like command structure and training. We see there are two types of wolves: moonborn from two were-parents, and the rest who turned by surviving an attack. Although the current Alpha was infected, the rest of the governing body are all moonborn and there's a certain elitist philosophy that the Alpha should be a moonborn, too. So while the tactical operation in the UK keeps getting worse, Alpha Michael is also dealing with political maneuverings to get him replaced.
In trying to work out why I was a little disappointed, I think it's because the book was all Pack vs. the police and John Simpson. Everybody involved had at least an inkling of what they were dealing with, so a certain level of shock is gone. Even when the cops refuse to take a supernatural cause seriously hey, they still know it's something that can rip a victim to pieces. In contrast, the first book was more about ordinary people being attacked, and the tension for me was higher.
I look forward to reading the finale, Bloodmoon, which happily has the least-cheesy cover of the trilogy.
September 19, 2014
Since Graeme is a fellow writer, I had the distinct pleasure of reading and critiquing this as he was writing it. And with a novel is this good, it was extremely frustrating to have to read it a chapter a week (at most) while waiting for him to write the next one.
I purchased the final version to read very soon at my leisure, but I know the only difference from the version I read will be the cleanups that came from editing--because no other changes were necessary. He got it right the first time, something truly amazing for any writer.
I am not a horror fan, and rarely read horror novels, but Graeme Reynolds has opened my eyes to how truly good horror novels can be. I read a lot of different novels, and his High Moor series ranks up with the best I've read. Period.
That's all I'm going to say because others have already said everything about how good this novel is--including that it was even better than the High Moor (which I didn't think was possible).
If you love horror, buy this book (and the first one). If you aren't a horror fan and aren't squeamish, read these for the great story and superb characters. And if you're a writer, these are a must-read how-to for action and fight scenes.
I purchased the final version to read very soon at my leisure, but I know the only difference from the version I read will be the cleanups that came from editing--because no other changes were necessary. He got it right the first time, something truly amazing for any writer.
I am not a horror fan, and rarely read horror novels, but Graeme Reynolds has opened my eyes to how truly good horror novels can be. I read a lot of different novels, and his High Moor series ranks up with the best I've read. Period.
That's all I'm going to say because others have already said everything about how good this novel is--including that it was even better than the High Moor (which I didn't think was possible).
If you love horror, buy this book (and the first one). If you aren't a horror fan and aren't squeamish, read these for the great story and superb characters. And if you're a writer, these are a must-read how-to for action and fight scenes.
April 13, 2025
Moonstruck. by Graeme Reynolds is a psychological creature horror with some intense fighting moments and it's a book that once you pick it up you're in the same predicament as t the first book: you can't put the book down.
THERE ARE NO SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: child death, assault, murder, manipulation, torture, suicide, mutilation and animal abuse and death.
Pre-Read:
// I was so excited to start this after finishing the last one and honestly I'm a little wary about second books in general, they always never meet expectations. We will see, won't we? //
Review:
"Detective Inspector Phil Fletcher and his partner, Constable Olivia Garner, have started to uncover some unsettling evidence during their investigations of John Simpson’s past - evidence that supports his impossible claims: that he is a werewolf, and will transform on the next full moon to kill again.
However a new threat is now lurking in the shadows. A mysterious group have arrived in High Moor, determined to keep the existence of werewolves hidden." — the GoodReads website for 'Moonstruck'.
We are once again reunited with John in this second novel of the 'High Moor' series. Join him and his grumpy wolf as they are faced with new threats and risks. John must learn to control and work with his inner beast, his wolf, if he is to survive this quickly growing threat. Who can he trust? And why does he feel so alone? So used to hiding his wolf and even himself, John must now rely on the kindness of others or tear everything apart piece by piece.
— This wasn't as exciting as the first book, but by golly I still couldn't stop reading it, I was always putting down other books to pick it up.
I literally had to force myself to pace my reading or I would have got none of my ARCs done. I think forcing myself to slow down made me more aware of what in was reading, I skimread less and less until I was mindfully reading and it really makes a difference.
The author, Graeme Reynolds has refreshing way of writing, and his use of words and punctuation make the whole story easy to read. No huge words to pull you out of the story and the details were only important ones so you wouldn't be left with questions later—of course, unless he wanted you to be asking questions, then you'd be questioning it only to be surprised by the answer later on.
I love purposeful evils like that. It leaves you on your toe-beans.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Graeme Reynolds was born in England in 1971. This strange lad has been everything from an engineer in the Royal Air Force to being a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Although he started writing in 2008 Graeme didn't publish until 2011. He wrote his next two books while also working on building his small press, Horrific Tales Publishing.
A major kudos to Reynolds for catching me in his net. I will now be running off to read the third and last novel of the 'High Moor' series. I have to say, there was the first mention of other creatures besides themselves, thankfully it was only talk. However, I suspect we may see more of those creatures in this book? Hard to say, but I'm looking forward to seeing how he approaches it.
Even though this one got one four stars, I'd still highly recommend it as long as you've read the first book first as these are not stand-alones and you'd be very confused.
THERE ARE NO SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: child death, assault, murder, manipulation, torture, suicide, mutilation and animal abuse and death.
Pre-Read:
// I was so excited to start this after finishing the last one and honestly I'm a little wary about second books in general, they always never meet expectations. We will see, won't we? //
Review:
"Detective Inspector Phil Fletcher and his partner, Constable Olivia Garner, have started to uncover some unsettling evidence during their investigations of John Simpson’s past - evidence that supports his impossible claims: that he is a werewolf, and will transform on the next full moon to kill again.
However a new threat is now lurking in the shadows. A mysterious group have arrived in High Moor, determined to keep the existence of werewolves hidden." — the GoodReads website for 'Moonstruck'.
We are once again reunited with John in this second novel of the 'High Moor' series. Join him and his grumpy wolf as they are faced with new threats and risks. John must learn to control and work with his inner beast, his wolf, if he is to survive this quickly growing threat. Who can he trust? And why does he feel so alone? So used to hiding his wolf and even himself, John must now rely on the kindness of others or tear everything apart piece by piece.
— This wasn't as exciting as the first book, but by golly I still couldn't stop reading it, I was always putting down other books to pick it up.
I literally had to force myself to pace my reading or I would have got none of my ARCs done. I think forcing myself to slow down made me more aware of what in was reading, I skimread less and less until I was mindfully reading and it really makes a difference.
The author, Graeme Reynolds has refreshing way of writing, and his use of words and punctuation make the whole story easy to read. No huge words to pull you out of the story and the details were only important ones so you wouldn't be left with questions later—of course, unless he wanted you to be asking questions, then you'd be questioning it only to be surprised by the answer later on.
I love purposeful evils like that. It leaves you on your toe-beans.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Graeme Reynolds was born in England in 1971. This strange lad has been everything from an engineer in the Royal Air Force to being a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. Although he started writing in 2008 Graeme didn't publish until 2011. He wrote his next two books while also working on building his small press, Horrific Tales Publishing.
A major kudos to Reynolds for catching me in his net. I will now be running off to read the third and last novel of the 'High Moor' series. I have to say, there was the first mention of other creatures besides themselves, thankfully it was only talk. However, I suspect we may see more of those creatures in this book? Hard to say, but I'm looking forward to seeing how he approaches it.
Even though this one got one four stars, I'd still highly recommend it as long as you've read the first book first as these are not stand-alones and you'd be very confused.
June 27, 2013
Excellent follow up to the first book. The kick-ass cover gives you a good idea of what you're getting into - fast paced, action-packed, flesh feast with favorite (surviving) characters from Book 1. I'm on a werewolf kick this year and I would call this series a must-read for were-fans. It ends with a beautiful set-up for book 3 so if you are reading this Graeme, please close the review and start writing!!!
March 12, 2021
As much entertaining as the first book of the serie, but this one lacks of some sort of a guiding line IMHO.
I'm also having less fun than before because I like more "classic" werewolves stories than those where the werewolves are "sentient". The story shifted from the first kind of story in the first book to the other case in the second book.
I'm also having less fun than before because I like more "classic" werewolves stories than those where the werewolves are "sentient". The story shifted from the first kind of story in the first book to the other case in the second book.
March 28, 2013
The best way to start off this review of Graeme Reynolds’s High Moor 2: Moonstruck is with a glance back at what I had to say about the original High Moor:
I truly loved this book. Once I started to really read it, I finished the novel in a day and a half. Whenever I put it down, I found myself coming back to it almost impulsively. I haven’t been this addicted to something since I downloaded Angry Birds. Recommended without reservation to anyone who is a fan of horror or anyone that wants to be. High Moor is the kind of book that will make converts of us all.
It goes without saying that I was anticipating High Moor 2 immensely, but also with some trepidation. After such a great debut, could Reynolds keep it up? Was there any way that he could match the intensity of the original, the page-turning ferocity of its werewolves? Would we end up with a mindless retread? More werewolves, more killing, more boring? I was afraid, my friends. Well, now I’ve read the book and I have my verdict.
Not only is High Moor 2 an incredible ride worthy of my expectations, indeed, it accomplishes something truly rare—it surpasses the original.
SPOILERS AHEAD
High Moor 2 begins precisely where High Moor left off. John Simpson is in police custody, accused of brutally murdering (and eating) several people. The love of his life, Maria, is in the morgue, the authorities under the impression she is dead. Meanwhile, werewolf hunter Steven is in a coma, with the first stirrings of the beasts he has spent his life hunting surging through his blood. Meanwhile, teams of werewolves are on their way to High Moor, intent on destroying the evidence and keeping the existence of the pack a secret. And that means killing John Simpson.
END SPOILERS
One thing that is certainly the case—if you liked High Moor, you will like this book. Reynolds writes as if the last book never stopped. The style is crisp, the story doesn’t seem forced, and the action doesn’t let up. New characters are introduced with ease, and Reynolds makes us care for them almost immediately. Which just makes it all the better when werewolves start eating them. I’m going to repeat from my original review, because it is appropriate here.
The werewolves in Reynolds’s novel are of two varieties. Most can change at will, controlling the beast within while also harnessing its power. Others are “moonstruck,” able to change only upon the full moon. They are wild and vicious, and the pack werewolves hunt them down, lest they reveal their secret to the world. And let me tell you, there is a lot of hunting, a lot of fighting, and a lot of killing. No character is safe in Reynolds’s world, and that he establishes this fact early on heightens the tension in every werewolf encounter. His descriptions of the attacks are so rich and vivid that you will see them in your mind’s eye with a clarity normally reserved for movies. And it is that talent with description that may be Reynolds’s strongest suit. The man isn’t just writing a scene. He is creating a world for his characters to inhabit.
This book is amazing. It has some of the most gut wrenching scenes of horror I have ever read, and Reynolds is an absolute master of an action scene. If you haven’t read the High Moor series, don’t worry. These books are so good that I fully expect they will have a Hollywood treatment at some point in the future.
Verdict: Reynolds has knocked it out of the park. High Moor was shortlisted for a Bram Stoker Award. I wouldn’t be surprised to see High Moor 2: Moonstruck win the whole shebang.
5 Stars
I truly loved this book. Once I started to really read it, I finished the novel in a day and a half. Whenever I put it down, I found myself coming back to it almost impulsively. I haven’t been this addicted to something since I downloaded Angry Birds. Recommended without reservation to anyone who is a fan of horror or anyone that wants to be. High Moor is the kind of book that will make converts of us all.
It goes without saying that I was anticipating High Moor 2 immensely, but also with some trepidation. After such a great debut, could Reynolds keep it up? Was there any way that he could match the intensity of the original, the page-turning ferocity of its werewolves? Would we end up with a mindless retread? More werewolves, more killing, more boring? I was afraid, my friends. Well, now I’ve read the book and I have my verdict.
Not only is High Moor 2 an incredible ride worthy of my expectations, indeed, it accomplishes something truly rare—it surpasses the original.
SPOILERS AHEAD
High Moor 2 begins precisely where High Moor left off. John Simpson is in police custody, accused of brutally murdering (and eating) several people. The love of his life, Maria, is in the morgue, the authorities under the impression she is dead. Meanwhile, werewolf hunter Steven is in a coma, with the first stirrings of the beasts he has spent his life hunting surging through his blood. Meanwhile, teams of werewolves are on their way to High Moor, intent on destroying the evidence and keeping the existence of the pack a secret. And that means killing John Simpson.
END SPOILERS
One thing that is certainly the case—if you liked High Moor, you will like this book. Reynolds writes as if the last book never stopped. The style is crisp, the story doesn’t seem forced, and the action doesn’t let up. New characters are introduced with ease, and Reynolds makes us care for them almost immediately. Which just makes it all the better when werewolves start eating them. I’m going to repeat from my original review, because it is appropriate here.
The werewolves in Reynolds’s novel are of two varieties. Most can change at will, controlling the beast within while also harnessing its power. Others are “moonstruck,” able to change only upon the full moon. They are wild and vicious, and the pack werewolves hunt them down, lest they reveal their secret to the world. And let me tell you, there is a lot of hunting, a lot of fighting, and a lot of killing. No character is safe in Reynolds’s world, and that he establishes this fact early on heightens the tension in every werewolf encounter. His descriptions of the attacks are so rich and vivid that you will see them in your mind’s eye with a clarity normally reserved for movies. And it is that talent with description that may be Reynolds’s strongest suit. The man isn’t just writing a scene. He is creating a world for his characters to inhabit.
This book is amazing. It has some of the most gut wrenching scenes of horror I have ever read, and Reynolds is an absolute master of an action scene. If you haven’t read the High Moor series, don’t worry. These books are so good that I fully expect they will have a Hollywood treatment at some point in the future.
Verdict: Reynolds has knocked it out of the park. High Moor was shortlisted for a Bram Stoker Award. I wouldn’t be surprised to see High Moor 2: Moonstruck win the whole shebang.
5 Stars
June 4, 2015
I received this ebook as part of a launch party giveaway.
Moonstruck is the sequel to HIGH MOOR, a werewolf tale set in the North East of England. It kicks off immediately from where High Moor finished, so if you haven't read it, do so before picking this one up.
Things have gone bad in High Moor. The Pack have dispatched clean up crews to sort out the mess, our main protagonist is in a jail cell, his childhood friend Marie is believed dead and a werewolf hunter lies critically ill in hospital.
Then bad stuff happens to people. A LOT of bad stuff. There is one scene about midway through it that will tear your soul out of you, set fire to it, stamp on the ashes and then pee on them. If it doesn't, you're not alive.
I literally started this book 22hrs ago. With 8hrs sleep and a 9 hour work day. This definitely sits within my 'Single Sitting' category. Moonstruck is as tightly written, plotted and executed a book as I have ever read. Th action is relentless and like all good horror, has enough laughs to take the edge off.
The original High Moor filled me with as much nostalgia for my own childhood as dread. This one literally left me gasping for breath. The author moves his chess pieces around the board with calculated efficiency, creating set piece after set piece, never losing sight of his endgame. Yet, he also keeps you guessing.
I can sum Moonstruck up in two words.
BUY IT!
Moonstruck is the sequel to HIGH MOOR, a werewolf tale set in the North East of England. It kicks off immediately from where High Moor finished, so if you haven't read it, do so before picking this one up.
Things have gone bad in High Moor. The Pack have dispatched clean up crews to sort out the mess, our main protagonist is in a jail cell, his childhood friend Marie is believed dead and a werewolf hunter lies critically ill in hospital.
Then bad stuff happens to people. A LOT of bad stuff. There is one scene about midway through it that will tear your soul out of you, set fire to it, stamp on the ashes and then pee on them. If it doesn't, you're not alive.
I literally started this book 22hrs ago. With 8hrs sleep and a 9 hour work day. This definitely sits within my 'Single Sitting' category. Moonstruck is as tightly written, plotted and executed a book as I have ever read. Th action is relentless and like all good horror, has enough laughs to take the edge off.
The original High Moor filled me with as much nostalgia for my own childhood as dread. This one literally left me gasping for breath. The author moves his chess pieces around the board with calculated efficiency, creating set piece after set piece, never losing sight of his endgame. Yet, he also keeps you guessing.
I can sum Moonstruck up in two words.
BUY IT!
June 13, 2021
Ups the gore an ante from the last one with some sick werewolf battling goodness. Also has the guy eating the bacon sandwich which is top notch.
March 18, 2013
I reviewed a complimentary e-book copy provided by the author in return for my fair and impartial review.
Review of High Moor 2-Moonstruck by Graeme Reynolds
5 stars
It hadn’t been too long since I read the delectable “High Moor,” so naturally I was ecstatic to discover author Graeme Reynolds is about to give us the sequel. I know his eager readers have been champing at the bit for this one. I was late in coming to the series, because as a rule, I just don’t do werewolves. However, this series is Not-Just-Your-Ordinary-Werewolf-Story. Mr. Reynolds manages to write thrillers, suspense, mystery (and yes, a smattering of romance too) and deliver it in a hot plot with lots of good characterizations and characters. Even the secondary guys (and girls) get their backstory, and although not every character is admirable, they’re still comprehensible—and some, such as John and Marie, are “good guys,” despite the fact that they are—well, werewolves.
Due to the nature of the plot (werewolves, after all) there is a plethora of violence (some of the bad guys are serious villains) but it’s not overkill and it does follow from the plot. So if you’re too faint of stomach, skip those passages; but you’ll miss some really exciting plot points. “High Moor 2: Moonstruck” is a non-stop thrill from beginning to end. If you haven’t encountered Graeme Reynolds yet, get out there and pick up both in this series, and fast.
Review of High Moor 2-Moonstruck by Graeme Reynolds
5 stars
It hadn’t been too long since I read the delectable “High Moor,” so naturally I was ecstatic to discover author Graeme Reynolds is about to give us the sequel. I know his eager readers have been champing at the bit for this one. I was late in coming to the series, because as a rule, I just don’t do werewolves. However, this series is Not-Just-Your-Ordinary-Werewolf-Story. Mr. Reynolds manages to write thrillers, suspense, mystery (and yes, a smattering of romance too) and deliver it in a hot plot with lots of good characterizations and characters. Even the secondary guys (and girls) get their backstory, and although not every character is admirable, they’re still comprehensible—and some, such as John and Marie, are “good guys,” despite the fact that they are—well, werewolves.
Due to the nature of the plot (werewolves, after all) there is a plethora of violence (some of the bad guys are serious villains) but it’s not overkill and it does follow from the plot. So if you’re too faint of stomach, skip those passages; but you’ll miss some really exciting plot points. “High Moor 2: Moonstruck” is a non-stop thrill from beginning to end. If you haven’t encountered Graeme Reynolds yet, get out there and pick up both in this series, and fast.
July 18, 2013
Graeme Reynolds' highly satisfying sequel outmatches the very good first installment HIGH MOOR by leaps and bounds. I loved this novel twice as much as the first and that was a hell of a novel too. Nobody is safe and werewolves threaten to unsettle just about every quiet moment in the book. I've often said I'm not a fan of quiet horror-- though I believe it has merits, it just isn't my thing. Well HM2: Moonstruck is the finest Loud Horror you will come across. Brilliant action sequences, intense descriptions of transformations and eviscerations, and a certain rogue werewolf who shows up when it's least expected and least convenient for the hero characters. Werewolf fans need to read this book immediately, if only for the reason they will be kicking themselves for not reading it that much sooner. My only critique, if I must make one, would be for those readers who are just joining the story. There are many characters in this tale and it takes a bit to keep them all straight in the beginning (but I have a crap memory anyway, so there you go). That said, this is far from detrimental and doesn't impede on the sustained utter thrill this novel provides cover to cover. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended.
August 9, 2016
4 Stars
Another fun, bloody story of werewolves. As with the previous book in the series; I have not read many werewolf stories, and these are making me a fan.
The wolves are trying to protect their very existence and will stop at nothing, and will kill anyone who gets in their way. With rogue wolves, moonborn versus moonstruck; this story stays lit from the beginning. Thrills and chills, ladies and gentlemen... thrills and chills.
Another fun, bloody story of werewolves. As with the previous book in the series; I have not read many werewolf stories, and these are making me a fan.
The wolves are trying to protect their very existence and will stop at nothing, and will kill anyone who gets in their way. With rogue wolves, moonborn versus moonstruck; this story stays lit from the beginning. Thrills and chills, ladies and gentlemen... thrills and chills.
July 29, 2024
“The werewolf was using Mariah Carey to hide itself.”
I love this series lol
I love this series lol
March 30, 2018
Best Read 2016
Now in police custody, John Simpson is quickly running out of options. His face is all over the news for the grisly murders of multiple people, and the full moon is vast approaching yet again. If that wasn't bad enough, a squad of professional killers have been sent to take him out. He's a threat, an apparent moonstruck, with no control over his monster - or so the pack believes. John's not the only one in danger however; those that know too much must be silenced, including the law enforcement involved with the High Moor investigation.
(WARNING: This review contains MAJOR spoilers.)
High Moor was my one and only five star book of 2014, with very good reason. It surpassed my expectations and instantly plunged me into an exciting roller-coaster of claws and teeth. Everybody was fair game, every limb at risk of being ripped off - the extreme brutality throughout shocked me as well as thrilled me, but it wasn't just about violence and gore. It was about a man with a terrible beast lurking beneath the surface, and a society determined to remain hidden. This second instalment was no different in terms of pace and edge-of-your-seat excitement. I found myself drawn into the life and death situations of characters old and new, and a few I truly liked from the get-go. There's something about how Reynolds spins a tale, and that coupled with my love for werewolves, is the perfect combination.
The plot largely centred upon the werewolf pack, led by Michael as alpha, and their attempts to cover up the rather messy events that transpired in the previous book. Getting a more in-depth look at their inner workings and at their harsh, yet understandable, methods of taking care of the situation was thoroughly engrossing. Of course they went to great lengths to secure the secrecy of their race; realistically, we (humanity), would outright eradicate them upon the discovery of their existence. Perhaps not at first, but eventually. No matter how much it may be denied, we are a destructive force, and peace would most assuredly be merely an illusion. Because of this, I didn't dislike Oskar and his team for doing what they did out of necessity, but Connie was another matter. She was the heartless villain that enjoyed the cruelty and pain of her victims. She was so consumed by hate. I have to admit, she provided some very tense scenes, like the one with Olivia, which I couldn't read fast enough; I needed to know if the poor woman survived.
John and Marie both returned and their romance took a step further, albeit with an awkward, yet sweet moment. I appreciated that amongst the horrific bloodshed, there was at least a little bloom of love and the potential for quite the power couple. Steven Wilkinson also proved to be deadlier than ever, yet no longer did he desire an allegiance with John, but four unsuspecting policemen. I was quite fond of Phil Fletcher in particular, the older and higher ranked copper, as he seemed the decent sort. Hopefully he reappears in the final book of the trilogy, perhaps as a hunter himself. Considering the ending, there's no doubt things are going to escalate for every character.
Another aspect I favoured was when Marie admitted to there being other types of supernatural creatures; vampires included. This made me smile and wonder of the possibility of more novels being set within the world of High Moor. I'd definitely read them!
In conclusion: Utmost excitement - excellent werewolf savagery. I'll be keeping an eye on Reynolds' future works, as I just love how he spins a tale.
Notable Scene:
If anything, the experience was worse going from wolf to human than it had been from man to beast. The savage fangs pushed their way back through his gums, feeling as if a dentist was drilling all of his teeth at once, without the benefit of anaesthetic. Black talons forced their way under his already forming fingernails, while every bone in his body splintered and reformed, flowing like liquid to their original shape. The worst thing, however, was the itching burn across every inch of his skin, as thousands of coarse black hairs pushed their way into his flesh. He cried out in agony, but his vocal chords were half way between human and werewolf, so all that escaped his lips was a strange combination of howl and scream.
© Red Lace 2016
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
Now in police custody, John Simpson is quickly running out of options. His face is all over the news for the grisly murders of multiple people, and the full moon is vast approaching yet again. If that wasn't bad enough, a squad of professional killers have been sent to take him out. He's a threat, an apparent moonstruck, with no control over his monster - or so the pack believes. John's not the only one in danger however; those that know too much must be silenced, including the law enforcement involved with the High Moor investigation.
(WARNING: This review contains MAJOR spoilers.)
High Moor was my one and only five star book of 2014, with very good reason. It surpassed my expectations and instantly plunged me into an exciting roller-coaster of claws and teeth. Everybody was fair game, every limb at risk of being ripped off - the extreme brutality throughout shocked me as well as thrilled me, but it wasn't just about violence and gore. It was about a man with a terrible beast lurking beneath the surface, and a society determined to remain hidden. This second instalment was no different in terms of pace and edge-of-your-seat excitement. I found myself drawn into the life and death situations of characters old and new, and a few I truly liked from the get-go. There's something about how Reynolds spins a tale, and that coupled with my love for werewolves, is the perfect combination.
The plot largely centred upon the werewolf pack, led by Michael as alpha, and their attempts to cover up the rather messy events that transpired in the previous book. Getting a more in-depth look at their inner workings and at their harsh, yet understandable, methods of taking care of the situation was thoroughly engrossing. Of course they went to great lengths to secure the secrecy of their race; realistically, we (humanity), would outright eradicate them upon the discovery of their existence. Perhaps not at first, but eventually. No matter how much it may be denied, we are a destructive force, and peace would most assuredly be merely an illusion. Because of this, I didn't dislike Oskar and his team for doing what they did out of necessity, but Connie was another matter. She was the heartless villain that enjoyed the cruelty and pain of her victims. She was so consumed by hate. I have to admit, she provided some very tense scenes, like the one with Olivia, which I couldn't read fast enough; I needed to know if the poor woman survived.
John and Marie both returned and their romance took a step further, albeit with an awkward, yet sweet moment. I appreciated that amongst the horrific bloodshed, there was at least a little bloom of love and the potential for quite the power couple. Steven Wilkinson also proved to be deadlier than ever, yet no longer did he desire an allegiance with John, but four unsuspecting policemen. I was quite fond of Phil Fletcher in particular, the older and higher ranked copper, as he seemed the decent sort. Hopefully he reappears in the final book of the trilogy, perhaps as a hunter himself. Considering the ending, there's no doubt things are going to escalate for every character.
Another aspect I favoured was when Marie admitted to there being other types of supernatural creatures; vampires included. This made me smile and wonder of the possibility of more novels being set within the world of High Moor. I'd definitely read them!
In conclusion: Utmost excitement - excellent werewolf savagery. I'll be keeping an eye on Reynolds' future works, as I just love how he spins a tale.
Notable Scene:
If anything, the experience was worse going from wolf to human than it had been from man to beast. The savage fangs pushed their way back through his gums, feeling as if a dentist was drilling all of his teeth at once, without the benefit of anaesthetic. Black talons forced their way under his already forming fingernails, while every bone in his body splintered and reformed, flowing like liquid to their original shape. The worst thing, however, was the itching burn across every inch of his skin, as thousands of coarse black hairs pushed their way into his flesh. He cried out in agony, but his vocal chords were half way between human and werewolf, so all that escaped his lips was a strange combination of howl and scream.
© Red Lace 2016
Wordpress ~ Booklikes ~ Twitter
March 31, 2013
I thought long and hard about writing a review for High Moor 2 especially as I had previously read and awarded a 5* rating to the original High Moor. I have also noted that reception on the whole for HM2 has been positive but this does not mean that I must concur, and any star rating system to be of value should always contain honest reviews. In short I did not enjoy HM2, I thought the story had little merit and was more reminiscent of a B horror movie than a tightly plotted thriller. The story, for what it is worth, concerns a pack werewolves hunting "rogues" in order to hide and deny the existence of "The Lycanthrope" This involves much dashing around and gnashing of teeth and tearing of flesh, as the main participants indulge in bloody conflict. I particularly disliked the character of Connie (but equally I am sure some reviewers loved her) with her irritating and strong Glaswegian accent, however if the purpose was to give her presence more prominence then I suppose in that respect it did succeed. When I think of The Wolf's Hour by Robert R McCammon and The Wolfen by Whitley Strieber, I begin to understand just what it is that I demand from a werewolf novel. The Wolf's Hour is an amazing epic 2nd WW adventure and the werewolf element is secondary to the main plot....but it works beautifully. The Wolfen is one of those rare reads that certainly demands a lot from the reader and invites him to understand and in some ways be sympathetic to the desperate plight of the lycanthrope...just look at this amazing description of a werewolf family at play, living their lives and surviving as a unit in a world out to destroy their very existance..........
“Now she was down, she was pushing her nose past cloth, slick hot flesh, feeling the vibration of subvocal response in the man, feeling his muscles stiffening as his body reacted to her standing on it, then opening her mouth against the flesh, feeling her teeth scrape back and down, pressing her tongue against the deliciously salty skin and ripping with all the strength in her jaws and neck and chest, and jumping back to the wall with the bloody throat in her mouth. The body on the bench barely rustled as its dying blood poured out….Now her job was over,she dropped behind the wall and ate her trophy. It was rich and sweet with blood. Around her the pack was very happy as it worked….Then the pack ate in rank order. The mother took the brain. The father took a thigh and buttock. The first mated pair ate the clean organs. When they returned from their duty the second mated pair took the rest. And then they pulled apart the remains and took them piece by piece and dropped them in the nearby lake…When this was done, they went to a place they had been earlier, a great meadow full of the beautiful new snow that had been falling. They ran and danced in the snow, feeling the pleasure of their bodies, the joy or facing headlong across the wide expanse, and because they knew that no human was in earshot they had a joyous howl full of the pulsing rhythm they liked best after a hunt…..
Maybe HM2 is a different type of story and perhaps it is somewhat unfair of me to compare it to established bestsellers....nevertheless a good story is a good story and I would not be honest with myself if I did not share with you my truthful thoughts. I do not deny that those readers who awarded 5* where totally honest in their enjoyment but I beg to differ and show a different interpretation, I did not enjoy and to that end I have submit this review.
“Now she was down, she was pushing her nose past cloth, slick hot flesh, feeling the vibration of subvocal response in the man, feeling his muscles stiffening as his body reacted to her standing on it, then opening her mouth against the flesh, feeling her teeth scrape back and down, pressing her tongue against the deliciously salty skin and ripping with all the strength in her jaws and neck and chest, and jumping back to the wall with the bloody throat in her mouth. The body on the bench barely rustled as its dying blood poured out….Now her job was over,she dropped behind the wall and ate her trophy. It was rich and sweet with blood. Around her the pack was very happy as it worked….Then the pack ate in rank order. The mother took the brain. The father took a thigh and buttock. The first mated pair ate the clean organs. When they returned from their duty the second mated pair took the rest. And then they pulled apart the remains and took them piece by piece and dropped them in the nearby lake…When this was done, they went to a place they had been earlier, a great meadow full of the beautiful new snow that had been falling. They ran and danced in the snow, feeling the pleasure of their bodies, the joy or facing headlong across the wide expanse, and because they knew that no human was in earshot they had a joyous howl full of the pulsing rhythm they liked best after a hunt…..
Maybe HM2 is a different type of story and perhaps it is somewhat unfair of me to compare it to established bestsellers....nevertheless a good story is a good story and I would not be honest with myself if I did not share with you my truthful thoughts. I do not deny that those readers who awarded 5* where totally honest in their enjoyment but I beg to differ and show a different interpretation, I did not enjoy and to that end I have submit this review.
May 11, 2017
This guy is one of my favorite narrators! His name is Chris Barnes and his voice carries a Scottish brogue that makes my ears tingle when I'm listening to my audio horror- thus introducing the book series that he told me was awesome. At first I wasn't sure, but he convinced me, it was worth the listen. He was right!
The High Moor series, by Graeme Reynolds, is werewolf hell! The stories are shared book by book below, so prepare for a wild ride of a book review!
High Moor, Book 2: Moonstruck
It's all about revenge with these people! And so many angry cops! Man- everybody was angry in this book! The action was full and the killings were gory as ever! The voice of Barnes kept me happy as I read in to the series.
I enjoyed this one much more than the first. The surviving victim of the attacks in book one has been on the run. He's Moonstruck, meaning a wild wolf that needs to be taken down, according to the law. But there's a lone werewolf hunter who's working the job way too well. His actions set a string of catastrophes- rage, revenge and mistakes.
When you've not changed for a while, your inner-wolf can become a Bezerker, I guess. That's what also happens to those who change and forget their human side Also, if you've been bitten by a MoonStruck werewolf, you take on those traits. That's what was going on in this tale. Everyone was afraid of him, because MoonStruck's are known for an their animalistic animal behavior, but that's not the case for our hero.
I didn't have high hopes, but this one was fab! There was action throughout the story and tons of gore for the true werewolf fan! I didn't think I'd enjoy Moon Struck, but I did.
If you like werwolf horror, these books do not fail. There's tons of gore, horrific attacks and Russian accents for days. I enjoyed it and can happily say, I was proven wrong when I thought the other books wouldn't be likable. Happy to say! So check out the High Moon series, while I move on to the next read!
*For full review: http://www.areneehunt.com/the-reviews...
High Moor Series
Graeme Reynolds
Horrific Tales Publishing
November 17, 2011
The High Moor series, by Graeme Reynolds, is werewolf hell! The stories are shared book by book below, so prepare for a wild ride of a book review!
High Moor, Book 2: Moonstruck
It's all about revenge with these people! And so many angry cops! Man- everybody was angry in this book! The action was full and the killings were gory as ever! The voice of Barnes kept me happy as I read in to the series.
I enjoyed this one much more than the first. The surviving victim of the attacks in book one has been on the run. He's Moonstruck, meaning a wild wolf that needs to be taken down, according to the law. But there's a lone werewolf hunter who's working the job way too well. His actions set a string of catastrophes- rage, revenge and mistakes.
When you've not changed for a while, your inner-wolf can become a Bezerker, I guess. That's what also happens to those who change and forget their human side Also, if you've been bitten by a MoonStruck werewolf, you take on those traits. That's what was going on in this tale. Everyone was afraid of him, because MoonStruck's are known for an their animalistic animal behavior, but that's not the case for our hero.
I didn't have high hopes, but this one was fab! There was action throughout the story and tons of gore for the true werewolf fan! I didn't think I'd enjoy Moon Struck, but I did.
If you like werwolf horror, these books do not fail. There's tons of gore, horrific attacks and Russian accents for days. I enjoyed it and can happily say, I was proven wrong when I thought the other books wouldn't be likable. Happy to say! So check out the High Moon series, while I move on to the next read!
*For full review: http://www.areneehunt.com/the-reviews...
High Moor Series
Graeme Reynolds
Horrific Tales Publishing
November 17, 2011
October 11, 2013
Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite.
“High Moor: Moonstruck” by Graeme Reynolds is the second episode in the “High Moor” series, and may be even better than the first episode. Graeme Reynolds is a master of the werewolf legend, and “Moonstruck” is one of his brilliantly detailed narratives.
The name “Moonstruck” refers to a type of werewolf who cannot control his transition from man to wolf, but always turns when the moon is full. He cannot restrain “his wolf”, nor does he have any recollection of whatever he may have done while a wolf. According to pack law, moonstruck werewolves must be hunted down and killed, in order to protect the anonymity of the pack.
If a moonstruck were allowed to live, and subsequently slaughtered indiscriminately so that people were made aware of the existence of the mythological werewolf, humans the world over would seek and destroy all werewolves. Packs are ruled by their own laws; they can “turn” anytime they want, and control what they do while in their wolf phase. To maintain their “mythical” reputation, they do not feed on humans, restricting themselves to rodents and the like.
“High Moor: Moonstruck” is a story about an exhaustive effort by a pack to find and kill a single moonstruck who has been discovered. To the surprise and dismay of the pack, this moonstruck has far greater strength than any they have previously encountered, and capabilities unheard of for a moonstruck. The story is packed with action, subterfuge, and betrayal, and is quite an enthralling tale.
Reynolds’ narrative is as thorough as documented history, but as entertaining as any Hollywood blockbuster. The ending is auspicious but unanticipated – as much so as any I have ever encountered. Reynolds writes about werewolves as if they truly exist, and he makes the reader “suspend disbelief” every bit as well as any author of fiction ever has.
Reynolds is an exceptionally gifted, superbly skilled storyteller. Any reader who wants a meticulous account of “real” werewolves must read “High Moor: Moonstruck”. This story is a riveting delight.
“High Moor: Moonstruck” by Graeme Reynolds is the second episode in the “High Moor” series, and may be even better than the first episode. Graeme Reynolds is a master of the werewolf legend, and “Moonstruck” is one of his brilliantly detailed narratives.
The name “Moonstruck” refers to a type of werewolf who cannot control his transition from man to wolf, but always turns when the moon is full. He cannot restrain “his wolf”, nor does he have any recollection of whatever he may have done while a wolf. According to pack law, moonstruck werewolves must be hunted down and killed, in order to protect the anonymity of the pack.
If a moonstruck were allowed to live, and subsequently slaughtered indiscriminately so that people were made aware of the existence of the mythological werewolf, humans the world over would seek and destroy all werewolves. Packs are ruled by their own laws; they can “turn” anytime they want, and control what they do while in their wolf phase. To maintain their “mythical” reputation, they do not feed on humans, restricting themselves to rodents and the like.
“High Moor: Moonstruck” is a story about an exhaustive effort by a pack to find and kill a single moonstruck who has been discovered. To the surprise and dismay of the pack, this moonstruck has far greater strength than any they have previously encountered, and capabilities unheard of for a moonstruck. The story is packed with action, subterfuge, and betrayal, and is quite an enthralling tale.
Reynolds’ narrative is as thorough as documented history, but as entertaining as any Hollywood blockbuster. The ending is auspicious but unanticipated – as much so as any I have ever encountered. Reynolds writes about werewolves as if they truly exist, and he makes the reader “suspend disbelief” every bit as well as any author of fiction ever has.
Reynolds is an exceptionally gifted, superbly skilled storyteller. Any reader who wants a meticulous account of “real” werewolves must read “High Moor: Moonstruck”. This story is a riveting delight.
June 8, 2014
Moonstruck, Part Two of the High Moor trilogy, was just as exciting as the first, and in some ways, I think I enjoyed it more.
Part 1, High Moor, introduced the key characters when they were children, and although I’ve always been a sucker for that kind of dynamic and setting (kids bonding, relationships developing, that feeling of nostalgia, of the good ole days), Part 2, Moonstruck, worked all the more effectively BECAUSE of how well I felt I knew these people.
I’ll hold back on any overview of the plot so as not to inadvertently spoil Part 1 for anyone, but things pick up right where they left off.
In Moonstruck we discover that there is a much larger network of these monsters, more organized than one would think, with a rather strict internal hierarchy, an international presence, and a pack leader with whom we have already become quite familiar (wink, wink!).
At first we find the local police investigating the “incident” that concluded the first book, and leading that investigation is a formidable pregnant detective named Olivia, who made me think a little of Marg from the movie Fargo, though Olivia has a much rougher tongue on her.
The tension is palpable in this one, and there seems to be a lot more at stake here than there was in part 1. This book has everything: romance, action, suspense, a bucket load of truly heinous violence (one scene in particular made me feel a little bit down for the rest of the day), and a truly compelling narrative that powers through to the end without slowing down. And why should it stop there? With another book on its way (there’d better be another book, Graeme, you hear me?!!) we might as well carry on, full steam ahead, without losing any of the momentum we’ve got going on.
As with part 1, the writing is crisp, funny, to the point, and the descriptions clear as a bell. I got more than I was expecting with this book, and given the unexpected twist at the end, I’m quite anxious for the release of part 3.
Part 1, High Moor, introduced the key characters when they were children, and although I’ve always been a sucker for that kind of dynamic and setting (kids bonding, relationships developing, that feeling of nostalgia, of the good ole days), Part 2, Moonstruck, worked all the more effectively BECAUSE of how well I felt I knew these people.
I’ll hold back on any overview of the plot so as not to inadvertently spoil Part 1 for anyone, but things pick up right where they left off.
In Moonstruck we discover that there is a much larger network of these monsters, more organized than one would think, with a rather strict internal hierarchy, an international presence, and a pack leader with whom we have already become quite familiar (wink, wink!).
At first we find the local police investigating the “incident” that concluded the first book, and leading that investigation is a formidable pregnant detective named Olivia, who made me think a little of Marg from the movie Fargo, though Olivia has a much rougher tongue on her.
The tension is palpable in this one, and there seems to be a lot more at stake here than there was in part 1. This book has everything: romance, action, suspense, a bucket load of truly heinous violence (one scene in particular made me feel a little bit down for the rest of the day), and a truly compelling narrative that powers through to the end without slowing down. And why should it stop there? With another book on its way (there’d better be another book, Graeme, you hear me?!!) we might as well carry on, full steam ahead, without losing any of the momentum we’ve got going on.
As with part 1, the writing is crisp, funny, to the point, and the descriptions clear as a bell. I got more than I was expecting with this book, and given the unexpected twist at the end, I’m quite anxious for the release of part 3.
January 13, 2022
Ok so I've just finished this book and am updating my review. I'm definitely keeping the 5 stars! Call me demented but I love this series thus far! I love Graeme Reynolds writing style. It's very straight and to the point without being dry. I haven't read a book in a long time where I thought a transfer to the big screen was not only necessary but a must! Idk what Mr. Reynolds feelings would be on a Hollywood take but this would certainly make for a great movie if done correctly with a proper budget (and little CGI, Of course). Great read for any fan of horror thrillers. Definitely not for the faint of heart.
February 25, 2014
My review for: Moonstruck (book two of High Moor) by Graeme Reynolds
Read by: Chris Barnes
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Shanna Roberson
This series just gets better and better. Being a huge fan of horror, I was intrigued when I first picked up the High Moor series by Graeme Reynolds but by the end of the book two, I am totally addicted to his style of writing! Pairing up again with narrator- extraordinaire, Chris Barnes, Moonstruck, the continuation of this series is a fast-paced, gore-filled horror show. And I do say that in the best way possible.
With Moonstruck starting right where it left off in High Moor and the aftermath of that explosive ending, John Simpson finds himself in quite the predicament. In the light of day, John is painted as a blood-thirsty monster that kills without regrets and the media is eating it up especially when he claims to be a werewolf. After the horrific murders that rocked the small town of High Moor, the whole town is on edge and wanting justice. But while their focus is on the only suspect they have in custody, a more deadlier threat stalks the shadows. And with a false sense of security, no one is safe from the beasts that will do anything to keep their existence hidden…
Graeme’s dark and twisted style of horror is a perfect match for the very skilled talent of voice artist, Chris Barnes. It never ceases to amaze me the incredibly professional recordings Dynamic Ram Audio Productions produces. From all of the sound effects like the muffled radio or walkie talkies that completely sets the mood and makes it impossible to stop listening! I really can’t wait for book three! There better be a book three! Just an amazing series.
Read by: Chris Barnes
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Shanna Roberson
This series just gets better and better. Being a huge fan of horror, I was intrigued when I first picked up the High Moor series by Graeme Reynolds but by the end of the book two, I am totally addicted to his style of writing! Pairing up again with narrator- extraordinaire, Chris Barnes, Moonstruck, the continuation of this series is a fast-paced, gore-filled horror show. And I do say that in the best way possible.
With Moonstruck starting right where it left off in High Moor and the aftermath of that explosive ending, John Simpson finds himself in quite the predicament. In the light of day, John is painted as a blood-thirsty monster that kills without regrets and the media is eating it up especially when he claims to be a werewolf. After the horrific murders that rocked the small town of High Moor, the whole town is on edge and wanting justice. But while their focus is on the only suspect they have in custody, a more deadlier threat stalks the shadows. And with a false sense of security, no one is safe from the beasts that will do anything to keep their existence hidden…
Graeme’s dark and twisted style of horror is a perfect match for the very skilled talent of voice artist, Chris Barnes. It never ceases to amaze me the incredibly professional recordings Dynamic Ram Audio Productions produces. From all of the sound effects like the muffled radio or walkie talkies that completely sets the mood and makes it impossible to stop listening! I really can’t wait for book three! There better be a book three! Just an amazing series.
October 13, 2013
I just finished High Moor 2:Moonstuck and I want to write down my initial impressions while they're fresh in my head. First, this novel is a totally different creature (no pun intended) from High Moor. This book is nothing less than a high tension horror thriller,the kind that knots up your shoulders and neck, then takes your breath away with flashes of unimaginably evil violence. Even though the tension ratchets up til it's like piano wire strung across the road, and I know to expect the unexpected...I had to set it down, take a deep breath, and evaluate whether its safe to read this book.
I'm not going to drop any spoilers but you'll know EXACTLY what I mean when you read it yourself.
And you should read this book. You can't really say you know real modern horror and not have this one as the next title in your TBR stack. In an era where vampires sparkle and people walk around with fluffy green stuffed Cthulu dolls, it's up to writers like Graeme Reynolds to put the horror back in horror. Horror is supposed to do more than give you a safe little set of goosebumps. It's supposed to break into your bubble, and let you know that nightmares can still leap from the shadows and tear you to shreds.
I'm not going to drop any spoilers but you'll know EXACTLY what I mean when you read it yourself.
And you should read this book. You can't really say you know real modern horror and not have this one as the next title in your TBR stack. In an era where vampires sparkle and people walk around with fluffy green stuffed Cthulu dolls, it's up to writers like Graeme Reynolds to put the horror back in horror. Horror is supposed to do more than give you a safe little set of goosebumps. It's supposed to break into your bubble, and let you know that nightmares can still leap from the shadows and tear you to shreds.
March 27, 2013
Reynolds knows how to do werewolves really well, something he proved in High Moor Book 1 and something that carries over into this book, High Moor 2: Moonstruck, which continues the story of werewolf John Simpson and all the trouble he got into previously, which is only exacerbated in this book, which makes for a highly entertaining and suspenseful read.
If you absolutely loved the first book, multiply that by 100, and you’ll understand how gripping a read High Moor 2: Moonstruck is–it’s an absolute must for werewolf fans. Horror buffs should have no problem with the graphic depictions of violence, and although it may turn off some readers, getting through the bloody bits and to the real meat of the story is well worth it.
For my full review, click here: http://hellnotes.com/high-moor-2-moon...
If you absolutely loved the first book, multiply that by 100, and you’ll understand how gripping a read High Moor 2: Moonstruck is–it’s an absolute must for werewolf fans. Horror buffs should have no problem with the graphic depictions of violence, and although it may turn off some readers, getting through the bloody bits and to the real meat of the story is well worth it.
For my full review, click here: http://hellnotes.com/high-moor-2-moon...
December 17, 2013
This is an absolute must read.
You know you have picked up a good book when you get to 3am and are prepared to endure the gritty eyes of the unsleeping, the following day at work. Graeme hooks the reader into a fast paced, gut wrenching Werewolf tale which at times left me breathless, at others utterly sickened by the depravity of the violence.
What struck me most heavily, other than one particular Werewolf kill involving the unborn, was the humanity of the characters - the sense of ego, the fragile uncertainty or the drive for revenge were completely natural and easy to relate to.
This is one of the best books I have read this year, certainly the best horror book I have read in the last 5 years. I cannot wait to get hold of the 3rd part of the series, well done!
You know you have picked up a good book when you get to 3am and are prepared to endure the gritty eyes of the unsleeping, the following day at work. Graeme hooks the reader into a fast paced, gut wrenching Werewolf tale which at times left me breathless, at others utterly sickened by the depravity of the violence.
What struck me most heavily, other than one particular Werewolf kill involving the unborn, was the humanity of the characters - the sense of ego, the fragile uncertainty or the drive for revenge were completely natural and easy to relate to.
This is one of the best books I have read this year, certainly the best horror book I have read in the last 5 years. I cannot wait to get hold of the 3rd part of the series, well done!
September 11, 2016
*Review for audible version*
Moonstruck pulls no punches with this, balls to the wall, werewolf romp of revenge, betrayal and lots and lots of blood. The sh@t is really hitting the fan now. A wee more brutal in parts than the first one, this is equally fast paced and the story line follows up nicely. John and Marie are back in action and The Pack is on the prowl. Then it was over and I’m thinking, nooo! Perfect set up for a continuation, even if I didn’t want it to end. If there is any sh@t left after this one, it is all going to hit it, in book three.
Well done, fast, fun and a brutal blood bath. Just how I like it. Highly Recommended.
Moonstruck pulls no punches with this, balls to the wall, werewolf romp of revenge, betrayal and lots and lots of blood. The sh@t is really hitting the fan now. A wee more brutal in parts than the first one, this is equally fast paced and the story line follows up nicely. John and Marie are back in action and The Pack is on the prowl. Then it was over and I’m thinking, nooo! Perfect set up for a continuation, even if I didn’t want it to end. If there is any sh@t left after this one, it is all going to hit it, in book three.
Well done, fast, fun and a brutal blood bath. Just how I like it. Highly Recommended.
April 15, 2013
Just as good as the First one!!! Anxiously awaiting the next installment! I haven't been this excited about a new book series/author since Charlaine Harris - and these books outdo even True Blood!
May 27, 2020
Best bloody damn werewolf novel I ever read!
April 20, 2016
High Moor/High Moor 2: Moon Struck/High Moor 3: Blood Moon by Graeme Reynolds
Audiobook narrated by Chris Barnes
When John Simpson hears of a bizarre animal attack in his old home town of High Moor, it stirs memories of a long forgotten horror. John knows the truth. A werewolf stalks the town once more, and on the night of the next full moon, the killing will begin again. He should know. He survived a werewolf attack in 1986, during the worst year of his life.
It’s 1986 and the town is gripped in terror after the mutilated corpse of a young boy is found in the woods. When Sergeant Steven Wilkinson begins an investigation, with the help of a specialist hunter, he soon realises that this is no ordinary animal attack. Werewolves are real, and the trail of bodies is just beginning, with young John and his friends smack in the middle of it…
With a trilogy of books already released, it seemed to make sense to review all three in one go, because the fact is, I found after experiencing the first, you’ll be dying to get stuck into the rest. I could leave the review at that, and maybe you’ll take my word for it. But what if you don’t?
Let’s talk werewolves. When done right, the embodiment of pure, carnal beast is a formidable horror staple. Reynolds nails the lore from the first bite to the last bullet.
High Moor is thrill ride from start to finish, harking back to 80’s action horror classics whilst maintaining a firm sense of much loved nostalgia. With a group of friends facing off against a seemingly invincible terror, there’s a definite sense of a childhood betrayed, a trope Stephen King has used successfully in several of his Kids vs Monsters stories, and in this, Reynolds brilliantly portrays a struggling northern town to perfection.
Another point I loved is that Reynolds could’ve quite easily ended the novel at several points, and as a reader, I would have been happy. But the action keeps coming, taking the story much further than I ever expected.
Humorous and at times utterly shocking, High Moor sets the scene, with a group of characters you’ll come to love, and love to hate.
Moon Struck takes the story to the next level and introduces a larger pack of werewolves, delving into group politics and further into their history, which makes fascinating reading as we head deeper into Reynolds’ universe. Whilst Moonstruck moves at a slower pace, it soon picks up, especially with the inclusion of a psychopathic werewolf called Connie, who steals the show, literally chewing the scenery (and quite often, characters) with maniacal, blood squirting glee.
Blood Moon completes the saga (for the time being) with an all-out war of werewolves vs werewolves vs humans as species eradication and infighting is rife. This werewolf holocaust is touching at times, as Reynolds succeeds in humanising the monster, creating more than just a community, but families as well, struggling as their lives are turned upside down
But with a story about tooth and claws, it can only end one way; blood, and lots of it. Graeme Reynolds delivers it by the bucket load, satisfying even the sickest of gore lovers. My one gripe is the woefully underused idea of a werewolf super soldier, but there’s always room for another sequel.
Also, hats off again to Chris Barnes for his flawless performance, bringing depths to characters by creating individual voices for each. His ear for accents is uncanny, and hearing him flit between West Country lilt and thick Russian is a joy to behold, keeping me gripped for many a long and lonely drive.
All in all, High Moor is an exhilarating thrill ride of action horror that never threatens to give up the pace, and the entire trilogy is thoroughly recommended, whether it’s in book form or audiobook.
5/5
Audiobook narrated by Chris Barnes
When John Simpson hears of a bizarre animal attack in his old home town of High Moor, it stirs memories of a long forgotten horror. John knows the truth. A werewolf stalks the town once more, and on the night of the next full moon, the killing will begin again. He should know. He survived a werewolf attack in 1986, during the worst year of his life.
It’s 1986 and the town is gripped in terror after the mutilated corpse of a young boy is found in the woods. When Sergeant Steven Wilkinson begins an investigation, with the help of a specialist hunter, he soon realises that this is no ordinary animal attack. Werewolves are real, and the trail of bodies is just beginning, with young John and his friends smack in the middle of it…
With a trilogy of books already released, it seemed to make sense to review all three in one go, because the fact is, I found after experiencing the first, you’ll be dying to get stuck into the rest. I could leave the review at that, and maybe you’ll take my word for it. But what if you don’t?
Let’s talk werewolves. When done right, the embodiment of pure, carnal beast is a formidable horror staple. Reynolds nails the lore from the first bite to the last bullet.
High Moor is thrill ride from start to finish, harking back to 80’s action horror classics whilst maintaining a firm sense of much loved nostalgia. With a group of friends facing off against a seemingly invincible terror, there’s a definite sense of a childhood betrayed, a trope Stephen King has used successfully in several of his Kids vs Monsters stories, and in this, Reynolds brilliantly portrays a struggling northern town to perfection.
Another point I loved is that Reynolds could’ve quite easily ended the novel at several points, and as a reader, I would have been happy. But the action keeps coming, taking the story much further than I ever expected.
Humorous and at times utterly shocking, High Moor sets the scene, with a group of characters you’ll come to love, and love to hate.
Moon Struck takes the story to the next level and introduces a larger pack of werewolves, delving into group politics and further into their history, which makes fascinating reading as we head deeper into Reynolds’ universe. Whilst Moonstruck moves at a slower pace, it soon picks up, especially with the inclusion of a psychopathic werewolf called Connie, who steals the show, literally chewing the scenery (and quite often, characters) with maniacal, blood squirting glee.
Blood Moon completes the saga (for the time being) with an all-out war of werewolves vs werewolves vs humans as species eradication and infighting is rife. This werewolf holocaust is touching at times, as Reynolds succeeds in humanising the monster, creating more than just a community, but families as well, struggling as their lives are turned upside down
But with a story about tooth and claws, it can only end one way; blood, and lots of it. Graeme Reynolds delivers it by the bucket load, satisfying even the sickest of gore lovers. My one gripe is the woefully underused idea of a werewolf super soldier, but there’s always room for another sequel.
Also, hats off again to Chris Barnes for his flawless performance, bringing depths to characters by creating individual voices for each. His ear for accents is uncanny, and hearing him flit between West Country lilt and thick Russian is a joy to behold, keeping me gripped for many a long and lonely drive.
All in all, High Moor is an exhilarating thrill ride of action horror that never threatens to give up the pace, and the entire trilogy is thoroughly recommended, whether it’s in book form or audiobook.
5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2022
Love everything about this series!
I know this series has been rated by lots of readers but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to add my review. The storyline of this series is brilliant. I have read lots of werewolf horror books and appreciate this author's work. Fantastic characters, great surprises and lots of gore kept me reading for hours. I am happy that there is a book 3, but sad that it is the final book in the series.
I know this series has been rated by lots of readers but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to add my review. The storyline of this series is brilliant. I have read lots of werewolf horror books and appreciate this author's work. Fantastic characters, great surprises and lots of gore kept me reading for hours. I am happy that there is a book 3, but sad that it is the final book in the series.
May 7, 2013
If you haven’t read High Moor book one, this review may contain spoilers.
The last book ended with a showdown between our hero, John Simpson, and his long-time nemesis Malcolm. It took me a while to get back into the story, as it has been well over a year since I read the first one. I would have liked a few more reminders of events in the first one, as once or twice I struggled to even remember who characters where by their names alone or what their part was in the story. Much like in the first book, the story in Moonstruck flickers back and forth between several timelines, so as the story unfolds, the characters stories and motivations are filled in.
The opening chapter hits the ground running, full of action and thrills that really sets the tone for the rest of the book. The pace never really subsides as Reynolds’ puts his characters through various emotional and physical mills. The action is explosive and relentless, the violence is gory and ferocious, yet it is far from mindless as it is underpinned by a superb and fascinating story.
The story centres around two types of werewolves, ones that have some control over their bestial side, and those that don’t – the moonstruck. These are considered dangerous even by their own kind, as their crazed bloodlust only serves to endanger the rest of the werewolf community by potentially revealing their existence to the world. The werewolf community considers them vermin to be exterminated. John is moonstruck. He was infected by a moonstruck werewolf when he was a child. Over the years, he has learned to manage his condition, and taken the necessary precautions. In book one, he investigates a series of murders strikingly similar to those that were undertaken by the beast responsible for infecting him many years earlier, bringing John to the attention of the werewolf community.
The prose is interesting, as much like in book one, the author uses dialect specific to the north-east of England which is where a lot of the action takes place. I am unsure how this translates to a European or US audience, but for us Brits, it should pose no problem.
There are several characters that I found myself warming to. Strangely, I never really warmed that much to John in the last book, nor in this one. I realise he is the main protagonist, but much like Harry Potter, he is not half as interesting as the characters around him.
The female characters particularly stand out. I applaud Reynolds for writing his woman well. They are strong, fierce, protective and intelligent, and a few are notably more sinister than their male counterparts. While written for movies, this book passes the Bechdel test with flying colours.
This book is definitely for fans of the horror werewolf. If your preference is for shirtless native boys, or muscle-bound broody types with a hairstyle, then this is not for you. The werewolves in Reynolds’ imagination are a welcome return to the horrific roots of the werewolf legend, a creature that is neither man nor beast, but something that lives in the terrible space between the two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, probably more so than the last one, and the stage has been set for the third book which I await eagerly.
The last book ended with a showdown between our hero, John Simpson, and his long-time nemesis Malcolm. It took me a while to get back into the story, as it has been well over a year since I read the first one. I would have liked a few more reminders of events in the first one, as once or twice I struggled to even remember who characters where by their names alone or what their part was in the story. Much like in the first book, the story in Moonstruck flickers back and forth between several timelines, so as the story unfolds, the characters stories and motivations are filled in.
The opening chapter hits the ground running, full of action and thrills that really sets the tone for the rest of the book. The pace never really subsides as Reynolds’ puts his characters through various emotional and physical mills. The action is explosive and relentless, the violence is gory and ferocious, yet it is far from mindless as it is underpinned by a superb and fascinating story.
The story centres around two types of werewolves, ones that have some control over their bestial side, and those that don’t – the moonstruck. These are considered dangerous even by their own kind, as their crazed bloodlust only serves to endanger the rest of the werewolf community by potentially revealing their existence to the world. The werewolf community considers them vermin to be exterminated. John is moonstruck. He was infected by a moonstruck werewolf when he was a child. Over the years, he has learned to manage his condition, and taken the necessary precautions. In book one, he investigates a series of murders strikingly similar to those that were undertaken by the beast responsible for infecting him many years earlier, bringing John to the attention of the werewolf community.
The prose is interesting, as much like in book one, the author uses dialect specific to the north-east of England which is where a lot of the action takes place. I am unsure how this translates to a European or US audience, but for us Brits, it should pose no problem.
There are several characters that I found myself warming to. Strangely, I never really warmed that much to John in the last book, nor in this one. I realise he is the main protagonist, but much like Harry Potter, he is not half as interesting as the characters around him.
The female characters particularly stand out. I applaud Reynolds for writing his woman well. They are strong, fierce, protective and intelligent, and a few are notably more sinister than their male counterparts. While written for movies, this book passes the Bechdel test with flying colours.
This book is definitely for fans of the horror werewolf. If your preference is for shirtless native boys, or muscle-bound broody types with a hairstyle, then this is not for you. The werewolves in Reynolds’ imagination are a welcome return to the horrific roots of the werewolf legend, a creature that is neither man nor beast, but something that lives in the terrible space between the two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, probably more so than the last one, and the stage has been set for the third book which I await eagerly.
March 23, 2013
High Moor was one of the first books I read for my blog, way back at the end of 2011, and it's stuck with me since. I love a good horror story, and High Moor was also my introduction to the world of werewolves - and not the friendly kind that live in paranormal romances. Along with the delicious horror of the story, it was also the way that Mr. Reynolds bought the location alive that impressed me so much and so I was really excited to see how the story continued.
Beginning with a chilling prologue that perfectly sets the scene and the feel for the whole book, High Moor 2 - Moonstruck pulled me in right from the beginning. I didn't make any attempt to refresh myself with the plot or characters, and without need for a major recap, everything came flooding back as I read through the first few chapters.
There are a variety of characters, but the focus is around two main groups, and one individual, John Simpson. I was happy to see characters from the first book making a reappearance, along with some new, and intriguing characters that really bought an extra dimension to the story.
As with the first book, the location really comes through in the telling of the story - each setting is easily visualised without needing large passages of description, and writing action scenes are obviously Mr. Reynolds' forte as they are fast-paced yet easy to follow and the atmosphere is perfect - dark and creepy and exactly how I like my horror stories.
High Moor 2 is not for the faint of heart - with werewolves like these, there are several bloody fight scenes and a very dark atmosphere that makes this a true horror story. There is a lot more that I would love to say - I don't want to spoil it for anyone that may be interested in reading this series, but there are also other elements that added an extra dimension to the story and really have me curious as to where things will go in the next installment.
I love reading horror, particularly from UK-based authors, and Mr. Reynolds is now firmly one of my favourites, and I can't wait to see what he writes next.
Read more of my reviews at The Aussie Zombie
Beginning with a chilling prologue that perfectly sets the scene and the feel for the whole book, High Moor 2 - Moonstruck pulled me in right from the beginning. I didn't make any attempt to refresh myself with the plot or characters, and without need for a major recap, everything came flooding back as I read through the first few chapters.
There are a variety of characters, but the focus is around two main groups, and one individual, John Simpson. I was happy to see characters from the first book making a reappearance, along with some new, and intriguing characters that really bought an extra dimension to the story.
As with the first book, the location really comes through in the telling of the story - each setting is easily visualised without needing large passages of description, and writing action scenes are obviously Mr. Reynolds' forte as they are fast-paced yet easy to follow and the atmosphere is perfect - dark and creepy and exactly how I like my horror stories.
High Moor 2 is not for the faint of heart - with werewolves like these, there are several bloody fight scenes and a very dark atmosphere that makes this a true horror story. There is a lot more that I would love to say - I don't want to spoil it for anyone that may be interested in reading this series, but there are also other elements that added an extra dimension to the story and really have me curious as to where things will go in the next installment.
I love reading horror, particularly from UK-based authors, and Mr. Reynolds is now firmly one of my favourites, and I can't wait to see what he writes next.
Read more of my reviews at The Aussie Zombie
October 28, 2020
Even better than the last one. The way he makes me keep caring about new characters is very surprising.
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