Shine House

Emmie Rose Haunted Mysteries #0.5

by Dean Rasmussen

Emmie's spring break just started. Her idyllic getaway by the ocean is everything she dreamed of. Solitude. Friends. Sunshine. A chance to get away from her psychic past. But things take a chilling turn when she’s confronted by the ghost of a murdered girl. As the restless spirit haunts her every step, Emmie soon realizes that delving into the past is attracting unwelcome attention. A mysterious presence stalks her, their intentions sinister and unknown. The darkness within Shine House is suffocating, and Emmie is holding the last candle for the family that was brutally slain there. As Emmie becomes a target, she joins forces with a young police officer, igniting an investigation that draws them both closer to the truth and a fight for their lives. Shine House Book 0 is the prequel novella to the Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery series that delivers a murder mystery, supernatural suspense, and plenty of thrills. Fans of Wendy Wang, Darcy Coates, J. R. Erickson, Cheryl Bradshaw, or Heather Graham will love this exciting ghost mystery series. Discover why ghost mystery readers can’t put this book down! Books by Dean Shine An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 0: A Prequel Novella
Hanging An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 1
Caine An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 2
Hyde An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 3
Whisper An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 4
Temper An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery Book 5
Dreadful Tales of Horror Book 1 - 6
Stone Book 1 - 3 Or you can visit his website www. deanrasmussen. com.

Genres: Thriller, Horror, Mystery, Ghosts

110 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2023

About the author

Dean Rasmussen grew up in a small Minnesota town and began writing stories at the age of ten, driven by his fascination with the Star Wars hero's journey. He continued writing short stories and attempted a few novels through his early twenties until he stopped to focus on his computer animation ambitions. He studied English at a Minnesota college during that time.

He learned the art of computer animation and went on to work on twenty feature films, a television show, and a AAA video game as a visual effects artist over thirteen years. He currently teaches animation for visual effects in Orlando, Florida.

Inspired by his favorite authors, Stephen King, Ray Bradbury, Richard Matheson, and H.P. Lovecraft, Dean began writing novels and short stories again in 2018 to thrill and delight a new generation of horror fans.

Reviews

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a perfect prequel to an amazing series. Emmie is on spring break at the scenic home of her college friend. What can go wrong when you are in this idyllic setting next to the ocean? Everything when there was a murder committed at the abandoned lighthouse next door. Emmie Rose will have to embrace her inner psychic powers to solve this crime. I loved this story. The plot is incredible and the characters believable. An excellent start to a must-read series.

[kay reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 🌟

I enjoyed this a lot, especially the ending. We love a little classic ghost whisperer story. I loved the atmospheric vibes. I will definitely continue the series.

[Kathryn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this prequel. This is the first time I have read a book from the author. I will definitely read more of his books. The book was fast paced, keeping my interest the entire read. I loved the gothic ghost vibe of the story.

[Heart DeCoupeville · Rating 2 out of 5]

Acquired Kindle edition when offered free on Amazon.

This was one of those 1.5-star reads that had to be very reluctantly rated 2 stars because it wasn't bad enough for 1 star.

The story was all right, even if the resolution was pretty obvious, but the writing was really weak. Blah. Pedestrian. So much narrative telling, very little active showing. Because the author stuck to third person, single point of view, I never felt an emotional connection to main character Emmie.

Emmie's reactions never made sense. She supposedly doesn't want to give in to her psychic ability, but as soon as the opportunity presents itself, she plunges in without hesitation. She ignores all the warnings and puts herself in danger repeatedly without sufficient motivation.

Unfortunately, the rest of the characters in the story were similarly inconsistent. Though Angela and her family are described in narrative -- or assumed by Emmie -- to be traumatized by their neighbors' murders, no one really acts traumatized. So how would Emmie assume this?

I read the first half of this short book twice because the introduction of Flavio as a cop came as a jolt. If that information was presented prior to Emmie's meeting with him at the coffee shop and his appearance in uniform, I couldn't find it. I thought he worked with Red in the architectural salvage business! Authors: Don't expect your readers to have the GoodReads or Amazon blurb in front of them when they're reading, and don't expect them to read the minute they download a digital edition with a blurb fresh in their mind.

The plot was okay, but the execution was really lacking. Maybe it should have been a full book rather than a novella, but it was enough to make me not enthusiastic about ever reading this author again.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shine House: A Prequel Novella
An Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery, Book 0

By: Dean Rasmussen
Narrated by: Kasi Hollowell

The one that started it all …

Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 out of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 08-29-24

I had to have it … I had to know … Before Sarah … Before Finn … Before Hanging House and the rest of one of the BEST series’ I’ve ever experienced, there was “Shine House: A Prequel Novella” and IT DOES NOT DISAPPOINT! I was riveted as I listened to this perfectly written, perfectly narrated stunner! “Shine House” is the very definition of unpredictable. I finished in the wee hours of the morning, a bit surprised that so much time had elapsed, and REELING from the many twists and surprises! Of course I’m not giving any away here, but believe me, they are plentiful, perfectly executed, AND this story is a perfect listen at any time during the series as it wonderfully stands alone! Sooo curious to know how it all began, I actually listened to this one out of order AND enjoyed it every bit as much as every other book in the series! The characters are not only perfectly balanced with the likable, lovable and deplorable all equally represented, the character development is fantastic, with some starting start out as lovable, then managing to twist and turn their way to regions warmer than Hades! I’m not saying who … what fun would that be … but know they … are … there! The smooth flowing story has the distinct “noir” feel that I LOVE, is at ALL times easily understandable, and leaves no unanswered questions at the reveal! The narration is first class, perfect! Everything came beautifully and perfectly alive in my minds eye as I listened! I really loved everything about “Shine House”. Five shining stars!

[Shelly Neinast · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don't truly know your friends

A nice entertaing short story mystery. I loved the characters and storyline. It was sad at the end in learning about hidden secrets. It was nice to see someone take the risk of opening an old homicide to have closure for a family despite the dangers.
This was my first read in this series, and I truly enjoyed reading book 1.
The author, Dean Rasmussen, did a great job in making a short story believable and making it a page turner from start to finish. It was a mystery for sure.
Thank you, Dean Rasmussen, for the free download of Looking Glass, it wad a quick read that was fun and entertaining. I liked the storyline of how a person who who has aged to wonder what it would be like to have the body of her youthful self again. Learning that looking into a mirror could make you young again would make anyone try.
Nice short story. Thank you.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a free novella read on Amazon, a good little introduction to the series but didn't pack as much punch as the full novel books in my opinion (I've always been a full novel girl - sorry). I read this having read most of the other books in the series and it didn't spoil anything for me, so could be read anytime.

It was a little predictable, but a fun read. I felt for Emmie a lot throughout the book as you could see the struggles for her even then with her gift. I do wonder if we will ever see Favio in any of the other books, I don't recall coming across him before.

A solid 3.5 stars, I highly rate the Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery books (The others are all kindle unlimited, so free to subscribe if you subscribe to that service).

[Brian Lobodzinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well structured short story about Emmie trying to fight back against her psychic powers and being dragged unwillingly into a murder mystery. Events take place when Emmie's on holiday making it perfect reading for a couple of hours while sunbathing or avoiding disappointing weather. Love, jealousy, murder and a spirit take centre stage in the compact prose. It is a tight script which still manages to give enough detail to allow the reader to form a mental image of the location. The final, surprising twist, unexpected as it was, made the finale all the more enjoyable.
I got an ARC copy but the opinions expressed are my own

[Donna Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an atmospheric and action-packed prequel story that really packs a punch. I enjoy the Emmie Rose mysteries immensely, so the opportunity to read about her before the events in the books was quite an enjoyable one. The setting and characters, living and dead, were very well drawn and the sense of impending doom upon finding out what really happened permeates the story from beginning to end. This story had quite a bit of mystery and thriller aspects, along with the supernatural, to make it slightly different than the series. I really had fun with this and think it would be great to see more prequel stories of this nature or have Emmie involved in more hard crime cases.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: I enjoyed this prequel to the "Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery" series, but I think that having listened to the other books in the series has given to me an advantage in that I already know a lot about Emmie Rose. This prequel was short. There was a lot of information left to the reader's imagination. Still, the story captured my attention and sparked my imagination. Kasi Hollowell's narration was awesome, and she enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.

[Celine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this little haunting story. It was not as creepy/scary as I was expecting. It's more of a cozy mystery story with a ghost thrown in.

But I was pleasantly surprised when the ending was not what I expected. I was going back and forth between three characters that I thought might've done it, but my instincts were all wrong. It was someone I never expected to even be capable of something like that. The literal last person I would've thought, but I did enjoy the story. It was a nice quick read.

[Siobhan D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the narration of Kasi Hollowell, who brings out the thrill and mystery. Perfect for this book and series.

This a action packed prequel. Emmie Rose is on what she hopes a peaceful vacation on the coast. But ghosts of dead children never take vacations. Its not long before Emmie begins to see the spirit of a little girl named Lily and discovering the child's tragic past. Nothing is clear. A crumbling lighthouse and secrets that come out.

Suspense, action and mystery. Loved

[Marcus Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this spooky novella, a perfect start to the Halloween season. With just the right amount of haunts and suspense and without the gratuitous gore, it was an enjoyable read. The main character is still trying to come to terms with her ability to see the spirits of the dead, but despite her desire to run away, she faces her fears and helps spirits find peace. With a nice twist at the end, all in all, I recommend. The narrator was also a perfect choice for the story and characters.

[Emily Haynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emmie is on spring break from college. She is staying with a friend Angela on the coast. She hopes it is a escape from ghosts but stumble 's on a unsolved murder next door. Who killed the family? Why? What is the ghostly girl trying to tell Emmie. Spine chilling suspense filled read with amazing characters.

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thrilling read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Tam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very realistic and interesting characters. Fast-paced plot that kept me thoroughly engaged throughout. Suspenseful and thrilling! Great start to the series. Enjoyed every page of it!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.

[P.S. Winn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emmie just wanted to get away from things. A break takes her to a friend's place, but things there are not what they seem. A strange abandoned lighthouse catches Emmie's attention, but also spells danger. This is a well written, suspense filled book. It is also just the beginning to what appears to be an intriguing series that readers will want to jump into and enjoy.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Emmie Rose series. The characters are well fleshed out and the prequel is action packed.
The eerie feeling is present throughout the story and kept me turning the pages. I would highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book via the author and this is my honest review.

[Jocelyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shine House is a short prequel of the Emmie Rose Haunted Mystery series, and this is a fantastic addition to the series. I love ghost stories!! This series is amazing, and I highly recommend it. #StoryOrigin

[Lisa Maher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series. Emmie is amazing and I am glad that the author gave us this glimpse into life before the main series starts. It gives us a chance to see some of her struggles. This story is twisted with an unexpected plot twist. I hope that we get more from this series.

[Narelle Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as a freebie in return for an honest review.
Really enjoyed this story, loved the characters and the storyline. Didn't guess the 'who-dun-it' at all. The rest of the series should be a great read.

[Shamonn · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good...I could just tell who the killer was early on. I liked the haunting aspect of it being that we are coming up on spooky season. I do love me a good thriller/mystery that has a totally unexpected outcome though.

[Rowan Creech · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent prequel to an excellent series. This series and book are scary and enjoyable reads .

[Lottie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good book with a twist in the ending.

[Chili Diane Evance · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic tale of spirits showing you their truth. I was mesmerized by the story.

[Debby Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the book and the story line with some really unexpected twists and turns. I can’t wait to read the next book with Emmie!!

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*
I'll write a better review later.

[MRS G · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read, enjoyable prequel in the Emmie Rose series. Weird to have Emmie Rose solving a ghostly mystery on her own.

[Horror Haus Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how this one definitely had more of that mystery feel to it. I also enjoyed seeing a little more of Emmies life before she started to get a handle on her gift.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars