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Tab's Terrible Third Eye
Nine-year-old Tab is an artist harboring fears and anxieties that he soothes by drawing. After an encounter with an otherworldly creature, an angry bump afflicts his left temple. The wound burns and itches but will not heal. Worse, it summons ghosts.
Soon, Tab’s art portends real-life disasters like his father’s death. Tab becomes convinced his bump—his third eye—causes bad things.
Will Tab be able to control this power before it takes another life? Can he free himself from the ghost, who is determined to use that power to untold ends?
The answers lie in the secrets revealed by Tab’s terrible third eye.
For information about the tropes and other contents of this novel, please see the author's isaacthorne.com
Soon, Tab’s art portends real-life disasters like his father’s death. Tab becomes convinced his bump—his third eye—causes bad things.
Will Tab be able to control this power before it takes another life? Can he free himself from the ghost, who is determined to use that power to untold ends?
The answers lie in the secrets revealed by Tab’s terrible third eye.
For information about the tropes and other contents of this novel, please see the author's isaacthorne.com
- GenresHorror
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2025
5 people are currently reading
1135 people want to read
About the author
Isaac Thorne
14 books249 followersIsaac Thorne is a Middle Tennessee man who has, over the course of his life, developed a modest ability to spin a good yarn. Really. He promises.
He considers himself a lover of books, music, movies. His philosophy on his life is that it's all one giant experiment.
He considers himself a lover of books, music, movies. His philosophy on his life is that it's all one giant experiment.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 3, 2024
This is a creepy supernatural novel set in the same world as Hell Spring but in the present. I appreciated all the callbacks to that novel and I recommend you pick that one up as well as this one.
Tab is nine years old and gets attacked by something during a raging storm. This attack leaves him with a bump on his head which unleashes an nasty violent ghost of a man with no eyes. This ghost, Roy, torments Tab and through Tab's drawings he can make things happen in the real world.
That's just the setup though. There are many secrets to unlock and a twisty narrative which reveals things from the past that have been buried for years. It does this while dealing with trauma, guilt, and self discovery.
Things get even more horrific as certain events unfold and a battle is waged for control between Tab and Roy. It's tense and creates a resounding fear throughout. I was never quite sure if Roy could actually be stopped and this really upped the tension.
I highly recommend this and be sure to pick up Hell Spring asap for more from this world.
I received a copy of this book through Book Sirens. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Tab is nine years old and gets attacked by something during a raging storm. This attack leaves him with a bump on his head which unleashes an nasty violent ghost of a man with no eyes. This ghost, Roy, torments Tab and through Tab's drawings he can make things happen in the real world.
That's just the setup though. There are many secrets to unlock and a twisty narrative which reveals things from the past that have been buried for years. It does this while dealing with trauma, guilt, and self discovery.
Things get even more horrific as certain events unfold and a battle is waged for control between Tab and Roy. It's tense and creates a resounding fear throughout. I was never quite sure if Roy could actually be stopped and this really upped the tension.
I highly recommend this and be sure to pick up Hell Spring asap for more from this world.
I received a copy of this book through Book Sirens. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
January 11, 2026
First time reading Isaac Thorne. Ended up not doing the audiobook, but read the book. I enjoyed this, as there were great characters, great story, and great pacing. Will be reading more from Isaac Thorne. #TabsTerribleThirdEye #NetGalley
January 18, 2025
2.5 stars rounded to 3. This is essentially a straightforward ghost story, though the writing makes it extremely hard for one to parse properly and rather tiresome to grasp easily. I really tried to like it, but it's so wordy (for example, the kid takes like a whole paragraph to say the simplest thing), repetitive (e.g., a doctor has to say four times that the kid is a talented artist within four pages), and confusing (many scenes serve no purpose except making the same point exhaustively, driving the story back and forth instead of forward), that by the first 100 pages I was worn out and had no sense the story was going anywhere. It eventually became clear that the "secret" figuring centrally in the plot's resolution was exactly what I suspected, despite the author having already spent a number of pages denying it. I had the very strong impression that the author tried to take into account every suggestion he was told to include; and I also saw a review mentioning connections to the author's "Hell Spring" - perhaps I should have read that book first? In any case, I have to be honest and confess that this book wasn't for me.
December 30, 2024
Definitely need to read Hell Springs first, which is an amazing book (also a 5 star from me!) as there are a lot of references to that. I loved those to be honest, some really cool tie ins.
This is such a creepy and dark thriller, but one I couldn't put down. A really original concept and exceptionally well written. If you like your reads dark, you definitely need this in your TBR!
This is such a creepy and dark thriller, but one I couldn't put down. A really original concept and exceptionally well written. If you like your reads dark, you definitely need this in your TBR!
January 26, 2025
Tab’s Terrible Third Eye by Isaac Thorne, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Tom Force and OMG he’s so good such a great narrator and a pleasure to listen to. when the book starts Tab’s mom Sandra, and dad. Timothy are trying to get down to the seller with him and older brother Jeremy. they’re trying to retreat from the bad weather, but all Tab wants to do is find his cat Alfie. Right before going into the seller, he sees a vicious dog more like a Hellhound than your average canine, but this is just the beginning of the strange things that are going to happen to nine-year-old Tab. after they’re back in the home, he looks in the mirror at the bump on his head only to see what looks like to him to be an eyeball. which is ironic because soon he will be haunted by a ghost named Roy, who doesn’t have eyes at all. What he does have is a connection to Tab and his family unfortunately this isn’t the only strange thing that happens soon he seeing a psychiatrist who misdiagnosis him with OCD and seems to want to explain everything away. Even when the things he draws comes true, including the death of his dad, the doctor says it’s all coincidence, but tabs problems go further back than even his nine years, and the truth comes out eventually. if only he could get rid of Roy! This book was so good. It was set in the same town in Tennessee as Hell Spring, as a matter of a fact, the home and store that belong to Tim’s aunt that he’s trying to sell was the one the town folk took shelter in from the May flood. I loved that book. I loved this book and I loved Gordon’s place by this author. He is such a great writer and I can’t wait as soon as I’m done with this review I’m going to download more of his books. I especially loved the ending. Just know if you love great creepy paranormal mysteries then you definitely need to listen to this audiobook. I absolutely recommend the audio version of this book because Tom Force is such a great narrator.#NetGalley, #LostHollowBooks, #IsaacThorne, #TomForce, #TabsTerribleThirdEye,
January 15, 2025
A really solid “Stephen King-esque” ghost story with some nice body horror! Also a lot of well placed musing about parent/child relationships and how trauma can sink into the very fabric of a family.
January 16, 2025
ARC received for free.
4.25/5
Focussing on 9 year old Tab, we are presented with a number of situations where as a reader it is unclear if what is going on is actually supernatural or is in fact some form of coping mechanism that is the result of a mix of trauma and/or neurodivergence, or indeed a mix of the two.
This is definitely a very gradual, slow burn, which helps lock in the sense of mystery and ground the story in its most excessive moments, which manage to somehow sneak up on you despite them being very gradually built to.
It can be a be exposition heavy at times, especially around medical appointment scenes, of which there are several, but that makes sense in context, but it does at times further slow the pacing down so it may not be for everyone, but it certainly was for me
This was my first Isaac Thorne book, and I can say confidently it will not be my last.
4.25/5
Focussing on 9 year old Tab, we are presented with a number of situations where as a reader it is unclear if what is going on is actually supernatural or is in fact some form of coping mechanism that is the result of a mix of trauma and/or neurodivergence, or indeed a mix of the two.
This is definitely a very gradual, slow burn, which helps lock in the sense of mystery and ground the story in its most excessive moments, which manage to somehow sneak up on you despite them being very gradually built to.
It can be a be exposition heavy at times, especially around medical appointment scenes, of which there are several, but that makes sense in context, but it does at times further slow the pacing down so it may not be for everyone, but it certainly was for me
This was my first Isaac Thorne book, and I can say confidently it will not be my last.
September 17, 2024
Isaac Thorn’s new novel, Tab’s Terrible Third Eye is set in the same small town of Lost Hollow as in Thorn’s prior novel Hell Spring but occurs many decades later. Nine-year-old artist Tab finds out just how disturbing events can be in Lost Hollow when he encounters a demon dog that leaves him with an unwelcome gift – a burning wound that allows him to interact with a malignant ghost. Isaac Thorn weaves a psychological horror with the supernatural to create a riveting tale.
The first chapter is masterfully written, raising goosebumps and introducing the family dynamics. Writing from a child protagonist’s perspective is not easy. The child either comes off as too adult or the writing is too simple. However, Isaac Thorn conveys young Tab’s fears and frustrations while still engaging adult readers. It heightens the horror and empathy for Tab.
Spoiler alert that I feel is worth mentioning. This is a strong ghost story that contains violence and some gore, but the psychological horror elevates this story. It may be triggering for some readers. The story integrates violent crimes and the resulting post traumatic stress disorder as well as anxiety, OCD, and gender identity. The ghost could be a metaphor for Tab’s mental health – adult authorities try to label his conditions and stick them in a nice, safe box, but Tab’s frightening struggle with his own mind refuses to wear the label or stay contained in the box and mirrors his struggles with the ghost. Isaac Thorn approaches these sensitive issues with a light hand, respect, and compassion.
Isaac Thorn is a talented writer. He dives straight into the unfolding horror and does not get distracted from the story he wants to tell. I did not want to put the book down, but I also did not want to rush reading it. I wanted to savor every chapter, each event. If readers enjoyed Hell Spring, they will also enjoy Tab’s Terrible Third Eye.
The first chapter is masterfully written, raising goosebumps and introducing the family dynamics. Writing from a child protagonist’s perspective is not easy. The child either comes off as too adult or the writing is too simple. However, Isaac Thorn conveys young Tab’s fears and frustrations while still engaging adult readers. It heightens the horror and empathy for Tab.
Spoiler alert that I feel is worth mentioning. This is a strong ghost story that contains violence and some gore, but the psychological horror elevates this story. It may be triggering for some readers. The story integrates violent crimes and the resulting post traumatic stress disorder as well as anxiety, OCD, and gender identity. The ghost could be a metaphor for Tab’s mental health – adult authorities try to label his conditions and stick them in a nice, safe box, but Tab’s frightening struggle with his own mind refuses to wear the label or stay contained in the box and mirrors his struggles with the ghost. Isaac Thorn approaches these sensitive issues with a light hand, respect, and compassion.
Isaac Thorn is a talented writer. He dives straight into the unfolding horror and does not get distracted from the story he wants to tell. I did not want to put the book down, but I also did not want to rush reading it. I wanted to savor every chapter, each event. If readers enjoyed Hell Spring, they will also enjoy Tab’s Terrible Third Eye.
January 23, 2025
Just reading one this author’s books is going to be an experience. The character building is authentic and I find my self liking one or more of the people in a story. In this case, Tab was my favorite. Mr. Thorne created such a caring, conscientious young man. He was so afraid he would become a bad person that it took several conversations with multiple people to realize that he could have dark thoughts and be a good person. Whenever Tab encountered Roy, he was frightened at first but then was able to use his mental strength to figure out a way to get Roy to back off. I cannot imagine the stress Tab was under trying to deal with his father’s death, thinking he was the cause of bad stuff happening around him and trying to get rid of Roy. The fear that encapsulated Tab whenever Roy showed up was so vivid. As a mom myself, I just wanted to help Tab figure out who Roy was and how to get rid of him. I was so glad that mom finally came around and believed Tab. Once that occurred life was a little easier for Tab.
This book, I felt, had several messages. That just because you have crappy genetics does not mean those genetics have to control what you become. Another message was that’s people can act a certain way when angry but if they can get the anger under control, those feelings can be worked out. Finally, I felt that my favorite message was; life experiences can be good or bad, how you deal with makes all the difference in whether life is good or life is filled with angst. It is up to the individual on how life goes. We are all responsible for our own destinies either positive or negative.
This book, I felt, had several messages. That just because you have crappy genetics does not mean those genetics have to control what you become. Another message was that’s people can act a certain way when angry but if they can get the anger under control, those feelings can be worked out. Finally, I felt that my favorite message was; life experiences can be good or bad, how you deal with makes all the difference in whether life is good or life is filled with angst. It is up to the individual on how life goes. We are all responsible for our own destinies either positive or negative.
January 29, 2025
CW: body horror, gore, violence, death, references to rape, some others
Thank you to the author for the ARC! “Tab’s Terrible Third Eye” is available now!
Well, the demon dogs still make an appearance, but there’s a distinct lack of demonic phalluses, so I think we can call that a win.
The night of the hundred year flood, Tab encountered something unusual. In the aftermath, the 9 year old artist discovers a bump on his head, a terrifying correlation between his art and real world occurrences, and a strangely horrid man with no eyes that only Tab can see.
I don’t know if I can exactly say that I ‘liked’ this book so much as I found it ‘disturbingly and concerningly fascinating.’ In other words, it’s exactly what I was expecting and I’m really quite pleased about it. In keeping with the author’s prior work, “Hell Spring,” this book incorporates the weird, the disgusting, and the surprisingly insightful with just a tinge of sarcastic humor. (Speaking of—massive bonus points for the references back to “Hell Spring;” it made for a delightfully unexpected easter egg.)
There’s also something to be said for the layering here. There’s family dynamics, family post-trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health issues. There’s identification of oneself, particularly if where you live isn’t a safe space for such things. Gender norms. Loss and grief and childhood confusion and my lord I don’t think I’ve even scratched the surface. There are so many things jam-packed into this story in such an effortless, reasonable manner; I think it takes quite a lot of skill to be able to manage all that and a good story to boot.
It starts weird, it stays weird, it ends weird (but satisfactorily). I absolutely cannot stress enough just how off-putting this book was. And yet, it’s a good story. If you like horror novels (especially body horror), you’re going to love it. Demon drool and eyeless hillbillies and all.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! “Tab’s Terrible Third Eye” is available now!
Well, the demon dogs still make an appearance, but there’s a distinct lack of demonic phalluses, so I think we can call that a win.
The night of the hundred year flood, Tab encountered something unusual. In the aftermath, the 9 year old artist discovers a bump on his head, a terrifying correlation between his art and real world occurrences, and a strangely horrid man with no eyes that only Tab can see.
I don’t know if I can exactly say that I ‘liked’ this book so much as I found it ‘disturbingly and concerningly fascinating.’ In other words, it’s exactly what I was expecting and I’m really quite pleased about it. In keeping with the author’s prior work, “Hell Spring,” this book incorporates the weird, the disgusting, and the surprisingly insightful with just a tinge of sarcastic humor. (Speaking of—massive bonus points for the references back to “Hell Spring;” it made for a delightfully unexpected easter egg.)
There’s also something to be said for the layering here. There’s family dynamics, family post-trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health issues. There’s identification of oneself, particularly if where you live isn’t a safe space for such things. Gender norms. Loss and grief and childhood confusion and my lord I don’t think I’ve even scratched the surface. There are so many things jam-packed into this story in such an effortless, reasonable manner; I think it takes quite a lot of skill to be able to manage all that and a good story to boot.
It starts weird, it stays weird, it ends weird (but satisfactorily). I absolutely cannot stress enough just how off-putting this book was. And yet, it’s a good story. If you like horror novels (especially body horror), you’re going to love it. Demon drool and eyeless hillbillies and all.
January 28, 2025
If you're one to judge a book by it's cover, then you'd be forgiven for thinking this was a breezy little tome; a horror comedy if you like. Not so.
Very much not so. It is brutal, and relentless and holds nothing back when it comes to gore or dispatching characters that have been crafted so deftly in previous pages. It was a completely pleasant surprise - in the unpleasant ways I enjoy - and I savoured it very much.
It spoke to me on a personal level too, as someone that has used creativity as an outlet for my mental health; something Tab does to manage his anxiety - anxiety that is very much driven by a home life that is less than perfect. Then, in the midst of a storm that causes catastrophes and floods, Tab sees a strange man who latches on to him and whispers in his ear. Not that anyone else can see him. Well, not until it's too late.
The man continues to visit Tab and cause havoc and mayhem to the nth degree.
Brilliantly written and so very engaging. Horror fans will enjoy it immensely and be warned - that cover does not a lighthearted book contain!
Very much not so. It is brutal, and relentless and holds nothing back when it comes to gore or dispatching characters that have been crafted so deftly in previous pages. It was a completely pleasant surprise - in the unpleasant ways I enjoy - and I savoured it very much.
It spoke to me on a personal level too, as someone that has used creativity as an outlet for my mental health; something Tab does to manage his anxiety - anxiety that is very much driven by a home life that is less than perfect. Then, in the midst of a storm that causes catastrophes and floods, Tab sees a strange man who latches on to him and whispers in his ear. Not that anyone else can see him. Well, not until it's too late.
The man continues to visit Tab and cause havoc and mayhem to the nth degree.
Brilliantly written and so very engaging. Horror fans will enjoy it immensely and be warned - that cover does not a lighthearted book contain!
October 21, 2024
The book's cover and summary on the back, grabbed my attention right away. I found myself unable to put it down. The story’s violent and gory aspects are elevated by the psychological horror, making it more intriguing The characters and setting jump off the page with the vivid descriptions.
A young boy, who is only nine years old, finds comfort in art to cope with his anxiety and fears. During a thunderstorm, he encounters a strange creature that leaves a painful, itchy, burning, bump on his forehead. This bump is permanent and causes ghosts to appear. Even more unsettling, his drawings begin to predict real-life disasters.
Definitely check your trigger warnings because it mentions of violent crimes, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and gender identity just to name a few
A young boy, who is only nine years old, finds comfort in art to cope with his anxiety and fears. During a thunderstorm, he encounters a strange creature that leaves a painful, itchy, burning, bump on his forehead. This bump is permanent and causes ghosts to appear. Even more unsettling, his drawings begin to predict real-life disasters.
Definitely check your trigger warnings because it mentions of violent crimes, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and gender identity just to name a few
December 30, 2024
TAB’S TERRIBLE THIRD EYE – by Isaac Thorne
‘Nine-year-old Tab is an artist harboring fears and anxieties that he soothes by drawing. After an encounter with an otherworldly creature, an angry bump afflicts his left temple. The wound burns and itches but will not heal. Worse, it summons ghosts.’
That Was Creepy-Cringy-Good! Also, My Heart!
Overall, the pacing is slow in places, but the ending is well worth the wait—Highly Recommend!
Thank you, Isaac Thorne and Lost Hollow Books, for providing me with an eBook of TAB’S TERRIBLE THIRD EYE at the request of and honest review.
Scheduled For Release – January 28, 2025 – Though Subject To Change
‘Nine-year-old Tab is an artist harboring fears and anxieties that he soothes by drawing. After an encounter with an otherworldly creature, an angry bump afflicts his left temple. The wound burns and itches but will not heal. Worse, it summons ghosts.’
That Was Creepy-Cringy-Good! Also, My Heart!
Overall, the pacing is slow in places, but the ending is well worth the wait—Highly Recommend!
Thank you, Isaac Thorne and Lost Hollow Books, for providing me with an eBook of TAB’S TERRIBLE THIRD EYE at the request of and honest review.
Scheduled For Release – January 28, 2025 – Though Subject To Change
February 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now that the legalities are out of the way, let's get to it. I really likes this book! I wasn't sure what to expect but it was really good. TAB was a trooper if yiu ask me. He was dealing with so much at a young age. I couldn't image. The characters were well developed and kept you wanting to read more. If it wasn't for family duties, I'd have read it in one day. TAB brother was the typical brother if you as me. Like most parents, they overreated to some things.
Overall, TAB was a true trooper. This is the kind of book I could see made into a movie or series.
Now that the legalities are out of the way, let's get to it. I really likes this book! I wasn't sure what to expect but it was really good. TAB was a trooper if yiu ask me. He was dealing with so much at a young age. I couldn't image. The characters were well developed and kept you wanting to read more. If it wasn't for family duties, I'd have read it in one day. TAB brother was the typical brother if you as me. Like most parents, they overreated to some things.
Overall, TAB was a true trooper. This is the kind of book I could see made into a movie or series.
March 4, 2025
Timothy Aaron Beard Jr. (TAB), es un niño de 9 años muy imaginativo y con un gran talento dibujando. Después de ser atacado por una extraña criatura durante una tormenta, desarrolla una protuberancia en un costado de la cabeza, y se desata el horror.
Tab comienza a ser acosado por Roy, el fantasma de un hombre que no tiene ojos y es muy agresivo. Por si fuera poco, Tab ha comenzado a dibujar terribles escenas que parece que se vuelven realidad…
Quién es este ente que parece estar empeñado en fastidiar a Tab? Qué tiene que ver con la extraña protuberancia en su cabeza? Y lo más importante, qué rayos es lo que quiere Roy?!
Los oscuros secretos de la familia Beard saldrían a la luz mientras tratan de lidiar con esta amenaza.
Me gustó mucho esta novela!! Me atrapó desde la primera página y me mantuvo en suspenso hasta el final. La trama toca temas de salud mental mezclados con una narrativa inquietante. No lo pude soltar hasta terminarlo. Recomendado!! 💯
Tab comienza a ser acosado por Roy, el fantasma de un hombre que no tiene ojos y es muy agresivo. Por si fuera poco, Tab ha comenzado a dibujar terribles escenas que parece que se vuelven realidad…
Quién es este ente que parece estar empeñado en fastidiar a Tab? Qué tiene que ver con la extraña protuberancia en su cabeza? Y lo más importante, qué rayos es lo que quiere Roy?!
Los oscuros secretos de la familia Beard saldrían a la luz mientras tratan de lidiar con esta amenaza.
Me gustó mucho esta novela!! Me atrapó desde la primera página y me mantuvo en suspenso hasta el final. La trama toca temas de salud mental mezclados con una narrativa inquietante. No lo pude soltar hasta terminarlo. Recomendado!! 💯
September 3, 2024
I was engaged with the beautifully done cover and description, and was excited to read this story. It had that element that I was looking for from the horror genre. The characters had that overwhelming feel that I wanted in this type of book. Isaac Thorne has a strong writing style and left me wanting to read more from the author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2025
This is a wild, trippy ride that follows Tab, a nine year old, who suddenly starts seeing things he can’t explain—things that might be real or might just be in his head. His increasingly bizarre visions leave him questioning everything. The book jumps between strange moments and dark humor, but it’s the characters that really pull you in. It’s a bit all over the place, but if you like stories that mess with your mind, this one delivers.
January 21, 2025
This was a very interesting read! Being told through the perspective of a child made it innocent in a sense even though it dealt with dark and serious topics.
It took me a while to understand what was happening and even at the end I wasn’t sure I knew all the details for sure.
I read Hell Spring, but it was so long ago that I lost some of the references.
The magic in this was revealed in a very unique way.
There was even a HEA for the characters in this!
It took me a while to understand what was happening and even at the end I wasn’t sure I knew all the details for sure.
I read Hell Spring, but it was so long ago that I lost some of the references.
The magic in this was revealed in a very unique way.
There was even a HEA for the characters in this!
September 19, 2024
This was an interesting book that tailors to a ghost story and a little on the horror and paranormal elements which made it a very interesting combination. A pretty good book to read.
January 29, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ This was a very well written story with some good body horror. It’s an interesting and entertaining read which had some entertaining paranormal elements to it.
January 24, 2025
TAB (Timothy Aaron Beard, Jr.) is 9 and suffering from OCD…which isn’t even the worst thing going on, as he’s also possessed by the ghost of the man who raped Tab’s mom and was murdered by Tab’s father. Somehow this possession leads to Tab’s art coming to life.
I wanted to like this book but it went out of its way to make me hate it…and if it wasn’t for the narrator, Tom Force, I’d have DNF’d this at the halfway mark. By the final chapter I actively said “Efffffffff this!” out loud on three separate occasions, which woke up my girlfriend and made her cross. So thanks for nothing, Isaac Thorne.
The original premise had legs and actually has some interesting, creepy and even humourous bits…but then it got mired down to with discussion of OCD, gender fluidity, racism, rape culture, pop psychology and about 14 other half-baked ideas…even Covid, because why not, amirite? Throw it all against the wall and who cares if none of it sticks!
Hell, I’m not right-wing at all and I wanted to vote Republican by the time this damn thing was done…and I’m Canadian, that’s how bad this was: I’m gonna spend years getting US citizenship just to ensure awful republicans stay in office just because of this meandering dud of a horror novel.
Awful, awful book. If the first half had been it, and it was tidied up without trying to make 20 grand statements, it would’ve been passable. As it is, one star is too generous, and as already stated: it only showed how amazing a narrator Tom Force is, as I only finished this bomb because of him.
On the plus side, I will gladly check out Isaac Thorne’s other books because they have to better than this turd, right? Anyone? Bueller?
I wanted to like this book but it went out of its way to make me hate it…and if it wasn’t for the narrator, Tom Force, I’d have DNF’d this at the halfway mark. By the final chapter I actively said “Efffffffff this!” out loud on three separate occasions, which woke up my girlfriend and made her cross. So thanks for nothing, Isaac Thorne.
The original premise had legs and actually has some interesting, creepy and even humourous bits…but then it got mired down to with discussion of OCD, gender fluidity, racism, rape culture, pop psychology and about 14 other half-baked ideas…even Covid, because why not, amirite? Throw it all against the wall and who cares if none of it sticks!
Hell, I’m not right-wing at all and I wanted to vote Republican by the time this damn thing was done…and I’m Canadian, that’s how bad this was: I’m gonna spend years getting US citizenship just to ensure awful republicans stay in office just because of this meandering dud of a horror novel.
Awful, awful book. If the first half had been it, and it was tidied up without trying to make 20 grand statements, it would’ve been passable. As it is, one star is too generous, and as already stated: it only showed how amazing a narrator Tom Force is, as I only finished this bomb because of him.
On the plus side, I will gladly check out Isaac Thorne’s other books because they have to better than this turd, right? Anyone? Bueller?
January 25, 2025
3.5 stars
This was an interesting read. Far too dry, however, when dealing with the therapist. Too technical, I got bored. The author also had the tendecy to draw things out, far too wordy in places where a more concise narrative would have moved the story along smoother.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is just my opinion of the tale
This was an interesting read. Far too dry, however, when dealing with the therapist. Too technical, I got bored. The author also had the tendecy to draw things out, far too wordy in places where a more concise narrative would have moved the story along smoother.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is just my opinion of the tale
September 28, 2024
3.5 stars. Pretty good middle grade to young adult horror story. I’ve never read this author before, so had no thoughts going in. The cover definitely caught my eye. Interesting concept and nicely put together. I enjoyed my time with Tab and his family trying to figure out the deal with his third eye.
December 26, 2024
Isaac Thorne’s “Tab’s Terrible Third Eye” is a gripping psychological horror that delves deep into the fears and anxieties of childhood, blending supernatural elements with raw emotional trauma. This novel is a masterclass in building tension and exploring the darker corners of a young mind.
At the heart of the story is nine-year-old Tab, an artist whose drawings serve as a coping mechanism for his inner turmoil. Thorne’s portrayal of Tab is nuanced and heartbreakingly real, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of a child grappling with forces beyond his understanding.
The narrative takes a chilling turn when Tab encounters an otherworldly creature, resulting in a mysterious, angry bump on his left temple. This wound, which refuses to heal, becomes the focal point of the horror. Thorne’s description of the bump - burning, itching, and summoning ghosts - is viscerally unsettling, creating a sense of body horror that will make readers squirm.
What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the power and danger of imagination. Tab’s artwork, once a source of comfort, becomes a harbinger of real-life disasters. The foreshadowing of events through his drawings adds a layer of tragic inevitability to the story, ramping up the psychological tension.
Thorne excels in blurring the lines between reality and supernatural horror. Is Tab’s “third eye” truly causing these calamities, or is it a manifestation of his trauma and guilt? This ambiguity keeps readers on edge, forcing them to question the nature of Tab’s experiences.
The apparent supernatural of Tab's Third Eye
The introduction of a determined ghost adds another dimension to the story. This spectral presence, seeking to use Tab’s newfound power for its own ends, creates a conflict that goes beyond simple horror tropes. It raises questions about agency, the weight of responsibility on young shoulders, and the battle for control over one’s own mind and body.
Thorne’s prose is sharp and evocative, painting vivid pictures of Tab’s internal and external struggles. The pacing is relentless, with each new revelation or incident building upon the last to create a mounting sense of dread.
While the novel treads familiar ground in terms of childhood trauma in horror literature, Thorne brings a fresh perspective to the genre. His focus on art as both a means of expression and a conduit for horror is particularly effective, resonating with anyone who has used creativity as an emotional outlet.
Verdict
“Tab’s Terrible Third Eye” is more than just a ghost story or a tale of supernatural abilities gone awry. It’s a poignant exploration of childhood fears, the burden of perceived responsibility, and the struggle to control one’s own narrative. Thorne has crafted a story that will haunt readers long after they’ve turned the final page, leaving them to ponder the thin line between imagination and reality, and the power of perception in shaping our world.
This novel is a must-read for fans of psychological horror, especially those who appreciate stories that delve into the complexities of childhood experiences. Thorne proves himself a master of the genre, delivering a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is spine-chilling.
Don't just take my word for it-go pre-order your copy now directly from the author (plus you can get cool bunny stickers! Look, Raist, bunnies!)
At the heart of the story is nine-year-old Tab, an artist whose drawings serve as a coping mechanism for his inner turmoil. Thorne’s portrayal of Tab is nuanced and heartbreakingly real, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of a child grappling with forces beyond his understanding.
The narrative takes a chilling turn when Tab encounters an otherworldly creature, resulting in a mysterious, angry bump on his left temple. This wound, which refuses to heal, becomes the focal point of the horror. Thorne’s description of the bump - burning, itching, and summoning ghosts - is viscerally unsettling, creating a sense of body horror that will make readers squirm.
What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the power and danger of imagination. Tab’s artwork, once a source of comfort, becomes a harbinger of real-life disasters. The foreshadowing of events through his drawings adds a layer of tragic inevitability to the story, ramping up the psychological tension.
Thorne excels in blurring the lines between reality and supernatural horror. Is Tab’s “third eye” truly causing these calamities, or is it a manifestation of his trauma and guilt? This ambiguity keeps readers on edge, forcing them to question the nature of Tab’s experiences.
The apparent supernatural of Tab's Third Eye
The introduction of a determined ghost adds another dimension to the story. This spectral presence, seeking to use Tab’s newfound power for its own ends, creates a conflict that goes beyond simple horror tropes. It raises questions about agency, the weight of responsibility on young shoulders, and the battle for control over one’s own mind and body.
Thorne’s prose is sharp and evocative, painting vivid pictures of Tab’s internal and external struggles. The pacing is relentless, with each new revelation or incident building upon the last to create a mounting sense of dread.
While the novel treads familiar ground in terms of childhood trauma in horror literature, Thorne brings a fresh perspective to the genre. His focus on art as both a means of expression and a conduit for horror is particularly effective, resonating with anyone who has used creativity as an emotional outlet.
Verdict
“Tab’s Terrible Third Eye” is more than just a ghost story or a tale of supernatural abilities gone awry. It’s a poignant exploration of childhood fears, the burden of perceived responsibility, and the struggle to control one’s own narrative. Thorne has crafted a story that will haunt readers long after they’ve turned the final page, leaving them to ponder the thin line between imagination and reality, and the power of perception in shaping our world.
This novel is a must-read for fans of psychological horror, especially those who appreciate stories that delve into the complexities of childhood experiences. Thorne proves himself a master of the genre, delivering a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is spine-chilling.
Don't just take my word for it-go pre-order your copy now directly from the author (plus you can get cool bunny stickers! Look, Raist, bunnies!)
September 2, 2025
This was an interesting blend of many classic horror tropes mixed with a kind of psychological thriller. Nine-year-old Tab grows a gnarly bump on his head (body horror) after an encounter with a mysterious creature (cryptid lore) during an apocalyptic-feeling storm (eco-horror). This new growth seems to precipitate the increasingly frequent visitations of a mean-spirited and malevolent ghost (hauntings) that both taunts Tab with visions that may or may not be true and encourages him to do things against his will (possession). Worst of all, Tab himself isn't sure the ghost is real and if it is, how to convince those who love him that he is dealing with something supernatural and not simply an imaginary manifestation of his OCD and anxiety issues.
The ghost as metaphor for mental health issues was an intriguing take, but I have mixed feelings on the therapy speak interludes that make up a large part of the narrative when Tab begins to see a therapist. While it is admirable that Tab was being encouraged to set boundaries and push back against the "ghost," the reality is that a young child ends up fighting against a powerful entity with only minimal help from the adults around him. Hopefully, this comes across as feeling empowering to anyone reading it who suffers from similar mental health issues, but the metaphor was a bit uncomfortable at times for me, and the extended therapy explanations began to feel like they belonged in a self-help book rather than a horror tale.
The things the story does well it does very well. The body horror images around the "third eye" are particularly effective and unforgettable. Tab is an admirable protagonist in his perseverance against what seems at times to be an undefeatable enemy, and I enjoyed how he used his formidable art skills as a weapon. The ghost itself is one of those villains you love to despise and can't wait to see get its comeuppance. And I appreciated Tab's mother and her belief in and dedication to her sons which was a refreshing change from the clueless parents you find in so many of these kinds of tales. A few editing issues such as repetitive scenes and stilted dialogue (some characters' tendency to speak in long monologues in particular) as well as an epilogue that felt unnecessary did not for me undermine what is still an original and at times very disturbing take on horror.
(Do pay attention to the content warnings as provided by the author: strong language, graphic violence, gore, trauma provoked by memories of sexual assault, and scenes that involve characters struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.)
The ghost as metaphor for mental health issues was an intriguing take, but I have mixed feelings on the therapy speak interludes that make up a large part of the narrative when Tab begins to see a therapist. While it is admirable that Tab was being encouraged to set boundaries and push back against the "ghost," the reality is that a young child ends up fighting against a powerful entity with only minimal help from the adults around him. Hopefully, this comes across as feeling empowering to anyone reading it who suffers from similar mental health issues, but the metaphor was a bit uncomfortable at times for me, and the extended therapy explanations began to feel like they belonged in a self-help book rather than a horror tale.
The things the story does well it does very well. The body horror images around the "third eye" are particularly effective and unforgettable. Tab is an admirable protagonist in his perseverance against what seems at times to be an undefeatable enemy, and I enjoyed how he used his formidable art skills as a weapon. The ghost itself is one of those villains you love to despise and can't wait to see get its comeuppance. And I appreciated Tab's mother and her belief in and dedication to her sons which was a refreshing change from the clueless parents you find in so many of these kinds of tales. A few editing issues such as repetitive scenes and stilted dialogue (some characters' tendency to speak in long monologues in particular) as well as an epilogue that felt unnecessary did not for me undermine what is still an original and at times very disturbing take on horror.
(Do pay attention to the content warnings as provided by the author: strong language, graphic violence, gore, trauma provoked by memories of sexual assault, and scenes that involve characters struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.)
January 27, 2025
This was a well written and engaging story. It had elements of family trauma, sexual trauma, grief, and mental health all wound up tight in a rather original ghost story with a sprinkling of possession for good measure. I really liked the OCD representation and the way that many of the symptoms that the MC was experiencing were explained by the medical professionals as part of the disorder even though we all know it was ghosts and possessions (lol). My biggest challenge with the book was the last chapter...it was meant ( I believe) to show the impact that the experiences in the book had upon our MC and how that MC ended up coping, but came across to me as a bit ham fisted and didn't flow well with the rest of the story. Still an awesome read and I will be recommending it for horror readers who enjoy character driven stories.
March 8, 2025
When I saw the title of this book... I was like... Yeah I'm in...
I loved the main character was a child.. It really gave it the kind of edge I was looking for. The story was a wild ride. The author has quite the imagination but it felt like it could be true.. It was one of the best horror audiobooks I've listened to in a long time.
It's not your usual ghost story, I like the slight twist it had and it was dark and delicious!
I think this was a much better audio than it would have been as a written book. The narration was truly exceptional!
It was clever and I will definitely check this author out again
4.25 stars
I loved the main character was a child.. It really gave it the kind of edge I was looking for. The story was a wild ride. The author has quite the imagination but it felt like it could be true.. It was one of the best horror audiobooks I've listened to in a long time.
It's not your usual ghost story, I like the slight twist it had and it was dark and delicious!
I think this was a much better audio than it would have been as a written book. The narration was truly exceptional!
It was clever and I will definitely check this author out again
4.25 stars
September 17, 2024
Isaac Thorne has written this in a way that is relatable for young adult readers as well as adult readers. Once you start reading it is very hard to set it down and walk away from it, there was at least one night my family ate delivery for dinner. The characters jump off the page with their vivid descriptions and their backstories makes you invested even more in the life they are living. You can feel their emotions emanating from the page and find yourself crying, laughing or angry right along with them. This was a very enjoyable read that shows the fight and love in the human spirit.
April 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Lost Hollow books for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
It’s a very unique plot and super interesting, I enjoyed the OCD therapy as I have OCD and I thought there was a lot of stuff within this story that could teach people. However I was confused quite a bit and sometimes it felt like it dragged so I just wasn’t enjoying it like I wish I was for this kind of plot !
It’s a very unique plot and super interesting, I enjoyed the OCD therapy as I have OCD and I thought there was a lot of stuff within this story that could teach people. However I was confused quite a bit and sometimes it felt like it dragged so I just wasn’t enjoying it like I wish I was for this kind of plot !
August 25, 2025
Tab's Terrible Third Eye by Isaac Thorne and narrated by Tom Force was a creepy supernatural which was set in Hell Spring and it had a Stephen King Vibe to it. I really enjoyed listening to this book and the narrator Tom Force had the perfect voice for this audiobook.
I enjoyed the 2 main character's Tab and his mum, now she was a very strong character that just bought audiobook together. especially as she was a strong woman, the book needed someone like this.
I enjoyed the 2 main character's Tab and his mum, now she was a very strong character that just bought audiobook together. especially as she was a strong woman, the book needed someone like this.
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