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Dark Winter #2
Crescent Moon
Romilly protected the Mirror of Souls and won a decisive victory over the demons of Gorswood. She believes her job is done, and prepares to leave her hometown. The demon within her, however, stays – and leaves Romilly no chance to find happiness, peace and love.
A humiliated Toril is unable to move on. The young witch wants vengeance no matter what the cost. Toril raises the stakes in a cat-and-mouse game with the enemy where only one can emerge victorious.
Beth faces an internal struggle to stay true to her faith whilst needing to do what is right. When an old adversary resurfaces to challenge her, maybe even having God on her side will not be enough.
With the nightmares becoming all too real, Romilly, Toril and Beth can no longer tell friend from foe.
When the terrors of the night become the terrors of the day, who will be left standing for the final showdown?
Dark Winter: Crescent Moon, is the second installment of the Dark Winter Trilogy.
AUTHOR NOTES: Not suitable for young readers. Story has elements of sex, strong fantasy horror and psychological horror, scenes of violence throughout and infrequent but strong swearing.
A humiliated Toril is unable to move on. The young witch wants vengeance no matter what the cost. Toril raises the stakes in a cat-and-mouse game with the enemy where only one can emerge victorious.
Beth faces an internal struggle to stay true to her faith whilst needing to do what is right. When an old adversary resurfaces to challenge her, maybe even having God on her side will not be enough.
With the nightmares becoming all too real, Romilly, Toril and Beth can no longer tell friend from foe.
When the terrors of the night become the terrors of the day, who will be left standing for the final showdown?
Dark Winter: Crescent Moon, is the second installment of the Dark Winter Trilogy.
AUTHOR NOTES: Not suitable for young readers. Story has elements of sex, strong fantasy horror and psychological horror, scenes of violence throughout and infrequent but strong swearing.
396 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2014
8 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
John Hennessy
34 books234 followersJohn Hennessy is the British author of paranormal fantasy horror for YA, psychological horror and murder mysteries, plus his own unique take on vampire lore. He has also written ghost stories and delved into high epic fantasy with a hint of romance.
BOOKBUB: Follow the author for Featured Deals and New Releases here
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JohnHennessyBooks.com
John is an international best selling author. The Ghost of Normandy Road reached Number One for British Horror Fiction in July 2020 on Amazon.com, Children of the Dark Light also topped the charts for the same category in August 2020.
His 2015 YA Horror novel, The Ghost of Normandy Road: Haunted Minds I won the Silver Award for its category at the 2016 Readers Favourite International Book Contest.
His 2018 Non-fiction work, The Mastery of Martial Arts: End Fights in Seconds, had a featured review in the prestigious and highly respected Wing Chun Illustrated magazine (Issue 53 April 2020 edition)
A TALE OF VAMPIRES: SERIES - for anyone new to the author's series, this is the sugested reading order:-
Prequel: Dawn of the New Breed
I: Murderous Little Darlings
Murderous Little Christmas Darlings (2022)
II: The Blood and the Raven (Free to subscribers)
III: Innocent While She Sleeps
IV: Dream the Crow's Black Dream
V: Reunion of the Blood
VI: Our Hearts Go to Their Graves
To get an email, freebies, giveaways and chapter extras whenever the author releases a new title, sign up for the VIP newsletter
at the official website:-
http://www.johnhennessybooks.com/
at the blog https://authorjohnhennessy.wordpress....
Five Star Seal Awarded to The Ghost of Normandy Road by Readers' Favourite
BOOKBUB: Follow the author for Featured Deals and New Releases here
BUSINESS INQUIRIES ONLY VIA CONTACTING
JohnHennessyBooks.com
John is an international best selling author. The Ghost of Normandy Road reached Number One for British Horror Fiction in July 2020 on Amazon.com, Children of the Dark Light also topped the charts for the same category in August 2020.
His 2015 YA Horror novel, The Ghost of Normandy Road: Haunted Minds I won the Silver Award for its category at the 2016 Readers Favourite International Book Contest.
His 2018 Non-fiction work, The Mastery of Martial Arts: End Fights in Seconds, had a featured review in the prestigious and highly respected Wing Chun Illustrated magazine (Issue 53 April 2020 edition)
A TALE OF VAMPIRES: SERIES - for anyone new to the author's series, this is the sugested reading order:-
Prequel: Dawn of the New Breed
I: Murderous Little Darlings
Murderous Little Christmas Darlings (2022)
II: The Blood and the Raven (Free to subscribers)
III: Innocent While She Sleeps
IV: Dream the Crow's Black Dream
V: Reunion of the Blood
VI: Our Hearts Go to Their Graves
To get an email, freebies, giveaways and chapter extras whenever the author releases a new title, sign up for the VIP newsletter
at the official website:-
http://www.johnhennessybooks.com/
at the blog https://authorjohnhennessy.wordpress....
Five Star Seal Awarded to The Ghost of Normandy Road by Readers' Favourite
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 13, 2014
“Fear doesn't shut you down; it wakes you up”
----Veronica Roth, Divergent
John Hennessy, an English YA novelist, has chosen horror/fear genre above all other genre to pen his incredibly spooky trilogy, Dark Winter. In his second book, Dark Winter: Crescent Moon, John has depicted Darwin's theory of evolution, "survival of the fittest and strongest". In The Wicca Circle, we are introduced with Romilly, the protagonist and her inner demons but are left with millions of questions, and in this new book, we get all the answers that we were looking for.
Warning: Be aware! This book is not meant for those with a weak/faint heart!
Synopsis:
Romilly has saved the people of Gorswood from the demons called Zeryths by protecting the Mirror of Souls, but her inner demons are reluctant to leave her alone, and with each passing day, they are growing more stronger, and making her hard to live in peace.
Toril has faced a strong humiliation, moreover the loss of her best-friend, Jacinta and her boyfriend, Troy, is making her grow stronger every day, because, her mind is now clouded with the word called 'vengeance' with the strongest evil character making Gorswood a living hell with its tantrums.
Bethany has bickering faith in her heart and as her nature always puts her friends before her, she is dead worried about Toril and Romilly and is scared that they might die while fighting with her own demons at the same time.
Looks like every pen is fighting their own war and in such a moment of crisis and haze of doubt, no one can certainly tell a friend from a foe. But the fear of evil is clawing at them and it's just a moment of time to see who will stand victorious among all of them.
After reading, while reading and when I started reading this book, I muttered to myself, "Why John Why!?!" . Yes, why does John has to choose horror/fear to depict a nice, beautiful story and turn it into something terrifying and gothic? Each and every page sent a chill down to my bone and the whole story scared the s**t out of me! Literally! Sorry for using foul words. I mean this man knows how he can get inside the heads of his readers and mess with them.
First of all, I'd like to hats off for his strong narration and keeping it short, simple and seriously scary. From the first page, he made his characters raw, evil and gothic, which have only one attribute- fear. His characters are also very live and strikingly portrayed, since most of the times, while reading; I had to look beyond my shoulder. Honestly, I never read any book where the fear cut deeper than the swords . His flawless and articulate writing style is what makes the plot groovier and thoroughly compelling. And also he knows how to twist his plot with a little bit of edginess. Each and every twist shocked me to hell. I couldn't even anticipate correctly what was waiting for me in the very next chapter. And the last chapter is the treasure of the whole book, although, I was getting a hint that something like that would happen, but I never expected Toril and Beth in such demeanor. And there John spun me completely out of control, although he did left us with a huge, massive cliffhanger that I can't wait to find out in his next book.
The book's so scary that now I'll have to wait for few days before rubbing off my mind with those terrorizing and horrifying images of Gorswood and Don Curie that John flawlessly created in his book! Although the book was scary, still I found myself vouching for more and I completely stuck like glue to the whole story.
Only disappointment, the girl whom I loved the most, is now almost dying in an old cabin, and for that I hate you John!
Verdict: A must read trilogy and please guys read this whole series in broad daylight.
Courtesy: Thank you John for the book and for writing such a paralyzing novel that no one can fail to fall in love with. And I'll always remain indebted to you for your never-ending love, support and kind and grateful words.
----Veronica Roth, Divergent
John Hennessy, an English YA novelist, has chosen horror/fear genre above all other genre to pen his incredibly spooky trilogy, Dark Winter. In his second book, Dark Winter: Crescent Moon, John has depicted Darwin's theory of evolution, "survival of the fittest and strongest". In The Wicca Circle, we are introduced with Romilly, the protagonist and her inner demons but are left with millions of questions, and in this new book, we get all the answers that we were looking for.
Warning: Be aware! This book is not meant for those with a weak/faint heart!
Synopsis:
Romilly has saved the people of Gorswood from the demons called Zeryths by protecting the Mirror of Souls, but her inner demons are reluctant to leave her alone, and with each passing day, they are growing more stronger, and making her hard to live in peace.
Toril has faced a strong humiliation, moreover the loss of her best-friend, Jacinta and her boyfriend, Troy, is making her grow stronger every day, because, her mind is now clouded with the word called 'vengeance' with the strongest evil character making Gorswood a living hell with its tantrums.
Bethany has bickering faith in her heart and as her nature always puts her friends before her, she is dead worried about Toril and Romilly and is scared that they might die while fighting with her own demons at the same time.
Looks like every pen is fighting their own war and in such a moment of crisis and haze of doubt, no one can certainly tell a friend from a foe. But the fear of evil is clawing at them and it's just a moment of time to see who will stand victorious among all of them.
After reading, while reading and when I started reading this book, I muttered to myself, "Why John Why!?!" . Yes, why does John has to choose horror/fear to depict a nice, beautiful story and turn it into something terrifying and gothic? Each and every page sent a chill down to my bone and the whole story scared the s**t out of me! Literally! Sorry for using foul words. I mean this man knows how he can get inside the heads of his readers and mess with them.
First of all, I'd like to hats off for his strong narration and keeping it short, simple and seriously scary. From the first page, he made his characters raw, evil and gothic, which have only one attribute- fear. His characters are also very live and strikingly portrayed, since most of the times, while reading; I had to look beyond my shoulder. Honestly, I never read any book where the fear cut deeper than the swords . His flawless and articulate writing style is what makes the plot groovier and thoroughly compelling. And also he knows how to twist his plot with a little bit of edginess. Each and every twist shocked me to hell. I couldn't even anticipate correctly what was waiting for me in the very next chapter. And the last chapter is the treasure of the whole book, although, I was getting a hint that something like that would happen, but I never expected Toril and Beth in such demeanor. And there John spun me completely out of control, although he did left us with a huge, massive cliffhanger that I can't wait to find out in his next book.
The book's so scary that now I'll have to wait for few days before rubbing off my mind with those terrorizing and horrifying images of Gorswood and Don Curie that John flawlessly created in his book! Although the book was scary, still I found myself vouching for more and I completely stuck like glue to the whole story.
Only disappointment, the girl whom I loved the most, is now almost dying in an old cabin, and for that I hate you John!
Verdict: A must read trilogy and please guys read this whole series in broad daylight.
Courtesy: Thank you John for the book and for writing such a paralyzing novel that no one can fail to fall in love with. And I'll always remain indebted to you for your never-ending love, support and kind and grateful words.
July 12, 2015
JOHN HENNESSY once again has proved himself a Master of the Horror genre on this book. This series(Dark Winter)is the most absorbing novel of this author because it is truly wonderfully subtle paranormal/horror that would force you to go on turning the pages.
I admire how the author incorporated his martial arts skills in this story,putting his talent on Romillyn,the main character here who used her kung fu knowledge to beat the demons around her. Yes dear readers, JOHN HENNESSY is not only a talented writer,but also a great Martial Arts teacher! (Check his THE ESSENCE OF MARTIAL ARTS book).
Anyway, I love all the characters and their stories but still am looking forward to the third book of this series because I felt like there's more to each of their provocative and chilling stories.
To my great friend John,who is an eminently skilled novelist, I don't have much to add to the excellent reviews already detailing the merits of this book, so I'll just say that this is simply the best collection horror series I've ever read so far..and I thank you so much for your kindness for letting me read your exquisite books.^^
I admire how the author incorporated his martial arts skills in this story,putting his talent on Romillyn,the main character here who used her kung fu knowledge to beat the demons around her. Yes dear readers, JOHN HENNESSY is not only a talented writer,but also a great Martial Arts teacher! (Check his THE ESSENCE OF MARTIAL ARTS book).
Anyway, I love all the characters and their stories but still am looking forward to the third book of this series because I felt like there's more to each of their provocative and chilling stories.
To my great friend John,who is an eminently skilled novelist, I don't have much to add to the excellent reviews already detailing the merits of this book, so I'll just say that this is simply the best collection horror series I've ever read so far..and I thank you so much for your kindness for letting me read your exquisite books.^^
September 25, 2015
John Hennessy has done it again! Another great read that pulls you in from beginning to end. This is the fourth book I have read from this author and I can’t complain about any of them. His story lines and plots seem to improve with each book he pens. John Hennessy, in my opinion, tells a spooky story with believable characters and a fantastic plot.
Dark Winter: Crescent Moon is the second book in this series, it has been written in such a way, for example, recalling back drop of book one and re-introducing characters that it can be read as a standalone. BUT please read Dark Winter: The Wicca Circle first because it will make you really appreciate the characters in full and it will show the character development and style of Hennessy’s writing.
The story in Dark Winter: Crescent Mood is spine schilling from the very few pages and we see Curie up to his old tricks. Although he is not a nice guy you can’t help but like him in some way. The characters are all older by a few years and Hennessy has the character growth spot on. We are told what they have been doing since the last book. We get to know them a little more. I have some characters that I found endearing, some annoying and some you love to hate. This wouldn’t be possible but for the fact of great story telling and writing.
It is a spine chilling story but also incorporates a vast array of emotions and you are compelled to read to the end.
Dark Winter: Crescent Moon is the second book in this series, it has been written in such a way, for example, recalling back drop of book one and re-introducing characters that it can be read as a standalone. BUT please read Dark Winter: The Wicca Circle first because it will make you really appreciate the characters in full and it will show the character development and style of Hennessy’s writing.
The story in Dark Winter: Crescent Mood is spine schilling from the very few pages and we see Curie up to his old tricks. Although he is not a nice guy you can’t help but like him in some way. The characters are all older by a few years and Hennessy has the character growth spot on. We are told what they have been doing since the last book. We get to know them a little more. I have some characters that I found endearing, some annoying and some you love to hate. This wouldn’t be possible but for the fact of great story telling and writing.
It is a spine chilling story but also incorporates a vast array of emotions and you are compelled to read to the end.
January 21, 2015
I may never be able to look at a mirror ever again
Once again thanks to the author for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to read his works and even being supportive and a true sport to all the reviews i have posted about his books.
So, thanks to Dark winter, i may not be able to look at another mirror without fearing for ghosts coming at me ... that would be a pleasant experience worth for the future ;)
As i told before in the first book, the series has a very dark, spooky and spine chilling plot that has got only more interesting and gripping with its sequel. Its just not the plot that has gone high but the narration technique as well.
The book interestingly starts with the background stories to our major characters including Don Curie.So if you were confused or blurred about certain characters in the first book, you will be able to have a better understanding and knowledge of them in this one. It will enable you to smooth yourself into the story with better efficiency.
The flow of the story is really good this time as there is no fluctuating narration or too much of past and present transportation. Its stays focused with what is happening at the present. The language had always been good so just like as in the first book, it still creates magic in the sequel as well.
Yes there is a tremendous amount of change in the second book but there are still things that are bothering me.
i would like to say that it was an element of the whole story or it was part of the plot development or a way to know the characters more intensely but the fact is that, around the middle, things get too chaotic and meddling that you have a hard time touching upon whether the things mentioned are really happening or is it a dream sequence or hallucinations of the characters. The clear definition was lacking and kind of felt like watching the movie "inception" all over again ( i still have no clue what happened where and when in that movie and my head still spins thinking about it )
Now another thing i noticed is a very distinctive narration technique applied to the book . The whole narrator of the story is our main protagonist but things really gets tricky when the narrator is telling us incidents that she is not even part of.I thought this kind of narration was brilliant and in my personal experience i have never come across something like that. I guess it has been perfected in the second book as it was completely missed by me in the first book. But honestly it still needs a bit of sharpening but otherwise it is a wicked narration technique and with proper execution will be a killer trend too.
I am definitely sticking for the third book because there are so many things that is left unanswered which i believe is going to wrap up effectively in its finale.
Dark winter: Crescent Moon carries forward what it started in its first book much more effectively and elegantly and interestingly it has polished and transitioned itself to cover up all the missing elements from the first book. The series returns with an explosive turn of events with a better and intriguing narration and language. it is whole more spookier and addictive than its prequel. Definitely a must have for all horror fans or somebody with a liking to a twisted and intriguing story line.
How was it?
Once again thanks to the author for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to read his works and even being supportive and a true sport to all the reviews i have posted about his books.
So, thanks to Dark winter, i may not be able to look at another mirror without fearing for ghosts coming at me ... that would be a pleasant experience worth for the future ;)
As i told before in the first book, the series has a very dark, spooky and spine chilling plot that has got only more interesting and gripping with its sequel. Its just not the plot that has gone high but the narration technique as well.
The book interestingly starts with the background stories to our major characters including Don Curie.So if you were confused or blurred about certain characters in the first book, you will be able to have a better understanding and knowledge of them in this one. It will enable you to smooth yourself into the story with better efficiency.
The flow of the story is really good this time as there is no fluctuating narration or too much of past and present transportation. Its stays focused with what is happening at the present. The language had always been good so just like as in the first book, it still creates magic in the sequel as well.
Yes there is a tremendous amount of change in the second book but there are still things that are bothering me.
i would like to say that it was an element of the whole story or it was part of the plot development or a way to know the characters more intensely but the fact is that, around the middle, things get too chaotic and meddling that you have a hard time touching upon whether the things mentioned are really happening or is it a dream sequence or hallucinations of the characters. The clear definition was lacking and kind of felt like watching the movie "inception" all over again ( i still have no clue what happened where and when in that movie and my head still spins thinking about it )
Now another thing i noticed is a very distinctive narration technique applied to the book . The whole narrator of the story is our main protagonist but things really gets tricky when the narrator is telling us incidents that she is not even part of.I thought this kind of narration was brilliant and in my personal experience i have never come across something like that. I guess it has been perfected in the second book as it was completely missed by me in the first book. But honestly it still needs a bit of sharpening but otherwise it is a wicked narration technique and with proper execution will be a killer trend too.
I am definitely sticking for the third book because there are so many things that is left unanswered which i believe is going to wrap up effectively in its finale.
Dark winter: Crescent Moon carries forward what it started in its first book much more effectively and elegantly and interestingly it has polished and transitioned itself to cover up all the missing elements from the first book. The series returns with an explosive turn of events with a better and intriguing narration and language. it is whole more spookier and addictive than its prequel. Definitely a must have for all horror fans or somebody with a liking to a twisted and intriguing story line.
How was it?
November 5, 2014
Crescent Moon is the second installment of the Dark Winter trilogy and cannot be read as a stand-alone.
A bit different from The Wicca Circle (DW #1), this one is heavier on psychological terror and relationships. It is very hard to review this book without revealing giving away spoilers not only because it's a terror thriller, but also it has twists and turns galore.
The Wicca Circle tells us how Romilly, our teenage heroine, gets the mysterious (and evil?) Mirror of Souls that modifies completely her life and her friends', and that malevolent human beings, demonic spirits and diabolical ghosts abound in Gorswood forest.
Crescent Moon brings Romilly, her friends and her enemies back to us.
With additions to the ones presented in the 1st installment, Crescent Moon has a whole casting which leaves nothing to desire to Hollywood's, and it covers a greater span of time, with hints and tricks scattered masterfully on the plot that keep the reader on the edge of the seat. John Hennessy is an accomplish author and leaves the readers guessing what, who, when, why and where.
In The Wicca Circle, many have died, many have disappeared and the few have survived have been profoundly affected by the facts that occurred.
In Crescent Moon, the relentless evil that has been awakened is stronger. The former girlfriends, Toril, Beth and Romilly don't know in whom they can believe and trust anymore, and they carry heavy burdens and many secrets.
They are afraid of humans, Zeryths, demons, and apparitions; Their own faiths and families don't offer comfort or protection anymore. Their own nightmares are their lives and their shadows.
In comparison, Dana, Don, the Zeryths and Diabhal are ready to pounce and destroy the whole city of Gorswood.
Don (Donald) Currie opens this installment in a shocking scene that grabbed me and I kept flipping the pages as I was dying to see how Michael Dean would accomplish to kill Beth, one of Rom's friends.
I highly recommend this thriller for older YA (and adults who like the style) and I'm looking forward to reading more riveting, exciting tales from this talented author.
P.S. - Ah... GAWD! He left me cliffhanging! Again. In a good way. I want the next book right now!!
A bit different from The Wicca Circle (DW #1), this one is heavier on psychological terror and relationships. It is very hard to review this book without revealing giving away spoilers not only because it's a terror thriller, but also it has twists and turns galore.
The Wicca Circle tells us how Romilly, our teenage heroine, gets the mysterious (and evil?) Mirror of Souls that modifies completely her life and her friends', and that malevolent human beings, demonic spirits and diabolical ghosts abound in Gorswood forest.
Crescent Moon brings Romilly, her friends and her enemies back to us.
With additions to the ones presented in the 1st installment, Crescent Moon has a whole casting which leaves nothing to desire to Hollywood's, and it covers a greater span of time, with hints and tricks scattered masterfully on the plot that keep the reader on the edge of the seat. John Hennessy is an accomplish author and leaves the readers guessing what, who, when, why and where.
In The Wicca Circle, many have died, many have disappeared and the few have survived have been profoundly affected by the facts that occurred.
In Crescent Moon, the relentless evil that has been awakened is stronger. The former girlfriends, Toril, Beth and Romilly don't know in whom they can believe and trust anymore, and they carry heavy burdens and many secrets.
They are afraid of humans, Zeryths, demons, and apparitions; Their own faiths and families don't offer comfort or protection anymore. Their own nightmares are their lives and their shadows.
In comparison, Dana, Don, the Zeryths and Diabhal are ready to pounce and destroy the whole city of Gorswood.
Don (Donald) Currie opens this installment in a shocking scene that grabbed me and I kept flipping the pages as I was dying to see how Michael Dean would accomplish to kill Beth, one of Rom's friends.
I highly recommend this thriller for older YA (and adults who like the style) and I'm looking forward to reading more riveting, exciting tales from this talented author.
P.S. - Ah... GAWD! He left me cliffhanging! Again. In a good way. I want the next book right now!!
November 25, 2015
Another great one in this series. The interesting thing about the way this book was written is that I think it could survive as a standalone. It's better as a sequel but you'd still be able to understand what is going on. And there is soooo much going on in this book.
Each of our favorite characters gets their own story-line to kid of figure things out and do their part to once again take on the evil Don Curie and Dana. Romilly is still our omni narrator but we get to learn much more about each of the girls.
Toril wants to be a powerful witch. She is searching for the power to bring someone back from what they call "the void". But, in order to do this, she needs a wand and power that she thinks only the circle can give her. What she doesn't know is that this circle of witches is not what they seem and they have a prophecy about the very girl that seeks them out. She will go through hell, only to be forced to make horrible choices about the ones she loves.
Beth finds an ally in Toril's mother as they go off to the woods to take on Dana themselves. I think she grew the most from book one. Beth became less the timid church girl and more of a bad ass demon hunter.
I had the most mixed feelings about Romilly's story. She's still got a demon inside of her but does she have one by her side as well. Someone from her past shows up with seemingly good intentions towards her but she can't trust that when Dana is still out there and her friends are in danger. Get to the mirror - that's what she needs to do. But what will it take from her to get past the protections Toril has put in place, especially when she's not the only one going after it?
This story was gripping and fast paced. Once again, you never know if someone is going to stay dead and that adds to the suspense. None of the characters really trust each other and I was constantly waiting to see who would betray everyone else. I did sort of guess right because it was someone I never really liked. I've got to say, though, Romilly seemed weak at times but I really loved her. I was rooting for her but nothing seems to go her way. She's been through so much and she's still fighting. I'm looking forward to seeing the end of her story in the next book. I'm hoping she gets a little bit of happiness.
Each of our favorite characters gets their own story-line to kid of figure things out and do their part to once again take on the evil Don Curie and Dana. Romilly is still our omni narrator but we get to learn much more about each of the girls.
Toril wants to be a powerful witch. She is searching for the power to bring someone back from what they call "the void". But, in order to do this, she needs a wand and power that she thinks only the circle can give her. What she doesn't know is that this circle of witches is not what they seem and they have a prophecy about the very girl that seeks them out. She will go through hell, only to be forced to make horrible choices about the ones she loves.
Beth finds an ally in Toril's mother as they go off to the woods to take on Dana themselves. I think she grew the most from book one. Beth became less the timid church girl and more of a bad ass demon hunter.
I had the most mixed feelings about Romilly's story. She's still got a demon inside of her but does she have one by her side as well. Someone from her past shows up with seemingly good intentions towards her but she can't trust that when Dana is still out there and her friends are in danger. Get to the mirror - that's what she needs to do. But what will it take from her to get past the protections Toril has put in place, especially when she's not the only one going after it?
This story was gripping and fast paced. Once again, you never know if someone is going to stay dead and that adds to the suspense. None of the characters really trust each other and I was constantly waiting to see who would betray everyone else. I did sort of guess right because it was someone I never really liked. I've got to say, though, Romilly seemed weak at times but I really loved her. I was rooting for her but nothing seems to go her way. She's been through so much and she's still fighting. I'm looking forward to seeing the end of her story in the next book. I'm hoping she gets a little bit of happiness.
November 3, 2014
Although this is not the genre I usually read, I was fascinated and impressed by "Dark Winter" and the writing skills of the talented author John Hennessy who weaved a tale of horror with genuine style.
The story line was so imaginative and interesting that it compelled me to read the second installment of the trilogy, "Dark Winter: Crescent Moon".
The author doesn't disappoint and the sequel is even more terrifying than the first novel, I would not recommended it to the faint at heart but it's a great treat for fans of the genre.
You will be taken on a rollercoaster ride of horror and will experience a combination of thrills and fear, which I believe it's the very reasons you went on the ride in the first place.
The Heroine Romilly, who has been possessed by the demons of Gorswood without her knowledge, will continue valiantly to protect the Mirror of Souls as she ventures forward despite their evil presence within her. Their satanic power will attempt to destroy her serenity and any possibilities of joy in her life.
The strength of the story is the unsettling emotions and fear of the occult that dominates your mind. You wonder who can Romilly, Toryl and Beth trust. The deadly struggle they are engaged is relentless and the possibilities of defeat unacceptable with terrifying consequences.
The nightmare scenario is much too real in the eloquent words of the author who weaved a riveting tale of terror and vengeance, combined with the endless struggle for good and evil.
The suffering endured by Romilly to find salvation is inspiring and instills a true sense of hope in this riveting tale that perhaps will dampen your brow with cold sweat. You might be overwhelmed by the terrifying imagery but entertained at the same time.
"Dark Winter: Crescent Moon" is very compelling, since I had difficulty putting the book down until the very end. I believe it to be a true find to the devotee of the paranormal, Horror genre, and I highly recommend it!
December 15, 2014
The whole idea of a second story in the Dark Winter universe is very intriguing to me. The first book seems to ask a lot of questions, and answers them to. This second book is more satisfying tale, as it remains a linear story, whilst at the same time keeping readers with the first person narrative.
I have finished reading the book today, and writing the review whilst the story is clear in the mind, I am of the view that this book stands head and shoulders above the first book, The Wicca Circle.
Dark Winter Crescent Moon has plenty of shocks, gore, horror, but it is in the psychological approach to this segment of the series where it comes into its own.
We are told the story by seeing things through Romilly's eyes, and if you don't know who Romilly is by now, you should read the first book, as this book won't make sense without it.
The book isn't without it's humour, and yet as it gets to its third segment (the first book was split like this too) all the threads that have been laid carefully from the first story, begin to tie up, making for a thrilling climax that was hinted at, but when it happens.....no, I was not prepared for it.
Dark Winter is going to be a trilogy. I believe this series is a great mix of witchcraft, belief, horror, paranormal, and a carefully laid romance element that makes you ache for Romilly and her plight. In this threesome, it's her, the apple of her eye, and the demon within. That's pretty unusual and unique amongst all the YA / young-adult novels out.
A light story this is not - it's got the best of young adult themes with some really hard hitting horror bits.
Is it scary? You know, I read the first book and it affected me more afterwards. I think this will have a more lasting feeling, and its a difficult one take sometimes. I want the dark forces in this book defeated, but Crescent Moon ends at a point where...well, I can't tell you o'course.
This is shaping up to be one hell of a trilogy.
I have finished reading the book today, and writing the review whilst the story is clear in the mind, I am of the view that this book stands head and shoulders above the first book, The Wicca Circle.
Dark Winter Crescent Moon has plenty of shocks, gore, horror, but it is in the psychological approach to this segment of the series where it comes into its own.
We are told the story by seeing things through Romilly's eyes, and if you don't know who Romilly is by now, you should read the first book, as this book won't make sense without it.
The book isn't without it's humour, and yet as it gets to its third segment (the first book was split like this too) all the threads that have been laid carefully from the first story, begin to tie up, making for a thrilling climax that was hinted at, but when it happens.....no, I was not prepared for it.
Dark Winter is going to be a trilogy. I believe this series is a great mix of witchcraft, belief, horror, paranormal, and a carefully laid romance element that makes you ache for Romilly and her plight. In this threesome, it's her, the apple of her eye, and the demon within. That's pretty unusual and unique amongst all the YA / young-adult novels out.
A light story this is not - it's got the best of young adult themes with some really hard hitting horror bits.
Is it scary? You know, I read the first book and it affected me more afterwards. I think this will have a more lasting feeling, and its a difficult one take sometimes. I want the dark forces in this book defeated, but Crescent Moon ends at a point where...well, I can't tell you o'course.
This is shaping up to be one hell of a trilogy.
September 21, 2014
I read the first story, called Wicca Circle, but this second in the series is a total mind f*** from beginning to end. I can't even review this properly.....! Can I just say that Crescent Moon was totally terrifying from start to finish.
This is like our girl, just as it's kicking off
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My heart bled for Romilly and the others. And yes the story is about hope but just how much will we sacrifice to win and be true to ourselves.
Part paranormal, part horror, all thriller.
>
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I just can't believe how much better this is than book one, it's like the author knows the characters much better, probably the same for all books later in a series.
You would think this is one of the demons from the book. More like one of the characters. Romilly suffers so bad in this one. I'm hoping she will beat the demons. I really do girl! :S
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If you like horror, young adult, paranormal, thriller do not look further. Stephen King watch out, new kid on the block.
"Crescent Moon, save my soul." Save my mind, more like. If I can recover from the intensity this story hammers you with, I'll be around for book 3.
This is like our girl, just as it's kicking off
>
>
My heart bled for Romilly and the others. And yes the story is about hope but just how much will we sacrifice to win and be true to ourselves.
Part paranormal, part horror, all thriller.
>
>
I just can't believe how much better this is than book one, it's like the author knows the characters much better, probably the same for all books later in a series.
You would think this is one of the demons from the book. More like one of the characters. Romilly suffers so bad in this one. I'm hoping she will beat the demons. I really do girl! :S
>
>
If you like horror, young adult, paranormal, thriller do not look further. Stephen King watch out, new kid on the block.
"Crescent Moon, save my soul." Save my mind, more like. If I can recover from the intensity this story hammers you with, I'll be around for book 3.
June 4, 2016
I recently finished John Hennessey’s second book in the Dark Winter series, “Dark Winter, Crescent Moon.” In it we find our three heroines Beth, Romilly, and Toril, trying to defend themselves form the unearthly forces they met in the first book. The reality is that all the three are trying to do is find some semblance of normal. They find this task elusive as they can no longer tell their friends from their enemies. It is also difficult because what they want often seems to be at odds to one another.
John handles the second book in the series masterfully. An interesting read from start to finish, he does a good job of knowing when it is time to keep the action moving or when it is time to let the story slow down a tad and develop before the next issue erupts to plague their lives.
Not necessarily focusing exclusively on one particular character, you get a sense that every one of the three has their own demons to battle. The three, in the end, begin to recognize that they are stronger together than they are apart. We meet Toril’s mother in the story which is a nice touch to the story line, I thought. That part of the story line was particularly intriguing.
I won’t spoil the ending, but it definitely leaves you with a sense that you want to just download the next book in the series, “Last Rites” and read it because you need to find out what happened!
All-in-all, great work by John Hennessy. It was a very enjoyable read.
John handles the second book in the series masterfully. An interesting read from start to finish, he does a good job of knowing when it is time to keep the action moving or when it is time to let the story slow down a tad and develop before the next issue erupts to plague their lives.
Not necessarily focusing exclusively on one particular character, you get a sense that every one of the three has their own demons to battle. The three, in the end, begin to recognize that they are stronger together than they are apart. We meet Toril’s mother in the story which is a nice touch to the story line, I thought. That part of the story line was particularly intriguing.
I won’t spoil the ending, but it definitely leaves you with a sense that you want to just download the next book in the series, “Last Rites” and read it because you need to find out what happened!
All-in-all, great work by John Hennessy. It was a very enjoyable read.
September 15, 2015
Scared? No terrified was more like it.
The novel started out raw and frightening from the get, when the author takes us into the past of Don Currie, the sick bastard that makes Charles Manson look like a choir boy. Can I say this novel scared the hell out me? I will never be able to look at a man named, Don or Donald again without shrieking. He was definitely more frightening then the Zeryths.
As the tale continues it takes you into the life of Milly, who now was fighting the demons that encircled her inside. It is so hard to do a review without revealing all that is in this book. So I will just leave it at this and tell you if you are looking for a horror book, that will keep your heart pumping, this definitely is the one for you.
The novel started out raw and frightening from the get, when the author takes us into the past of Don Currie, the sick bastard that makes Charles Manson look like a choir boy. Can I say this novel scared the hell out me? I will never be able to look at a man named, Don or Donald again without shrieking. He was definitely more frightening then the Zeryths.
As the tale continues it takes you into the life of Milly, who now was fighting the demons that encircled her inside. It is so hard to do a review without revealing all that is in this book. So I will just leave it at this and tell you if you are looking for a horror book, that will keep your heart pumping, this definitely is the one for you.
March 15, 2015
Firstly I would like to thank the author, John Hennessy for picking me as the competition winner and sending me a signed copy of this book for free, I am very grateful. I am sorry that I have only given this book a 3* rating but I will explain.
Although this is a follow on to Dark Winter; The Wicca Circle it is a stand alone book. Had I not read the first book I think I would have given this a 4* rating as it is a good book. However, having read the first book and got to know the characters and the storyline book 2 really didn't work fully for me for many reasons. I will give my honest view of this book and hope that it doesn't come across as bad.
The book is predominantly of a spooky, paranormal and witchcraft theme, there is a good strong plot that could be taken as dark and scary if your of a weak disposition. You need to have an open mind with regards to reading it. There is also a hint of romance and friendships thrown into the equation.
Characters that I had taken to be dead from the storyline in first book turned out not to be but to be stuck in a void, the storyline seemed to jump about quite a bit going back and forth which I'm not a great fan of in any book. I know why John did this and reading the whole book it makes sense as it covers how things have happened and why they are happening etc.
The book is well written and certainly gets you thinking, John has done a good job of getting inside your head but the twists of events played with my mind too much, not in a scary way but of "well how can this have happened when that happened in book 1".
The characters are described in more detail in parts of this book compared to book 1 one which is nice as it helps you to connect to them more. The main narrative of the book is from Romilly, this is ok except for where she seems to be telling of events that do not include her or she's not there, this was confusing. I had hoped that there would be more of the magic side come out in this book but there wasn't.
The main thing I didn't like was the amount of bad language it. I'm not a saint and I do use it myself but I felt there was too much for the nature of the book. Although I have only give it a 3* rating I did enjoy the book and wanted to read on to see where it was going and what happen and I will read book 3 when it comes out in October.
(I did contact the author as there was some spelling mistakes in the copy I received and he did apologise and believed that it may have been an earlier addition. This didn't affect the story though.)
Although this is a follow on to Dark Winter; The Wicca Circle it is a stand alone book. Had I not read the first book I think I would have given this a 4* rating as it is a good book. However, having read the first book and got to know the characters and the storyline book 2 really didn't work fully for me for many reasons. I will give my honest view of this book and hope that it doesn't come across as bad.
The book is predominantly of a spooky, paranormal and witchcraft theme, there is a good strong plot that could be taken as dark and scary if your of a weak disposition. You need to have an open mind with regards to reading it. There is also a hint of romance and friendships thrown into the equation.
Characters that I had taken to be dead from the storyline in first book turned out not to be but to be stuck in a void, the storyline seemed to jump about quite a bit going back and forth which I'm not a great fan of in any book. I know why John did this and reading the whole book it makes sense as it covers how things have happened and why they are happening etc.
The book is well written and certainly gets you thinking, John has done a good job of getting inside your head but the twists of events played with my mind too much, not in a scary way but of "well how can this have happened when that happened in book 1".
The characters are described in more detail in parts of this book compared to book 1 one which is nice as it helps you to connect to them more. The main narrative of the book is from Romilly, this is ok except for where she seems to be telling of events that do not include her or she's not there, this was confusing. I had hoped that there would be more of the magic side come out in this book but there wasn't.
The main thing I didn't like was the amount of bad language it. I'm not a saint and I do use it myself but I felt there was too much for the nature of the book. Although I have only give it a 3* rating I did enjoy the book and wanted to read on to see where it was going and what happen and I will read book 3 when it comes out in October.
(I did contact the author as there was some spelling mistakes in the copy I received and he did apologise and believed that it may have been an earlier addition. This didn't affect the story though.)
Read
March 29, 2016This second book of Dark Winter series is even better than the first one. It’s a paranormal horror story featuring three teenage girlfriends: an atheist, a Christian and a witch. Yet the lines between their world views become blurred, as the evil they are facing challenges everything they believe in. Toril’s witchy skills are put to a test, so is Beth’ Christian faith. The atheist girl acknowledges so many supernatural beings and signs of life beyond death that she is not an ordinary kind of atheist either.
This book is far deeper than the first one. The main characters have grown up, and they seem to demand more mature audience as well. If a reader expects just a simple horror story, he may get confused. It’s sometimes difficult to distinguish in this book dreams from reality, friends from enemies, evil within from evil without, the living from the dead. In addition, the story is told from many different perspectives. Some chapters focus on the main character and are told in first person, while other chapters are written in third person and reveal events the main character is not aware of while they are happening.
All these aspects make Crescent Moon an interesting read for more demanding readers who like to think while reading. The author has fantastic imagination and describes all the scenes as well as thoughts and feelings of his characters in vivid (and often frightening) detail, but he still leaves many things to our interpretation.
This book would make an excellent movie. The imagery is so powerful that i could see it as a movie in my head when I was reading.
The characters are portrayed so well that I feel as if I knew them in person. I want to meet them again, so I will definitely read the last part of the trilogy.
This book is far deeper than the first one. The main characters have grown up, and they seem to demand more mature audience as well. If a reader expects just a simple horror story, he may get confused. It’s sometimes difficult to distinguish in this book dreams from reality, friends from enemies, evil within from evil without, the living from the dead. In addition, the story is told from many different perspectives. Some chapters focus on the main character and are told in first person, while other chapters are written in third person and reveal events the main character is not aware of while they are happening.
All these aspects make Crescent Moon an interesting read for more demanding readers who like to think while reading. The author has fantastic imagination and describes all the scenes as well as thoughts and feelings of his characters in vivid (and often frightening) detail, but he still leaves many things to our interpretation.
This book would make an excellent movie. The imagery is so powerful that i could see it as a movie in my head when I was reading.
The characters are portrayed so well that I feel as if I knew them in person. I want to meet them again, so I will definitely read the last part of the trilogy.
May 24, 2015
After reading the first book, Dark Winter the first book in the series, I knew that I had to get my hands on the second book. The first book was way more intriguing than I thought it would be, so I went into the second book expecting the same. Luckily, this book did not disappoint. It was just as interesting, if not more interesting, than the first book in the series. The book follows the journey of Romilly, who has a unique gift and a weapon that provides her power. What Roomily must face is extremely interesting and will keep you turning the pages and on the edge of your seat. Believe me when I say you want to read this book, I highly recommend it.
February 4, 2015
Beginning of the book was back and forth like the first one.
Confusing at times but you had to read the story to see what
was going to happen and it was good. When will the third
book be ready? Am anxious to see what the outcome is in the third book.
Confusing at times but you had to read the story to see what
was going to happen and it was good. When will the third
book be ready? Am anxious to see what the outcome is in the third book.
November 17, 2014
Scary as all get out!!! A great second book!!
January 27, 2020
The second installment in the series picks up where the first one left off with the belief that all is well in Gorswood except that is far from the case. Romilly is still dealing with the demons as is Beth and Toril. Hennessy has written another engaging paranormal horror tale with well-developed characters and storyline that will keep the reader wondering and turning the pages to find out what happens next. I will not reveal any spoilers but leave those who choose to read this to find out for themselves. I am very curious and moving onto the last installment in this series to find out how it all goes down and is wrapped up.
March 31, 2016
Dark Winter: Crescent Moon by Author John Hennessy is a continuation of a gripping tale of demons, ghosts, and witchcraft, and the dangers encountered by the teenage heroes in trying to defeat them.
The first book, Dark Winter: The Wicca Circle was more than just an introduction to this paranormal fantasy series and it sparked my interest to indulge further in this trilogy.
Romily, Beth, Toril and Troy, survived many near death experiences fighting ghosts and demons ,and I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion in his next book, Dark Winter: Last Rites, which I already have on my Kindle App.
Author John Hennessy is an author who knows how to keep his readers happy. His writing style is very appealing and he knows how to keep you coming back for more.
The first book, Dark Winter: The Wicca Circle was more than just an introduction to this paranormal fantasy series and it sparked my interest to indulge further in this trilogy.
Romily, Beth, Toril and Troy, survived many near death experiences fighting ghosts and demons ,and I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion in his next book, Dark Winter: Last Rites, which I already have on my Kindle App.
Author John Hennessy is an author who knows how to keep his readers happy. His writing style is very appealing and he knows how to keep you coming back for more.
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