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The Witch of Bracken's Hollow
Damon knows that the Witch of Bracken's Hollow is just a myth. He knew it when he was a child and his friend Rachel drowned in Deep Run Lake and became another victim of the legendary witch. And he knows it now that he is a youth pastor in charge of a camp full of teenagers meeting at the same lodge where Rachel drowned all those years ago.
But as memories of Rachel's death play on Damon's mind, he finds the boundaries between reality and fantasy blurring before his eyes. When a voice whispers Damon’s name at the witching hour, he must sort out history from myth, fact from fiction, and he must do so before the children he is charged to care for suffer the same fate as Rachel.
*This title was previously published under the pen name Evan Winters.
But as memories of Rachel's death play on Damon's mind, he finds the boundaries between reality and fantasy blurring before his eyes. When a voice whispers Damon’s name at the witching hour, he must sort out history from myth, fact from fiction, and he must do so before the children he is charged to care for suffer the same fate as Rachel.
*This title was previously published under the pen name Evan Winters.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
24 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Brian Hocevar
4 booksBrian lives in Kentucky with his wife and dogs. He is a lifelong fan of horror and speculative fiction, be it in the form of comic books, film, short fiction or novels.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 5, 2018
The witch in the woods
3.5 stars
This story is very well written. Very well. The plot is intriguing and keeps you guessing at the witch's origin. I would definitely read more by this author.
3.5 stars
This story is very well written. Very well. The plot is intriguing and keeps you guessing at the witch's origin. I would definitely read more by this author.
August 25, 2018
Took me long to finish it.
Started in January, was 40 % done. Wasn't able to finish it that time due to many reasons.
Well it took a while for the author to set the foundation or the base. I was starting to think that it might not be that bewitching after all, but after I completed more than 60% of it, the story got more interesting.
Awesome.
Started in January, was 40 % done. Wasn't able to finish it that time due to many reasons.
Well it took a while for the author to set the foundation or the base. I was starting to think that it might not be that bewitching after all, but after I completed more than 60% of it, the story got more interesting.
Awesome.
August 21, 2020
This story has everything I look for as a reader—excellent pacing, descriptions full of sensory details and well-crafted characters. The author weaves a story around the classic campfire ghost stories we heard as kids, then takes it to the next level, and gave me an ending I didn't see coming—well done!
But what really made the story a joy to read was the superb writing. This does not read as if written by a debut author, but more like an experienced author of many publications. I'm certainly going to keep my eye out for more from this author!
But what really made the story a joy to read was the superb writing. This does not read as if written by a debut author, but more like an experienced author of many publications. I'm certainly going to keep my eye out for more from this author!
March 8, 2018
I mean, there was nothing wrong with it. It could have been a little more creepy and I think the end seemed kind of rushed. It might have benefited from being a full length novel rather than a novella.
January 13, 2025
Good and creepy, with a horrifying (and mostly satisfying) ending. The writing was overall good, though some stretches of dialogue didn't ring particularly true. The characters were also drawn with fairly broad strokes, though that seems likely to have been by necessity, given the shorter novella length. It would be neat to this expanded to a full novel - it seems like there'd be enough backstory and detail to flesh out - but as it stands, it was a pleasantly creepy way to pass a few hours. Would recommend.
October 7, 2015
Wonderful old-school scare. This is a wonderful novella, but don't read it with the lights off. Dark horror at its best!
July 2, 2017
A Story of Rich Reflection
Not what I expected, to be sure ... but when does a truly well written, convincing "horror" story follow the norm, when essentially there is no "norm"? I don't think any author worth his/her salt wants a cookie-cutter repetition of what has come before.
Winters brings the past and the future together; not just for one life, one generation, but for centuries in antiquity. Where does the evil go marching forward to infest itself once again in the souls of humankind? Ah, that is the question!
Giving no spoilers on Winter's realistic and creative debut novel, I praise his twists and turns of plot development that are richly poignant and masterfully reflective.
Could such barbaric, ancient customs still thrive and lay siege to a small town, somewhere in the present-day of the United States of America?
The Horror genre, in my humble opinion, is all about what "could" happen, what resonates as possible in the reader's psyche. This is what Winters has achieved as an author, especially since it is staged in a small Kentucky town, supposedly peaceful and close-knit with strong ties to the church and community. I guess you never really know what is lurking in an ageless hollow in the woods. Maybe the Witch of Bracken's Hollow isn't what you should fear; perhaps, it's the face in the mirror, your forebears, or the faithful shepherds of the flock?
I highly recommend this new author, Evan Winters. The books that we never forget are the ones that leave us questioning the mortality of morality.
Not what I expected, to be sure ... but when does a truly well written, convincing "horror" story follow the norm, when essentially there is no "norm"? I don't think any author worth his/her salt wants a cookie-cutter repetition of what has come before.
Winters brings the past and the future together; not just for one life, one generation, but for centuries in antiquity. Where does the evil go marching forward to infest itself once again in the souls of humankind? Ah, that is the question!
Giving no spoilers on Winter's realistic and creative debut novel, I praise his twists and turns of plot development that are richly poignant and masterfully reflective.
Could such barbaric, ancient customs still thrive and lay siege to a small town, somewhere in the present-day of the United States of America?
The Horror genre, in my humble opinion, is all about what "could" happen, what resonates as possible in the reader's psyche. This is what Winters has achieved as an author, especially since it is staged in a small Kentucky town, supposedly peaceful and close-knit with strong ties to the church and community. I guess you never really know what is lurking in an ageless hollow in the woods. Maybe the Witch of Bracken's Hollow isn't what you should fear; perhaps, it's the face in the mirror, your forebears, or the faithful shepherds of the flock?
I highly recommend this new author, Evan Winters. The books that we never forget are the ones that leave us questioning the mortality of morality.
January 4, 2018
Although it was a little slow at pulling me in, once this story built up some steam it was compelling, chilling, and hard to put down. There were so many enticing twists and turns that I was reluctant to pull away from the story for anything short of biological emergencies. The ending was shocking and not at all what I was expecting. Thankfully the supernatural aspects of the story, which can be campy if not handled properly, were vivid and enthralling. I tend to shy away from the horror genre, but for this author I would make an exception.
December 20, 2018
Was shocked when 'the truth' or 'heart of the matter' came out.
Wish the ending was a bit different, but otherwise enjoyed the book.
I'd say, for many who are devoted, it may be controversial; however, it also shows that even in religion, there is true evil.
Wish the ending was a bit different, but otherwise enjoyed the book.
I'd say, for many who are devoted, it may be controversial; however, it also shows that even in religion, there is true evil.
September 23, 2017
Great atmospheric storytelling!
November 11, 2017
An Appalachian Thriller! Evan pairs a bucolic, relatable setting with eerie, cryptic events.
January 2, 2018
A delightfully spooky story with a great twist. This was a fast and engaging read with a satisfying ending. Really enjoyed this one.
March 1, 2016
A nod to old-school ghost stories. For me, a return to a nostalgic time when I was 13 and read nothing but mysteries and paranormal books. There were even a few surprising glimmers: recollections of Kentucky's native history that go back thousands of years. Overall, this book holds promise for what's to come from Evan Winters.
However, here's my only complaint: a total lack of female characters. In fact, this was rather startling and surprising. Two female characters seem to exist, both dead, and one who happens to be the book's namesake. But as I over-analyze something meant to be a fun, horror tale, I realize that the female entity in this book, despite no breathing female humans, is perhaps Bracken's Hollow, much like the Congo in Campbell's "Heart of Darkness" is a forest persona of evil and good, omniscient and intrusive. This could be a stretch, but hear me out.
*SPOILERS BELOW*
The witch in Bracken's Hollow is described as a creature who dwells in the forest and who witnesses the crimes of these white men living in rural Appalachia. There's no doubt that this witch is a woman, whatever that entails since she's neither living nor dead. I wouldn't think it too much of a stretch to say she's a part of the forest and in some ways controls the biological and paranormal functions of the valley. It's part of her mystery and charm. In Damon's attempts to break the cycle of corruption among the pious religious zealots, he sacrifices himself. He becomes the witch. In doing this, he releases previous memories and identities of himself, altogether losing his human imprint and becoming HER. There's this interesting twist that the forest has a guardian of sorts, has had a guardian for eons, and will continue to have a guardian, provided that someone is there willing to sacrifice the "self" in becoming the Witch of Bracken's Hollow. So, chew on that as you read the book.
However, here's my only complaint: a total lack of female characters. In fact, this was rather startling and surprising. Two female characters seem to exist, both dead, and one who happens to be the book's namesake. But as I over-analyze something meant to be a fun, horror tale, I realize that the female entity in this book, despite no breathing female humans, is perhaps Bracken's Hollow, much like the Congo in Campbell's "Heart of Darkness" is a forest persona of evil and good, omniscient and intrusive. This could be a stretch, but hear me out.
*SPOILERS BELOW*
The witch in Bracken's Hollow is described as a creature who dwells in the forest and who witnesses the crimes of these white men living in rural Appalachia. There's no doubt that this witch is a woman, whatever that entails since she's neither living nor dead. I wouldn't think it too much of a stretch to say she's a part of the forest and in some ways controls the biological and paranormal functions of the valley. It's part of her mystery and charm. In Damon's attempts to break the cycle of corruption among the pious religious zealots, he sacrifices himself. He becomes the witch. In doing this, he releases previous memories and identities of himself, altogether losing his human imprint and becoming HER. There's this interesting twist that the forest has a guardian of sorts, has had a guardian for eons, and will continue to have a guardian, provided that someone is there willing to sacrifice the "self" in becoming the Witch of Bracken's Hollow. So, chew on that as you read the book.
December 25, 2015
IF YOU DON'T WANT A COMPLETE AND TOTAL SPOILER~THE ONLY THINGS YOU SGOULD KNOW ARE THESE:1~ABSOLUTELY AWESOME BOOK, GIVE IT 4~5 CHAPTERS BEFORE YOU TRY TO WALK AWAY(if you don't enjoy religious referential type books) 2~I RECEIVED THIS BOOK IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. 3~THIS BOOK IS GRIPPING, AND HAVE YOU GUESSING WHICH WAY IS UP FROM BEGINNING TO END! 4~HAPPY READING!!!!!!
Not a religious type of reader, but, I guess in a way it gives that reasoning behind the underlying thought process used by so many sick people so many times before (and most assuredly to be in futures to come) that they are doing "God's Work" & "Saving Their Community," in reality, it's a sick truth we have to live with that it happens, but Evan Winters presented it beautifully in this story..nothing prepares you for the journey you are going to take with Damon, NOTHING! So, when the elders and leaders of the community are responsible for so many deaths dating back for generations, and Damon finally finds out the VERY HARD WAY, to say he is NOT PLEASED is an understatement! The men in his community and church have been like surrogate fathers to him all his life, especially after the passing of his mother. This book takes you so far into a twisted tale of lies, betrayal & cover-up you don't know which way is up, and that is a fantastic thing in a book! Bravo Evan Winters, just a fantastic story, I loved it! So, I guess all in all, what I THOUGHT in the beginning to be a religious type of story was NOT, either way, glad I gave it the chance to see where it was going to go! Now get reading! I received this book in return for an honest review.
Not a religious type of reader, but, I guess in a way it gives that reasoning behind the underlying thought process used by so many sick people so many times before (and most assuredly to be in futures to come) that they are doing "God's Work" & "Saving Their Community," in reality, it's a sick truth we have to live with that it happens, but Evan Winters presented it beautifully in this story..nothing prepares you for the journey you are going to take with Damon, NOTHING! So, when the elders and leaders of the community are responsible for so many deaths dating back for generations, and Damon finally finds out the VERY HARD WAY, to say he is NOT PLEASED is an understatement! The men in his community and church have been like surrogate fathers to him all his life, especially after the passing of his mother. This book takes you so far into a twisted tale of lies, betrayal & cover-up you don't know which way is up, and that is a fantastic thing in a book! Bravo Evan Winters, just a fantastic story, I loved it! So, I guess all in all, what I THOUGHT in the beginning to be a religious type of story was NOT, either way, glad I gave it the chance to see where it was going to go! Now get reading! I received this book in return for an honest review.
October 8, 2015
First, let's talk about this cover. If I hadn't read the novella first, I'd snatch this book up based on the cover alone. I love covers that beckon to be read, and this one does just that. It was designed by Damonza, which is no surprise. I've seen some beautiful covers from Damon and his team.
The way the story in this novella unfolds is truly magnificent. Though this is Evan Winters' first published book, it feels like it was written by a seasoned author. I'd keep him on your radar if I were you. There are sure to be many more creepy--or even downright terrifying--stories to come.
As we get to know Damon, weird things begin to happen at the lodge, and they go from just head-scratching weird to frightening fairly quickly. It doesn't feel rushed though; the pace is perfect. If there really was a witch and her "children of the lake," this is how it would unfold naturally.
This novella has it all--gorgeous writing, a perfectly paced plot, well-crafted characters. Winters packs a lot into it. In the end, it wraps up nicely, yet I see a seed that could grow into another story line. A girl can hope, right? If you enjoy hunkering down with the lights off and a good book to scare you, then you should pick this one up. You won't be disappointed.
The way the story in this novella unfolds is truly magnificent. Though this is Evan Winters' first published book, it feels like it was written by a seasoned author. I'd keep him on your radar if I were you. There are sure to be many more creepy--or even downright terrifying--stories to come.
As we get to know Damon, weird things begin to happen at the lodge, and they go from just head-scratching weird to frightening fairly quickly. It doesn't feel rushed though; the pace is perfect. If there really was a witch and her "children of the lake," this is how it would unfold naturally.
This novella has it all--gorgeous writing, a perfectly paced plot, well-crafted characters. Winters packs a lot into it. In the end, it wraps up nicely, yet I see a seed that could grow into another story line. A girl can hope, right? If you enjoy hunkering down with the lights off and a good book to scare you, then you should pick this one up. You won't be disappointed.
October 13, 2015
The witch of bracken's hollow
Wow. What a great story full of twist and churns, thrills and chills and excellent writing. The characters have a very different world view from my own but they were easy to relate to. Even though this is only a novella the world is completely formed and the story is completely wrapped up at the end. Which I appreciate as a reader. I would highly recommend and will be doing so shortly.
Wow. What a great story full of twist and churns, thrills and chills and excellent writing. The characters have a very different world view from my own but they were easy to relate to. Even though this is only a novella the world is completely formed and the story is completely wrapped up at the end. Which I appreciate as a reader. I would highly recommend and will be doing so shortly.
May 3, 2016
It was strange, while reading the book it felt like home. I loved the descriptions and dialogue. I even learned new words. But it felt in some ways like it was me writing the book descibing my own experiences. Maybe it's because the author is from Ky, as I am now. Not that I've ever seen a witch or a ghost. But it's a book I wish I had wrote.
September 21, 2016
I had high hopes for this book, or at least hoped it would be good, and I was not disappointed! Creepy and dark, The Witch of Bracken's Hollow weaves a wicked tapestry of superstition and mystery. Just like any good story, it leaves you wanting more!
October 22, 2015
Totally unexpected. Sketchy witch and ghosts plus it's a church youth retreat!
November 2, 2015
Gets interesting about 85% of the way in
November 3, 2015
Excellent Halloween read
The story is truly a amazing Halloween story. The twists and turns of the story made me want more. I highly recommend this book.
The story is truly a amazing Halloween story. The twists and turns of the story made me want more. I highly recommend this book.
January 18, 2017
Holy cow!
I did not expect that! That was an awesome read! I can't wait to read more by this author, as this was my first read.
I did not expect that! That was an awesome read! I can't wait to read more by this author, as this was my first read.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews