What do you think?
Rate this book
FrightVision #1
The Cursed Coin
Are you afraid of everything? Well RJ is. Good thing his little sister, Shelly, isn't scared of anything because the creepy mansion at the end of the cul-de-sac has a few frightening surprises waiting for them, including a cursed coin that puts both of their lives in danger. When the two try to get rid of the coin, RJ realizes its power. The more he holds it, the more he wants to be evil. Will RJ be able to get rid of the coin or will he embrace its power and never be afraid again?The Cursed Coin is just the beginning of the nightmares that await from the haunted mind of Culliver Crantz and his multiple personalities. Welcome to FrightVision. Your nightmare is ready. Let's begin.
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2019
18 people are currently reading
3081 people want to read
About the author
Culliver Crantz
17 books33 followersAward-winning author Culliver Crantz has a unique perspective on storytelling. Born from a chance encounter with a cursed set of screws, Culliver's imagination runs wild with spooky thrills and nightmares. With each turn of the page, he invites readers to delve into the unknown depths of his mind and experience the eerie tales he's crafted. Join Culliver on a journey of the macabre, where anything is possible and nightmares come to life.
Let the adventures begin!
Let the adventures begin!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 10, 2020
This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review.
FrightVision is a new series of spooky books in the spirit of Goosebumps. They are aimed at young readers and play on childhood fears without being too scary or intense. The creator of the series was very kind and sent me the first five books for review, so expect a video review of the whole series soon. Until then, we will focus on this first book in the series: The Cursed Coin. This book follows a brother and sister (RJ and Shelly) who, after finding a strange coin, begin experiencing strange phenomena. The longer RJ holds onto the coin, the darker his thoughts become, leading him to believe that the coin is cursed.
This was a fair start to the FrightVision series. It isn't necessarily memorable or well-written, but it is simple enough that a seven-year-old who isn't quite ready for Goosebumps would be able to follow along without struggle. It has the feeling of a Goosebumps book, but the spook factor is slightly toned down and the writing is more suited to a child who is just getting into reading chapter books. There wasn't much here for a man approaching 30 (such as myself), but I would give this to a young child with a taste for the macabre.
FrightVision is a new series of spooky books in the spirit of Goosebumps. They are aimed at young readers and play on childhood fears without being too scary or intense. The creator of the series was very kind and sent me the first five books for review, so expect a video review of the whole series soon. Until then, we will focus on this first book in the series: The Cursed Coin. This book follows a brother and sister (RJ and Shelly) who, after finding a strange coin, begin experiencing strange phenomena. The longer RJ holds onto the coin, the darker his thoughts become, leading him to believe that the coin is cursed.
This was a fair start to the FrightVision series. It isn't necessarily memorable or well-written, but it is simple enough that a seven-year-old who isn't quite ready for Goosebumps would be able to follow along without struggle. It has the feeling of a Goosebumps book, but the spook factor is slightly toned down and the writing is more suited to a child who is just getting into reading chapter books. There wasn't much here for a man approaching 30 (such as myself), but I would give this to a young child with a taste for the macabre.
June 20, 2019
"The Cursed Coin" was a fun, well paced story that grabs you from the start and won't let up. The characters are all well rounded with relatable backgrounds. It's easy to believe in the main characters RJ and his younger sister Shelly as they really come across as brother and sister. I also liked the story line about the "The Cursed Coin" and how it came to be.
The one thing (and it was the only thing) I wasn't crazy about was the ending. I have read lots of serial stories and they usually come to some tentative end with the hint of more to come, but this story seemed to me to end in the middle (although there were some revelations). Once again while I may not have been crazy about the ending the story none the less was a fun read, plenty of action and for me a character (RJ) that had some familiarity to me in my younger years.
I do recommend this as a good read ...
My thanks to Mr Crantz and Goodreads for hosting the contest that sent me this book
The one thing (and it was the only thing) I wasn't crazy about was the ending. I have read lots of serial stories and they usually come to some tentative end with the hint of more to come, but this story seemed to me to end in the middle (although there were some revelations). Once again while I may not have been crazy about the ending the story none the less was a fun read, plenty of action and for me a character (RJ) that had some familiarity to me in my younger years.
I do recommend this as a good read ...
My thanks to Mr Crantz and Goodreads for hosting the contest that sent me this book
October 8, 2021
This series kicks off as a Goosebumps read-alike but darker, and the reader is supposed to read THE CURSED COIN first, then can go to any other book in the series.
Having read two other FrightVision books, I'm not sure I totally agree, but... it could have just been those two.
We have creative fourth-wall breaking, character building, and a ghost and a scaredy cat who may not be quite what they seeem. The main character, RJ, is a relatable preteen boy who brings all the feels.
This is a solid and easter-egg filled to a fun spooky middle grade series.
I was gifted this book as part of the FrightVision Brand Advocates program (thank you Culliver!)
To try FrightVision for yourself, use dicount code KCFV10 for 10% off your purchase on the FrightVision website or Etsy store.
https://frightvisionbooks.com/shop/ol...
Having read two other FrightVision books, I'm not sure I totally agree, but... it could have just been those two.
We have creative fourth-wall breaking, character building, and a ghost and a scaredy cat who may not be quite what they seeem. The main character, RJ, is a relatable preteen boy who brings all the feels.
This is a solid and easter-egg filled to a fun spooky middle grade series.
I was gifted this book as part of the FrightVision Brand Advocates program (thank you Culliver!)
To try FrightVision for yourself, use dicount code KCFV10 for 10% off your purchase on the FrightVision website or Etsy store.
https://frightvisionbooks.com/shop/ol...
April 16, 2019
As a teacher and parent, I am always looking for well written, motivating books. The Cursed Coin hits all the right marks. Kids can relate to the main characters (RJ and his sister, Shelly), the storyline is exciting and the text is fast moving. I thoroughly recommend this book—it is the perfect mash-up of Goosebumps, Stranger Things and The Twilight Zone.. I can’t wait for the next one in the series to come out!!
February 7, 2020
I bought the paperback version of The Cursed Coin by Culliver Crantz and found it well worth my time! The characters in the book leaped off the pages and the plot had many interesting twists and turns!
March 22, 2020
A cute middle grade spooky story. The first in a series that is comparable to Goosebumps. It's harder to for me to read this type of book as an adult but I'm sure early readers would appreciate it.
September 25, 2019
The Cursed Coin is the first book in a new series of middle-grade horror, ala Goosebumps. It is the story of RJ, a kid that's scared of his own shadow, and his sister, Shelly. They live near a creepy mansion and one day find a coin that glows green. Weird and spooky things begin to happen to the siblings, and they realize that the coin is to blame!
The Cursed Coin is an excellent addition to any middle-grade horror collection! If the rest of the series is as good as this first book, then FrightVision will be mentioned in the same breath as Goosebumps and Christopher Pike. I finished this book a few weeks ago, but I wanted to let a student read it before giving my review to see if they agreed with me. They loved it and wanted the next book! It's not perfect by any means, but this book is an enjoyable introduction to a series that shows significant promise. I recommend this book to anyone with middle schoolers or adult that's craving a little horror nostalgia.
The Cursed Coin is an excellent addition to any middle-grade horror collection! If the rest of the series is as good as this first book, then FrightVision will be mentioned in the same breath as Goosebumps and Christopher Pike. I finished this book a few weeks ago, but I wanted to let a student read it before giving my review to see if they agreed with me. They loved it and wanted the next book! It's not perfect by any means, but this book is an enjoyable introduction to a series that shows significant promise. I recommend this book to anyone with middle schoolers or adult that's craving a little horror nostalgia.
September 14, 2019
When I heard that the Frightvision books were "Goosebumps" meets "Stranger Things," I was sold. The Cursed Coin, the first of the series, is a wonderful start for this middle-grade book series. It follows the story of siblings RJ and Shelly, who find their lives turned upside when Shelly finds a mysterious coin. It's an excellent tale of overcoming your fears, trusting your gut, and sticking together to overcome obstacles.
I would definitely recommend to all age groups but especially for children looking for some spooky fun.
*Thank you Frightvision for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I would definitely recommend to all age groups but especially for children looking for some spooky fun.
*Thank you Frightvision for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
September 28, 2021
I didn't quite expect to get back to this series so soon but fate was kind. See, the official Facebook Page/Group for the series did a giveaway and I happened to win it, so I ended up with this and the Cursed Coin 2 psychically, even signed by Culiver Crantz himself. I really liked the other 2 I read so I was happy to be able to get into more sooner than I expected.
This being the first book, it was toned down from those others but it was still pretty good, better than I expected in some regards. The setup is a bit hard to explain as it's the more vague kind of story here. RJ and his sister discover a mysterious coin that has odd effects of people who touch it. Alongside that, there's a local mysterious house and a creepy man who seems to start following Rj around.
It's another that gets started quickly but here it also is able to build up the starting situation and characters well too. As you can tell, it's a combo of a few ideas instead of one main one but that worked here. It gave it a compelling mystery as I wasn't quite sure how where this was going or how this would come together.
While it's naturally nothing too scary, there is a bit more spooky-ness compared to other ones as those were more about drama. There's some tension, and some gross-ness with mild body horror. And I do mean mild but hey it's something.
Writing is decent here, some good word choices in the least. RJ is a good protagonist, your basic scardey cat type with that standard arc of getting braver but it was done well. He didn't go whining all the time and tries not to embarrass himself in front of others. Shelly starts out as way cooler, being a fan of scary stuff, then reveals herself to be a prankster which made me groan. But then things improved and they ended up having a good sibling bond, which I always appreciate.
We also get some good setup and payoff. Additionally, the dad is dead which is becoming common in these but it added a little something extra to this, had some good bits. Oh and mom's got a new boyfriend he doesn't care for. The reveal of what is going on leaves to a few questions but is mostly solid and out there. It's actually rather messed up when you think of the implications of it all. Although one reveal regarding someone, I saw coming a mile away.
The climax is good and the ending is a bit mixed. I wish there was more of a wrapup, as instead we get a cliffhanger/sequel hook. It did make me wanna read the next one so it did the job, just wish it was a bit less forced.
Overall, this was pretty solid. It had a lot of little things going for it that made it a solid and engaging read for me. It had a nice mix of spooky-ness, mystery and some substance in there. Again, not as surprising and strong as Framed for Life/The Peephole but sitll good and better than I expecting. Looking forward to the sequel when I get to it, as I think it's when the series becomes a bit more connected. This just confirmed that this is my favorite of all the Goosebumps throwback type series.
There's a third one coming soon, and I just imagine it'll be Frightvision: Endgame, or at least I hope so lol. Anyway, that's the last non-Animorphs read for September, soon we'll get into some Halloween reads, yay. For stop on that front, is a return to Spinetinglers. See ya then.
This being the first book, it was toned down from those others but it was still pretty good, better than I expected in some regards. The setup is a bit hard to explain as it's the more vague kind of story here. RJ and his sister discover a mysterious coin that has odd effects of people who touch it. Alongside that, there's a local mysterious house and a creepy man who seems to start following Rj around.
It's another that gets started quickly but here it also is able to build up the starting situation and characters well too. As you can tell, it's a combo of a few ideas instead of one main one but that worked here. It gave it a compelling mystery as I wasn't quite sure how where this was going or how this would come together.
While it's naturally nothing too scary, there is a bit more spooky-ness compared to other ones as those were more about drama. There's some tension, and some gross-ness with mild body horror. And I do mean mild but hey it's something.
Writing is decent here, some good word choices in the least. RJ is a good protagonist, your basic scardey cat type with that standard arc of getting braver but it was done well. He didn't go whining all the time and tries not to embarrass himself in front of others. Shelly starts out as way cooler, being a fan of scary stuff, then reveals herself to be a prankster which made me groan. But then things improved and they ended up having a good sibling bond, which I always appreciate.
We also get some good setup and payoff. Additionally, the dad is dead which is becoming common in these but it added a little something extra to this, had some good bits. Oh and mom's got a new boyfriend he doesn't care for. The reveal of what is going on leaves to a few questions but is mostly solid and out there. It's actually rather messed up when you think of the implications of it all. Although one reveal regarding someone, I saw coming a mile away.
The climax is good and the ending is a bit mixed. I wish there was more of a wrapup, as instead we get a cliffhanger/sequel hook. It did make me wanna read the next one so it did the job, just wish it was a bit less forced.
Overall, this was pretty solid. It had a lot of little things going for it that made it a solid and engaging read for me. It had a nice mix of spooky-ness, mystery and some substance in there. Again, not as surprising and strong as Framed for Life/The Peephole but sitll good and better than I expecting. Looking forward to the sequel when I get to it, as I think it's when the series becomes a bit more connected. This just confirmed that this is my favorite of all the Goosebumps throwback type series.
There's a third one coming soon, and I just imagine it'll be Frightvision: Endgame, or at least I hope so lol. Anyway, that's the last non-Animorphs read for September, soon we'll get into some Halloween reads, yay. For stop on that front, is a return to Spinetinglers. See ya then.
March 30, 2023
I met the author of this book at a local comic con. The way he pitched the book to me was that it was Goosebumps meets Stranger Things. Set around a group of scientists experimenting on kids and fear, it sets up the plot of figuring out what is real and what isn’t. Over all, this was a really fun read, I would highly recommend it to anyone in the target demographic. It is definitely a lower middle grade read. Being a horror fan, I felt like the scary bits were done perfectly for that age range.
I took my time with this book, but it really is a fast read.
I took my time with this book, but it really is a fast read.
December 2, 2023
Definitely a good start to a series that takes inspiration from Goosebumps in my opinion. This first book involves RJ, a scaredy-cat, and his sister Shelly, who is much more brave than he is, finding a cursed coin. Shelly takes the coin after RJ tries to dispose of the coin inside the yard of a house. Then RJ starts seeing a creepy looking dude he nicknames The Impaler. The Impaler later turns out to be trying to help these two. And he also turns out to not be an adult, as well as having been cursed beyond repair by this coin, which was created by his fears.
This book had more twists than I could count in it, and almost all of them I hadn't been suspicious about at all. The ones that really got me was that The Impaler turned out to be the dead kid of the neighbors who had lost their kid. And yes, Wally Swanson (that's his name) is in fact dead, or maybe not. It's a bit unclear given how the book ends, but I'll go with that he is. And even more unexpected was Ed, RJ and Shelly's mom's boyfriend, who had been stated to work with kids a couple times, actually was EXPERIMENTING on these kids this whole time. And Wally Swanson was one of them, this being how the cursed coin was created.
Just realized I still have yet to explain what this cursed coin does. It creates lesions on the person who's holding it for starters, and over time turns them evil. And I like how that gets utilized with RJ's plan to throw it in the lake where everything that goes in it disappears. Pure nightmare fuel right there, as it makes the water evil, and will kill everything in the lake and eventually fall through the bottom and likely destroy the world.
The very first book and we already have the world almost destroyed. I love that haha!
What I really liked about this first book is the author did a great job at writing the main character's anxiety. As stated before, the main character RJ is a scaredy-cat, so he panics and jumps to the worst conclusion quite a bit during the book. Admittedly, it happened a lot, but given that's the characterization of RJ, it didn't overstay its welcome in my opinion. Especially since it was only around 120 pages for the whole book. Also, the majority of the twists I didn't expect. The only one that I was expecting was The Impaler not being evil (it's made pretty clear when he shows up to buy lemonade and even paid extra, when the funds of this lemonade stand would go to charity. Sure, in real life, bad people do stuff as nice as this, but I didn't think the author would pull that switch here).
I also like how the bully, Johnny, almost got experimented on but was saved by RJ and Shelly. That'll hopefully teach him not to bully people because they might save his life someday lol
This was a great story. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to read it. Especially Goosebumps fans, since the later books mostly are unrelated to this first one (it's stated after the story that these can be read in any order is what I mean).
This book had more twists than I could count in it, and almost all of them I hadn't been suspicious about at all. The ones that really got me was that The Impaler turned out to be the dead kid of the neighbors who had lost their kid. And yes, Wally Swanson (that's his name) is in fact dead, or maybe not. It's a bit unclear given how the book ends, but I'll go with that he is. And even more unexpected was Ed, RJ and Shelly's mom's boyfriend, who had been stated to work with kids a couple times, actually was EXPERIMENTING on these kids this whole time. And Wally Swanson was one of them, this being how the cursed coin was created.
Just realized I still have yet to explain what this cursed coin does. It creates lesions on the person who's holding it for starters, and over time turns them evil. And I like how that gets utilized with RJ's plan to throw it in the lake where everything that goes in it disappears. Pure nightmare fuel right there, as it makes the water evil, and will kill everything in the lake and eventually fall through the bottom and likely destroy the world.
The very first book and we already have the world almost destroyed. I love that haha!
What I really liked about this first book is the author did a great job at writing the main character's anxiety. As stated before, the main character RJ is a scaredy-cat, so he panics and jumps to the worst conclusion quite a bit during the book. Admittedly, it happened a lot, but given that's the characterization of RJ, it didn't overstay its welcome in my opinion. Especially since it was only around 120 pages for the whole book. Also, the majority of the twists I didn't expect. The only one that I was expecting was The Impaler not being evil (it's made pretty clear when he shows up to buy lemonade and even paid extra, when the funds of this lemonade stand would go to charity. Sure, in real life, bad people do stuff as nice as this, but I didn't think the author would pull that switch here).
I also like how the bully, Johnny, almost got experimented on but was saved by RJ and Shelly. That'll hopefully teach him not to bully people because they might save his life someday lol
This was a great story. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to read it. Especially Goosebumps fans, since the later books mostly are unrelated to this first one (it's stated after the story that these can be read in any order is what I mean).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my review in any way and the thoughts expressed are my own.
A middle-grade horror novel that sees two siblings, RJ and Shelly, struggle as they try to fight off things of nightmares. An anxious scary-cat RJ is not what you’d have in mind for a hero. He loves his mother and sister (and puts up with his irritating stepdad, Ed) and endures the daily torment of the school bullies. Setting up a lemonade stand and receiving a simple, antique coin brings more danger than RJ could ever have expected.
The coin calls to you, but one touch brings incredible pain, sores and lesions covering every inch of the victim. RJ and Shelly discover this horror when Shelly falls victim to the coin, and her brother barely manages to rip the coin from her skin. Yet there’s more to the dangerous knick-knack than they could know. A creepy eight-foot-tall figure comes for the coin, banging and clawing to get in the house.
Terrified yet determined to be rid of the cursed beacon, RJ ventures across the road to the haunted house, certain that they’ll be safe if he can just return it to where it came from. But even with Shelly’s help, RJ must evade the shadowy figure and the monsters that lurk inside the haunted mansion.
I won’t spoil what happens in the adventure since the twist and turns make for an enjoyable rollercoaster. The development of the villain and haunted house were intriguing and much more than a homicidal bogeyman. It’s great to see two young kids, especially one so crippled by anxiety try to push through their fears to protect their family from monsters that would have must adults crying and blubbering in a corner.
A fast-paced, creepy adventure sees an anxious boy trying to push past his fear to be rid of a cursed object, protect his sister and fight against terrifying monsters. Any fan of horror will enjoy this book, with its well-developed hero this book is more than just a ghost story. I loved the idea of an everyday object being cursed and am keen to see what other cursed items will cause trouble in the future. I give it 4/5.
A middle-grade horror novel that sees two siblings, RJ and Shelly, struggle as they try to fight off things of nightmares. An anxious scary-cat RJ is not what you’d have in mind for a hero. He loves his mother and sister (and puts up with his irritating stepdad, Ed) and endures the daily torment of the school bullies. Setting up a lemonade stand and receiving a simple, antique coin brings more danger than RJ could ever have expected.
The coin calls to you, but one touch brings incredible pain, sores and lesions covering every inch of the victim. RJ and Shelly discover this horror when Shelly falls victim to the coin, and her brother barely manages to rip the coin from her skin. Yet there’s more to the dangerous knick-knack than they could know. A creepy eight-foot-tall figure comes for the coin, banging and clawing to get in the house.
Terrified yet determined to be rid of the cursed beacon, RJ ventures across the road to the haunted house, certain that they’ll be safe if he can just return it to where it came from. But even with Shelly’s help, RJ must evade the shadowy figure and the monsters that lurk inside the haunted mansion.
I won’t spoil what happens in the adventure since the twist and turns make for an enjoyable rollercoaster. The development of the villain and haunted house were intriguing and much more than a homicidal bogeyman. It’s great to see two young kids, especially one so crippled by anxiety try to push through their fears to protect their family from monsters that would have must adults crying and blubbering in a corner.
A fast-paced, creepy adventure sees an anxious boy trying to push past his fear to be rid of a cursed object, protect his sister and fight against terrifying monsters. Any fan of horror will enjoy this book, with its well-developed hero this book is more than just a ghost story. I loved the idea of an everyday object being cursed and am keen to see what other cursed items will cause trouble in the future. I give it 4/5.
December 9, 2020
The Cursed Coin is a well-written fast read, and I found it perfect for keeping my 6th Grade son engaged in reading the story.
I was sent a copy for an honest review and started reading it with my son (we take turns reading chapters to build his confidence in reading aloud), and after the first two chapters, we were hooked!
We finished the book in 4 days.
It's always a struggle trying to find books he is interested in enough to finish, most of the time he reads the first few chapters and is "bored". Not with this one!
The characters are believable and well described, they easily remind you of children you might know; RJ is generally a very anxious older brother and Shelly is his fearless younger sister.
This makes the sibling dynamic realistic and honest.
The story unfolds quickly and spans only a few days, but covers the basics of overcoming your fears and sticking together to overcome challenges, with just enough strange and mysterious occurrences to keep the pages turning, it plays out in their own neighborhood, and the majority of the action happens around the spooky mansion and mysterious lake at the end of the street.
It does end fairly abruptly but we were left wanting more, it was a topic of speculation in our house for at least a day afterward. We are interested to read the other stories in the FrightVision series now.
I can confidently recommend this book. The fact that my son kept asking if we could read "just one more chapter" impressed me considerably.
Looking forward to finding out what else RJ and Shelly get up to and read the other stories in the series.
I was sent a copy for an honest review and started reading it with my son (we take turns reading chapters to build his confidence in reading aloud), and after the first two chapters, we were hooked!
We finished the book in 4 days.
It's always a struggle trying to find books he is interested in enough to finish, most of the time he reads the first few chapters and is "bored". Not with this one!
The characters are believable and well described, they easily remind you of children you might know; RJ is generally a very anxious older brother and Shelly is his fearless younger sister.
This makes the sibling dynamic realistic and honest.
The story unfolds quickly and spans only a few days, but covers the basics of overcoming your fears and sticking together to overcome challenges, with just enough strange and mysterious occurrences to keep the pages turning, it plays out in their own neighborhood, and the majority of the action happens around the spooky mansion and mysterious lake at the end of the street.
It does end fairly abruptly but we were left wanting more, it was a topic of speculation in our house for at least a day afterward. We are interested to read the other stories in the FrightVision series now.
I can confidently recommend this book. The fact that my son kept asking if we could read "just one more chapter" impressed me considerably.
Looking forward to finding out what else RJ and Shelly get up to and read the other stories in the series.
July 24, 2019
5 out of 5 stars
My oldest son and I had a blast reading this first edition to the FrightVision series and both agree on the 5 stars!
The Cursed Coin brought me right back to my childhood. I loved Goosebumps, especially the show.
You know the innocent kids, weird things start happening, parents are almost completely oblivious to what’s happening around them. Only for a huge plot twist at the end, when the parents come to understand what their kids were trying to tell them… yet a little to late, as their kids seem to already have it under control. OR…. better yet…..the parents are in on it!
We did NOT want to put this book down. … “Oh just one more chapter!”
Incredible story with amazing characters.
RJ and his sister have one of the best siblings relationships I have read in a story. RJ may be a scaredy cat but when Shelly starts losing her confidence or seems to be in any sort of danger, he works hard to over come his fears. I also enjoyed the love RJ clearly had for his father. Although his father may not be a large character throughout the story, seeing that close relationship was a great addition.
Can the ever growing, strong relationships help RJ pull through all the mayhem? I guess you will just have to read for yourself.
FrightVision is bringing the modern day fresh new spin on Goosebumps and we are living for it!
Thank you so much to FrightVision for sending book one our way to review. You have created two new crazy fans!
And of course thank you all for reading
Your Fellow Impaler
– Nichole
My oldest son and I had a blast reading this first edition to the FrightVision series and both agree on the 5 stars!
The Cursed Coin brought me right back to my childhood. I loved Goosebumps, especially the show.
You know the innocent kids, weird things start happening, parents are almost completely oblivious to what’s happening around them. Only for a huge plot twist at the end, when the parents come to understand what their kids were trying to tell them… yet a little to late, as their kids seem to already have it under control. OR…. better yet…..the parents are in on it!
We did NOT want to put this book down. … “Oh just one more chapter!”
Incredible story with amazing characters.
RJ and his sister have one of the best siblings relationships I have read in a story. RJ may be a scaredy cat but when Shelly starts losing her confidence or seems to be in any sort of danger, he works hard to over come his fears. I also enjoyed the love RJ clearly had for his father. Although his father may not be a large character throughout the story, seeing that close relationship was a great addition.
Can the ever growing, strong relationships help RJ pull through all the mayhem? I guess you will just have to read for yourself.
FrightVision is bringing the modern day fresh new spin on Goosebumps and we are living for it!
Thank you so much to FrightVision for sending book one our way to review. You have created two new crazy fans!
And of course thank you all for reading
Your Fellow Impaler
– Nichole
October 27, 2023
My little sister's review, Laly (11):
RJ has always been a scaredy cat; he was afraid of everything, unlike his sister Shelly, who loved creepy things and collecting weird items. One day, when they were on a walk, Shelly found a coin, but every time she touched it, mysterious spore-like burn marks would appear all over her. The coin was evil. The next night, they were home alone when this strange, frightening man came to their house searching for the coin. Shelly and RJ must escape from this strange man and throw the coin to the bottom of the nearby lake, the same lake that took their father one day.
If you're looking for an excellent spine-tingling book, especially this time of year, don't look further and grab The Cursed Coin (part of the FrightVision series).
Thank you so much to BeTWEEN the Bookends for including this spooktacular book in the October book box!
I enjoyed this book so much. I thought it was funny that the boy was the scaredy cat and not the girl because I always thought it was the other way around.
This book was full of unexpected plot twists. Each time I turned the page, something crazy and surprising would happen. The book was fascinating, and the story was unlike any other book I've read.
I do not have a favorite character due to each character's unique and distinct personality, but I relate more to Shelly, and my big sister Paige is more like RJ.
Now, I would like to read more from this series.
Give this book to kids who love a quick, fun, spooky read with a mix of mystery, action, and sci-fiction.
RJ has always been a scaredy cat; he was afraid of everything, unlike his sister Shelly, who loved creepy things and collecting weird items. One day, when they were on a walk, Shelly found a coin, but every time she touched it, mysterious spore-like burn marks would appear all over her. The coin was evil. The next night, they were home alone when this strange, frightening man came to their house searching for the coin. Shelly and RJ must escape from this strange man and throw the coin to the bottom of the nearby lake, the same lake that took their father one day.
If you're looking for an excellent spine-tingling book, especially this time of year, don't look further and grab The Cursed Coin (part of the FrightVision series).
Thank you so much to BeTWEEN the Bookends for including this spooktacular book in the October book box!
I enjoyed this book so much. I thought it was funny that the boy was the scaredy cat and not the girl because I always thought it was the other way around.
This book was full of unexpected plot twists. Each time I turned the page, something crazy and surprising would happen. The book was fascinating, and the story was unlike any other book I've read.
I do not have a favorite character due to each character's unique and distinct personality, but I relate more to Shelly, and my big sister Paige is more like RJ.
Now, I would like to read more from this series.
Give this book to kids who love a quick, fun, spooky read with a mix of mystery, action, and sci-fiction.
December 17, 2020
Growing up, I simply loved Goosebumps and anything that had the potential to go bump in the night.
Reading The Cursed Coin, with my kids, brought back some serious R.L. Stine-esque nostalgia.
While my 7-year-old son decided early on it was too ‘creepy’ for him, my 9-year-old absolutely loved it as he sat on the edge of his seat in suspense.
The story is about 12-year-old RJ who is -- pretty much -- scared of everything and his younger -- more fearless -- sister Shelly who finds a coin. BUT, just what kind of coin have they found?
I really loved the dynamic between the siblings as the story progresses from teasing to genuine concern and love.
Not to mention, my son’s new favorite nickname in a book, The Impaler, in all his descriptive gruesomeness.
The story is very fast-paced and leaves no dull moments in its wake as it begs the age-old question -- Can good triumph over evil?
Can RJ overcome his fears to defeat evil? or Will RJ become evil to defeat his fears?
One thing is for certain, the kids and I will be following up with Book 2!
Reading The Cursed Coin, with my kids, brought back some serious R.L. Stine-esque nostalgia.
While my 7-year-old son decided early on it was too ‘creepy’ for him, my 9-year-old absolutely loved it as he sat on the edge of his seat in suspense.
The story is about 12-year-old RJ who is -- pretty much -- scared of everything and his younger -- more fearless -- sister Shelly who finds a coin. BUT, just what kind of coin have they found?
I really loved the dynamic between the siblings as the story progresses from teasing to genuine concern and love.
Not to mention, my son’s new favorite nickname in a book, The Impaler, in all his descriptive gruesomeness.
The story is very fast-paced and leaves no dull moments in its wake as it begs the age-old question -- Can good triumph over evil?
Can RJ overcome his fears to defeat evil? or Will RJ become evil to defeat his fears?
One thing is for certain, the kids and I will be following up with Book 2!
March 27, 2023
My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed The Cursed Coin! My daughter loved the mystery surrounding the coin and the twists and turns at the end. She loves a book, where not everything is as it seems. She also easily related to the characters. She also has a younger sibling and the related to the dynamic between RJ and Shelly. She related to RJ in the way that she herself has anxiety and knows what it is like to be in moments of feeling panic. She sympathized with him. I loved the books because for me there was a very nostalgic feel to them. One that brought me back to my childhood of riding around the block with my sibling on bikes and working on our own lemonade stands. It also felt very reminiscent of the books I grew up and loving.
The book is has a lot of mystery, twists and turns, and is just eerie enough! The Characters are written really well and the character development throughout the book is fantastic.
The book is has a lot of mystery, twists and turns, and is just eerie enough! The Characters are written really well and the character development throughout the book is fantastic.
December 8, 2020
As an avid reader and fan of R.L. Stine’s “Goosebumps” series (and the first book collection I ever owned), I must say that I was a bit skeptical at first. Come on, nothing compares right? Wrong..very wrong. I am a 30 year old man, reading this book to my 7 and 10 year old daughters, and all three of us couldn’t believe how amazing this book is.
Culliver Crantz delivers a spectacularly spooky, and wickedly twisted tale, with heroes, heroines, and evil villains alike. This book was exceptionally well written and, dare I say, rivals the works of R.L. Stine. With every chilling twist and creepy turn, we were all left on the edge of our seats throughout every chapter, waiting for and wanting more! Also had fantastic characters that all kids (and parents) alike can relate with and also find inspiration from their growth.
This is a MUST READ for Goosebumps fans!!!
Culliver Crantz delivers a spectacularly spooky, and wickedly twisted tale, with heroes, heroines, and evil villains alike. This book was exceptionally well written and, dare I say, rivals the works of R.L. Stine. With every chilling twist and creepy turn, we were all left on the edge of our seats throughout every chapter, waiting for and wanting more! Also had fantastic characters that all kids (and parents) alike can relate with and also find inspiration from their growth.
This is a MUST READ for Goosebumps fans!!!
November 27, 2022
I grew up as a massive fan of the Goosebumps series and Culliver Crantz's FrightVision series brings me back to those "cozy spooky" times. I read this book with my 8-year-old son at bedtime and the chapters were the perfect length. I can also say that even though the book series targets kids ages 8-12, my son and I thoroughly enjoyed the story and all its twists and turns. I love watching my son discover his love of reading and we are looking forward to the next book in the series!
In this first book of the series, siblings RJ and Shelly find a seemingly normal coin during a neighborhood walk. Shelly is a collector of things and she decides to bring the coin home. However, RJ (a self-proclaimed scaredy cat) doesn't think it's a great idea and he's right! The coin starts causing all kinds of trouble for the duo. As the book continues, RJ learns to leave his fears behind in order to be a hero. If only it was so easy...
In this first book of the series, siblings RJ and Shelly find a seemingly normal coin during a neighborhood walk. Shelly is a collector of things and she decides to bring the coin home. However, RJ (a self-proclaimed scaredy cat) doesn't think it's a great idea and he's right! The coin starts causing all kinds of trouble for the duo. As the book continues, RJ learns to leave his fears behind in order to be a hero. If only it was so easy...
December 10, 2020
Being a super-fan of the Goosebumps series I had high expectations. With instantly likable characters, a creepy tone, this first book in the series delivers all while being delightfully unpredictable. This story is perfect for a child in need of a good story that will really stimulate their imagination. It may even deliver a good scare! Growing up with Goosebumps. Frightvison diligently picks up those same vibes that drew me in not so long ago. The relatable characters are engaging as most children can likely see themselves in RJ. A reluctant child who would rather not place himself in vulnerable situations. This character is our window into the creepiness that eventually unfolds. This book will entertain for sure.
July 28, 2020
This is a great book and wonderful introduction to the FrightVision series of books. I read this with my ten year old daughter and we both loved this book!
It's a real page turner and hard to not read just one more chapter. We read it as a bedtime story and it wasn't too scary for her.
I will say, when I see a coin on the ground I will think of this book! We are reading the Cursed Coin 2 now!
If you are/were a Goosebumps fan, these books are similar. I think these books encourage reading and since the story moves along at a good pace, there are no boring parts.
Recommend for boys and girls!
It's a real page turner and hard to not read just one more chapter. We read it as a bedtime story and it wasn't too scary for her.
I will say, when I see a coin on the ground I will think of this book! We are reading the Cursed Coin 2 now!
If you are/were a Goosebumps fan, these books are similar. I think these books encourage reading and since the story moves along at a good pace, there are no boring parts.
Recommend for boys and girls!
January 2, 2023
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you're looking for a Goosebumps-like series, then this is it. This felt just like Goosebumps from the 90's. There was some clunky times that can be expected in a middle-grade book, but overall it was ok. The biggest problem that I had was the ending. There was a very natural conclusion that was reached, and then it kept going for a few more pages. And those few pages made huge changes to the entire book, to where it didn't make any sense. It really felt like the author wanted to throw in a twist at the very end, but only had a few paragraphs to do it, and they threw in way too much in a short time.
I don't recommend this one
If you're looking for a Goosebumps-like series, then this is it. This felt just like Goosebumps from the 90's. There was some clunky times that can be expected in a middle-grade book, but overall it was ok. The biggest problem that I had was the ending. There was a very natural conclusion that was reached, and then it kept going for a few more pages. And those few pages made huge changes to the entire book, to where it didn't make any sense. It really felt like the author wanted to throw in a twist at the very end, but only had a few paragraphs to do it, and they threw in way too much in a short time.
I don't recommend this one
June 21, 2020
I seriously cannot talk about this book enough!! It was my 7 year old daughters first chapter book and she loved it! While reading it she woke up every morning begging me to read another chapter. Now that we’re done she’s excited to start the next one! It’s definitely scary but not enough to give nightmares and is written well enough that I (27 years old) didn’t want to put it down! Definitely a must read for any little boys or girls! As long as they aren’t too easily scared, or are on the older side. I would say anywhere from 7-12 or 13 this book is perfect for!
May 10, 2019
This terrific book came to us from a Goodreads giveaway, it was a fun book to read. The Cursed Coin is written for young audiences, but it's enjoyable and family friendly for all ages. RJ and his sister find a demonic Coin that posesses's the holder and all hell breaks loose ón them both. Original and thought provoking, The Cursed Coin will be remembered as a great scarey book to read. Well recommended for children of all ages!
May 22, 2019
This was the first book in the Fright Vision series. I enjoyed reading about this paranormal mystery book for young adults. The story kept me entertained but I was a little disappointed in the ending since it left a red herring I think it is called. The book never really ended since it brought a new mystery that needs to be solved. Guess I will just have to keep reading this series which I will look forward to reading.
August 21, 2019
Spooky, delightfully nostalgic feeling and very relatable. Much like the protagonist RJ, I too have many fears and I enjoy his character development throughout the book.
I can tell already that this series will he wonderful for children and young adults alike, all you need is a desire to be a little frightened.
The story flew by so quickly and yet even as I read the final chapter, I'm still in shock. Will there be a part 2 to the RJ and Shelly story? I hope so.
I can tell already that this series will he wonderful for children and young adults alike, all you need is a desire to be a little frightened.
The story flew by so quickly and yet even as I read the final chapter, I'm still in shock. Will there be a part 2 to the RJ and Shelly story? I hope so.
April 1, 2023
My 9yr. old son absolutely loved this book! He stated at the end the story isn't over, what happens next? He was ingulfed within the book, didn't want to put it down. I was just as into it reading it along with, as to me it was as though Goosebumps series had comeback. A version fit for today's kids. My son now wants to get all the books, and to keep reading them. He was a bit disappointed that the cliff hanger ending in the book, left him questioning what happened, and what will happen. At the same time got excited cause now he can get more!
We both recommend this book and its series.
We both recommend this book and its series.
April 19, 2019
I ordered a couple copies of the first book in the FrightVision series for my niece and nephew. They finished the book in 2 days!! I have to admit I begin reading the book as well and it reminds me of Goosebumps (which was more my era)! I would definitely hop on the FrightVision train, this will be a great series to follow and get into!
January 9, 2021
This is a fun and scary book for middle grade kids. The main character, RJ, is scared of everything and he has to overcome that to save his sister. There’s some fun slender man type stuff and also some creepy mad scientists. Put that together with a haunted house and you have a good recipe for a spooky story.
November 5, 2021
A dark chilly story for kids.
Since I am a Goosebumps fan, I enjoyed this story. Culliver adds many details and sensory stuff than R.L Stine's writing. Not too complex, but well balanced for kids to understand. Although it has some humor, the dark horror and suspense are very thrilling. If you like Goosebumps, this book is a recommend.
Since I am a Goosebumps fan, I enjoyed this story. Culliver adds many details and sensory stuff than R.L Stine's writing. Not too complex, but well balanced for kids to understand. Although it has some humor, the dark horror and suspense are very thrilling. If you like Goosebumps, this book is a recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews