What do you think?
Rate this book
The Corruption of Alston House
Katherine's life has been on a downhill turn, filled with tragedy and heartbreak. When she bought Alston House in the small Tennessee town of Poplar Bend, she hoped it would be the chance to turn things around, center herself again, and get serious about her art. True, it was a risk buying a house virtually sight unseen through the internet, but she knew it needed some extensive renovations, so what could go wrong?
What the real estate agent never told her was that Alston House had a history that was among the darkest secrets in the small town. As Katherine begins to put her life back together, she discovers there is more here than meets the eye. One of the home's former residents never left, even after death, and now he seems to have set his sights on her. Can she uncover the darkness at the heart of the town and overcome her personal ghosts, or will she become one more victim to the town's hidden hearts?
What the real estate agent never told her was that Alston House had a history that was among the darkest secrets in the small town. As Katherine begins to put her life back together, she discovers there is more here than meets the eye. One of the home's former residents never left, even after death, and now he seems to have set his sights on her. Can she uncover the darkness at the heart of the town and overcome her personal ghosts, or will she become one more victim to the town's hidden hearts?
Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2019
6 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
John Quick
12 books56 followersIf you ask his wife, John Quick is compelled to tell stories because he’s full of baloney. He prefers to think he simply has an affinity for things that are strange, disturbing, and terrifying. As proof, he will explain how he suffered Consequences, transcribed The Journal of Jeremy Todd, and regaled the tale of Mudcat. He lives in Middle Tennessee with his aforementioned long-suffering wife, two exceptionally patient kids, four dogs that could care less so long as he keeps scratching that perfect spot on their noses, and a cat who barely acknowledges his existence.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 21, 2020
4.5 stars, rounding up.
THE CORRUPTION OF ALSTON HOUSE, by John Quick, was a novel that I truly enjoyed every minute of. The atmosphere draws you in immediately as we meet our main character, driving up to her newly purchased--sight unseen--Victorian home. Katherine, an artist, is leaving behind her old life--and heartaches--in order to try and get a fresh start.
". . . there was a purpose to the spontaneity, a reasoning she could not explain . . ."
Although the old Alston House was nestled in a beautiful area, with natural scenery all around, the sense of "wrongness" began to get through to me when we first "see" the unrenovated second floor. Although only consisting of extra bedrooms, the contrast between the recently remodeled third floor master suite, and lower level living quarters was quite stark in comparison. The author's subtle descriptions of shadows and muted whisperings from the older residents in the town, made me feel the fear very early on.
". . . All I'll say is that place is just flat wrong . . . "
The tone of the novel carries a subtle, yet sinister undercurrent all throughout. When . . . incidents . . . happen, they really packed a mental punch due to my already heightened unease. This one gave me genuine moments of apprehension--as if I were experiencing things along with Katherine--several times. I credit this with the steady pacing and solid writing, enabling me to feel a part of the story. Each step that was made, from Kat's nocturnal painting to the all-too-real night terrors, drove the events inexorably forward. In my mind, there was no question of the "evil" ever letting up.
". . . The worst that could happen was she would lose time again and end up with a finished result that made her want to pee her pants . . ."
The characters also added to the feeling that this was actually occurring. Katherine has some very real baggage that you can't help but "feel". She's flawed, which makes her so much more authentic than a stereotyped "woman moves to country for new life". Her reasonings may sound the same on paper, but her given personality is what makes her stand out. In being able to believe in HER, I could easily believe in every step she took and her reactions to them.
". . . there was just too much happening with that place to be some simple coincidence . . . "
Overall, I found this to be an emotional and unique haunted house novel. The individual scenes of unease--small enough on their own--accumulated to high-terror proportions before I knew it. By that time, I was solidly hooked into the tale and all the horrible secrets held within. The realistic characters, their outlooks and opinions, added another layer of authenticity to the book. When you have characters behaving in a way that feels "natural" to the reader, you have a story that you don't want to put down until it's conclusion.
". . . Alston House was not a good place . . . "
As this sub-genre of horror is one of my most favorites, it's always a pleasure to read something that stands out from the rest. I feel that author John Quick accomplished just that.
Highly recommended.
THE CORRUPTION OF ALSTON HOUSE, by John Quick, was a novel that I truly enjoyed every minute of. The atmosphere draws you in immediately as we meet our main character, driving up to her newly purchased--sight unseen--Victorian home. Katherine, an artist, is leaving behind her old life--and heartaches--in order to try and get a fresh start.
". . . there was a purpose to the spontaneity, a reasoning she could not explain . . ."
Although the old Alston House was nestled in a beautiful area, with natural scenery all around, the sense of "wrongness" began to get through to me when we first "see" the unrenovated second floor. Although only consisting of extra bedrooms, the contrast between the recently remodeled third floor master suite, and lower level living quarters was quite stark in comparison. The author's subtle descriptions of shadows and muted whisperings from the older residents in the town, made me feel the fear very early on.
". . . All I'll say is that place is just flat wrong . . . "
The tone of the novel carries a subtle, yet sinister undercurrent all throughout. When . . . incidents . . . happen, they really packed a mental punch due to my already heightened unease. This one gave me genuine moments of apprehension--as if I were experiencing things along with Katherine--several times. I credit this with the steady pacing and solid writing, enabling me to feel a part of the story. Each step that was made, from Kat's nocturnal painting to the all-too-real night terrors, drove the events inexorably forward. In my mind, there was no question of the "evil" ever letting up.
". . . The worst that could happen was she would lose time again and end up with a finished result that made her want to pee her pants . . ."
The characters also added to the feeling that this was actually occurring. Katherine has some very real baggage that you can't help but "feel". She's flawed, which makes her so much more authentic than a stereotyped "woman moves to country for new life". Her reasonings may sound the same on paper, but her given personality is what makes her stand out. In being able to believe in HER, I could easily believe in every step she took and her reactions to them.
". . . there was just too much happening with that place to be some simple coincidence . . . "
Overall, I found this to be an emotional and unique haunted house novel. The individual scenes of unease--small enough on their own--accumulated to high-terror proportions before I knew it. By that time, I was solidly hooked into the tale and all the horrible secrets held within. The realistic characters, their outlooks and opinions, added another layer of authenticity to the book. When you have characters behaving in a way that feels "natural" to the reader, you have a story that you don't want to put down until it's conclusion.
". . . Alston House was not a good place . . . "
As this sub-genre of horror is one of my most favorites, it's always a pleasure to read something that stands out from the rest. I feel that author John Quick accomplished just that.
Highly recommended.
December 31, 2019
Seeking to turn the page after a devastating personal tragedy, Katherine Ransom impulsively purchases Alston House, a partially restored Victorian, on the outskirts of the small town of Poplar Bend, Tennessee.
Although it was obvious the old pile still needed a lot of work, Katherine remains unfazed....after all, she'd gotten it for a song. And she could work on her art while the contractors handled whatever was required.
But her new beginning isn't as bright as she'd hoped.
Old houses have histories, a mix of life's joys and sorrows.
Alston House's history is one of human depravity.....and it's still festering after all these years.
A few people in town know exactly what Katherine has walked into....and are willing to let her face the consequences.
She won't be the first, or the last.
John Quick has written a solid, slow burn of a haunted house tale, exploring the depths of human evil, and the dark secrets that, once the whispering begins, lead from denial to other forms of human evil.
Although it was obvious the old pile still needed a lot of work, Katherine remains unfazed....after all, she'd gotten it for a song. And she could work on her art while the contractors handled whatever was required.
But her new beginning isn't as bright as she'd hoped.
Old houses have histories, a mix of life's joys and sorrows.
Alston House's history is one of human depravity.....and it's still festering after all these years.
A few people in town know exactly what Katherine has walked into....and are willing to let her face the consequences.
She won't be the first, or the last.
John Quick has written a solid, slow burn of a haunted house tale, exploring the depths of human evil, and the dark secrets that, once the whispering begins, lead from denial to other forms of human evil.
December 11, 2019
I've often said I love a good haunted house story, and that was all I expected from The Corruption Of Alston House. Once it gets going, it's so much more than that. The build up was a little slow, as we learn about what caused Katherine to buy this house sight unseen. At first we know only that her marriage didn't work out and she needs a fresh start, but divorce is not the horrendous loss that was the true catalyst for the events that follow. There are rumors that the house is haunted but as the title suggests, corrupted would be a better word. The house was the site of unspeakable evil and abuse perpetrated against the helpless and the innocent. That kind of evil doesn't die easily especially when others in the town continue to feed it. By around the halfway point I was both terrified and outraged, and may have had a tear in my eye at the end.
I received an advance copy for review.
I received an advance copy for review.
January 11, 2020
I love a good haunted house story so I had my eye on this book as soon as I saw the cover. I was delighted to find out this book would be featured as an "Author Invite" for my book club, Horror Aficionados. I bought the e-book and jumped right in.
Kat buys an old Victorian house unseen. She gets more than she bargained for. This is THE haunted house of the town. This is a very slow burn. Then something will happen to get your heart racing then slow again. Keep with it. the last 3rd of the book makes up for it. The ending is heart racing- page turning- i can't put this book down til i'm done - goodness. This is the first thing I've read by John Quick and i would defiantly read more by him.
Kat buys an old Victorian house unseen. She gets more than she bargained for. This is THE haunted house of the town. This is a very slow burn. Then something will happen to get your heart racing then slow again. Keep with it. the last 3rd of the book makes up for it. The ending is heart racing- page turning- i can't put this book down til i'm done - goodness. This is the first thing I've read by John Quick and i would defiantly read more by him.
January 27, 2020
First off.. this cover is absolutely beautiful and it gives me serious haunted house music vibes.
The Corruption of Alston House is what you would call a "standard" haunted house story. Whether that's good or not heavily relies on whether you like the haunted house genre or not. I happen to love it, and so I really enjoyed this book. Because while it's pretty standard, it does what it does well. We've got the person who moves into a dirt-cheap, but huge house. The townspeople don't like her, we wonder why! Creepy sounds and sights abound, and finally, we find out there's a big haunt in this house. It's appropriately horrifying, and there were a few moments I was genuinely creeped out.
My only critique- I didn't connect to the characters as much as I wanted to. I'm not sure why, I think the narrative just didn't allow for an organic exploration of the characters.
However, this is still a solid read. Definitely one of the stronger ones I've seen in indie-published horror, and one to check out if you're a fan of haunted house stories!
Thank you to Silver Shamrock Publishing for providing a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for a review!
The Corruption of Alston House is what you would call a "standard" haunted house story. Whether that's good or not heavily relies on whether you like the haunted house genre or not. I happen to love it, and so I really enjoyed this book. Because while it's pretty standard, it does what it does well. We've got the person who moves into a dirt-cheap, but huge house. The townspeople don't like her, we wonder why! Creepy sounds and sights abound, and finally, we find out there's a big haunt in this house. It's appropriately horrifying, and there were a few moments I was genuinely creeped out.
My only critique- I didn't connect to the characters as much as I wanted to. I'm not sure why, I think the narrative just didn't allow for an organic exploration of the characters.
However, this is still a solid read. Definitely one of the stronger ones I've seen in indie-published horror, and one to check out if you're a fan of haunted house stories!
Thank you to Silver Shamrock Publishing for providing a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for a review!
December 11, 2019
The Corruption of Alston House is a very good horror novel. While there is horror and violence in this story I would characterize this as a quiet horror novel. The author has done a good job of creating believable characters that I cared about. The pace of the story was consistent and never left me bored. The tension in the story builds throughout and I found the ending exciting and rewarding. Overall this was an enjoyable ghost story that I recommend.
March 27, 2020
*First off I want thank NetGalley and Silver Shamrock Publishing for sending me an ARC digital version of this novel by John Quick*
With this being my first time at reading anything by author John Quick, I will definitely be looking forward to reading him again. Those who follow me on my YouTube channel AreYouIntoHorror know that I love LOVE a haunted house book.....well this one had me reading it from start to finish in one day.....finished it at 4:45 a.m.!! After I finished, I looked at what others thought of this book before writing this.....and I was so surprised by how many people thought this was a slow burn horror novel? What!!? This was anything but slow.
I must admit upon starting Corruption of Alston House, I immediately thought of that house in Long Island, you know the one. As I read on, I was completely hooked by Quick's writing style, he brought me a main character (2 actually with the House being the 2nd character, and it is one!!) In Katherine that I cared about quickly.
The creep factor and the haunting, or better word as the title says, the corruption of this house terrified me. When you are abruptly and shockingly thrown into a graphic meeting with the first ghosts in this book, your jaw will drop with a response that you will soon not forget! Quick takes you on a horrific ride that you will want to make sure you have your seat belts on for, because this roller coaster has it all; horror, graphic scenes of murder, rape, ( warning ahead) both of adults and children so if you have a problem with that be forewarned. The reason I did not give this a 5 star review was there was a bit, just a small one page bit of silliness towards the end that I didnt think worked in with the horrors of what it would be like to live in and share a dwelling with something that was so horrible, mean, disgusting and dirty. Upon the finish of this, I was exhausted and so upset that it actually had tears of sadness and joy running down my cheeks, yes it made me cry. Be ready for the "Corruption of Alston House" and of your nerves and dreams. Look for video review sometime today after I get it edited and posted on my channel AreYouIntoHorror on YouTube.
*Disclaimer: Though I was granted a free ARC, this had no input on how I reviewed and or rated this book, all my feelings were 100% true and honest*
With this being my first time at reading anything by author John Quick, I will definitely be looking forward to reading him again. Those who follow me on my YouTube channel AreYouIntoHorror know that I love LOVE a haunted house book.....well this one had me reading it from start to finish in one day.....finished it at 4:45 a.m.!! After I finished, I looked at what others thought of this book before writing this.....and I was so surprised by how many people thought this was a slow burn horror novel? What!!? This was anything but slow.
I must admit upon starting Corruption of Alston House, I immediately thought of that house in Long Island, you know the one. As I read on, I was completely hooked by Quick's writing style, he brought me a main character (2 actually with the House being the 2nd character, and it is one!!) In Katherine that I cared about quickly.
The creep factor and the haunting, or better word as the title says, the corruption of this house terrified me. When you are abruptly and shockingly thrown into a graphic meeting with the first ghosts in this book, your jaw will drop with a response that you will soon not forget! Quick takes you on a horrific ride that you will want to make sure you have your seat belts on for, because this roller coaster has it all; horror, graphic scenes of murder, rape, ( warning ahead) both of adults and children so if you have a problem with that be forewarned. The reason I did not give this a 5 star review was there was a bit, just a small one page bit of silliness towards the end that I didnt think worked in with the horrors of what it would be like to live in and share a dwelling with something that was so horrible, mean, disgusting and dirty. Upon the finish of this, I was exhausted and so upset that it actually had tears of sadness and joy running down my cheeks, yes it made me cry. Be ready for the "Corruption of Alston House" and of your nerves and dreams. Look for video review sometime today after I get it edited and posted on my channel AreYouIntoHorror on YouTube.
*Disclaimer: Though I was granted a free ARC, this had no input on how I reviewed and or rated this book, all my feelings were 100% true and honest*
February 25, 2020
I read an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #JohnQuick.
I was so excited to read this book. I love spooky haunted house stories. This one was set in Tennessee where the main character Katherine, a painter, had just moved to for a fresh start. Her young son had died a year earlier. She purchased the house sight unseen because the price was right but she had little info on the history of the house.
Katherine begins the many renovations on the multiple story house almost immediately. The second floor however she decides to wait on because it seemed to be the most work and also it creeped her out. Also soon after moving in she paints a painting in one evening which is a record for her. The thing is, she doesn't remember painting it, other than beginning. She had no idea where her inspiration came from our who the figure in the painting is.
Strange things begin to start happening in the house,especially on the second floor which she mainly carefully avoids. After several scary happenings she decides that it is her fate to find out what happened in the house and to try to rid the house of the bad spirit that occupies it.
Overall this book was enjoyable to me but I would have liked it to move at a faster pace. I thought the antagonist (evil spirit) was very creepy and scary at times. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good ghost story but doesn't mind a slow pace.
**Reader beware of triggers: rape, incest, child abuse, etc...**
I was so excited to read this book. I love spooky haunted house stories. This one was set in Tennessee where the main character Katherine, a painter, had just moved to for a fresh start. Her young son had died a year earlier. She purchased the house sight unseen because the price was right but she had little info on the history of the house.
Katherine begins the many renovations on the multiple story house almost immediately. The second floor however she decides to wait on because it seemed to be the most work and also it creeped her out. Also soon after moving in she paints a painting in one evening which is a record for her. The thing is, she doesn't remember painting it, other than beginning. She had no idea where her inspiration came from our who the figure in the painting is.
Strange things begin to start happening in the house,especially on the second floor which she mainly carefully avoids. After several scary happenings she decides that it is her fate to find out what happened in the house and to try to rid the house of the bad spirit that occupies it.
Overall this book was enjoyable to me but I would have liked it to move at a faster pace. I thought the antagonist (evil spirit) was very creepy and scary at times. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good ghost story but doesn't mind a slow pace.
**Reader beware of triggers: rape, incest, child abuse, etc...**
December 29, 2019
If you've read one of my reviews before, you've probably heard me mention once or twice how much I love the haunted house genre. Combine that with the fact that this is coming out of Silver Shamrock and the epic cover design from ElderLemon, and I was ready for this one to hit my shelf.
John Quick writes in a way that had me turning pages, and honestly it needs to be commended because I can't pinpoint exactly what is. The chapters aren't particularly short, the pacing isn't breakneck, it's certainly not a bullet thriller, and none of the other usual suspects that cause me to fly through a book rear their ugly heads.
I guess that only leaves the age-old I needed to find out what happens next.
The story centers on Katherine, a divorcee looking for a fresh start, and finding it in a house in a small Tennessee town. As you might suspect, the town doesn't warm to outsiders and we get an immediate vibe that it's more because of the address than the occupant. As the book unfurls we learn more about the history of the house and the history of Katherine as the two come to a head over the course of 325 pages.
Quick clearly worked hard to bring a strong female protagonist to life, and succeeds, but something felt off to me. Katherine has a tragic backstory, is likable enough, and shows herself to be strong throughout the story by refusing to abandon the house. The problem is that even with all this going, she feels like something of an amalgam of strong female characters, and gives off a one dimensional character vibe. Put it on me as a reader, but I had trouble feeling a connection to my lead here.
Alston House is very much a slow-burn horror story, and as mentioned before, it's very difficult to put down. I can't really think of any other books that so clearly demonstrate both those aspects. The revelations about the house's history and the finale are not groundbreaking but do leave the reader respectively horrified and satisfied.
If you like a good haunted house story, and don't mind that it's going to take you on an spookular, enjoyable journey without reinventing the wheel, this book just might be for you.
I received an e-book from the publisher for review consideration
January 6, 2020
John Quick teams up with the always exceptional Silver Shamrock publishing for his latest novel, The Corruption of Alston House. Does this one hit the mark? Yes, of course it does.
Katherine is looking to start again. Her life has been on a downward spiral and she decides to go all in on a new home to begin her life anew. Unfortunately, she bought a house secluded in the woods, so as you’d expect, that downward trend is going to continue to get much worse.
I find haunted house stories to be either hit or miss. They either nail it, or completely drop the ball. Quick takes a long time building this world, letting us get to know Katherine and following her around the house as she attempts to make it her own. This slow burn ends up working in favor of the story, as what I believe sets it apart from other haunted house tropes is how lived in this world felt.
There are plenty of scares here, and genuine creep out moments throughout the story. As I found myself turning the pages towards the conclusion, I was genuinely concerned with how Katherine was going to make it out of this house alive.
I had one small issue with the story, one that I’m not sure others will even have. The end of the story itself was extremely satisfying and heartfelt. I felt real genuine emotion. I wish it had ended when I thought it did. Unfortunately, the epilogue kind of took that feeling from me, not that quick did anything wrong. I just went from being hit in the feels to being shown what happened in the aftermath.
John Quick has written a fine Haunted house novel. It’s a story of a despicable antagonist, a town with a tortured past. It’s a damn good book.
4/5
Katherine is looking to start again. Her life has been on a downward spiral and she decides to go all in on a new home to begin her life anew. Unfortunately, she bought a house secluded in the woods, so as you’d expect, that downward trend is going to continue to get much worse.
I find haunted house stories to be either hit or miss. They either nail it, or completely drop the ball. Quick takes a long time building this world, letting us get to know Katherine and following her around the house as she attempts to make it her own. This slow burn ends up working in favor of the story, as what I believe sets it apart from other haunted house tropes is how lived in this world felt.
There are plenty of scares here, and genuine creep out moments throughout the story. As I found myself turning the pages towards the conclusion, I was genuinely concerned with how Katherine was going to make it out of this house alive.
I had one small issue with the story, one that I’m not sure others will even have. The end of the story itself was extremely satisfying and heartfelt. I felt real genuine emotion. I wish it had ended when I thought it did. Unfortunately, the epilogue kind of took that feeling from me, not that quick did anything wrong. I just went from being hit in the feels to being shown what happened in the aftermath.
John Quick has written a fine Haunted house novel. It’s a story of a despicable antagonist, a town with a tortured past. It’s a damn good book.
4/5
December 7, 2019
All my life since early childhood I've railed at Injustice and promoted the Underdog. THE CORRUPTION OF ALTON HOUSE certainly ignited that mindset. "Corruption" indeed. Some mightily evil characters indeed populate this book, and so do too many of those to whom 18th Century statesman Edmund Burke referred: "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." In other words, those who turn their backs and ignore injustice, or worse, serve it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2019
Haunting
I will admit this was a bit of a slow starter for me but I stuck with it and it really got going after the first few chapters. A bereaved mother, newly divorced, leaves her old life behind. Her new start, in Alston House, however, soon turns into a nightmare. Haunted by a malevolent spirit, it soon turns into a battle for survival, not just her own, but those closest to her. Great ghost story for a winter's evening.
I will admit this was a bit of a slow starter for me but I stuck with it and it really got going after the first few chapters. A bereaved mother, newly divorced, leaves her old life behind. Her new start, in Alston House, however, soon turns into a nightmare. Haunted by a malevolent spirit, it soon turns into a battle for survival, not just her own, but those closest to her. Great ghost story for a winter's evening.
September 1, 2020
I couldn’t wait to dive into The Corruption Of Alston House when it was offered for review. I love haunted house stories!
Katherine has bought Alston House with minimal information. She hasn’t seen the house and doesn’t know the surroundings or the people. She’s is trading her normal city life routine for small-town living. It’s a fresh start in an attempt to leave her wounded past behind her, start painting again, and to build her future.
The huge, three-story Victorian house needs a lot of work, but it all seems doable and worth it. Similar to the house, Katherine has her own flaws. They both have a scarred past. They both need work.
Kat’s past isn’t the only place where ghosts live. Not long after she moves into her new house, she discovers the house isn’t as quiet as it should be. She’s not really alone.
“…he said Alston House was not a good place…”
It turns out the Alston House isn’t only rumored to be the local haunted house, but a few people in this small town know the dark secrets of the house and of its previous owners, and once she starts to uncover some of the truth, they come for Katherine.
This is the first book I’ve read by John Quick, and I will definitely read more of his work. I felt like I was pulled right into this story more than I was on the outside reading it. I was right there in the room with the characters. I like to think I’m brave, but Katherine was braver. I wanted to grab her by the arm and tell her not to go down to the basement to check out things. She didn’t listen to my pleas and went anyway which then made my bladder tingle.
Overall, I loved this book, but I did feel like the ending was slightly too abrupt or maybe a little bit too easy.
Thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing for the review copy!
Katherine has bought Alston House with minimal information. She hasn’t seen the house and doesn’t know the surroundings or the people. She’s is trading her normal city life routine for small-town living. It’s a fresh start in an attempt to leave her wounded past behind her, start painting again, and to build her future.
The huge, three-story Victorian house needs a lot of work, but it all seems doable and worth it. Similar to the house, Katherine has her own flaws. They both have a scarred past. They both need work.
Kat’s past isn’t the only place where ghosts live. Not long after she moves into her new house, she discovers the house isn’t as quiet as it should be. She’s not really alone.
“…he said Alston House was not a good place…”
It turns out the Alston House isn’t only rumored to be the local haunted house, but a few people in this small town know the dark secrets of the house and of its previous owners, and once she starts to uncover some of the truth, they come for Katherine.
This is the first book I’ve read by John Quick, and I will definitely read more of his work. I felt like I was pulled right into this story more than I was on the outside reading it. I was right there in the room with the characters. I like to think I’m brave, but Katherine was braver. I wanted to grab her by the arm and tell her not to go down to the basement to check out things. She didn’t listen to my pleas and went anyway which then made my bladder tingle.
Overall, I loved this book, but I did feel like the ending was slightly too abrupt or maybe a little bit too easy.
Thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing for the review copy!
January 9, 2020
John Quick is completely new to me. He has a few books out already, but there’s not much buzz going on around him. So I decided to read his most recent book first and this was a good first impression. A newly divorced woman buys a house that is a huge fixer upper and it’s rumored to be haunted. One thing I like about his writing is that it’s a little progressive build where there’s extremely minor scares at first to focus instead on each characters’ personality. However when the horror starts, it really takes off. Definitely will be looking at his other stuff.
January 4, 2020
It's so hard to rate a book when the reason you didn't enjoy it so much is your own fault rather than the authors.
I read this book because it was chosen as a group read on my GR group and to be honest I shouldn't really have joined in once I found out it was a haunted house story, as I really don't get on with haunted house stories.
I've got to admit though that the writing was pretty good, the characters were interesting and the only reason my mind wandered was the topic, honestly!
If you're a fan of haunted house stories I'd really recommend this book to you.
I read this book because it was chosen as a group read on my GR group and to be honest I shouldn't really have joined in once I found out it was a haunted house story, as I really don't get on with haunted house stories.
I've got to admit though that the writing was pretty good, the characters were interesting and the only reason my mind wandered was the topic, honestly!
If you're a fan of haunted house stories I'd really recommend this book to you.
December 22, 2019
“So, you must be the one moved into Alston House.”
4.5/5
Minor spoilers
A borderline southern gothic ghost story, with a disarranged Victorian mansion, and malevolent but subtle spirits. This is a creepy read in time for the holidays.. After all, there are creepy Christmas connotations in this one.
Katherine Ransom has experienced a lot in the past year-an unnerving divorce with a minimizing husband, the untimely death of her only child (an interesting story in itself), and instead of dwindling on her own misfortune , decides to subsist by moving from Charleston to the reclusive Tennessee township of Poplar Bend. She gets a steal on the local ‘haunted house’, and despite the wear and tear of the local property, it somehow manages to stimulates her vanishing artistic ability.
Immediately, Katherine starts to experience all the shock horror that comes with the desolate mansion, as well as the ostracizing town. One would expect humorous Southern dialect between Katherine and the locals, but Quick chooses a consequential and obstinate approach for character development, and I believe it serves this book well. There is quite a bit of seriousness in here that justifies the lack of humor-suicides, kill pacts, pedophilia, etc.
Thanks to NetGalley for the free download.
4.5/5
Minor spoilers
A borderline southern gothic ghost story, with a disarranged Victorian mansion, and malevolent but subtle spirits. This is a creepy read in time for the holidays.. After all, there are creepy Christmas connotations in this one.
Katherine Ransom has experienced a lot in the past year-an unnerving divorce with a minimizing husband, the untimely death of her only child (an interesting story in itself), and instead of dwindling on her own misfortune , decides to subsist by moving from Charleston to the reclusive Tennessee township of Poplar Bend. She gets a steal on the local ‘haunted house’, and despite the wear and tear of the local property, it somehow manages to stimulates her vanishing artistic ability.
Immediately, Katherine starts to experience all the shock horror that comes with the desolate mansion, as well as the ostracizing town. One would expect humorous Southern dialect between Katherine and the locals, but Quick chooses a consequential and obstinate approach for character development, and I believe it serves this book well. There is quite a bit of seriousness in here that justifies the lack of humor-suicides, kill pacts, pedophilia, etc.
Thanks to NetGalley for the free download.
February 19, 2020
After a tragedy in her life leads to a bitter breakup with her asshole husband, Katherine buys a house sight unseen (outside of pictures) in the middle of nowhere, Tennessee. As it goes, the house has quite the history. Soon after she moves in, bad things start to happen. However, Katherine is no pushover and she won’t let the evil that resides in her new home to take over without a fight.
I’ve been struggling with how to start this review for John Quick’s novel, The Corruption of Alston House, since I finished it a week ago. My frustration lies in how to properly get the words out for a book that I like but at the same time has some issues that take away from my really liking it. At the end of the day, I just decided to just start spitting out my thoughts and see what happened. You ready?
You can read Steve's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
I’ve been struggling with how to start this review for John Quick’s novel, The Corruption of Alston House, since I finished it a week ago. My frustration lies in how to properly get the words out for a book that I like but at the same time has some issues that take away from my really liking it. At the end of the day, I just decided to just start spitting out my thoughts and see what happened. You ready?
You can read Steve's full review at Horror DNA by clicking here.
December 15, 2019
Although a rather formulaic story the writing style kept you going through to the end with little difficulty. Haunted house with active ghosts, previous owner died violently and mysteriously, house on sale well below market value, bought by young woman starting a new life after traumatic murder of her son, she interacts with ghosts, discovers the nasty secrets and gets them sorted. It's formulaic as I said. The main ghost is a particularly nasty former owner who, with his wife, took in, abused and then murdered young children behind a facade of utter benevolence. There's a bit too much of Kat, the new owner, wandering around in her undies, at best, then being propositioned by the ghost as well as seeing him up to dark deeds with a young girl and as soon as we knew of the bricked-up door in the cellar we knew what was behind it. Still, how Kat survived both the ghosts and the strange people of the town some of whom knew, and condoned, what was going on kept me reading. Enough for a wet Sunday afternoon in the depth of winter. Thanks to NetGalley and Silver Shamrock Publishing for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review
May 27, 2020
After the death of her child and the collapse of her marriage, Katherine, looking for a fresh start, moves to an old, rundown property. Like most haunted house stories, The Corruption of Alston House begins with an almost too good to be true deal. For Katherine, Alston House is the perfect place to focus on herself, her painting, and moving past the tragedy that has befallen her.
The story is a little of a slow-burn, which works really well in this subgenre. Quick spends time letting us get to know Katherine and the people around her, so we can understand her and connect with the characters, rather than having them shoved out onto the stage simply to be killed off. Although the dark events in Alston House start almost instantly, there’s the immediate sense that things will get worse. Because we spend so long with Katherine, we really get to feel the tension of what might happen.
Quick does well with the supporting characters. The few townspeople we meet make it clear how reluctant ‘old timers’ are to accept newcomers, although the town marshal takes an instant liking to Katherine, making half-hearted attempts to set her up with his deputy. These characters feel as real as Katherine does. The slow growing relationship between her and the deputy helps add to the story, giving Katherine a much-needed ally, as well as increasing the tension as the house’s long-dead resident attempts to use their mutual attraction against them.
The buried story of the house is revealed well, the reader getting glimpses and clues just as Katherine does. As she pieces things together, so do we, and we grow to understand the true horror of Alston House.
The best comparison for this book is The Secret of Crickley Hall, by James Herbert, but where Herbert waffles, Quick keeps thing tight. Where Herbert’s female characters are written a little poorly, Quick gives realism and strength to his heroine. In both books, the lead character is trying to move on, and in both books, the evil of the house stems from the evil left behind by previous owners. The Corruption of Alston House maybe veers a little too close to Crickley Hall in some places, but Quick has a distinctive style and engaging voice to keep the reader absolutely hooked.
For fans of the haunted house subgenre of horror, The Corruption of Alston House feels familiar and comforting, yet still manages to bring a unique, engaging voice to add something new. The foundations are there, and the house built on top will keep you turning the pages, wondering what darkness lurks around the next corner.
The story is a little of a slow-burn, which works really well in this subgenre. Quick spends time letting us get to know Katherine and the people around her, so we can understand her and connect with the characters, rather than having them shoved out onto the stage simply to be killed off. Although the dark events in Alston House start almost instantly, there’s the immediate sense that things will get worse. Because we spend so long with Katherine, we really get to feel the tension of what might happen.
Quick does well with the supporting characters. The few townspeople we meet make it clear how reluctant ‘old timers’ are to accept newcomers, although the town marshal takes an instant liking to Katherine, making half-hearted attempts to set her up with his deputy. These characters feel as real as Katherine does. The slow growing relationship between her and the deputy helps add to the story, giving Katherine a much-needed ally, as well as increasing the tension as the house’s long-dead resident attempts to use their mutual attraction against them.
The buried story of the house is revealed well, the reader getting glimpses and clues just as Katherine does. As she pieces things together, so do we, and we grow to understand the true horror of Alston House.
The best comparison for this book is The Secret of Crickley Hall, by James Herbert, but where Herbert waffles, Quick keeps thing tight. Where Herbert’s female characters are written a little poorly, Quick gives realism and strength to his heroine. In both books, the lead character is trying to move on, and in both books, the evil of the house stems from the evil left behind by previous owners. The Corruption of Alston House maybe veers a little too close to Crickley Hall in some places, but Quick has a distinctive style and engaging voice to keep the reader absolutely hooked.
For fans of the haunted house subgenre of horror, The Corruption of Alston House feels familiar and comforting, yet still manages to bring a unique, engaging voice to add something new. The foundations are there, and the house built on top will keep you turning the pages, wondering what darkness lurks around the next corner.
January 8, 2024
This is the first book I’ve had the chance to read by John Quick. And it won’t be the last.
A phenomenal haunted house story.
A secret that has kept a town alive for decades.
And Katherine, Kat, a young lady who has experienced a lifetime of grief in the last year.
She moves to a tiny town in Tennessee in order to start over so-to-speak.
However, the whispers in town turn out to be true. He new home is haunted. But by what...? You’ll have to read to find out. I don’t do spoilers.
Suffice it to say it’ll take more than Kat to defeat the thing haunting her home.
Author Quick is able to keep the pace moving, give us great characters to care for and creates a haunting by one of the most monstrous “things” I’ve yet to read about.
As I mentioned, this book has some great characters. In fact I’ve finished the book, but they are still with me. Even some of the ancillary characters are quite memorable. But they are all there to move the story. And move it does. Honestly, once the action starts it doesn’t stop.
Finally, this book did something that only one other book has ever done. It made me get misty eyed. What Katherine goes thru, and what she went thru to bring her where she is, is truly one of the most horrifying things I think a person go thru. The writing is very real, very honest.
If you want a good haunted house story with some great ‘action scenes’ this is it. The Corruption of Alston House is a winner in my book..
A phenomenal haunted house story.
A secret that has kept a town alive for decades.
And Katherine, Kat, a young lady who has experienced a lifetime of grief in the last year.
She moves to a tiny town in Tennessee in order to start over so-to-speak.
However, the whispers in town turn out to be true. He new home is haunted. But by what...? You’ll have to read to find out. I don’t do spoilers.
Suffice it to say it’ll take more than Kat to defeat the thing haunting her home.
Author Quick is able to keep the pace moving, give us great characters to care for and creates a haunting by one of the most monstrous “things” I’ve yet to read about.
As I mentioned, this book has some great characters. In fact I’ve finished the book, but they are still with me. Even some of the ancillary characters are quite memorable. But they are all there to move the story. And move it does. Honestly, once the action starts it doesn’t stop.
Finally, this book did something that only one other book has ever done. It made me get misty eyed. What Katherine goes thru, and what she went thru to bring her where she is, is truly one of the most horrifying things I think a person go thru. The writing is very real, very honest.
If you want a good haunted house story with some great ‘action scenes’ this is it. The Corruption of Alston House is a winner in my book..
April 15, 2020
This was somewhere between a 3 and 3.5 for me. I was either drawn in and interested, or unhappy due to the development of certain situations and choices made in the story. As such, I could love The Corruption of Alston House one moment, and feel annoyed the next.
This was my first time reading Quick, so the question is whether or not he impressed me enough to try him out again down the road. I would say yes, there was enough here to catch my attention. I think most of my disappointment came in the finale and mechanics to the haunting; however, the ride to that conclusion was thoroughly enjoyable and atmospheric. I can see why people have been recommending this one; it works well in the horror scene and the kind of stories I've been seeing a lot of lately.
(On a side note, I do have Consequences by Quick on my Kindle, so chances are I'll try that one out this summer sometime.)
This was my first time reading Quick, so the question is whether or not he impressed me enough to try him out again down the road. I would say yes, there was enough here to catch my attention. I think most of my disappointment came in the finale and mechanics to the haunting; however, the ride to that conclusion was thoroughly enjoyable and atmospheric. I can see why people have been recommending this one; it works well in the horror scene and the kind of stories I've been seeing a lot of lately.
(On a side note, I do have Consequences by Quick on my Kindle, so chances are I'll try that one out this summer sometime.)
January 15, 2020
It was an interesting story but I’d recommend it go through another round of edits! Like one of the most notable instances is near the beginning where she talks about knowing her best friend since middle school but a few pages later she talks about elementary school together. I think the thoughts and ideas are great, but it needs to be touched up!
July 13, 2020
Forgive me readers but it has been one month since my last confe…erm…my last blog post. This is entirely down to gravity. Had it not been for gravity my laptop would not have fatally rushed towards the floor after it lost balance from a high place and the screen would certainly not have cracked up. Not that it cracked up anywhere near as much as I did trying to get a replacement laptop through my insurance company – but all sorted now and no need to involve the Ombudsman as I eventually had to suggest may happen.
*And Breathe*
So let me turn to John Quick’s excellent The Corruption of Alston House. I started this one back at the beginning of lockdown but rest assued it has not taken me over 100 days to get through it. Sadly for much of the lockdown time I have been unable to focus on books, everything I had started back in March got put to the side and it has taken me several weeks to slowly get back into my reading. But I had been enjoying The Corrupton of Alston House so I went back to the start and began again – a good decision!
I have always enjoyed a creepy story with a haunted house and in that regard this book was exactly what I needed. Katherine moves to Alston House to start a new life for herself, she leaves upset and tragedy behind her and hopes to restablish her painting as she is a talented artist. Her new home, Alston House, is a grand property but in need of some maintenance to make it comfortable. I was already imagining the sprawling old homestead with dark nooks and hidden corners. There is a graveyard in the grounds (never a good sign) and the basement gives Katherine the chills when she needs to venture down in the dark.
The author builds up the anticipation around the secrets of Alston House really well and even before the really weird stuff kicks in there is a definite sense of foreboding. The first unusual incidents manifest themselves around the paintings which Katherine produces – she becomes so lost in the creative process she cannot even remember some of the details she includes. It is not long before the paintings are just a small part of the shocks which lie in store.
Katherine is befriended by the local marshall who is also trying to match-make her with his younger colleague Bradley. As events in her new home become increasingly dangerous for Katherine she relies more and more upon the support of Bradley and there is more than a spark of romance in the air. However, one former resident of Alston House wants Katherine for himself and he will not let anything, not even the grave, stand in his way. As Katherine gains greater understanding of the horrors which ocurred in her home many years earlier she realises a confrontation is looming – one she may not survive.
I always enjoy swapping out my crime reading to take in a good horror tale and The Corruption of Alston House helped me out my lockdown reading slump. Horror readers should have this one in their collection.
*And Breathe*
So let me turn to John Quick’s excellent The Corruption of Alston House. I started this one back at the beginning of lockdown but rest assued it has not taken me over 100 days to get through it. Sadly for much of the lockdown time I have been unable to focus on books, everything I had started back in March got put to the side and it has taken me several weeks to slowly get back into my reading. But I had been enjoying The Corrupton of Alston House so I went back to the start and began again – a good decision!
I have always enjoyed a creepy story with a haunted house and in that regard this book was exactly what I needed. Katherine moves to Alston House to start a new life for herself, she leaves upset and tragedy behind her and hopes to restablish her painting as she is a talented artist. Her new home, Alston House, is a grand property but in need of some maintenance to make it comfortable. I was already imagining the sprawling old homestead with dark nooks and hidden corners. There is a graveyard in the grounds (never a good sign) and the basement gives Katherine the chills when she needs to venture down in the dark.
The author builds up the anticipation around the secrets of Alston House really well and even before the really weird stuff kicks in there is a definite sense of foreboding. The first unusual incidents manifest themselves around the paintings which Katherine produces – she becomes so lost in the creative process she cannot even remember some of the details she includes. It is not long before the paintings are just a small part of the shocks which lie in store.
Katherine is befriended by the local marshall who is also trying to match-make her with his younger colleague Bradley. As events in her new home become increasingly dangerous for Katherine she relies more and more upon the support of Bradley and there is more than a spark of romance in the air. However, one former resident of Alston House wants Katherine for himself and he will not let anything, not even the grave, stand in his way. As Katherine gains greater understanding of the horrors which ocurred in her home many years earlier she realises a confrontation is looming – one she may not survive.
I always enjoy swapping out my crime reading to take in a good horror tale and The Corruption of Alston House helped me out my lockdown reading slump. Horror readers should have this one in their collection.
March 13, 2020
Summary:
Alone and in desperate need of a fresh star, Katherine decides to buy a new house in the small town of Poplar Bend. As she begins renovating the house, unusual and unsettling things begin to happen. Before she knows it, Kat finds herself being haunted by the house's evil original owner and also by the house's dark past.
With nowhere else to go, Kat decides to stay and fight for the house she has been working so hard to fix up.
Personal opinion:
This was the first book I have read by John Quick, but it will not be the last.
This story starts with Katherine arriving at her new house and shows some of her tragic backstory before the real haunting begins.
The house itself also has quite a dark and twisted history as well.
The simplistic writing makes the story flow well and is easy to picture well reading. Also John did an amazing job with the small town locals accents to make the story seem more authentic.
The MC, Katherine, was easy to root for after everything she goes through both before and after moving to Alston house. However, I would have liked a bit more description about her looks aside from her being a brunette.
The pacing was a bit slow at first with only a couple of creepy paintings, a contractor being electrocuted and things seeming to move around on their own. After the first full ghost sighting a little before halfway, the story really takes off.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good haunted house story.
Alone and in desperate need of a fresh star, Katherine decides to buy a new house in the small town of Poplar Bend. As she begins renovating the house, unusual and unsettling things begin to happen. Before she knows it, Kat finds herself being haunted by the house's evil original owner and also by the house's dark past.
With nowhere else to go, Kat decides to stay and fight for the house she has been working so hard to fix up.
Personal opinion:
This was the first book I have read by John Quick, but it will not be the last.
This story starts with Katherine arriving at her new house and shows some of her tragic backstory before the real haunting begins.
The house itself also has quite a dark and twisted history as well.
The simplistic writing makes the story flow well and is easy to picture well reading. Also John did an amazing job with the small town locals accents to make the story seem more authentic.
The MC, Katherine, was easy to root for after everything she goes through both before and after moving to Alston house. However, I would have liked a bit more description about her looks aside from her being a brunette.
The pacing was a bit slow at first with only a couple of creepy paintings, a contractor being electrocuted and things seeming to move around on their own. After the first full ghost sighting a little before halfway, the story really takes off.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good haunted house story.
February 15, 2020
It is no spoiler to state that this story involves a house that is haunted. As the story continues you learn that the house is not the only thing that has been corrupted by the evil that inhabits the property and the local population have been complicit in several nefarious acts.
The book takes a long time to move forward to the denouement but there is a cumulative effect of information about the main character Katherine which provides added context to what transpires. A broken marriage and another family tragedy lead to the main character seeking a new start in a new location.
When reading a haunted house tale, I always think why on the earth the character or family does not leave the property immediately on the first sighting of something untoward. This question is answered categorically as you realise that Katherine feels that she has nothing left to lose so why should she leave?
The story took slightly too long for things to get going for my liking. However, my perseverance was paid off as I enjoyed the last third of the book far more than the first third.
Would I read something by this author again? Possibly
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
The book takes a long time to move forward to the denouement but there is a cumulative effect of information about the main character Katherine which provides added context to what transpires. A broken marriage and another family tragedy lead to the main character seeking a new start in a new location.
When reading a haunted house tale, I always think why on the earth the character or family does not leave the property immediately on the first sighting of something untoward. This question is answered categorically as you realise that Katherine feels that she has nothing left to lose so why should she leave?
The story took slightly too long for things to get going for my liking. However, my perseverance was paid off as I enjoyed the last third of the book far more than the first third.
Would I read something by this author again? Possibly
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
March 22, 2020
It was a risk buying Alston house, buying it virtually on the internet, Katherine had seen the house needed extensive renovations. But it was in a small popular town in Tennessee, called Poplar Bend and she was hoping she could turn everything around.
Katherines life has already been on a downward turn as of late, filled with heartache and tragedy and buying this house was something she hoped would bring everything back to normal.
Although, what the real estate agent did not tell her, was that Alston house had a long history and the darkest of secrets within the town. One of the homes former residences never left, even after death, and now his sights are set on her.
Can she uncover the truth? Or will she become another victim of Alston house?
The atmosphere of this book is electric, and when the author is describing the house, you feel like you are actually there and can feel the whisperings, see the shadows.
The story is consistent and a brilliant horror story, it is a page turner and if you love ghost stories, then this is one for you! Would truly recommend.
Katherines life has already been on a downward turn as of late, filled with heartache and tragedy and buying this house was something she hoped would bring everything back to normal.
Although, what the real estate agent did not tell her, was that Alston house had a long history and the darkest of secrets within the town. One of the homes former residences never left, even after death, and now his sights are set on her.
Can she uncover the truth? Or will she become another victim of Alston house?
The atmosphere of this book is electric, and when the author is describing the house, you feel like you are actually there and can feel the whisperings, see the shadows.
The story is consistent and a brilliant horror story, it is a page turner and if you love ghost stories, then this is one for you! Would truly recommend.
July 25, 2020
The Corruption of Alston House by John Quick was a solid ghost story.
From the very first page, I connected with the main character, Katherine, as well as the storyline. The plot got better and better as the story continued. The author was descriptive enough that you could play out a movie of the book in your head. I loved how the author took several different tragedies and use those to move the ghost story ahead. It made the whole “ghost concept” easier to believe. The story moved along, the characters ranged from funny to crotchety, and the book was hard to put down. I would definitely read more by this author.
Thank you to John Quick, Silver Shamrock Publications, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book.
From the very first page, I connected with the main character, Katherine, as well as the storyline. The plot got better and better as the story continued. The author was descriptive enough that you could play out a movie of the book in your head. I loved how the author took several different tragedies and use those to move the ghost story ahead. It made the whole “ghost concept” easier to believe. The story moved along, the characters ranged from funny to crotchety, and the book was hard to put down. I would definitely read more by this author.
Thank you to John Quick, Silver Shamrock Publications, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book.
May 21, 2020
If you love haunted houses, then you'll adore Alston House. Unlike its present owner, who swiftly loses her fascination for the place - but what to do? The story rattles along like old chains down a staircase, there's a surfeit of "boo!"s and scares galore, and it doesn't matter that people have been writing variations on this exact same tale for as long as words have existed, in the hands of a skilled author, the terrors never get old.
October 30, 2020
I was disappointed with this story. I typically love what John Quick is doing. The main character, Kat, could have been a strong character but was made to be obtuse when she shouldn't have been. Made odd decisions and then kept flip flopping about them. The odd sexual dimension she was given didn't feel natural, especially when painting. The reason behind the ghosts and why he was let to rule the town didn't work for me and he was defeated too easily.
March 22, 2020
I received this ARC for review via NetGalley and surprisingly enjoyed it. Full review to come on my blog. I definitely had issues with the writing style but the plot spooked me and held my interest!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews