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The Midwives
A killer on the loose. A writer on the run. A town plagued by an ancient evil.
On tour with his latest book, true crime writer Martin Savage discovers one of his most-dangerous subjects has escaped. The so-called "Witch Hunter," a delusional murderer of women and their unborn children, holds a deadly grudge. He'll stop at nothing to get his revenge, and destroy everything Martin cares about.
With nowhere to run, Martin and forensic psychologist Sheila Tanner flee to the town he left when he was a boy, after his mother was locked away in a psychiatric facility. A town hidden deep in his past, where no one would think to look for them.
But things are not what they seem in Barrows Bay. The idyllic island holds terrible secrets. An ancient evil lived here long before the first Irish settlers crashed upon its shores in a coffin ship. An evil wearing the innocent faces of elderly midwives who've delivered every child in the Bay for two hundred and fifty years.
Martin and Sheila think they’re safe in his childhood home. But Martin’s mother has plans for them. Plans that require sacrifice.
And sacrifice requires blood.
On tour with his latest book, true crime writer Martin Savage discovers one of his most-dangerous subjects has escaped. The so-called "Witch Hunter," a delusional murderer of women and their unborn children, holds a deadly grudge. He'll stop at nothing to get his revenge, and destroy everything Martin cares about.
With nowhere to run, Martin and forensic psychologist Sheila Tanner flee to the town he left when he was a boy, after his mother was locked away in a psychiatric facility. A town hidden deep in his past, where no one would think to look for them.
But things are not what they seem in Barrows Bay. The idyllic island holds terrible secrets. An ancient evil lived here long before the first Irish settlers crashed upon its shores in a coffin ship. An evil wearing the innocent faces of elderly midwives who've delivered every child in the Bay for two hundred and fifty years.
Martin and Sheila think they’re safe in his childhood home. But Martin’s mother has plans for them. Plans that require sacrifice.
And sacrifice requires blood.
Audible Audio
First published February 24, 2020
228 people are currently reading
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About the author
Duncan Ralston
76 books2,087 followers**CVLT: Lonely Motel Book 3 out now!!!**
**Sequel to the hit novel PUZZLE HOUSE coming Winter 2026**
Author of the cult smash-hit Woom and Ghostland and more than 15 other books that aren't the cult smash-hit Woom or Ghostland. His debut collection was blurbed positively by the legendary Jack Ketchum. His vampire novel, Pedo Island Bloodbath, was nominated for a 2024 Splatterpunk Award for Best Novel. His horror-thriller Ghostland will soon be a board game from Crystal Lake Publishing.
For 10 FREE dark fiction short stories/novellas including the prequel to GHOSTLAND, "The Moving House," signed copies of Woom, bookplates and merch, please visit www.duncanralston.com.
Photo © Josh Silver 2015
**Sequel to the hit novel PUZZLE HOUSE coming Winter 2026**
Author of the cult smash-hit Woom and Ghostland and more than 15 other books that aren't the cult smash-hit Woom or Ghostland. His debut collection was blurbed positively by the legendary Jack Ketchum. His vampire novel, Pedo Island Bloodbath, was nominated for a 2024 Splatterpunk Award for Best Novel. His horror-thriller Ghostland will soon be a board game from Crystal Lake Publishing.
For 10 FREE dark fiction short stories/novellas including the prequel to GHOSTLAND, "The Moving House," signed copies of Woom, bookplates and merch, please visit www.duncanralston.com.
Photo © Josh Silver 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
May 20, 2020
Quality story. Quality writing.
What is a midwife - if you don't know, you are probably a man.
To certain rich people it could mean the second wife after he marries the third.
Some might even suggest Mike Tyson is going through a "Midwife cwisis" right now, which I find in really bad taste...funny, but not nice.
The answer is actually health professional workers who assist around childbirth. And there are women out there who would call childbirth "the most beautiful thing in the world".
Ladies, you are wrong. Giving birth is a miracle, but there ain't nothin' purdy 'bout it!
Guys, if you've never seen the process, keep it that way for as long as possible. Sure, support her, keep her calm, give her your hand to pulverize, but go through it while standing at her head. You might think you're tough, but once you've seen it with someone up to their elbows in vernix caseosa (Google that shit, man), you will never be able to un-see it. A bit traumatic, if you catch my drift....
Anyway, in this story there are five Midwives, who live on (and control) the island called Barrows Bay. Pst, I don't wanna give anything away, but think witchcraft, okay.
The oldest of them, Ruby Savage, has a son called Martin, who is a successful true crime writer. And, when one of the serial killers he wrote a book about - "Witch Hunter", who holds a grudge, escapes from the nuthouse, Martin finds himself between a rock and a hard place. You know, like bumping into your mother-in-law while running from the police.
Martin and his friend, Sheila, needs a place to hide, and while he hasn't been back in Barrows Bay for more than two decades, it's the only place they can think of.
But, alas, things are not as they seem on this island - Tum Tum Tuuuuum - and you know, fairly soon, the ship is gonna hit the fan. For the time is at hand when a sacrifice is needed...
While some elements seem run of the mill with this story, you will ask yourself repeatedly:
"Did I switch off the oven when I left the house?"
Sorry, that's my OCD kicking in. You know, Gingerbread house and everything.
But the best hidden secret of the book is why Martin was kept alive - and I can't elaborate any more on that.
Mr. Ralston, well done - this is a horror story that ticked all the right boxes. While it is not fast paced, I was never bored with anything. And, for the gory part of my palate, there was this one really sick scene, even though the author kept the blood and guts to a minimum.
While I have nothing bad to say about this one, I do think those horror fans who likes their action quick and fast might find it a little long, but the story made it worth my while.
Highly recommended!
PS. That cover drew me IMMEDIATELY!
What is a midwife - if you don't know, you are probably a man.
To certain rich people it could mean the second wife after he marries the third.
Some might even suggest Mike Tyson is going through a "Midwife cwisis" right now, which I find in really bad taste...funny, but not nice.
The answer is actually health professional workers who assist around childbirth. And there are women out there who would call childbirth "the most beautiful thing in the world".
Ladies, you are wrong. Giving birth is a miracle, but there ain't nothin' purdy 'bout it!
Guys, if you've never seen the process, keep it that way for as long as possible. Sure, support her, keep her calm, give her your hand to pulverize, but go through it while standing at her head. You might think you're tough, but once you've seen it with someone up to their elbows in vernix caseosa (Google that shit, man), you will never be able to un-see it. A bit traumatic, if you catch my drift....
Anyway, in this story there are five Midwives, who live on (and control) the island called Barrows Bay. Pst, I don't wanna give anything away, but think witchcraft, okay.
The oldest of them, Ruby Savage, has a son called Martin, who is a successful true crime writer. And, when one of the serial killers he wrote a book about - "Witch Hunter", who holds a grudge, escapes from the nuthouse, Martin finds himself between a rock and a hard place. You know, like bumping into your mother-in-law while running from the police.
Martin and his friend, Sheila, needs a place to hide, and while he hasn't been back in Barrows Bay for more than two decades, it's the only place they can think of.
But, alas, things are not as they seem on this island - Tum Tum Tuuuuum - and you know, fairly soon, the ship is gonna hit the fan. For the time is at hand when a sacrifice is needed...
While some elements seem run of the mill with this story, you will ask yourself repeatedly:
"Did I switch off the oven when I left the house?"
Sorry, that's my OCD kicking in. You know, Gingerbread house and everything.
But the best hidden secret of the book is why Martin was kept alive - and I can't elaborate any more on that.
Mr. Ralston, well done - this is a horror story that ticked all the right boxes. While it is not fast paced, I was never bored with anything. And, for the gory part of my palate, there was this one really sick scene, even though the author kept the blood and guts to a minimum.
While I have nothing bad to say about this one, I do think those horror fans who likes their action quick and fast might find it a little long, but the story made it worth my while.
Highly recommended!
PS. That cover drew me IMMEDIATELY!
February 7, 2020
First I want to say thank you to author, Duncan Ralston for providing me an ARC copy of this book before release and this is my honest review.
WOW! This book was a grabber from the first page and kept me in a state of suspenseful tension throughout the whole book!
Welcome to Barrow's Bay. Strange and mysterious things abound in this town, so when Martin Savage who is a true crime author, finds out the murderer who is known as Witch Hunter escapes, Martin goes into high gear. Martin decides to go back to a place where he grew up along with Sheila Tanner a forensic psychologist to get as far away as possible from the Witch Hunter.
What Martin doesn't know is that though he is running from a murderer he is heading straight into the depths of hell as the town he grew up in holds a terrible secret that will send him and Sheila spinning into terror.
Horror knows no bounds as the women known as the Midwives are evilly rooted into the town. What they want, what they will do and what they can do will bring Martin and Sheila to a point where they will wish that they had never come to the town. It would have been better to run straight into the arms of the Witch Hunter than to have run to the town of Barrow's Bay.
What happens to Martin and Sheila once they get to the town? What are the Midwives exactly? Does Martin and Sheila make it out of the town alive? What happens with the Witch Hunter? No spoilers here as you will just have to read the book!
Twisted with a heavy dose of gore mixed with horror is the name of the game in this book and as always the author, Duncan Ralston delivers the reader into the hands of a terror filled ride into bloody horror!
So strap in, keep your hands inside the ride at all times, and get ready for a roller coaster ride of terror as once you arrive in Barrow's Bay, you might not be able to leave! Five stars for one hell of a ride!
This book is going on my favorites shelf and I highly recommend to all horror fans!
WOW! This book was a grabber from the first page and kept me in a state of suspenseful tension throughout the whole book!
Welcome to Barrow's Bay. Strange and mysterious things abound in this town, so when Martin Savage who is a true crime author, finds out the murderer who is known as Witch Hunter escapes, Martin goes into high gear. Martin decides to go back to a place where he grew up along with Sheila Tanner a forensic psychologist to get as far away as possible from the Witch Hunter.
What Martin doesn't know is that though he is running from a murderer he is heading straight into the depths of hell as the town he grew up in holds a terrible secret that will send him and Sheila spinning into terror.
Horror knows no bounds as the women known as the Midwives are evilly rooted into the town. What they want, what they will do and what they can do will bring Martin and Sheila to a point where they will wish that they had never come to the town. It would have been better to run straight into the arms of the Witch Hunter than to have run to the town of Barrow's Bay.
What happens to Martin and Sheila once they get to the town? What are the Midwives exactly? Does Martin and Sheila make it out of the town alive? What happens with the Witch Hunter? No spoilers here as you will just have to read the book!
Twisted with a heavy dose of gore mixed with horror is the name of the game in this book and as always the author, Duncan Ralston delivers the reader into the hands of a terror filled ride into bloody horror!
So strap in, keep your hands inside the ride at all times, and get ready for a roller coaster ride of terror as once you arrive in Barrow's Bay, you might not be able to leave! Five stars for one hell of a ride!
This book is going on my favorites shelf and I highly recommend to all horror fans!
January 6, 2022
A killer on the loose. A writer on the run. A town plagued by an ancient evil.
Martin Savage and Sheila Tanner are on the run from an escaped serial killer hellbent on revenge. They end up returning to Martin's childhood home, Barrows Bay. The idyllic island holds terrible secrets. All the pregnant women on the island give birth surrounded by the Midwives. A group of powerful, ancient women. They have delivered every child in the Bay for two hundred and fifty years. If the amount of stillborn rates is a little higher than normal, it is never spoke of. Martin's past starts colliding with his present. Can he discover the secret of the Midwives, before the serial killer find him first?
Seriously awesome horror story! I didn't know where the story was going to take me next. The ending was satisfying.
Martin Savage and Sheila Tanner are on the run from an escaped serial killer hellbent on revenge. They end up returning to Martin's childhood home, Barrows Bay. The idyllic island holds terrible secrets. All the pregnant women on the island give birth surrounded by the Midwives. A group of powerful, ancient women. They have delivered every child in the Bay for two hundred and fifty years. If the amount of stillborn rates is a little higher than normal, it is never spoke of. Martin's past starts colliding with his present. Can he discover the secret of the Midwives, before the serial killer find him first?
Seriously awesome horror story! I didn't know where the story was going to take me next. The ending was satisfying.
August 20, 2021
I LOVED THIS BOOK !!!!!
Story 10/5
Narration 5/5
THE MIDWIVES, is, in my opinion, the perfect horror story!!
In this story, all the characters are intriguing and very well developed. The story is original, with the perfect mixture of violence and gore .
DUNCAN RALSTON created the perfect sinister atmosphere in his book.
The plot is perfect! I never knew what’s going to happen, and how the events were going to play out.
I highly recommend it, to everyone who likes horror stories !!!
I would have give this story 10 stars, if it was possible!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Story 10/5
Narration 5/5
THE MIDWIVES, is, in my opinion, the perfect horror story!!
In this story, all the characters are intriguing and very well developed. The story is original, with the perfect mixture of violence and gore .
DUNCAN RALSTON created the perfect sinister atmosphere in his book.
The plot is perfect! I never knew what’s going to happen, and how the events were going to play out.
I highly recommend it, to everyone who likes horror stories !!!
I would have give this story 10 stars, if it was possible!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 16, 2024
The Witches…
I’ve read a few short stories by Duncan Ralston and I’ve enjoyed them. So I wasn’t sorry about trying this book for my horror group reading.
Martin Savage, and his ex-girlfriend, Sheila Tanner are suddenly teamed up to travel to his childhood home while on the run from a murderer.
The murderer, Jimmy Barclay, is personally angry with Martin, who is a writer. Because he took liberties with information that Jimmy Barclay gave him, and because Jimmy Barclay has escaped from a mental hospital and has threatened to kill him, Martin knows that he’s got to leave town.
So, to the island of Barrows Bay, Rhode Island, they end up. And what a treasure they have encountered. Barrows Bay is a great small town with all the amenities that come with small town living. Cute cottages, mom and pop businesses and well behaved children! Unbelievable!
And did I mention the midwives? Yes. Everyone in this town has been delivered by one of the five midwives for over two hundred years. Including Martin.
But Martin is curious about the midwives. He has a strong suspicion about them. He just doesn’t know what, or why.
He’s feeling misgivings about coming to Barrows Bay, but with a murderer after him, it’s not possible to return to New York. He’ll just have to make do.
Duncan Ralston places a whole lot of suspense and thrills in this horror story. I held my breath throughout my reading.
The only reason I’m not giving this book five stars is because of the typos. They were distracting, but fortunately, they didn’t stop the show from playing.
Four stars. ✨✨✨✨
I’ve read a few short stories by Duncan Ralston and I’ve enjoyed them. So I wasn’t sorry about trying this book for my horror group reading.
Martin Savage, and his ex-girlfriend, Sheila Tanner are suddenly teamed up to travel to his childhood home while on the run from a murderer.
The murderer, Jimmy Barclay, is personally angry with Martin, who is a writer. Because he took liberties with information that Jimmy Barclay gave him, and because Jimmy Barclay has escaped from a mental hospital and has threatened to kill him, Martin knows that he’s got to leave town.
So, to the island of Barrows Bay, Rhode Island, they end up. And what a treasure they have encountered. Barrows Bay is a great small town with all the amenities that come with small town living. Cute cottages, mom and pop businesses and well behaved children! Unbelievable!
And did I mention the midwives? Yes. Everyone in this town has been delivered by one of the five midwives for over two hundred years. Including Martin.
But Martin is curious about the midwives. He has a strong suspicion about them. He just doesn’t know what, or why.
He’s feeling misgivings about coming to Barrows Bay, but with a murderer after him, it’s not possible to return to New York. He’ll just have to make do.
Duncan Ralston places a whole lot of suspense and thrills in this horror story. I held my breath throughout my reading.
The only reason I’m not giving this book five stars is because of the typos. They were distracting, but fortunately, they didn’t stop the show from playing.
Four stars. ✨✨✨✨
December 10, 2020
audio book review- 12/2020
The audio book is read by Steve Barnett. He adds so much to this already great story. I enjoyed listening, maybe even more than reading it myself. For story details, see my review of the book below.
Bravo Duncan Ralston! I loved The Midwives!
Due to circumstances I don't want to spoil, true crime author Martin Savage and forensic psychologist Sheila Tanner are on the run. They flee back to Martin's childhood home on Barrow's Bay. And that's when things get good. There is a group of old ladies on the island. Everyone calls them the Midwives and they do in fact deliver babies. But what are they really, other than scary as hell? I did not read a thing about this book before I began it so I had no idea. Are they the fates (cause of those scissors)? witches? some kind of fey creatures? You will have to read the book to find out. The writing is very good and the story pulls you right in. It's hard to stop reading once you start. I can't wait to read more by this author!
I would like to thank the author for the ARC and the opportunity to read this one early. I really enjoyed it.
The audio book is read by Steve Barnett. He adds so much to this already great story. I enjoyed listening, maybe even more than reading it myself. For story details, see my review of the book below.
Bravo Duncan Ralston! I loved The Midwives!
Due to circumstances I don't want to spoil, true crime author Martin Savage and forensic psychologist Sheila Tanner are on the run. They flee back to Martin's childhood home on Barrow's Bay. And that's when things get good. There is a group of old ladies on the island. Everyone calls them the Midwives and they do in fact deliver babies. But what are they really, other than scary as hell? I did not read a thing about this book before I began it so I had no idea. Are they the fates (cause of those scissors)? witches? some kind of fey creatures? You will have to read the book to find out. The writing is very good and the story pulls you right in. It's hard to stop reading once you start. I can't wait to read more by this author!
I would like to thank the author for the ARC and the opportunity to read this one early. I really enjoyed it.
August 26, 2022
Duncan Ralston was kind enough to join us at the Horror Aficionados group here on Goodreads, as we read this book. I had a blast!
"Horror in a small town" is one of my favorite tropes and has been since I read Salem's Lot as a teenager. It's usually hit or miss, I think because for me, the bar is high for this type of story. I'm joyful to say that this time, the author nailed it!
Involving an author, Martin, (do not call him Marty), his on and off again girlfriend Sheila, and their past involvement with a serial killer who has recently escaped prison. Fleeing from the prospect of becoming future victims, the pair take a nostalgic trip to Martin's hometown, Barrow's Bay. From nearly the first moments of their arrival the tension begins and doesn't let up until the final pages. What a wild ride!
There are hints here of the best kinds of folk horror, think Harvest Home, along with notes of King, and maybe even a small dash of Clive Barker. I think this author does an awesome, unholy job of making a group of female senior citizens menacing. In fact, at times they were downright terrifying and I don't scare easily.
I'm adding this to my list of favorite books and I have no problem giving THE MIDWIVES my highest recommendation!
*I bought this book with my hard earned cash.*
"Horror in a small town" is one of my favorite tropes and has been since I read Salem's Lot as a teenager. It's usually hit or miss, I think because for me, the bar is high for this type of story. I'm joyful to say that this time, the author nailed it!
Involving an author, Martin, (do not call him Marty), his on and off again girlfriend Sheila, and their past involvement with a serial killer who has recently escaped prison. Fleeing from the prospect of becoming future victims, the pair take a nostalgic trip to Martin's hometown, Barrow's Bay. From nearly the first moments of their arrival the tension begins and doesn't let up until the final pages. What a wild ride!
There are hints here of the best kinds of folk horror, think Harvest Home, along with notes of King, and maybe even a small dash of Clive Barker. I think this author does an awesome, unholy job of making a group of female senior citizens menacing. In fact, at times they were downright terrifying and I don't scare easily.
I'm adding this to my list of favorite books and I have no problem giving THE MIDWIVES my highest recommendation!
*I bought this book with my hard earned cash.*
August 27, 2022
I read this with the Horror Aficionado group, and Duncan Ralston was kind enough to join in (thanks, Duncan!) and it was such a blast!
I had no idea what to expect going into this. I've only ever read Woom, so I wasn't sure how much I was going to be cringing, but this turned out to be such a completely different kind of story. It's still creepy and had me cringing a bit but even though there are some gross bits, it's really more of a creepy, atmospheric kind of book, which I love!
I had a lot of fun reading this, and I'll definitely be going back and reading the author's other works! :)
I had no idea what to expect going into this. I've only ever read Woom, so I wasn't sure how much I was going to be cringing, but this turned out to be such a completely different kind of story. It's still creepy and had me cringing a bit but even though there are some gross bits, it's really more of a creepy, atmospheric kind of book, which I love!
I had a lot of fun reading this, and I'll definitely be going back and reading the author's other works! :)
July 26, 2023
I was super skeptical about starting this book but was honestly surprised by it. It was a lot more complex than I anticipated. There was no shortage of suspense, gore, humor, and even a little romance. As much as I was probably not supposed to like her, I really loved Ruby. I just couldn't help but fall under her glamour just like the townspeople had for ages.
One thing I know for certain is that my next child will not be delivered by a midwife!! Lol! If you are looking for your next creepy read, I highly recommend giving Midwives a chance.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I know for certain is that my next child will not be delivered by a midwife!! Lol! If you are looking for your next creepy read, I highly recommend giving Midwives a chance.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2020
'The first to speak in court sounds right, until the cross-examination begins,' Proverbs, 18:17.
Ah, the joy of parenthood – and the darkness of it…
Admission: I wasn’t sure before going in if this one would do it for me or not. Burned out by so many witchcraft stories being cheese-coated regurgitation, the Midwives is a refreshing change of pace that did not suffer from the same curse. Its fate instead was complex and eventually riveting; I ended up reading it in two sittings.
Witchcraft plays its role in the story, but with enough polish to stand out and flourish. Toss in a serial killer who livens up the story – especially when combined with a humorous town pariah – excellent results. Compelling characterization is where The Midwives excels past the mark, especially having Martin be the flawed man he is. Sheila is a worthy tag-along who brings feminism in to a storyline where the small town is dominated by these women who still embrace somewhat antiquated views on womanhood.
Ruby as the mother is particularly fascinating with her manic moods and the mysteries of her pursuits. Even the town itself, aptly named Barrow’s Bay, becomes a small character on its own. The remote, island type towns suits the ambience of a creepy horror story.
It’s not a first person, so we get to hop around in a few heads, but Martin leads the majority of the tale, as he should. He’s not the only focus, but he is the shining example of the opposite end of the point of faith.
A disconsolate landscape of human misery, horrible things happen – truly. Faith is mentioned as a manipulative weapon to allow much of this darkness to come to pass and hold the town in its grip; blind faith and behind-the-scenes manipulation. By a saving grace, faith becomes a symbol of hope for transformation for more than one character. The story may open with a long-standing tradition grounded in horrible origins, but it ends by showing that you can continue to evolve past your roots.
Having faith in who you can be, not just who you are, or origins of who you once were.
Violence and gore aren’t shied away from, particularly in the prologue that almost did border on cheesy, but everything happens for a reason – and some of these reasons may eventually surprise you with subtle magic. It’s brutal, but it gets your attention and makes a lasting impression. Five stars, and I don’t give those lightly to horror novels any more.
A horror story absolute, it remains true to the fairy-tale lore for witch tales of old. These aren’t women in gingerbread houses molding traps to snare wandering children, but they’re not far off from it either. If you want a modern day, twisted fairy-tale type of story that is both dark and gripping – this is the one.
Ah, the joy of parenthood – and the darkness of it…
Admission: I wasn’t sure before going in if this one would do it for me or not. Burned out by so many witchcraft stories being cheese-coated regurgitation, the Midwives is a refreshing change of pace that did not suffer from the same curse. Its fate instead was complex and eventually riveting; I ended up reading it in two sittings.
Witchcraft plays its role in the story, but with enough polish to stand out and flourish. Toss in a serial killer who livens up the story – especially when combined with a humorous town pariah – excellent results. Compelling characterization is where The Midwives excels past the mark, especially having Martin be the flawed man he is. Sheila is a worthy tag-along who brings feminism in to a storyline where the small town is dominated by these women who still embrace somewhat antiquated views on womanhood.
Ruby as the mother is particularly fascinating with her manic moods and the mysteries of her pursuits. Even the town itself, aptly named Barrow’s Bay, becomes a small character on its own. The remote, island type towns suits the ambience of a creepy horror story.
It’s not a first person, so we get to hop around in a few heads, but Martin leads the majority of the tale, as he should. He’s not the only focus, but he is the shining example of the opposite end of the point of faith.
A disconsolate landscape of human misery, horrible things happen – truly. Faith is mentioned as a manipulative weapon to allow much of this darkness to come to pass and hold the town in its grip; blind faith and behind-the-scenes manipulation. By a saving grace, faith becomes a symbol of hope for transformation for more than one character. The story may open with a long-standing tradition grounded in horrible origins, but it ends by showing that you can continue to evolve past your roots.
Having faith in who you can be, not just who you are, or origins of who you once were.
Violence and gore aren’t shied away from, particularly in the prologue that almost did border on cheesy, but everything happens for a reason – and some of these reasons may eventually surprise you with subtle magic. It’s brutal, but it gets your attention and makes a lasting impression. Five stars, and I don’t give those lightly to horror novels any more.
A horror story absolute, it remains true to the fairy-tale lore for witch tales of old. These aren’t women in gingerbread houses molding traps to snare wandering children, but they’re not far off from it either. If you want a modern day, twisted fairy-tale type of story that is both dark and gripping – this is the one.
April 24, 2020
THE MIDWIVES, by Duncan Ralston, is a novel that had just about everything you could want in a horror book, and then some. This one honestly had me jumping at the sound of scissors snapping together, at times!
We start with Martin Savage, a true crime writer, who is promoting his latest book when news of an escaped prisoner reaches him. James Barclay--the man whom Martin based his best-selling book "THE WITCH HUNTER" on-- is out, and his last words were a direct threat on Martin's life. Martin's ex-girlfriend, Shelia, is also involved, as she was the psychologist to the mass murderer.
". . . The true monsters of this world were flesh and blood--men and women who struggled against the darkness in their own hearts and all too often gave into temptation . . . "
In an effort to stay low until Barclay is recaptured, Martin and Shelia journey to his small island hometown--a place that Martin has tried to forget ever since he left with his "Aunt" at a young age.
The mysteries of the island, and the Midwives who deliver all the residents' children, are deep and multi-leveled. Ruby, Martin's Mother, is the "head" Midwife, as it turns out.
". . . A piece of you was always here on the island. Sooner or later, it pulls you back."
Ralston drags you right into this story, where you have to wonder if anything is what it seems, and effortlessly draws you along for the ride. Nothing feels rushed or hurried; rather, everything unfolds at a slow yet steady pace, giving the reader pieces to the puzzle bit by bit. Every character felt essential to this story, and every scene contained some kind of hidden meaning.
"It's not paranoia if someone is literally out to get me."
Everything in the town, from its old-fashioned values, to the closeness of the neighbors, shows you that something is most definitely different here . . . whispering to you with a sinister vibe. So much of what impressed me here wasn't in what was shown, but in how it was.
This novel is one of the best I've had the pleasure of reading this year. I simply can't give it higher praise than that. If you love your horror with intense characters, emotions, mystery, and gore, then you need to pick up a copy of this book.
Highly recommended.
Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/2VxgbbX
We start with Martin Savage, a true crime writer, who is promoting his latest book when news of an escaped prisoner reaches him. James Barclay--the man whom Martin based his best-selling book "THE WITCH HUNTER" on-- is out, and his last words were a direct threat on Martin's life. Martin's ex-girlfriend, Shelia, is also involved, as she was the psychologist to the mass murderer.
". . . The true monsters of this world were flesh and blood--men and women who struggled against the darkness in their own hearts and all too often gave into temptation . . . "
In an effort to stay low until Barclay is recaptured, Martin and Shelia journey to his small island hometown--a place that Martin has tried to forget ever since he left with his "Aunt" at a young age.
The mysteries of the island, and the Midwives who deliver all the residents' children, are deep and multi-leveled. Ruby, Martin's Mother, is the "head" Midwife, as it turns out.
". . . A piece of you was always here on the island. Sooner or later, it pulls you back."
Ralston drags you right into this story, where you have to wonder if anything is what it seems, and effortlessly draws you along for the ride. Nothing feels rushed or hurried; rather, everything unfolds at a slow yet steady pace, giving the reader pieces to the puzzle bit by bit. Every character felt essential to this story, and every scene contained some kind of hidden meaning.
"It's not paranoia if someone is literally out to get me."
Everything in the town, from its old-fashioned values, to the closeness of the neighbors, shows you that something is most definitely different here . . . whispering to you with a sinister vibe. So much of what impressed me here wasn't in what was shown, but in how it was.
This novel is one of the best I've had the pleasure of reading this year. I simply can't give it higher praise than that. If you love your horror with intense characters, emotions, mystery, and gore, then you need to pick up a copy of this book.
Highly recommended.
Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/2VxgbbX
April 3, 2020
Duncan Ralston is an author I’ve been reading for a while now, mixed results but enough potential to merit an interest each time. From the good to the mediocre to the horrendously disturbing to the recent overbloated Ghostland, there has been plenty of entertaining value, but it’s always such a pleasure to witness an author finally come into his own, finally reach all the promise of previous works and so on…finally write something as good as Midwives. This was actually a book I first found on GR, the cover is difficult not to notice, in fact it’s the most strikingly terrifying female with scissors image since the movie Us posters. So when the book showed up on Netgalley, I requested it immediately and read it shortly after and…wow. Very good, very good indeed. Something of a proper genre epic, actually. The basic premise of witches in a small town (in this case to maximize the isolation) a small island is familiar enough, but Ralston really develops the story so well, from character building to cranking up the claustrophobic atmosphere…it’s so well done. In fact, what makes it work so nicely is the dramatic writing, the mother/son relationship at the center of it all is as messed up as any Psycho style scenario. Mind you, genre fans need not be afraid, while this is definitely a work of literary frights, there’s plenty of guts and gore and…well, afterbirth for the toughest most discerning fans. There’s a serial killer too. There’s a lot going on. The main protagonist is an author (I do like stories featuring authors) who comes back to the small insular island community he’s originally from to avoid a serial killer who has recently sprung himself free and might be coming after him. And you know what they say…you can’t go back to the small creepy island and a largely looming exceptionally creepy mother figure again…or something like that. So at any rate, you don’t need a plot summary, I read it without one and was all the more pleased with the plot’s twists and turns for it. Check it out for yourself. This is Ralston at his best with a novel that took nearly three decades and tons of rewrites to finally become the author’s magnum opus to date. And yes, it’s on the longer side, but (unlike Ghostland) it’s actually well worth the time and you get a lot for the page count. Quite possibly the best witch story since Grimm fairy tales. Let’s hear it for a scary folk tale every ounce as creepy as its awesome cover. Now go read the book. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
March 21, 2020
This is my 4th Ralston novel and my favorite. The story has a nice flow to it and is unique (hard to find these days). My favorite scene was when Shelia is at Geraldine's house, just the perfect amount of creepiness without going overboard. I enjoyed The Midwives from beginning to end.
August 28, 2021
First off, nice cover porn by Vaillancourt! TM is something of a mix-- part crime novel and part supernatural but overall, a fun and quick read by Ralston. Our main protagonist is Martin Savage, an author of true crime fiction, who six years ago wrote a book about a famous serial killer-- the Witch Hunter-- who killed pregnant women. Martin, via a series of interviews, got the low down on the Witch Killer but lets say he livened it up a bit and the Killer was not pleased. Now, the killer has escaped the loony bin and is hot on Martin's trail.
Martin, along with Sheila-- someone who testified at the Killer's trial, are forced to go on the run to escape the killer, but where to go? Martin still has his mother and Aunt Norma back on an island off the Rhode Island coast, where he was born, and decides that would be a good place to lay low for awhile. Little does he know that he is leaving the frying pan for the fire!
Barrows Bay, the island, was settled by some Irish folk fleeing the great famine, but it was not easy. The ship, the Rose, broke up off the island and many people died; lets just say the first few years were rough. What emerged from the cloud of history were five midwives, who have delivered every child on the island for over 200 years! Further, Martin's 'mother' is the leader of the midwives!
TM is a classic slow-burn novel that reminded me of 80s horror (and I mean that in a good way), and especially Charles L. Grant. Ralston builds a very creepy atmosphere right from the get go, and it just builds and builds. There were a few things I did not like so much, however.
Overall, a fun read that moves nicely. Recommended for horror fans who might need a break from splatterpunk. 3.5 witchy stars!
Martin, along with Sheila-- someone who testified at the Killer's trial, are forced to go on the run to escape the killer, but where to go? Martin still has his mother and Aunt Norma back on an island off the Rhode Island coast, where he was born, and decides that would be a good place to lay low for awhile. Little does he know that he is leaving the frying pan for the fire!
Barrows Bay, the island, was settled by some Irish folk fleeing the great famine, but it was not easy. The ship, the Rose, broke up off the island and many people died; lets just say the first few years were rough. What emerged from the cloud of history were five midwives, who have delivered every child on the island for over 200 years! Further, Martin's 'mother' is the leader of the midwives!
TM is a classic slow-burn novel that reminded me of 80s horror (and I mean that in a good way), and especially Charles L. Grant. Ralston builds a very creepy atmosphere right from the get go, and it just builds and builds. There were a few things I did not like so much, however.
Overall, a fun read that moves nicely. Recommended for horror fans who might need a break from splatterpunk. 3.5 witchy stars!
March 6, 2020
Deep and rich and fully fleshed out, THE MIDWIVES is Folk Horror genius! I loved SALVAGE and admired GHOSTLAND, but THE MIDWIVES is Horror I can see myself reading over and over again. How deeply the characterizations range! How giftedly twisted the multiple plot threads! And the Frights! During certain particular scenes, I completely forgot I was "reading a book" and fell into the story, eventually surfacing to find myself simply suffused in chills!
February 10, 2020
First 5 stars for probably one of the best books of 2020 so far. Mr. Ralston only gets better and better with every book he writes. This one tops my list.
No spoilers and I’ll be brief as this story moves along like lightning. Martin is a author of serial killer profiles. When one of his projects escape from a psychiatric hospital hell bent to kill him and everyone he knows, Martin is forced to flee to Barrows Bay, the island of his childhood, it’s history and secrets hidden even to him. Ex-girlfriend Shelia needs to go with him as she is also targeted by Jimmy, the insane asylum escapee.
Barrows Bay is not the haven they think it will be, shrouded in terror, evil lurks in its streets, its horrific history.. held hostage by an ancient evil only The Midwives seem to channel. Martin and Shelia uncover the real story about Ruby and The Mother, the actual danger that lurks closer then they realize, more dangerous then being stalked by a serial killer.
I want a hard cover book, signed by Duncan Ralston (I will pay for this) for my horror collection because this is one book I will re-read in the future. I cannot recommend this book more.. read immediately!
No spoilers and I’ll be brief as this story moves along like lightning. Martin is a author of serial killer profiles. When one of his projects escape from a psychiatric hospital hell bent to kill him and everyone he knows, Martin is forced to flee to Barrows Bay, the island of his childhood, it’s history and secrets hidden even to him. Ex-girlfriend Shelia needs to go with him as she is also targeted by Jimmy, the insane asylum escapee.
Barrows Bay is not the haven they think it will be, shrouded in terror, evil lurks in its streets, its horrific history.. held hostage by an ancient evil only The Midwives seem to channel. Martin and Shelia uncover the real story about Ruby and The Mother, the actual danger that lurks closer then they realize, more dangerous then being stalked by a serial killer.
I want a hard cover book, signed by Duncan Ralston (I will pay for this) for my horror collection because this is one book I will re-read in the future. I cannot recommend this book more.. read immediately!
June 18, 2021
I was a Ralston virgin prior to this and I'm glad I finally took the dive with Midwives, btw thank you Marie for the recommendation!!! Midwives is a solid story that is genuinely creepy at times and even though there is not much action action the underlying sense of dread propels things forward and kept me engaged. Anyone remember the movie Smokin' Aces from about fifteen years ago and how there was a convergence of hit men at this casino looking for Buddy Aces Israel? Well there's a similar convergence at the end of this book but instead of hitmen it's serial killers, old women witch-things, people out for revenge, and some otherwise nice people who are just trying to survive. I enjoyed this from beginning to end and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
June 5, 2020
Duncan Ralston is a name many horror readers are familiar wife, and most have read a few of his releases by now. In 2019, Ralston up the game with promotional pushes for his stellar release 'Ghostland.' A follow up to that book, which landed on many "Best Of" lists and has already been announced that a sequel is in the works would be daunting on the best of days. But Ralston dove into it head first and eagerly shared the cover from esteemed artist Francois Vaillancourt.
Once that image hit the horror community the excitement level began to increase.
What I liked: The story follows one Marty Savage, true-crime writer extraordinaire. He had a string of hits, but his best know work was 'Witch Hunter,' which was an embellished version of serial killer Barclay. When Barclay escapes and begins killing his way towards Savage, wanting revenge, Savage and his friend Sheila, who was a psychiatrist on the case flee to the remote town of Barrows Bay - where Savage grew up.
Duncan did a fantastic job of diving into the deep end immediately. We get to see that Savage is a bit of a scumbag, preying on easy female targets at book signings and living a bachelor life of debauchery. We get to see his character go through a transformation story arc throughout and it was satisfying to watch that happen. Sheila is a strong female character, many times the reality grounder to Marty's sarcastic laissez-faire attitude.
The midwives of Barrows Bay made for a great group to create the necessary "good versus evil" set up that a folk thriller like this needed and I loved the back story that Ralston sprinkled throughout.
The ending was done really well and there were several things left a bit open for the possibility of a sequel. I would love to read more, especially seeing how we never really get any conclusion with a discovery on the beach or with the main detective.
Lastly, Barrows Bay itself worked as a very engaging character. While technically the setting, a place such as this has its own pulse, its own rhythm and Duncan made sure to amplify that when needed and make it undulate to shift the story as warranted.
What I didn't like: A story like this, with a larger ensemble cast of secondary characters can sometimes create issues with remembering who is who. Ralston didn't have that issue, instead making sure each moving piece had a purpose for being there. Saying that, the main reason for Savage and Sheila for going to Barrows Bay, Barclay, at one point almost became an afterthought and I found it was a long stretch before he re-entered the fray. I would've love just a touch more of his own journey to track down the duo, but I do understand the necessary space filled with Barrows Bay happenings.
Why you should buy it: Ralston is not only one of the best writers in the horror genre, creating lush landscapes layered with depth and gore, but he's also one of the nicest guys in the field and one of the most supportive. 'The Midwives' is a horrific book and if you are wanting a dark read where things get revealed over time while you still are dealing with what just happened, then look no further.
As I mentioned at the beginning - a follow up to a book like 'Ghostland' can be tough, but Duncan stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park.
Once that image hit the horror community the excitement level began to increase.
What I liked: The story follows one Marty Savage, true-crime writer extraordinaire. He had a string of hits, but his best know work was 'Witch Hunter,' which was an embellished version of serial killer Barclay. When Barclay escapes and begins killing his way towards Savage, wanting revenge, Savage and his friend Sheila, who was a psychiatrist on the case flee to the remote town of Barrows Bay - where Savage grew up.
Duncan did a fantastic job of diving into the deep end immediately. We get to see that Savage is a bit of a scumbag, preying on easy female targets at book signings and living a bachelor life of debauchery. We get to see his character go through a transformation story arc throughout and it was satisfying to watch that happen. Sheila is a strong female character, many times the reality grounder to Marty's sarcastic laissez-faire attitude.
The midwives of Barrows Bay made for a great group to create the necessary "good versus evil" set up that a folk thriller like this needed and I loved the back story that Ralston sprinkled throughout.
The ending was done really well and there were several things left a bit open for the possibility of a sequel. I would love to read more, especially seeing how we never really get any conclusion with a discovery on the beach or with the main detective.
Lastly, Barrows Bay itself worked as a very engaging character. While technically the setting, a place such as this has its own pulse, its own rhythm and Duncan made sure to amplify that when needed and make it undulate to shift the story as warranted.
What I didn't like: A story like this, with a larger ensemble cast of secondary characters can sometimes create issues with remembering who is who. Ralston didn't have that issue, instead making sure each moving piece had a purpose for being there. Saying that, the main reason for Savage and Sheila for going to Barrows Bay, Barclay, at one point almost became an afterthought and I found it was a long stretch before he re-entered the fray. I would've love just a touch more of his own journey to track down the duo, but I do understand the necessary space filled with Barrows Bay happenings.
Why you should buy it: Ralston is not only one of the best writers in the horror genre, creating lush landscapes layered with depth and gore, but he's also one of the nicest guys in the field and one of the most supportive. 'The Midwives' is a horrific book and if you are wanting a dark read where things get revealed over time while you still are dealing with what just happened, then look no further.
As I mentioned at the beginning - a follow up to a book like 'Ghostland' can be tough, but Duncan stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park.
December 1, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Midwives is one rollercoaster ride of a story with a good pace, gripping story line that draws you in from the first chapter, fantastic characters and settings and a good level of thriller and horror in the mix.
If the cover doesn't give you the heeby jeebys the story certainly will.
This story was well thought out and executed and I love how the two elements in relation to the Witch hunter cereal killer and the dark forces that hide within the Midwives are brought together towards the end of the book.
This book was a struggle to put down and I then struggled to sleep as I kept jumping at the slightest sound in the house.
If you love horror, you definitely need to read this!
The Midwives is one rollercoaster ride of a story with a good pace, gripping story line that draws you in from the first chapter, fantastic characters and settings and a good level of thriller and horror in the mix.
If the cover doesn't give you the heeby jeebys the story certainly will.
This story was well thought out and executed and I love how the two elements in relation to the Witch hunter cereal killer and the dark forces that hide within the Midwives are brought together towards the end of the book.
This book was a struggle to put down and I then struggled to sleep as I kept jumping at the slightest sound in the house.
If you love horror, you definitely need to read this!
July 8, 2025
3.5/5 (rounded up for GoodReads)
'The Midwives' is an interesting blend of folk horror, extreme scenes and crime thriller with a 'rockstar' vibe. It's gritty, suspenseful and dark. I found that this book flowed very effortlessly, an easy read to get lost in. Barrow's Bay is incredibly rich in lure and shroud in mystery that begs you to keep reading to uncover all of its secrets. I started off this read really not liking the main character Martin. A successful true crime author while simultaneously being a degenerate. We read this book as a group with the bookclub and this turned a few people off as they could not stand the MC. While I can appreciate this sentiment, I can attests that it's not true throughout. I found the character development to be well done and appreciated the version of Martin we got in the end of the book quite a bit. I also quite enjoyed the overarching themes of growth and breaking curses. Both literal and figurative.
The one thing that kind of threw me off and took me out of the story a bit was how the two storylines connected. In the beginning we're met with our MC who finds out the serial killer he's written about who's threatened to kill him has escaped prison. It's a fast paced crime thriller that gets you pretty hooked. Shortly thereafter, the pace changes as Martin heads back home where the folk lore takes hold. I found myself wondering where the original story line went and thus how it was going to come together in the last half. It does come together however, it felt a bit disjointed to me. I guess my critique here is that personally I felt like the book might have been a better experience for me if the serial killer aspect was just removed entirely to focus on the folklore and the witches.
Overall, I still enjoyed this read. I found it to be very different from anything else I've read by Duncan while still very much having a strong voice that is prevalent in all his books. 1st book down for Canadian Horror Month was a success!
'The Midwives' is an interesting blend of folk horror, extreme scenes and crime thriller with a 'rockstar' vibe. It's gritty, suspenseful and dark. I found that this book flowed very effortlessly, an easy read to get lost in. Barrow's Bay is incredibly rich in lure and shroud in mystery that begs you to keep reading to uncover all of its secrets. I started off this read really not liking the main character Martin. A successful true crime author while simultaneously being a degenerate. We read this book as a group with the bookclub and this turned a few people off as they could not stand the MC. While I can appreciate this sentiment, I can attests that it's not true throughout. I found the character development to be well done and appreciated the version of Martin we got in the end of the book quite a bit. I also quite enjoyed the overarching themes of growth and breaking curses. Both literal and figurative.
The one thing that kind of threw me off and took me out of the story a bit was how the two storylines connected. In the beginning we're met with our MC who finds out the serial killer he's written about who's threatened to kill him has escaped prison. It's a fast paced crime thriller that gets you pretty hooked. Shortly thereafter, the pace changes as Martin heads back home where the folk lore takes hold. I found myself wondering where the original story line went and thus how it was going to come together in the last half. It does come together however, it felt a bit disjointed to me. I guess my critique here is that personally I felt like the book might have been a better experience for me if the serial killer aspect was just removed entirely to focus on the folklore and the witches.
Overall, I still enjoyed this read. I found it to be very different from anything else I've read by Duncan while still very much having a strong voice that is prevalent in all his books. 1st book down for Canadian Horror Month was a success!
December 23, 2020
Fanatic
I absolutely loved this book. I don't say that often! From start to finish I was sucked in. I only wish I'd read it sooner.
I absolutely loved this book. I don't say that often! From start to finish I was sucked in. I only wish I'd read it sooner.
February 10, 2020
What wild ride. No spoilers. Martin is a true crime author who helped capture a serial killer. A killer who promised Martin he would get his revenge on him and the psychiatrist that put him away. While on a book tour for his new book, Martin receives word that the Mirrorman has escaped from prison and is coming straight for him and his one time lover Sheila Tanner. It was Sheila expert testimony that got James Barclay aka the Mirrorman declared insane. In an effort to stay alive and get off the grid. Martin and Sheila run to Barrows Bay, the place where Martin was born. A place he has tried to avoid, a place with many dark secrets. No sooner than they arrived that strange things began to happen, memories that Martin had long ago buried behind to surface. Memories of being burned and his mama trying to kill herself. His mother who had to be taken away to the White Place to get help, leaving him to be raised by aunt Norma. Now circumstances has forced a reunion that Martin has avoided and the dam that has protected the secrets of Barrows Bay and "The Midwives" (the woman that rule the town) is beginning to crumble. A reckoning is coming that will shake this tiny island to its core. As the body count rises and the Mirrorman gets closer, Martin and Sheila are in a battle that will bring them face to face with their biggest fears and secrets, secrets that would be better off remaining buried. A battle is raging between good and evil, between mother and son, a battle that they may not survive.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. A combination of a supernatural and psychological thriller with demons and ancient rituals thrown in to make it impossible to put down or fall asleep without the lights on. This is an honest review of an ARC copy of Midwives.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. A combination of a supernatural and psychological thriller with demons and ancient rituals thrown in to make it impossible to put down or fall asleep without the lights on. This is an honest review of an ARC copy of Midwives.
April 4, 2023
Summary- The serial killer James Barclay has escaped prison and has promised to “leave a trail of blood” leading to Martin Savage, the true crime novelist who wrote about Barclay, and Sheila Tanner, the criminal psychologist who testified during his trial.
After one of Martin’s friends is brutally murdered, Martin and Sheila decide to hide out in Martins island home town of Barrows Bay. Martin remembers very little of the small community since he left there at only 5 years old and he has never discussed it before.
Barrows Bay is a quirky village with a long history of using midwives to deliver babies since there are no medical facilities on the island. Martins own mother Ruby is the head of the midwives and all of them are elderly and mysterious. One of them is even blind.
This is a hard review to write without giving spoilers but Duncan does a great job with characters and setting. I could picture myself traveling on the island with Martin and Sheila. The town folk give Barrows Bay a New England vibe of homeyness. During the story Martin does a few things that I don’t think normal people would do and I was starting to question the realness of his character, however as you read the entire book and learn his history, what he did makes sense.
So, Martin and Sheila escape from a serial killer to the small island but little do they know, Barclay was the least of their worries and the island and the midwives are not what they seem.
After one of Martin’s friends is brutally murdered, Martin and Sheila decide to hide out in Martins island home town of Barrows Bay. Martin remembers very little of the small community since he left there at only 5 years old and he has never discussed it before.
Barrows Bay is a quirky village with a long history of using midwives to deliver babies since there are no medical facilities on the island. Martins own mother Ruby is the head of the midwives and all of them are elderly and mysterious. One of them is even blind.
This is a hard review to write without giving spoilers but Duncan does a great job with characters and setting. I could picture myself traveling on the island with Martin and Sheila. The town folk give Barrows Bay a New England vibe of homeyness. During the story Martin does a few things that I don’t think normal people would do and I was starting to question the realness of his character, however as you read the entire book and learn his history, what he did makes sense.
So, Martin and Sheila escape from a serial killer to the small island but little do they know, Barclay was the least of their worries and the island and the midwives are not what they seem.
March 22, 2020
First of all the cover totally sold this book to me, the image projects creepiness and on reflection was perfectly fitting for the story.
The so called 'Witch Hunter" murderer of women and their unborn children has escaped and he's looking for revenge this makes true crime writer Martin and psychologist Sheila terrified and they have no choice but to flee for their lives .
The best place Martin can think of to go to is his childhood town Barrow Bay. But the bay holds terrible secrets, Martins mother was locked up in a psychiatric facility and an ancient evil force is rampant, is he running from a serial killer in to the arms of something worse? could it be that hidden evil is masked behind the aged faces of the towns midwives who have delivered all the towns babies? and is there a link?.
The setting of Barrow Bay was very atmospheric. I could visualise the scenes perfectly especially when Geraldine's house is visited. The story was so very unique and the tension perfect, I wanted to know how it all tied together and this held me captive to the very end.
Chilling, gory and creepy an eventful rollercoaster ride of terror.
A book I would recommend to fans of this genre.
The so called 'Witch Hunter" murderer of women and their unborn children has escaped and he's looking for revenge this makes true crime writer Martin and psychologist Sheila terrified and they have no choice but to flee for their lives .
The best place Martin can think of to go to is his childhood town Barrow Bay. But the bay holds terrible secrets, Martins mother was locked up in a psychiatric facility and an ancient evil force is rampant, is he running from a serial killer in to the arms of something worse? could it be that hidden evil is masked behind the aged faces of the towns midwives who have delivered all the towns babies? and is there a link?.
The setting of Barrow Bay was very atmospheric. I could visualise the scenes perfectly especially when Geraldine's house is visited. The story was so very unique and the tension perfect, I wanted to know how it all tied together and this held me captive to the very end.
Chilling, gory and creepy an eventful rollercoaster ride of terror.
A book I would recommend to fans of this genre.
August 30, 2021
This book read to me more of a thriller/mystery tale with a few brutal scenes. Without getting into details, the 2 story lines were odd to me and read jumpy and jumbled to me.
I'll contiune to read other ralston stuff. It wasn't horrible but I've been introduced to so many amazing authors, Ralston is up against
I'll contiune to read other ralston stuff. It wasn't horrible but I've been introduced to so many amazing authors, Ralston is up against
June 12, 2020
Deliciously Gory and Exquisitely Evil
Ralston slides under your skin with the incorrigible Martin Savage and the evil in Barrows Bay.
Brilliant melding of folk lore horror and the modern era. Well written with interesting characters you wont be disappointed.
Ralston slides under your skin with the incorrigible Martin Savage and the evil in Barrows Bay.
Brilliant melding of folk lore horror and the modern era. Well written with interesting characters you wont be disappointed.
December 30, 2021
🖤
Finding good, genuinely scary horror book is such a tall order these days.
This book follows a crime writer, Martin and psychologist Shelia who for some reason have a serial killer out to get them. Fast forward to the serial killer breaking out? waltzing out? and they both have to take shelter somewhere obscure that Mr Serial Killer won't be able to find them.
But, hold on, that's not really what this book is about. It's about Witches who want to live forever (i mean don't we all?) and Martin being alive somehow threatens that.
Anyway, the horror just never gets going. Oh the writing is okay but nothing honestly really happens. The main characters (Martin and Sheila) were weirdly chill with all the craziness that was happening. No panic, no emotion.
Besides Martin wanting to stick his penis in every vagina and Shelia spouting off feminist manifesto every now and again, I can't say this book had much going in the area of building characters.
Ralston states in the Author's note that when he started writing this book the Midwives
"had no personality, no individuality. They had different physical characteristics but they all acted essentially as a single entity."
His solution to this apparent cardboard cutter characterisation of characters that should arguably represent a huge part of the plot was to add a rivalry bewtween two of the witches. Keep in mind that the so called rivalry never spills out into something full blown and glorious & So not really much of a rivalry really. Do the individual witches take on wholly distinct personalities? If by distinct personalities you mean differentiating them by the powers they possess, then yes, they had personalities in abundance. To be honest now that i think about it, they were barely in the book anyway.
So you might say, it's horror, maybe spending all that time trying to give distinct fully fleshed characters isn't the main thing but the plot kind of sucked too. It took FOREVER to get to the point. Basically nothing happenened and then some things kind of happened but then you're like that's it? I'm now firmly of the opinion that most horror writers should stick to 200+ but less than 300 page books because obviously writing long ass horror books is a skill not a lot of horror writers seem to be good at & it's doing them no favours.
*Still can't believe i pre-ordered this book. What was i thinking?
🖤🖤
An ick i had in this book was the author making characters spout all these socially correct things usually in an assholey way. Not sure why things like that were included (mostly in passing) cos they did absolutely nothing for the plot or characters.
There's a part where Qurban -the very forgettable agent- makes an appearance and starts waxing about how digital marketplaces like Amazon and Kobo are looked down on, how authors prefer their books displayed in what i can only deduce are high end bookstores. He goes on to tell us about this client he's meeting, in his words:
"a young wallflower whose blog made the limelight during the height of the #Metoo movement for her candid depiction of her own childhood sexual assault"even though he's not sure how much of it is true.
🙄because of course women are likely to just wake up and lie about sexual assualt.
Then there's this part where Martin goes all assholey about OWN voices.
'He didn't suspect writing a book about mainly women and "women's issues" would be a problem, despite the trend toward what literary agents called "own voices" fiction. He'd written enough true crime from a female perspective and had recieved some praise for that approach. He'd also grown up mainly in the company of women and his early influences were maternal. Empathy and research would help with anything he might lack. It might even pass the Bechdel test'
Me after reading these pretentious BS:
🖤🖤🖤🖤
All in all, as far as horror books go, I wouldn't recommend this.
There were a few jaw dropping moments mostly due to brutal killings described but those were few and far between. Overall for a book of this size that claims to be "horror" it just did not give what it was supposed to give.
June 25, 2020
Duncan Ralston is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror authors. I'd read SALVAGE last year (see my review) which was a classic spin on the ghost story. With his latest, he riffs on a coven of witches who've lived on a coastal island town called Barrows Bay, which has a notorious and dark history of own.
True crime novelist Martin Savage has a dark history of his own. Having written about serial murders in his books, he even came face to face with a few, one of which ended in grisly death. And one who he helped put away in prison...but then the infamous Witch Hunter escapes. Fearing for his life, Savage flees NYC along with a woman who assisted him in putting Barclay away. They end up in Barrows Bay, where Savage grew up. But much of his early childhood is shrouded in mystery.
The Midwives aren't too happy he's returned home for a while and a bloodthirsty killer may be the least of his concerns.
Highly recommended!
True crime novelist Martin Savage has a dark history of his own. Having written about serial murders in his books, he even came face to face with a few, one of which ended in grisly death. And one who he helped put away in prison...but then the infamous Witch Hunter escapes. Fearing for his life, Savage flees NYC along with a woman who assisted him in putting Barclay away. They end up in Barrows Bay, where Savage grew up. But much of his early childhood is shrouded in mystery.
The Midwives aren't too happy he's returned home for a while and a bloodthirsty killer may be the least of his concerns.
Highly recommended!
August 28, 2022
‘Deep, dark and simply just… dead good!’
A good old wicked witches story that contains a multitude of interesting characters, a strong storyline and supernatural scenes and ideas that just keeps the reader mesmerised and in permanent suspense literally from start to finish.
If you fancy something that combines cleverly constructed horror and pure thriller elements, wrapped up in a format that could almost be called ‘mainstream popular bestseller’ then this highly original demonic tale is most definitely for you.
Stars of the show - definitely the 5 old maids who wouldn’t seem out of place in a town called ‘Salem’ but not forgetting crazy Gimme Jimmy and sweet Aunt Norma too.
Highly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable.
Rating: 4.6 bright dark stars, all with a touch of glamour and sparkle!
A good old wicked witches story that contains a multitude of interesting characters, a strong storyline and supernatural scenes and ideas that just keeps the reader mesmerised and in permanent suspense literally from start to finish.
If you fancy something that combines cleverly constructed horror and pure thriller elements, wrapped up in a format that could almost be called ‘mainstream popular bestseller’ then this highly original demonic tale is most definitely for you.
Stars of the show - definitely the 5 old maids who wouldn’t seem out of place in a town called ‘Salem’ but not forgetting crazy Gimme Jimmy and sweet Aunt Norma too.
Highly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable.
Rating: 4.6 bright dark stars, all with a touch of glamour and sparkle!
September 21, 2022
I can say safely that a majority of this book was unlike anything I’ve read before. The beginning part, which focuses on a guy going into hiding because of a serial killer was the part I was familiar with, but I loved the added depth to the evils that existed on Barrows Bay island.
There were some scenes that are not for the faint of heart. They were both gut wrenching and heartbreaking for me as a mom. The scenes added to the character development of the midwives. There was also enough mysteries for me to stay engaged, but I did make this a 4 star part for the areas that lagged.
Good story overall.
There were some scenes that are not for the faint of heart. They were both gut wrenching and heartbreaking for me as a mom. The scenes added to the character development of the midwives. There was also enough mysteries for me to stay engaged, but I did make this a 4 star part for the areas that lagged.
Good story overall.
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