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Best Buddies
Your son’s invisible friend is not imaginary.
Kate’s little boy has a new buddy, one even he can’t see. Can’t hear. Can’t feel. Yet, it’s feeding him information about the world. And about the future.
He is using this thing, this undetectable entity, to advance at school. And to help Kate gamble. Despite her addiction.
But, for every morsel of knowledge, his friend demands a favor in return. And those favors are growing increasingly cruel and depraved.
It is only a matter of time until people start to die.
But how can Kate defeat an entity that knows her plans before she thinks of them?
How does she rid her son of a buddy who helps him more than she can?
And what if her son doesn’t want to say goodbye?
Best Buddies is a phenomenal debut horror novel in the supernatural suspense tradition of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and the late, great James Herbert.
For a paranormal mystery with a psychic entity that may tear apart a single mother and her young son, grab your copy of Best Buddies today.
Kate’s little boy has a new buddy, one even he can’t see. Can’t hear. Can’t feel. Yet, it’s feeding him information about the world. And about the future.
He is using this thing, this undetectable entity, to advance at school. And to help Kate gamble. Despite her addiction.
But, for every morsel of knowledge, his friend demands a favor in return. And those favors are growing increasingly cruel and depraved.
It is only a matter of time until people start to die.
But how can Kate defeat an entity that knows her plans before she thinks of them?
How does she rid her son of a buddy who helps him more than she can?
And what if her son doesn’t want to say goodbye?
Best Buddies is a phenomenal debut horror novel in the supernatural suspense tradition of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and the late, great James Herbert.
For a paranormal mystery with a psychic entity that may tear apart a single mother and her young son, grab your copy of Best Buddies today.
Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2021
175 people are currently reading
1166 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Bach
7 books26 followersJordan Bach is a lifelong lover of horror and dark thriller fiction. As a high-schooler, he and his friends would consume Stephen King and James Herbert books in days, and his early ambition was to be an author of such work.
Sadly, life got in the way, and it took him several years to rekindle his love of writing.
He now pens books for both adults and children (around the middle-grade 8-12 age range), starting in late 2020, with a rash of new novels slated for 2021 and beyond.
Jordan lives under his real name in Staffordshire, UK, with his wife and two children, the children being particularly useful as beta readers for his kids’ books. In his spare time, he is a cyclist, runner, and martial arts enthusiast, and hopes one day to take his family traveling to many foreign countries, as he did as a younger man.
For now, it’s establishing himself in the competitive field of horror fiction. Do pop along to say hi.
You can also follow him on Bookbub: https://partners.bookbub.com/authors/...
Sadly, life got in the way, and it took him several years to rekindle his love of writing.
He now pens books for both adults and children (around the middle-grade 8-12 age range), starting in late 2020, with a rash of new novels slated for 2021 and beyond.
Jordan lives under his real name in Staffordshire, UK, with his wife and two children, the children being particularly useful as beta readers for his kids’ books. In his spare time, he is a cyclist, runner, and martial arts enthusiast, and hopes one day to take his family traveling to many foreign countries, as he did as a younger man.
For now, it’s establishing himself in the competitive field of horror fiction. Do pop along to say hi.
You can also follow him on Bookbub: https://partners.bookbub.com/authors/...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 1, 2022
What if your child had an imaginary friend. One that could tell them the future, so accurately that you could win big on the lotto, or stocks? Now what if that 'friend' demanded that for every good thing you won, you had to give something in return? Something dark.
That is the premise behind Best Buddies. And wow what a tale that is woven. When I started this book I figured that the imaginary friend was caused by the father's death. But it turns out that the friend is much darker than that.
The twists and turns in this book are amazing. It starts out slow, and I almost found myself ready to not finish because I was tired of the mother's whining and the "why me" attitude. But I'm certainly glad I finished it. The mother goes from being a whiner to an actual fighter and that brings me around to her side. I definitely didn't see the ending coming, and that was a twist for sure. I loved that Bach managed to answer all of the questions in the book without it feeling rushed.
That is the premise behind Best Buddies. And wow what a tale that is woven. When I started this book I figured that the imaginary friend was caused by the father's death. But it turns out that the friend is much darker than that.
The twists and turns in this book are amazing. It starts out slow, and I almost found myself ready to not finish because I was tired of the mother's whining and the "why me" attitude. But I'm certainly glad I finished it. The mother goes from being a whiner to an actual fighter and that brings me around to her side. I definitely didn't see the ending coming, and that was a twist for sure. I loved that Bach managed to answer all of the questions in the book without it feeling rushed.
October 2, 2021
Dark, creepy, and mesmerizing!
This well-crafted and totally mesmerizing tale of a young boy’s “imaginary” friend will keep you up past your bedtime because it is so hard to put down. Just one more chapter, maybe two. Next thing I knew, my alarm clock was going off. Oh well, it was totally worth it. The story revolves around Kate, a recently widowed woman with a history of gambling problems, and her struggle to raise her son, Aaron, to the very best of her ability when the boy begins developing some new behavioral issues that become increasingly sinister. Aaron’s explanation for his bad behavior is that he must do whatever his buddy requests or really bad things will happen. Kate soon discovers that Aaron is absolutely correct about that as her life is completely upended when she defies the demands of Aaron’s buddy. I found this story to be utterly captivating from start to finish and would unhesitatingly recommend to it all who enjoy a compelling and totally creepy tale that will haunt you long after you finish the book.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book for which I thank the author. My review, however, is entirely voluntary, honest and unbiased.
This well-crafted and totally mesmerizing tale of a young boy’s “imaginary” friend will keep you up past your bedtime because it is so hard to put down. Just one more chapter, maybe two. Next thing I knew, my alarm clock was going off. Oh well, it was totally worth it. The story revolves around Kate, a recently widowed woman with a history of gambling problems, and her struggle to raise her son, Aaron, to the very best of her ability when the boy begins developing some new behavioral issues that become increasingly sinister. Aaron’s explanation for his bad behavior is that he must do whatever his buddy requests or really bad things will happen. Kate soon discovers that Aaron is absolutely correct about that as her life is completely upended when she defies the demands of Aaron’s buddy. I found this story to be utterly captivating from start to finish and would unhesitatingly recommend to it all who enjoy a compelling and totally creepy tale that will haunt you long after you finish the book.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book for which I thank the author. My review, however, is entirely voluntary, honest and unbiased.
October 22, 2021
One single mom K notices her son Aaron acting out and I like himself. She questioned him only to find out he has an imaginary friend who he hast to listen to or terrible devastating things will happen. At first he is skeptical but then she realizes Aaron is telling the truth. She doesn’t know what To do but no she must do something or you could just get worse. My summary of the book doesn’t even come close to explaining the greatness of this horror book. I have never heard of this author as I believe this is his debut novel, but I look forward to more of these books. I didn’t want to stop reading it and read it in one sitting. It was awesome and I highly recommend it to those who love real Greek horror! Please forgive any grammatical errors as I am blind and dictate these reviews.
October 21, 2021
Best Buddies is a thrilling and chilling supernatural horror that also tackles an all too mortal beast.
Best Buddies looks at the terrifying realm of the spirit world, and earthly evils. Without addiction rearing its ugly head at Kate there’s little fuel for things with Buddy to escalate. The link between Kate’s addiction and Buddy’s presence is a big part of why I enjoyed the book. It added an extra layer of intrigue and suspense to the story.
Overall, I think this was a dark and gripping story.
Best Buddies looks at the terrifying realm of the spirit world, and earthly evils. Without addiction rearing its ugly head at Kate there’s little fuel for things with Buddy to escalate. The link between Kate’s addiction and Buddy’s presence is a big part of why I enjoyed the book. It added an extra layer of intrigue and suspense to the story.
Overall, I think this was a dark and gripping story.
September 23, 2021
When Aaron, Kate’s young son starts behaving badly, he keeps saying he had no choice. With Kate’s prodding, she learns that his buddy is helping him, but at a cost. This horrific tale brings to the forefront, beware what you wish for…. the price may be much too high. And the price will be high indeed in this well-written, dark and twisting narrative that will keep you turning the pages. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 2, 2021
Everyone has a best friend, some friends are real, some are imaginary. What would you do if your child's best friend is making him do unimaginable things that hurt others? This horror story is captivating and truly scary. It will keep you glued to the pages until the very end, when you put it down, you will be drawn back to it until you finish. If you enjoy stories that stay with you long after the final page, this is the book for you. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
October 24, 2021
A very different take on the "imaginary friend" type of story. A chilling little horror story that draws you in and keeps you there till the end. Very nicely done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and unbiased review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and unbiased review.
November 27, 2021
Best Buddies
Really enjoyed this novel. There is a great balance between the supernatural and how Kate deals with her addiction. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
Really enjoyed this novel. There is a great balance between the supernatural and how Kate deals with her addiction. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2021
4 stars...marginally.
I am uncertain as to how to review this book, mainly due to the numerous subplots and characters. The first third of the story had me totally confused and increasingly disinterested; the second third began a coalescing of plots and behind-the-scenes intentions; the final third beautifully merged all prior facts, schemes and feelings into a satisfying conclusion. Thus, you hopefully comprehend my dilemma.
With my views twisted by the fluctuating storyline, I was also hampered by editing mistakes, which further bogged down my ability to read the book smoothly and without frustration. However, I must credit the author with managing to wonderfully coalesce, although slowly, all the pieces of the first third of the novel in the remaining pages. The ending was exciting, well thought out and full of raw feelings.
I recommend this thriller/mystery/horror hybrid for those who do not mind some thinking to manage the numerous plots and have the necessary time to spend required to take the journey from start to finish. One mentionable plotline involves the death of Kate's husband. The eventual resolution to this event is a completely unforseen character, at least from this reader's viewpoint. The author craftily reveals the culprit with remarkably deft prose and the right amount of shock value.
Come, enter "The Buddy's" world. Peculiar events are set to unfold and he wants to make you a home. (Yes, that was phrased correctly.)
I am uncertain as to how to review this book, mainly due to the numerous subplots and characters. The first third of the story had me totally confused and increasingly disinterested; the second third began a coalescing of plots and behind-the-scenes intentions; the final third beautifully merged all prior facts, schemes and feelings into a satisfying conclusion. Thus, you hopefully comprehend my dilemma.
With my views twisted by the fluctuating storyline, I was also hampered by editing mistakes, which further bogged down my ability to read the book smoothly and without frustration. However, I must credit the author with managing to wonderfully coalesce, although slowly, all the pieces of the first third of the novel in the remaining pages. The ending was exciting, well thought out and full of raw feelings.
I recommend this thriller/mystery/horror hybrid for those who do not mind some thinking to manage the numerous plots and have the necessary time to spend required to take the journey from start to finish. One mentionable plotline involves the death of Kate's husband. The eventual resolution to this event is a completely unforseen character, at least from this reader's viewpoint. The author craftily reveals the culprit with remarkably deft prose and the right amount of shock value.
Come, enter "The Buddy's" world. Peculiar events are set to unfold and he wants to make you a home. (Yes, that was phrased correctly.)
November 14, 2021
Kate Mallory is doing her best to make ends meet and support her son Aaron. Aaron starts behaving oddly and it is getting him in trouble at school. He started doing random things out of character. He insists his best imaginary buddy told him to do it. Of course, who believes this when a child says it? Slowly it comes out that the buddy gives Aaron information that no one knows but in exchange for ‘payment’. The ‘payments’ are the deeds that Aaron is doing out of fear of repercussion from the buddy. It gets out of hand with the payments becoming worse and worse. Kate has to try to get herself and Aaron away from the evil “buddy” that is threatening them. It was hard to put down.
I received a free copy in exchange of an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange of an honest review.
October 16, 2021
Ok, let me say right from the off that I am not a fan of psychological books, never have been. But I just had to read this one though. And I have to say it’s very, very good, especially on how the the storyline builds to an ending you just don’t see coming. Recommended read.
January 9, 2022
Twisty and compelling
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway (thank you). It seemed a little slow at first, as ten-year old Aaron does things out of character while misbehaving. His mom, a housekeeper in the financial industry, can’t understand what’s happening. A recovering gambling addict herself, once she begins to figure things out, there’s a sad frustrating downward scramble. I almost gave up. Then the twists started and it got a lot more interesting. Ultimately, it ended up as quite a page turner.
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway (thank you). It seemed a little slow at first, as ten-year old Aaron does things out of character while misbehaving. His mom, a housekeeper in the financial industry, can’t understand what’s happening. A recovering gambling addict herself, once she begins to figure things out, there’s a sad frustrating downward scramble. I almost gave up. Then the twists started and it got a lot more interesting. Ultimately, it ended up as quite a page turner.
November 12, 2025
I finished Best Buddies and overall I’m glad I did, but it didn’t quite live up to its promising concept. The idea of a little boy with an imaginary “buddy” who gives him knowledge in exchange for dark favors is genuinely creepy and unique — the horror premise caught me from the start.
That said, the pacing felt uneven. The beginning is slow and a bit frustrating as we watch most of the story unfold through the mother’s viewpoint, and it takes a long time before everything clicks.
The characters are decent and the ending delivers some good twists — but the buildup could have been tighter, and at times the motivations of the “buddy” felt less developed than I hoped.
So while I liked the book, I didn’t love it — it sits squarely in my “I enjoyed it, but…” category. If you’re into psychological supernatural horror and don’t mind a bit of sluggish start, you’ll find value here.
That said, the pacing felt uneven. The beginning is slow and a bit frustrating as we watch most of the story unfold through the mother’s viewpoint, and it takes a long time before everything clicks.
The characters are decent and the ending delivers some good twists — but the buildup could have been tighter, and at times the motivations of the “buddy” felt less developed than I hoped.
So while I liked the book, I didn’t love it — it sits squarely in my “I enjoyed it, but…” category. If you’re into psychological supernatural horror and don’t mind a bit of sluggish start, you’ll find value here.
July 15, 2022
Thank you to Crater of The North and Jordan Bach for my free copy for my honest opinion.
Overall, I don't think the book was bad and it definitely kept me entertained but it might be just a little too off the wall for me. I would recommend to those who have a fascination with the unknown. I would be willing to read the authors other books. I do somewhat book of the unknown but more in a Stephen King way.
Thank you for my copy, it's much appreciated!
Overall, I don't think the book was bad and it definitely kept me entertained but it might be just a little too off the wall for me. I would recommend to those who have a fascination with the unknown. I would be willing to read the authors other books. I do somewhat book of the unknown but more in a Stephen King way.
Thank you for my copy, it's much appreciated!
October 7, 2024
Can't wait to read more by Jordan Bach!
For me at least it was a slow burn as you see it from the mother's point of view and doesn't quite all make sense in the beginning but the further you read the harder it is to put down! Never could have guessed the ending even a few pages towards the end of the book it was still throwing twists and turns. On to another book by this author!
For me at least it was a slow burn as you see it from the mother's point of view and doesn't quite all make sense in the beginning but the further you read the harder it is to put down! Never could have guessed the ending even a few pages towards the end of the book it was still throwing twists and turns. On to another book by this author!
August 11, 2024
Boring, confusing and repetitive
Nothing in this work provides solace for the reader that it was a worthwhile endeavour reading it; stilted, repetitious and lacking in any moral to the story, it was a waste of time and eyesight from the very beginning. It had no redeeming qualities whatsoever, was confusing in its narrative and failed satisfy in any way. A weak ending did not help matters.
Nothing in this work provides solace for the reader that it was a worthwhile endeavour reading it; stilted, repetitious and lacking in any moral to the story, it was a waste of time and eyesight from the very beginning. It had no redeeming qualities whatsoever, was confusing in its narrative and failed satisfy in any way. A weak ending did not help matters.
February 8, 2022
I liked the more internal horror that this book showed. The events in the book were creepy, escalating, making you wonder how far the evil would go. It's more of a slow-burn horror novel, so be prepared for that pace. I liked the reveals in the story and how everything came together.
November 18, 2023
Haunting
I must admit I didn't jump into this book immediately, it didn't grab my attention like some stories.
Instead, it lured me with unfamiliar plot twists and characters I grew to care about.
I can't wait to read more by Jordan.
I must admit I didn't jump into this book immediately, it didn't grab my attention like some stories.
Instead, it lured me with unfamiliar plot twists and characters I grew to care about.
I can't wait to read more by Jordan.
April 26, 2024
Very original story.... it got muddy at the end, but not enough to down grade the book to 4 stars. Characters were great, story was excellent, and the pace of the story was outrageous! Highly recommend.
December 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It seemed long but it made sense why. I will look for books by this author again.
January 25, 2022
The first full featured and outstanding drama filled horror and thrill packed from page one to the last. What can't be transferred will not last for eternity. I loved it!!!!!
April 24, 2023
This just didn't click for me. It was pretty well-written, but I couldn't connect with the premise and forced myself to finish.
May 2, 2023
First time reading Jordan Bach and was really impressed. Enjoy his writing style and story line. Book flowed nicely and characters were great. Recommend.
May 9, 2023
Over joyed
I found this book while I was looking for a new twist horror and was surprised with this one. A must read
I found this book while I was looking for a new twist horror and was surprised with this one. A must read
July 1, 2023
Good read.
Enjoyed this very much, I've read supernatural books before but not with this theme which I found quite original. ..
Enjoyed this very much, I've read supernatural books before but not with this theme which I found quite original. ..
Read
July 25, 2023Not my usual type of book but worth a read i enjoyed it.
December 14, 2023
I DNF'd it at 38%. Wayyyyyyy too drawn out, and not a good story or even well thought of. So what, a boy pees in a fishtank. Sorry Jordan.
May 13, 2022
Kate is a struggling mother, who is widowed and a recovering gambler. When her son Aaron starts getting in trouble at school, she is at a loss at what to do. When she talks to Aaron, he tells her that his 'buddy' is telling him things and in exchange expects Aaron to do things for him. Not so nice things.
This book is perfect for the thriller/horror fan. I couldn't put it down and absolutely loved it. It is the perfect book for any fan of horror.
This book is perfect for the thriller/horror fan. I couldn't put it down and absolutely loved it. It is the perfect book for any fan of horror.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews